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, US taking practical actions to shoulder responsibilities as major countries

09:50, December 29, 2025 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

During this past year of shifting global dynamics, China-US economic and trade interactions have consistently drawn worldwide attention.

From initial trade tensions to renewed negotiations, and from apparent impasses to the restoration of equal-footing dialogue, the trajectory of bilateral economic relations offers profound insights into how the world's two largest economies should navigate their relationship amid shifting global currents.

International relations are inherently complex. Navigating turbulent waters requires wisdom and responsibility; maintaining strategic stability during periods of global uncertainty demands visionary leadership.

A big-picture perspective is indispensable--details naturally align when viewed through this broader lens. China has consistently approached U.S. relations with this forward-looking, responsibility-driven framework.

When trade tensions threatened global economic stability, head-of-state diplomacy between China and the United States played a pivotal role as a stabilizing anchor, helping recalibrate the direction of bilateral relations.

Through phone calls and in-person meetings, the two leaders engaged in in-depth exchanges and reached important consensus on managing differences and resolving disputes. This provided strategic direction while injecting much-needed certainty into an unstable international landscape.

Guided by these high-level agreements, working teams from both sides conducted five rounds of consultations, gradually building shared understanding and advancing problem-solving. Experience has demonstrated that framing China-U.S. relations solely through the lens of "competition" or "confrontation" represents both a misinterpretation of bilateral dynamics and a departure from reality. Such narratives not only hinder issue resolution but risk creating more serious challenges for both countries and the world at large.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. In that life-and-death struggle over the future of humanity, China and the United States once fought side by side, making major contributions to the defense of peace and justice and helping save human civilization in its darkest hour. History offers a clear lesson: for shared responsibilities and a shared future, China and the United States can and should work together.

As the times evolve, the weight of China-US cooperation has only deepened. The relationship between the two countries not only shapes the global strategic landscape, but also affects the pulse of the world economy and the livelihoods of people across nations.

The dynamics of China-U.S. trade vividly demonstrate how bilateral relations create international ripple effects. Even subtle changes in China-US economic and trade relations can send ripples through the world economy, spreading rapidly across borders -- from production lines in Southeast Asia to traders in Latin America, and from international financial markets to global industrial and supply chains.

Beneath these ripples lies a fundamental question about our era's trajectory: Will we accumulate risks through confrontation or build consensus through dialogue? Will we deepen divisions amid turmoil or achieve shared prosperity through cooperation?

How China and the United States manage their relationship will directly determine humanity's collective future. This defining question of our age demands responsible statesmanship from both nationsa reality that continues to underscore its vital importance.

At this pivotal historical juncture, the world expects China and the United States to make responsible choices that promote global peace and development.

When meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Busan in October this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping noted that the world today is confronted with many tough problems, and China and the United States can jointly shoulder their responsibility as major countries, and work together to accomplish more great and concrete things for the good of the two countries and the whole world. Trump also said that the two countries can get many great things done for the world.

As two major countries with extensive shared interests, China and the United States can continue to deliver benefits for each other and the world by properly managing differences and focusing on cooperation.

China has always responded to people's concerns, and pursued the larger interests of all countries. The recommendations for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) clearly call for opening China wider to the outside world, promoting the innovative development of trade, and expanding two-way investment cooperation.

These measures will open up broader prospects for win-win cooperation between China and all partners, including the United States. It is hoped that the US side will move in the same direction with China, shoulder the responsibilities of a major country through concrete actions, and bring greater confidence in development to the international community.

When China and the United States cooperate, the world enjoys stability; when they confront each other, the world suffers uncertainty. Major countries should act in a manner befitting their status, demonstrating broad-mindedness and a strong sense of responsibility.

In the face of new circumstances and challenges, both sides should prioritize the interests of their peoples and the long-term well-being of the world. By opening their doors wider, broadening the path of cooperation, sending clearer signals of stability, and working together, they can contribute stronger, more constructive impetus to global efforts addressing shared challenges.

(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, Hongyu)
BEIJING, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- History often becomes clearer with the passage of time.

The far-reaching significance of China's victory in the battle against poverty is becoming increasingly evident. It marks a major milestone in the path to Chinese modernization, represents a decisive step toward common prosperity for all people, and carries profound implications for world modernization.

The recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) firmly grasp the goal of common prosperity and deploy a series of balanced and accessible policies and measures to safeguard and improve people's livelihoods.

The Central Economic Work Conference stressed the need to coordinate investments in physical assets and investments in human capital, while calling for sustained efforts to consolidate and expand the achievements of poverty alleviation.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), fiscal investment in people's livelihood accounted for more than 70 percent of the national general public budget expenditure. Allocating more financial resources to "invest in people" reflects the development principle of prioritizing people's well-being.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on November 18, 2024, delivered an important speech at Session I of the 19th G20 Summit under the title "Building a Just World of Common Development." Studying the speech now, we have gained a deeper understanding of the original aspiration and founding mission of Chinese Communists.

"Everything China does, it always places the people front and center, and it solemnly declares that 'not a single poor region or person should be left behind'."

"I have worked from village to county, city, provincial and central levels. Poverty alleviation has always been a priority and a major task I am determined to deliver."

"If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too. This is what China's battle against poverty says to the world."

"Being determined to deliver a major task" offers a unique perspective for decoding the success of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in leading the people to win the battle against poverty.

It is thanks to the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee and the scientific guidance of the Party's innovative theories that China lifted nearly 100 million rural residents out of poverty over eight years, and has since used a five-year transition period to smoothly integrate poverty-alleviation gains with rural vitalization efforts, steadily advancing toward the goal of common prosperity.

Last December, heads of major international economic organizations attending the "1+10" Dialogue noted that China's development achievements are remarkable, especially in the area of poverty reduction, where it has created a human miracle, and the country is at the forefront of the world in terms of developing new quality productive forces. This fully demonstrates that the people-centered development philosophy upheld by the Chinese government is successful and feasible, and has important implications for the world.

Looking at Chinese regions that were lifted out of poverty from a global perspective, historic changes are taking place on at least three levels, which are of historical significance.

From weak links to new engines

From a strategic coordination perspective, China's formerly impoverished regions are shifting from weak links in development to new engines of high-quality growth. By demonstrating resilience and potential in coordinating development with security, they are becoming a key stabilizer amid changes.

Under the strategic blueprint drawn by Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, China's western region has firmly grasped its positioning in the overall national development landscape, adapting measures to local conditions, giving full play to respective strengths, and continuously opening up greater depth in economic development.

Narrowing regional disparities and the gap between urban and rural areas not only leverages late-mover advantages but also unleashes new growth drivers. Deep mountains, deserts, karst caves, grasslands... these once-overlooked "corners" have become important pillars in "developing a regional economic layout and a territorial space system that enable regions to leverage their complementary strengths in pursuit of high-quality development."

Gui'an New Area in Southwest China's Guizhou Province is now directly connected by networks to 42 major Chinese cities, with the world's first 400G computing-power transmission corridor in operation. In Fuyang, East China's Anhui Province, once a frontline in poverty alleviation, the province's second-largest high-speed rail hub has been built, and nearly 800 projects each with investment exceeding 100 million yuan ($14.27 million) from Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang have been launched locally.

A single hybrid millet variety called "Zhangzagu," developed in Zhangjiakou, North China's Hebei Province, has been promoted to more than 10 provinces thanks to its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor-soil. China's grain output has remained above 700 million tons, recording another increase this year on a high basis.

A single "silver line" now delivers clean electricity from Northwest China's Qinghai Province to central China, supplying one-eighth of Henan's total power consumption with green energy. China has formed a nationwide power transmission network under the west-to-east electricity transfer program, with northern, central and southern corridors linking provinces and regions.

By securing food and energy supplies, China has gained greater confidence and capacity to withstand risks and challenges.

In 2024, the per capita consumption expenditure of rural residents increased by 5.8 percent year-on-year in real terms, which was 1.3 percentage points higher than that of urban residents. By firmly grasping the strategic focus of expanding domestic demand and promoting the expansion and upgrading of consumption in rural areas, the strong domestic market will become a more solid and resilient strategic foundation for Chinese modernization.

From distant land to logistics nodes

From the perspective of geographical location, China's formerly impoverished areas are transforming into strategic nodes within the country's new development pattern and a unified national market. They give full play to the important role of rural areas as consumer markets and factor markets, activating a fresh source of momentum for China's development.

Horgos Railway Port in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, a once-isolated border town has handled more than 9,000 China-Europe and China-Central Asia freight trains so far this year. The port has evolved from a border town "where the road ends" into a thriving logistics and trade center, fostering industrial clusters in commerce, logistics and equipment manufacturing.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), newly added operating railway mileage in Xinjiang totaled 1,395 kilometers. Projects such as the Lanzhou-Xinjiang high-speed railway and the Heruo railway are knitting together the region's transport network, transforming it from the "railway periphery" to a regional hub.

In Xilin Gol League, North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, herders can order saddlery online and receive deliveries directly at pasture. In Northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region's Zhongning County, fresh goji berries reach thousands of households within 48 hours. China has already established 346,000 village-level comprehensive logistics service stations nationwide and implemented an express-service coverage rate in incorporated villages of over 95 percent. More than 100 million parcels circulate through rural areas each day.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), 832 counties that have emerged from poverty have each developed two to three leading industries with distinctive advantages and strong spillover effect, generating combined output exceeding 1.7 trillion yuan. Official data show that the per capita disposable income of rural residents in counties lifted out of poverty rose from 12,588 yuan in 2020 to 17,522 yuan in 2024. For four consecutive years, income growth for rural residents in these counties has outpaced the national average.

From backward capacity to driving forces

In terms of driving forces, China's formerly impoverished areas are transforming from the "extensive and backward" old driving forces into the "frontline" of new driving forces, deeply promoting the integration of technological and industrial innovation, developing new quality productive forces according to local conditions, taking on the "golden burden" of agricultural and rural modernization, and accumulating inexhaustible power for development.

In Tianshui, Northwest China's Gansu Province, a big-data-driven smart orchard platform now automatically generates prescriptions for irrigation, fertilization and pest-control, moving from "farming by experience" to "data-driven cultivation" and boosting apple quality.

In Zhangwu County, Northeast China's Liaoning Province, modern agricultural techniques have substantially increased corn yields and helped develop "Zhangwu sweet potatoes" as a national geographical indication product.

Photovoltaic power stations are "planted" on rooftops and barren hills, and villagers receive dividends; from solar streetlights to new-energy vehicles and electric bicycles, from heated brick beds fueled by burning firewood to electric heated beds, green electricity is illuminating and improving the lives of villagers.

Across China today, photovoltaic panels blanket the Gobi Desert in a vast "blue ocean," wind turbines stand tall like forests amid the clouds on the grasslands, and forest carbon sinks turn "green" into gold. By synergistically promoting carbon reduction, pollution control, ecological expansion, and economic growth, China is continuously broadening the pathways for transforming lucid waters and lush mountains into invaluable assets. Green development is becoming the distinctive hallmark of regions lifted out of poverty, helping turn shortcomings into springboards.

Charging toward "new" opportunities and pursuing "green" progress, viewing China's overall development landscape from the perspective of regions lifted out of poverty, we are brimming with confidence, solid foundation, and abundant strength.

SOURCE Global Times
Eric Dane's estranged wife Rebecca Gayheart has opened up about their 'complicated' relationship while revealing that the actor now has around-the-clock care amid his battle with ALS.

Model and actress Gayheart, 54, filed for divorce from the actor in 2018 after 14 years of marriage, citing 'irreconcilable differences.'

But one month before Dane, 53, revealed his devastating ALS diagnosis in April 2025, the pair quietly called off their divorce.

In recent months, Gayheart has been dating on-and-off boyfriend Peter Morton, 78, and the pair were spotted passionately kissing in Beverly Hills earlier this month.

In a first-person piece published in The Cut, Gayheart now shed new light into her relationship with Dane, explaining that her love for him is not romantic but 'familial.'

She added that she is trying to do her best by him amid his health issues.

She said: 'We had a really lovely marriage for a long time - we were married for 15 years - we created two beautiful girls.

'But also, lots of s**t went crazy in our relationship, and it wasn't good.

Rebecca Gayheart (seen with her daughters) has shed light on her 'complicated' relationship with Eric Dane

The actress, 54, who married Dane in 2004, explained how shes been navigating Dane's ALS diagnosis with their kids, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13 (pictured 2017)

'We separated, but we never got a divorce; we were about to and then we didn't. We haven't lived in the same home for eight years; he's dated other people, I've dated someone.

'It's a very complicated relationship, one that's confusing for people.'

Gayheart added to the publication that she still 'shows up' for Dane to make his health journey 'easier.'

'So, whatever I can do or however I can show up to make this journey better for him or easier for him, I want to do that,' she added.

'And I want to model that for my girls: That's what you do. That's the right thing to do.'

Gayheart and Dane wed in 2004 and share daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13.

In a joint statement announcing their divorce in 2018, they said ending their marriage was 'the best decision' for their family and pledged to remain close as co-parents.

'There's a new normal for me and my family,' Gayheart said a year after the split. 'It hasn't been easy. But I think what's exciting is what's ahead... my kids are happy and healthy.'

Gayheart said in The Cut that she and Dane (seen with his daughters in May 2024 both try to do right by each other

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a rare and incurable motor neuron disorder that affects around 5,000 Americans each year.

Symptoms often progress rapidly and can be difficult to detect early on.

Dane first noticed weakness in his right hand in early 2024, thinking he'd 'been texting too much or my hand was fatigued.'

Months of testing and visits to multiple specialists confirmed the devastating truth: an official ALS diagnosis in April. By June, he had lost use of his right arm.

In her first-person piece in The Cut, Gayheart revealed that Dane now receives 24/7 care from nurses.

She explained that each week is divided into 21 shifts, and that she steps up cover them herself when nurses aren't available. When she can't help out, she ropes in their friends.
The author of the controversial 1619 Project, which claims America was founded by slaves, made two embarrassing spelling mistakes in an internet post defending affirmative action.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, 49, shared the comments on X Friday while responding to journalist Matthew Yglesias's claim that some supporters of the practice undermine their own arguments with imprecise language.

Hannah-Jones wrote: 'No, that's not the problem. It's that people, perhaps including you, continue to define affirmative action as a racial preference and people refute that lessor [sic] underqualified Black people are getting underserved [sic] positions because of the "preference."'

Users were quick to spot Hannah-Jones's incorrect spellings of 'lesser' and 'undeserved.'

They also flagged a grammatical mistake, in which the author seemed to misuse the word 'refute'.

Nearly all, however, marveled at how the post came from an award-winning journalist - one with a tenured position at Howard University and a spot in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Hannah-Jones later deleted the post, despite telling one commenter that she had no plans to do so because she 'stands behind' her view.

The Daily Mail has contacted her for comment.

Journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, 49, shared the post to X Friday before quickly deleting it

The post contained the incorrect spelling of 'lesser' and the wrong spelling of 'undeserved'

The New York Times staff writer previously slammed 'rich white people' in 2023 after the Supreme Court outlawed affirmative action, 62 years after former President John F Kennedy signed an executive order aimed at making life fairer for black Americans.

Decades on, SCOTUS ultimately agreed with critics who said the policy had served its purpose and was increasingly being used to deny study and employment opportunities to white and Asian people in favor of less-qualified applicants.

Hannah-Jones railed against the rich despite owning an enormous $1.7 million brownstone townhouse in Brooklyn's trendy Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, bought with a $1.26 million mortgage in 2018.

She has not commented further on her mistake on X. Her profile claims that she has 'left' the site in the wake of the 2024 presidential election but she has clearly been unable to resist the occasional return.

Hannah-Jones won a Pulitzer Prize in 2020 for her work on the 1619 Project. The investigation, which launched in the New York Times in 2019, reframes American history by placing the legacy of slavery at its center.

The collection of essays, photo essays, and short fiction pieces on race received criticism from both the left and the right, as well as from historians who say it is inaccurate.

The writer has previously said she believes backlash to the 1619 Project is because Americans are 'all taught [US] history so poorly.'

The work was billed as a reinterpretation of US history, achieved by 're-centering' African-Americans as the main carriers of Americas principles.

Articles from Hannah-Jones argued that 'one of the primary reasons the colonists decided to declare their independence from Britain was because they wanted to protect the institution of slavery.'

Fellow X users were quick to criticize Hannah-Jones's comments

Hannah Jones - seen here on an LA red carpet with Oprah Winfrey in 2023 - has a tenured position at Howard University and a spot in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences

The piece containing the claim was later 'clarified' in March 2020 to read 'for some of the colonists' after pushback from historians.

Hannah-Jones also wrote that the American Revolution was fought to protect slavery and that Abraham Lincoln was not a figure to be revered.

Since the publication of the 1619 Project, Hannah-Jones claimed the 'anti-blackness' of Latino Americans helped propel Donald Trump to a second term as president.

She also slammed 'demeaning' anti-theft measures adopted by stores in American cities, where items are locked behind plastic to prevent them from being stolen.

And she proudly posed with disgraced former Harvard President Claudine Gay, who was booted from her job after her past plagiarism was exposed.
Two-thirds of financial services bosses expect the sector to invest more in defence next year, figures from accountancy firm KPMG suggest.

It comes amid growing acceptance that more military spending is required as the threat from hostile states grows.

Some 65 per cent of financial services directors believe the sector will pile more money into defence in 2026.

'Greater financial sector investment in national security' was what 38 per cent cited as the most important factor in safeguarding financial stability.

Good investment: Shares in major defence firms BAE Systems and Babcock have risen sharply since Vladimir Putin's Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine in 2022

Karim Haji, of KPMG, said: 'National security, defence investment and geopolitical stability are now being treated as balance-sheet issues, not just government policy concerns.'

Shares in major defence firms BAE Systems and Babcock, for instance, have risen sharply since Vladimir Putin's Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine in 2022.
America's enemies already know the CIA can find them. But according to one of the agency's best-known whistleblowers, they should now be afraid of how it can do it.

Former CIA counterterrorism officer John Kiriakou painted a chilling picture of an intelligence machine that has surged far ahead of public understanding  a system turbo-charged by cutting-edge surveillance tech, robotized warfare, and covert powers that have survived every scandal of the last two decades.

And Kiriakou should know. He spent 15 years inside the CIA's most secret units, helped run operations in Pakistan, and became the first agency insider to publicly confirm that the US used waterboarding  a revelation that landed him behind bars.

Today, he remains one of America's most outspoken critics of the intelligence world he once served.

Now, after a bruising year for US spy agencies  and just weeks after an inspector general blasted War Secretary Pete Hegseth in the explosive Signalgate scandal for mishandling sensitive battlefield information on a messaging app  Kiriakou said the real story is bigger, darker, and far more dangerous.

Because while Washington frets over leaks and political infighting, the CIA and its sister agencies have been quietly perfecting tools that would have seemed like science fiction a decade ago.

Speaking with the Daily Mail, Kiriakou said the truth is hiding in plain sight  in the massive 2017 Vault 7 leak published by WikiLeaks.

The documents revealed that the CIA and NSA had pioneered a suite of cyberweapons capable of turning everyday consumer gadgets into spying tools.

An aerial photo shows a former CIA black site in Lithuania used for torture during the war on terror

Kiriakou left the CIA in 2007 and became the first former officer to publicly confirm the agency had used waterboarding and other torture-like methods

The problem, he said, is that almost no one bothered to read them.

'People don't realise what the CIA is able to do with technology  the information is out there, but nobody read the Vault 7 papers,' he told the Daily Mail.

And what can those tools do? Quite a lot.

Kiriakou said the CIA can listen through phones, laptops, and even smart TVs, even when they appear to be switched off.

The agency can infiltrate new consumer tech as soon as it hits the market. And it can reportedly hijack modern vehicle computers  remotely.

'They can crash a car and kill you if they want to and they can do it through a satellite,' he said.

It's the kind of claim that sends conspiracy theorists into overdrive. But Kiriakou insists the capability exists  and that nothing in the leaked documents contradicts it.

But the CIA's cyber tools, he said, are only one part of a rapidly shifting battlefield.

He argued that the next phase of warfare  one already underway inside DARPA, the Pentagon's ultra-secretive tech agency  will involve robot dogs, robot soldiers, and automated weapons systems operating alongside or instead of human troops.

'I really believe the next war the United States fights is hardly going to have any human beings in it,' he said.

'Robot dogs and robot warriors are not sci-fi anymore  they're almost upon us.'

The push toward autonomous warfare mirrors China's rapid advances in drone and AI weapons; while Russia's cyber units are among the best on the planet.

And it's not only foreign adversaries who are concerned about US capabilities.

'It would be logical to use these technologies for crowd control, riot control to infiltrate demonstrations and political gatherings,' he warned.

One of Kiriakou's most explosive assertions is that the US government maintains a weekly 'kill list', drawn up by a National Security Council committee every Tuesday morning.

According to him, the CIA has a dedicated unit whose job is to take the list, travel to whichever country the targets are hiding in, 'kill the person,' return home, and move on to the next name.

The targets, he said, are generally terrorist leaders  but the legal and moral issues are immense.

Satellite imagery of Salt Pit outside of Kabul, Afghanistan, which was an isolated CIA black site prison and interrogation center

Human fighters will only play a minor role in America's wars of the future, said ex-CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou

Waterboarding, demonstrated here as part of a political protest, was a controversial topic in the War on Terror

A US Air Force MQ-9 Reaper on the tarmac in Puerto Rico, part of Washington's campaign against Venezuela's leaders

He said officials justify the program by arguing that it prevents another 9/11.

Kiriakou called it immoral and illegal, though he notes the machinery behind it is decades old and unlikely to change.

Washington insists it shut down its network of secret prisons  the notorious black sites used for the CIA's extraordinary rendition program after 9/11. But Kiriakou doesn't buy it.

'I believe those sites still exist,' he said. 'We just have to take the CIA's word for it  and I can't take their word for it.'

He pointed out that even members of Congress' intelligence committees were once barred from knowing the full scope of the detention program. Only the top two lawmakers in each chamber were given access.

If black sites continue today, he said, they would be so heavily classified that 'almost nobody would know.'

The CIA did not answer the Daily Mail's request for comment. Officially, the agency abandoned enhanced interrogation techniques in 2009.

Kiriakou is also watching the situation in Venezuela, where President Donald Trump recently took the unprecedented step of publicly authorizing CIA covert action  something no commander-in-chief has ever done.

He speculated that the agency would be drawing up plans to seize the presidential palace, capture President Nicolas Maduro, take control of state media, and secure key intersections in the capital Caracas.

Success, he said, would hinge on winning over the military  the one element the CIA cannot control.

He added that Trump may topple Maduro without 'firing a single shot' through a mixture of military pressure, oil seizures and psychological operations.

It may not even be illegal  the president has wide powers to launch covert missions abroad under what's known as Title 50.

But regime change, he warned, is only the easy part.

'It's what you do the next day that's hard,' he said, pointing to the implosion of Iraq after the 2003 invasion and other American debacles.

Perhaps Kiriakou's most unsettling claim is not about technology at all  but about power.

NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden briefs delegates at an educational conference in Moscow, Russia, where he now lives

CIA Director John Ratcliffe before briefing lawmakers on covert military strikes in the seas around Venezuela

He argued that the intelligence community barely shifts course between administrations.

'I've come around to the belief that the deep state is real,' he said. 'These people know they can out-wait presidents. They don't have to follow an order they don't like.'

He called it a bureaucracy obsessed with budget growth, internal empire-building, and protecting its own survival  a machine so large that elected leaders can struggle to control it.

Kiriakou left the CIA in 2007 and became the first former officer to publicly confirm the agency had used waterboarding and other 'enhanced interrogation techniques'  which he called torture.

He was later indicted under the Espionage Act and pleaded guilty to revealing the identity of a covert operative, receiving a 30-month sentence and serving nearly two years.

He remains the only person to go to prison over the CIA's torture program.

Since his release in 2015, Kiriakou has pushed for intelligence reform and transparency, writing, speaking, and co-founding Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity.

On the home front, Kiriakou is blunt: Americans have become frighteningly complacent.

Despite whistleblower Edward Snowden's leaks, the Patriot Act, mass surveillance, and the Utah mega-facility capable of storing every American's calls, texts, and emails for 500 years, there has been almost no public outrage, he said.

'I'm scared the most about our loss of civil liberties in the United States and nobody seems willing to do anything about it,' he said.

'Are we that cowed that we just accept this is what government is going to do?'

For Kiriakou, a man who sacrificed his career and freedom to expose CIA torture, the answer may be the most alarming revelation of all.

Kiriakou's new show Whistleblowers will air from March 2026, featuring interviews with other insiders who risked everything to expose wrongdoing.
The skyline of the biggest city in Texas has a new addition soaring in both height and popularity - in an area previously ditched by developers.

The Hanover Buffalo Bayou, the largest apartment building built in Houston in the last year, recently opened its doors, offering residents a choice of 317 luxury units.

Sitting 40 stories high along the river it's named after, new tenants will have the convenience of a mixed-use community filled with dining options, green spaces and wellness amenities.

While 'new properties naturally attract more interest,' according to real estate agent Grant Bynum, the surrounding area has not drawn the same attention from developers.

The broader Montrose-River Oaks area is suffering from its lowest level of new apartments since 2012, according to CoStar.

Bynum, who works for Uptown 101, finds it puzzling because he believes that there is a demand for new rentals but attributes the lack of construction to land acquisition and development challenges.

He added that while there have been some projects popping up in Houston compared to a market like Dallas, there is 'much less activity.'

However, this decline may have worked in developers' favor, according to the real estate agent. He said: 'I think the main appeal of Hanover Buffalo Bayou is that there just arent many new high-rise apartment buildings in Houston right now.'

The Hanover Buffalo Bayou was the largest apartment building built in Houston in the last year

The broader Montrose-River Oaks area has seen a significant decline in new high-rise developments over the past year. However, that has not been reflected in the success of the Hanover Buffalo Bayou, which has been highly sought after since its fruition

Bynum stressed again how a property being 'brand new' always attracts new residents.

'The building itself is very attractive. Its a tall, modern high-rise, but it still feels comfortable. The amenities are strong. Theres a great gym, a professional concierge-style desk, and valet service,' he added.

'It really delivers a high-rise living experience at a time when there just arent many new options to compare it to.'

Additionally, the building offers residents a resort-style pool, barbecue and fire pit areas, and cabana seating.

The building's clubhouse features a cinema room with stadium seating, games, a business center and a lounge area.

Rent ranges from $2,800 to a whopping $16,000 for penthouse units. As well as offering apartments ranging from 745 to 3,300 square feet, with balconies.

The building, pictured under construction, is in high demand because of amenities such as a resort-style pool, barbecue and fire pit areas, and cabana seating

The high-rise is close to trails and sits along the Buffalo Bayou river

Buffalo Bayou is close to trails and is a quick walk to the River Oaks Shopping District. Bynum noted that many are interested in the area because it is relatively safe.

'Compared to other areas, like Midtown, which some people feel has become sketchier, people trust this area more.

'Its essentially River Oaks. Its already an established, desirable neighborhood, close to the highway and easy to get to. People feel safe here, and that trust goes a long way,' he added.

The crime rate in River Oaks is 65.03 per 1,000 residents, lower than Midtown's 108.6 per 1,000 residents, according to Crime Grade.

Bynum added that most of his clients interested in the high-rise are middle-aged, but noted it will likely attract a wide range of buyers.

'Some properties skew younger, but this area attracts people whose kids may be out of the house and who dont want to own anymore,' said the realtor.

'They want a nice, worry-free experience. While it will appeal to people in their 20s and up, the sweet spot is probably people in their 40s and 50s.'

When asked if his clients were enjoying the building, Bynum replied: 'They love it. Theyve had no safety issues and really enjoy being taken care of. Hanover does a solid job running high-rise properties, and the experience has been smooth for them.'

Real estate agent Grant Bynum believes that many are interested because the building is new and in a safer part of Houston

The Hanover Buffalo Bayou, which sits atop a 5,000ft retail space that has yet to be filled, is also part of a mixed-use community that offers other dining and retail options

He added that the high-rise was next to two other Hanover Company properties, which have also done very well.

Bynum said the firm has a strong track record that carries over across properties, giving it a near-franchise effect.

'When you have multiple properties together, you get efficiency and consistency in management,' he continued.

The difference between high-rise units in Texas and non-high-rise units, Bynum added, is strict quality standards that are largely unknown.

Bynum added that the skyscraper-like buildings are forced to be built with concrete between floors and better insulation, which, as a result, makes them quieter and more energy-efficient.

'Youll almost always have lower utility bills and less noise. Thats true of high-rises in general, not just this one,' said the realtor.

The building is the third property run by Hanover Company in Autry Park. Bynum highlighted the quality of the developer's management

Bynum was transparent about the prices: 'I think its slightly high, not dramatically, but a bit.'

'Some comparable properties are offering stronger specials, like two months free or more. Right now, Hanovers specials arent very compelling. Id expect stronger incentives until they reach higher occupancy.'

Bynum said the building is only at 20 percent capacity, but that is because it had just opened.

It sits atop 5,000 square feet of retail space, which has not yet been filled.

Ryan Hamilton, a regional development partner at Hanover Company, said: 'With the completion of Hanover Buffalo Bayou, Autry Park continues to reach critical milestones in its ongoing evolution into one of Houstons signature urban nexuses.

'With an already robust collection of restaurant and retail spaces, as well as now three top-of-the-line luxury apartment communities populating the district, Autry Park has reached a watershed threshold in its development life cycle.

'With additional growth plans on the horizon, that will strengthen the developments attractiveness from a full-spectrum live, work and play perspective.'
A father of three abducted children has shared how shocked he was when their mother was caught on surveillance footage boarding an international flight with them in tow to flee the 'end times.'

Kendall Seymour said he had no idea his ex-wife, Elleshia Anne Seymour, had been planning to take their children to Europe until two days after she was spotted leading them through a terminal at Salt Lake City International Airport on November 30.

'I didn't know about any of these ideas of hers until a couple of weeks ago when someone found her TikTok account,' Kendall told KSL-TV.

'She thinks Salt Lake is going to be destroyed and she is trying to get the kids to safety. My only hope is that she is motivated to protect them.'

He added: 'There were no signs of that when we were married or divorced in the last five years.'

The family - including fourth child from another relationship - was then spotted boarding a flight to Croatia, with a layover in Amsterdam, ABC 4 reports.

Elleshia had allegedly fled the country with her children because she believed the 'end times' were coming.

Investigators now say it does not seem as if Elleshia had any plans to return to the United States, claiming she obtained travel arrangements without Kendall or the other child's father's knowledge or consent, and left her vehicle at the airport.

She also allegedly left behind a 'to-do' list, including plans to shred documents and discard phones before fleeing the country, as well as a note 'depicting a delusional message from God promising her she would be in Italy by Christmas,' according to an online fundraiser.

Kendall Seymour, a father of three abducted children, has said he he did not know that their mother was planning to take them to Europe

Elleshia Anne Seymour, 35, is now facing charges of custodial interference and removing the children from the state

Kendall, who shares custody of Elleshia's eldest three children, said the last time he saw his children was between November 24 and 25, when he dropped them off at school at the start of their mother's scheduled custody time.

He said concerns were first raised days later, when a child care worker called asking why the children had not shown up for daycare.

Authorities then conducted a welfare search on December 2, after Elleshia's colleagues reported that she had not shown up for work and stopped answering messages.

That same day, police claim, Elleshia left a voicemail for one of the fathers, saying she was already in France with the children.

She allegedly said at the time that she was planning to seek permanent residence abroad, and claimed she had taken the children because the apocalypse was imminent.

'She's been planning this because she took off on the 30th of November during my long custody break for Thanksgiving,' the worried father told KSL-TV.

'It has been three weeks now. She has no family in Europe. As far as I know, no contacts out there.'

By December 10, the Utah Department of Public Safety issued an endangered missing advisory for the four children - Landon Hal Seymour, who turned 11 on December 13, Levi Parker Seymour, eight, Hazel Ray Seymour, seven and Jacob Kurt Brady, three.

Charges for custodial interference and removing the children from the state were filed six days later, and a temporary emergency protective order and no-bail arrest warrant was issued for their mother.

The no-bail arrest warrant was requested after witnesses reported she had previously suffered from emotional breakdowns and hallucinations, charging documents suggest.

Elleshia was seen on surveillance footage leading her four children through a terminal at Salt Lake City International Airport on November 30

The family then boarded a flight to Croatia with a stop-over in Amsterdam

Kendall said he now hopes the state warrant will be turned into a federal warrant, which would allow INTERPOL to create their own arrest warrant for Elleshia.

'Hopefully the next step is I get a phone call that she's been found and then I can fly out and find the kids,' he told ABC 4.

'As soon as that happens, me and my fiance were going to drop everything and go get them.'

Once that happens, Elleshia could face serious legal consequences.

'She's chasing four felony counts, assuming this is the first time this has happened and [if] she has some mental health problems, then she is likely not looking at any jail time at all,' family law attorney Marco Brown said.

'What I think is more likely is they get the kids back to the United States and if they share 50-50 custody, then he goes and modifies the custody, so he gets the majority of it and holds the kids' passports.'

'If the police find her and arrest her, because they have an international warrant and work with the FBI, then they could detain her and the United States would extradite her back.'

In the meantime, Kendall is seeking to raise money for his and his fiancee's eventual flights to Europe.

Kendall said he and his fiancee are planning to fly to Europe and collect his children as soon as Elleshia is located

'I know someone who was dropped off in a foreign country at eight years old when they didn't speak the language, and they strongly suggested that we personally go pick them up wherever they are found. This will minimize trauma,' he wrote.

'If we can be there to get them ASAP after mom is arrested, they will feel safer and will not suffer as much wondering what is going to happen to them, to their mom and to their future.'

'Tickets to Europe are not cheap - we need two round-trip flights, perhaps a hotel and three to four one-way return flights,' Kendall noted, explaining he does not yet know whether he or the other father will pick up the fourth child.

'Any funds received in excess of flight costs will go towards therapy needed because of this traumatic experience.'

He concluded by writing that his 'genuine hope is that the kids are found quickly and we can pick them up while they think they're still on vacation.'

As of Sunday evening, Kendall had raised over $12,600 for the flights and his children's therapy.
Lara Trump has hinted that Karoline Leavitt will take just a brief maternity leave after the White House Press Secretary announced her second pregnancy.

Donald Trump's daughter-in-law addressed rumors that Leavitt, 28, will step down from her position following the expected birth of her baby girl in May 2026.

'I've seen some stories out there, Lisa, people saying, "Who's next in line?" Nobody's next in line,' Lara told Fox & Friends guest host Lisa Boothe.

'It's Karoline, she can do everything.'

Lara went on to point out that Leavitt and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, 60, welcomed their first child in July 2024 - amid Trump's third presidential campaign.

'She did this, by the way, during the Trump campaign,' the My View with Lara Trump host said.

'She was pregnant, delivered her son Niko, and then was back to work within a couple of days - on television, fighting to ensure President Trump got elected. But she's amazing.'

Lara, who is married to Trump's 41-year-old son, Eric, confidently noted that Trump has fostered a 'pro-family' environment at the White House, allowing parents to strike a healthy balance between work and raising their children.

Karoline Leavitt shared a photo of herself in front of her Christmas tree while announcing her second pregnancy on Friday

Leavitt (pictured on December 16) is the youngest White House press secretary in US history

Lara Trump (pictured on July 31), the host of My View With Lara Trump, hinted that Leavitt's maternity leave will be brief

'Were all going to be watching as Karoline Leavitt absolutely schools the fake news media while shes probably eight and nine months pregnant,' she said.

Leavitt shared that she and Riccio are expecting another baby on Friday, the day after Christmas.

'The greatest Christmas gift we could ever ask for - a baby girl coming in May 2026,' the youngest press secretary in White House history wrote on Instagram.

'My husband and I are thrilled to grow our family and cant wait to watch our son become a big brother.'

Like Lara, Leavitt - who ran as a Republican for Congress in New Hampshire in 2022, but lost to the Democratic incumbent - expressed gratitude to the White House, Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles for 'fostering a pro-family environment.'

Along with her announcement, she shared several snaps capturing her excitement about becoming a 'girl mom.'

The first photo shows a white dress-wearing Leavitt, smiling next to her Christmas tree while holding her small baby bump.

Leavitt and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, welcomed their first child in July 2024

Lara Trump appeared on Fox & Friends on Saturday morning to discuss Leavitt's announcement

In the second picture, Leavitt holds an ultrasound image next to a baby shirt that reads, 'baby sis.'

The following heartwarming photo shows Riccio giving one-year-old Nicholas 'Niko' a kiss on the cheek.

In the last picture of the post, Niko holds a teddy bear wearing a shirt that reads, 'I'm the big brother.'

'My husband and I are thrilled to grow our family and cant wait to watch our son become a big brother,' Leavitt told Fox News on Friday.

'My heart is overflowing with gratitude to God for the blessing of motherhood, which I truly believe is the closest thing to Heaven on Earth.'

A senior White House official said that Leavitt will remain in her position - making her the first pregnant press secretary in US history.

She also recently told Daily Mail that she is staying put for the full four years, calling the role a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Leavitt returned to Trump's campaign just four days after giving birth to Niko, she told The Conservateur in 2024.

'Knowing I was going to have a baby in the middle of a presidential campaign - which, I found out, is no easy thing to do - they couldnt have been more accepting and welcoming of me,' she told the outlet.

On Friday, Leavitt shared a photo of Riccio giving one-year-old Nicholas 'Niko' a kiss on the cheek

The age gap between Leavitt and Riccio (pictured with Niko) has turned heads since she became the face of the White House

Leavitt (pictured with Donald Trump on July 15) said she returned to Trump's campaign just four days after giving birth to her son

'I had a feeling that I would be the type of person who would want to get back right away,' she continued.

Leavitt recalled turning on the television and watching Trump get shot during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, while she was holding a then three-day-old Niko in her arms.

She described this moment as a tipping point, at which she decided it was time to make her return after the brief hiatus.

'I looked at my husband and said, "Looks like Im going back to work,"' she told the outlet.

Since becoming the face of the White House, Leavitt's 32-year age gap with her real estate developer husband has turned heads.

In March, Leavitt admitted they have a 'very atypical love story,' and said they first met when she unsuccessfully ran for Congress nearly four years ago.

'A mutual friend of ours hosted an event at a restaurant that he owns up in New Hampshire and invited my husband,' Leavitt told Megyn Kelly at the time.

'I was speaking. We met and we were acquainted as friends. And then we fell in love.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to the White House for comment.
Karen Bass, the democratic mayor of Los Angeles, was blasted online as a 'racist' after describing the unprecedented numbers of Latinos joining the Border Patrol as 'sad'.

The mayor expressed her disappointment in an interview on Friday with Wolf Blitzer on 'The Situation Room,' which sparked outrage online, with many calling her 'racist' and a 'hypocrite' for being 'disappointed in diversity.'

The mayor was asked her thoughts about an inside report at a border patrol academy showing the record-breaking number of recruits joining US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), with many being Latino.

'Well, in a way, I think it's sad,' Bass replied. 'I think that those Border Patrol agents are going to have a difficult time when they're out in the field, and they see what actually happens in real life separate from their training.'

Bass believes Latinos' primary incentive is financial, and added that it speaks to the economic situation that millions of Americans are struggling with.

However, the report she had just watched showed multiple Latinos describing their motivations that had nothing to do with money.

During the investigation in the facility, CNN correspondent David Culver interviewed two Latino border patrol agents about why they joined the agency and the criticism they face from other Latinos.

Mayor Karen Bass joined Wolf Blitzer Friday for an interview on ' The Situation Room,' where she expressed her sadness after watching a report which showed many Latinos joining the CBP

Bass believes that Latinos are joining due to a financial primary incentive

Border Patrol Agent Claudio Herrera proudly told Culver why he joined: 'I'm protecting my community. I'm protecting both sides of the border.'

It took Claudio 11 years to become a citizen, and he advised immigrants to follow the legal process, or they will only 'find jail or only find death.'

Juan Peralta, 20, and the son of an immigrant, also told the outlet that many are surprised that he is joining the agency so young and asked him how he feels about 'arresting your own kind.'

Peralta explained, 'They didn't come in the right way. So, they aren't my kind.'

Over half of the agents serving on the southern border are Hispanic, and applications are higher than 70 percent from one year ago, according to the CBP.

The findings left the mayor disappointed as she added: 'I definitely am concerned about that report.'

New Border Patrol Agents are eligible for up to $60,000, as well as $10,000 after completing the academy and an additional $10,000 if assigned to a remote location

After watching the report Blitzer asked the mayor her thoughts to which she replied: 'Well, in a way, I think it's sad'

The mayor's criticism was not well received by droves of social media users, who took to several platforms to express their outrage at her reaction.

One person said: 'Karen Bass idiot mayor who lied about everything concerning the FIRES is now upset at DIVERSITY?'

Another wrote: 'Karen Bass is a hypocrite and racist.'

A third added: 'I've known Hispanics whose families waited and immigrated legally. They're against illegal immigration. Karen Bass really is detached from reality.'

New Border Patrol Agents are eligible for up to $60,000 in incentives, according to the CBP.

New agents receive $10,000 after completing the academy and an additional $10,000 if assigned to a remote location.

'CBP is committed to recruiting and retaining top talent for our critical mission,' said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott.

'By offering competitive incentives, we are investing in skilled professionals who will help secure America's borders and advance national security.'
Nearly 20,000 complaints were made about rats to Scotlands councils last year, with a growing funding squeeze blamed for rising numbers of sightings.

The number of rat reports has skyrocketed in recent years, with incidences more than a third up on 2020/21.

A total of 19,752 complaints were made about the pests in 2024/25  an average of 54 a day  with more than half of these in Glasgow.

It comes at a time when spending on street cleaning has been reduced amid growing financial strain on local authorities.

Scottish Labour local government spokesman Mark Griffin said: Glasgow is a world-class city but we can all see how badly it is being let down by the SNP... leaving us with litter on the streets and rats running riot.

Data obtained by Scottish Labour from 26 of Scotlands 32 councils shows there were 19,752 complaints about rats in 2024/25, 12.7 per cent higher than 17,528 in 2023/24.

In Glasgow alone, there were 10,840 rat complaints last year, 19.6 per cent higher than 9,066 in 2023/24 and 50.2 per cent higher than 7,215 in 2020/21.

Trade unions have been warning for several years of a growing problem with the rodents in Glasgow  although SNP council leader Susan Aitken claimed there was just greater visibility and not an increasing health problem.

Nearly 20,000 complaints about rats were made to Scottish councils last year

Bin workers have been filmed fleeing massive rats in Glasgow - in 2021 Scotland's largest city was declared rat capital of the country

Labour highlighted official data that showed council expenditure on street cleaning has fallen from 150.1million in 2010/11 to 98.3million in 2024/25.

The proportion of adults who were satisfied with street cleaning also fell to 58 per cent across Scotland and 37 per cent in Glasgow  the lowest scores since 2013/14.

But local authority chiefs insist that there is no correlation between street cleaning figures and reports of rats in private properties.

Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: Funding for council-run waste services is a matter for local authorities, not the Scottish Government.

In 2021, Glasgow was dubbed the rat capital of Scotland when research estimated that the total rat population in the city had soared to 1.3million.

Council refuse workers in the city have reported being attacked and bitten, with some requiring hospital treatment.

A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said: Rats can unfortunately be a fact of life in an urban environment. Thankfully the vast majority of Glasgows 300,000-plus homes will be completely unaffected by rodents at any one time because appropriate environmental controls are already in place.
Nigel Farage is bidding to seize control of six London councils next year as he looks to end the capital's reputation as a no-go zone for Reform.

The Reform leader has made London a key target in his plans to trigger another political 'earthquake' at the local elections in May.

In an interview with the Mail, he said Reform would target Sadiq Khan's 'terrible' record on law and order. Mr Farage said success in the capital next year could be the springboard for a serious push to topple Mr Khan in the next mayoral election in 2028.

Reform and its predecessor parties have struggled in the past to gain a foothold in London, which was a stronghold of the Remain campaign.

But Mr Farage said 'everything has changed' since the last election.

The party is pouring resources into the contest in the capital and Mr Farage said it has a 'very real chance' of winning in 'half a dozen' of the 32 London boroughs.

Key targets include the outer London boroughs of. Bromley, Bexley, Havering and Barking and Dagenham.

But Mr Farage, who will launch his party's London campaign at a major event at the Excel centre next month, is also looking for signs of Labour's vote splintering in currently rock-solid parts of inner London where it is under intense pressure from the Greens and other Left-wing parties.

Capital offensive: Nigel Farage is targeting Reform's first electoral success in London

'Labour are going to find their vote horrendously split,' he said. 'With the Greens and Corbyn and the Gaza independents. All these different people. There is a chance that Labour vote really gets hit.'

He added: 'Starmer's problems as we face May are immense, These elections in May are the British equivalent of the US midterms.

'We're going for gold.'

Mr Farage criticised the record of both Mr Khan and the Conservatives on crime in the capital.

'London is in big, big, big, big trouble,' he said.

'Absolutely at the heart of our campaign in London is law and order. Crime is everywhere and Sadiq's record is one of almost not caring about it. It is remarkable. And the Tories' record I'm afraid 87 per cent of police stations in London closed under the Conservatives. People feel there is no local police station, there is no community policing. They see the dramatic decline in police numbers since 2010 and yet large numbers of Londoners get knocks on the door for what they say on Facebook.

He added: 'I don't know anybody in London who has not had a member of their family who's been a victim of crime in the last year. I don't know anyone. It's literally everywhere. People who commute in from the suburbs every day are deeply conscious of it.

'If your mobile phone is stolen I had a relation whose phone was stolen, mugged outside Victoria Station and phone taken. We had a tracker on it, we phoned the police we told them exactly where it was and the postcode in High Wycombe and you can bet your life it wasn't just his mobile phone  there would have been 100 of them  and the police did nothing. They're just not interested.'

Mr Farage plans to adopt the 'broken windows' strategy pioneered by Rudy Giuliani in New York, which saw crime rates slashed in the 1990s by taking a zero tolerance to even minor offences.

He said Reform would introduce 'radical change' to the policing of offences like shoplifting and phone theft.

'Basically now, you can shoplift with impunity,' he said. 'We believe every single shoplifting case should be prosecuted  every single one.

Join the debate Do YOU feel safe in London?

Reform believe success in the capital in May could provide a springboard for a serious bid to oust Sadiq Khan as London mayor

'We are basically beginning to apply the broken windows theory from Rudy Giuliani. He's somebody I admire and know very well. During my time working for American companies I saw the most dangerous city in America become the safest city in America. We want to model ourselves on that.'

Reform is targeting big gains in the May elections, which include around 5,000f council seats in England and Scottish and Welsh assembly elections.

Labour is expected to lose control in Wales for the first time ever, with Reform fighting it out with Plaid Cymru to emerge as the largest party.

In Scotland, recent polls have suggested that Reform is now in second place behind the SNP.

There is a genuine collapse in the Labour vote across the country,' Mr Farage said. 'It's amazing.'

Reform topped the poll in this year's local elections, delivering a seismic shock to both Labour and the Conservatives last May.

Recent council-by elections suggest that the trend is continuing.

A tally of this year's contests shows that Reform has quietly gained 59 seats at by-elections this year, including 25 from Labour and 19 from the Conservatives. The Lib Dems, who hope to do well in the home counties in May, have picked up 20 seats, half of them from the Conservatives. Meanwhile, the Tories have lost 25 seats and Labour is down by 44.

A spokesman for Mr Khan defended the Mayor's record, saying official figures showed there were 22,000 fewer offences across the capital last year, including a 15 per cent drop in robberies.

'There are some politicians and commentators who continue to denigrate London and talk our great city down, but the facts are showing a very different picture,' the spokesman said.

'These results are testament to the hard work of the Met Police who have been backed with record investment from City Hall to bear down on crime, alongside the prevention and early intervention work of the Mayors London Violence Reduction Unit and partners across London.

'But Sadiq is clear there is still more to do and he will continue to work with businesses, communities and the police to build on these reductions to deliver a safer London for everyone.'
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- National plaintiffs' law firm Berger Montague PC announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN) ("Stride" or the "Company") on behalf of investors who purchased Stride securities during the period of October 22, 2024 through October 28, 2025 (the "Class Period").

Investor Deadline: Investors who purchased Stride securities during the Class Period may, no later than January 12, 2026, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class. To learn your rights, CLICK HERE .

Stride is an education technology company based in Reston, Virginia, offering digital learning programs and instructional support to public and private schools.

According to the complaint, the Company misrepresented the performance and integrity of its products and services during the Class Period. The lawsuit claims Stride overstated enrollment figures, reduced staff costs beyond legal limits, failed to meet compliance standards, and lost key enrollmentsall while assuring investors of its commitment to personalized learning. When the alleged issues became known, the Company's stock price declined, causing investor losses.

If you are a Stride investor and would like to learn more about this action, CLICK HERE or please contact Berger Montague: Andrew Abramowitz at [email protected] or (215) 875-3015, or Caitlin Adorni at [email protected] or (267)764-4865.

About Berger Montague

Berger Montague is one of the nation's preeminent law firms focusing on complex civil litigation, class actions, and mass torts in federal and state courts throughout the United States. With more than $2.4 billion in 2025 post-trial judgments alone, the Firm is a leader in the fields of complex litigation, antitrust, consumer protection, defective products, environmental law, employment law, securities, and whistleblower cases, among many other practice areas. For over 55 years, Berger Montague has played leading roles in precedent-setting cases and has recovered over $50 billion for its clients and the classes they have represented. Berger Montague is headquartered in Philadelphia and has offices in Chicago; Malvern, PA; Minneapolis; San Diego; San Francisco; Toronto, Canada; Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, DE.

For more information or to discuss your rights, please contact:

Andrew Abramowitz

Senior Counsel

Berger Montague

(215) 875-3015

[email protected]

Caitlin Adorni

Director of Portfolio & Institutional Client Monitoring Services

Berger Montague

(267) 764-4865

[email protected]

SOURCE Berger Montague
A young tourist and her nine friends have lost a staggering $10,000 after arriving in Australia to find the accommodation they booked was part of a cruel scam.

New Zealand woman Georgia Pemberton and her friends decided to travel to the Gold Coast, Queensland, for a fun vacation and to celebrate New Year's Eve.

Ms Pemberton booked a house for the group via Bookabach - a popular New Zealand-founded online platform, which is part of Expedia Group and used for booking holiday accommodation.

The New Zealand traveller explained the listing showed a beautiful house on the water which was big enough to fit ten people.

She added the accommodation was a little bit expensive, costing $10,000 for eight days, but she did not think anything of it as the cost was being split among the ten friends and it was during a very busy time of the year.

After paying the first deposit, Ms Pemberton said she didn't second guess the booking as communication with the host was great and everything appeared to be normal.

The remaining balance was due on December 22, the day the group flew to the Gold Coast.

Ms Pemberton said she was waiting for check-in instructions, but believed the host would be at the house to provide information once they arrived.

New Zealand woman Georgia Pemberton and her nine friends were left stranded on the Gold Coast after they were scammed out of $10,0000 for a holiday rental that did not exist

The group arrived at the accommodation and Ms Pemberton knocked on the door only to be greeted by the homeowner who had never listed her home as a holiday rental.

'This girl comes out, and she's like, "Hi, can I help you?" And I said, "Yeah, we've booked this place on BookaBach." She goes, "I don't do Bookabach",' Ms Pemberton said.

'My heart literally sank. What do you mean you don't do Bookabach? Who did I just pay $10,000 to?

'I showed her the photos, and she goes, "Holy s***. That is my house. I live here. This is my family home".'

The homeowner said she had previously tried to sell her house and that the scammer had taken the photos from realestate.com and used them to create the rental listing.

While this was the first time someone had come to her home from Bookabach, she claimed she had problems in the past and had an idea of who was behind the scam.

'The girl that came out was the same girl that was the host in the Bookabach pictures. So this scammer has taken photos of the woman from her WhatsApp and has pretended to be her,' Ms Pemberton said.

'The girl actually lives here as well. So it's giving someone was more so scamming her, like it was personal.'

Ms Pemberton booked a house for the group via Bookabach - a popular New Zealand-founded online platform, which is part of Expedia Group and used for booking holiday accomodation (pictured, the Gold Coast)

Ms Pemberton and her friends were then left walking the streets of the Gold Coast with their suitcases with nowhere to go.

'We are literally in the streets, like rolling around our suitcases. We went to this park, and just sat there and was like, "What are we gonna do?"' she said.

'I started to freak out a little bit because I'm like, firstly, where's the $10,000, secondly, when I sat down and to think about it, I'm like, Oh my gosh, we actually got scammed.

'Thirdly, we're just rolling around our suitcases in a different country, with nowhere to go, nowhere to sleep.'

Ms Pemberton said one of her friends was able to contact Bookabach for support and explained the group had been scammed.

She added the online platform provided a hotel for the group for a couple of nights until they were able to source and organise their own accomodation.

On Saturday, the group secured accomodation through Airbnb for the remainder of their stay.

Ms Pemberton said the experience left her feeling 'sick to her stomach' and warned others to be wary of potential scams on holiday rental sites.

'Moral of the story, be careful because there are genuinely people out there who do this and you never think this would ever happen to you,' Ms Pemberton said.

'I genuinely felt sick to my stomach thinking that someone has just taken $10,000. Luckily, I am with an amazing group of people who are very calm and chill.

'I just feel like something could have gone really bad. It was giving dodge, it was giving run. We're safe and we're okay. I'm never using bookabach again. I refuse.'

A spokesperson for Bookabach told Daily Mail the online platform takes fraudulent claims very seriously and sincerely apologised to Ms Pemberton for her experience.

'We sincerely apologise for Ms. Pembertons experience and want to assure you that we take any claims of fraudulent use of our platform very seriously,' Bookabach said.

'We are still actively investigating this matter; however, please know that travellers can no longer make bookings for this property, and Ms. Pemberton has been refunded in full.'
A Native American tribe in Long Island are seeking money from the state after they filed a lawsuit claiming that a part of a highway was illegally built on their sovereign land.

The Shinnecock Indian Nation filed the federal complaint in the US District Court in Brooklyn on December 22 against New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James after claiming a portion of their Westwoods land in Hampton Bays is continually violated.

The tribe alleged that an easement from 1959 for the construction of Route 27 never received federal approval to be built on a portion of their protected land. An easement is permission to use an entities property for a specific purpose.

The route, also known as the Sunrise Highway, is a vital transportation link connecting the east end of Long Island, including the Hamptons, to the rest of the region. Hampton Bays is approximately 85 miles from New York City.

The Nation is not asking for the highway to be shut down. Still, it is seeking several rulings that would force the state to negotiate a 'valid right-of-way' and proper permissions from the federal government be granted to the state, as well as compensation for the use of land, according to the filing.

'This land is and has always been restricted fee land held by the Nation,' according to the filing.

The stretch of land has been been disputed by the state and the tribe for years.

Leaders of the Native American Nation were sued by the state Department of Transportation and the Town of Southampton in 2019 for operating large digital billboards and a travel plaza near the highway.

The Shinnecock Indian Nation filed the federal complaint claiming a portion of their Westwoods land in Hampton Bays is continually violated.

The tribe claimed that the construction of Route 27, also known as the Sunrise Highway, never received federal approval to be built on a portion of their protected land

The route is a vital transportation link connecting the east end of Long Island, including the Hamptons, to the rest of the region

The billboards generate $900,000 in annual revenue, according to the New York Post.

The court determined that New York had official authority over that land under the 1959 easement.

Lance Gumbs, Vice Chairman of the Shinnecock Indian Nation, posted online that they were forced to sue the State of New York in Federal Court to protect the Sovereignty and Jurisdiction over our Shinnecock Nation Land we have owned since time immemorial!'

Gumbs, whose Native American name is Fierce Eyes, added that the state had an invalid easement and was ordered by a State Court Judge turn off their billboard, which he noted was a major financial contributor to the Nation's government operations and general welfare.

'Turning off the signs would severely impact the health and well-being of our Tribal Community,' he wrote.

The Shinnecock are also hoping to obtain a temporary restraining order preventing state officials from turning off the signs.

Gumbs continued to claim how state officials are coming after leaders of his community: 'Along with that, the Judge has threatened to find a way to go after the Leadership of our Nation, ignoring the sovereign immunity that elected officials have in carrying out their duties on behalf of the Nation on its Sovereign Tribal Land.'

Lance Gumbs, Vice Chairman of the Shinnecock Indian Nation, posted online that New York State officials are targeting leaders of his tribe

New York Governor Kathy Hochul [pictured] was named in the lawsuit along with state Attorney General Letitia James, and state Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez

'The Judge has already imposed fines against our business partners, demanding they turn off the signs, which they can't do, in an attempted backdoor threat against the Nation.'

Fierce Eyes added that the State Supreme Court and New York State have completely ignored Federal Indian Law, leaving them little choice but to take their case to Federal Court, where they are praying for an immediate temporary restraining order and Injunctive relief against 'the outright modern-day theft' of their Restricted Fee Tribal Land.

The easement case returns to federal court on December 30, Shinnecock Vice Chairman Lance Gumbs told NBC New York.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Governor Kathy Hochul for comment.
J.K. Rowling has urged politicians to take trans activists' threats seriously after the Mail on Sunday revealed protesters were planning to smash the offices of senior ministers.

This newspaper reported yesterday that Bash Back is set to target prominent political figures - including the Prime Minister and Health Secretary Wes Streeting.

Celebrated author Rowling took to social media platform X to share the MoS's story and describe the militant group as part of a 'totalitarian movement'.

Rowling wrote: 'Who knows, now that trans activists aren't only stalking, harassing, doxxing, threatening and physically assaulting women, our politicians might finally take the violence that's such a key feature of this totalitarian movement seriously.'

Bash Back describes itself as a 'trans-led direct action project focused on total transgender liberation'.

Back in August, the group claimed responsibility for vandalising Wes Streeting's Ilford North constituency office after the Health Secretary acknowledged he was 'deeply uncomfortable' with an NHS trial of puberty-blocking drugs.

Police launched an investigation after the Health Secretary's HQ had its windows smashed and the words 'child killer' daubed on the front in graffiti.

Sharing a photo of the front of Mr Streeting's office shortly after it had been damaged, Bash Back wrote: 'Don't want action? Don't kill kids.'

Author JK Rowling took to social media to share the Mail on Sunday's revelations about trans activists targeting senior politicians

Bash Back's first public attack was on Mr Streeting's Ilford North constituency office in July, smashing windows and daubing 'child killer' on the shop front - a reference to the Health Secretary's views on puberty blockers for children

Rowling said in her post that attacks on male politicians might mean lawmakers 'finally take the violence that's such a key feature of this totalitarian movement seriously'

The group's latest conspiracy was uncovered by the Mail on Sunday after it urged members to form 'cells' and plot criminal damage offences against high-profile targets.

The gender warriors said: 'If you think we're done, you've got another thing coming. MP or PM, you've seen us once, we'll see you again.'

A list of other potential marks include the Free Speech Union (FSU) and feminist organisation Sex Matters.

On Saturday night, journalists from this newspaper notified the Metropolitan Police and the parliamentary security services of our findings.

FSU founder Lord Young commissioned an independent security briefing about the group.

The report, obtained by MoS journalists, suggests British intelligence is monitoring the trans activist cells.

In a pamphlet, Bash Back claims to target 'organisations that promote transphobic rhetoric - from banning hormones and puberty blockers, to confining us to or defining us out of categories of woman and man, to promoting conversion therapy and facilitating hideous harassment campaigns'.

It says they 'should come to expect us', adding: 'All of our targets have blood on their hands. We refuse to let them wash it off in peace.'

A transgender activist group is planning a series of attacks on senior politicians' offices, including the Prime Minister's

Militant group Bash Back has said its sights are also set on Wes Streeting - just months after vandalising his constituency office

After Bash Back's first public attack was on Mr Streeting's constituency office, the group has formulated an action guide - seen by this newspaper - for sympathisers to carry out similar attacks.

The document details how to avoid police detection as they plot criminal damage and steal equipment while filming their actions.

A security briefing on the group - also seen by The Mail on Sunday - reveals it has gone to extensive lengths to hide its identity, including removing internal metadata from public documents and using ultra-secure email systems.

The security memo says: 'Given the first attack was on the office of a HM Gov minister, almost certainly the group responsible will be investigated by security services.'

Activists engaged in criminal activity could be among the near 3,000 profiles following Bash Back across social media platforms, the security document adds.

Maya Forstater, the chief executive of Sex Matters - also included in the list of offices that are potential targets - said: 'After years in which police forces rolled out the red carpet for trans lobby groups and harassed women's rights campaigners, it's no wonder that Bash Back seems to believe it can cause criminal damage with impunity.'

A government spokesman said: 'Threats, harassment, and vandalism are not only cowardly, they're criminal and we will pursue anyone who targets politicians and their staff in this way, with the full force of the law.

'The rhetoric from this group is dangerous and only seeks to distract from our work to improve the lives of trans people.'

In October members of the transgender activist group vandalised a feminist conference in Brighton

One of the Brighton Centre's windows was smashed during the incident, which was carried out by members of Bash Back

Besides politicians, the group - which claims it is committed to 'combating the rising tide of bigotry in the UK' - have also unleashed attacks on a number of other high-profile targets.

On October 10 this year, members targeted the Brighton Centre, where the FiLiA Women's Liberation Conference was being held.

The three-day event describes itself as 'Europe's biggest grassroots feminist conference' but Bash Back claimed the conference would see 'terfs gather every year to gloat about attacks on bodily autonomy and trans people's safety' - adding it would play host to 'some of the most vicious transphobia in pop politics'.

The group also posted a video of the incident, with hooded protesters seen covering the venue in pink paint and showing smashed windows.

Ms Bindel, a journalist, broadcaster and self titled 'feminist' who is among those who attended this year's conference, posted images of the destruction on X, which was then retweeted by JK Rowling.

Later the same month Bash Back targeted the headquarters of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) in London over their controversial interim guidance on banning trans people in single-sex spaces.
Australia's Ambassador for First Nations People is under intense scrutiny after racking up a taxpayer-funded travel bill nearing $350,000 since he was appointed.

Justin Mohamed, appointed by Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong in March 2023, receives a $400,000 annual salary for a position unique to Australia.

Backed by ten staff and a four-year budget totalling $13.6million, the role has copped criticism since its creation.

His travel expenses have come under the spotlight as a mid-year interview has resurfaced where Mohamed revealed his desire to 'prove white Australia wrong'.

Freedom of Information documents reveal Mohamed's international travel cost almost $100,000 between February and October this year alone.

That included more than $40,000 in business-class fares to Japan, Switzerland and the United States.

Mohamed's most expensive trip was to Japan in August, with costs reaching $22,341 - $17,566 of that spent on flights to Osaka and Sapporo.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) explained the high airfare was because the trip began in a remote part of the Northern Territory.

Justin Mohamed, appointed by Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wongin March 2023, receives a $400,000 annual salary for a position unique to Australia (pictured, Mohamed posing with Linda Burney)

In July, Mohamed travelled to Geneva for $19,002, including $13,810 in flights.

April's visit to New York cost $15,234, with $10,031 for airfares.

In Geneva, Mohamed attended the 18th session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP), which concluded with a gala celebrating the 40th anniversary of the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples.

Mohamed described the event on LinkedIn as 'an inspiring evening of reflection and celebration, featuring performing arts and music that honoured the rich diversity of Indigenous traditions'.

'I was delighted to attend the Gala Reception Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples,' he said.

Australia contributes to the UN Voluntary Fund, which helps Indigenous people participate in international forums and have a say in decisions that affect their communities.

Mohamed emphasised this commitment, noting the fund makes sure Indigenous voices are present at the highest levels.

He has visited Vanuatu five times to support a bilateral agreement, with one trip lasting just one night but costing $3,674 in airfares. The cost of his latest visit remains unknown.

Justin Mohamed (left) is paid around $400,000 a year and has a staff of ten people

Altogether, Mohamed's travel expenses over 20 months total around $250,000, with overall spending now close to $350,000.

In a June interview with The Indigenous Business Review, Mohamed reflected on what fuels his work.

'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the differences between them and the rest of the community, basically you saw it every day, and you lived it,' he said.

'So as I kind of grew up, I had a desire to do better, to prove white Australia wrong.'

DFAT stood by the ambassador's role.

'First Nations international engagement is a unique element of Australia's national power that cannot be replicated by other countries,' a spokesperson told the Daily Telegraph.

Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Michaelia Cash criticised the post and its costs.

'Our focus is on policies that deliver real improvements on the ground, not symbolic roles with high travel costs,' she said.
A young apprentice accused of knocking a prominent Labor figure unconscious after a night out has been freed on bail while his alleged victim fights for life in hospital.

Tim Picton, 36, the brother of South Australian health minister Chris Picton, remains in an induced coma at Royal Perth Hospital, two days after he was allegedly assaulted by a stranger and struck his head on the pavement outside a Northbridge pub early on Saturday.

He suffered a fractured skull, multiple bleeds and underwent surgery to remove part of his cranium.

Brodie Jake Dewar, 20, was arrested nearby and spent a night in custody before he appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Sunday, charged with one count of grievous bodily harm.

The court heard Mr Picton may face lifelong disability if he survives.

Dewar had no prior criminal record, apart from two traffic offences in 2023, the court was told.

His lawyer told the court Mr Picton was harassing her clients cousin before the alleged attack and Dewar had repeatedly asked him to leave her alone.

'(Dewar) has confronted him and he thought he was going to be hit (by Mr Picton) - and hes reacted,' she said.

Brodie Jake Dewar, 20, is accused of knocking a prominent Labor figure unconscious after a night out

Tim Picton (pictured right with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese) remains in an induced coma

The magistrate warned Dewar that he faced a 'high likelihood of imprisonment' as she granted him bail until his next court appearance in February.

He cannot consume alcohol or leave Western Australia and must abide by a 7pm to 7am curfew as part of his strict bail conditions.

Wearing a blue jumpsuit and carrying a pair of boots, Dewar looked down and ignored questions from reporters as he left court supported by his family.

Earlier on Sunday, Mr Picton's family thanked medical staff and police for their professionalism and support, as well as his friends and colleagues for their compassion during the 'incredibly difficult time'.

'As a family, we are focused entirely on being with him and supporting one another,' the family statement read.

'Tim is a much loved father, husband, brother and son, as well as a friend to so many across Australia.'

The former political strategist played an instrumental role in guiding WA Labor to a landslide 2021 election victory, which left the opposition with just two seats.

As Mr Picton fights for life in hospital, Brodie Jake Dewar (in blue) left court supported by his family after he was granted bail

Tim Picton (pictured) could end up with a lifelong disability if he survives the alleged attack

Mr Picton also previously worked as an advisor for Senator Don Farrell in the federal Gillard government, then in the office of former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews.

He has since taken up a role as strategy director for mining company Mineral Resources.

Western Australian Premier Roger Cook and South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said their thoughts were with Mr Picton and his family.

'The whole Labor team are thinking of him and his family during this difficult time,' Mr Cook posted on X.

Mr Malinauskas added: 'It's hard to know, at these early stages, exactly what's happened to Mr Picton's brother, but he is unwell and in a serious condition,'

'My thoughts are with Mr Picton and Chris, and his beautiful family.'

Tim Picton (left) is an influential Labor campaigner who help steer then-WA Premier Mark McGowan (centre) to a landslide election win in 2021

Police have reminded New Year's Eve revellers that violent behaviour won't be tolerated this Wednesday night and warned about the consequences of split-second decisions.

'The community is absolutely tired of seeing this level of violence,' WA Police Assistant Commissioner Martin Haime said.

'It's completely unacceptable. This time of year should be about celebration and enjoyment, not fear of harm.'
Heavily armed police have stormed a suburban home and ordered the occupants out at gunpoint during a late-night raid in Sydney's south-west.

Tactical officers swarmed on the Isis Street home in Fairfield West on Sunday night.

Police ordered the occupants to come out with their hands up via loudspeaker, according to shocked witnesses.

At least three women came out holding up their hands before they were surrounded by officers.

Police cleared the property with the assistance of a drone as detectives scoured the home.

Footage showed the blocked off street swarming with police vehicles, including a BearCat.

Stunned neighbours watched on from their front lawns. The reason for the police operation remains unclear.

A NSW Police spokeswoman declined to provide any further information about the raid due to 'operational reasons'.

Do you know more? Email tips@dailymail.com.au

Tactical police stormed a Fairfield West home and ordered the occupants out at gunpoint during a late-night raid

The reason for the police operation which blocked off a quiet suburban street remains unclear

Several women came out holding up their hands before they were surrounded by officers.

Police used a loud speaker to order the occupants inside to come out with their hands up

The usually quiet suburban was swarming with police vehicles, including a BearCat (pictured)

Isis Street was blocked off during the police operation
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has drawn fierce criticism after urging Australians to perform 'acts of kindness' in response to the Bondi Beach terror attack, while continuing to reject demands for a federal inquiry.

Albanese has, so far, resisted growing calls for a national investigation into the December 14 massacre, in which brothers Sajid and Naveed Akram allegedly opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration, leaving 15 people dead and dozens injured.

'In the face of the Bondi antisemitic terror attack, our Jewish community have responded with kindness and compassion,' Albanese posted on X on Sunday.

'Through the One Mitzvah for Bondi campaign we urge every Australian to bring light into the world through an act of kindness.

'From checking in on a neighbour to volunteering your time in service of others, every mitzvah brings light into the world.'

He added: 'By standing together, Australians can show that hatred and violence will never define who we are.'

His message included a link to a NSW government site inviting people to describe a 'good deed in honour of the Bondi victims.'

The reaction was immediate and scathing, with angry Australians flooding the post with criticism and accusing the Prime Minister of offering a hollow gesture.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanesehas drawn fierce criticism after urging Australians to perform 'acts of kindness' in response to the Bondi Beach terror attack, while continuing to reject demands for a federal inquiry

'What a shame that you didn't show the same kindness toward our Jewish community when they were pleading for your help, Prime Minister,' one user wrote.

'So your calling to 'bring the light into the world' now is extremely shallow because our Jewish community should never have been placed in the position of having their light dimmed on December 14 in the first place,' another said.

'No one cares about what you have to say unless it's an announcement of a Royal Commission,' a third added.

Meanwhile, grieving families who lost loved ones in the Bondi attack have sent an open letter to Albanese, demanding a royal commission.

'You owe us answers. You owe us accountability. And you owe Australians the truth,' the letter reads.

Relatives of 11 victims, including 10-year-old Matilda and 87-year-old Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, signed the letter, along with family members of Sofia and Boris Gurman, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, Reuven Morrison, Edith Brutman, Tibor Weitzen, Yaakov Levitan, Tania Tretiak, and Boris Tetleroyd.

'We demand answers and solutions. We need to know why clear warning signs were ignored, how anti-Semitic hatred and Islamic extremism were allowed to grow dangerously unchecked and what changes must be made to protect all Australians going forward,' they wrote.

The families warned that Jewish Australians are now living in fear.

Albanese has, so far, resisted growing calls for a national investigation into the December 14 massacre (pictured, floral tributes left at Bondi Beach following the attack)

'Our children feel unsafe at school and university. Our homes, workplaces, sporting fields, and public spaces no longer feel secure. It is an intolerable situation that no Australian should have to endure.'

They argued the rising threat of anti-Semitism is a national emergency that requires decisive leadership.

Reuven Morrison's daughter Sheina Gutnick told Sunrise on Monday it was important for the families to band together and speak up.

'My father was murdered, leaving behind his wife, daughter and grandchildren. Matilda was murdered. Eli Schlanger was murdered leaving behind five children, including a six-week-old baby,' she said.

'So many families ripped apart with grandparents, parents, children just taken from their families.

'This is something that impacts all of us here in Australia.'

Despite mounting pressure from prominent figuresand members of his own partyAlbanese has stood firm on his refusal to establish a royal commission.

'I just note that there was no royal commission called by the Howard government after Port Arthur,' Albanese told reporters last week.

Reuven Morrison's daughter Sheina Gutnick said it was important for the victims' families to band together and write to Albanese calling for a royal commission

'There was no royal commission called by the Abbott government after the Lindt siege.

'We provided, on both those occasions as the opposition  support for national unity at that time.'

NSW Premier Chris Minns has broken ranks, backing calls for a federal royal commission and pledging to launch a state-based inquiry.

Former Australian Federal Police Chief Mick Keelty has also joined those supporting an inquiry, warning that 'anything less risks telling Australians that some truths are too difficult to face.'

'Bondi will not simply raise questions of intelligence failures, administrative arrangements, or resources. Deeper questions must be asked, in public, of officials and their political masters,' Keelty wrote in The Australian.

'We need to know whether part of the problem is a failure of understanding or, worse, deliberate decisions to ignore uncomfortable truths.'
There are endless stories from the 1970s and 80s that shock and amaze us today. Because, as we all know, things were a bit different back then.

But, surely, the menage-a-trois (of sorts) between Maggie and Andy Robin, a couple from Clackmannanshire, Scotland, and Hercules, the 9ft, 65st grizzly bear who lived with them for 25 years, ate fry-ups for breakfast at the kitchen table, lounged in front of the fire, and drank buckets of beer with punters in the pub they ran, takes the biscuit.

'It was a love story between the three of us, a definite love story,' says Maggie, now 76.

'No one's lived like that with a bear before. He was our wee boy.'

A wee boy who, as anyone over 50 will remember, went missing in the Outer Hebrides during a restorative swim in a loch after filming a loo paper advert for Kleenex in 1980.

His disappearance sparked a desperate 24-day bear hunt involving the police, Army, and locals in helicopters, boats, light aircraft and on foot with nets and tranquilliser guns.

And his eventual recovery turned him into a superstar who met Margaret Thatcher, appeared with Roger Moore in Octopussy and made his mark on the chat show circuit not just here with Russell Harty and Bruce Forsyth, but in America, Australia, Japan and Italy.

'It was a love story between the three of us, a definite love story,' says Maggie, now 76. She is pictured here in the late 70s with Hercules

Scottish ex professional wrestler Andy Robin had fallen in love with the idea of owning a bear after being asked to wrestle on in Canada; the couple raised Hercules, who grew to 8ft and 65stone, like a child, with one friend describing their relationship as a 'love triangle'

Now, a quarter of a century after his death, an extraordinary and moving documentary, Hercules The Bear: A Love Story, which airs tomorrow on BBC2, tells how Andy and Maggie - who did not have children - raised him from a six-month-old cub, as their son.

So we learn how Maggie would hug, chat to him - 'I was mum, I got all the cuddles' - and cook for him endlessly.

Eggs, beans, burgers, spaghetti bolognese, M&S prawns, coffee with condensed milk, cola, birthday cakes complete with candles which he'd blow out before wolfing the lot.

'I cooked and cooked. He was a fussy eater and didn't really like uncooked food,' she says.

Though he was partial to a pint of shandy and the odd Babycham in the pub.

'We had to be careful with Babycham. He got a wee bit tipsy a couple of times, he was like a big stumbly fur coat - so we didn't encourage that,' she says firmly.

We also hear how Andy, a champion wrestler and lumberjack, who died in 2019 aged 86, would run over the moors with his furry 'boy', swim with him in lakes and rivers (and later his own swimming pool), and play-wrestle with him for hours, despite the sharp claws and ever-expanding bulk.

'He was our boy. Our beloved big boy, our baby,' says Maggie in the documentary. 'He was just a magical creature and we had a magical life.'

Going on a bearhunt: The story of missing Hercules gripped the country; he was eventually rescued, 15 stone lighter, just over three weeks later

The grizzly, who was partial to M&S prawns and bottles of sparkling perry, found fame in a series of TV and film roles, including opposite Roger Moore in Octopussy in 1983

A life, which, even before Hercules joined the family, was a bit out of the ordinary.

The couple met at Perth Agricultural Show in 1970 and were not an obvious match. Maggie was a beautiful blonde showjumping champion and Andy was a stocky wrestler in very tight blue shorts.

'He was a strong beef cake. Every mother's nightmare. Suntanned, mega-fit, blue piercing eyes and very charismatic,' says Maggie.

'I was 21 and he was 37 and we were totally content.'

Partly, I suspect, reading between the lines, because Maggie let Andy be Andy. 'He was always full of dreams, and he never dreamt small,' she says.

As a wrestler, Andy competed across Canada and the US and was always open to new challenges.

So when he was offered 1,000 to take on a black bear called Terrible Ted, he was in the ring in a flash, where he wrestled with Ted and had an epiphany - one day, if he ever had the space, he'd have his own bear. If Maggie agreed. Of course she did!

'I was standing looking out of the window and he said, 'What would you say if I wanted to get a bear cub?' And I said, 'Oh babe, that would be fabulous!' '

The statue at Langass Woods, on the Scottish island of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides, where Hercules is now buried. Andy Robin, who died aged 84 in 2019, was laid to rest by his side

Barely six months later, after picking him out as a cub - 'the softest of the three' - they collected Hercules from the Highland Wildlife Park in Kincraig in Scotland, in exchange for 50 cash.

It was unusual even then, but the park had too many cubs to handle and its manager at the time, Eddie Orbell, decided it was better to sell him than put him to sleep.

Naturally, everyone thought Andy and Maggie were mad. And maybe they were.

Because to begin with, Hercules was a nightmare - biting and clawing and lashing out, trying to escape from his purpose-built shelter. But he also had Andy's complete focus - for hours every day, swimming, running, wrestling - and he thrived. And grew.

'He seems to think what I'm thinking and I think what he thinks,' said Andy at the time.

'The bond between us, it's super. It's just there.'

'To have a good relationship, there needs to be trust,' explains Maggie. 'Hercules gave us his trust and we gave him ours.'

She also insists, very firmly, that no one ever pushed back against their 'adoption' of Hercules.

In Hercules the Bear: A Love Story, which airs on BBC Two on New Year's Eve, Maggie Robin describes the bond her husband had with the gentle giant, calling it 'magic'

Not even when he was drinking cola, eating cake, shedding all his natural instincts and going everywhere with Andy - into town for errands, standing in the back of his adapted van with the wind rippling through his fur, visiting local schools, wrestling together at shows.

'Hercules was quite a showman himself,' says Maggie. 'He'd chase Andy round the ring and try and pull his trunks off.'

Suddenly everyone loved 'Hercules the softest bear in Scotland'. Particularly when Andy commissioned a 10,000 documentary - Hercules The Wrestling Bear - about him.

The offers from advertising agencies poured in and Andy invested in a converted bus to ferry him around.

It was while they were up in the Highlands filming another advert that Hercules vanished. One minute he and Andy were having a nice swim in the sea. The next, Andy was caught by the tide and Hercules was swimming away.

'He was gone!' says Maggie.

The hunt for Hercules was a sensation. Journalists and TV crews flew in and Maggie and Andy searched tirelessly for weeks.

But as time passed, hopes faded and the more determined experts became that he'd start killing - livestock, game, even people - in order to survive.

The bear almost came a cropper while filming an advert for Kleenex in the Outer Hebrides in 1980 when he went missing on the Scottish island for 24 days

'I could hear Andy crying in bed. And he'd hear me too. We missed him so badly. He was our constant,' says Maggie.

Finally, on the 25th day, Hercules was spotted rummaging around the bins outside a croft house in North Uist in the Outer Hebrides and, after a dramatic helicopter pursuit, was shot in the buttocks with a tranquilliser dart and airlifted in a net back to safety, and to a very emotional reception.

'Andy was cuddling him, everyone was crying. And, oh my goodness, he was in a sorry state,' says Maggie.

Hercules had lost at least 25st by starving himself, rather than killing anything for dinner.

It was then that Hercules really went global. Hollywood beckoned. Publishers battled over the rights to the book of his life.

He was crowned 'Personality of the Year' by the Scottish Tourist Board. In London, launching his single Come Back Hercy at the Cafe de Paris, he was granted sole access for two hours a day to the indoor pool at Heathrow's Holiday Inn.

And, several times, driving down the motorway in their specially adapted bus, the Robins would be pulled over by the police who had stopped them just so they could ask: 'Can we have a look at the big fellow?'

It was brilliant and mad and fun. But they were happiest when it was just the three of them.

So after a flurry of attention, they moved back to the hills and built themselves a ranch-style home with a log cabin and a swimming pool for Hercules.

The end came suddenly.

In 1999, on the way back from filming an advert, Hercules fell ill with an abscess on his spine and lost the use of his back legs.

Some might have thought it was time for the great cave in the sky. But not Andy.

'Andy wasn't a 'no' person,' says Maggie.

Determined to get him walking again, he spent thousands of hours over the next few months, nursing him back to health with aqua therapy in the pool.

But in the end, even his determination couldn't save Hercules and, just after 8am on February 4, 2000, with a choked voice, he told his wife: 'Your big boy's away, Maggie.'

'And that was it,' she says. 'I still miss him so much.'

But not quite as much as Andy did. 'They were brother, father and son - they were everything together,' says Maggie.

While it goes without saying that her husband's extraordinary love for Hercules put a strain on their marriage at times, in some ways, it was even worse after the bear died.

'It was awful. Andy was just lost. His focus for life, his everything, had just been whipped away.'

She was terribly worried about him. But somehow she managed to stay strong when, two years after Hercules' death, Andy came to her and said: 'Maggie, I need another bear. I can't live without him.'

Because this time she put her foot down and said, very firmly, 'Babe, you're kidding me!'
Tim Walz addressed the ongoing fraud scandal in Minnesota after a viral video showed an empty daycare center with a misspelled sign that received millions in federal funding.

The Minnesota governor claimed he was taking strong action against the alleged fraud, just hours after FBI boss Kash Patel revealed the crisis runs far deeper than initially thought.

'The governor has worked for years to crack down on fraud and ask the state legislature for more authority to take aggressive action,' a spokesperson for Walz told Fox News.

'He has strengthened oversight - including launching investigations into these specific facilities, one of which was already closed.'

Walz also 'hired an outside firm to audit payments to high-risk programs, shut down the Housing Stabilization Services program entirely, announced a new statewide program integrity director, and supported criminal prosecutions.'

The governor has been inundated with criticism from concerned Americans questioning how he intends to respond to allegations of widespread fraud within the state.

Initial reports emerged earlier this month of a massive Covid-era scheme involving the federally funded nonprofit group Feeding Our Future.

At least 78 people, 72 of whom are Somali, have been charged in connection with the illicit plot.

Walz shared a series of favorable statistics about life in Minnesota in a statement on X after a daycare was accused of stealing $4 million in taxpayer money

On Friday the crisis worsened when independent journalist Nick Shirley shared footage of an apparently empty Minnesota daycare, which reportedly received millions in taxpayer funds

Walz, who ran as Vice President on the Democratic ticket alongside Kamala Harris in 2024, defended his state on Sunday on X and shared four photographs of him interacting with members of the Somali community.

He wrote about Minnesota: '#8 state for safety. #5 state to live in. #3 state for jobs. #2 state to raise a family, and #2 state to retire.

'We've made progress, but there's more to do to deliver security, opportunity, and freedom to every Minnesotan. I won't quit fighting until we're #1.'

His post came after outrage over the alleged fraud grew on Friday when independent journalist Nick Shirley shared footage of an apparently empty Minnesota daycare, which reportedly received millions in taxpayer funds.

Footage of the facility, featuring a misspelled sign as 'Quality Learing Center', sparked outrage among lawmakers and allegations state authorities allowed the 'largest fraud in US history' to go unchecked.

In response, FBI Director Kash Patel said the FBI has long been aware of fraud allegations in the state and threatened action against perpetrators.

'The FBI believes this is just the tip of a very large iceberg,' Patel wrote.

'We will continue to follow the money and protect children, and this investigation very much remains ongoing.'

Initial reports emerged earlier this month of a massive Covid-era scheme involving the federally funded nonprofit group Feeding Our Future

In a lengthy X post on Sunday, FBI Director Kash Patel said the FBI has long been aware of fraud allegations in the state and threatened action against perpetrators

'Furthermore, many are also being referred to immigration officials for possible further denaturalization and deportation proceedings where eligible.'

Addressing the allegations made in Shirley's video, Patel said the 'FBI is aware of recent social media reports in Minnesota.'

He claimed that the bureau has moving to 'dismantle large-scale fraud schemes exploiting federal programs.'

'Fraud that steals from taxpayers and robs vulnerable children will remain a top FBI priority in Minnesota and nationwide.

According to Shirley, the childcare center pocketed $1.9 million from Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in 2025, bringing the total to $4 million.

Shirley, in his investigation, arrived at the doorsteps of several daycare centers, claiming to be a father looking to enroll his child, but said he never saw any children at the facilities.

He said it was 'potentially the largest fraud scandal in US history.'

Walz ran as Vice President on the Democrat ticket alongside Kamala Harris in 2024

Footage of the facility, featuring a misspelled sign as 'Quality Learing Center', sparked outrage among lawmakers and allegations state authorities allowed the 'largest fraud in US history' to go unchecked

Trump has been critical of Rep Ilhan Omar amid the ongoing Somali fraud crisis

In his announcement, Patel emphasized that the FBI has been aggressively targeting a massive fraud network that stole COVID-era food scheme.

'The FBI has toppled a $250 million fraud network that targeted vulnerable children and exposed a 'large-scale money laundering' operation,' Patel said.

'The investigation exposed sham vendors, shell companies and large-scale money laundering tied to the Feeding Our Future network,' he wrote.

'The case led to 78 indictments and 57 convictions.'

Prosecutors alleged that most of the meals intended for low-income children during the pandemic never existed. Instead, the taxpayer's money went to luxury homes, cars, jewelry, and real estate abroad.

Walz shared four photographs of him interacting with members of the community in the post

'These criminals didn't just engage in historic fraud, but tried to subvert justice as well,' Patel wrote.

President Donald Trump criticized Governor Tim Walz for allowing Minnesota to become 'a hub of fraudulent money laundering activity.'

He said the perpetrators should be 'sent back to where they came from.'

Later, he said he would be revoking the temporary protected status of the roughly 700 Somali nationals who have it, which prevents them from being deported.

On Thanksgiving, Trump called Walz 'seriously retarded' and also attacked Rep. Ilhan Omar and Minnesota's immigration policy.
Do you know more? Email: lucy.manly@dailymail.com.au

Jules Neale has ditched her wedding ring and is leaning on family in the wake of her painful split from her AFL star husband Lachie Neale.

The heartbroken WAG's car was filled to the brim with moving boxes on Monday as she was seen for the first time since news of her high-profile marriage breakdown became public.

Accompanied by her father during a trip to a Carindale, Queensland shopping centre, Jules appeared tense - and her wedding finger was notably missing a gold band.

Jules' father helped her load her sizeable cases into the back of the SUV, which was already heaving with freshly taped-up moving boxes and large stuffed toys encased in protective plastic bags.

The boxes were marked with 'fragile' labels and the logo of Ben Moves Brisbane - described as 'Brisbane's most trusted furniture removalists.'

The blonde was dressed casually in revealing activewear for the occasion, but wore a glum expression throughout the outing, at some points staring off wistfully into the middle distance as she wheeled along her bulky luggage.

Jules Neale has ditched her wedding ring and is leaning on family in the wake of her painful split from her AFL star husband Lachie Neale

The heartbroken WAG's car was filled to the brim with moving boxes on Monday as she was seen for the first time since news of her high-profile marriage breakdown became public

Accompanied by her father during a trip to a Carindale, Queensland shopping centre, Jules appeared tense - and her wedding finger was notably missing a gold band

It comes as the Mormon missionary at the centre of AFL golden boy Lachie's marriage split has stunned her conservative church by openly embracing the media glare.

Married mother-of-one Tess Crosley, 29, was seen without her wedding ring on Monday as she collected some possessions from her family home in Brisbane.

She is understood to be staying with her parents at their Gold Coast home as the row rages over her role in the love split between Neale and his wife Jules, who was previously best friends with Ms Crosely.

Rather than retreat from view, Ms Crosley posted bikini shots on Instagram, stunning devout members of her Church of Latter-day Saints faith.

Her Christmas Day 'thirst trap' snaps from an exclusive retreat in Byron Bay's hinterland have sparked outrage among traditionalists.

Her husband Ben Crosley, also a Mormon who she married in 2017, does not appear in any of the images.

Her wedding ring was also missing in those pics - and comments have been disabled on the post.

The reaction within the Mormon community is said to have been one of shock and fascination, according to one.

Jules' father helped her load her sizeable cases into the back of the car

It was was already heaving with freshly taped-up moving boxes and large stuffed toys encased in protective plastic bags

The boxes were marked with 'fragile' labels and the logo of Ben Moves Brisbane - described as 'Brisbane's most trusted furniture removalists'

The blonde was dressed casually in revealing activewear for the occasion

She wore a glum expression throughout the outing

At some points Jules staring off wistfully into the middle distance as she wheeled along her bulky luggage

Her dad was by her side throughout the errand run

The boxes were later delivered to her parent's home

'They are loving the drama and enjoying the spotlight on their church in the headlines,' the insider revealed.

'It's all the talk at Temple on Sundays.'

For strict Mormons, modest clothing is essential at all times in the deeply traditional religion.

In its purest form, members are required to wear special undergarments, day and night, and to dress in a way that covers them at all times.

Ms Crosley's glamorous bikini snaps are understood to be a direct violation of those principles and reportedly embarrassed her highly religious in-laws.

Her husband's parents, David and Susan Crosley, served as President and Matron of the Adelaide Mormon Temple from 2020 to 2023  senior leadership roles within the church.

Ms Crosley has been a member of the church from an early age and is still believed to be a practising member.

Her parents, father Tane and mother Kaz, were both adult converts to the Mormon faith.

It comes as the Mormon missionary at the centre of AFLgolden boy Lachie's marriage split has stunned her conservative church by openly embracing the media glare. Tess Crosley returned to her family home in Brisbane

She was seen collecting a number of items before packing them into her car

She is pictured without her wedding ring on Monday

Her father worked as a saturation diver and was often away from home when Ms Crosely was growing up, while her mother Kaz raised her three daughters.

Between 2015 and 2017, Ms Crosley's faith took her to Perth, where she served as a Mormon missionary.

Until recently, Ms Crosley and her husband were frequently photographed with the Neales, even attending Brisbane Lions' premiership celebrations in September.

In June, they joined in on the viral TikTok 'Hope our husbands like each other' trend, ending the clip with Lachie and Ben arm-in-arm, drinks in hand.

After the Lions' grand final win over Geelong, Ms Crosley posted multiple images from the MCG, including shots on the field and inside the sheds.

One photo showed her and Ms Neale both biting Lachie's premiership medal.

But that friendship imploded when Ms Neale allegedly told Mr Crosley about the betrayal.

'Ben found out because Jules told him,' the source said. 'Jules was suspicious for a while.'

Tess Crosley's scantily-clad bikini snaps are understood to be a violation of church principles

Jules Neale demanded Tess Crosley remove photos in a comment that later vanished: 'Take these down you're so gross'.

Tess Crosley pictured during her Perth missionary days

She is understood to be staying with her parents on the Gold Coast

The fallout has cut particularly deep given the importance of marriage within the Mormon faith.

One of the most sacred rituals is a temple sealing, in which husband and wife are bound together for an eternal marriage.

Tellingly, comments referring to the Mormon faith have reportedly been deleted from Mr Crosley's Instagram page, while disparaging remarks about his wife remain visible.

Social media activity last week suggested the rift between Ms Neale and Ms Crosley is ongoing.

Ms Neale demanded Ms Crosley remove photos of her with Lachie after the grand final, demanding: 'Take these (pictures) down, you idiot.

'You're embarrassing yourself'.

Another comment, that later vanished, added: 'Take these down. You're so gross'.

A News Corp report claimed the Neales were 'working through' their marital issues, prompting a fierce response from Ms Neale.

Tess Crosley's in-laws David and Susan Crosley, served as President and Matron of the Adelaide Mormon Temple from 2020 to 2023  senior leadership roles within the church

For strict Mormons modesty is not optional. Members are required to wear special undergarments day and night and dress in a way that covers them at all times

Lachie Neale's wife Jules has lashed out at her friend over an Instagram post

Lachie Neale and his wife Jules have reportedly spent the festive holiday period in separate states, as their marriage breakdown continues to make headlines

'I want to make it very clear that I am not 'working through' anything,' she wrote.

'I have been betrayed in the most unimaginable way. All I can do now is to heal and do what's best for my children. Thank you for the love and support. Jules x.'

Moving trucks were reportedly seen at the Neales' Brisbane home last week. Ms Neale's latest posts suggest she has returned to Western Australia to be with family over Christmas.

She shared an Instagram story of Busselton Jetty, south of Perth, accompanied by a heart-mending emoji.

Lachie, meanwhile, is believed to be staying at a family holiday home in South Australia.

The couple share two children - Piper, 4, and baby son Freddie, born 12 months ago. Ms Neale marked Freddie's first birthday last week with a series of photos.

A former Perth salon owner, Ms Neale is a familiar face on Brownlow best-dressed lists and a close member of Brisbane's WAG circle.

She has built an Instagram following of more than 27,000 as a stylist and lifestyle influencer and now works as a hairdresser at a Brisbane salon.

Lachie Neale, a dual Brownlow medallist, four-time All-Australian and 293-game veteran, has remained silent as the scandal continues to swirl.

Brisbane Lions and Neale's management have also declined to comment.
Results outperform original plan, supporting 1,200+ Jobs

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PeopleFund, a Texas nonprofit small-business lender, announced historic results highlighting its growing economic contribution in East Texas and across the state. PeopleFund's statewide direct impact has surpassed $1.4 billion, supporting more than 6,000 businesses and helping create or retain 26,000 jobs. The organization has also delivered more than 235,000 hours of technical assistance to entrepreneurs.

Since launching operations in East Texas in 2021 with strategic support from the T.L.L. Temple Foundation and funding from the Economic Development Administration, PeopleFund's direct impact in the region has exceeded $18 million. This includes $5 million in small-business loans, $8 million in SBA 504 financing, and $5 million in New Markets Tax Credits.

"East Texas should be the most fertile region in the state to pursue economic mobility and improve life circumstances," said Charlie Glover, President and CEO of the T.L.L. Temple Foundation. "Access to capital for small businesses is one piece of that puzzle. Our support of PeopleFund served as a catalyst attracting additional public and private support to the area. We commend this progress and encourage this trajectory to continue, as hardworking East Texans are ready to seize the opportunity."

To date, PeopleFund has deployed 75 loans in East Texas, supporting 1,248 jobs. These investments extend beyond financial metrics, reflecting business growth, stronger local economies, and expanded opportunities for families throughout the region.

"I am eager to leverage the resources and mentorship offered by PeopleFund Small Business Accelerator program to take my business to new heights and contribute meaningfully to the entrepreneurial community," said Vernetta Spivey, Owner of Spivey Salon Suites in Beaumont, Texas.

Another example of PeopleFund's East Texas impact is Local Solution Enterprises, doing business as Local Sanitation and My Trash Service. Founded in 2015 by families with more than four generations of roots in Tyler County, the company now serves more than 14,000 customers, providing curbside pickup, commercial services, and roll-off dumpsters from locations in Huntington, Woodville, and Silsbee.

"Through our partnership with PeopleFund, we were able to access the capital needed to expand our operations, reach more rural communities, and create local jobs," Said James Broussard, CEO of Local Solutions. "This kind of investment goes beyond our business; it strengthens the region we've called home for generations."

PeopleFund supported the company's expansion into Angelina, San Augustine, Sabine, and Nacogdoches counties, strengthening rural economies and ensuring access to essential services.

"We opened our East Texas office, planning to deploy $2.5 million over three years, leveraging $500,000 in federal funds alongside $2 million in private capital," said Gustavo Lasala, President and CEO of PeopleFund. "Surpassing $18 million in impact and reaching thousands across the region is deeply meaningful. The fact that 50% of this impact has been made possible through public support from federal and state sources underscores what is possible when public and private partners work together."

About PeopleFund:

PeopleFund is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), an SBA lender and serves as the managing member of the Veteran Loan Fund. Established in 1994, PeopleFund has more than 30 years of experience helping thousands on the path to financial security. PeopleFund programs focus on advancing economic opportunities for individuals of low to moderate income by providing capital, training and other resources needed to grow a healthy small business. Since inception, PeopleFund's direct impact on the economy has surpassed $1.4 Billion through more than 6,000 loans to small businesses and New Market Tax Credit allocations. PeopleFund also has helped create and retain more than 25,000 jobs and delivered hundreds of thousands hours of business education. To learn more about PeopleFund please visit www.peoplefund.org.

Media Contact:

Jenny Palecek, SVP of Philanthropic Partnerships

[email protected]

(512) 222-1005

SOURCE PeopleFund
Migrants should be banned from using taxpayerfunded translators to claim benefits, a report says.

The study by the Policy Exchange thinktank, which follows a surge in claims, says tribunals considering benefit cases should no longer offer free translation services.

The report says the benefits system should be seen as 'part of a social contract that one has with society at large', adding: 'Part of this is the ability to converse in the official, national language.'

The study cites official figures showing the cost of providing translation services in civil cases jumped by 80 per cent in the three years following the pandemic, to reach 12.8million last year.

Claimants are entitled to free translation to help them challenge decisions refusing them benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

The report says that in future they should be expected to pay for their own interpreters if they cannot speak English. It says that free translation services should only continue for the deaf and for criminal cases where 'freedom and liberty are on the line'.

The recommendation is part of a wider report urging ministers to take back control of the benefits system from the courts.

The study finds that the criteria for granting benefit claims has been systematically widened by the courts for years, helping to fuel the huge rise in the welfare bill.

There have been calls for tribunals to consider that benefit cases should no longer offer free translation services

A view of people thought to be migrants inside the Manston immigration short-term holding facility located at the former Defence Fire Training and Development Centre in Thanet, Kent

A view of temporary buildings which are used to temporarily house people thought to migrants at the Manston immigration short-term holding facility

It says that Parliament has 'increasingly shown itself to be impotent in setting the eligibility for disability benefits', with MPs unwilling to overturn adverse judgments by the courts.

The bill for sickness and disability benefits alone is forecast to top 100billion by the end of the decade.

More than 300,000 young people are now on sickness benefits that do not require them to make any effort to get a job  double the number five years ago.

Tribunals currently deal with thousands of benefits appeals every year. The study found that the majority are granted, with up to 75 per cent of cases overturned in some courts.

Former Lord Chancellor Sir Robert Buckland said the discretionary power allowing judges to interpret the law 'should be returned to lawmakers' to help contain the 'breathtaking amount of public expenditure', adding: 'The subcontracting of decisionmaking of this nature and scale should concern all of us who care about the proper role of the courts.'

The report says 750million a year could be saved just by tightening the rules allowing people to claim PIP if they are unable to plan and undertake a journey because of mental health conditions.

Report author JeanAndre Prager said criteria for benefit claims should be automatically reviewed every two years.

He also called for courts to issue 'suspended' judgments to give parliament six months to clarify the law before they came into effect, adding: 'The appeals system has become a substitute for good decisionmaking rather than a check on it. We need to restore parliamentary authority, improve accountability and use technology to deliver a fairer, more sustainable system.'
Of all the hundreds of thousands of blood donors in the land, it may seem unfair to single out just ten.

But these aren't just any ten volunteers  these are super-donors who have gone the extra mile, giving blood, plasma, platelets and stem cells over the last 20 years.

The ten men aged between 31 and 64 are all also on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

Blood, plasma, platelet and stem cells are used to help treat a variety of injuries and illnesses including life-threatening accidents and cancer.

Among the ten is Andy Stowe, 64, a council officer from Birmingham who started donating blood as a teenager.

He gave stem cells in 2013 and now donates plasma every two weeks.

'Being able to donate is such an honour  it's something I have always loved to do,' he said. 'It's currently extra important to me as my wife may soon need to have a plasma-based treatment for a health issue and it's brought home just how important it is that there are donations there when people need them.'

Fellow super-donor Dr Christopher Black, 31, is an anaesthetist from Leicester who made his first donation as a medical student.

Dr Christopher Black, 31, (pictured) is an anaesthetist from Leicester who made his first donation as a medical student, and has now been dubbed a 'super-donor'

Since the NHS Blood and Transplant service (NHSBT) was established in 2005, just ten people have been dubbed 'super-donors' (File image)

He said: 'At work, I see the reality of how blood can bring people back to life and the reaction of family members when they hear their loved one is going to be OK.

'The fact that I can pick up the phone, ask for blood and have it delivered right away can only happen through the work of hundreds of people and one particularly special person  the donor.'

Since the NHS Blood and Transplant service (NHSBT) was established in 2005, just ten people have been dubbed 'super-donors'.

Mark Chambers, of NHSBT, said: 'It's a very rare thing for somebody to have directly donated every blood component and the fact these ten men have  and are also on the Organ Donor Register  truly shows their dedication to helping as many people as they can.'

In 2024, 964,000 people donated to NHSBT. Mr Chambers said: 'We hope that by sharing these stories, we might encourage others to take the step.'

Andrew Bruce, 58, a fire safety adviser from Co Durham, made his first blood donation at the age of 18 and donated stem cells in 2010.

He has type O-blood  also known as the universal blood type because it can be given to anyone in emergencies.

'Not only is it the right thing to do, but it's an easy thing to do and I would encourage everyone who can to donate too,' he said.

The other super-donors are: Adam Murchington, 61, from Birmingham; Anthony Robson, 33, from Stockton-on-Tees; Henry Care, 33, from Manchester; James Allen, 44, from London; Robert Clay, 64, from Solihull; Stuart Reader, 62, and Tim Sargeant, 58, both from Essex.
Hikers will be able to access from July 2027

One of Australia's most scenic mountain trails is set to be reopened after it was closed to the public for five years.

Mount Warning - also known as Wollumbin - near Murwillumbah, in the NSW Northern Rivers, has been off-limits to the public after it was 'temporarily' closed during the Covid pandemic in 2020.

The closure was extended numerous times, for a period of almost five years, to protect the site's Indigenous heritage.

Many feared the popular trail would remain closed amid claims the area had cultural significance and sensitivities for the local Indigenous people.

The controversial ban left many Aussies outraged and had spurred protests from hikers, led by NSW Upper House MP John Ruddick and Marc Hendrickx, who is a member of advocacy group Right to Climb.

Last year, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service extended the closure until December 31 to allow 'additional time for careful consideration of the site's future'.

On Monday, NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe announced the closure would be overturned.

However, hiking enthusiasts will have to wait until July 2027 before the trail is reopened to the public.

One of Australia's most scenic mountain trails is set to be re-opened after it was closed to the public for five years

Sharpe explained the period before the trail is reopened to the public would allow time for a thorough resolution to any issues.

'Over the past year, I continued constructive discussions with a wide range of stakeholders, including user groups, councils, the Wollumbin Consultative Group and other community members,' she said.

'These conversations highlighted Wollumbin's significance to Aboriginal communities and the wider public.

'I understand extending the temporary closure will disappoint some visitors.

'However, a number of practical challenges  such as ensuring safe access  must still be addressed.

'The additional time will help us create a clear plan for the future of this special place that respects cultural responsibilities and safeguards visitor safety.'

Mr Hendrickx welcomed the news, but said he had some reservations as to the conditions of its reopening.

'We will need to see what conditions are attached,' he told The Courier Mail.

Mount Warning - also known as Wollumbin - near Murwillumbah, in the NSW Northern Rivers, has been off-limits to the public after it was 'temporarily' closed during the Covid pandemic in 2020

'If people can visit the summit without having to pay exorbitant fees or be forced to join a tour then that's great news.'

Mr Hendrickx has lobbied the NSW government for years to reopen the trail after the summit was shut down in 2020.

Once visited by 120,000 visitors visitors every year, Mount Warning is the highest peak at Australia's most easterly point and is the first part of the nation each day to get sunlight.

The summit trail was shut down in 2020 after the Wollumbin Consultative Group successfully petitioned the then Liberal state government to ban access to non-Aboriginal Australians.

The group, made up of Indigenous families and community organisations, stated the trail has cultural and spiritual significance to the Bundjalung men.

The group also claimed allowing females - including those of indigenous heritage - on the site would ruin its cultural significance.

Mr Hendrickx, who authored A Guide to Climbing Mt Warning, was among dozens of protesters who climbed the mountain on Australia Day this year.

Three months later, the prominent activist became the first person to be fined for climbing the mountain since the hiking ban was enacted.

Mr Hendrickx copped a $300 fine for breaching the National Parks and Wildlife Regulation 2019 for entering 'a park that is closed to the public'.

The engineering geologist previously told Daily Mail the move to ban visitors to the site goes against the values Australians uphold.

'Access to these wonderful natural places is part of what really underlies and builds our Australian character,' Mr Hendrickx said.

'If we were unable to access these places, then really it's like an attack on being Australian.'
The body of a triathlete who vanished from the waters off a California coast following a shark attack has been found, her father has confirmed.

Rescue teams recovered a corpse from the ocean south of Davenport Beach in Santa Cruz on Saturday at around 2pm, according to the county sheriff's office.

The fatal victim has been identified as Erica Fox, 55, by her grieving father, James Fox, NBC Bay Area reported.

The grim discovery came about a week after Fox, who was swimming in the waters of the nearby Lovers Point in Pacific Grove, was reported missing after witnesses said a shark mauled her.

Davenport Beach and Lovers Point are both along the coastline of the Monterey Bay. The distance between the two sites is about 30 miles.

While James confirmed that the body belongs to his daughter, Sergeant Ryan Farotte of the Santa Cruz Sheriff's Office told the Daily Mail on Sunday night that authorities 'do not yet have confirmation on an ID' of the body.

However, due to its proximity to Fox's disappearance, the Santa Cruz and Monterey County sheriff's offices, along with the Pacific Grove Police, are investigating the matter.

Fox went missing on December 21 at around 11:30am while swimming alongside fellow members of the recreational swim club Kelp Krawlers, which she co-founded 20 years ago.

Fox has competed in two half-Ironman competitions and participated in an annual triathlon called Escape from Alcatraz for almost 20 years

Cal Fire used a rope system to retrieve Fox's body on Saturday

Search teams scoured the water near where Fox went missing hoping to recover her body

The group regularly meets at Lovers Point. Trouble apparently arose when the group of 15 people swam west around the point and entered Otter Cove.

One Kelp Krawler who returned to shore early noticed a shark about 100 yards from the point, according to The Mercury News.

Simultaneously, a driver stopped at a nearby stop sign alerted the US Coast Guard that he had seen a shark breach the surface with what appeared to be a human body in its mouth.

He then claimed he saw the shark submerge below the waterline.

These horrifying reports prompted swimmers to hurry back to their starting point, but when they took a headcount, they realized that Fox was nowhere to be found.

Her horrified husband of 30 years, Jean-Francois Vanreusel, was among the group.

'It started to click that everybody was back on shore but Erica,' Sharon Carey, who stayed close to the shore during her swim, told The Mercury News.

'I just felt numb. I was hoping that maybe she got out of the water and then decided to walk back.'

First responders rushed to the scene, but were unsuccessful in their search.

Cal Fire personnel are seen preparing to retrieve Fox's body on Saturday

After about 15 hours of boats, helicopters and divers scouring the water, the operation was called off.

But the Monterey County Sheriff's Office, along with independent search groups Bedrock Ocean Exploration and the Angel's Recovery Dive Team, continued the probe even after it officially ended.

But on Saturday, Cal Fires San Mateo-Santa Cruz unit used a rope system to retrieve Fox's body.

As an avid swimmer and adventurer, Fox was known to lead the pack of eager Kelp Krawlers.

Fox has competed in two half-Ironman competitions and participated in an annual triathlon called Escape from Alcatraz for almost 20 years, her father told NBC News.

Kelp Krawlers member Lisa Jensen also said that Fox was 'an incredibly cheerful, bubbly, funny, joyful, kind human being' who knew the risks of the ocean.

She had attended a 'Sharktober' seminar at Hopkins Marine Station, just north of Lovers Point, to learn more about the apex predators.

In 2013, she shared a photo on Facebook showing a shark swimming next to a scuba diver.

Fox's horrified husband of 30 years, Jean-Francois Vanreusel (seen in 2009), was among the group

'This is the most dangerous animal in the world and next to it [is] a shark swimming peacefully,' the caption read.

Even after Steve Bruemmer, a member of the swimming group, survived a June 2022 shark attack with severe leg injuries, Fox defended the creatures.

She told news outlets at the time that she preferred the terms 'incident' or 'bite' over 'shark attack.'

'As soon as you dive in the water, you're immediately in a foreign land,' she told The Independent following the attack on Bruemmer.

'We are the ocean ecology's humble guests,' Fox added.

Fox's loved ones and community have been left heartbroken by her death.

At a memorial held in her honor, Breummer told KSBW that Fox was a 'bright light' who was not afraid to take risks.

'She lived her life fully,' her husband, Vanreusel, told The Mercury News on Sunday.

The mayor of Pacific Grove, Nick Smith, issued a statement about her death, writing: 'On behalf of the city of Pacific Grove and the city council, I extend my deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the family and loved ones of Erica Fox.

Fox (seen in 2009) was known as a risk taker who knew the dangers of sharks

Fox disappeared from Lovers Point in Pacific Grove during a swim with the group

'When a tragedy like this occurs in a small town it is deeply felt throughout our entire community.'

After her body was found, Angel's Recovery diver Juan Heredia shared a heartfelt poem about Fox on Facebook.

'You didnt leave this world alone - you became part of it,' he wrote. Salt, current, light, and silence now carry your story.'

He continued: 'Swim gently, beautiful soul. The ocean keeps your soul now, and we will remember you every time the water moves. Was about time! She was found.'
Cheryl Hines revealed that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. proposed a fake separation to help her fend off flak from her Hollywood friends over his stance on Covid and vaccines.

The admission comes just two months after she revealed he made a similar proposition after embarrassing reports emerged about his sexting fiasco with journalist Olivia Nuzzi.

Speaking to Dr. Phil McGraw, the 60-year-old Emmy award-winning actress shared details about her husband's ploy, which she claimed was his solution to shield her from political attacks over his controversial opinions.

'I didn't consider it,' she said.

Hines admitted 'things got really intense' during that period of her life, but that the backlash she faced from her peers and friends never once led her to consider his offer seriously.

'Bobby was speaking out about vaccine safety, and he wanted to see the studies for the Covid vaccine,' she said. 'He had feelings about it being mandatory, he had feelings about the shutdown, and they weren't always popular, especially in this town.

'The general feeling was he should not be talking about this, and you should tell him not to talk about this, and why are you with him?'

Hines noted that outside of Hollywood and the broader Los Angeles community, RFK Jr.'s arguments were resonating with voters, but that still didn't shield her from the backlash among A-listers and the elite.

Cheryl Hines has opened up about Robert F. Kennedy Jr. proposing they pretend to separate when she was copping flak from her Hollywood friends over his Covid and vaccine stance

The Emmy-award-winning actress, 60, previously revealed that Kennedy, 71, wanted to shield her from any fallout relating to their marriage while he was campaigning for the presidential race in 2024

'Suddenly people are asking me why I'm still married to him and some people were saying "I can't be around you because you're married to him,"' she revealed.

'That was hard at first and Bobby was seeing me go through that and he said maybe it would just be better if we just told people we weren't together.

'I said "I don't know if that is the solution." That was never the solution.'

Even though she never seriously considered his proposal, the Curb Your Enthusiasm star said she 'thought it was sweet.'

'It was sensitive that he understood what he was seeing happen in my life.

'I have always put my family first and people have asked me how I could be with him because of his politics.

'I didn't marry him because of his politics, why would I leave him because of his politics? That's not the relationship we have.'

Hines had earlier revealed that RFK Jr. made an identical proposal when he was officially campaigning for president in 2024, before endorsing Trump.

Kennedy dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed Donald Trump, going on to land the role as Health Secretary

Speaking to Dr. Phil McGraw, the Emmy award-winning actress shared details about her husband's ploy, which she claimed was his solution to shield her from political attacks over his unpopular opinions

Hines said: 'I didn't marry him because of his politics, why would I leave him because of his politics? That's not the relationship we have'

At the time, he was also embroiled in a scandal with 32-year-old New York Magazine reporter Nuzzi, after it emerged that the pair became 'emotionally involved' while she was writing a feature on his campaign.

'For a couple to say, ''Maybe we should just say we're not with each other anymore and our lives would be easier''... That's pretty dramatic and pretty extreme,' she said.

'Things got dramatic during this presidential campaign. Some people were very upset that I was even married to Bobby.

'They were vocally coming at me because I'm married to Bobby. So Bobby felt, ''You shouldn't be having to take that heat. So why don't we just say we're separated?'''

Hines said the offer came from a place of concern, and ultimately brought them closer together.

'You're in these unique situations that nobody else can imagine,' she said.

Kennedy denied any inappropriate relationship at the height of the scandal - claiming he met Nuzzi only once during an interview - but sources described the connection as 'emotional and digital in nature, not physical.'

An internal investigation by New York Magazine found 'no inaccuracies nor evidence of bias' in Nuzzi's reporting on Kennedy, but the controversy nevertheless resulted in her departure from the publication.
One child is dead and another is in hospital after a Christmas holiday fire on Sunday.

A probe into what caused the blaze continues after Kent Fire and Rescue Service were rushed to the scene on White Admiral Way, in Hamstreet, Ashford, around midday yesterday.

Six fire engines and a height vehicle were deployed to the semi-detached property, where crews worked to extinguish the fire, which had spread throughout the home.

Tragically, one child died at the scene, and another was taken to hospital. An adult was also rushed to A&E.

Three firefighters also suffered injuries and were rushed to the hospital, but were later released.

Photos of the scene show the charred remains of a home.

Ann Millington, KFRS' Chief Executive, said on Sunday night: 'Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child's loved ones.

'We understand this will be a distressing time for the local community and support is available at a welfare hub set up at Hamstreet Village Hall.'

One child is dead and another is in hospital after a house fire in Kent on Sunday

Six fire engines and a height vehicle were deployed to the semi-detached property, where crews worked to extinguish the fire, which had spread throughout the home

An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing

Three firefighters also suffered injuries and were rushed to hospital, but were later released

Fire crews on the scene in Hamstreet, Ashford, following a domestic fire that killed a child

A statement released last night said: 'Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called today to reports of a house fire in White Admiral Way, in Hamstreet, Ashford.

'Control operators sent six fire engines and a height vehicle to the semi-detached property, where crews worked hard to extinguish an intense fire, which had spread throughout the home.

'Sadly, one child died at the scene, and another has been taken to hospital.

'People living or travelling near the Hamstreet area are no longer being advised to close windows and doors. The incident has been reduced to two fire engines and crews are continuing to dampen down.

'Our Volunteer Response Team are in attendance offering crew welfare and support.'

An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing.
Three Britons who tried to smuggle 300,000 worth of cocaine into Bali are reportedly set to be deported from the paradisic island after they were spared the firing squad.

Mother-of-three Lisa Stocker, 39 from East Sussex, was arrested with her partner in February after being stopped at Bali's international airport with 17 packets of the dessert Angel Delight that were stuffed with nearly a kilogram of cocaine.

She appeared in Denpasar central court in July alongside husband Jon Collyer, 39, and Phineas Float, 31.

All three admitted to trafficking drugs onto the Indonesian island, a crime that can carry the death sentence thanks to harsh laws.

But, The Mirror reported, a judge at Denpasar Central Court instead gave them each just one year in prison.

The newspaper reported that, given time served, the trio of smugglers will be back in the UK by next month.

A source told the paper: 'The three of them can consider themselves very lucky. Other people have spent years behind bars for similar crimes - some even told that they'd be executed.'

The court heard Float agreed to take part in the plot for a 'reward' of 500,000 Indonesia Rupiah - the equivalent of just 22.50.

(L-R) Lisa Stocker, Jonathan Collyer and Phineas Float of Britain walk inside a court room in July ahead of their trial

(L-R) Phineas Float, Jonathan Collyer and Lisa Stocker of Britain sit inside a court room for their trial at the Denpasar district court, in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, July 15 2025

During one hearing in court, Ms Stocker maintained that she had no idea that a suitcase and several sachets of Angel Delight powdered dessert were full of narcotics.

Her husband, Mr Collyer, showed remorse and told Judge Heriyanti: 'I won't do it again.'

And Mr Float, also from East Sussex, said he was 'very stupid' and apologised to the court.

If the quantity is large but not enough for the death penalty, life in prison is a common sentence. The country has upheld a moratorium on the death sentence since 2017.

Sheiny Pangkahila, the lawyer representing the three British defendants, suggested in February that, if convicted, her clients could each face prison sentences between 15 to 20 years.

But local prosecutor Made Dipa Umbara has already called to 'sentence the defendants to one year in prison' each, minus time already served.

He noted that they had behaved well in court, acknowledging their wrongdoings, and pledged not to repeat their mistakes.

Balinese customs officers halted Stocker and Collyer at the airport X-ray machine after finding 'suspicious' items in their suitcases on February 1.

Ms Stocker said previously that a friend gave her the packets of Angel Delight in the UK to take on to Bali. She claimed she had been set up.

'Jon and I had been to Bali twice carrying packages from [him]. I was shocked after finding out it was cocaine,' she said.

Collyer previously told the court he had not received any payment and that he paid for the trip to Bali himself.
Revellers have to pay to enter Blues Point Reserve

Outraged Aussies are slamming a Sydney council after it imposed a fee for revellers wanting to watch the New Year's Eve fireworks from a popular vantage point.

North Sydney Council voted in favour in July of charging an entry fee to the Blues Point Reserve for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of the iconic firework display.

Locals and visitors will be slapped with a $50 entry fee to the vantage point - which is on public land.

The entry fee is set to partially offset the costs of crowd control and the waste management expenses incurred in the aftermath of the celebrations.

Council is set to sell about 8,000 tickets to Blues Point Reserve, raking in $400,000 in revenue.

It means a family-of-four would have to pay $200 to secure a spot at the vantage point - a spot which was free to the public until this year.

Locals vented their frustration this week with New Year's Eve just two days away.

They were stopped on the street by North Shore Lorikeet and asked if they intended on going to the lookout.

The move has angered locals, with many claiming the fee is council's ploy at revenue raising

'$50? No way,' one person said after they were asked if they would book a ticket.

'No, I just prefer a bit less formal. It would be really crowded,' a second person said.

A third chimed: 'No way, cause there are so many other spots that you could go to for free and the council is just revenue raising at that point.'

Others labelled the entry free as 'pure greed' and a ploy for 'revenue raising' by the council.

'Where there are limited spaces, it should be free, and decided by ballot. Simply revenue raising. Shame,' one person commented.

'Pure greed. Like we don't pay enough in council rates,' a second person wrote.

'This is what happens when a council spends $122 million rebuilding a perfectly good swimming pool that just needed some repairs,' a third added.

As of Monday, all tickets at Blues Point Reserve for the for Sydney's New Year's Eve firework display have been sold.

North Sydney Council introduced an entry fee at Blues Point Reserve for revellers hoping to secure a spot for the city's iconic New Year's Eve firework display

It is understood the council is set to sell 8,000 tickets, totalling a whopping $400,000 of revenue

Mayor Zoe Baker said she 'reluctantly' supported the move at the North Sydney Council meeting earlier this year.

'For every year I've been on this council I've always voted to keep public space free and access free,' Mayor Baker said.

'But unfortunately as a council and governing body we've inherited a really precarious financial position that has not been relieved by seeking a special rate variation.

'It's with an exceptionally heavy heart that I find myself supporting the motion for one year only.'

Mayor Baker added families would be able to attend other vantage points to view Sydney's firework display for free.

The Blues Point Reserve is one of three vantage points across North Sydney that provides revellers with stunning views of the city's multi-million dollar firework display.

The controversial decision has angered locals, with many claiming they would avoid the reserve if they are charged a fee.
At least 13 people are dead and almost 100 are injured after a train derailed in Mexico.

The horror unfolded on Sunday when an Interoceanic Train carrying nearly 250 partially came off the tracks in southern Oaxaca state.

The Mexican Navy, which operates the railway line, said the train, which derailed near the town of Nizanda, had 241 passengers on board and nine crew members.

Of those on board, 193 were reported to be safe and well, while another 98 were said to be injured, including 36 people who were receiving medical assistance.

In a statement, the Mexican Navy said: 'As a result of this accident, 139 people are out of danger, 98 were injured... and unfortunately, 13 people lost their lives.'

According to a post on X by President Claudia Sheinbaum, five of those who were injured were in critical condition.

She added that senior officials had been dispatched to the site to help the families of those who had lost loved ones.

The Interoceanic train forms part of a broader Interoceanic Corridor project.

A passenger is helped off of the train, which partially derailed on a journey in Mexico on Sunday

Mexican Army soldiers and Civil Protection members rescue passengers from the carriage

Two passengers who got off of the train embrace after being rescued by soldier

The Interoceanic train derailed in the Asuncion Ixtaltepec area on the route to Oaxaca

A passenger is carried away from the train on a stretcher by members of the Civil Protection

Passengers, soldiers and Civil Protection members stand outside of the partially derailed train

The initiative, launched in 2023 under former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, was designed to modernise the rail link across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.

The area connects the Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos, which lies on the Gulf Coast.

It was hoped the link would act as a trade corridor, and would go towards efforts to expand ports, railways and industrial infrastructure, with an end goal of creating a route which could rival the Panama Canal.

The service is also part of a wider push to expand passengers and freight rail in southern Mexico, in a bid to boost economic development in the region.

Mexico's Attorney General's Office has opened an investigation into the incident.

Taking to X, Attorney General Ernestina Godoy Ramos wrote: 'Following the events that occurred on the Interoceanic Corridor, the @FGRMexico has opened an investigation to determine the causes of what happened.

'Federal agents from the Oaxaca Attorney General's Office, as well as forensic and police personnel from the #AIC, are coordinating with federal and state authorities to carry out the respective investigations.

'We will continue to provide updates.'
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has refused calls to launch a royal commission into the Bondi Beach terror attack, arguing it is the 'national interest' to hold a review into the security agencies instead.

During a press conference on Monday afternoon, Albanese staunchly defended his decision despite demands from the victims' families he launch a national inquiry.

'My heart goes out to them at what is an incredibly traumatic time. My job, as the Australian Prime Minister, is to act in the national interest,' Albanese said.

'It is in the national interest for us to do the Richardson review on national security, on any gaps which are there in the conduct of our agencies, including the AFP, ASIO and the interactions between the Commonwealth and state jurisdictions, and to then make sure we act on the recommendations which are there.'

He said that while royal commissions 'can be good at deciding facts', they are 'not as good at considering things that are not agreed, where people have differences of views.'

The review, which will be led by Dennis Richardson - former head of ASIO and of the departments of defence and foreign affairs - will assess Australia's federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

It is expected to be finalised by April.

The review was called in the aftermath of the December 14 attack in which Islamic State-inspired gunman Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram allegedly killed 15 people on Bondi Beach.

'The government is committed to making sure that we can't wait years for answers. We need to get on with any changes that are required,' Albanese said.

'This ISIS-inspired atrocity in Bondi is a stark reminder of the rapidly changing security environment that we face and the need to make sure our agencies have what they need and we're determined to make sure they have exactly that.'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has refused widespread calls to launch a Royal Commission into the Bondi Beach terrorist attack, despite pleas from the victims' families

The PM, who was flanked by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, was repeatedly grilled by reporters on Monday over why a royal commission couldn't also run parallel to the inquiry.

'You will have the NSW royal commission, you will have the Burgess review, you will have court cases against the perpetrator of this atrocity, who survived, all running at once. And at the same time, you will have legislation proposed before the parliament,' he said.

'[If we had a royal commission], the full sweep of issues that have been asked to be examined would delay, by a number of years, any outcome.'

Burke agreed, adding that 'there has never been a royal commission which has been capable of acting with the speed of this inquiry will deal with.'

'With national security information, by definition, it doesn't lend itself to public inquiry,' he said.

'But in the issue of unity versus division, if you were to make those issues subject to a royal commission, it is not simply the people who feel they have been harmed by things that have been said or slogans that have been used, that will be called.

'It will also be those who have made those statements, who will make submissions, who will be platformed. And all of that happens again and gets relived.

'And no one can tell me that that is in the interest of unity to re-platform some of the worst voices.'

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said a royal commission would help platform 'some of the worst voices'

The snap press conference came just one day after the families of victims of the attack penned a powerful open letter to the PM.

'You owe us answers. You owe us accountability. And you owe Australians the truth,' it read.

'We demand answers and solutions. We need to know why clear warning signs were ignored, how anti-Semitic hatred and Islamic extremism were allowed to grow dangerously unchecked and what changes must be made to protect all Australians going forward.'

The letter was signed by the families of the youngest and oldest victims - 10-year-old Matilda and Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, 87, and the relatives of hero couple Sofia and Boris Gurman, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, Reuven Morrison, Edith Brutman, Tibor Weitzen, Yaakov Levitan, Tania Tretiak, and Boris Tetleroyd.

'Our children feel unsafe at school and university. Our homes, workplaces, sporting fields, and public spaces no longer feel secure. It is an intolerable situation that no Australian should have to endure,' the letter reads.

'The rise of anti-Semitism in Australia goes far beyond one state jurisdiction. It is a national crisis that demands a powerful national response.

'The dangerous rise of anti-Semitism and radicalism in Australia is not going away. This threat is real and it is escalating.'

The letter was signed by the families of the youngest and oldest victims - 10-year-old Matilda and Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, 87

Along with the Coalition, Independent MP Allegra Spender, whose electorate covers Bondi, has also called for a Commonwealth royal commission.

'The PMs own department leading a federal review is the government investigating itself - it wont cut it,' Spender said.

'We need a joint Commonwealth-State inquiry that is genuinely independent and with real powers if we are to ensure lessons are learned and meaningful change is delivered.'

Spender also called for the inquiry to be able to accept public submissions.

In a statement on X, former Liberal treasurer and prominent Jewish Australian Josh Frydenberg said the intervention from families should have been 'too loud to ignore.'

'With recent polls showing the Australian people agree with the long list of legal, national security and political leaders who have called for a Royal Commission, its now time for the Prime Minister to listen and act,' Frydenberg said.

'The voices are too loud and too important to ignore. Its clearly in Australias national interest, for the Prime Minister to call a Royal Commission now.'
MoeGo Becomes Enterprise Operating System for Red Dog Pet Resort & Spa to Standardize and Scale Nationwide Operations

BOSTON, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Dog Pet Resort & Spa, one of the fastest-growing multi-location pet-care operators in the United States, has selected MoeGo as its enterprise operating system as the company accelerates expansion across grooming, daycare, boarding, and wellness services.

Red Dog reached an inflection point common to high-growth operators: as the business scaled across states, traditional pet-care software could no longer support the operational complexity, data visibility, and consistency required for multi-location excellence. After evaluating market alternatives, Red Dog partnered with MoeGo to build a unified, data-driven backbone for its next stage of growth.

A Modern Operating System for Multi-Location Pet-Care

Before transitioning to MoeGo, Red Dog managed fragmented workflows, inconsistent processes, and limited reporting visibility across its locationsbottlenecks that slowed decision-making and constrained growth.

With MoeGo, Red Dog gains:

A modern, intuitive platform that standardizes operations across all locations

that standardizes operations across all locations Real-time business insights spanning states, service lines, and performance metrics

spanning states, service lines, and performance metrics A unified data layer enabling faster decisions and more predictable execution

enabling faster decisions and more predictable execution A strategic product partner committed to building enterprise-grade capabilities for multi-location operators

"Operating at a multi-state scale requires more than software, it requires an operating system. MoeGo gives us that foundation,"  Eric, President of Red Dog

Business Impact: Visibility, Consistency, and Scalable Growth

Since transitioning to MoeGo, Red Dog's leadership cites measurable improvements in how the business operates and grows.

Key outcomes include:

Instant multi-location visibility enabling faster, data-driven decision cycles

enabling faster, data-driven decision cycles Standardized workflows and training that reduce onboarding time as new locations open

that reduce onboarding time as new locations open Marketing-driven revenue lift , supported by MoeGo's CRM and automation tools

, supported by MoeGo's CRM and automation tools Enhanced client experience driven by a seamless booking and communication system

About Red Dog Pet Resort & Spa

Red Dog is a premier multi-location pet-care brand offering grooming, daycare, boarding, and wellness services. Known for operational excellence and high-quality pet experiences, Red Dog continues to expand its footprint across the United States.

About MoeGo

MoeGo is the all-in-one enterprise operations platform redefining how pet-care businesses work. Trusted by 10,000+ businesses and serving 11+ million pets worldwide, MoeGo's Enterprise Hub empowers large operators to configure once, deploy everywhere, and see everything, turning operational complexity into growth momentum.

Learn more about MoeGo at www.moego.pet ,

or direct questions to:

Cloud Wu

Head of Marketing

[email protected]

SOURCE MoeGo
Sydney's Jewish community has been rocked by the sudden death of property mogul Stanley Roth, who developed the famous 'Toaster' building next to the city's iconic Opera House.

The former Rich Lister, 72, became ill and suffered a fatal stroke en route to hospital on Sunday, just hours after returning home from a holiday in Hawaii.

Born in Sydney in 1953 to Jewish parents who fled Europe a decade earlier, Roth originally worked as a lawyer with Blake Dawson Waldron, where he became a partner.

He left law in 1992 to join his brother John in running Henroth Investments, the billion-dollar property empire founded by their Holocaust survivor father Henry.

The brothers soon became regulars on AFR's annual Rich 200 list and had a combined worth of $165million in 2000.

The partnered with Woolworths to redevelop Chullora Marketplace, although planning approvals have since proved challenging .

The shopping centre was acquired by Charter Hall for $145million earlier this year.

Other developments included the Bennelong Apartments at Circular Quay, better known as 'The Toaster' and home to former radio broadcaster Alan Jones.

Sydney's Jewish community has been rocked by the sudden death of property mogul Stanley Roth

Following their father's death in 2000, the brothers continued his charitable work through the Henry R Roth Charitable Foundation, which supports a wide range of causes.

Mr Roth was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2008 for his services to business, charity, the community and United Israel Appeal of Australia.

More recently, he was in the process of developing Yarranabee Ventures, a luxury residential complex at Darling Point.

His sudden death has prompted heartfelt tributes led by prominent Jewish community leaders.

Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler described him as a rare character who lived 'three full lives at once'.

'Stanley was deeply principled and completely genuine. He could be tough when the moment demanded it, but he was always soft-hearted underneath, always guided by responsibility and care,' he wrote.

'He was one of the first people I went to speak to before I took on the role of President of the Zionist Federation of Australia.

'He encouraged me, he steadied me, and over the last seven years we remained in close contact. He was a mentor and a friend.'

The controversial Toaster development divided the city but has since become a local landmark

The Yarranabee Ventures development at Darling Point was Mr Roth's most recent project

Central Synagogue Chief Rabbi Levi Wolff added: 'He was like a lion in his defence of the state of Israel, standing unwaveringly and fearlessly for what he believed was right.

'At the same time, Stanley was a man of deep heart and humanity. He was never afraid to show his emotions, to shed tears, and to express compassion. His strength was matched by his sensitivity, and his leadership by his warmth.'

Mr Roth was also a valued member of the Combat Antisemitism Movement Advisory Board.

'Stanley dedicated his life to strengthening Jewish life in Australia and supporting the State of Israel,' the board wrote.

'A passionate advocate for Keren Hayesod and Jewish causes, his leadership, generosity, and commitment helped shape and sustain countless initiatives over decades of service.

Stanley believed deeply that standing up against antisemitism matters. His wisdom, integrity, and quiet determination will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to work alongside him.'

Tributes extended beyond the Jewish community.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Stanley Roth AM, a valued member of the Combat Antisemitism Movement Advisory Board and a respected leader within the Australian Jewish community.



Born in Sydney in 1953 to Jewish refugees who fled Europe before the war, Stanley dedicated pic.twitter.com/38Xfnbos5C  Combat Antisemitism Movement (@CombatASemitism) December 28, 2025

'A man of valour, Stanley dedicated his life to strengthening Jewish life in Australia and believed deeply in standing up against antisemitism,' former Olympian and senator Nova Peris wrote.

'His wisdom, integrity, and quiet determination will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

'A true gentleman with a generous heart, and a life lived in service, kindness, and love.'

Mr Roth is survived by his wife Charmaine, son Michael, daughters Danielle and Ilana and seven grandchildren.

His brother John is married to Jillian Segal, Australia's special envoy to combat antisemitism.
Australia is dangerously underprepared for a possible Indo-Pacific conflict, a leading defence analyst has warned, as China launches major military drills around Taiwan.

Jennifer Parker, a maritime security specialist and former senior Department of Defence official, told the Daily Mail these drills reflect a troubling trend Canberra can no longer ignore.

'Conflict in this region is not inevitable, but it's increasingly likely, and Australia is not prepared,' Parker said.

'Our defence spending is inadequate, and our force is not fit for purpose. We need to ramp up defence investment and civil preparedness now.'

Her warning comes as Taiwan deploys troops and activates emergency response centres in the face of Beijing's large-scale military exercises, code-named 'Justice Mission 2025'.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) says the drills involve the Army, Navy, Air Force and Rocket Force under the Eastern Theatre Command, with live-fire exercises scheduled across five zones near Taiwan from 8am to 6pm local time.

PLA spokesman Colonel Shi Yi said the drills send a strong message to pro-independence factions in Taiwan.

Taiwan's Presidential Office denounced the drills as 'military intimidation' and accused Beijing of ignoring international norms.

Taiwanese forces have been deployed in response to a live-fire drill by China

Jennifer Parker (pictured) called for an increase in defence spending and capabilities

A map illustrating the locations where China plans to conduct live-fire drills near Taiwan

'Taiwan expresses its strong condemnation,' spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

Parker believes the significance of these Chinese exercises extends far beyond Taiwan.

'China has been intensifying its military coercion since 2022. Every year these exercises become more complex and comprehensive,' she explained.

'What's different this time is that a Chinese spokesperson openly admitted they're rehearsing sealing off Taiwan. That's a first.'

Although these are not an invasion, Parker warns the drills highlight a mounting risk.

'If China ever decided to invade, it would likely do so under the guise of an exercise. That's why Taiwan is so concerned.'

Parker cautioned that Australia is not ready for any escalation in the region.

'We focus too much on AUKUS. It's important, but it's a technology transfer program. If a regional conflict erupts tomorrow, Australia will be involved, whether to protect our trade routes or honour alliance commitments.'

'This exercise is just another red flag,' Parker warned.

'The Defence Strategic Review said clearly our force is not fit for purpose. Even with recent government moves, we're still nowhere near ready,' she said.

A military expert warns Australia's defence capabilities and society are not prepared for war

The 2023 Defence Strategic Review warned Australia's military was 'not fit for purpose,' sparking calls for urgent investment.

While the Albanese Government pledged an extra A$50.3 billion over the next decade, lifting defence spending to about 2.3% of GDP by the early 2030s, experts say it's not enough.

Analysts argue spending should reach 3 per cent of GDP to meet rising threats.

Parker argues that Australia must urgently shift from rhetoric to action.

'We need a whole-of-nation approach,' she said.

'That means increasing defence spending beyond current commitments, accelerating delivery of critical capabilities, and investing in societal resilience.'

She stressed civil preparedness is just as important as military readiness.

'Australians need to understand the stakes. Our economy and security depend on maritime trade routes through contested waters. If conflict erupts, it will affect every household.'

China has been condemned by Taiwan over Beijing's large-scale military exercises, code-named 'Justice Mission 2025'

Beyond new defence hardware, Parker called for stronger regional ties.

'Strengthening ties with Japan, the Philippines, and other partners is essential,' she said.

'We can't just rely on the US alliance - we need a network of security relationships.

'The world is changing fast. Every year we delay is a year lost.

'Australia must prepare now, or risk being caught flat-footed in the most dangerous strategic environment since World War II.'
The mother of a 'far-right' tradie accused of threatening to kidnap Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the wake of the Bondi massacre has erupted with rage after her son was approached by the media.

Nathan Ballesty, 27, allegedly used a carriage service at his Beacon Hill home, on Sydney's northern beaches, between December 19 and December 21 to threaten serious harm against Albanese.

The Australian Federal Police's recently formed National Security Investigations team immediately launched a probe into the alleged threat and traced it back to Ballesty.

Ballesty's social media accounts show he frequently expressed right-wing views, with the political tone of his posts having ramped up following the slaughter of 15 people at Bondi Beach on December 14.

In that attack, Naveed Akram, 24, and his father Sajid, 50, are alleged to have opened fire on a crowd of Jews during a Hanukkah celebration in an act police have said was inspired by ISIS.

Sajid Akram was shot dead by police at the scene, while his son is in custody. Forty victims were wounded in the shooting.

In Ballesty's bio on X, he describes himself as a 'Catholic, Anti-Communist'.

When Daily Mail spoke to Ballesty at his front door on Monday, he said he was 'all right' but did not wish to discuss the allegations against him.

Angela Ballesty, the mother of a 'far-right' tradie accused of threatening to kidnap Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the wake of the Bondi massacre, erupted with rage after her son was approached by media. She is pictured

Nathan Ballesty (above) allegedly used a carriage service at his Beacon Hill home, on Sydney's northern beaches, between December 19 and December 21 to threaten serious harm against Albanese

'I don't want to comment at this time,' he said. 'God bless you.'

Shortly afterwards, Ballesty's mum Angela, who also lives at the house, arrived home after walking a dog and said she did not wish to comment either.

'I'm his mother,' Ms Ballesty said. 'I've done nothing wrong.'

Ms Ballesty then pointed angrily at a photographer and raised her voice to repeatedly threaten legal action if her photograph was taken.

An AFP spokesman said it would be alleged that on December 22 Ballesty 'made an online post calling for the kidnapping' of a 'federal parliamentarian'.

That statement did not reveal the most powerful politician in Australia was the subject of the threat.

It was only made clear in court documents inspected by the Daily Mail later that day the subject of the alleged threat was Albanese.

Ballesty's home was raided between 6pm and 8.30pm on December 21, with officers seizing a number of electronic devices for forensic examination.

Albanese is pictured wearing a yarmulke at a memorial for the Bondi Beach massacre victims on December 21

Shortly after the Daily Mail approached Ballesty on Monday his mother Angela (above) arrived home after walking a dog and said she did not wish to comment about her son's charges

During that search, police allege Ballesty failed to comply with the directions of the investigating officers.

He was taken to Manly police station and charged with using a carriage service to threaten serious harm and contravening an order to provide access to an electronic device.

At Manly Local Court, Magistrate Ian Guy granted Ballesty bail under strict conditions which ban him from contacting any members of Parliament or their offices.

He must abide by a nighttime curfew, is banned from accessing encrypted applications including Discord, must surrender his passport and cannot possess more than one phone.

He must also report to police three times a week, cannot consume drugs or alcohol unless prescribed, and must see a GP and accept any treatment reasonably recommended.

On December 19, Ballesty professed on X: 'I am far right.'

That declaration followed a post 11 weeks ago when he insisted: 'It's okay to be far right.'

On December 14, under a link to Albanese's immediate reaction to the Bondi attack, he posted: 'Words cannot describe the contempt I have for this rat' .

'I've done nothing wrong,' Ms Ballesty said. She then pointed angrily at a photographer and raised her voice to repeatedly threaten legal action if her photograph was taken

On December 21, the day of Ballesty's arrest, he shared a Change.org petition calling for Albanese's resignation in the wake of the alleged terror attack at Bondi Beach.

'In light of recent tragic events at Bondi Beach and pressing national concerns, it is time to address the leadership of our country,' the petition reads.

'The shocking mass shooting at Bondi Beach, which claimed numerous innocent lives, is yet another reminder of the urgent action required to safeguard our communities.

'Equally concerning is the ongoing mass migration, a shift that surveys and polls consistently show is opposed by a significant portion of the Australian population.

'Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took office with the promise of steering Australia toward a safer and more prosperous future for all.

'However, many Australians now feel that promise has not been kept.'

The allegations against Ballesty follow increased scrutiny on Albanese over the government's response to rising antisemitism during the past two years.

Police will allege the threat against Albanese (pictured in Bondi) was made from Beacon Hill

The prime minister was heckled and booed as he arrived at Bondi Beach for a memorial service attended by an estimated 15,000 people on December 21.

Albanese addressed Ballesty's arrest three days later, calling for Australians to 'lower the temperature of political debate' when asked about the case.

'We need to be able to have civil political discourse in this country. We need to be able to disagree, as well as agree, respectfully,' he said.

'There is no place for the rise in violence that has occurred.'

Albanese said security agencies had warned against heightening tensions through political debate.

'The director-general of ASIO has made this very clear publicly that we need to lower the temperature of political debate,' he said.

Albanese also urged fellow politicians and members of the media to act responsibly as tensions rise.

'There is a responsibility on both public office holders, a responsibility upon people in the media as well, to engage in a way that they would like to see themselves spoken about,' he said.

'I encourage people to engage, particularly young people to engage in political discourse because in a democracy, participation is an essential component. But it does need to be respectful.'

The AFP created the National Security Investigations teams in September to 'target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia's social cohesion, including the targeting of federal parliamentarians'.

Ballesty is next due to front Sydney Downing Centre Local Court on March 3.
A teenager who vanished from her Texas home on Christmas Eve could be in 'imminent danger,' authorities have warned as the desperate search for her continues.

Camila Mendoza Olmos, 19, was last seen on a neighbor's surveillance camera leaving her home in a San Antonio suburb at 6.58am Wednesday.

On Sunday, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar told ABC that authorities are 'not ruling out that this case may take us outside the borders of the continental United States.'

He made it a personal mission to ensure she had not been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, noting it was a 'concern' that had crossed his mind at the beginning of the search, despite Mendoza Olmos being a US citizen.

'I had it checked to make sure that there were no stops, no detentions, and that she's not somewhere in a federal detention facility. That is something we needed to check,' Salazar said.

But beyond that, authorities have not ruled out anything in Mendoza Olmos' disappearance, including that she may have been kidnapped or fallen victim to human trafficking.

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security are assisting with the search, including monitoring border crossings and international travel.

The area she vanished from, in northwest Bexar County, is known by authorities as a human-trafficking corridor.

Camila Mendoza Olmos, 19, was described by her friends as 'full of love'

Footage from a neighbor's surveillance camera showed an individual believed to be Mendoza Olmos standing near her vehicle with the lights on at 7am on Christmas Eve, and she hasn't been seen since

They are also considering whether it is possible she left of her own accord, but the fact that Mendoza Olmos did not take her phone when she left home that morning has raised concerns.

Salazar said it was 'highly unusual' for her to leave her phone at home.

Authorities said footage appeared to show an unidentified person they suspect was Mendoza Olmos searching her car about 7am the morning she left home.

They said it is unclear what she was searching for. Police believe she took only her car keys, and possibly her driver's license, when she left home.

Her car was still parked at home when she disappeared, leading authorities to believe she left the area on foot. She has not been seen since.

Salazar opted not to disclose some details relating to the investigation, but said the information collated so far suggests she is in 'imminent danger.'

He also revealed she had recently gone through a romantic breakup, but said the split was amicable, and that everyone close to Mendoza Olmos is cooperating with the investigation.

Her childhood best friend, Camila Estrella, said they last spoke the day before Mendoza Olmos's disappearance over the phone, making plans to go shopping together.

Camila Mendoza Olmos, 19, told a friend 'I love you' over the phone the day before she vanished on Christmas Eve, her best friend has revealed

Recalling Mendoza Olmos's parting words to her as they hung up, Estrella told the New York Post: 'She said, 'Bye Cami, I love you.''

Estrella said they spoke almost every day, and described the 19-year-old as 'someone who was just full of love.'

'This is so random, we never expected this,' she said of her friend's disappearance.

Mendoza Olmos's family said she typically goes for a morning walk, but always takes her phone with her, and insisted that it is out of character for her to leave without telling them where she would go.

'It's just not Cami,' her aunt Nancy Olmos said. 'We knew something happened.'

Nancy issued an emotional public plea online, urging people to share information and pray for the teenager's safe return.

'We are still searching for my sweet angel, my niece, Camila Mendoza Olmos, 19 years old,' she wrote.

She added that her niece had recently been baptized and was deeply religious.

Authorities have not shared any evidence of foul play, but the circumstances including her abandoned phone, her sudden disappearance on foot, and the lack of any confirmed sightings have fueled growing concern

Her mother, Rosario Olmos, said she went searching for her daughter, believing she would find her walking as she had many times before

'She loves God with all her heart, and we are desperately looking for her.

'I know many of you are gathered with your children and loved ones this Christmas, opening presents and celebrating together.

'As a sister in Christ, I am humbly asking for one special gift this year  in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ please help us by sharing these posts and, most importantly, by lifting Camila up in your prayers.

'We believe in God's protection, and we have faith that Camila will come home,' she added.

Another close friend, Isabela, described Mendoza Olmos's disappearance as 'very out of the norm.'

'It's not like her. She's always been the one to always stalk on us and like, ''why aren't you doing this?'' [She would] make sure that her phone's always charged,' Isabela added to KSAT.

Estrella told 4News that she has been left confounded by the situation, and said she fears the investigation could stall if Mendoza Olmos is not found soon, as the surveillance footage offers few clues over where she may have gone.

'It showed that she was opening the back of her car,' Estrella explained.

Surveillance footage shows an individual believed to be Mendoza Olmos near her vehicle shortly before she vanished. Pictured, the family car near where she was last seen

Family and friends searched nearby areas on Christmas Day but found no sign of the girl

'As a ring camera, it stops when it stops detecting motion, that's all we saw of her just opening the back of her car door... we have nothing to trace her with. We have nothing.'

Police have deployed scent-tracking dogs during the ongoing search, but so far they have failed to find the 19-year-old.

Deputies described Mendoza Olmos as 5ft 4in tall, weighing about 110 pounds.

She was last seen wearing a baby blue and black hoodie, baby blue pajama bottoms, and white shoes, and authorities urged anyone with information on her whereabouts to contact police.

The missing woman's mother, Rosario Olmos, told KENS that she and her daughter had been sleeping in the same bed early Christmas Eve morning when she felt the teenager get up.

About 90 minutes later, she awoke and realized her daughter was gone.

'I called her cell phone, but the cell phone was there on the bed, and it was turned off,' the devastated mom said.

'I put it to charge and went out to look for her. I thought I would find her like other times, walking, and we would come home together.'

Family members and friends spent Christmas Day searching the area around the home, but found no sign of the 19-year-old.

'It is not normal for her to disappear,' Olmos said, adding that she usually knows where her daughter is at all times.

'I only ask God to please bring her back home,' she said. 'Bring her back to me.'
Fire chiefs have warned people not to leave magnifying mirrors on windowsills after a house fire was sparked by reflecting sunlight.

A blaze tore through a home in Poole, Dorset on Saturday after the sun reflected off a mirror, setting a curtain and blind alight.

Following the inferno, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service told families not to leave curved glass ornaments or mirrors next to windows in their houses.

The service, which has tackled several similar incidents in the area recently, explained these objects act as lenses for the sun and can start fires.

A spokesman said: 'The service has been called to a number of fires in recent years where the most likely cause was sunlight reflecting off a mirror.

'Where you have a mirror or any other glass object, such as an ornament, that is curved, this allows the glass to act as a lens.

'When the sunlight hits it, it becomes concentrated and, if the rays are bounced onto something flammable  such as curtains or soft furnishings  then a fire can start.

'The principle is the same as using a magnifying glass to start a fire. It does depend on the angle of the sun, but any mirror or glass ornament with a curve in it should never be left on a windowsill or by a window.'

Fire chiefs have warned people not to leave magnifying mirrors on windowsills after a house fire in Poole, Dorset, pictured, was sparked by reflecting sunlight

Curtains caught fire in a house in Rickling Green, Saffron Walden in January after sunlight passed through a magnifying glass in the property.

In March, a makeup mirror, resting on a bedside cabinet, led to curtains setting alight in Crowborough, East Sussex.

A spokesman for Poole Fire Station said: 'Firefighters from Poole attended a property fire caused by sunlight reflecting off a magnifying mirror and setting a curtain and blind alight.

'Luckily, the occupiers raised the alarm when they could smell smoke and were able to evacuate the property.'
JD Wetherspoon boss Sir Tim Martin has condemned his own staff who refused to serve gender-critical campaigners celebrating the landmark Supreme Court ruling.

Several employees at one of the chain's Edinburgh pubs snubbed the co-leaders of feminist group For Women Scotland, Susan Smith and Marion Calder, after recognising their faces.

Ms Calder, 54, an NHS worker, phoned a local journalist and told them, 'you'll never guess what's happened here at Spoons'.

They then rang the Wetherspoon's communications manager, who then called the branch's manager. The protesting staff then left and 'we got more drinks in'.

The trailblazing duo had taken a train back to the city in April and headed to the branch to raise a glass to the landmark judgment handed down by five Supreme Court justices that the definition of a woman is based on biological sex.

Founder and chairman of JD Wetherspoon, Sir Tim Martin, described the incident as an 'initial hiccup'.

He told the Daily Mail: 'If you win a court case, especially a Supreme Court case, you would expect to be allowed to celebrate in a pub, so glad they were able to do so  albeit after an initial hiccup.'

Susan Smith (left) and Marion Calder (right) co-directors of For Women Scotland celebrate outside the Supreme Court in London in April

Founder and chairman of Wetherspoon Sir Tim Martin is pictured here in October 2020

Labour minister Bridget Phillipson is currently delaying the publication of new Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) guidance on women-only spaces after branding the proposals 'trans-exclusive'.

The Women and Equalities Secretary has not yet signed off the draft guidance more than three months after receiving it, despite the landmark Supreme Court ruling that sex under equality law means biological sex.

The EHRC guidance was drawn up following the court's decision in April and would require businesses and public bodies to protect single-sex spaces such as women's lavatories, changing rooms and hospital wards.

However, in a submission to the High Court, Ms Phillipson criticised the draft guidance and made clear she does not support its approach, arguing that it would unfairly exclude transgender women.

She described the proposals as 'trans-exclusive' and warned that banning biological males from women's facilities could have unintended consequences.

Ms Phillipson claimed the guidance could prevent women from taking their infant sons into swimming pool changing rooms and said there were 'many entirely plausible exceptions' to single-sex rules.

She also argued that the Supreme Court ruling was primarily concerned with maternity protections rather than blanket restrictions on access to women-only spaces.

Because the guidance has not been approved, hospitals, businesses and other public bodies remain without clear instructions on how to apply the ruling, with no requirement currently in force to exclude biological males from women's spaces.

The Women and Equalities Secretary Bridget Phillipson has not yet signed off the draft guidance more than three months after receiving it, despite the landmark Supreme Court ruling

Earlier this month, Ms Calder urged Sir Keir Starmer to 'show some leadership' on women's rights after a 'problematic' employment tribunal appeared to contradict the landmark Supreme Court ruling.

A tribunal ruled that health bosses had harassed nurse Sandie Peggie, but her other claims were dismissed and the judge said that it was lawful for a biological male to use a female changing room.

Ms Peggie's lawyer criticised the judgment as 'hugely problematic for women' while women's rights groups said that it is 'in direct conflict' with April's Supreme Court ruling.

Ms Calder said the tribunal ruling was 'very concerning' and would put women off bringing similar cases.

She told the Mail: 'This does go against our ruling at the Supreme Court, and it does appear that this tribunal, a low-level tribunal, was trying to rework our case, which is astonishing.'

She added: 'The reason we took our case to the Supreme Court was to stop individuals having to take these tribunal cases, because we know the huge financial and emotional cost that comes with it.

'We thought that this would kind of save women from having to do it. But here we are, and the cases continue.

'Bridget Phillipson, Keir Starmer and Labour need to stand up and actually show some leadership on this, because women are actually getting harmed.'
China has fired a chilling warning to the US as it unleashed massive live-fire war games around Taiwan, deploying troops and warships in exercises that include rehearsals for sealing off the island's vital ports.

Beijing's foreign ministry struck a defiant tone as the drills got underway, declaring: 'Any act of provocation on the Taiwan issue will surely be met with a firm counterattack from the Chinese side'.

Asked whether recent US arms sales had triggered the manoeuvres, officials doubled down, insisting: 'China's defence of national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity is unswerving'.

The exercises - branded Justice Mission 2025 - began on Monday as Taiwan scrambled its own forces and showcased US-made military hardware in a show of readiness to repel any attack.

China's Eastern Theatre Command said it had concentrated forces to the north and southwest of the Taiwan Strait, carrying out live firing and simulated strikes against land and maritime targets.

The drills are set to continue on Tuesday and will include exercises aimed at blockading Taiwan's main ports and encircling the island.

A senior Taiwan security official told Reuters that dozens of Chinese military vessels and aircraft were operating around the island, with some 'deliberately closing in' on Taiwan's contiguous zone - just 24 nautical miles from its coast.

The latest show of force marks China's sixth major round of war games since 2022, following a visit by then US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the democratically governed island.

A Taiwanese air force Mirage 2000 fighter jet takes off at Hsinchu Air Base in Hsinchu on December 29, 2025

Your browser does not support iframes.

President Xi Jinping told US President Donald Trump in November that Taiwan's 'return to China' after World War II was central to Beijing's vision of global order

It also comes amid a sharp escalation in rhetoric after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could prompt a military response from Tokyo.

The drills began just 11 days after Washington announced a record $11.1billion arms package for Taiwan, drawing protests from China's defence ministry and warnings that the military would 'take forceful measures' in response.

Analysts say Beijing is increasingly blurring the line between routine military exercises and preparations for a real assault - a strategy designed to leave the US and its allies with minimal warning.

'This (the drills) serves as a serious warning to 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces and external interference forces,' said Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the Eastern Theatre Command.

Taiwan's government condemned the drills, while its defence ministry released a video on Facebook showcasing weapons, including US-made HIMARS rocket systems - mobile artillery with a range of around 300km that could strike targets in China's Fujian province in the event of conflict.

Taiwan's coast guard said it had dispatched large ships in response to Chinese activity near its waters and was working with the military to minimalise disruption to shipping lanes and fishing grounds.

The island's aviation authority added that China had designated a 'temporary danger zone' in Taipei's airspace for 10 hours of live-fire drills scheduled for Tuesday, forcing officials to seek alternative flight routes.

Taiwan's defence ministry said two Chinese military aircraft and 11 ships had operated around the island in the past 24 hours, with its own forces placed on high alert and ready to carry out 'rapid response exercises'.

'All members of our armed forces will remain highly vigilant and fully on guard, taking concrete action to defend the values of democracy and freedom,' the ministry said.

Despite the rising tension, Taiwan's stock market appeared unfazed, climbing 0.8 per cent to a record high in morning trading.

'I think these drills are just meant to scare us,' said Lin Wei-ming, a 31-year-old teacher based in the capital, Taipei.

'Similar drills have happened before ... the political side of things can only be handled by Taiwan's current government and how they choose to respond.'

Taiwan continues to reject Beijing's sovereignty claims, insisting only its people can decide the island's future.

The Chinese military also released a series of propaganda posters titled 'Shields of Justice: Smashing Illusions' and 'Arrows of Justice: Control and Denial', alongside a graphic showing four locations across Taiwan with targeting locks in place.

Taiwan's military deploys an air defense missile system inside an airbase in Hsinchu, Taiwan, 29 December 2025

An officer on Taiwan Coast Guard patrol ship Yilan observes a Chinese Coast Guard vessel northwest of Pengjia islet, in this handout image released December 29, 2025

Taiwan Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jets prepare for takeoff at an airbase in Hsinchu, Taiwan, 29 December 2025

A Taiwan Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter approaches for landing at an airbase in Hsinchu, Taiwan, 29 December 2025

State broadcaster CCTV said the exercises would focus on sealing off the deep-water Port of Keelung in the north and Kaohsiung in the south - Taiwan's largest port city.

While the PLA practised port blockades during drills last year, this is the first time it has publicly said the manoeuvres are aimed at 'deterence' of foreign military intervention.

The escalation follows a surge in Chinese messaging after remarks by Japan's prime minister.

President Xi Jinping told US President Donald Trump in November that Taiwan's 'return to China' after World War II was central to Beijing's vision of global order.

One poster appeared to depict an armada of civilian ships being mobilised for a potential invasion, with ramps and open decks suited for amphibious landings.

'Any foreign interference that touches the shield (of justice) shall perish!' the poster read. 'Any separatist scoundrels who encounter the shield shall be destroyed!'

'I think their (China's) goal is, as they said, 'keep the island, not the people,'' said Stephanie Huang, a 56-year-old interior designer.

'They just want to save face by claiming Taiwan as part of their own country, but Taiwanese people don't see it that way.'

'We are who we are; they are who they are.'
Armed police have shot and killed a suspected gunman following a crash in Norfolk.

Officers were called to London Road, Thetford, at around 8.25pm on Sunday after receiving reports of a two-vehicle collision, Norfolk Police said.

Police said one man, believed to be the driver of one of the vehicles, left the scene holding what was described as a handgun.

Armed response officers swooped on the scene and the suspect was later shot by police a short distance away. He died at the scene.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident, which has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The A11 remains closed in both directions from the Thetford Ranges roundabout to the Brandon Road roundabout.

Assistant Chief Constable David Buckley said: 'We understand this incident will cause concern in the community.

Officers were called to London Road (pictured) at around 8.25pm on Sunday after receiving reports of a two-vehicle collision

Police said one man, believed to be the driver of one of the vehicles, left the scene holding what was described as a handgun. He was shot and died at the scene

An aerial image shows the scene of the A11 dual carriageway near Thetford, where a suspected gunman was shot dead by police after a crash

Police have launched an investigation into the incident, which has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)

'Our highly trained armed officers deploy to hundreds of firearms related calls each year, but incidents where police discharge firearms are thankfully incredibly rare.

'A full and independent investigation is already underway.

'We are of course cooperating fully with the IOPC investigation and will be handing over all bodyworn footage and 999 calls to ensure transparency.

'We are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.'
A cruise ship that abandoned an elderly passenger on a remote Australian island before she later died has run aground on a coral reef during its first voyage since the tragedy.

The Coral Adventurer struck a reef off the eastern coast of Papua New Guinea on Saturday, around 18 miles from the city of Lae, just two months after 80-year-old Suzanne Rees was left behind on Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef.

The Australian-owned expedition vessel was carrying 80 passengers and 43 crew members when the grounding occurred.

No injuries were reported, and the ship's operator stated that an initial inspection indicated there was no damage to the hull, although further checks were ongoing.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority confirmed it was monitoring the situation but said it had not received a distress call from the vessel.

Authorities in Papua New Guinea said they were leading the response. The ship had already been under intense scrutiny following the death of Ms Rees in October.

She had been taking part in an organised shore excursion on Lizard Island when she became unwell during a hill climb on a day described by police as extremely hot.

According to her family, Ms Rees was asked to make her way back down alone and was not accompanied by the crew.

The Coral Adventurer, pictured, has run aground on its first trip since it abandoned an elderly woman on a remote island

Suzanne Rees, 80, died after she was left behind on Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

The Coral Adventurer later departed the island at around 6.30pm local time without conducting a full passenger count, her daughter said.

It was more than five hours before the crew realised Ms Rees was missing.

The ship turned back toward the island, and a helicopter was dispatched to assist with the search while crew members scoured the area using torches overnight.

Her body was discovered at around 6am the following morning near one of the island's main walking paths.

One source told Australian media she may have fallen from a cliff. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances.

Ms Rees's family said a 'failure of care and common sense' had led to her death, describing the incident as both preventable and devastating.

The cruise was just two days into a planned 60-day voyage when the incident occurred.

The remainder of the journey was cancelled, and full refunds were issued to passengers.

Ms Rees' daughter, Katherine, said she was 'shocked and saddened that the Coral Adventurer left Lizard Island after an organised excursion without my mum, Suzanne.'

A view of Lae, in Papua New Guinea , where the The Coral Adventurer struck a reef

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation later revealed that the vessel had experienced mechanical issues around the time of the tragedy.

Shipping regulators said they would assess whether there had been any non-compliance with maritime safety requirements.

Saturdays grounding has raised further questions about the ships operations.

So far, there have been no decisions announced regarding the current 12-day voyage, which had been due to conclude on December 30.

Coral Expeditions said all passengers and crew were safe and that it was cooperating fully with authorities as inspections continued.
Archaeologists may have discovered remains of a hall which belonged to the last Anglo-Saxon King of England.

Harold Godwinson's death at the hands of Norman conquerors at the Battle of Hastings brought the end of 400 years of Anglo-Saxon rule and ushered in a new dynasty that transformed the British Isles.

The battle was immortalised in the Bayeux Tapestry and many of the traces of the previous rulers were removed by William the Conqueror and his allies in a bloodthirsty campaign to consolidate his power over his new subjects.

But now archaeologists believe they have discovered a rare sign of Godwinson's vast wealth in the form of a large hall and a hoard of jewellery on land which was owned by the Anglo-Saxon King.

The team, co-led by University of York lecturer Dr Jim Leary, also found evidence of a malthouse and a sunken tower, indicating the site could have held wealth and influence fit for royalty.

The dig has taken place over the last two years near Skipsea Castle in East Riding of Yorkshire, a motte-and-bailey castle built on an ancient lake by the Normans in around 1086.

The castle's structure no longer exists, but the name has been given to the mound where it once stood.

Dr Leary and a team of excavators from the university are taking part in a six-year project to unearth the history of the site.

Excavators from the University of York have uncovered a large medieval timber hall

Students from the University of York pictured excavating a timber hall found near Skipsea Castle

Your browser does not support iframes.

The dig is featured in the new series of BBC show Digging for Britain, which is set to be released in January.

Excavators made their first discovery when they found the remains of a building with a large tandoori-style oven, which had coloured the surrounding earth red from its heat.

Charred seeds found nearby indicated that the oven was part of a malthouse, where beer would have been made.

Dr Leary said the original floor of the building had survived and they believe the malthouse dates back to a period between the years 750 and 850.

The evidence continued when the team unearthed the base of a tower which had sunk into the ground.

The sunken tower was found alongside postholes and a cellar.

Mr Leary told The Mail: 'The tower is an indicator of a high-status site, the Malthouse is also an indicator of high-status. It is not the sort of thing that is normally found. This tells us that it is probably a lordly centre.

'We know that the land was owned by Harold Godwinson, but we don't know that he ever visited it.

'The tower may relate to Godwinson, as he did have a similar tower in Bosham in Sussex. We know he had it because it was depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry.'

Harold Godwinson was the last Anglo-Saxon King of England after being defeated by William the Conqueror in 1066

The Battle of Hastings, where Harold Godwinson was defeated by Norman Conquerors, is depicted on the Bayeux Tapestry (pictured)

The team also found evidence of a large timber hall that was built on top of the malthouse which came before it.

The medieval hall is likely to have been a cultural centre for politics, poetry and great feasts.

While the team has been unable to date the hall, Dr Leary said it was another indicator of an area of high status.

Excavators also found a piece of worked amber was being prepared for jewellery.

Dr Leary said this was the 'standout find' of the dig, as it confirmed their theory that the site was a place where luxuries were enjoyed by wealthy individuals.

After William the Conqueror took the throne in England, he ordered the creation of the first national survey, the Domesday Book.

The book detailed the land which had been owned by Godwinson and which was now owned by the new king.

It included the area around Skipsea, where these newest discoveries have been made, suggesting the great hall may have belonged to the King.

Students pictured excavating a Saxon oven which indicated the remains of a malthouse

A digger pictured beginning the excavations in front of Skipsea Castle, which is now just a mound

The area remained influential, with the Norman castle itself thought to have been built just 20 years later.

'It does indicate high-status sites, and the fact that he [Godwinson] owned it, you know, all of these things sort of link up

While the discovery has been identified to have existed in the right place and time to have been owned by the last Anglo-Saxon King, there is no concrete proof that Godwinson had visited or owned the site.

He also suggested that the site may be the lordly centre of the settlement of Cleeton which was mentioned in the Domesday Book records but was subsequently thought to have been lost.

The dig will continue next year, when Dr Leary alongside his co-director Dr Elaine Jamieson will begin looking further into the area's history and pre-history.

Dr Jamieson said they had been surprised by the discoveries made already.

She said: 'We definitely were surprised in the sense that we thought there might be a hall there. The nature of archaeology is you don't always find what you're looking for, so it was surprising.

'But the other two structures, the malthouse, we had no inclination that was there and the sunken tower structure is a very rare building. There are very, there's only a few of them that have actually been excavated, so that was a real surprise. We had no idea that was there as well, so that's a really exciting.

A large medieval hall was discovered, which is likely to have been a centre for politics, poetry and culture

'It has given us more and more every single year that we have been excavating.'

Dr Leary added: 'We use this as the main undergraduate field school for students at the University of York, so this is where they get their first real taste of excavation and it has blown us away.

'We will be digging for the next few years and it is tremendously exciting.'

The team said they have already discovered evidence of Iron Age ritual activity at the site as well as prehistoric activity.
Samsung TV aims to be the first to launch Google Photos features in 2026, debuting with memories on the big screen for the first time, while create and personalized results capabilities roll out later in the year

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that they are working to bring Google Photos to Samsung TVs to give users a seamless way to enjoy the moments that matter most, from trips and hobbies to everyday memories with loved onesnow on an immersive and larger screen. The experience aims to offer families a delightful and meaningful way to rediscover their favorite memories together.[1]

Samsung TV Google Photos features

"Samsung TVs have always brought people together, and bringing Google Photos to the big screen makes that experience even more personal," said Kevin Lee, Executive Vice President of the Customer Experience Team at the Visual Display (VD) Business of Samsung Electronics. "Through this partnership, we help users rediscover and relive cherished moments by bringing to light the stories behind their photosright from the comfort of their living room."

A More Meaningful Way to Enjoy Personal Photos

Google Photos makes reliving and sharing special memories easy. With the planned integration, it will seamlessly bring the photos people capture on their phones to Samsung TVs, where they can appear in a larger, cinematic format.

Through the proposed integration, users can explore curated memories on their TVs organized by people, places, and meaningful moments. Google Photos will also expand the suite of photo-driven experiences that integrate with Samsung's Vision AI Companion (VAC), enriching how memories are highlighted and enjoyed throughout the day.

Samsung wants Google Photos to be deeply woven into the TV experience. Imagine Photos surfacing naturally through Daily+ and Daily Board, ensuring that meaningful memories[2] greet users throughout their day in contextual and convenient moments. The setup should be simpleusers sign in with their Google Account, and their photo memories instantly appear on the big screen.[3]

Three Ways to Relive and Rediscover: Memories, Create and Personalized Results

Memories (planned to launch exclusive in early 2026) : Shows curated stories based on people, locations, and meaningful moments for the first time on TV, available first and exclusively on Samsung TVs for six months. [4]

: Shows curated stories based on people, locations, and meaningful moments for the first time on TV, available first and exclusively on Samsung TVs for six months. Create with AI (planned to launch later in 2026) : Introduces themed templates [5] built on Nano Banana, Google DeepMind's image generation and editing model, featuring playful and fun transformation. Users can also utilize Remix to transform the art style of an image, or Photo to Video to bring still moments to life as short videos.

: Introduces themed templates built on Nano Banana, Google DeepMind's image generation and editing model, featuring playful and fun transformation. Users can also utilize Remix to transform the art style of an image, or Photo to Video to bring still moments to life as short videos. Personalized Results (planned to launch later in 2026): Users may view related photos as a slideshow based on topics or contents of memories e.g. ocean, hiking, Paris, etc.

A Seamless Way to Experience Memories on Samsung TV

Samsung and Google Photos want to bring a cinematic gallery experience to the heart of the home, enabling Samsung TV users to browse and relive their most important moments in stunning detail. This integration will transform personal photo libraries into a space where users are invited to explore their journey, create new stories, and reminisce over cherished memories with depth and simplicity.

"Google Photos is a home for people's photos and videos, helping them organize and bring their memories to life," said Shimrit Ben-Yair, Vice President, Google Photos and Google One. "We're excited to bring Google Photos to Samsung TVshelping people enjoy their favorite photos on a larger screen and reconnect with their memories in new ways."

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

1. Features and availability may vary by model and region.

2. Available on Samsung TV models launched 2026 with a Google Account and backed-up photos/videos. For in market models, experience will be available following the OS update schedule.

3. Memories must not be turned off in Google Photos settings.

4. Memories available beginning March 2026; Create and Search available in the second half of 2026.

5. Select creative AI templates will be available exclusively on Samsung TVs.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852216/Samsung_TV_Google_Photos.jpg
A man has been charged with murder after a grandfather died following an assault outside a pub.

Nathan Gothard, 36, will appear at Leicester Magistrates' Court today over the death of David Darke, 66, who died in hospital on Saturday, six days after he was punched outside the The Crown Public House in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire.

In a statement released on Sunday, the hotel worker's family paid tribute to their loved one and said he was 'a deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys'.

They said: 'He was a much-loved brother and a dear friend. Dave will live on forever in our hearts, minds and souls.

'He was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person who was a friend to all.

'He was a devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking.

'His life was tragically cut short and he's now reunited with his loving, caring parents.

David Darke, pictured, died in hospital on Saturday six days after he was punched. A man has been charged with murder following the incident

Mr Darke was apparently punched outside The Crown Inn in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire on December 21, which is less than half a mile from his home in the village

'He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.'

A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said Mr Darke, known to his family as Dave, worked at a local hotel and was a 'very nice man'.

He lived alone in a smart bungalow in the picturesque village on the edge of the National Forest.

The neighbour said: 'It's so very sad. He was a very nice man. Everyone is very shocked.'

Sheila Carlberg wrote on Facebook: 'I worked with Dave at 3M, he was a nice friendly man who chatted to us at breaktime.

'How he got into this bother is beyond me as he was quiet and gentle. So sorry.'

Julie Davis added: 'This is so sad. I met him a few months ago and was a lovely guy.

'He was telling me about his daughters and his van he bought to go off anywhere and walk for miles and miles.'

He lived alone in a smart bungalow in the picturesque village on the edge of the National Forest

Emergency services were first called to Church Street in Appleby Magna, just before 9.45pm on Sunday, December 21.

Mr Darke died at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham on Saturday.

Leicestershire police said an investigation into Mr Darke's death  led by the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU)  was continuing.

Officers appealed for anyone who can help but who has not yet spoken to police to come forward.

People living in the village expressed their sadness.

Chris Adams, 71, who lives next door to the pub was at home when on the evening of the attack.

He told LeicestershireLive: 'We didn't hear or see anything at the time. We've just heard the news and it's very sad.

'We've been here for 24 years and it's very unusual for anything like this to happen.

Mr Darke was described by his family as a devoted father and grandfather

'We were shocked because it's such a quiet village and such a lovely pub.

'The landlady at The Crown does a tremendous job. The pub is at the centre of the community and we've never known of any trouble there.'

Millie Newall, 21, who lives a few doors down from The Crown, said: 'My dad was out walking the dog when it happened and he was the one who called the ambulance.

'It's quite scary. But things like this do happen. It's a quiet village and it's strange for something like this to happen here.'

Paul and Julie Sambrook have lived in the village for five years and Mr Sambrook said: 'It's totally out of the blue.

'You never feel any atmosphere at all in either of the pubs in the village. It's a friendly, cordial drinking establishment.'

Mrs Sambrook added: 'It's quite a shock. It's totally out of character for this village. We've never come across anything like this before.'
This is the dramatic moment a British tourist brawled with another holidaymaker on a Tenerife mountain road, bringing traffic to a standstill after claiming his wife was threatened over a photograph.

Footage shows the pair throwing punches in the middle of the road before the Brit was knocked onto the tarmac.

He quickly scrambled back to his feet, swearing angrily as car horns blared around him.

The furious tourist then turned his attention to the woman accompanying his opponent, accusing her of threatening his wife as they tried to take a photograph.

'She swung at my f*****g wife,' he appears to shout, although it is not clear what is being said, as another road user attempts to calm him, saying: 'Come on, quiet.'

The Brit later returned to the driver's seat of a white hire car at the front of the queue, ending his foul-mouthed outburst.

The scuffle, dubbed 'Hot dog versus smash burger' by social media users, took place on the winding road to the mountain hamlet of Masca in north-west Tenerife.

The picturesque village, often described as the 'Machu Picchu of Europe', is popular with tourists seeking more than sun and sea.

This is the dramatic moment a British tourist brawled with another holidaymaker on a Tenerife mountain road, bringing traffic to a standstill after claiming his wife was threatened over a photograph

Footage shows the pair throwing punches in the middle of the road before the Brit was knocked onto the tarmac

He quickly scrambled back to his feet, swearing angrily as car horns blared around him

Islanders who are expected to restart their long-running protests against mass tourism over the next few months to coincide with its peak holiday season were today using the footage as an example of the sort of visitors they don't want to see.

One commenting on the fight scene wrote: 'Quality tourism.' Another responding to a woman who said: 'Our island is becoming so beautiful' added sarcastically: 'These are their traditions, they must be respected.'

A third pointed out in an apparent suggestion you sometimes have to put up with a few undesirables for the better good: 'Tourism leaves thousands of millions of euros in the islands, something which bananas don't do.'

Tenerife has been at the heart of protests against the effects of mass tourism that have taken place in Spain over the past couple of years.

Graffiti in English left on walls and benches in and around Palm Mar in southern Tenerife at the start of April last year included 'My misery your paradise' and 'Average salary in Canary Islands is 1,200 euros.'

In an apparent UK backlash, a response left in English on a wall next to a 'Tourists go home' message said: 'F**k off, we pay your wages.'

Thousands of people in the Canary Islands took to the streets of the Atlantic archipelago around the same time to demand their politicians take action against problems like the lack of affordable housing and pollution which protestors have linked to the number of holidaymakers flocking to the destination.

The furious tourist then turned his attention to the woman accompanying his opponent, accusing her of threatening his wife as they tried to take a photograph

'She swung at my f*****g wife,' he can be heard shouting, as another road user attempts to calm him, saying: 'Come on, quiet'

Government officials in Tenerife, where protestors held up banners which said: 'You enjoy we suffer' and 'Tourism moratorium now', later said around 30,000 people had taken part but organisers put the figure at 80,000.

In October last year demonstrators stormed a Tenerife beach and surrounded holidaymakers in their swimwear during another anti-mass tourism demo.

The surreal scenes occurred after hundreds of protestors diverted from their planned seafront route in Playa de las Americas in the south of the island and ended up taking over Troya Beach.

Two months ago a row between locals and foreign tourists enjoying a cycle tour of the east coast Spanish mainland city of Valencia ended with the Spaniards shouting 'Go Home' and the holidaymakers responding in English: 'F**K you.'

The two groups appeared to come close to blows in a narrow street in Valencia's pretty Old Town.

One of the female cyclists seemed on the verge of tears as she watched on from a safe distance.

A Valencia-based association whose name in English would translate as 'Neighbourhood in Danger of Extinction' claimed claimed afterwards the incident occurred because the cyclists wanted to cross an area they were holding an event in following a police eviction and refused to dismount or slow down.

The scuffle, dubbed 'Hot dog versus smash burger' by social media users, took place on the winding road to the mountain hamlet of Masca in north-west Tenerife

They admitted shouting 'Tourist Go Home' but accused the Dutch holidaymakers of turning violent.

An English-speaking former resident described the scenes as 'unfortunate.' He wrote online: 'I loved the city while I was there.

Nobody treated me like this. 'My dream was to return to do a Master's degree at the university and at the same time carry on improving my Spanish.

'I just wanted to live simply and with respect towards other people. But if things are like this, I don't know anymore what to think.'

A fortnight before the Valencia incident a British holidaymaker in Benidorm turned into a wannabe Mike Tyson during a road rage altercation with an upset pedestrian who had to stop for him on a zebra crossing.

The Georgie-sounding tourist saw red after being confronted over his actions and got into a brief fist fight before turning the air blue with the F-word and other expletives as his rival ripped the wing mirror off his hire car and fled the scene.

Unluckily for the Brit a police van was coming up the road - and an officer escorted him out of his car to arrest him while another got behind the wheel to move the vehicle.
A former Israeli hostage has broken her silence on the rape hell she suffered in captivity, including fears she was pregnant after being assaulted while unconscious and that she'd die a 'sex slave'.

Romi Gonen, 25, was released during the second ceasefire in January, 471 days after she was kidnapped from the Nova music festival and taken as a hostage by Hamas terrorists.

In an explosive interview on Thursday, Gonen revealed for the first time since her release the sexual abuse she suffered, including how one attacker was 'ecstatic' as she wept through a 30-minute sexual assault.

The first attack occurred soon after her abduction, when she was taken to Shifa Hospital after being shot in the arm during the Hamas-led terror rampage.

'A guy just started to tear off all my clothes. One of them took off my shoes. Another one took my earrings off my face, another one took the jewellery off my body,' Gonen told journalist Ben Shani on Channel 12's 'Uvda' programme.

As a woman searched for the right vein in her arm, Gonen described being touched by a crowd of people while in the hospital bed.

'I was just there, with some 15 people touching me, at the same time. Until it got to the point they were tearing off all my clothes, but I lay there naked. It was like an out-of-body experience, where youre seeing everything from above,' she said.

'I was sure I was going to wake up without an arm.'

In an explosive interview on Israel's Channel 12 on Thursday, former hostage Romi Gonen revealed the sexual abuse she suffered in Gaza

Romi Gonen, 25, was released during the second ceasefire in January, 471 days after she was kidnapped from the Nova music festival and taken as a hostage by Hamas terrorists

Romi Gonen embraces loved ones at Sheba Medical Centre in Ramat Gan, Israel, 471 days after she was kidnapped

Gonen said that, when she talks about her time as a hostage in Gaza, she imagines people around her all wonder: '"Did they harass you?" And people dont ask that question.'

'I also wouldnt ask, if I were you. But also, I think no one asks because no one wants to hear the answer,' she said.

'I went through all kinds of assaults, from four different men, over the course of my captivity. Different levels of severity.'

Following the incident in the hospital bed, a doctor escorted her to a car, which transported her to an apartment in Gaza City, where a Palestinian medical professional tasked with caring for her wounds allegedly sexually assaulted her.

It happened on Gonen's fourth day in captivity, when the 'nurse' followed her into a shower.

At this point, she was in so much pain that she had pleaded with him to take her to the hospital, so that she could have her arm amputated.

'I went in to shower and he allowed himself to enter the shower with me  because he is a nurse and hell help me in the shower.

'I was wounded and I had no power over them. And I was in a situation where there was nothing I could do; he took everything from me,' she said.

'And I had to continue living with him in the house afterward.'

Immediately after the assault, Gonen was forced into recording a propaganda video for Hamas, which was never released by the terror group but has since been recovered by the IDF.

Romi Gonen said her captors sexually assaulted her at Al Shifa hospital in Gaza City, where she was treated for injuries

Romi Gonen pictured on February 28, 2025, three days post-surgery in recovery with her friend Emily Damari (R) who she met in captivity

Released hostage Romi Gonen (R) embracing her mother Merav (L) at a reception point near Kibbutz Reim, southern Israel, 19 January 2025

The cameraman, named Mohammed, also allegedly sexually assaulted her in his apartment, where she was moved to some two weeks into the war.

On the first night in his house, she was forced to sleep next to him on a mattress in the living room.

With only those two in the house, he began touching her, first on her back and then on her waist.

'I suddenly felt him approaching me and he started giving me a back massage. And then he started moving down to my waist  and thats where I stopped him,' she said.

'At first I told him: "Stop touching me, stop touching me." I moved his hand away and then, when I moved his hand, he moved to my waist, and thats when I got angry.

'I stood up and told him: "Dont touch me any more."'

Gonen batted him away, quickly grabbed her mattress and took it to another room, where she slept that night.

But the next day, she recalled Mohammed telling her: 'Yesterday was a one-time thing. From now on, no more. You and I sleep on mattresses next to each other, up against each other. When you go to the bathroom, I go with you. Every night Im going to handcuff you.'

The next 16 days spent in captivity in that house, located in the Shati camp in northern Gaza, were the worst of her 471 days as a hostage, said Gonen.

For many days, she said both Mohammed and another 20-year-old man called Ibrahim assaulted her.

'Every night [Mohammed] slept with me with a gun under the pillow and an AK-47 next to the bed. He would ask me all the time: "Who have you slept with? When did you sleep with them?"'

On another occasion, she was sitting on her bed when Ibrahim began sexually harassing her.

'Everything happens in the room, in complete silence. I start crying insanely. Everything is quiet, and he says: "Be careful. If you dont calm down, Ill get angry."'

She continued: 'And thats how the days pass: I go to the bathroom and Mohammed is with me, and he watches me. I pee, and with one hand, I pull down my pants. I sit on the toilet so that God forbid he wont see anything of me. Ibrahim keeps bothering me endlessly. They grab my leg and move up to my thigh. I kick.'

Gonen said she lied to her captors and convinced them she had a husband, naming him after her older sister, Yarden.

'Hes a year older than me, we met at the restaurant we both work at, we got married a year and a half ago, and hes the love of my life,' she recalled telling her guards.

One night during her stay at the house, she missed her period, and 'that terrified everyone,' she said.

'For me, the greatest fear in my life was that theyd done something to me in those first three days, or in the hospital, and I didnt know,' she said, referring to her time in hospital which shed lost consciousness due to the gunshot wound.

'They were sure that Id slept with "Yarden" the night before the [Nova] party, and so I didnt get my period because Im pregnant, and I explained to them it didnt really happen. So one day he brought me a pregnancy test. And it came out negative,' she said.

Romi Gonen, centre, was released alongside hostages Emily Damari, left, and Doron Steinbracher

After 16 days in Mohammeds apartment, Gonen said that Hamas ordered them to leave again.

'I went to sleep in the afternoon, on the floor, in the living room. I woke up with Mohammed and Ibrahim talking above me. They knelt down and [Mohammed] told me: "Listen, Hamas just called me and they told me to kill you. I asked if theres an option to keep you alive, for myself, and they said yes, but we have to leave this house."

'He said: "Go to the bathroom, wash yourself in the sink, because I dont know when youll be able to shower again."'

That was the first time Gonen was allowed to go to the bathroom alone.

After some time, however, 'he came after me', she said, before describing how Mohammed sexually assaulted her for 30 minutes in the bathroom.

'Until you are in that situation, you cannot understand what happens to the body  and fear is sometimes paralysing. And I became paralysed. I dont think much went through my mind in those seconds except that I am really afraid, I am really disgusted,' she said.

Recalling how she cried 'like crazy', Gonen said Mohammed was 'ecstatic' throughout the assault.'

'He got a gift for life,' she said.

Gonen continued: 'I remember this one moment when I looked - there was a kind of window there, a small square like a picture frame - and I looked through the window and said to myself: "ow. Blue skies, birds chirping, and this is the situation Im in right now."

'The dissonance between life outside, the beautiful, normal, clean life, and the filth and brutality and utter disgust thats happening here inside the bathroom - its a moment I will never forget in my life.'

Following the assault, Gonen described how all that went through her head was a voice saying: 'Romi, everyone in Israel thinks youre dead, and youre going to be his sex slave.'

She recalled her devastation following the traumatic attack. 'I got to the living room, I sat on the chair, in pure shock  tears didnt just roll down from my eyes, they poured, my legs were covered in water because of how the tears were flowing.'

Later, she said, Mohammed threatened her to keep her silence, recalling how he put a gun to her head and said: 'If you tell anyone about this, Ill kill you.'

Romi Gonen pictured ten days post surgery with her mother Meirav

Romi Gonen, left, pictured with Emily Damari in in Kfar Aza

Gonen was released alongside Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari during the second ceasefire between Israel and Hamas on January 19, 2025.

The 25-year-old is one of several former hostages who has spoken out about suffering sexual assault while in captivity.

Groups such as the United Nations and Amnesty International have confirmed that Hamas used sexual assault as a weapon of war on October 7 and against hostages during their captivity, alongside other forms of abuse and torture.

The Dinah project, an independent group of leading Israeli lawyers, found that Hamas used sexual violence 'as part of a genocidal scheme' with the goal of terrorising and dehumanising Israeli society during the cross-border massacre.

About 1,200 people were killed and 251 abducted into Gaza during the attack on southern Israel.

Since then, more than 70,600 people have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.
A waterspout was seen in footage tearing through a port in a Spanish holiday resort after flooding left at least one person dead.

The twister caused damage to several vessels in the Costa Calida resort of Mazarron in the south-eastern region of Murcia, as well as bar and restaurant terraces.

Onlookers could be overheard screaming as parts from yachts were sent flying high into the air and landed as debris on the sea promenade alongside upturned chairs and tables and torn-off canopies.

Others, including Brits, were spotted trying to make a dash for safety as the waterspouts, part of the same weather family as tornadoes that are often accompanied by dangerous lightning, came towards shore.

There were no immediate reports of any human casualties.

The freak weather phenomenon occurred yesterday afternoon. Local reports said at least two twisters had affected the area, which was on yellow alert yesterday, between around 5pm and 6pm.

Some parts of the region were on maximum red alert, as were several municipalities in Malaga further south on Saturday, including the Costa del Sol resort of Marbella, which was battered by heavy rain that caused bad flooding.

Police confirmed early this morning that the body of a man missing in Illora in the province of Granada had been discovered as a search operation was resumed this morning for another who disappeared while trying to cross a swollen river in Alhaurin el Grande in neighbouring Malaga.

A waterspout was seen in footage tearing through a port in a Spanish holiday resort after flooding left at least one person dead

The twister caused damage to several vessels in the Costa Calida resort of Mazarron in the south-eastern region of Murcia, as well as bar and restaurant terraces

A friend of the man who went missing with him late on Saturday in Alhaurin el Grande, a half-hour drive inland from the nearest Costa del Sol resort, was discovered dead yesterday afternoon.

The friends, aged 54 and 53, had reportedly been trying to cross the Fahala River to try to get home after leaving a restaurant.

A spokesman for the Civil Guard, which had launched a search operation, said yesterday afternoon: 'Around 5.05pm today the lifeless body of one of the two missing men was found in the Fahala River.

'The search for the other man is continuing.'

The force said today in an update on the situation at 9am local time this morning: 'The search operation has just been resumed.

'Around 150 people are involved, half Civil Guard officers and the rest including volunteers as well as local police and Civil Protection workers, among others.

'They are working in eight different groups, from the spot where the men went missing to the mouth of the river.'

The search for a third casualty of the storms in southern Spain, who disappeared in Illora yesterday morning during heavy rain, was called off after his body was discovered by volunteers in the early hours of this morning under a tree trunk around two miles from where he was last seen.

Local mayor Antonio Salazar said the missing man, named only as Adrian, had been carried away by a torrent of water after trying to cross a stream on his motorbike, around 10.30am yesterday.

He was with a friend at the time who cheated death and raised the alarm. The motorbike had already been recovered.

Local reports said at least two twisters had affected the area, which was on yellow alert yesterday, between around 5pm and 6pm

Waterspout hurls debris skyward on Spain's southeastern coast

In another incident on Saturday, a woman was left fighting for her life after a street light fell on top of her in Sabadell near Barcelona during heavy rain and strong winds.

A man who was with her was injured but not seriously.

The holiday resort of Marbella was one of the worst-hit areas by flooding on the Costa del Sol on Saturday, with several parts of the coastal town left under knee-deep water as roads were turned into rivers.

A red alert advising people to stay indoors, sent to mobile phone users, was activated late on Saturday in Marbella and nearly 30 other municipalities in the southern Spanish province of Malaga.

Last night, parts of Valencia were placed on red alert after torrential rain and hail in Murcia, further south.

Around 50 homes in the municipality of La Pobla Llarga in the Valencia Community's Ribera Alta area had to be evacuated due to the risk of flooding.
An Italian family's Christmas celebrations turned into a nightmare after a mother and daughter died following a festive dinner.

Antonella Di Ielsi, 50, and 15-year-old Sara Di Vita passed away within hours of each other over the weekend at Cardarelli hospital in Campobasso, southern Italy.

Investigators suspect the cause of their deaths was food poisoning following a meal the family ate on December 23 in the run up to Christmas.

The menu consisted of mushrooms, fish and seafood, including mussels - dishes traditionally enjoyed around Christmas in the region.

The mother and daughter experienced the same symptoms, including nausea and severe abdominal pain, in the days following the meal.

They were both admitted to hospital, where the teenager died at around 10.30pm on Saturday evening while her mother died a few hours later, on Sunday morning.

The family are from Pietracatella, a small town nestled in the mountainous region of Molise.

The father, Gianni, who also ate the meal, was airlifted to Rome's Spallanzani Hospital where he is currently being treated in intensive care.

Antonella Di Ielsi, 50, died a few hours after her daughter on Sunday morning

Sara Di Vita, 15, passed away on Saturday evening at Cardarelli hospital in Campobasso, southern Italy

Antonella Di Ielsi, 50, pictured with husband Gianni and their two daughters (Sara in centre)

An autopsy has been ordered for the victims' bodies by the Campobasso Prosecutor's Office for Wednesday, to determine whether cause of death was food poisoning or a pre-existing intolerance.

Di Ielsi and Di Vita were both prematurely discharged from hospital twice, on December 25 and 26, before returning on Saturday with acute symptoms.

'We last spoke to Sara on the phone on Santo Stefano (St. Stephen's day),' said Giovanna, Donatella and Giuseppe, friends of the young victim since childhood.

'She thought the heavy treatment they had given her in the hospital would be enough; she absolutely didn't think her condition could worsen,' they told La Repubblica.

'So much so that we had planned some parties with friends in the last few days.

'Yesterday we were supposed to go to a birthday party together. She said she would get better soon.'

The Di Vita family is well-known in Pietracatella, with the 55-year-old father - an accountant - having previously served as a mayor of the town for two terms.

The parents' other daughter, 18, was also taken to hospital in Rome, but only as a precaution as she has shown no symptoms and is believed not to have eaten the dinner.

Investigators are currently testing ingredients used in the meal in a laboratory, including fish, seafood and mushrooms.

The mother and daughter died in Cardarelli hospital in Campobasso, southern Italy

'These ingredients are widely consumed here in town; they're part of the traditional Christmas menu,' a resident said.

The community is angry and full of grief. 'We want to understand what happened at the hospital,' one person said, seemingly referring to the fact that the victims were discharged twice before returning to emergency care.

Originally, doctors suspected gastroenteritis, but as their symptoms worsened, medics began considering botulism, listeria, fulminant hepatitis, or 'chemical poisoning,' investigators said.

'The clinical picture had a truly rare evolution that led rapidly to death despite the intensive care we implemented,' Dr. Vincenzo Cuzzone , head of the intensive care unit at Cardarelli Hospital, told the Italian newspaper.

'They began to show symptoms after a meal, but this information is fragmentary.

'There was liver failure and then a cascade of events, one after the other, with truly unparalleled rapidity that led to multiorgan failure.'

Five people have been placed under investigation by the Campobasso prosecutor's office, as investigators inspect medical records and interview people at the hospital to find out what happened in the lead up to the mother and daughter's deaths.

Police collected food samples from the family's home, including canned goods and fresh produce, to determine which item might have caused the poisoning.

Mayor Antonio Tommasone described the incident as a 'tragedy that leaves us speechless'.

'The town is now empty. We're all at home, we don't know what to say. I've declared a day of mourning for the funeral and canceled all Christmas celebrations,' he said.

'Now we hope Gianni recovers,' some friends of the family told La Repubblica at a local bar.

'But there's anger. We want to understand the cause of the poisoning, but above all, whether the doctors could have saved them and why they were sent home multiple times. You can't die like this.'
A British man who murdered his wife by stabbing her through the head with a screwdriver in a hotel room in Istanbul has been sentenced to life in prison by a Turkish court.

Ahmed Yasin Muse was convicted on Thursday of killing his wife, Ayan Mohomed Dhoba, 26, following a violent argument during a trip to Turkey.

Judges at Istanbuls 41st Heavy Penal Court ruled that the killing was deliberate and carried out with extreme brutality, imposing an aggravated life sentence.

The court rejected Muses claims that he was suffering from psychological problems at the time of the attack.

A forensic assessment concluded that Muse, who was 28 at the time of the murder, was fully criminally responsible for his actions.

The couple, both British nationals, had travelled to Istanbul together from England on November 11, 2023, and were staying at a hotel in the Fatih district.

Dhoba was found dead inside their room three days later, after staff alerted emergency services.

Prosecutors said she had suffered multiple injuries to her throat and body and was ultimately killed when Muse drove a screwdriver into her head.

Ahmed Yasin Muse has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife in a hotel room in Turkey

CCTV images from the hotel captured Muse leaving before getting into a taxi

Police later recovered the weapon from the hotel bathroom, where Muse admitted he had thrown it.

Hotel staff are said to have been concerned when they heard 'sounds' coming from the couple's room.

Security camera footage shown to the court reportedly captured Muse leaving the hotel alone shortly after the killing.

He was arrested a short time later, wearing a bloodstained T-shirt as he attempted to leave the area by taxi.

Cops were able to arrest him by contacting the taxi driver and instructing him to drive to the nearest police station.

During earlier police interviews, Muse confessed to the attack and claimed the couple had argued after his wife offered him drugs.

He also told officers he was taking medication for mental health issues, a defence that was ultimately dismissed by the court.

His claim of having a 'psychological disorder' is said to have been refuted by the 4th Specialisation Board of the Forensic Medicine Institute.

Dhoba was pronounced dead at the scene after paramedics were called to the hotel.

The hotel in Turkey, where authorities say Ayan Mohomed Dhoba was murdered

Turkish authorities charged Muse with the intentional killing of a spouse and murder committed with monstrous intent, offences that carry the most severe penalties under Turkish law.

According to Turkish media, while some mobile phones and digital material that were seized during the investigation would be returned, others will be kept by cops.

It is not yet known whether Muse intends to appeal his conviction.

At the time of the killing, the UK Foreign Office said it had not been asked to provide consular assistance but confirmed it was ready to support British nationals abroad if required.
Celebrity hairdresser Michael Van Clarke has joined a growing revolt against Rachel Reeves' Budget and banned Labour ministers from his salon.

The entrepreneur, who heads up a team of 50 hairdressers and beauticians in west London, is backing a protest by firms up and down the country.

More than 1,000 pubs have already barred Labour MPs from their premises following a backlash against the Chancellor's changes to business rates.

Now barbers and salons are doing the same with some putting up 'No Labour MPs' signs amid their anger at Ms Reeves.

Van Clarke, whose salon opened in Marylebone in 1988, counts A-list celebrities, royal families and top politicians among his clients.

But members of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's top team will no longer be able to attend his salon.

'We have a history of looking after senior party members on both sides but I fully support this latest initiative,' he told The Sun.

'I feel the lives of Labour MPs should be hindered and diminished like they are doing to ours.

'I don't think they are all evil. Most are just naive and ideologically stupid. If the entire country refuses to do business with them perhaps they will get the message.'

Celebrity hairdresser Michael Van Clarke has joined a growing revolt against Rachel Reeves' Budget and banned Labour ministers from his salon

More than 1,000 pubs have already barred Labour MPs from their premises following a backlash against the Chancellor's changes to business rates

Ms Reeves has promised a 4.3billion support package will cap business rates hikes for those sectors hit hardest by revaluations from April next year.

But industry groups have demanded greater action to help firms facing 'unsustainable' increases and warned of a devastating impact on High Streets.

The Mail on Sunday reported on how hairdressers had joined pubs in banning Labour MPs in protest at the Chancellor'sBudget.

Collette Osborne, who runs two Hairven salons in Nottinghamshire, told the newspaper she put up a 'No Labour MPs' sign because she feels businesses like hers are 'desperate and hanging on by a thread'.

Ms Osborne, whose local Labour MPs are Juliet Campbell and Michael Payne, is facing an increase in her business rates bill of more than 10,000 a year.

She said: '[Ms Reeves] promised she would act to protect small businesses and high street salons. I am furious that the Government now seem to have their fingers in their ears.

'There is no spare capacity to absorb business rate increases on top of rising wages, utilities, finance costs and Covid debt repayments. So no Labour MPs are allowed.'

Senior Tory MP Sir Mel Stride, the shadow chancellor, said: 'I'm sorry to see hairdressers being forced to make a stand against this anti-business Government but I'm not surprised.

'Labour gave the clear message that business rates in our high streets would be coming down.

'Now the truth is cutting through hard with many small businesses hanging on by a thread.'

A Labour source said: 'The Government is backing High Street businesses across the country, including hairdressers and salons.

'That's why the Chancellor announced a support package worth 4.3billion at the Budget last month.'
Furious residents in a historic market town are fighting plans led by a descendant of Queen Victoria to build 920 homes in 'pristine' countryside beside his family's vast estate.

Timothy Knatchbull, who is related to the Royal Family, has been criticised over his plans to build a huge new housing estate which people fear will blight their rural area.

Mr Knatchbull - Queen Victoria's great-great-great grandson and godson to King Charles - has applied to construct homes and businesses on land that neighbours the Broadlands Estate.

The 4,500 acre estate in Romsey, Hants, is where Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip enjoyed their first days as newlyweds in 1947 and is also where then-Prince Charles and Princess Diana began their honeymoon in 1981.

Mr Knatchbull, 61, is leading a consortium that is behind proposals to build 920 homes on farmland on the south side of Romsey.

Locals in Romsey have accused Mr Knatchbull of doing what is 'convenient' to him and ignoring important planning requirements because they cost too much money.

People in Romsey also say the market town is 'too small for this amount of extra housing', that the plans will lead to 'serious traffic issues', and are concerned about spoiling the 'pristine countryside' and 'wildlife habitats'.

Broadlands is the home of the Earl and Countess Mountbatten of Burma and their family. The ground floor of the property is opened up on certain days of the year for public tours, while the family-owned estate also hosts weddings, corporate events and concerts.

The plans are being led by Timothy Knatchbull (pictured with King Charles and Queen Camilla in 2015). Mr Knatchbull is Queen Victoria's great-great-great grandson and godson to King Charles

Pictured: The sprawling countryside which will be built on if the scheme is given the go-ahead

Mr Knatchbull is the grandson of Lord Louis Mountbatten (pictured), who was the last Viceroy of India and uncle of Prince Philip

The Queen and Prince Philip returned to the manor house in November 2007 to mark their diamond wedding anniversary. In a nod to their past the couple were photographed in a similar pose to their honeymoon pictures from 60 years beforehand.

Mr Knatchbull is the grandson of Lord Louis Mountbatten, who was the last Viceroy of India and uncle of Prince Philip.

In 1979, Mr Knatchbull survived an IRA bombing that killed his grandfather and twin brother Nicholas on the family's fishing boat at Mullaghmore harbour in County Sligo.

Lord Mountbatten had a strong influence in the upbringing of the King Charles. During his first visit to Mullaghmore in 2015, the then Prince of Wales paid tribute to Lord Mountbatten, describing him as 'the grandfather I never had'.

The consortium behind the Romsey development plans - The Ashfield Partnership - originally applied to build 1,100 homes in 2022 but it has been scaled back to 920 homes.

The development would add around 2,500 bedrooms to the town - potentially increasing its population by up to 15 per cent.

The area sits on land set out by Test Valley Borough Council for development and plans include a new primary school, businesses and a community hall.

A then Prince Charles speaks to Lord Louis Mountbatten (centre) and Prince Philip (right) at a polo match in 1977

The consortium behind the Romsey development plans - The Ashfield Partnership - originally applied to build 1,100 homes in 2022 but it has been scaled back to 920 homes

Pictured: The countryside area where the proposed 920 homes in the development will go in the market town of Romsey

An outline application also includes proposals for open spaces, landscaping and local food production, employment and visitor accommodation.

It is the Ashfield Partnership's third - and largest  housebuilding scheme in the area, following a 56-home development on the outskirts of Romsey at Luzborough, and plans for 300 new homes on the edge of the nearby village of North Baddesley.

Richard Buss, who has lived in the area for 35 years, has helped lead the challenge to the development - claiming that the developers are ignoring Test Valley Borough Council's requirement to build a footbridge over the railway line which runs next to it.

The 68-year-old freelance film editor said: 'In around 2013 the council managed to allocate the site for development.

'When they came up with the plans it involved specific things like a bridge.

'What the developers, including Timothy Knatchbull, don't want to do is fill in the requirements of the council's plans because it costs them a lot of money.

'They are doing everything they can to get out of building a bridge.

'The planning inspector realised that this was the one access point that made the site sustainable.

Royal newly-weds the then Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip pictured in the grounds of Broadlands at the start of their honeymoon in November 1947

The Queen and Prince Philip were pictured at the same location 60 years later during a visit to mark their diamond wedding anniversary

'If you don't have a bridge you are forcing everyone to use their car in an age in which we are trying to make people do everything they can not to.

'We can't stop this happening but that is not what we are about. We just want to make sure the developers fulfil the plans that the council put in place.'

He accused Mr Knatchbull of 'trying to do what is convenient for him and what saves him money.'

Borough councillor Mark Cooper, who has lived in the area for 39 years, said: 'It is a difficult site because it is separated by the railway line.

'The borough plan says there has to be a bridge so that people can easily access the town centre and that is not in the current plan.

'The site is simply not sustainable if it does not have easy access to the town.

'To be honest I think it is irrelevant that it is Timothy Knatchbull. We just need to make sure that the estate keeps Romsey and Southampton separate because it will expand the town in that direction.

'The impact of the traffic will be significant but not as big as some people will expect. I am just worried that the developers won't provide the improvements that are required to ameliorate the impact of the traffic.'

Following the latest changes, 20 local residents put up comments against the application.

Local Jeffrey Clark said: 'I am still very concerned regarding Romsey's already serious traffic and parking issues. 920 homes will mean around 1800 extra cars in an area where the roads are insufficient for this amount of increase in traffic.

'Romsey is an old town with narrow roads and in my opinion too small for this amount of extra housing.'

Another Romsey resident, Dr Mark Willett, said: 'Romsey is not well served with GP services, only (has) one overstretched NHS GP surgery which is distributed over two locations.

'Adding nearly 1,000 new houses will mean that somewhere in the region of 3,000 new people will move into the area.

'This is unsustainable, people will not get the treatment that they require, and their health will suffer as a result, and statistically I expect that there will be some deaths as people will not receive the care that they require within a sufficient time limit.

'The proposed site is pristine countryside. We can't just keep destroying wildlife habitats and the clean air and natural beauty provided from the green belts.

'Romsey is a small market town with a medieval street plan. It is already becoming gridlocked and I think most residents would agree that its roads have reached capacity.'

The Ashfield Partnership declined to comment.

The original Broadlands manor was part of Romsey Abbey before the 11th century English Norman Conquest.
America's wokest prosecutor slammed Donald Trump for unleashing ICE 'strike teams' on Somalis in Minnesota after the feds charged a 'serial rapist' immigrant freed by her office.

The Trump administration has honed in on the state and deployed nearly 100 immigration officers to Minneapolis-Saint Paul earlier this month after a massive Somali fraud scandal under Governor Tim Walz's leadership was unveiled.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty released a video in response to the crackdown, denying the existence of Somali gangs around the Twin Cities.

'There are no roving gangs of Somali people in this community, harassing, threatening, doing anything to any of our community members. Let me repeat that again because I've heard this often,' she said.

'There are no roving gangs of Somalis targeting or harassing or doing anything inappropriate to any community members. Those are simply lies. It is not true.'

Moriarty seemingly insisted that there has been no wrongdoing by gangs Somali immigrants in Minnesota and vowed not to assist ICE.

'Our office at the Hennepin County Attorney's Office here will not assist in any way, shape or form in any of these ICE raids,' she said.

'Our Somali community members are what makes Minneapolis one of the finest places in the world to live.'

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty (pictured) seemingly insisted that there has been no wrongdoing by gangs of Somali immigrants in Minnesota

Donald Trump unleashed ICE 'strike teams' on Somalis in Minnesota after a massive Somali fraud scandal under Governor Tim Walz's leadership was unveiled

However, federal prosecutors recently charged a Somali national with raping a minor in addition to multiple adult women after Moriarty's office gave him a plea deal that avoided prison time.

Abdimahat Bille Mohamed, 28, was convicted of two separate rapes in May, including for the 2017 sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl and a 2024 sexual assault, but was only sentenced to probation due to his deals with Moriarty's office.

While out on probation in September, federal prosecutors say he kidnapped and raped another woman while holding her hostage in a hotel for a week.

The complaint also accuses Mohamed of committing at least five sexual assaults between 2017 and 2025, including several gang rapes.

'This Somali national in Minnesota is charged with raping a minor and multiple adult women before being detained - only to be quickly released by a local court, after which he committed yet another rape,' Attorney General Pamela Bondi said.

'This horrific case illustrates how left-wing soft-on-crime policies and vetting failures put innocent people at dire risk. If Minnesota will not protect its own people, the Department of Justice will do it for them.'

Moriarty called the charges against Mohamed a 'political stunt' and claimed federal prosecutors are not prioritizing the safety of victims.

'Yesterdays DOJ press release is a clear attempt to politicize a sexual assault prosecution to inflict further harm on our entire Somali community,' Moriarty said.

Federal prosecutors recently charged a Somali national Abdimahat Bille Mohamed (pictured), 28, with raping a minor and multiple adult women after Moriarty's office gave him a plea deal that avoided prison time

Moriarty called the charges against Mohamed a 'political stunt,' and said her office will not assist ICE

'We know this is a political stunt because we are well aware of the DOJs track record on violence against women under the current administration.'

'Those who actually prosecute sexual assault cases every day know there are significant evidentiary hurdles to obtaining a prison sentence that incapacitates the defendant so that they cant inflict more harm in the community,' she added.

Moriarty has been dubbed America's wokest prosecutor by critics over her tough-on-cops, soft-on-criminals decisions.

This year, she let a woke serial Tesla vandal off with keying six cars and causing $21,000 of damage, while pursuing murder charges against a cop who lawfully killed a suspect.

Moriarty declined to charge Minnesota Department of Human Services employee Dylan Adams, who was caught on camera vandalizing several Teslas, and allowed him to enter a diversion program and keep his taxpayer-funded job.

Meanwhile, she relentlessly tried to charge state trooper Ryan Londregan with murder and manslaughter for shooting dead Ricky Cobb II, a black man killed in July 2023 after he tried to drag the trooper's partner away during a traffic stop.
Juicy new details about how the world's biggest food company crumbled after its married CEO was caught having an affair with a female underling have been revealed.

Laurent Freixe, 63, had been the CEO of Nestle for just 12 months when he was suddenly ousted on September 1, after his own mistress allegedly called him out.

Freixe's main offense was having an undisclosed relationship with the younger female underling while promoting her to premier positions and boosting her pay.

Though the mistress has not been named, their relationship was an open secret at the iconic chocolate brand, and there was widespread discontent among employees.

Amid the internal chaos, Nestle saw its share prices tumble by more than 20 percent, as debt levels ballooned and sales growth stalled.

Now, new details have been revealed about Freixe's spectacular rise and fall and how his antics threatened Nestle's position as one of the world's leading chocolatiers.

Paris-born Freixe is reportedly married to a high-flying director, Agata Balcerowska, and he has two children from a previous marriage, according to the Times of London.

Freixe worked his way through the ranks at Nestle over the course of 25 years - receiving praise for growing the Swiss company's coffee division, Nescafe Dolce Gusto, to rake in billions in annual revenue as the Head of Europe in the noughties.

Juicy new details about how the world's biggest food company crumbled under the weight of a scandalous office relationship have been revealed. Laurent Freixe (pictured), 63, had been the CEO of Nestle 12 months when he was suddenly ousted on September 1 this year

Paris-born Freixe is reportedly married to a high-flying director, Agata Balcerowska (pictured), and he worked his way through the ranks at Nestle over the course of 25 years

Freixe helped grow the Swiss company's coffee division, Nescafe Dolce Gusto, to rake in billions in annual revenue as the Head of Europe during the noughties

But he ultimately orchestrated his own downfall when he began dipping his pen in the proverbial company ink.

Freixe's house of cards came tumbling down when his longtime mistress reportedly caught him with another employee in a Zurich hotel room and filed a complaint that triggered a rapid internal investigation.

The shockwaves were felt throughout the company, with several major executives being forced to step down - and the new CEO has cut thousands of jobs.

Insiders have told the Wall Street Journal that Freixe initially competed against Florida businessman and Nestle veteran Steve Presley for the role of CEO.

Presley ran Nestle's Latin America team, and Freixe allegedly promoted his main mistress to a prominent role on this team, covering almost all of Nestle's marketing in the US, Canada and Latin America.

The woman, who had joined Nestle as a management trainee 20 years earlier, was allegedly given boosted pay, anonymous sources told the Journal.

They also said that Presley grew suspicious that his new marketing executive was briefing Freixe about their meetings.

Freixe appeared to grow threatened by Presley's suspicions, and accused him of 'trying to create a subculture within Nestle', per the Journal.

Insiders have told the Wall Street Journal that Freixe initially competed against Florida businessman and Nestle veteran Steve Presley (pictured) for the role of CEO

In April, Presley and Freixe met at Nestle's headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland, to address their power struggle. They agreed that Presley should resign after almost 30 years of service

The Swiss-based company encourages employees to report any 'non-compliance concerns'

In April, the two men met at Nestle's headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland, to address their power struggle. They agreed that Presley should resign after almost 30 years of service to the firm.

Freixe assumed Presley's role along with being CEO - making him his main mistress's direct boss. Nestle received a barrage of complaints alleging improper favoritism one month later.

The company said in late July that an internal investigation found no wrongdoing - but a second, third-party probe by a law firm resulted in Freixe's firing in September.

Nestle said he broke its code of conduct by failing to disclose a relationship with a direct report. Freixe was terminated without pay.

The new CEO, Philipp Navratil, 49, has cut 16,000 jobs and tied pay to performance, in what some analysts have seen as an attempt to quash the company's cozy practices.

'Trust has been eroded with some of the events we have seen recently. Some of our making,' Navratil said in a recent podcast for employees.

He promised to bring a new generation to the 159-year-old company that would 'question everything'.
COLUMBIA, Maryland, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mexico Fund, Inc. (NYSE: MXF), today issued its fiscal 2025 Annual Report for the period ended October 31, 2025.

A full version of the report is available at the companys website  www.themexicofund.com

Annual Report 2025 Highlights

During fiscal year 2025, the Fund's NAV per share and market price registered a total return of 31.17% and 46.48%, respectively, while the Morgan Stanley Capital International ("MSCI") Mexico Index, increased 38.34%. As of October 31, 2025, the Funds price per share outperformed its benchmark during all long-term periods presented in the table below, including since December 2008, when current portfolio management team assumed investment management responsibilities.



Annualized % Return in USD

1-year 3-years 5-years 10-years Dec-08 MXF Market Price 46.48 17.12 18.42 5.64 8.68 MXF NAV 31.17 12.43 16.04 4.83 8.15 MSCI Mexico Index 38.34 14.15 18.21 4.96 6.96

As of October 31, 2025, the Fund's market price and NAV per share were $19.39 and $22.02, respectively, reflecting a discount of 11.94%, compared with a discount of 20.44% at the end of fiscal year 2024.

At its December 2025 meeting, the Board decided to increase the Funds quarterly distributions under its MDP, from $0.25 per share to $0.35 per share, representing a significant increase of 40.0% and an attractive annualized distribution rate of 7.2% relative to its market price as of November 30, 2025. Accordingly, the Fund has declared a distribution of $0.35 per share to be paid on January 29, 2026 to stockholders of record as of January 21, 2026.

The Funds Expense Limitation Agreement was renewed for fiscal year 2026 with a cap on the ordinary expense ratio (which excludes the performance component of the Investment Advisory fee, among other extraordinary expenses) of 1.40%, so long as Fund net assets remain greater than $260 million. The Fund's ordinary expense ratio during the fiscal year 2025 was 1.38%, below the limit of 1.40%.

About The Mexico Fund, Inc.

The Mexico Fund, Inc. is a non-diversified closed-end management investment company with the investment objective of long-term capital appreciation through investments in securities, primarily equity, listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange. The Fund provides a vehicle to investors who wish to invest in Mexican companies through a managed non-diversified portfolio as part of their overall investment program.

This release may contain certain forward-looking statements regarding future circumstances. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Fund's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in such forward-looking statements including, in particular, the risks and uncertainties described in the Fund's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results, events, and performance may differ. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Fund undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. The inclusion of any statement in this release does not constitute an admission by The Mexico Fund or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statement are material.

CONTACT:

Tofi Dayan

+5255-9138-3350

Email: [email protected]

Patricia Baronowski

Pristine Advisers, LLC

+1-631-756-2486

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE The Mexico Fund, Inc.
Thousands of passengers at one of America's busiest airports may have been exposed to measles during peak holiday travel, health officials warned.

An alert has been issued for travelers at Newark Liberty International Airport about potential exposure to the world's most infectious disease.

Anyone who visited terminals B and C between 7am and 7pm on December 19 may have been exposed to a contagious non-New Jersey resident who traveled through the concourses, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) warned.

Officials noted that the infected individuals' exact whereabouts at that time were not available, but they were conducting contact tracing.

NJDOH advised that if you suspect you have been exposed or are infected, you should call your local health department or medical provider before visiting them.

'Potentially exposed individuals, if infected, could develop symptoms as late as January 2, 2026,' the agency wrote.

Measles symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes and a rash that usually appears between three and five days after symptoms begin, according to NJODH.

Measles can also cause serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and can lead to miscarriage in pregnant women, premature birth or a low-birth-weight baby.

Thousands of passengers at New Jersey's Newark Liberty International Airport (pictured) may have been exposed to measles on December 19

Symptoms of the world's most infectious disease include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes and a rash

As of December 26, 11 measles cases have been reported in New Jersey in 2025.

Across the US, cases of the measles, the world's most infectious disease that had been declared eliminated in the US in 2000, continue to grow.

The spread was spurred by a deadly outbreak in Texas earlier this year among a largely unvaccinated group in a religious community.

Measles has now infected 2,012 Americans and killed three people this year, according to a December 23 update from the CDC.

It is the largest outbreak since 2,126 cases were reported in 1992, and doctors are concerned that more cases will emerge amid busy holiday travel.

Earlier this month, public health officials in Connecticut reported the state's first measles case since 2021.

South Carolina also has 142 measles cases, according to the CDC. There was one in 2024. Additionally, more than 250 people are being quarantined in the state due to the ongoing outbreak and possible exposure.

In Arizona, which recorded five measles cases in 2024, a surge has led to 182 this year.

Join the debate How can America stop measles spreading through airports?

Measles (pictured: a 3D illustration of the virus) is considered the world's most infectious disease because people who are not vaccinated have a 90 percent chance of getting sick if they are exposed

Anyone who visited Newark airport's terminals B and C between 7am and 7pm on December 19 may have been exposed (Pictured: travelers at Newark on December 26)

Your browser does not support iframes.

Dr Renee Dua, medical advisor to TenDollarTelehealth, previously told the Daily Mail: 'The current measles outbreaks in the US are a direct consequence of falling childhood vaccination rates.

'Measles requires about 95 percent community immunity to prevent spread, and many regions are now below that threshold.'

Measles, mumps and rubella are prevented via the MMR vaccine. The nationwide MMR vaccination rate is 92.5 percent, but in Utah, just 89 percent of kindergartners were vaccinated for the 2023-2024 school year.

In South Carolina, that number is 92 percent, and in Arizona, it is 89 percent.

The MMR is 97 percent effective in preventing infection for those who receive both doses, according to the CDC. One dose is 93 percent effective.

Dua continued: 'We are seeing real consequences: preventable outbreaks, hospitalizations, and deaths from diseases that were previously well controlled. These are measurable public-health failures.

'Vaccines remain among the safest and most effective tools in medicine. Rebuilding trust through clear, evidence-based communication is now as critical as vaccine access itself.'

Measles is considered the world's most infectious disease because people who are not vaccinated have a 90 percent chance of getting sick if they are exposed, even if they share the same air briefly or hours later with someone who has measles.

Three in 1,000 people who contract measles will die.

The NJDOH said it was 'alerting residents about potential exposures associated with a newly identified case of measles in a non-NJ resident who traveled in transit through Newark Liberty International Airport while infectious.'
This is the heart-stopping moment a brave police officer rushed to save a distraught woman who attempted to leap off a bridge the day after Christmas.

Video footage captured by the cop's body camera showed the moment a woman in her 30s considered jumping off a bridge in Sullivan County, Tennessee.

The woman, who had been on I-81 south, was seen standing at the 60-mile marker bridge overlooking the Holston River, just after 11am.

State trooper Jacob Tizzard responded to the call and is shown in the video lunging toward the woman and grabbing her around the abdomen, while a fellow officer held onto him as an anchor, allowing them to pull her to safety.

The video then cuts to first responders standing near the ambulance while speaking to an unidentified person, suggesting the woman was safely inside the vehicle.

Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) said the woman was 'in a dark place' and 'because people showed up and worked together, she is alive tonight.'

Multiple units helped with the rescue mission, including a Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agent who was positioned in a boat directly below the bridge where the woman stood.

'Different agencies, one mission. Save a life. And they did,' THP wrote in a Facebook post.

A heart-stopping video showed the moment a woman in her 30s considered jumping off a bridge in Sullivan County, Tennessee

Multiple units showed up to the rescue mission and she was ultimately saved by a state trooper

Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper Jacob Tizzard lunged and grabbed the woman to safety

Four good Samaritans also called to report the possible suicide attempt, per Knoxville News.

One bystander was a preacher, and he pulled over toward the end of the bridge to pray.

Another bystander, a female retired U.S. Marine, also stopped and offered help to the distressed woman.

'How can we help her? How can we talk her down?' Tizzard told Knoxville News.

Tizzard told the outlet that it was about a 100ft drop from the bridge, saying, 'Our role was to support her and let her know we cared.'

The young woman stood on the bridge for over an hour, describing the hardships she was facing in life, as courageous responders and bystanders listened.

Captain Kimbrough of THP pleaded with the woman not to end her life, saying, 'Ma'am, you've got every opportunity in the world to turn your life around.'

The bridge where the woman stood was about a 100ft drop to the river

Brave first responders talked to the rescuers inside the ambulance where the woman was seemingly safe inside

'There's nothing that you're facing right now that you can't fix,' he went on.

'There are going to be family and loved ones ripped apart from your actions.'

Fearing that she was going to follow through, the trooper and his captain made a subtle signal to grab the woman.

'I didn't want to lose grip of her or both of us could end up going over the edge,' Tizzard told the outlet. 'There was no room for error.'

Tizzard knew he and the woman were safe once he felt fellow responders surrounding them. She was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

'This time of year can be especially hard. Many people are carrying things no one else can see. Stress, grief, loneliness, and fear can pile up fast. That does not mean someone is weak. It means they are human,' THP wrote in their statement.

'If you are struggling, please hear this. You matter, and help is available.'

If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US on 988. There is also an online chat available at 988lifeline.org.
Residents in New York City's ritzy Upper East Side have warned mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani that he will not receive a warm welcome when he moves into Gracie Mansion.

The Democratic socialist has announced that he and his artist wife, Rama Duwaji, will say goodbye to their $2,300-per-month Queens apartment after his inauguration in January and relocate to the $100 million abode.

The extravagant mayor's mansion sits on 11 acres in Carl Schurz Park in Manhattan's Yorkville neighborhood of the Upper East Side, an area where Mamdani lost the vote.

Many residents of the neighborhood voted for Andrew Cuomo, partly because he positioned himself as supporting Israel and partly because of his tough-on-crime agenda.

One Upper East Sider, 66-year-old Adam Beckerman, told The New York Times he is disgusted by Mamdani's views on Israel and capitalism.

'He is an entitled, ignorant, anti-capitalist, anti-Westernist ideologue,' Beckerman said. 'I've got no sandwich suggestions. I've got my guard up.'

'I don't think anyone would be unwelcoming to his face,' said Carly Etzin, 29, who lives up the block from Gracie Mansion.

'But if you look at the breakdown of voting, this was one of the only neighborhoods that voted against him.'

New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and his artist wife, Rama Duwaji, will move into the $100 million Gracie Mansion in January

The mayor's mansion sits in Manhattan's Yorkville neighborhood of the Upper East Side (pictured) where Mamdani lost the vote

Cuomo won the glamorous neighborhood - the home of Gossip Girl and where houses cost an average of $1.6 million - by 24 points.

However, Mamdani's election win caused full-blown panic inside the biggest local parenting groups.

Members of Moms of the Upper East Side (MUES) and UES Mommas on Facebook are threatening to flee, families are turning on each other and lifelong New Yorkers are admitting, often for the first time, that they no longer feel safe in the place they once called home.

Robin Reiter, 49, an Upper East Side mom and active member of both groups, previously told the Daily Mail that the collective fear of anti-Semitism and Mamdani's socialist and progressive views is not a meltdown or hysteria.

She said: 'We're moms who are generally afraid for what's going to happen.'

Reiter, who is Jewish, also claimed that an article in New York Magazine poured gasoline on the fire by portraying the mothers as hysterical after Mamdani won the election.

While many residents have concerns about Mamdani moving to the neighborhood, many others are looking forward to welcoming him.

Restaurateur Abdul Elenani, who has hosted Mamdani at his establishments, opened a location of Palestinian restaurant, Al Badawi, three blocks from the mansion, earlier this year.

Residents who live near Gracie Mansion (pictured) said they will not be giving the mayor-elect a warm welcome

The Gracie Mansion's interiors (pictured in 2013) may soon be decorated with Duwaji's modern artwork

A spokesman for his restaurant group told The New York Times they hope the mayor and his wife will frequent their business.

'Wouldn't it be cool to, like, cater for him and bring that spice that he needs to his life,' she said. 'He's a spicy man.'

The sizeable Gracie Mansion is in stark contrast with the one-bedroom apartment Mamdani and Duwaji have shared for years.

Built in 1799, the historic Federal-style mansion is owned by the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, and has served as the city's mayor's home since 1942.

Its interior - a blend of 18th and 19th-century features with modern touches - may soon be decorated with Duwaji's modern artwork.

'We will miss much about our home in Astoria,' Mamdani wrote in a detailed Instagram statement announcing his move.

'Cooking dinner side by side in our kitchen, sharing a sleepy elevator ride with our neighbors in the evening, hearing music and laughter vibrate through the walls of the apartment.'

He said the decision to hand over their beloved apartment to another New Yorker and move into the extravagant mayor's mansion ultimately came down to his family's safety.

The sizeable Gracie Mansion is in stark contrast with the one-bedroom apartment in Queens Mamdani and Duwaji have shared for years

But the soon-to-be NYC leader assured that he will not abandon his roots when he leaves Astoria.

'My priority, always, is serving the people who call this city home,' wrote Mamdani, who moved to NYC from Uganda at age seven.

'I will be a mayor for the line cooks on Steinway, for the children swinging at Dutch Kills Playground, for the bus riders waiting for the Q101.'

'While I may no longer live in Astoria, Astoria will always live inside me and the work I do,' he added.
Donald Trump gave a nonchalant confirmation of the first US land strike in Venezuela during a radio interview last week that received little attention.

The President said that the Christmas Eve strike was on a facility 'where the ship comes from'  seemingly referencing the origination location of the alleged drug vessels that the US military has been targeting in the Caribbean and Atlantic over the last three months.

Speaking on WABC on December 26, Trump made the bombshell suggestion that US forces have already started conducting land operations in Venezuela.

'I don't know if you read or you saw, they have a big plant or a big facility where they send the  where the ships come from,' the President said during a call-in with radio host and billionaire John Catsimatidis, who was filling in for Sid Rosenberg.

'Two nights ago we knocked that out  so we hit them very hard,' Trump confirmed.

On Monday afternoon, following the Daily Mail's reporting of the under-the-radar strike, Trump definitively confirmed the launch of land strikes in the region, saying that the US hit 'the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs.'

Asked whether it was the US Military or CIA forces, Trump said: 'I don't want to say that  I know exactly who it was.'

The President said since late November that the US is shifting away from maritime attacks on drug boats and will 'soon' be conducting land strikes in Venezuela.

President Donald Trump appeared to casually confirm that the US has begun land strikes in Venezuela by detailing a strike carried out on a 'facility' there on Christmas Eve

The latest is part of a continued campaign to apply pressure on Venezuelan socialist leader Nicolas Maduro, as boat strikes didn't appear to work to deter the so-called narco regime from continuing operations.

The exact target of the Christmas Eve operation was not clear at first, and it remains unknown which US forces or government entities were involved after Trump declined to say if it was military or CIA.

Trump did confirm, however, that the explosion was along the shore of Venezuela.

A video posted to X last week showed a large explosion in the Zulia state of Venezuela near the second-largest city in the country, Maracaibo.

The state's San Francisco municipality sits on the western shore of the strait that connects Lake Maracaibo to the Gulf of Venezuela.

Zulia-based journalist Jhorman Cruz took the video of a massive fire with resulting explosions in the early hours of December 24. After it gained some traction on social media, Cruz downplayed that it could have been a US military strike.

'It is prudent to say that we still do not know what started the fire,' he wrote on X, according to a translation of his original post. 'Residents DID NOT see anything unusual, nor drones, nor cars, nor the presence of foreigners.'

'Be careful with strange hypotheses,' the El Publico TV director warned.

The White House and Pentagon did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's request for clarification of the President's comments.

Since September, the Department of War has been conducting maritime strikes on suspected drug vessels, killing 105

Starting on September 2, 2025, the Department of War has been conducting strikes against suspected drug ships in the Caribbean and Atlantic.

The operations have killed more than 105 people and are aimed at trafficking routes the US says are to blame for a huge spike in overdose deaths.

But Trump has said that land targets are 'much easier' and has hinted at the shift with statements like: 'land strikes will start very soon' and 'soon we will be starting the same program on land.'

He has also warned Maduro it would be 'smart' to step down, but has not gone as far as to confirm that the US military operations are to force regime change.
While President Donald Trump is negotiating with Russian and Ukrainian officials to end the war between the two countries, some in the Russian delegation are already undermining the progress.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's foreign policy advisor, Yuri Ushakov, threw cold water on the current state of negotiations shortly after Trump spoke with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump phoned Putin for an hour and 15 minutes on Sunday, Ushakov told Axios that evening, noting that the call was the American's idea.

The call came just before Trump hosted Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago to discuss how to end the war.

Zelensky has stated that he wants a vote by his people to authorize territorial concessions. He argues that a 60-day pause would allow for such a referendum on the concessions and that such a pause is a minimum.

Without such a vote, any territorial deal with Russia would be illegitimate, Zelensky has stated.

But speaking to Axios, Ushakov claimed that Putin and Trump agree that Zelensky's plan for a 60-day ceasefire to get the Ukrainian people on board with ceding parts of the Donbas region to Russia 'will only prolong the conflict.'

Trump and Putin both agree Ukraine 'needs to make a decision about Donbas without delay,' Ushakov said.

President Donald Trump welcomes President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago residence for a meeting and closed-door lunch afterwards in Florida, United States on December 28, 2025. The two discussed a peace plan for the Russia-Ukraine war

One of Russian President Vladimir Putin's advisors, Yuri Ushakov, threw cold water on Zelensky's peace plan following the president's meeting with Trump

The comment highlights the Russian delegation's discomfort with a temporary armistice as they seek to extract land and other concessions from Ukraine.

Still, Trump signaled confidence that the negotiations are moving in the right direction after his three-hour meeting with Zelensky on Sunday.

'I do think we are getting a lot closer. We are very close,' Trump said following the Zelensky meeting.

He also noted Putin's hesitance to accept a ceasefire with Ukraine.

'I understand that position. But I think we are finding ways to get around that,' Trump remarked.

Trump also noted how Ukraine's parliament will need to approve any peace deal with Russia.

He is also willing to speak directly to the parliament to get them on board with the deal.

'Ive offered to go and speak to their parliament,' Trump told reporters on Sunday at a press conference following his meeting with Zelensky. 'Id have no problem with doing it.'

Zelensky and Trump hosted a press conference following their three-hour meeting where they took questions on the progress of the peace talks

'I dont anticipate it,' he added. 'I would like to get the deal done and not necessarily have to go.'

The president also told the press that the American and Ukrainian delegations are in agreement on 95 percent of Zelensky's peace plan and that final negotiations should occur in January.

'In a few weeks we will know,' Trump said.

The Sunday negotiations also included discussions about security guarantees for Ukraine.

Zelesnky told reporters following the sit-down that he asked for the US to provide Ukraine security guarantees for 50 years, but that the US countered with a draft of just 15 years.

The agreement would be akin to NATO's Article 5, which states that an attack on one member nation is an attack on all.

Complicating the ongoing discussions are claims from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that Ukraine launched over 90 drones at a residence owned by Putin over the last two days.

'Such reckless actions will not go unanswered,' he said, noting that despite the attack, negotiations on a peace deal will continue.

On Monday, Trump and Putin spoke again by phone about the war. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said it was a 'positive call.'
A senior female lecturer at a prestigious university who was rejected for a promotion because 'she was a woman' has won over 35,000 at an employment tribunal.

Dr Eliane Bodanese, an engineering lecturer at Queen Mary University, was twice rejected for a promotion which was instead given to a male colleague.

This was despite her 'exemplary' work and bringing in over 130,000 more than her male colleague for the University as a project leader.

She was judged to have had a lower level of research - yet Dr Bodanese said this was due to her maternity leave which meant she was unable to secure further grants.

After taking her case to an employment tribunal in East London, it was judged that she was underpaid as the decisions had been 'tainted by sex' - and she has now won 35,500.

Dr Bodanese started working for the university as a teaching and research academic and lecturer in 2003, and she was promoted to senior lecturer in 2012.

She is currently a Senior Lecturer in the School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

Dr Bodanese took a year of maternity leave between 2013 and 2014. After this period, the academic said that she struggled to 'obtain grants for research projects and suffered from a lack of support to restart her research'.

Dr Eliane Bodenese (pictured) won a 35,500 payout after winning her equal pay case over two promotion rejections at Queen Mary University

Professor Wen Wang (pictured) was found to have made decisions 'tainted by sex' when deciding who should be promoted in the engineering department

This was confirmed by her manager through his appraisals, which stated that she had experienced a large volume of teaching requirements which had not allowed her to develop her own research.

In March 2021, Dr Bodanese made a pay rise application through the University's staff bonus scheme - which was rejected.

She was told she had applied for the wrong scheme despite being advised by the vice principal of the faculty, Professor Wen Wang.

The university said that a male colleague who engaged in 'like work' to Dr Bodanese had received a promotion through the same scheme.

Dr John Schormans received three promotions while working at the University - in 2006, 2015 and 2017.

Employment Judge Catrin Lewis said that 'the University accepted that it was possible for [Dr Bodanese] to have been considered for a bonus under the scheme'.

The judge said: 'The [university] has not explained why she was not so considered despite her application setting out the type of exceptional work that met the example of what might warrant a bonus, and in the absence of any clear evidence in her comparator's application which would fit the criteria for a bonus.'

In January 2022, Dr Bodanese attempted again to apply for a promotion.

Dr Bodanese started working for the university (pictured) as a teaching and research academic and lecturer in 2003 and was promoted to senior lecturer in 2012

This application was then rejected with the reasoning that her 'performance in the research aspect of her role was deemed unsuitable' and that she did not go 'above and beyond' as a senior lecturer.

Dr Bodanese submitted a formal grievance about her applications, triggering an investigation.

An email sent by Professor Wang was shown during the investigation in which he said that there was a minimum expectation on research contribution, and the faculty panel had raised concerns of a lack of evidence of an active research project.

Dr Bodanese said that after her maternity leave, she had not been able to get a research grant, but her quality of research had been exemplary.

Employment Judge Lewis said: 'In respect of the impact of the publications, the quality of the research and also the number of citations, there were more citations in the previous five years for her research than for Dr Schormans.

'Looking at where they had been project leader she referred to five grants which brought in 732,000 for the university - in his application Dr Schormans only referred to being principle investigator in three grants, which brought in approximately 600,000.

'Dr Bodanese believed she had more citations in what she described as higher impact journals and brought in more money.

'The only way Professor Wang could not see that was if he had not read her application properly, and she maintains that he did not give her application proper consideration because she was a woman.'

Regarding the second application, Judge Lewis said: 'I am satisfied that Dr Schormans was assessed more generously by the panel considering his applications than Dr Bodanese was by the panel considering hers.

'I am also satisfied that the alternative criteria introduced by Professor Wang are tainted by sex.

'She has provided cogent evidence that the criteria applied by Professor Wang have a disparate negative impact on women, due to the effect of taking maternity leave on their research profile and career, and that women are less likely to have live grants, because they have taken maternity leave or have had breaks in their research as a result.

'Professor Uhlig confirmed that [Dr Bodanese] was put at a disadvantage by the research requirement due to the impact on her research of having taken maternity leave.

'I find that the requirement to have an active research grant or have been the primary investigator in the grant in the previous five years did put women at a disadvantage due to the effect of maternity leave, and that is tainted by sex.'

Dr Bodanese also said that she had been directly and indirectly discriminated against because of her sex, but these claims were dismissed.

She claimed there was a comment made that she should not be on the research side and should be on the teaching side as a lecturer.

She said that while there were 31 senior male lecturers and 22 senior female lecturers, there was only one woman at the top of the pay scale - while 14 were men.

Judge Lewis said: 'I am satisfied that the "bunching" or clustering of women at the top of the scale could also be consistent with a form of glass ceiling - as suggested by Dr Bodenese - where the female lecturers are hitting the cap on Senior Lecturer pay and not progressing to the grades beyond.'

However, she did not win her sex discrimination cases.

Dr Bodenese won her equal pay case, winning 30,724, as well as any pension contributions, which amounted to a total of 35,500.

Queen Mary University was contacted for comment.
A tourist who was busy staring at his phone was knocked off a mountain path by a pack mule that came up behind him on a trail.

The incident took place during a climb to the Caishen Temple on Beigao Peak in Hangzhou, China, on December 26.

Footage of the moment shows the man standing on the edge of a narrow stone stairway while glued to his phone as other visitors move around him along the path.

Meanwhile, a mule carrying loaded bags and being led uphill by an elderly handler approaches the distracted tourist from behind.

Although the mule makes no direct contact with the man, its cargo bags strike him, causing him to lose his balance.

The man is seen slipping before tumbling down the steep slope beside the path.

Several visitors rushed to help him, and the emergency services were called.

The injured tourist was rushed to the hospital for treatment, although his condition has not yet been disclosed.

A tourist who was busy staring at his phone was knocked off a mountain path by a pack mule that came up behind him on a trail

The man is seen slipping before tumbling down the steep slope beside the path

The incident took place during a climb to the Caishen Temple on Beigao Peak in Hangzhou, China, on December 26

Several visitors rushed to help him, and the emergency services were called

The section of Beigao Peak leading to the temple includes narrow and steep paths where pack animals regularly transport goods.

Local authorities said patrols are carried out twice a day by police officers, volunteers, and security staff to check safety signage and emergency equipment.

The footage triggered widespread debate online over both visitor safety management and the risks of using mobile phones while walking on hazardous mountain routes.
Two sisters have been jailed for brutally attacking their friend on a birthday night out and leaving her unconscious on the street.

Shocking CCTV footage captured Charlotte, 34, and Katrina Whitham, 30, violently attacking the 38-year-old woman twice.

The video shows the duo punching, kneeing, and pulling their friend's hair following a verbal dispute on August 3 on Watergate Street, in Chester, Cheshire.

At the time they were out with the friend to celebrate Katrina's birthday and had spent the previous nine hours drinking.

The sisters then walk away before Charlotte can be seen slamming their friend to the ground after the victim shouted at them and Katrina lets off a brutal burst of 23 punches to her face.

Katrina then stamps on the woman's arm twice trying the break it before trampling on her head - leaving her unconscious as passers-by rush to the victims aid.

Following the attack, the sisters appeared at Chester Crown Court on December 17, where Charlotte was jailed for two years and Katrina, eight months.

It comes after Charlotte and Katrina, both of Chester, pleaded guilty to assault on a person causing actual bodily harm.

Katrina Witham, 30, (pictured) let off a brutal burst of 23 punches to her victim's face

The shocking CCTV footage captures Charlotte Witham, 34, (pictured) violently attacking the 38-year-old woman and leaving her unconscious on the street

Following the attack the sisters appeared at Chester Crown Court on December 17, where they were jailed for two years and eight months respectively

Within 13 minutes of the assault the pair had been tracked down and arrested by Cheshire Police after CCTV camera operators notified officers, the court heard.

Whilst being arrested, Katrina was witnessed saying 'oh yeah, I have done that', referencing the assault, the court heard.

Katrina denied having admitted she had assaulted the victim during their interviews with officers.

She went on to say that whilst she had been involved in a physical altercation with the victim she did not seriously injure her.

Charlotte answered no comment to all questions put to her and refused to watch the CCTV of her and her sister attacking the victim.

The sisters were subsequently charged and eventually pleaded guilty to the offence on Friday, November 7 despite their refusal to admit being involved in the assault.

Detective Constable Tim Butler, who led the investigation into the incident, said: 'This nasty and violent assault doled out by Katrina and Charlotte Whitham resulted in someone they considered to be their friend left alone and unconscious in the middle of Chester city centre with very serious injuries.

'With that in mind, following the conclusion of this investigation, I welcome the sentences handed to the Witham sisters.

At the time they were out with the friend to celebrate Katrina's birthday and had spent the previous nine hours drinking

Within 13 minutes of the assault the pair had been tracked down and arrested by Cheshire Police after CCTV camera operators notified officers

The sisters were subsequently charged and eventually pleaded guilty to the offence on Friday, November 7 despite their refusal to admit being involved in the assault

'I hope they spend their time behind bars to seriously consider their actions and what it means to be someone's friend.

'This case goes to show how a snap decision to turn to violence can have serious repercussions.

'Their actions, obviously fuelled by the amount of alcohol they had consumed during the day of the incident, now means that they will be spending Christmas away from their respective families.'
Holidaymakers have been warned of flight price hikes as UK airports grapple with 'unprecedented' rises in property tax following Rachel Reeves' Budget.

Regional airports are among those facing the highest jump in business rate bills because of changes coming into effext next April, an analysis has found.

An overhaul of property valuations underpinning business rates will leave London's Heathrow and Gatwick airports with eye-watering increases in their tax bills.

But a study of Government data showed the most extreme cases are focused outside of the capital.

Global tax firm Ryan's analysis of Valuation Office Agency (VOA) data found that the rateable values have jumped more than six-fold in some cases in the latest property revaluation.

Even with so-called transitional relief, which limits increases to 30 per cent next year, regional airports will still endure some of the largest cash increases in the country.

And most airports will see their bills more than double over the next three years after changes announced by the Chancellor last month.

Manchester Airport is among the worst affected, with its business rates bill set to surge by 4.2million to 18.1million next year, according to Ryan's data.

Manchester Airport is among the worst affected, with its business rates bill set to surge by 4.2million to 18.1million next year, according to Ryan's data

Bristol Airport will see a 1.2million increase to 5.2million, while Birmingham International Airport is expected to see a 1.8 million hike to 7.6million.

Newcastle International Airport is in line for a 244,755 hike to 1.1million.

Alex Probyn, practice leader for Europe and Asia-Pacific property tax at Ryan, said: 'With an unprecedented 295 per cent sector-wide uplift, regional airports simply cannot absorb a cost shock of this magnitude.

'These increases will inevitably flow through the system: first into airport charges, then into airline costs, and ultimately into ticket prices.'

Airport operators have warned the tax blow may also hold back investment in the sector.

A Manchester Airports Group spokesperson said: 'Airports were already some of the highest rates-payers in the country and were prepared to pay significantly more.

'But increases of more than 100 per cent mean we have to look again at our plans to invest more than 2billion 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.'

AirportsUK  the trade group representing the sector  is working on a response to the Treasury's consultation on the business rates plan, which closes in February.

It said the plans are 'short-sighted' and will 'have a knock-on effect for the businesses that depend on airport connectivity in all areas of England'.

This risks 'negatively impacting local economies that depend on the supply chains, tourists and connections their airports provide', according to the group.

'That is why the long-term review into how airport business rates are calculated, also announced by Government, is so important and we will engage with Treasury to ensure this delivers the positive outcome airports need to drive investment and economic growth,' it added.

Other regional airports heading for mammoth bill increases include Liverpool Airport with a 233,100 rise to 1million, East Midlands International Airport with a 437,895 increase to 1.9million and Bournemouth Airport with a 102,398 increase to 443,723.
The journalist who first exposed Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, the Miami Herald's Julie K. Brown, is wondering why one of her flight logs was part of the Justice Department's files release on the convicted predator.

The DOJ has released about 130,000 pages on the Epstein case thus far, as part of a law passed by Congress.

While President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton are prominent throughout, many of the documents lack context, and so, while politically problematic, they do not constitute evidence for crimes.

In an X post on Sunday, Brown shared a heavily redacted document from the Epstein trove that included her full name and a series of American Airlines flights booked for July 2019 to Little Rock, Arkansas.

'Does somebody at the DOJ want to tell me why my American Airlines booking information and flights in July 2019 are part of the Epstein Files (attached to a grand jury subpoena)?' she asked. 'As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why was the DOJ monitoring me?'

Brown did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's request for comment on whether she had been provided an explanation by the DOJ.

The DOJ also did not respond to a request for comment.

In a Substack post Sunday, Brown went into greater detail on why she booked the trip to Little Rock.

The Miami Herald's Julie K. Brown (left) is wondering why the Department of Justice subpoenaed one of her flight records and included it in a new batch of files as part of the Jeffrey Epstein (right) case

Brown said she was heading to Arkansas's state capital to interview Epstein victims Maria and Annie Farmer.

Maria Farmer was the first victim to report Epstein to the FBI in 1996.

Her sister, Annie Farmer, was also an Epstein victim and has become one of the highest-profile victims to date.

Brown said she didn't get a chance to interview the sisters as part of her groundbreaking three-part series, Perversion of Justice, which was published in November 2018 and got prosecutors back on Epstein's case.

She planned to do so during the 2019 Arkansas trip, but she ended up never taking it.

That's because Epstein was arrested upon arriving at his private plane at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey.

He would be arraigned the next day, and Brown's editors at the Miami Herald wanted her to be in New York for that instead.

Brown's flight log was among six to eight others, she observed, including an August 2019 flight itinerary belonging to Epstein's accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell.

On Sunday, the Miami Herald's Julie K. Brown shared a document that was part of the DOJ's Epstein files release: flight information that belonged to her

The records show Maxwell flying to Manchester, New Hampshire, from Los Angeles on August 4, 2019, several days before Epstein's death.

Maxwell was found hiding out in Bradford, New Hampshire, when she was arrested less than a year later.

'Most of the names attached to the other itineraries are redacted,' Brown wrote. 'This could perhaps be because they were victims' names.'

'They are all attached to a Grand Jury subpoena signed in February 2020 by a records custodian for American Airlines,' Brown said.

The American Airlines subpoena came after the August 10, 2019, death of Epstein, which was classified as a suicide, as investigators turned their attention to Maxwell.

Maxwell was charged in July 2020.

'I have no idea whether the DOJ was monitoring me, or whether it was monitoring Annie and Maria,' Brown said.

'Either way, the DOJ has some explaining to do. Im not sure why they would have been monitoring any of us during this time span,' she added.

Her plea was echoed by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee.

'The Department of Justice needs to explain why travel information and booking itineraries for a journalist are in the Epstein files,' the Democrats' committee account said Sunday.
U.S. movers are moving primarily for the opportunity to be closer to family (29%), company transfer/new job (26%) and retirement (14%)

A broad migration shift toward smaller cities and towns is redefining American relocation patterns

Oregon leads the nation in inbound moves for the first time, while New Jersey tops the outbound list for the eighth consecutive year but with positive momentum from GenZ and younger millennials moving into the state

ST. LOUIS, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- United Van Lines released the company's 49th Annual National Movers Study today, revealing a fundamental shift in American migration patterns as economic headwinds reshape where and why people move. While the traditional population movement from colder North and Midwest regions to the warmer South and West regions continues, American migration patterns are primarily driven by the desire to be closer to family, followed by the job market.

United Van Lines study reveals American migration patterns are primarily driven by the desire to be closer to family United Van Lines releases 49th Annual National Movers Study

According to the results of the study, Oregon topped the list with the highest percentage of inbound migration (65%), moving up from no. 8 inbound in 2024, whereas for the eighth consecutive year, more residents moved out of New Jersey than any other state, reporting a 62% outbound migration.

Oregon, known as The Beaver State, has emerged as a leading inbound destination for job-seeking migrants (36%) with opportunities in growing tech and health care fields. Eugene-Springfield, OR is also the top inbound metro statistical area (MSA) with 85% inbound moves. Springfield, specifically, offers a lower cost of living than other Oregon metros making it attractive because of its proximately to both Eugene and Portland. While the birth rate in Oregon is well below the national average, inbound migration is having an impact and shaping statewide population change, especially in the metro areas.

New Jersey tells a different story: it is attracting younger professionals and families who see the region as a "launch state," while losing retirees. This reveals a shift in migration patterns that while major outbound states like New Jersey, New York, and California still pull ambitious job seekers, they're simultaneously losing more people motivated by retirement, affordability and lifestyle changes.

"For most Americans, interstate relocation is no longer a linear calculation, it's a complex decision balancing multiple competing factors," Michael A. Stoll, Economist and Professor in The Department of Public Policy at The University of California, Los Angeles said. "It is interesting to see that in general, population movement continues from North/Midwest regions to Southern states  and again top inbound locations dominated by smaller to medium size metro areas. This reflects a legacy of COVID-era preferences for lower-density living, combined with the reality that housing costs continue to drive people toward more affordable regions."

The study and its accompanying survey, which examines the motivations and influences for Americans' interstate moves, reveals the top driver for moving interstate was wanting to be closer to family (29%), followed by new job/company transfer (26%).

"The data reveals Americans are seeking a different pace of life, and destinations like Oregon, the Carolinas and the south are delivering it," Eily Cummings, Vice President of Corporate Communications at United Van Lines said. "While our total number of residential moves is similar to 2024, we're seeing much greater complexity in why people move and increasingly divergent migration patterns across age groups."

WHERE AMERICANS MOVED IN 2025

In 2025, the data revealed inbound migration patterns to states across Southern regions, with a few exceptions. Inbound moves were led by Oregon (65%), West Virgina (62%) and South Carolina (61%). We're also seeing a trend that reflects Americans' broader shift toward smaller cities and towns -- moving outside major metros where housing is more affordable. Top destination metros in the region include Eugene-Springfield, OR (85%), Wilmington, NC (83%) and Dover, DE (79%).

Meanwhile, primarily the Northeast, among other regions, continued to experience significant outbound migration. New Jersey (62%), New York (58%), and California (58%) led departures, with Hagerstown, MD (88%), Nassau-Suffolk, NY (78%), and Pueblo, CO (74%) recording the highest outbound activity United's city data.

Moving In

The top inbound states* of 2025 were:

Oregon West Virginia South Carolina Delaware Minnesota Idaho North Carolina Arkansas Alabama Nevada

New states to the 2025 top inbound list are Nevada, Idaho and Minnesota. South Carolina and Alabama have been included in the top inbound states over the past six years.

Moving Out

The top outbound states for 2025 were:

New Jersey New York California North Dakota Colorado Mississippi Massachusetts

New Jersey has ranked among the top 10 outbound for more than 15 years. However, 21% of inbound moves to New Jersey were movers aged 18-34, as the state is considered a "launch state" for younger families and those looking to start careers.

Balanced States

Several states experienced balanced migration, with nearly equal inbound and outbound movement. For the first time in more than a decade, Illinois is a balanced state, not appearing on the top outbound list. Notably, major Southern migration magnets like Texas and Florida -- historically powerhouse inbound destinations -- are now experiencing balanced migration patterns, reflecting how rising housing costs are beginning to constrain even traditionally attractive regions.

Methodology

Since 1977, United Van Lines annually tracks migration patterns on a state-by-state basis. The 2025 study is based on household moves handled by the UniGroup network (parent company of United Van Lines) within the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C. and ranks states based off the inbound and outbound percentages of total moves in each state. United classifies states as "high inbound" if 55 percent or more of the moves are going into a state, "high outbound" if 55 percent or more moves were coming out of a state or "balanced" if the difference between inbound and outbound is negligible.

*Although Vermont experienced the highest percentage of inbound moves overall, United Van Lines moved fewer than 250 families in and out of the state. The inbound and outbound rankings in the 2025 study only reflect states with 250 moves or more.

To access the study details and creative assets, download the press kit.

About United Van Lines

United Van Lines is America's #1 Mover. United Van Lines offers a full range of moving solutions. With headquarters in suburban St. Louis, United Van Lines maintains a network of 400+ affiliated agencies. For more information about United Van Lines visit: UnitedVanLines.com.

SOURCE United Van Lines
A young boy in Alabama tragically died after spending an entire week in the hospital, battling a severe case of the flu.

Jace Watkins, 11, fell ill on December 18, but was told by a doctor the following day that his lungs sounded clear, according to a GoFundMe set up by his family.

'He was telling everybody he was fine, he felt fine, and then I guess he started throwing up that night, and then he had a seizure,' his aunt, Sabrina Parsons, told WBRC.

However, on December 20, Watkins suffered a seizure and was hospitalized at Children's of Alabama medical facility in Birmingham.

There, he was diagnosed with the flu and placed on a ventilator as he fought for his life in critical condition.

Sabrina wrote on Facebook that Watkins' heart had stopped beating at one point, and the young boy had to be shocked back to life.

'The doctors did say if he didn't have any brain activity in the next couple of days that he would be brain dead,' she told the local news station.

The boy's family, along with the Hueytown Intermediate School, where he was a fifth-grade student, held a prayer vigil for him on Tuesday.

Jace Watkins (pictured), 11, died after he was hospitalized for a week battling the flu

His family said the boy felt fine until he suffered a seizure and was taken to the children's hospital where he was diagnosed with the flu

His grandfather, Scott Parsons, told the local news station that Jace's condition worsened late that night when he began experiencing seizures and briefly flatlined, and doctors continued to run tests.

'They did one this morning. They didn't like the results of it, so they kind of weaning him off of certain medications that may cause some complications because he's in a state of sedation,' Scott said.

'They say that could help, but right now it looks like a train that's on its way.'

Sabrina explained that Watkins had no underlying conditions and was healthy before he got sick.

'He was a premature baby, but other than that, hes had inhalers and stuff, but thats been years ago,' she added.

On Sunday, his family announced that Watkins had died after his battle with the flu late Saturday night.

'I just want to thank each and every one of you for all the sweet kind words and the prayers for my sweet great-grandson Jace Watkins, who went to heaven at 9.40 tonight,' his great-grandmother, Joann Parsons, wrote on Facebook.

'He was so loved by everyone, our hearts are broken, but you will never know what it meant to us for yall to show so much love to us and to Jace. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.'

His aunt said Watkins' heart had stopped beating at one point, and the young boy had to be shocked back to life

She explained that Watkins (pictured) had no underlying conditions and was healthy before he got sick

Hueytown Intermediate School, where he was a fifth-grade student, described Watkins as a 'bright light'

Sabrina added, 'I just want to say, Jace never even got to open his Christmas gifts. What do we even do now? This will forever weigh over our family.'

Hueytown Intermediate School principal Cari McClellan also posted a heartfelt tribute for the beloved student.

'Our hearts are broken this morning. 5th grader Jace Watkins passed away last night after a brief and sudden illness. There really arent words to adequately describe what were feeling right now,' McClellan wrote on Facebook.

'Jace was a bright light to everyone who knew him. His sweet, genuine smile will be missed by all. Please continue to pray for his family, and our school family, as we all work to navigate this unimaginable loss.'
At least three people have died following an avalanche near a top ski resort in northern Spain.

A woman was also rushed to hospital with hypothermia after the 8,850ft-high tragedy, which happened close to the Panticosa ski resort, near the French border.

The alarm was raised around 1pm this afternoon. Initial reports said there were two fatalities before it was confirmed a third person had been killed.

Another two people are said to have escaped unharmed. The first skier was found 45 minutes after the avalanche and the second 20 minutes later.

Police said they did not believe any more skiers remained trapped.

Regional government president Jorge Azcon said: 'Shocked by the news about the tragic mountain accident at Panticosa.

'I am cancelling my diary to head to the scene.'

Earlier, an avalanche warning had been issued for off-piste areas in Formigal, where heavy snow has closed some runs in recent days, the ski centre said on its website.

Snow reports showed depths of up to 100cm on the higher slopes in Formigal, with a further 4cm expected today.

At least three people have died following an avalanche at a top ski resort in northern Spain. Pictured: Helicopters and a police rescue team using sniffer dogs searched the mountainside

The incident came at a time when Spanish resorts are usually packed prior to a holiday weekend.

The nationalities of those who died has not yet been revealed, although it is known one is a woman.

Elite officers from the Civil Guard's Greim mountain rescue and search team have been mobilised and are working with sniffer dogs.

The tragedy is understood to have occurred near the Tablato mountain peak and affected six people.

The group had been ski touring and were caught off guard before being swept away by the snow.

Officials at the Panticosa spa and wellness resort, home to two four-star hotels, confirmed this afternoon it was operating normally and the incident had happened nearby.

It said: The avalanche the media are informing about has not happened here and has not affected its working operations.

'The incident has happened in the high mountains, at around 8,850ft above sea level.

'We have heard about this tragic incident which has resulted in the loss of life.

'We deeply regret this terrible news and would like to offer our most sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who died.'

This is a breaking news story, more to follow.
One-time MAGA darling Marjorie Taylor Greene is speaking out for the first time about the Mar-a-Lago makeover many women who support Donald Trump have been seen sporting.

The outgoing Republican Georgia congresswoman unleashed a scathing critique of what she dubbed the 'MAGA Mar-a-Lago sexualization.'

Greene told the New York Times: 'I believe how women in leadership present themselves sends a message to younger women.'

'I have two daughters, and I've always been uncomfortable with how those women puff up their lips and enlarge their breasts,' she added of the cosmetic procedures some politicians have received in recent years.

'I've never spoken about it publicly, but I've been planning to.'

It was part of two years of conversations the lawmaker had with the Times.

Her congressional office did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's request for further comment.

Greene was first elected to Congress in 2020 and announced she is leaving her seat mid-term on January 5 after a very public break with Trump over his international travel schedule and his administration's slow-walking of the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Marjorie Taylor Greene told the New York Times: 'I never liked the MAGA Mar-a-Lago sexualization. I believe how women in leadership present themselves sends a message to younger women... I've always been uncomfortable with how those women puff up their lips and enlarge their breasts'

One example is Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem  pictured on the left in 2011 when she was a congresswoman for North Dakota and pictured again on the right, aged 54, this month at a congressional hearing on homeland threats

US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, 56, who was previously engaged to Donald Trump Jr, has also experienced a face change. Guilfoyle is pictured on the left in 2004, when she was married to then-San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom, and on the right in March 2025

She was, for five years, considered second-to-none when it came to defending Trump's every move and denouncing his critics as treasonous or traitors.

But Greene says it was the death of conservative luminary Charlie Kirk on September 10 that sparked her change of heart.

'After Charlie died, I realized that I'm part of this toxic culture. I really started looking at my faith. I wanted to be more like Christ,' she explained.

Now, it's the Republican congresswoman who dons the tag of traitor after Trump gave her the nickname 'Marjorie Traitor Greene.'

Along with her newfound disdain for posturing at Trump's residence at his Florida club, Greene also shared with the Times her disapproval of what's become known as 'Mar-a-Lago face' and the trend's ascension in Washington, DC.

The style of facial surgery, previously known as the 'duck face look', has been common across America for years but is now becoming associated with the pro-Trump MAGA faction of the Republican Party.

Many women surrounding the president  including First Lady Melania, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle  all sport similar facial features.

But some experts told the Daily Mail they're seeing a huge uptick in recent months in regular women - and even some men - begging them to style them the same way.
An 86-year-old and a retired couple were all killed in a head on crash in east Wales.

The couple, previously named as David and Pamela Richardson, had just moved to the countryside from Merseyside before the tragic collision on December 11.

John Pryce Jones, 86, has now been named as the third fatality in the crash.

He had been driving his Audi A4 down the A489 near the border village of Snead, between Church Stoke in Powys and Lydham in Shropshire.

Mr Pryce Jones collided with a Toyota Yaris, carrying Mr and Mrs Richardson, coming the other way on the narrow country road. The trio were all killed on impact.

One person, believed to be Mr and Mrs Richardson's son, survived the crash and was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

Police are investigating smash but it is believed that one of the cars was overtaking a tractor when they smashed into the oncoming vehicle.

Officers noted that there was a tractor on the same stretch of road as the deadly incident with a front attachment.

Johnathon Pryce Jones was killed in a crash in east Wales on December 11

Pamela and David Richardson were killed in the head on crash near the English-Welsh border just months after retiring to the country there

Mr Pryce Jones was a 'larger than life' character, his family said, being known locally as 'Thiabendazole' - an anti parasitic drug.

His family added: 'We wish to express our gratitude to all who have been so supportive at this very difficult time.

'Your caring words and actions have been invaluable to us.

'John was from mid-Wales and lived in Craven Arms. He was a larger-than-life character who was well known to so many people and he will be dearly missed by all.'

The family of David and Pamela said: 'David and Pamela were loving members of our family. They were both very special to us all.'

The couple retired to the countryside around the Welsh-English border near Churchstoke earlier this year from Merseyside.

Their family said: 'David and Pamela had moved to the area earlier this year to enjoy their retirement.

'We would like to thank everyone for their support at this horrific time. It has meant so much to the whole family.

The crash happened here on the A489 between Churchstoke and Lydham and police believe a tractor was being overtaken when it happened

'We would now like time to grieve and would ask to be given privacy to do so.'

A police spokesperson said: 'At approx. 4.50pm on Thursday, December 11, 2025 Dyfed-Powys Police received reports of a serious RTC on the A489 between Churchstoke and Lydham. The location is known locally as Snead.

'Vehicles that collided were a grey Audi A4 and a red Toyota Yaris.

'At the time of the collision a blue tractor with a front attachment was also travelling on the same stretch of road.

'Sadly, two people in the Toyota Yaris, and the driver of the Audi A4 sustained fatal injuries.

'Another passenger in the Yaris sustained serious injuries and was conveyed to hospital by Air Ambulance.

'Next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

'An investigation is underway, and officers are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or any of the vehicles at around that time, or if they have dash cam whilst travelling on that particular road at the relevant time, to get in touch with them.

'If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch.'
President Donald Trump warned he's prepared to support Israeli strikes on Iran if it continues to build up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Before his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to discuss the next phase of the plan to rebuild Gaza, Trump said that Israel is poised to strike 'fast' if Iran continues to build up its military programs.

'Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we have to knock them down. We'll knock the hell out of them,' Trump told reporters.

'But hopefully that's not happening. I heard Iran wants to make a deal. If they want to make a deal, that's much smarter.'

Israeli officials have expressed concern recently about Iran rebuilding its long-range missile capabilities.

Over the summer, the US bombed Iran's nuclear enrichment lab at Fordow in Operation Midnight Hammer after warnings from Israel. Trump has consistently said that Iran should not be allowed to create a nuclear weapon.

The president also noted that he is interested in getting Netanyahu a pardon for corruption allegations that have dogged the prime minister, noting on Monday that a pardon is 'on its way' and the Israeli leader has 'done a phenomenal job.'

Though Israeli President Isaac Herzog's office quickly denied any conversation about a pardon for Netanyahu. 'There was no conversation between President Herzog and President Trump since the pardon was submitted,' the Israeli president's office said in a statement on Monday shortly after Trump's remarks.

President Donald Trump greets Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago club, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida

A satellite overview shows the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Facility, along with damage from June airstrikes, amid the Iran-Israel conflict

Trump and Netanyahu have met five times this year in person

It is the first face-to-face meeting the pair have had since Trump traveled to Jerusalem in October to triumphantly declare a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

However, the peace has been tenuous, and both Hamas and Israel have accused each other of violating the agreement.

One sticking point for Netanyahu: Hamas has returned all but one of the 255 hostages taken during their October 7, 2023, assault on Israel.

Netanyahu wants Hamas to return the remains of the deceased hostage Ran Gvili, which are still in Gaza. The prime minister's office has said Netanyahu will meet with Gvili's parents while he is in Florida visiting the president.

The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu - the fifth this year - comes as White House officials have expressed frustration with Israel and Hamas's slow-walking the second phase of the president's peace plan.

The complicated phase two of the ceasefire involves the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government, marking an end to Hamas' decades long rule of the Gaza Strip.

It also sets up the rebuilding of the tattered Palestinian territory, which is to be overseen by Trump and a group he calls the Board of Peace. If all goes to plan, the 'technocratic, apolitical' interim Palestinian government would oversee the daily operations within Gaza while reporting directly to the Board of Peace and President Trump.

Trump's 20-point peace plan, which was approved by the U.N., would give the Board of Peace a two-year, renewable mandate to reconstruct Gaza.

Palestinian youth walk along a tent camp for displaced people as the sun sets in Nuseirat, central Gaza Strip, Friday, Dec. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)

Amal Matar, 65, sits next to the oven as she cooks for her family in the Al-Shati camp, northern Gaza Strip, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

The members of the Board of Peace have yet to be announced, though the panel was expected to be revealed sometime this year. Still, the announcement could be pushed to next month.

Phase two of the plan also involves the deployment of an international stabilizing force to oversee the security of Gaza after Hamas militants disarm.

Hamas has been reluctant to fully give up its arsenal, however, and instead is interested in 'freezing or storing' its weapons while insisting their rights to bear arms.

There are also questions about which nations will take the lion's share of the security responsibilities. Both Israel and US forces will be involved, as will several other to-be-determined nations.

Despite the progress, Israel has conducted lethal strikes within Gaza, complicating matters. Hamas has also been accused of violating the agreement after an improvised explosive device injured an Israeli soldier last week.

The meeting also comes after reports indicating top White House officials have lost confidence in Netanyahu.

Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles have reportedly been 'frustrated' with Netanyahu, Axios reports.

Trump, one White House insider claims, is one of the only major players who still likes' the embattled prime minister.
A man who paid a teenage girl 500 for naked photos before threatening to share them with her family is facing jail.

Finlay Morrice, 32, struck up a conversation on Instagram with the 13-year-old, who lived in England, but quickly turned the chat sexual.

He begged her to send intimate pictures before sending money in return for 15 images. But when she refused to supply more photos he threatened to share the images with her family.

The girls mother discovered what had been going on between September 2020 and May 2021 and told West Mercia Police.

Their investigation led to a raid by Police Scotland on Morrices home in Lanark. Morrice appeared at Lanark Sheriff Court and admitted causing the girl to become involved in pornography by causing her to take images of herself in exchange for payment.

Finlay Morrice paid a teenage girl 500 for naked photos before threatening to share them with her family

He further admitted to permitting or taking indecent images of children between April 2022 and January 2023.

Morrice also pleaded guilty to distributing indecent images of children in April 2022 after police discovered he had swapped pictures with another pervert on Telegram.

Depute fiscal Jack Lindsay told the court that after the girl had received 500 via PayPal and refused to send more images, Morrice sent her screenshots of her familys online social media platforms and threatened to send them the photos he was already in receipt of.

Sheriff David Bernard said this is a serious matter and deferred sentence until February for reports.

He continued bail for Morrice, who was placed on the sex offenders register.
The SNP is the political equivalent of knotweed  but the Scottish parliament election this coming May provides an unmissable opportunity to root it out.

Scotland could then emerge from a long spell of torpor and stagnation and start to draw a line under almost two decades of failure and mismanagement.

For anyone who harbours such a hope, a weekend interview with John Swinney was a depressing foretaste of the possible future that lies in store.

The First Minister said he wants to be a long-term leader and confirmed his plan to serve a full term if re-elected  and to stand again in 2031.

He was speaking just before the Christmas break at Holyrood but perhaps hed already had a tad too much of the festive sherry.

Either way, its a depressing forecast because the polls currently predict an SNP victory, although mercifully a majority appears to be unlikely.

John Swinney, pictured with former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, wants to be a 'long term' leader for Scotland

The SNP's stewardship of Scotland has been dogged with paralysis and inertia

Nationalist rule has been a kind of permafrost for public life, leading to paralysis and inertia, where meaningful reform is off the table (or badly botched).

Take the NHS, which has been judged to be financially unsustainable by the public sector watchdog Audit Scotland.

A newspaper profile of the invisible NHS chief executive Caroline Lamb, who makes only rare appearances on the front line of hospital care despite earning more than 200,000 a year, contained a telling line.

A political insider noted a weariness in the civil service about suggestions of any reform that might rattle a special adviser to the SNP.

Those in charge, they told the Sunday Times, had little choice but to manage decline  though its more of a desperate downward spiral, with no one willing to be held accountable for the manifest deficiencies of the NHS.

Government by special adviser is no way to run a country, though you might wonder whats so special about their advice given the crisis in so many of our public services.

Scotland is crying out for exactly the sort of change that will rattle SNP functionaries but its nowhere on the horizon.

The only blue-sky thinking offered by the SNP is yet more costly rumination about another independence referendum.

Many hours have been wasted by those wearied civil servants, living in fear of seemingly all-powerful SNP strategists, drawing up plans for a parallel universe.

As we reported last week, Mr Swinneys 30,000 independence relaunch was a humiliating flop, with as few as 28 people bothering to read the Fresh Start With Independence paper on some days.

The Scotland in Union campaign group found only 3,934 people in the UK browsed the prospectus in its first 33 days online.

Theres nothing remotely fresh about these rehashed ideas which fail to address unresolved questions from 2014 on currency and any number of other issues  or at least to provide any convincing answers.

The useful idiots of the Left-wing commentariat provide a willing audience for much of this propaganda, helping to provide a sheen of credibility for the most preposterous proposals.

A case in point is a recent interview with Mr Swinney by former New Labour spin chief Alastair Campbell and former Tory minister Rory Stewart for their podcast, The Rest is Politics.

Its hard to imagine a chummier chat, with Mr Stewart admitting that neither he nor his co-host had mugged up on Scottish education, so they let the First Minister off the hook with a soft-soap exercise.

Try and envisage the polar opposite of Jeremy Paxman in his heyday and youd come close to the sycophancy and deference shown to Mr Swinney.

He was allowed to trot out soundbites about how wonderful schools are, with no consequences.

As fervent Remainers, Mr Campbell and Mr Stewart naturally gave Mr Swinney an easy ride, though sadly they must have run out of time to ask him about the chances of Scotland regaining EU membership in the event of independence  and why it could lead to the adoption of the Euro as our currency.

True, its only one podcast  albeit a popular one  but this docile approach is reflected in much of the media, including the BBC.

A shameful paucity of opposition at Holyrood is another contributory factor, fuelling the sense among many voters that theres no real alternative.

Yet while SNP perma-rule continues, theres no hope of boosting the economy despite Mr Swinneys talk of growth. It is hard to take seriously from a party which once governed alongside the Marxist Greens.

He also has a deputy, Kate Forbes, who was held up as a business guru  but one of her big ideas was to tell new firms to set up in cupboards to cut their rates bills.

Ms Forbes wont be around for much longer but how many of us truly think theres anyone waiting in the wings with a sounder grasp of how businesses operate?

Meanwhile, taxes remain high and may go higher in the Scottish Budget next month, notwithstanding Mr Swinneys insistence that income tax wont be hiked.

Mind you, he also said his party hadnt broken manifesto promises ruling out tax-grabs, when it patently had  so nothing he says can be trusted.

Scotland is already the highest-taxed part of the UK after the SNP used the powers of devolution not to relieve the tax burden but to increase it to eye- watering levels.

Another SNP government will inevitably mean higher taxation, whether in this Budget or the next, given that the 5billion hole in the nations finances is greater than the annual budgets for transport or policing and public order.

Taking a 40-year view, the Scottish Fiscal Commission projects that Scottish public spending will exceed funding for that spending by, on average, 4.1 per cent each and every year.

That represents a sharp deterioration from estimates issued as recently as April.

Adjusting to account for a possible UK Government response to its [own] fiscal sustainability pressures widens the gap between spending and revenues to 13.2 per cent a year.

Total devolved social security spending in Scotland is due to soar from 6.22billion this year to 6.93billion next year, and then to 7.92billion by 2027/28  and 9billion a year by the end of the decade.

More and more taxpayers cash is being ploughed into state handouts, with no plan, and indeed no appetite, to cut back on spending.

It means more pain in the pipeline for those who work for a living, and for future generations who will have to pay the cost of a bloated welfare system.

Polling day in May will be a chance to change government but also to change Scotland  and free it from the yoke of toxic nationalism.
Las Vegas's tourism slump reached new lows in November despite the city hosting the Grand Prix that month in a bid to attract a swarm of visitors.

The number of passengers making their way through Harry Reid International Airport declined nearly ten percent in November when compared to the same period last year.

The airport served around 3.96million domestic passengers last month, down from about 4.34million in November 2024.

That was also a drop from October, when there were already far fewer airport departures and arrivals.

In October, Harry Reid had around 4.5million domestic travelers pass through, which was a 7.8 percent decline from October 2024.

August and September both had declines of about six percent when compared with the same months last year, indicating that the slump is getting worse.

November marked the tenth straight month of passenger total decreases, with the last increase taking place in January, when there was a mild 0.4 percent bump.

And the numbers are even more dismal when focusing on international visitors. There have always been significantly fewer international travelers using Harry Reid, but their numbers are declining even more rapidly.

Las Vegas's tourism slump reached new lows in November, seeing even greater declines in the number of visitors compared to the last few months

The number of passengers making their way through Harry Reid International Airport declined nearly ten percent in November when compared to the same period last year

In November, the number of international visitors using the airport declined by an even more dramatic 21.2 percent

In September, there were 13.5 percent fewer international visitors compared to the same month last year, and in October, the number was 14.2 percent.

In November, international arrivals and departures were down a whopping 21.2 percent.

The sharp decline last month occurred despite the city hosting the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which was the event's 75th anniversary and by all accounts was a success.

The three-day race sold out all 300,000 of its tickets. Emily Prazer, CEO of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, told Reuters that she was proud of the event and what it delivered, calling it 'Formula One at its very best.'

'We elevated the guest experience at every turn and created iconic cultural moments that could only happen in Las Vegas, all while staying firmly rooted in what matters most - the race,' she said.

But the event's success did not stem the bleeding tourism numbers. Elevated prices continue to push away visitors who have been complaining about getting fleeced everywhere they go in the city.

Some examples include tourists who reported being charged $26 for a water bottle from a hotel minibar and $74 for two drinks at the Las Vegas Sphere.

The city's rising prices have led to a parallel rise in the average income of its visitors.

The sharp decline in tourists last month occurred despite the city hosting the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which was the event's 75th anniversary and by all accounts was a success

The three-day race sold out all 300,000 of its tickets, and Emily Prazer, CEO of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, said she was proud of the event

Elevated prices continue to push away visitors who have been complaining about getting fleeced everywhere they go in Las Vegas

Last year, 64 percent of Las Vegas tourists had an income of at least $100,000, up significantly from 48 percent in 2023 and a dramatic spike from 28 percent in 2019, according to a report from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA).

The LVCVA held a board of directors meeting over the summer to address declining visitation, particularly in regard to international tourists.

The authority's president, Steve Hill, told local outlet KTNV Las Vegas: 'Some of the decisions our administration has made around international relations [have] caused a drop in tourism.'

He said Canadian tourists are coming in far fewer numbers, which is particularly difficult as they are the 'largest international source of visitation.'

Reduced tourism from Canada has been an issue across the US, as Canadians boycotting US tariffs and protesting President Trump's contemplation of annexing their country have led a country-wide five percent reduction in international tourism.

Rick Harrison, the Pawn Stars reality show star and Las Vegas businessman, told Fox News he is hopeful that tourism will go back up and that he has noticed fewer international visitors.

But unlike the LVCVA, Harrison did not seem as concerned about the drop in Canadians as the drop in another international demographic, highlighting the broad spectrum of decline.

'A big part of it is, we're not getting the Asian tourists,' he said.
Anthony Albanese has been slammed over old footage of him attending a pro-Palestinian protest while flags belonging to terror groups were being waved near him.

Grainy footage, which first resurfaced two years ago, showed the future Prime Minister condemning the actions of the Israeli military during a protest at Martin Place in Sydney's CBD back in 2000.

It showed him standing in the crowd, where a Hezbollah flag was seen being waved metres away.

He also addressed attendees with a megaphone to condemn Israel's actions.

A blistering speech from 2002 has now resurfaced where a senior Jewish leader accused the long-time federal Grayndler MP of marching at rallies alongside terrorist flags.

Then-Zionist Federation President Ron Weiser blasted Albanese at the State Zionist Councils Annual Assembly in front of then-shadow foreign affairs minister and future PM Kevin Rudd.

'We also see Anthony Albanese marching in Palestinian rallies in Sydney, while elements of the crowd carry Hezbollah and Hamas flags and others have their children wearing plastic suicide vests,' Weiser said in the 2002 speech.

Shadow finance minister James Paterson has called for the Prime Minister to apologise for his conduct at the historic rallies.

Footage of Anthony Albanese (circled) at a pro-Palestine rally in 2000, where a Hezbollah flag (yellow flag in the top right-hand corner) was seen being waved metres away

The future Prime Minister was also seen addressing the crowd at the rally

'Anthony Albanese should personally apologise to the Jewish community and all Australians for speaking at a rally featuring flags of a listed terrorist organisation,' Paterson told Sky News.

'It shows incredibly poor judgement and a long history of indifference to the Jewish communitys concerns, which has sadly been so evident since October 7.'

Albanese has copped heavy public backlash over his response to the Bondi Beach terrorist attack, where Sajid and Naveed Akram allegedly opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration, claiming 15 innocent lives.

Many of the victims' families have since blasted Albanese over his refusal to establish a federal royal commission into the terrorist attack and have blamed his government for the escalating threat of antisemitism in Australia.

2GB broadcaster Susie Elelman questioned Albanese over his attendance at the pro-Palestine rally back in 2000 during a fiery 2GB interview on Christmas Day, where she cited the footage of him addressing the crowd.

'The response of Israel has been to meet children throwing rocks with helicopters, with tanks and with missiles,' the future Prime Minister is heard saying.

Albanese made similar remarks in parliament at the time.

Elelman asked Albanese last Thursday: 'Is that fake news? Is it you or a doppelganger?'

The Prime Minister has copped heavy public backlash over his response to the Bondi terrorist attack

Albanese said he could not respond without seeing the footage himself.

'I have no idea. You're not showing me something, so I'm not going to comment on something that you are not showing me with respect,' he said.

'I have been concerned about a range of issues in the Middle East over a long period of time, but I've always been a supporter of two states.'

'I have consistently supported the state of Israel's right to exist within secure borders, but also the rights of Palestinians.'

Daily Mail contacted Albanese for comment.
The boss of the health board which employed rogue surgeon Sam Eljamel has blamed bungling workers clearing out an old office for the destruction of potentially crucial evidence in the official probe.

NHS Tayside staff have been warned they may face criminal charges, punishable by up to six months in prison, for the destruction of around 40 theatre logbooks demanded by the Eljamel Inquiry.

We can reveal that Nicky Connor, the health boards chief executive, admitted the documents were binned as junior staff cleared out a cupboard which had belonged to a retired senior charge nurse who had stashed away notebooks dating back to the 1960s.

Ms Connor, who earns a six-figure salary, failed to tell health secretary Neil Gray for almost TWO months that workers had found the logbooks while tidying up and then binned them in line with policy.

It is the first time a detailed explanation has been made public and comes as part of a damning dossier against NHS Tayside disclosed by the Scottish Government under freedom of information powers.

Jules Rose, who has been on the forefront of the campaign for justice for Eljamels victims, said: This demonstrates a shocking disregard for the Do Not Destroy notice and exposes a culture where accountability is simply not taken seriously within NHS Tayside.

The suggestion that vital logbooks were binned while tidying an office is wholly unacceptable.

The fact that theatre logbooks dating back to the 1960s were kept in a cupboard raises serious concerns about record retention and document management.

Logbooks for patients treated by disgraced neurosurgeon Sam Eljamel were shredded this year despite a 'do not destroy' order

Jules Rose, from Kinross, Perthshire, who campaigned for a public inquiry into disgraced NHS Tayside surgeon Sam Eljamel

Ms Rose, herself a patient harmed by Eljamel during his tenure as a neurosurgeon at Dundees Ninewells Hospital, said: Despite clear Do Not Destroy notices already being in place, that represents a fundamental failure of governance.

Ms Connor was hauled into an emergency meeting on November 27 with Mr Gray and others to explain the boards blunder.

Minutes of the meeting state the Cabinet Secretary expressed to Ms Connor his anger and that of patients and noted this situation would compound the already existing lack of trust among former patients.

They state: Ms Connor advised that the destruction happened in July 2025, that she herself found out in September 2025 and was advised at that time that logbooks may have been destroyed and that it was unclear at that time what had been in them.

Ms Connor conveyed that a retired senior charge nurse had had theatre logbooks in a cupboard dating back to the 1960s, that junior staff discovered those while tidying and received advice from their information governance team that the materials should be destroyed in line with information governance principles.

The Chief Executive noted that, when it became apparent there may be an implication for inquiry requirements, an immediate pause was put on the destruction of confidential waste but that the materials were not found.

In an email to Mr Gray the following day, November 28, she said it was an error in a department which was clearing out an office and carrying out general housekeeping of that area and added that they were not aware of any connection to Mr Eljamel.

The files were sent for destruction on July 2025, ten months after the Eljamel Inquiry had issued the Do Not Destroy order.

Ms Rose stands next to Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray outside the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood

NHS Tayside Chief Executive Nicky Connor admitted documents concerning Eljamel were binned as junior staff cleared out a cupboard

And it was more than a month after they were binned that the matter was escalated to the Chief Executives team.

This only happened on September 9, according to a timeline provided to the Nationalist health secretary by Ms Connor as part of the correspondence.

The same day staff were reminded again about the order, something Mr Gray was told had also happened before the destruction of the documents.

The email came after Mr Gray demanded answers as to how the documents were destroyed, with the Health Secretary telling Ms Connor in a letter dated November 27: This is contrary to the Do Not Destroy notice issued by the Public Inquiry in October 2024, and a matter of serious concern.

I would stress that this action could be viewed as a breach of Section 35 of the Inquiries Act (2005).

Last night Scottish Labour health spokesman Jackie Baillie said: The destruction of these vital documents is at best a catastrophic mistake and at worst a cover-up.

The leadership of NHS Tayside had a responsibility to make sure the Do Not Destroy notice was followed and it cannot pass the buck for this breach to junior staff members.

NHS Tayside must do right by the victims of Sam Eljamel and uphold the highest standard of transparency from now on.

Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland, and Fife, Liz Smith, added: The destruction of the logbooks is bad enough but the lack of transparency about who was responsible for the loss just makes matters worse.

It simply isnt good enough for NHS Tayside bosses to pass the blame to junior staff.

A Do Not Destroy instruction could hardly be clearer. What has happened within NHS Tayside is unforgivable and just brings more pain to the former patients.

Willie Rennie, of the Lib Dems, said: It is quite astonishing that medical records have been stored in a general cupboard for six decades but it is outrageous that permission was given to destroy them at exactly the point they were most required and when they had been ordered to keep them by a senior judge leading a public inquiry.

For Nicky Connor to blame junior staff is cowardly especially when those staff followed the guidelines by seeking and securing permission from management and it compounds the original offence of destroying invaluable records.

I am afraid the excuses from Nicky Connor just dont wash and the patients of Eljamel deserve better than this.

Earlier this year Ms Connor apologised to patients, including those treated by Eljamel, for data breaches within NHS Tayside.

A spokesman for the health board said: A member of NHS Tayside staff received a request from Police Scotland Operation Stringent on 28 August 2025 requesting to seize theatre logbooks containing information regarding the surgical practice of Mr Eljamel from 1995 to 2013.

Upon receipt of this request, it was discovered that a number of hard copy theatre logbooks were destroyed in error on 24 July 2025. NHS Tayside remains deeply sorry that this happened.

As soon as the incident became apparent, the matter was escalated in NHS Tayside and an internal investigation was commissioned. The outcome of the investigation is that the logbooks were placed into the confidential waste stream for disposal by members of staff in the department where the logbooks were held.

The individuals involved were not aware of the connection between the theatre logbooks and Mr Eljamel and the disposal of the books was an error.

He added Police Scotland and the Eljamel Inquiry have been advised of the investigations findings and the extremely significant incident has prompted and external review to ensure no other documents are destroyed in error.

The spokesman concluded: We are fully cooperating with the Public Inquiry and will continue to respond to all of its queries in relation to Mr Eljamels employment in NHS Tayside, and the Boards actions.
BOSTON, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wellness Workdays, a national leader in workplace wellness solutions, announced the launch of BRAVE: Building a Toolbox for Mental Health & Safety, a first-of-its-kind training program built specifically for the construction industry. Designed to tackle the sector's urgent mental health challenges, BRAVE equips frontline leaders, safety managers, and crews with the skills to identify, address, and prevent mental health crises before they escalate.

The BRAVE title is a memorable acronym for a practical, human-centered framework that equips leaders and coworkers to Be aware, Reach out, Actively listen, Validate and inform, and Encourage next steps, turning awareness into meaningful action when mental health and safety matter most. Construction workers face some of the highest rates of suicide, substance use disorders, and mental health concerns of any profession in the United States. High-stress job sites, physical risks, and the stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability have created a hidden crisis, one that directly impacts safety, productivity, and retention.

"Mental health is safety," said Debra Wein, CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays. "BRAVE is not just another training program. It is a core layer of jobsite safety. By giving workers tools to recognize warning signs, listen without judgment, and connect peers to help, we're building stronger, safer teams."

Delivered in-person by certified behavioral health professionals with experience in safety environments, BRAVE uses real-world construction scenarios, role play, and guided discussion to help participants:

Recognize signs of distress, substance misuse, and mental illness among coworkers

Apply the 5-step BRAVE Action Plan for supportive, timely intervention

Understand privacy, cultural humility, and de-escalation techniques

Connect peers to professional help and workplace resources

Practice self-care and manage emotional stress after difficult interactions

The program can be delivered as two 2-hour sessions or a single half-day workshop, with pre- and post-training evaluations to measure impact. Participants receive a certificate of completion and follow-up support materials.

With over two decades of experience delivering measurable health improvement programs to high-impact industries, Wellness Workdays developed BRAVE in collaboration with mental health clinicians, safety experts, and construction teams to ensure the program is practical, relatable, and effective. This program has already been adopted into practice at many of the country's top 20 General Contractors.

To bring BRAVE to your jobsite or learn more, visit www.wellnessworkdays.com or contact [email protected]

About Wellness Workdays

Wellness Workdays is a leading provider of integrated, outcome-based workplace health solutions that help employers improve workforce health, reduce healthcare and injury-related costs, and strengthen business performance. We partner with organizations across high-risk industrial environments, including construction and manufacturing, as well as corporate and professional workforces such as financial and pharmaceutical settings. With more than two decades of experience, our customized onsite and virtual programs integrate physical health, mental and behavioral health, injury prevention, and population health management to deliver measurable results.

A Certified Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, Wellness Workdays has earned industry recognition and best-practice awards for work with organizations such as New Balance, Turner Construction, Skanska, Shawmut, Brown University, the Maine Department of Transportation, Rockland Trust Bank, the Maine Bankers Association, and Harvard Business School.

Visit us at http://www.wellnessworkdays.com and follow us on Facebook , LinkedIn , and Instagram .

SOURCE Wellness Workdays
There are moments in politics when the choice is obvious. If Anthony Albanese wont call a Royal Commission into antisemitism, his parliamentary Labor colleagues need to replace him with a Prime Minister who will.

After the Bondi Beach atrocity on December 14 - an antisemitic terrorist attack that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah celebration - grieving families and Jewish community leaders have pleaded for the most serious instrument the Commonwealth has at its investigative disposal: a royal commission into the rapid rise of antisemitism and the failures that allowed it to metastasise into mass murder.

Instead, the PMs response has been to narrow the lens and lower the volume: a closed door Richardson Review focused on whether agencies such as the AFP and ASIO performed to maximum effectiveness, with a report due by April.

That is not leadership. It is a lawyerly sidestep dressed up as urgency. A controlled review that isnt broad enough.

Albaneses rhetorical shield is insultingly familiar: we need unity and urgency rather than division and delay.

It sounds noble until it is translated into plain English: dont ask too many questions, dont force anything into the open, dont run a process the government cant control.

When a Prime Minister reaches for social cohesion as a reason to avoid scrutiny, its rarely because cohesion is at risk. Its because hes afraid of accountability.

The governments central argument is that a royal commission would take years and that, in the meantime, Australia needs rapid recommendations to tighten national security settings. Fine.

If Anthony Albanese wont call a Royal Commission into antisemitism, his parliamentary Labor colleagues need to replace him with a Prime Minister who will, writes Peter van Onselen

Speed matters when there are credible threats and when communities feel hunted in public spaces.

But this isnt a binary choice. Both a rapid response review and an all encompassing royal commission can happen. Albo is deliberately and deceitfully constructing a false binary choice when there isnt one. Why?

The only conclusion is that it is to protect himself.

A royal commissions terms of reference can be narrowed, sequenced, and time-bound. Hearings can be partly closed when genuine security sensitivities require it.

If Albo can summon urgency for a bank, or aged care, then he can summon it when Jews are being targeted for slaughter, a point the families themselves have made, with barely concealed disbelief.

More to the point, the governments so-called 'fast solution' doesnt even attempt to answer the question that is tearing at the country.

The Richardson Review is designed to examine what the agencies knew, how they shared information, whether legislative powers were adequate and what could be changed to prevent a repeat.

Those are important issues to be sure. But that is not a national reckoning with antisemitism.

It is not an inquiry into how hatred has been normalised, excused and sometimes opportunistically weaponised in public life since October 7, 2023.

It does not grapple with the cultural permissiveness that allows antisemitic abuse to flourish in universities, workplaces, the arts and online.

It does not put institutions under oath. It does not create consequences which Albo appears so desperate to avoid.

Bondi massacre victim Reuven Morrison with daughter Sheina. She is among the family members who called for an antisemitism royal commission

Listen closely to what the PM and his Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, are actually saying. They argue that a royal commission would re-platform the worst voices and force the country to relive some of the worst examples of antisemitism over the past two years. This is the most revealing tell of all.

The government isnt worried about timeframes. It is worried about testimony, because a royal commission does something that ministerial reviews and independent panels do not. It compels witnesses and evidence to appear before it. It drags evasiveness into the daylight. It forces documents out of hidden drawers. It makes people answer questions they have spent years artfully dodging. It does not permit the gentle language of stakeholder engagement when what is needed is exposure, judgement and reform.

How does Albo reconcile his desperation not to hold a royal commission on antisemitism because it might cause trauma with the fact he previously supported a royal commission into child sexual abuse? It makes no sense at all, is deeply inconsistent and leaves one wondering why hes suddenly afraid of an inquiry he cant control.

So yes, the obvious question has to be asked: what has Albanese got to hide?

Is it politically embarrassing and morally repugnant: a mosaic of cowardice, for example? A failure to act early? A reluctance to call out antisemitism when it was bubbling, because doing so risked upsetting internal party constituencies or activist networks?

The community no longer trusts this prime minister, and for good reason. The families of the victims certainly dont. They want a royal commission yet Albo arrogantly and condescendingly tells them he wont call one to save them all from further trauma.

The victims' families signed an open letter demanding a Commonwealth royal commission, describing antisemitism as a national crisis that demands a powerful national response, asking why clear warning signs were ignored and how hatred was allowed to dangerously grow unchecked. Albo responded, not by meeting the gravity of that plea, but by telling the country he has to act in the national interest, as though the families were lobbying for a vanity project.

There is another uncomfortable possibility here: the PM and his senior ministers fear a royal commission would not only expose extremists, but also expose the mainstream enablers. The activists who dress antisemitism up as anti-Zionism and dare anyone to notice the overlap. Institutional leaders who treat Jewish safety as a complexity to be managed rather than a duty to be enforced. Politicians who have been too cute by half, calibrating their language to avoid offence, and ending up offending decency itself.

Fifteen people were killed in the massacre at Bondi Beach, including a 10-year-old girl

Who might get caught up in that web, I wonder?

A country is not united by suppressing evidence, as Albo is now trying to do. It is united by confronting it, condemning it, and then changing what allowed it to thrive.

Even the list of people pressing for a royal commission, cited back at Albo in his own press conference, should have triggered a moment of humility in our stubborn and arrogant PM. But no, he batted it away, because the ends of avoiding scrutiny are more importantly than the means by which he achieves that goal.

If Labor wants to salvage any credibility on this issue, it has a choice. It can keep circling the wagons around a PM who cannot bring himself to order the one inquiry that matches the national moment, or it can recognise that this is what leadership failure looks like in real time.

If Albo wont call a royal commission into antisemitism, Labor MPs should replace him with someone who will. Not as a stunt, not as a factional bloodletting. But as a hard, necessary admission that the country needs moral clarity at the top. A Prime Minister who treats the demand for truth as an inconvenience has forfeited the authority to preach unity to those left to bury their dead.
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

The Duchess of Edinburgh is known for her elegant signature style, perfectly suited to royal engagements.

A devoted fan of mid-length dresses, Sophie often gravitates towards designs with statement puff sleeves or eye-catching prints, from romantic florals to classic paisley.

So it's little surprise that she has been turning to Lexy London, the Chelsea-based brand that has fast become a favourite in her wardrobe.

In recent weeks alone, Sophie has stepped out in no fewer than seven of the label's designs - one of which clearly stands out as her top pick.

The Deborah dress has emerged as a staple, worn to both the Princess of Wales' Together at Christmas carol service and during a visit to Disability Initiative in Camberley.

Crafted from a substantial, wool-feel fabric, the frock balances a breezy, tiered silhouette with an intricate paisley print and delicate ruffled trim. Its versatile design makes it easy to dress up or down for a variety of occasions.

Most recently, Sophie styled the Deborah dress with knee-high suede boots from Penelope Chilvers, creating a polished yet approachable look.

The best part? Her exact outfit is available to shop now. Alternatively, you can browse the best paisley print dresses currently on the high street.

Shop more paisley dresses
The Prince and Princess of Wales's children typically join the royal family for a handful of public appearances every year, as William and Catherine remain committed to giving George, Louis, and Charlotte a relatively normal upbringing.

However, the itinerary for Prince George, 12, looked slightly different this year with their eldest undertaking three additional high-profile engagements without his siblings - and demonstrated a new confidence in the spotlight.

From his 'delightful surprise' attendance at the VE Day tea party at Buckingham Palace to his festive visit to a homelessness charity, these events suggest Prince George is 'being well prepared for his unique royal role' by his parents.

According to expert Richard Fitzwilliams, George is making more appearances at events of 'particular significance' in a bid to acclimatise the future heir to the throne to all the attention without overwhelming him.

'From the beginning, William and Catherine have prioritised privacy,' Mr Fitzwilliams told The Daily Mail. 'As George gets older, he is making more appearances at events of particular significance, especially those with links to the armed forces and sport.'

Weeks before his 12th birthday, George accompanied William and Catherine to a Buckingham Palace tea party for World War II veterans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day this year.

The young prince, who was dressed in a smart suit and tie, was seen listening attentively to their stories and exuded a 'quiet confidence', according to Mr Fitzwilliams.

From his 'delightful surprise' attendance at the VE Day tea party at Buckingham Palac eto his festive visit to a homelessness charity (above), three high-profile engagements revealed how Prince George is 'being well prepared for his unique royal role' by his parents. The young prince is seen here during a visit to The Passage in central London with Prince William (far left)

Weeks before his 12th birthday, George accompanied William and Catherine to a Buckingham Palace tea party for World War IIveterans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day this year

George, who is second in line to the throne, is believed to have impressed the party with his inquisitiveness and respect while displaying a maturity far beyond his years.

'You should be very proud,' D-Day hero Alfred Littlefield, 101, told Prince William of his son after their conversation.

Mr Fitzwilliams said it was a 'wonderful idea' for William and Catherine to bring George to the tea party, where he was 'clearly fascinated by the stories he heard'.

'As future king, he will undoubtedly see service in the armed forces,' he continued.

'Privately, his parents will have schooled him to be a part of the military tradition, which goes back hundreds of years. Queen Elizabeth famously said, "I must be seen to be believed", and an appearance on certain state occasions by George is now expected.'

This year also marked Prince George's debut at the Festival of Remembrance at Royal Albert Hall alongside his mother and grandfather, King Charles.

Poignant images showed George sitting in the front row of the Royal Box with Catherine, Charles and Queen Camilla as well as the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.

Royal watchers praised the future King as he followed Catherine's lead, watching the proceedings intently, while standing in for William - who was away in Brazil for his annual Earthshot Prize at the time.

The prince, who was dressed in a smart suit and tie, was seen listening attentively to their stories while posing for photographs as George exuded a 'quiet confidence'

This year also marked Prince George's debut at the Festival of Remembrance at Royal Albert Hall alongside his mother and grandfather, King Charles (not pictured)

The effect of George walking in step with the Princess of Wales for such an important engagement was profound.

One Instagram user wrote: 'And so young Prince George arises. Stepping in for his father. Well done, young sir.'

Another comment read: 'How wonderful to see George at such a wonderful occasion. He is growing up into a lovely young man, being gently guided by his lovely Mum and Dad.'

'Incredible to see the little Prince George attend such an important night!' one person added, while yet another noted George is already 'so royal in his mannerisms' despite his young age.

One fan added it seemed like William and Catherine are 'teaching Prince George well for his future as King someday'.

Part of this has meant bringing George into 'William's world' by sharing the causes closest to his heart.

As the year drew to a close, William introduced staff at The Passage to George - 32 years after he accompanied his mother, the late Princess Diana, to the same homelessness charity in a full-circle moment.

When George signed his name in the visitor's book, just under Diana and William's names, a piece of modern royal history was etched - and its significance was not lost on him.

Reflecting on what has been a significant year for the young boy who will, one day, become King, royal expert Ingrid Seward suggested William might be willing to give George a 'taste' of his future lie 'but not the full meal' yet

'Wow. Ok,' the awe-struck prince said, in a sweet reaction to seeing his grandmother's name in the book.

George followed in his father's footsteps as he helped prepare Christmas lunches for the homeless, like William did when he accompanied Diana to the shelter in 1993.

The chief executive of The Passage, of which William is a patron, Mick Clarke said George got 'stuck in' to the various tasks of prepping their annual Christmas lunch, including creating care packages for those who couldn't attend.

Mr Clarke said there was 'lots of banter' as William prepared the sprouts, while George helped with the Yorkshire puddings.

'It just shows how relaxed William is,' he added. 'But it also shows how relaxed George was. He clearly felt very comfortable and really enjoyed getting involved.'

Reflecting on what has been a significant year for the young boy who will, one day, become King, royal expert Ingrid Seward suggested William might be willing to give George a 'taste' of his future life 'but not the full meal' yet.

The editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine told The Telegraph: 'I remember [the Princess of Wales] once saying that they always discuss these appearances with George, that he is never pushed.

'William is doing what he can to get him to look at the world in a certain way, but you can see how good George was with those old soldiers - he wants to do all these things. And William is happy for him to have a taste of it, but not the full meal.'

And with George set to begin secondary school next September, 'the kindest thing' his parents can do is 'let him be a teenager', according to Christopher Wilson.

There is enough time for George to grow into his 'unique role'.
James Holt, Prince Harry and Meghan's 'rock' through Megxit, the publication of Spare and beyond, has quit.

Holt has been running their Archewell charity since 2021. Before then, he had been their PR chief from 2019 to 2021, a turbulent period of their life when they left the UK and stepped back as working Royals.

He followed the couple to live in California and featured prominently in the Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan, during which he suggested that the Brexit debate fuelled racist views that wrecked the Duchess's 'fairy tale' of marrying into the Royal Family.

Sources indicate that Holt now wants to return to live in London with his husband and young child and that it would be a 'governance issue' if he carried on as their charity boss.

A former Lib Dem spokesman who for a time worked for Nick Clegg when he was deputy PM, he started working with Prince Harry back in 2017, at the time as a PR for the Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Harry as it then was.

Holt's departure from team Sussex comes at a time of crisis for the Archewell charity, with three staff being let go including Kirsten Slevin, the director of programs and operations. Its most recent accounts indicate that Holt was paid $245,000 in salary by Archewell in 2024.

Its 990 filing also shows total expenses of $5.1 million  up from $3.3 million the year before. Donations to Archewell stood at $2.1 million but it made grants of only $1.25 million.

James Holt (pictured), Prince Harry and Meghan's 'rock' through Megxit, the publication of Spare and beyond, has quit

Harry and Meghan are pictured at the Project Healthy Minds gala in New York in October

Holt is pictured speaking with Harry and Meghan in the Heart of Invictus Netflix series

Holt signed off on those accounts as the charity's executive director, but was absent in a picture of the 'Archewell team' at a food bank in November. He was last seen with the couple at World Mental Health Day events in October.

When this writer asked the Sussex PR team on December 14th if Holt had left, they replied that he 'works at and for the foundation.'

The following day, the Sussex lawyers were cc'd into an exchange in which the PR wrote: 'James returned from paternity leave after three months of paid leave and remains employed and actively at work.'

However yesterday, after renewed enquiries, they confirmed that he had indeed decided to move on from Archewell.

In a statement shared with the Mail, Holt said that working with the couple had been a 'great privilege' and that he had found a 'kindred spirit' in Meghan.

A spokesperson for the couple said that Holt will remain a 'senior philanthropic advisor' to the couple and Archewell Philanthropies, and will support their 'humanitarian trips overseas in 2026.'

A source added: 'He will be supporting the Duke with a number of engagements over the next 12 months.'

Holt (right with Harry and Meghan) has been running the Sussexes's Archewell charity since 2021

Holt's statement said: 'Working with Prince Harry and Meghan has been one of the great privileges of my career.

'From my first project with Prince Harry eight years ago to improve mental health support for soldiers in the British military, to our recent work helping injured children in Gaza, he has consistently challenged me to think bigger about how we can make a difference.

'From the moment I met Meghan, I recognized a kindred spirit - someone who finds joy even in difficult moments and connects authentically with people regardless of circumstance.

'Above everything else, the work we've done together to support families affected by online harm will remain the most meaningful of my professional life. These families are extraordinary, and they inspire me every day.

'After five incredible years in Los Angeles, it's time for my family to return to London. When I pass the baton to the team leading Archewell Philanthropies in the coming months, I'll do so with immense pride and optimism for what lies ahead.

'I'll miss my colleagues deeply, and I'm grateful to Harry and Meghan for everything they've done - for me, and for the countless people we've worked to support.'

The Duke and Duchess released a statement which said: 'James has been a stellar support for us for nearly ten years. His enthusiasm and talent in overseeing our philanthropic endeavours have been extraordinary.

'As James moves his young family back to the UK, we are proud that he will continue to guide various humanitarian trips for us overseas through Archewell Philanthropies.'

A source said of his move: 'He's frustrated that his moving back to the UK is coming at a time of transition for the Duke and Duchess, hence his staying on for a few months yet to manage things at Archewell. He's very protective of the couple and anxious this is going to cause them grief.'

In the 2022 Netflix show Harry & Meghan, James Holt described leaving the European Union as a 'perfect storm that gave credence to jingoism and nationalism'.

He claimed the UK's departure 'gave people with really horrible views on the world a little bit more strength and confidence to say what they wanted to say, to do'.

Harry then said: 'So the EU commissioned a report in 2016, exactly the same time that our relationship became public.

'It warned that if the Government isn't going to do anything or if the media aren't going to sort themselves out, then a culture war - that already existed - was going to become huge and become a real problem.'

Historian and broadcaster David Olusoga is then filmed saying: 'Like everyone, a lot of black Britons that I know were getting swept up in the romance and the sort of wonder of this moment.

'But this fairytale is embedding itself in a nation that is having a pretty toxic debate about the European Union.'

There was then footage from unspecified dates and places of people waving Union flags, of someone saying 'go back to Africa' on a Tube train, and newspaper headline montages.
Venezuela could quickly strike back at America after Delta Force operatives snatched Nicolas Maduro and his wife in the dead of night, an expert warned.

The Latin American nation could flood the US with a series of digital attacks and directly target American citizens, DigitalWarfare.com's James Knight said.

Speaking to the Daily Mail last month after a series of US airstrikes on alleged narcotics boats off the country, Knight warned people to be extra vigilant.

He admitted America has a huge advantage over Venezuela with its cyberwarfare capabilities, but warned hackers could unleash a wave of phishing links, fake emails and false profiles to impact ordinary Americans.

He said these can be done to impersonate large US corporations such as Amazon or even government agencies like the IRS, lowering people's trust in the system.

Even though Trump has captured the nation's leader, powerful pro-Maduro loyalists and allied militias remain who may seek to forcefully resist the US-backed transition by striking back on American soil.

America's ultra-elite Delta Force ripped Maduro and his wife from their beds as they slept overnight after the CIA tracked their locations in previous days.

The far-left leader, who will now stand trial in New York City on drugs and weapons charges, was taken in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Donald Trump said the Maduros have been taken to the USS Iwo Jima assault ship and they will later be transported to Manhattan.

A military vehicle destroyed by Saturday's strikes in Venezuela is seen burned-out as dawn breaks in Caracas on Saturday morning

A bus with its windows blown out is seen in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. Venezuela's attorney general said 'innocent people' had been 'mortally wounded' by the strikes but did not offer further details or the number of people injured or killed

Knight said any attack in the digital world would look much different than potential attacks coming from major cyber units in China or Russia.

He said: 'Their strengths really come in the form of maybe doing some phishing, doing some DDoS, distributed denial-of-service attacks.'

He also warned Venezuela could launch a 'Hail Mary' attack against American infrastructure, such as power grids, but called the odds 'very light.'

Knight recommended Americans should step up their normal online precautions. He said they should avoid suspicious emails and maintain strong passwords.

In terms of Venezuela's ability to seriously impact the lives of everyday Americans through cyber attacks, Knight said the country's allies and business partners in Asia and the Middle East are still a much more ominous threat.

The security expert told the Daily Mail cyberwarfare units from Russia, China, and Iran already had access to US computer systems, giving them the ability to disrupt key industries in the event of all-out war.

But he added the cybersecurity industry does not believe these nations would risk entering a potential US conflict with Venezuela by carrying out their own cyberattack.

An explosion rocks Caracas in the early hours of Saturday morning during a US military operation which resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro (pictured) and President Trump spoke by phone last month as tensions between the two countries mounted

US forces on November 6 struck an alleged drug trafficking boat in the Caribbean, killing three people, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said

'What would be a benefit of the Chinese if they suddenly started attacking? It would be worse.

'Trump would double the tariffs on them very quickly. It just doesn't benefit them that much,' Knight said.

'They like having access, they like being able to use the drug networks to put fentanyl into America.

'They might like to be a thorn in the side, they might like to have access to the hemisphere, but is it really worth their getting involved? Definitely not.'

The expert added that US cyber units have been mapping out targets to strike digitally in Venezuela and other hostile nations for years.

Trump hailed the operation to snatch Maduro as 'brilliant' during a brief interview with the New York Times on Saturday morning.

The president later called into Fox News's breakfast show Fox & Friends, excitedly telling its hosts: 'I mean, I watched it literally l like I was watching a television show.

'If you would've seen the speed, the violence - it was an amazing thing.'

Explosions were seen ripping across Caracas during the daring raid, with Venezuelan AG Tarek Saab insisting 'innocents' had been 'mortally wounded' by the operation.

Two days before the raid, Maduro issued a plea for peace to the US, amid reports he had begun sleeping in a different place every night in a bid to avoid capture.

Speaking to a Spanish journalist, Maduro said: 'The American people should know they have a friendly, peaceful people here, and a friendly government as well.

'They should know that our message is very clear: 'Not War. Yes Peace'.'

During the same interview, Maduro said he'd be willing to work with the US to curtail drug trafficking.

Trump claims Maduro is the head of a narcotics cartel which has flooded the United States with illegal substances.

Speaking to The New York Times at 4:30am on Saturday morning, nine minutes after announcing the raid on his TruthSocial website, Trump said: 'A lot of good planning and lot of great, great troops and great people.

'It was a brilliant operation, actually.' Asked if he had consulted Congress prior to authorizing the strike, Trump said: 'We'll discuss that.'

Maduro is due to stand trial in Manhattan and will likely be housed in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn - the same federal facility that currently houses alleged United HealthCare CEO murderer Luigi Mangione.

American forces do not appear to have encountered much resistance from the Venezuelan military, despite Maduro claiming he was ready for any attack.
A brand new report from the Pentagon has revealed that China has armed over 100 long-range nuclear missiles which could reach the US in an all-out war.

The December 23 report to Congress found China's military has placed more than 100 DF-31 missiles, which are powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), into underground launch sites called silos.

These missiles use solid fuel, meaning they're ready to launch quickly without needing extra preparation, unlike older liquid-fueled ones that take longer to set up.

The US Department of War identified fields of missile silos in three remote areas in northern and western China: Hami in Xinjiang, Yumen in Gansu, and Yulin in Inner Mongolia, near the border with Mongolia.

Together, these fields have around 320 silos, but US officials believe only over 100 are loaded so far, allowing China to potentially shuffle missiles around to confuse enemies in a tactic like a 'shell game.'

The DF-31 missiles can fly up to about 6,800 miles, far enough to hit most of the US from their launch sites in China.

China tested one of these missiles in 2024 by launching it into the Pacific Ocean, showing it could travel long distances and land near places like French Polynesia.

'China's historic military buildup has made the US homeland increasingly vulnerable. China maintains a large and growing arsenal of nuclear, maritime, conventional long-range strike, cyber, and space capabilities able to directly threaten Americans' security,' the new report warned.

China launched a test of its intercontinental ballistic missiles in 2024 (Pictured)

A new report by the Pentagon revealed China's ability to strike the US with nuclear weapons

The Pentagon believes this buildup is part of China's plan to have over 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030, making their forces more ready for quick counterattacks if they detect incoming threats.

It's the latest sign tensions are inching closer to a breaking point as China and the US battle for influence over Asia.

According to the Department of War, China's big-picture goal is to become a global superpower by 2049, with a world-class military that can protect its interests and 'rejuvenate' the nation, including taking control of places like Taiwan that it claims still belongs to the communist nation.

The Chinese Communist Party is believed to see keeping its power, growing their economy, and defending territorial claims as its 'core interests' that it will never compromise with the US on, no matter what.

The new report warned that China is building up its military to be ready to invade or blockade Taiwan by 2027, practicing large exercises that include long-range strikes which could also hit US forces trying to help.

Pentagon officials also noted that China believes there is bipartisan agreement in the US Congress to 'contain' their rise, with the Chinese growing more and more frustrated with America's alliances throughout Asia, specifically with Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines.

Despite growing tensions that have led to nuclear weapons being armed, a senior official from the Department of War told the Daily Mail the White House and Pentagon are working to deescalate the situation.

'President Trump seeks a stable peace, fair trade, and respectful relations with China. The Department of War will support the President's intent by opening a wider range of military-to-military communications with the People's Liberation Army and seeking other ways to make clear our peaceful intentions,' the senior official said in a statement.

The report to the US Congress also revealed China's missile bases and other military assets

China is believed to have the world's third largest nuclear warhead stockpile, behind Russia and the US (Stock Image)

A 2024 report by the Federation of American Scientists (FAS), a nonprofit global policy think tank, revealed that there were 12,121 nuclear warheads scattered across nine nations.

Those nuclear-armed countries included the US, Russia, China, France, India, Israel, North Korea, Pakistan, and the UK.

Russia still outnumbered the US by several hundred warheads.

However, the two nations controlled roughly 88percent of this global stockpile, with Russia reportedly holding 5,580 bombs and the US possessing 5,044.

China has been among a group of five countries, including Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea, that have been quietly increasing their nuclear stockpiles over the past 40 years.

The new report by the Pentagon put China's current count of nuclear warheads in the 'low 600s,' meaning the growing military power in Asia is expected to increase that number by roughly 100 per year this decade.

The Department of War declined to comment further regarding their level of concern over China's nuclear weapons program.
It is one of the most eagerly anticipated devices for 2026  and now we may have been given our first glimpse at the 'iPhone Fold'.

Jon Prosser, a YouTuber known for his Apple leaks, has shared renders of what he claims is Apple's first foldable device.

In a video posted to his YouTube channel, FrontPageTech, Mr Prosser shows off 3D renders of what the device might look like.

'Next year you'll only be seeing three new iPhones,' he explains at the start of the video.

'iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, oh and uh...this. This is the brand new iPhone Fold, and it's probably your next iPhone.'

Apple experimented with clamshell and bookstyle designs, but eventually settled on the bookstyle, according to Mr Prosser.

If this is true, it will put Apple in direct competition with Samsung and Google, who both released their own bookstyle foldables  Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold  in 2025.

The leak has delighted thousands of Apple fans in the comments, with one joking: 'This is the Christmas present I was waiting for'.

It is one of the most eagerly anticipated devices for 2026  and now we may have been given our first glimpse at the ' iPhoneFold'

Although it has been rumoured for years, it now looks almost certain that Apple is planning to unveil the folding iPhone in September 2026.

'After years of companies like Samsung pioneering and perfecting the foldable form factor, Apple finally decides that 2026 is the year to pretend they're doing it too,' Mr Prosser joked.

Where Apple really plans to set itself apart from its rival, however, is with the 'crease'  a feature hated by many foldable sceptics.

'One big drawback to foldables, regardless of how cool they may look and feel, is that from too many angles, you can see and feel a crease down the middle of the plastic display where the hinge is,' Mr Prosser explained.

While this issue has plagued Samsung and Google for years, Apple has 'completely subverted' it, according to the leaker.

He explained that the tech giant will do this by using a metal plate to disperse the pressure of bending the display, along with liquid metal in the hinge itself.

The outside of the device will almost look like a standard iPhone measuring around 9mm thick, with a 5.5inch display.

'That's relatively thin considering when you unfold this thing you'll be greeted with a 7.8inch iPad like display,' Mr Prosser said.

Apple experimented with both clamshell and bookstyle designs, but eventually settled on the bookstyle, according to Mr Prosser

iPhone Fold: Rumoured key specs Style: Bookstyle Size: 5.5inch display when closed, 7.8inch display when opened Thickness: 9mm closed, 4.5mm open Cameras: One on the outside, two rearfacing, and one on the inside Colours: Black and white Price: $2,000$2,500 Advertisement

'You're looking at 4.5mm thin  it's kinda crazy.'

Of course, one of the features users will be most interested in is the camera.

According to the YouTuber, there will be a total of four cameras  one on the outside, two rearfacing, and one on the inside.

Meanwhile, one of the most unusual rumoured features is the return of Touch ID, in place of Face ID.

Mr Prosser explained: 'In terms of security, Touch ID will be making a return, right in the power button, which is also returning to the top of the phone.'

While Apple delighted fans this year with orange and blue version of its Pro smartphones, it's expected to opt for more muted tones in the foldable.

'The only colours available will be black and white,' Mr Prosser said.

Finally, the leaker gives an indication of the price  which he calls 'very, very expensive'.

'We're talking something in the ballpark of $2,000$2,500,' he added.

As ever, Apple is remaining tightlipped on all iPhone Fold rumours.

Speaking to the Daily Mail at Apple's London HQ in September following the launch of the iPhone 17 series, John Ternus, Apple's senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, politely declined to even discuss the subject.

'You probably know we never talk about anything in the future,' he said.

'We are so excited to talk about what we're going to be shipping to people tomorrow.'
A hilarious video has revealed the moment a man was kicked in the groin by a humanoid robot that was mimicking his own movements.

The footage was initially shared to BiliBili by user zeonsunlight, but has since gone viral across social media.

It shows a man wearing a motion capture suit  an outfit with sensors that record body movements and convert them into digital motion data.

Unfortunately for him, this data is fed straight to a Unitree G1 robot, which replicates his movements almost immediately.

So, when the man goes for a high kick, the robot quickly follows suit  aimed directly at his groin.

Following the kick, the man doubles over in pain, which the robot obediently also mimics.

The short clip has gained huge attention on Bluesky with one user joking: 'The kick in the n***s is one thing but then mocking his pain is just diabolical...'

Another added: 'Humanity kicking itself in the junk with technology is the perfect metaphor the moment.'

A hilarious video has revealed the moment a man was kicked in the groin by a humanoid robot that was mimicking his own movements

Following the kick, the main doubles over in pain, which the robot obediently also mimics

The clip was posted to Bluesky by journalist James Vincent, who captioned it: 'another robot highlight for 2025: man wearing humanoid mocap suit kicks himself in the balls.'

Hundreds of delighted viewers flocked to his replies to discuss the footage.

'The greatest AI metaphor of all time doesn't exi,' one user joked.

Another wrote: 'I've been laughing for ten minutes at this. My belly is cramping up.'

And one quipped: 'How many humans in history can be said to have kicked themselves in the balls? Truly revolutionary.

'Mankind's dream for millennia has finally been fulfilled. Our destiny has been reached.'

The Unitree G1 robot weighs 35 kilograms (77 lbs), stands at 1.32 metres tall (4.33 ft) and boasts 23 degrees of freedom in its joints, which gives it more mobility than an average human.

Behind its blank face, the robot is hiding an advanced perception system which includes a 3D LiDAR sensor and a depthsensing camera.

The Unitree G1 robot weighs 35 kilograms (77 lbs), stands at 1.32 metres tall (4.33 ft) and boasts 23 degrees of freedom in its joints, which gives it more mobility than an average human

Although this makes it one of the most advanced commercially available humanoid robots, it needs to be specifically programmed to carry out any given task.

Straight out of the box, like it is in this video, the Unitree G1 is capable of little more than walking around and waving.

So it's somewhat unsurprising that the robot ended up in this hilarious situation.

This also isn't the first time that Unitree's humanoid robots have gone viral for their bizarre behaviour.

In a viral video posted last month which amassed over 6.3 million views, a humanoid robot attempted to make a stirfry for its owner  with disastrous results.

YouTuber Cody Detwiller, who goes by the name WhistlinDiesel, put his lunch in the unsteady hands of a Unitree G1 robot.

The $80,000 (60,940) bot promptly lost control of the pan, threw the food on the floor, and slipped up in the mess.

After clattering about like a drunken ice skater, the robot eventually collapsed to the floor in a crumpled heap.

On social media, tech fans flooded the comments with their reactions, with one calling it 'peak comedy'.
Brigitte Bardot has died this week at the age of 91, sending shockwaves through Hollywood and the fashion world.

Her natural yet provocative appearance made her one of the most desired leading ladies in the world  often featured on lists of the 'most beautiful women of all time.'

But what exactly was it about the bombshell that made her so attractive?

According to Dr Julian De Silva, a facial cosmetic surgeon based in London, it all comes down to the Greek Golden Ratio of Beauty.

'The ancient Greeks used a mathematical ratio to measure beauty and harmony,' he explained in a blog post.

'This golden ratio was used in Greek architecture, famous renaissance paintings and is the basis for Leonardo da Vincis Vitruvian Man, his definition of the perfect male body.'

So, how does Bardot stack up against this ancient measurement?

The Daily Mail used an online tool to analyse the French actress' face  and uncovered an impressive score of 81.62 per cent.

Brigitte Bardot (pictured on the set of Le Mepris) has died this week at the age of 91, sending shockwaves through Hollywood and the fashion world

The Daily Mail used an online tool to analyse the French actress' face  and uncovered an impressive score of 81. 62 per cent

The Golden Ratio was devised by the Greeks in an attempt to measure beauty.

It can be applied to almost anything, and was famously used by Leonardo Da Vinci for the perfect human male body in his famous work, the Vitruvian Man.

The premise behind the Golden Ratio is that the closer the ratios of a face or body are to the number 1.618 (Phi), the more beautiful they become.

To understand the secret to her good looks, the Daily Mail uploaded a fronton photo of a young Bardot to GoldenRatioAI.

The site's analysis revealed that the actress' Face Height Ratio was 1.078 (66.61 per cent), while her Philtrum to Nose Ratio was an impressive 1.577 (97.46 per cent).

Finally, her Eye to Mouth Ratio was a 1.929 (80.79 per cent), giving her a total score of 81.62 per cent.

While this is no doubt an impressive score, it pales in comparison to several other leading ladies, according to Dr De Silva.

A recent analysis by the plastic surgeon found that Emma Stone is the most beautiful woman in the world (94.72 per cent accurate to the Golden Ratio).

Beyond her stunning face, Bardot was also known for her blonde hair. This may have contributed to her appeal, according to a 2011 study by researchers from the University of Westminster

This is followed by Zendaya (94.37%), Freida Pinto (94.34%), and Vanessa Kirby (94.31%).

Beyond her stunning face, Bardot was also known for her blonde hair.

This may have contributed to her appeal, according to a 2011 study by researchers from the University of Westminster.

In that study, a woman sat at the bar of a London nightclub, looking out to the main dance floor.

While the woman wore the same clothes and makeup, she wore wigs of different colour  red, brown or blonde.

The results revealed that the woman was approached much more often by men when she wore the blonde wig.

'Our confederate was more likely to be approached by men when she had blonde hair and less likely to be approached when she had red hair,' the researchers explained in their study, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Psychology.

However, what really set Bardot apart from other beautiful women were her contradictions, according to Ben McCann, associate professor of French Studies at the University of Adelaide.

'She appeared simultaneously natural and provocative, spontaneous and calculated,' he explained in an article for The Conversation.

'Her dishevelled glamour and effortless sexuality helped construct the archetype of the modern sex kitten.'
Millions of Americans from the Great Lakes to the Northeast are under the threat of a bomb cyclone as a powerful winter storm sweeps across the region.

Meteorologists issued alerts on Monday, warning that snowfall totals in parts of the Great Lakes, New York, New Hampshire and Maine could reach up to two feet in the hardest-hit areas.

A bomb cyclone, also known as bombogenesis, is a rapidly intensifying low-pressure system capable of producing extreme and dangerous weather.

Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly across the Great Lakes, where colder air moving in Monday could turn a brief wintry mix into heavy snow and whiteout conditions.

AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said the storm will strengthen quickly across the Midwest and Great Lakes.

'The storm will bring risks of heavy snow, ice, severe thunderstorms, powerful wind gusts, and heavy rain,' Buckingham said.

The system is barreling toward several major US cities, placing Green Bay, Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York City and Boston in its path.

Forecasts warn that some of these areas could see between six and 10 inches of snow by Tuesday, while isolated locations may receive significantly higher totals.

Millions of Americans from the Great Lakes to the Northeast are under a bomb cyclone warning as a powerful winter storm sweeps across the region. Pictured is Minnesota on Sunday

Meteorologists issued alerts on Monday, warning that snowfall totals in parts of the Great Lakes, New York, New Hampshire, and Maine could reach up to two feet in the hardest-hit areas

According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), certain storms undergo bombogenesis, which happens when a storm's central pressure drops at least 24 millibars in 24 hours.

These storms are sometimes called bomb cyclones. Storm intensity is measured by central pressure, so the lower the pressure, the stronger the storm.

Such rapidly strengthening storms are capable of producing heavy rain, blizzard conditions and intense winds that can create dangerous conditions such as downed trees and power outages.

'If you're watching TV at night and the weather report comes on and you're hearing 'bomb cyclone' being used, that usually means there's quite a bit of active weather going on,' said Andrew Orrison, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service (NWS).

The NWS said more than 30 million Americans were under winter weather alerts on Monday.

The bomb cyclone has hit the Midwest hardest, leaving more than 100,000 people without power amid heavy snow and intense winds. This is the same storm that drenched California with rain and flooding on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

AccuWeather predicted winds of at least 35 miles per hour from southwestern Minnesota to central Ontario. Combined with snow, these winds could reduce visibility to less than one-quarter mile for several consecutive hours, meeting blizzard criteria.

'These conditions will make travel extremely difficult and dangerous, if not impossible, for a time,' said AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham.

The bomb cyclone could unleash powerful winds, causing power outages across several US states

Wind advisories extend from the Ohio Valley to the Northeast, with gusts potentially reaching 55 miles per hour. High wind alerts were issued for more than 114 million people across the eastern U.S., according to CBS News.

AccuWeather warned that cities such as Bangor and Portland, Maine; Albany and Binghamton, New York; Scranton, Pennsylvania; and Burlington, Vermont could see even light freezing rain late Sunday into Monday, which may coat roads and sidewalks in ice, making travel treacherous.

'Because of the storm's likely designation as a bomb cyclone, rapid pressure changes around its center will generate widespread strong winds, even in areas not experiencing precipitation,' AccuWeather said.

'Gusts of 40-60 mph are expected, potentially disrupting air travel at major airports, including Chicago-O'Hare Monday and New York City-area airports Monday night into Tuesday morning.'
WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WOUFX LLC (State of Delaware File No. 10372381), founded by Eshniyozov Shoxjahon Akmal ogli (publicly known as "Wolf of Uzbekistan"), announces the completion of a comprehensive legal and infrastructure framework for international operations. The Company operates exclusively outside the United States of America, does not provide services to persons located in the United States, and does not serve U.S. citizens or U.S. residents. WOUFX LLC is focused on servicing non-U.S. institutional and retail clients in international jurisdictions.

WOUFX LLC

WOUFX LLC operates in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. Bank Secrecy Act (31 U.S.C.  5311 et seq.) and applicable regulations of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Under this framework, the Company is registered with FinCEN, U.S. Department of the Treasury, as a Money Services Business (MSB) with BSA ID: 31000315645596, maintains corporate disclosures in the SEC EDGAR system (CIK: 0002094541) and holds registered vendor status with the United Nations (UNGM Vendor ID: 1152558). The Company holds an active Legal Entity Identifier (LEI: 984500386C3CN4BF4710; GLEIF database) and is registered with the UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as a data controller (Ref: ZC023067). Registration details in the U.S. federal contractor system (SAM.gov) are available upon request.

The Company's authorized capital, as set forth in its Operating Agreement (Document No. WOUFX/LLC/USA/2025-001), is USD 11,000,000. This capitalization is intended to support long-term operational continuity and institutional-grade counterparties.

WOUFX LLC's operating model is an original and integral component of its corporate architecture. The Company's constituent documents provide exclusively for an A-Book / STP approach and include a direct and unconditional prohibition on the B-Book model and internal dealing. The Company does not act as a counterparty to client transactions, eliminating conflicts of interest at a structural level.

WOUFX LLC reports the completion of its preparatory phase and plans a full launch of its international operations in the near term. Subject to jurisdiction, client eligibility, risk profile, and internal risk-management requirements, the Company provides for leverage of up to 1:200 for eligible client categories.

The Company's legal position is supported by an independent Legal Opinion prepared by a licensed U.S. attorney admitted to practice in the State of New York and the State of Minnesota. Upon request from partner banks and governmental authorities, WOUFX LLC is prepared to provide the full Legal Opinion and supporting materials.

Contact:

+1 313 355 55 60

[email protected]

Official website: https://woufx.com

SOURCE WOUFX LLC
The US Marine Corps has tested a groundbreaking long-range strike system for its attack helicopters just days after President Donald Trump issued a WWIII warning.

Over the Atlantic Test Range, the Marines launched the cutting-edge Red Wolf weapon from an AH-1Z Viper helicopter, striking a sea-based target with pinpoint precision.

Developed by L3Harris, Red Wolf is a modular, high-subsonic missile that can relay targeting data and engage distant targets, giving helicopters capabilities once reserved for much larger platforms.

Current helicopter-fired weapons, like the AGM-114 Hellfire and the Joint Air-to-Ground MissileMedium Range, are limited to roughly 21 miles and 10 miles, respectively, while Red Wolf can reach approximately 230 miles at low altitudes.

The successful test marks a major leap forward in the Marine Corps' Long Range Attack Missile (LRAM) program, demonstrating a next-generation system that dramatically extends helicopter strike range.

In a potential Pacific conflict, the system could temporarily disrupt a warship's sensors, opening a window for follow-on strikes by larger weapons such as the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile or the Joint Strike Missile.

Earlier this month, Trump warned that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war could spiral into a world war.

'Things like this end up in a third world war,' he told reporters on December 11. 'Everybody keeps playing games like this, you'll end up in a third world war, and we don't want to see that happen.'

Over the Atlantic Test Range, the Marines launched the cutting-edge Red Wolf weapon from an AH-1Z Viper helicopter, striking a sea-based target with pinpoint precision

Trumps warning casts a spotlight on the precarious state of negotiations in the ongoing war in Ukraine, which erupted when Russia launched a full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.

Efforts to reach a peace settlement have been stalled by sharply divergent goals on both sides.

The presidents caution about a potential worldwide escalation highlights the conflicts far-reaching implications, involving NATO, European allies, and other global powers as tensions enter another year.

While the Marines' test of the new weapon was not in response to Trump's warning, it does mark a breakthrough for the US military.

President at L3Harris Space and Airborne Systems Ed Zoiss said: 'This test validated Red Wolfs advanced tracking and targeting capabilities, further demonstrating its ease of use and integration across platforms.

'Weve now proven our launched effects vehicles will help provide our warfighters the asymmetrical advantage they need to handle increasingly sophisticated threats without the need to enter into adversary weapon engagement zones.'

The turbojet-powered vehicle measures around six feet in length and features fold-out fins for stability and control.

It can also carry payloads weighing up to 25 pounds, according to The Defense Post.

Over the Atlantic Test Range, the Marines launched the cutting-edge Red Wolf weapon from an AH-1Z Viper helicopter, striking a sea-based target with pinpoint precision

Since 2020, the Red Wolf system has undergone more than 40 flight tests across a variety of platforms, including crewed and uncrewed fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and ground-based launchers, showcasing its advanced technical readiness.

With an estimated price of roughly $300,000 per unit, L3Harris aims to produce up to 1,000 missiles annually.

Industry reports indicate that Red Wolf is slated for initial operational deployment in 2026, as the Marine Corps and Pentagon move to expand their stockpiles of cost-effective, long-range strike and reconnaissance systems in preparation for potential high-end conflicts.

The system is a key part of the Pentagons strategy to expand its inventory of affordable, long-range strike weapons in the event of a prolonged peer conflict, especially in the Indo-Pacific, where high-cost systems like the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff MissileExtended Range and Tomahawk are limited by production and expense.
The Canary Islands are a favourite travel destination among Brits seeking some winter sun - especially as cold weather spreads across the UK.

But with great popularity comes many downfalls - rising prices and heaving throngs of crowds are two such problems that plague many Spanish cities.

One so-called 'secret' Spanish island might be perfect for a winter break, though.

It has all the best of the region - pretty beaches, gorgeous villages, excellent food - yet without the exhorbitant prices and queues of visitors.

'El Hierro is the secret winter escape everyones talking about,' Travel and Tour World wrote.

And yet it's wildly underappreciated - despite having temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius during the winter months.

It also boasts peaceful, quiet beaches, as well as hidden coves.

Plus, it's perfect for adventurers - with dramatic volcanic terrain, mountains and natural beauty, the smallest island in the region has much to write home about.

El Hierro in the Canary Islands is a highly underrated travel destination

The island of El Hierro, Canary Islands, Spain boasts many pretty villages such as Valverde (pictured)

A beautiful viewpoint with a paved path in El Hierro in the Canary Islands, ideal for long walks

It won't break the bank either - with reports that a pint can start from just 1.50 (1.30) in the quietest parts of the quiet island.

The average price across the island is still low, at just 2-3 (1.75-2.60) according to Numbeo, a cost-of-living comparison site.

It's easy to reach, too - you can fly to Tenerife from just 18.99 with easyJet, and then take the ferry across to El Hierro for around 13 (11.30).

It's a haven for diving enthusiasts, who come from all over to explore what's beneath the sea.

Plus, El Hierro's tourism website says the island 'is en route to being fully energy self-sufficient through clean, renewable energies'.

It adds: 'Volcanoes, lava flows, lush forests of Canary Island pine trees and laurisilva, trees that bow down to the wind, abrupt cliffs, relaxing natural pools, dizzying views

'Thats El Hierro: enigmatic, awe-inspiring, a shelter where you can disconnect from busy modern life and enjoy the springtime climate that reigns in the Canary Islands all year round.'

The food on the island is also excellent, with fresh local ingredients and fantastic cheeses.

It comes after Fodor's, a publisher of travel guides, put together an annual 'No List', a useful guide of places to skip on your next holiday - and included the Canary Islands on the list.

The Canary Islands are one of the most popular spots for Brits heading abroad on holiday.

But locals have had enough - so much so that earlier this year, residents of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote protested under the banner, 'Canarias tiene un limite' ('The Canaries have a limit').

With overtourism, increasing costs of housing and pressure on the environment, travel to the region comes at great cost - and locals are keen to deter tourists.
Wild boars disrupted flight operations in Spain after they entered an airport runway, leading to its temporary closure.

Two flights were forced to divert their routes as a result of the wildlife incident at A Coruna Airport on Saturday morning.

A number of wild boars entered the runway space which, according to airport operator Aena, led to some early morning flights being altered.

Two incoming flights were diverted to Santiago de Compostela Airport.

An Iberia flight from Madrid and an easyJet flight from Milan were also affected.

Passengers on the Madrid flight stayed on the tarmac in Santiago for more than an hour.

The pilot reportedly announced: 'Sorry, I regret having to bring you to Santiago.'

Two outbound flights were also delayed - an Air Europa service to Madrid and a Vueling flight to Barcelona.

Two flights were forced to divert their routes as a result of a wildlife incident at A Coruna Airport on Saturday morning

The airport stayed closed for nearly two hours until the boars were expelled, around 11am.

The diverted flights later returned and landed in A Coruna.

However, the knock-on effect caused further delays, Euro Weekly News reported.

It is unclear how the animals entered the airport area.

It's not the first time such a bizarre animal-related incident has caused havoc at an airport.

An Indian passenger plane was once badly damaged after it struck a wild boar which was running across the runway moments after the aircraft touched down.

The de Havilland Dash 8 was arriving at Dumna airport in Jabalpur with 49 passengers and four crew when a herd of wild boar entered the runway.

Instances of animals on the runway are not totally unheard of.

Wild boars invaded the runway at the airport, causing flight chaos for many passengers

For example, creatures such as musk ox, caribou and moose often cross the tarmac in Alaska.

Meanwhile, Florida often sees alligators on its runways.

Plus, in 2015, Spains airport authority says a wild boar broke through a fence at Madrids international airport.

As a result, runways were briefly closed and two landings were delayed.
A Ryanair plane was forced to turn around and return to its original airport mid-flight after an emergency.

The aircraft jetted off from Birmingham Aiport to Tenerife South on Sunday, December 28 at around 2.50pm on flight FR-1121, according to The Aviation Herald.

However, the journey went awry when the plane was flying over Brittany, France and hit turbulence.

Crew members onboard the Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft were reportedly performing cabin service when the turbulence occured and some passengers were injured, reports.

The plane proceeded to to do a U-turn and returned to Birmingham when a 7700 squawk - declaring a general emergency - was issued.

It landed back on UK soil around one hour and 32 minutes after it originally departed.

According to the Express, one passenger described the scenes as 'like something you see on a horror movie'.

She added: 'We were smooth cruising then out of nowhere all of a sudden the plane jerked to the left extremely quickly and then to the right, it felt like a loss of control, and then we plummeted down and we were flung out of our seats.'

The aircraft jetted off from BirminghamAiport to Tenerife South on Sunday, December 28 at around 2.50pm on flight FR-1121 (stock)

The passenger was 'physically unharmed' but explained the 'mental toll' the incident has had on her and said it has 'traumatised' her.

After landing in Birmingham, passengers were given medical attention and the flight set off again at 9.06pm.

Ryanair stated: 'FR1121 from Birmingham to Tenerife on 28th December returned to Birmingham Airport shortly after take-off due to air turbulence.

'The aircraft landed normally before passengers disembarked and returned to the terminal, where a small number of passengers were provided with medical assistance. This flight continued to Tenerife at 21:06 local.'

Earlier this month, a Ryanair passenger shared his outrage after he was fined 75 for a bag he had already paid for.

Posting on X, user @JeffreyPeel wrote: 'So @Ryanair your agent in Belfast International airport is refusing to allow me to fly to Malaga (without additional charge) with this bag even though I've already paid for it and priority boarding.'

In the post, which has been viewed more than five million times, he included a photo of his bag in the Ryanair bag sizer.

Crew members on board the Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft were reportedly performing cabin service when the turbulence occured and some passengers were apparently injured (stock)

In a second post in the thread, he added: 'I have now submitted a complaint to Ryanair.

'When I finally boarded the flight last night - after paying the 75 "fine" - I received a round of applause from my fellow passengers. However the experience was truly appalling.'

A Ryanair spokesperson said at the time: 'This passenger booked a Regular Fare ticket for this flight from Belfast to Malaga (8 Dec), which allowed them to carry a small personal bag and a 10kg cabin bag onboard.

'As this passenger's bag exceeded the permitted size, they were correctly required to pay a standard gate baggage fee (75) by the gate agent at Belfast Airport.'
Christmas might be done and dusted for another year, but there's still time to enjoy a festive break before the New Year rolls in - and at a fraction of the cost, too.

'Twixmas' is an unofficial term for the quiet days between Christmas and New Year's Day (26 December to 31 December), essentially a time for winding down and resetting after the Christmas rush.

And for those hoping to squeeze in a quick trip during this period, brand new research has revealed the best budget breaks - with the cheapest selling beer for less than 2.50 and an average night's stay starting at 30.

The survey unpacked which European cities are the most wallet-friendly by taking into account different factors, such as the cost of flights, accommodation, beer, and nearby Christmas markets to help savour the final moments of the holidays.

Leading the top 10 is the lesser-known Polish city of Poznan, which might not be as popular as Warsaw and Krakow, but makes for a great option for last-minute breaks thanks to its relatively low cost and traditional Christmas market offering.

In Poznan, UK holidaymakers can hop on a 52 flight from London, knock back 2.49 beers, explore its annual Christmas market in the Old Market Square, and recharge at a local hotel from as little as 30.40.

Closely following in second place is Budapest, Hungary, a popular spot for weekend breaks and festive trips.

The capital offers a modestly-priced Twixmas experience, with a one night's stay costing 44.84 and a single beer setting you back around 2.29.

Leading the top ten of the most budget-friendly European cities for a Twixmas break is the lesser-known Polish city of Poznan, which offers 2.49 beers and 30 hotel stays

Your browser does not support iframes.

Coming in third is Prague, Czech Republic, with one of the lowest prices for beer at 2.17, and a cost of a meal around 43.25.

Rounding out the top five of SumUp's survey is Craiova in Romania in fourth place and Metz, France, in fifth.

Other European cities that made include Germany's Dresden and Trier, Valkenburg in the Netherlands, Sarande in Albania and Latvia's Riga.

Meanwhile, the warmest short-haul destinations to visit in January have been revealed - and you can fly to the top spot for just 20.

Global searches for 'Post-Christmas holiday' have surged by 126 per cent in the last month, with travellers looking to swap grey skies for a quick dose of sunshine.

Searches for 'destinations for winter sun' have climbed by more than 500 per cent in the past year.

To help holidaymakers make the most of the winter sun, global booking platform Omio has analysed temperature data across all European capitals to reveal the cities offering the warmest weather.

At the top of Europe's winter-sun leaderboard sits Valletta, Malta's compact, culture-rich capital.

In second place is Budapest, Hungary, with a one night's stay costing 44.84 and a single beer setting you back around 2.29

In third place is Prague, Czech Republic, where UK travellers can knock back 2.17 beers and splash out 43.25 on a full meal

Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a high concentration of monuments, built by the Knights of St John as a fortified city.

With its 16C highs, bright blue skies and views of the Mediterranean Sea, it's an ideal warm-weather escape just a few hours from most European airports.

Whether wandering the historic harbour of the Port of Valletta, taking the ferry to neighbouring islands, or dining above the coastline at the famous Panorama Restaurant, Valletta's winter days feel more like early spring.

If you don't mind flying out on New Year's Day, we've found Ryanair flights from London Luton to Malta for as little as 22 - and the journey takes just three hours and 15 minutes.
UK holidaymakers will soon need to cough up 20 (17.50) to enter 30 different countries.

The new process, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requires tourists from visa-exempt, non-EU countries like the UK, Australia, the US and Canada, to complete an online application.

This includes providing personal details, answer security questions and paying the fee before travelling to any of the 30 destinations.

The charge will be waived for children under 18 and adults over 70, but they will still need to apply for authorisation.

Once the ETIAS is approved, holidaymakers can enter the spots repeatedly for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

The new system is expected to be introduced in late 2026, and it won't be mandatory unil 2027.

However it will be necessary for travel to the following European countries - Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland and France.

Also on the list are Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requires tourists from visa-exempt, non-EU countries like the UK, Australia, the US and Canada, to complete an online application (stock)

Though not a Schengen area, travel to Cyprus will also require the authorisation.

Holidaymakers from European Union countries will not need to apply, as well as residents of the Schengen Area who have a residence permit.

It is important to note that the ETIAS is different to the new Entry/Exit System (EES) which launched earlier this year.

The EES requires non-EU passport holders and those crossing Schengen borders to provide biometric data and fingerprints.

Concerns were previously raised that some travellers may confuse the upcoming EES - for which no extra applications are required - with the ETIAS.

The association of travel agents and tour operators ABTA and the European Union have made it clear scammers are taking advantage of this opportunity.

ABTA previously told EuroNews: 'People who try to apply for an ETIAS now may be at risk of fraud, with a loss of money and possibly personal data too.'

This includes providing personal details, answer security questions and paying the fee before they travel to any of the 30 destinations

The 30 countries that will require the ETAIS Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Italy Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Advertisement

More than 60 fake websites have claimed to sell the ETIAS visa waiver - which has still not yet been introduced, ABTA said.

When it is brought into operation, the only place to apply will be on the official website.

Travellers have been warned to ignore apps, websites, or social media posts claiming to offer alternatives.

ABTA Director of Public Affairs Luke Petherbridge said: 'The European Union is very keen to stress the fact that there is only one official site for purchasing an ETIAS visa-waiver, and people should not use other channels.'
By the turn of the 20th century, the number of railway stations in Britain was at its peak, with around 9,000 stations in 1901.

However, in the decades following nationalisation in 1948, the number of stations declined sharply due to financial pressures and competition from road transport, a period which included the 'Beeching Axe' cuts.

As of recent years, there are around 2,500 operational railway stations on the National Rail network in Britain.

Many of the former stations have been demolished, repurposed or left to fall into disrepair.

Abandoned train stations and lines are being reopened across the UK, driven by community demand and government initiatives like the 'Restoring Your Railway' fund.

After more than 80 years, stations across Birmingham and the Black Country are due to make a return.

Moseley Village, Kings Heath and Pineapple Road train stations on the Camp Hill line between Birmingham New Street and Kings Norton have all been abandoned and out of service since 1941.

Thanks to a 120million investment, they're due to reopen next year.

Moseley Village, Kings Heath (pictured) and Pineapple Road train stations on the Camp Hill line between Birmingham New Street and Kings Norton have all been abandoned and out of service since 1941

Kings Heath Railway Station is pictured while under construction in December 2023

All stops now have two platforms for six-carriage trains, bike parking, ticket machines, information screens and lifts.

Once opened, the new stations will reportedly help cut journey times to Birmingham New Street by between nine and 31 minutes.

It'll be the first time that the Camp Hill line has served passengers since World War II.

Two other areas in the region are getting rail services for the first time in 60 years.

Darlaston and Willenhall, on the line between Wolverhampton and Walsall, will once again serve passengers.

Transport for West Midlands has spent 85million bringing the two stations back to life.

To start with, they'll provide two direct services an hour between Wolverhampton and Birmingham.

It's hoped that in the future there will also be a direct service into Walsall town centre.

Two other areas in the region are getting rail services for the first time in 60 years - Darlaston and Willenhall (pictured) on the line between Wolverhampton and Walsall

Birmingham New Street Station - the main central station in the city - is pictured

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, told Time Out: 'For some communities, this is the first time in more than 80 years they've had their own train service.

'That changes everyday life. Getting to work, college or seeing family becomes simpler and quicker.

'It also means more people coming into town centres. More footfall for shops and cafes.

'More confidence for local businesses to invest and grow. This is what delivery looks like - backing places that have waited far too long for decent connections.'
Coronation Street and Emmerdale boss Iain MacLeod has finally given a verdict on the future of the landmark soap crossover Corriedale.

Fans have been long waiting for an answer as the the highly anticipated one-off event brings together the worlds of the two soap, hitting ITV screens on January 5 at 8pm.

In an historic event, two worlds collide as the residents of Emmerdale and Weatherfield are brought together by a catastrophic, life-changing encounter.

But there were not great news for soap enthusiasts after the drama executive producer ruled any long-term plans for Corriedale.

'People love Corrie and people love Emmerdale and their distinct entities,' he told The Sun.

'They have their own tone of voice and their own sense of humour and their way of telling stories, and they wouldn't blend long-term at all.

Coronation Street and Emmerdale boss Iain MacLeod has finally given a verdict on the future of the landmark soap crossover Corriedale

Fans have been long waiting for an answer as the the highly anticipated one-off event brings together the worlds of the two soap, hitting ITV screens on January 5 at 8pm

'I think it's brilliant to bring them together for this but no, there are no plans to do anything similar in the future.

'Sorry to be the killjoy, those of you who were hoping there was more.'

Earlier this month, a 30 second preview was revealed exclusively during The Big Quiz, hosted by Stephen Mulhern.

In the aftermath of the multi vehicle smash, Kit Green (Jacob Roberts) takes control of the situation as a frantic Carla Connor (Alison King) tries to calm someone down.

Emmerdale's paramedic Jacob Gallagher (Joe-Warren Plant) tends to injured Corrie favourites David (Jack P Shepherd) and Shona Platt (Julia Goulding) at the side of the road.

Corries trainee paramedic Asha Alahan (Tanisha Gorey) shares the screen with Emmerdale icon Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) as she tries to help more casualties.

There are two pregnant women involved in the dramatic scenes; namely Shona Platt and Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins).

Furthermore, Charity can be seen attempting to calm down a screaming Shona while both are in Hotten General Hospital.

As the trailer concludes, Kevin (Michael Le Vell) and Abi (Sally Carman-Duttine) Webster search for Debbie (Sue Devaney) at the crash site.

'I think it's brilliant to bring them together for this but no, there are no plans to do anything similar in the future,' the executive producer said

A thrilling new Corriedale teaser hints which characters from the beloved soaps find themselves in danger

In addition this, Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) desperately searches for Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) in the darkness alongside Joe Tate (Ned Porteous).

The special hour-long Corriedale installment will air at 8pm on January 5 - and unlike usual, it will not be dropped on ITVX earlier in the day.

Regular half hour episodes of each soap will be shown earlier, Emmerdale 7pm and Coronation Street 7.30pm - and these will drop on ITVX at 7am that morning.

New Coronation Street characters confirmed for the drama include Kit, Carla and Asha, as well as James Bailey (Jason Callender).

As for Emmerdale, their new additions include Cain, Charity, Robert, Jacob and Joe, as well as Sarah Sugden (Katie Hill).

They all join the previously announced David Platt, Aaron Dingle, Lisa Swain (Vicky Myers), Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson) and Tracy Barlow (Kate Ford).

The special episode is a celebration of the soap genre and will launch ITVs new soap power hour scheduling pattern for Coronation Street and Emmerdale.
He began his career with minor but memorable roles: a corrections officer in a hit ghost-busting blockbuster, a detective in a buddy cop film and a heroic limo driver in Paul Hogan's Down Under caper Crocodile Dundee.

But it was his role in an iconic holiday movie as an off-duty LAPD officer pulled into foiling a terrorist plot and serving as the moral beacon for the vigilante, that put him on Hollywood's radar.

After that movie's success, he landed a main role as a police officer and family patriarch on a hit ABC sitcom that ran for nearly a decade.

Following the shows end, he mostly made guest appearances, though he had a short stint on a hit celebrity dance competition in 2024.

And despite keeping his private life largely out of the spotlight, he was recently drawn into a scandal involving one of todays most notorious rap moguls.

Can you guess who he is?

He began his career with minor but memorable roles: a corrections officer in a hit ghost-busting blockbuster, a detective in a buddy cop film and a heroic limo driver Down Under

But it was his role as an off-duty LAPD officer pulled into foiling a terrorist plot and serving as the moral beacon for the vigilante, that put him on Hollywood's radar

It's Die Hard's Reginald VelJohnson!

The 73-year-old actor was spotted strolling near his Los Angeles home on December 11, accompanied by his four loyal pugs.

He was joined by a friend, who at one point helped VelJohnson with his headphones while his hands were tied up with the pup's leashes.

To stay comfortable under the cool California sun, VelJohnson wore a brown button-up short-sleeved collared sweater, black joggers, and what appeared to be brown Clearweather Switchback slides.

His companion, who joined him for the walk, wore a black sweatshirt, black shorts, a blue Nike hat, and black and blue Nike shoes.

VelJohnson built his career on his charismatic takes on the lovable, reliable comedic relief  mostly playing the role of police officers and detectives.

Reginald VelJohnson, 73, shot to fame in Die Hard (1988) as Sergeant Al Powell, the big-hearted cop who grounded Bruce Williss renegade action hero

VelJohnson maintains a fiercely private life and has no known spouse or children. He was spotted taking a refreshing walk near his Los Angeles home with his four pugs on December 11

Wearing a brown button-up short sleeve, black joggers and brown slides, VelJohnson was accompanied by a male companion, who helped fix his headphones since his hands were tied up with his dogs' leashes

His first minor roles included a corrections officer in Ghostbusters (1984), a limo driver named Gus in Crocodile Dundee (1986), and Detective David Sutton in Turner & Hooch (1989) alongside Tom Hanks.

The breakout role, which would launch his career, was as Sergeant Al Powell in the 1988 film Die Hard. Originally, producers wanted a big name in the role and considered Gene Hackman, Robert Duvall, and Wesley Snipes before deciding VelJohnson was right for the role.

The character would become iconic for the series due to being the moral foil to Bruce Willis's character, John McClane, as he carried out his vigilante work against terrorists.

In fact, VelJohnson proved so popular that he reprised the role in Die Hard 2, albeit in a smaller capacity, and the video game Die Hard: Vendetta in 2002.

His success in the franchise launched him into a main role on the hit ABC sitcom Family Matters as family patriarch, police officer Carl Winslow.

The show followed a black middle-class family living in Chicago, Illinois, and became the third-longest-running live-action sitcom with a predominantly black cast - running for nearly ten years with 215 episodes and nine seasons.

He began his career with minor roles, often playing cops or adjacent law-enforcement figures, including Detective David Sutton in Turner & Hooch alongside Tom Hanks

After the success of Die Hard, he landed a starring role as family patriarch Carl Winslow on Family Matters, which ran for nearly ten years and became the third longest-running live-action sitcom with a predominantly black cast

Although his career has slowed down since, he was thrust back into the spotlight on the 2024 season of Dancing with the Stars, although he was eliminated in week two

Since the show wrapped in 1998, VelJohnson has done mostly voice roles and guest appearances, including in Will & Grace in 2002, That's So Raven in 2005, Bones in 2007, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine in 2018.

He later enjoyed a successful recurring run on Hart of Dixie, playing Dash DeWitt from 2011 to 2015.

Despite decades in the spotlight, the 73-year-old has kept his personal life intensely private and is not known ever to have married or had children.

In 2017, he even became the target of an online death hoax after a website falsely claimed he had passed from a heart attack.

Most recently, he stepped back into the spotlight in 2024 with a surprise appearance on Dancing with the Stars, though his run ended with an early elimination in week two.

In September 2024, he was sucked into the rumor mill when comedian Luce Cannon alleged that he had been to disgraced rap mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs's notorious 'Freak Off' parties.

VelJohnson denied these claims, telling TMZ he didn't even know Diddy. 'That's all bulls**t. I don't know that man, never met him.'
Nicole Kidman has been enjoying the festive season in Australia, recently returning to Sydney for her first Christmas since splitting from husband Keith Urban.

And the actress marked another milestone on Monday - her daughter Faith Margaret's 15th birthday.

The veteran actress, 58, continued to show off her naturally curly voluminous red hair in a photograph to celebrate the occasion.

The Babygirl actress beamed as she carried an intricately decorated cake adorned with the words, 'Happy 15th birthday baby!'

Nicole looked as youthful as ever in the snap, showing off her flawless complexion in minimal make-up and she looked down and smiled at the cake.

It is unclear where the picture was taken, but it is believed Nicole is still in Australia with her daughters Faith and Sunday Rose, 17, as the trio flew home last week.

Nicole Kidman celebrated her daughter Faith Margaret's 15th birthday on Monday

It is unclear where the picture was taken, but it is believed Nicole is still in Australia with her daughters Faith and Sunday Rose, 17, as the trio flew home last week

According to People, Nicole was more than happy to be back in Australia for the holiday season.

'This is all she wanted after a tumultuous fall,' a source told the publication.

'She just wanted to celebrate Christmas at home. She's very excited,' they added.

The insider also said that Nicole is feeling 'very blessed' despite the end of her 20-year marriage.

'She's been super positive and focused on things that she's grateful for,' they said.

Earlier this week, the actress was spotted heading to a Christmas party in Sydney with her close friends, Australian journalists Jessica Rowe and Peter Overton.

She looked effortlessly elegant, her strawberry-blonde hair styled in soft, voluminous waves.

The following day, she was seen outside St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Lavender Bay, dressed modestly in a plain, long black dress as she attended Christmas morning mass.

She carried an intricately decorated cake adorned with the words, 'Happy 15th birthday baby!'

Earlier this week, the actress was spotted heading to a Christmas party in Sydney with her close friends, Australian journalists Jessica Rowe and Peter Overton. It was her first time Down Under since confirming her split from Keith Urban (left) in September

It follows reports that reality may be starting to sink in for Keith following his divorce from Nicole.

The country star, who parted ways with his Hollywood star wife in September after 19 years of marriage, is allegedly 'wondering if he's made a huge mistake' following their split.

After recently performing private shows for members of Donald Trump's inner circle, the 58-year-old is reportedly feeling more isolated than ever.

'He's got to pay the bills - and divorce lawyers don't come cheap,' a source told Woman's Day magazine of the couple's settlement.

Keith has forked out for the couple's daughter Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret's private school tuition and, according to the publication, needs to make a living in any way he can.

'It's a lonely existence for Keith right now - he's exhausted, isolated and looking at a future he never imagined,' the source added.

'He's also lost his best friend, Nicole, who was also his greatest supporter in life. He's wondering if he's made a huge mistake.'

Keith made headlines in November after he performed at an Australian billionaire's party at Mar-a-Lago.

The private gig, hosted by Anthony Pratt, was attended by Donald Trump, who received $10million from the Visy executive chairman for his election campaign.

Nicole and Keith's breakup shocked fans earlier this year - and the Oscar-winning actress had reportedly been dreading the public's response for months prior.

'She's been stressed because she knew the separation would eventually become public and she was dreading it,' a source told People in early October.

'But she's surprisingly level-headed now that it's out, she's just focused on what's ahead and her girls,' the insider said of the couple's daughters.

The actress and musician's separation was confirmed by Daily Mail on September 29, and Nicole filed for divorce on September 30, citing irreconcilable differences.

Their marriage began to fall apart at the beginning of summer 2025. The split was reportedly a long-term development, stemming from months of quiet separation and diverging paths due to work commitments, according to Daily Mail sources.

Nicole has requested to be the primary residential parent in the custody arrangement.
Blog Archive: Feb 2026 (15) Jan 2026 (155) Dec 2025 (126) 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)
Pip Edwards showcased her ripped bikini body as she spent quality time with the man who saved her during the Bondi Beach terror attack earlier this month.

The P.E Nation fashion designer, 45, shared a gallery of photos to social media on Sunday, which captured her soaking up the sun with her heroic New Zealand friend Chris Woods and her son Justice.

Pip looked radiant in a black-and-white two-piece swimsuit which highlighted her toned figure and flawless skin.

Another photo captured Pip's friend Chris sunbaking in a pair of board shorts, as he showcased his muscular frame and toned physique.

Pip was also seen beaming as she headed out to dinner with family and friends.

She captioned the photos with some precious words: 'Soooo lucky and beyond grateful to have you home with me for the past week.'

Pip Edwards showcased her ripped bikini body as she spent quality time with the man who saved her during the Bondi Beach terror attack. Pictured with her son Justice

The P.E Nation fashion designer shared a gallery of photos to social media on Sunday, which captured her with her heroic New Zealand friend Chris Woods (right)

She continued: 'I've really truly missed you.'

Earlier this month, Pip broke her silence after she and her friend were left trapped under a van and surrounded by two gunmen during the Bondi Beach terror attack.

She provided a heart-racing account of hiding beneath a van as one of the shooters paced nearby.

After 15 terrifying minutes, her former flame Chris Woods broke through barricades to find her, shield her and get her out.

The deadly attack at Australia's most iconic tourist destination unfolded on December 14 as hundreds gathered to attend the Chanukah by the Sea event, marking the first day of Hanukkah.

Two heavily armed men, allegedly Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, 50, stood on a pedestrian footbridge and opened fire with military-grade weapons into the crowds of locals, holidaymakers and families.

So far 16 people have died, including alleged gunman Sajid Akram, while a further 42 people, including four children, were taken to hospital.

Police confirmed 14 people had died at the scene, while two others died overnight in hospital, with the victims ranging in age between 10 and 87 years old.

Pip looked radiant as she enjoyed a fun day out

Pip was also seen beaming as she headed out to dinner with family and friends

Pip addressed her harrowing 15-minute ordeal in a lengthy Instagram post.

She described the attack as a 'crazy, wild, and unnecessarily brutal' act that unfolded 'among innocent people enjoying a glorious Bondi summer's day.'

Edwards said she and her girlfriend Jess were leaving the beach and heading home when the shooting began, with the gunmen opening fire just metres behind them.

The pair were forced to take cover under one van as the gunmen circled above them.

She said the ordeal lasted around 15 minutes, during which time they were frozen with fear and struggled to breathe.

'The shots kept firing and we rolled from side to side under the van to hide behind the wheels, as the gunmen's feet walked around us, trying not to be seen,' she wrote.

Pip said surrounding cars, including the van they were hiding under, were being struck by bullets as the gunmen 'shot at everything and everyone'.

'I was convulsing with fear, trapped, thinking this was it for us, just monitoring the movement of their feet,' she said.

She credited a civilian nearby for intervening, yelling out and distracting the gunmen, pulling them away from her hiding spot.

When the gunfire finally stopped, Pip said her friend Chris managed to reach them and pull them out from beneath the van.

'When the deafening gunshots finally stopped, our friend Chris broke through all the barriers to come find us, save us, and extract us from under the van,' she wrote.
Alabama Barker sparked backlash after flaunting her extravagant $200K Christmas haul after celebrating the holidays with her famous family.

The 20-year-old nepo baby daughter of Travis Barker took to TikTok to show off her new designer purses, shoes and diamond jewelry that added up to a whopping six-digit sum.

In a nearly nine-minute video, she went through the gifts she received and noted she was 'beyond blessed, grateful and thankful' after celebrating the holiday as well as her birthday, which coincided with Christmas Eve.

The Blink-182 drummer had gifted his daughter, whom he shares with ex-wife Shanna Moakler, over $80,000 worth of luxury items the previous year.

She showed off over 10 pairs of shoes in the video, with each one valued at hundreds to thousands of dollars, as well as multiple designer handbags.

One of the most expensive items in the haul was from her stepmother Kourtney Kardashian who gifted her a pink Hermes Birkin bag valued at over $20,000 alone.

AlabamaBarker sparked backlash after flaunting her extravagant $200K Christmas haul after celebrating the holidays with her famous family

The 20-year-old nepo baby daughter of Travis Barker took to TikTok to show off her new designer purses, shoes and diamond jewelry that added up to a whopping six-digit sum

In the clip, Alabama revealed that her stepmother turned to Kylie Jenner for advice on what to get her for the holidays, asking: 'What would Kylie her King Kylie era want?'

The aspiring rapper had her platinum blonde hair in a slicked back bun and wore a SKIMS holiday pajama set from Kim Kardashian's brand as she showed off her extensive, extravagant haul.

She revealed Kendall Jenner and Kylie Jenner gifted her various designer handbags while her dad gifted her multiple pairs of high-end heels in addition to a new pink computer and tablet.

She said Kris Jenner gifted her Hermes slides and revealed her 'babysitter since I was little' gave her a pair of Uggs.

She also showed off the extravagant Chanel bag and Chrome Hearts duffel bag valued at over $15,000 from a man she insinuated she was casually dating.

She received mixed comments in response to her video with many gushing over her 'good taste' while others slammed her for being 'tone deaf.'

There were also fans that pointed out that one of her dad's gifts to her was lingerie, though she noted that her stepmom 'picked them out,' some people still called it 'odd.'

One social media user on X, formerly Twitter, tweeted about how the influencer 'told us unprovoked that her parents bought her lingerie' and said they believed it was an inappropriate gift from her father.

In a nearly nine-minute video, she went through the gifts she received and noted she was 'beyond blessed, grateful and thankful' after celebrating the holiday as well as her birthday, which coincided with Christmas Eve. She showed off over 10 pairs of shoes in the video, with each one valued at hundreds to thousands of dollars, as well as multiple designer handbags

The Blink-182 drummer had gifted his daughter, whom he shares with ex-wife Shanna Moakler, over $80,000 worth of luxury items the previous year

One of the most expensive items in the haul was from her stepmother Kourtney Kardashian who gifted her a pink Hermes Birkin bag valued at over $20,000 alone

The aspiring rapper had her platinum blonde hair in a slicked back bun and wore a SKIMS holiday pajama set from Kim Kardashian's brand as she showed off her extensive, extravagant haul. She said she got a pink Chanel bag among many other items from her 'boo' and other luxury designer items from her Kardashian-Jenner family members

Rather than the person she is dating however, she said it was her dad and stepmother who bought her lingerie, which sparked fan backlash

Alabama said her dad 'went a little crazy with the heels' and showed off six pairs of Rene Caovilla shoes he bought her in addition to the lingerie and tech products

Travis also shares son Landon, 22, with Moakler, his ex, and had adopted his then-wife's daughter Atiana De La Hoya, 26, from a previous relationship.

He shares two-year-old toddler Rocky Thirteen with his current wife Kourtney.

A TikTok user shared a video sharing the same concerns about Alabama getting lingerie from her rock star dad.

Another X user also expressed the same sentiment, writing: 'Why did her dad buy her lingerie from Agent Provocateur?'

Another fan said her Christmas haul being worth well over six-digits was 'kinda insane.'

Many people left crying emojis underneath her TikTok video as they expressed their shock over her ultra-lavish haul from her ultra-wealthy family.

She said her dad got her a pink computer as well as a tablet among the many gifts from him this year

She also had an overflowing amount of perfume bottles and boxes in her arms as she showed off some of her 'smaller' gifts

Many fans called it 'inappropriate' that Alabama asked her dad to buy her lingerie and also received multiple, revealing corsets as gifts

One social media user on X, formerly Twitter, tweeted about how the influencer 'told us unprovoked that her parents bought her lingerie' and said they believed it was an inappropriate gift from her father

A TikTok user shared a video sharing the same concerns about Alabama getting lingerie from her rock star dad. Another X user also expressed the same sentiment, writing: 'Why did her dad buy her lingerie from Agent Provocateur?'

Another fan said her Christmas haul being worth well over six-digits was 'kinda insane'

Many people left crying emojis underneath her TikTok video as they expressed their shock over her ultra-lavish haul from her ultra-wealthy family

'So I could've bought a house with all these items,' one TikTok user commented

Another added: 'And to think there's people that literally can't afford to eat...'

'Just a single mom over here that could pay a years worth of bills with that,' one user wrote before adding that she 'sold my soul to get my son 2 gifts this year lol. No hate, just wishing I was born a Kardashian'

One TikTok user commented: 'btw there's ppl that didn't get anything for christmas'

Some social media users slammed her for being 'disconnected' and flaunting her gifts. 'Celebs are so disconnected from reality and what truly matters,' a comment read.

Some fans left comments about how it was 'tone deaf' to show off her over-the-top haul.

'So I could've bought a house with all these items,' one TikTok user commented.

Another added: 'And to think there's people that literally can't afford to eat...'

'Just a single mom over here that could pay a years worth of bills with that,' one user wrote before adding that she 'sold my soul to get my son 2 gifts this year lol. No hate, just wishing I was born a Kardashian.'

One TikTok user commented: 'btw there's ppl that didn't get anything for christmas.'

Some social media users slammed her for being 'disconnected' and flaunting her gifts.

'Celebs are so disconnected from reality and what truly matters,' a comment read.
Rebel Wilson has delighted fans by sharing adorable footage of her three-year-old mini-me daughter Royce at the theatre.

The Pitch Perfect star, 45, posted a clip to social media on Sunday night which captured her taking her toddler to see a musical at London's Savoy Theatre.

Rebel beamed with joy as she watched the show alongside her daughter on the monitors, clearly having a wonderful time.

She excitedly told fans, 'Me and Royce watching Paddington!'

'Roycie, where's Paddington?' Rebel asked, to which her daughter eagerly shouted 'Here!' while pointing at the screen.

'Taking my daughter to the theatre well, to the monitors! In a few years, it will be the real theatre,' Rebel added, sharing a sweet glimpse of their mother-daughter moment.

Rebel Wilson has delighted fans by sharing adorable footage of her three-year-old mini-me daughter Royce at the theatre. (Both pictured)

The Pitch Perfect star, 45, posted a clip to social media on Sunday night which captured her taking her toddler to see a musical at London's Savoy Theatre

Rebel and wife Ramona Agruma welcomed Royce via surrogacy on November 7, 2022, having publicly confirmed her relationship with Agruma five months prior.

The pair officially tied the knot in Sardinia, Italy, on September 28, 2024, with their daughter acting as their flower girl.

The Bridesmaids actress and her partner initially intended on getting married in a beach wedding in 2025, but Rebel decided to move up the date.

The couple first met in 2021 and announced their engagement in February 2023.

DailyMail.com exclusively shared the news of their nuptials, revealing the couple were 'thrilled' to be tying the knot.

In April, Rebel revealed Royce is living up to her high-end luxury name on The Jonathan Ross Show.

During the chat, the Australian actress expressed regret about naming Royce after the British luxury car brand, Rolls-Royce, and joked that she is starting to become high maintenance.

She excitedly told fans, 'Me and Royce watching Paddington!'

'In a few years, it will be the real theatre,' Rebel added, alongside a picture of Royce enjoying supper

Rebel and Ramona Agruma welcomed Royce via surrogacy on November 7, 2022

'I probably shouldn't have named her after a British luxury car brand, she's a bit high maintenance, Rebel said.

'She's two and a half now. She's conned me into massaging her feet before she goes to sleep. I was doing it last night for almost an hour.

'I said, "I should have called you Volvo." I don't know why I got suckered into that.'

Earlier this month, it was revealed that Rebel and Ramona are expanding their family.

The actress and the Lemon Ve Limon fashion entrepreneur, 41, announced they are expecting their second child together.

They shared the joyful news in a heartwarming Instagram reveal posted December 8.

Ramona, who is pregnant with the couple's newest addition, confirmed the milestone with a photo carousel documenting the journey from Disneyland fun to a positive pregnancy test and a growing baby bump.

'From this,' she wrote over images of the couple enjoying a festive day at the theme park with their 3-year-old daughter, Royce Lillian Elizabeth Wilson - the little girl they welcomed via surrogate in 2022.

'To Baby number 2 is on her way,' the caption continued, followed by a series of red hearts.
Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch star Chad Ollinger is now facing an open murder charge following the death of his cellmate.

The 41-year-old's cellmate was found dead in their shared living space after the two allegedly got into a physical altercation, according to a press release by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Office of Public Information.

The male inmate was found 'lying motionless inside of a cell' by corrections officers doing their routine checks at approximately 11:20PM on December 26, according to the release.

The alleged incident took place at Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The officers entered the cell and 'observed the inmate was suffering from apparent blunt force injuries.' Ollinger, his cellmate, was then taken into custody.

The victim was promptly given aid by officers, who also called for response from CCDC medical personnel.

Chad Ollinger, who stars on the Discovery Channel show Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch, is now facing an open murder charge following the death of his cellmate; pictured in a Facebook photo

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives with the LVMPD Homicide were then alerted and responded and conducted an investigation which found that Olllinger and his cellmate allegedly got into a physical altercation inside their cell.

Ollinger has been 'rebooked for Open Murder', the news release states.

The LVMPD Homicide Section is leading the investigation, which remains ongoing.

The Daily Mail has contacted the Clark County Detention Center and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police for more information but have not yet heard back.

Inmate records indicate that Ollinger was arrested in October 27 as a fugitive from another state. He is also facing a contempt of court charge.

Ollinger has made other run-ins with the law prior to this latest allegation.

Last year he was taken into custody for evading arrest/detention with a vehicle and evading arrest/detention on foot, according to TMZ. He later posted bond and was subsequently released, the website reports.

Since 2021, the Discovery Channel show Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch has been following Chad Ollinger and his father Duane as they continue their quest to unearth a long-rumored treasure hidden on their 160-acre property in Utahs Uinta Basin.

Ollinger, pictured, has been starring on Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch since 2021

For over a decade, the father-son duo and their team have been digging through the property, convinced it hides an ancient Aztec fortune worth millions.

Duane has called his son as someone who 'doesn't have an ounce of quit in him,' according to the younger Ollinger's bio on the Discovery website.

'Chad Ollinger is the son of Blind Frog Ranch owner, Duane Ollinger,' the bio reads. 'He is married with four children and sold his crop-dusting business and family home to help fund this year's operation.

'Duane describes his son by saying "he doesn't have an ounce of quit in him," and if someone needs to SCUBA dive into an unknown cavern system 50 feet beneath the ground, it's going to be Chad.'

Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch follows Duane Ollinger (Chad's father) hunting for hidden gold on his property; pictured Chad with his father Duane

Ahead of Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch Season 4, Chad opened up to TV Insider about the life-threatening risks involved in the teams treasure-hunting adventures.

'I dont want to push it too far where I die,' he said, acknowledging the dangers of their pursuits, during a 2024 interview. 'Though without risk there is no reward. Im definitely going to keep pushing and putting myself in hairy situations, which you will see this season.'

He recalled one particularly tense moment, sharing, 'We were in a cave one time and it got really scary really fast and we had to get out of there. That was a close call.'
She has been embracing Australian culture since arriving Down Under earlier this year to study at the University of Sydney.

And Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway recently visited one of the city's biggest tourist attractions  Taronga Zoo.

The 21-year-old was seen getting close to several Aussie animals, including bilbies and a koala called Humphrey  and even fed some kangaroos.

The young royal showed off her natural beauty by going almost make-up free for the outing and even arrived with wet hair.

She looked like any other tourist, blending in by wearing a very casual outfit of a pair of jeans and a white T-shirt.

The polite princess expressed her gratitude to the staff for the tour and their conservation work, sharing a video on Instagram.

Princess Ingrid Alexandraof Norway recently visited one of the city's biggest tourist attractions  Taronga Zoo

The 21-year-old was seen getting close to several animals, including bilbies and a koala called Humphrey  and even fed some kangaroos

'Thank you for showing us around and for the very important work you do, very interesting,' she wrote.

Ingrid, who is second in line to the throne after her father, arrived in Australia for her studies in July.

She shared a series of campus photos on Instagram.

The Royal Household's full statement from Ingrid read: 'I'm looking forward to starting my studies at the University of Sydney.

'It will be exciting to become a student, and I'm looking forward to gaining new perspectives on both European and international politics.

'I'm sure I will learn a lot.'

She celebrated the milestone with photos taken around the University of Sydney campus.

The polite princess expressed her gratitude to the staff for the tour and their conservation work, sharing a video on Instagram

The young royal showed off her natural beauty by going almost make-up free for the outing and even arrived with wet hair

She looked like any other tourist, blending in by wearing a casual outfit of jeans and a white T-shirt

Though she's embracing Australian social life, Ingrid is still learning the local road rules.

She was recently spotted making a slight slip-up when she and a female friend tried to hop into a waiting Uber from the wrong side.

Evidently used to left-hand drive vehicles, the princess was seen reaching for the door handle on the driver's side.

Her decision to move to Australia to continue her studies comes after she embarked on military training at the Engineer Battalion in Brigade Nord last year.
Brigitte Bardot shared a haunting statement just weeks before passing away aged 91, insisting she had 'no intention to take her leave'.

The actress, who died after a hospital stay in Toulon, was best known as an international sex symbol before turning to animal rights activism.

Earlier in October, the Viva Maria beauty was forced to release a statement confirming she was not dead following a hospital stay.

The French actress was furious when Aqababe  a hugely popular influencer who specialises in celebrity news in his home country  said Brigitte had passed away in the South of France.

In since deleted posts on X and Instagram, Aqababe wrote: 'According to my exclusive information, Brigitte Bardot died today.

'Her coffin was ordered in Saint-Paul-de-Jarrat in the 09 (Ariege) department.'

Brigitte Bardot shared a haunting statement just weeks before passing away aged 91, insisting she had 'no intention to take her leave'

The cinema star, who died after a hospital stay in Toulon, was best known as an international sex symbol before turning to animal rights activist (pictured in 1950)

Aqababe, whose real name is Aniss Zitouni, 27, added: 'An icon has passed away, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy and an eternal imprint on the hearts of the French'.

But a few hours later, Brigitte took to X to announce: 'I don't know who the idiot is who started this fake news about my disappearance this evening, but know that I am fine and that I have no intention of bowing out. A word to the wise'.

After undergoing a surgery connected to an unspecified illness at the time, Brigitte passed away two month on.

She was back at her home in Saint-Tropez, on the Riviera, following the treatment over three weeks in a private hospital in nearby Toulon.

A spokesperson for the French actress told the Daily Mail at the time: 'Madame Bardot has returned home and is now resting. She's fine.'

The week prior to that, the French media reported that Brigitte was in hospital suffering from a serious illness and had undergone surgery.

She was staying at her home in Saint-Tropez when she was admitted to a hospital in Toulon.

In July 2023, it was reported the star had suffered respiratory problems amid soaring temperatures in Saint-Tropez that summer.

in October, the Viva Maria beauty was forced to release a statement confirming she was not dead following an hospital stay as she debunked the 'fake news' (pictured in 2007)

Brigitte took to X writing: 'I don't know who the idiot is who started this fake news about my disappearance this evening, but know that I am fine and that I have no intention of bowing out'

After undergoing a surgery connected to an unspecified illness at the time, Brigitte passed away two month on (pictured in 1956)

In July 2023, it was reported the star had suffered respiratory problems amid soaring temperatures in Saint-Tropez that summer (pictured in 1995)

She was attended to by medics at her home in the south of France, after she experienced some breathing difficulties.

Bernard d'Ormale, the actress's husband, told Var-Matin at the time: 'It was around 9am when Brigitte had trouble breathing' and described the health scare as a 'respiratory distraction'.

Let's call it a moment of respiratory distraction.'

Brigitte was given oxygen by the medics and they 'stayed to watch her' for some time, before they left the actress's home.

Bernard shared: 'Like all people of a certain age, she can no longer bear the heat. It happens at 88 years old. She must not make useless efforts.'
She interviewed everyone from Margaret Thatcher to Joan Baez during her long-running tenure as the host of Woman's Hour.

But five years after stepping down, Dame Jenni Murray says the BBC Radio 4 programme has 'lost its way'.

The now 'dull' show has neither the intellect' nor the 'fun' it once did, she claimed.

Dame Jenni, who is a Daily Mail columnist, said that she was no longer a regular listener to the programme she presented for 33 years.

'I don't make an effort to actually be a listener,' she said. 'I don't think it's sharp enough. It doesn't have the intellect. It doesn't have the fun. I think it's a rather dull programme these days. It has lost its way.'

The longest serving presenter of Woman's Hour, Dame Jenni, 75, recorded her final episode in October 2020. The programme is currently presented by Nuala McGovern, 54, and 48-year-old Anita Rani.

Dame Jenni quit after BBC bosses refused to let her chair a discussion about trans rights due to her gender critical views. 'I'd been a completely trustworthy, impartial presenter for decades. I don't think I've ever been so angry about anything,' she said.

'Funnily enough, I haven't regretted it at all. I thought: 'I'll find somewhere I can go and openly express my views'.' She told Saga magazine: 'Woman's Hour was wonderful because we spoke to such a huge range of people.

Dame Jenni Murray, who left BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour after more than three decades

Demonstrators gather outside the Department of Health and Social Care to protest against the planned clinical trial to assess puberty blockers in gender questioning children in London

A view of BBC Broadcasting House in central London where Dame Jenni Murray used to work

Nuala McGovern named as new Woman's Hour host after Emma Barnett left

'Sometimes it was politics, but sometimes you were helping them tell difficult, personal stories or share exciting things they were doing.'

Dame Jenni joined the BBC in 1973, starting out in Bristol, before moving into presenting roles at BBC South Today, Newsnight and the Today programme. In 1987, she became a presenter of Woman's Hour, taking over from Sue MacGregor. The show tackled a huge range of issues during her tenure such as domestic violence and menopause.

Dame Jenni also said that she believed it was time that a woman takes the top job atthe BBC.

In November, director-general Tim Davie was forced to announce he would step down after it emerged that Panorama producers had edited a speech by Donald Trump to make it look as though he had called for violence during the January 6, 2021, riots in Washington DC.

'One hundred years and it has never been a woman,' she said. 'Of course it needs to be now.

'In fact, I've had quite a few emails from people who read my columns suggesting I apply for it myself, to which I say, 'No way would I take on that job. It's huge. You're responsible for so many people'.'

Dame Jenni also revealed that she is no longer living with David Forgham, whom she married in 2003. They have two sons, Ed and Charlie. 'Their father and I are friends. We don't live together any more,' she said. 'It all happened because I'm a Yorkshire woman but London is where I like to be.

'He didn't really like London, so he happily lives on the south coast and I happily live here in London. And we are good friends and we talk to each other. We meet up.'

Nuala McGovern and Anita Rani were approached for comment. The BBC declined to comment.
Kate Winslet has revealed that some of her earliest intimate experiences as a teenager were with women.

While appearing on the Team Deakins podcast, the Oscar-winning actress, 50, reflected on her breakout performance in Heavenly Creatures, the 1994 drama-thriller directed by Peter Jackson.

The film starred Winslet opposite Melanie Lynskey as two teenage girls whose intense friendship spirals into a dangerously obsessive bond.

When asked how much of herself she brought to the role of Juliet, Winslet shared a deeply personal admission about how she connected to one of her most formative early roles.

'I'll share something I've never shared before. Some of my first intimate experiences as a young teen were actually with girls,' she said. 'I'd kissed a few girls, and I'd kissed a few boys, but I wasn't particularly evolved in either direction.'

Winslet explained that those experiences helped her understand the powerful emotional pull at the center of the film.

Kate Winslet has revealed that some of her earliest intimate experiences as a teenager were with women; seen in 2023

'At that stage in my life, I certainly was curious, and I think there was something about the really intense connection that those two women had that I profoundly understood,' she said. 'I was so immediately sucked into the vortex of that world they were in that obviously became horrendously damaging to both of them, and they had huge insecurities and vulnerabilities.'

The actress added that while she could not fully grasp the darker psychological elements of the story at such a young age, she strongly related to the way deep bonds can form during adolescence, when people are especially 'vulnerable.'

'Heavenly Creatures' marked Winslet's first major film role, and she told the podcast that she had 'never held a film script' before auditioning for the project.

The movie was also a pivotal moment for Jackson, representing his first dramatic feature after earlier work in horror films such as Bad Taste and Dead Alive.

Following the film's success, Winslet quickly established herself as a rising star, appearing in Sense and Sensibility, Jude and Hamlet before achieving global fame with Titanic in 1997.

Over the years, Winslet, who is married to Edward Abel Smith, has advocated for LGBTQ+ actors in Hollywood by aiming to normalize same-sex relationships and fighting for queer representation.

In 2021, she opened up to The Sunday Times about how there are actors too 'terrified' of coming over how it would affect their careers.

'I cannot tell you the number of young actors I know  some well known, some starting out  who are terrified their sexuality will be revealed and that it will stand in the way of their being cast in straight roles,' she said.

'I can think of at least four actors absolutely hiding their sexuality,' Winslet stressed. 'Its painful. Because they fear being found out.'

'I'll share something I've never shared before. Some of my first intimate experiences as a young teen were actually with girls,' she said. 'I'd kissed a few girls, and I'd kissed a few boys' (seen in 1996 at age 21)

Winslet explained that those experiences helped her understand the powerful emotional pull at the center of the film; pictured in 1996

Following the film's success, Winslet quickly established herself as a rising star, appearing in Sense and Sensibility, Jude and Hamlet before achieving global fame with Titanic in 1997 (seen above with Leonardo DiCaprio)

The mother-of-three also spoke of a 'well-known actor' who was told not to 'publicize' the fact they were bisexual by their American agent.

Winslet said the film industry harbored 'judgment, discrimination and homophobia' and said the secrecy was 'painful' for the actors who fear their careers will be compromised if they come out.

In 2020, she starred in the film, Ammonite, in which she plays the role of real-life English paleontologist Mary Anning, who embarks on a secret relationship with Charlotte Murchison, played by Saoirse Ronan.

While promoting the movie, Winslet claimed she has been asked more about the lesbian love scenes in her new film Ammonite than any heterosexual roles she has taken on.

Winslet has never been romantically linked to a woman.

The star's relationship history includes Stephen Tredre, Jim Threapleton, her first husband, Sam Mendes, her second husband, and Smith, who she wed in 2012.
Stranger Things star Natalia Dyer was braving the freezing temperatures in New York this week as she stepped out amid the release of the final series of the Netflix show.

The actress, 30, who plays Nancy Wheeler on the show, put on a leggy display in a grey skirt and white faux-fur coat.

She boosted her height with strappy white heels and added dark shades to her loo as she strutted her stuff.

Natalia wore her blonde tresses in loose waves over her shoulders and opted for a glowing makeup look.

Stranger Things fans received a gift when multiple episodes from season five's volume two were made available to stream on Christmas Day.

In one particular scene from the three-episode drop, Nancy and Jonathan Byers, a fan-favorite couple, shared a tense and emotional moment in a dramatic, near-death scene.

Stranger Things star Natalia Dyer was braving the freezing temperatures in New York this week as she stepped out amid the release of the final series of the Netflix show

The actress, 30, who plays Nancy Wheeler on the show, put on a leggy display in a grey skirt and white faux-fur coat

In the scene, Jonathan - portrayed by Charlie Heaton - pulls out an engagement ring in front of Nancy, who is played by Natalia.

The moment initially seemed like a proposal, however, the show's co-creators clarified that the couple are not engaged and explained their intent with the scene.

Off-screen, the actors who play Nancy and Jonathan are still a couple in real life, but their on-screen characters ended up breaking up during the romantic 'un-proposal' scene, the show runners explained.

Nancy and Jonathan have been dating since season two, but when they're stuck in a near-death moment and convinced this is the last chance to say their last words to each other, they let it all out.

The pair are trapped inside the Hawkins lab in the Upside Down when a toxic, poisonous substance begins melting everything in the room.

It's then Nancy tells Jonathan that she hates The Clash. Then, he confesses that he doesn't like to read her articles and finally admits that he never applied to Emerson.

At that moment, he pulls out an engagement ring from his pocket and extends a proposal-like offer.

She boosted her height with strappy white heels and added dark shades to her loo as she strutted her stuff

Natalia wore her blonde tresses in loose waves over her shoulders and opted for a glowing makeup look

Stranger Things fans received a gift when multiple episodes from season five's volume two were made available to stream on Christmas Day

In one particular scene from the three-episode drop, Nancy and Jonathan Byers, a fan-favorite couple, shared a tense and emotional moment in a dramatic, near-death scene

'I figure that I have screwed up enough with you that it'd be nice to get something right for once, in the end. Nancy Wheeler, will you not marry me?'

She accepts his 'un-proposal' before telling him she loves him and they kiss. After they part, they see the substance had hardened around them and realize they're still alive.

The Duffer brothers Ross and Matt reveal Nancy and Jonathan's fate in an interview with People published on Thursday.

'That's a breakup,' Matt told the outlet as he clarified the intent of the scene. 'They are broken up.'

Matt said that he and Ross wrote that scene after having known for 'a while' that the couple were going to break up.

'It's hard to recall when exactly that idea came, but I think us - and the writers - all felt that Nancy needed to end up on her own and be independent and have an opportunity to find herself,' he said.

Matt continued: 'I mean, how many people wind up with their girlfriend or boyfriend that they met in high school?'

He also noted that the couple 'have a little bit more of a complicated relationship than normal high schoolers.'

Because of what they've gone through, Ross said they were due to split up because they have a 'trauma bond.'

The Duffer brothers also linked their tense scene to major plot points in the new volume release as they discussed writing the final episodes in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.

They explained that in the second part of the last season, they were trying to 'get our characters in a place where they all felt confident in themselves.'

'We wanted to get people, before they go into this final battle, having dealt with their internal fears and doubts,' Ross said.

'It was a challenging idea. We've been building to it, but to get it across in five-ish minutes, it's a complicated thing. It's not just a soap opera where it's shipping and who's going to end up with who.

In the scene, Jonathan - portrayed by Charlie Heaton- pulls out an engagement ring in front of Nancy, who is played by Natalia

Off-screen, the actors who play Nancy and Jonathan are still a couple in real life (pictured in January 2020)

Ross said: 'I've been through experiences similar to this, when you're with someone for a very long time, you grow so close and you go through so many things together, and it reaches a point where you go, 'Well, how could someone else understand?' But at the same time, is that suffocating to your own self-growth?

'So when we were talking about Nancy and Jonathan, and where do they go from here, it felt like for Nancy to really grow,' he continued.

'And for Jonathan,' Matt chimed in. 'They both felt the same way, they just weren't expressing it. Especially when you're young, you have trouble understanding or expressing those feelings.

'We wanted to put them in a life-or-death situation where it's their last opportunity to confess,' he added.

Stranger Things' season five, both volumes one and two, are now streaming on Netflix.

The two-hour series finale - fittingly called 'The Rightside Up' - will premiere in select theaters and on Netflix on December 31.
Jamie Laing has been criticised by Instagram 'mumfluencers' for an 'insensitive' Christmas post that set an 'unrealistic expectations' for new mothers.

The Made In Chelsea icon, 37, and his podcaster wife Sophie Habboo, 31, welcomed a baby boy named Ziggy earlier this month.

And on Friday, Jamie took to Instagram to praise his wife for creating a 'magical Christmas' just three weeks after giving birth.

Sharing a sweet video of Sophie beaming besides their festive table, he penned: 'POV: your wife is 3 weeks postpartum and still creates a magical Christmas.'

However, fans were quick to call out the post for being insensitive and a 'typical IG moment' only showing the best parts of the day.

They penned: 'This is lovely but also lets not normalise post partum women being superwoman its not normal.';

Jamie Laing has been slammed for his 'insensitive' post as he praised 'superwoman' Sophie Habboo for 'creating a magical Christmas three weeks postpartum'

On Friday, Jamie took to Instagram to praise his wife for creating a 'magical Christmas' just three weeks after giving birth

'I normally love your content, but this is an insensitive post and sets an unrealistic expectation/pressure on other new mothers. Not everyone has the money, resources and support to be able to do this.';

'In my opinion this is not normal and a typical IG moment. To, to me, this is sadly only about people pleasing and not prioritising healing and true connections.';

'My first Xmas when I was 3 weeks PP I slept most the day.'

Others questioned whether the couple had had outside help from caterers or other paid professionals.

They added: 'Good she is recovering but be honest with your posts. Youve paid someone to do this and got a chef in to do everything.';

'If you had a caterer (family members) helping please say so. Not detracting but keep it real for those not able to get near this. Life not a competition but it can feel like it is. Wishing you all health and happiness on your journey with Ziggy.'

Others encouraged new mothers to not compare themselves to Jamie and Sophie's picture perfect Christmas.

They wrote: 'Hey guys. If youre 3 weeks postpartum and feel like death warmed up still. Thats okay too. You are also superwoman AND your body is doing ALOT. Youve got this.';

In the video, Sophie posed beaming next to the table perfectly set for the Christmas lunch

However, fans were quick to call out the post for being insensitive and a 'typical IG moment' only showing the best parts of the day

Others encouraged new mothers to not compare themselves to Jamie and Sophie's picture perfect Christmas

Others questioned whether the couple had had outside help from caterers or other paid professionals

However others were quick to rush to Jamie's defense as they wrote: 'Why is everyone so negative'

'This is super unrealistic and contributes to a problem that causes post-partum women to suffer.';

'This should not be the priority at all and the suggestion or idea that it should be is part of the problem.

'Let the gal rest and snuggle with the baby, let her eat to her hearts content so she can raise a human that is nourished physically and emotionally.'

However others were quick to rush to Jamie's defense as they wrote: 'Why is everyone so negative, Jamie is showing appreciation to his wife whos obviously done amazingly after 3weeks of giving birth.

'That does not take anything away from any other mother whos not doing these things.';

'Nice to see you celebrating her @jamielaing its very important that she feels appreciated in this time shes doing amazing and the definition superwoman truly fits her.';

'Pretty sure Jamie is just showing love and appreciation for his wife, he didnt come to insult all other post partum mums its not that deep.';

'Wow, this is crazy Work! I hope she had plenty of support and help though.'

After welcoming their first child, the couple checked into the 'UK's leading postpartum wellness retreat' last weekend.

The new parents took to Instagram with a snap after arriving at the 2k-a-night resort located within the five star Mandarin Oriental hotel in London's Hyde Park.

Jamie and Sophie could be seen settling into their luxurious room, which sees Tenth Wellness provide 24-hour babysitters for mum and dad to relax.

After welcoming their first child, the couple checked into the 'UK's leading postpartum wellness retreat' last weekend (pictured last week)

The couple also enjoyed three Michelin star meals a day, as well as access to the hotel's top of the range spa and beauty therapists.

Customers can also meet with a lactation consultant, attend educational groups for new parents and receive post-birth belly massages to help boost blood circulation.

The hotel's rooms have been equipped with a cot, nursing chair as well as a welcome hamper of postpartum goodies which included a pregnancy-safe skincare range called SKN TO SKN.

According to their website: 'Every detail has been intentionally designed to support a mothers wellbeing through expert-led care, tailored treatments, specialised support, and practical education.'
Gaza families salvage iron from ruins to reinforce tents as winter storms hit

Xinhua) 10:18, December 29, 2025

Displaced Palestinian children are seen at a temporary shelter in west of Gaza City, on Dec. 22, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

GAZA, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- As a powerful winter storm batters the Gaza Strip, Palestinians are scavenging iron bars from the ruins of their bombed-out homes to reinforce makeshift tents that have proven no match for the wind and rain.

In the al-Jalaa neighborhood of Gaza City, 55-year-old Ali al-Hajjar used a heavy hammer to pry metal reinforcement rods from the cracked concrete pillars of his former house.

"I am no longer searching the rubble for personal belongings, but for materials to protect my family from the winter," al-Hajjar told Xinhua.

Palestinians sit around a brazier to stay warm after rain at a temporary shelter in Gaza City, on Dec. 12, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Since an Oct. 10 ceasefire ended the latest round of fighting, al-Hajjar said his family of seven has received neither a tent nor alternative housing. After a recent storm collapsed their previous shelter -- a flimsy construction of wood and nylon -- the family spent the night in the open, their blankets and mattresses soaked.

The practice of "mining" ruins for structural steel has become a widespread survival tactic across Gaza, particularly in areas where destruction was most severe. Residents reshape the salvaged metal into arches to support tent roofs, allowing rainwater to run off rather than pool and collapse the structure.

"We are dismantling what remains of our homes to build simple shelters," al-Hajjar said.

The trend highlights a desperate adaptation to the shortage of construction materials. Israel continues to restrict the entry of building supplies into the enclave, and the high cost of cement on the local market has made formal repairs impossible for most.

Displaced Palestinian children stand outside during a rain in the Zeitoun neighborhood, southeast of Gaza City, on Dec. 11, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

In the Shati refugee camp, Mohammed al-Shanti, 47, and his family collected iron from their destroyed home to erect a cluster of reinforced tents. He said traditional tents have become unusable as floors turn to mud and water seeps inside.

"The iron and concrete being reused would be discarded if reconstruction began," al-Shanti said. "Its use now is a temporary measure dictated by necessity."

The humanitarian crisis is deepening as temperatures drop. The Hamas-run government media office recently warned that more than 288,000 families lack adequate shelter, estimating that 300,000 tents and mobile housing units are needed to meet the demand.

Displaced Palestinians walk outside during a rain in the Zeitoun neighborhood, southeast of Gaza City, on Dec. 11, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

For residents like Abbas Saud, who also began extracting iron after seeing neighbors do the same, the risks of handling heavy debris are outweighed by the need for stability.

"Many families are now reusing iron due to the lack of housing alternatives and delays in the arrival of caravans," Saud said, noting that while the makeshift shelters do not meet safety standards, they provide a measure of resistance against the elements.

"These measures are not a preferred choice," Saud added. "It is an adaptation to conditions imposed by the war."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
December 28, 2025: While Russia was an early user of Iranian Shaheed drones against Ukraine, the Ukrainians developed more drone innovations and out-produced the Russians, until now. After more than a year of effort, and the use of a special task force called Rubicon Center for Advanced Unmanned Technologies, or just Rubicon, these Russian efforts to reform and upgrade their drone operations have paid off. This year Russia is sending nearly ten times the number of drones against Ukrainian targets than they did last year.

New Russian drones are more capable and are usually sent out in multiple large groups called swarms. The swarms come at targets from different directions and approach at different altitudes before diving at the target. Russia began using more decoys and continually upgraded their electronic warfare techniques to protect the swarms. Russian electronic warfare has always been excellent at protecting troops and facilities from attacks. The Ukrainian drones still get through, but in smaller numbers.

For the first time in over three years of war, the Russians have an advantage in drone war operations. The Ukrainians responded quickly, but suffered a lot of damage while doing so. The novel Russian tactics and equipment prompted the Ukrainians to quickly develop effective countermeasures. Still, there was an increase in Russian drone victories. Ukraine is always working on new technologies and tactics and it will be interesting to see how Ukraine adapts to the new Russian methods.

After all, the original Ukrainian drone proliferation began when many individual Ukrainians, or small teams of civilians, designed and built drones. The drones served as potential candidates for widespread use and mass production. This proliferation of designers and manufacturers led to rapid evolution of drone capabilities and uses. Those who could not keep up were less successful in combat and suffered higher losses. Each month nearly 400,000 drones are now built in Ukrainian factories or home workshops. Most of these workshops are informal affairs, located in spare rooms, garages, barns, empty industrial space or anyplace protected from the weather and aerial surveillance. Russia will hit any drone manufacturing sites if they can identify them.

One result of the Ukraine War was the emergence of inexpensive drones as a decisive weapon as well as a reconnaissance and surveillance system. In 2023, a year after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Ukrainians were building their own drones, often at home or scattered workshops. By late 2024 Ukrainians were producing over 15o,000 drones a month. In 2025 Ukraine will produce over 400,000 drones a month. By purchasing components in bulk, thousands of Ukrainian men and women are building these drones for the armed forces or for someone they know in the military. Troops at the front also build and modify drones to fit their immediate situations. For the soldiers, designing better drones is often a matter of life or death.

This competitiveness led to First Person View/FPV drones as well as drones guided via Fiber Optic cable Guidance or FOG. Electronic jamming was useless against the FOG drones. The only limitation was the length of the cable. This meant the operator had to be at one end of the kilometers long cable. Operators could be further away if there was time to lay another kilometer or two of cable further to the rear. Ukrainian drone operators often worked in drone workshops before entering the military and were accustomed to upgrading drone operator equipment while in the combat zone. Any successful innovations were made known to workshop operators throughout Ukraine.

This is how the Ukrainians maintain a lead over the Russians in drone technology and production. The Russian government discourages, or even outlaws, individuals building drones, and centralizes drone production. This gives the Ukrainians an edge in drone quantity and quality. The Ukrainians are defending their homeland and Russia is having an increasingly difficult time justifying continued fighting and over a million Russians killed or disabled in Ukraine.

NATO countries are trying to adopt drone technology and use it for their own armed forces. Ukraine has received over $200 billion in military and economic assistance from NATO countries and shares their drone experience and technology with their benefactors. Drones have revolutionized warfare and are causing 70 percent of casualties in Ukraine. The Ukraine War is a battle between industrialized countries employing modern weapons. It is the war of the future that has become what all armed forces in the world must adopt to remain competitive.

Even before the Ukraine War, drones were being used in irregular warfare in the Middle East, Afghanistan and Africa. Drug gangs have used drones to smuggle drugs into the United States, or into a prison to aid in an escape attempt. Drones are everywhere, despite laws in some countries restricting or prohibiting their use.

The latest innovation in drone warfare is the Ukrainian use of AI/Artificial Intelligence for drone targeting systems. The AI drone contains a targeting system that finds targets. The AI drone operator confirms which targets are real and, once a target is confirmed, the AI targeting system needs no further communication with anyone. It is resistant to all forms of jamming.

Modern warfare has been radically changed by the introduction of FPV drones. These drones are an omnipresent aerial threat to all vehicles, including heavily armored tanks, and infantry on foot. Each FPV drone costs less than a thousand dollars. Operators use the video camera on the drone to see what is below and find targets. Armed FPV operators are several kilometers away to decide when their FPV drones will drop explosives on an armored vehicle, which has thinner armor on top, or infantry in the open or in trenches. To do so, the drone operators often operate in pairs, with one flying behind the other and concentrating on the big picture while seeking a likely target. When such a target is found by the reconnaissance drone, the armed drone is directed to the target. The two FPV drone operators are usually in the same room or tent and can take control of new drones, which are lined up and brought outside for launch when needed. The reconnaissance drones are often unarmed so they can spend more time in the

The Ukrainians developed the FPV drone in 2022, when only a few FPV drone attacks were recorded. The Ukrainian Army was the first to appreciate the potential of FPV drones. By the summer of 2023, the Russian Army also began to use FPV drones in greater numbers. Since then, the number of FPV drone attacks has grown exponentially on both sides. Only twelve percent of those attacks led to the destruction of the target, which could be a vehicle or group of infantry or even a sniper who was firing through a window from inside a building. In this case, the armed FPV drone would fly through the window and explode in the room the sniper was in. The only defense from this was having a nearby open door which the sniper could run to or dive through as the FPV drone approached. Sometimes that isnt possible because the armed FPV drone is coming down from above the window and then in. You dont see those coming until its too late.

Nearly five million drones are being built this year. The total for 2024 was 1.5 million drones. There have been problems. Chinese component producers are having a hard time keeping up, and, last year, to assist the Russians, China halted sending drone components to Ukraine. Suppliers in Europe, the United States, and elsewhere were quickly found. At least 70 percent of Ukrainian drones are built entirely in Ukraine, and the rest from imported parts or whole assemblies. Some Ukrainian firms have improvised by using plywood and similar materials for their drones. For the FPV First Person View drones, cheaper is better if the drone can hit its first and only target. Most Ukrainian drones are FPV models, which are considered a form of ammunition.

Both sides now use the FPV drones, but there are substantial differences in how the FPV drones are put to work in combat. The Ukrainians seek out high-value targets like armored vehicles, electronic warfare equipment, anti-aircraft systems, and storage sites for munitions or other supplies. Russian trucks carrying supplies are another prime target.
Pregnant Tabitha Willet showed off her blossoming baby bump in a yellow bikini as she shared intimate snaps from the past few months.

The Made In Chelsea star, 33, revealed last week that she is expecting her second child, just weeks before she is due to marry wealthy heir Harry Hoare.

She is already mum to her daughter Ottilie, six, with whom she shares with former partner, Fraser Carruthers.

Taking to her Instagram on Friday, the reality star shared a collection of 'BTS' snaps with her followers where she displayed her baby bump.

In one snap, Tabitha turned heads in the yellow two-piece as she posed on the beach.

Another photo showed her leaning over a table for a mirror selfie in a white crop top and black leggings.

Pregnant Tabitha Willet showed off her blossoming baby bump in a yellow bikini as she shared intimate snaps from the past few months on Instagram

Taking to social media on Friday, the reality star shared a collection of ' BTS' snaps with her followers where she displayed her baby bump

This was followed by sweet snaps of her baby bump with a pair of Minnie Mouse ears headband, a selfie on the plane, and an adorable clip with her daughter showing off their outfits.

'BTS from the last few months,' she penned alongside the snaps.

It comes after Tabitha glowed in a white ensemble as she showed off her pregnancy bump at the Four Seasons Hotel in London in Instagram snaps on Friday.

The star looked stunning in a white A-line long sleeve top which draped all the way down to her knee.

She completed the effortless look with cream wide leg trousers and matching pumps as she posed in front of a Christmas Tree.

Tabitha, who returned to the long-running E4 show ahead of its 29th series in March, announced the news of her pregnancy with her Instagram followers.

She posted an adorable video of her getting a scan at the hospital, with daughter Ottille at her side.

The reality star revealed she is getting married next month - less than a week after announcing her surprise engagement.

In one snap, Tabitha shared a sweet snap of her baby bump with a pair of Minnie Mouse ears headband placed on top

This was followed by another snaps of her bump on a plane

In one snap, Tabitha showed off the realities of pregnancy in a selfie

She finished the photo dump with an adorable clip of her daughter showing off their outfits

Revealing her diamond-studded engagement ring for the first time alongside various photos of herself alongside her new fiance, Tabitha wrote: 'Love you more than you'll ever know.'

Just days after confirming the engagement, Tabitha took to Instagram to say that a 'low-key small wedding' is planned for January.

Sharing a picture of wedding dresses, she wrote: 'It's starting... We are actually having a low-key small wedding in January so these are too wedding gowny but so fun to get in the mood.'

In the next slide, Tabitha shared a mirror selfie from inside a bridal shop where she was wearing a fluffy white high-neck blouse and tailored trousers. 'If it's not white I'm not wearing it,' she wrote.

A formal announcement of her and Harry's engagement 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.

It comes after Tabitha glowed in a white ensemble as she showed off her pregnancy bump at the Four Seasons Hotel in London in Instagram snaps

The Made In Chelsea star, 33, revealed last week that she is pregnant with her second child, just weeks before she is due to marry wealthy heir Harry Hoare (pictured together)

News of Tabitha'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.

Tabitha originally joined the Made In Chelsea cast in 2018, during their annual trip to Croatia.

She and her ex Fraser, a friend of Prince Harry, dated for four years after meeting when she was hired as a marketing director at his private members' club Albert's.

In 2019, they were engaged in Miami with plans to marry at London's Hurlingham Club the following July but had to cancel their wedding due to the pandemic.

However, in October 2020, a year after Ottilie was born, they announced they had split.
Sophie Winkleman has admitted that she gave in to allowing her 12-year-old a mobile phone, after campaigning to ban screens in schools and a smartphone ban for under-16s.

The Peep Show star, 45, shares two daughters, Maud, 12 and Isabella, nine, with her husband Lord Frederick Windsor - the son of Prince Michael of Kent and second cousin of King Charles.

Sophie has long been an outspoken critic of phones and screen use, criticising them for damaging children's education, eyesight, life chances and mental and emotional wellbeing.

However, she has confessed that she herself 'failed spectacularly' with banning the devices in her own home, after being talked into getting her eldest daughter a phone.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, she explained that she'd relented after Maud 'articulately and sweetly' revealed how she'd become 'isolated' at school.

The half-sister of TV presenter Claudia Winkleman candidly said: 'I failed spectacularly with my elder girl.

Sophie Winkleman has admitted that she gave in to allowing her 12-year-old a mobile phone, after campaigning to ban screens in schools and a smartphone ban for under-16s (seen in September)

The Peep Show star, 45, shares two daughters, Maud, 12 and Isabella, nine, with her husband Lord Frederick Windsor (seen at Westminster this month)

'She's 12 and she went to a school where they all had phones and she said: "Dear mother, your ideology is really ruining my life. I don't know what anyone's talking about every morning when I come in. I'm so isolated."

'She was very articulate and sweet about it. So she's got a phone. She doesn't have any social media.'

Sophie argued with some children banned from having phones while others were allowed, it cause those without to feel left out and 'very unhappy'.

The actress called on the Government to take responsibility and create a uniform policy in order to help parents and schools enforce phone bans.

'[There's] sort of a need for children to do what their friends are doing and if it's not legislated, we all lose. I mean, it's brutal,' she said.

'And the parents who are very strong, their children are very unhappy and they bang on at them all the time and it's a cause of so much friction. I think most people with young children would be very, very grateful for some government legislation.'

Recent research has revealed that the average teenager spends 11 hours a day on screens, while 55 percent of children aged eight to 11 own a smartphone.

Earlier this year, the Tories campaigned for an amendment to the Schools Bill, which would have made phone bans in classrooms the law.

The actress called on the Government to take responsibility and create a uniform policy in order to help parents and schools enforce phone bans (seen with King Charles in June)

Recent research has revealed that the average teenager spends 11 hours a day on screens, while 55 percent of children aged eight to 11 own a smartphone (stock image)

However, it was defeated by Labour MPs, who said official guidance already exists to this effect, and most schools do place restrictions on phone use.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer insisted that the focus should be on the putting a stop to the content that children should not be accessing, while Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson previously branded the proposal a headline-grabbing gimmick.

Currently, there is non-statutory guidance which says schools should prohibit phone use in the school day, but they are not legally obliged to follow it.

It comes after a teenager and a mother-of-three joined as claimants in legal action against the Government, saying the guidance does not go far enough in protecting pupils.

The legal challenge was launched in July by two fathers of primary school-aged children, Will Orr-Ewing and Pete Montgomery, who are calling for a total ban on smartphones say allowing unsupervised access to the internet during the school day is a safeguarding failure because of the extreme content pupils are able to view.

But, last month, private school leaders said an 'outright ban' would lack 'nuance' and that policies should be 'community specific', pointing to the use of phones to help parents track their children's movements and make sure they are getting to and from school safely.

A survey earlier this year found that 100 per cent of primary schools have a ban on mobile phone use, with a similar ban in in place in 83 per cent of secondary schools and a further 16 per cent allowing limited use outside lessons. Just one per cent of secondary schools polled by Teacher Tapp did not regulate use.

A Department for Education spokesman said: 'Phones have no place in our schools, and leaders already have the power to ban phones.

'Research from the Childrens Commissioner shows that 99.8 per cent of primary schools and 90 per cent of secondary schools already have policies restricting the use of mobile phones.

'We support headteachers to take the necessary steps to prevent disruption, backed by clear guidance, and have also brought in better protections for children from harmful content through the Online Safety Act.'
Paul Bettany has confessed that he thought his 'career was over' before landing the role of Vision in 2008's Iron Man alongside Robert Downey Jr.

The British actor, 54, went on to voice and appear as the supercomputer in another seven films, as well as spin-off series WandaVision and the upcoming VisionQuest in a cinematic universe which has netted a whopping 22 billion.

But just moments before landing the now iconic part, Paul, who had previously starred in Oscar winning A Beautiful Mind and smash hit The Da Vinci Code, was told he would 'never work again' by a Hollywood producer.

During an appearance on BBC Radio 2, he recalled the story to host Gary Davies: '[My career] was on the up, and I had turned down a movie of [the producers] and my son had just been born, and I think it just really stuck in his craw'.

Paul branded the unnamed producer an 'apex predator' and told him to 'mind his manners' before walking with his legs shaking, fearful the man was right.

'I sat down, I think i was on Sunset [Boulevard] and my phone rang and it was [Avengers director] Joss Whedon and he said "Do you want to play Vision?" And I said yes'.

Paul Bettany has confessed that he thought his 'career was over' before landing the role of Vision in 2008's Iron Man alongside Robert Downey Jr.

The British actor, 54, went on to voice and appear as the supercomputer (pictured) in another seven films, as well as spin-off series WandaVision and the upcoming VisionQuest

While Paul never returned to confront the producer, he admitted swearing at the building following his good news.

The actor shares son Stellan, 22, and daughter Agnes, 14, with actress wife Jennifer Connelly, 55, as well as son Kai, 27, from a previous relationship.

Vision was then killed by Thanos (Josh Brolin) in the Russo Brothers' 2018 film Avengers: Infinity War so he could retrieve the Mind Stone for his Infinity Gauntlet, which enabled him to snap his fingers and disintegrate half of all life across the universe.

Paul's character returned twice - as 'Ghost' Vision and 'White' Vision - for WandaVision, which aired in 2021 on Disney+ and 2026's VisionQuest.

Meanwhile Chris Evans is officially back as Captain America as he made his shocking return in the new teaser released for Avengers: Doomsday.

After over a year of rumors that the 44-year-old actor would be returning to his superhero role despite being written off it was confirmed with the official release of the short clip last last week.

And Evans back as Captain America AKA Steve Rogers was not the only big news from the minute-long clip as he is shown holding a baby with a smile on his face toward the end of it.

His inclusion in the trailer may be alarming for some as the 2019 blockbuster Avengers: Endgame ended after the defeat of Thanos (Josh Brolin) where Rogers returns the Infinity Stones to their original timeline, and elects to live in the past with his one true love, Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell).

But before landing the now iconic part, Paul, who had previously starred in Oscar smash hit The Da Vinci Code (pictured) was told he would 'never work again' by a Hollywood producer.

Paul branded the unnamed producer an 'apex predator' and told him to 'mind his manners' before walking with his legs shaking, fearful the man was right (Pictured in WandaVision)

Depsite being killed off Paul's character has returned twice - as 'Ghost' Vision and 'White' Vision - for WandaVision, which aired in 2021 on Disney+ and 2026's VisionQuest

He returns as an elderly man to pass his iconic Captain America shield, and therefore the title of Captain America, to Sam Wilson, a.k.a. The Falcon (Anthony Mackie).

Regardless, the teaser clip does indicate that he will be returning as his signature superhero character as he was seen looking at his Captain America outfit.

Evans played Steve Rogers AKA Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) from 2011s Captain America: The First Avenger until Avengers: Endgame in 2019.

In December 2024, it was claimed that he would be making a surprise appearance in the studios next crossover blockbuster in 2026 according to The Wrap.

While the outlet reported at the time the star would be returning to the MCU 'in some capacity' for Avengers: Doomsday, it was not confirmed which role Evans would be playing after the actor also recently appeared as Johnny Storm, aka the Human Torch, in Deadpool And Wolverine.

Evans is not the only Marvel Cinematic Universe staple making a return as he will be reuniting with his former Avengers co-star in the aforementioned Downey Jr., 60, who will be playing the antagonist Doctor Doom in Doomsday.

Chris Evans is officially back as Captain America as he made his shocking return in the new teaser released for Avengers: Doomsday last week

Avengers: Doomsday is set for release on December 18, 2026

The Oppenheimer star - who had fronted the MCU from its inception with 2008s Iron Man until Endgame 11 years later - was revealed to be returning to the franchise as its next big villain at San Diego Comic Con in July 2024, where it was also announced directors Joe and Anthony Russo would be back behind the camera for 'Doomsday'.

After being unveiled as the series next big bad, Downey Jr. explained how Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige pitched the role of Doctor Doom to him and his wife Susan Downey.

During an appearance on The Hollywood Reporters Awards Chatter podcast last year, he recalled: 'Susan and I were sitting down with Feige at one point, and he said, "It just keeps occurring to me that, if you were to come back" And Susan was like, "Wait, wait, come back as what?"

'And then we both realized, over time, that it was another thing that just disproves any doubt anyone could ever have about that guy.

'[Feige is] a very sophisticated, creative thinker about, "How can we not go backwards? How can we not disappoint expectations? How can we continue to beat expectations?"

'And he brought up Victor von Doom, and I looked into [the] character, and I was like, "Wow." And later on, he goes, "Let's get Victor von Doom right. Let's get that right."'
Lily Collins has said shes feeling the love as she celebrates Emily In Paris topping the Netflix charts and shared her favourite look from season five on Monday.

The actress, 36, who stars as marketing executive Emily Cooper in the series, took to Instagram to share a series of behind-the-scenes snaps from set.

The Netflix star looked sensational dressed in a bright red dress which boasted mesh patterned sleeves, matching tights and a ruffled skirt.

Lily's character is known for her over the top colourful outfits and revealed her favourite look this season was the 'lady in red', which she wore to a lunch in Venice thinking boyfriend Marcello Muratori (Eugenio Franceschini) was going to propose.

After finding a ring earlier in the series, Emily assumed Marcello was going to purpose during lunch as dessert was served.

However, after not getting down on one knee, her Italian boyfriend later pulled the engagement ring out during a gondala ride with her BFF Mindy and her partner where Marcello informs Emily the ring is for Mindy and not her.

Lily Collins has said shes feeling the love as she celebrates Emily In Paris topping the Netflix charts and shared her favourite look from season five on Monday

The actress, 36, who stars as marketing executive Emily Cooper in the series, took to Instagram to share a series of behind-the-scenes snaps from set

Lily wrote: 'Lady in red  one of my favorite looks. Thank you for making @emilyinparis #1 on @netflix for a whole week!

'We're feeling the love and couldn't do this without you...'

It comes after Lily shared a series of rare snaps of her baby girl Tove on Instagram on Thursday as she and her husband Charlie McDowell celebrated their daughter's first Christmas.

The actress welcomed Tove via surrogate earlier this year - and she gave fans a glimpse into the festive celebrations as she wished followers a Merry Christmas.

In one heartwarming snap, Lily was seen sitting by a roaring log fire as she watched the tot play with one of her new toys.

Another adorable photo showed Lily beaming as she held her daughter up for a festive selfie alongside her husband, Charlie, on Christmas Day.

Tove looked adorable in a green and red dress adorned with a gold star print, while other snaps captured her opening presents from a personalised red stocking and reading a children's book in matching red pyjamas.

Lily also treated fans to a loved-up snap with Charlie, a picture of a homemade wreath filled with lush green foliage, and sweet photos of their daughter at home during her first Christmas.

The Netflix star looked sensational dressed in a bright red dress which boasted mesh patterned sleeves, matching tights and a ruffled skirt

Lily's character is known for her colourful outfits and revealed her favourite look this season was the 'lady in red', which she wore to a lunch in Venice thinking boyfriend Marcello Muratori (Eugenio Franceschini) was going to propose

After finding a ring earlier in the series, Emily assumed Marcello was going to purpose during lunch as dessert was served

Lily showed off her unique glass red heels

Lily wrote: 'Lady in red  one of my favorite looks. Thank you for making @emilyinparis #1 on @netflix for a whole week! We're feeling the love and couldn't do this without you...'

She captioned the festive photo dump: 'Our lil Tove's first Christmas and we're feeling all the magic of the holidays. Soaking in these moments in every way. Wishing you and yours the merriest Christmas and happiest holiday season...'

It comes after Lily admitted that she 'struggled' to balance life as a new mum while filming the latest series of Emily in Paris.

The actress became a first-time mother after welcoming a baby girl via surrogacy with her husband, film director Charlie, in January.

Filming for the fifth season of the comedy drama began in May in Rome before moving to Paris later in the summer.

In a recent interview, Lily, the daughter of Phil Collins, insisted that she is just like any new parent, juggling the demands of a newborn while trying to balance her day job.

She told The Sun: 'You have a different purpose and it's really tough... It's a struggle, and I'm just so grateful to be able to do both.'

Lily continued: 'I said to everyone this year, 'I'm really good with memorisation, I'm really good with knowing my lines, but this year, give me some grace.

'I've not slept, I'm very tired, and I may not be on my game.'
Brigitte Bardot made her estranged son Nicolas-Jacques Charrier a promise before her death after admitting she'd rather 'give birth to a dog'.

The actress, who was best known as an international sex symbol before turning to animal rights activism, passed away aged 91 after a hospital stay in Toulon.

Brigitte gave birth to her son Nicolas-Jacques while married to actor Jacques Charrier in 1960, with whom she starred in the film 'Babette Goes to War'.

At the time, she expressed that the pregnancy was the greatest tragedy, and she never accepted motherhood.

'I looked at my flat, slender belly in the mirror like a dear friend upon whom I was about to close a coffin lid,' she wrote in her memoir.

After her inevitable divorce from Jacques in 1962, Nicolas did not see his mother for decades due to her harsh remarks.

Brigitte Bardot made her estranged son Nicolas-Jacques Charrier a promise before her death after admitting she'd rather 'give birth to a dog' (pictured with her son in 1960)

Nicolas-Jacques had an estranged relationship with his mother after she failed to accept motherhood

Her son later sued the actress for defamatory statements and non-payment of alimony.

However, in the final years of her life, Brigitte appeared to change her approach to speaking publicly about the rift between her and Nicolas-Jacques.

'I promised Nicolas I would never talk about him in my interviews,' she said in an interview with Paris Match, published in June 2024.

While Brigitte and Jacques were in the spotlight, Nicolas maintained a private life away from the cameras.

Now, 65, he is a businessman, known for founding the children's brand Choupette with his wife and Norwegian model Anne-Line Bjerkan.

The couple welcomed daughters Thea and Anna together, and later became grandparents to three children.

In the same interview with Le Point last year, Brigitte revealed she has two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.

'Yes, I'm the great-grandmother of three little Norwegian children who don't speak French and whom I rarely see,' she explained.

Brigitte gave birth to her son Nicolas while married to actor Jacques Charrier in 1960, with whom she starred in the film 'Babette Goes to War' (pictured 1959)

In the final years of her life, Brigitte appeared to change her approach to speaking publicly about the rift between her and Nicolas-Jacques

'I promised Nicolas I would never talk about him in my interviews,' she said in a 2024 interview

Brigitte was reclusive in her final years, instead preferring to remain out of the spotlight at her secluded and very private property in Saint Tropez (pictured in 2001)

Brigitte had suffered a great deal of ill health in recent months, and was frequently admitted to hospital.

In October, she was forced to release a statement confirming she was not dead, after an influencer put out a false report.

She took to X to announce: 'I don't know who the idiot is who started this fake news about my disappearance this evening, but know that I am fine and that I have no intention of bowing out. A word to the wise.'

She was soon back at her home in Saint-Tropez following three weeks of treatment for an unspecified condition.

The star, who married and divorced three times before settling with her fourth husband Bernard d'Ormale in 1992, retired from acting in 1973 to focus on her passionate animal rights activism.

But she drew controversy with her engagement in far-right politics, which saw her endorse National Rally leader Marine Le Pen and be fined six times for inciting racial hatred.

The star was reclusive in her final years, instead preferring to remain out of the spotlight at her secluded and very private property in Saint Tropez.
Rebel Wilson has shared a struggle that many parents can relate to over the festive season.

The Australian actress, 45, posted a sweet image of her three-year-old mini-me daughter Royce enjoying Christmas holidays and admitted she was 'exhausted' attempting to keep up with the toddler.

'To all the Mums out there in the school holidays - how do you do it? I'm exhausted!' Rebel confessed in her caption.

'Just trying to give my cutie a better life than what I had,' she added.

Rebel went on to explain that her wife, Ramona Agruma, seems to have her parenting skills locked down.

'Ramona is the best mother and does everything with ease! She's amazing!' Rebel added.

Rebel Wilson (right) has shared a struggle that many parents can relate to over the festive season. The Australian actress, 45, posted a sweet image of her three-year-old mini-me daughter Royce (left) enjoying Christmas holidays and admitted she was 'exhausted'

Rebel has been keeping her tot busy, this week delighting fans by sharing adorable footage of Royce at the theatre.

The Pitch Perfect star posted a clip to social media on Sunday night which captured her taking her toddler to see a musical at London's Savoy Theatre.

Rebel beamed with joy as she watched the show alongside her daughter on the monitors, clearly having a wonderful time.

She excitedly told fans, 'Me and Royce watching Paddington!'

'Roycie, where's Paddington?' Rebel asked, to which her daughter eagerly shouted 'Here!' while pointing at the screen.

'Taking my daughter to the theatre well, to the monitors! In a few years, it will be the real theatre,' Rebel added, sharing a sweet glimpse of their mother-daughter moment.

Rebel and wife Ramona welcomed Royce via surrogacy on November 7, 2022, having publicly confirmed her relationship with Agruma five months prior.

The pair officially tied the knot in Sardinia, Italy, on September 28, 2024, with their daughter acting as their flower girl.

'To all the Mums out there in the school holidays - how do you do it? I'm exhausted!' Rebel confessed in her caption. 'Just trying to give my cutie a better life than what I had,' she added

Rebel has been keeping her tot busy, this week delighting fans by sharing adorable footage of Royce at the theatre and enjoying an upmarket meal

The Bridesmaids actress and her partner initially intended to get married in a beach wedding in 2025, but Rebel decided to move up the date.

The couple first met in 2021 and announced their engagement in February 2023.

DailyMail.com exclusively shared the news of their nuptials, revealing the couple were 'thrilled' to be tying the knot.

In April, Rebel revealed Royce is living up to her high-end luxury name on The Jonathan Ross Show.

During the chat, the Australian actress expressed regret about naming Royce after the British luxury car brand, Rolls-Royce, and joked that she is starting to become high maintenance.

'I probably shouldn't have named her after a British luxury car brand, she's a bit high maintenance,' Rebel said.

'She's two and a half now. She's conned me into massaging her feet before she goes to sleep. I was doing it last night for almost an hour.

'I said, 'I should have called you Volvo.' I don't know why I got suckered into that.'

Rebel went on to explain that her wife, Ramona Agruma (right), seems to have her parenting skills locked down. 'Ramona is the best mother and does everything with ease! She's amazing!' Rebel added

Earlier this month, it was revealed that Rebel and Ramona are expanding their family.

The actress and the Lemon Ve Limon fashion entrepreneur, 41, announced they are expecting their second child together.

They shared the joyful news in a heartwarming Instagram reveal posted December 8.

Ramona, who is pregnant with the couple's newest addition, confirmed the milestone with a photo carousel documenting the journey from Disneyland fun to a positive pregnancy test and a growing baby bump.

'From this,' she wrote over images of the couple enjoying a festive day at the theme park with their daughter Royce.

'To... Baby number 2 is on her way,' the caption continued, followed by a series of red hearts.
Lady Clara Paget is enjoying a particularly special festive season after giving birth to a boy with her husband, ex-Burberry model Oscar Tuttiett, just days before Christmas Day.

The actress and model, 37, announced the arrival of their son, Bodhi Benedict Tuttiett, on Instagram, sharing intimate family snaps as they introduced their newborn to big brother Ludo, three.

The daughter of the 8th Marquess of Anglesey, who starred in Fast & Furious 6, the action-adventure series Black Sails and Lena Dunham's Netflix series Too Much, posted heartwarming photos of the family of four at home in London following the birth, which friends have described as 'a Christmas miracle'.

Clara captioned her post: 'Bodhi Benedict Tuttiett' along with symbols of a love heart, a crescent moon, a snowflake and a peace sign.

One snap shows her cradling Bodhi - whose name means 'awakening' and 'enlightenment' in Sanskrit - while seated beside Ludo, who gazes lovingly at his new brother.

Another image shows proud dad Oscar, 37, a model turned concert promoter, tenderly holding Bodhi, his hand gently resting on the baby's head as he gazes adoringly at his son.

Lady Clara Paget has announced the 'Christmas miracle' birth of her second son Bodhi Benedict Tuttiett with her model husband Oscar Tuttiett

The actress, 37, announced the arrival of their son, Bodhi Benedict Tuttiett, on Instagram, sharing intimate family snaps as they introduced their newborn to big brother Ludo, three

Socialite Lady Mary Charteris, 38 - a scion of the Guinness brewing and banking dynasty - commented on the post: 'A Christmas miracle! Amazing. So happy for yall xxxxxxx'

Ray Winstone's actress daughter Jaime, 40, added: 'Wow beautiful my loves.. well done, he is Perfect,' alongside a string of heart emojis.

Sir Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall's model daughter Georgia May Jagger, 33, shared: 'Omg!! Congratulations bodhi is perfect. Sending you so much love xxxx.'

Earlier this week, Clara shared glimpses of the family's first Christmas together as a foursome, with festive photos showing her feeding Bodhi while Ludo played nearby.

Another sweet shot showed the new mum looking radiant as she held her baby, captioning the post: 'Happy Christmas from the puddin' factory xx'.

Clara, who has starred in Burberry campaigns with Oscar and close friends Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn, announced her pregnancy in June at Charli XCX's concert at London's Lido Festival.

The expectant mum shared photos of herself on Instagram wearing a sparkly crop top emblazoned with the word 'bebe' - French for baby - with the caption: 'Brat 2 in production' - a nod to Charli XCX's hit album.

Friends offered their congratulations, with Paris Hilton commenting at the time: 'Congratulations love!' while model Jourdan wrote: 'Congratulations'.

Earlier this week, Clara shared glimpses of the family's first Christmas together as a foursome, with festive photos showing her feeding Bodhi while Ludo played nearby

One snap shows her cradling Bodhi - whose name means 'awakening' and 'enlightenment' in Sanskrit - while seated beside Ludo, who gazes lovingly at his new brother

Another image shows proud dad Oscar, 37, a model turned concert promoter, tenderly holding Bodhi, his hand gently resting on the baby's head as he gazes adoringly at his son

Socialite Lady Mary Charteris, 38 - a scion of the Guinness brewing and banking dynasty - commented on the post: 'A Christmas miracle! Amazing. So happy for yall xxxxxxx'

Clara announced her pregnancy in June at Charli XCX's concert at London's Lido Festival

Clara and Oscar tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in July 2021.

The low-key wedding was attended by close friends including actress Jaime Winstone, socialite Lady Mary Charteris and Willa Keswick, whose family own the multi-billion pound Hong Kong conglomerate Jardine Matheson.

Clara looked breathtaking in a custom figure-hugging gown with delicate lace capped sleeves made by Sienna Miller's fashion designer sister Savannah Miller.

Before the big day, her best friend, model Cara, 33, threw her a 'wild' and 'debauched' hen party dubbed 'Claztonbury', where guests dressed up and enjoyed a party that became the stuff of legend in their social circle.

Clara donned a bridal gown while Cara dressed as Alicia Silverstone from the film Clueless, with the celebrations including a sword fight and a fake raid prank.

The couple welcomed their first son, Ludo - which means 'famous warrior', stemming from Germanic roots - in the summer of 2022.
Nadia Sawalha shared her heartbreak following the death of her friend after fighting to reverse a block on a cancer drug that could have extended her life.

The Loose Women star, 61, campaigned for the use of the pioneering drug and even stood outside parliament topless in a bid to raise awareness for the ban.

During her lifetime, Nadia and Hannah Gardner fought tirelessly for the drug to be made available, however their petition was not accepted.

Nadia announced the death of her friend on Sunday, after she passed away aged 39 following a stage four incurable breast cancer diagnosis, which spread to her liver.

Their campaign to revoke the medication ban included making a bold statement outside of parliament in July 2024.

Nadia joined a group of 31 women, all of whom have been affected by the disease, to campaign for the 'game-changing' drug.

Nadia Sawalha shared her heartbreak following the death of her friend after fighting to reverse a block on a cancer drug that could have extended her life (pictured with Hannah Gardner)

The Loose Women star, 61, campaigned for the use of the pioneering drug and even stood outside parliament topless in a bid to raise awareness for the ban

Nadia announced the death of her friend on Sunday, after she passed away aged 39 following a stage four incurable breast cancer diagnosis, which spread to her liver

31 represented the number of lives that are lost to metastatic breast cancer each day in the UK.

The women stripped off in a desperate bid 'to be seen' and heard by the Labour government, with their chests painted by artist Sophie Tea.

The group were decorated with a range of powerful messages including 'We could be your sister', 'Our lives count', 'Help us to live' and asking 'Now do you see us?'.

The drug, Enhertu is available in Scotland and 14 other countries, but not currently in England and Wales.

Enhertu costs about 8000 per session and is currently only available privately in England.

Nadia, patients, campaigners and charities had been lobbying decision makers for months to approve the life-prolonging treatment for women with a subtype of incurable breast cancer called HER2-LOW but were met by what they call a 'deafening silence'.

She said at the time: 'We are here to be heard. If this is what it takes to turn heads back in our direction and put Enhertu back on the agenda, so be it. We have been ignored for too long.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson added: 'It will be the mission of this government to build an NHS fit for the future.

'An important part of this means patients having access to the most new and innovative medicines that both work and are cost effective for our healthcare system.

The drug, Enhertu is available in Scotland and 14 other countries, but not currently in England and Wales. Enhertu costs about 8000 per session and is currently only available privately in England (pictured Hannah)

'We are currently waiting for NICE to publish its final guidance on Enhertu. NICE and NHS England stand ready to consider any new improved commercial offer from the suppliers.'

A UK spokesperson for global pharmaceutical company Daiichi Sankyo said: '17 other European countries, including Scotland and most recently Romania, have already delivered routine funding for patient access to trastuzumab deruxtecan for HER2-low metastatic breast cancer patients.

'Here in England and Wales, the NICE severity modifier stands in the way of patient access by devaluing the severity of devastating diseases like metastatic breast cancer. This system requires urgent change so that these patients have fair access to trastuzumab deruxtecan and other important cancer medicines in the future.'

Months earlier, Nadia broke down in tears as she told MailOnline about her 'powerhouse' pal Hannah.

They were left 'reeling' after learning the pioneering cancer drug was blocked for use in England.

Nadia condemned the decision by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence who said that the cost the NHS was being asked to pay for trastuzumab deruxtecan - known as Enhertu  was 'too high'.

The TV personality revealed that Enhertu had the potential of giving Hannah, who has a five-year-old daughter, another six months of life.

In an exclusive interview, Nadia told the Daily Mail: 'We've got this young woman, with a young autistic child, with secondary breast cancer in her liver, in her lung, and she's also supposed to be basically begging for this drug. And it just seems brutal.'

The TV personality revealed that Enhertu had the potential of giving her close friend Hannah, who has a three-year-old daughter, another six months of life

Nadia gushed: 'She's a powerhouse and I do worry about that because she needs to also be looking after herself, but we've got her, you know, me and our group of friends are very engaged and there for in every way.

'We're a group of friends, we all met on a trek raising money for breast cancer, about seven years ago, there's four of us, we call ourselves the Fab Four and we say we're holding you...'

Fighting back tears, Nadia continued: 'She's the youngest one in the group and she was diagnosed 11 years ago and she's been on such a wheel, she's been told that she's had cancer four times and she never falters.

'I've seen her be given so much bad news just in the the years that I've known her and she breaks for like a minute. It's really strange to watch and it might sound like a weird thing but it's always a privilege to watch, she's so focused and I love watching her with the oncologists who are just all fantastic and the way that she advocates and talks about the drug.'

Hannah, a former clinical trial manage, issued a devastating health update days before, explaining that the tumours in her liver are growing.

She was given her primary breast cancer diagnosis in 2013 after discovering a lump in her left breast, and after undergoing treatment, the disease has returned twice, in 2017 and again 2020.

In June 2022, Hannah received the heartbreaking news that she has stage four incurable breast cancer, which has now spread to her liver.

In an exclusive interview, Nadia told MailOnline: 'She's a powerhouse and I do worry about that because she needs to also be looking after herself, but we've got her, you know, me and our group of friends are very engaged and there for in every way.'

Holding back tears, Nadia continued: 'She's the youngest one in the group and she was diagnosed 11 years ago and she's been on such a wheel, she's been told that she's had cancer four times and she never falters.' (Nadia and Hannah on Loose Women'

Hannah explained on Instagram: 'I've been hit with probably the worst news I've had yet. Progression. All tumours in my liver are growing. There are now four big ones with lots of little spots popping up. I'm scared, I can't lie.'

Hannah waited months to learn whether she would be eligible for groundbreaking new treatment Enhertu, and said she was 'crushed' to learn it had been blocked by the NHS.

Enhertu is the first licensed targeted treatment for patients with HER2-low breast cancer, that cannot be removed surgically or has spread to other parts of the body, also known as metastatic breast cancer.

Chemotherapy is usually offered as a treatment, but if the targeted therapy had been made available, around 1,000 patients a year would have been eligible.

Trials of the drug found it boosted the time the cancer was held at bay from seven months to over two years  results that were called 'mind-blowing' by experts.

Nadia says every minute counts with the terminal disease, and the drug would give Hannah precious time to make more happy memories with daughter Lilah.

She explained: 'We want that drug available to them. It's a great drug that targets the tumour and doesn't blast the whole body, you know, we need it.

'I think anybody that you speak to in the secondary breast cancer community will say they feel that they are pushed to one side.

'It is like a punch in the stomach, we are absolutely reeling.'

Speaking on how the drug could give Hannah six more months of life, Nadia said: 'For Hannah, she wants to hear her child say just even one word with her being autistic, so that she knows she's gonna be all right.'

While the NHS in England blocked use of the drug, it has been allowed in Scotland, and after Nadia shared Hannah's story on social media, she was inundated with offers from well-wishers offering their address for her friend to register.

Nadia says every minute counts with the terminal disease, and the drug would give Hannah precious time to make more happy memories with daughter Lilah and her husband

Speaking on how the drug could give Hannah six more months of life, Nadia said: 'For Hannah, she wants to hear her child say just even one word with her being autistic, so that she knows she's gonna be all right.

An NHS spokesperson said at the time: 'NHS England expected drug companies AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo to offer this treatment at a price that would enable Nice to recommend its use for patients with secondary breast cancer.

'We are deeply disappointed that AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo have not been willing to price this treatment to enable approval, therefore denying NHS patients the opportunity to access this latest advance in care.'

AstraZeneca UK's President says: 'This is a devastating decision and one which is out of step with other countries including Scotland. Sadly, the rigid application of a flawed methodology has here been prioritised ahead of doing what's right for breast cancer patients in England and Wales.

'This sits extremely uncomfortably and we call on NICE to reverse this decision and expedite an urgent review of their disease severity modifier, in this case it clearly isn't working in the interests of patients.'

Announcing the news of her friend's death, Nadia posted a picture of Hannah wearing a sparkly dress sitting on a swing, alongside the caption: 'Rest in peace now darling'.

The TV personality also shared a heartfelt message to Hannah in the caption of the post, describing her own emotions as 'shocked and distraught'.

She wrote: 'Our beautiful Hannah... Although we knew it was coming we are all so deeply shocked and distraught. No need to be brave anymore darling you can now rest in peace, and all the love you created.

'You were and will forever be deeply loved... To all the staff at The Princess Alice Hospice in Esher, the kindness and care you showed not only to Hannah, but also to her friends and family was extraordinary. Thank you. #fabfourfoever.'

Nadia received support in the comments section, including from her husband Mark Adderley, who wrote: 'Just so so heartbreaking - a beautiful woman - a beautiful friend - a beautiful mother - just can't believe it'.

Others wrote: 'Beautiful Han. She loved you all so much Nadia. What a woman. She will be so missed'; 'So so sorry to hear this news'; 'So sorry for your loss.. it's too sad but so glad she's not in pain. Love and hugs'.

The TV personality also shared a heartfelt message to Hannah in the caption of the post, describing her own emotions as 'shocked and distraught'
Ferne McCann has revealed the results of her health and fitness journey over the past two years with inspiring comparison snaps.

The former TOWIE star, 35, who is mum to daughters Sunday, eight, and Finty, two, posted a recent photo of herself in a blue bikini, flaunting her gym-honed physique.

She also shared a snap of herself taken just before she embarked on her long-term health plan, weeks after she welcomed her second child.

Sharing the photos to her business Instagram @fernutrition, Ferne told her followers that she and her best pal and fellow ex TOWIE star Danielle Armstrong would be spilling their health plan secrets in an upcoming Instagram live.

Ferne has been candid about her weight loss journey and revealed last year she had shed 2.5 stone after overhauling her lifestyle with a focus on nutrition and high-intensity interval training.

She has kept up her healthy lifestyle and maintained her weight over the past year, sharing regular updates on social media.

Ferne McCann has revealed the results of her health and fitness journey over the past two years with inspiring comparison snaps

Last month she shared a photo from the gym as she explained how 'over the past month my body composition has completely shifted. I feel leaner, tighter, more defined and honestly stronger than ever.'

'I havent massively changed my routineIve simply followed my nutrition plan, been extra mindful with my calories and fuelled my body with goodness. And guess what the secret is? Consistency!'

In an October 2025 post Ferne proudly declared that 'over the past 7 years Ive lost weight & cut body fat (after 2 pregnancies), toned up, fuelled myself through training for SAS and maintained too. And not once have I felt bored or restricted!'

She listed what she eats in a day which includes a high fibre salted caramel smoothie for breakfast a 'power plate' for lunch consisting of avocado, hard boiled eggs, and tomatoes and a chicken and bone broth noodle soup for dinner.

'This is how I eat to maintain my fat loss results - steady energy, balanced meals, snacks that actually hit the spot and a routine that I can keep up long term,' she explained.

'Eating regularly (and yes, snacking!) keeps my metabolism firing, my blood sugar balanced, and my mood in check all key when your goal is fat loss or maintenance.'

Ferne and fiance Lorri Haines welcomed their first child together, Finty, in July 2023 after getting engaged in July 2022.

She also has a daughter, Sunday, eight, with her previous partner, Arthur Collins, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for an acid attack.

Ferne has been candid about her weight loss journey and revealed last year she shed 2.5 stone after overhauling her lifestyle with a focus on nutrition and high-intensity interval training

She has kept up her healthy lifestyle and maintained her weight over the past year, sharing regular updates on social media

Ferne shared photos of herself in August 2023 after the birth of her youngest daughter Finty and before she embarked on her lifestyle overhaul - pictured right in April 2024

Ferne and fiance Lorri Haines welcomed their first child together, Finty, in July 2023 after getting engaged in July 2022. She also has a daughter, Sunday, eight, with her previous partner, Arthur Collins

Lorri popped the question to Ferne in July 2022 during a romantic holiday in France, just seven months after they first met.

However, more than three years later and the couple are still no closer to walking down the aisle, with Ferne confessing they 'still have no plans to get married' and predicting they will have 'the worlds longest engagement'.

At the start of the year, the Dancing On Ice star previously revealed she was not in a rush to tie the knot, explaining that 2025 was already shaping up to be a 'big year'.

She insisted that she couldn't take on the 'added stress' that came with the 'mammoth task' of planning a wedding, but suggested their nuptials could come in 2026.
Kim Kardashian and her ex-husband Kanye West quietly reunited over the Christmas holidays, spending time together with their four children in a rare show of unity following years of public tension.

According to TMZ, the former couple put aside their long-running differences to celebrate the holidays as a family, with sources describing the atmosphere as cordial and focused on their children, North, 12, Saint, 9, Chicago, 7, and Psalm, 5.

Sources with direct knowledge told the outlet that the former couple were respectful toward one another and are actively working on improving their co-parenting relationship, marking a notable shift after years of estrangement and public conflict.

The reconciliation comes after what TMZ described as a sustained effort by West to reflect on his past behavior.

Sources said the rapper has been 'working on himself' and has spent considerable time reassessing his actions earlier this year, including his widely condemned antisemitic remarks and praise of Adolf Hitler.

TMZ also reported that West has become more supportive of daughter North's growing social media presence.

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West quietly reunited over the Christmas holidays, spending time together with their four kids in a rare show of unity after years of public tension (seen in 2018)

Despite viral A.I.-generated videos circulating on TikTok, sources said West approves of North's online activity and has even encouraged her to share music and creative content connected to him.

While West was initially hesitant about North being on social media at a young age, sources told TMZ that he now embraces her individuality and creativity, including her bold fashion choices and blue hair.

The holiday reunion stands in sharp contrast to Kardashian's recent public admissions about the strain of co-parenting with West.

The Daily Mail has contacted Kardashian and West's respective representatives for comment.

Last month, the SKIMS founder spoke candidly about their challenges on an episode of The Kardashians, admitting the relationship sometimes pushes her to the brink.

During a car ride with Scott Disick, Kardashian said she finds it 'frustrating' when West questions her 'character as a mom.'

'Sometimes I just feel like snapping, but I can't. I just can't,' she said.

Kardashian emphasized that her priority remains providing stability for their children, saying her 'only focus and job' is to stay 'strong' as the more consistent and present parent.

When an off-camera producer pointed out that her ex is 'very loud out there,' she replied, 'I just can't really engage. I think it's just for the better.'

The former couple put aside their long-running differences to celebrate the holidays as a family, with sources describing the atmosphere as cordial

The pair share four children: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm

The billionaire mogul previously broke down in tears while discussing co-parenting during a 2022 appearance on the Angie Martinez IRL podcast, explaining that she has tried to shield her children from 'all of the crazy s***' surrounding West's public outbursts.

'I had the best dad,' Kardashian said emotionally, referencing her late father Robert Kardashian. 'S*** like co-parenting  it's really f***ing hard.'

Kardashian and West married in Italy in 2014, less than a year after welcoming their eldest child, North.

Kardashian filed for divorce in February 2021, and the split was finalized the following year. West has since married Australian model and architect Bianca Censori.

Despite the difficulties, Kardashian has repeatedly insisted she has never interfered with West's relationship with their children.

On Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast in October, she acknowledged the situation 'really sucks' but said she avoids publicly pushing back against online narratives.

'I'm just not that girl online that's gonna fight back,' she said, adding that while she has come close, she prioritizes peace over public battles.
December 27, 2025: The origins of the current East Asian military rivalries between China, Taiwan, South Korea and Japan go back centuries. During that period, the Chinese empire, the last one of dozens that had ruled China for thousands of years, was defeated and humiliated by a resurgent and militarized Japanese empire. The 18941895 First Sino-Japanese War confirmed that the last Chinese empire was corrupt, weak and unable to withstand the attacks by the emerging Japanese empire. Japan had gone from a backward, isolationist feudal society in 1853, to a westernized, modernized and militarized empire by the 1880s. In doing so, Japan was the first nation in East Asia to undergo the Industrial Revolution. China did not do so until the 1980s.

China had been an empire for long periods during the past four thousand years, with about as long periods of being several different states or during civil wars. Modern Japan was inspired by Europe, which began industrializing in the 1760s, followed by the United States a few decades later. By industrializing before anyone else in East Asia, Japan was able to defeat the Chinese empire in the 1894 Battle of Yalu. The Yalu River was in Korea, then a client state of the Chinese empire. By defeating Chinese forces at sea and on land in Korea, Japan was able to take Korea for itself, in addition to Taiwan. A Japanese army marched out of Korea into China to force the Chinese to cede Korea to them. At the end of the 19th century, Japan got into a war with the Russian empire over possession of Manchuria. Japan defeated the Russians on land, and at sea in the Battle of Tsushima. These two victories startled Europeans, who never expected any East Asian nation to defeat a European force. Japan then controlled Korea and Chinas Manchuria. During 1914-1918 World War I, Japan sided with the allies and was able to seize German island territories. One of the reasons for Japan starting the World War II War in the Pacific was Japanese generals resentment at how little Japan received from joining the Allies in World War I.

Japan lost in World War II, the only war the revived Japanese Empire had ever lost. Japan lost all its overseas possessions and for nearly half a century remained a military nonentity in East Asia. The resurgence of China in the late 20th Century prompted the Japanese to rearm.

China is no longer an empire but rather a socialist dictatorship that encourages free enterprise. China is now dependent on foreign trade. They are the second largest trading country in the world, after the United States. This is another result of the Battle of Yalu, one of many things that this 1894 conflict triggered.
Sophie Kasaei has confirmed she and boyfriend Jordan Brooks will discover the gender of her baby after her Christmas holiday in Greece.

The Only Way Is Essex and Geordie Shore star, 36, who first started dating Jordan in 2022, said the gender reveal was imminent during a Q&A with Instagram followers, conducted from her Greek villa.

When asked about their gender reveal, she said she was 'very, very excited' before Jordan added: 'It's going to be sooner than you think.'

Sophie continued: 'I mean we could probably find out now, I don't know we haven't got the scans yet.'

Jordan then confessed that he changes his mind everyday when thinking about the gender of his unborn child.

However, Sophie appeared more definite as she said: 'I do have a strong feeling about what it is but I don't know.

Sophie Kasaei has confirmed she and boyfriend Jordan Brooks will discover the gender of her baby after her Christmas holiday in Greece.

The Only Way Is Essex and Geordie Shore star who first started dating Jordan in 2022, said the gender reveal was imminent during a Q&A with Instagram followers

'We do find out when we get home next week, omg! we get the scan. But we won't know until the gender reveal.'

While Sophie looked to be in good spirits, she explained that she has been struggling with pregnancy.

In response to another question, she admitted: 'The pregnancy bit is not for the fainthearted. I just want the baby. We are nearly half way.

'But I think now that I'm in my second trimester, like, things are going a little bit quicker.'

The couple announced they were expecting their first child together earlier this month after a two-year battle to conceive.

Sophie gave an update on her fertility struggles in September after she suffered a chemical pregnancy while trying for a baby with Jordan.

A chemical pregnancy is a very early pregnancy loss that usually happens just after the embryo implants.

When asked about their gender reveal, she said she was 'very, very excited' before Jordan added: 'It's going to be sooner than you think'

Sophie, and her boyfriend Jordan announced they were expecting their first child together earlier this month after a two-year battle to conceive

The Geordie Shore star and Jordan took a new step in their journey to becoming parents as they started a new form of therapy.

Sophie revealed she had started Lymphocyte Immunisation Therapy (LIT), which 'involves analysing a patients immune system and administering appropriate immune therapy', according to The Fertility And Gynaecology Academy.

Taking to Instagram, the TV personality penned: 'After 28 months, our fertility journey continues.

'Today we are heading to @fertilysis to start our first round of Lit therapy amongst other treatments. Our biggest leap forwards on our journey in what feels like forever.

'As a team we are taking every day, week and month as it comes. We will not give up. Thank you to every single friend, member of our families and everyone else who continues to reach out with kind words and support it really does mean the world.

'To those who are also in the same boat. Keep going. Keep communicating and keep exploring.'
She's known for her risque ensembles and raunchy Instagram photos.

And Love Island Australia star Margarita Smith has turned up the heat yet again, this time by posting photos of herself exposing her bare derriere in a mesh babydoll dress on Christmas morning.

In the photos, the OnlyFans siren, 31, was seen posing in the mirror and kneeling in front of her Christmas tree to pick up her presents  exposing her bare buttocks to the camera.

She paired her pale pink frock  which featured white fur around the bust and matching fur baubles at the back  with a white bow hair clip and a full face of makeup.

In other photos, she was seen getting handsy with her shirtless fiance Jake Driessen.

'Christmas Morning with my Love,' she captioned the images, before tagging the brand that created her eye-popping ensemble.

Love Island Australia star Margarita Smith has turned up the heat by posting photos of herself wearing a completely see-through mesh babydoll dress on Christmas morning

Margarita exposed her bare backside in the skimpy ensemble

It comes after Margarita was left heartbroken just days before Christmas last year after her house was robbed and ransacked.

The TV star shared footage of the devastating aftermath of the burglary to her Instagram Stories, which showed a police van out the front of her Melbourne home.

Officers could be seen heading inside to assess the damage.

The house was absolutely trashed, with broken items strewn around the floor and Christmas gifts torn apart.

'Broken into right before Christmas. Spending the day with the police,' she wrote in one caption.

Clearly distraught, the former reality show siren expressed her disgust at her home being violated.

A second post read: 'Imagine turning someone's house upside down like this after breaking in and stealing ALL their expensive items? Disgusting'.

Margarita shot to fame after appearing on Channel Nine's Love Island Australia in 2019.

Margarita kneeled in front of her Christmas tree to pick up her presents  exposing her bare buttocks to the camera

In other photos, she was seen getting handsy with her shirtless fiance Jake Driessen

It comes after Margarita was left heartbroken just days before Christmas last year after her house was robbed and ransacked

Margarita shot to fame after appearing on Channel Nine's Love Island Australia in 2019

She has since gone on to make a career for herself as an influencer and OnlyFans content creator.

In 2023, the stunner announced her engagement to her long-term boyfriend Jake Driessen.

Margarita shared a loved-up video to Instagram capturing the precious moment Jake proposed to her while they were on holiday in Bali.

The heartwarming footage showed Margarita meeting Jake at a scenic beachside location moments before he surprises her by proposing.

Jake is seen kneeling on the ground and pulling out a ring, as Margarita immediately accepts his proposal and warmly embraces him.

'WE ARE ENGAGED! I still cry watching this. My favourite human ever flew to Bali and surprised me by asking me to be his wife,' she wrote next to the footage.
Jo Martin has announced the tragic death of her grand-nephew Isiah after losing his battle with cancer on Christmas Day aged just 21.

The Holby City actress, 56, who played neurosurgeon Max McGerry in the axed medical drama, took to Instagram on Sunday as she revealed her heartbreak at the devastating loss.

Alongside a snap of Isaiah she penned: 'My beautiful Grand Nephew he left us on Christmas morning 2025 RIP Isaiah. Truly heartbreaking only 21. Cancer is a b****'.

Later taking to her stories Jo, who also played The Fugitive Doctor in Doctor Who, said her family were equally heartbroken and longed to bring him back.

Fans and famous friends rushed to share their condolences with Doctor Who show-runner Russell T Davies writing: 'Im so sorry darling'.

And Holby City co-star David Ames, who played Dominic Copeland, said: 'Oh Jo Im so so sorry. It really is. Sending you so much love xxx'.

Jo Martin has announced the tragic death of her grand-nephew Isiah after losing his battle with cancer on Christmas Day aged just 21

Amanda Mealing, who played Connie Beauchamp in Holby and Casualty wrote: 'Oh! Babe, I can feel your heart breaking and theres nothing we can do. But please know if we could, we would'.

'All we can offer is to show how deeply you are loved. Please use all or any of us when you want to scream . And have faith you will be embraced unconditionally You have a huge tribe out here and we will catch you, babe. Im just sorry I cant change it for you'

While fellow Actress Zawe Ashton added: 'No? This is a tragedy Jo. Im so so sorry for your whole family. Prayers for his safe passage'.

It comes after Jo's fellow Doctor Who star David Tennant has reflected on his Doctor Who debut, recalling the 'pressure and scrutiny' for taking on the legendary role.

The Scottish actor, 54, first appeared as The Tenth Doctor on BBC's screens during the show's Christmas Special in 2005.

'You're in everyone's living room on Christmas Day. There was a lot of pressure and a lot of scrutiny,' he said on The Whoniverse Show.

'But also how joyous to be in the middle.'

The 2005 Christmas special first introduced what would eventually became an annual tradition of Doctor Who's revival.

The Holby City actress, 56, who played neurosurgeon Max McGerry in the axed medical drama, took to Instagram on Sunday as she revealed her heartbreak at the devastating loss

Later taking to her stories Jo, who also played The Fugitive Doctor in Doctor Who, said her family were equally heartbroken and longed to bring him back

She penned: 'My beautiful Grand Nephew he left us on Christmas morning 2025 RIP Isaiah. Truly heartbreaking only 21. Cancer is a b****' (Pictured in Holby City)

Fan sand famous friends were quick to share their condolences

But despite the initial pressure, the Harry Potter star said it quickly felt natural to become the Time Lord - as he was a long-time fan of the series.

'People are always like, 'Oh, how did you decide how your Doctor was going to be, how you were going to talk? Did you and Russell have long conversations? Did you sit up all night discussing the ins and outs of character choices?'

'And we absolutely didn't at all. It just made sense. It didn't feel like there were conversations to be had.'

Discussing how both he and Russell, 62, had spent their lives watching Doctor Who, David added: 'I felt like I absolutely understood how he'd written it.

'When they're written that well, you just need to say the words. So it was not something that ever felt mysterious to me.'

The actor left Doctor Who in 2010 but returned to the franchise in 2023, coinciding with the show's 60th anniversary.

His interview comes as his daughter Olive landed a major acting role alongside him in the second season of the Disney+ drama Rivals.

Jo is also known for her role in Doctor Who (pictured)

It comes after Jo's fellow Doctor Who star David Tennant has reflected on his Doctor Who debut, recalling the 'pressure and scrutiny' for taking on the legendary role (pictured 2005)

The 14-year-old actress will play Camilla Baddingham, the daughter of David's character, Lord Tony Baddingham.

According to The Sun, Olive has already begun filming scenes with her father, as well as young actress Amelie Child-Villiers, who will portray her on-screen sister Beatrice Baddingham.

The upcoming season marks the first time David and his daughter will have appeared together on screen.

Confirming the news, a Disney+ spokesperson told the publication: 'We can confirm that Olive Tennant, alongside fellow actor Amelie Child-Villiers, has been cast in the latest season of Rivals.

'They will be portraying Tony and Monica Baddinghams daughters, Beatrice and Camilla.'

This won't be Olive's first television role, having previously appeared in the Oscar-nominated 2021 film Belfast and the BBC comedy-drama series Avoidance.
She recently made headlines after unveiling her dramatic weight loss at the Starry Night charity gala in September.

And AFL WAG Jessie Murphy once again revealed her slimmed-down frame in a skimpy designer ensemble as she attended an event at The Lodge Wadjemup on Rottnest Island on Monday.

The 35-year-old model took to Instagram with photos of herself posing at the resort in a cleavage-baring sheer column dress by Alex Perry worth $1850.

Using her long blonde hair extensions to cover her exposed chest in the see-through number, she completed her look with a plum-hued Bottega Veneta clutch bag worth $5,350 and $89 shoes by Billini.

For makeup, Jessie wore a heavy base with peach-hued blush, taupe eye shadow, nude lipstick and thick false lashes.

Getting as much mileage out of her look as possible, Jessie also shared a video of herself pouting and strutting around the hotel pool.

AFL WAG Jessie Murphy, 35, revealed her slimmed-down frame in a skimpy designer ensemble as she attended an event at The Lodge Wadjemup on Rottnest Island on Monday

The influencer made sure to tag her glam squad, and provided links to the items she was wearing.

Her famous friends were quick to heap praise on Jessie.

Rebecca Judd left a love-heart emoji alongside the post, as did her sister Kate Twigley.

Meanwhile, model Erin Holland kept things short and sweet, adding: 'Glamour.'

Nadia Bartel also joined the chorus of gushing friends, writing, 'Love.'

Model Ellie Gonsalves was also stopped dead in her tracks by the sight, commenting, 'Wow', beside the post.

'Gorgeous, my love,' added make-up artist Holly Garvey.

The model took to Instagram with photos of herself posing at the resort in a cleavage-baring sheer column dress by Alex Perry worth $1850

Using her long blonde hair extensions to cover her exposed chest in the see-through number, she completed her look with a plum-hued Bottega Veneta clutch bag worth $5,350

Jessie married her former Carlton star boyfriend Marc Murphy in December 2016.

The couple tied the knot in a lavish ceremony at Luminare in South Melbourne.

The guest list included a Who's Who of Melbourne's social scene, including 'queen bee' footy WAG Rebecca.

The couple are parents to son Max, six, and daughter Imogen, three.

The Murphys are believed to have started dating in 2011.
The internet is going wild after an American Airlines pilot revealed their nearly half-million-dollar annual pay  and travel experts say the aviator didn't even max out their earning potential.

On Monday, the pilot posted a pay slip on Reddit that showed a full breakdown of their income  detailing their $361-an-hour base rate, and even compensation for random alcohol and drug testing.

For the bi-weekly paycheck for November 16 and December 1, the pilot made $35,963.66. The biggest chunk came from their 95 hours flying the plane, where they made $26,162.09.

American Airlines' profit-sharing program added another $3,638.70 to the captain's paycheck. Another $3,805.78 went to 'premium incentives,' which typically means the pilot flew late at night.

The stub also showed the pilot's year-to-date earnings: $457,894.51.

'This dude makes what I make in a month in a day,' one commenter said. Another quipped: 'I need to make a career change. Is it okay that I'm already 33?'

But others defended the salary. 'The reaction here is embarrassing,' one user wrote.

'A pilot makes nearly 500k, and suddenly people are tripping over themselves to explain why they don't deserve what they earn.'

Airline pilots are some of the highest-paid workers in the US - but their job requires tons of training and near constant check-ups with regulators

A pilot shared their paystub on Reddit, shocking social media with a nearly half-million-dollar annual salary

They added: 'Pilots have strong unions, rare skills, years of training, and massive responsibility, and they collectively negotiated pay that reflects that.'

Meanwhile, Ben Schlappig, a travel expert who publishes the One Mile At A Time airline and hotel blog, wrote that the pilot could have made a lot more.

He points out the pilot flew a Boeing 737, one of the smaller domestic flight planes in American airspace.

If the pilot jumped over to the larger Boeing 777, their hourly rate would bump more than 24 percent to $447 per hour.

That would have raised the pilot's November flying salary to $54,534. That's about $10,000 off from the average American's yearly salary.

Plus, all three major airlines  Delta, American, and United  all add profit-sharing incentives in their pilot contracts.

In 2025, Delta was the most profitable airline, meaning its pilots raked in more cash than those flying other planes. Schlappig says the pilot would have earned more if he worked for the company.

But several Reddit commenters pointed out that strapping into a major airline's cockpit takes years of training and sacrifice.

American Airlines participates in a profit-sharing program for its pilots, adding to the captain's sky-high earnings. Above is a stock photo of a pilot.

American Airlines' CEO, Robert Isom, who took over March 2022, is overseeing a major turnaround at the airline after its profits lagged behind Delta and United

To get a pilot's license, aeronauts have to spend between nine and ten months in flight school and take out an estimated $100,000 in student loans.

After school, pilots must log 1,500 hours of flight time, generally in smaller airspace.

They also have to undergo a list of medical and mental health checks throughout their careers: pilots must have near-perfect vision without contact lenses, require few medications, and have no disabilities.

The pilot's paystub also includes pay for their monthly randomized alcohol and drug tests.

'You need to be pretty much a nice little Eagle Scout all the time,' one Redditor commented.
a.k.a. Brands (NYSE:AKA  Get Free Report) and American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE:AEO  Get Free Report) are both retail/wholesale companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, dividends, valuation, institutional ownership, profitability, risk and analyst recommendations.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for a.k.a. Brands and American Eagle Outfitters, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Get a.k.a. Brands alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score a.k.a. Brands 1 2 1 0 2.00 American Eagle Outfitters 2 11 1 1 2.07

a.k.a. Brands presently has a consensus target price of $18.33, suggesting a potential upside of 67.55%. American Eagle Outfitters has a consensus target price of $21.45, suggesting a potential downside of 18.46%. Given a.k.a. Brands higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe a.k.a. Brands is more favorable than American Eagle Outfitters.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio a.k.a. Brands $574.70 million 0.20 -$25.99 million ($2.46) -4.45 American Eagle Outfitters $5.33 billion 0.84 $329.38 million $1.16 22.68

This table compares a.k.a. Brands and American Eagle Outfitterss revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

American Eagle Outfitters has higher revenue and earnings than a.k.a. Brands. a.k.a. Brands is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than American Eagle Outfitters, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

55.4% of a.k.a. Brands shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 97.3% of American Eagle Outfitters shares are held by institutional investors. 17.6% of a.k.a. Brands shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 8.7% of American Eagle Outfitters shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Risk and Volatility

a.k.a. Brands has a beta of 1.62, suggesting that its share price is 62% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, American Eagle Outfitters has a beta of 1.44, suggesting that its share price is 44% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares a.k.a. Brands and American Eagle Outfitters net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets a.k.a. Brands -4.42% -23.20% -6.56% American Eagle Outfitters 3.90% 13.82% 5.59%

Summary

American Eagle Outfitters beats a.k.a. Brands on 11 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About a.k.a. Brands

(Get Free Report)

a.k.a. Brands Holding Corp. operates a portfolio of online fashion brands in the United States, Australia, and internationally. The company offers streetwear apparel, dresses, tops, bottoms, shoes, headwear, and accessories through its online stores under the Princess Polly, Petal & Pup, Culture Kings, and mnml brands. It also operates physical stores under the Culture Kings brand. The company was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

About American Eagle Outfitters

(Get Free Report)

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. operates as a multi-brand specialty retailer in the United States and internationally. The company provides jeans, apparel and accessories, and personal care products for women and men under the American Eagle brand; and intimates, apparel, activewear, and swim collections under the Aerie and OFFLINE by Aerie brands. It also offers menswear products under the Todd Snyder New York brand; and fashion clothing and accessories under the Unsubscribed brand. The company sells its products through own and licensed retail stores; concession-based shops-within-shops; and digital channels, such as www.ae.com, www.aerie.com, www.toddsnyder.com, and www.unsubscribed.com. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Receive News & Ratings for a.k.a. Brands Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for a.k.a. Brands and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (NYSE:THS  Get Free Report) has received an average rating of Reduce from the nine ratings firms that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation and seven have assigned a hold recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price objective among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $24.6667.

A number of research analysts recently commented on the company. Zacks Research downgraded TreeHouse Foods from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (e+) rating on shares of TreeHouse Foods in a report on Monday, December 22nd. William Blair cut TreeHouse Foods from an outperform rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Truist Financial raised their price target on shares of TreeHouse Foods from $20.00 to $22.50 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, Barclays lifted their price target on shares of TreeHouse Foods from $21.00 to $23.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th.

Get TreeHouse Foods alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on TreeHouse Foods

Insider Buying and Selling at TreeHouse Foods

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In other news, SVP Stephen Alan Landry sold 6,097 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $23.79, for a total value of $145,047.63. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website . Insiders own 11.10% of the companys stock.

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 320.8% during the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,355 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,000 after buying an additional 1,033 shares during the last quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. grew its holdings in TreeHouse Foods by 430.9% in the 3rd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 1,460 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 1,185 shares in the last quarter. Aster Capital Management DIFC Ltd acquired a new stake in TreeHouse Foods in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $46,000. Blue Trust Inc. raised its stake in TreeHouse Foods by 50.7% during the 2nd quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 2,878 shares of the companys stock valued at $56,000 after acquiring an additional 968 shares in the last quarter. Finally, GAMMA Investing LLC raised its stake in TreeHouse Foods by 719.7% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,918 shares of the companys stock valued at $57,000 after acquiring an additional 2,562 shares in the last quarter. 99.81% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

TreeHouse Foods Price Performance

Shares of THS stock opened at $23.65 on Friday. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $22.26 and a 200-day simple moving average of $20.36. The company has a market capitalization of $1.19 billion, a PE ratio of -4.93 and a beta of 0.18. TreeHouse Foods has a twelve month low of $15.85 and a twelve month high of $40.77. The company has a current ratio of 1.29, a quick ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18.

TreeHouse Foods (NYSE:THS  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 10th. The company reported $0.43 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.53 by ($0.10). The firm had revenue of $841.90 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $853.53 million. TreeHouse Foods had a positive return on equity of 5.52% and a negative net margin of 7.25%.The businesss quarterly revenue was up .1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned ($0.07) EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that TreeHouse Foods will post 1.94 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

TreeHouse Foods Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

TreeHouse Foods, Inc (NYSE: THS) is a leading manufacturer and supplier of private-label packaged food and beverage products. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, the company partners with major grocery chains, club retailers and foodservice outlets to develop, produce and distribute a diverse portfolio of items under store brands and, in select categories, under its own labels.

Since its founding in 2005 through the consolidation of several specialty food businesses, TreeHouse Foods has grown primarily through strategic acquisitions and operational integration.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for TreeHouse Foods Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TreeHouse Foods and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Public Storage (NYSE:PSA  Get Free Report) has been given a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy by the seventeen ratings firms that are presently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price objective among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $317.80.

Several equities analysts have recently commented on the stock. Truist Financial dropped their target price on shares of Public Storage from $320.00 to $315.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. BNP Paribas Exane decreased their price objective on shares of Public Storage from $329.00 to $315.00 in a research note on Tuesday, December 23rd. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Public Storage from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, October 25th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Public Storage in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Evercore ISI decreased their price target on Public Storage from $315.00 to $309.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, December 1st.

Get Public Storage alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on PSA

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Public Storage Stock Performance

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Public Storage by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc. now owns 2,084 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $624,000 after purchasing an additional 33 shares during the last quarter. Whitener Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in Public Storage by 2.3% in the second quarter. Whitener Capital Management Inc. now owns 1,610 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $472,000 after buying an additional 36 shares in the last quarter. Rosenberg Matthew Hamilton grew its stake in shares of Public Storage by 9.5% during the second quarter. Rosenberg Matthew Hamilton now owns 416 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $122,000 after buying an additional 36 shares during the last quarter. Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Public Storage by 3.5% during the second quarter. Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc. now owns 1,070 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $317,000 after buying an additional 36 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CoreCap Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Public Storage by 7.0% during the third quarter. CoreCap Advisors LLC now owns 568 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $164,000 after buying an additional 37 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 78.79% of the companys stock.

NYSE:PSA opened at $260.69 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $45.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.07, a PEG ratio of 5.58 and a beta of 1.01. Public Storage has a fifty-two week low of $256.60 and a fifty-two week high of $322.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.99, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a current ratio of 0.45. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $276.15 and a 200-day moving average price of $284.74.

Public Storage (NYSE:PSA  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $4.31 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $4.24 by $0.07. Public Storage had a return on equity of 36.09% and a net margin of 39.53%.The company had revenue of $1.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.21 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $4.20 earnings per share. Public Storages revenue was down 5.4% on a year-over-year basis. Public Storage has set its FY 2025 guidance at 16.700-17.000 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Public Storage will post 16.7 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Public Storage Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Investors of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a $3.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. This represents a $12.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.6%. Public Storages dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 124.61%.

Public Storage Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Public Storage (NYSE: PSA) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that specializes in self-storage services. Headquartered in Glendale, California, the company was founded in the early 1970s and has grown through development and acquisitions to become one of the largest owner-operators of self-storage facilities in the United States. It is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker PSA.

The companys core business is the ownership, operation and management of self-storage properties that serve both residential and commercial customers.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Public Storage Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Public Storage and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
MOGU (NYSE:MOGU  Get Free Report) and J.Jill (NYSE:JILL  Get Free Report) are both small-cap retail/wholesale companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, risk, profitability, institutional ownership, dividends and valuation.

Profitability

This table compares MOGU and J.Jills net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get MOGU alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets MOGU N/A N/A N/A J.Jill 5.60% 36.33% 9.75%

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current recommendations and price targets for MOGU and J.Jill, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score MOGU 1 0 0 0 1.00 J.Jill 1 4 2 0 2.14

Risk & Volatility

J.Jill has a consensus target price of $18.00, indicating a potential upside of 24.52%. Given J.Jills stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe J.Jill is more favorable than MOGU.

MOGU has a beta of 0.4, suggesting that its share price is 60% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, J.Jill has a beta of 0.9, suggesting that its share price is 10% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares MOGU and J.Jills revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio MOGU $19.46 million 0.92 -$8.62 million N/A N/A J.Jill $610.86 million 0.36 $39.48 million $2.19 6.60

J.Jill has higher revenue and earnings than MOGU.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

19.1% of MOGU shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 40.7% of J.Jill shares are held by institutional investors. 19.8% of MOGU shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 6.7% of J.Jill shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

J.Jill beats MOGU on 10 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks.

About MOGU

(Get Free Report)

MOGU Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the online fashion and lifestyle business in the People's Republic of China. The company operates an online platform that primarily offers a range of fashion apparel and other products, including beauty products and accessories provided by third party merchants, as well as personal care, food, and medical beauty products. It also provides online marketing, commission, financing, technology, and other related services to merchants, brand partners/owners, and users; and technology services to insurance companies. The company offers its products through mobile apps, including flagship Mogujie app, mini programs on Weixin, and Weixin pay; websites comprising Mogu.com, Mogujie.com and Meilishuo.com. The company was formerly known as Meili Inc. and changed its name to MOGU Inc. in November 2018. The company was incorporated in 2011 and is headquartered in Hangzhou, the People's Republic of China.

About J.Jill

(Get Free Report)

J.Jill, Inc. operates as an omnichannel retailer for women's apparel under the J.Jill brand in the United States. It offers apparel, footwear, and accessories, including scarves and jewelry. The company markets its products through retail stores, website, and catalogs. J.Jill, Inc. was founded in 1959 and is headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Receive News & Ratings for MOGU Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MOGU and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Sponsored GDR (OTCMKTS:HNHPF  Get Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 16,372 shares, an increase of 91.8% from the November 30th total of 8,534 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 53,369 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days. Based on an average daily volume of 53,369 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Sponsored GDR Trading Up 0.7%

Shares of OTCMKTS:HNHPF traded up $0.10 during trading on Friday, hitting $14.35. The stock had a trading volume of 19,756 shares, compared to its average volume of 28,154. Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Sponsored GDR has a 12-month low of $6.75 and a 12-month high of $17.50. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $15.11 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $13.58.

Get Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. Sponsored GDR alerts:

Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Sponsored GDR Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, Ltd., commonly known as Foxconn, is a leading global electronics contract manufacturer and technology solutions provider. The company specializes in the design, development and assembly of a wide range of electronic products, including smartphones, tablets, personal computers, servers and networking equipment. Alongside its core manufacturing services, Hon Hai offers turnkey production capabilities, encompassing engineering, supply chain management and after-sales support for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and brand owners.

Founded in 1974 by Terry Gou and headquartered in Tucheng District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, Hon Hai has grown from a single factory operation into one of the worlds largest private employers.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. Sponsored GDR Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. Sponsored GDR and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
December 29, 2025: The German navy is one of many that are investing in unscrewed vessels. The Germans are developing three models, the 60 meter long Large Remote Missile Vessels/LRMV, the smaller Future Combat Surface Systems/FCSS and Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicles/LUUV. Germany expects to have at least three LRMV, 18 FCSS and 12 LUUV. All of these are to be available by 2035. These drones will work with eight 10,000 ton F127 frigates Germany is building. Based on the smaller U.S. Burke class destroyers, the F127s may be redesignated as destroyers.

The 160meter long vessels have a top speed of 58 kilometers an hour and a range of 7,400 kilometers at a cruising speed that is about half the top speed. Endurance, with onboard fuel and provisions, is 30 days. Systems include a fire control system based on the U.S. Aegis plus both surface and air search AESA radars. There is a SONAR and electro-optical sensors for tracking and firing on small boats or drones. This would be done with an as yet undetermined number of machine guns and Close In Weapons like Phalanx or similar systems.

Missile armament consists of 64 VLS cells for air defense missiles like SM-2 IIIC or SM-6. There are two 21-cell launchers for RIM-116 air defense missiles, two four-cell launchers for the NSM 1a anti-ship or land attack cruise missile, and a 127mm gun. There is also a deck and hangar for two NH90 helicopters equipped for search and rescue or anti-Submarine operations.

The LRMV is meant to be used on the high seas in areas where the F127s are operating. The LRMVs can keep up with the F127s or just slowly circle in an area while waiting for the frigate to order them forward for an operation. The LRMV provides additional missile firepower and can also be used so the frigate can operate a larger inventory of missiles. That makes it clear that the LRMV is a support ship, not a warship. The LRMV has no fire control equipment and depends on encrypted signals from the frigates about where the targets are and when to fire on them. At the moment this is all theoretical, but tests of ships handling fire control for missiles fired from a barge or merchant ships have demonstrated that it can work. LRMV can also be equipped with hundreds of drones, to be used for swarm attacks that can overwhelm an enemy ships defenses. China is already experimenting with drone carriers that can launch multiple swarm attacks.

The Ukraine War has already provided lots of examples of how to successfully use naval drones. As early as 2022 Ukrainian water-going drones included Sea Baby, Mother, and MAGURA. At the end of 2023 Cossack Mother, with a top speed of 100 kilometers an hour, entered service. Manufacture of these drones is done in underground facilities to avoid Russian missile and guided bomb attacks.

Sea Baby carrying 850 kg of explosives was used in the mid-2023 Kerch Bridge attack. MAGURA carries 320 kg of explosives while Mother carries 450 kg. These drones are no longer used just for delivering explosives against a target, they can also be used for reconnaissance when equipped with video cameras that broadcast what they see back to the drone operator. Some drones have been armed with small rocket launchers or surface-to-air missiles. Malyuk has a range of over 700 kilometers, which means it is suitable for operations on the high seas. Endurance is about 60 hours, and top speed is over 70 kilometers an hour. MAGURA has similar characteristics. Mamai was used in the long-range attacks on the distant naval base at Novorossiysk on Russias Black Sea eastern, which is a thousand kilometers from Crimea. Such Ukrainian sea drones have shot down Russian aircraft. Ukraine builds 96 percent of its drones in local factories. The other four percent are sent by NATO countries.

The aggressive and successful use of Ukrainian drones against the Russian Black Sea fleet was unprecedented in the history of naval warfare. Not only were these drones tactically successful, but financially as well. For example, new frigates cost about $1.5 billion each. That much money can also pay for 5,000 drones. Destroyers cost twice as much as frigates. The frigates and destroyers are high seas ships that can travel all over the world. The drones operate in coastal waters although some of the larger drones can operate up to a thousand kilometers from where they were launched. These drones carry video cameras and satellite-based communications systems to collect information and, in peacetime, do so without fear of attack. Severe storms are another matter, but any storm damage will be broadcast as it is happening, at least until the video cameras or communications equipment is disabled.

Ukrainian naval drones and land based missiles destroyed over a third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet and forced the survivors to take shelter at Russian ports over a thousand kilometers from Crimea. While Russia still occupies Crimea, the area is under siege by Ukrainian naval drones and land based missiles. Soon Russia will no longer be able to supply Crimea because of this. The Kerch Strait bridge from Russia to Crimea is in bad shape and can only allow limited truck traffic. By the end of 2024 Russia had withdrawn all its ships from Crimea and shut down its ship repair facilities. Ukraine has the means to demolish what is left of the bridge whenever they want to. This will happen when Ukraine decides to blockade Crimea and force the Russians to abandon the peninsula because they cannot supply it.

The only effective protection from naval drone attacks is the installation of multiple 25mm or 30mm automatic cannon gun mounts that are automated and use advanced AI and sensors. The guns can point downward towards waters close to the hull. This makes it possible for the autocannon to fire on naval drones that get very close to the ship. Russia has been using weapons like this, from ships as well as helicopters. These are the same helicopters that also drop aerial attack drones to destroy Ukrainian naval drones.
Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:PGHY  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant decline in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 59,163 shares, a decline of 55.4% from the November 30th total of 132,602 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 49,954 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 1.2 days. Currently, 0.6% of the companys shares are short sold. Currently, 0.6% of the companys shares are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 49,954 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 1.2 days.

Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Price Performance

Shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF stock traded down $0.02 during trading on Friday, hitting $19.93. The stock had a trading volume of 21,307 shares, compared to its average volume of 51,565. Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF has a 12 month low of $18.75 and a 12 month high of $20.40. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $19.92 and its 200-day simple moving average is $19.94.

Get Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF alerts:

Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 28th. Investors of record on Monday, November 24th were issued a dividend of $0.1217 per share. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 7.3%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 24th. This is an increase from Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETFs previous monthly dividend of $0.12.

Institutional Trading of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF

Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Company Profile

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in PGHY. Farther Finance Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF in the third quarter worth about $27,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its stake in Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 421.2% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 4,618 shares of the companys stock worth $92,000 after acquiring an additional 3,732 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC increased its position in shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 11.3% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 6,166 shares of the companys stock worth $123,000 after acquiring an additional 626 shares during the period. Endowment Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $214,000. Finally, Focus Partners Wealth bought a new stake in shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $258,000.

(Get Free Report)

The Invesco Global Short Term High Yield Bond ETF (PGHY) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in high yield fixed income. The fund tracks an equal-weighted index of short-term USD-denominated, high-yield corporate bonds issues by US and foreign corporations. PGHY was launched on Jun 20, 2013 and is managed by Invesco.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Kuehne & Nagel International Ag (OTCMKTS:KHNGY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 29,169 shares, a drop of 58.5% from the November 30th total of 70,309 shares. Approximately 0.0% of the companys shares are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 31,286 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.9 days. Based on an average daily volume of 31,286 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.9 days. Approximately 0.0% of the companys shares are short sold.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

KHNGY has been the subject of several recent research reports. Zacks Research raised Kuehne & Nagel International from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, November 27th. BNP Paribas raised Kuehne & Nagel International from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Citigroup reaffirmed a sell rating on shares of Kuehne & Nagel International in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a hold rating on shares of Kuehne & Nagel International in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Barclays lowered Kuehne & Nagel International from an equal weight rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Reduce.

Get Kuehne & Nagel International alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on KHNGY

Kuehne & Nagel International Price Performance

Shares of KHNGY traded up $0.29 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $44.20. 3,391 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 11,183. The company has a market cap of $26.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.99, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 0.88. The company has a current ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 0.88 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $40.23 and a 200 day moving average price of $41.00. Kuehne & Nagel International has a 1 year low of $36.76 and a 1 year high of $49.66.

Kuehne & Nagel International (OTCMKTS:KHNGY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The company reported $0.41 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.45 by ($0.04). The firm had revenue of $7.55 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.34 billion. Kuehne & Nagel International had a net margin of 4.01% and a return on equity of 40.03%. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Kuehne & Nagel International will post 2.31 earnings per share for the current year.

About Kuehne & Nagel International

(Get Free Report)

Kuehne & Nagel International is a global logistics company that provides a wide range of transportation and supply chain services. Its core activities include sea freight and airfreight forwarding, contract logistics and warehousing, as well as overland (road and rail) transportation. The company also offers integrated supply chain management, customs brokerage and value-added services that support complex logistics requirements for shippers and manufacturers.

Founded in 1890 by August Kuhne and Friedrich Nagel, Kuehne & Nagel has grown into a multinational logistics provider with a long history in freight forwarding and transport services.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Kuehne & Nagel International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kuehne & Nagel International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF (NYSEARCA:NBOS  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large increase in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 26,534 shares, an increase of 66.4% from the November 30th total of 15,948 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 32,582 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.8 days. Currently, 0.2% of the companys shares are sold short. Currently, 0.2% of the companys shares are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 32,582 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.8 days.

Institutional Trading of Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Advisory Services Network LLC acquired a new position in shares of Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at $27,000. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC grew its holdings in Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF by 140,400.0% in the third quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 1,405 shares of the companys stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 1,404 shares during the period. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF in the third quarter valued at $62,000. Savant Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF during the third quarter valued at about $253,000. Finally, Truist Financial Corp boosted its position in shares of Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF by 12.0% during the 3rd quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 11,220 shares of the companys stock worth $301,000 after purchasing an additional 1,205 shares in the last quarter.

Get Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF alerts:

Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF Price Performance

Shares of Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF stock traded up $0.10 on Friday, hitting $27.35. 12,216 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 61,604. The company has a fifty day moving average of $27.10 and a two-hundred day moving average of $26.64. Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF has a one year low of $22.43 and a one year high of $27.60. The company has a market capitalization of $459.48 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.11 and a beta of 0.49.

About Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF

The Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF (NBOS) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in large cap equity. The fund is an actively managed fund that utilizes a cash-secured put writing strategy on US indices. The fund seeks long-term capital appreciation and income. NBOS was launched on Sep 16, 2016 and is issued by Neuberger Berman.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Neuberger Berman Option Strategy ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Wall Street Zen lowered shares of NewJersey Resources (NYSE:NJR  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report issued on Sunday morning.

A number of other brokerages have also recently commented on NJR. Mizuho raised shares of NewJersey Resources from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and increased their price objective for the company from $51.00 to $54.00 in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of NewJersey Resources in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and set a $53.00 price objective on shares of NewJersey Resources in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. Finally, New Street Research set a $54.00 target price on NewJersey Resources in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $52.86.

Get NewJersey Resources alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on NJR

NewJersey Resources Stock Performance

NJR opened at $46.06 on Friday. NewJersey Resources has a 1-year low of $43.46 and a 1-year high of $50.76. The stock has a market cap of $4.64 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.83 and a beta of 0.61. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $46.18 and its 200 day simple moving average is $46.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.36, a current ratio of 0.73 and a quick ratio of 0.40.

NewJersey Resources (NYSE:NJR  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, November 19th. The utilities provider reported $0.16 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.15 by $0.01. NewJersey Resources had a return on equity of 13.73% and a net margin of 16.48%.The company had revenue of $336.08 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $307.30 million. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.89 earnings per share. NewJersey Resourcess quarterly revenue was down 15.1% compared to the same quarter last year. NewJersey Resources has set its FY 2026 guidance at 3.030-3.180 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that NewJersey Resources will post 3.15 EPS for the current fiscal year.

NewJersey Resources Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, December 12th will be given a dividend of $0.475 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 12th. This represents a $1.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.1%. NewJersey Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 57.06%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On NewJersey Resources

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC acquired a new position in NewJersey Resources in the third quarter valued at $28,000. Bessemer Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of NewJersey Resources by 60.1% during the 3rd quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 613 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 230 shares during the last quarter. Tradewinds Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of NewJersey Resources during the 3rd quarter worth about $30,000. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. boosted its position in shares of NewJersey Resources by 153.0% in the second quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 754 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $34,000 after acquiring an additional 456 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Parallel Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of NewJersey Resources by 56.9% in the third quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 1,001 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $48,000 after acquiring an additional 363 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.98% of the companys stock.

About NewJersey Resources

(Get Free Report)

New Jersey Resources Corporation is a publicly traded energy services holding company headquartered in Wall Township, New Jersey. The firms primary focus is on the safe and reliable distribution of natural gas, along with complementary energy services and renewable energy investments. Its operations center on delivering cost-effective solutions to residential, commercial and industrial customers throughout the state.

The companys principal subsidiary, New Jersey Natural Gas, owns and operates an extensive pipeline network that spans northern, central and southern New Jersey.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for NewJersey Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NewJersey Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Royce Small-Cap Trust, Inc. (NYSE:RVT  Get Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 83,212 shares, an increase of 65.1% from the November 30th total of 50,412 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 365,198 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.2 days. Currently, 0.1% of the shares of the company are short sold. Currently, 0.1% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 365,198 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.2 days.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Royce Small-Cap Trust

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of RVT. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. raised its position in Royce Small-Cap Trust by 23.4% during the first quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 52,581 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $749,000 after purchasing an additional 9,978 shares in the last quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Royce Small-Cap Trust by 37.3% in the 1st quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 21,282 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $303,000 after purchasing an additional 5,784 shares during the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada increased its stake in shares of Royce Small-Cap Trust by 3.1% in the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,601,377 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $22,803,000 after purchasing an additional 47,759 shares during the last quarter. Concorde Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Royce Small-Cap Trust by 12.2% during the 1st quarter. Concorde Asset Management LLC now owns 43,942 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $600,000 after buying an additional 4,790 shares in the last quarter. Finally, NewEdge Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Royce Small-Cap Trust by 5.8% during the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 53,335 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $759,000 after buying an additional 2,919 shares during the last quarter. 25.57% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Royce Small-Cap Trust alerts:

Royce Small-Cap Trust Price Performance

Shares of NYSE RVT traded down $0.05 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $16.27. 141,336 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 295,982. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $16.00 and its 200 day simple moving average is $15.77. Royce Small-Cap Trust has a 52 week low of $12.12 and a 52 week high of $16.87.

Royce Small-Cap Trust Increases Dividend

About Royce Small-Cap Trust

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, December 24th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 11th were given a dividend of $0.54 per share. This represents a $2.16 annualized dividend and a yield of 13.3%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, December 11th. This is a positive change from Royce Small-Cap Trusts previous quarterly dividend of $0.29.

(Get Free Report)

Royce Small-Cap Trust (NYSE:RVT) is a closed-end management investment company that seeks to provide investors with long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in the common stocks of small-capitalization companies. The trust is structured to trade on the New York Stock Exchange, offering shares that represent an undivided interest in a diversified portfolio of U.S. small-cap equities. As a closed-end vehicle, the fund may employ leverage to enhance returns and reinvest dividends to support growth over time.

The trusts investment strategy is driven by fundamental, bottom-up research, focusing on companies with market capitalizations typically falling within the small-cap spectrum.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Royce Small-Cap Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Royce Small-Cap Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
STMicroelectronics N.V. (NYSE:STM  Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 14,332,649 shares, a growth of 104.3% from the November 30th total of 7,015,107 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 6,930,849 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.1 days. Approximately 1.6% of the companys stock are sold short. Approximately 1.6% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 6,930,849 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.1 days.

STMicroelectronics Stock Performance

Shares of STM traded up $0.08 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $26.20. The stock had a trading volume of 2,129,898 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,592,581. The firm has a market cap of $23.53 billion, a PE ratio of 45.16, a P/E/G ratio of 4.89 and a beta of 1.56. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $24.81 and a 200-day simple moving average of $27.10. STMicroelectronics has a one year low of $17.25 and a one year high of $33.47. The company has a current ratio of 3.22, a quick ratio of 2.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11.

Get STMicroelectronics alerts:

STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The semiconductor producer reported $0.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. STMicroelectronics had a net margin of 4.55% and a return on equity of 4.06%. The company had revenue of $3.19 billion for the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that STMicroelectronics will post 0.85 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Greenland Capital Management LP acquired a new position in shares of STMicroelectronics in the second quarter valued at $4,375,000. West Family Investments Inc. bought a new stake in shares of STMicroelectronics during the 2nd quarter worth about $391,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its stake in STMicroelectronics by 6.8% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,349,547 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $101,860,000 after buying an additional 212,499 shares during the last quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets grew its stake in STMicroelectronics by 59.9% in the 1st quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 2,451,052 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $53,825,000 after buying an additional 918,263 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its holdings in STMicroelectronics by 40.2% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 62,873 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $1,381,000 after acquiring an additional 18,030 shares during the period. 5.05% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

A number of research analysts have weighed in on the stock. TD Cowen cut their price target on shares of STMicroelectronics from $27.00 to $25.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Susquehanna boosted their price objective on shares of STMicroelectronics from $35.00 to $40.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Robert W. Baird set a $45.00 target price on shares of STMicroelectronics in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Barclays reissued an underweight rating on shares of STMicroelectronics in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Finally, Mizuho set a $26.00 price objective on STMicroelectronics in a research report on Tuesday, December 16th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating, nine have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, STMicroelectronics currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $30.94.

Get Our Latest Research Report on STM

About STMicroelectronics

(Get Free Report)

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, formed through the 1987 merger of SGS Microelettronica and Thomson Semiconducteurs. The company designs, develops and manufactures a broad range of semiconductor products and solutions that serve multiple end markets worldwide. STs offerings span from basic components to integrated systems, emphasizing energy-efficient and high-performance devices for modern electronics.

Product categories include microcontrollers (notably the widely used STM32 family), analog and mixed-signal ICs, power MOSFETs and power-management devices, MEMS and sensors, image sensors, and discrete semiconductors.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for STMicroelectronics Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for STMicroelectronics and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Acadia Realty Trust (NYSE:AKR  Get Free Report) was upgraded by stock analysts at Wall Street Zen from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report issued to clients and investors on Saturday.

Several other research analysts have also weighed in on AKR. Zacks Research lowered Acadia Realty Trust from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Acadia Realty Trust in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Truist Financial lowered their target price on Acadia Realty Trust from $23.00 to $22.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Friday, November 28th. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH began coverage on shares of Acadia Realty Trust in a research note on Tuesday, September 9th. They issued a neutral rating and a $21.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Citigroup raised shares of Acadia Realty Trust from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $20.00 to $23.00 in a research report on Friday, September 12th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and one has assigned 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 $22.00.

Get Acadia Realty Trust alerts:

Read Our Latest Analysis on Acadia Realty Trust

Acadia Realty Trust Trading Up 0.5%

NYSE:AKR opened at $21.03 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 175.22, a PEG ratio of 3.39 and a beta of 1.12. Acadia Realty Trust has a 1-year low of $16.98 and a 1-year high of $24.95. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $20.00 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $19.54. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.70.

Acadia Realty Trust (NYSE:AKR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.33 EPS for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.33. The company had revenue of $101.01 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $92.78 million. Acadia Realty Trust had a return on equity of 0.63% and a net margin of 4.21%.Acadia Realty Trusts revenue was up 15.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.32 EPS. Acadia Realty Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.320-1.340 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Acadia Realty Trust will post 1.34 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Acadia Realty Trust

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Magnetar Financial LLC bought a new position in Acadia Realty Trust during the first quarter worth about $574,000. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its stake in shares of Acadia Realty Trust by 83.2% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 42,246 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $885,000 after buying an additional 19,184 shares in the last quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC bought a new position in Acadia Realty Trust in the 1st quarter worth approximately $7,994,000. FJ Capital Management LLC grew its stake in Acadia Realty Trust by 67.8% in the 1st quarter. FJ Capital Management LLC now owns 78,955 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,654,000 after buying an additional 31,893 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Alyeska Investment Group L.P. bought a new stake in Acadia Realty Trust during the 1st quarter valued at $23,872,000. 97.65% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Acadia Realty Trust Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Acadia Realty Trust (NYSE: AKR) is a Maryland real estate investment trust (REIT) that focuses on the acquisition, development, ownership and operation of grocery-anchored and necessity-based shopping centers. The company targets retail properties that serve densely populated urban and suburban markets and typically feature essential tenants such as supermarkets, drugstores, fitness centers and other service-oriented retailers. As a self-managed REIT, Acadia oversees leasing, property management, financing and construction activities through its in-house platform.

Acadias portfolio is diversified across property types and lease structures, with an emphasis on sites that benefit from long-term consumer traffic and resilient tenancy.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Acadia Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Acadia Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF (NYSEARCA:ASHR  Get Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 10,385,053 shares, a decline of 47.3% from the November 30th total of 19,719,330 shares. Currently, 19.5% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 5,801,979 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.8 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 5,801,979 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.8 days. Currently, 19.5% of the companys stock are short sold.

Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF Trading Up 0.9%

NYSEARCA ASHR traded up $0.29 during trading on Friday, reaching $33.11. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,770,222 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,338,798. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $32.83 and a 200-day moving average price of $31.00. Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF has a 1-year low of $23.26 and a 1-year high of $33.99. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.77 billion, a PE ratio of 13.62 and a beta of 0.27.

Get Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF alerts:

Institutional Trading of Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF by 83.5% in the 3rd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,176,411 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $71,778,000 after purchasing an additional 990,443 shares during the last quarter. Trium Capital LLP acquired a new position in Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at $31,955,000. Strs Ohio bought a new position in Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF in the 1st quarter worth $8,997,000. Sun Life Financial Inc. acquired a new position in Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF during the 2nd quarter worth $5,461,000. Finally, Delphi Financial Group Inc. lifted its position in Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF by 53.8% during the 3rd quarter. Delphi Financial Group Inc. now owns 443,060 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $14,599,000 after acquiring an additional 155,030 shares during the last quarter.

Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF Company Profile

The Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF (ASHR) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the China Shenzhen SE \u002F CSI 300 index. The fund tracks an index of the 300 largest and most liquid Chinese shares traded on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges. The fund holds physical China A-shares. ASHR was launched on Nov 6, 2013 and is managed by Xtrackers.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Xtrackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Getinge (OTCMKTS:GNGBY  Get Free Report) and Ryman Healthcare (OTCMKTS:RYHTY  Get Free Report) are both medical companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their valuation, earnings, profitability, dividends, risk, institutional ownership and analyst recommendations.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings for Getinge and Ryman Healthcare, as provided by MarketBeat.

Get Getinge alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Getinge 0 1 1 0 2.50 Ryman Healthcare 0 0 0 0 0.00

Volatility & Risk

Getinge has a beta of 1.08, suggesting that its stock price is 8% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Ryman Healthcare has a beta of 0.65, suggesting that its stock price is 35% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Getinge $3.29 billion N/A $154.96 million $0.75 31.43 Ryman Healthcare $451.64 million N/A -$259.39 million N/A N/A

This table compares Getinge and Ryman Healthcares revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Getinge has higher revenue and earnings than Ryman Healthcare.

Profitability

This table compares Getinge and Ryman Healthcares net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Getinge 5.77% 10.64% 5.49% Ryman Healthcare N/A N/A N/A

Summary

Getinge beats Ryman Healthcare on 8 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Getinge

(Get Free Report)

Getinge AB (publ) provides products and solutions for operating rooms, intensive-care units, and sterilization departments. The company operates through Acute Care Therapies, Life Science, and Surgical Workflows segments. It offers extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mechanical ventilation, mechanical circulatory support, advanced patient monitoring, ICU infrastructure equipment, patient flow management, and drainage solutions. The company also provides surgical perfusion, endoscopic vessel harvesting, intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, and drainage solutions; and operating room infrastructure equipment, anesthesia, advanced patient monitoring, operating room management, and operating room integration solutions. In addition, it offers pre-cleaning, cleaning and disinfection, sterilization, consumables, endoscope reprocessing, and sterile supply management solutions; connected medical devices; bioreactor systems, DPTE systems, Getinge isolators, terminal sterilization products, and sterilizers; and vivarium, biohazardous materials handling solutions, labware cleaning and sterilization, upstream bioprocessing, and bioreactor preparation solutions. It offers its products through a network of sales companies, as well as through agents and distributors in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia and Pacific. Getinge AB (publ) was founded in 1904 and is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden.

About Ryman Healthcare

(Get Free Report)

Ryman Healthcare Limited develops, owns, and operates integrated retirement villages, rest homes, and hospitals for the elderly in New Zealand and Australia. The company's villages provide a range of retirement living and care options, such as independent townhouses and apartments, and serviced apartments, as well as a care center, which offers rest homes, hospitals, dementia-level care, and respite and day care services. Its villages also provide all-weather bowling green, indoor heated swimming pool and spa, gym, internal atrium, beauty and hair salons, library, dining area, bar, lounges, croquet laws, shops, and movie theatre facilities. The company owns and operates retirement village units and care units. The company was founded in 1984 and is based in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Receive News & Ratings for Getinge Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Getinge and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $31.67 and last traded at $31.3440, with a volume of 104322 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $31.33.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms recently commented on BSAC. Citigroup cut Banco Santander Chile from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Banco Santander Chile from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. UBS Group lifted their target price on Banco Santander Chile from $24.00 to $29.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Wall Street Zen raised Banco Santander Chile from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Banco Santander Chile in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Reduce and an average target price of $27.67.

Get Banco Santander Chile alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Banco Santander Chile

Banco Santander Chile Trading Down 1.2%

The businesss 50-day moving average is $29.68 and its two-hundred day moving average is $26.54. The stock has a market capitalization of $14.74 billion, a PE ratio of 13.48, a PEG ratio of 0.79 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a current ratio of 1.84, a quick ratio of 1.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.51.

Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 17th. The bank reported $0.99 EPS for the quarter. The business had revenue of $740.10 million during the quarter. Banco Santander Chile had a return on equity of 22.18% and a net margin of 24.74%. On average, analysts predict that Banco Santander Chile will post 2.07 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in shares of Banco Santander Chile by 0.6% in the third quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,113,470 shares of the banks stock valued at $82,507,000 after buying an additional 17,119 shares during the period. Verition Fund Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Banco Santander Chile in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $1,240,000. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd boosted its stake in Banco Santander Chile by 19.6% in the 3rd quarter. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd now owns 525,577 shares of the banks stock worth $13,928,000 after purchasing an additional 85,964 shares during the period. Creative Planning grew its position in Banco Santander Chile by 18.8% during the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 20,016 shares of the banks stock worth $530,000 after purchasing an additional 3,162 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Qtron Investments LLC acquired a new stake in Banco Santander Chile during the 3rd quarter valued at $623,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 6.42% of the companys stock.

About Banco Santander Chile

(Get Free Report)

Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC) is one of the leading financial institutions in Chile and a key component of the global Santander Group. The bank offers a comprehensive range of banking and financial services, including retail and commercial lending, deposit accounts, credit cards, wealth management, insurance products and corporate banking solutions. Headquartered in Santiago, it operates an extensive network of branches, ATMs and digital platforms to serve individual customers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations across the country.

Originally founded as Banco de Santiago in the late 1970s, the institution became part of the Santander Group following the privatization wave in Chile during the late 1980s.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Banco Santander Chile Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Banco Santander Chile and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC)s share price fell 1.5% on Monday . The stock traded as low as $55.27 and last traded at $55.30. 20,849,348 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 48% from the average session volume of 39,974,984 shares. The stock had previously closed at $56.17.

Key Stores Impacting Bank of America

Here are the key news stories impacting Bank of America this week:

Get Bank of America alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on BAC shares. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Bank of America from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their target price on Bank of America from $58.00 to $64.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 17th. Seaport Global Securities raised their price target on Bank of America from $59.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on Bank of America from $70.00 to $68.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, December 12th. Finally, Phillip Securities raised their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $50.00 to $56.00 in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Twenty-three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five 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 $58.59.

Bank of America Price Performance

The stock has a 50 day moving average of $53.45 and a two-hundred day moving average of $50.30. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.12, a quick ratio of 0.79 and a current ratio of 0.79. The firm has a market capitalization of $403.83 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.07 and a beta of 1.30.

Bank of America (NYSE:BAC  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.06 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.93 by $0.13. The business had revenue of $5.35 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $27.05 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 15.70% and a return on equity of 10.76%. Bank of Americas revenue was up 10.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.81 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Bank of America Corporation will post 3.7 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Bank of America Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 26th. Investors of record on Friday, December 5th were paid a dividend of $0.28 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, December 5th. This represents a $1.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.0%. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio is presently 30.52%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Bank of America

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of BAC. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Bank of America during the 2nd quarter worth about $5,091,641,000. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC grew its position in Bank of America by 640.5% during the third quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 46,516,728 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,399,798,000 after buying an additional 40,235,201 shares in the last quarter. Capital World Investors increased its stake in Bank of America by 11.0% during the third quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 144,371,118 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $7,448,816,000 after acquiring an additional 14,275,810 shares during the period. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership lifted its position in shares of Bank of America by 124.8% in the 2nd quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 17,619,837 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $833,771,000 after acquiring an additional 9,782,208 shares during the period. Finally, Danske Bank A S acquired a new stake in shares of Bank of America during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $224,863,000. 70.71% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Bank of America

(Get Free Report)

Bank of America Corporation is a multinational financial services company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. It provides a broad array of banking, investment, asset management and related financial and risk management products and services to individual consumers, small- and middle-market businesses, large corporations, governments and institutional investors. The firm operates through consumer banking, global wealth and investment management, global banking and markets businesses, offering capabilities across lending, deposits, payments, advisory and capital markets.

Its consumer-facing offerings include checking and savings accounts, mortgages, home equity lending, auto loans, credit cards and small business banking, supported by a nationwide branch network and digital channels.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Bank of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The Bank of East Asia Ltd. (OTCMKTS:BKEAY  Get Free Report)s stock price gapped up prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $1.84, but opened at $1.98. Bank of East Asia shares last traded at $1.98, with a volume of 4,005 shares trading hands.

Bank of East Asia Stock Performance

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $1.75 and a two-hundred day moving average of $1.60.

Get Bank of East Asia alerts:

Bank of East Asia Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Bank of East Asia, Limited is a Hong Kongbased commercial bank established in 1918. As one of the territorys largest independently owned banks, it provides a comprehensive range of financial services to retail, corporate and institutional clients. The institution operates through a network of branches and digital channels designed to support both individual consumers and businesses of varying sizes.

The banks core offerings include personal banking services such as deposit accounts, consumer and mortgage lending, credit cards and wealth management solutions.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Bank of East Asia Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of East Asia and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE:CRL  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $205.00 and last traded at $203.5730, with a volume of 25221 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $203.66.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Evercore ISI increased their target price on shares of Charles River Laboratories International from $190.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d) rating on shares of Charles River Laboratories International in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Charles River Laboratories International from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Sunday, December 21st. William Blair raised Charles River Laboratories International from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on Charles River Laboratories International from $165.00 to $190.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, December 15th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Charles River Laboratories International currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $195.93.

Get Charles River Laboratories International alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on CRL

Charles River Laboratories International Price Performance

The firm has a market cap of $9.98 billion, a P/E ratio of -129.98, a P/E/G ratio of 6.39 and a beta of 1.63. The company has a fifty day moving average of $182.85 and a 200-day moving average of $167.67. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 1.37 and a quick ratio of 1.10.

Charles River Laboratories International (NYSE:CRL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The medical research company reported $2.43 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.32 by $0.11. The firm had revenue of $1 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $990.43 million. Charles River Laboratories International had a negative net margin of 2.07% and a positive return on equity of 15.78%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down .5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $2.59 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. will post 9.36 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Charles River Laboratories International

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Charles River Laboratories International by 407.0% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 997,488 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $150,142,000 after acquiring an additional 800,762 shares during the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its stake in shares of Charles River Laboratories International by 1,491.1% during the 3rd quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 613,604 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $96,005,000 after purchasing an additional 575,039 shares during the period. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC grew its position in Charles River Laboratories International by 29.1% during the second quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 2,291,126 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $353,750,000 after buying an additional 516,521 shares during the period. National Bank of Canada FI increased its holdings in Charles River Laboratories International by 117.7% during the third quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 946,769 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $148,131,000 after buying an additional 511,901 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new stake in Charles River Laboratories International in the second quarter worth about $76,952,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 98.91% of the companys stock.

About Charles River Laboratories International

(Get Free Report)

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc is a leading provider of research models and preclinical and clinical support services for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries. The companys core offerings include discovery, safety assessment, toxicology, and pathology services, as well as supply of laboratory animals and related diagnostics. Services extend across in vivo and in vitro testing, biologics testing, and support for advanced therapies, helping clients accelerate drug development from early discovery through regulatory submission.

Founded in 1947 in Wilmington, Massachusetts, Charles River has grown through strategic investments and acquisitions to establish a broad portfolio of capabilities.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Charles River Laboratories International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Charles River Laboratories International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Chatham Lodging Trust (REIT) (NYSE:CLDT  Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Wednesday, December 10th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.09 per share by the real estate investment trust on Thursday, January 15th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.2%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st.

Chatham Lodging Trust has decreased its dividend payment by an average of 0.3%annually over the last three years and has raised its dividend every year for the last 2 years. Chatham Lodging Trust has a dividend payout ratio of 720.0% meaning the company cannot currently cover its dividend with earnings alone and is relying on its balance sheet to cover its dividend payments. Research analysts expect Chatham Lodging Trust to earn $1.12 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.36 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 32.1%.

Get Chatham Lodging Trust alerts:

Chatham Lodging Trust Trading Up 0.1%

Shares of Chatham Lodging Trust stock opened at $6.88 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $334.01 million, a PE ratio of 688.40 and a beta of 1.12. Chatham Lodging Trust has a 52 week low of $5.83 and a 52 week high of $9.27. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $6.69 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $6.92. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a current ratio of 0.81.

Institutional Trading of Chatham Lodging Trust

Chatham Lodging Trust ( NYSE:CLDT Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.32 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.32. Chatham Lodging Trust had a return on equity of 1.11% and a net margin of 2.89%.The company had revenue of $78.41 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $79.68 million. Chatham Lodging Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 0.960-0.990 EPS and its Q4 2025 guidance at 0.140-0.17 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Chatham Lodging Trust will post 1.07 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Sculptor Capital LP purchased a new position in Chatham Lodging Trust during the second quarter worth about $14,901,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Chatham Lodging Trust by 413.3% in the 3rd quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 813,825 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $5,464,000 after buying an additional 655,265 shares during the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Chatham Lodging Trust by 394.2% in the second quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 486,346 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $3,390,000 after acquiring an additional 387,937 shares in the last quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. grew its holdings in shares of Chatham Lodging Trust by 37.4% in the first quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. now owns 880,880 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $6,281,000 after acquiring an additional 239,793 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Chatham Lodging Trust during the first quarter valued at approximately $1,406,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 88.37% of the companys stock.

About Chatham Lodging Trust

(Get Free Report)

Chatham Lodging Trust is a self-advised, publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT) focused primarily on investing in upscale, extended-stay hotels and premium-branded, select-service hotels. The company owns 39 hotels totaling 5,915 rooms/suites in 16 states and the District of Columbia.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Chatham Lodging Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chatham Lodging Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (NYSE:CRT  Get Free Report) announced a monthly dividend on Friday, December 19th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.1147 per share by the oil and gas company on Thursday, January 15th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 17.4%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This is a 210.6% increase from Cross Timbers Royalty Trusts previous monthly dividend of $0.04.

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust has raised its dividend by an average of 0.0%annually over the last three years.

Get Cross Timbers Royalty Trust alerts:

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Trading Up 0.6%

NYSE CRT opened at $7.93 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $47.55 million, a PE ratio of 10.57 and a beta of 0.12. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust has a twelve month low of $7.07 and a twelve month high of $13.31. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $8.13 and a 200-day simple moving average of $8.54.

About Cross Timbers Royalty Trust

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust ( NYSE:CRT Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 13th. The oil and gas company reported $0.08 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust had a net margin of 79.29% and a return on equity of 191.25%.

(Get Free Report)

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (NYSE:CRT) is a Delaware statutory trust that holds royalty interests in a portfolio of onshore oil and natural gas properties. The trust was established in June 2005 through a contribution of assets by Chesapeake Energy Corporation. It earns revenue by collecting overriding royalty and net profit interests carved out of producing leases and then distributing those receipts to its unitholders on a quarterly basis.

The underlying assets of the trust consist primarily of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids reserves located in several Texas counties, including Erath, Stephens, Comanche and Palo Pinto.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cross Timbers Royalty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
CTP (OTCMKTS:CTPVF  Get Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 216,184 shares, a decline of 32.5% from the November 30th total of 320,501 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 17 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 12,716.7 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 17 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 12,716.7 days.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a buy rating on shares of CTP in a report on Monday, September 29th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get CTP alerts:

Get Our Latest Report on CTP

CTP Price Performance

CTP Company Profile

CTPVF opened at C$22.46 on Monday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of C$22.46 and a 200 day moving average price of C$20.44. CTP has a 12 month low of C$18.95 and a 12 month high of C$22.85.

(Get Free Report)

CTP N.V., trading under OTCMKTS:CTPVF, is a leading developer and manager of logistics and industrial real estate in Central and Eastern Europe. Headquartered in Luxembourg and founded in 2010, the company focuses on providing modern build-to-suit and speculative warehouses and distribution centers for a diverse range of tenants in sectors such as e-commerce, retail, automotive, and manufacturing.

CTPs portfolio extends across seven key countriesCzech Republic, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Serbia, and Bulgariawhere it manages site selection, construction, leasing, and facility operations.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for CTP Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CTP and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Private Wealth Management Group LLC raised its stake in Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF (NYSEARCA:DFAU  Free Report) by 24.1% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 521,724 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 101,449 shares during the quarter. Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF comprises approximately 6.6% of Private Wealth Management Group LLCs holdings, making the stock its 3rd biggest holding. Private Wealth Management Group LLC owned approximately 0.25% of Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF worth $23,874,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its holdings in Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF by 297.6% in the second quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 3,193 shares of the companys stock valued at $135,000 after acquiring an additional 2,390 shares during the last quarter. Promus Capital LLC acquired a new stake in Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF during the second quarter worth about $195,000. BOS Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $219,000. Lodestone Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $220,000. Finally, Parkwoods Wealth Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at about $229,000.

Get Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF alerts:

Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA DFAU opened at $47.43 on Monday. Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF has a one year low of $33.06 and a one year high of $47.51. The companys 50 day moving average price is $46.49 and its 200 day moving average price is $44.82. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.25 and a beta of 1.00.

About Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF

The Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF (DFAU) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Russell 3000 index. The fund actively selects US equities of all sizes with a tilt toward small-cap companies, seeking to provide long-term capital appreciation. DFAU was launched on Nov 17, 2020 and is managed by Dimensional.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DFAU? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF (NYSEARCA:DFAU  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dimensional US Core Equity Market ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Douglas Emmett, Inc. (NYSE:DEI  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Friday, December 5th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be paid a dividend of 0.19 per share by the real estate investment trust on Thursday, January 15th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.8%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st.

Douglas Emmett has decreased its dividend payment by an average of 0.1%annually over the last three years. Douglas Emmett has a dividend payout ratio of -400.0% meaning the company cannot currently cover its dividend with earnings alone and is relying on its balance sheet to cover its dividend payments. Equities research analysts expect Douglas Emmett to earn $1.49 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.76 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 51.0%.

Get Douglas Emmett alerts:

Douglas Emmett Stock Up 0.1%

Douglas Emmett stock opened at $11.20 on Monday. Douglas Emmett has a one year low of $10.92 and a one year high of $19.06. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $12.08 and a 200 day moving average of $14.22. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.58, a quick ratio of 3.03 and a current ratio of 3.03. The stock has a market cap of $1.88 billion, a PE ratio of 93.33 and a beta of 1.12.

Institutional Trading of Douglas Emmett

Douglas Emmett ( NYSE:DEI Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.34. Douglas Emmett had a return on equity of 0.62% and a net margin of 2.22%.The business had revenue of $250.58 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $252.73 million. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.43 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up .0% compared to the same quarter last year. Douglas Emmett has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.430-1.470 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Douglas Emmett will post 1.45 EPS for the current year.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Cetera Investment Advisers increased its holdings in Douglas Emmett by 6.7% in the 2nd quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 12,220 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $184,000 after acquiring an additional 766 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC lifted its position in Douglas Emmett by 2.5% in the third quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 33,786 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $526,000 after buying an additional 815 shares during the last quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System boosted its stake in shares of Douglas Emmett by 0.5% during the 2nd quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 154,385 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,322,000 after purchasing an additional 819 shares during the period. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Douglas Emmett by 6.4% during the third quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 13,931 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $217,000 after buying an additional 844 shares during the period. Finally, Amalgamated Bank boosted its holdings in Douglas Emmett by 1.8% during the 3rd quarter. Amalgamated Bank now owns 48,465 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $755,000 after acquiring an additional 874 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 97.37% of the companys stock.

About Douglas Emmett

(Get Free Report)

Douglas Emmett, Inc is a publicly traded real estate investment trust headquartered in Santa Monica, California. The company specializes in the ownership, management and development of highquality office and multifamily properties, primarily concentrated in the coastal regions of Los Angeles County and the Greater Honolulu area. As a vertically integrated real estate platform, Douglas Emmett controls all aspects of property operations, leasing, capital improvements and tenant relations, positioning it to deliver stable, longterm cash flows.

The companys office portfolio consists predominantly of Class A buildings located in prime business districts, featuring modern amenities, campus-like settings and environmentally conscious design elements.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Douglas Emmett Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Douglas Emmett and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
ESAB Corporation (NYSE:ESAB  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, December 4th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.10 per share on Friday, January 16th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.4%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st.

ESAB has a payout ratio of 6.9% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Analysts expect ESAB to earn $5.83 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.40 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 6.9%.

Get ESAB alerts:

ESAB Price Performance

Shares of ESAB stock opened at $114.10 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $6.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.74, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.22 and a beta of 1.24. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 1.24 and a current ratio of 1.99. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $113.61 and a 200-day moving average price of $117.09. ESAB has a one year low of $100.17 and a one year high of $135.84.

Institutional Trading of ESAB

ESAB ( NYSE:ESAB Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $1.32 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.27 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $727.85 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $663.57 million. ESAB had a return on equity of 15.93% and a net margin of 8.70%.ESABs quarterly revenue was up 8.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.25 EPS. ESAB has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.200-5.30 EPS. Equities analysts expect that ESAB will post 5.16 EPS for the current year.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. grew its position in shares of ESAB by 266.0% during the 2nd quarter. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. now owns 7,861 shares of the companys stock valued at $948,000 after acquiring an additional 5,713 shares during the period. Advantage Alpha Capital Partners LP raised its holdings in ESAB by 56.4% in the 2nd quarter. Advantage Alpha Capital Partners LP now owns 26,644 shares of the companys stock worth $3,212,000 after purchasing an additional 9,608 shares during the period. Daiwa Securities Group Inc. boosted its position in ESAB by 82.1% during the second quarter. Daiwa Securities Group Inc. now owns 39,739 shares of the companys stock worth $4,791,000 after purchasing an additional 17,911 shares in the last quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp grew its holdings in ESAB by 159.9% in the second quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 3,667 shares of the companys stock valued at $442,000 after purchasing an additional 2,256 shares during the period. Finally, Champlain Investment Partners LLC grew its holdings in ESAB by 5.9% in the second quarter. Champlain Investment Partners LLC now owns 2,043,843 shares of the companys stock valued at $246,385,000 after purchasing an additional 114,744 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 91.13% of the companys stock.

About ESAB

(Get Free Report)

ESAB Corporation is a global leader in welding, cutting and gas control technologies, offering a comprehensive portfolio of equipment, consumables and automation solutions. The companys products include welding power sources, cutting machines, torches, electrodes, filler metals and gas regulating equipment designed to meet the needs of diverse industries. ESAB serves sectors such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive, energy, infrastructure and manufacturing, providing both standard and customized solutions to enhance productivity and quality in metal fabrication and processing.

Founded in 1904 by Swedish inventor Oscar Kjellberg, ESAB pioneered the development of coated welding electrodes, laying the groundwork for modern welding practices.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for ESAB Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ESAB and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Georgina Energy (LON:GEX  Get Free Report)s stock price dropped 10.9% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as GBX 2.41 and last traded at GBX 2.45. Approximately 991,562 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 37% from the average daily volume of 1,581,039 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 2.75.

Georgina Energy Stock Down 10.9%

The stock has a market capitalization of 3.13 million and a PE ratio of -0.06. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is GBX 4.02.

Get Georgina Energy alerts:

Georgina Energy (LON:GEX  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 27th. The company reported GBX (1.08) EPS for the quarter.

About Georgina Energy

Georgina Energy is a Helium & Hydrogen development and production company, based in Australia.

Georgina Energy aims to become a leading player in the global energy market and is focused on establishing itself among the top producers of helium and hydrogen worldwide. With a strategic approach and leveraging the experienced management teams expertise, Georgina Energy aims to capitalize on opportunities in these critical energy sectors.

The projects benefit from established infrastructure and a reliable supply chain, offering significant resource potential through low-risk, cost-effective drilling projects.

Georgina Energy has two principal onshore interests held through its wholly owned Australian subsidiary, Westmarket O&G.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Georgina Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Georgina Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF (NYSEARCA:GVIP  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 6,885 shares, a decrease of 45.9% from the November 30th total of 12,722 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 7,473 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.9 days. Currently, 0.3% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Currently, 0.3% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 7,473 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.9 days.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of GVIP. Truist Financial Corp grew its stake in shares of Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF by 93.8% in the second quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 14,547 shares of the companys stock worth $2,013,000 after purchasing an additional 7,041 shares during the last quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. grew its position in shares of Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF by 15.4% in the 2nd quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. now owns 3,376 shares of the companys stock worth $467,000 after buying an additional 450 shares during the last quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. increased its stake in shares of Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF by 35.6% during the second quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 20,278 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,806,000 after buying an additional 5,321 shares during the period. Cross Staff Investments Inc increased its stake in shares of Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF by 7.1% during the second quarter. Cross Staff Investments Inc now owns 7,726 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,069,000 after buying an additional 515 shares during the period. Finally, Keybank National Association OH bought a new position in shares of Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $231,000.

Get Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF alerts:

Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF Stock Down 0.1%

Shares of NYSEARCA GVIP traded down $0.14 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $156.54. 15,954 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 9,639. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $153.17 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $146.87. The company has a market capitalization of $422.66 million, a P/E ratio of 28.77 and a beta of 1.06. Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF has a 52-week low of $100.33 and a 52-week high of $161.71.

Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF Company Profile

The Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF (GVIP) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Goldman Sachs Hedge Fund VIP index. The fund tracks an equal-weighted index of the 50 most-frequently held US companies selected from the portfolios of hedge funds. GVIP was launched on Nov 1, 2016 and is managed by Goldman Sachs.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Hikma Pharmaceuticals Plc (OTCMKTS:HKMPF  Get Free Report) gapped up before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $19.9840, but opened at $20.94. Hikma Pharmaceuticals shares last traded at $20.94, with a volume of 215 shares traded.

Hikma Pharmaceuticals Stock Up 2.6%

The company has a quick ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 1.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. The firms fifty day moving average price is $21.41 and its 200-day moving average price is $23.96.

Get Hikma Pharmaceuticals alerts:

About Hikma Pharmaceuticals

(Get Free Report)

Hikma Pharmaceuticals is a multinational pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of branded and non-branded generics, specialty injectables and consumer healthcare products. The companys three core business segments include generic medicines, injectable products and branded generics, serving hospitals, wholesalers and pharmacies worldwide. Its product portfolio spans diverse therapeutic areas such as cardiovascular, oncology, respiratory, pain management and anti-infectives, with an emphasis on injectable solutions for complex hospital treatments.

Founded in 1978 in Amman, Jordan, Hikma has grown through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions to become one of the leading pharmaceutical players in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and the United States.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Hikma Pharmaceuticals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hikma Pharmaceuticals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Kone Oyj Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:KNYJY  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant growth in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 37,734 shares, a growth of 45.9% from the November 30th total of 25,869 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 38,889 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.0 days. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 38,889 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.0 days.

Analyst Ratings Changes

KNYJY has been the topic of several recent research reports. Barclays restated an underweight rating on shares of Kone Oyj in a research report on Wednesday, December 3rd. Sanford C. Bernstein upgraded Kone Oyj to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 5th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold.

Get Kone Oyj alerts:

View Our Latest Report on Kone Oyj

Kone Oyj Trading Down 0.7%

KNYJY traded down $0.25 on Monday, reaching $35.35. 610 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 32,734. The company has a market cap of $32.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 34.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.78 and a beta of 0.65. The company has a quick ratio of 0.86, a current ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20. Kone Oyj has a one year low of $23.14 and a one year high of $35.73. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $34.07 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $32.87.

Kone Oyj (OTCMKTS:KNYJY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The company reported $0.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $3.23 billion during the quarter. Kone Oyj had a return on equity of 38.70% and a net margin of 8.48%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Kone Oyj will post 1.06 earnings per share for the current year.

About Kone Oyj

(Get Free Report)

Kone Oyj is a Finland-based company that designs, manufactures and services elevators, escalators and automatic building doors. Founded in 1910 and headquartered in Espoo, Kone has grown into a global provider of people-flow solutions, supplying new equipment as well as modernization and maintenance services for a wide range of buildings, including residential, commercial, healthcare, retail and transportation facilities.

The companys core activities include the engineering and installation of elevator and escalator systems, ongoing maintenance programs to ensure safety and uptime, and modernization of aging equipment to improve performance and energy efficiency.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Kone Oyj Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kone Oyj and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
KW Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IJR  Free Report) during the third quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm bought 5,101 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $606,000. iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF comprises about 1.0% of KW Wealth Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 27th largest position.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. RMG Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF during the second quarter worth about $27,000. Bulwark Capital Corp purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at about $30,000. Curio Wealth LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 26,900.0% in the 2nd quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 270 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 269 shares during the period. Marshall & Sullivan Inc. WA purchased a new position in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $38,000. Finally, Quaker Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 200.4% during the 2nd quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC now owns 452 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $49,000 after buying an additional 902 shares during the last quarter. 66.92% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF alerts:

iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF Stock Down 0.0%

IJR opened at $123.13 on Monday. iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF has a 52 week low of $89.22 and a 52 week high of $125.84. The businesss 50 day moving average is $119.91 and its two-hundred day moving average is $116.36. The firm has a market cap of $88.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.52 and a beta of 1.08.

About iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF

iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF, formerly iShares S&P SmallCap 600 Index Fund, seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors SmallCap 600 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of publicly traded securities in the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market. The Index serves as the underlying index for the S&P 600/Citigroup Growth and Value Index series. The component stocks are weighted according to the total float-adjusted market value of their outstanding shares.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IJR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IJR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Lenovo Group Ltd. (OTCMKTS:LNVGY  Get Free Report) saw unusually-high trading volume on Monday . Approximately 123,736 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 42% from the previous sessions volume of 87,170 shares.The stock last traded at $23.6909 and had previously closed at $24.24.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded Lenovo Group from an overweight rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold.

Get Lenovo Group alerts:

View Our Latest Report on LNVGY

Lenovo Group Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $14.66 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.68, a PEG ratio of 0.57 and a beta of 0.66. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $26.50 and its 200-day moving average price is $27.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a current ratio of 0.96.

Lenovo Group (OTCMKTS:LNVGY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 19th. The technology company reported $0.75 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.60 by $0.15. The firm had revenue of $20.45 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.09 billion. Lenovo Group had a return on equity of 28.15% and a net margin of 2.17%. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Lenovo Group Ltd. will post 2.06 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Lenovo Group

(Get Free Report)

Lenovo Group is a multinational technology company known primarily for the design, manufacture and sale of personal computers, servers, storage and smart devices. Its product portfolio spans consumer and commercial PCs (notable brands include ThinkPad, IdeaPad, Yoga and Legion), workstations, enterprise-class ThinkSystem servers and storage, as well as tablets, smartphones (notably through its Motorola Mobility acquisition), smart home devices and related software. Lenovo also provides IT services and solutions, including systems integration, managed services and lifecycle support for enterprise customers.

The company traces its origins to 1984 when it was founded in Beijing as Legend by Liu Chuanzhi; it later adopted the Lenovo name and expanded through a series of strategic acquisitions.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Lenovo Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lenovo Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Mattson Financial Services LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR  Free Report) by 18.6% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 17,391 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 3,979 shares during the period. Mattson Financial Services LLCs holdings in Extra Space Storage were worth $2,451,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of EXR. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Extra Space Storage by 0.9% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 34,269,652 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $5,052,717,000 after buying an additional 300,167 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its position in shares of Extra Space Storage by 1.6% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 13,680,181 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,017,006,000 after acquiring an additional 210,466 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Extra Space Storage during the second quarter valued at about $1,058,303,000. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its stake in Extra Space Storage by 1.8% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 5,795,253 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $851,070,000 after purchasing an additional 100,637 shares during the last quarter. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its position in shares of Extra Space Storage by 10.2% during the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 4,513,795 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $665,514,000 after buying an additional 419,240 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 99.11% of the companys stock.

Get Extra Space Storage alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Truist Financial decreased their target price on shares of Extra Space Storage from $150.00 to $142.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, December 16th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Extra Space Storage in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Mizuho lowered their price objective on Extra Space Storage from $154.00 to $137.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, December 5th. Royal Bank Of Canada reduced their target price on Extra Space Storage from $148.00 to $146.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Finally, UBS Group decreased their price target on Extra Space Storage from $169.00 to $160.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eleven have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $147.00.

Insider Buying and Selling at Extra Space Storage

In other news, CEO Joseph D. Margolis sold 7,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $141.41, for a total value of $1,060,575.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 19,760 shares in the company, valued at $2,794,261.60. This represents a 27.51% 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. 1.36% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Extra Space Storage Stock Up 0.5%

Extra Space Storage stock opened at $130.87 on Monday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $134.32 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $140.90. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89, a quick ratio of 0.24 and a current ratio of 0.24. The company has a market cap of $27.78 billion, a PE ratio of 29.21, a PEG ratio of 2.47 and a beta of 1.26. Extra Space Storage Inc has a fifty-two week low of $121.03 and a fifty-two week high of $162.77.

Extra Space Storage (NYSE:EXR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.08 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.06 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $858.46 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $736.26 million. Extra Space Storage had a return on equity of 6.56% and a net margin of 28.40%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.07 earnings per share. Extra Space Storage has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.120-8.20 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Extra Space Storage Inc will post 8.1 EPS for the current year.

Extra Space Storage Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be issued a $1.62 dividend. This represents a $6.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. Extra Space Storages dividend payout ratio is 144.64%.

About Extra Space Storage

(Free Report)

Extra Space Storage (NYSE: EXR) is a real estate investment trust that specializes in the ownership, development and operation of self-storage properties. The company provides storage solutions for residential and commercial customers, offering a range of unit sizes, climate-controlled units and specialized options such as vehicle and boat storage. Extra Space Storage markets itself as a customer-focused operator, with online rentals, contactless move-in options and ancillary retail products like packing supplies and insurance to support tenant needs.

Its business model combines property ownership with third-party management and development activities.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Extra Space Storage Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Extra Space Storage and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Mattson Financial Services LLC bought a new stake in Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 11,474 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $962,000.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Access Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the 2nd quarter valued at about $25,000. McElhenny Sheffield Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the second quarter valued at about $27,000. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC grew its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 585.5% in the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 377 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 322 shares during the last quarter. Kilter Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $31,000. Finally, Nova Wealth Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 112.9% during the 2nd quarter. Nova Wealth Management Inc. now owns 428 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 227 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.90% of the companys stock.

Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have commented on the company. Barclays increased their target price on Wells Fargo & Company from $87.00 to $94.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Bank of America lifted their price objective on Wells Fargo & Company from $92.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a hold (c) rating to a buy (b) rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Truist Financial raised their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $90.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, December 18th. Finally, Cfra Research upgraded shares of Wells Fargo & Company to a moderate buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Eleven investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Wells Fargo & Company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $92.04.

Wells Fargo & Company Stock Down 0.0%

WFC opened at $95.26 on Monday. Wells Fargo & Company has a 12 month low of $58.42 and a 12 month high of $95.85. The business has a 50-day moving average of $87.92 and a two-hundred day moving average of $83.09. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.84. The stock has a market capitalization of $299.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.67, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 1.11.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.73 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates 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 firm had revenue of $21.44 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $21.11 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.42 earnings per share. Wells Fargo & Companys revenue was up 5.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, 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 disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, December 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 7th were issued a dividend of $0.45 per share. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, November 7th. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio is presently 29.61%.

About Wells Fargo & Company

(Free Report)

Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified, U.S.-based financial services company headquartered in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1852 by Henry Wells and William G. Fargo, the firm has evolved from its origins in express delivery and pioneer-era banking into one of the largest full-service banks in the United States. The company provides a broad range of financial products and services to individual, small business, commercial, and institutional clients. Charles W. Scharf serves as chief executive officer.

Wells Fargo operates across several core business segments, including consumer banking and lending, commercial banking, corporate and investment banking, and wealth and investment management.

Featured Articles

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.
Norcros plc (LON:NXR  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as GBX 322 and last traded at GBX 320, with a volume of 73956 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 298.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on NXR shares. Berenberg Bank boosted their target price on Norcros from GBX 350 to GBX 410 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, October 13th. Peel Hunt reissued a buy rating and set a GBX 340 price objective on shares of Norcros in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. Finally, Shore Capital reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Norcros in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of GBX 460.

Get Norcros alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on Norcros

Norcros Stock Up 7.4%

The stock has a market cap of 287.01 million, a P/E ratio of 22.86 and a beta of 1.39. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of GBX 297.87 and a 200-day simple moving average of GBX 283.36. The company has a quick ratio of 0.91, a current ratio of 2.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 40.60.

Norcros (LON:NXR  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, November 20th. The company reported GBX 16.30 EPS for the quarter. Norcros had a return on equity of 12.35% and a net margin of 6.83%. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Norcros plc will post 31.3118812 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Norcros news, insider Steve Good bought 20,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 20th. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 304 per share, for a total transaction of 60,800. 35.37% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Norcros Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Norcros is a market leading group of brands providing design led, high quality bathroom and kitchen products with operations primarily in the UK and South Africa.

Based in the UK, Norcros operates under six brands:

 Triton  Market leader in the manufacture and marketing of showers in the UK

 Merlyn  UK and Irelands No.1 supplier of shower enclosures and trays to the residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors

 Grant Westfield  Leading manufacturer of high-end waterproof bathroom wall panels

 Vado  Leading manufacturer and supplier of taps, mixer showers, bathroom accessories, and valves

 Croydex  Market-leading, innovative designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality bathroom furnishings and accessories

 Abode  Leading niche designer and distributor of high-quality kitchen taps, bathroom taps, and kitchen sinks

Based in South Africa, Norcros operates under four brands:

 Tile Africa  Chain of retail stores focused on ceramic and porcelain tiles and associated products such as sanitaryware, showers, and adhesives

 Johnson Tiles South Africa  Manufacturer of ceramic and porcelain tiles

 TAL  Leading manufacturer of ceramic and building adhesives in South Africa

 House of Plumbing  Market-leading supplier of specialist plumbing materials

Norcros is headquartered in Wilmslow, Cheshire and employs around 2,100 people.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Norcros Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Norcros and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Mattson Financial Services LLC boosted its holdings in Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE:PRU  Free Report) by 312.8% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 12,119 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 9,183 shares during the quarter. Mattson Financial Services LLCs holdings in Prudential Financial were worth $1,257,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of PRU. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Prudential Financial by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 42,502,160 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,566,432,000 after buying an additional 600,482 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Prudential Financial by 1.8% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 9,402,393 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,010,474,000 after acquiring an additional 163,874 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Prudential Financial by 1.3% during the second quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 2,408,942 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $258,817,000 after purchasing an additional 31,088 shares during the last quarter. Amundi raised its position in shares of Prudential Financial by 14.1% during the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 1,751,633 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $183,571,000 after purchasing an additional 216,119 shares during the period. Finally, Nordea Investment Management AB lifted its holdings in shares of Prudential Financial by 49.2% in the 2nd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,720,781 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $184,192,000 after purchasing an additional 567,571 shares during the last quarter. 56.83% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Prudential Financial alerts:

Prudential Financial Trading Down 0.5%

Shares of NYSE:PRU opened at $113.96 on Monday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $108.32 and a 200-day moving average of $106.14. The company has a current ratio of 0.16, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The firm has a market cap of $39.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.65, a P/E/G ratio of 0.93 and a beta of 0.97. Prudential Financial, Inc. has a twelve month low of $90.38 and a twelve month high of $123.88.

Prudential Financial Announces Dividend

Prudential Financial ( NYSE:PRU Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, January 15th. The financial services provider reported $3.58 EPS for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $8.35 billion for the quarter. Prudential Financial had a return on equity of 16.60% and a net margin of 4.65%. As a group, analysts anticipate that Prudential Financial, Inc. will post 14.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, December 11th. Investors of record on Tuesday, November 18th were issued a dividend of $1.35 per share. This represents a $5.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, November 18th. Prudential Financials payout ratio is presently 74.18%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

PRU has been the topic of several analyst reports. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their target price on Prudential Financial from $117.00 to $118.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Prudential Financial from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Wolfe Research started coverage on shares of Prudential Financial in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. They set a peer perform rating for the company. Mizuho began coverage on shares of Prudential Financial in a research note on Tuesday, December 16th. They issued a neutral rating and a $125.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Barclays reduced their price objective on Prudential Financial from $120.00 to $117.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Reduce and an average target price of $118.00.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on PRU

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Prudential Financial news, SVP Timothy L. Schmidt sold 8,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $107.69, for a total value of $861,520.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 11,535 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,242,204.15. This represents a 40.95% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Charles F. Lowrey sold 48,164 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $107.39, for a total transaction of $5,172,331.96. Following the transaction, the chairman owned 165,564 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $17,779,917.96. This trade represents a 22.54% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 62,719 shares of company stock worth $6,796,067. 0.25% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Prudential Financial Company Profile

(Free Report)

Prudential Financial, Inc, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, is a diversified financial services company with roots dating to 1875. The firm provides a range of insurance, retirement and investment products aimed at helping individual and institutional clients manage risk, accumulate and protect wealth, and plan for retirement. Prudentials long history in life insurance and related financial services has positioned it as a major participant in the U.S. insurance market and a provider of services to a broad client base.

Prudentials core business activities include individual life insurance, annuities, retirement solutions and group insurance products for employers.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Prudential Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prudential Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK  Get Free Report) and Remote Dynamics (OTCMKTS:RMTD  Get Free Report) are both computer and technology companies, but which is the superior investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their profitability, risk, analyst recommendations, earnings, institutional ownership, valuation and dividends.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and price targets for Rockwell Automation and Remote Dynamics, as provided by MarketBeat.

Get Rockwell Automation alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Rockwell Automation 0 7 10 2 2.74 Remote Dynamics 0 0 0 0 0.00

Rockwell Automation currently has a consensus price target of $403.31, suggesting a potential upside of 0.98%. Given Rockwell Automations stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts clearly believe Rockwell Automation is more favorable than Remote Dynamics.

Volatility and Risk

Institutional & Insider Ownership

Rockwell Automation has a beta of 1.5, indicating that its share price is 50% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Remote Dynamics has a beta of -0.82, indicating that its share price is 182% less volatile than the S&P 500.

75.8% of Rockwell Automation shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.8% of Rockwell Automation shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Profitability

This table compares Rockwell Automation and Remote Dynamics net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Rockwell Automation 10.42% 32.69% 10.69% Remote Dynamics N/A N/A N/A

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Rockwell Automation and Remote Dynamicss revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Rockwell Automation $8.34 billion 5.38 $869.00 million $7.66 52.14 Remote Dynamics N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Rockwell Automation has higher revenue and earnings than Remote Dynamics.

Summary

Rockwell Automation beats Remote Dynamics on 11 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Rockwell Automation

(Get Free Report)

Rockwell Automation, Inc. provides industrial automation and digital transformation solutions in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates through three segments, Intelligent Devices, Software & Control, and Lifecycle Services. Its solutions include hardware and software products and services. The Intelligent Devices segment offers drives, motion, safety, sensing, industrial components, and configured-to-order products. The Software & Control segment provides control and visualization software and hardware, information software, and network and security infrastructure solutions. The Lifecycle Services segment provides consulting, professional services and solutions, and connected and maintenance services. The company sells its solutions primarily through independent distributors in relation with its direct sales force. It serves discrete end markets, including automotive, semiconductor, and warehousing and logistics, as well as general industries comprising printing and publishing, marine, glass, fiber and textiles, airports, and aerospace; hybrid end markets, such as food and beverage, life sciences, household and personal care, and tire, as well as eco industrial, including water/wastewater, waste management, mass transit, and renewable energy; and process end markets comprising oil and gas, mining, metals, chemicals, pulp and paper, and others. Rockwell Automation, Inc. was founded in 1903 and is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

About Remote Dynamics

(Get Free Report)

Remote Dynamics, Inc. markets, sells, and supports automatic vehicle location and mobile resource management solutions. It serves its solutions to construction, field services, distribution, limousine, electrical/plumbing, waste management, and government. The company was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Plano, Texas.

Receive News & Ratings for Rockwell Automation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rockwell Automation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
EBOS Group Limited (OTCMKTS:EBOSF  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant decline in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 7,901 shares, a decline of 28.4% from the November 30th total of 11,040 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently  days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently  days.

EBOS Group Price Performance

Shares of EBOS Group stock remained flat at $23.75 on Monday. EBOS Group has a fifty-two week low of $20.02 and a fifty-two week high of $23.75. The firms 50-day moving average price is $23.75 and its 200 day moving average price is $23.41.

Get EBOS Group alerts:

EBOS Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

EBOS Group (OTCMKTS:EBOSF) is a leading distributor of healthcare and animal care products and services in Australia and New Zealand. The company operates through two primary divisions: Healthcare, which supplies pharmaceuticals, medical consumables, diagnostic and surgical equipment to hospitals, pharmacies and agedcare facilities; and Animal Care, which provides veterinary medicines, nutrition and equipment to veterinary clinics, farmers and pet specialty outlets.

In its Healthcare division, EBOS Group offers a comprehensive range of prescription and overthecounter medicines, medical devices and consumer health products.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for EBOS Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EBOS Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global X MSCI Argentina ETF (NYSEARCA:ARGT  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large drop in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 388,273 shares, a drop of 43.7% from the November 30th total of 689,552 shares. Currently, 4.7% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 168,336 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.3 days. Based on an average daily volume of 168,336 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.3 days. Currently, 4.7% of the shares of the company are short sold.

Global X MSCI Argentina ETF Stock Performance

Shares of ARGT traded down $0.49 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $92.38. 118,291 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 396,319. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $89.08 and its 200-day moving average price is $82.77. The stock has a market capitalization of $767.68 million, a P/E ratio of 13.65 and a beta of 1.10. Global X MSCI Argentina ETF has a 12 month low of $66.49 and a 12 month high of $96.58.

Get Global X MSCI Argentina ETF alerts:

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Global X MSCI Argentina ETF

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of ARGT. Triumph Capital Management acquired a new stake in shares of Global X MSCI Argentina ETF in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $102,000. Tudor Investment Corp ET AL bought a new position in Global X MSCI Argentina ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at $315,000. National Bank of Canada FI increased its position in shares of Global X MSCI Argentina ETF by 864.3% during the 3rd quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 2,025 shares of the companys stock valued at $141,000 after purchasing an additional 1,815 shares during the period. Millennium Management LLC increased its position in shares of Global X MSCI Argentina ETF by 224.7% during the 3rd quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 12,116 shares of the companys stock valued at $845,000 after purchasing an additional 8,384 shares during the period. Finally, Breakout Capital Partners LP raised its stake in shares of Global X MSCI Argentina ETF by 10.6% in the 3rd quarter. Breakout Capital Partners LP now owns 213,300 shares of the companys stock worth $14,880,000 after buying an additional 20,500 shares in the last quarter.

Global X MSCI Argentina ETF Company Profile

The Global X MSCI Argentina ETF (ARGT) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI All Argentina 25\u002F50 index. The fund tracks a narrow index of companies with Argentine economic linkages that are selected and weighted by market cap. ARGT was launched on Mar 2, 2011 and is managed by Global X.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Global X MSCI Argentina ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Global X MSCI Argentina ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Grupo Herdez, S.A.B. de C.V. (OTCMKTS:GUZOF  Get Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 38,471 shares, an increase of 121.6% from the November 30th total of 17,363 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 0 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently  days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 0 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently  days.

Grupo Herdez Price Performance

OTCMKTS GUZOF opened at C$4.09 on Monday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of C$3.94 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$3.47. Grupo Herdez has a 12 month low of C$2.52 and a 12 month high of C$4.09.

Get Grupo Herdez alerts:

Grupo Herdez Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Grupo Herdez (OTCMKTS:GUZOF) is one of Mexicos leading packaged food companies, with a portfolio of well-known brands serving both retail and foodservice channels. Established in Mexico City in the early 20th century, the company has grown from a regional sauce producer into a diversified food processor with operations spanning multiple product categories.

The companys core offerings include salsas, sauces, canned vegetables, frozen foods, jams and jellies, and ready-to-eat meals. In addition to its flagship Herdez brand, the group holds licenses and partnerships to produce and distribute international brands in the Mexican market, such as Barilla pasta and McCormick spices.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Grupo Herdez Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Grupo Herdez and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCMKTS:OTCM  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 1,318 shares, a decrease of 31.2% from the November 30th total of 1,916 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 10,638 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.0% of the companys stock are short sold. Approximately 0.0% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 10,638 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, Zacks Research raised shares of OTC Markets Group from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 19th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Strong Buy.

Get OTC Markets Group alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on OTC Markets Group

OTC Markets Group Stock Performance

OTCM opened at $52.60 on Monday. OTC Markets Group has a fifty-two week low of $44.20 and a fifty-two week high of $60.50. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $52.20 and a 200 day moving average of $53.26. The firm has a market cap of $632.25 million, a P/E ratio of 21.83, a PEG ratio of 1.57 and a beta of 0.37.

OTC Markets Group (OTCMKTS:OTCM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The financial services provider reported $0.71 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.62 by $0.09. OTC Markets Group had a net margin of 24.06% and a return on equity of 67.77%. The firm had revenue of $30.66 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $29.49 million. Equities research analysts predict that OTC Markets Group will post 2.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About OTC Markets Group

(Get Free Report)

OTC Markets Group operates a network of electronic trading platforms that provide real-time quotes, trading, and market data for over-the-counter (OTC) securities. Through its tiered marketplacesOTCQX for established companies, OTCQB for early-stage and developing firms, and OTC Pink for less transparent issuersthe company connects broker-dealers, institutional investors, and retail participants. Its platforms facilitate price discovery and liquidity for a wide range of securities, including foreign issuers, micro-caps, and funds.

The companys product suite extends beyond trading venues to encompass market data services, corporate disclosure tools, and compliance solutions.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for OTC Markets Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for OTC Markets Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The Kansai Electric Power Company, Incorporated (OTCMKTS:KAEPY  Get Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 3,595 shares, an increase of 107.4% from the November 30th total of 1,733 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 24,755 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.1 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 24,755 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.1 days.

Kansai Electric Power Stock Up 0.2%

KAEPY traded up $0.02 on Monday, reaching $7.99. The stock had a trading volume of 160 shares, compared to its average volume of 12,315. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $7.89 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $7.12. Kansai Electric Power has a 12-month low of $4.84 and a 12-month high of $8.43.

Get Kansai Electric Power alerts:

Kansai Electric Power Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Kansai Electric Power Co, Inc, commonly known as Kansai Electric Power, is a major Japanese electric utility company primarily engaged in the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. The company serves the Kansai region of Japan, including prefectures such as Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo and Nara, supplying power to residential, commercial and industrial customers. Through its integrated network, Kansai Electric Power manages the flow of electricity from generation facilities to end users and provides grid-related services to maintain reliable supply across urban centers and surrounding areas.

The company operates a diversified fleet of power plants, encompassing nuclear, thermal, hydroelectric and renewable energy installations.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Kansai Electric Power Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kansai Electric Power and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
JinkoSolar (NYSE:JKS  Get Free Report) and TGI Solar Power Group (OTCMKTS:TSPG  Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the superior stock? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, dividends, institutional ownership, risk, profitability and valuation.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for JinkoSolar and TGI Solar Power Group, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Get JinkoSolar alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score JinkoSolar 4 3 0 0 1.43 TGI Solar Power Group 0 0 0 0 0.00

JinkoSolar currently has a consensus target price of $19.49, indicating a potential downside of 29.24%. Given JinkoSolars stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe JinkoSolar is more favorable than TGI Solar Power Group.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

Profitability

35.8% of JinkoSolar shares are owned by institutional investors. 19.8% of JinkoSolar shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

This table compares JinkoSolar and TGI Solar Power Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets JinkoSolar -4.98% -8.96% -2.19% TGI Solar Power Group N/A N/A N/A

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares JinkoSolar and TGI Solar Power Groups top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio JinkoSolar $12.64 billion 0.11 $7.47 million ($9.15) -3.01 TGI Solar Power Group N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

JinkoSolar has higher revenue and earnings than TGI Solar Power Group.

Summary

JinkoSolar beats TGI Solar Power Group on 5 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About JinkoSolar

(Get Free Report)

JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the design, development, production, and marketing of photovoltaic products. The company offers solar modules, silicon wafers, solar cells, recovered silicon materials, and silicon ingots. It also provides solar system integration services; solar power generation and solar system EPC services; and energy storage system, as well as undertakes solar power projects. The company sells its products to distributors, project developers, system integrators, and manufacturers of solar power products under the JinkoSolar brand. As of December 31, 2023, it had an integrated annual capacity of 85 gigawatts (GW) for mono wafers; 90 GW for solar cells; and 110 GW for solar modules. It operates in China, the United States, Mexico, Australia, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Jordan, Vietnam, Egypt, Spain, Germany, and internationally. JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Shangrao, the People's Republic of China.

About TGI Solar Power Group

(Get Free Report)

TGI Solar Power Group Inc. intends to provide clients with management, tools, and resources to deliver interactive, real-time, on demand staffing for full time and project based personnel. The company was formerly known as TenthGate International, Inc. and changed its name to TGI Solar Power Group Inc. in June 2008. TGI Solar Power Group Inc. was founded in 1967 and is based in Ewing, New Jersey.

Receive News & Ratings for JinkoSolar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JinkoSolar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Westend Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA  Free Report) by 8.6% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 143,294 shares of the aircraft producers stock after buying an additional 11,299 shares during the period. Boeing accounts for approximately 9.0% of Westend Capital Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its largest position. Westend Capital Management LLCs holdings in Boeing were worth $30,927,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC boosted its holdings in Boeing by 43.3% in the second quarter. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC now owns 3,598 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $754,000 after acquiring an additional 1,088 shares in the last quarter. McElhenny Sheffield Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Boeing in the second quarter worth approximately $62,859,000. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Boeing by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 66,773,360 shares of the aircraft producers stock valued at $13,991,022,000 after buying an additional 1,118,316 shares during the last quarter. Patton Fund Management Inc. increased its position in Boeing by 734.4% during the third quarter. Patton Fund Management Inc. now owns 10,322 shares of the aircraft producers stock valued at $2,228,000 after acquiring an additional 9,085 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vestor Capital LLC increased its position in shares of Boeing by 8,287.4% during the 2nd quarter. Vestor Capital LLC now owns 246,086 shares of the aircraft producers stock valued at $51,562,000 after purchasing an additional 243,152 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 64.82% of the companys stock.

Get Boeing alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

BA has been the subject of several analyst reports. BNP Paribas set a $150.00 price objective on Boeing in a research note on Tuesday, November 18th. BNP Paribas Exane began coverage on Boeing in a research note on Tuesday, November 18th. They issued an underperform rating and a $150.00 price objective on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated an outperform rating and set a $267.00 price objective on shares of Boeing in a research note on Friday, November 14th. The Goldman Sachs Group reissued a buy rating on shares of Boeing in a report on Tuesday, December 9th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $250.00 price target on shares of Boeing in a research report on Monday, September 29th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have given a Buy rating, three have assigned a Hold rating and five have given a Sell 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 $233.17.

Boeing Price Performance

BA stock opened at $216.34 on Monday. The Boeing Company has a 1-year low of $128.88 and a 1-year high of $242.69. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $202.10 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $214.26. The company has a market capitalization of $164.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -15.81 and a beta of 1.18.

Boeing (NYSE:BA  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The aircraft producer reported ($7.47) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.51) by ($6.96). The business had revenue of $23.27 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $21.61 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted ($10.44) EPS. The businesss revenue was up 30.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts anticipate that The Boeing Company will post -2.58 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Boeing news, SVP Dana S. Deasy acquired 554 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, November 24th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $178.88 per share, for a total transaction of $99,099.52. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 28,442 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,087,704.96. This trade represents a 1.99% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Uma M. Amuluru sold 1,366 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $197.66, for a total transaction of $270,003.56. Following the sale, the executive vice president owned 14,656 shares in the company, valued at $2,896,904.96. This represents a 8.53% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Boeing Profile

(Free Report)

Boeing Company (NYSE: BA) is an American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense systems, and space and security technologies. Founded in 1916 by William E. Boeing in Seattle, the company today operates as an integrated aerospace and defense contractor with a global customer base. Boeing relocated its corporate headquarters to Arlington, Virginia in 2022 and maintains extensive engineering, manufacturing and service operations across the United States and around the world.

Boeings principal lines of business include Commercial Airplanes, which produces and supports a range of jetliners used by airlines globally; Defense, Space & Security, which develops military aircraft, rotorcraft, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, satellites, and launch and missile systems; and Boeing Global Services, which provides aftermarket maintenance, training, spare parts, digital analytics and logistics support.

See Also

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.
Titomic Limited (ASX:TTT  Get Free Report) insider Mira Ricardel purchased 120,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 19th. The shares were purchased at an average price of A$0.25 per share, for a total transaction of A$30,000.00.

Titomic Stock Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 1.81, a current ratio of 1.48 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 74.71. The firm has a market cap of $357.96 million, a PE ratio of -20.20 and a beta of 0.41.

Get Titomic alerts:

About Titomic

(Get Free Report)

See Also

Titomic Limited provides manufacturing and technology solutions for high-performance metal additive manufacturing in Australia, the United States, and Europe. The company offers cold spray additive manufacturing machines and manufactured products. It also engages in the sales, marketing, and customer relationship activities. In addition, the company provides metal coating and repair services. It serves defense, aerospace, mining, energy, and transport industries. Titomic Limited was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in Mount Waverley, Australia.

Receive News & Ratings for Titomic Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Titomic and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Towneley Capital Management Inc DE lifted its stake in shares of Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF (NYSEARCA:JMBS  Free Report) by 1.9% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 589,404 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 11,184 shares during the quarter. Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF comprises about 5.8% of Towneley Capital Management Inc DEs holdings, making the stock its 5th biggest holding. Towneley Capital Management Inc DE owned 0.41% of Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF worth $26,918,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of JMBS. Comerica Bank raised its stake in Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF by 9.8% during the 1st quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 70,756 shares of the companys stock worth $3,198,000 after acquiring an additional 6,318 shares in the last quarter. MAI Capital Management increased its position in shares of Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF by 81.6% during the first quarter. MAI Capital Management now owns 1,910 shares of the companys stock worth $86,000 after purchasing an additional 858 shares in the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada increased its position in shares of Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF by 11.1% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,026,504 shares of the companys stock worth $46,398,000 after purchasing an additional 102,908 shares in the last quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF by 1.2% in the 1st quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 94,784 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,284,000 after purchasing an additional 1,125 shares during the last quarter. Finally, AlphaQ Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $902,000.

Get Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF alerts:

Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA:JMBS opened at $45.77 on Monday. Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF has a 52-week low of $43.45 and a 52-week high of $46.20. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $45.80 and its 200 day moving average price is $45.35.

Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Increases Dividend

Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Profile

The firm also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 29th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 22nd will be issued a $0.2029 dividend. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 22nd. This is a positive change from Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETFs previous monthly dividend of $0.19.

(Free Report)

The Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF (JMBS) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Bloomberg U.S. MBS index. The fund is an actively managed fund of mortgage-backed securities. The fund seeks a high level of total return. JMBS was launched on Sep 12, 2018 and is managed by Janus Henderson.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JMBS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF (NYSEARCA:JMBS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Janus Henderson Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of United States Natural Gas Fund LP (NYSEARCA:UNG  Get Free Report) traded up 3.2% during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $13.27 and last traded at $13.2140. 9,731,853 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 1% from the average session volume of 9,596,091 shares. The stock had previously closed at $12.81.

United States Natural Gas Fund Trading Up 2.9%

The companys 50-day moving average is $13.70 and its 200 day moving average is $13.75. The stock has a market capitalization of $633.54 million, a PE ratio of -15.04 and a beta of -0.12.

Get United States Natural Gas Fund alerts:

Institutional Investors Weigh In On United States Natural Gas Fund

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Comerica Bank boosted its position in United States Natural Gas Fund by 1,412.9% in the first quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 2,693 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $58,000 after buying an additional 2,515 shares during the last quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets raised its position in United States Natural Gas Fund by 5,325.8% during the 1st quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 1,636,789 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $35,371,000 after buying an additional 1,606,622 shares during the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its stake in United States Natural Gas Fund by 490.7% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 14,880 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $322,000 after acquiring an additional 12,361 shares during the period. Bard Financial Services Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of United States Natural Gas Fund by 12.5% in the 2nd quarter. Bard Financial Services Inc. now owns 31,500 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $481,000 after acquiring an additional 3,500 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC boosted its holdings in shares of United States Natural Gas Fund by 56.1% in the 2nd quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 111,773 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,705,000 after acquiring an additional 40,153 shares during the last quarter.

United States Natural Gas Fund Company Profile

United States Natural Gas Fund, LP is a limited partnership. The Company is a commodity pool that issues limited partnership interests (shares) traded on the NYSE Arca, Inc (the NYSE Arca). The investment objective of the Company is for the daily changes in percentage terms of its shares per share net asset value (NAV) to reflect the daily changes in percentage terms of the spot price of natural gas delivered at the Henry Hub, Louisiana, as measured by the daily changes in the price of the futures contracts on natural gas traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange (the NYMEX) that is the near month contract to expire, except when the near month contract is within two weeks of expiration, in which case it will be measured by the futures contract that is the next month contract to expire (the Benchmark Futures Contract), less its expenses.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for United States Natural Gas Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for United States Natural Gas Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Voya Investment Management LLC lowered its holdings in shares of Invesco Ltd. (NYSE:IVZ  Free Report) by 23.3% in the 3rd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 88,001 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 26,723 shares during the period. Voya Investment Management LLCs holdings in Invesco were worth $2,019,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Capital A Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Invesco by 4,802.9% during the 2nd quarter. Capital A Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,667 shares of the asset managers stock worth $26,000 after buying an additional 1,633 shares in the last quarter. IFP Advisors Inc lifted its position in shares of Invesco by 55.7% during the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 2,127 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 761 shares during the period. UMB Bank n.a. boosted its stake in Invesco by 45.8% during the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 2,623 shares of the asset managers stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 824 shares in the last quarter. Kestra Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in Invesco by 672.0% in the second quarter. Kestra Investment Management LLC now owns 3,443 shares of the asset managers stock worth $54,000 after purchasing an additional 2,997 shares during the period. Finally, Contravisory Investment Management Inc. increased its stake in Invesco by 84.6% in the third quarter. Contravisory Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,882 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $89,000 after purchasing an additional 1,779 shares in the last quarter. 66.09% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Invesco alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling at Invesco

In related news, Director Douglas J. Sharp sold 160,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated 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 transaction, the director directly owned 192 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,523.52. The trade was a 99.88% 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. 1.21% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Invesco Stock Down 1.0%

Shares of NYSE:IVZ opened at $26.95 on Monday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $24.61 and its 200 day moving average is $21.82. Invesco Ltd. has a 12-month low of $11.60 and a 12-month high of $27.48. The stock has a market cap of $11.99 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.33, a PEG ratio of 0.66 and a beta of 1.66. The company has a quick ratio of 1.23, a current ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.85.

Invesco (NYSE:IVZ  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly 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. Invesco had a return on equity of 9.11% and a net margin of 14.15%.The business had revenue of $1.19 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.17 billion. Invescos quarterly revenue was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.44 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Invesco Ltd. will post 1.87 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Invesco Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th were given a dividend of $0.21 per share. This represents a $0.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, November 14th. Invescos dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 57.14%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on IVZ. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Invesco from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Barclays upped their price target on Invesco from $25.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, December 12th. Evercore ISI increased their price target on Invesco from $24.00 to $26.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Bank of America boosted their price objective on Invesco from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Finally, Citigroup increased their target price on Invesco from $22.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and thirteen have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Invesco has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $24.53.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on IVZ

Invesco Profile

(Free Report)

Invesco Ltd. is an independent global investment management firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: IVZ). With origins dating back to 1935, the company is dedicated to offering a wide array of investment strategies and solutions to both individual and institutional clients worldwide.

The firms product suite encompasses actively managed equity and fixed income funds, passive index funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), closed-end funds, and unit investment trusts, alongside specialized offerings such as private markets, real estate, and structured products.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IVZ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Invesco Ltd. (NYSE:IVZ  Free Report).

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.
WorthPointe LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (BATS:FLOT  Free Report) during the third quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm purchased 12,777 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $653,000.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC bought a new position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $61,900,000. Royal Bank of Canada raised its holdings in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 59.0% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 2,351,795 shares of the companys stock valued at $120,058,000 after purchasing an additional 872,352 shares during the period. Quadrature Capital Ltd boosted its holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 15,997.2% in the second quarter. Quadrature Capital Ltd now owns 654,191 shares of the companys stock worth $33,374,000 after acquiring an additional 650,127 shares in the last quarter. RMG Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at $24,254,000. Finally, Walker Financial Services Inc. bought a new stake in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at $22,448,000.

Get iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF alerts:

iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Stock Performance

FLOT opened at $50.82 on Monday. iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF has a 1-year low of $49.75 and a 1-year high of $51.34. The companys fifty day moving average price is $50.94 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $50.95.

About iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF

The iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (FLOT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund tracks a market value-weighted index of USD-denominated, investment-grade floating rate notes with maturities of 0-5 years. FLOT was launched on Jun 14, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FLOT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (BATS:FLOT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
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
In a press conference in December 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a United States Navy guided-missile warship, to be called the Trump-class battleship.

The class is also known as FAFO(X) in some Navy documents, and is intended to initially consist of the lead ship USS Getsum (FAFO-1) and an as-yet unnamed other vessel. When the class is put into service, it is expected to give the US Navys surface fleet a cruise missile option that can carry gold-plated nuclear weapons.

Making the U.S. Navy Great Again

The announcement of the class comes amidst warnings by U.S. officials that Chinese shipbuilding has surpassed the United States in capacity and output, and is part of the Trump administrations goal to enlarge the U.S. Navy and revitalise the U.S. shipbuilding industry.

President Trump announced that two ships would initially be constructed, with a total of 10 then planned, and eventual plans for between 20 and 25 as part of a Golden Fleet. Because of the pure gold fittings and even gold missiles, gold machine guns and gold lasers, each ship would cost in the region of $945 billion. Each missile would cost $8.4 billion, as they would be made from pure 24-carat gold.

USS GETSUM

The first ship is planned to be named USS Getsum (FAFO-1). U.S. Secretary of the Navy John Sinker stated that the ships are planned to carry gold guns, gold lasers and nuclear-armed gold-plated cruise missiles. Trump stated that the ships are planned to be domestically built at the Hanwha Philly Shipyard, owned by South Korean conglomerate Hanwha Group.

The Navy has not had a battleship in commission since the retirement of the last Iowa-class battleship USS Missouri in 1992. There have been no plans for new ones since the cancellation of the Montana class in 1943.

The retirement of the Iowa class led to a battleship retirement debate on how the Navy should replace their capabilities. The Zumwalt-class destroyer was developed to replace their gunfire support function, but the class was cancelled after only three ships were constructed.

Gold Design

Some experts have commented that the Trump-class ship resembles a jewellers nightmare, something you would see in a young Saudi princes bath tub

The Center for Strategic and International Studies wrote that the gaudy gold embellishments and decor were not necessary in a combat situation. However, according to the U.S. Naval Institute, the gold-plated ship could also serve to dazzle its opponents, especially in clear sunlight conditions. The ship is meant to survive in a fleet battle, and thus the solid gold armour is not definitional to the core of the battleship.

Fake news CNN analyst Stephen Cockring stated that the procurement of the Trump class battleship would likely be immediately shelved by any incoming Democrat administration.
Foyle Hospice has paid warm tribute to its outgoing chairperson, Angela McIntyre MBE, as she steps down after more than four decades of service to hospice and specialist palliative care in the North West.

A founding member of Foyle Hospice, Angela has been involved since the very beginning, working closely with the late Dr Tom McGinley in the 1980s to turn his vision of a hospice for the city and wider region into a reality.

A fully qualified nurse, she played a key role in shaping the early plans for the building, the development of the nursing department and the model of care which has since supported thousands of patients and families.

Reflecting on those early days, Angela said: When Tom first spoke about a hospice in Derry, it really was a dream. There was no road map, just a determination that people here deserved dignity, comfort and proper support at one of the most difficult times in their lives. From the start, it was about building something that felt like home, not a hospital ward.

She recalls visiting the site during construction and realising that the proposed bathrooms were far too small for the real needs of patients and families.

I remember bringing one of my childrens wheelchairs down to the building site and trying to turn it in the bathroom. There wasnt enough space. That moment summed up what we were trying to do, if it didnt work for real people and real families, it wasnt good enough. From then on, we kept asking ourselves, What would this feel like for the person using it?

Angela believes that focus on real lives has shaped the hospice ever since. There are still misconceptions that a hospice is only a place you go to die, she said. Foyle Hospice is so much more than that. Yes, we care for people at the end of life, but we also support patients with pain and symptom management, offer day therapy and specialist support in peoples own homes, and provide bereavement care for families. It is a calm, welcoming place, bright, friendly and very human.

Throughout her time as chairperson, Angela has consistently highlighted the contribution of staff and volunteers across all parts of the organisation.

The staff here are absolutely wonderful, every one of them, she said. You never hear them complain. They go the extra mile in ways that people may never see, from the nurses and doctors, to the cooks finding out a patients favourite meal. We have so many volunteers who give their time in our shops, offering therapies, tending to the extensive grounds and at events. Their kindness and professionalism are at the heart of everything.

Angela also paid tribute to the generosity of the community across Derry, the wider North West and Donegal.

I will never forget opening the collection boxes from our first ever fundraising event and finding 10 and 20 notes folded inside, a fortune at that time. People trusted us to use that money well. Forty years on, in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, they are still turning up, still donating, still fundraising. We see families who live, work and have connections on both sides of the border. The hospice belongs to all of them, and I am incredibly grateful for their support.

Her reflections come as the Northern Ireland Assemblys Health Committee published its report on specialist palliative and end-of-life care, highlighting the pressures facing hospices and specialist services. Looking to the future, Angela is clear that investment must keep pace with need.

24-hour specialist palliative care is expensive, and demand is only going in one direction, she said. If we want families in this region to have the dignity and support, they deserve, we will need more commitment to funding and, in time, an increased number of beds and facilities that continue to meet expectations. Foyle Hospice has always tried to stay one step ahead, but we cannot do it on community generosity alone. Sustainable support from government is essential.

As we look to the next ten years, I would love to see Foyle Hospice grow in a way that keeps that home from home feeling while expanding what we can offer  more inpatient capacity, strong day therapy, community services and continued investment in staff training and development to enhance specialist skills. Innovation and learning have always been part of our story, and they will be just as important in the years ahead.

Paying tribute to the outgoing chairperson, Chief Executive Donall Henderson said: Angelas contribution to Foyle Hospice simply cannot be overstated. From standing on a muddy site with Dr McGinley and the original steering group, to chairing the Board through some of the most challenging years the health and social care system has ever seen, she has been a constant source of wisdom, compassion and determination. She always brings every discussion back to finding a solution with one simple question: What is best for patients and families? That really has set the tone for all of us and will be a lasting legacy.

Angela embodies the values of Foyle Hospice, dignity, compassion, community and a relentless focus on quality. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers and the many patients and families we serve, I want to thank Angela most sincerely for her leadership and her lifelong commitment to hospice care. We are honoured to carry forward the legacy that she, alongside Dr McGinley and so many others helped to build.
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.
The Government of Pakistan has reportedly approved a process for the auction of 600MHz of spectrum within two months.

It appears that the aim of the upcoming auction is not only to improve 3G and 4G services but also to enable the launch of 5G, and encourage more international operators to enter the country.

Pakistan is expected to offer 606MHz of new spectrum across six major bands, including 700MHz, 1800MHz, 2100MHz, 2300MHz and new bands 2600MHz and 3500MHz.

The 2600 and 3500MHz band are considered to be suited for 5G services. Indeed, the aim is for the auction be followed by the rollout of 5G internet in five to six months.

This decision was reportedly made early last week at a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the countrys Cabinet.

According to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khwaja, quoted in the Dawn news service, the new spectrum auction is to be completed by early February  no mean feat given that it could be ten times larger than the 60MHz auctioned over all past auctions put together.

The urgency is, however, explained by the effect of internet congestion which is seen as holding back Pakistans digital transformation efforts.

The Finance Minister said last week that recommendations for the spectrum auction were prepared by the US-based economic consulting industry firm National Economic Research Associates (NERA).

These recommendations are based on experiences in recent spectrum auctions in other countries, including process, pricing mechanism, auction and implementation strategies.

The IT Minister explained that Pakistans 245 million-strong population has, to date, had access to only 274MHz spectrum compared to the 600MHz available to the 175 million people of neighbouring Bangladesh.

The internet is seen as integral to the governments digitisation efforts, for which the Digital Nation Pakistan Act 2025 has already been put in place. Connect 2030, a vision soon to be inaugurated by the prime minister, requires the government to ensure that over the next five years, the minimum connectivity available to users should be 100 Mbps.
Kenyas Capital Markets Authority (CMA) says it has officially licensed operators Safaricom and Airtel Money Kenya to operate as what are called intermediary service platform providers (ISPPs).

This regulatory approval, announced last week, will allow millions of mobile users to access regulated capital markets directly from their phones in what is described as a strategic shift in how Kenyans interact with the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

As ISPPs, these two companies will facilitate the marketing and distribution of approved so-called collective investment schemes such as money market funds and equities, bridging the gap between fund managers and retail investors. Indeed, Safaricom and Airtel Money can now facilitate access to investment opportunities  such as securities and other capital markets instruments  directly via their mobile ecosystems.

Safaricom is expected to fully integrate trading features within the M-Pesa mobile money app. Users will be able to open accounts and execute trades in under two minutes with as little as KES100 (about US$0.77). Airtel Money is also expected to leverage its growing subscriber base to offer similar investment products.

CMA CEO Wyckliffe Shamiah, quoted by IT Web Africa, describes the approvals as a key step towards aligning capital markets with the national goal of increasing the savings-to-GDP ratio.

"These licenses are key to offering Kenyans a broader range of investment opportunities," he explains. "By meeting investors where their money already resides, in their mobile wallets, we can tap into a vast pool of household liquidity that was previously disconnected from the capital markets."

The CMA believes this initiative can enhance competition, expand investor choice, and strengthen digital access to regulated capital markets products".

Both Safaricom and Airtel have built digital ecosystems that go well beyond money transfer to include insurance, lending, savings and merchant services.
The slow but steady growth of private networks in Latin America appears to be continuing with last weeks news from operator Telefonica Movistar Colombia that its business division Movistar Empresas has implemented the first industrial private LTE network in a maritime terminal in Colombia.

The deployment will boost the connectivity of Puerto Antioquia located in the southeast of the Gulf of Uraba, on the northern coast of Colombia. This port, which does not yet seem to have officially begun operations (though this was due to take place late in 2025), is described as a strategic project that Movistar says will transform foreign trade and economic development of the Uraba region.

Puerto Antioquia is a multi-purpose port designed to move up to seven million tons of cargo annually. Its strategic position places it 350 kilometres closer to a number of important production and consumption centres than other Caribbean ports, making it key to improving Colombia's logistical competitiveness.

And LTE, it is hoped, will help it to achieve this aim. As Alejandro Costa, CEO of Puerto Antioquia, explains: "This is the first port in the country designed to be 100% digital from the beginning. This private industrial LTE network allows us to guarantee safe, traceable and real-time operations, preparing Puerto Antioquia to become a world-class logistics hub.

With the help of Nokia technology, Movistar Empresas has implemented a private industrial LTE network that aims to ensure communication and total control over port processes.

This digital infrastructure will help to ensure low communications latency and maximum security, along with high levels of traceability and load control, and reduced operational risks thanks to reliable connectivity. Movistar Empresas suggest this offering will also help to scale technological capacity for future automated offerings and Industry 4.0. solutions.
India roundup: Foxconn brings China strategy to India as Japan firms deepen chip ties

Japanese firms like Rohm and AOI Electronics built partnerships with Indian partners. Foxconn is mimicking its strategy in China, setting up a factory city in India.

Rohm, Tata Electronics form partnership to manufacture power semiconductors in India

Rohm and Tata Electronics said they have entered into a strategic partnership to establish semiconductor manufacturing operations in India, targeting both domestic and overseas markets, as the two companies seek to expand their presence amid growing efforts to localize chip supply chains.

Japan-based AOI Electronics to support Kaynes' semiconductor back-end expansion in India

AOI Electronics, a Japan-based semiconductor assembly and test provider, has entered into a business alliance with India's Kaynes Semicon Private Limited and Japan's Mitsui to support the establishment of a semiconductor back-end processing business in India.

Foxconn brings China factory city playbook to India with massive iPhone expansion

Taiwan's Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, better known as Foxconn, is rapidly expanding its manufacturing footprint in India, hiring tens of thousands of workers at a new iPhone plant near Bengaluru and laying the groundwork for what sources familiar with the project describe as a factory-city model similar to those it previously built in China.

How is India's AI governance framework reshaping where AI runs?

India's tightening AI governance rules are no longer just shaping compliance strategies. They are beginning to influence where artificial intelligence workloads are deployed, pushing sensitive applications toward India-hosted and on-premise infrastructure.

India and New Zealand conclude free trade agreement negotiations

India and New Zealand said they have concluded negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), marking one of India's fastest trade deals with a developed economy since talks were launched in March 2025, according to a statement issued by India's Ministry of Commerce.

Article edited by Jerry Chen
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.
China eases IPO rules for reusable rocket firms to speed space ambitions

China has eased listing requirements for private companies developing reusable commercial rockets, shifting regulatory scrutiny away from short-term financial performance and toward technological milestones, as Beijing steps up efforts to close the gap with the United States in launch capabilities and low-Earth-orbit satellites.

The changes reflect the realities of the rocket industry, where research costs are high, technical risks substantial, and commercialization timelines long. Under traditional profitability or revenue thresholds, many early-stage aerospace firms have struggled to access public capital. Chinese financial regulators now appear willing to tolerate those constraints in exchange for strategic progress.

Technical milestones trump financial benchmarks

According to the STAR Market Daily, the Shanghai Stock Exchange has introduced a dedicated fifth listing standard under the STAR Market framework for commercial rocket companies. The revised criteria place greater weight on core technological breakthroughs, phased development achievements, industry positioning, and long-term market potentialbroadening access to financing for firms still deep in development.

Under the new rules, companies may list without meeting minimum revenue or profitability requirements, provided they can demonstrate key technical progress, such as the successful orbital insertion of a payload using reusable rocket technology. A fully successful booster recovery, however, is not required.

Earlier this month, LandSpace, one of China's leading private aerospace companies, completed an orbital launch of its new Zhuque-3 rocket. While the mission did not achieve booster recovery, it nonetheless met the technical threshold now recognized by regulators.

In a report published on December, 26, 2025, Reuters said the Shanghai Stock Exchange would also allow reusable rocket developers to list through a fast-track initial public offering process, waiving additional financial requirements as China seeks to narrow its gap with the United States in space capabilities. The fast-track builds on rules issued in June 2025 that already lowered barriers for unprofitable but highly innovative firms.

SpaceX's technological lead

Reusable rocket technology remains overwhelmingly dominated by SpaceX, Elon Musk's aerospace company, whose launch vehicles are effectively the only ones capable of routine orbital missions with reusable first-stage boosters. The United States retains a clear advantage in recovering, refurbishing, and reusing launch hardwarean edge that has helped SpaceX lower costs and accelerate satellite deployment.

LandSpace's Zhuque-3 test earlier this month marked the first full-scale reusable rocket trial by a Chinese private company, underscoring Beijing's determination to close that gap. Though the recovery attempt fell short, a growing number of state-owned and private Chinese firms are now racing to test their own reusable systems.

LandSpace has said it hopes to demonstrate a successful booster recovery during the second Zhuque-3 launch in mid-2026. The company has also acknowledged that competing with SpaceX will require sustained capital investmentmaking access to public markets critical.

Regulatory support with strategic overtones

The revised listing framework is formalized in a new regulatory document: Guidance No. 9 on the Application of Rules for the Review of Issuance and Listing on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. The guideline contains 14 provisions outlining eligibility criteria, including business scope, "hard technology" credentials, demonstrable technical advantages, phased achievements, regulatory approvals, industry standing, market potential, and commercialization plans.

Article 5 of the guideline sets explicit operational requirements. Applicants must be engaged in ongoing research and development or the commercialization of scientific results and must, at the time of listing, have achieved at least one measurable milestone: the first successful orbital insertion of a payload using reusable technology on a medium- or heavy-lift launch vehicle. Regulators also require that no significant technical or operational obstacles remain that could materially impair future launch missions.

The guidelines, which took effect immediately, give priority support to companies undertaking national missions or participating in state-led major space programshighlighting the close alignment between commercial launch activity and China's broader strategic objectives.

Chinese officials have repeatedly described SpaceX's dominance in low-Earth-orbit satellite deployment as a national security concern. In response, Beijing has accelerated development of its own satellite constellations, with plans to deploy tens of thousands of satellites over the coming decades.

By reshaping capital market rules to accommodate riskier, longer-horizon technologies, China is signaling that in the race for space infrastructure, technological progressnot near-term profitsnow carries the greatest weight.

Article edited by Jerry Chen
Move over, Malaysia? India's emerging OSAT sector claims price parity in legacy packaging

India's first wave of OSAT facilities is moving from capacity announcements to competitive positioning, with some domestic players now benchmarking themselves against established backend hubs rather than solely against local peers.

Gujarat-based Suchi Semicon has indicated that it has reached price parity with established OSAT providers in Southeast Asia, while acknowledging that China's high-volume manufacturing still offers lower costs.

"Excluding China, we are highly competitive on pricing," said Shetal Mehta, director of Suchi Semicon. "Compared with Malaysia, Singapore, and even Taiwan, several customers have told us they find our pricing attractive and are keen to move forward."

The company is expanding beyond small outline packages into QFN and power packages for industrial and automotive applications. The positioning reflects a broader shift in how Indian OSATs are framing their progress, with regional competitiveness increasingly replacing purely domestic narratives.

Slow ramp from first production

Suchi's initial OSAT manufacturing focused on SOIC packaging. The facility, which began processing wafers from December 2024, is currently operating at what the company describes as low-volume manufacturing and qualification levels.

"Our SOIC line is currently running at LVM - Low Volume Manufacturing and some qualification lots," Mehta said. "This gives us comfortable headroom today and operational flexibility as we prepare for the QFN ramp, without stressing quality or delivery."

The timeline - approximately 12 months from first production to low-volume phase - is consistent with typical greenfield OSAT ramp cycles that often span 24 to 36 months before reaching sustained volume manufacturing. In backend manufacturing, early utilization is driven by customer audit schedules and qualification timelines rather than by installed capacity alone.

Qualification cycles dictate revenue timing

Suchi's expansion into QFN packaging followed customer engagement after its SOIC line entered operation. Sample shipments are expected to begin in early 2026, with the initial phase intended for customer qualification rather than volume production.

"The qualification time is around 12 to 18 months," Mehta said. "But when the orders come in, the contracts will start coming in somewhere between 36 months and 60 months."

Power packaging is being introduced on a separate schedule. Sample shipments of power packages are planned for April, with early engagement focused on industrial and automotive programs.

"The April samples are mainly for industrial and automotive customers at this stage," Mehta said. The company is working toward IATF 16949 certification, targeting completion in the first half of 2026. The company's recent (December 2025) announcement characterized its operations as "automotive-grade ready," though formal certification remains in progress.

The extended timelines reflect standard practice in automotive supply chains, where validation and reliability cycles affect the pace at which volumes can ramp.

Government support figures in the cost structure

When asked about pricing competitiveness against OSAT providers in Malaysia and Vietnam, Mehta pointed to both operational and policy factors.

"The cost advantage is a combination of both," Mehta said. "The low operational costs in India, the schemes and support from the government of India and Gujarat."

The company did not quantify the relative contribution of structural cost advantages versus government support. Mehta also acknowledged that China's backend ecosystem remains more cost-competitive.

How pricing dynamics evolve as volumes increase and as government incentives potentially phase down will be an important factor for Indian OSATs seeking sustained regional relevance.

Material constraints remain fluid

Asked about the primary bottlenecks facing India's OSAT sector in 2026, Mehta pointed to multiple challenges rather than a single constraint.

"Every day is a new battle to fight," he said. "Sometimes it's material, sometimes it's equipment. Sometimes you don't have engineers to fix that equipment. Sometimes people are not trained. Sometimes you want to ramp up your production, but there will be no trained people."

The comments reflect the ecosystem development challenges facing India's semiconductor backend sector as it scales beyond initial pilot operations.

Supply chain timeline implications

For supply chain planners evaluating India as a backend diversification option, Suchi's timeline suggests meaningful OSAT capacity - particularly for automotive and industrial applications - remains 18 to 24 months away. The qualification cycles required for automotive programs mean that even customers engaging now would likely see volume production in 2027 or 2028.

The pricing competitiveness claims, while unquantified in terms of subsidy versus structural advantage, indicate India-based OSATs are attempting to compete on more than proximity to domestic demand.

Whether that positioning translates into sustained regional competitiveness will depend on three factors: conversion of qualification programs into multi-year production contracts; cost structure evolution as government incentives potentially phase down; and the pace at which automotive certifications enable tier-1 supply chain integration.

Whether India's OSAT sector can sustain regional relevance beyond initial buildout will become clearer as Southeast Asian peers also expand capacity and as the relative weight of government support versus structural cost advantages becomes more transparent through operational results.

Article edited by Jack Wu
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
A man has appeared in court following a series of public order incidents in Letterkenny in recent weeks.

Mohammed Moushraqi was before Letterkenny District Court charged in connection with incidents on September 3, November 29 and December 9.

A 30-year-old with an address at High Road, Letterkenny, Moushraqi, a Palestinian national, was fined a total of 400.

Sergeant Jim Collins told the court that Gardai arrived to a property at High Road, Letterkenny at 10.40pm on September 3 following a report of a disturbance. When Gardai arrived at the scene, Moushraqi was aggressive and punching a door. He was highly intoxicated and was arrested.

Gardai were subsequently called to a disturbance at Letterkenny University Hospital on November 29 at 11.08pm. The accused man was highly intoxicated and unsteady on his feed and deemed to be a danger to himself and others in the area.

On December 9, at 11.40pm, Gardai were alerted to a man causing a nuisance in a fast food establishment at Port Road, Letterkenny. Again, Moushraqi was again highly intoxicated and unsteady on his feet.

Following his arrest, Moushraqi refused to allow Gardai to photograph him. Under section 12 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006, Gardai have the power to photograph an arrested person for the purpose of assisting with the identification of him or her in connection with any proceedings that may be instituted against him or her for the offence in respect of which he or she is arrested.

Mr Donough Cleary, solicitor for Moushraqi, said alcohol has been a common denominator for his client. He said that Moushraqi has recognised that this is an issue for him, but he has since secured employment in the Letterkenny area.

He said the court would be most concerned about the incident in the hospital.

Mr Cleary told the court that Moushraqi has poor English and he presented with a moderate facial injury.

He becomes quite animated and somewhat frustrated when he tries to explain his situation, Mr Cleary said. There was no aggression to staff and it was borne out of frustration. There was no hostility directed.

Mr Cleary said Moushraqi acknowledges that he has to take steps to address his alcohol issue.

Judge Emile Daly said that Moushraqi has a problem that he has to address and he also has to learn to communicate.

Moushrsaqi was fined a total of 400 and given four months to pay.
Trump, Zelensky confer on peace deal for Ukraine, breakthrough eludes

Xinhua) 10:26, December 29, 2025

WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday that the two sides are "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to a peace deal to end the Ukraine crisis after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

However, there is little sign that any major breakthrough is emerging, though Trump described the talks as "excellent" with "a lot of progresses" made.

"This is not a one-day process deal. This is very complicated stuff," Trump said at a joint press conference with Zelensky after the meeting, where the two leaders also spoke to European leaders.

"In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump said. "It's been a very difficult negotiation."

It is widely thought that thorny issues include a potential timetable for a ceasefire, the establishment of a proposed demilitarised zone, the management of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and control of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework," Zelensky said of his meeting with Trump at the press conference, noting that the 20-point peace plan now was "90 percent" complete -- the same figure he mentioned earlier this month.

As for the security guarantees for Ukraine, Zelensky said the United States, Ukraine and Europe have almost 100 percent agreed on security guarantees for Ukraine.

Trump said that he does not like to say percentages, but "thinks it could be close to 95 percent" on the security issue.

"We could be very close. There are one or two very thorny issues, very tough issues, but I think we're doing very well," Trump said. Both Trump and Zelensky failed to specify the issues.

The two leaders spoke to European leaders, including chiefs of NATO and European Union, during the course of their meeting. Zelensky said Trump may meet him and European leaders in Washington in January as he and Trump "agreed that our teams will meet in upcoming weeks to finalize all discussed matters".

Just ahead of his meeting with Zelensky, Trump said he "had a good and very productive telephone call" with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Sunday morning.

Yuri Ushakov, Putin's top foreign policy aide, said in Moscow that during the lengthy phone call, Putin and Trump agreed that a long-term peace settlement was better than the temporary ceasefire pushed forward by the Ukrainians and the Europeans.

Putin has agreed to a U.S. offer to create two working groups for the peace deal, one on security issues, another on economic issues, Ushakov was quoted by a New York Times report as saying.

When welcoming Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago, Trump refused to say whether he expects a peace deal over the Russia-Ukraine conflict to be reached by the end of this year.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Next April marks 114 years since of the most infamous shipwreck of all time, the sinking of the mighty Titantic.

On a freezing cold, calm morning on April 15, 1912 more than 1,500 men, women and children lost their lives when the Belfast-built passenger liner struck an iceberg off Newfoundland, some one thousand miles short of its New York destination.

Among those on board was a newly married young man from Convoy on his way to start a new life in Manhattan.

The son of William and Catherine (nee Gordon), 27 year-old Neal McNamee was born in Ruskey, Convoy, on August 29, 1884. After emigrating from Donegal in the early part of the twentieth century, Neal secured work for Liptons Tea in England, where he married Eileen OLeary, before being offered a high-profile position in New York.

The newlyweds, looking forward to a new life across the Atlantic, boarded the Titantic at Southampton as third class passengers on April 10: ticket number 376566, price 16 and two shillings.

Five days later the pair, not priority class passengers, were among the 1,517 who succumbed to the icy ocean waters. First class passengers gained life saving preference over those in steerage below decks, resulting in the newly weds dying together, when the liner struck an iceberg just days from their American dream.

Eileens body was recovered wearing her brown velvet coat, white sailor blouse, blue skirt with black braid, black stockings and shoes with her wedding ring and purse containing her sailing ticket and just one shilling and eleven-pence. She was buried at sea two days later.

Neal's body was never recovered.

Large iceberg spotted

On the night of Sunday April 14, 1912 the temperature had dropped to freezing and the Atlantic Ocean was flat calm. Taking heed of iceberg warnings delivered in the days before, English Captain Edward Smith had charted a new more southerly course for the Titanic.

Earlier that Sunday afternoon two crucial iceberg alerts were not passed onto the crew in the ships bridge since radio operators were instructed to deliver only messages to and from passengers. This policy, more than any other, led to the chain of events, which would result in the loss of the ship and the vast majority of those aboard.

At 11:40pm, while sailing about 400 miles south of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, lookouts Frederick Fleet and Reginald Lee spotted a large iceberg directly ahead of the ship. Sounding the ship's bell three times, Fleet telephoned Sixth Officer James Moody on the bridge exclaiming, Iceberg, right ahead!.

First Officer Murdoch, hearing Moody repeat the message, gave the helmsman, Robert Hichens, the order hard-a-starboard. The order came too late.

The ship made its fatal collision at an estimated 37 seconds after Fleet sighted the iceberg.

The iceberg scraped the ship's starboard side. The entire impact had lasted approximately 10 seconds. Captain Smith, alerted by the jolt, arrived on the bridge and ordered a full stop. About 130 minutes after the collision, an inspection by the senior officers arrived at a tragic conclusion - the Titanic would sink.

Lifeboats launched

The lifeboats were ordered to be readied and a distress call was sent out. It was estimated the ship would go down within an hour to an hour and a half, and said that the pumps would only keep the Titanic afloat for a few extra minutes.

At 00:05, Captain Smith ordered all the lifeboats uncovered; five minutes later, at 00:10, he ordered them to be swung out; then, at 00:25, he ordered them to be loaded with women and children and then lowered away. At 00:50, 4th Officer Joseph Boxhall fired the first white distress rocket.

Wireless operators Jack Phillips and Harold Bride began sending the international distress signal CQD, which was received by several ships, including Mount Temple, Frankfurt, Virginian and Titanic's sister ship, Olympic. Despite assurances that they were on their way, none of the vessels were close enough to reach the liner before she sank.

The closest ship to respond was Cunard Line's Carpathia, 58 miles away, which would arrive in an estimated four hourstoo late to rescue all of Titanic's passengers.

The first lifeboat launched was Lifeboat 7 on the starboard side with 28 people on board out of a capacity of 65. It was lowered at around 12:45am. Lifeboat 6 and Lifeboat 5 were launched ten minutes later. Lifeboat 1 was the fifth lifeboat to be launched with 12 people. Lifeboat 11 was overloaded with 70 people. Collapsible D was the last lifeboat to be launched.

Titanic showed no outward signs of being in imminent danger and passengers were reluctant to leave the apparent safety of the ship to board small lifeboats. Moreover, large numbers of Third Class passengers were unable to reach the lifeboat deck through unfamiliar parts of the ship and past barriers, although some stewards successfully led groups from Third Class to the lifeboats.

As a result, most of the boats were launched partially empty With women and children first the imperative for loading lifeboats. Second Officer Lightoller, who was loading boats on the port side, allowed men to board only if oarsmen were needed, even if there was room. First Officer Murdoch, who was loading boats on the starboard side, let men on board only if women were absent. As the ship's list increased people started to become nervous, and some lifeboats began leaving fully loaded. By 2:05am, the entire bow was under water, and all the lifeboats, except for two, had been launched.

Final minutes

Around 2:10am, the stern rose out of the water, exposing the propellers, and by 2:17am the waterline had reached the boat deck. The last two lifeboats floated off the deck, collapsible B upside down, collapsible A half-filled with water after the supports for its canvas sides were broken in the fall from the roof of the officers' quarters. Shortly afterwards, the forward funnel collapsed, crushing part of the bridge and people in the water. On deck, people were scrambling towards the stern or jumping overboard in hopes of reaching a lifeboat. The ship's stern slowly rose into the air, and everything unsecured crashed towards the water. While the stern rose, the electrical system finally gave way causing the lights to go out. Shortly afterward, the stress on the hull caused Titanic to break apart between the last two funnels, and the bow section went completely under. The stern section righted itself slightly and then rose vertically. After a few moments, at 2:20am, it also sank.

Only two of the 18 launched lifeboats rescued people after the ship sank. Lifeboat 4 was close by and picked up five people, two of whom later died. Close to an hour later, lifeboat 14 went back and rescued four people, one of whom died afterward. Other people managed to climb onto the lifeboats that floated off the deck. There were some arguments in some of the other lifeboats about going back, but many survivors were afraid of being swamped by people trying to climb into the lifeboat or being pulled down by the suction from the sinking Titanic.

After steaming at 17.5 knots for just under four hours, RMS Carpathia arrived in the area and at 4:10am began rescuing survivors. By 8:30am she picked up the last lifeboat with survivors and left the area at 08:50 bound for New York.
Has anyone ever wondered about the following unusual places we find tucked away in the corners of familiar-sounding townlands? Pennsylvania (in Carrickmaquigley); Carolina (in Tullyarvan); Gibraltar (in Magheradrumman); Condum Hill (in Tullyally)?

Well, Pennsylvania is American in origin and must have some connection with the thousands who sailed to Pennsylvania from Moville in the bad old days.

Carolina is not actually American but Irish: Cora Leanna  Stepping Stones of the Water-Meadow. Nor is Gibraltar named after its name-sake, that Mediterranean island, but is Irish: Giob-Altoir, meaning Ragged Altar Stone.

Condum Hill is a mystery. It might well be the name of some now obscure indigenous plant that translates as Dog Bush and spelt in Irish Contom, but nobody is really sure. And youll be disappointed to know as well that its definitely not the place were the first Inishowen family-planning clinics were held!

There are some other Condum rivals in the same district of Moville: Condum Rocks and Condum Little. But in the far west of Clonmany, we have even better versions called Wee Contum and Big Contum! They are both in Dunaff. But that shouldnt surprise us because there is a spectacular rock in the sea there called Bothanvarra which many locals believe to mean Boidin Mhara (look it up in your own Irish dictionaries, please!).

Ill leave you with just a handful of relatively straightforward places - two from each parish:

BURT: Ballyderowen - Baile Idir Dha Abhainn (The Homestead Between Two Rivers); Castlecooley - Caiseal Cabhlaigh (Stone Enclosure of the Fleet)

CLONCHA: Altnadarrow- Alt na dTarbh (The Hillock of the Bulls); Knockergrane - Cnocair Greine (Sunny Hill-Tops)

CLONMANY: Gortnahunshion - Gort na hOinsin (The Tilled Field of the Silly Girl); Rinn an Chrochaire (The Headland of the Hangman) Do you know where?

CULDAFF: Cashlananeeve - Caislean na Naomh (The Castle of the Saints); Carricknadreecuskeim - Carraig na dTri Coisceim (The Rock of the Three Footsteps)

DESERTEGNEY: Gortyarrigan - Gort Ui Argain (OHarrigans Tilled Field); Asnabindaragh - Eas na Binne Darach (The Waterfall of the Cliff of the Oak)

DONAGH: Meenagasson - Min na gCosan (The Mountain Pasture of the Footpaths); Carrowblagh - Ceathru Bhlathach (Flowery Quarterland)

FAHAN LOWER: Lennyarnan - Leanai Airneain (The Water-Meadows of the Sloes); Magherintoore - Machaire an Tuair (The Plain of the Bleaching-Green)

FAHAN UPPER: Crislaghmore - Crioslach Mor (Big Bosom, ie The Bosom of Fahan); Annybrack - Eanaigh Breaca (Speckled Marshes)

INCH: Carrickanee - Carraig an Fhia (The Rock of the Deer); Strahack  Srathach (Low-Lying Marshy Land)

MINTIAGHS: The Barr of Inch - Barr na hInse (Top of the Island, ie. Inishowen); Drumaneigh - Droim an Fheich (The Ridge of the Raven)

MOVILLE LOWER: Crockaulin - Cnoc Alainn (Beautiful Hill); Peanagh  Peanach (Abounding in Magpies)

MOVILLE UPPER: Crockavishane - Cnoc Aibhise Ein (Hill of the Lush Grassy Place of the Birds); Ballyrattan - Baile Raithin (Homestead of the Little Fort)

MUFF: Crocknacraddy - Cnoc na gCreadair (The Hill of Relics); Rinerore - Rinn Iara Oir (The Promontory of the Golden Hares)

The Isle of Burt and boundary issues

The fact that Inishowen is surrounded by sea in the east, west and north, makes the outline of the peninsula, in its upper limits, a very easy shape to see on a map. Not so, its southern limits. Ask almost anyone today around Burt where Inishowen ends and you will get a different answer each time! But in earlier times this information was widely known and very specific.

Inishowens boundary began at Castle Hill, followed the river down to Portlough, headed up through Bogay Hill and across to Holywell Hill. And some of you are probably saying But thats County Derry! And you would be right, because in ancient times the boundary of Inishowen went east of Holywell Hill, right through Creggan until it reached the Foyle. At some early stage in its history, of course, Doire Cholm Cille  where the city now stands  was an island and an important religious centre for Inishowen. There was no such thing as County Derry or County Donegal in those times.

Going back through the mists of time it would appear that Inishowen was and is a virtual archipelago of islands: Inch, Doagh, Inishtrahull and, in former times, several others in Lough Foyle, including the island upon which Derry City is built. Furthermore, four townlands in the parish of Burt  Carrowen, Ballymoney, Mulenny and Grange  were at one time completely surrounded by water, and, as a group, were referred to as The Isle of Burt. Malin too was an island. No small wonder then that in ancient times the peninsula was referred to as Tir Eoghain na hInse  The Island Territory of Eoghan.

READ NEXT: There are just two Movilles in the world, but do you know where the 'other one' is?

Without going into the complex history of the peninsula, I would like to outline some basic facts about the place-names of Inishowen. Before 1600, not a single English name existed here. Inishowen was totally Irish-speaking. The population would have had no use for an English name or an Anglicized name. All that changed when Sir Arthur Chichester took over from our last Gaelic chieftain Cathaoir Rua O Dochartaigh in 1609. As the land was being divided up and leased to English and Scottish settlers, maps were drawn up on which all the Gaelic townlands were written in a form that would help the newcomers identify places. Thus for example, Ballie Ichaneightra on the 1609 map is evidently Baile Fhiochain Iochtarach (Balleelaghan Lower, in Culdaff Parish). This means Fiochans Homestead. The native Irish would have understood its meaning immediately but it was just mumbo-jumbo to the settlers, unless they were from the Gaidhlig-speaking parts of Western Scotland.

The situation in the early 1600s would have been similar to that of the pioneers of America when they first encountered Native American place-names like Minnesota and Milwaukee  places that had very specific meanings to the natives but were totally lost on the new-comers. By exploring their origins we are rescuing Inishowen place-names from a similar loss of true identity.

Tipsy friar with talent for verse

A poem/song in Irish composed about 1750 by a rakish friar from the Isle of Doagh, has been a popular recitation piece all over Inishowen. It was first collected in Urris in the 1920s and later in 1938, young Maire Ni Dhochartaigh from Cloch Fionn wrote it down from her father, Seosamh.

A longer version then appeared in Charles McGlincheys The Last of the Name. Charles, who was born in 1861, had memorised it from childhood. It contains 33 references to Gaelic place-names from all over the peninsula. Parental Advisory: The friar isnt exactly a good role model for the present youth of Inishowen! But the first two verses begin harmlessly enough:

Mullach os cionn Ardaigh

gus aoibhinn corach Barr na mBeann

Tifea Iorras uait is Malainn

Cnoc na Darach gach uile ann.

Cnoc na Manach, Log is Caonach,

Glac na Braide, sin is Drong,

Log an Churraigh, Coill is Clarach,

Agus ar Eanach a dol me dream

The Town of Mullagh above Ardagh,

Fair and pleasant are the lofty Bens,

Youll see Urris and the meadows of Malin,

Cruckakillydara and the hills beyond.

Knockamany, Lagg and Keenagh

Glacknabrade and from there to Drung

Legacurry, Kill and Clara,

And back to Anagh where I drank a dram.

And who exactly was this tipsy Friar Tuck with a talent for verse-making? Well, he was one of four sons of Ruairi Og O Dochartaigh, three of whom became clergymen. One was hanged in the Diamond of Derry in 1740 and another went to Louvain to study. The poet himself remained on in the Isle of Doagh although he ministered for a time in the parish of Cloncha. He is only known as Brathair na Dumhcha  The Friar from Doagh  and died in 1784. He is buried somewhere in Lagg cemetery.

It seems he wrote the poem one day as he sat at Carrickabraghy looking all around him on the hills of Inishowen. He names each place in turn and then recalls all the shenanigans he got up to - presumably in his wayward youth. Has he now repented? Impossible to say. Heres my own prose translation of the rest of the poem:

Carraig a Bhrachai was my favourite drinking ground, down by the sandhills or by An Caislean, singing sweetly to Oilean Glas-Eadaigh. I went fishing at Traigh Breige, made music at Rath Sionnaigh and swam the sea to An Breidin. Thousands thought that I had drowned!

I got drunk on Cnoc na Gaoithe and stayed up there all the night. From there I went to Gleann na Minteach where treachery was done on me. I asked for a tankard and they filled it up but the landlord told me Id better pay. When the moon arose I was ready to go but hadnt a penny in my purse. I found my coat and my cloak all torn, lying in bits on the tavern floor. A woman followed me, stole my boots and disappeared into the yellow bog. The town rose up and tried to catch me but I steamed ahead like a boat on the wind.

I went to Ruscai to visit Grainne but she wouldnt give me a beer on strap. All I had was a mouldy wig, an empty pocket and an ugly hat. I put them down and hit the counter but she sent me off with a scolding shout. But I drank a bottle when I got to An tSraid and more than my fill at Machaire Mor.

I learned Latin and Greek so long ago, but time is moving on, my friend! I donned a cravat and a fine silk shirt at Toigh Shearlais in Ard a Chrainn. I was in Ardach playing cards and I drank a health to Owen Roe ONeill. On my way to Machaire Ard, I spent some time at the races with Maire Nic a Bhaird.

From Baile Challain to Cnoc Each-Dhroma I was famous for making poit.

I never stopped and never got tired making music all night in Inis Eoghain. Big towns, small towns from Doire upwards, but two of the places I never set foot: Ceathru Trasna and Iochtar Fanaid - so now Ive told you all my rant!

Theres a Point but its not Quigleys

A district in Inishowen, known many years ago as The Meedians, will no doubt be recognisable by some of our senior citizens around Muff or in parts of Upper Moville. However, the youth of today would look at you blankly if you said you were heading up to see somebody in The Meedians. Where in Gods name is that? Ill tell you now and take you out of your misery. The Meedians are in the rather exotic-sounding Three Trees townland in the parish of Muff.

According to Dinneens Irish Dictonary miodun is not just any old meadow but one especially ready for cutting. And Inishowen has a few others thus described: one near Malin Head called Meedan More (Miodun Mor); and in the south east we have one in Tullyally called Meedanbeg (Miodun Beag) and another in Tromaty called Meedanboy (Miodun Bui). Ah, the sunny long ago! Do you see what you are missing now, young people of Inishowen?

The autumn days are here again and the night winds chilly blow,

The woodlands turn to golden hue and the harvest moons a-glow,

To hear again of days long past to come no more, I know,

When I mowed Pat Murphys meadow in the sunny long ago!

Three Trees has a rather bizarre etymology. The official Irish version is Ard an Chrainn, translating as The Height of the Tree. Ancient sources refer to it as Ard an Chro (The Height of the Shelter or Hut) but the Three Trees name itself has baffled many.

It seems probable though that the transcriber - whoever he was - thought he was hearing something like three trees in the name as spoken by some local resident but in actuality this was Na Tri dTrian, The Three Thirds. It refers to land divisions, not trees.

Ard an Chrainn / Ard an Chro appear to be older names for the principal mountain in Three Trees now called Cruckglass (Cnoc Glas, Green Hill). The plot thickens. As Oscar Wilde said The truth is rarely plain and never simple. How right he was.

Staying in that region, we come to another vexed problem which I call the Quigley Factor of place-names. There might be hundreds of Quigley residents in the south east but Carrickmacquigley has nothing to do with that surname. It is a mistranslation of Carraig Mhic Uidhilin, meaning McQuillans Rock. (It can be pronounced Carrickmakilleen). Futhermore, there is no Quigleys Point! There is a point there alright  a headland - but 17th century documents suggest that the original name should have been Carrowkeel Point.

There are two fleeting references to it in the Plantation Papers after which it disappears completely from the records. It had been anglicised to Rinecaroughkilly and Rynecarronikilly which means The Point of Carrowkeel, and evidently this was known in Gaelic Ireland as Rinn Cheathrun Caoile. The end word Caoile [pronounced keel-ya] was wrongly interpreted as Quigley in more recent times by virtue of the fact that there was a family of that surname living in the immediate area! I hope I dont get lynched by an angry mob of Quigleys for stealing their thunder.

Henry Vaughan and the rebuilding of Buncrana

I always thought it very strange that a town called The Mouth of the Crana River was a relatively long way away from that river. The Crana flows into the Swilly in the north-western suburbs of the present town. The town centre itself  somewhere near the old Market House  is not the hub of an old 15th-century village, but actually the heart of a new town built in the 18th century by Henry Vaughan. The original old town  Bun Chranncha  was situated on the other side of the river, to the north of the ODoherty Keep and directly behind Vaughans 1718 stately home, known locally as The Castle.

To build his new town, Vaughan dismantled old Bun Cranncha (Buncranah on the maps), stone by stone, and started work immediately on the expansion of a small cluster of houses just directly opposite his house  a place now called Castle Avenue, but which was known in the 1830s as William Street  presumably named after the British monarch, William IV who ruled from 1830-7.

William Street, in the 1830s, began as Castle Avenue and veered right down the Main Street - but it was still called William Street - and ended at the Market House where it met Townsend Street  now called Lower Main Street. To the left was Market Street, now Maginn Avenue.

Mabel Colhoun, the eminent archaeologist, and native of Inishowen, wrote in her invaluable book Inishowen Heritage that Castle Avenue, in her childhood days, was known as Gubbock Lane, which I believe comes from the Irish word giobach meaning untidy. And yes, it was probably a higgledy-piggledy cluster of thatched cottages in 1718 that in no way resembled an English town. No doubt Mr. Vaughans dream was to build a more orderly village, along the lines of an English village, and build he did.

I have no idea what his town looked like in the 18th Century  I was unable to find a town plan from that period  but I did find the town layout on the 1834 Ordnance Survey Map and it was more or less the same shape then that it is today except that when you walked down any side-street you were immediately in green fields of corn, swaying in the summer breeze!

I have some reason to believe that Gubbock Lane was the pathway through a little clachan called Colecorvrin. It is mentioned several times in 17th century documents linked to another clachan called Ardraman (Ardaravan) about one kilometre away at the end of the Causeway Road  or the Cassy Road, as local people call it.

Now Ardaravan  as a townland  is a large area covering the whole of Buncrana and its immediate environs, but in the 1600s it was a very rural district scattered around with little farm clusters  Colecorvrin and Ardraman were but two of these clusters. Ardravan townland is named after the cluster of Ardravan.

In 1609 Henry Vaughan (an ancestor of the Henry Vaughan who built the new town) was granted land for 51 years for the nominal fee of 50 by Arthur Chichester  almost half of the parish of Fahan Lower, consisting of 11 quarterlands and 4 half quarters  the entire western side of the parish, including all the fisheries in that half. The river bordering the eastern edge of his lease was the Owenboy River. Vaughans land was on its western bank and this river meets with the Crana River at Kinnego and flows out into the Swilly at Tullyarvin. The lease states that he was granted several fisheries including: Tullyarvill cum Duntarson Meaning: Fisheries from Tullyarvin to Shandrim, i.e., from the Swilly to the Owenboy River via the Crana River. (Duntarson is in Shandrim).

However, he is also granted the fisheries from Ardaravan to Colecomer, which I believe to be Colecorvrin as it was written in the latter form in two other unrelated documents of the time. The river in question has no name, that I am aware of, but it still flows to this day from its source in Aghilly, past Magheraban and Magherintoor; then by the north of Ardaravan, under a bridge on the Cassy Road and down under Jacobs Bridge, just around the corner from Castle Avenue. It swerves around the back of the houses in the avenue and comes out into the Swilly. Thus we have it on the 1609 lease: Arderaman cum Colecomer.

Meaning: Ardaravan to Colecorvrin (i.e., fisheries on the river linking them.)

Colecorvrin - if it really is the name of the old cluster of houses on Castle Avenue - could be interpreted as Cuil Choirbhrin, the Nook or Angle of Coirbhrin. And Coirbhrin might also be the name of that stream.

Its source is shown in a 1609 map as the marshy area lying between aghiellie and ballimagan, i.e., somewhere near Clonglash.

And what kind of fishing would have taken place in this little stream? Well, take a look sometime at a little side-street halfway down Castle Avenue on the right. It used to be called Eel Street! And the name Gubbock could also be piscine in origin since gobog means dog-fish!
A solidarity protest backing hunger strikers in the UK was held at Croithli Bridge on Saturday.

The protest was to show solidarity for a strike by imprisoned members of the proscribed group Palestine Action, which has entered a critical phase, with medical professionals warning of imminent fatalities.

READ NEXT: Six years in the Shetlands: A Donegal man's North Sea Oil story

To date, four activists remain on strike, led by Heba Muraisi, who has now surpassed 50 days without food.

The protesters, currently held on remand in various UK facilities, are demanding immediate bail and the deproscription of Palestine Action, which was designated a terrorist organisation by the Home Office in July 2025.

In Ireland, we have a deep understanding of the impact of the hunger strike, Donegal county councillor Micheal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig said beforehand.

Over the years, 23 Irishmen have died refusing food while imprisoned. We are only too well aware of this aspect of our history and much of it within living memory. Here, many of us recall campaigning during the 1970s in support of local men Pat Ward and Donall De Barra. And of course, we remember the Trojan work we did on behalf of Bobby Sands and his gallant comrades in the H-Blocks.

At the moment, there are young people on hunger strike in England demanding justice. Those on hunger strike have been imprisoned for highlighting British complicity in the genocide being carried out against the Palestinian people of Gaza.

As we have seen so often in Ireland, the British government, with its usual hypocrisy, has attempted to deem its critics as terrorists and all the while itself posing as the upholder of law.

This, despite Westminster supplying Benjamin Netanyahus murderous regime with weapons manufactured in Britain and providing intelligence gathered by the British air force flying over Gaza.

We have undoubtedly an obligation to support in every way we can those brave young people on hunger strike in Britain today. Some of them are now over 50 days without food and are facing a very dangerous phase in their protest. Their cause is just, and their demands are justified. Let us all do what we can to ensure they do not die.
Back in September we spoke with Jaki McCarrick about her new poetry collection, Sweeney as a Girl, for Louth Life magazine.

Acclaimed Dundalk writer Jaki McCarrick has earned recognition across multiple literary genres, from award winning plays like Leopoldville and Belfast Girls to her short fiction collection The Scattering, which was shortlisted for the Edge Hill Prize and includes her Wasafiri winning story The Visit. Now, after over two decades of writing, she publishes her debut poetry collection, Sweeney as a Girl.

Heavily influenced by her years in Dundalk, she is quick to explain that the town and the border are never far from her mind when she sits down to write.

Firstly, were on a border, and that is so fascinating. This sort of liminal space, your place between maybe years ago, you could say your place between two cultures. But now you cant really say that; things have blended much more.

This in-between place, half here, half there, is something Jaki has carried since childhood. Born in London she moved to Dundalk with her parents in the late seventies.

Ive probably always been writing. Im one of those who would have started at school. I went to the Louis which had a magazine called Inklings, and I was always writing in that. So I sort of always knew I was going to do something in writing.

Her path wasnt straightforward. She first turned to journalism, working for a music magazine in London before finding her way into performing arts.

I did a performing arts degree at Middlesex University in the mid 90s. I noticed that I was good at sort of putting physical theatre pieces together with text; I was always writing text. So that was my way into creative writing.

Eventually, she found herself back in Ireland, studying for a Creative Writing Masters at Trinity College. It was there that old loves resurfaced. I sort of went back to what I originally did and that was poetry and short stories. So I rediscovered that whole journey.

For Jaki, reading has always run parallel to writing. I had a summer where I was very sick and I was home, so I just went through [a lot of books] at quite a young age. I think I was about 14 or 15 and I read War and Peace and the Russian writers. I read a lot of French writers. And then Southern American writers, which I really loved as well, like William Faulkner and Flannery OConnor.

I do really love the Southern Gothic genre. People would say that its similar to that Ulster Gothic sort of strand of writing and I would agree.

While the gothic shades her fiction and short stories, its the local landscape that often roots her poetry. Her new collection, Sweeney As A Girl, emerged from a single poem that pulled everything else into focus.

It was when I wrote the poem Sweeney As A Girl, which reimagines the character of Sweeney, the mythical king, as a female. I thought to myself, I really like this poem. Its very sort of anarchic, different, and other people really liked it.

Once that poem existed, suddenly, a lot of the poems that I had written about, you know, being in Dundalk, or maybe some references to the Cooley Mountains or whatever, seemed to link up. Even poems about my own past seemed to match, seemed to link into this theme about this character whos exiled in the Cooley Mountains.

Borders and memory, physical and imagined, run through her plays too. Her acclaimed play Belfast Girls has a remarkable knack for staying relevant. It just seems to hit on themes that are in the world and seem to be in the play, she says.

For instance, in 2016 when it was in America the whole Me Too movement was out so that struck a more feminist strand of the play, and there's Black Lives Matter [one of the characters is mixed race], these things were always mentioned in reviews, especially when it was on in the States. So it just seems to hit.

Read Next: Councillor says "no consequences" for refusal to pay social housing rent

Despite her wide-ranging output, Jaki is adamant about how she likes to work, even if it doesnt always work out. I am somebody who likes to do one thing at a time and do one thing well. I like to get one thing done and then move on to the other thing. I dont mind if, like, for instance, I finish this poetry collection and then go on to another piece of writing. But it just so happens that every now and then thingsyou know, there are demands made on you, that this has to be done and that has to be done.

Currently working on the final draft of her novel and a new play her plate stays full, but does she pause to look back and reflect on how impressive it is that the girl who wrote for Inklings now has a nationally touring play and countless other accolades?

Not really. I just do the work and if its good and it strikes a chord, and somebody likes it, thats all great, but if they dont, I still have to do it, and I still have to give my commitment to it.
Fine Gael TD for Louth, Paula Butterly has called for legislation to be passed to protect retail workers against abuse and assaults.

Deputy Butterly called for the creation of a distinct criminal offence for targeting retail workers.

She said retail workers must be supported and protected if "we want our towns and cities to thrive".

The Protection of Retail Workers Act 2025 was introduced in the Seanad earlier this year.

At busy shopping times, like Christmas, retailers are rightly concerned about the safety of their staff."

"Recently a survey found nearly two thirds of those surveyed in the retail and bar work sector suffered verbal abuse and a quarter have received threats to their physical safety," she said.

Read Next: Chef and co-owner of The Cathedral restaurant in Dundalk shares his passion for cooking

The Fine Gael TD said similar legal safeguards were introduced in Scotland in 2021, and have led to more than 500 convictions between its introduction and 2023.

We want people to shop local and come to our city and towns centres right across the country. But we need our retail workers to feel safe if we want to rejuvenate our town and city centres," she said.

Deputy Butterly called for engagement between retail workers, businesses, Gardai and government to ensure the legislation is introduced.
Louth TD Ruairi O Murchu has welcomed the commitment from Louth County Council and the Office of Public Works (OPW) that they will work together to look at interim flood relief measures for Dundalk and Blackrock while the public waits for the main project, CFRAM, to be delivered in 2030.

Minister of State at the OPW, Kevin Boxer Moran visited Blackrock on December 23 to hear from Louth County Council engineers and elected representatives about the impact that recent flooding has had in the village and in other areas of Blackrock.

Minister Moran had been invited to come to Dundalk by the Sinn Fein TD after Deputy O Murchu posed a series of questions to the minister in the Dail recently.

In response to the Dundalk deputy, Minister Moran gave an outline in the Dail of the progress of flood relief measures, known as CFRAM.

He said: The Dundalk/Blackrock South scheme is to protect 1,880 properties. Engineering and environmental consultants were appointed in 2020.

Read also: From Field to Fridge at Muchgrange Farm in north Louth

The design options for this scheme are expected to be presented to the public in Q1 2026 and a preferred option presented in mid-2026. The planning application is expected to be submitted in Q4 2027.

The Ramparts and Blackwater Rivers form part of the study area for the Dundalk Flood Relief Scheme. Options to alleviate flooding along these watercourses will be identified as the scheme progresses and the scheme consultants are liaising with relevant stakeholders including Uisce Eireann in relation to wastewater.

During his visit to Blackrock, Minister Moran heard from Deputy O Murchu and his colleague, Cllr. Sionainn McCann about the difficulties that had been experienced in Blackrock during the last storm event which saw parts of the main street flooded.

Deputy O Murchu said: I was happy that Minister Moran came to Blackrock just a couple of days before Christmas and heard from the council engineers about the difficulties there have been in the village, as well as at the Fair Green in Dundalk, the Loakers, Georges Quay.

Council officials spoke about minor works carried out at Bellurgan, Balagan and at Drummullagh, Omeath, that was previously highlighted by Cllr. Antoin Watters.

I spoke to the minister about the urgent need for interim solutions to flooding in these areas because CFRAM is a long way away yet and he agreed that the council and the OPW will work together to see what can be done in the interim to help mitigate flooding in these areas. Minister Moran acknowledged that Dundalk is very exposed when it comes to flooding.

"I also spoke to Brian McQuillan of McQuillans Pharmacy when the minister visited the shop who said that simple things such as having a proper protocol that would shut down Main Street to vehicular traffic when theres a risk of flooding would help.

Everyone involved in flood mitigation needs to work together to not only get CFRAM delivered within the timeframe, but to also be creative and imaginative in coming up with interim solutions that need to be funded by government.
RTE has unveiled an exciting new line-up ahead of the New Year with a range of household favourites and brand new programmes sure to keep the whole family entertained.



On RTE One and RTE Player, the inimitable Tommy Tiernan is back with a brand-new series of The Tommy Tiernan Show, running for sixteen Saturday nights from 3 January.

Now in its tenth series, Tommy will once again come face-to-face with guests, totally unprepared and without prior knowledge of who is coming on the show.



Family favourite Dancing with the Stars will kick off from Sunday 4 January for its ninth season, with brand-new Head Judge Oti Mabuse bringing even more glitter and glam.

This season features familiar faces including Niamh Kavanagh, Paudie Moloney and Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins among others, all taking to the dancefloor in the hopes of winning the coveted glitterball trophy. Presented by Jennifer Zamparelli and new addition Laura Fox, who is filling in for Doireann Garrihy while she is on leave, this year will bring some big surprises with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

Following on from The Late Late New Years Eve Special on 31 December, Patrick Kielty returns with The Late Late Show on Friday 9 January 2026, with the very first Late Late Show Trad Special.

In the first-ever full show dedicated to Irish traditional music, viewers can expect a session to end all sessions. Join Patrick and a host of Ireland's finest musicians, international special guests, and one legendary performer who will be inducted into the Late Late Show Trad Hall of Fame. Live and full of surprises, spend your Friday nights with Patrick on RTE One and RTE Player from 9:35pm.



This New Year sees Room to Improves Dermot Bannon take on homes of every scale and condition, helping families looking to downsize, upsize, or find the right size for their next chapter.

Starting on Sunday 4 January, Dermots signature architectural vision once again goes head-to-head with quantity surveyor Claire Irwins pragmatism.

In this new series, there are untouched time capsules and clever urban redesigns, including a 1990s three-bed semi-detached home in West Dublin, a bungalow bliss home in Co. Meath, a spacious four-bed family home in Raheny in need of major reimagining, and a compact terraced house with big ambition in Harmonstown. Theres sure to be bold designs, high expectations, last-minute changes, and plenty of emotion  especially from Dermot.

READ NEXT: When are the bank holidays in Ireland over Christmas and in 2026?



A new series of On the Beat is arriving on screens this January. This docuseries gives unprecedented access to the work of An Garda Siochana across Ireland.

Filmed over six months, and airing on Monday 5 January, the series goes behind the front desks, inside the control centres, and on the beat with Gardai in Limerick, Monaghan, and Waterford to give an insight into policing across urban and rural Ireland.

Any Given Day: Cork University Hospital airs on Wednesday 7 January at 9:35pm on RTE One and RTE Player, a powerful new six-part documentary series that goes beyond the headlines and behind the scenes of one of Irelands biggest and busiest hospitals. This landmark observational series offers access inside Cork University Hospital (CUH), capturing the round the clock shifts of the thousands of professionals who work tirelessly to deliver care. Through staff stories and patient journeys, Any Given Day tells a story of a health service in action.



High Road, Low Road is back in January, taking over Europe and beyond. From the snowy mountains of Austria to the sunny shores of Cape Town, we will see Irish celebrities heading to the most unforgettable destinations. Across nine episodes, the cast of mismatched celebrity pairings jet off on two very different holidays. While one enjoys a first-class luxury experience, the other explores the same destination on a budget. Get ready for unforgettable adventures of discovery, culture, and fun.



As we move towards spring, prepare to feel the love as the First Dates restaurant reopens for another season on RTE2. With smouldering desires, secret passions, cheesy chat-up lines, risky banter, and jaw-dropping revelations, the new series of First Dates sees a new batch of hopeful singletons arrive for their dates with destiny. On hand as always with kind words of encouragement, shoulders to cry on, and insightful observations on love, life and dating etiquette are Maitre D Mateo, table angels Alice and Pete, and Neil, the worlds friendliest barman. Everyone has an equal opportunity to find romance: young, old, straight, LGBTQ, shrinking violets, and strutting peacocks alike. Expect drama and delight.



Spring 2026 will also see RTE Investigates look at mental health services in Ireland, with a two-part series coming this February.



Also coming soon is The Ryanair Story, a two-part series documenting the 40-year history of Ryanairs ascent from offering one single route, to becoming a giant of world aviation.



Museum of Me is coming in spring, where host Dermot Whelan will invite well-known Irish public figures to become curators of their very own museum exhibition. These exhibitions feature personal treasured possessions, each one holding its own stories and memories. Featuring famous faces including Pat Shortt, Maia Dunphy, Bryan Dobson, Mary McEvoy, Emma Doran, and Steve Garrigan, Dermot travels to meet the celebrities in their homes or spaces meaningful to them.

New Year, New Irish Drama

This New Year, RTE continues its commitment to delivering great local drama. There was a total of nine drama productions for RTE filmed in 2025, creating 142 hours of high-quality, homegrown storytelling for Irish audiences, which viewers will continue to enjoy right through 2026.



New RTE comedy-drama series These Sacred Vows makes its eagerly anticipated debut this spring. Starring Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Justine Mitchell, and Jason OMara, These Sacred Vows opens on the morning after an Irish wedding on a Spanish island, when the body of a priest is found floating face-down in the swimming pool of the young guests villa.

Sister S returns for a second series, picking up in Dublin eighteen months after Sare (Sarah Goldberg) abandoned her sister Suze (Susan Stanley), who has just discovered she cant have the biological child shes realised she wants.

When an invite to Sares wedding lands on Suzes doorstep, Suze travels to Canada in the hope of reconnecting with her sister. Chaotic drama ensues, with family secrets and unexpected revelations.



Fair City promises actionpacked drama in 2026. When Pauls wine theft finally catches up with him, his business  and his future  hangs in the balance. Mondo faces anxious days as the court decides whether he will be charged with Antos murder. And Gwen uncovers a shocking truth that could change her life forever as an unexpected family member moves into town. There are plenty of twists to come on Fair City this year.



Coming in spring is Series 3 of The Dry, as the Sheridans are back and about to face their biggest challenge yet. The third series unearths a huge family secret that throws everyone off kilter.

Will this shocking revelation upend already fragile relations for good, or could this be the missing piece that will finally fix the Sheridans broken puzzle? As the family desperately try to forge new lives amid the betrayals of the past, destructive patterns start to emerge and they are faced with some hard truths.
THE St Vincent de Paul (SVP) and Depaul charities both received an increased number of calls for financial and food support across Cork in 2025, including from families, and from students looking for support with third-level costs.

Homelessness figures reached a record national high at the end of October, with 16,766 people, including more than 5,270 children, accessing emergency accommodation, and with both charities facing significant pressure.

Of the 16,766 adults accessing emergency accommodation between October 20 and October 26, 712 were in Cork city and county, which was 5.5% more than the previous month, and 27% more than in October of 2024. Nationally, some 2,484 families accessed emergency accommodation during the same week in October, including 5,274 children.

Of those families, 109 were in the south-west, including 230 children, representing an increase of 7% on the previous month, and 5% higher than in October of last year.

Speaking to The Echo, SVP South Wests regional co-ordinator Cormac OSullivan said the number of calls for support this year was higher than anticipated, and much busier than previous years.

Mr OSullivan said SVPs office on Tuckey St received more than 13,500 calls for assistance, representing a 20% increase on the calls received by the charitys Cork branch in 2024.

However, Mr OSullivan said those figures are actually higher in reality, due to volunteers being contacted directly, bringing that figure anywhere between 15,000 and 20,000.

This year was certainly busier than many people can remember, said Mr OSullivan.

Its hard to pinpoint exactly why, but I think everyone is feeling the pinch.

The people who were contacting us this year, the dynamic is changing.

Those looking for assistance were individuals who have never looked for it before, while we were also assisting those that would.

People with two jobs are coming looking for assistance, even if it was just for a food voucher, so those situations are certainly increasing the calls.

With the money in Cork that was given out, were looking at about 4m in total, with 50% of that going on food hampers and vouchers, Mr OSullivan said.

This Christmas, especially, we have seen an increase in calls, he added.

With the experience of years gone by, we try to get as much assistance out there in the weeks leading up to Christmas, so that people dont have to make those calls on Christmas Day.

In Cork city alone, there are 3,500 food hampers going out this month, and thats with a ham and a chicken, and some essentials from your Christmas shop.

On top of that, we had the Giving Tree, where more than 50 companies in Cork responded to our Santa appeal, so weve spent the last number of weeks gathering donated toys and distributing them throughout the county.

Everyone comes together, theres a really good network that help out and make sure those in need at Christmas get support before Christmas Day.

Mr OSullivan said that, additionally, in Cork this year, there were 189 applicants for the SVP third-level education bursary, of which 141 were awarded, with the charity committing 420,000 for the academic year.

We have an education bursary for third-level education, where we assist students with that bit of a helping hand, whether its for books, rent, or transport to and from college, said Mr OSullivan.

Over the last two years, weve seen the biggest increase in demand for the bursary.

It is surprising to see the number of applicants, but its a great initiative, and while the demand is probably higher [than the number of those awarded], we help as many students as we can within the restraints of that budget.

Looking ahead to 2026, Mr OSullivan said he expects that the number of calls will not reduce as the challenges that are here in 2025 will, unfortunately, remain in 2026.

Its anyones guess, really, in terms of the calls. We didnt expect the 20% jump in 2025, said Mr OSullivan.

All we can do is plan for an increase and help those who need it in any way we can.

Director of services and development at Depaul, Dermot Murphy, said 2025 was the busiest year ever in Cork.

We saw a significant number of individuals who were homeless, and a significant level of complexity: There were a lot of young people, said Mr Murphy.

In some ways, its been a very successful year for us, but its getting harder.

Our volunteers go above and beyond, and I cant tell them enough how grateful we are.

In 2025, we supported 79 people to move into new homes, and, for Cork, thats a big number, Mr Murphy said.

We also worked with 455 individuals across our residential and community-based services, which is an increase on the number of people from last year, but we did expand our services this year, and expected to see those numbers showing up, he said.

We certainly see a number of people coming through to us at Christmas time; you definitely see an increase this time of the year.

This period can be hard for people, and, psychologically, it can leave people feeling quite vulnerable. Looking ahead to 2026, Mr Murphy said he predicts Depaul will definitely see more service users in Cork than weve seen this year, but his hope is that the service will assist an even greater number of people exiting homelessness.

We know theres a lot of work being done to abate the homelessness crisis, but particularly in Cork, I would expect we will be asked to do more next year, said Mr Murphy.

Donations this year are down a little bit on last year, but its harder for everybody at the moment.

I do want to say thank you to everyone for all the support this year

People can get fatigued about hearing the homelessness figures going up, but I think its really important that we stay strong on this and dont stop seeing this for the crisis that it is.

Both Mr OSullivan and Mr Murphy asked for members of the public to take part in the charities respective fundraising efforts, which are currently active, including the SVP car raffle, which is closing on January 9, and the Depaul Home for Christmas campaign.
An assault causing harm charge related to a man allegedly swinging a bar stool in a city centre pub was adjourned for a month for the district court judge to decide whether or not to accept jurisdiction.

It had been put back for CCTV to be shown to the judge but Sergeant John Dineen said that CCTV from a memory stick could not be played and that only coloured images from it were available at the moment.

Judge Mary Dorgan said she also needed to see a medical report.

The defendant accused of assaulting a woman causing her harm at a pub in Cork city was allegedly swinging a stool in another direction when it flew from his hands striking the injured party in the head.

This was the allegation outlined at Cork District Court in the case against John Daly, aged 43, of 22 Manor Road, Manor Farm, Lehenaghbeg, Cork.

He faces a charge which states that back on December 3, 2022, at Clancys Bar, Princes Street, Cork, he assaulted a woman causing her harm, contrary to the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

However, when the case was briefly before the court, Mr Daly spoke up saying: That is not what happened. I was being assaulted inside the bar.

If Judge Dorgan finds that the allegations are too serious for the district court it will be sent forward to Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

In the meantime the case has been adjourned to Cork District Court until January 29 for a final decision on where the case will be heard.
Independent Cllr Kieran McCarthy has welcomed the proposal that in the new year national speed limits will be reduced to 30km/hr in all built-up urban areas.

Consultation is to begin in January with early and continued engagement with elected members and stakeholders. Non-statutory public consultation will also begin in January followed by statutory public consultation for six weeks.

The formal announcement for public submissions will be on Cork City Councils online public consultation forum.

Douglas-based Cllr McCarthy has welcomed the opportunity to slow vehicles down in built-up areas.

One of the largest number of messages I get from constituents is around speeding in neighborhoods from Ballinlough to Rochestown in the built up areas.

Speeding is not confined to this area either. It is rampant across the city. And some built up suburban areas have 30km/hr zones and some dont.

It is known that lower speeds improve road safety, particularly vulnerable users. Risk of death or serious injury is lower - 30km/hr v 50km/hr.

Effective speed limits also need to be credible, self-regulating, and regarded as appropriate by road users. Enforcement will be an issue to raise with Gardai on the monitoring of the speed limits.

I look forward to engaging with the public consultation early next year and getting the message of the consultation out there in our neighborhoods.
The body of a father of two who died after his car went into the river as he made his way home for work in heavy rain in Cork just days before Christmas was returned to Kerala in India over the weekend.

A funeral service will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, for Joice Thomas, who became a father for a second time four months ago when his wife Ruby gave birth to their son Jacques.

The couple, who moved to Ireland last year, also have a two-year-old daughter Jaqueline.

The 34-year-old had an accident on the R628 Conna Road between Conna and Aghern villages on the evening of December 19th last. The alarm was raised when he failed to return to his home in Ballynoe, Co Cork that night.

His body was recovered the followed day when a member of the public spotted his car submerged in the water.

The remains of Mr Thomas were repatriated from Dublin yesterday. His funeral service will be held tomorrow in his hometown in India, in the presence of family members. Further prayers and funeral rites will be conducted as per family arrangements.

Joice worked in the kitchen at Ballincurrig nursing home in Leamlara, Co Cork. Ms Kuriakose is a nurse.

In a post on the Ballynoe Community Facebook page the loved ones of Mr Thomas said that they were drawing strength from the unwavering support of the community during this time of unimaginable loss.

When tragedy struck, you surrounded us with love, care, and comfort  just as a family would.

Your warm hearts and constant concern eased our sorrow and reminded us that humanity knows no boundaries.

From the bottom of our hearts  thank you for standing beside us, for your prayers, your time, and your love. Meanwhile, prayers were said for Mr Thomas at Ronaynes Funeral Home in Fermoy, Co Cork on Christmas Eve.

His Grace Bishop Abraham Mar Stephanos, Diocesan Metropolitan in the Indian Orthodox Church, told mourners that people of diverse identities had joined forces following the tragedy.

We see here how human compassion works together. This is one of the greatest example that love prevails in the world. Goodness sustains in the world. Exemplary leadership, compassion and love has been shown. Over 103,000 was raised for the family of the deceased and to pay for the repatriation of the body to his native Kambammettu in Kerala.

His Eminence Stephanos said that outpouring of love from various faiths and communities was a source of comfort to all those who mourned.

The sadness of the family of Joice Thomas cannot be compensated by the money or anything that we reflecting now."

"But having said that the love being shown right at this moment is phenomenal. It gives us hope that the power of love sustains. This is something that Christ told us.

A mass of solidarity was also held at Ballynoe parish Church on Christmas Eve.

Mr Thomas is survived by his wife Ruby and their children, his parents and a sister.
Documents released by the National Archives of Ireland show that concern was expressed about the image of superiority that would be conveyed by the royal yacht docking in Ireland in 1996.

The royal yacht was planned to arrive into Irish harbours as part of a mooted visit in the summer of 1996, with further plans to dock in Cork.

A possible three-day trip to Ireland by the then Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, was discussed by British and Irish officials in March of 96 before it was abandoned due to security concerns.

Documents released under the National Archives of Ireland in Dublin show that, before the trip was cancelled, the agenda for the visit had become rather more elaborate than initially thought and prompted concern from the Irish side.

Then Irish premier John Bruton said Ireland was the last place the prince should bring the royal yacht, the HMY Britannia, and warned it would paint an image of opulence.

British ambassador Veronica Sutherland had said in a letter on March 7 that Charles would like to arrive in the Britannia pulling into Galway Bay on the morning of Friday June 28, 1996.

In the evening, he would like to offer hospitality on board Britannia, which would then sail late in the evening for a private weekend in Kerry and Cork, having disembarked the guests."

In response, also on March 7, Government secretary Frank Murray said the trip was far more extensive than had been suggested initially, which involved a visit to Haulbowline harbour in Cork.

He said they appeared to have little option but to proceed with the programme unless there were security or political considerations.

But Mr Bruton conveyed his concerns in a hand-written reply to Mr Murray, where he wondered if the arrival of the royal yacht in Galway would spark debate about the Treaty ports.

I think the symbolism of the royal yacht arriving into Galway Bay is not good, he said, with good replacing the crossed-out word great.

Will it revive arguments about the ports in the 30s?

The yacht suggests opulence and superiority. Its not the image that should be conveyed.

Why cant the prince just fly in by plane to one of the regional airports? That would give them a boost commercially.

The yacht is, I think, controversial in Britain lately because of its cost. Ireland is the last place he should be bringing it.

On March 19, Mr Murray wrote a letter to the taoiseach where he said he had conveyed the concerns from the Irish government about the proposed visit to Ms Sutherland.

He said he also relayed security concerns which he did not have a considered view of at the last meeting.

A revised scaled-down visit was expected in probably a weeks time, he added.

The trip was later cancelled after the Irish side had had expressed concern about the risks Charles would face if the visit went ahead without an IRA ceasefire.

The document, released from the National Archives at Kew in 2020, also signalled that if Charles used the Britannia during the visit, it would be unwelcome to parts of the population.

The risks now seem to outweigh any benefits, it concluded.

In a separate file from 2003, permission was sought for the British Navy vessel the HMS Ark Royal to dock in Dublin.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern turned down the request after a senior civil servant warned that doing so would be perceived as a shift in policy towards the British military displays in our jurisdiction as the vessel was a symbol of British naval prowess.

Visits by British naval vessels have traditionally been low-key affairs but the presence of the Ark Royal in Dublin would, quite literally, be a flagship event which would certainly be attended by widespread publicity, including in regard to its role in the Iraq war, the official noted.

The civil servant said they believed the request should be refused, but said due to its significance it should be raised with the relevant minister.

On the cover page of the three-page document, a handwritten note highlights the Taoiseachs comment on page 3.

There is one hand-written line on page three: my view is no.

This article is based on documents in the files labelled 2023/50/509 and 2025/127/106 at the National Archives of Ireland.
A Cork jewellery store that specialises in custom pieces celebrated its first year in business just before Christmas.

British chain Austen & Blake, which also has stores in Dublin and Belfast, opened its Cork outlet at 22 Patrick Street, on the corner of Winthrop St, in December 2024 and recently marked its first anniversary with a celebration in store.

A spokesperson said the business has enjoyed helping Cork people to mark special occasions and significant life events over the past 12 months, and it has been welcomed by staff of neighbouring retailers.

This month marks a special milestone for Austen & Blake as we celebrate our first year in the heart of Cork city centre, they told The Echo.

From the beginning, our focus has been on creating jewellery to order, designed and crafted specifically for the person who will wear it. Every piece begins with a conversation and is finished with expert workmanship.

Were proud to work closely with our clients, transforming personal stories and sentiments into jewellery that feels truly their own.

The spokesperson added that Cork is the perfect location for their store.

The citys character and strong sense of community encapsulate our own desires as a business."

Over the past year, weve had the privilege of meeting people at significant moments in their lives, from engagements and anniversaries to personal celebrations and commissions made simply for the love of a good design.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported us in our first year  our clients who trusted us, our neighbouring businesses, and the Cork community who welcomed us. Thank you for being part of our first year.

As we move into our second year, our commitment remains unchanged.

We look forward to creating many more meaningful pieces with you.
The European Union (EU) had been monitoring the introduction of excess water use charges in Ireland, according to a Department of Housing official.

It had been reported earlier this year that plans were under way to introduce charges for excess water use, which Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald had criticised as water charges by the back door.

The Government said its position to upgrade Irelands ailing water systems through general taxation remained unchanged.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin said there would be no return to water charges while Housing Minister James Browne said he was not considering bringing in excessive use charges at this time.

Documents released under a Freedom of Information request show that civil servants in the Department of Housing were preparing the groundwork to introduce regulations that would allow for exemptions to excess water use charges.

The correspondence shows civil servants had earlier this year engaged with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) in relation to what their data protection obligations were for processing the data of people who would be exempt from excess water use charges.

The FOI documents also show a civil servant from the water services department said the EU were monitoring the charge and had asked about it in January: It should be also noted that the EU are monitoring the introduction of this charge with the query below from January 2025:

Are IE authorities finally implementing the excessive use charges for domestic users of water services? Can they explain why there has been such a long delay in implementing this?

The response to the query, sent between housing officials on the morning of March 11, stated that two draft statutory instruments allowing for exemptions for water charges are near completion and await consideration by the new minister and Government in due course.

The correspondence was sent the same day the Irish Independent broke the news that water charges were on the way back as wastage targeted.

A briefing prepared for Mr Browne, who was appointed housing minister on January 23, contained high-level priorities for the department, including the excess water charges, and had been released under FOI that month.

The day after the Irish Independent article was published, a draft media response sent between officials suggested the work to progress the statutory instruments had been dropped.

This measure is not in the programme for government and there are no plans to introduce it. There is no further work being done on these regulations, it said.

A senior official at the Department of Housing had said the charge aimed to encourage water conservation that would ensure Irelands compliance with the EU water framework directive.

They said it was not intended as a revenue-raising measure.

A legal provision for charging people for excess use of water is already contained in the Water Services Act 2017, called the household water conservation charge.

The regulations underpinning exemptions to the charges were updated in 2023 and examined again in 2025.

The exemptions would be for households with more than four people and for people who have medical needs that would likely require more than the average use of water.

In a note dated February 12 2025, it was stated that once the regulations for exemptions are in place, they can proceed with implementing household water conservation charge.

An estimated 83,000 households, or around 9.4% of all domestic customers, use more than 213,000 litres a year, according to a briefing note.

The island of Ireland is the only part of the EU that does not have metered water charges.

A working group on water conservation was set up in 2025 and the first meeting took place in June.
Chernobyl Children International (CCI) has issued an urgent appeal to raise crucial funds for lifesaving heart surgeries.

The organisation stated that the invasion of Ukraine has caused a devastating surge in medical need.

The war has resulted in a 55% increase in children presenting for urgent cardiac procedures, a collapsing healthcare workforce, and hospitals being damaged or destroyed by targeted attacks.

Adi Roche, founder of Chernobyl Children International, told The Echo that the political leaders across Ireland and further afield need to be aware of the threats posed by any future attack on the Chernobyl plant.

Our message for Christmas and coming up to the next anniversary of the war, is that we neglect Chernobyl and Ukraine at our peril, she said.

This is something that our politicians and those in power take cognisance of. That we need, as an urgent priority, to make sure that no way can Russia ever attack another nuclear facility.

It is so important that we remain on the frontline of humanitarian effort in Ukraine. We are calling on our politicians not to neglect Chernobyl or Ukraine.

The 40th anniversary of Chernobyl, in April, is a perfect opportunity for our country to stand up as a proud island nation and to reach out to the people of Chernobyl and say they are not forgotten.

That Ireland will remain on the forefront of campaigning for their lives and campaigning for their future.

Despite these challenges, survival rates at St Nicholas Hospital in Lviv have improved by 39%, thanks to CCIs training, equipment, and on-site expertise.

To meet the rising tide of critically ill newborns, CCI is seeking public support to fund four major cardiac surgery missions to Ukraine next year.

These missions aim to directly save the lives of newborns and children with severe heart defects, train and upskill Ukrainian cardiac teams, and deliver equipment to war-damaged hospitals.
For those of you who need reminding, Generation Z, or Zoomers as theyre sometimes described, are the generation born between 1997 and 2012.

Theyre the first generation in the west to have grown up in an internet age, which accounts for Gen Zs widespread social media presence.

They may well be comfortable in the virtual setting, but the real world appears to be causing them huge insecurity. It seems that leaving the house to go to work where they would have to deal with actual people is proving difficult for some of Gen Z.

Having to be at work for 9am is a step too far. They worry that they may not like the conversations taking place there either, or that they might have to engage in small talk, and what would they do then?

The mere thought of having to answer a phone is enough to send them to therapy.

The Times UK reported recently on a survey that found that 28% of Gen Z would drop the 9am to 5pm working day and replace it with flexible hours, and a third of them believe mental health days should be a standard workplace benefit as polling revealed they worry more about human interaction than artificial intelligence.

Working with unknown people, having to make small talk, anxiety about using the phone, and having to get up early every morning were the biggest sources of anxiety for young employees, the poll found.

They were also concerned about standard office interactions and 21% were dreading entering the workplace for the first time; 30% feared the prospect of sticking up for themselves, and 28% said the idea of early mornings and having to be on time filled them with dread.

Old-school office banter was considered inappropriate and offensive by half of respondents, and 68% wished they could work from home, while 59% said they struggled to work with colleagues from older generations.

Of the Gen Z workers surveyed, 18% thought they should have seats at the decision table and 13% wanted collaborative decision-making and de-centralised leadership.

What have we done to our young people?

The Gen Z kids appear to be broken as they struggle to deal with day to day living.

If they are under pressure now, wait until they grow up, get a mortgage, and have kids of their own with all that entails. How will they cope with all that when they cant even answer the phone?

I was 20 years old when my parents dropped me off at the entrance to the Garda Training Centre in Templemore, Co. Tipperary. I stood outside the gate with a suitcase and 90 other guys on a cold winters day on December 5, 1979.

We were taken inside as a group to a recreation hall where we were seated, and for the next few hours, we received instructions on what was expected of us and how we were expected to behave.

We received specific instructions on how to make our beds. They were to be dressed in a certain way, and we were given a demonstration on how to do it properly.

The blankets were brown, hairy things with dark lines running horizontally through them. When they were folded for inspection, it had to be done in such a way that the lines would show at the fold.

They had to be stacked at the foot of the bed with the pillows placed on top. The lino-covered floors had to be clean and polished.

Our uniforms had to be clean, pressed with buttons, and shoes polished. Hair had to be kept neat and tidy, and no facial hair was allowed.

For the next six months, we would be subjected to daily inspections of ourselves, our uniforms and our rooms.

Sanctions were applied for any drop in standards, including a restriction on the free time we were allowed, which was limited at the best of times.

It was a challenging regime, and voices were often raised, but it brought the group of us together and we were better for it.

We looked out for each other too, and that continued long after we had left the centre. Friends of mine who joined the defence forces shared similar experiences.

As a young garda, I was expected to do my job. Thats what I signed up for and what I was trained to do.

Your emotional reaction when you encounter scenes of an unpleasant nature is something you cant train for.

I dealt with five suicides in a two-month period during my service and nothing prepares you for coping in those circumstances.

Every policeman or woman will encounter a horrific situation at some stage in their career, and they will be expected to deal with it.

I remember on one occasion, early in the morning, having to remove a body from the river that had been there for some time. It was removed to the morgue and the paperwork was completed.

The city morgue in those days was in White Street and was completely unfit for purpose. There was no ventilation and the place stank.

Soon after that, we had to take our break and have our breakfast. As soon as we finished, it was time to head back out again to deal with the next call. Not every day was like that but there were plenty of difficult times and we got on with it.

The men and women of the fire service did their bit too and they also had plenty of tough days.

So, it gets up my nose a bit when I listen to all the whingeing from these Gen Z kids.

Looking for mental health days as standard practice, and how workplace interaction stresses them out, causing anxiety...

Give me a break.
By Grainne Ni Aodha, Press Association

Concern was expressed about the image of superiority that would be conveyed by the royal yacht arriving into Irish harbours as part of a mooted visit in the summer of 1996.

A possible three-day trip to Ireland by the then Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, was discussed by British and Irish officials in March before it was abandoned due to security concerns.

Documents released under the National Archives of Ireland in Dublin show that, before the trip was cancelled, the agenda for the visit had become rather more elaborate than initially thought and prompted concern from the Irish side.

Then Taoiseach John Bruton said Ireland was the last place the prince should bring the royal yacht, the HMY Britannia, and warned it would paint an image of opulence.

British ambassador Veronica Sutherland had said in a letter on March 7 that Charles would like to arrive in the Britannia pulling into Galway Bay on the morning of Friday, June 28 1996.

In the evening, he would like to offer hospitality on board Britannia, which would then sail late in the evening for a private weekend in Kerry and Cork, having disembarked the guests, she said.

In response, also on March 7, Government secretary Frank Murray said the trip was far more extensive than had been suggested initially, which involved a visit to Haulbowline harbour in Co Cork.

He said they appeared to have little option but to proceed with the programme unless there were security or political considerations.

But Mr Bruton conveyed his concerns in a handwritten reply to Mr Murray, where he wondered if the arrival of the royal yacht in Galway would spark debate about the Treaty ports.

I think the symbolism of the royal yacht arriving into Galway Bay is not good, he said, with good replacing the crossed-out word great.

Will it revive arguments about the ports in the 30s?

The yacht suggests opulence and superiority. Its not the image that should be conveyed.

Why cant the prince just fly in by plane to one of the regional airports? That would give them a boost commercially.

The yacht is, I think, controversial in Britain lately because of its cost. Ireland is the last place he should be bringing it.

On March 19, Mr Murray wrote a letter to the taoiseach where he said he had conveyed the concerns from the Irish government about the proposed visit to Ms Sutherland.

He said he also relayed security concerns, which he did not have a considered view of at the last meeting.

A revised scaled-down visit was expected in probably a weeks time, he added.

The trip was later cancelled after the Irish side had had expressed concern about the risks Charles would face if the visit went ahead without an IRA ceasefire.

The document, released from the National Archives at Kew in 2020, also signalled that if Charles used the Britannia during the visit it would be unwelcome to parts of the population.

The risks now seem to outweigh any benefits, it concluded.

In a separate file from 2003, permission was sought for the British Navy vessel the HMS Ark Royal to dock in Dublin.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern turned down the request after a senior civil servant warned that doing so would be perceived as a shift in policy towards the British military displays in our jurisdiction as the vessel was a symbol of British naval prowess.

Visits by British naval vessels have traditionally been low-key affairs but the presence of the Ark Royal in Dublin would, quite literally, be a flagship event which would certainly be attended by widespread publicity, including in regard to its role in the Iraq war, the official noted.

The civil servant said they believed the request should be refused, but said due to its significance it should be raised with the relevant minister.

On the cover page of the three-page document, a hand written note highlights the Taoiseachs comment on page 3.

There is one hand-written line on page three: my view is no.

 This article is based on documents in the files labelled 2023/50/509 and 2025/127/106 at the National Archives of Ireland.
By Grainne Ni Aodha, Press Association

It was rather dubious whether an all-island court would lead to the conviction of more fugitives, according to Irelands attorney general in 1982.

Patrick Connolly SC, who would resign later that year after prolific murderer Malcolm McArthur was arrested in his apartment, made his assessment shortly after the new Irish government was formed.

The suggestion of a joint British-Irish court was discussed during the 1980s.

A meeting was held in April 1982, a month after Charles Haughey came to power for a second time and before his government collapsed in December of that year.

Charles Haughey with Margaret Thatcher in the early 1980s. Photo: PA.

Mr Haughey, Mr Connolly, the minister for foreign affairs Gerry Collins, minister for justice Sean Doherty, and senior civil servants at several departments met to discuss matters relating to Northern Ireland.

In a document labelled strictly confidential, released this year as part of the National Archives in Dublin, Mr Connolly told the new Irish government that he was against the suggestion of an all-island court.

Mr Connolly, who was thrown into the spotlight in August after Malcolm McArthur was arrested in his Dublin apartment, said he did not believe the court would lead to the conviction of more fugitives.

He recounted a meeting his predecessor had with the British attorney general about extradition, joint interrogation and an all-island court and then gave his view, according to the memo.

The attorney general was of the opinion that the proposal considered in this regard was a cumbersome arrangement, the merits of which in terms of securing more convictions of fugitive offenders were, in his view, rather dubious.

There were particular difficulties as regards the question of whether a right of appeal would lie.

In relation to joint interrogation, he said that gardai feared attacks would be mounted at Garda stations if RUC officers could be present, and Mr Haughey said that extradition was an explosive issue.

In January of that year, before the general election was called, a meeting was held at Iveagh House attended by Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, the ministers for justice and foreign affairs, and then Attorney General Peter Sutherland SC.

The note from that meeting stated that talks had begun between the British and Irish attorneys general, and since then, there was pressure from the British side for us to advance our position on extradition and joint questioning.

Questions arose about such a courts jurisdiction and rules of procedure Note from meeting

It also noted that there was no prospect of the British agreeing to a joint court without movement on joint questioning or extradition.

Questions arose about such a courts jurisdiction and rules of procedure, the note stated.

There seemed to be agreement that the court could sit in the north and the south as necessary.

If a case were initiated in the north, the court would deal with it under UK law and procedures, even if it was necessary to sit in the south.

It was questioned as to whether such a formula could work in practice and further clarification of the position was felt to be necessary.

It also noted that while there was uniformity of legislation, rules of evidence differed which was relevant to admissions of guilt and could be an enormous obstacle.

It was agreed that the term all-island court was politically sensitive and that a more appropriate title might be joint court.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/125/294 in the National Archives of Ireland.
It was Saturday morning, January 19, 1946, when solicitor Dick Hegarty left his home in Kinsale to take his usual bracing walk along the pier.

World War II had ended four months before. Although Ireland had been neutral in the conflict, it was a time of austerity, shortages, and rationing. Most people just wanted to put it all behind them and get on with their lives.

Hegarty, lost in thought, was suddenly confronted by two men in naval uniform blocking his path. His eyes alighted on the Iron Cross they wore, with the Nazi Swastika at its centre.

The senior of the two addressed him in flawless English. He was, he explained, Korvettenkapitan (Lieut Commander) Martin Clemen of the Kriegsmarine, the now-defeated German Navy. They were escaped Prisoners-of-War having sailed to Ireland from St Nazaire on the Atlantic coast of France. Their group of 15 comprised six officers, eight other ranks, and a civilian. Would the gentleman mind directing them to the nearest police station?

Clemen had been the commander of a flotilla of mine-sweepers. With Germanys surrender, he and his crew were taken prisoner at St Nazaire and interned. Put to work by the French Navy clearing mines, they had been treated tolerably well but had learned that soon, with the job completed, they would be transferred under the control of the reconstituted French Army, many of whom had served in the Maquis and whose aversion to the Germans was no secret. Thus, they had decided to make their escape to a neutral country.

One thing they were adamant about; they did not want to be returned to France where they were certain a reception party would be waiting to greet them.

When they made their case to the sergeant at Kinsale Garda Station, the wheels of bureaucracy slowly ground into motion. The telephone wires hummed, eventually getting the attention of Taoiseach, Eamon de Valera.

Word came through from Dublin that, until a decision was made as to their fate, they should be regarded as illegal aliens and placed under protective custody, subject to 24/7 Garda surveillance. Army officers from Collins Barracks, Cork, arrived and searched their little minesweeper and its occupants thoroughly. Satisfied there were no arms on board, the Germans were allowed to remain under the control of the gardai.

While this played out, the sailors needed to be fed, showered and their clothes cleaned. The townspeople rose to the occasion. They were, after all, it was reasoned, other mothers sons. The men were taken to Murphys Hotel where the Red Cross documented them, they received a good meal, and later went for a long walk, accompanied, at a discreet distance, by the Guards.

Mrs Pamela Kennet, wife of British Army Brigadier Brian Kennet and scion of a long line of high-ranking Army officers - her grandfather was Surgeon-General to the Forces (and personal surgeon to two kings) and her father a Brigadier - invited them to tea at her home, Rampart House, Dromderrig.

Her brother, Major Edward Dorman, she explained, had been a prisoner of the Germans in Italy, and been well-treated, and she wanted to repay the kindness.

On Sunday morning, the group paraded in uniform to church services, some to the Protestant St Multose and some to the Catholic church of St John the Baptist. Later, they busied themselves by cutting wood and drawing fresh water back to their boat.

While townspeople were generally civil to them, as the days wore on, a certain hardening of attitude became apparent. Many locals had relatives who served, and died, fighting for the Allies in both World Wars, and the presence in the harbour of a British steam trawler, the Iser, whose crew was openly antagonistic to the Germans (they invited them to fight) did not help. At a meeting of the Urban District Council, it was proposed that electricity to the vessel be cut off.

But the principal cause of the increasing froideur to the visitors was one that was being played out far from Irish shores: the Nuremburg Trials. These had opened in the German city just eight weeks earlier, to try Nazis accused of war crimes. Graphic images of the appalling conditions in concentration camps had been shown in cinemas and reported in the press. The Irish Independent reported that the Nazis had planned to hang the Catholic Bishop of Munster (Germany) for denouncing their policy of so-called mercy killings.

But it was Clemens attitude towards the Trials that rankled with many Cork people. They were, he said, just a comedy, and the stories in the newspapers about Belsen Concentration Camp were all propaganda.

In the meantime, his fate, and that of his colleagues, had been decided. Fearing a major diplomatic row with the French and/or the UK, the sailors would be sent back to France.

Michael Rynne, the Governments legal expert on foreign affairs, concluded that, as the war was over, they were ordinary aliens who had simply landed on our shores without permits and were therefore liable to expulsion.

He advised: The chief argument against giving the Germans permission to reside here, despite their illegal entry, would seem to lie in the bad precedent such indulgence would create. Ireland might easily become a refuge for all the displaced persons of Europe with the means of landing unexpectedly here.

Warned against arresting the sailors too early as it might give potential legal advisors time to file habeas corpus applications, the Gardai postponed their arrest until the last moment.

Just before midnight on Thursday, February 7, 1946, a special bus, accompanied by two car loads of Special Branch, drew up on the pier at Kinsale; 15 Guards accompanied the group, some travelling on the bus.

The convoy stopped briefly at the Bridewell Garda Station in Cork for formal documents to be completed, then it was on to Cobh where the French corvette Roselys was waiting. It sailed off with the PoWs at 3.30am. A party of French had earlier disembarked taken possession of the Germans vessel.

For Martin Clemen and his comrades, the war was finally over.

Postscript: Clemen never forgot the kindness shown to him and his comrades in Kinsale and for some time corresponded with people who had befriended them. The friendship and understanding we received, he said, gave me new faith in mankind at a time I needed it badly. If he was aware of growing animosity to them during their stay, he made no allusion to it.

Finally released from PoW camps, he studied at the University of Gottingen and became a Protestant clergyman. In the midst of poverty, hunger and ruin, he and his family lost all their possessions to the Russians. His wife died, leaving him to rear a family of five. He died in 1967, in a Swiss hospital, from cancer.
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 03: Jared Isaacman, U.S. President Donald Trump's nominee to be National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator, testifies during his confirmation hearing in the Russell Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on December 3, 2025 in Washington, DC. Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur and close associate of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, faces a rare second confirmation hearing before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 03: Jared Isaacman, U.S. President Donald Trump's nominee to be National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator, testifies during his confirmation hearing in the Russell Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on December 3, 2025 in Washington, DC. Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur and close associate of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, faces a rare second confirmation hearing before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) (Anna Moneymaker via Getty Images)

After a rudderless year and an exodus of around 4,000 employees due to Trump administration cuts, NASA got what may be its first piece of good news recently. On December 17, the Senate confirmed billionaire Jared Isaacman as the agency's new administrator. He now holds the power to rehabilitate a battered engine of scientific research, or steer it towards even more disruption.

Considering the caliber of President Trump's other appointees, Isaacman is probably the best candidate for the job. Outside of being a successful entrepreneur, he has flown fighter jets and been to space twice as part of the Inspiration4 and Polaris Dawn private missions. One of those flights saw him complete the first commercial space walk, and travel farther from Earth than any human since the end of the Apollo program.

"Perfect is the enemy of the good. Isaacman checks a lot of boxes," says Keith Cowing, a former NASA employee and the founder of NASA Watch, a blog dedicated to the agency. "He's passed every requirement to fly in a spacecraft that American astronauts at NASA are required to pass. He also went out of his way to have a diverse crew, and shove as much science as he could in those missions."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

And yet if you're a NASA employee or just someone who cares about the agency's work, there are still plenty of reasons to be concerned for its future. When Trump first nominated Isaacman in the spring, the billionaire wrote a 62-page document detailing his vision for NASA. In November, Politico obtained a copy of that plan, titled Project Athena.

To some insiders, Project Athena painted a picture of someone who, at least at the time when it was written, fundamentally misunderstood how NASA works and how scientific discovery is funded in the US and elsewhere. It also suggests Isaacman may be more open to Trump's NASA agenda than would appear at first glance.

When asked about the plan by Politico, one former NASA official characterized it as "bizarre and careless." Another called it presumptuous," given many of the proposed changes to the agency's structure would require Congressional approval. In one section, Isaacman recommended taking NASA out of the taxpayer funded climate science business and [leaving] it for academia to determine. In another section, he promised to evaluate the relevance and ongoing necessity of every agency center, particularly NASA's iconic Jet Propulsion Laboratory, saying the facility and others must increase the output and time to science KPI.

A lot has changed since Isaacman first wrote that document. It came before the workforce cuts, before the future of Goddard Space Flight Center became uncertain and before Trump surprised everyone by renominating Isaacman. But during his Senate testimony earlier this month, the billionaire said I do stand behind everything in the document, even though it was written seven months ago. I think it was all directionally correct.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

He did appear to distance himself from some viewpoints expressed in or inferred by Project Athena, however. Isaacman stated that anything suggesting that I am anti-science or want to outsource that responsibility is simply untrue. He also came out against the administration's plan to cut NASA's science budget nearly in half, claiming the proposals would not lead to "an optimal outcome."

One thing is clear, Isaacman is not your typical bureaucrat. "One of the pitfalls of some prior NASA administrators has been that they've shown too much reverence for the internal processes and bureaucratic structure of the agency to the detriment of decision-making and performance," said Casey Dreier, chief of space policy at The Planetary Society, a nonprofit that advocates for the exploration and study of space. "Isaacman has positioned himself as the opposite of that. Clearly, that's something that could lead to a lot of political and congressional challenges if taken too far."

Even if Isaacman doesn't follow through on any of the proposals made in Project Athena, there's only so much a NASA administrator  even one sympathetic to civil servants working under them  can do.

"Once a budget request goes out publicly, everyone in the administration has to defend it. Anything he does will have to be internal and private," Dreier explains. "He never explicitly criticized the administration during his hearing. He's also coming relatively late in the budget process."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

A lot of NASA's future will depend on the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), which is responsible for implementing the president's agenda across the executive branch. As a direct result of guidance the OMB issued over the summer, NASA awarded 25 percent fewer new grants in 2025 than it did on average between 2020 and 2024.

"The OMB has added layers of requirements that scientists now have to go through to spend the money they've already been allocated. The administration has worked against its own stated goals of efficiency," Dreier said. "Isaacman can't solve that himself. He can't tell the OMB what to do. That's going to be a serious challenge."

Looming over everything is the fact NASA still does not have a full-year budget for 2026. Congress has until January 30 to fund NASA and the rest of the federal government before the short-term funding bill it passed on November 12 runs out. "On paper, the official policy of the administration is still to terminate a third of NASA's scientific capability," Dreier points out.

There are reasons to be cautiously optimistic. Publicly, both the House and Senate have come out against Trump's funding cuts. And some science missions that were slated to be cancelled, such as OSIRIS-APEX, have been approved for another full year of operations.

What NASA needs now is someone who will, as Dreier puts it, "vigorously advocate" for the agency in whatever way they can. It remains to be seen if that's Jared Isaacman.
Angelina Jolie has run into another legal hurdle with her Manhattan art studio, Atelier Jolie, while she continues a long-running court dispute with her ex, Brad Pitt, over their French vineyard.

According to The U.S. Sun, the East Village studio opened in November 2023, but a gallery in Easton, Pennsylvania, that uses the same name has formally opposed Jolie's trademark application.

The studio houses artist residences, clothing workshops, and a cafe staffed by refugees. Jolie first applied for the trademark in May 2022, and the opposition was filed shortly after her application was published in March 2024.

Trademark Clash Over Atelier Jolie Name

The Easton gallery, owned by artist and entrepreneur Omnaia Jolie Abdou, claims to have operated under the Atelier Jolie name since 2021. Legal filings assert that her business has built "significant goodwill and consumer recognition in the ATELIER JOLIE mark through its continued use and expenditure of significant time, effort, and money in advertising and promotion."

The notice of opposition further states, "Opposer's and Applicant's ATELIER JOLIE marks are identical in spelling and therefore are also identical in sight, sound, and commercial impression." Omnaia requested that the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board block Jolie's registration of the name.

Jolie's legal team counters that there is little risk of confusion between the two studios. Attorneys for the actress argue that "one or more of Opposer's claims are barred on the grounds that there is no actual competition between Opposer and Jolie and it is virtually impossible for there to be a likelihood for confusion."

For months, both sides have been negotiating a potential settlement. Omnaia's attorney recently requested an extension, noting that "the parties have been and are currently actively engaged in settlement negotiations" and that additional time was necessary to move toward resolution.

Ongoing Legal Battle With Brad Pitt

The dispute over her studio name is only the latest in Jolie's legal challenges. She continues to face off with Pitt over Chateau Miraval, the French vineyard and estate they purchased together in 2011 for approximately $60 million.

The property, now valued at roughly $500 million, was intended to be inherited by their children.

Pitt has claimed he was the primary driver of the winery's success, while Jolie alleged he misused company funds for personal ventures. The couple nearly reached a buyout agreement in 2021, but disagreements over a no disparagement clause prevented a deal. Jolie also alleged that Pitt wanted her to sign an NDA to conceal "years of abuse," according to USA Today.

BBC reported that in 2022, Pitt sued Jolie over a Stoli Group-related transaction tied to the estate, seeking at least $67 million, while Jolie's company, Nouvel, filed a countersuit for $250 million. The legal battle over Miraval continues to unfold alongside the trademark dispute in New York.
NEW CASTLE, Pa.  The Lawrence County Conservation District hosted its annual awards luncheon on Dec. 17 at Grace United Methodist Church in New Castle, Pennsylvania.

Conservation Farm Award

William Kolehmainen received the 2025 Conservation Farm Award for the conservation initiatives he has implemented on his grain and beef farm. Kolehmainen took over operations of his fathers grain farm in Enon Valley in 2000; his father founded the farm in 1980. He started raising cattle in 2015 and, in 2020, Kolehmainen bought his uncles neighboring farm. This farm came with a partially roofed feeding and finishing barn located on the banks of an unnamed tributary to the North Fork Little Beaver Creek. The proximity to the stream resulted in sediment and nutrients regularly flowing into the tributary.

In 2025, Kolehmainen replaced the existing barn with a $1.5 million, multi-use 67-by-304-foot steel and fabric CCS Monosclope cattle confinement barn with under-barn manure storage and dry pack to stop sediment and nutrient flow to the tributary. The new building, possible through Pennsylvanias Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program funding and his own money, holds 200 head of cattle over the manure pit and 75 cow/calf pairs in the bed pack area. The new building also contains a watering facility, Silencer hydraulic cattle working system and thermostat-controlled automatic fans and curtains. Kolehmainen hopes to increase grazing and pasture in the future. Currently, he raises Angus and Angus/Wagyu cross beef and grows corn, high oleic soybeans, barley, oats and hay. He also runs a veterinary practice.

Environmental Education Award

Andrea Hopper received the 2025 Environmental Education Award for her involvement at Lawrence County Conservation Districts Summer Nature Camp. Hopper first became involved at camp in 2019, teaching a butterfly education and release program. She raises butterflies and teaches campers about their life cycles and how to care for them. Hopper began her teaching career at Lincoln High School and, in 2019, began helping her mother-in-law with the Wish Upon a Butterfly business during her summers off. She switched over to the business full-time in 2022 and, since then, has become an expert on all things butterfly. In addition to teaching next-generation campers about butterflies, she is also teaching her 3-year-old how to feed and care for caterpillars.

Environmental Partner Award

William Humphrey was honored with the 2025 Environmental Partner Award for his role as a township engineer, working closely with municipalities and conservation districts to meticulously review submitted development plans. For many years, Humphrey has been a reliable and enthusiastic partner to municipalities, developers and the district. He has attended regular communication and meetings with district staff to learn about updates to the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit forms and regulations, which ensures a more efficient submittal process. His efforts to learn the Dirt, Gravel and Low Volume Roads Programs new Stream Crossing Design Policy also ensured that the Phillips School Road Stream Crossing project was completed successfully. Humphrey spent hours reviewing the design manual to create an outstanding design that the district now uses as an example for other county districts.
Britain is facing renewed pressure from the White House to allow American chlorinated chicken and hormone-treated meat into UK supermarkets, as Donald Trump seeks trade concessions in exchange for reviving a collapsed US-UK technology deal.

The developments were first reported by The Telegraph , which said Washington is urging Sir Keir Starmer to relax Britains food standards after talks on a transatlantic tech partnership dramatically broke down earlier this month.

The push is being led by Jamieson Greer, the US trade envoy, who is attempting to secure concessions he failed to obtain when the wider UK-US trade agreement was finalised in May.

Chlorinated chicken has become a potent symbol in British politics. The practice, which involves washing poultry in chlorine to kill bacteria, is permitted in the United States but banned in the UK and across much of Europe.

British regulators argue that allowing such imports would undermine the UKs farm to fork approach, which prioritises hygiene and animal welfare standards throughout the production process rather than relying on chemical treatments at the end.

UK farming groups have warned that opening the market to US poultry would put domestic producers at a severe disadvantage, with cheaper American imports threatening to undercut British farmers, squeeze margins and accelerate the decline of smaller family-run farms.

A source close to the negotiations told The Telegraph that Jamieson Greer is seeking to use the tech partnership as leverage on trade deal concessions he still wants but that didnt get the first round.

The row intensified after the US pulled out of the technology agreement, citing objections to Britains Online Safety Act, which Washington says would impose excessive controls on American technology and artificial intelligence companies. According to The Telegraph, the White House is now using the collapse of the tech talks to renew pressure on London over agricultural market access.

For British farmers, the stakes extend beyond poultry. The US is also pushing for greater access for hormone-treated beef, another area where UK standards are stricter than those in America.

Farming unions have warned that accepting such imports would weaken consumer trust in British food and risk eroding the premium attached to UK produce at home and abroad. Sir Keir has previously treated food standards as a red line, rebuffing Mr Trumps demands to allow chlorinated chicken in exchange for lower tariffs.

However, pressure has mounted since the White House announced sweeping global tariffs in April, accusing the UK of maintaining non-science-based standards that severely restrict US exports of safe, high-quality beef and poultry products. Britains ban on chlorinated chicken was listed among a series of non-tariff barriers.

Any decision to relax those rules would carry significant political and economic consequences. Farming leaders argue it would not only threaten livelihoods in the poultry and beef sectors but also set a precedent for weakening food standards more broadly, potentially reshaping the future of British agriculture in trade negotiations yet to come.
The Filmfare award recognised his extraordinary 25-year contribution to Indian cinema, celebrating a career that had defined an era of Bollywood.





In his heartfelt speech, Rajesh Khanna said, "I had thought that Dimple would say, 'Listen, this award is for you,' but that didnt happen. I am truly grateful to God and to everyone at Filmfare, from United Producers to my entire film industry fraternity, who helped me reach my audience. I salute the people of this country, I salute this audience, and I thank them."





He concluded his speech with a couplet of Sahir Ludhianvi.



Watch the video here:

Born on December 29, 1942, in Amritsar, Punjab, Khanna began his acting career in the late 1960s. With his captivating charm, distinctive style, and intense on-screen performances, he quickly gained unprecedented fame. The 1969 film Aradhana marked his breakthrough, where he portrayed a dual role and won audiences' hearts with his captivating presence.
Brigitte Bardot was one of the most famous actors France ever gave to the world. She was not just a movie star, but a symbol of freedom, beauty, and bold choices in cinema. Born in Paris in 1934, Bardot did not come from a film family. Her father was an engineer, and her mother supported her early interest in dance and fashion. She trained as a ballet dancer before moving into films.

Bardot became globally famous in the 1950s and 1960s, a time when her screen presence felt new and fearless. She played women who lived on their own terms, often breaking social rules. Later in life, she stepped away from acting completely and dedicated herself to animal rights. She became a strong and outspoken animal activist, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and fighting for animal welfare for decades. As we remember her, here are six films that defined Brigitte Bardots acting journey.

In This Article

And God Created Woman (1956)



Set in the small coastal town of Saint-Tropez, the film follows Juliette, a young woman raised in an orphanage who refuses to live by societys rules. She loves freely, dances openly, and does not feel ashamed of her desires. Juliette becomes the centre of attention for several men, which creates jealousy, chaos, and scandal. Bardots performance was daring for its time, especially in how confidently she expressed female freedom. The film shocked audiences but also made her a global sensation overnight. Set in the small coastal town of Saint-Tropez, the film follows Juliette, a young woman raised in an orphanage who refuses to live by societys rules. She loves freely, dances openly, and does not feel ashamed of her desires. Juliette becomes the centre of attention for several men, which creates jealousy, chaos, and scandal. Bardots performance was daring for its time, especially in how confidently she expressed female freedom. The film shocked audiences but also made her a global sensation overnight.

Don Juan (If Don Juan Were a Woman) (1973)



In this bold reinterpretation of the Don Juan legend, Bardot plays Jeanne, a woman who takes control of love, desire, and power. Unlike the traditional male character, Jeanne freely seduces both men and women, reversing gender roles in a way that was shocking for its time. One scene, where she openly seduces another woman, stood out as especially daring and ahead of its era. Bardots performance showed her complete confidence in taking risks and breaking taboos, making the film one of her most controversial works. In this bold reinterpretation of the Don Juan legend, Bardot plays Jeanne, a woman who takes control of love, desire, and power. Unlike the traditional male character, Jeanne freely seduces both men and women, reversing gender roles in a way that was shocking for its time. One scene, where she openly seduces another woman, stood out as especially daring and ahead of its era. Bardots performance showed her complete confidence in taking risks and breaking taboos, making the film one of her most controversial works.

A Very Private Affair (1962)



This film tells the story of Jill, a young woman from a simple background who becomes a movie star. As her fame grows, her personal life slowly falls apart. She struggles with loneliness, public judgment, and the pressure of always being watched. The story closely mirrors Brigitte Bardots own experience with sudden fame. Her performance feels quiet and emotional, showing the cost of celebrity behind the glamorous image. This film tells the story of Jill, a young woman from a simple background who becomes a movie star. As her fame grows, her personal life slowly falls apart. She struggles with loneliness, public judgment, and the pressure of always being watched. The story closely mirrors Brigitte Bardots own experience with sudden fame. Her performance feels quiet and emotional, showing the cost of celebrity behind the glamorous image.

Contempt (1963)



In Contempt, Bardot plays Camille, the wife of a screenwriter working on a film adaptation of The Odyssey. As her husband becomes more focused on his career, Camille feels ignored and misunderstood. Their marriage slowly breaks down, not because of arguments, but because of emotional distance. The film explores love, pride, and miscommunication. Brigitte Bardots performance showed maturity and depth, making this one of her most respected acting roles. In Contempt, Bardot plays Camille, the wife of a screenwriter working on a film adaptation of The Odyssey. As her husband becomes more focused on his career, Camille feels ignored and misunderstood. Their marriage slowly breaks down, not because of arguments, but because of emotional distance. The film explores love, pride, and miscommunication. Brigitte Bardots performance showed maturity and depth, making this one of her most respected acting roles.

Viva Maria! (1965)



This adventurous film follows Maria I and Maria II, two women who meet by chance and travel together. What begins as a fun journey turns into a political revolution in a fictional Latin American country. Bardots Maria is bold, playful, and fearless, using charm and confidence to survive dangerous situations. The film mixes comedy, action, and rebellion, and Bardot shines as a woman who refuses to be passive or silent. This adventurous film follows Maria I and Maria II, two women who meet by chance and travel together. What begins as a fun journey turns into a political revolution in a fictional Latin American country. Bardots Maria is bold, playful, and fearless, using charm and confidence to survive dangerous situations. The film mixes comedy, action, and rebellion, and Bardot shines as a woman who refuses to be passive or silent.

The Edifying and Joyous Story of Colinot (1973)



Set in medieval France, the film tells the story of Colinot, a naive young man who faces injustice and hardship. Bardot plays a key role in this satirical tale that critiques society and morality. The tone is humorous but sharp. This was Brigitte Bardots final film before she retired from acting. After its release, she chose to leave cinema forever, closing a powerful chapter in film history. Set in medieval France, the film tells the story of Colinot, a naive young man who faces injustice and hardship. Bardot plays a key role in this satirical tale that critiques society and morality. The tone is humorous but sharp. This was Brigitte Bardots final film before she retired from acting. After its release, she chose to leave cinema forever, closing a powerful chapter in film history.

Brigitte Bardot acted in fewer films than many stars, but her impact was far greater than the numbers. She changed how women were seen on screen and took daring roles at a time when it was rare. By stepping away at the height of fame and choosing a life of activism, she proved that her legacy was not just about cinema, but about conviction and change. Through her films, Brigitte Bardot will always remain unforgettable.



Also Read: BTS: Suga Goes Live After Two Years, Introduces His Cat Tang
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - December 28, 2025) -

Information Regarding this Document

This document is being filed pursuant to section 9.2(6)(a) of National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations and Alberta Securities Commission Blanket Order 51-520 in accordance with securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations in connection with the proposed solicitation by Tim de Freitas, Jim Masikewich and Kent Busby being certain concerned shareholders (the "Concerned Shareholders") who executed the Shareholder Requisition dated October 20, 2025 (the "Requisition") of Mr. Tim de Freitas, Mr. Timur Ganiev, Mr. Don Hamilton and Mr. Jim Masikewich (the "Shareholder Nominees") for election to the board of directors (the "Board") of Tuktu Resources Ltd. ("Tuktu" or the "Company") at the meeting resulting from the Requisition, which is currently scheduled to be held on January 15, 2026 (together with any adjournments and/or postponements thereof, the "Meeting").

Information Concerning the Nominees

The following table includes, in respect of each Shareholder Nominee, his name, province or state and country of residence, business or employment within at least the five preceding years, and the number of voting securities of Tuktu or any of its subsidiaries beneficially owned, or controlled or directed, directly or indirectly, by such individual as of the date of this document.

Name, Province and Country of Residence and Position with the Corporation Principal Occupation

and Background (1) Company Office Held and Date Appointed Common Shares Beneficially Owned or Controlled or Directed, Directly or Indirectly (2) Tim de Freitas

BSc, MSc, PhD, PGeo

Alberta, Canada Tim de Freitas has been President and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation from July 2022 to October 2025. Prior thereto, he was a founder of five oil and gas companies with assets both in Canada and internationally. Mr. de Freitas was the Chief Operating Officer of Pieridae Energy Limited from December 2018 until January 2021. Prior to that he was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Ikkuma Resources Corp. from May 2014 to December 2018. Previously, Mr. de Freitas was the Vice President, Exploration and Chief Operating Officer of Manitok Energy and a Director and COO of Amarok Energy Inc. He has been, or is currently, a director of several private and public mining and oil and gas companies.



Mr. de Freitas completed his BSc and MSc degrees at the University of Toronto and University of Western Ontario, respectively. He also completed his PhD at the University of Ottawa and subsequently completed an NSERC Post Doctoral Fellowship. He is a Professional Geoscientist. President, Chief Executive Officer

July 2022 - October 2025



Director

July 2022 1,696,666

(0.64%) Timur Ganiev

MBA, CFA, CBV

Alberta, Canada Timur Ganiev is an investment professional with more than 20 years of experience in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and investment management. He is currently Investment Manager at James A. Richardson Family Office in Winnipeg, where he is responsible for public, private and fund investments across North America, including, energy, industrial and technology companies. In this role he oversees portfolio construction and trading, leads due diligence and valuation work on new investments, manages investment exits and acts as a board observer for several private companies.



Prior to joining the family office in 2019, Mr. Ganiev spent nearly a decade with KPMG LLP's Deal Advisory practice, including roles in Canada and Kazakhstan. He advised corporate and financial investors on acquisitions, divestitures, financings and valuation mandates, working closely with boards, management teams and business owners on transactions involving private and public companies.



Mr. Ganiev holds an MBA in Finance from the International University of Japan. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder and a Chartered Business Valuator (CBV). n/a 200,000

(0.01%) Don Hamilton

BCom

Alberta, Canada Don Hamilton has over 40 years of experience as an independent businessman in the oil and gas industry. He has founded and operated a number of privately held companies serving the drilling, production and marketing sectors. Mr. Hamilton's blend of operational, management, entrepreneurial and investment experience in the oil and gas industry extends through all levels of energy operations in Western and Northern Canada.



He holds a BCom degree from the University of Alberta with majors in Accounting and Economics, complemented by Gas Process Operations and Power Engineering certificates from SAIT. n/a 6,070,000

(2.29%) Jim Masikewich

Alberta, Canada Jim Masikewich has over 50 years of oil and gas industry experience. He has been a founder and President or former Board member of three successful drilling service companies based in Canada: Q-MAX Solutions Inc., XL Fluids Inc. and Dril-X Inc., some of which have expanded internationally into the United States, South America and Europe.



Mr. Masikewich has extensive drilling management experience in the Alberta Foothills and the Beaufort Sea. He has managed logistics and supply as well as engineering design and execution in numerous locations around the world including the USA, South America, Europe, Africa and Russia in addition to offshore postings in the High Arctic, East Coast and North Sea.



Mr. Masikewich attended the University of Calgary. He has authored several published technical papers and has been granted both Canadian and US patents. n/a 1,430,000

(0.54%)

Notes:

(1) The information as to principal occupation, business or employment of each Shareholder Nominee, not being within the knowledge of the Concerned Shareholders, has been furnished by the respective Shareholder Nominee.

(2) The information concerning the voting securities of Tuktu or any of its subsidiaries beneficially owned, or controlled or directed, directly or indirectly, of each Shareholder Nominee, not being within the knowledge of the Concerned Shareholders, has been furnished by the respective Shareholder Nominee.

Other Information Concerning the Shareholder Nominees

Each of the Shareholder Nominees has consented to serving as a director of Tuktu and meets the director eligibility requirements established under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) (the "Act"). If elected, each Shareholder Nominee will hold office until the next annual general meeting of shareholders of Tuktu or until his successor is elected or appointed, unless his office is earlier vacated.

With the exception of Mr. de Freitas, who is currently a director of the Company and who was President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company from July 2022 until October 2025, none of the Shareholder Nominees has been, or is currently, a director, paid consultant or has held any other position or office with Tuktu.

None of the Shareholder Nominees is, or has been, within 10 years before the date hereof, a director or executive officer of any company (including Tuktu) that, while acting in that capacity (a) was the subject of a cease trade or similar order or an order that denied the relevant company access to any exemption under securities legislation, in each case, that was in effect for a period of more than thirty (30) consecutive days (an "Order"); (b) was subject to an Order that was issued after the proposed director ceased to be a director or executive officer and which resulted from an event that occurred while that person was acting in the capacity as director or executive officer; or (c) within a year of ceasing to act in the capacity of a director or executive officer, became bankrupt, made a proposal under any legislation relating to bankruptcy or insolvency or was subject to or instituted any proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors or had a receiver, receiver manager or trustee appointed to hold its assets.

None of the Shareholder Nominees is, as of the date hereof, or has been within 10 years before the date hereof, bankrupt, made a proposal under any legislation relating to bankruptcy or insolvency, or become subject to or instituted any proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors, or had a receiver, receiver manager or trustee appointed to hold the assets of the proposed director.

Other than the Shareholder Nominees' agreement to be nominated as a director of Tuktu by the Concerned Shareholders, none of the Shareholder Nominees is to be elected under any arrangement or understanding between such nominee and any other person or company.

None of the Shareholder Nominees, or their respective associates or affiliates, has: (a) any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the commencement of Tuktu's most recently completed financial year or in any proposed transaction which has materially affected or would materially affect Tuktu or any of its subsidiaries; or (b) any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter currently known to be acted up at the Meeting other than the election of directors.

Proxy Solicitation by Public Broadcast Disclosure

This solicitation of your support is being made by the Concerned Shareholders and is not by or on behalf of management of Tuktu. The address for Tuktu's head office is 960, 630 - 6th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 0S8, Canada.

Proxies may be solicited by the Concerned Shareholders by broadcast, speech or publication, including websites and other media, as well as exemptions from the solicitation requirements under applicable securities laws. All costs incurred for any solicitation will be borne by the Concerned Shareholders. While the Concerned Shareholders may be entitled to seek reimbursement under applicable law, the Concerned Shareholders will not seek reimbursement from Tuktu for fees incurred in connection with a successful vote in favour of the Requisition.

To the knowledge of the Concerned Shareholders, neither the Concerned Shareholders, nor any of their associates or affiliates of the foregoing, nor any of the Shareholders Nominees or their respective associates or affiliates has: (a) any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the commencement of the Company's most recently completed financial year or in any proposed transaction which has materially affected or would materially affect the Company or any of its subsidiaries; or (b) any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted on at the Meeting, other than nominating the Shareholders Nominees for election as a director at the Meeting, in the case of Concerned Shareholders, standing for election as a director in the case of each Shareholders Nominee and any outstanding employment related matters in respect of Mr. Tim de Freitas and Mr. Kent Busby.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279076

Source: Concerned Shareholders of Tuktu Resources
BANGUI, Central African Republic, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- General elections in the Central African Republic (CAR) concluded yesterday evening in a calm and peaceful atmosphere, according to post-election assessments released this morning by the Reseau Arc-en-Ciel (RAC). The nation's leading domestic observation network reported that the voting process, which closed at 6:00 p.m. local time, was marked by orderly conduct and significant civic participation across the country.

Approximately 2.4 million eligible voters had the opportunity to cast ballots for the presidency, legislative seats, and local authorities. Voting took place at 6,700 polling stations nationwide, with the RAC confirming that polls were accessible even in remote regions. The National Elections Authority (A.N.E.) is scheduled to announce the preliminary results on January 5, 2026.

The RAC's assessment of a peaceful process aligns with reports from international observers, including missions from the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU). No serious security incidents were recorded during the voting hours. Both domestic and international experts have highlighted the high voter turnout as a key feature of this election cycle.

Seven candidates competed for the head of state. Incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who is seeking a third term, is viewed as the dominant figure in the race, running with the support of the United Hearts Movement (MCU).

Under the current constitution, the presidential term lasts seven years. To secure an outright victory in the first round, a candidate must win an absolute majority (50% plus one vote). Should no candidate meet this requirement, a runoff election is scheduled for February 2026.

President Touadera's main challengers are former Prime Ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuele (Union for Central African Renewal - URCA) and Henri-Marie Dondra (UNIR). The ballot also included independent candidates Serge Djorie, Aristide Briand Reboas, Eddy Symphorien Kparekouti, and Marcellin Yalamende. International media analysis leading up to the vote noted Touadera's strong standing regarding national security and popular support.

Voters also elected members of the National Assembly, the country's unicameral parliament comprising 140 seats. The legislative mandate is also seven years.

The parliamentary race featured 685 candidates, nearly half of whom ran as independents, with the rest representing over 40 political parties. Analysts predict the ruling MCU will likely strengthen its position and retain its majority, aiming to exceed the 61 seats it held in the previous convocation. A potential second round for parliamentary seats is scheduled for April 5, 2026.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852277/CAR_President_RAC.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/general-elections-in-central-african-republic-conclude-peacefully-high-voter-turnout-reported-302650085.html
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Patagonia Gold Corp. ("Patagonia" or the "Company") (TSXV: PGDC) is pleased to provide an update on the construction of the Calcatreu project ("Calcatreu" or the "Project"), the Company's flagship project in the Province of Rio Negro, Argentina.

The Project is located in the southern portion of the Rio Negro Province, 85 km south of the community of Ingeniero Jacobacci. The Project is centered on a low sulfidation, epithermal gold and silver system with mineralization outcropping at the surface.

Upon receipt of all permits in Q4 2024, construction of the Project commenced in Q1 2025 and is advancing towards first leaching, which the Company expects to commence during Q1 2026. Mining activities commenced in August 2025 with the removal of topsoil and the first blast was made in September 2025. Mineralized material is being stockpiled in the crushing area and processing will soon start with a view to placing the material on the leach pad during January 2026. The total measured and indicated mineral resources are estimated at 9.84 million tonnes at an average grade 2.11 g/t Au and 19.8 g/t Ag, yielding 669 thousand ounces of gold and 6.3 million ounces of silver.

The explosives storage magazine was completed in August 2025 and has capacity to store 75 tonnes of explosives. The blasting service has been outsourced to Enaex, a leading and well recognized supplier in the region.

The first section of the leach pad, necessary to commence leaching, has been completed and during January 2026, electric leak location tests will be performed. Thereafter, loading of mineralized material will commence with the material previously mined and stockpiled to date.

The chemical storage facility, with capacity to hold 120 tonnes of product, was completed in December 2025. On December 23, 2025, 80 tonnes arrived on site and is being stored on the Project premises. The Company intends to certify the Project with the Cyanide Code and a visit by one of their auditors is planned for early January 2026.

The carbon in column section of the plant is nearing completion and is expected to be finished during the month of January 2026. While the elution, electrowinning and furnace components purchased from FL Smith have arrived and were erected at the Project, the Company will temporarily transport loaded carbon to its facilities in Santa Cruz on a tolling basis. The dore will then be transported to Rio Negro where it will be shipped to the refinery. It is expected that the downstream components of the plant will be operational at the Project approximately six months after commencing operations.

In terms of infrastructure, a camp with a total capacity for 192 people is nearing completion with approximately half of the facilities already commissioned together with the food facilities. Electrical power will be sourced from three 1MW diesel generators that have already been installed and tested together with fuel storage capacity for 140,000 litres that will both serve the power plant and mining fleet.

Calcatreu currently has 135 employees, the majority of which have been recruited from the neighboring town, Ingeniero Jacobacci or within the Province of Rio Negro. A limited number of specialized positions are being filled by personnel from other provinces, where prior precious metals operating experience is available, as Calcatreu represents the first precious metals project to be developed in Rio Negro.

The Company continues to work with the neighbouring communities and local and Provincial authorities and keeps them informed as to the development of the Project. The corresponding Provincial authorities visit the Project on a regular basis and are happy with the progress being made.

In Q3 of 2025, the Company engaged NCL Ingeniera y Construccion to update the Project's mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates in a new technical report, to be prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101, which report is intended to supersede the Technical Report (as defined below), and which the Company hopes to release during Q2 2026.

Qualified Person's Statement

Donald J. Birak, an independent consulting geologist, Registered Member of SME, Fellow of AusIMM, and qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. Mr. Birak's most recent visit to the Project was in October 2025.

Additional information about the Project and the mineral resources referred to in this news release are available in the technical report prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101, entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Mineral Resource Estimate, Calcatreu Gold-Silver Project, Rio Negro Province, Argentina," dated effective December 31, 2018 (the "Technical Report"), which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Patagonia Gold

Patagonia Gold Corp. is a South America focused, publicly traded, mining company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company seeks to grow shareholder value through exploration and development of gold and silver projects in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The Company is primarily focused on the Calcatreu project in Rio Negro and the development of the Cap-Oeste underground project. Patagonia, indirectly through its subsidiaries or under option agreements, has mineral rights to over 375 properties in several provinces of Argentina and is one of the largest landholders in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina.

For more information, please contact:

Christopher van Tienhoven, Chief Executive Officer

Patagonia Gold Corp.

T: +54 11 5278 6950

E: cvantienhoven@patagoniagold.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements with respect to, among other things, mineral resource expansion potential; planned updates for the Project; timing for the advancement and commencement of leaching; plans for processing and placing material on the leach pad; mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; timing for the completion of electric leak location tests and the planned audit and certification of the Project with the Cyanide Code; plans for completion of the carbon in column section of the plant; plans to temporarily transport loaded carbon to the Company's facilities in Santa Cruz on a tolling basis, shipping dor- to the refinery and timing for the downstream components of the plant to become operational; timing for completion of the camp; plans to recruit employees; timing for and the completion of updating the Project's mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates in a new technical report; the advancement and development of gold and silver projects in the Patagonia region of Argentina; and the anticipated growth in shareholder value. 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 risk, 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. 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.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
2026 startet mit einem Paukenschlag: Der DAX outperformt den US-Markt, Nachzugler holen auf. Ein erstes Signal, dass der Bullenmarkt an Breite gewinnt. Wahrend viele Anleger weiter auf die groen Tech-Namen setzen, hat sich im Hintergrund langst ein Umschwung vollzogen. Der Fokus verschiebt sich weg von uberteuerten KI-Highflyern hin zu soliden Qualitatswerten aus der zweiten Reihe.



Anleger, die jetzt clever agieren, setzen nicht auf das, was war, sondern auf das, was kommt. Unternehmen mit gesunder Bilanz, unterschatztem Potenzial und begrenztem Abwartsrisiko konnten 2026 zu den groen Gewinnern zahlen. Die Gefahr einer scharferen Korrektur bleibt real, gerade fur passiv aufgestellte Investoren.



In unserem neuen Spezialreport stellen wir funf Aktien vor, die genau jetzt das Potenzial fur uberdurchschnittliche Renditen bieten. Stark, gunstig und bislang kaum im Fokus.



Jetzt kostenlosen Report herunterladen  bevor es andere tun!



Dieses exklusive PDF ist nur fur kurze Zeit gratis verfugbar.
- President and CEO of Cardiff Lexington, Alex Cunningham, to succeed Daniel Thompson as Chairman -

LEXINGTON, KY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Cardiff Lexington Corporation (OTCQB:CDIX) ("Cardiff" or the "Company"), a healthcare holding company with deep leadership and operational expertise in Orthopedics, Spine Care, and Pain Management, today announced that Daniel Thompson will retire from his position as Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective December 31, 2025, after 25 years of dedicated service. Alex Cunningham, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Lexington, will succeed Mr. Thompson as Chairman.

As Chairman, Mr. Thompson has played a significant role in building Cardiff Lexington into a diversified healthcare-focused organization through multiple strategic transformations, acquisitions, and periods of growth. During his leadership, Cardiff Lexington has expanded its footprint and strengthened its operational platform. The Company is now positioned for the next phase of its development including the continued geographical expansion of its operating subsidiary, Nova Ortho and Spine, and the targeted uplisting of the Company's stock to a major US exchange.

"It has been a great honor to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors for Cardiff Lexington," said Mr. Thompson. "This Company has been more than a career to me - it has been a calling. After 25 years, the time has come for me to step back, but I do so with immense pride in what we have built together and deep gratitude to our employees, partners, and shareholders who made it possible. I leave knowing the Company is in extraordinary hands and have complete confidence in our President and CEO Alex Cunningham and in the team at Cardiff Lexington."

Effective upon Mr. Thompson's retirement, Alex Cunningham, the Company's current President and CEO, will assume the additional role of Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Cunningham has served as Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Lexington for the last ten years and has played an instrumental role in shaping the Company's strategy and operations, as well as driving numerous successful growth initiatives.

"On behalf of Cardiff Lexington's management team and Board of Directors, I would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Daniel for his years of dedicated service and contributions," Mr. Cunningham commented. "Daniel leaves this post with the business positioned for considerable growth in 2026 and beyond. Our operating subsidiary, Nova Ortho and Spine, has exceeded our expectations in 2025, and is expanding its footprint and reputation as a premier provider of orthopedic healthcare services. As we continue to grow, the next step in our trajectory is to uplist our stock to a major US exchange to enhance our visibility among a larger and more qualified pool of investors."

Daniel Thompson's Message to Shareholders

"To our investors who have stood by me over the past 25 years, I want to sincerely thank you for your trust and support," Thompson said. "It has been a pleasure getting to know many of you and communicating with you on a regular basis over the years. I am deeply grateful for those relationships. While I will always value them, it is now time for me to say goodbye.

Mr. Thompson will remain a supporter and shareholder of the Company and looks forward to retirement and personal pursuits.

Mr. Thompson concluded, "Going forward, I encourage you to reach out to IMS Investor Relations at the phone number and email address at the end of this press release, who will be available to answer any questions and support you as Cardiff Lexington continues its journey."

About Cardiff Lexington Corporation

Cardiff Lexington Corporation (OTCQB: CDIX) is a targeted healthcare holding company dedicated to acquiring and building middle-market niche health care clinics, primarily in Orthopedics, Spine Care, and Pain Management. The Company's partnership-driven culture emphasizes service excellence, teamwork, accountability, and performance.

All current revenue is derived from Nova Ortho and Spine, LLC, which operates a network of regional specialty and ancillary orthopedic care centers across Florida and Georgia. These facilities provide traumatic injury patients with comprehensive diagnostic and surgical services, primary care evaluations, interventional pain management, and specialty consultations.

For more information on Cardiff Lexington Corporation, you may access the company's website at https://cardifflexington.com/

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and projections and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Cardiff Lexington Corporation undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements except as required by law.

Investor Contact

Cardiff Lexington Investor Relations

investorrelations@cardifflexington.com

(800) 375-2349

Or

IMS Investor Relations

cardifflexington@imsinvestorrelations.com

(203) 972-9200

SOURCE: Cardiff Lexington Corporation

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/cardiff-lexington-announces-planned-retirement-of-daniel-thompso-1120579
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc. (CSE: NOP) (OTCQB: NOPFF) ("NOP" or the "Company"), a B.C. based leader in organic sedimentary phosphate exploration, is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated December 8, 2025, the Company's common shares (the "Shares") have commenced trading on the OTCQB Venture Market (the "OTCQB") at the market open on December 29, 2025, under the symbol "NOPFF".

Robin Dow, Chief Executive Officer, stated: "Today's listing on the OTCQB Venture Market represents another meaningful milestone in our strategy to increase visibility, improve liquidity, and expand our investor reach. Listing on the OTCQB positions NOP with increased visibility among the American investment community and improved liquidity for our current and prospective shareholders."

The Shares will continue to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") under the symbol "NOP". The OTCQB listing represents a significant milestone in the Company's long-term capital markets strategy, increasing accessibility and visibility among US based retail and institutional investors.

About OTCQB Venture Market

The OTCQB, operated by OTC Markets Group Inc., is designed for developing and entrepreneurial companies in the United States and abroad. Companies must be current in their financial reporting and undergo an annual verification and management certification process, including meeting a minimum bid price and other financial conditions. With more compliance and quality standards, the OTCQB provides investors improved visibility to enhance trading decisions. The OTCQB is recognized by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission as an established public market providing public information for analysis and value of securities.

Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc.

NOP is a junior exploration company with an organic sedimentary raw rock phosphate bed, 6.6 kilometres long, in northeast Nevada. Additional applications extend the potential strike of rock phosphate to over 30 kilometres. This is believed to be the only known large-scale organic sedimentary phosphate project in North America. It is situated close to the main highway to Montello/Elko, Nevada, and near the rail head to California.

For More Information

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulations services providers have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and information ("FLSI") within the meaning

of applicable securities laws. FLSI may include expectations, anticipations, beliefs, opinions, plans, intentions, estimates, forecasts, projections, guidance or other similar statements and information that are not historical facts. All statements which are not historical statements are considered FLSI. All FLSI is based on assumptions, which may prove inaccurate, and subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including without limitation those risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's public securities filings, which may cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated or implied in FLSI. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance or value on FLSI. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in any FLSI in this news release are reasonable at the present time, it can give no assurance that such FLSI will prove to be correct. Any FLSI in this news release is made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligations to publicly update or revise any FLSI, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. Any FLSI in this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279108

Source: Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc.
Columbus, Ohio--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Columbus Daylighting announced the expansion of its daylighting hydroexcavation services across Central Ohio, strengthening regional access to non-destructive digging methods used to support critical utility and infrastructure projects. The latest move positions Columbus Daylighting to serve more municipalities, contractors, and project managers requiring precise excavation to uncover utility lines and underground assets.





Columbus Daylighting Expands Access to Reliable Hydroexcavation Services Across Central Ohio



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/279129_4d6df035f46ec816_002full.jpg

Columbus Daylighting specializes in hydroexcavation, a process that uses pressurized water, air, or a combination of both to expose utilities without damaging buried infrastructure. The method allows teams to remove soil cleanly while reducing the risks associated with mechanical digging. The company's operators are union employees, and its fleet includes lightweight hydrovac units suited for urban and congested work environments. The expansion broadens access to these services in Columbus, New Albany, and other points throughout Central Ohio.





Columbus Daylighting Expands Access to Reliable Hydroexcavation Services Across Central Ohio



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/279129_4d6df035f46ec816_003full.jpg

Company leadership said the wider service availability reflects ongoing investment in equipment, personnel, and transportation support trucks that allow onsite dumping and refilling. These capabilities help accelerate complex utility projects and reduce downtime for contractors. The company noted that the demand for daylighting hydroexcavation continues to rise as construction activity increases across Central Ohio.

"Our goal is to make safe, precise hydroexcavation more accessible for the contractors and project teams who rely on it every day," said Tonya Leavengood of Columbus Daylighting. "By expanding our presence across Central Ohio, we can support more utility work, more infrastructure improvements, and more community development projects that depend on accurate subsurface exposure."

The company's work includes exposing utility lines, potholing, and slot trenching for the installation of underground electric, water, sewer, telecommunication, and gas lines. Construction firms regularly rely on hydroexcavation to locate utility depth, length, and placement before moving ahead with project timelines. Columbus Daylighting said its service expansion is designed to meet the needs of both immediate and scheduled requests across the region.

Leavengood said the expanded coverage will also support growing needs related to road construction, commercial development, residential builds, and industrial projects. "Central Ohio continues to grow, and with that growth comes increased utility coordination," Leavengood said. "Our team is committed to delivering dependable daylighting hydroexcavation services that help move projects forward efficiently and safely."

The company emphasized that its hydrovac fleet is designed for accessibility in constrained job sites where traditional machinery cannot safely operate. The ability to reach tight areas, combined with high-powered suction systems, allows crews to complete work with minimal disruption to surrounding infrastructure. Columbus Daylighting said this approach supports utility planning processes by helping contractors identify underground layouts early in project development.

Local engineering teams and contractors often use hydroexcavation as part of potholing, a non-destructive method of confirming utility locations before excavation begins. The company noted that accuracy and speed are among the reasons clients choose hydroexcavation for projects that require minimal disturbance and reliable data. The expanded service area enables more organizations to incorporate the process into early-stage planning.

Columbus Daylighting has also strengthened its presence in New Albany and nearby communities as development activity in the area increases. The company said its expanded reach supports both short-term and long-term infrastructure requirements for public and private projects.

Leavengood said the company's focus remains on reliability, worker safety, and efficient project coordination. The announcement underscores Columbus Daylighting's broader commitment to supporting Central Ohio's growing infrastructure demands while maintaining service consistency for contractors. The company reiterated that its expansion is aligned with its mission to offer practical and dependable hydroexcavation support for utilities and construction teams throughout the region.

Columbus Daylighting said its operations continue to be guided by industry-standard digging methods intended to minimize risks to buried assets and reduce the need for extensive backfill or restoration. The company added that its expanded presence helps ensure more work sites can benefit from non-intrusive, environmentally conscious excavation options.

With increased calls for modern, safe digging practices across utility and construction sectors, Columbus Daylighting expects the expanded coverage to contribute to more efficient project scheduling and reduced disruption to surrounding infrastructure. The company said its team remains prepared to respond to both scheduled and immediate service needs.

About Columbus Daylighting

Columbus Daylighting is a Central Ohio hydroexcavation provider offering non-destructive digging services for utility exposure, daylighting, slot trenching, and construction support. The company serves contractors, engineers, and project managers across the region, delivering services designed to protect underground infrastructure and support efficient project execution.

The company operates a fleet of specialized hydrovac units suited for urban and regional applications. Columbus Daylighting is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, and supports projects across the greater Central Ohio area.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279129

Source: Plentisoft
By Lamor Williams

LITTLE ROCK, AR / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / During this season of giving, Entergy Arkansas is doing more than powering communities across its 63-county service area, the company is empowering its employees to make a direct difference in those communities throughout Arkansas for neighbors facing hardship. In the past month alone, Entergy Arkansas has directed $30,000 to hunger-relief efforts statewide at the request of employees who saw needs in their communities.

Drew County effort delivers support through February

In Drew County, a local food program that serves 156 senior citizens and disabled residents was temporarily paused due to relocation of a distribution site during the recent federal government shutdown. When Customer Service Manager Amanda Killingsworth, a lifelong Drew County resident, learned of the issue, she quickly mobilized support. She reached out to co-workers and more than 2,600 people on Facebook to sponsor a month of food for $60 per recipient.

Two weeks later, she and colleagues were shopping in bulk, assembling meals with volunteers and delivering boxes by Entergy truck and trailer.

"Entergy truly loves the communities it serves," Killingsworth said. "When your company president, vice president, managers and co-workers ask, 'What can we do?' you realize you're surrounded by people who believe in service just as much as you do."

With Entergy Arkansas's support and donations Killingsworth helped raise, every program participant - and several additional residents in need - received food boxes with enough supplies to last through February.

Hunger Relief Alliance strengthens statewide food access

Statewide, the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance has also been working to keep shelves stocked at its six regional food banks and more than 500 community partners during the months when many Arkansans were not receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Entergy Arkansas provided a $20,000 grant to support that effort.

Entergy Arkansas Director of Public Affairs John Bethel, who serves as president of the Alliance board, said the grant filled a critical gap.

"This support helped the Alliance provide food to food banks and pantries across the state, helping fight food insecurity and meet the critical needs of our neighbors," Bethel said.

Alliance CEO Sylvia Blain said Entergy's partnership strengthens hunger-relief work across Arkansas.

"Entergy's investment strengthens our statewide network and ensures rural communities, seniors, and families have access to healthy food and emergency support," Blain said. "We are grateful for Entergy's continued leadership through John Bethel. His advocacy and service have strengthened hunger-relief efforts statewide and helped connect Entergy employees to the needs of local food pantries."

Entergy Arkansas employees connect nonprofits to resources

In Malvern, Ashley Selph, network administrative assistant, knew Revive Community Outreach's pantry was serving more families than ever. She contacted Revive Director Courtney McKinney and encouraged her to apply for an Entergy Arkansas grant. For McKinney - who grew up with Selph - the outreach itself was just as meaningful as the financial support.

"Having community members who work for Entergy advocate for our nonprofit means everything to us," McKinney said. "It shows how deeply our neighbors care and how willing they are to use their resources to uplift local families."

Grant helps Sulphur Rock students through holiday breaks

Across the state in Independence County, Vegetation Operations Coordinator Chris Millay was visiting his children at Sulphur Rock Elementary when Principal Tina Baker mentioned an urgent need. The school, which provides weekly food boxes to 52 students, lacked funds to purchase food for the upcoming holiday breaks. Millay immediately relayed the request, and by the next morning Entergy Arkansas confirmed a grant to cover the need.

"Sulphur Rock Elementary is grateful for Entergy employees who go beyond their workplace to advocate for our students," Baker said. "Grants like these directly support our efforts to ensure every child has what they need to learn, grow and thrive."

Nearly $1M, 30K volunteer hours invested in communities in 2025

In 2025, Entergy Arkansas awarded nearly $1 million in grants, including more than $125,000 for hunger-relief programs. Employees are also on track to complete over 30,000 volunteer hours with nonprofits and schools across the state.

"We invest in solutions and partner with organizations that share our commitment to improving quality of life in Arkansas," said Brandi Hinkle, senior representative for Entergy Corporate Social Responsibility. "Our employees do the same - giving their time and resources to help those who are disadvantaged."

Volunteers continue giving spirit through December

Throughout December, Entergy Arkansas employees will continue serving communities by collecting toys for Arkansas Children's Hospital families, ringing bells for the Salvation Army, distributing coats to elementary students and assembling pantry boxes for those facing food insecurity.

To learn more about the Entergy Charitable Foundation and Entergy Arkansas Corporate Social Responsibility, visit entergy.com/csr/giving.

About Entergy Arkansas

Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to approximately 735,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation (NYSE: ETR). Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We're investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We're also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at EntergyArkansas.com and connect with @EntergyARK on social media.

Media inquiries:

Lamor Williams

lwill51@entergy.com

501-377-3525

View original content here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Entergy Corporation on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Entergy Corporation

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/entergy

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Entergy Corporation

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/utilities/entergy-arkansas-employees-empowered-to-help-neighbors-in-need-1121936
Mount Sterling, Ohio--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Tom Whiteside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is a dedicated dealership that serves the Columbus and Washington Court House areas. It is an important car dealer and integral business anchor at 15921 US Highway 62 SE in Mount Sterling, Ohio, located just outside Columbus. Tom Whiteside started the business in 1960, and at the age of 96, still pops in to check up on its operation regularly. It remains a family-owned dealership to this day. The team works not only in Columbus and Grove City, but also throughout Franklin County and the rest of southwestern Ohio. The dealership is situated less than 10 miles from Franklin County.







Tom Whiteside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Continues Decades-Long Operation and Service in Southwestern Ohio Region



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/279131_cb8cc5b304258962_002full.jpg

The dealership sells cars from four well-known brands: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. They have a wide range of new vehicles in stock, including Ram Trucks, Vans, Ram Chassis Trucks, and Promaster Vans. Some new models that customers may see are the sleek Jeep Grand Cherokee, the tough Ram 1500, the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, and the Dodge Charger Daytona performance car. They also sell pre-owned cars, many under $25,000, which are typically newer models with low mileage that have undergone thorough inspections to ensure they are in good-as-new condition. Drivers from places like Circleville who want peace of mind can choose meticulously inspected models, as they are available to be purchased with robust service contracts for peace of mind and other benefits. The used inventory features popular models from the dealership's own brands, as well as other well-known brands, including Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Toyota, and Subaru.

The dealership features full-service and parts centers, in addition to its sales operations. They have a separate body shop for mechanical service and collision repair. Technicians trained at the factory possess the necessary tools and knowledge to perform a wide range of maintenance and repairs, from simple oil changes and tire rotations to more complex tasks. They will even fix larger vehicles such as semis. The parts department offers a comprehensive range of genuine Mopar parts and accessories, which can be ordered online. It also has Mopar Accessories Catalogs. The service center is ready to help drivers from Canal Winchester and the surrounding areas who want to keep their current cars in good shape. The Service Department is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Thursday and from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Friday.

The dealership's primary goal is to provide customers with exceptional experiences and a stress-free environment. Their primary objectives are to sell high-quality cars at competitive prices and provide prompt, clear answers to customers' questions. They work quickly to process vehicle figures and finalize delivery, taking only minutes instead of hours, which shows that they value the customer's time. They offer nice extras for customers who are waiting for service or looking at new cars. The team is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and car care, ensuring that customers enjoy driving their cars for many years.

The finance center collaborates with a diverse range of local and national lenders to assist customers in securing the most favorable financing and leasing terms for their vehicles. In places like Grove City, financial experts are available to answer questions and assist clients in finding a payment plan that suits their budget. Customers can also get pre-approved for credit from the comfort of their own homes using their quick and easy online finance application. The dealership also helps customers get pre-qualified through Capital One, which doesn't impact their credit score. They also back the FCA Affiliate Rewards Plan. The dealership promises the lowest total cost, which is the total amount of money customers will pay over the course of the loan, plus any cash required for delivery. They aim to be the customer's one-stop car dealer for new and used cars, service, and body repair, and they promise fair and transparent prices.

About Tom Whiteside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Chrysler:

Tom Whiteside Dodge in Mount Sterling, Ohio, is a Chrysler, Dodge, RAM, and Jeep dealer. They offer a vast selection of new and used cars, prioritizing excellent customer service and comprehensive car care. Tom Whiteside opened the dealership in 1960, and it has been serving the area, including Columbus and Grove City, ever since. They offer a full range of automotive services, such as mechanical work, collision repair, help with financing, and real Mopar parts. They promise a low-pressure environment, quick credit approval, and great customer service.



Tom Whiteside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Continues Decades-Long Operation and Service in Southwestern Ohio Region



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/279131_cb8cc5b304258962_003full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279131

Source: Plentisoft
Istanbul, Turkey--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Liv Hospital today announced the opening of an international patient lounge at Istanbul Airport designed to coordinate arrivals for Liv Hospital international patients and support the first steps of healthcare travel Turkey. The on-site facility provides a staffed reception point for pre-booked patients, wayfinding, interpreter access, and escorted transfers to hospitals or hotels, establishing a single point of contact upon landing for those seeking care through medical tourism Turkey.





Liv Hospital Opens International Patient Lounge at Istanbul Airport to Streamline Medical Travel



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/279139_f74394fae4df0ae4_002full.jpg

The lounge formalizes processes that begin before departure and continue through admission. Patients who have scheduled care with Liv Hospital Istanbul are met at the lounge by coordinators who confirm identity and itinerary, guide them through the terminal, and connect them with transportation arranged in advance. The team also facilitates documentation handover and real-time coordination with Liv Hospital's International Patient Center, helping align arrival times, consultations, and diagnostics to reduce delays between airport and clinic.

"This international patient lounge makes the arrival experience more predictable and less stressful for people traveling for care," said a spokesperson for the Liv Hospital. "By placing a dedicated reception and airport concierge for patients inside Istanbul Airport, we can connect travelers directly to coordinators who already know their case, schedule, and next steps."

Liv Hospital stated that the lounge is integrated with its existing intake pathways for international patients. Interpreter access is available at the lounge to assist with immediate questions, while coordinators liaise with clinical teams to confirm appointment sequencing and transfer destinations. The unit also communicates with family members or companions, ensuring they receive the same itinerary information and transfer details. A dedicated channel to the International Patient Center enables quick updates to scheduling if flights change or if additional time is needed for immigration or baggage claim.





Liv Hospital Opens International Patient Lounge at Istanbul Airport to Streamline Medical Travel



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/279139_f74394fae4df0ae4_003full.jpg

"International patients tell us that clear instructions after landing are as important as clinical planning before takeoff," the spokesperson said. "The lounge gives them a defined meeting point, language support, and a direct handoff to transportation and hospital teams so they can move from arrival to care without unnecessary stops."

The announcement centers on logistics rather than clinical offerings, reflecting an operational milestone for Liv Hospital Istanbul as it focuses on consistent coordination for healthcare travel Turkey. The hospital said the lounge staff will verify transfer arrangements, confirm clinic or hotel addresses, and share contact details for on-call coordinators. For patients arriving with previously scheduled second-opinion consultations, the team will confirm virtual or in-person times and assist with any needed document uploads before the hospital visit.

Patients can learn about care pathways and request information ahead of travel through the Liv Hospital website at https://int.livhospital.com. The hospital's Health Guide provides general information on patient journeys and services. Those seeking a medical second opinion before committing to travel may submit records securely at https://int.livhospital.com/medical-second-opinion/.

The lounge model is intended to support Liv Hospital international patients across multiple languages. According to the hospital, coordinators will provide itinerary summaries that include the lounge location, transfer pickup point, and the first scheduled contact at the hospital. If a delay occurs, the lounge team updates the International Patient Center so downstream appointments can be adjusted. The goal, the hospital said, is a single chain of communication from arrival through initial evaluation.

In addition to meet-and-assist services, the lounge offers basic wayfinding, including orientation to terminal exits and designated pickup areas for hospital or hotel transfers. Liv Hospital said the team will confirm the number of travelers in each party and coordinate appropriate vehicles when required. The hospital added that the lounge is intended for pre-booked patients but can direct new inquiries to the International Patient Center for follow-up.

Liv Hospital emphasized that clinical decisions remain physician-led and that the lounge focuses on coordination. The hospital said the unit does not provide medical triage or treatment; urgent needs are directed to emergency services, while scheduled patients receive assistance with movement from the airport to their next destination. The hospital expects the arrangement to reduce missed connections between flights, transfers, and first appointments, and to support consistent, documented handoffs during the earliest stage of medical travel.

About Liv Hospital

Liv Hospital is a healthcare provider headquartered in Istanbul that offers diagnostics, treatment, and coordinated services across centers of excellence. The hospital serves domestic and international patients and maintains dedicated pathways for arrivals, consultation, and follow-up aligned with its operational standards.

About Liv Hospital International Patient Services

Liv Hospital's International Patient Services coordinates scheduling, documentation, language support, and transfers for medical tourism Turkey. The division provides pre-arrival guidance, on-site assistance, and communication with hospital teams to support airport concierge for patients and continuity of care before, during, and after treatment.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279139

Source: Plentisoft
Agoura Hills, California--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Vera Quinn, Chief Executive Officer of Cydcor, has been named a 2025 honoree of the LA Times Studios Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards, an annual recognition program honoring women leaders for professional achievement, leadership, and organizational impact.

The Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards recognize women leaders across industries selected for professional achievement, leadership, and organizational impact. Quinn was recognized for her contributions at Cydcor, including her focus on driving sustained business growth, and building a high-performance, opportunity-based culture.

"I'm honored to receive the recognition," said Quinn. "It speaks to the strength of our leadership culture and the consistent focus business results delivered across the organization to the field sales network and our clients."

As CEO of Cydcor, Quinn leads an outsourced sales and customer acquisition organization supporting Fortune 500 companies and emerging brands across multiple industries. Under her leadership, Cydcor has emphasized operational discipline, quality, revenue growth, and leadership development within an entrepreneurial environment designed to create advancement opportunities at every level of the organization.

Quinn has received multiple recognitions for her leadership, including being named CEO of the Year by the Los Angeles Business Journal Valley Women's Leadership Awards. Under her leadership, Cydcor was also named to the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing privately held companies, reflecting the company's sustained growth and performance.

About Cydcor

Cydcor is a leading provider of outsourced sales solutions, helping Fortune 500 companies and emerging brands grow their customer base and market share. Headquartered in Agoura Hills, California, Cydcor supports clients across the United States and Canada through a network of independently owned sales companies. The company is committed to leadership development, community engagement, and delivering exceptional results for clients. Learn more at www.cydcor.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279133

Source: Cydcor LLC
United Arab Emirates, Dubai--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Fakeeh University Hospital is emerging as a global destination for advanced gene therapy, delivering highly specialized treatments for rare genetic and neuromuscular disorders and reinforcing Dubai's growing reputation as a center for world-class tertiary care.





Fakeeh University Hospital, Dubai



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11274/279132_fakeeh_hospital.jpg

Among its landmark achievements, the hospital became the first facility in the region to administer Duvyzat (givinostat), an advanced therapy used in the management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a rare, inherited neuromuscular disorder that primarily affects young boys, leading to progressive muscle weakness, loss of mobility, and serious cardiac and respiratory complications over time. Early and advanced intervention is critical to slowing disease progression and improving both survival and quality of life.

In another major advancement, Fakeeh University Hospital is preparing to deliver one of the world's first intrathecal gene therapies for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), known as ITVISMA. SMA is a severe genetic condition characterized by degeneration of motor neurons, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, impaired breathing, and loss of motor function. Gene-based therapies have transformed outcomes for affected children, particularly when delivered early and within specialized, multidisciplinary care environments.

Over the past 12 months, Fakeeh University Hospital has provided gene therapy-based treatments to children from multiple countries, with consistently positive clinical outcomes. Families have travelled internationally to Dubai to access these services, drawn by the hospital's specialized expertise, multidisciplinary care model, advanced infrastructure, and strong patient-centered approach.

Commenting on the program's progress, Dr. Arif Khan, Director of the Gene Therapy Program and Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, said:

"Our gene therapy program has been built to international standards, combining clinical excellence, rigorous safety protocols, and a deeply compassionate approach to care. The outcomes we are seeing, and the trust placed in us by families travelling from abroad, reinforce our commitment to continue expanding these services."

Dr. Khan added that gene therapy is rapidly extending beyond neurology into areas such as hematology and inherited metabolic diseases. "Our long-term vision is to establish a comprehensive center of excellence that supports the expanding role of gene therapy across specialties, positioning Dubai as a regional and international hub for advanced genomic medicine," he said.

Dr. Mohaymen Abdelghany, Chief Executive Officer of Fakeeh University Hospital, highlighted the hospital's contribution to the UAE's medical tourism strategy.

"Fakeeh University Hospital is proud to support the UAE's vision of becoming a global destination for advanced medical care," he said. "By attracting patients from around the world for highly specialized, tertiary-level treatments, we are contributing to Dubai's leadership in healthcare innovation while offering families access to advanced therapies within a trusted, internationally connected healthcare ecosystem."

For more information, please visit Fakeeh University Hospital's official website:

https://www.fakeeh.health/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279132

Source: Awareness Marketing Management DWC LLC
EL PASO, TX / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Texas Tech Health El Paso's third annual Lighting Campus for Hope, presented by Hunt Companies, illuminated the campus with holiday magic on Dec. 5. An estimated 1,000 celebrated hope and unity in the fight against cancer.

Funds raised from Lighting Campus for Hope will help provide more than 600 life-saving cancer screenings and follow-up diagnostics, which are often more costly.

"Lighting Campus for Hope is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together with purpose," said Andrea Tawney, Ph.D., Vice President for Institutional Advancement, who has led the campaign.

During the celebration, El Paso Electric and the Electric Company Charitable Foundation announced a combined $500,000 gift to the Building Hope Campaign. In recognition of the gift, Texas Tech Health El Paso is naming the imaging reception area after the company and its charitable foundation.

"Lighting Campus for Hope reflects the strength and compassion of our community," said El Paso Electric President and CEO Kelly A. Tomblin. "El Paso Electric and the Electric Company Charitable Foundation are honored to contribute to the Fox Cancer Center's imaging center, helping ensure that life-saving care is available to the families we."

Their combined $500,000 contribution represents a meaningful step toward transforming cancer care in West Texas. Imaging services are often the first critical step in identifying cancer early, and this gift supports the creation of a space designed to deliver timely, accurate diagnostics for patients and families.

The gift is part of the $50 million Building Hope Campaign supporting the cancer center's construction. To date, $45 million has been committed by community business leaders, including Steve and Nancy Fox and their family, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation, the Hunt Family Foundation, GECU and other community champions.

The Building Hope Campaign offers an opportunity to transform cancer care for families across West Texas. Pledges may be fulfilled over multiple years, allowing donors to make a long-term impact. Every gift of any size has the power to save a life, offer hope and become part of our community's cancer center forever.

Visit ttuhscepimpact.org/fox-cancer-center to learn more.

Currently, El Pasoans must travel hundreds of miles for treatment and many are unable to travel for access. In September, Texas Tech Health El Paso broke ground on the Fox Cancer Center. The Fox Cancer Center will open the door to compassionate and comprehensive cancer care, life-saving research and opportunities for innovative clinical trials in West Texas.

When completed, this facility will ensure cancer warriors can receive top-notch care in the region, sparing families the emotional and financial burden of traveling far from home for treatment.

About Texas Tech Health El Paso

Texas Tech Health El Paso, established in 2013, serves 108 counties in West Texas and offers programs in medicine, nursing, biomedical sciences, and dentistry. Its 2,600 graduates focus on excellence in education, research, and clinical service.

Media Contact: Marty Otero at 915-215-6017 marty.otero@ttuhsc.edu

SOURCE: Texas Tech Health El Paso

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/education/winter-celebration-raises-funds-for-cancer-screenings-in-west-texas-1121934
Raises Severe Governance Concerns Tied to EWI's Failure to Disclose Chair Jonathan Simpson-Dent's Involvement at HomeServe, Which Received the Largest Retail Company Fine in FCA History

Highlights the Incumbent Board's Value-Destructive Pattern of Prioritising the Interests of Baillie Gifford at the Expense of Shareholders Evidenced by the Recent Mishandled SpaceX Sell-Down and Proposed Merger with USA

Urges Shareholders to Elect a New Board Composed of Three Directors Who Are Independent from Saba and Are Committed to Acting in All Shareholders' Best Interests

Saba Capital Management, L.P. (together with certain of its affiliates, "Saba" or "we"), the largest shareholder of Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust PLC (EWI:LSE) ("EWI" or the "Company"), today issued a presentation outlining the urgent need to replace the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") with three new, independent directors who are committed to maximising long-term value for all EWI shareholders. The presentation can be viewed here.

At the upcoming General Meeting of shareholders to be held on 20 January 2026, Saba urges its fellow EWI shareholders to vote FOR its resolutions to:

Remove the underperforming incumbent directors: Jonathan Simpson-Dent, Mungo Wilson, Caroline Roxburgh, Jane McCracken, Mary Gunn and Gregory Eckersley.

Elect three new independent directors Gabi Gliksberg , Michael Joseph and Jassen Trenkow who bring the right experience and objectivity to maximise long-term value creation for all shareholders.

NOTE: Platform deadlines may be as early as 12 January 2026 please vote as soon as possible.

Within the presentation, Saba highlights the following important information for shareholders:

Governance Red Flags Surround Mr. Simpson-Dent: From 2007-20091, EWI Chair Jonathan Simpson-Dent served as CFO of HomeServe plc and a Director of the Board of HomeServe Membership Limited, which was subsequently fined 30,647,400 by the Financial Conduct Authority for breaching the FCA Principles of Business from 2006 to 2011 the highest FCA fine of a retail company in history.2 EWI failed to disclose this at the time of Mr. Simpson-Dent's appointment in breach of the FCA's Listing Rules.

Rewarding Mr. Simpson-Dent's Failure: Having overseen years of dire underperformance as a member of the Board, Mr. Simpson-Dent was not only promoted to the role of Chairman last year but also received a pay increase of nearly 50%, despite EWI only generating a 6.2% NAV return over the same period.3

Questioning the Financial Expertise of EWI's Newest Director: The newest member of the EWI Board Gregory Eckersley previously served as interim CFO of Lekoil Limited.4 During his tenure, the company was defrauded after paying $600,000 for a fake $184 million loan agreement with an organisation pretending to be the Qatari sovereign wealth fund which calls into question his judgement and the trustworthiness of the audit and finance expertise he brings to EWI's Board.5

EWI's Longest-Serving Director Should No Longer Be Considered Independent: Mungo Wilson has served on EWI's Board since December 2016 and therefore the Association of Investment Companies Code of Corporate Governance stipulates he should no longer be considered independent after serving on the Board for more than nine years from the date of his first appointment.6

The Board's Self-Preservation: The EWI Board continues to put its own interests and Baillie Gifford's ahead of shareholders. Most recently, EWI sold down its stake in SpaceX the crown jewel of its portfolio and a primary reason why many shareholders invested in EWI and proposed a self-serving merger with another Baillie Gifford trust , which would only concentrate power in the manager's hands at the expense of EWI shareholders.

The New Nominees' Independence: The director nominees put forth by Saba are all independent and would not be beholden to Saba, Baillie Gifford or any other individual . If elected, they will bring objective perspectives and deep financial backgrounds to effectively oversee the Company and evaluate all potential avenues to value creation with clear eyes, unlike the incumbent Board.

Boaz Weinstein, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Saba, commented:

"Under the leadership of Jonathan Simpson-Dent, the EWI Board has operated as a pawn of Baillie Gifford. After five years of massive value destruction and a continued refusal to publicly confront Baillie Gifford's recent mishandling of EWI's SpaceX holding, there is no world in which Mr. Simpson-Dent or any member of this Board can accurately claim they are committed to maximising value for shareholders. Time and again, the Board has given Baillie Gifford a free pass and shareholders have consistently paid the price."

About Saba

Saba Capital Management, L.P. is a global alternative asset management firm that seeks to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns for a diverse group of clients. Founded in 2009 by Boaz Weinstein, Saba is a pioneer of credit relative value strategies and capital structure arbitrage. Saba has offices in New York City and London. Learn more at www.sabacapital.com.

Disclaimer

This announcement is not intended to be and does not constitute or contain any investment recommendation as defined by Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (as it forms part of the domestic law in the United Kingdom by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018). No information in this announcement should be construed as recommending or suggesting an investment strategy. Nothing in this announcement or in any related materials is a statement of or indicates or implies any specific or probable value outcome in any particular circumstance. This announcement is provided merely for general informational purposes and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as (1) investment, financial, tax or legal advice, or (2) a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security or other investment, or to pursue any investment style or strategy. Neither the information nor any opinion contained in this announcement constitutes an inducement or offer to purchase or sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or sell any securities or other investments in the Company or any other company by Saba or any of its affiliates in any jurisdiction. This announcement does not consider the investment objective, financial situation, suitability or the particular need or circumstances of any specific individual who may access or review this announcement and may not be taken as advice on the merits of any investment decision. This announcement is not intended to provide the sole basis for evaluation of, and does not purport to contain all information that may be required with respect to, any potential investment in the Company. Any person who is in any doubt about the matters to which this announcement relates should consult an authorised financial adviser or other person authorised under the UK Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. To the best of Saba's ability and belief, all information contained herein is accurate and reliable, and has been obtained from public sources that Saba believes to be accurate and reliable. However, such information is presented "as is", without warranty of any kind, whether express or implied, and Saba has not independently verified the data contained therein. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice, and Saba does not undertake to update or supplement any of the information, analysis and opinion contained herein.

Saba may continue transacting in the shares and securities of the Company, and/or derivatives referenced to them (which may include those providing long and short economic exposure) for an indefinite period following the date of this announcement and may increase or decrease its interests in such shares, securities and/or derivatives at any time.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements and information that are based on Saba's beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, Saba. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about strategies, plans, objectives, expectations, intentions, expenditures and assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. When used herein, words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "plan" and "project" and similar expressions (or their negative) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect Saba's current views with respect to future events, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Actual results, performance or achievements may vary materially and adversely from those described herein. There is no assurance or guarantee with respect to the prices at which any securities of the Company or any other company will trade, and such securities may not trade at prices that may be implied herein. Any estimates, projections or potential impact of the opportunities identified by Saba herein are based on assumptions that Saba believes to be reasonable as of the date hereof, but there can be no assurance or guarantee that actual results or performance will not differ, and such differences may be material and adverse. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is given by Saba or any of its officers, employees or agents as to the achievement or reasonableness of, and no reliance should be placed on, any projections, estimates, forecasts, targets, prospects or returns contained herein. Neither Saba nor any of its directors, officers, employees, advisers or representatives shall have any liability whatsoever (for negligence or misrepresentation or in tort or under contract or otherwise) for any loss howsoever arising from any use of information presented in this announcement or otherwise arising in connection with this announcement. Any historical financial information, projections, estimates, forecasts, targets, prospects or returns contained herein are not necessarily a reliable indicator of future performance. Nothing in this announcement should be relied upon as a promise or representation as to the future. Nothing in this announcement should be considered as a profit forecast.

Permitted Recipients

In relation to the United Kingdom, this announcement is being issued only to, and is directed only at, (i) investment professionals specified in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 as amended (the "Order"), (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order and (iii) persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities of the Company or any member of its group may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as "Permitted Recipients"). Persons who are not Permitted Recipients must not act or rely on the information contained in this announcement.

Distribution

Not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in, into or from any jurisdiction where to do so would constitute a violation of the relevant laws of that jurisdiction. The distribution of this announcement in certain countries may be restricted by law and persons who access it are required to inform themselves and to comply with any such restrictions. Saba disclaims all responsibility where persons access this announcement in breach of any law or regulation in the country of which that person is a citizen or in which that person is residing or is domiciled.

____________________ 1 Publicly available materials that list Mr. Simpson-Dent as CFO of HomeServe plc and as a director of HomeServe Membership Limited. 2 FCA press release dated Feb. 13 2014. 3 EWI's annual reports. 4 Publicly available materials indicate Mr. Eckersley was named interim CFO in May 2019 and stepped down in January 2020 and that he joined the Board in 2013 and stepped down in 2020. 5 The Times article dated Jan. 14 2020 and CityAM article dated Jan. 13 2020. 6 Source: Association of Investment Companies Code of Corporate Governance, EWI's 2024 annual report.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251229030730/en/

Contacts:

Longacre Square Partners

Kate Sylvester Bence Szechenyi

ksylvester@longacresquare.com bszechenyi@longacresquare.com
Boston, Massachusetts--(Newsfile Corp. - January 13, 2026) - Block & Leviton is investigating Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: APOG) for potential securities law violations. Investors who have lost money in their Apogee Enterprises, Inc. investment should contact the firm to learn more about how they might recover those losses. For more details, visit https://blockleviton.com/cases/apog.

What is this all about?

Shares of Apogee Enterprises fell more than 13% in intraday trading on January 7, 2026, after the company reported quarterly results that missed analyst expectations and the company lowered its full-year outlook, citing weaker demand and margin pressure in its Architectural Glass segment. On the same day, Apogee disclosed that its Chief Financial Officer, Matthew Osberg, had resigned effective January 16, 2026. Block & Leviton is investigating.

Who is eligible?

Anyone who purchased Apogee Enterprises common stock and has seen their shares fall may be eligible, whether or not they have sold their investment. Investors should contact Block & Leviton to learn more.

What is Block & Leviton doing?

Block & Leviton is investigating whether the Company committed securities law violations and may file an action to attempt to recover losses on behalf of investors who have lost money.

What should you do next?

If you've lost money on your investment, you should contact Block & Leviton to learn more via our case website, by email at shareholders@blockleviton.com, or by phone at (888) 256-2510.

Whistleblower?

If you have non-public information about Apogee Enterprises, you should consider assisting in our investigation or working with our attorneys to file a report with the Securities Exchange Commission under their whistleblower program. Whistleblowers who provide original information to the SEC may receive rewards of up to 30% of any successful recovery. For more information, contact Block & Leviton at shareholders@blockleviton.com or by phone at (888) 256-2510.

Why should you contact Block & Leviton?

Block & Leviton is widely regarded as one of the leading securities class action firms in the country. Our attorneys have recovered billions of dollars for defrauded investors and are dedicated to obtaining significant recoveries on behalf of our clients through active litigation in the federal courts across the country. Many of the nation's top institutional investors hire us to represent their interests. You can learn more about us at our website www.blockleviton.com, call (888) 256-2510 or email shareholders@blockleviton.com with any questions.

This notice may constitute attorney advertising.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/280224

Source: Block & Leviton LLP
Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Nekia Hackworth Jones, Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement (Southeast), concluded her tenure with the agency on December 26, 2025.



"I am thankful to Nekia for answering the call to return to public service and for her leadership in the Division of Enforcement," said SEC Division of Enforcement Director Margaret A. Ryan. "She has shown deep commitment to her colleagues, the Division, and the Commission, all motivated by her passion for protecting investors. We deeply appreciate her contributions to the agency's mission and wish her the best."



Ms. Jones said, "Serving at the SEC for almost five years has been a pleasure and a privilege. As both Atlanta Regional Director and Deputy Director overseeing the Home Office and the Atlanta and Miami regional offices, I have seen colleagues across this agency show a relentless commitment to protecting investors, impeccable judgment in carrying out the agency's mission, and tremendous expertise in every aspect of the securities industry. This agency and its exceptional staff are a shining example of public service. I owe a debt of gratitude to Chairman Paul Atkins, former Acting Chairman Mark Uyeda, and current and former Directors of the Divisions of Enforcement and Examinations for entrusting me with this remarkable opportunity to help protect investors and the markets."



In April 2025, Ms. Jones was appointed to serve as the Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement (Southeast). In that role, she supervised the agency's enforcement investigations and litigations across the Washington, D.C., Atlanta and Miami offices.



Prior to that national role, Ms. Jones served as the Regional Director of the Atlanta Regional Office from March 2021 through April 2025. As Regional Director, she supervised more than 100 attorneys, accountants, analysts, securities compliance examiners, and other staff, and she led the regional examinations and enforcement programs covering Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.



Before joining the SEC, Ms. Jones spent nearly a decade with the Department of Justice including as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia. She also served as Senior Counsel to the Deputy Attorney General and later as Associate Deputy Attorney General and Executive Director of the Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force.



Ms. Jones clerked for the Honorable Sterling Johnson, Jr., of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. Ms. Jones received her bachelor's degree cum laude in business administration from Emory University, and her juris doctorate and MBA degrees from Harvard University.

Source: Newsfile SEC Press Digest
Brigitte Bardot, the French 1960s sex symbol who became one of the greatest screen sirens of the 20th century and later a militant animal rights activist and farright supporter, has died. She was 91.

Brigitte Bardot, the French 1960s sex symbol who became one of the greatest screen sirens of the 20th century and later a militant animal rights activist and far-right supporter, has died. She was 91.

Bardot died Sunday at her home in southern France, according to Bruno Jacquelin, of the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the protection of animals. Speaking to The Associated Press, he gave no cause of death, and said that no arrangements had been made for funeral or memorial services. She had been hospitalized last month.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bardot became an international celebrity as a sexualized teen bride in the 1956 movie And God Created Woman. Directed by then husband Roger Vadim, it triggered a scandal with scenes of the long-legged beauty dancing on tables naked.

At the height of a cinema career that spanned more than two dozen films and three marriages, Bardot came to symbolize a nation bursting out of bourgeois respectability. Her tousled, blond hair, voluptuous figure and pouty irreverence made her one of Frances best-known stars, even as she struggled with depression.

Such was her widespread appeal that in 1969 her features were chosen to be the model for Marianne, the national emblem of France and the official Gallic seal. Bardots face appeared on statues, postage stamps and coins.

We are mourning a legend, French President Emmanuel Macron said in an X post.

Bardots second career as an animal rights activist was equally sensational. She traveled to the Arctic to blow the whistle on the slaughter of baby seals. She also condemned the use of animals in laboratory experiments, and she opposed Muslim slaughter rituals.

Games View All

Man is an insatiable predator, Bardot told The Associated Press on her 73rd birthday, in 2007. I dont care about my past glory. That means nothing in the face of an animal that suffers, since it has no power, no words to defend itself.

Her activism earned her compatriots respect and, in 1985, she was awarded the Legion of Honor, the nations highest recognition.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Later, however, she fell from public grace as her animal protection diatribes took on a decidedly extremist tone. She frequently decried the influx of immigrants into France, especially Muslims.

She was convicted and fined five times in French courts of inciting racial hatred, in incidents inspired by her opposition to the Muslim practice of slaughtering sheep during annual religious holidays.

Bardots 1992 marriage to fourth husband Bernard dOrmale, a onetime adviser to far-right National Front leader Jean-Marie Le Pen, contributed to her political shift. She described Le Pen, an outspoken nationalist with multiple racism convictions of his own, as a lovely, intelligent man.

In 2012, she supported the presidential bid of Marine Le Pen, who now leads her fathers renamed National Rally party. Le Pen paid homage Sunday to an exceptional woman who was incredibly French.

In 2018, at the height of the #MeToo movement, Bardot said in an interview that most actors protesting sexual harassment in the film industry were hypocritical, because many played the teases with producers to land parts.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

She said she had never had been a victim of sexual harassment and found it charming to be told that I was beautiful or that I had a nice little ass.

Brigitte Anne-Marie Bardot was born Sept. 28, 1934, to a wealthy industrialist. A shy child, she studied classical ballet and was discovered by a family friend who put her on the cover of Elle magazine at age 14.

Bardot once described her childhood as difficult and said that her father was a strict disciplinarian who would sometimes punish her with a horse whip.

Vadim, a French movie produce who she married in 1952, saw her potential and wrote And God Created Woman to showcase her provocative sensuality, an explosive cocktail of childlike innocence and raw sexuality.

The film, which portrayed Bardot as a teen who marries to escape an orphanage and then beds her brother-in-law, had a decisive influence on New Wave directors Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut, and came to embody the hedonism and sexual freedom of the 1960s.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The film was a box-office hit, and it made Bardot a superstar. Her girlish pout, tiny waist and generous bust were often more appreciated than her talent.

Its an embarrassment to have acted so badly, Bardot said of her early films. I suffered a lot in the beginning. I was really treated like someone less than nothing.

Bardots unabashed, off-screen love affair with co-star Jean-Louis Trintignant eradicated the boundaries between her public and private life and turned her into a hot prize for paparazzi.

Bardot never adjusted to the limelight. She blamed the constant media attention for the suicide attempt that followed 10 months after the birth of her only child, Nicolas. Photographers had broken into her house two weeks before she gave birth to snap a picture of her pregnant.

Nicolas father was Jacques Charrier, a French actor who she married in 1959 but who never felt comfortable in his role as Monsieur Bardot. Bardot soon gave up her son to his father, and later said she had been chronically depressed and unready for the duties of being a mother.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

I was looking for roots then, she said in an interview. I had none to offer.

In her 1996 autobiography Initiales B.B., she likened her pregnancy to a tumor growing inside me, and described Charrier as temperamental and abusive.

Bardot married her third husband, West German millionaire playboy Gunther Sachs, in 1966, and they divorced three years later.

Among her films were A Parisian (1957); In Case of Misfortune, in which she starred in 1958 with screen legend Jean Gabin; The Truth (1960); Private Life (1962); A Ravishing Idiot (1964); Shalako (1968); Women (1969); The Bear And The Doll (1970); Rum Boulevard (1971); and Don Juan (1973).

With the exception of 1963s critically acclaimed Contempt, directed by Godard, Bardots films were rarely complicated by plots. Often they were vehicles to display Bardot in scanty dresses or frolicking nude in the sun.

It was never a great passion of mine, she said of filmmaking. And it can be deadly sometimes. Marilyn (Monroe) perished because of it.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bardot retired to her Riviera villa in St. Tropez at the age of 39 in 1973 after The Woman Grabber. As fans brought flowers to her home Sunday, the local St. Tropez administration called for respect for the privacy of her family and the serenity of the places where she lived.

She emerged a decade later with a new persona: An animal rights lobbyist, her face was wrinkled and her voice was deep following years of heavy smoking. She abandoned her jet-set life and sold off movie memorabilia and jewelry to create a foundation devoted exclusively to the prevention of animal cruelty.

Depression sometimes dogged her, and she said that she attempted suicide again on her 49th birthday.

Her activism knew no borders. She urged South Korea to ban the sale of dog meat and once wrote to U.S. President Bill Clinton asking why the U.S. Navy recaptured two dolphins it had released into the wild.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

She attacked centuries-old French and Italian sporting traditions including the Palio, a free-for-all horse race, and campaigned on behalf of wolves, rabbits, kittens and turtle doves.

Its true that sometimes I get carried away, but when I see how slowly things move forward  my distress takes over, Bardot told the AP when asked about her racial hatred convictions and opposition to Muslim ritual slaughter,

In 1997, several towns removed Bardot-inspired statues of Marianne after the actress voiced anti-immigrant sentiment. Also that year, she received death threats after calling for a ban on the sale of horse meat.

Environmental campaigner Paul Watson, who was beaten on a seal hunt protest in Canada alongside Bardot in 1977 and campaigned with her for five decades, acknowledged that many disagreed with Brigittes politics or some of her views.

Her allegiance was not to the world of humans, he said. The animals of this world lost a wonderful friend today.

Bardot once said that she identified with the animals that she was trying to save.

I can understand hunted animals, because of the way I was treated, Bardot said. What happened to me was inhuman. I was constantly surrounded by the world press.

___

Elaine Ganley provided reporting for this story before her retirement. Angela Charlton contributed to this report.
Kim Kardashian faces PETA criticism for gifting her children live puppies at Christmas, sparking debate on responsible pet ownership and the importance of adopting shelter animals.

Kim Kardashian is facing criticism from animal rights group PETA after gifting her four children live puppies for Christmas, a gesture that the organisation says sends the wrong message about animals and responsible pet ownership.

The reality star and entrepreneur shared videos and photos of her childrens delighted reactions as they met the new furry additions to the family, but those posts quickly drew contrasting responses online when PETA weighed in. Ingrid Newkirk, the founder of the organisation, told the Daily Mail Sunday, Puppies are not plushies". She said it was a damn shame that Kim missed the chance to be a spokesperson for shelter pups.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Kims Christmas surprise featured multiple puppies gifted to her children, North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm, who appeared overjoyed in the footage. The stars posts showcased the familys holiday festivities and the childrens excited reactions as they welcomed the new pets. However, animal activists argued that giving live animals as presents can inadvertently promote impulsive decisions without considering the long-term commitment required for pet care.

PETAs statement highlighted concerns that gifting animals can treat them like commodities rather than living beings with needs and emotional well-being. Pets are lifelong companions  not seasonal playthings, Newkirk said, calling on Kardashian and her followers to prioritise adoption, proper training, and responsible care when welcoming animals into a home.

Supporters of Kardashian, including many fans on social media, defended her, noting that she and her family have a history of caring for animals and that the children were raised in an environment committed to their well-being. Some followers pointed out that the Kardashians are experienced pet owners who understand the responsibilities involved, adding that the puppies will be loved and well cared for.

Games View All

Kim Kardashian has not publicly responded to PETAs comments, but the controversy highlights the broader discussion around how society values and treats companion animals, especially in moments meant to be joyful.
Netflixs Goodbye June is indeed a brilliant watch with all its flaws of the script thinning down in several places. Kate Winslets directorial debut, shows how a dying matriarch brings the family together.

Language: English

Director: Kate Winslet

Cast: Kate Winslet, Helen Mirren, Toni Collette, Andrea Riseborough, Johnny Flynn and Timothy Spall

Kate Winslets Goodbye June shines and teaches how a mother should hold the full family together despite differences among her children and June played by Helen Mirren does it with so much grace. Different people have different ways of dealing with grief and loss and this film by Kate Winslet brings it out in a beautiful way. As kids to a mother who is suffering from cancer, it is equally tough on the caregivers.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The movie shows, how June (Helen Mirren) made sure that all the kids should sought out their differences before she dies. Kate Winslet who plays the role of the eldest kid in the family and the most sorted one. She promises her mother that she will look after her father and brother when she is gone. But her mother advises her to do it in a gentle way and not an overpowering way. That is the biggest lesson even when you are taking the responsibility, dont make the others feel that you are doing a favour for them.

___Goodbye June___ shows how a dysfunctional British family reunites during the Christmas season as their matriarch, June is suffering from cancer. Junes four adult childrenJulia (Kate Winslet), Molly (Andrea Riseborough), Helen (Toni Collette), and Connorgather at her bedside in a private hospital room in Cheltenham.

A still from Netflixs Goodbye June

The movie can be compared to a contemporary Indian family dynamic as well where we bury our childhood grievances and we carry it on our shoulders and refuse to forgive and forget. Netflixs Goodbye June teaches us to let go and move on because the more we hold on to those grievances, we end up causing pain to ourselves. Written by Kate Winslets son, Joe Anders, and inspired by his grandmothers passing, this film standouts because of the brilliant performances of each of the actors.

But truly the star of the film is not just Kate Winslet, the one who stands out is Helen Mirren who plays the role of June. Johnny Flynn who plays the role of 30 something son to June, is the one who is going through major pain because he is the one who lives with his aging parents. The film starts with Connor (Johnny Flynn) lying unconscious on the kitchen floor. We get to know that considering Junes deteriorating health conditions, the doctors take a decision to discontinue with chemotherapy and treat the patient with just palliative care.

Games View All

Conor then calls her three sisters to the hospital, but the two out of the three of them ignores each other. Connor is the one who is the most grief stricken, the rest of the three sisters are busy fighting their differences. The movie shows how all differences comes to an end just few days before Christmas and how Junes (Helen Mirren) wish is also fulfilled as she gets to see the family together. The story of Netflixs Goodbye June is engaging, slow, and a reflection for those who belong to big families with aging parents.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Rating: 3 out of 5

WATCH the trailer of Kate Winslets directorial Netflixs Goodbye June here:
Bangladesh may be facing a new crisis  a health emergency. The country is expected to completely run out of condoms in just 39 days. Funding constraints are to blame

Condoms will be unavailable for at least a month next year in Bangladesh. Representational image/Pixabay

Bangladesh is a country experiencing many problems. Indias neighbour is struggling to maintain law and order  theres been cases of Hindus being attacked, one even died as a result of a lynching. Theres also the rising tensions with India to contend with.

And now, it seems Dhaka has another problem to grapple with  a shortage of condoms for at least a month, which puts the countrys family planning programme at stake.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

But whats behind the shortage of the contraceptive? What could be the impact of such a shortage? We examine the ongoing situation in the country.

How bad is Bangladeshs condom shortage?

Bangladeshs Directorate General of Family Planning (DGFP) is expected to completely run out of condoms in just 39 days, reported _The Daily Sta_r, adding that the shortage is expected to continue for at least the first month of the new year.

According to the DGFP, as of December 11, the agency has stocks of condoms for 39 days. Moreover, other contraceptives such as oral pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), injectables, and implants are also in decline.

The country only has IUDs for 45 days; oral pills for five months and 18 days; and injectables for six months and 15 days.

Community clinics across the country have been struggling with the dwindling supply of contraceptives. Parvin Khatun, at Char Korai Barishal Community Clinic, was quoted as saying earlier, We used to receive 250 strips of contraceptive pills monthly. Now we are getting only 30-40 strips. We have the injections, but no syringes. As such, we cant meet the local demand adequately.

Reacting to the situation, Abdur Razzaque, director of the DGFPs logistics and supply unit said that the contraceptives would be restocked soon, provided that an ongoing legal issue over the purchase is resolved.

Where are Bangladeshs condoms?

Officials said that the supply of condoms has been dwindling over the years, reaching a breaking point now. In fact, an official from the DGFP told The Daily Star that the health ministry had halted the purchase of condoms and other contraceptives for a year in 2023, resulting in the supply gap. At the time, the country used those funds to procure other items, owing to which family planning took a back seat.

DGFP Director General Ashrafi Ahmad said the crisis deepened after the expiry of the Fourth Health, Population and Nutrition Sector Programme (HPNSP) in June last year. In the past, most contraceptives were bought under the scheme.

As per the national contraceptive summary, the supply of condoms has been dwindling in Bangladesh along with other contraceptives. The report revealed that condom supply has fallen by 57 per cent over the past six years. Representational image/Pixabay

Exacerbating the situation is the shortage of field-level workers. DGFP Director General Ashrafi Ahmad said that recruitment for certain posts has been halted due to legal complications.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

As per the national contraceptive summary, the supply of condoms has been dwindling in Bangladesh along with other contraceptives. The report revealed that condom supply has fallen by 57 per cent over the past six years.

In 2019, the country supplied 97.48 lakh condoms as part of their family planning programme. This number fell to 47.65 lakh in 2024. And as of September this year, the Bangladesh authorities have supplied 41.52 lakh condoms.

Theres a similar pattern for other contraceptives too. Oral pills has seen a decline by 63 per cent, IUDs by 64 per cent, injectables by 41 per cent, and implants by 37 per cent.

Why does this matter to Bangladesh?

The lack of contraceptives in Bangladesh is a worry, say family planning experts. They note that unplanned growth in population could negatively impact the countrys economy, education, health, and overall development.

Many experts note that Bangladeshs population already exceeds 180 million, making it the eighth most populous country in the world. Bangladesh is also believed to be one of the few countries with a high population density  more than 1,200 people live per square kilometre in this country, and the situation is at risk of worsening.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bangladeshs population already exceeds 180 million, making it the eighth most populous country in the world. File image/AFP

Whats even more notable is that the shortage of contraceptives comes at a time when Bangladesh is already seeing a population boom. Dhakas total fertility rate has risen for the first time in 50 years to 2.4 per cent. Experts point out that the TFR could increase further due to the shortage of contraceptives.

Experts have said that a rapid population growth could also reduce the availability of capital per person and limiting access to essential services such as food, water, housing, sanitation, healthcare, education, and employment. This, in turn, fuels poverty, inequality, crime, and environmental damage.

Professor Dr Ferdousi Begum Flora, former president of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Bangladesh, was also quoted as telling The Daily Star, The country has been experiencing a prolonged shortage of contraceptives, which will have far-reaching effects on our population and economy. The shortage of contraceptives will lead to an increase in unwanted pregnancies, which will not only increase the population but also raise the abortion rate. Consequently, the maternal mortality rate due to abortions will also increase. Women will face various health risks.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

She emphasised that ensuring an adequate supply of contraceptives should be treated as a national priority for a populous country like Bangladesh.

The timing of the shortage of condoms also coincides with the ongoing unrest that the country is experiencing following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The youth leader, who was known for his anti-India stance, was shot in the head on December 12 and died days later in Singapore. His demise has resulted in wide scale protests across the country, which also saw the lynching of two Hindu men.

With inputs from agencies
After the US and the UK, Australia has issued an advisory, suggesting that fake rabies vaccines are circulating in India. In its warning, it stated that anyone who received a dose of Abhayrab from November 1, 2023, should opt for a replacement vaccine. However, the vaccine maker has said the jab is no longer available for sale

Dog bites are a common cause for rabies. Rabies is estimated to cause 59,000 human deaths annually in over 150 countries. Image used for representational purposes only/Reuters

The Australian health departments recent advisory to its citizens has raised eyebrows in India.

Why?

Because last week, the Australian government issued a health advisory warning that counterfeit batches of a rabies vaccine have been circulating in India since November 2023. The Australian authorities noted that that people who have been vaccinated with the Abhayrab vaccine might not be completely protected against rabies  a disease, that the World Health Organisation, notes kills around 18,000 to 20,000 people every year.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Heres what you need to know about the matter and what is Indias response to it.

What did Australia say about the Abhayrab rabies vaccine?

On December 22, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) issued an alert about counterfeit batches of the vaccine Abhayrab, which is manufactured by the Human Biologicals Institute, a key division of the PSU Indian Immunologicals (IIL).

ATAGI said: People who received the fake vaccine may not be fully protected against rabies and are advised to get replacement doses to ensure they are adequately protected. While infection with rabies is fatal, it is important to note that rabies disease after a potential exposure remains very rare among travellers.

The Australian advisory said that while Abhayrab is not available in Australia, people who have received the vaccine while in India may not be fully protected against rabies.

Have other countries raised concerns about Abhayrab?

Notably, Australia isnt the only country to raise flags about the Abhayrab rabies vaccine. In November, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that a case of the disease had been reported in the country from a traveller who came from India, and cited the circulation of a counterfeit Abhayrab vaccine in India.

In their advisory, the CDC noted, Travelers potentially exposed to rabies in India should immediately seek medical care. Upon returning home, travellers should follow up with their health care provider as soon as possible.

The UK health authority had also issued a similar advisory on the vaccine in October. In its alert, it said: The public health agencies in the four nations of the UK are conducting a look-back exercise to identify any travellers who reported receiving rabies vaccine following an animal bite in India from November 2023 onwards, to determine whether further rabies vaccination may be recommended.

Australia in its advisory noted that counterfeit batches of a rabies vaccine have been circulating in India since November 1, 2023. Representational image/Pixabay

What has been Abhayrabs response to the issue?

Responding to the counterfeit claims made by the Australian health authorities, IIL, the makers of the vaccine, said that the advisory was over-cautionary and misplaced. It added that the counterfeiting incident involving Abhayrab batch no. KA24014 (manufacturing date: March 2024; expiry date: February 2027) was identified by early January 2025 and that the counterfeit batch was no longer available on the shelves.

In January 2025, IIL identified a packaging anomaly in one specific batch [Batch # KA 24014]. The company immediately notified Indian regulators and law enforcement agencies, lodged a formal complaint, and worked closely with authorities to ensure swift action, said IIL, adding that this was an isolated incident, and the counterfeit batch was no longer available on the shelves.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

IIL further emphasised that every batch of the vaccine manufactured in India is tested and released by the Central Drugs Laboratory before it is made available for sale or administration.

Sunil Tiwari, the vice-president and head of quality management at IIL also said: Supplies made through government institutions and authorised distributors remain safe and of standard quality.

The vaccine maker also wrote to the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, asking it to review its advisory. We humbly request your good office to urgently consider reviewing the advisory notification, in the interest of preventing potential complications in interpretations by healthcare practitioners and mitigating any negative impact on public trust in vaccines, particularly given the general publics limited awareness of technical details.

The makers of Abhayrab, which holds nearly 40 per cent of the market share in India, further explained that advisories such as the one Australia has issued could result in vaccine hesitancy within the country. Imagine if Abhayrab is the only rabies vaccine on the shelf in a village  and someone does not take it because of this news. We want to let people know that the vaccine is safe and effective, a senior official from the company was quoted as saying by Indian Express.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Moreover, Reeta Mani, professor and head of neurovirology at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bangalore, was quoted as telling The Telegraph, Abhayrab is a reliable vaccine, used widely across the country. It is important to use precise language in public advisories. People should not lose trust in vaccines.

An employee from the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) catches a stray dog during a sterilisation and anti-rabies vaccination operation in New Delhi. File image/AFP

How deadly is rabies though?

Rabies, according to the WHO, is a viral zoonotic disease that causes progressive and fatal inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The disease spreads to people through the bites and scratches of an infected animal.

Experts note that Rabies is most likely to be found in wild animals, including bats. In developing countries, most people get rabies from domestic dogs.

Rabies primarily affects the central nervous system, leading to severe brain disease and death if medical care is not received before symptoms start. After a rabies exposure, the rabies virus must travel to the brain before it can cause symptoms. This time between exposure and the appearance of symptoms is the incubation period, which may last for weeks to months.

Rabies is estimated to cause 59,000 human deaths annually in over 150 countries. Of these, around 20,000 deaths occur in India, said a paper published in One Health in December 2024. Rabies is endemic to India, with the main reservoir of the virus being dogs, and the poorest, the majority of the patients, reports The Hindu.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With inputs from agencies
The death of Prashant Sreekumar, 44, a father of three in Canada last week, is shedding light on the poor state of its healthcare system. Prashants family says he was kept waiting for eight hours by staff at the Grey Nuns Hospital before he collapsed and died of an apparent heart attack. But what ails Canadas system?

Canada is facing an acute shortage of doctors and nurses. Representational image: Pixabay

The death of Prashant Sreekumar, 44, a father of three in Canada, is shedding light on the state of the countrys healthcare system. Prashants family says he was kept waiting for eight hours by staff at the Grey Nuns Hospital in Canada before he collapsed and died of an apparent heart attack.

Prashant was kept waiting despite undergoing an electrocardiogram (ECG) and telling hospital staff that his pain was 15 out of 10. He was finally called in for treatment but collapsed and died.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This is even more shocking considering Canada has for years touted its publicly funded healthcare system as being among the best in the world.

But how sick is Canadas healthcare system?

Lets take a closer look.

Canadas healthcare system

First, lets take a brief look at Canadas healthcare system  also known as Medicare.

It is mainly funded through taxes. Those who are eligible access services via their provincial or territorial governments health insurance.

Medicare covers around 70 per cent of healthcare costs, while around 6570 per cent of Canadians also have private insurance to cover services not included under the public system.

While most procedures are covered by the government, the following are not:

Cosmetic services

Private duty nursing services

Testimony by a physician in court

Medical certificates for work, school or insurance purposes

Preferred hospital accommodation unless prescribed by a physician

Gender therapy

Psychotherapy

Dentistry

Canada in 2025 spent about $400 billion (Rs 35.98 lakh crore) on healthcare, which works out to around 12.7 per cent of GDP. This places it among the higher spenders in the OECD.

As of 2024, there are around 17 lakh healthcare workers in Canada. These include nurses, doctors, allied health professionals, aides and technicians.

As of 2023, Canada had around 97,000 doctors (0.97 lakh)  roughly 2.8 doctors per 1,000 people. This is below the OECD average of around 3.73.9 doctors per 1,000 people.

While about half of these are GPs, the rest are surgeons, radiologists and psychiatrists. Canada also has around 3.38 lakh registered nurses.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Not enough staff, doctors and nurses stressed and overworked

Canada is facing the same problems as many other wealthy Western nations. The first is an ageing population. Canadians over 65 now comprise nearly a fifth of the population. That figure is expected to rise to 2325 per cent by 2040. Most people who require hospital care are seniors.

Canada also faces an acute shortage of doctors and nurses. Only around 1,300 new family medicine graduates enter the workforce each year  far short of what is required. Ottawa estimates that Canada needs around 49 per cent more GPs to adequately meet demand.

The federal government has warned that the country could face a shortage of 78,000 doctors by 2031 and 1.18 lakh nurses by 2030.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The country in 2025 spent about $400 billion (Rs 35.98 lakh crore) on healthcare, which works out to around 12.7 per cent of GDP. This places it among the higher spenders in the OECD. Reuters

Healthcare workers are also under severe strain. A survey found that 79 per cent of healthcare workers are experiencing burnout. Around 49 per cent of family doctors surveyed by the College of Family Physicians of Canada said they were working more hours than they could manage.

As of 2022, 2.67 lakh healthcare workers reported working overtime  the highest number ever recorded.

Four in ten physicians reported experiencing high or severe work-related burnout, affecting their worklife balance. Four out of five doctors also said they had experienced bullying or harassment in the workplace.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Nurses are under similar pressure. In Quebec, around 43 per cent of nurses leave the profession before the age of 35. Nurse turnover rose by 10 per cent in 2022 compared with pre-pandemic levels.

Emergency rooms under strain

According to The Globe and Mail, Canadian emergency rooms have shuttered for at least 11.4 lakh hours since 2019  equivalent to around 0.48 lakh days of closures.

In 2024, one in five hospitals with emergency departments experienced unplanned short-term closures or reduced hours, largely due to staff shortages.

ER closures are certainly stressful for a lot of people in the area when youre used to having a healthcare facility available to you 24 hours a day, five minutes away, Bonavista Mayor John Norman told the newspaper.

Indian-origin Prashant Sreekumar, a 44-year-old dies after 8-hour hospital wait in Canada. Image: X/@eshaniverma809

What we have constantly highlighted to people is that this is a national issue, and there are literally a thousand health facilities across the country that do not have enough staff.

Some emergency departments take up to 22 hours to transfer patients to hospital beds after a decision to admit has been made.

The ultimate effect of all that is the patient suffers, said Aimee Kernick, president of the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians.

We are all overworked and overstressed. To protect ourselves and preserve our ability to keep working, money is not enough anymore.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Worse patient outcomes

All this has led to poorer patient outcomes.

An Ipsos survey showed that just 56 per cent of Canadians are satisfied with public healthcare.

Those aged 18 and over saw access to primary care decline from 93 per cent in 2016 to 86 per cent in 2023  meaning an estimated 56 million Canadians may no longer have regular access to a family doctor. Only 37.5 per cent can get an urgent appointment within a day.

According to the Canadian Medical Association, non-urgent patients wait over 22 hours for a hospital bed, while urgent patients wait 6.5 to 8.5 hours  consistent with what Prashants family described.

According to the Fraser Institute, in 2025 patients waited 28.6 weeks on average from GP referral to specialist treatment.

Emergency room nurse fans themselves in Canada. Reuters

Remarkably long wait times for medically necessary care have become the defining characteristic of the Canadian healthcare experience, said Nadeem Esmail, director of health policy studies at the Fraser Institute.

While this is slightly lower than the 30 weeks recorded in 2024, it remains the second-longest wait on record. In 2019, the wait was 20.9 weeks, and in 1993 just 9.3 weeks.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The longest waits were for neurosurgery (49.9 weeks) and orthopaedic surgery (48.6 weeks). The shortest were for radiation oncology (4.2 weeks) and medical oncology (4.7 weeks).

Canadians also waited long for diagnostic scans  8.8 weeks for CT scans, 18.1 weeks for MRI scans, and 5.4 weeks for ultrasounds.

Long wait times can result in increased suffering, lost productivity, reduced quality of life, and in the worst cases, disability or death, said Mackenzie Moir, senior policy analyst at the Fraser Institute.

Another survey found that over a third of patients waited more than three months to see a specialist after referral, while around a third waited less than a month.

Spending versus outcomes

Canada spends around $7,300 per person (Rs 6.56 lakh) on healthcare, compared with the OECD average of $5,967 (Rs 5.36 lakh).

Despite this, outcomes remain mixed.

There are, however, some positive signs. Temporary hospital closures peaked around 202223 and have since slowed. Canada also performs better than many peers on certain health indicators.

Life expectancy remains around 81.6 years, higher than the OECD average. Preventable mortality stands at 113, compared with the OECD average of 158. Just 2.8 per cent of Canadians report their health as poor or very poor. The

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

It remains to be seen whether Canada can fix what ails its healthcare system.

With inputs from agencies
Hundreds of Indian students at the private International University (IU) in Berlin are facing possible deportation after German authorities ruled that their courses no longer meet student visa requirements. Many had taken out massive loans to cover the cost of tuition and living, and are now staring at an uncertain future

the International University (IU) of Berlin. It was founded in 1998 in Bad Honnef, Germany. Image courtesy: IU.org

Much has been written about Indian students in the US facing deportation under the Trump administration. But a similar crisis is now unfolding in Germany.

Hundreds of Indian students studying at the private International University (IU) in Berlin are facing possible deportation after German authorities ruled that their courses no longer meet student visa requirements.

Many had taken out massive loans to cover the cost of tuition and living and are now staring at an uncertain future. So, what went wrong?

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Why Indian students are facing deportation

First, lets take a brief look at the International University (IU) of Berlin. It was founded in 1998 in Bad Honnef, Germany. By 2020, it had become one of Europes largest private universities. In 2021, it rebranded as IU International University of Applied Sciences.

Today, IU has more than 130,000 students across its campuses and online programmes from over 190 nations. It offers Bachelors degrees, Masters degrees and MBA programmes. It is slated to open a new campus in Cologne. According to reports, IU has around 4,500 Indian students. They comprise around a fifth of its international students.

At the heart of the crisis are IUs hybrid programmes, which combine online learning with in-person classes. German authorities recently began scrutinising IUs hybrid offerings after anonymous complaints alleged poor in-person attendance and weak oversight. Then, a court ruling backed the Berlin immigration authoritys view that many of IUs sessions did not qualify as on-campus study under German law.

This led to hybrid programmes being reclassified as distance learning. The problem is that this does not qualify for a German student residence permit, which left students stranded. The situation worsened in 2025, when Germany abolished its informal remonstration procedure  a mechanism that had previously allowed students to challenge visa rejections quickly and at low cost.

According to reports, IU has around 4,500 Indian students. They comprise around a fifth of its international students. Representational image/AFP

With its removal, affected students were left with limited and expensive legal options, effectively pushing many into limbo without an easy path to appeal or regularise their status.

The impact has been devastating. Deep Shambharkar, a 25-year-old from Maharashtra, told Euronews that he had already spent around $21,000 (around Rs 18.87 Iakh) on his education after moving to Berlin in July to complete a masters degree in business management.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He had taken out loans to fund his studies. Under the programme, Shambharkar did the first part of his degree in India. He then moved to Germany to finish his course. Shambharkar said his student visa was due to be extended in the summer.

Then, a yellow envelope from the Berlin Immigration Office appeared in his post box. Shambharkar was ordered to leave the country by November 3 or face deportation. He says he knows of at least 300 similar cases.

I dont think the university will pay me back, he said. Most of the students have since left. Many have changed universities, at least those from wealthy families. Others have gone back home. They were helpless.

What IU says

The university told _Euronews_ that it regrets that students must leave. It claimed that the Berlin Immigration Office (LEA) changed its evaluation of hybrid degree programmes without informing IU International University.

It described the LEAs change of visa policy for students who have entered the country under different conditions as incomprehensible. It added that it will allow some students to finish their studies at home free of cost.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The IU says it is no longer accepting international students at the Berlin campus. Due to the ongoing legal and administrative uncertainties with the LEA, IU will suspend all new student admissions to the Berlin campus until further notice, it said. It also mandated full in-person attendance from October and launched a free visa assistance service.

Hundreds of Indian students are facing deportation in Germany after authorities reclassified the International University (IU) in Berlins hybrid programmes, which combine online learning with in-person classes, as distance learning. . Representational Image/ Freepik.

However, these steps have done little to help students already enrolled, many of whom remain in legal limbo. Students have now taken to Reddit and social media to warn others against enrolling at IU. Immigration lawyers are now advising affected students to apply for Duldung  a temporary tolerated stay  as a last resort.

Experts say such situations can be an eye-opening experience for many about the realities of international education. Situations like these highlight the complexity of international education pathways and the importance of alignment across academic delivery, regulatory interpretation, and visa compliance frameworks, Mayank Maheshwari, Co-Founder and COO, University Living, told India Today.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Over the course of an academic programme, regulatory interpretations or compliance requirements may evolve or be applied differently. When this happens without adequate clarity or transition mechanisms, it can create uncertainty for students who have otherwise acted in good faith, Maheshwari added.

With inputs from agencies
Our 24-hour day measures Earths rotation relative to the Sun, known as a solar day. This is slightly longer than Earths rotation relative to distant stars (a sidereal day), because Earth is also moving along its orbit around the Sun. But could there be 25-hour days in the future?

The Earth could have 25-hour days in the future because its rotation is slowing  albeit extremely slowly. Representational image/Pixabay

Will Earth soon have a 25-hour day?

Everyone knows there are 24 hours in a day. This is based on the rotation of the Earth relative to the position of the Sun. But did you know that there could one day be 25-hour days? I While it may sound like science fiction, its not. Scientists say it could happen millions of years from now.

But what do we know? How would it happen?

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Lets take a closer look.

Earths 24-hour day

The origin of our time system of 24 hours in a day, with each hour subdivided into 60 minutes and then 60 seconds, is complex and interesting, Dr Nick Lomb, consultant curator of astronomy at the Sydney Observatory, told ABC.

More from Explainers INSV Kaundinya: The significance of an engine-less ship sailing from India to Oman

The idea comes from the ancient Egyptians, who used sundials.

They divided the day into 10 hours, with a twilight period at the beginning and another at the end, and the night into 12 hours.

A visitor sits near a limestone fragment dating to the reign of the ancient Egyptian 19th dynasty king Merneptah (1213-1203 BC) on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. AFP

Night-time was divided into 12 hours, based on the observations of stars. The Egyptians had a system of 36 star groups called decans  chosen so that on any night one decan rose 40 minutes after the previous one, Lomb added.

Tables were produced to help people determine the time at night by observing the decans. Amazingly, such tables have been found inside the lids of coffins, presumably so that the dead could also tell the time.

Later, the ancient Babylonians divided hours and minutes into 60 units each, using the sexagesimal (base-60) system they inherited from the Sumerians. This structure was eventually locked in by the first mechanical clocks, which emerged in Europe towards the end of the 16th century. It remains the system we use today.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This measures Earths rotation relative to the Sun  known as a solar day. However, Earth is also rotating on its axis while orbiting the Sun, which is why a solar day is slightly longer than a sidereal day (a full rotation relative to distant stars).

How would it become 25 hours?

This happens due to the pull of the Moons gravity on Earth. The Moon creates tidal bulges in the oceans, and because these bulges are not perfectly aligned with the Moon, they exert a small braking force on Earths rotation.

NASA explains that the Moons gravitational pull causes the oceans to bulge slightly, and this interaction acts like a brake, slowing Earths rotation over time.

Earths spin is also affected, to a much lesser extent, by melting glaciers, shifting ocean mass, and movements within the planets core and mantle.

The change itself is tiny. It doesnt add seconds to the clock, but milliseconds  roughly 1.7 milliseconds per century. But when measured across hundreds of millions or even billions of years, these tiny changes add up.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This, however, is nothing new.

Earths rotation has been changing throughout its history.

The Moon creates tidal bulges in the oceans, and because these bulges are not perfectly aligned with the Moon, they exert a small braking force on Earths rotation. AFP

As Sarah Millholland, an assistant professor of physics at MIT, told Live Science, The Earth has experienced days that were both shorter and longer than it is now at different points in history.

About a billion years ago, the length of a day was only about 19 hours, she added.

In fact, geological evidence from ancient coral growth rings and tidal sediments suggests that hundreds of millions of years ago, Earth experienced more than 400 days per year, with each day lasting just over 21 hours.

Shortly after Earth formed, a day may have lasted less than 10 hours. There have also been periods when days were longer than 24 hours  though not for long.

Should we be worried?

Probably not.

Konstantin Batygin, a professor of planetary science at Caltech, told Live Science, The change in Earths spin rate is happening gradually enough that evolutionary processes can adapt to the changes over time.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The relative change in orbital speed would not be noticeable in daily life, Batygin added.

Even today, Earths rotation is not perfectly steady. Because of small variations, scientists occasionally add leap seconds to atomic clocks to keep our timekeeping in sync with Earths rotation. As the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) notes, leap seconds are added when Earths rotation drifts by more than 0.9 seconds from atomic time.

In short, a 25-hour day isnt a sign of impending planetary upheaval  just a reminder that even something as constant as time is not immune from cosmic forces.
A medical report shows that 24yearold Tripura student Anjel Chakma, who died after a gang attack in Dehradun, suffered bleeding in the brain, severe spinal injuries, and multiple cuts. The attack happened after he and his brother were insulted with racist comments while out shopping

A newly released medical report of 24yearold Tripura student Anjel Chakma, who died after being brutally attacked by a gang of boys in Dehradun, revealed bleeding in the brain and serious damage to the spine, along with multiple cuts and wounds.

According to the report, accessed by CNN News18, apart from the head injury, Anjel suffered multiple lacerations to his arms and feet. The damage to his spinal cord was so severe that he lost movement on the right side of his body.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Anjel had been in a hospital fighting for his life for 17 days after the attack, but he succumbed to his injuries late last month.

They called him Chinese and momo: Attack stemmed from racial taunts

Chakma was stabbed with a knife and hit with brass knuckles by attackers who allegedly taunted him and his brother with racist slurs, according to family and police accounts.

Anjel was with his brother Michael when the incident happened. What started as a routine outing to buy groceries turned into a violent encounter.

His father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, a Border Security Force (BSF) soldier, said the attackers called his son Chinese during the assault.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami spoke with Anjels father, expressing grief over the tragic loss and promising strict action against those responsible.

Police have identified five suspects. Among them, three adults: Avinash Negi, Suraj Khawas and Sumit have been sent to jail, while two minors have been placed in a juvenile reform home. Another suspect is believed to have fled to Nepal, and efforts are underway to arrest him. A reward has also been announced for information on his whereabouts. The police have also sent a team to Nepal to trace him.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Amid sharp criticism from environmentalists and political leaders, the Supreme Court has put its recent Aravalli ruling in abeyance and signalled a fresh review of how the ancient hill range is defined

The government said it is fully committed to protecting and preserving the Aravalli ecosystem over the long term. (wikimedia)

In a major turn in the ongoing Aravalli hills controversy, the Supreme Court of India on Monday decided to stay its own November 20 ruling that had limited what counts as part of the ancient Aravalli mountain range.

That earlier decision had drawn strong criticism from environmentalists, opposition parties and local groups for potentially opening up large swathes of the ecologically sensitive region to mining and development.

The courts fresh order puts that November judgment in abeyance and signals a willingness to rethink how the Aravallis are defined and protected.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices JK Maheshwari and AG Masih, said the matter needs deeper examination before any final decision is made.

Why the court took this step

The original November ruling had accepted a technical definition by classifying only landforms rising 100 metres or more above surrounding terrain as part of the Aravalli Hills.

Critics warned that this artificial height rule would exclude much of the natural, interconnected hill system that stretches over 700 kilometres across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi, potentially making most of the range available for mining.

During Mondays hearing, the top court acknowledged that this simple elevation-based measure may not fully capture the ecological continuity of the range. Judges asked whether gaps between qualifying hills could still be part of a continuous ecosystem, and whether mining regulation should be tied strictly to height at all.

What happens next

Rather than rush ahead with the earlier definition, the court proposed forming a high-powered expert committee made up of domain specialists to reassess how the Aravalli range should be mapped and regulated. The stay also puts on hold the government-led mapping exercise that had begun using the 100-metre criterion.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Union government, welcomed the suo motu review and said the earlier ruling had been misunderstood in some quarters. He also noted that public consultations are planned before any mining decisions are finalized.

The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for January 21, 2026, leaving time for experts and stakeholders to weigh in on how best to balance environmental protection with development concerns.
The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert as dense fog affected visibility, delayed flights and trains, and worsened already hazardous air quality, with AQI levels remaining above 400 across the capital.

Delhis average Air Quality Index was recorded at 403, keeping pollution in the severe range, with 25 monitoring stations reporting AQI levels above 400. (ANI)

The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for dense fog in Delhi for the next hour as visibility dropped sharply across the national capital, disrupting daily life and compounding already severe air quality conditions. A thick layer of fog engulfed the city, reducing sightlines on roads and triggering operational challenges at key transport hubs.

Delhis overall Air Quality Index stood at 403, placing it firmly in the Severe category, with AQI crossing 400 at 25 monitoring stations. Vivek Vihar recorded the highest AQI at 460, followed by Anand Vihar at 459 and Rohini at 445. Wazirpur and Nehru Nagar both logged 444, while Sonia Vihar stood at 442. Jahangirpuri reported 439, Shadipur 437, and Patparganj 432.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

#WATCH | Delhi | Visibility in the national capital is affected as a layer of dense fog engulfs the city.



(Visuals from Dwarka Sector 6 to Dabri Road) pic.twitter.com/yWHI52nvTN  ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2025

Airport operations hit by low visibility

The dense fog severely impacted flight operations, with the Delhi Airport and major airlines including IndiGo and Air India, warning of possible cancellations and delays across North, East and Northeast India. In an advisory issued on Monday morning, the Delhi airport authority said it had activated CAT-3 procedures due to poor visibility. The aviation regulator, DGCA, has announced December 10, 2025February 10, 2026, as the official fog window for this season.

General visibility at Indira Gandhi International Airport dropped to barely 50 metres, with temperatures hovering around 11 degrees Celsius. CAT-3 measures, a specialised navigation system that allows equipped aircraft and trained pilots to land in very low visibility, were put in place. While CAT III permits landings, the airport cautioned that congestion and backlogs are likely, leading to delays and potential cancellations.

Do not head to the airport without confirming your flight status first. Contact your airline directly via their app, website, or customer service helpline, Delhi IGI airport advised.

Several flights were diverted due to poor visibility, congestion and delays. Airlines also issued advisories, with IndiGo stating that early-morning fog is expected to hit visibility across Delhi, Amritsar and Chandigarh. During these hours, visibility can reduce suddenly, impacting flight operations. Our teams will remain fully prepared through the night, monitoring the weather minute by minute, the airline said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Passengers also have the option to avail complimentary rescheduling or opt for full refund without penalty through Air India Fog Care," the airline said in a statement.

Some trains were delayed at New Delhi railway station due to fog.

#WATCH | Delhi: Some trains delayed at New Delhi railway station due to fog. pic.twitter.com/w8o6MESgCv  ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2025
The Aravalli Hills row has intensified after the Supreme Court backed a 100metre rule defining what counts as part of the ancient range. Critics warn it could leave vital ecosystems unprotected, while protests mount. The court has now stayed its earlier order and formed an expert panel to review it

The government said it is fully committed to protecting and preserving the Aravalli ecosystem over the long term. (wikimedia)

India is witnessing a heated debate over a new definition of the Aravalli Hills, one of the worlds oldest mountain ranges stretching from Delhi through Haryana, Rajasthan, and into Gujarat.

At the heart of the controversy is a Supreme Courtbacked definition that would classify only certain landforms as part of the Aravalli range. Critics argue that this could weaken protections and leave the ecosystem vulnerable to environmental damage.

The court had accepted recommendations from a panel set up by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, which stipulated that a landform must rise at least 100 metres above the surrounding terrain to be officially considered an Aravalli hill. Furthermore, two or more such hills within 500 metres of each other, along with their slopes and surrounding land, would constitute an Aravalli Range.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Why the definition matters and the latest verdict

In practical terms, this new rule has raised concerns because many parts of the Aravalli landscape are lower than 100 metres yet remain ecologically crucial.

Activists, scientists, and opposition leaders argue that the change could leave vast stretches of fragile ecosystem unprotected, opening them up to mining, construction, and other commercial activities that were previously restricted.

Opponents say that the Aravallis are more than just high hills.

They serve as a natural barrier against desertification, help recharge groundwater, support diverse flora and fauna, and buffer pollution, particularly around the DelhiNCR region. Critics warn that excluding lower ridges and rocky outcrops could compromise these environmental functions, worsening issues like dust storms and water scarcity.

The response has been swift. Mass protests have erupted in Rajasthan and other states, with thousands marching to demand stronger safeguards and oppose the new definition. Political parties such as the Congress have criticised the move, even calling for resignations, calling the original ruling a threat to ecological stability.

Environmentalists and petitioners have taken the matter back to the Supreme Court, which on Monday stayed its own earlier order, temporarily halting the implementation of the 100metre rule while the debate continues. In response, the court has also formed an expert panel to review the matter before taking any further decision.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Meanwhile, the Centre and some officials maintain that the definition was meant to bring clarity and uniformity across states, adding that legal protections and mining bans remain in place in designated protected areas.
The foundation of governance  peace, security, and stability  seemed shaken in several parts of Africa, exposing a sizable portion of its 1.4 billion population to death, danger, and untold hardships

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks to members of the media on the sidelines of the meeting of the G20 foreign ministers, which is hosted by South Africa under the theme "Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability", at the NASREC conference centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, February 20, 2025. Reuters/Siphiwe Sibeko

A holistic assessment of developments in Africa in 2025 must begin by noting that the continent receives the least attention from audiences in India. This may be partly due to the absence of regular reporting on Africa by Indian media, which, unlike in the past, lacks a permanent, on-the-ground presence in any African capital. As a result, Indian readers and viewers learn about Africa from foreign media organisations that have their own priorities and perspectives.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Overview

Generally, 2025 has not been kind to Africa, as it marked the end of a half-decade of the Polycrisis, which began with the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. This was followed by the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, the onset of the Hamas-Israel conflict in October 2023, which escalated into several other conflicts in West Asia, and other significant developments in Asia and the Indo-Pacific. Consequently, media and diplomatic attention, as well as financial resources, were diverted to other regions, leaving Africa with insufficient attention.

Two African stories that made international headlines are worth mentioning here. One was born at the White House summit of leaders from West Africa in July, when President Donald Trump asked Joseph Boakai, President of the English-speaking Republic of Liberia, where he learnt his beautiful English. Though delivered in a complimentary manner, this comment was widely interpreted as a condescending snub. Second, the year ended with US-South Africa relations at a new low, as explained at the end of this article.

Peace and Security

The foundation of governance  peace, security, and stability  seemed shaken in several parts of Africa, exposing a sizable portion of its 1.4 billion population to death, danger, and untold hardships. Protracted crises in Sudan, Somalia, the Sahel, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo continued to dominate international attention, largely for their escalating humanitarian and security consequences.

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary group named the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) exacted a heavy toll, leading to the fragmentation of Africas third-largest country. According to the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, this resulted in the worlds largest humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 400,000 people dying and the number of forcibly displaced people reaching 12.8 million. More than 600,000 people may have been exposed to famine-like conditions. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continued to be the sick man of Africa, with all kinds of violence in eastern Congo wrecking its stability. As the year ended, the DRC and Rwanda signed a peace agreement brokered by the US and Qatar, but prospects for its durability seemed uncertain.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Militant Islamic violence was the dominant theme in Somalia, resulting in 6,224 fatalities linked to al-Shabaab, a doubling of the figure recorded in 2022. Somalia also served as the base of the Islamic State located in the northeastern state of Puntland. Islamist violent activities had a devastating effect on states such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, where military juntas overthrew civilian governments. This, in turn, created a crisis for the regional economic community, Ecowas, which initially adopted a firm stance and then adopted a policy of appeasement toward the three military regimes.

In Nigeria, the world witnessed a rare kind of foreign interference as the US launched multiple Tomahawk missile strikes on Christmas Day on the ISIS insurgents in the northwestern Sokoto state, with the concurrence of the Nigerian government. The reason: the ISIS jihadists were slaughtering Christians, as the US president asserted.

Democracy

The cause of democracy in Africa suffered in 2025 in two ways. First, only three of the ten elections held were rated free and fair. In an established democracy, such as Tanzania, elections were marked by unprecedented violence. Second, more military coups occurred (in Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar), or the previous seizures of power were consolidated systematically (in Gabon and Guinea).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In effect, the military had seized power in nine African countries since 2020. From another angle, 20 of Africas 54 national leaders came to power through military coups or other non-democratic means, thereby undermining the foundations of democratic governance.

Economy and Social Domain

The African economy showed considerable promise in the first decade of the century, growing at 5.1 per cent during 20002010, but the growth rate declined to 3.3 per cent in the previous decade, 201019. Yet as a group of experts at the McKinsey Global Institute assessed, there is no one Africa, and the continents recent slowdown masks divergences across countries. Many countries, sectors, and companies have performed much better than others.

Another noteworthy point is that African economies have been shifting rapidly from agriculture and extraction to services. Yet increases in productivity and connectivity will be of immense value as Africa plans for its emergence as a massive market of 2.5 billion people by 2050. A premium is placed on rapid progress in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), accompanied by the building of interconnected infrastructure. Intra-regional imports and exports, currently at 10 per cent and 17 per cent, respectively, need to grow rapidly.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In 2025, Africa had at least 345 companies with revenues exceeding $1 billion. Roughly 40 per cent of them were headquartered in South Africa. Other major hosts were Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, and Angola.

The year saw continued rapid urbanisation in Africa. Nearly half of the African population  700 million  lives in urban areas. This will double to about 1.4 billion in 2050. Infrastructure cannot keep pace with this rate. Urbanisation has been accompanied by several Gen Z protests in 2025, with protesters seeking greater accountability, job opportunities, and democratic governance. Morocco, Madagascar, and Tanzania were especially affected by such protests.

International Cooperation

Prior to Covid-19, intense competition among multiple external actors was evident, with all seeking to expand political and economic cooperation with various African states. The past half-decade, 202025, brought some changes in this international competition. The enthusiasm of the EU and the US appeared to be on the decline, as their attention was focused on the war in Ukraine, and President Trump adopted a restrictive policy toward foreign aid.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On the other hand, Chinas drive to expand its economic and geopolitical footprint continued. Russia also achieved new successes, particularly in the military domain in the Sahel region and Libya. Besides, the engagement of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye in eastern Africa, in both the economic and security domains, appeared to be increasing.

While the China-Africa, Japan-Africa, and EU-Africa summits were held in September 2024, April 2025, and November 2025, respectively, the India-Africa Summit did not take place in 2025. The expectation was that it might be held in 2026.

Conclusion

As the year ended, issues related to the G20 highlighted both Africas potential and its vulnerability. On the one hand, South Africa successfully hosted the first-ever African G20 summit. It produced a substantive Johannesburg Declaration that reflected the perspectives of Africa and the Global South. On the other hand, bilateral differences between South Africa and the US, including on G20-related matters, exacerbated tensions between the two nations. Consequently, the US decided to bar South Africa from participating in the next G20 summit, to be hosted by the US in 2026.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

As the first meeting of G20 Sherpas took place in Washington in mid-December, all member countries and regional entities, including the African Union, were represented, except South Africa. What this signified for African solidarity and the resurgence of the Global South were the issues best left for experts to decipher.

(Rajiv Bhatia is a Distinguished Fellow at Gateway House, with extensive diplomatic experience in regional and global groupings, and the author of three books on Indian foreign policy. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
By standing firm in favour of Somaliland, India can counter Chinese assertion in the region and ensure a permanent gateway into Africa, as well as trade access to the continents second-most populous country, Ethiopia

On December 26, 2025, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced that Israel had signed an agreement with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, better known by the moniker Irro. We signed an agreement on mutual recognition and the establishment of full diplomatic relations, which will include the appointment of ambassadors and the opening of embassies, Saar said, adding, We will work together to promote the relations between our countries and nations, regional stability and economic prosperity. I have instructed my ministry to act immediately to institutionalise ties between the two countries across a wide range of fields.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

As word spread throughout the capital, Hargeisa, Somalilanders, who have laboured for more than three decades to win formal relations, erupted in spontaneous celebration. Celebratory fireworks exploded over the city.

Israels decision to shatter the de facto diplomatic consensus against recognising Somaliland should be welcome. More than any other aspirant country, Somaliland is ready for formal independence; indeed, by almost any metric  gross domestic product, industrial base, and governance capacity  Somaliland ranks above its neighbours. Indeed, it is not far beyond Pakistan and will be on a trajectory to surpass it once it receives access to international banking that recognition bestows.

Ethiopias government has long joked that Ethiopia would not be the first country to recognise Somaliland, but it would not be the third either. That many regional countries oppose Somaliland recognition has less to do with the merits of its case than it does with China. While diplomats traditionally oppose separatism in Africa, fearing the chaos that could accompany a cascade of new states and claimants transcending Africas colonial borders, Somaliland should be an exception.

Set by treaties during its period as a British protectorate, Somalilands borders are older than many countries in Africa. The Horn of Africa, too, has long been an exception to the Africa rule, with Eritrea achieving full independence from Ethiopia in 1993 and South Sudan formally splitting from Sudan in 2011. While Eritrea is essentially a prison state akin to Africas North Korea, and South Sudan descended into civil war amidst tribal disputes and a scramble for its oil revenue, Somaliland is largely peaceful and has had more than three decades of self-declared independence to refine its government bodies.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Most of the immediate opposition to Somaliland is based less on principle and more on fealty to China. Djibouti is perhaps the most hypocritical. It is ethnically Somali, but organised in the colonial era by the French, who colonised the port to serve as a coaling station akin to what the British Empire developed in Aden. In recent decades, however, Djibouti has subordinated itself to China, becoming one of Africas most indebted countries to Beijing in terms of percent of gross domestic product. Today, Djibouti even hosts Chinas first overseas naval base.

Somalia, too, opposes Somalilands freedom as much to appease China as due to its own irredentist inclinations. Somaliland joined Somalia in 1960 but separated in 1991 as Somalia descended into anarchy and state failure. Returning Somaliland to Somalia was never realistic, as successful democracies tend to oppose subordinating themselves to chaotic kleptocracies.

China looms large in Mogadishus thinking. On December 21, 2025, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told Chinese television that he backed China using military force to subdue Taiwan. As Somaliland has embraced Taiwan, Somalia has sought to profit by transforming itself into a Chinese colony in all but name.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

It is against this backdrop that India should follow Israels lead and recognise Somaliland. To uphold the status quo would betray the principles for which India has long publicly stood: tradition or established power interests should be no reason to condemn Somaliland to Somalias colonisation.

Principle states like India should not force democracies to subordinate themselves arbitrarily to failed states, especially if the logic is to uphold colonial interests. For Somalia to talk about Somaliland independence shattering Somali unity is as farcical as Syria complaining Lebanese independence betrays Arab unity.

More importantly, if India aspires to protect itself and its interests in the Indian Ocean basin, it must not defer the African coast arbitrarily to Chinese interests. Beijing seeks to consolidate control over the littoral states  Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique  in order to shut India out or encircle it. By standing firm in favour of Somaliland, India can ensure it has a permanent portal into Africa and a means to trade with its second-most populous country, Ethiopia. Somalilands Berbera Port can be an important logistical hub, while its adjacent airport can ferry Indian businessmen and supplies almost anywhere in Africa.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India is a great power, but too often it hampers its influence and interests by acting as a reactive one rather than a proactive one. To follow Israel and open an embassy in Somaliland would send a signal that India determines its own destiny, stands by allies, and no longer accepts Chinas arbitrary demands and positions. It is time for the Tiranga to fly officially over an Indian High Commission in Somaliland.

(Michael Rubin is director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, DC. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
The recently declassified transcript released by the US National Security Archive, documenting a private exchange between former US President George W Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin, exposes a reality long acknowledged in private but rarely admitted in public. In the conversation, Putin bluntly characterised Pakistan as just a junta with nuclear weapons and raised serious concerns about the safety and accountability of its nuclear arsenal. Bush did not dispute the description. Instead, the exchange revealed a shared unease that had existed among global leaders for yearsan unease that conspicuously failed to translate into meaningful public action.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

During a 2005 Oval Office discussion on nuclear proliferation, Putin noted that uranium of Pakistani origin had been detected in Iranian centrifuges. Bush responded by acknowledging Irans failure to disclose this material to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it a violation. When Putin added that the materials Pakistani origin made him nervous, Bush agreed, stating, It makes us nervous, too. This candid exchange underscores how acutely both leaders understood the risks posed by the diffusion of Pakistani nuclear technology beyond its borders.

The Making of a Nuclear Exception

The significance of this disclosure lies not in the revelation that world leaders were unaware of Pakistans nuclear trajectory, but in its confirmation that this trajectory was consciously tolerated. Pakistans nuclear programme neither emerged suddenly nor evolved in isolation. It developed incrementally over decades, beginning in the early 1970s under Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, shaped by strategic ambitions, regional insecurities, and an international environment that repeatedly prioritised expediency over enforcement. Bhuttos declarationWe will eat grass, even go hungry, but we will get the bombcaptured a determination that was sustained, rather than obstructed, by global power politics.

From the late 1970s onwards, the global non-proliferation regime functioned selectively, guided less by universal norms than by geopolitical calculationmost notably that of the United States. By 1979, Washington possessed credible intelligence that Pakistan was pursuing nuclear weapons. Uranium enrichment at Kahuta was well documented, and assessments indicated steady movement toward weaponisation.

Under normal circumstances, such developments would have triggered sanctions and sustained diplomatic pressure. Instead, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan transformed Pakistan into a strategic asset. As the frontline state in the US-led effort to counter Soviet expansion, Islamabad became indispensable. Its nuclear ambitions were neither halted nor seriously challenged; they were deliberately deprioritised.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This reality was later acknowledged in US congressional testimony, which admitted that Washington felt it had no choice but to go along with the Pakistanis and look the other way at their nuclear weapons program.

Declassified documents from the late 1970s further reveal that the Carter administration undertook secret diplomatic demarchesoften coordinated with the United Kingdomto restrict Pakistans access to sensitive nuclear technology. Hundreds of such demarches were issued to supplier states, urging stricter export controls. Yet enforcement remained weak. Key allies, particularly West Germany, resisted stringent measures to protect commercial interests.

Internal US assessments recognised Pakistans rapid progress at facilities such as Kahuta and acknowledged proliferation risks, but concluded that pressing Islamabad too hard could destabilise a crucial regional partner amid overlapping crises, including the Iranian Revolution. The outcome was not partial restraint, but full complicityan intentional decision to tolerate and enable Pakistans nuclear advance in service of broader geopolitical priorities.

Former CIA and arms control expert Richard Barlow later captured this complicity succinctly: We had huge quantities of intelligence about Pakistans nuclear program The problem is that nobody was taking action in our government. They just werent interested. Strategic priorities consistently outweighed non-proliferation commitments.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Institutionalisation through Legislative Manoeuvring

This selective blindness was subsequently institutionalised through legislative manoeuvring. The Pressler Amendment, often cited as evidence of US restraint, functioned in practice as a mechanism of evasion. Passed in 1985, it required annual presidential certification that Pakistan did not possess a nuclear explosive device for US assistance to continue.

Throughout the 1980s, successive administrations issued such certifications despite intelligence assessments indicating that Pakistan had crossed critical technological thresholds. By exploiting narrow definitions of possession, Washington preserved a legal fiction that allowed continued aid. This was not policy failure; it was deliberate policy choice.

The end of the Cold War briefly exposed this contradiction. In 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the United States declined to certify Pakistan under the Pressler Amendment, implicitly acknowledging Pakistans nuclear weapons capability. Yet even then, no serious effort was made to reverse or dismantle the programme. Pakistans nuclear infrastructure remained intact, and its strategic relevance endured.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistans overt nuclear tests in 1998 prompted sanctions, but these were shallow and short-lived. By then, non-proliferation had already been subordinated to regional and strategic considerations. The attacks of September 11, 2001, completed this shift. Once again, Pakistan was elevated to the status of a critical allythis time in the war on terror. US policy toward Pakistans nuclear programme transitioned decisively from prevention to risk management. Securing Pakistans weapons became more important than questioning their legitimacy. As State Department spokesman Richard Boucher made clear, cooperationnot non-proliferationbecame the defining criterion of US engagement.

It was within this permissive environment that the Abdul Qadeer Khan proliferation network flourished. Pakistan did not merely acquire nuclear weapons; it commercialised nuclear capability. Libya received the most comprehensive illicit nuclear package ever uncovered, including complete centrifuge assemblies, weapon design blueprints, and operational manuals. When Libya abandoned its programme in 2003, Western intelligence agencies confirmed that the materials originated from Pakistan and were directly linked to the Khan network.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Irans nuclear programme similarly bore unmistakable Pakistani fingerprints, particularly in its early centrifuge designs. In the declassified transcript, Bush acknowledged to Putin that Iranian centrifuges contained material of Pakistani origina remark that contextualises Putins concerns. Pakistans transactions with North Korea followed the same pattern, trading uranium enrichment expertise for ballistic missile technology that later became central to Pakistans missile arsenal.

The Khan network operated through an extensive transnational supply chain, involving manufacturing hubs in Malaysia, logistics networks in the UAE, financial laundering through offshore accounts, and component sourcing from Europe and Turkey. This was not the work of a lone rogue scientist. It was a sophisticated, state-embedded proliferation enterprise that functioned for years without decisive international intervention.

Selective Non-Proliferation and Its Consequences

Despite the scale of this proliferation, Pakistan was never subjected to an independent international investigation. No intrusive inspections followed, no institutional accountability was imposed, and no sustained sanctions were enforced. AQ Khan was briefly placed under house arrest and later quietly absolved. As President Pervez Musharraf bluntly declared, no independent investigation will take place here, underscoring the states refusal to allow scrutiny of its nuclear record.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Bush-Putin transcript thus exposes not only private fear, but public hypocrisy. Behind closed doors, global leaders acknowledged Pakistan as unstable, militarised, and dangerous. In public, they continued to treat it as a responsible nuclear power. This contradiction lies at the core of the failure of the global non-proliferation regime.

Today, Pakistans internal instability, entrenched civil-military imbalance, economic fragility, and radicalisation risks render those private fears more urgent than ever. A nuclear-armed state with weak civilian oversight and a documented history of commodifying nuclear technology represents a grave regional and global security threat.

If nuclear weapons are truly regarded as existential dangers, responsibility cannot rest solely with those who possess them unlawfully. It must also extend to those who knowingly enabled their spread. The burden of todays proliferation risks does not lie with Pakistan alone but equally with a global systemled by the United Statesthat repeatedly chose strategic convenience over consistent enforcement, thereby normalising selective non-proliferation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The consequences of that choice are global, enduring, and profoundly destabilising.

(The writer is a visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
History teaches us that Pakistans hostility toward Bangladesh never begins with tanks or fighter jets  it begins with narrative and well-orchestrated propaganda

Barely five decades after Bangladesh emerged from the blood-soaked ruins of Pakistans colonial domination, forces within Islamabad are once again indulging in delusional fantasies of erasing Bangladeshs sovereignty. What began as covert manipulation has now evolved into Pakistans regular practice of open psychological warfare  conducted through disinformation, social media propaganda, and provocative political posturing.

Pakistans military establishment and its notorious spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), appear determined to revive their long-buried dream of reasserting influence over Bangladesh, even if that means trampling upon the sacrifices of millions who paid with their lives and honour for independence.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Following last years jihadist coup, Pakistan  through its military establishment, including the ISI  has increasingly attempted to challenge the sovereignty of Bangladesh by promoting its dangerous daydream of reclaiming the country and dragging it back under Islamabads grip.

On December 24, 2025, a post on Meta (formerly Facebook) from a page calling itself The Times, claiming, Bangladesh considers changing national flag, anthem amid political shifts. The post was accompanied by a grotesquely distorted image of Bangladeshs national flag under the caption: Bangladesh is considering changing its flag by adding a crescent and a star.

This Meta page, created on July 7, 2024  just days before the ouster of Sheikh Hasina  currently has over 288,000 followers (Page ID: 348707104997881). Notably, the page lists a Pakistani phone number, +92 317 3397895, used by one of its administrators. Although Meta has confirmed a link  timesnew.pk  as belonging to this so-called outlet, no legitimate publication named The Times exists in Pakistan under this domain. Instead, the verified link redirects users to an Instagram account with more than 88,000 followers.

A closer examination of both the Meta page and the associated Instagram account clearly reveals that these platforms function as propaganda instruments of Pakistans military establishment and ISI, rather than as any credible journalistic entity.

Meanwhile, Pakistani politicians, Islamist figures, and even jihadist sympathisers have escalated their rhetoric, brazenly behaving as though Bangladesh has already been re-absorbed into Pakistan or reduced to a mythical East Pakistan. In one particularly disturbing instance, Kamran Sayeed Usmani, a leader of the youth wing of Pakistans ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), issued a video threat warning India that any attack on Bangladesh would provoke a Pakistani missile response.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In the video, Usmani positioned Bangladeshs national flag beside Pakistans  a symbolic act that amounts to a direct denial of Bangladeshs sovereignty. This is an insult to a nation born through the sacrifice of three million martyrs and the violation of five to six hundred thousand women during Pakistans genocidal campaign in 1971.

Shockingly, authorities in Dhaka maintained a disturbing silence over this provocation. No official protest, condemnation, or diplomatic response was issued  an omission that risks emboldening hostile actors who openly question Bangladeshs independence.

Some apologists continue to argue, almost defensively, that Bangladeshi authorities have yet to present concrete evidence of foreign agency involvement. This stance remains untenable, especially when international human rights organisations and the United Nations have repeatedly urged impartial investigations  not geopolitical evasion or wilful blindness.

Meanwhile, following the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, one of the key figures behind last years Jihadist coup, an obscure website named Times of Islamabad published a propaganda piece on December 22, 2025, stating Indias Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) had a confirmed role in Hadis assassination. This propaganda piece, by relying on innuendo, made allegations stating the suspected killers of Hadi fled to India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Any sensible individual will easily understand that what Times of Islamabad has attempted is part of Pakistans old habit of spreading lies in a well-orchestrated manner.

According to my own research, Times of Islamabad, which claims to be operated by Makhdoom Balqees Bashir and Shahid Imran from an office in DHA Phase-8, Lahore, is neither recognised nor indexed by Google News nor staffed by identifiable journalists. Despite its claims of 10 million monthly viewers, its actual readership even struggles to cross 200,000 visits per month.

While the website boasts of a global audience, its social media reach is artificially inflated through direct patronage from Pakistans Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) and the ISI. The organisation operates under the corporate name Islamabad Times (Pvt) Limited, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under Corporate Universal Identification No 0099198  a convenient legal facade for what is essentially a military-sponsored propaganda operation.

Most tellingly, this so-called media outlet has no visible newsroom, no reporters, and no editorial staff. It exists solely as a digital weapon, deployed to manipulate narratives, distort facts, and inject anti-India and anti-Hindu venom into Bangladeshs information space.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

From fabricated social media pages masquerading as international newspapers to reckless threats issued by Pakistani political operatives, the pattern is unmistakable. Pakistans military-ISI complex is no longer operating in the shadows  it is openly waging a psychological and ideological assault on Bangladeshs sovereignty. These actions are not isolated incidents; they are coordinated attempts to normalise the idea that Bangladeshs independence is negotiable, reversible, or disposable.

As a Bangladeshi journalist who has documented Pakistans ideological interference in South Asia for decades, I find this renewed audacity not only alarming but also deeply insulting to our nations hard-won sovereignty.

If Dhaka continues to respond with silence, this silence will be interpreted as weakness. Policy circles in Dhaka should not dismiss such provocations as online noise, as history teaches us that Pakistans hostility toward Bangladesh never begins with tanks or fighter jets  it begins with narrative and well-orchestrated propaganda. We must not forget: Bangladesh was born through resistance against Pakistani tyranny. Any attempt  covert or overt  to resurrect Islamabads toxic influence must be confronted decisively. The blood of 1971 demands vigilance, not amnesia or intellectual lathyrism.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bangladeshs sovereignty is non-negotiable, and those who dare to challenge it  whether through missiles, misinformation, or manufactured media  must be exposed, resisted, and held accountable before history is allowed to repeat its darkest chapter.

(Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury is an award-winning journalist, writer, and Editor of the newspaper Blitz. He specialises in counterterrorism and regional geopolitics. Follow him on X: @Salah_Shoaib. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
The year 2025 has been chaotic for the world order, especially for countries surrounding India. From regime change to calamities, heres how Indias neighbours had a turbulent year.

The year 2025 has been a turbulent year for the world order, especially for countries surrounding India. The Indian subcontinent witnessed all sorts of turbulence this year, be it regime overthrow or military confrontation between two nuclear-powered nations.

The region witnessed so much turbulence that it prompted India to realign its foreign policy towards its neighbours. While Gen Z or youth-led protests toppled the established regime in Nepal and Bangladesh, natural disasters revealed the cracks in the economies of Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

However, one of the biggest newsmaker events this year in the sub-continent was the military confrontation between India and Pakistan following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 in southern Kashmir. As we enter the year 2026, heres a look at the events Indias neighbouring nations witnessed this year.

Pakistan: Controversial laws and 4-day conflict

This year, Pakistan witnessed turmoil both at home and on its borders. Throughout the year, there have been multiple protests over the arrest of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan. On December 20, Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were sentenced to 17 years in prison in the infamous Toshakhana case. Many in the past and this year have been calling Khans arrest political persecution.

Imran Khan (R), along with his wife Bushra Bibi (L), looks on as he signs surety bonds for bail in various cases, at a registrar office in the High Court, in Lahore on July 17, 2023. File Photo/AFP

Protests also took place in Balochistan, where people raised concerns over extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. In March 2025, internationally renowned Balochi activist Mahrang Baloch was arrested by Pakistani authorities for taking part in a peaceful protest. The people of Balochistan have also been concerned about Chinas infrastructure projects in Pakistan, especially the Gwadar Port, claiming that these projects take away crucial resources of the locals.

The US, apparently the worlds most powerful democracy, entirely ignores the fact that it is the Pakistani practices that are fuelling the Baloch insurgency. (Image: X@BalochYakjehtiC)

Pakistan also faced its fair share of terror attacks within the country. The biggest one was the Jaffar Express hijacking that killed at least 64 people, including 18 soldiers on leave who were identified among the passengers and killed by the attackers, and 33 attackers. Several other such attacks took place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, etc.

A cameraman films the Jaffar Express train, riddled with bullet holes, after it was attacked by Baloch militants in Bolan, at the Railway Station in Quetta, Balochistan. File image/Reuters

However, one of the major events that rocked Pakistan was Indias Operation Sindoor. After the Pahalgam terror attack, India conducted Operation Sindoor against 9 terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This led to a four-day military escalation between the two nations, with Pakistan suffering significant losses. In the midst of this, India also put the Indus Water Treaty into abeyance, which ultimately affected Pakistans farmers.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A Pakistani Army soldier examines a building damaged by missile attack carried out by Indian armed forces in PoKs Muzaffarabad during Operation Sindoor. File image/AP

The country also witnessed protests and political struggle over the controversial 27th Amendment that weakened the Pakistani judiciary and handed immunity to countrys Army Chief Asim Munir.

Bangladesh: A death sentence and an assassination

Bangladesh in 2025 was overcoming the crisis that hit the country last year. The 2024 July uprising toppled the government of the countrys former PM Sheikh Hasina and brought Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus. The year 2025 started with hopes for fresh elections in the country.

(File) Supporters of Bangladeshs former prime minister Khaleda Zia and her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). AP

Political parties in Bangladesh demanded that the elections be conducted this year. However, Yunus dampened the spirit, insisting that it was too early to hold polls. Meanwhile, Hasinas Awami League was banned from polls, prompting questions about the fairness of the upcoming elections.

Hasina herself faced a fair share of challenges this year as she became the first Prime Minister of Bangladesh to be sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal, which, interestingly, was established by her government. The former Bangladeshi prime minister was convicted of committing crimes against humanity. Since Hasina is in India, the ties between India and Bangladesh also took a major hit.

A vendor sells newspapers with headlines about the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas death sentence on charges of crimes against humanity for ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising last year in Dhaka, Bangladesh, November 18, 2025. File Image/Reuters

The year ended for Bangladesh with the assassination of 32-year-old youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. His death, six days after he was shot by masked gunmen, triggered protests and a riot-like situation across the country, garnering even international condemnation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Protesters vandalise the office of Bangladeshs newspaper Prothom Alo amid widespread outrage over the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. PTI

Nepal: The GenZ protest that brought change

The Himalayan nation witnessed one of its most violent youth-led movements in decades as Gen-Z of the country took to the streets and staged demonstrations against the rampant corruption in Nepal. The protests soon became violent, leaving 19 people dead and hundreds injured.

Ultimately, the protests resulted in the resignation of the countrys then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Interestingly, the chaos was triggered by the governments move to block 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube and X for failing to register locally.

Fire rages through the Singha Durbar, the main administrative building for the Nepal government, in Kathmandu on September 9, a day after a police crackdown on demonstrations over social media prohibitions and corruption by the government. Nepali youth protesters set fire to parliament on September 9 as the veteran prime minister obeyed furious crowds to quit, a day after one of the deadliest crackdowns in years. AFP

However, the ban came while the Gen-Z in Nepal used social media to highlight the wealth and privilege of the children of politicians and those in power. The unrest eventually led to the formation of an interim government led by Sushila Karki, Nepals first woman chief justice. She was appointed PM through online voting and digital consultations with youth representatives and civil society groups.

Nepals interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki. File Photo/PTI

China: Tariffs and Taiwan

In April this year, China was hit by one of the highest tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. While the tariff pressure was eased, it still led to a diplomatic row between the two nations. Beijing even went on to introduce reciprocal tariffs on American goods. Not only this, but it also imposed restrictions on the exports of rare earth, compelling Washington to come to the negotiation table.

Throughout the whole ordeal, Chinas economy continued to remain turbulent, with its manufacturing sector taking a hit. Apart from this, Chinas growing assertiveness over Taiwan also garnered international criticism. Chinese Coast Guards were often reported to be getting involved in aggressive manoeuvres with Taiwan and the Philippines.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping talk as they leave after a bilateral meeting at Gimhae International Airport, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, in Busan, South Korea, October 30, 2025. Reuters File

By the end of the year, China also engaged in a diplomatic tussle with Japan after the latters newly elected PM Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack or blockade of Taiwan would be a survival-threatening situation for Japan. This led to China issuing an advisory, urging its nationals to avoid travelling to Japan, hitting Tokoyos crucial tourism sector.

Sri Lanka: A cyclone that rocked the countrys fragile economy

This year, Sri Lanka faced one of its gravest humanitarian crises in decades in 2025 as Cyclone Ditwah and successive monsoon storms unleashed catastrophic flooding and landslides across the island. At least 600 people lost their lives, and hundreds remained missing. However, the disasters affected more than two million people.

Residents wade through a flooded street during heavy rainfall in Puttalam. AFP

The scale of the disasters highlighted the shortcomings in preparedness and coordination. Criticism focused on the governments response despite early warnings. Communication failures were also reported, particularly in Tamil-speaking areas, where warnings were often issued only in Sinhala or English. All this was happening just a few years after the country recovered from a historic economic crisis.

Afghanistan: While women hunt for their voice, earthquakes take a toll

In 2025, Afghanistan faced one of the deadliest humanitarian emergencies of 2025 after a powerful earthquake struck the countrys eastern provinces in late August and early September. The 6.0 magnitude quake came with a series of aftershocks and flattened numerous villages. The earthquake and tremors managed to kill more than 2,200 villagers and injure several others.

Apart from this, the women of Afghanistan still struggled to find their voice in the country. Even this year, the Taliban came with several restrictions on women, garnering international criticism.

Collapsed houses are seen in an area devastated by Sundays powerful earthquake that killed many people and destroyed villages in eastern Afghanistan, in Dara Noor, Kunar province, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025. (Photo: Wahidullah Kakar/AP)

However, one of the key events that rocked the country was its border confrontation with Pakistan, with the latter even bombing Kabul. The fighting continued for weeks and only ended after the two sides agreed to a fragile ceasefire. The tensions between the two nations are still simmering. Hence, it remains unclear how the situation would pan out next year.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

An Afghan Taliban fighter sits on a tank near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in Spin Boldak, Kandahar Province, following exchanges of fire between Pakistani and Afghan forces in Afghanistan, October 15, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Myanmar: Junta paving the road for elections

2025 for Myanmar was filled with protests and continued silence surrounding its most recognisable political figure, Aung San Suu Kyi. In four years of Junta rule, the Nobel Peace Prize winner continues to remain in detention while the ruling regime conducted polls on Sunday.

However, this year, her son Kim Aris said in an interview to Reuters that he feared he might not even learn if his mother had died. Shes got ongoing health issues. Nobody has seen her in over two years. She hasnt been allowed contact with her legal team, never mind her family, Aris said. He added: For all I know, she could be dead already.

Myanmars Aung San Suu Kyi won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991. However, many called for her to be stripped of the award in later years based on her response to the Rohingya crisis. File image/Reuters

Suu Kyi turned 80 years old and is believed to be held in the capital, Naypyitaw. Aris said the last direct message he received from her was a letter two years ago describing extreme temperatures inside her cell. In the past, when my mother was held in higher regard by the international community, it was much harder for people to ignore what was happening in Burma, he said.

Apart from this, Myanmar faced a major earthquake in March that led to the death of 2,000 people and the collapse of several buildings across the border region.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Overall, the year 2025 ushered in a host of challenges for Indias neighbour, whose cripple effects are spilling over to 2026.
A house of Hindu family was set on fire in Bangladeshs Pirojpur district amid rising violence against minorities following the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi earlier this month. The incident comes as the country continues to witness unrest and heightened communal tensions.

Bangladesh's army stands near the premises of the 'Prothom Alo' daily after mobs set it on fire in Dhaka, Bangladesh. (Representational Photo, Credit: AP)

As violence against minorities continues in Bangladesh, a Hindu-owned house was set on fire amid growing mob unrest following the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi earlier this month and the countrys shifting political climate.

According to local media reports, unidentified miscreants torched several rooms of the Saha familys residence in Dumritola village in Pirojpur on December 27, in what was described as a targeted attack on minorities. The attackers allegedly stuffed cloth into one of the rooms and set it ablaze, causing the fire to spread rapidly through the house.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

#BreakingNews Cases of attacks on Hindus have reached an alarming level in Bangladesh. On December 27 at 6am, miscreants set fire at homes of Kanti Saha Dumuria village under Pirojpur district. pic.twitter.com/M4s7ROHBSs  Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury (@salah_shoaib) December 28, 2025

Taslima Nasreen reacts

Reacting to the incident on X, Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen said five rooms of the Saha familys house were burned down by Hindu-hating jihadis while the family was asleep.

She also referred to similar attacks in Raozan, Chattogram, where Hindu homes were set on fire at dawn, and questioned whether such violence against Hindus would continue unchecked across the country.

Similar arson attack near Chattogram

The Pirojpur incident comes days after another Hindu-owned house was torched near the southeastern port city of Chattogram. Family members said they woke up to intense heat in the early morning hours but were initially trapped inside as the doors had been locked from outside.

All eight members of the two affected families managed to escape by cutting through tin sheets and bamboo fencing. However, their household belongings were destroyed and their pets were killed. Police said five suspects have been arrested during raids, while efforts are ongoing to nab the remaining accused.

Threat messages and wider pattern of attacks

A threatening message written in Bengali accused Hindus of acting against Islam and the Muslim community and warned that the homes, property and businesses of non-Muslims will not be spared if such alleged actions continued.

According to The Daily Star, houses belonging to seven Hindu families were set ablaze across three locations in Raojan within five days, pointing to a broader pattern of arson in the area. Police later held a meeting with local influential figures to promote interfaith harmony and enhance vigilance against those responsible for such heinous crimes.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Unrest after Osman Hadis death

Bangladesh has been witnessing nationwide turmoil since December 12, when student leader Osman Hadi, a vocal critic of India, was shot in the head by unidentified gunmen. He was flown to Singapore for treatment, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Following his death, thousands of supporters took to the streets and vandalised media houses, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. In Mymensingh, a young Hindu factory worker, Dipu Chandra Das, was brutally lynched by a mob over blasphemy allegations, and his body was set on fire, triggering protests across the world.
Osman Hadis student wing has escalated its anti-India rhetoric, issuing a 24-day ultimatum to the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government over his murder. It also called for suspending work permits for Indian nationals and taking legal action at the ICJ.

An activist holds a poster of Sharif Osman Hadi, senior leader of the student protest group Inqilab Mancha who was killed. AFP

Amid continuing unrest in Bangladesh, Inqilab Moncho, a student platform led by slain youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, has issued a 24-day ultimatum to the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, demanding the speedy completion of the murder trial and action on a set of political and diplomatic demands.

The ultimatum was announced on Sunday night, December 28, from Dhakas Shahbagh intersection by Abdullah Al Jaber, member secretary of Inqilab Moncho.

Maintaining a strong anti-India stance, the group called for the suspension of work permits for Indian nationals and urged the Bangladeshi government to approach an international court if India does not extradite former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The demands come amid claims by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) that two prime suspects in Hadis murder fled to India through the Haluaghat border in Bangladeshs Mymensingh district, which has connectivity with Meghalaya.

However, the Border Security Force (BSF) and Meghalaya Police have rejected the DMPs claims, describing them as a false and fabricated narrative circulated in sections of the Bangladeshi media. They denied that the suspects entered India through the Meghalaya border.

On Sunday, the DMP said the suspects crossed into India via the Haluaghat border area. Additional commissioner SN Nazrul Islam told The Daily Star that, according to police information, the two were received by an individual after crossing the border and were later taken by a taxi driver to Tura town in Meghalaya.

Entire killing squad must be tried within 24 days

Addressing supporters, Jaber said, The trial of the entire killing squad  including the killer, the mastermind, the accomplices, those who aided the escape, and those who provided shelter  must be completed within the next 24 days.

The organisation also said, To protect the independence and sovereignty of Bangladesh, the work permits of Indians must be suspended, adding that the government must file a case against India in an international court if it refuses to return convicted asylum seekers. It further demanded the identification of what it described as collaborators of fascists within civil and military intelligence agencies.

Ultimatum reiterated on social media

In a post on its official Facebook page, Inqilab Moncho reiterated the 24-day deadline for the interim government to complete the trial and ensure punishment for all those involved in Hadis killing.

Sharif Osman Hadi was shot a day after Bangladeshs Election Commission announced the date for the next general elections. He was later airlifted to Singapore for treatment, where he died on the night of December 18.

Protests and blockades continue

The platform has continued protests and blockades across the country in its push for justice. On Sunday, leaders and supporters of Inqilab Moncho staged a blockade at Shahbagh as part of a broader shutdown across major cities.

During a protest on Saturday night, environment adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and Dhaka Metropolitan Police commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali visited the protest site and spoke to demonstrators about the status of the investigation, according to The Daily Star.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bangladesh rejects Indias minority violence concerns

Meanwhile, Bangladeshs foreign ministry dismissed Indias concerns over alleged targeted attacks on minorities in the country.

In a statement, the ministry said, We note that there are systematic attempts to portray the isolated incidents of criminal acts as systemic persecution of the Hindus and maliciously used to propagate anti-Bangladesh sentiments in different parts of India.

It added, We observe a selective and unfair bias in certain quarters, where isolated incidents are amplified, misrepresented and propagated to incite common Indians against Bangladesh, its diplomatic missions and other establishments in India.
In his first public interview, Ahmed alAhmed recounts the terrifying Bondi Beach attack and the brave actions that made him a national hero

Al Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian Muslim shop owner, has received international praise for disarming one of two gunmen accused of perpetrating the Dec. 14 mass shooting. (X)

Ahmed alAhmed, the Australian man hailed as a hero for his brave actions during the deadly Bondi Beach shooting, has spoken publicly for the first time about what he did to try to save lives.

His interview, aired in full on CBS News, gives a raw and personal look at the moment he confronted one of the gunmen and why he acted the way he did.

On December 14, during a near Bondi Beach, two gunmen opened fire, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens. Amid the chaos, footage showed alAhmeda shop owner and father of twoleap from behind a car and tackle one of the attackers, wrestling the weapon away.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

My target was just to take the gun

Speaking from his hospital bed after multiple surgeries, alAhmed described exactly what went through his mind during those harrowing moments.

My target was just to take the gun from him and to stop him from killing a human beings life and not killing innocent people, he told CBS.

Watch the snippet of the interview here:

Ahmed al-Ahmed, who confronted the Bondi Beach gunman, said:



He knows he saved many lives  innocent children, women, elderly people, and others  but he still feels deep sorrow for those who were lost.



pic.twitter.com/ZLPXH2tog7  Ounka (@OunkaOnX) December 29, 2025

He also shared what pushed him to intervene so boldly. I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost, alAhmed said, expressing grief for those who died in the attack.

Recalling the struggle, he said: I jumped on his back, hit him I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him, Drop your gun, stop doing what youre doing, and its come all in fast.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

AlAhmed explained that at the time, he wasnt thinking of his own safety. I dont want to see people killed in front of me. I dont want to see blood I dont want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help, he said, describing his instinctive reaction to protect those around him.

During the attack, he was shot multiple times but continued to help where he could. Since then, he has undergone several surgeries and is slowly recovering.

AlAhmeds courage has drawn praise from across Australia and around the world. NSW Premier Chris Minns called his actions incredible bravery and said they likely saved many lives. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also visited him in hospital and described his actions as an example of the strength of humanity.
The student wing of Osman Hadi has called for the suspension of work permits for Indian nationals in Bangladesh, warning the Yunus-led interim government of strict action if there is no progress in the investigation into Hadis killing

The student wing of Osman Hadi has called for the suspension of work permits for Indian nationals in Bangladesh, warning the Yunus-led interim government of strict action if there is no progress in the investigation into Hadis killing.

The demand comes after Bangladesh police reported that the alleged killers of Hadi, a vocal critic of India, had fled to India.

On Sunday, Senior Dhaka Metropolitan Police officer SN Nazrul Islam said that suspects Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir Sheikh crossed the Haluaghat border into India shortly after the December 12 attack. They were reportedly received by two Indian citizens at the border, who escorted them into Meghalaya and handed them over to accomplices, reported News 18.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Following the police statement, Inqilab Moncho, Hadis student platform, issued a four-point ultimatum, including a 24-day deadline for the government to complete trial proceedings against those responsible.

The trial of the entire killing squad, including the killer, the mastermind, the accomplices, those who aided their escape, and those who sheltered them, must be completed within the next 24 days, the group said in a Facebook statement.

The organisation also warned that if the suspects were not returned within 24 hours, or if no official statement regarding their stay in India was issued, the work permits of Indian nationals in Bangladesh should be revoked.

The organisation also demanded that a case be filed against India at the International Court of Justice if the fugitives were not repatriated, and called for those within the Civil Military Intelligence implicated in Hadis killing to be identified and brought to justice.

Hadi, who was shot by masked assailants in Dhaka on December 13 and later died in Singapore, had been a prominent figure in last years mass uprising.

His death has sparked daily protests across the country, with demonstrators blocking intersections, torching buildings, and targeting media outlets and cultural institutions perceived as pro-India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Since Friday, Inqilab Moncho has maintained a blockade at Dhakas Shahbagh intersection, enforced daily from 2 pm. Women and children have joined the sit-ins, with organisers arranging dedicated spaces for their participation. Similar demonstrations have also been reported in Sylhet and other divisional cities.

With inputs from agencies
Chinas military on Monday announced that it was mobilising its army, navy and rocket units around Taiwan in a major military drill amid brewing tensions in the region.

Chinas military on Monday announced that it was mobilising its army, navy and rocket units around Taiwan in a major military drill amid brewing tensions in the region. Beijing maintained that the drills were conducted to test what it claimed was its combat readiness and to send a serious warning against any push for Taiwanese independence.

Meanwhile, the government of Taiwan also issued a statement, condemning the drill and accusing China of military intimidation. It is pertinent to note that China has significantly stepped up the encirclement of Taiwan since 2022, right after the then-US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island region.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This marked a significant show of support for Taiwan, infuriating Beijings leadership. It is pertinent to note that Chinas Eastern Theatre Command is conducting the latest drills, called the Just Mission 2025, in five blocks of ocean around the island, including in the Taiwan Strait, to the north, southwest, southeast, and east of Taiwan.

The Chinese authorities maintained that during the exercise, the areas would be under sea and air space restrictions for 10 hours from 8:30 am local time. Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theatre Command, said the drills will focus on training in sea-and-air combat readiness patrols, seizing comprehensive control, and blockade and control of key ports and critical areas.

How Taiwan is responding

It is important to note that Chinas latest drill came after Beijing expressed anger at a remark by Japans Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, who said her country could respond militarily if China were to move to take control of Taiwan by force. This exercise serves as a serious warning to Taiwan independence separatist forces and external interfering forces, and is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard national sovereignty and maintain national unity, Shi said.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Taiwans presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said the drills blatantly undermine the security and stability status quo of the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region and openly challenge international laws and order.

We strongly condemn the Chinese authorities disregard for international norms and their use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries, Kuo said. Shortly after this, Taiwans military said it had deployed appropriate forces in response to Chinas drills around the democratic island.

A response centre has been established, and appropriate forces have been deployed, the military said, adding that its armed forces have carried out a rapid response exercise.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Taiwan is on edge as China launched record military drills around the island, forcing flights to be rerouted and disrupting travel for tens of thousands. Beijing has called it a warning against external interference, while Taiwan has condemned the moves

The Chinese military published a video on Monday showing warships being deployed as it announced drills in the Taiwan Strait (X)

Taiwan is on high alert and preparing to divert flights after China launched around the island, raising tensions in the region and disrupting civilian life.

Taiwans authorities, cited by AFP, said the scale of the exercises is unlike anything seen recently and have issued warnings that the countrys airspace and waters are under intense activity.

According to data from Taiwans defence ministry, 89 Chinese military aircraft and 28 warships and coastguard vessels were operating near the island on Monday, the highest singleday tally of Chinese aircraft detected since October 2024.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Flights to be diverted, travellers affected

Taiwans transport ministry has warned that the military drills will mean severe restrictions in airspace and flight routes on Tuesday. Officials say the exercises are expected to affect more than 100,000 passengers on international flights and around 6,000 domestic travellers.

More from World China launches military encirclement drill near Taiwan, prompting the island to deploy forces in response

To keep air traffic safe, aviation authorities said they will divert international flights away from designated danger zones or announce alternative routes for commercial jets.

China calls drills a warning

Chinas navy, air force and other military units are taking part in the drills, which are widely seen as a signal to both Taiwan and foreign powers. Chinese military spokespeople have described the exercises as a stern warning against what Beijing calls external interference and separatist forces.

Beijing insists that Taiwan is part of its territory and says such exercises are necessary to safeguard its sovereignty, though critics argue they risk destabilising the region.

Taiwans defence ministry has condemned the drills and accused China of being a destroyer of peace, while Taiwanese forces have been placed on high alert, ready to respond to any escalation.

We strongly condemn the PRCs irrational provocations and oppose the PLAs actions that undermine regional peace. Rapid Response Exercises are underway, with forces on high alert to defend the Republic of China and protect our people, Taiwans Defence Ministry posted on X.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Despite advances on security guarantees, key territorial and nuclear issues continue to block a comprehensive peace deal between Russia and Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy listens to US President Donald Trump, after Trump said that Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed willingness to help Ukraine "succeed", during a press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club, in Palm Beach, Florida, US, on December 28, 2025. Reuters

Russia and Ukraine remain deeply divided on contentious issues, particularly the control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and the fate of the Donbas region, which continue to block a comprehensive peace deal despite progress on security guarantees for Kyiv during talks between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

After his Sunday meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump said that they were getting a lot closer, maybe very close to an agreement to end Russias war in Ukraine but acknowledged that thorny issues still needed resolution.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Zelenskyy said he and Trump discussed all aspects of a 20-point peace plan and that they were 90 per cent of the way towards reaching a deal.

The Ukrainian president added that the military aspects of the proposal were 100 per cent agreed, but did not provide specific details.

However, the Ukrainian president also highlighted the two unresolved issues from a 20-point peace proposal: control of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, currently held by Russia, and the fate of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

Two questions remain: the stationhow will the station operate?and the territory, Reuters quoted Zelenskyy as telling reporters on Monday.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also highlighted the gap between Kyiv and Moscow on territorial matters, stating that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from the small part of Donbas it still controls, warning that Kyiv could lose more land if a deal is not reached.

We are talking about the withdrawal of the regimes armed forces from the Donbas, Peskov said.

He added that a call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was planned soon, though no date was specified.

Trumps decision to meet Zelenskyy in Florida on Sunday had raised hopes of at least some progress toward ending what has become Europes deadliest conflict since World War Two.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Russia currently controls about a fifth of Ukraine, including the Crimean peninsula, which it annexed in 2014. It also claims the Donbas region  comprising Donetsk and Luhansk  as well as the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, although all are internationally recognised as part of Ukraines sovereign territory.

Moscow has demanded that Kyiv withdraw its troops from parts of Donetsk that it has not been able to occupy in the four years since Russias February 2022 invasion.

Kyiv, on the other hand, insists that fighting must halt along current front lines, while Washington has proposed establishing a free economic zone if Ukrainian forces pull back.

There is no detailed concept for a free economic zone yet, Zelenskyy said.

Russia has also rejected the idea of a ceasefire to allow a referendum on any territorial concessions by Ukraine.

Zelenskyy has said he would agree to pull back troops to create an economic zone if Russias forces did the same and the territory remained officially part of Ukraine and was monitored by an international peace force.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He agreed it was a tough issue and said any territorial concessions would require a referendum in Ukraine.

Of course, our society has to choose and it has to vote, because its their land, not the land of one person, its the land of our nation, Zelenskyy said.

Trust between Russia and Ukraine is low

Despite the recent peace overtures, and some exchanges of prisoners of war, mistrust runs deep between Ukraine and Russia.

Russia launched a heavy attack on Ukraine before the talks in Florida began, and has stepped up attacks on Ukraines energy facilities as winter approached. Large parts of the capital Kyiv were without power on Monday after the strike as temperatures were below freezing.

Trump repeated on Sunday after his call with Putin that he believed the Russian leader wants the war to end.

In my opinion, (Putins) actions do not coincide with the seemingly peaceful rhetoric he uses in his dialogue with the US president, Zelenskyy said, questioning Putins commitment to peace.

Zelenskyy said he was open to any format of communication with Russia, and a meeting would be possible after Trump and European leaders agree on the framework for peace. Peskov said no call between Putin and Zelenskyy was being discussed.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Putin has said Russia will achieve its aims in Ukraine by force if Kyiv does not want to resolve the conflict diplomatically - making clear it must accept Moscows demands.

With inputs from agencies
Meeting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on Monday, President Trump pressed for the second phase of the Gaza peace plan, emphasising Hamas disarmament while issuing stark warnings to Tehran

US President Donald Trump approaches to greet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu upon arrival for meetings at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, US, on Monday. Reuters

President Donald Trump on Monday said he will push to initiate the second phase of the Gaza peace plan as quickly as we can, speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outside his Florida estate ahead of their meeting on the issue.

At the same time, Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, saying the United States would act if Tehran attempts to rebuild its ballistic missile programme or nuclear capabilities.

Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas, CNN quoted Trump as saying outside Mar-a-Lago, referring to the next steps in Gaza, more than two months after signing the initial peace agreement in Egypt.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The second phase of the plan focuses on Hamas disarmament, the start of reconstruction, and the establishment of post-war governance in Gaza.

Central to the effort is the creation of a Board of Peace to oversee administration of the enclave, which will be led by Trump and other world leaders.

When asked about the timeline for Gazas reconstruction, the president said it is going to begin pretty soon.

Turning to Iran, Trump warned that any attempt to rebuild ballistic missile capabilities would be met with immediate military action.

I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, were going to have to knock them down, CNN quoted Trump as saying.

Well knock them down. Well knock the hell out of them, he added.

He also threatened strikes if Iran redevelops its nuclear programme, urging Tehran to negotiate with the US instead.

Thats smarter. They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them, he said.

Earlier this year, the US conducted airstrikes on three nuclear facilities in Iran, which Trump has described as a major military success.

Netanyahu has recently warned that Iran is expanding its ballistic missile programme and is expected to press Trump for further action.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Earlier, Netanyahu also met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and, in another meeting, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in Florida.

With inputs from agencies
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets US President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago to advance the next stage of the Gaza ceasefire and push for action on Iran, even as Hamas insists it will not surrender its weapons

The armed wing of Hamas reiterated on Monday that it would not surrender its weapons, a key sticking point ahead of crucial talks between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump.

Our people are defending themselves and will not give up their weapons as long as the occupation remains, said the new spokesman for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades in a video statement.

This comes as Netanyahu is set to meet Trump at the Mar-a-Lago estate on Monday, as the two leaders look to advance the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce. Netanyahu is also expected to push the US to take a tougher stance on Iran amid growing regional tensions.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The meeting at Trumps Florida estate will be the fifth US-based in-person meeting between the two leaders this year. Some White House officials have expressed concern that both Israel and Hamas are dragging their feet on the second phase of the ceasefire.

Trump, who said Netanyahu requested the talks, is reportedly eager to announce a Palestinian technocratic government for Gaza and the deployment of an international stabilisation force as early as January. The meeting is scheduled for 1 pm local time (1800 GMT).

Focus on phase two

Israeli government spokeswoman Shosh Bedrosian said Netanyahu will discuss the second phase of the agreement, which involves making sure that Hamas is disarmed, Gaza is demilitarised.

He will also address the danger Iran poses not only to the region of the Middle East, but the United States as well, Bedrosian added before flying out with Netanyahu.

Recent reports suggest Iran is rebuilding its ballistic missile arsenal following the 12-day war with Israel in June. Iran dismissed the reports on Monday as a psychological operation and warned that renewed aggression would result in harsher consequences for Israel.

Netanyahus visit comes after a whirlwind of diplomacy in Palm Beach, where Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday. Gershon Baskin, co-head of the Alliance for Two States, said the timing is crucial. Phase two has to begin, he said. I think the Americans realize that its late because Hamas has had too much time to re-establish its presence, he told AFP.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

While Trump is reportedly planning to convene a new Gaza Board of Peace at the Davos forum in January, some senior US officials are growing exasperated with Netanyahus approach.
US President Donald Trump has hinted at a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying it could happen at the right time. The leaders have made a lot of progress on a 20-point peace framework, though some thorny issues remain unresolved

Trump indicated that a trilateral meeting to resolve the RussiaUkraine war could be possible.

US President Donald Trump hinted on Sunday that he could bring Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy together in a trilateral meeting, with himself in the middle. The idea came at the end of a bilateral meeting with Zelenskyy at Trumps MaraLago estate in Florida, where both leaders discussed steps toward peace.

I see that happening, sure, at the right time, Trump told reporters when asked about threeway talks. I saw a very interesting President Putin today. He wants to see it happen. He wants to see it. He told me very strongly. I believe him I was on the phone with him for almost 2.5 hours We discussed a lot of things.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Talking to both sides

Trump described his call with Putin as good and very productive, adding that discussions with Zelenskyy covered elements of a proposed peace process, including a 20point framework. This touched on security guarantees, potential territorial arrangements, and the broader vision for a lasting agreementtopics both leaders acknowledged but did not finalise.

Unlike past negotiations, there is no set timetable. I dont have deadlines, Trump said. You know what my deadline is: getting the war ended.

Progress made, but challenges remain

Trump and Zelenskyy have reportedly made a lot of progress toward finalising a peace deal, though one or two very thorny issues remain. Speaking after roughly two hours of talks, the leaders described the meeting as excellent, covering all aspects of the 20-point framework.

The US president said the outcome should become clear in a few weeks, noting that Ukraine is a lot closer to reaching an agreement and that the pair had made a lot of progress on ending that war.

Despite Trumps optimism, significant hurdles remain before a final deal can be reached.
India on Monday dismissed Pakistans allegations over the treatment of minorities in India, saying Islamabads own record on minority rights is deeply flawed. New Delhi said Pakistans long history of discrimination and violence against religious minorities undermines its claims.

India on Monday strongly rejected remarks made by Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs on alleged incidents involving minorities in India, asserting that Islamabads own record on minority rights speaks for itself.

Responding to media queries on comments by Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi firmly dismissed the allegations, describing them as coming from a country with an abysmal and well-documented human rights record.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Finger-pointing cannot hide Pakistans reality

Jaiswal said Pakistans treatment of religious minorities has been a long-standing and serious concern, adding that attempts to divert attention through baseless accusations would not alter ground realities.

Our response to media queries regarding remarks of the Spokesperson of the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on incidents in India 



 https://t.co/xMhlbQZYqc pic.twitter.com/WU09obKsbj  Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 29, 2025

We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself. Pakistans horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well-established fact. No amount of finger-pointing will obfuscate it, he said.

Pakistans claims and Indias response

The MEAs response followed remarks by Andrabi, who alleged persecution of minorities in India and claimed the issue was a matter of deep concern for Islamabad, while calling on the international community to take note.

India countered by underlining Pakistans own track record, which has repeatedly drawn criticism from international human rights organisations.

Blasphemy laws and Paks systemic abuse

New Delhi pointed out that Pakistan has consistently weaponised its blasphemy laws against minorities and vulnerable individuals. Pakistans blasphemy provisions, particularly Section 295-C, have long been criticised globally for vague language and extreme punishments, including the death penalty.

These laws have disproportionately targeted religious minorities, especially Christians, Ahmadis and Hindus, often leading to mob violence, arbitrary arrests and prolonged imprisonment.

Decades of violence against minorities in Islamic Republic Pakistan

Pakistan has a long history of violence and discrimination against religious minorities, marked by mob attacks, communal riots, legal marginalisation and forced conversions over decades.

The Ahmadi community has faced sustained state-backed and societal persecution, while Christians have repeatedly been targeted in communal violence. In the 2009 Gojra riots in Punjab, mobs attacked Christian neighbourhoods, killing eight people and injuring several others.

Hindu places of worship have also come under attack during communal flare-ups, including the 2020 assault on a Hindu temple in Karak district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India has consistently maintained that Pakistan must first address its own record of minority persecution instead of making unfounded allegations against others, stressing that credibility on human rights begins at home.
Export diversification, targeted fiscal support, and strategic diplomacy helped India mitigate the impact of steep US tariffs in 2025, strengthening its economic resilience and global standing

2025 proved to be a defining year for Indias economic diplomacy. When the United States imposed steep tariffs of up to 50% on a range of Indian exports early in the year, New Delhi faced a challenge that threatened not only trade revenues but also broader geopolitical ties.

Yet by the years end, India had not only mitigated much of the immediate economic damage but also strengthened its position on the global stage  demonstrating a nuanced blend of fiscal support, domestic reforms, and strategic diplomacy.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Export diversification

The tariffs, described by The Financial Times as the most aggressive trade measure against India in decades, hit key sectors such as steel, chemicals, and electronics.

Indian authorities responded quickly by accelerating efforts to diversify export markets, reducing overreliance on the US.

According to The Economic Times, India expanded trade with Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, signing multiple preferential trade agreements and reinforcing existing commitments under the RCEP framework.

Exporters pivoted to emerging markets, mitigating the impact of US tariffs while establishing new long-term revenue streams.

Fiscal support to exporters

To cushion the immediate economic shock, the Indian government rolled out targeted fiscal support measures.

These included enhanced interest subventions, duty drawback schemes, and insurance for trade-related risks.

According to Mint, these interventions were particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises, helping them remain competitive and maintain liquidity despite sudden cost increases.

Strengthening domestic value chains

India also focused on enhancing domestic production capabilities.

Programmes such as Make in India and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme were accelerated, building capacity in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy components.

These measures not only insulated Indian exporters from US tariffs but also strengthened the countrys long-term industrial base, reducing import dependence and enhancing economic self-reliance.

Strategic diplomacy and bilateral negotiations

While standing firm on trade principles, India engaged in selective diplomacy with the US, offering targeted concessions and regulatory facilitation to open dialogue channels. Business Standard noted that these gestures signaled Indias willingness to cooperate without compromising broader economic or geopolitical objectives.

A key focus was negotiating a bilateral trade framework covering intellectual property, technology transfer, and market access. Although talks were ongoing at year-end, the process stabilized expectations and prevented a prolonged trade standoff.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Balancing trade imbalances and strategic autonomy

India avoided retaliatory tariffs, instead relying on a mix of fiscal incentives, export diversification, and domestic reforms to offset the US measures. According to The Hindu, this approach preserved foreign exchange inflows, maintained investor confidence, and reduced the immediate impact of tariffs without escalating tensions.

Underlying all measures was a commitment to strategic autonomy, balancing engagement with the US while strengthening relationships with other partners. Multilateral trade engagement, domestic reforms, and careful diplomacy reinforced Indias ability to make independent policy decisions aligned with national interests.

By the end of 2025, India had absorbed much of the tariff shock. Emerging markets took a significant share of redirected exports, fiscal support shielded firms, and domestic manufacturing capacity was enhanced. At the same time, India maintained a credible negotiating position with the US, opening avenues for long-term cooperation.

Analysts said Indias handling of the 2025 tariff shock showed it was possible to defend economic interests while enhancing global standing, using a mix of market diversification, domestic reform and targeted diplomacy.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In retrospect, 2025 may be remembered as the year India turned a potential economic crisis into an opportunity, reinforcing its role as a resilient global economic actor  a model likely to influence its trajectory for years to come.

With inputs from agencies
The Union environment ministry has cleared the 260 MW Dulhasti State-II hydropower project on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district, following the Indus Waters Treaty being placed in abeyance. The project aims to harness the rivers hydro potential and comes two months after approval for the larger 1,856 MW Sawalkot project on the same river.

Clearance has been granted for a strategically significant hydropower project after the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was placed in abeyance. A panel of the Union environment ministry has approved the 260 MW Dulhasti State-II hydropower project on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district, The Times of India reported.

The approval was given by the ministrys Expert Appraisal Committee on hydropower projects. It comes barely two months after clearance was accorded to the much larger 1,856 MW Sawalkot hydroelectric project on the same river in Ramban district.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Focus on harnessing Chenabs hydropower potential

Both projects aim to tap the hydropower potential of the Chenab, one of the three western rivers  along with the Indus and Jhelum  whose waters largely flow into Pakistan. Under the IWT, India has the right to use these waters for non-consumptive purposes, including hydropower generation.

Estimated to cost around Rs 3,200 crore, Dulhasti State-II is an extension of the existing 390 MW Dulhasti State-I project, which has been operational since 2007. Under the new plan, water will be diverted from Stage-I through a separate tunnel to generate additional power.

The project will require the acquisition of over eight hectares of private land from two villages  Benzwar and Palmer  in Kishtwar district.

Despite an estimated hydropower potential of nearly 20,000 MW from its western rivers, India has so far developed only about 3,482 MW of capacity in Jammu and Kashmir. This has largely been attributed to treaty-related constraints and the lack of adequate storage infrastructure.

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan with World Bank mediation, allocated unrestricted use of the eastern rivers  Ravi, Beas and Sutlej  to India. Pakistan was granted primary rights over the western rivers  Indus, Jhelum and Chenab. While India retained limited rights over the western rivers, it has historically underutilised its legal share.

Treaty put in abeyance after Pahalgam terror attack

In 2025, following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir carried out by Pakistan-backed terrorists, the Indian government placed the treaty in abeyance. This paused Indias treaty obligations without formally withdrawing from the agreement. Routine mechanisms such as meetings of the Permanent Indus Commission and hydrological data sharing were halted.

New Delhi has maintained that the treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan takes credible and irreversible action against cross-border terrorism, arguing that changed security realities warrant a re-examination of the decades-old water-sharing framework.
Ireland plans to use its upcoming EU presidency to push for mandatory ID verification on social media, targeting anonymous bots and online abuse. Deputy PM Simon Harris said Ireland would lead calls for the introduction of ID-verified social media accounts across the EU.

Ireland plans to leverage its upcoming EU presidency to advocate for mandatory ID verification on social media platforms across the European Union. The initiative targets anonymous accounts, bots, and online abuse that undermine democratic stability.

In an interview with Irish news outlet Extra.ie, Tanaiste Simon Harris said Ireland would lead calls for the introduction of ID-verified social media accounts across the EU.

The minister added, We have a digital age of consent in Ireland, which is 16, but its simply not being enforced. And I think thats a really important move. And then I think theres the broader issue, which will require work thats not just at an Irish level, around the anonymous bots.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Trump administration urged the EU to tackle the tech regulation as sudden data breach can lead to further problems. This week, Washington imposed visa bans on five prominent European figures, including former EU commissioner Thierry Breton and UK-based researcher Imran Ahmed, accusing them of pursuing extraterritorial censorship of American companies.

Harris also added that French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer could provide assistance. Irelands renewed focus follows the recent sentencing of a Dublin woman, Sandra Barry, who was jailed for six months for sending threatening messages to Harris and his family.

Its an issue in relation to our democracy I mean democracy in the world, he explained, adding that the tech giants have the ability to do more, without the need for laws.
Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, has joined hands with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) ahead of Nepals March 5 parliamentary elections and has been named the partys prime ministerial face, a move seen as a challenge to the countrys long-dominant traditional political parties.

Balendra Shah is currently serving as the 15th mayor of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. File Image/X-@ShahBalen

Two high-profile leaders have joined hands ahead of Nepals March 5 parliamentary elections, forging an alliance that analysts say could disrupt the traditional parties that have dominated the countrys politics for over three decades.

Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, widely known as Balen, has formally joined the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by former television presenter-turned-politician Rabi Lamichhane. Party officials said the agreement was sealed on Sunday.

Under the arrangement, 35-year-old Balen will be the prime ministerial face of the RSP if it wins the election, while Lamichhane, 48, will continue as party president.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Riding youth anger and anti-corruption sentiment

Both leaders have pledged to address demands raised during the youth-led Gen Z protests in September, which erupted over widespread corruption. The unrest left 77 people dead and culminated in the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Political analyst Bipin Adhikari called the alliance a calculated move. It is a very smart and strategic decision by the RSP to bring Balen and his young support base into the party, he said, adding that established parties fear losing younger voters.

Youth vote seen as decisive

According to Nepals Election Commission, nearly 19 million of the countrys 30 million citizens are eligible to vote. About one million new votersmost of them youngwere added to the electoral rolls following the protests.

Balen emerged as a key figure during the unrest and was widely viewed as an undeclared leader of the youth movement. He also played a role in forming the interim government headed by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, which is overseeing the elections.

Questions over Balens role

Critics, however, have questioned Balens leadership during the protests, pointing out that he seldom appeared publicly and primarily communicated through social media.

Nepals political landscape has long been dominated by the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) and the Nepali Congress, which have alternated in power for much of the past 30 years. Analysts say the BalenLamichhane alliance could pose a serious electoral challenge to both.

Lamichhane founded the RSP ahead of the 2022 elections and built popularity through his anti-corruption campaigns as a television host. He is currently out on bail in a case involving the alleged misuse of cooperative funds collected from small depositors.

Old parties play down impact

Nepali Congress spokesperson Prakash Sharan Mahat dismissed the alliance as unlikely to cause major political upheaval, describing both leaders as controversial.

I dont think there will be any upheaval due to their alliance. People will still choose the old and experienced parties, Mahat told Reuters.
Speaking in an interview broadcast on Friday, Trump said the US had knocked out a big facility used to produce boats for drug trafficking, while outlining his pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

A remark by US President Donald Trump last week has sparked speculation over whether American forces may have carried out their first land strike against drug cartels in Venezuela.

Speaking in an interview broadcast on Friday, Trump said the United States had knocked out a big facility used to produce boats for drug trafficking, while outlining his pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

They have a big plant or a big facility where they send, you know, where the ships come from, AFP quoted Trump as saying in an interview with billionaire supporter John Catsimatidis on the WABC radio station in New York.

Two nights ago we knocked that out. So we hit them very hard, Trump added.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Trump did not specify the location of the facility or provide further details.

Since September, US forces have conducted multiple strikes in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in more than 100 deaths.

The Pentagon redirected queries on Trumps remarks to the White House, which did not respond to requests for comment, according to AFP.

There was also no immediate reaction from the Venezuelan government.

Trump has repeatedly said in recent weeks that the United States would soon begin carrying out land strikes against drug cartels in Latin America, though no such operations have been officially confirmed so far.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration has intensified pressure on Venezuelan President, accusing him of running a drug cartel and imposing a blockade on oil tankers.

Maduro, in turn, has accused Washington of attempting to engineer regime change.

With inputs from agencies
The Kremlin said Trump and Russian President Putin will speak by phone very soon as Ukraine peace talks continue. Moscow agrees with Trump that negotiations are in their final stage.

The Kremlin on Monday said that US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to speak by phone very soon, as diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war continue.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Moscow shares Trumps assessment that talks aimed at ending the conflict are in their final stage, stating, Of course.

The remarks came a day after Trump said a deal to end Russias invasion was closer than ever, although no breakthrough had been reached on territorial disputes following recent discussions with Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Putin.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On Sunday, Trump, who had promised a peace deal early in his presidency, said it would become clear within weeks whether a resolution is possible. Tens of thousands have died since the conflict began. As part of a pre-New Year diplomatic push, Trump hosted Zelenskyy at his Florida estate, where Zelenskyy said a peace plan was 95 percent complete, despite Russia launching fresh attacks on Kyiv the day before.

Putin also spoke with Trump by phone shortly before Zelenskyys visit. Trump said Moscow appeared serious about peace. I really believe were, Mr. President, probably closer than  far closer than  ever before with both parties, he said, with Zelenskyy standing beside him. Everybody wants it ended.

On Monday, Zelenskyy said Ukraine plans to host a meeting with European and American officials in the coming days to finalise documents aimed at ending the war. He added that the adviser-level engagements would take place and that martial law in Ukraine would be lifted only after the war concludes and the country secures security guarantees from its Western allies.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Ukraine launched an overnight drone strike targeting President Vladimir Putins state residence in the Novgorod region

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that Ukraine carried out a drone attack targeting President Vladimir Putins state residence in the Novgorod region. He added that 91 drones were intercepted and brought down.

Given the final transformation of the criminal Kyiv regime, which has shifted to a policy of state terrorism, Russias negotiating position will be revised, Lavrov said.

It wasnt immediately clear whether Putin was at the Dolgiye Borody, or Long Beards, residencehistorically used by leaders including Stalin, Khrushchev, Yeltsin, and Putin himself. On Monday, he also ordered Russian forces to press on with efforts to seize full control of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia region, after a Russian commander reported that Moscows troops were just 15 km (9.3 miles) from its largest city.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Russias claim as a lie, saying Moscow is instead preparing to target government buildings in Kyiv, according to Reuters. He urged the US to respond to Russian threats and described the allegation as an effort to undermine progress in peace talks following his meeting with Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday.

While the talks didnt yield a major breakthrough, the latest version of the peace plan includes a US commitment to guarantee Ukraines security for 15 years, with the option to extend that period, Zelenskyy said on Monday.

Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trumps team. We keep working together to bring peace closer, Zelenskyy posted on X.

If confirmed, this would not be the first time Ukrainian drones have reached locations associated with Putin. In May 2023, a drone struck the Kremlin roof during a wider attack on Moscow, which Russian officials described as an attempted assassination of the president.

Meanwhile, the White House said Monday morning that Trump had a positive call with Putin regarding Ukraine, though no details of the conversation were released.
2025 unfolded as a year of high-stakes diplomacy, major summits, and limited stabilisation, even as wars and flashpoints continued to test global order.

As global leaders navigated a crowded diplomatic calendar in 2025, summitry, conflict management, and cautious de-escalation ran in parallel. Major multilateral forums set ambitious agendas, while wars and conflicts in Europe, West Asia, and Africa dragged on. Against this backdrop, selective diplomatic truces offered stability without resolution, underscoring a year defined more by management of crises than their settlement.

Across forums and conflict zones alike, the prospect of a second Donald Trump presidency loomed over diplomacy in 2025, shaping calculations even where the US role appeared restrained. His policies cast a shadow over multilateral engagement, evident in the US boycott of the G20 leaders summit in Johannesburg and the uneven presence of Washington in global economic discussions. At the same time, Trumps imprint surfaced in security diplomacy, with the G7 reiterating support for his Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict and welcoming steps linked to ceasefire and hostage releases.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Summit diplomacy: G7, G20, and Asean

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) countries  Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the USmet in July in Kananaskis, Alberta, in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, for the 51st G7 summit. The first such meeting was held in 1975 in Rambouillet, France, then as the G6, before Canada joined a year later.

Under Canadas presidency, the G7 focused on three pillars: strengthening global security, accelerating energy and digital transitions, and forging future partnerships. The agenda addressed the war in Ukraine, Chinas global influence, artificial intelligence regulation, climate action, critical mineral supply chains, and digital governance, with India participating in outreach discussions on inclusive technology and Global South priorities.

Key outcomes included strengthened support for Ukraine, with $2 billion in new military assistance and the disbursal of $5 billion in new loans under the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans mechanism. The G7 also elevated Ukraines participation and mobilised international support for the return of Ukrainian children and post-war reconstruction. Additional sanctions were imposed on Russia, alongside coordination with the European Union and the United Kingdom to lower the price cap on Russian oil and address shadow fleets.

The summit also launched the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter, endorsed by all G7 members and 12 partner countries, alongside an investment of $120.4 million in satellite-enabled wildfire data and preparedness. Measures were announced to counter transnational repression and emerging threats, including $500,000 to establish the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism Digital Transnational Repression Detection Academy, a Resilience and Response Framework, and the Joint Canada-UK Common Good Cyber Fund. The G7 further backed coordinated action against organised and financial crime and reiterated support for President Trumps Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, welcoming the ceasefire and release of hostages and stressing the urgency of returning the remains of deceased hostages, while calling for humanitarian assistance without interference.

G20

The G20 marked a milestone by holding its leaders summit on African soil for the first time, with Johannesburg hosting the meeting on November 2223. South Africa assumed the presidency from Brazil on December 1, 2024, making 2025 the fourth consecutive G20 presidency led by a Global South country and the third in a row by a BRICS member.

Leaders adopted a 122-paragraph declaration signalling support for multilateral cooperation. However, the US boycott of the summit, along with the absence of leaders from Argentina, China, Indonesia, and Mexico, raised questions about the forums effectiveness in addressing global economic challenges. Under the theme Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability, South Africa prioritised disaster resilience, debt sustainability for low-income countries, financing a just energy transition, and harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth. The agenda built continuity with earlier presidencies by Indonesia, India and Brazil, emphasising debt restructuring, food security, and climate finance, and framing global challenges through the spirit of Ubuntu.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Asean

In Southeast Asia, Asean 2025 under Malaysias chairmanship centred on an Inclusive & Sustainable Asean Future. The 46th and 47th Asean Summits were held in Kuala Lumpur in May and October, with leaders focusing on regional connectivity, digital integration and economic cooperation amid projected growth of around 4.5 per cent. Timor-Leste officially joined Asean on October 26, becoming its 11th member after a prolonged application process.

The bloc strengthened external partnerships, notably with Indiadeclaring the Asean-India Year of Tourismand the US. The 47th summit, held from October 2628, brought together Asean leaders and partner countries, including the US and China. US President Donald Trump attended the opening day, overseeing Thailand and Cambodia signing an expanded ceasefire and joint declaration following their July truce after deadly border clashes. Discussions also covered the South China Sea, Myanmars conflict and economic cooperation.

Wars, conflicts and cautious calm

As 2025 progressed, armed conflicts and security flashpoints remained spread across multiple regions, underscoring the limits of diplomacy amid deep-rooted disputes. While some fronts saw managed tensions or fragile ceasefires, active wars and insurgencies continued to shape the global security landscape.

RussiaUkraine war:

The full-scale conflict continued into its fourth year, marked by ongoing missile strikes, ground fighting and cross-border attacks.

ArmeniaAzerbaijan tensions:

Border incidents persisted following Azerbaijans takeover of Nagorno-Karabakh, keeping the situation volatile.

IsraelGaza Strip war:

Fighting continued after the October 2023 escalation, with concerns over regional spillover.

IsraelHezbollah (Lebanon border):

Frequent cross-border exchanges were carried on along the IsraelLebanon frontier.

IsraelIran shadow conflict:

Indirect confrontation persisted through strikes, cyber operations and the use of regional proxies.

Yemen civil war:

The conflict remained regionalised, involving the Houthis, the Yemeni government, and Saudi and international actors.

Sudan civil war:

Clashes between the army and the Rapid Support Forces continued, destabilising neighbouring countries.

Ethiopias internal conflicts:

Localised fighting endured despite the Tigray peace agreement.

Somalia insurgency:

Operations against Al-Shabaab continued, with wider regional security implications.

Nigeria insurgency (northwest and northeast):

Armed militant violence persisted, with cross-border security effects.

IndiaPakistan (Line of Control):

The ceasefire largely held, though the border remained one of the worlds most volatile.

IndiaChina (Ladakh border):

A prolonged military standoff continued without active combat.

ChinaPhilippines (South China Sea):

Maritime confrontations involving coast guards and naval vessels occurred frequently.

ChinaTaiwan tensions:

Military pressure and drills continued, though without open warfare.

Myanmar civil war:

The military junta continued fighting multiple ethnic armed groups near international borders.

VenezuelaGuyana (Essequibo dispute):

Tensions remained elevated, though without active fighting.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Thailand and Cambodia:

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia resurfaced in 2025 following deadly border clashes, prompting urgent diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation. A truce reached in July laid the groundwork for de-escalation, which was later formalised and expanded through an agreement signed during the ASEAN Leaders Summit in Kuala Lumpur, with both sides committing to a ceasefire and joint measures to stabilise the border situation.

Diplomatic truces marked 2025 amid ongoing global conflicts

In 2025, a number of diplomatic truces and peace agreements marked attempts to de-escalate long-running conflicts and pause hostilities across regions. While uneven in scope and durability, these agreements reflected sustained international mediation efforts amid a turbulent global security environment.

One of the most significant developments came on June 27, 2025, when the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda signed a US- and Qatar-mediated peace agreement aimed at ending hostilities between the two neighbours. In August, Armenia and Azerbaijan initialled and signed a joint declaration to establish peaceful relations following years of conflict linked to Nagorno-Karabakh. In Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Thailand signed the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord on October 26, 2025, agreeing to a ceasefire and outlining steps to de-escalate border tensions.

Other diplomatic pauses included a temporary USChina trade truce agreed on the sidelines of the APEC-related negotiations in Busan in late 2025, easing tariff escalation. In West Asia, a multilateral ceasefire and broader peace plan between Israel and Hamas came into effect in October 2025 as part of an internationally negotiated framework. Together, these five agreements represented the main formalised diplomatic truces recorded during the year.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Together, these strands defined 2025 as a year of managed confrontation  marked by ambitious diplomacy, enduring wars and selective efforts to prevent escalation rather than deliver lasting peace.
Russia has launched three Iranian communications satellites Paya, Kowsar, and Zafar-2 into space from the Vostochny launchpad in eastern Russia. It is considered to be the second such launch since July.

Russia on Sunday sent three Iranian communications satellites into orbit, the second such launch since July, Iranian state television reported. Image Credit: AP

Moscow sent at least three Iranian communications satellites into orbital space, which is considered to be the second such launch since July, Iranian television reported.

According to the report, the Russian rocket sent the satellites to circle the Earth on a 500-kilometer (310-mile) orbit from the Vostochny launchpad in eastern Russia.

The three satellites have been named Paya, Kowsar, and Zafar-2. Paya is said to be the heaviest, weighing around 150 kilograms (330 pounds), and is also seen as the heaviest satellite which Iran has ever deployed.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Kowsar weighs 35 kilograms (77 pounds), but the report didnt specify how heavy Zafar-2 is.

Life span of five years

The satellites feature up to 3-meter resolution images, applicable in the management of water resources, agriculture and the environment. Their life span is up to five years.

Strong ties between the two countries

Russia sent Irans satellites into orbit, signalling the strong ties between the two nations. Russia signed a strategic treaty with Iran in January, condemning the Israeli and US strikes on Iran amid the West Asia crisis. The strikes killed nearly 1,100 Iranians, including military commanders and nuclear scientists.

As a long-standing project, Iran from time-to-time launches satellite carriers to send its satellites into space.

Irans satellite launch defy UNSC resolution

The United States has said that Irans satellite launch does not fall with the UN Security Council resolution. UN sanctions related to Irans ballistic missile program expired in 2023.
Oil prices moved higher as markets focused on Ukraine peace talks and rising tensions in the Middle East. Hopes of progress in ending the war supported prices, while concerns over supply disruptions added to the momentum, even as worries about future oversupply continued to linger

Oil prices edged higher on Monday as markets reacted to renewed geopolitical tensions and developments in Ukraine peace talks.

Investors are on alert as concerns over potential supply disruptions from the Middle East combined with progress in diplomatic efforts to end Russias war in Ukraine helped lift crude benchmarks.

Brent crude traded above $60 per barrel, up about 0.7 % from last weeks close, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) also climbed roughly 0.7 %, as per Anadolu Agency.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The gains came despite lingering worries about oversupply in 2026, driven by rising non-Opec output and softer demand projections.

Supply worries fuel price gains

Market jitters about global supply were heightened by escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabias aerial operations against Yemen and comments from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who described Iran as being in a state of comprehensive war with the US, Israel, and Europe, contributed to the nervous mood among traders.

Its more dangerous, more complex, and more difficult than the war with Iraq, Pezeshkian said in comments published on Irans Supreme Leaders website, adding to fears that any extension of conflict could impact oil flows from the region.

Talks on Ukraine war also in focus

At the same time, progress in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine helped support prices. According to the report, US President Donald Trump said there had been significant progress toward ending the war following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy highlighted the scope of discussions, saying that they had really great discussions on all the topics, with about 90% of a 20-point peace plan agreed upon. He noted that US-Ukraine security guarantees are fully agreed, broader security guarantees involving Europe are nearly finalised, and the military dimension has been fully agreed, while a prosperity plan is still being worked out.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Despite the uptick in prices, analysts caution that long-term gains may be limited.
This weaponisation of water is neither sane nor acceptable in a region on the frontlines of climate change and environmental stress. It will inflame tensions in a bilateral relationship already bristling with hostility and distrust, said PPP Senator Sherry Rehman

A Pakistani senator warned on Monday that the weaponisation of water would further strain the already fragile relationship between Pakistan and India.

The comments, made by Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Sherry Rehman, followed the approval of a hydropower project on the Chenab River by a panel under Indias Ministry of Environment in New Delhi.

The approval comes amid heightened tensions after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in the wake of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April this year.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In a post on X, Rehman referred to the green panels clearance of the 260-megawatt Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district.

Describing the move as a flagrant violation of the IWT, she said, This weaponisation of water is neither sane nor acceptable in a region on the frontlines of climate change and environmental stress. It will inflame tensions in a bilateral relationship already bristling with hostility and distrust.

India took a series of punitive measures against Pakistan a day after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, including putting the 1960 vintage Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance.

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), brokered by the World Bank, has regulated the sharing and use of the Indus River system between India and Pakistan since 1960.

Approval for the project was granted by the Expert Appraisal Committee on hydropower projects at its 45th meeting earlier this month, clearing the way for floating construction tenders for the run-of-the-river scheme, estimated to cost more than Rs 3,200 crore.

In its assessment, the panel noted that waters of the Chenab basin are shared by India and Pakistan under the provisions of the 1960 treaty and that the projects design parameters were aligned with those provisions.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

However, the Indus Water Treaty stands suspended with effect from April 23, 2025, the panel recorded.

Under the treaty, Pakistan held rights over the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab rivers, while India had rights over the Ravi, Beas and Sutlej.

With the treaty now in abeyance, India is moving ahead with multiple hydroelectric projects in the Indus basin, including Sawalkote, Ratle, Bursar, Pakal Dul, Kwar, Kiru, and Kirthai I and II.

The Dulhasti Stage-II project is an expansion of the existing 390 MW Dulhasti Stage-I Hydroelectric Project, which has been successfully operated by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited since its commissioning in 2007.

With inputs from agencies
Seven Turkish police officers were injured in a clash with suspected Islamic State militants in northwest Turkey. Turkish police last week detained 115 suspected Islamic State members they said were planning to carry out attacks on Christmas and New Year celebrations in the country.

Seven Turkish police officers were wounded in a clash with suspected Islamic State militants in northwest Turkey on Monday and a police operation against them was ongoing, a Reuters witness and state media reported.

Sporadic gunfire could be heard at the scene of the clash in Yalova province, south of Istanbul on the Sea of Marmara coast, where police teams launched an overnight operation at a house believed to contain militants, the witness said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Police sealed off the road approaching the house and one officer said the operation was still under way, the witness added. Smoke rose from a nearby fire and a police helicopter flew overhead, with several ambulances and fire engines in attendance.

Turkish police last week detained 115 suspected Islamic State members they said were planning to carry out attacks on Christmas and New Year celebrations in the country.

State broadcaster TRT Haber said on Monday that the wounded police officers had been taken to nearby hospitals and were not in a serious condition.

The suspects had opened fire on police as they launched the operation around 3 a.m. (0000 GMT) on the outskirts of Yalova town, broadcaster NTV reported. Police special forces were sent to the scene from neighbouring Bursa province to provide support, it added.

The Istanbul chief prosecutors office said last week that Islamic State militants were planning attacks against non-Muslims in particular.

Almost a decade ago the jihadist group was blamed for a series of attacks on civilian targets in Turkey, including a gun attack on an Istanbul nightclub and the citys main airport, killing dozens of people.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

(Except the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff)
Sri Lanka has sought Chinas help to rebuild bridges and railway lines damaged by a deadly cyclone that battered the island in November. With critical transport links destroyed and recovery efforts underway, Colombo is looking to international partners to speed up reconstruction and support its long road back to normalcy

A man pushes a makeshift raft along a flooded street after heavy rainfall in Ambatale on the outskirts of Colombo. Sri Lanka has made an appeal for international assistance as the death toll from heavy rains and floods triggered by Cyclone Ditwah have risen substantially. AFP

Sri Lanka has asked China for urgent assistance to rebuild key infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, which tore through the island nation in November. The cyclone caused flooding, landslides and destruction, overwhelming local disaster-response efforts and leaving bridges and railway tracks in ruins.

In a meeting on Monday, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath urged Chinese authorities to help restore the damaged transport links that are essential for everyday life and economic recovery, according to PTI.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Urgent rebuilding needed

During talks with Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong in Colombo, Herath said Sri Lanka needed urgent assistance in rebuilding bridges and rail tracks damaged by the cyclone.

He also raised the idea of setting up electric vehicle (EV) charging points across Sri Lanka, noting the growing number of Chinese-made EVs being imported into the country.

Ambassador Qi responded positively, promising to take Sri Lankas requests back to the Chinese government and explore how they could help with recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka in late November, unloading torrential rain and triggering severe flooding and landslides. According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) in Colombo, the disaster has claimed the lives of more than 638 people, and 175 remain missing as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

The scale of the cyclones destruction has placed immense pressure on Sri Lankas already stretched infrastructure and economy. Damage to critical links like railway lines and bridges has hampered movement and slowed relief work in many affected areas.

International support flows in

China is not the only partner Sri Lanka is turning to. In recent weeks, India unveiled a $450 million relief and repair package to help Sri Lanka recover from the cyclones impact, focusing on restoring roads, bridges and housing.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Earlier, India also sent Bailey bridge components and engineering support under Operation Sagar Bandhu to help reconnect communities cut off by the storm.

Restoring infrastructure is expected to be both expensive and time-consuming, with estimates suggesting railway repairs alone could cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has formally submitted his nomination papers to contest the February 12, 2026 national election from Dhaka-17, a key urban constituency. The move follows his return from 17 years in exile

Tarique Rahmans return comes after the Bangladesh government, headed by Chief Advisor Mohammed Yunus, announced that elections would be held in February 2026: Image courtesy: trahmanbnp/Instagram

In a major development in Bangladeshs lead-up to the February 2026 parliamentary election, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has officially filed his nomination papers to run for a seat from Dhaka-17, authorities and party officials said on Monday.

Rahmans papers were submitted at the Dhaka Divisional Commissioners office in Segunbagicha around midday by senior party members acting on his behalf, as reported by The Daily Star. The nomination formalises his bid for one of the key constituencies in the capital, which includes areas like Gulshan, Banani and Baridhara.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The move comes shortly after Rahman returned to Bangladesh in late December following 17 years in self-imposed exile in London, a homecoming that energised his supporters and led to political buzz across Dhaka.

Before filing his nomination, Rahman completed voter registration and was added to the voter list in Ward 19 of the Dhaka-17 area, meeting an essential eligibility requirement to stand in the election.

Dual constituency strategy

BNP leaders confirmed that Rahman plans to contest not just Dhaka-17, but also Bogra-6, as part of the partys broader electoral strategy.

In a statement to journalists, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed reiterated the partys plan: Our partys Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will contest the election from two seats. One is Bogura-6 and the other is Dhaka-17. This is a party decision.

What this means for the election

Political watchers say Rahmans decision adds fresh momentum to the BNPs campaign and sets up what could be one of the most watched contests in Dhakas politics this cycle.

The election, scheduled for February 12, 2026, is part of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad and is expected to reshape the countrys political landscape, with major parties and alliances jockeying for influence.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Just a day after Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate ceasefire, fresh tensions surfaced along the border. Thailand has accused Cambodia of sending more than 250 drones into its airspace, raising questions about how fragile the new truce really is

This handout aerial photo taken and released by the Royal Thai Army on September 17, 2025 shows Thai army and police (bottom) facing Cambodian people in a disputed area along the Cambodia-Thailand border, as seen from Sa Kaeo province. AFP

Thailands army on Monday accused Cambodia of violating a freshly signed ceasefire agreement by flying more than 250 drones across the border, just a day after both sides pledged to halt hostilities following weeks of deadly clashes.

According to the Thai military, the incident took place on Sunday night, raising fresh concerns about how durable the truce between the two Southeast Asian neighbours really is.

The ceasefire, agreed on Saturday, was meant to cool tensions after renewed fighting along the border killed dozens of people and displaced more than a million this month.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

When drones cross the line

In a statement, the Thai army said that more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying from the Cambodian side, intruding into Thailands sovereign territory.

The army called the drone activity a serious provocation, warning that it undermined efforts to de-escalate the situation. Such actions constitute provocation and a violation of measures aimed at reducing tensions, which are inconsistent with the Joint Statement agreed during a bilateral border committee meeting on Saturday, the statement added.

Thai officials have not said whether the drones were military or civilian in nature, but the sheer number involved has heightened suspicions and reignited unease along the volatile frontier.

Cambodia downplays incident

Cambodia has struck a calmer note. Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said the issue had already been discussed between both sides and that they had agreed to look into it quickly.

Speaking in remarks aired on state television, Prak Sokhonn said the two countries would investigate and resolve it immediately. He played down the seriousness of the episode, describing it as a small issue related to flying drones seen by both sides along the border line.

The drone accusations come just days after Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate ceasefire aimed at ending the latest round of border fighting. The clashes, which spread to nearly every border province on both sides, shattered an earlier truce, one for which US President Donald Trump had taken credit.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Under the agreement signed on Saturday, the two countries committed to halting military operations, freezing troop movements, and working together on demining efforts and combating cybercrime.
Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia have started two days of talks in China as Beijing seeks to play a stronger role in mediating their long-running border dispute, following a new ceasefire signed on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump (right) looks on as Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet (centre) and Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul hold up documents during a signing of a peace deal on the sidelines of the Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 26, 2025. (Photo: Andrew Caballero/AFP)

Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia began two days of talks in China on Sunday as Beijing seeks to strengthen its role in mediating their long-running border dispute, following the signing of a new ceasefire on Saturday.

The agreement calls for a halt to weeks of fighting along the contested border, which has claimed over 100 lives and displaced more than half a million people in both countries.

Ceasefire and diplomacy in Yunnan

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn met in Chinas Yunnan province, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi mediating the discussions. Wang was scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with each diplomat and a trilateral session on Monday.

The talks aim to ensure a sustained ceasefire and promote lasting peace, according to Sihasaks office. China welcomed the ceasefire, which freezes frontline positions and allows displaced civilians to return home.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

China stands ready to continue providing a platform and creating conditions for Cambodia and Thailand to have fuller and more detailed communication, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

In addition to mediation, China announced 20 million yuan ($2.8 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for Cambodia, including food, tents, and blankets. The first batch of aid arrived in Cambodia on Sunday, according to Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin.

Prak Sokhonn expressed appreciation for Chinas vital role in supporting the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Sihasak said Thailand sees China not just as a mediator but as a constructive actor to ensure the ceasefire holds and to signal Cambodia against reviving or escalating conflict.

Trumps earlier so-called intervention amid ongoing tensions

China also appeared to take a subtle swipe at US President Donald Trumps efforts to end the border clash. In July, a ceasefire was brokered by Malaysia under pressure from Trump, who threatened to withhold trade privileges if Thailand and Cambodia did not comply.

Despite these agreements, minor cross-border clashes continued, escalating into heavy fighting in early December. Trump posted on social media from Mar-a-Lago, claiming that the conflict would stop momentarily and calling the US the REAL United Nations. He congratulated the leaders of both countries for reaching a rapid and very fair conclusion.

The latest ceasefire includes a 72-hour observation period. Thailand has agreed to repatriate 18 Cambodian soldiers held since July, a key demand from Cambodia.

The China-mediated talks are expected to focus on maintaining the ceasefire, fostering direct communication, and preventing renewed fighting along the border.
At least 13 people were killed and 98 injured after a passenger train derailed in Mexicos Oaxaca state, prompting a federal investigation.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said in a post on X that five of the injured were in critical condition. (Reuters)

At least 13 people lost their lives when a passenger train came off the tracks in southern Mexico. The accident occurred in Oaxaca state and involved an Interoceanic Train near the town of Nizanda, according to the Mexican Navy, which oversees parts of the rail operation. News agency Reuters reported the incident on Monday.

Officials said the train was carrying about 250 people at the time of the derailment, including nine crew members and 241 passengers. Authorities confirmed that 193 people on board were out of danger following the crash. At least 98 others were injured, with 36 receiving medical treatment at nearby hospitals and clinics.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

President Claudia Sheinbaum said in a post on X that five of the injured were in critical condition. She added that senior government officials had been sent to the crash site to coordinate emergency response efforts and support the families of those killed. Emergency teams, including military personnel, medical staff and civil protection units, were deployed to the remote area to evacuate the injured and secure the scene. Images shared by local media showed derailed railcars and rescue workers assisting passengers along the tracks.

Mexicos Attorney Generals Office has opened a formal investigation into the cause of the derailment. Attorney General Ernestina Godoy Ramos said authorities were examining whether technical failures, track conditions or human error contributed to the accident. Officials have not yet released details on the events leading up to the crash.

Interoceanic corridor under spotlight

The Interoceanic Train is part of the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a major infrastructure project launched under former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and inaugurated in 2023. The initiative aims to modernise rail connections across southern Mexico by linking the Pacific port of Salina Cruz with the Gulf Coast city of Coatzacoalcos.

Designed to handle both passenger and freight services, the corridor seeks to create an alternative trade route that could compete with the Panama Canal.
President Trump just concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine, said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt

US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the tarmac after they arrived at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, on August 15, 2025. AFP File

President Donald Trump on Monday held a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, CNN quoted a White House spokeswoman as saying.

President Trump just concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine, said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

The call followed Trumps meeting on Sunday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago, where the leaders discussed the conflict for three hours, although no major breakthrough was announced.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Trump had also spoken to Putin for more than an hour on Sunday before he met with Zelenskyy.

Leavitt did not immediately provide a detailed readout of the latest Trump-Putin conversation.

Leavitts statement came shortly after Moscow accused Kyiv of firing drones at Putins residence and announced that it would revise its negotiating position on ending the Ukraine war.

Zelenskyy, however, called Moscows claim a lie to justify fresh strikes on Kyiv.

Another lie from the Russian Federation, AFP quoted Zelenskyy as telling journalists. Theyre simply preparing the ground to carry out strikes, probably on the capital and probably on government buildings, he said.

Everyone needs to be alert now, absolutely everyone. A strike on the capital may be carried out, especially since this person (Putin) said they will choose corresponding targets, Zelenskyy added.

With inputs from agencies
China, Germany strengthen cooperation amid challenging global landscape

Xinhua) 13:21, December 29, 2025

BERLIN, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- As 2025 draws to a close, the Sino-German relationship stands as a testament to resilience and continuity.

In a year marked by significant political reshaping within Germany and a shifting global landscape, the all-round strategic partnership between the world's second- and third-largest economies has maintained steady development and gained more significance.

MORE PROMINENT BILATERAL TIES

Diplomatic engagement between Beijing and Berlin has remained active in 2025, marked by a slew of high-level interactions.

In May, Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone call with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, charting the course for further strengthening bilateral relations.

During their conversation, Xi pointed out that as the world undergoes accelerated changes unseen in a century and the international landscape is marked by transformation and turbulence, the strategic and global significance of China-Germany and China-European Union (EU) relations has become even more prominent.

A sound and stable China-Germany relationship serves both countries' interests, and meets the expectations of various sectors in China and Europe, said Xi.

For his part, Merz said that Germany-China relations have seen sound development, with deepened cooperation yielding fruitful results, adding that bilateral cooperation is particularly significant in the current international landscape as both China and Germany are among the world's major economies.

In recognition of the vital importance of their bilateral relationship, the two sides held a series of high-profile events and high-level exchanges to enhance cooperation, such as the fourth China-Germany High-Level Financial Dialogue and the eighth round of China-Germany Strategic Dialogue on Diplomacy and Security.

During his visit to China last month, German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance Lars Klingbeil noted that more dialogue and exchanges are needed between Germany and China.

Earlier this month, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul made his inaugural visit to China after taking office. In a statement prior to his departure, Wadephul said that in times of growing international tension and geopolitical upheaval, direct and in-depth discussions with China are necessary, in fact indispensable.

JOINTLY CONTRIBUTING TO GLOBAL STABILITY, PROSPERITY

In a world grappling with fragmented trade rules and regional hotspots, coordination between nations acts as a source of much-needed certainty in the international arena.

Leaders of both China and Germany have stressed the importance of jointly addressing shared global challenges. In his phone call with Merz in May, Xi urged both sides to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in areas including climate change and green development, contributing the wisdom and solutions of China and Germany to global sustainable development.

Strong economic links and fruitful cooperative results between the two sides have also set good examples of win-win cooperation.

German trade with China amounted to 185.9 billion euros (219.2 billion U.S. dollars) in the first three quarters of 2025. China reclaimed its position as Germany's most important trading partner, a title it had previously held for eight consecutive years from 2016 to 2023.

For the past year, German enterprises have continued to strengthen their "in China, for China" strategy, with major German automakers and engineering firms stepping up their investment as well as expanding their research and development (R&D) in China.

According to a report released early this month by the German Chamber of Commerce in China, 56 percent of German companies in China are considering more engagement with Chinese partners, aiming to leverage knowledge and expand business.

Chinese companies also view Germany as a leading investment destination, eyeing potential in digitalization and the energy sector, according to a survey conducted by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Germany and KPMG in Germany in November.

On Nov. 25, Volkswagen opened its new test workshops in Hefei, the capital of east China's Anhui Province, marking the group's most comprehensive R&D hub beyond its home market.

Ralf Brandstaetter, chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China, said they are taking their "development capabilities in China for China to the next level."

"Chinese companies are investing heavily in AI (artificial intelligence) and e-mobility. There are opportunities for cooperation for the German economy here," said Andreas Glunz, managing partner for International Business at KPMG in Germany.

CHINA-EU TIES FULL OF POTENTIAL

Such deep industrial synergy and integration serve as a testament to the vast potential within the broader China-Europe economic relationship.

With 2025 marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, economic relations between the two sides have been mutually beneficial over the past five decades, said Hildegard Mueller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry.

Economic relations with China have created growth, prosperity and added value, particularly in Germany, but also in Europe as a whole, she said in a statement issued earlier this year. She added that the EU and China share a responsibility to strengthen the World Trade Organization (WTO)-supported international trade order and accelerate the transformation to climate neutrality and digital mobility.

In July this year, the 25th China-EU Summit was held in Beijing, during which leaders from the two sides discussed future cooperation on the economy, trade and investment, as well as their joint efforts to deal with global challenges such as climate change.

The China-EU green partnership is an important part of the China-EU partnership, said a joint statement issued after the summit. Green is a key aspect of China-EU cooperation, and the two sides have a solid foundation and broad space for cooperation in the field of green transition, it noted.

Sacha Courtial, associate researcher at the Paris-based Jacques Delors Institute, said that despite obstacles in developing their relations, the EU and China share a fundamental global responsibility to maintain cooperation on global challenges.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump in Florida on Monday at Trumps lavish Mar-a-Lago resort to discuss the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump in Florida on Monday, pushing to move to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan, which could be in danger of stalling out before a complicated second phase.

The crucial meeting at Trumps lavish Mar-a-Lago resort comes as some White House officials fear both Israel and Hamas are slow-walking the second phase of their ceasefire.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that Trump has championed has mostly held, but progress has slowed recently. Both sides accuse one another of violations, and divisions have emerged among the US, Israel and Arab countries about the path forward.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The two leaders also could discuss non-Gaza topics, including Iran, whose nuclear capabilities Trump continues to insist were completely and fully obliterated following US strikes on its nuclear sites in June.

There are many key facets of the ceasefires second phase that Israels leader doesnt support or has even openly opposed, said Mona Yacoubian, director and senior adviser of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

This is going to be a really tall order, I think, for President Trump to get Netanyahu to agree," she said.

The two leaders are to meet at 1 PM IST, the White House said.

But Netanyahu will also try to shift the focus onto Iran during his fifth meeting in the United States with Trump this year, amid reports he will push for more US strikes on Tehrans nuclear program.

The Gaza ceasefire in October is one of the major achievements of Trumps first year back in power, but his administration and regional mediators want to keep up the momentum.

The Board of Peace would oversee Gazas reconstruction under a two-year, renewable UN mandate. Its members had been expected to be named by the end of the year and might even be revealed following Mondays meeting, but the announcement could be pushed into next month.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Trumps global envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner hosted senior officials from mediators Qatar, Egypt and Turkey in Miami earlier this month.

The first phase of the truce deal saw Hamas release the remaining hostages, both dead and alive, from the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. Hamas has returned all but the body of one hostage. Both sides allege frequent ceasefire violations.

(With inputs from agencies)
The United States has announced a $2 billion pledge for United Nations humanitarian aid, even as the Donald Trump administration cuts back on foreign assistance and pushes for major reforms in how UN aid agencies operate.

US President Donald Trump has been flagging violence against Christians in Nigeria for months. File Photo/AP

The United States on Monday announced a $2 billion pledge for United Nations humanitarian aid, even as President Donald Trumps administration continues to scale back US foreign assistance and urges UN agencies to adapt, shrink or die amid new financial realities.

While the amount is a fraction of past US contributions, officials said it reflects what the administration considers a generous commitment that preserves Washingtons position as the worlds largest humanitarian donor. The pledge will create an umbrella funding mechanism through which money will be allocated to individual agencies and priorities, a move central to US demands for sweeping reforms across the UN system. These demands have alarmed humanitarian workers and already resulted in sharp cuts to programmes and services.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The $2 billion pledge represents only a small portion of traditional US humanitarian funding for UN-backed efforts, which has reached up to $17 billion annually in recent years, according to UN data. US officials said only $8$10 billion of that amount consisted of voluntary contributions. In addition, Washington pays billions of dollars each year in UN membership dues.

Critics argue that aid cutbacks by Western countries have been short-sighted, pushing millions towards hunger, displacement and disease, while weakening US soft power globally.

A year of crisis for aid agencies

The announcement caps a difficult year for several UN bodies, including refugee, migration and food assistance agencies. The Trump administration has already cut billions in foreign aid, forcing organisations to slash spending, shut down projects and eliminate thousands of jobs. Other traditional Western donors have also reduced funding.

The new pledge takes shape through a preliminary agreement with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), led by former British diplomat Tom Fletcher. The UN remains the worlds largest provider of humanitarian assistance and the biggest recipient of US humanitarian funding.

Even as US support declines, humanitarian needs have surged worldwide. Famine has been recorded this year in parts of conflict-hit Sudan and Gaza, while floods, droughts and other natural disasters  which many scientists link to climate change  have killed people and displaced thousands.

Impact on major UN agencies

The funding cuts are expected to have major consequences for UN agencies such as the International Organization for Migration, the World Food Program and the UN refugee agency UNHCR. These organisations have already received billions less from the US this year compared to allocations under the previous Biden administration, and even compared to Trumps first term.

Under the new arrangement, OCHA  which launched a humanitarian reset last year aimed at improving efficiency, accountability and effectiveness  will act as a central channel for US and other donor funding, replacing the earlier system of scattered contributions to individual appeals.

The United States wants more consolidated leadership authority in the UNs aid delivery system, a senior State Department official said, speaking on condition of anonymity ahead of the announcement at the US diplomatic mission in Geneva.

Under the plan, Fletcher and his office are going to control the spigot for distributing funds to UN agencies, the official added.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This humanitarian reset at the United Nations should deliver more aid with fewer tax dollars  providing more focused, results-driven assistance aligned with U.S foreign policy, said US Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz.

Reform push and donor realignments

US officials said the $2 billion pledge is an initial contribution towards OCHAs annual appeal announced earlier this month, which Fletcher had already reduced in response to the changing aid landscape. Other major donors, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, have also cut funding and pushed for reforms this year.

The agreement requires the U.N. to consolidate humanitarian functions to reduce bureaucratic overhead, unnecessary duplication, and ideological creep, the State Department said in a statement. Individual U.N. agencies will need to adapt, shrink, or die.

Nowhere is reform more important than the humanitarian agencies, which perform some of the U.N.s most critical work, it added. Todays agreement is a critical step in those reform efforts, balancing President Trumps commitment to remaining the worlds most generous nation, with the imperative to bring reform to the way we fund, oversee, and integrate with U.N. humanitarian efforts.

Countries to be prioritised under new funding plan

At the core of the reform plan is the creation of pooled funding mechanisms that can be directed to specific crises or countries. Seventeen countries will initially be prioritised, including Bangladesh, Congo, Haiti, Syria and Ukraine.

Afghanistan, despite being one of the worlds most desperate humanitarian cases, is not included. The Palestinian territories are also excluded, with officials saying they will instead be covered through funding linked to Trumps still-incomplete Gaza peace plan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Trumps long-standing critique of the UN

The initiative, developed over several months, reflects Trumps long-held view that the UN has vast potential but has strayed from its original mission of saving lives. The administration argues the organisation has undermined US interests, promoted radical ideologies and allowed wasteful, unaccountable spending.

Fletcher welcomed the agreement, saying in a statement, At a moment of immense global strain, the United States is demonstrating that it is a humanitarian superpower, offering hope to people who have lost everything.
US President Donald Trump said that a deal to end the raging Russia-Ukraine war is closer than ever as he held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida.

US President Donald Trump said that a deal to end the raging Russia-Ukraine war is closer than ever as he held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida. However, Trump admitted that there are still thorny questions over the future of the eastern Donbas region that need to be resolved.

Trumps remarks on the matter came after a two-hour meeting with Zelenskyy on Sunday at his residence in Florida, Mar-a-Lago. He mentioned that a draft agreement to end the war was nearly 95% done. I really think we are closer than ever with both sides, he said, adding that the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, also wants to see it happen.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The American leader acknowledged that there were one or two tough outstanding issues, over territory and how the war might end and expressed sympathy with Russia not wanting a ceasefire. You have to understand the other side, he said. He went on to offer to travel to Kyiv to address Ukraines parliament ahead of a possible vote on a peace plan.

Trump quipped that a visit to the war-torn nation would probably not be necessary. You are welcome always, Zelenskyy interjected. During his talks with Trump, Zelenskyy reportedly thanked the US president and his team, including the presidents envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

The two sides remain positive

It is pertinent to note that the meeting took place just hours after Trump held a lengthy phone call with Russias president. However, when asked about the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station  occupied since the start of Russias 2022 full-scale invasion  Trump gave a confused answer and said Putin was no longer bombing it.

The two leaders want it to end, Trump said, adding, I think we can move pretty rapidly. Otherwise, its going to go on for a very long time. Trump praised Zelenskyy, saying: This gentleman has worked very hard, and is very brave, and his people are very brave. I do think we have the makings of a deal. We have two willing countries. We are in the final stages of talking," he added.

While speaking to the reporters after the meeting, the two leaders discussed the latest iteration of a 20-point peace plan and the unresolved question of the future of Ukraines eastern Donbas region. Zelenskyy said that the US and Ukrainian negotiators had made good progress in recent weeks, with 90 per cent of the draft agreed.

In a post on TruthSocial ahead of the meeting, Trump described his one-hour-15-minute call with Putin as good and very productive. Asked if Putin was serious about peace, Trump replied: I think he is. Meanwhile, there has been no sign from Russias end that it will drop any of its maximalist demands.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

According to Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov, Trump listened carefully on Sunday to Russias assessment of the conflict. Both sides agreed that a ceasefire proposed by Ukraine and Europe would only prolong the fighting, and is fraught with renewed hostilities, Ushakov said. Former Ukrainian diplomat, Maria Drutska, said Putin was trying to sabotage things by ringing Trump before he saw Zelenskyy. Hence, it will be interesting to see what the outcome of this two-hour-long talk is.
Two women from Telangana, Pullakhandam Meghana Rani and Kadiyala Bhavana, who were living in California, died in a car crash while returning from a trip with friends. Police have launched an investigation.

Two women from Telangana, currently living in California and seeking employment, died in a car accident while returning from a trip. They are identified as Pullakhandam Meghana Rani and Kadiyala Bhavana, who went to meet their friends aged 24.

The two women were originally from Garla Mandal, Mahabubabad district.

Both Bhavana and Meghana had completed their Masters degrees and the latter, fondly known as Chikki, had moved to the US recently to explore job opportunities.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

According to their families, the two women were living together and were very close friends.

Local officials of the US have launched a probe to investigate the accident. Meanwhile, the families of both the victims have started procedures to bring back the mortal remains to India, and a fundraising appeal has been set up to meet the repatriation expenses.

Meghanas father, Nageshwara Rao, runs a Mee-Seva centre in Garla, while Bhavanas father serves as the Deputy Sarpanch of Mulkanoor village. The sudden deaths have left their families and the local community in deep shock.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for the repatriation of Meghanas remains, as her family is struggling to cover the expenses.

The page reads, Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us give my sister a dignified farewell and will mean more to us than words can express.
England plans to ban the boiling of live lobsters, citing animal suffering, as part of wider reforms to strengthen welfare standards and promote more humane alternative methods for crustaceans.

Placing live, conscious lobsters into boiling water will be banned in England under new government plans to raise animal welfare standards. Ministers said the practice causes unnecessary suffering and confirmed that alternative guidance on humane killing methods for crustaceans will be issued.

The government said live boiling is not an acceptable killing method for animals such as lobsters. Similar bans are already in place in Switzerland, Norway, and New Zealand. Animal welfare groups argue that methods such as electrical stunning or chilling lobsters in cold air or ice before boiling are more humane.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The proposed ban builds on legislation introduced by the Conservatives in 2022, which recognised invertebrates, including octopuses, crabs, and lobsters, as sentient beings capable of feeling pain. Ben Sturgeon, chief executive of Crustacean Compassion, welcomed the move, saying, When live, conscious animals are placed into boiling water, they endure several minutes of excruciating pain. This is torture and completely avoidable. Humane alternatives, like electrical stunning, are readily available.

Broader reforms and political reaction

The lobster ban forms part of a wider Labour animal welfare strategy announced earlier in December. Other measures include plans to outlaw hen cages and pig farrowing crates, end puppy farming, consult on banning electric shock collars for dogs and introduce humane slaughter requirements for farmed fish.

The proposals also tighten hunting rules, with a ban on shooting hares during the breeding season and an end to trail hunting, where an animal-based scent trail is laid for dogs to follow while riders chase on horseback. Labour pledged in its manifesto to extend the 2005 foxhunting ban to trail hunting, which animal welfare charities describe as a smokescreen for continued fox killing.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, criticised the plans as authoritarian control freakery, adding, You might as well ban walking dogs in the countryside, as they chase rabbits, hares, deer, and foxes.

Polling suggests strong public support for tougher hunting rules. YouGov found last year that 29% of Reform voters believed hunting wild animals was acceptable, compared with 65% who said it was not, while 21% thought hunting with dogs should be allowed.

A Labour source said, When it comes to being in touch with the priorities of working people, the horse has very much bolted for Nigel Farage. Time and again, hes putting himself on the wrong side of issues which will keep the former Tories hes stuffing his party with happy, but will do nothing to deliver a fairer future for Britain.

While Farage focuses on defending hunts that are often used as a smokescreen for killing wild animals, Labour is dealing with outdated laws which permit poor animal welfare practices. And at the same time were cutting the cost of living, reducing waiting lists and delivering the change working people voted for.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Green party broadly welcomed the plans but said ministers could go further by ending greyhound racing, which faces a ban in Wales by
Families of those killed in the antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach wrote an open letter urging the government of Australia to launch a nationwide inquiry, citing failures in policing, intelligence and policy.

Mourners observed a moment of silence at Bondi Beach on Sunday to mark a week since the attack when a father-son duo opened fire at beach-goers on the first day of the Jewish festival Hanukkah. In this image, people mourn near floral tributes honouring victims and survivors of the deadly mass shooting. File image/Reuters

In the wake of Australias deadliest antisemitic attack in recent years, families who lost loved ones at Bondi Beach have renewed calls for a nationwide inquiry, arguing that systemic failures allowed the violence to unfold. On Monday, relatives of the victims appealed for an independent investigation into antisemitism in Australia and into what they described as shortcomings in policing, intelligence, and government policy.

Father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram are accused of targeting a Hanukkah event at Sydneys Bondi Beach on December 14, killing 15 people and injuring dozens. Authorities have described the shooting as an antisemitic terrorist attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Seventeen families, in an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urged him to immediately establish a Commonwealth Royal Commission into the rapid rise of antisemitism in Australia and to examine law enforcement, intelligence, and policy failures that led to the Bondi Beach massacre.

We demand answers and solutions, the families wrote.

We need to know why clear warning signs were ignored, how antisemitic hatred and Islamic extremism were allowed to dangerously grow unchecked, and what changes must be made to protect all Australians going forward.

Government resists federal inquiry

Albanese has resisted calls for a federal inquiry, saying action was needed without waiting years for answers.

We need to get on with any changes that are required, he told reporters Monday.

I have nothing except sympathy for those families. My job, as prime minister, is to look at how we build unity, how we build social cohesion, how we do what the nation needs at what is a very difficult time.

He said last week that a New South Wales-led royal commission, where the shooting occurred, would be sufficient and pledged full federal support. Canberra has also flagged reforms to gun ownership and hate speech laws, along with an inquiry into police and intelligence agencies. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke warned on Monday that a national royal commission could give some of the worst statements and worst voices a platform to revisit the worst examples of antisemitism over the last two years, which he said would not serve unity or national security.

Families say response falls short

The families, however, said the federal response was not nearly enough.

We have lost parents, spouses, children, and grandparents. Our loved ones were celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach, a festival of light and joy, in an iconic public space that should have been safe, the letter said.

You owe us answers. You owe us accountability. And you owe Australians the truth.

Describing antisemitism as a national crisis, the families said the threat was ongoing.

We need strong action now. We need leadership now. You cannot bring back our loved ones. But with a well-led Commonwealth Royal Commission and strong action, you may be able to save many more.

One of the alleged attackers, Sajid Akram, 50, was shot dead by police during the incident. An Indian national, he entered Australia on a visa in 1998. His son, Naveed Akram, 24, an Australian-born citizen, remains in custody facing multiple charges, including terrorism and 15 murders, as well as committing a terrorist act and planting a bomb with intent to harm.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Ancient Hindu and Buddhist heritage sites across Pakistan are facing growing threats from vandalism, neglect and illegal occupation, raising serious concerns among activists and experts. Several of these sites, some dating back nearly 5,000 years, are located in sensitive regions and are reportedly being damaged or encroached upon.

Why ancient Hindu and Buddhist heritage sites in Pakistan are under threat from vandalism, illegal occupation. Image: News18

Prestigious Hindu and Buddhist heritage sites across Pakistan, some dating back nearly 5,000 years, are increasingly facing threats from vandalism, neglect and illegal occupation, CNN-News18 reported citing activists, experts and intelligence assessments.

The affected areas include Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Chilas, Hunza, Shatial, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, home to ancient temples, petroglyphs and inscriptions. Researchers estimate that the ChilasHunzaShatial belt alone contains over 25,000 petroglyphs and inscriptions, dating from 5000 BCE to the 16th century CE.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

News18s Manoj Gupta reported that extremist groups have deliberately targeted Hindu and Buddhist imagery at several sites, defacing carvings with permanent paint or scratching out figures. In some cases, local authorities have also drawn criticism for painting official notices directly over ancient carvingsacts experts describe as desecration of priceless heritage.

Intelligence inputs cited by sources identify Chilas as an area with the presence of hardline Islamist groups, raising serious concerns about the safety of nearby archaeological and religious sites. Separately, activists allege that multiple Hindu and Buddhist sites remain under illegal occupation, with little visible action taken by authorities to reclaim or safeguard them.

Unesco obligations under question

Cultural heritage advocates argue that Pakistan has failed to adequately uphold its commitments under Unesco conventions and international agreements aimed at protecting minority and indigenous heritage. They warn that continued inaction could lead to irreversible damage to sites that form part of South Asias shared civilisational legacy.

Calls for urgent protection

Amid growing concern, demands are mounting for stronger legal protections, enhanced on-ground security and international monitoring to safeguard these vulnerable heritage sites before further damage occurs.
After rumours, OnePlus has confirmed the launch of Turbo 6 and Turbo 6V smartphones in the OnePlus Turbo series in China on January 8th. Performance is exceptionally strong, and battery life is ridiculously long!, said the company.

The OnePlus Turbo 6 will come in Lone Black, Silver and Wilderness Green colours in 12GB + 256GB, 12GB + 512GB, 16GB + 256GB and 16GB + 512GB versions. The Silver colour uses 3D holographic engraving technology, allowing light and shadow to flow with the angle.

During last nights OnePlus Turbo series livestream, the company confirmed that the Turbo 6 will feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 series flagship chip, BOE 165Hz Ultra-High Refresh Rate Eye-Care Screen, 9000mAh battery with support for 27W wired reverse charging function, IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K dust and water protection.

Based on earlier rumours, the phone will pack a 6.78 1.5K 165Hz LTPS BOE OLED flat screen, Snapdragon 8s Gen4 SoC, Android 16 and weigh 217.25g.

The OnePlus Turbo 6V will come in Lone Black, Fearless Blue and Nova White colours in 8GB + 256GB, 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB model. It is said to retain a similar screen and battery, but get a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 instead.

The OnePlus Turbo 6V is rumoured to launch as OnePlus Nord CE6 in India next year, with a slight change in specifications.

Regarding the phones, OnePlus China head, Louis Jie, said:

Its a performance and battery life supernova, boasting not only exceeding performance limits and ridiculously long battery life, but also a top-tier e-sports screen, full-level water resistance, flagship-quality feel, and comprehensive configuration. It will completely rewrite everyones impression of Turbo-level products, bringing an unprecedented performance and battery life experience in this segment! The OnePlus Turbo series is designed specifically for passionate young people and the new generation of users: The OnePlus Turbo 6 was born to meet everyones want it all needs. It will inherit the flagships powerful performance genes, lead the strongest battery life in its class, and deliver an unprecedented gaming experience. The OnePlus Turbo 6V, on the other hand, will focus even more on long-term durability. With longer battery life, six years of smooth performance, and a more robust and durable experience, it will become the strongest endurance king in its class. Both the OnePlus Turbo 6 and OnePlus Turbo 6V are highly competitive in their respective price ranges. In the new year, we believe the new OnePlus Turbo series will bring even more surprises to users!
Samsung Electronics has announced that it is working with Google to bring Google Photos to Samsung TVs, enabling users to view and relive their personal photo and video libraries on a larger screen. The integration is intended to extend Google Photos from smartphones to TVs, allowing memories to be accessed in a TV-optimised format.

Google Photos experience on Samsung TVs

With the planned integration, Samsung TV users will be able to sign in using their Google Account and access backed-up photos and videos directly on their television. The experience is designed to present personal photo libraries in a large-screen gallery format, allowing users to browse and revisit memories at home.

Samsung and Google aim to place personal photo content at the centre of the TV experience, allowing users to explore their journeys and past moments in a simple, organised way.

Viewing personal photos on a larger screen

Google Photos currently allows users to store, organise, and revisit photos across devices. Through the upcoming TV integration, photos captured on smartphones will be displayed on Samsung TVs in a larger, cinematic format.

Users will be able to explore curated memories organised by people, places, and meaningful moments. Google Photos will also become part of Samsungs Vision AI Companion (VAC), expanding photo-based experiences that surface memories throughout the day.

Samsung plans to integrate Google Photos into existing TV features such as Daily+ and Daily Board, allowing memories to appear at contextual moments. Setup is expected to require users to sign in with their Google Account. Photo memories will appear automatically, provided that Memories are enabled in Google Photos settings.

Three planned experiences: Memories, Create, and Personalized Results

Samsung outlined three ways users will be able to rediscover their photo libraries on TV:

Memories (planned for early 2026): Displays curated stories based on people, locations, and meaningful moments. This will be the first time the Memories experience appears on TVs. The feature will launch exclusively on Samsung TVs for the first six months.

Create with AI (planned for later in 2026): Introduces themed creative templates built on Nano Banana, Google DeepMinds image generation and editing model. Users will be able to apply artistic transformations using Remix or convert still images into short videos using Photo to Video.

Personalized Results (planned for later in 2026): Allows users to view related photos as slideshows based on topics or memory themes, such as oceans, hiking, or specific locations like Paris.

According to Samsung, the experience is designed to allow families to rediscover and view personal memories together on a shared screen.

Availability

Features and availability will vary by model and region. The Google Photos integration will be available on Samsung TV models launching in 2026, requiring a Google Account and backed-up photos or videos. For existing Samsung TV models, availability will depend on the OS update schedule.

The Memories feature is expected to be available starting March 2026. Create with AI and Personalized Results are planned to roll out in the second half of 2026. Select AI-based creative templates will be available exclusively on Samsung TVs.

Speaking on the development, Kevin Lee, Executive Vice President of the Customer Experience Team at Samsung Electronics Visual Display (VD) Business, said:

Samsung TVs have long brought people together, and adding Google Photos to the big screen makes that experience more personal. Through this partnership, we enable users to rediscover and revisit meaningful moments by highlighting the stories behind their photosdirectly from their living room.

Commenting on the announcement, Shimrit Ben-Yair, Vice President of Google Photos and Google One, said:
OPPO India has announced the launch of The Snap Circle, a nationwide college-level initiative aimed at supporting photography-focused students across India. The programme is aligned with the companys Make Your Moment brand philosophy and focuses on combining technology with creative learning.

The Snap Circle

The Snap Circle is structured as a hands-on learning programme in which students participate in real-world photography assignments, receive mentorship from industry professionals, and work with OPPOs flagship Find X Series smartphones, which feature the companys advanced imaging systems.

Positioned as a long-term platform, the initiative seeks to strengthen collaboration between academic institutions and the imaging industry. Alongside technical training, the programme aims to help participants build creative independence and practical experience in visual storytelling.

Selection process and participation

At each participating college, students will complete a registration and shortlisting process. Ten students will be selected based on creativity, technical understanding, and interest in photography.

The shortlisted students will receive Find X Series smartphones for a 10-day themed photography challenge. Final submissions will be reviewed by the OPPO camera team based on evaluation criteria including composition, lighting, colour balance, and subject focus.

Two participants will be selected as winners and will receive Find X smartphones. The remaining eight shortlisted students will receive participation certificates.

Snap Circle Community

All shortlisted participants will become members of the Snap Circle Community, a year-long programme that includes workshops, curated photo walks, product experience sessions, and continued mentorship from photography experts.

Rollout and expansion plans

The Snap Circle programme commenced at JECRC University in Jaipur. In 2026, OPPO plans to expand the initiative to universities across nine cities: Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad, and Bhubaneswar.

By providing students access to Find X Series smartphones for use in real-world scenarios, the initiative is positioned as a structured pathway for exploring modern mobile photography beyond classroom settings.

OPPO India stated that it will continue supporting platforms focused on skill development and creative learning to enable aspiring photographers to pursue independent visual storytelling.

Commenting on the occasion, Goldee Patnaik, Head of Communications, OPPO India said,
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.
General Secretariat Expresses Concern Regarding Developments in Yemen

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

25-12-2025

The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has expressed profound concern about the recent unilateral military mobilizations by the Southern Transitional Council in the Hadramawt and Al-Mahra governorates of Yemen. These actions were executed without the requisite endorsement from the Presidential Leadership Council or prior coordination with Coalition Forces, raising alarms about a potential unjustified escalation of tensions in the region.

The OIC General Secretariat commends the diplomatic efforts and mediation initiatives undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the President of the Presidential Leadership Council, and the Yemeni government to de-escalate the current situation.

Furthermore, the OIC General Secretariat underscores the critical need for collaboration among all Yemeni factions and stakeholders and calls for restraint to prevent actions that could jeopardize the prevailing security and stability. It emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing the overall interests of peace and social cohesion.

The General Secretariat reaffirms the OIC's steadfast and resolute support for all initiatives and endeavors geared toward achieving lasting security, peace, and stability in Yemen, aligned with the legitimate aspirations of its people.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Organization of Islamic Cooperation Strongly Condemns Israel's Recognition of the "Somaliland" Region

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

26-12-2025

The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation expressed its strong condemnation and categorical rejection of Israel's recognition, as the occupying power, of the "Somaliland" region as an independent state, considering it a violation of the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, its national unity, and its territorial integrity.

The General Secretariat reaffirmed its full solidarity with the Federal Republic of Somalia and its unwavering support for its sovereignty and territorial unity, as well as its unequivocal support for its legitimate institutions. It also underscored the necessity of adhering to the principles of the Charter of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Charter of the United Nations, and international law, all of which stipulate respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Member States.

The Organization emphasized the need to preserve security, peace, and stability in the Horn of Africa region, and rejected any actions that could undermine regional stability.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Taiwan welcomes Israel's decision to formally recognize Somaliland

ROC Central News Agency

12/28/2025 01:28 PM

Taipei, Dec. 28 (CNA) Taiwan has welcomed Israel's decision on Friday to formally recognize Somaliland as a sovereign nation, going against the reaction of Europe, the United States and other countries, which have opted to support Somalian sovereignty.

In a statement Sunday that welcomed Israel's move, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Taiwan, Israel, and Somaliland, are all "like-minded democratic partners sharing the values of democracy, freedom, and rule of law."

It also expected the decision to facilitate closer three-way cooperation on all fronts between Taiwan, Israel and Somaliland.

Taiwan's reaction reflected its growing ties with Somaliland, which functions as an independent state but which is seen by Somalia as part of its territory.

On Aug. 17, 2020, Taipei opened a representative office in Somaliland's capital, Hargeisa, and Somaliland reciprocated by opening a similar office in Taipei on Sept. 9 the same year.

Taiwan and Somaliland have steadily deepened bilateral relations since the opening of reciprocal offices, MOFA said, with cooperation seen in such areas as medicine, education, agriculture, information and telecommunications, security, and energy mineral development.

Most recently, the two sides signed an agreement in July to enhance bilateral coast guard cooperation to jointly safeguard navigation safety in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, MOFA said in its statement.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has functioned as a de facto sovereign state ever since, but it had not been officially recognized by any other country in the world until Israel did so.

Israel's decision drew protests from the foreign ministers of Egypt, Somalia and Turkey, who reaffirmed their support for Somalia's unity and territorial integrity, and warned that recognizing breakaway regions posed a threat to international peace and security.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday he did not intend to immediately follow Israel in recognizing Somaliland, and the European Union on Saturday also called for Somalia's territorial integrity to be upheld.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ls

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






First batch of China's emergency humanitarian aid arrives in Phnom Penh; Cambodia expresses sincere gratitude and appreciates China's ceasefire efforts

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Dec 28, 2025 06:14 PM

The first batch of emergency humanitarian aid provided by the Chinese government to Cambodia, including tents, blankets, and food, arrived at Phnom Penh's Techo International Airport at noon local time on Sunday, the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia said on its official WeChat account.

Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin, Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia Zhong Jie, and Cambodian Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation UNG Rachana, among others, attended the handover ceremony, according to the embassy.

Wang Wenbin said that China's provision of emergency humanitarian aid supplies worth 20 million yuan fully reflects the deep friendship between China and Cambodia.

China welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire by both Cambodia and Thailand and will continue to play a positive and constructive role in helping the two sides consolidate the ceasefire situation, Wang Wenbing said.

On behalf of the Cambodian government and people, UNG Rachana expressed sincere gratitude to China for providing the aid, saying that the Cambodian government highly values the ironclad friendship between Cambodia and China and greatly appreciates China's active and constructive efforts in promoting the ceasefire.

After a ceasefire agreement was reached by Cambodia and Thailand on Saturday, it was announced by a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson that at the invitation of Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia Prak Sokhonn and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow will lead delegations to meet in Yunnan from Sunday to Monday.

China will play a constructive role in its own way for Cambodia and Thailand to consolidate the ceasefire, resume exchanges, rebuild political trust, achieve turnaround in bilateral relations and uphold regional peace, the spokesperson said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China will deliver humanitarian aid to Cambodia for displaced people along border: Chinese FM

Global Times

By Xinhua Published: Dec 28, 2025 07:50 PM

China is willing to provide humanitarian supplies to Cambodia for the settlement of displaced people in border areas, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Sunday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Following the signing of a joint statement agreeing to a ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are leading delegations to meet in Yunnan from Dec. 28 to 29 at the invitation of Wang.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hezbollah chief says disarming resistance serves US-Israeli project

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 28, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Hezbollah's Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem says that calls to disarm the resistance were part of a joint US-Israeli project, arguing that such demands served Israel rather than Lebanon, while Israeli attacks on the country continue.

In a speech on Sunday, Qassem said proposals framed as "exclusive state control of weapons" amounted in practice to an explicit US-Israeli plan to weaken Lebanon's military capabilities, undermine a large segment of Lebanese society, and drive a wedge between Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal Movement.

He said the initiative also aimed to stir internal strife, entrench Israeli occupation at five border point,s and allow continued killings without accountability.

Qassem compared Lebanon with Syria, saying Lebanon's state institutions had succeeded because the resistance stood alongside them, while Syria's government had failed in the absence of such a force.

Referring to a ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Lebanon more than a year ago, he said Lebanon, through its government and army, had honored its commitments and made multiple concessions, while Israel had failed to meet its obligations and continued military attacks and security incursions.

He criticized the stance of some political factions that, in his words, overlooked Israel's obligations while using the agreement to press further demands on Hezbollah and Lebanon.

Qassem said no new steps should be expected from Lebanon at any level unless Israel first fulfils its commitments, adding that the era of one-sided demands on Lebanon was over.

He said Lebanon faced a decisive choice between accepting full US-Israeli tutelage over the country or pursuing a national mobilization to restore sovereignty, territory, and state authority.

The Hezbollah chief said a complete halt to Israeli air, land, and sea attacks, a full withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of detainees, and the start of reconstruction in southern Lebanon were prerequisites for any political or security discussions.

He warned that the loss of southern Lebanon would put the entire country at risk, saying all Lebanese shared a responsibility for defending the region.

9341**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Araghchi urges Yemeni factions to preserve unity, avoid division

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 28, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged Yemen's political parties and groups to engage in dialogue to prevent the country's weakening and fragmentation, stressing the need to preserve Yemen's territorial integrity.

Araghchi made the remarks during a telephone call on Sunday with Yemen's Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulwahid Abu Ras as the two discussed the latest developments in the Arab country.

Araghchi praised Yemenis' support for Palestinians and their resistance to Israeli actions, while calling on all Yemeni factions to pursue interaction and talks to thwart plots hatched by enemies of the region to destabilize and divide the country.

Abu Ras briefed Araghchi on recent developments in southern Yemen, warning that actions by Yemen's adversaries, designed to further undermine security in the region, were complicating the situation.

Araghchi also welcomed a recent agreement between Yemeni parties and Saudi Arabia on a prisoner exchange, saying Yemen's crisis could be resolved through a complete lifting of the blockade, implementation of remaining elements of the agreed roadmap, and intra-Yemeni talks to form an inclusive government while safeguarding the country's unity.

9341**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian FM calls for viable Palestinian State to address historical injustices

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 28, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reiterated his country's support for the formation of a Palestinian State in order to achieve enduring peace and stability across the West Asia region.

In an interview with the TASS news agency on Sunday, Lavrov said that Russia continues to advocate a just settlement of the Middle East conflict, stressing that the main issue here is to "remedy the historical injustice and provide for establishing a viable Palestinian State."

"No matter how the situation in and around Gaza unfolds, we reaffirm our commitment to a just settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on the basis of the universally recognized legal framework," he stated.

The top Russian diplomat warned that a lasting peace for Palestinians and Jews, and for all other nations in West Asia, is difficult to imagine "without solving this issue," adding that "the instability of what is happening on the ground is exacerbated by the uncertainty regarding further steps in implementing peace agreements."

Russia has long emphasized a long-term resolution to the conflict by implementing UN resolutions on Palestinian statehood.

4399**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Gaza health chief warns of population crisis amid targeted attacks on fertility centers

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 28, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Munir Al-Barsh, Director-General of Gaza's Ministry of Health, has revealed that monthly births have plummeted by 40 percent over the past year, dropping from 26,000 to just 17,000, disclosing that fertility and IVF centers have been directly targeted by Israeli forces.

Al-Barsh further highlighted that widespread maternal malnutrition, compounded by systematic restrictions on essential food supplements and medications, has led to a sharp increase in low-birth-weight infants, creating a public health emergency.

He also cited the bombing of Al-Basma Center as an example, adding that the attack caused nitrogen tanks to catch fire, destroying approximately 4,000 fertilized embryos that were ready for transfer.

These figures indicate a premeditated plan to suppress Palestinian population growth, Al-Barsh said. He noted that Israeli research institutions, including the Herzliya Conference, had previously warned of demographic threats posed by Palestinians.

The health chief emphasized that the ongoing conflict has provided a strategic opportunity for these measures, which he described as aimed at undermining the reproductive health of women and weakening the demographic structure of Gaza.

Gaza's Health Ministry also reported alarming declines in birth rates and a surge in miscarriages, raising concerns of a deliberate demographic crisis in the region.

4208**9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of Jordan,Egypt,Algeria Comoros,Djibouti,Gambia Iran,Iraq Kuwait,Libya Maldives,Nigeria Oman,Pakistan, Palestine,Qatar,Saudi Arabia,Somalia Sudan,Turkiye,Yemen and the OIC

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Union of the Comoros, the Republic of Djibouti, the Republic of The Gambia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Iraq, the State of Kuwait, the State of Libya, the Republic of Maldives, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Sultanate of Oman, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the State of Palestine, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Republic of the Sudan, the Republic of Turkiye, the Republic of Yemen, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, underscored the following:

1- Their unequivocal rejection of Israel's recognition of the "Somaliland" region of the Federal Republic of Somalia on 26 December 2025, given the serious repercussions of such unprecedented measure on peace and security in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, and its serious effects on international peace and security as a whole, which also reflects Israel's full and blatant disregard to international law.

2- Their condemnation in the strongest terms of such recognition, which constitutes a grave violation of the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, which explicitly stipulates the imperative of protecting the sovereignty of states and their territorial integrity, and reflects Israel's expansionist.

3- Full support of the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and the unequivocal rejection of any measures that undermine the unity of Somalia, its territorial integrity or its sovereignty over its entire territory.

4- The recognition of parts of states constitutes a serious precedent and threatens international peace and security, and violates the cardinal principles of international law and the United Nations Charter.

5- The full rejection of any potential link between such measure and any attempts to forcibly expel the Palestinian people out of their land, which is unequivocally rejected in any form as a matter of principle.

Islamabad

December28,2025

385/2025

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Female NPA fugitive arrested in Agusan del Norte

Philippine News Agency

December 28, 2025, 1:34 pm

MANILA -- Intensified police manhunt operations against insurgents facing charges in courts recently netted a female member of the New People's Army (NPA) in Agusan del Norte.

The fugitive, identified only as "Jai," 26, was on Dec. 23 in Barangay Bancasi, Butuan City on Dec. 23, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said in a social media post on Sunday.

The belated CIDG report said Jai is a member of the Sub-Regional Committee 1 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, a key regional command of the NPA.

The suspect is included in the military's Periodic Status Report and has arrest warrants for rebellion issued by a Gingoog City court on Aug. 21, 2021; and for Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and Other Crimes Against Humanity issued by a Cagayan de Oro City court on Feb. 28, 2022.

She was also allegedly involved in several terroristic acts in Claveria, Farmbugas and Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental, including the burning of two 10-wheeler trucks owned by Del Monte Philippines in Barangay Don G. Pelaez, Claveria, Misamis Oriental in 2017.

"The arrest underscores the unit's unyielding stance against wanted persons and significantly helped the government in its fight against terrorism," Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II, acting CIDG chief, said in a statement. (Christopher Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Yemen's leader warns of military action against any Israeli presence in Somaliland

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 9:56 PM

The leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has said that any Israeli presence in Somaliland will be considered a military target, as it constitutes aggression against Somalia and Yemen and a direct threat to regional security that must be confronted decisively.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi strongly condemned Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.

He called it an "aggressive Zionist move" aimed at establishing a foothold in the Horn of Africa.

Houthi said that any Israeli presence in Somaliland poses a "direct threat" to regional security, particularly the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden shipping lanes.

He said that Israel is seeking to fragment countries in the area as part of a broader plan to reshape the West Asian region.

"This aggressive Zionist move, which aims to find a foothold in Somalia to target the region, and also aims to fragment the countries of the region in a plan that is not limited to Somalia, but whose declared title is changing the Middle East, is something that our entire nation must confront in all forms," he said.

He dismissed Israel's recognition as "void and has no value in the balance of truth or law," emphasizing that it comes from an entity he described as lacking legitimacy.

"The Israeli enemy's declaration in itself is void and has no value in the balance of truth or law; it is an aggression with aggressive goals and a hostile program, coming from a usurping entity that lacks legitimacy for itself, so how can it grant it to others?" he asked.

Houthi called for a unified Arab and Islamic response to support Somalia's sovereignty, urging pressure on collaborators in Somaliland and firm stances from international institutions.

He reiterated Yemen's solidarity with the Somali people and pledged "all possible supportive measures," including military action if necessary, to prevent Somaliland from becoming an Israeli military base.

The statement also linked the issue to the broader Palestinian cause, warning that failures to support Palestinians enable further Israeli "conspiracies" against the region.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that Tel Aviv had formally recognized Somaliland as an "independent and sovereign state" and signed an agreement to establish diplomatic relations.

The move has drawn widespread international condemnation, including from Somalia, the African Union, the Arab League, and several regional powers, who view it as a violation of Somalia's territorial integrity.

Addressing an emergency joint session of parliament on Sunday, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Netanyahu had committed the "greatest abuse" of Somalia's sovereignty in the nation's history.

"I urge the Somali people to remain calm and to defend the unity and independence of our country, which is facing a naked invasion," Mohamud said.

Somalia's lawmakers unanimously passed a resolution declaring Israel's recognition of Somaliland "null and void."

The resolution warned that any individuals or institutions violating Somalia's sovereignty would face legal consequences under domestic and international law.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war, but has never been recognized by any United Nations member state.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN agency says over 10,000 people displaced in three days in Sudan

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 7:11 PM

A UN agency has reported that over 10,000 people were displaced due to fierce fighting in the past few days in Sudan.

The United Nations migration agency said on Sunday that fresh violence between Sudan's regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Force (RSF) in western and southern Sudan forced more than 10,000 people to flee within three days last week.

The RSF, after gaining control of the North Darfur capital of al-Fashir in October, has pushed westward in recent days, through enclaves inhabited by the Zaghawa ethnic group and controlled by an army-allied militia.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that between December 25 and 26, attacks on the villages of Um Baru and Kernoi near Sudan's western border with Chad displaced more than 7,000 people.

Between Christmas Eve and Friday, a further 3,100 people were displaced from the famine-stricken city of Kadugli in South Kordofan, which has been under siege by paramilitary forces for over a year and a half.

The two rivaling forces and their allies with affiliated militaries have been fighting since April 2023, killing tens of thousands of people and uprooting more than 11 million people in what the UN has called a "war of atrocities."

Presently, resource-rich Kordofan is witnessing the fiercest fighting. The RSF and its allies seek to recapture Sudan's central corridor, leading from Darfur back towards the capital Khartoum.

The continuous fighting in Sudan has created one of the world's largest hunger and displacement crises, effectively splitting the African country into two parts, one controlled by Sudan's regular army in the north, east, and center, while the RSF and its allies dominate all five state capitals in Darfur and parts of the south.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israel's recognition of Somaliland 'naked invasion' of Somalia's sovereignty: President

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 6:13 PM

Somalia's president has condemned Israel's recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland as a "naked invasion" of the country's sovereignty.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that Tel Aviv had formally recognized Somaliland as an "independent and sovereign state" and signed an agreement to establish diplomatic relations.

Addressing an emergency joint session of parliament on Sunday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Netanyahu had committed the "greatest abuse" of Somalia's sovereignty in the nation's history.

"I urge the Somali people to remain calm and to defend the unity and independence of our country, which is facing a naked invasion," Mohamud said.

He also referred to Netanyahu as an "enemy," vowing that Somalia would never allow its territory to be used by Israel as a military base to attack other nations.

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Barre echoed the warning, saying Israel was "searching for a foothold in the Horn of Africa."

In a symbolic move, Somalia's lawmakers unanimously passed a resolution declaring Israel's recognition of Somaliland "null and void."

The resolution warned that any individuals or institutions violating Somalia's sovereignty would face legal consequences under domestic and international law.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war, but has never been recognized by any United Nations member state.

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, leader of the breakaway region, however, defended Israel's recognition of the territory, saying the move "is not a threat and not an act of hostility" toward neighboring countries.

Israel's move has sparked international backlash. Arab and African countries, along with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, issued a joint statement on Sunday condemning Israel's move as a grave violation of international law and the UN Charter.

Regional leaders, including the presidents of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Djibouti, have also reaffirmed their support for Somalia's territorial integrity.

The UN Security Council is expected to discuss Israel's recognition of Somaliland on Monday.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli settlers damage Palestinian properties in West Bank attack

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 5:42 PM

Illegal Israeli settlers have once more staged an attack on Palestinian properties, damaging homes in the occupied West Bank.

Local reports said on Sunday that the Israeli forces torched three vehicles and stole house doors in Palestinian properties in the West Bank.

A group of illegal Israeli settlers stormed two houses in Hawara town, south of Nablus in the northern West Bank, and spray-painted threatening messages on the walls. Two Palestinian vehicles were also torched.

The Wafa news agency reported that illegal Israeli settlers burned a third vehicle in the Al-Jaba town of Bethlehem in the southern West Bank.

In Turmus Aya town in northeastern Ramallah, Wafa reported, another group of illegal settlers also raided Palestinian properties and stole doors of houses under construction.

The Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission, an official advocacy body, has recorded 621 attacks by illegal Israeli settlers against Palestinians and their property in the occupied West Bank in November.

Official Palestinian data shows that by the end of 2024, the number of Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank had reached about 770,000 Zionists living in more than 180 illegal settlements and more than 250 settlement outposts.

In a landmark ruling last July, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared the Israeli regime's occupation of Palestinian territory illegal, and called for the evacuation of all settlements in the West Bank and East al-Quds.

The Israeli regime's "relentless" expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied territory has been condemned by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

The issue of illegal Israeli settlements "continues to fuel tensions, impede access by Palestinians to their land and threaten the viability of a fully independent, democratic, contiguous and sovereign Palestinian State," Guterres said earlier this month.

Despite the condemnations, the Israeli regime's war cabinet approved 19 more settlements in the West Bank.

"The proposal ... to declare and formalize 19 new settlements in Judea and Samaria has been approved by the cabinet," the regime said in a statement without specifying when the decision was made.

"We will continue to develop, build, and settle the land of our ancestral heritage, with faith in the justice of our path," said far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a vocal proponent of settlement expansion and a settler himself.

Israeli forces carried out mass arrests and forced dozens of families from their homes in the town of Qabatiya in the occupied West Bank.

Saturday was the second day of a sweeping military raid ordered by Israel's war minister, Israel Katz. He said he had ordered "a lockdown and a complete cordon" around Qabatiya.

Earlier, Israel's Army Radio reported that the town is subject to a "full curfew."

Local sources said on Saturday that the entrances to Qabatiya were sealed off while Israeli forces rounded up and interrogated dozens of residents.

Wafa reported that Israeli forces turned several Palestinian homes into military interrogation centers, displacing the residents.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hezbollah chief rejects disarmament as US-Israeli project to weaken Lebanon

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 5:02 PM

Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem has warned that Lebanon is facing a "historic turning point," where it must choose between yielding to "US-Israeli domination" or preserving its sovereignty through resistance.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the second anniversary of senior resistance commander Hajj Muhammad Hassan Yaghi, also known as Abou Salim, in the city of Baalbek on Sunday, Qassem said the United States and Israel are pursuing a project of "full guardianship" over Lebanon.

He also pointed out that the calls for Hezbollah's disarmament, now being presented as a "weapons monopoly," are part of a broader US-Israeli effort to weaken Lebanon and serve Israeli interests.

"Requesting a weapons monopoly while the Zionist regime continues to invade Lebanon means this demand is not in the best interest of Lebanon, but rather serves Israel," Qassem said.

He further accused the US of supporting corruption and undermining Lebanon's economy since 2019, while noting that Israeli aggression has persisted despite a 2024 agreement intended to halt hostilities.

Qassem also asserted that Hezbollah, in collaboration with other groups, the Lebanese army, and the public, has played a pivotal role in defending and "liberating" the country.

He described the cooperation between the army and the resistance as a "key pillar" of national security, adding that this coordination has greatly unsettled Hezbollah's adversaries.

The Hezbollah chief further criticized Israel for its failure to fulfill its commitments under the ceasefire framework, including ending violations and withdrawing from occupied Lebanese territory.

"No new action is expected from Lebanon unless the Israeli side first fulfills its commitments," Qassem said. "The era of unilateral demands from Lebanon is over."

Qassem firmly rejected any involvement of Lebanon as a "police force" for Israel, asserting the country's rights to its land, dignity, and sovereignty.

He also emphasized that Israel's withdrawal from occupied areas is "a necessity, not a privilege," and called for a complete cessation of air, land, and sea attacks, the release of prisoners, and the initiation of reconstruction in southern Lebanon.

Qassem further reaffirmed Hezbollah's strong alliance with the Amal Movement, describing it as "deep, stable, and unbreakable."

He also cautioned that the loss of southern Lebanon would pose a risk to the entire country.

Qassem further stressed that discussions regarding Lebanon's national security strategy can only commence after Israel complies with its obligations, affirming that Hezbollah and the resistance will persist in their path "with dignity, strength, and courage," despite the sacrifices.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran FM warns against enemies' plot to disintegrate Yemen, urges unity

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 2:31 PM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says all Yemeni parties and groups must engage in dialogue and interaction to neutralize the enemies' plot aimed at weakening and disintegrating Yemen.

Araghchi made the remarks in a phone conversation with Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Yemen's Government of Change and Construction, Abdulwahid Abu Ras, on Sunday.

He stressed the importance of preserving Yemen's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The top Iranian diplomat also hailed the Yemeni people's support for the oppressed Palestinian people and their resistance against the Israeli regime's acts of aggression.

Araghchi further welcomed the deal between the Ansarullah-led Yemeni government and the Saudi-backed secessionists on a prisoner swap that includes nearly 3,000 people in total.

"The solution to Yemen's problems is the complete lifting of the blockade, the implementation of other parts of the roadmap, and Yemeni-Yemeni dialogue aimed at forming an inclusive government based on preserving Yemen's unity and integrity," he emphasized.

Tensions in Yemen intensified on December 3 as the UAE-allied Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces seized control of Hadramout after clashes with Saudi-backed militants.

The STC subsequently extended its reach into the eastern governorate of al-Mahrah without encountering any reported resistance and has been recruiting local forces in both regions.

After the recent military expansion of the STC, Saudi Arabia carried out airstrikes on Friday, targeting STC positions. These included several sites used by the Hadrami Elite Forces in the Ghayl bin Yamin area near key oil fields. Reports indicate no casualties or damage to military equipment as a result of the strikes.

The STC said on Saturday that it is getting closer to declaring an independent state in the south.

"The south is approaching a decisive moment embodied by the declaration of a state, and this hope has become nearly complete," said Ali al-Kathiri, head of the STC's National Assembly.

During the phone call, Abu Ras briefed the Iranian foreign minister on the latest developments in southern Yemen.

He said enemies are conducting such measures to further destabilize the region, adding that these actions will only make the situation more complicated.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN Security Council, Arab League to hold emergency meetings on Israel's recognition of Somaliland

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 10:29 AM

The UN Security Council and the Arab League are going to hold separate meetings this week on the repercussions of Israel's formal recognition of the Somali breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state.

The Council of the Arab League is set to convene for an emergency meeting on Sunday at the regional organization's headquarters in Cairo.

The meeting comes in response to a request by Somalia's permanent representative to the Arab League, as part of collective Arab efforts to address what the Somali government has labeled an unprecedented action by Israel, deemed a clear violation of Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Israel's recognition of Somaliland has also raised concerns about the potential impact on stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.

The Arab League meeting is anticipated to discuss potential responses to the decision, focusing on collaboration with regional and international organizations.

It aims to reinforce the unwavering Arab stance supporting Somalia's unity and territorial integrity, while opposing any unilateral actions that might jeopardize regional stability.

The United Nations Security Council is set to hold a similar emergency session on Monday evening.

The meeting will be convened under the agenda item titled "Threats to international peace and security."

On Saturday, Somalia called on Israel to revoke its recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland, condemning the move as an act of "aggression that will never be tolerated."

Ali Omar, Somalia's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, stated that the government would utilize every possible diplomatic channel to contest what it views as an act of state aggression and unwarranted Israeli involvement in the nation's internal matters.

"This will never be acceptable or tolerable to our government and people who are united in defending our territorial integrity," Omar said. "Our government strongly advises [Israel] to rescind its divisive actions and abide by international law."

Omar explained that the strategic significance of the Horn of Africa was fueling foreign interference and attracting widespread interest.

"The importance of this region isn't new. It is still important for international trade today," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed on Friday that Israel and Somaliland have finalized a joint declaration to establish full diplomatic relations. He characterized the move as being aligned with the principles of the so-called Abraham Accords.

Somaliland proclaimed its independence from Somalia in 1991; however, it has not achieved formal recognition from any member state of the United Nations. The territory governs the northwestern segment of the area formerly known as the British Protectorate in northern Somalia.

Somalia has never accepted Somaliland's independence.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran, Qatar support Yemen's territorial integrity amid Saudi-Emirati clashes in south

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 9:53 AM

Iran's Foreign Minister and Qatar's Foreign Minister, who also serves as Prime Minister, have emphasized the importance of preserving Yemen's territorial integrity and unity amid escalating clashes in the south.

During a phone conversation, Abbas Araghchi and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani discussed regional developments as well as recent events in Yemen.

Tensions in Yemen intensified on December 3 as the UAE-allied Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces seized control of Hadramout after clashes with Saudi-backed militants.

The STC subsequently extended its reach into the eastern governorate of al-Mahrah without encountering any reported resistance and has been recruiting local forces in both regions.

After the recent military expansion of the STC, Saudi Arabia carried out airstrikes on Friday, targeting STC positions. These included several sites used by the Hadrami Elite Forces in the Ghayl bin Yamin area near key oil fields. Reports indicate no casualties or damage to military equipment as a result of the strikes.

The STC announced on Friday that it is open to collaboration or agreements aimed at protecting what it referred to as mutual interests with Saudi Arabia, while addressing the aspirations of the southern Yemeni population.

The UAE has been a pivotal partner in the US-supported, Saudi-led war against Yemen and the Ansarallah-led government in Sana'a, which began in 2015. At the same time, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi have been engaged in a rivalry for control over Yemen's resources and critical ports.

Critics argue that both countries are collaborating to divide Yemen in ways that align with their own agendas. They suggest that the push for local autonomy is merely a facade, concealing a deeper quest for influence, with Hadramout becoming a focal point of this competitive power struggle.

In addition to Yemen, the ministers expressed concern over the situation in Palestine and Lebanon, citing continued Israeli attacks and violations of ceasefire agreements.

They underlined the need for international pressure on Israel to halt actions targeting civilians and to adhere to its commitments.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Replacing Ineffective UN on Peacemaking - Trump

Sputnik News

20251228

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The United States is replacing the United Nations with settlement efforts, as this organization offers no help in peacemaking, US President Donald Trump said on Sunday.

"I am pleased to announce that the breakout fighting between Thailand and Cambodia will stop momentarily, and they will go back to living in PEACE, as per our recently agreed to original Treaty ... perhaps the United States has become the REAL United Nations, which has been of very little assistance," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The UN did not help in resolving any conflict, including the one between Russia and Ukraine, he said.

"The United Nations must start getting active and involved in WORLD PEACE!" Trump said.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Venezuela Reaffirms Support for Somalia's Sovereignty

Sputnik News

20251228

The Venezuelan government rejected Israel's move to recognize Somaliland and backed Somalia's unity and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, Foreign Minister Yvan Gil said in a statement on Telegram.

"Venezuela adheres to and supports the UN Security Council resolutions and the African Union decisions that uphold the territorial integrity of Somalia," the statement said.

Caracas "categorically rejects any unilateral action aimed at recognizing separatist entities within Somali territory," calling such steps a "flagrant violation of international law," it added.

The Arab League and the African Union also denounced Tel Aviv's move, which took place on December 26.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Central African Republic - Presidential Election - 28 December 2025

The Central African Republic (CAR)held presidential, legislative, and local elections on 28 December 2025, with President Faustin-Archange Touadera widely expected to secure a third term in office through a process many observers characterized as fundamentally compromised. President Touadera sought a third term as the chronically unstable country holds national elections, touting security gains made with the help of Russian mercenaries and Rwandan soldiers. The 68-year-old mathematician oversaw a constitutional referendum in 2023 that scrapped the presidential term limit, drawing an outcry from his critics. A Touadera victory  the expected outcome  would likely further the interests of Russia, which has traded security assistance for access to resources, including gold and diamonds.

Russian military involvement constitutes a defining feature of the current political landscape. Wagner Group mercenaries, operating in the country since approximately 2018, control strategic mining operations including the Ndassima gold mine and maintain checkpoints that restrict movement outside Bangui. Despite the August 2023 death of Wagner founder Yevgeniy Prigozhin, the group's presence has not diminished. In November 2024, President Touadera indicated discussions with Moscow about potentially replacing Wagner with the Kremlin-controlled Afrika Korps, though concerns about higher costs and weaker combat performance have reportedly generated resistance. The United Arab Emirates may finance this transition, aligning with Abu Dhabi's strategy to position itself as a key Central African Republic partner and potentially using the country's northeast to support Sudan's Rapid Support Forces. This foreign military presence significantly constrains national sovereignty and shapes domestic political dynamics.

The elections marked a critical juncture in the country's political evolution, representing the first presidential contest since Touadera manipulated constitutional provisions to eliminate term limits and the first opportunity for voters to render judgment on nearly a decade of governance increasingly dependent on Russian military support. The campaign unfolded against a backdrop of Russian paramilitary presence, opposition suppression, and international concern about democratic backsliding in one of Africa's poorest and most unstable nations.

Touadera's path to seeking a third term required substantial constitutional engineering. After winning election in 2016 during a bloody civil war and securing reelection in 2020 amid rebel attacks and fraud allegations, Touadera confronted traditional two-term limits that would have ended his presidency. His United Hearts Movement party initiated constitutional revision efforts in 2022, prompting Constitutional Court President Daniele Darlan to rule the referendum process unconstitutional in September 2022. Touadera responded by dismissing Darlan through presidential decree in October 2022 and replacing her with a more compliant jurist. The revised constitution, approved by referendum in July 2023 and adopted in August 2023, removed presidential term limits entirely, extended presidential terms from five to seven years, created an appointed vice presidential position, and introduced restrictive nationality requirements limiting candidacy to individuals holding only Central African citizenship. This final provision became a weapon against opposition candidates, particularly dual nationals with historical connections to France.

The Constitutional Court approved seven candidates on 14 November 2025 after rejecting three aspirants. Beyond Touadera representing the United Hearts Movement, the approved candidates included Anicet-Georges Dologuele of the Union for Central African Renewal, former Prime Minister Henri-Marie Dondra, Serge Djorie of the Collective for Political Change, civil engineer Eddy Symphorien Kparekouti, and two additional candidates. Dologuele, who finished second in the 2020 presidential race, faced particular harassment under the new constitutional framework. Despite renouncing his French citizenship to comply with single-nationality requirements, authorities stripped him of his Central African passport in October 2025, prompting a complaint to the United Nations human rights office. He and Dondra were prevented from flying to provincial areas to conduct campaign rallies, limiting them to neighborhood walkabouts and events in schools or party offices while Touadera commanded large stadium rallies in Bangui. The 68-year-old incumbent concluded his campaign before an enthusiastic crowd in a 20,000-seat stadium, with his image flooding the capital through neon signs, giant portraits, and ubiquitous campaign materials.

Approximately 2.3 million voters were eligible to participate in selecting presidential, legislative, and municipal representatives when polling stations opened at 5:00 AM GMT and closed at 5:00 PM GMT on 28 December 2025. The simultaneous conduct of presidential and local elections represented a significant development, as local polls had not occurred in 40 years. However, budget shortfalls plagued electoral preparations, with only $4.8 million of the required $14.8 million secured by October 2024. The National Elections Authority conducted biometric voter registration in November and December 2024 despite logistical constraints and security challenges in conflict-affected areas. Much of the opposition called for boycotting elections they characterized as a sham designed to legitimize Touadera's authoritarian consolidation. Political scientist Paul Crescent Beninga observed that orchestrated rallies occurred throughout the country to manufacture impressions of widespread Touadera support, while many voters remained skeptical about electoral transparency and the value of participation.

Russian military involvement constitutes the defining feature of Touadera's tenure and the 2025 electoral context. The Wagner Group, the Russian paramilitary organization operating as a private military company while functioning effectively as an extension of Russian state power, deployed to the Central African Republic in 2018 with an estimated 1,000 mercenaries providing security for Touadera's government amid ongoing civil conflict. Wagner's presence proved decisive during the 2020-2021 electoral crisis when rebel groups launched attacks attempting to prevent Touadera's reelection and overthrow the government. Five days before the December 2020 election, rebels captured Bambari, the country's fourth-largest city. Russia dispatched an additional 300 military instructors while Rwanda bolstered its peacekeeping contingent. Russian and Rwandan mercenaries deployed alongside government forces, recapturing Bambari and subsequently securing strategic towns including Bossembele, Bouar, Beloko, and Bossangoa throughout February 2021. This intervention ensured Touadera's survival and cemented Russian influence over Central African political affairs.

Wagner's operations extended far beyond conventional security provision. The paramilitary organization established what analysts characterized as a blueprint for state capture, supporting what The Sentry described in a 2023 report as a criminalized state hijacked by Touadera and his inner circle. Russian-linked companies obtained mining concessions for gold and diamonds, exploiting natural resources in a country where nearly 70 percent of the population lives in extreme poverty. Wagner forces controlled strategic checkpoints restricting movement outside Bangui, participated in mining and logging operations, provided customs services, and integrated themselves into virtually every aspect of state function. Russian personnel served in Touadera's personal guard and as presidential advisors, exercising influence over policy decisions at the highest levels. Russia obtained access to strategic military facilities, with reports in mid-2024 indicating plans to refurbish a military base capable of hosting up to 10,000 Russian personnel as a regional hub for operations across Africa.

Human rights organizations documented systematic abuses by Russian forces operating in the Central African Republic. Between 2018 and 2024, Russian troops participated in more than 100 armed confrontations and committed over 362 incidents of violence against civilians, resulting in at least 786 fatalities according to Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project tracking. Human Rights Watch documented in 2022 that Russian mercenaries engaged in extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary detention, and widespread human rights violations. In February 2024, the National Commission on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms reported that Russian forces fired at inmates at a prison in Bambari, killing two and injuring two others. Victims described brutal tactics including beatings, theft of property, destruction of homes, and arbitrary executions. In August 2024, Russian mercenaries accompanied by Central African forces conducted operations in Mbaiki, beating civilians and looting shops while demanding information about weapons caches. Jelena Aparac, former head of the UN working group on mercenaries, observed that the number of Wagner human rights abuse victims continues increasing without coordinated investigations or effective accountability.

The transition from Wagner Group to Afrika Korps represented an evolving phase of Russian involvement. Following Wagner founder Yevgeniy Prigozhin's death in an August 2023 plane crash two months after his failed rebellion against Russian military leadership, the Kremlin restructured Wagner operations under direct Defense Ministry control through the newly created Africa Corps. Russia's deputy defense minister visited the Central African Republic multiple times in early 2025 requesting transition from Wagner to Africa Corps and demanding payment for continued security services. Central African military officials expressed reluctance, believing privately-operated Wagner would prove more effective than state-controlled Africa Corps. They noted Wagner's operational connections with officers, feared reputation, and resource advantages. Nevertheless, in November 2024, President Touadera indicated discussions with Moscow about potentially implementing the Africa Corps transition, with the United Arab Emirates possibly financing the arrangement as part of Abu Dhabi's strategy to position itself as a key Central African partner.

The December 2025 election occurred with significant Russian military, police, and Wagner Group mercenary deployments visible throughout Bangui. This security presence served dual purposes of protecting Touadera while intimidating opposition supporters and creating an atmosphere inhospitable to free political expression. The campaign proceeded without major violent incidents, though the structural barriers preventing opposition candidates from campaigning freely in provincial areas and the pervasive climate of fear generated by years of Russian-backed repression fundamentally compromised electoral integrity. International observers raised concerns about institutional readiness, incomplete voter rolls, closure of registration centers in conflict zones, and the broader political environment created by the 2023 constitutional referendum and systematic opposition suppression. The election represented less a genuine democratic exercise than a ritualistic legitimization of Touadera's continued rule backed by Russian military power, resource extraction arrangements, and authoritarian governance structures that have transformed the Central African Republic into a Russian client state dependent on Moscow's security guarantees for regime survival.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Guinea - Politics - 28 December 2025 Election

Guinea votes on Sunday 28 December 2025 in a presidential election widely expected to hand Mamady Doumbouya, who seized power in a 2021 coup, a seven-year mandate, completing the West African nations transition back to civilian rule. The former special forces commander, believed to be in his early 40s, faces eight other candidates in a fragmented field with no strong challenger. Ousted president Alpha Conde and long-time opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo remained in exile. Guinea holds the world's largest bauxite reserves and the richest untapped iron ore deposit at Simandou, officially launched in November 2025 after years of delay.

Guinea held its first presidential election since the September 2021 military coup on December 28, 2025, with approximately 6.7 million registered voters casting ballots at 23,662 polling stations across the West African nation. The election represents the culmination of a four-year transition process following General Mamady Doumbouya's overthrow of President Alpha Conde, though the vote's legitimacy remains deeply contested. International observers, opposition parties, and civil society organizations have characterized the election as a carefully orchestrated exercise designed to provide democratic veneer to what amounts to a military power grab. With key opposition figures barred from participation, major political parties dissolved, and the campaign period marked by severe restrictions on media freedom and political assembly, Doumbouya's victory appears preordained rather than contested. The 41-year-old former special forces commander, recognizable by his signature wraparound sunglasses, is widely expected to secure an overwhelming first-round victory that will transform his military rule into a seven-year presidential term.

The election follows a constitutional referendum held in September 2025 that fundamentally restructured Guinea's political system in ways that favor the incumbent junta leader. The new constitution, approved by more than 90 percent of voters in a referendum that saw 87 percent turnout, removed the prohibition on military leaders seeking elected office, extended the presidential mandate from five to seven years, and created a senate with one-third of members appointed by the president. These changes effectively dismantled the constitutional barriers that might have prevented Doumbouya from standing as a candidate. Opposition parties called for a boycott of the referendum and have characterized the entire electoral process as illegitimate, arguing that Doumbouya positioned himself as both organizer and beneficiary of the transition process. The referendum result served as a test of the junta's ability to mobilize voters and demonstrated that Doumbouya commands sufficient control over Guinea's political landscape to engineer outcomes favorable to his continued rule.

Nine candidates ultimately qualified for the presidential ballot following a vetting process conducted by Guinea's Supreme Court that disqualified several prominent opposition figures on technical grounds. Former Prime Minister Lansana Kouyate and former government minister Ousmane Kaba were among those barred from standing, decisions that provoked anger from their supporters and intensified opposition claims that the candidate selection process was politically manipulated. The two most prominent opposition candidates permitted to run are Abdoulaye Yero Balde, leader of the Democratic Front of Guinea, and Faya Lansana Millimono of the Liberal Bloc party. Balde, a 60-year-old economist with degrees from the Sorbonne and Columbia University, served as central bank vice-governor and higher education minister under Alpha Conde before breaking with the former president in 2020 to oppose his bid for a third term. As a member of the Fulani ethnic group, Guinea's largest, Balde potentially appeals to the same constituency that previously supported longtime opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo, who remains in exile and did not contest the election. Analysts consider Balde the strongest opposition contender capable of capturing a significant share of votes cast against the incumbent.

Faya Lansana Millimono, 63, represents a more complicated political trajectory that reflects the broader challenges facing Guinea's opposition. A PhD holder in Educational Administration from the University of Montreal, Millimono initially supported Doumbouya's junta following the 2021 coup, a position that strained his relationships with more established opposition parties. He subsequently became a critic as Doumbouya signaled his intention to renege on promises not to seek election, toughening his stance as the junta leader's political ambitions became clear. Millimono's limited appeal was demonstrated in the 2015 presidential election when he secured approximately 1.4 percent of the vote against Alpha Conde. The candidate field also includes Makale Camara, the only female candidate, who served as foreign minister from 2016 to 2017 and has campaigned on promises of better access to water and electricity while advocating economic diversification beyond mining. Ibrahima Abe Sylla, 74, a former member of parliament before the National Assembly's dissolution in 2021, briefly served as energy minister under Doumbouya. The remaining candidates represent minor parties with limited political bases.

The most significant opposition figures have been systematically excluded from the political process through a combination of exile, detention, and party dissolution. Alpha Conde, the octogenarian president overthrown in the 2021 coup, lives in exile following his removal from power. Cellou Dalein Diallo, longtime opposition leader of the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea who served as Conde's principal challenger in previous elections, similarly remains in exile and has condemned the December 28 vote as an electoral charade designed to legitimize the planned confiscation of power. The military junta dissolved many political parties in 2024 and suspended the three main opposition parties ahead of the September constitutional referendum, effectively decapitating organized political opposition. Civil society groups have documented a climate of fear characterized by the banning of protests, restrictions on press freedom, and constraints on opposition political activity. United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stated on December 27 that the campaign period had been severely restricted and marked by intimidation of opposition actors, apparently politically motivated enforced disappearances, and constraints on media freedom, conditions that risk undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

Doumbouya's rise to power began with the September 5, 2021 coup that deposed Alpha Conde following months of political tension and mass protests. Conde had manipulated Guinea's constitution to eliminate term limits and secure election to a third term in October 2020, a move that triggered widespread demonstrations and violent clashes between protesters and security forces. Doumbouya, who commanded Guinea's special forces and previously served in the French Foreign Legion, justified the coup by promising to end political chaos and return the country to democratic rule within 18 months. The Economic Community of West African States imposed sanctions and demanded a rapid transition timeline, but Doumbouya repeatedly missed deadlines for restoration of civilian governance. ECOWAS maintained pressure on Guinea while avoiding the harsh criticism directed at neighboring Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, three countries that experienced coups during the same period and subsequently withdrew from the regional bloc to form the Alliance of Sahel States. Guinea remains the only West African country governed under military rule that maintains ECOWAS membership, a status that provides Doumbouya with greater international legitimacy than his counterparts in the breakaway Sahel states.

The election occurs against a backdrop of significant economic developments centered on Guinea's vast mineral resources. The country holds the world's largest bauxite reserves and serves as the leading global exporter of the aluminum ore. More critically, Guinea possesses the world's richest untapped iron ore deposit at Simandou in the remote highlands. The Simandou project, in which Chinese and Australian firms hold stakes, officially launched in December 2025 following years of delays, with the first shipment leaving for China after completion of a newly constructed railway connecting the mine to the port of Conakry. Doumbouya has claimed credit for advancing the Simandou project and has made it the centerpiece of his economic program, arguing that revenues from iron ore exports will bankroll infrastructure development and provide employment opportunities. His government this year revoked Emirates Global Aluminium subsidiary Guinea Alumina Corporation's operating license following a refinery dispute, transferring the company's assets to a state-owned firm in a move critics characterize as economic nationalism that may deter foreign investment outside the extractive sector.

Despite Guinea's mineral wealth, more than half of the country's 15 million population lives in poverty according to World Bank figures, with record levels of food insecurity reported by the World Food Program. Literacy rates remain low and approximately half of the working population lacks formal employment according to International Labour Organization data. The disconnect between resource abundance and widespread poverty has fueled popular frustration that successive governments have failed to translate mineral extraction into broad-based development. Young unemployed voters express hope that the election will improve living standards and create job opportunities, though skepticism remains widespread. One voter in Conakry told journalists that this marked his third election in Guinea and nothing had changed, while an 18-year-old university graduate forced to survive through odd jobs after five years of unemployment expressed hope that the vote would improve quality of life. These testimonies reflect the economic desperation that pervades Guinea despite GDP growth estimated at 7.5 percent in 2025, driven primarily by mining sector expansion that generates limited employment for the broader population.

Provisional results could be announced within two days of the December 28 vote according to Djenabou Toure, head of the General Directorate of Elections created by the junta in June 2025 specifically to oversee the electoral process. The African Union deployed an Election Observation Mission led by former Burundian President Domitien Ndayizeye, which arrived on December 20 and will issue a preliminary statement on December 30 before publishing a comprehensive final report within one month of the announcement of official results. International observation, however, cannot overcome the fundamental legitimacy deficit created by the exclusion of major opposition parties, the detention and exile of political leaders, media restrictions, and the constitutional manipulation that enabled Doumbouya's candidacy. Gilles Yabi, founder of the West African think tank Wathi, observed that under Doumbouya, Guinea has effectively reverted to what it has essentially known since independence in 1958: authoritarian regimes, whether civilian or military. The December 28 election represents not a democratic transition but rather a legitimization ritual designed to transform military rule into elected authoritarianism, extending the pattern of governance that has characterized Guinea throughout its post-colonial history and dashing the hopes raised by Alpha Conde's election in 2010 as the country's first freely elected president.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kosovo - Politics

Kosovo voted 28 December 2025 to elect a new parliament for the second time in 11 months, as nationalist Prime Minister Albin Kurtis party seeks a majority to end a yearlong political deadlock. Polls opened at 7am local time (06:00 GMT) and will close at 7pm (18:00 GMT) on Sunday, with exit polls expected soon after votingends.

The snap parliamentary vote was called after Prime Minister Albin Kurtis Self-Determination Movement (LVV) party failed to form a government despite winning the most votes at a February 9 ballot. Failure to form a government and reopen parliament would prolong the crisis at a critical time. Lawmakers must elect a new president in April and ratify 1 billion euros ($1.2bn) in loan agreements from the European Union and World Bank that expire ?in the coming months. The Balkan countrys opposition parties have refused to govern with Kurti, criticising his handling of ties with Western allies and his approach to Kosovos ethnically divided north, where a Serb minority lives.

Despite international support, the country of 1.6 million has struggled with poverty, instability and organised crime. Kurtis tenure, which beganin 2021, was the first time a Pristina government completed a full term. To woo voters, Kurti has pledged an additional month of salary per year for public sector workers, 1 billion euros per year in capital investment and a new prosecution unit to fight organised crime. Opposition parties also promised to focus on improving living standards.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti's Vetevendosje (Self-Determination Movement) party sought an outright majority to govern independently after failed coalition negotiations following February 2025 elections left Kosovo without a functioning parliament for most of the year. The election occurred against a backdrop of strained relations with Western allies, unratified international loan agreements totaling one billion euros, institutional paralysis, and mounting economic pressures in one of Europe's poorest countries.

President Osmani dissolved parliament in November 2025 and set 28 December as the date for snap elections after concluding that the political deadlock had become intractable through negotiation. Twenty-four parties and coalitions competed, with more than 1,000 candidates seeking the 120 Assembly seats distributed through proportional representation with a five-percent threshold for individual parties. Twenty seats were reserved for national minorities including ten for Serbs, four for Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities, three for Bosniaks, two for Turks, and one for Gorani. Vetevendosje campaigned on promises to exceed 50 percent of the vote to govern independently, avoiding coalition negotiations that proved impossible after February. Kurti pledged an additional month of salary annually for public sector workers, one billion euros yearly in capital investment, and creation of a new prosecution unit targeting organized crime. Opposition parties promised to prevent formation of another Kurti government while focusing campaign messaging on improving living standards and repairing relations with Western allies.

Kosovo's political crisis unfolded against complex background conditions affecting the country's domestic stability and international position. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 with United States backing following NATO's 1999 bombing campaign against Serbian forces attempting to crush an uprising by Kosovo's 90 percent ethnic Albanian majority. Despite international recognition and support, Kosovo has struggled with poverty, political instability, organized crime, and incomplete state building. Kurti's tenure beginning in 2021 represented the first time a Pristina government completed a full four-year term without collapse, though his confrontational approach generated tensions. Relations with Serbia deteriorated sharply in 2023 over disputes regarding ethnic Serb municipalities in northern Kosovo, prompting the European Union to impose sanctions on Kosovo that were lifted in December 2025 after ethnic Serb mayors were elected in northern municipalities. However, the sanctions likely cost Kosovo hundreds of millions of euros in economic damage during their enforcement period.

Opposition parties criticized Kurti's handling of relations with Western allies, particularly the United States and European Union, characterizing his approach as unnecessarily provocative and damaging to Kosovo's international standing. During the February campaign, U.S. special envoy Richard Grenell publicly called Kurti an unreliable partner of the United States, an extraordinary intervention in domestic Kosovo politics that reflected Washington's frustration with Kurti's policies. European Union election observers characterized the February vote as peaceful and competitive but criticized harsh rhetoric reflecting deep political divisions, the Belgrade-backed Serb List party's pressure on voters dependent on Serbian social assistance or employment in Serbia-managed institutions, and Vetevendosje's attempts to prevent Serb List from competing while engaging in harsh anti-Serb rhetoric. These international tensions contributed to opposition parties' refusal to enable Kurti's continued governance.

Voter sentiment reflected frustration with Kosovo's political class broadly rather than enthusiasm for particular alternatives. Opinion polls are not published in Kosovo, leaving the outcome uncertain as voting concluded. Some voters expressed pessimism about prospects for meaningful change regardless of results. One doctor told reporters there would be no great joy whether Kurti won or opposition prevailed, stating the country needs drastic changes not visible from any party. Exit polls were expected shortly after polls closed at 7:00 PM, with final results to follow. The central question remained whether Vetevendosje could achieve the majority that eluded it in February or whether Kosovo faced continuation of political deadlock with potentially severe consequences for economic development, international financing, and institutional stability.

Background

Kosovo has a single national parliament (Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo) with 120 members, including seats reserved for minorities (Serbs, Bosniaks, Turks, etc.). The political landscape in the last four years had been shaped by the government of Levizja Vetevendosje (LVV) and Prime Minister Albin Kurti, while the main political parties in opposition, Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) and Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK-NISMA) managed to maintain their strong standing in the municipalities following the 2021 local elections.

Kosovos media landscape was vibrant and diverse, but faces significant challenges, including deep ethnic divisions and financial constraints. The sector remained highly fragmented, with Albanian and Serbian communities primarily engaging with separate outlets, and only limited efforts made to foster cross-community dialogue. Additionally, some private media outlets showed signs of politicisation, and their ownership structures are not fully transparent. While constitutional protections uphold media freedoms, concerns remain over the challenges faced by the public broadcaster, including a dysfunctional board, issues with editorial independence, property disputes, budgetary constraints and human resource challenges. These limitations were especially evident at RTK2, the broadcasters Serbian-language channel. During the February 2025 election campaign, due to its governance deadlock, the IMC failed to enforce its regulatory oversight to impose sanctions, thus created a situation of prolonged uncertainty for media organisations. Nevertheless, the public broadcaster, RTK, provided largely equitable coverage of key electoral contestants on its main Albanian-language channel, reflecting a commitment to balanced reporting.

Kosovos internet penetration rate is estimated at over 95 per cent and around half the population is present on social media platforms. Facebook and Instagram are the most popular platforms, with over 800,000 and 600,000 users respectively. TikTok is a close third, with a growing number of users, surpassing 500,000. X has a small user base in Kosovo, but it is popular among journalists, politicians, and commentators, mostly to engage with international audiences. TV remains the main source of information for Kosovars (82 per cent of Kosovars), followed by social media (65 per cent) and online news portals (45 per cent). The COVID-19 pandemic led to the closure of all print media in Kosovo and news outlets have increasingly turned to social media to reach their audiences. Similar to traditional media, the Albanian and Serbian communities mostly inhabit different informational spheres, where events are often interpreted from an ethnic perspective. Topics that gain a lot of attention from one community are at times absent or only marginally mentioned in the social media bubble of the other.

09 February 2025

On 09 February 2025, parliamentary elections were held in Kosovo, where the election campaign started on January 11. The 09 February 2025 parliamentary elections were the first to take place under a new electoral law, Kosovo was a parliamentary democracy. The constitution and laws provide for an elected unicameral parliament, the Assembly, which in turn elects a president, whose choice of prime minister the Assembly must approve. Civilian authorities maintained effective control of the security forces.

Human rights issues included refoulement; endemic government corruption; crimes involving violence or threats of violence against journalists; and attacks against members of ethnic minorities or other marginalized communities, including by security forces. The government sometimes took steps to prosecute and punish officials who committed abuses in the security services or elsewhere in the government. Many in the government, the opposition, civil society, and the media believed that senior officials engaged in corruption with impunity.

NATO and the European Union beefed up their resources in Kosovo amid rising tension in the Balkan nation ahead of February 9 parliamentary elections. The Western military alliance said it had sent 200 additional Italian soldiers to bolster the NATO-led KFOR peacekeeping mission, which had been in the country since 1999 and now had some 4,000 troops, down from a peak of 50,000. "Today, Italian troops from KFOR's reserves completed their arrival...reinforcing KFOR's presence in Kosovo," a statement said. The "Italian mechanized infantry brigade 'Sassari,' will carry out a range of activities, together with KFOR troops." It said the force "will be deployed in response to any relevant developments in the security situation including during the election period."

Separately, the EU said an election observation mission had been established to oversee the parliamentary vote. The High Representative had appointed Nathalie Loiseau, Member of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer.

The election observation missions to Kosovo, at the request of its authorities, will demonstrate the EUs resolute support for Kosovo in its efforts to further strengthen its democratic governance. The missions presence on the ground was aimed at contributing to an inclusive, credible and transparent election process allowing Kosovo voters to clearly express their choices.

An EU election follow-up mission (EFM) was deployed to Kosovo from 14 November to 8 December 2022. The main objectives of the mission were to assess the status of the implementation of the recommendations of the EU election observation missions (EOM) as well as to discuss further steps to advance the electoral reform process. This was the first EU EFM ever deployed to Kosovo. Since 2013, the EU observed all elections in Kosovo and offered a number of recommendations for improvements in the electoral framework. However, through 2022, there seemed to be no noticeable progress in implementing those recommendations, partially due to the lack of political will to proceed with an efficient follow-up process, and also because of the unstable government coalitions and frequency of early elections in Kosovo.

Civil society organisations expressed, however, their discontent regarding the scope of planned reforms as they will focus on addressing mainly EU recommendations, all of which touch upon technical issues thus not addressing the long-standing concerns of civil society that would require constitutional amendments, such as the direct election of the president of Kosovo, the number of preferential votes for the members to the Kosovo Assembly or introduction of non-partisan composition of election administration bodies..

Political parties in Kosovo used state resources to campaign. Dozens of cases were identified in the first week of the election campaign alone. Organizations monitoring this process said that official vehicles, public institution spaces, and even cases where civil servants are present at public gatherings, even during working hours, were being used. In some organizations of the ruling party there was a presence of official vehicles and public servants, but also in cases or activities organized by opposition parties such as PDK, LDK, AAK, especially in municipalities governed by these parties.

"With our government, the era of illegal institutions in Kosovo Serbia ends." This was what Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said 24 January 2025 during a rally in Llabjan, Artana. "Those others had made Kosovo, as a budget, as a territory, and as institutions, into pieces. And they themselves are in pieces. Don't mess with them at all. So finally, in our government, that thesis that was possible had come to an end, both bargaining with Serbian structures and working for the Republic of Kosovo. It was not possible to bargain with Serbian structures and commit to an independent state. These two things exclude each other. When you commit to an independent state, you fight the structures of Serbia. Our people have a very good expression: He who can be left-handed with two pumpkins under one armpit, also had a third pumpkin on his neck ," Kurti said.

The 2025 parliamentary elections in Kosovo were peaceful and competitive, taking place under a new legal framework aimed at enhancing transparency and trust. Election day was generally wellrun, yet, critical parts of the process were affected by poor organisation by the Central Election Commission (CEC), also causing critical delays in the announcement of polling station and final results. The campaign was dynamic, albeit marred by harsh rhetoric and misuse of public resources. Positively, the Election Complaints and Appeals Panel (ECAP) dealt swiftly with a significant number of cases, resulting in substantial fines for violations of the Code of Conduct for Political Entities. In Kosovo Serb-majority areas, social conditions remain dire, creating room for Serbia and Srpska Lista (SL) to exert undue pressure on voters. Although media freedom was widely recognised, the Independent Media Commissions (IMC) paralysis in the weeks before election day left media violations unaddressed. Nevertheless, voters and key actors in the process demonstrated resilience and a strong commitment to democratic principles.

The elections were conducted following a full governmental term under Prime Minister Albin Kurtis Levizja Vetevendosje (LVV), during which opposition parties maintained strong municipal positions. The Government faced criticism for political polarisation and strained relations with the Kosovo Serb community. The election process witnessed attempts of politicisation of key institutions by the ruling party, particularly of the CEC and the IMC. The CEC became entangled in political disputes and politicised certain technical aspects of the electoral process. The attempt by LVV-nominated members of the CEC to prevent the certification of SL and the blocking of the disbursement of public funding to political parties placed significant pressure on the institution.

The 2025 parliamentary elections were the first to be held under the Law on General Elections (LGE), adopted in 2023, that introduced a number of novelties aiming to increase stakeholders trust and enhance the effectiveness and transparency of the electoral process. The legal framework lays a sound basis for conducting democratic elections in line with international standards. However, the implementation of the new legal framework underscored aspects of the law that warrant further clarification to mitigate potential ambiguities and reinforce legal certainty.

It was striking that, despite ample prior notice, the implementation of the new electoral law and the overall election organisation suffered from inadequate preparation. A significant number of cases were submitted to ECAP, also leading to the imposition of substantial fines for violations of the code of conduct. The law provides clear timelines and well-defined procedures for handling electoral disputes. However, the process could be enhanced with additional clarity. During the electoral process, a few cases reached the Supreme Court, with most judgments upholding ECAP decisions.

The campaign was vibrant with no major incidents. However, negative rhetoric, harsh verbal attacks and inflammatory language were widespread during campaign events. In addition, the campaign was subject to foreign interference from Serbia and the United States administration. Women candidates were subject to sexist verbal attacks, had fewer resources than their male counterparts, and attracted less media coverage. No meaningful debates were held between leading candidates. EU EOM observers and interlocutors reported instances of misuse of public resources by several political entities during the campaign, with some cases resulting in sanctions. The absence of strong monitoring mechanisms raises concerns about the effectiveness of campaign finance regulation. The political landscape in the Kosovo Serb community was marked by a perceived increase of political pluralism, with six political entities contesting the elections. However, SL remained dominant within the Kosovo Serb community, receiving endorsement from the President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic and relying on the Serbian media and small Kosovo Serb media outlets for its campaign. Additionally, pressure on voters, dependent on Serbian social assistance and employment, was reported. In general, the Kosovo Serb-majority municipalities saw a relatively subdued campaign compared to other municipalities.

Election coverage was dominated by partisan attacks, allegations of media bias and a lack of opportunities to compare candidates directly on major TV channels, further exacerbated by LVVs boycott of three prominent private media outlets. While broadcasters offered election debates, failed to host policy-driven discussions, reflecting a weak debate culture among political contestants that limited voters ability to evaluate party programmes. Legal provisions contributed towards a level playing field by regulating paid airtime and ensuring a minimum allocation of free airtime when paid coverage was utilised.

Campaigning online mirrored the aggressive tone of the public debates and rallies, but lacked substance, particularly in the first half of the campaign period. All political parties contesting the elections and over half of the candidates campaigned on social media, mostly on Facebook and Instagram. The harsh tone of the campaign was reflected on social media through videos of campaign events, which constituted a large part of the content posted by parties and candidates. The election-day silence was broken by several posts and ads, some of which resulting in sanctions by ECAP. Over 250,000 was spent on promoting more than 7,000 election-related ads on Facebook and Instagram, including ads from third parties.

The Government had been criticised for contributing to the polarisation of the political landscape with Kosovo Albanian opposition parties and hindering the normalisation process with the Kosovo Serb community, which remains heavily influenced by Serbia. The affirmation of Kosovos sovereignty had been a key focus of the ruling partys policies and initiatives. Sovereignty also emerged as a key campaign theme for LVV, encapsulated in its main slogan From corner to corner. The LVV-led attempt to prevent the certification of Serbia-affiliated Srpska Lista (SL) was followed by intensified rhetoric aimed at delegitimising SLs participation in the elections, with LVV linking SL and Belgrade to the terrorist attack in Banjska in September 2023. A large-scale operation followed on 15 January 2025 by Kosovo authorities to dismantle Serbia-operated structures in 24 locations across municipalities south of the Ibar/Iber river. The international community criticised those actions as not conducive to the normalisation process of the EUfacilitated Dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade.

The election process witnessed politicisation of key institutions by the ruling party, particularly the Central Election Commission (CEC) and the Independent Media Commission (IMC). The CEC became entangled in political disputes and politicised certain technical aspects of the electoral process. The attempt by LVV-nominated members of the CEC to prevent the certification of SL, and the blocking of the disbursement of public funding to political parties, placed significant pressure on the CEC.

The participation in the elections of six Kosovo Serb political parties was seen as a positive development, leading to a perception of increased political pluralism in the community. In total six Kosovo Serb political parties contested the election, including SL, For Freedom Justice and Survival (SPO), Serbian National Movement (SNP), Party of Kosovo Serbs (PKS), Citizen Initiative National Justice (GINP) and Serbian Democracy (SD). However, SL continued to dominate the political landscape in the Kosovo Serb community, with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic endorsing SL and repeatedly urging Kosovo Serbs to vote in large numbers for their candidates.

Candidates reported enjoying freedom of assembly, expression and movement throughout the campaign. The main Kosovo Albanian political entities, including LVV, LDK, PDK, AAKNISMA and the Coalition for Family, campaigned across Kosovo, and some sporadically in the north. LVV, LDK and PDK organised most of the large-scale campaign rallies. Door-to-door activities and small gatherings targeting specific groups of voters were the most frequent campaign methods used by all contestants. The main campaign topics were economic development, education, NATO and EU memberships, judicial reform and social welfare, with LVV distinctively focusing on the sovereignty of Kosovo. For Kosovo Serb contestants, the main campaign messages were the security and protection of the rights of Serbs within Kosovo.

Most parties engaged in dynamic online campaigning, with Facebook as the primary platform, followed by Instagram and TikTok. Online campaigning mirrored the harsh tone of rallies and debates, with videos from campaign events forming a large part of the content posted.

Although the election campaign was vibrant with no serious incidents reported, it was marked by negative and inflammatory language and harsh verbal attacks on opponents, often by LVV, LDK, PDK and AAK-NISMA, at public events, debates and online. In addition, interference in the campaign was observed by the United States envoy for special missions, Richard Grenell, criticising Prime Minister Albin Kurti for not being a reliable partner to the United States. The Coalition for Familys campaign messages denigrated the LGBT+ community and promoted traditional gender roles in society, sometimes inciting hatred. In the last weeks of the campaign, harsh rhetoric and personal attacks intensified, leading to numerous complaints filed with ECAP regarding campaign language.

Kosovos ruling party, LVV, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, secured 48 seats, falling short of an outright majority. PDK obtained 24 seats followed by LDK with 20 seats and AAKNISMA with eight seats. SL secured nine out of 10 reserved seats for the Kosovo Serb community while one seat went to SPO. Of the 10 seats guaranteed for non-majority communities, KDTP obtained two seats while the IRDK, NDS, VAKAT, PREBK, SDU, PLE, PAI and JGP all got one seat. LVV and SL guaranteed the women representation without the need to apply gender quota with respectively 46 per cent and 33 per cent of their elected members being women.

On 21 February, a Kosovo-police-led operation closed the premises of the Center for Social Work in North Mitrovica, Zubin Potok, Leposavic/Leposaviq and Zvecan/Zvecan, which worked under the Serbian system, due to suspicion that illegal actions related to the election process were carried out in these institutions. While these operations were based on a court order, they are in line with the Governments previous practices of closing existing structures providing basic social services for Kosovo Serbs and other communities, without a previously agreed alternative arrangement within the EU-facilitated Dialogue. Following the CECs final results, some nonmajority Bosniak party leaders weighed in  Emilija Redepi supported Albin Kurtis eventual mandate to form a government, while Duda Balje set conditions for her support, including municipal and education reforms.

Tensions between SL and LVV escalated after the final results announcement. SLs Igor Simic accused Albin Kurti of manipulating votes to secure a seat for Nenad Raic, calling the Assembly illegitimate. PM Kurti and Nenad Raic responded with claims of Serbian interference, detailing actors and methods involved in influencing the election outcome.

The February 2025 parliamentary election established the conditions for the subsequent political crisis. Kurti's Vetevendosje won approximately 42.3 percent of the vote, translating to 48 seats in the 120-member Assembly, well short of the 61 seats required for a majority government. Turnout reached 46.55 percent despite technical problems that delayed official results until mid-March when the election commission's website failed under increased user traffic. The Democratic Party of Kosovo secured 25 seats, the Democratic League of Kosovo won 20 seats, and the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo captured nine seats, with minority parties holding the remaining seats. All major opposition parties immediately declared they would refuse to form coalition governments with Kurti, citing disagreements over his handling of relations with Western partners and his confrontational approach toward Kosovo's ethnic Serb minority concentrated in northern municipalities. The Democratic League proposed a transitional government comprising all ethnic Albanian parties, which Vetevendosje rejected, initiating a deadlock that would persist through year's end.

Parliamentary dysfunction manifested immediately after the February election through repeated failures to elect basic institutional leadership. The Assembly convened on 15 April 2025 for the first time but could not elect a Speaker, a prerequisite for parliament to function. Vetevendosje nominated Albulena Haxhiu, the acting Minister of Justice, for the Speaker position. Haxhiu received 57 votes in successive balloting attempts, consistently falling four votes short of the required 61-vote majority as opposition parties blocked her election. The deadlock persisted through sixteen failed attempts to inaugurate parliament, with President Vjosa Osmani convening meetings with party leaders that produced no resolution. Kurti insisted on Haxhiu's candidacy while opposition leaders demanded a different nominee capable of commanding broader support. Political scientist observers characterized the stalemate as reflecting deep political divisions beyond mere procedural disagreements, with opposition parties fundamentally opposed to enabling another Kurti-led government regardless of institutional consequences.

Even after finally electing a Speaker on 26 August 2025, ending the initial four-month deadlock, Kosovo entered another institutional crisis from 26 August through 10 October 2025 related to the election of the Serbian Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, a constitutionally mandated minority position. The continued parliamentary paralysis prevented passage of legislation, approval of state budgets, ratification of international agreements, and normal government operations. Kurti's administration operated in caretaker mode with limited authority while critical deadlines approached. Lawmakers faced requirements to elect a new president in April 2026 and ratify one billion euros in loan agreements from the European Union and World Bank scheduled to expire in coming months. The political stalemate threatened Kosovo's access to vital international financing at a time when the country struggled with poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Myanmar - 2025 Election

Myanmar began a general election in three phases starting 28 December 2025, the first national vote since the 2021 military coup that deposed Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Election Phase 1: Sunday, December 28, 2025. Phase 2: January 11, 2026. Phase 3: January 25, 2026. Voting is only occurring in roughly one-third of the country's 330 townshipsspecifically areas controlled by the military junta. Large swathes of the country under rebel control or experiencing active conflict have been excluded.

The National League for Democracy (NLD), the primary pro-democracy party, was dissolved in 2023 and is boycotting the polls. Most of the 57 registered parties are small or aligned with the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), which is expected to dominate. The United Nations, human rights groups, and several Western nations have described the process as a "sham" due to the imprisonment of opposition leaders like Aung San Suu Kyi and the absence of free and fair conditions.

Analysts suggest the junta is seeking international legitimacy and an "off-ramp" from the ongoing civil war. China and Russia have provided diplomatic and technical support for the elections. Voting in Phase 1 has been marked by low turnout and reports of violence, including airstrikes and rocket attacks in conflict-affected regions. Preliminary results from the first phase are expected on the evening of December 28, 2025, but final national results will not be announced until late January 2026.

The military seized power in a coup in 2021, claiming that there had been fraud in previous general elections that led pro-democratic party NLD to a landslide victory. The junta has been tightening control over speech and actions critical of the voting process under a new law enacted in July. As Myanmar's military junta prepared for a 2025 election, attention turned to neighboring China. Critics said China is pressuring Southeast Asian countries to see the vote as a solution to Myanmar's current political crisis.

Myanmar's February 2021 military coup overthrew the elected government and triggered a civil war that has killed thousands and displaced millions. Myanmar's neighbors have been seeking a solution to the crisis, and a meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, was held to discuss the crisis. The meeting was held on December 19 and China was one of the participating countries, along with Bangladesh, India, Laos and Thailand. All five countries are neighbors of Myanmar.

At the meeting, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong urged representatives of neighboring countries to support Myanmar's "peace and reconciliation," according to a statement released by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "All parties should respect Myanmar's national conditions and ... attach importance to Myanmar's people's livelihood," Sun Weidong said.

At the December 19 meeting, Myanmar Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Than Swe outlined the military junta's roadmap for the 2025 elections. Opposition groups, including ethnic armed forces and the National Unity Government (NUG), a parallel government formed after the 2021 coup, have rejected the plan, questioning its legitimacy and whether the elections will be free and fair.

Representatives from all ASEAN countries except Myanmar meet on December 20. Since the military coup, junta political officials have generally been banned from attending high-level ASEAN meetings. Thai Foreign Ministry officials said ASEAN is still waiting for details of the proposed ballot paper backed by China.

China maintains close ties with Myanmar's military and anti-government armed groups near its border. Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing recently reiterated and reiterated in his Christmas and New Year messages that the government is committed to "strengthening the multi-party democratic system and returning to the correct democratic path." Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a visit to Myanmar's capital city of Naypyidaw in mid-August that Beijing called for "inclusive elections," according to the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper.

Critics say any elections held by the military would only bring a superficial peace that ignores decades of political and ethnic grievances. Beijing was urging ASEAN members to deepen their engagement with Myanmar's military. Jason Tower of the United States Institute of Peace said China is pressuring its ASEAN neighbors to accept the military's elections as a quick fix. "From China's perspective, if ASEAN allows the military to return and engage in high-level interactions, it legitimizes everything China has done," Tower said.

Htet Min Lwin, a Myanmar expert at York University in Canada, said Beijing prefers to use its influence rather than Western intervention. "If the resolution is passed in ASEAN, where China has considerable influence, Beijing will likely continue to push for an ASEAN-led path," he told VOA.

Sai Kyi Zin Soe, a local political analyst in Myanmar, agreed. "Some ASEAN members will not be able to overcome Chinese influence, either economically or on security grounds," he said. "Chinese influence extends beyond ASEAN; it extends to groups within the country, including Myanmar's ethnic armed groups, which now control nearly all of the border with China and have a long history of close ties with China."

Meanwhile, Toll saw "no viable plan" for a political solution, saying Beijing believes Myanmar's generals are "backed into a corner" and willing to make "significant concessions" that could jeopardize sovereignty, including allowing Chinese troops to protect investments. "China has been forcing two northern ethnic armed groups to negotiate with the government," Toll said. "China's influence is growing, and (Beijing) is exerting influence on other countries in the region to try to get them to follow suit."

He warned that the junta was "bankrupt in its search for a real solution" and instead relied on "air strikes, forced conscription and sham elections to legitimize junta leader Min Aung Hlaing," and Toll expected ASEAN to eventually recognize the army's continued decline.

As the junta pushed for China-backed elections, the government army was suffering a series of defeats. "The army is losing at an alarming rate and is desperate," Toll said. Toll believes the Myanmar military, weakened after the fall of two major regional commands, has no choice but to cede some sovereignty to China. "This is a major concession," he said, referring to Beijing's proposal to form a joint security company. "For China, this turns Myanmar into a testing ground for China's global security initiatives and new ways to secure its interests beyond its borders."

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, also known as the Kokang Army, of the Three Brothers Alliance, along with the Ta'ang National Liberation Army and the Arakan Army, captured the northern Shan State city of Lashio in October. Lashio is strategically important to the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor and is the first time in Myanmar's modern history that a regional command has fallen to rebels.

On December 20, the Arakan Army overran the military junta's western regional command in Rakhine State, a region rich in natural gas resources that includes major Chinese projects. Videos on social media showed exhausted junta troops surrendering. Toll said it was "a disgrace to the army." "The bottom line is that it's getting desperate," Jason Toll said. He added that this explains why the Myanmar military is ceding sovereignty to China, including the possible deployment of Chinese private security forces in Rakhine State.

Analysts say elections without real dialogue will only lead to a fragile ceasefire. "All neighbors, including China, cannot understand that every ethnic group in Myanmar has its own right to rule and sovereignty," said Than Min Lwin.

Citing World Bank and United Nations data, Sai Kyi Sin Soe noted that 42 million of Myanmar's 53 million people currently live in poverty. He said the humanitarian crisis may force many armed groups to pause fighting but will not necessarily resolve the conflict. "If the international community puts pressure on them, the war may stop and elections will be held," Sai Kyi Sin Soe said. "However, this is not a solution that will benefit Myanmar in the long run. It needs to be understood that only negative peace will win."

ASEAN may have an opportunity to expand its role next year, but China's involvement, especially in border areas, may overshadow this.

The military-backed election commission in Myanmar on 18 August 2025 set Dec. 28 for the initial phase of long-promised elections, the first since the 2021 coup that overthrew the countrys last elected government and kicked off a still-raging civil war. Junta leadership nominally transferred power to an interim government last month in preparation for the elections. Last week, Min Aung Hlaing, the military chief and acting president, called for increased security to protect politicians and voters, warning of a rise in attacks on civil servants, according to the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper.

International observers framed the elections as a charade to keep Min Aung Hlaing and his generals in power. Critics point to a lack of free media in Myanmar, and that most officials in the last elected government, including leader Aung San Suu Kyi, have been arrested. U.N. reports detail a regime of torture inflicted on those the military has detained.

Its also unclear how a truly national election could take place in Myanmar. Control of the country splintered after the coup, with parts of the country held by bands of pro-democracy fighters or ethnic rebel groups, some of whom have pledged to block polls in their areas. I dont think the election will hold any significance for the people, a 63-year-old citizen in the western state of Rakhine told Agence France-Presse. I think this election is only being held to give power to military dictators until the world ends.

Meanwhile, clashes continued in Myanmars civil war, which had killed thousands, spawned rampant poverty, and left more than 3.5 million people displaced, nearly 40 percent of whom are children.

An official from the commission set up by Myanmars ruling military junta to oversee upcoming elections said 11 Septembe 2025 that the results of the widely disputed poll will be available by the end of January 2026. At a news conference in Naypyidaw, Myanmars capital, election officials said that six parties would run for nationwide seats, while another 51 others would compete in individual states or regions. The vote is scheduled to be held in three phases beginning on Dec. 28, with two weeks between each phase, officials said.

The military announced the election regime in July, the first national vote since the 2021 coup that ousted Myanmars democratically elected government and plunged the country into civil war. It also set up an interim government with military chief Min Aung Hlaing retaining power as interim president.

The military doesnt control all of Myanmar. Vast swaths are administered by a range of armed militias, ethnic groups and pro-democracy fighters, some in open, armed conflict with the ruling junta. At the press conference, election council member Khin Maung Oo noted 63 areas which have security risks. He said We will continue working until we can hold [the vote].

The military framed the election as a way to end the conflict. Critics have called the election a sham, saying the military would retain power regardless of the vote. However, criticism of the election is illegal in Myanmar. State-run media reported on Wednesday that a 36-year-old man in eastern Shan state was sentenced to seven years of hard labor for a Facebook post that contained surveillance video of a robbery and criticized the military junta for prioritizing the election over public safety.

With less than a month before general election voting kicks off in Myanmar, a shadow government official called on the international community not to recognize the polling results, as pro-democracy groups have been excluded from the process. NHK spoke with Zin Mar Aung, who serves as foreign minister in the pro-democracy National Unity Government. While junta leaders claim the polls set to start on December 28 are paving the way for a transition to civilian rule, she called it a "sham election." She pointed out that "almost the entire elected civilian government was arrested. It is like a performance."

Regarding their post-election strategy, she stressed the pro-democracy side would keep up the resistance against military control, saying, "there will be no room for dialogue." Meanwhile, she expressed concern over the US administration's announcement last week that it would end temporary protected status for people from Myanmar and call for the US government to "align their immigration policy and their foreign policy to make it happen and to have benefit" not only for Americans but for those who have escaped the junta's rule.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Lakurawa

The US military operation conducted on December 25, 2025, lacked a specific operational codename but was formally designated in Pentagon records as the 2025 United States strikes in Nigeria or, more commonly in press briefings, as "joint strikes" against ISIS militants. The mission represented a significant escalation in U.S. counter-terrorism involvement in West Africa, utilizing naval precision fires to target deep inland insurgent positions. The kinetic phase of the operation originated from the Gulf of Guinea, where a U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer maintained a holding pattern off the Nigerian coast. Utilizing its Mark 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS), the vessel fired a salvo of more than a dozen Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAM). These subsonic cruise missiles traversed a flight path of over 600 miles, crossing the airspace of the Niger Delta and the Middle Belt region before descending upon their targets in the semi-arid terrain of northwestern Nigeria.

The strikes specifically targeted two fortified encampments located in the Tangaza and Gudu Local Government Areas of Sokoto State. Authority for the mission came directly from President Donald Trump, who issued the order from the United States earlier that week. The White House framed the Christmas Day timing as a deliberate symbolic message, with President Trump explicitly citing the "vicious" persecution and killing of innocent Christians by what he termed "ISIS Terrorist Scum" as the primary moral imperative for the intervention. While this strike was decisive, it was the culmination of a crisis that had been building visibly for over a year. Nigerian security analysts had voiced severe concerns long before the Tomahawks were launched; specifically, on November 7, 2024, defense officials warned of this new insurgent group known as the Lakurawas. The name, which loosely translates to "the recruits," serves as a grim linguistic artifact of their origins, widely believed to be a Hausa corruption of the French term "Les Recrues."

Major General Edward Buba, the defense spokesperson, announced the group's presence to journalists in Abuja in late 2024, calling for heightened vigilance. At that time, General Buba did not provide details on whether the group had carried out any major mass-casualty attacks, but local media reports indicated the group had already begun collecting cows from locals in exchange for "protection." This tactic, commonly used by extremist groups to exert control and finance their operations, signaled the beginning of their administrative consolidation. The Nigerian Police Force, Sokoto State Command, confirmed the presence of this armed Islamic group in about five local government areas of the state: Tangaza, Gudu, Ilela, Silame, and Binji. The Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Area, Alhaji Isa Salihu Kalenjeni, raised the alarm early on, describing a foreign-based armed religious group occupying a forest across five LGAs of the state, noting that they "usually come to our communities during the day and go back to the forest in the night."

Historical Origins, Divergent Timelines, and the Sahelian Influx

The Lakurawa Islamist group originated from Mali and penetrated the Niger-Nigeria border communities in Sokoto State. While the 2025 strikes brought them global attention, their history is complex and subject to divergent views regarding their arrival. Some sources suggest a deep-seated presence, with reports indicating that elements of militant Lakurawa jihadists may have been in the area as early as 1999, operating under the radar until the broader Sahelian crisis radicalized the region. However, the consensus among security agencies places their significant operational establishment around 2017. During this period, the Lakurawa established a base at Gudu and Tangaza Local Government Areas, just about 60 miles away from Sokoto town. The new Islamic sect started with less than 50 indigenous youth in 2017, but by 2023 this number had increased to over 200, composed mainly of young boys within the ages of 1835. This growth was fueled by providing stipends to young members, effectively buying loyalty in an impoverished region.

The group is composed largely of pastoralists from the communities of Mali and Niger Republic. They are often described as light-skinned, speaking Arabic and Fulfulde languages. Authorities confirmed that the group originated from the Sahel region, particularly Mali and Niger, and surged into Nigeria after the July 2023 coup in Niger. This political upheaval disrupted joint military patrols along the Nigerian border, creating a security vacuum. General Buba highlighted this geopolitical failure, stating, "It is, indeed, the first attempt of the Sahelian jihadists to have a foothold in our country. They were kept at bay all this while, when we had joint cross-border operations with the Republic of Niger. They took advantage of the breakdown in cooperation between both countries."

The geography of their occupation is historically significant. Sokoto town was founded by Sultan Muhammad Bello as a result of a Jihad that swept most parts of northern Nigeria in the nineteenth century, creating the Caliphate system in 1804. The occupation of Lakurawa in this area is linked to this historical significance in Islamic revolutionary movements. Gudu and its neighbor Tangaza were associated with major developments of the original Sokoto Jihad, including the election of leaders and the writing of the manifesto of Jihad. Now, however, most parts of Sokoto State have been ravaged by armed banditry, cattle rustling, kidnapping, and terrorism, with Lakurawa exploiting the very history of the land to justify their imposition of a warped version of Sharia law.

From Invited Protectors to Oppressive Occupiers

A tragic irony defines the Lakurawa expansion: their initial entry was not as invaders, but as invited guests. The Lakurawa, according to the Magaji of Balle, were originally invited to provide security to communities besieged by "Zamfarawa" banditscriminals operating from Zamfara State. The Zamfarawa bandits had started operations in Tangaza and Gudu border communities around 2016/2017, ravaging eastern Sokoto communities around Isa, Sabon Birni, Rabah, Goronyo, and Illela. It was within this desperate situation that Lakurawa were invited. When they first arrived, they were effective at pushing out the Zamfarawa bandits, attacking suspected criminals and claiming to work against illegalities. However, as noted by observers, the activities of Lakurawa were simply an importation of troubles in the name of security.

Once established, the dynamic shifted from protection to occupation. Chairman Kalenjeni detailed this transition: They are forcing people to pay Zakkat and at the same time robbing people of their belongings. Just recently, they robbed a shop owner of N2 million. They also seized his car and released it after he paid N350,000. He added that the armed group, which claimed to be fighting the Nigerian government, had also robbed four motorcycles in Balle. They began imposing strict Islamic laws, flogging villagers for playing music, and telling residents during sermons that they did not recognize the Nigerian government or its security forces. Members embrace heterodox practices and esoteric interpretations of the Holy Quran, emphasizing their purity and refusing contact with the rest of society.

The Nigerian military leadership has been critical of this local complicity. General Buba stressed, They embraced them, thinking that they would protect them from terrorists or other threats, allowing them to settle in and spread their ideology. Having settled in and gained a foothold, they started imposing levies on the people. It was only at that point that the locals felt the need to notify us. That is not the time to notify. You should report immediately when you see something strange. However, locals argue that when they recognized strangers in their midst, the proper course would have been to alert authorities, but the lack of state presence left them few choices. As the Lakurawa grew out of the control of the traditional rulers who had brought them, these leaders then turned around and tried to contain the problem, preaching against youth recruitment and providing information to security agencies.

Ideology, Capabilities, and the Terrorist Wanted List

The precise ideology of the group is a subject of debate. While the Nigerian Defence Headquarters has stated that Lakurawa is affiliated with the Islamic State of West Africa (ISIS) and seeks the full implementation of Sharia Law in the whole of Nigeria by all means, some analysts argue otherwise. Divergent views suggest that Lakurawa may simply reflect violent banditry appealing to radicalism and extremism to legitimize their crimes, misappropriating Islam to justify robbery. Regardless of the label, their methods are undeniably terroristic. They have demonstrated advanced tactical capabilities, including the use of drones. As noted in reports, "They are using drones from Turkey and they have some from China. They have combined all of this together and they've also gone ahead creating volunteer forces in the neighboring area."

The groups relationship with Boko Haram and ISWAP is one of strategic alignment. Lakurawa effectively acts as the southern operational claw of the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP). Their goal appears to be internationalizing the conflict by nurturing connections to groups such as Boko Haram and Ansaru. The Nigerian military high command responded to this threat by declaring nine specific terrorist commanders wanted. General Buba disclosed their names: Abu Khadijah, Abdurrahman, Dadi Gumba (a.k.a. Abu Muhammed), Usman Shehu, Abu Yusuf, Musa Waa, Ibrahim Suyeka, Ba Sulhu, and Idris Taklakse. These figures are accused of wreaking havoc in the Northeast and Northwest, and the military vowed that "no matter how hard they tried, the terrorists would be neutralised within shortest possible time."

This "Jihadization of Banditry" is the worst-case scenario for Nigerian security planners. If the sheer manpower of the bandit gangsestimated at over 30,000 fighters across the Northwestis disciplined by the ideological fervor and tactical sophistication of Lakurawa, the resulting insurgency would dwarf previous crises. The group uses the vast, ungoverned forest reserves as safe havens, retreating into Niger when pressured. The breakdown of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) following the Niger coup allowed these actors to move fighters, weapons, and looted goods with impunity across the 1,500-kilometer border.

Geopolitical Fallout and the Crisis of Hope

The emergence of Lakurawa is inextricably linked to the broader geopolitical fractures in West Africa. Security analyst Senator Iroegbu voiced concern but lack of surprise regarding the group's rise, pointing directly to the diplomatic fallout after the Niger coup. "We saw this coming when the Niger coup happened, especially withdrawal from ECOWAS membership," Iroegbu said. He argued that while diplomatic ties might be severed, "at the security or intelligence level [it] should not be something that we should play with." The disruption of joint border operations created the gaps that Lakurawa exploited. By August 2025, Nigeria's chief of defense staff had visited Niger in a bid to strengthen military ties, but for many communities, it was already too late.

Underlying the security crisis is a profound socio-economic catastrophe. The recruitment success of Lakurawa is fueled by the hopelessness of the local population. As one commentary poignantly noted, The Nigerians of the future are children without hope. Many children have no job, they have no skill, no apprenticeship of any kind. And all these people become adults without any job, without education and without hope, so they become an easy recruitment for the terrorist groups. The Nigerian military, once praised globally for its peacekeeping prowess, has struggled against this asymmetric threat, with critics noting that the current force "may not have the technical knowhow... to govern and safeguard Nigeria."

Clearly, there is a big gap in the architecture of governance and security in Sokoto state and Nigeria generally. The presence of Lakurawa points clearly to the fundamental challenges: porous borders, failing intelligence gathering, and minimal government presence. By late 2025, the threat had escalated sufficiently to draw direct intervention from the United States. The Tomahawk strikes on Christmas Day were a direct response to intelligence that Lakurawa was evolving into a hub for international terrorism planning. While AFRICOM reported that the precision hits killed "multiple" terrorists, the resilience of such groups is historically high. The "hydra-headed" nature of decentralized terror networks means that military strikes, while damaging, must be accompanied by a restoration of hope and governance to truly defeat the insurgency.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russo-Ukraine War - 28 December 2025 - Day 1404

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 31

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that in total, since the beginning of this day, there have been 186 combat clashes.

Russian Zagarbniki made 38 aviacijnih strikes, dropping 102 controlled air bombs. In addition, the Russians have engaged 2780 kamikaze drones and carried out 2,539 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

In the North Slobozhansky and Kursky directions, Ukrainian soldiers repelled two Russian assault actions since the beginning of the day. Also the enemy carried out 97 shells.

In the South Slobozhansky direction, the Russian enemy attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders seven times near the settlements of Staritsa, Prylipka and towards Grigorivka and Izbitsky.

In the Kupyansky direction, Russian units carried out three assault actions, trying to break through the positions of Ukrainian defenders towards Kupyansk, Pishany and Malaiya Shapkivka. One battle is going on so far.

In the Lyman direction since the beginning of the day, Russian invaders 14 times attacked the positions of Ukrainians near the settlements of Novoselivka, Zarichne, Mirne and towards the settlements Lyman, Zakitne, Druzhelyubivka, Dibrova, Ozerne and Drobisheve. At the moment, Ukrainian defenders repel one Russian attack.

In the Slovak direction, the Russian enemy four times tried to break through in the area of Serebryanka.

In the Kramators komu direction Ukrainian soldiers repelled one attack in the area of minkivka.

In the direction of Konstantinivsk, Russians attacked the positions of Defense Forces 25 times. The efforts of the attack were concentrated in the areas of settlements of Konstantinivka, Oleksandro-Shultine, Pleshiyivka, Scherbinivka, Rusin Yar, Yablunivka, Kleban-Bik and towards Sofiyivka, Stepanivka, Berestka.

Since the beginning of the day in the Pokrovsky direction, Russian units 45 times tried to break through Ukrainian defense in the areas of the Chervony Lyman, Mirnograd, Novoekonomichne, Pokrovsk, Kotline, Udaachne, Molodetske, Philia and towards the settlements Novopavlivka, New Shahove, Rodinske, Sergiyivka, Vilne. The two clashes are still ongoing.

Defense forces deter Russian attacks, the Russian enemy suffers significant losses - today 146 Russian invaders have been defecated in this direction, 100 of which are irrevocable. Ukrainian defenders have destroyed two vehicles, 14 unmanned aircraft, two special equipment units, also hit two vehicles units, BPLA control point and three Russian personnel shelters.

In the Oleksandrivsky direction, Ukrainian units stopped 19 Russian attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops near the settlements of Yalta, Vyshneve, Rybne, Oleksandrograd and towards the settlements of Iskra, Khoroshe, New Zaporizhia , Ivanivka, Sosnivka. The Russian enemy launched an air strike on Velikomykhailivka.

In the Gulyaipil direction, Ukrainian defenders stopped 17 Russian attempts to advance in the areas of Gulyaipol, Solodky, Dorozhnyanka, Bilogir and towards Varvarivka. Two more clashes are underway.

In the Orihivsky direction, Ukrainian units stopped nine Russian attacks in the area of Scherbakiv, Mala Tokmachka, Stepovoye, Plavniv and towards Novoandriivka and Primorsky.

In the Pridniprovsky direction, the Defense Forces repelled three Russian attacks in the area of the Antonivsky Bridge.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation.

The units of the Sever Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and defeated one assault regiment of the AFU near Kondratovka (Sum region).

In Kharkov direction, units of two heavy mechanised brigades, two mechanised brigades of the AFU, and one national guard brigade have been hit near Vesyoloye, Izbitskoye, Staritsa, and Stognii (Kharkov region).

The AFU lost up to 140 troops and 12 motor vehicles.

The Zapad Group's units inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of five mechanised brigades, one assault brigade of the AFU, two national guard brigades, and one territorial defence brigade close to Kupyansk-Uzlovoy, Kurilovka, Boldyrevka, Blagodatovka, Pristen, and Korovy Yar (Kharkov region).

In Kupyansk direction, units of the 6th Army repelled two attacks of the 92nd Assault Brigade and the 14th Mechanised Brigade of the AFU near Podoly and Nechvolodovkaa (Kharkov region) with the aim to break into the city of Kupyansk (Kharkov region). Up to 15 militants and one T-64 tank were neutralised.

In total, more than 200 troops, one tank, two U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, three armoured fighting vehicles, and 10 pickup trucks were eliminated in the Zapad Group's area of responsibility. Five ammunition depots were wiped out.

The Yug Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions. Russian troops hit seven mechanised brigades and one airmobile brigade of the AFU near Nikiforovka, Konstantinovka, Donetskoye, Reznikovka, Slavyansk, Krivaya Luka, Ilichevka and Ray-Aleksandrovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 155 troops, three U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, two armoured fighting vehicles, 13 motor vehicles, and one ammunition depot.

As a result of resolute actions, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces liberated the settlements of Dimitrov, Rodinskoye, Artyomovka, and Volnoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The Group's units inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of two air assault brigades, one airborne brigade, three assault regiments of the AFU, two marine brigades, one Azov special military mission brigade, one territorial defence brigade, and three national guard brigades close to Lenino, Ivanovka, Toretskoye, Kutuzovka, Grishino, Shevchenko, Belitskoye, Dobropolye, Vasilevka, Novy Donbass (Donetsk People's Republic), and Novopavlovka (Dnepropetrovsk region).

The enemy losses amounted to more than 500 troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, one pickup truck, and one electronic reconnaissance station.

The Vostok Group's units continued to advance to the depths of the enemy's defence and completed liberation of Gulyaypole (Zaporozhye region).

Strikes were delivered at manpower and hardware of three mechanised brigades, two assault brigades, two assault regiments of the AFU, and two territorial defence brigades close to Dobropasovo, Gay, Gavrilovka, Pokrovskoye (Dnepropetrovsk region), Priluki, Vozdvizhevka, Ternovatoye, Charivnoye, Zaliznichnoye, and Barvinovka (Zaporozhye region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 185 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, and one U.S.-made U.S.-made M198 howitzer.

The Dnepr Group's units liberated Stepnogorsk in Zaporozhye region by active actions.

Russian troops hit formations of one mechanised brigade, one mountain assault brigade of the AFU and one territorial defence brigade near Orekhov, Preobrazhenka, Chervonaya Krinitsa (Zaporozhye region) and Sadovoye (Kherson region).

More than 60 troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, seven motor vehicles, one electronic warfare station, and two materiel depots have been neutralised.

Operational-tactical aviation, attack drones, missile troops, and artillery of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have inflicted damage on energy facilities used in the interests of the Ukrainian military industry, missile engine components workshops, long-range attack drone assembly and launch preparations sites, as well as temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 148 areas.

Air defence systems shot down one guided aerial bomb and 370 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles.

In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 669 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 105,665 unmanned aerial vehicles, 641 anti-aircraft missile systems, 26,764 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,634 MLRS combat vehicles, 32,218 field artillery guns and mortars, and 50,197 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran plans further satellite launches in February: Space chief

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 6:35 PM

Iran plans to launch several more satellites into space in the coming calendar month, which ends in late February, according to the country's space chief, who says the launches may be carried out from new space centers currently being completed in northern and southern Iran.

Head of the Iranian Space Agency, Hassan Salarieh, said on Sunday that the exact timing of the launches planned for next month will be announced soon, adding that domestically built launch vehicles will be used for the missions.

Salarieh made the remarks just after Iran launched three key satellites, including its heaviest satellites to date, from Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome.

The launches have been hailed as a sign of progress in Iran's space industry despite heavy sanctions targeting the sector's technological development.

Salarieh said Iran is focused on completing construction of a major space center in the southeastern port city of Chabahar, located on the Indian Ocean coast.

"We are currently planning to conduct the first satellite launch from this base. Perhaps the most important mission we will undertake in the near future in the launcher domain is precisely this," he said.

The official also said that Iran would soon open a new space center near the city of Salmas in the northwest of the country, close to the Turkish border.

He said Iran's policy is to carry out five to six launches per year using its home-made rockets, along with several launches from foreign space centers, adding, however, that the total number is expected to increase in the next calendar year, which begins in late March.

"The process must continue so that we can soon reach a stage where the space industry becomes economically viable," the Iranian space chief said.

Commenting on Iran's plans to launch a one-ton biological capsule into space, Salarieh said the design phase of the capsule has been completed and many of its systems are undergoing testing, adding that it is expected to be ready for launch by September next year.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran launches three remote sensing satellites on Russian Soyuz rocket

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 1:20 PM

Iran has launched three domestically built remote sensing satellites using a Russian launcher.

Iranian officials said the three satellites were launched into orbit from Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome as part of a multi-payload mission, marking the seventh time the country has used Russian rockets for satellite deployment.

The Soyuz satellite carrier lifted off on Sunday at 16:48 Tehran time, carrying multiple payloads, including Iran's Zafar 2, Paya, and Kowsar satellites.

Iran's Space Agency chief, Hassan Salarieh, said the launch heralded a bright future for the country's space sector.

"The successful launch of these satellites, achieved through the participation of various actors in the space industry, reflects the expanding scope of Iran's space program and the rapid growth of new players in this field," he said.

Salarieh said Iran has long been among the world's top 10 to 11 countries with full space technology, from building satellites and launch vehicles to having its own systems for launching, controlling, and receiving data.

In remarks ahead of the launch, Iran's Ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, described the mission as a major step forward for Iran's space program.

In a series of posts on the social platform X, Jalali emphasized that the satellites were designed and built entirely with indigenous Iranian technology, the result of collaboration between government agencies, universities, and private knowledge-based companies.

The ambassador explained that while all stages of design and construction were completed in Iran, the launch itself is being carried out in cooperation with Russia.

"Two of the satellites belong to the government, and one belongs to the private sector, and our knowledge-based companies and universities are active in this field."

Paya (Tolou3), weighing in at 150 kilograms, is Iran's heaviest satellite to date. It delivers imagery with a resolution of about five meters in black and white and 10 meters in color.

Zafar2, developed by the Iran University of Science and Technology, is designed to monitor natural resources, assess environmental conditions, and provide data for disaster response and mapping.

Kowsar1.5, an upgraded version of earlier Kowsar and Hodhod satellites, integrates Internet of Things (IoT) capability, enabling realtime data transmission for smart monitoring systems.

Iran first entered the space arena in 2009 with the launch of the Omid satellite. Despite Western sanctions, Tehran has steadily expanded its civilian space program.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China's Military Shows Launch of YJ-20 Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile for 1st Time - Reports

Sputnik News

20251228

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - China's military has released footage of the launch of a YJ-20 hypersonic anti-ship missile from the Type 055 large destroyer Wuxi, the Global Times newspaper reported on Sunday.

In September, a Sputnik correspondent reported that the YJ-21 (YingJi-21) anti-ship ballistic missile and hypersonic anti-ship missiles, including the YingJi-19, YingJi-17 and YingJi-20, had been displayed at China's military parade. The parade crew also included a YingJi-15 missile.

This is reportedly the first time that a YJ-20 hypersonic anti-ship missile launch from a warship has been shown in an official media report.

The YJ-20 missile was fired from one of the vertical launch system platforms located at the stern of the destroyer. The military used a cold-launch method to fire the missile, the newspaper reported. According to the official account run by the Chinese People's Liberation Army, the missile successfully destroyed its target.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






BrahMos: Russia-India Missile Project Gains Worldwide Attention

Sputnik News

20251228

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian-Indian BrahMos supersonic cruise missile project is attracting many countries worldwide, Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar told Sputnik.

"It is also well known that the two countries have expanded their defense cooperation from procurement of equipment to joint ventures and joint production, I would say even joint design. Brahmos missile project is a very good example of joint design and production; this is a cruise missile system which is today attracting the interest of many third countries," Kumar said.

BrahMos Aerospace, a Russian-Indian joint venture established in 1998 and named after the rivers Brahmaputra and Moskva. The company produces ground-, air-, sea-, and submarine-launched supersonic cruise missiles.

The new BrahMos complex in Lucknow in northern India was opened in May. It is equipped with modern technology that allows for comprehensive assembly, testing and final quality verification of missiles. The new factory is expected to produce 80 to 100 BrahMos missiles per year.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's interview with TASS News Agency, December 28, 2025

28 December 2025 09:05

2203-28-12-2025

Question: The United States has been proactive in contributing to the Ukraine settlement process in 2025 under the Trump administration by holding a plethora of consultations and putting forward peace plans. Have these efforts brought peace in Ukraine within closer reach in any way? What or maybe who is currently the main obstacle to achieving a settlement? Will the West finally understand how Kiev uses its money in the wake of several successive corruption scandals?

Sergey Lavrov: Russia appreciates efforts by President of the United States Donald Trump and his team to achieve a peace settlement. We are committed to continuing to work with the American negotiators to devise lasting agreements for addressing the conflict's root causes.

We see that Vladimir Zelensky's regime and his European curators are not ready to engage in constructive talks. Kiev persists with its attempts to change the situation on the frontline where the Russian army firmly holds the initiative. This regime terrorises civilians by targeting civilian infrastructure in our country with its acts of sabotage.

Meanwhile, almost all European countries with few exceptions have been pumping the Kiev regime full of money and weapons. They dream about the Russian economy crumbling under the pressure of their sanctions. After a new administration came to power in the United States, Europe and the European Union emerged as the main obstacles to peace. They are making no secret of the fact that they are getting ready to fight it out with Russia on the battlefield.

The other day, there was an effort to force the European Union to approve a decision for handing over Russia's foreign exchange reserves to the Vladimir Zelensky regime. This effort failed. Of course, Brussels and other European capitals could not fail to notice Ukraine's corruption scandals, even if these scandals did nothing to prevent them from using the Kiev regime as a battering ram against Russia. Therefore, in this particular case, the eyes of the West are wide shut, as the saying goes.

Question: The updated National Security Strategy of the United States no longer designates Russia as posing an immediate and direct threat. Instead, it casts Russia as a partner in terms of strategic security. Considering that documents of this kind are designed to have a strategic role, can we expect the nascent normality in US-Russia relations as established by the Trump administration to last within a longer horizon?

Sergey Lavrov: There has been a thorough effort to review the updated version of the US National Security Strategy, which is quite understandable. Its central tenets must be supported by what the US does, but even today it offers a new vision. Experts believe that this could be indicative of an effort in Washington to reconsider its international standing. Just look at the way the United States revised its policy in terms of relying on a globalist concept of a rules-based order.

Speaking of Russia, one thing worth mentioning is the fact that the strategy does not contain any calls to subject our country to a system-wide containment and deterrence policy. It may be the first time for the United States when it publicly questioned NATO's long-standing commitment to expansionism, even if it stopped short of undertaking not to expand NATO.

As far as theory is concerned, some of the ideas set forth in this strategy are not at odds with efforts to promote dialogue between Russia and the United States. That said, we will make our final decisions only by looking at what the US administration does on the international stage.

Question: Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban said that the leaders of the European Union decided to prepare for war with Russia by 2030. Meanwhile, Europe is already de facto waging an economic war against Russia, which could culminate with the much-talked about confiscation of the frozen Russian assets. In your opinion, has the current generation of EU politicians reached a point of no return in their relations with Russia? Can their policy line place the continent on the brink of a new and large war?

Sergey Lavrov: The European Union has been seeking to dismantle mechanisms for working with Russia. It all started somewhere around 2014, when the ruling elites in most European countries started perorating about the so-called Russian threat and inciting Russia-hating and militarist sentiment among their people. I would like to place a special emphasis on the fact that these actions on their behalf were totally illegitimate. After all, Russia has never taken the initiative to target its European neighbours with unfriendly actions.

Whether leaders like Ursula von der Leyen, Friedrich Merz, Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron and the like have reached a point of no return is hard to say. We do see that so far, the European war party has been investing its political capital in inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia, and is ready to go the whole nine yards. These ambitions have literally blinded them. Not only they do not care about the Ukrainians but they do not care about their people either. This is the only way to explain the fact that there is still talk in Europe about sending military forces to Ukraine as part of the so-called coalition of the willing. We have said many times that in this case our Armed Forces would view them as a legitimate target.

My messages for European politicians who seem to have problems getting to grips with this fact - I hope they get to read this interview - is to repeat one more time that there is no need to be afraid of Russia attacking anyone. However, should anyone consider attacking Russia, they would face a devastating blow, as President Vladimir Putin has been saying all along.

Question: There has been a lot of conflicts in the Middle East over the past year, including with Israel attacking Iran, and Iran's retaliation. In your opinion, to what extent will the situation in the region remain explosive next year, and could the deal concluded with the Trump administration's participation help bring about calm?

Sergey Lavrov: In 2025, we witnessed unprecedented events with Israel carrying out a direct act of aggression against Iran together with the United States, which targeted facilities related to the Iranian nuclear programme with missile and bomb strikes despite the fact that these facilities benefit from IAEA's guarantees. Russia has firmly condemned these actions. They are completely at odds with international standards and universally recognised moral imperatives. The fact that Israeli officials have been saying that they are ready to use force against Tehran in the future too is a matter of grave concern.

It is quite sad but not surprising for anyone that some members of the international community, primarily the Europeans, are simply adding fuel to the fire, as the saying goes. They have been persisting with their attempts to create new dividing lines in the Middle East by proceeding from the premise that they would not benefit from countries within this region forging solid neighbourly ties. We would like to note that the Iranians have been exercising maximum restraint and composure by responding to all the provocations and blackmail on behalf of the West by stating their commitment to dialogue and resolving the lingering differences by political means.

We have shared our assessment of the situation in the Gaza Strip many times. We welcomed international mediation efforts. Thanks to these efforts the hot phase of the bloodshed that lasted since October 2023 was stopped and the mass starvation of the Palestinians prevented.

The situation in Gaza remains shaky. It is still too early to speak about lasting peace. We regularly receive reports about ceasefire violations. Considerable restrictions on delivering and distributing humanitarian aid are still in place.

The instability of what is happening on the ground is exacerbated by the uncertainty regarding further steps in implementing peace agreements. How do you disarm HAMAS? Who will join the international stabilisation forces and when will they be deployed? Will the Israeli troops be withdrawn, and if yes, when? These are just some of the questions that have yet to be answered.

No matter how the situation in and around Gaza unfolds, we reaffirm our commitment to a just settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on the basis of the universally recognised legal framework. The main thing here is to remedy the historical injustice and provide for establishing a viable Palestinian state, which would coexist with Israel. Without solving this issue, it is difficult to imagine what could guarantee lasting peace for Palestinians and Jews, and indeed for all other nations in the Middle East.

Question: A serious escalation is crystalising between Japan and China, and the situation regarding Taiwan is becoming increasingly heated. Specialists in international affairs warn that as soon as the Ukraine conflict is over an armed confrontation may begin in the Asia-Pacific Region. Do you agree with these forecasts? How would Russia act if the Taiwan conflict actually flares up?

Sergey Lavrov: The topic of Taiwan has been discussed quite actively of late, sometimes in isolation from reality and by manipulating facts. Several countries, while declaring their commitment to the One China policy, favour preserving the status-quo. Actually, it means their disagreement with the principle of China's national reunification.

In fact, Taiwan is currently used as a tool of military-strategic deterrence against the PRC. This is also a matter of pursing vested interests: some in the West are keen to profit from Taiwanese money and technologies. Expensive US armaments are sold to Taipei at market prices. Demands to transfer semiconductor manufacturing to the United States may be regarded as coercion for income redistribution or a sort of business alienation as well.

Russia's principled position on the Taiwan issue is well known, remains unchanged and has been repeatedly reaffirmed at the highest level. Russia recognises Taiwan as an integral part of China and stands against the island's independence in any form. We believe that the Taiwan problem is an internal affair of the PRC. Beijing has every right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

As for the possible escalation in the Taiwan Strait, procedure for acting in such situations is set forth in the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation with the People's Republic of China of July 16, 2001. One of the basic principles of that document is mutual support in defending national unity and territorial integrity.

I will also add that recently the Japanese leadership has been seeking to accelerate the country's militarisation. The detrimental influence of such an approach on the regional stability is obvious. Our Japanese neighbours should have weighted everything properly before taking any hasty decisions.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






OIC General Secretariat Condemns the Terrorist Attack Targeting the Imam Ali Bin Abi Talib Mosque in Homs, Syria

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

26-12-2025

The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) strongly condemned the terrorist attack that targeted the Imam Ali Bin Abi Talib Mosque in Homs, Syria, during Friday prayers, resulting in the death and injury of a number of innocent people.

The OIC General Secretariat extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Syria, and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.

The General Secretariat reiterates the OIC's categorical rejection of terrorism, extremism, violence, the targeting of places of worship, and the intimidation of innocent civilians. The OIC General Secretariat affirms its solidarity with Syria and its support for the Syrian government's efforts to establish security and stability.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Lai says Taiwan must raise cost of war, build indigenous defense to deter China

ROC Central News Agency

12/28/2025 10:55 PM

Taipei, Dec. 28 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te () said Taiwan must continue to raise the cost of aggression and strengthen its indigenous defense capabilities to deter China, stressing that peace can only be secured through strength, in an exclusive interview with Sanlih E-Television that aired Sunday.

Addressing claims by U.S. defense officials that Chinese President Xi Jinping () has instructed the People's Liberation Army to be ready for a Taiwan invasion by 2027, Lai said what's important is Taiwan's response.

"If China sets 2027 as the year to be ready for an invasion of Taiwan, then we have only one choice: to keep raising the difficulty so that China can never meet that standard. Taiwan will naturally remain safe," Lai said, when asked about the likelihood of a Chinese attack on Taiwan and the urgency of the threat by "History & Herstory" host Cheng Hung-yi ().

Lai said China's ambition to annex Taiwan has been a long-standing national policy, citing past conflicts such as the 1949 Battle of Guningtou and 1958 Taiwan Strait Crisis.

Taiwan has remained secure for decades because China lacked the capability to act, he said during the interview that took place at the defense ministry's 209th Arsenal, a key facility for producing wheeled armored vehicles such as the CM-32 "Clouded Leopard."

"Crossing the sea (Taiwan Strait) is itself a difficult challenge. When Russia invaded Ukraine, it simply drove tanks in directly," Lai said, but he added that Taiwan "cannot be complacent" and should continue to build up its defense capabilities.

The president reiterated that his administration would not provoke China and remains "firmly committed to maintaining the status quo."

At the same time, he stressed that peace "must be backed by real strength," rather than relying on an agreement or the goodwill of an aggressor, noting that history shows negotiations without leverage inevitably lead to surrender.

Lai also pointed to growing international consensus on the importance of Taiwan's security, saying G7 leaders have repeatedly affirmed that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are indispensable to global security and prosperity.

"In other words, China's threat is not simply Taiwan's problem, but an international issue, particularly one for countries in the Indo-Pacific region," he said.

He said that increased defense spending by Japan, South Korea, Australia, the Philippines and European Union members reflects a broader move toward collective defense.

Within this context, Lai said Taiwan must take responsibility for its own security by strengthening defense and investing in indigenous capabilities. He said defense autonomy would enable Taiwan to design, manufacture, maintain and upgrade its own weapons systems.

His administration is advancing a multi-year special defense budget aimed at building a multilayered "T-Dome" air defense network, developing an AI-enabled battlefield intelligence support system, and accelerating the upgrading and transformation of Taiwan's domestic defense industries, Lai said.

He said developing indigenous defense industries would not only enhance security but also drive long-term economic growth.

Taiwan already has a strong heavy-industry base and plans to expand defense self-reliance across a wide range of areas, from aerospace and satellite communications to ammunition, drones, unmanned surface vessels, unmanned underwater vehicles and robotics, Lai said.

Taiwanese firms have already joined major global supply chains in the United States and Europe, the president noted.

"Taiwan's industries are ready," Lai said, urging opposition parties to support defense spending in the interest of national security.

(By Christie Chen)

Enditem/

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025.12.28

Issuing AuthorityPolitical Warfare Bureau

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Date

6 a.m. Dec. 27 (Sat.) to 6 a.m. Dec. 28 (Sun.) (UTC+8)

2.PLA activities

3 sorties of PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 3 out of 3 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities.

1141228_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1141228_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Arms Sales to Taiwan Push Region Toward Conflict - Chinese Embassy

Sputnik News

20251228

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The arms supply from the United States to Taiwan is pushing the region closer to conflict, the Chinese Embassy in Washington told RIA Novosti.

"Such moves will not reverse the inevitable failure of 'Taiwan independence,' and will only push the Taiwan Strait into the danger of military conflict at a faster pace," Liu Pengyu, a spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said, commenting on the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency announcement of $11.1 billion worth of weapons, equipment, and military services approved for sale to Taiwan.

Specifically, the US arms shipment includes Javelin systems, ALTIUS-700M and ALTIUS-600 unmanned aerial vehicles, spare parts for AH-1W SuperCobra helicopters, HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems, M107A7 self-propelled artillery units, and TOW anti-tank missile systems.

"For the US, assisting the 'independence' agenda by arming Taiwan will only backfire," the spokesman added.

China has repeatedly called on the United States to stop selling arms to Taiwan and creating tension in the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese Foreign Ministry noted that military interaction between the United States and the island, as well as the US leadership's arms sales to Taiwan, grossly violated the "one China" principle and the three joint Sino-American communiques, causing great harm to China's sovereignty and security interests and threatening stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Official relations between the central government of the People's Republic of China and its island province were severed in 1949 after the Kuomintang forces led by Chiang Kai-shek, defeated in the civil war with the Communist Party of China, relocated to Taiwan. Business and informal contacts between the island and mainland China resumed in the late 1980s. Since the early 1990s, the two sides have been in contact through non-governmental organizations.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China's live-fire drill around Taiwan 'unilateral provocation': Presidential Office

ROC Central News Agency

12/29/2025 10:37 AM

Taipei, Dec. 29 (CNA) The Presidential Office on Monday condemned China's launch of another military drill around Taiwan, saying such actions are a "unilateral provocation" that destabilizes regional peace and stability.

China should immediately stop the irresponsible and provocative actions, Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo () said, after the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Monday announced the start of a new round of joint exercises around Taiwan by the PLA Army, Navy, and Air Force, which it said were approaching "from different directions."

The military exercises are meant to serve as a "stern warning to 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces," PLA Eastern Theater Command Spokesperson Senior Colonel Shi Yi () said in a statement released Monday.

Code-named Justice Mission 2025, the exercises are a "legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity," Shi said.

Justice Mission 2025 will be conducted in the Taiwan Strait and in areas north, southwest, southeast, and east of Taiwan, focusing on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade of key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain," according to Shi.

"With vessels and aircraft approaching the Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions, troops of multiple services will engage in joint assaults so as to test their joint operations capabilities," he said.

The PLA Eastern Theater Command also announced that it will conduct live-fire drills in waters and airspace around Taiwan from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, warning vessels and aircraft not to enter the designated drill areas.

According to the coordinates provided by the command, the drills will be staged at five designated zones around Taiwan, including at sea and in the airspace north of Keelung City, east of Taitung County, south of Pingtung County, southeast of Penghu County, and northwest of Taoyuan.

Taiwan's Presidential Office said that Taiwan's military will be keeping close tabs on the situation.

Earlier this month, Taiwan's intelligence chief Tsai Ming-yen () had warned that the PLA might launch another large-scale military drill before the end of the year and that Taiwan should be prepared.

The PLA has routinely conducted separate military exercises in November and December each year to assess the combat readiness of China's troops, Tsai, director-general of the National Security Bureau, said in a legislative hearing on Dec. 3.

It is "not unlikely" that the PLA would consider combining some of these routine drills into one large-scale exercise, targeting Taiwan, Tsai said in the hearing.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/pc

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






'It strikes as soon as it commences' is defining feature of 'Justice Mission 2025' compared with previous drills around Taiwan island: expert

Global Times

By Guo Yuandan and Liu Xuanzun Published: Dec 29, 2025 12:02 PM

The PLA Eastern Theater Command launched on Monday the "Justice Mission 2025" military exercises. The Eastern Theater Command has released intensive updates on the drill dynamics, which fully demonstrates the PLA's confidence. The second poster issued by the Eastern Theater Command further shows the operational advantages of modern unmanned equipment, including full-domain coverage, flexible maneuverability and precision strikes.

A military affairs expert pointed out that the defining feature of this drill, which sets it starkly apart from previous PLA exercises in the Taiwan Straits, is that it "strikes as soon as it commences." The PLA is not afraid to fight; rather, it cherishes the fraternal bond between compatriots, and refuses to let the people in Taiwan be plunged into the flames of war because of the separatist acts of the "Taiwan independence" forces.

At 7:30 am, the Eastern Theater Command announced that it has launched the "Justice Mission 2025" military exercises, and simultaneously released a notice on and a sketch map of the joint military drill areas.

At 8:00 am, naval and air forces of the PLA Eastern Theater Command conducted combat readiness patrols surrounding Taiwan island. Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson of the PLA Eastern Theater Command, said that starting from Monday, the PLA Eastern Theater Command is dispatching its naval and air assets to carry out combat readiness patrols around the Taiwan Island. The vessels and aircraft will approach the Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions to test the capabilities of the troops to conduct rapid maneuvers, form all-dimensional posture, and execute systemic blockade and control.

At 9:00 am, the PLA Eastern Theater Command conducted strikes on mobile ground targets in the middle areas of the Taiwan Straits. The PLA Eastern Theater Command is employing fighters, bombers and unmanned aerial vehicles in coordination with long-range rocket fires to conduct drills in the waters and airspace in the middle areas of the Taiwan Strait, focusing on striking mobile ground targets. The drills intend to test the troops' capabilities of precision strikes on key targets.

While no live footage has been released as of press time, the theme poster released by the Eastern Theater Command at 9:30 am, "Arrow of Justice, Control and Denial," showed imagery of multidimensional firepower and precision strikes targeting vital strongholds. Notably, volleys of flying arrows serve as the core visual symbol of the poster. A military affairs expert said that the dense, swift and precise characteristics embodied by the "flying arrows" vividly demonstrate the operational advantages of modern unmanned equipment: full-domain coverage, flexible maneuverability and precision strikes. In the poster, the arrows fly forth from the mainland and pierce straight into the "green vermin" on the island.

Some comments on the internet noted that these "green vermin" bear similarities to the figure in "Shell", a cartoon previously released by the Eastern Theater Command, making the poster's explicit targeting of "Taiwan independence" forces crystal clear. The largest arrow, blazing with flames, streaks directly toward Taiwan's warship Keelung, and a foreign warship in the distance turn and flee upon witnessing this scene. Some netizens commented that the historical scenario of "the Chiang Kai-shek warships were hit, and the US warships fled" during the artillery bombardment of Kinmen has replayed itself. As a popular online remark puts it: "Flying arrows weave a sky-wide net; foreign invaders dare not enter, and die-hard separatists have nowhere to flee."

Professor Zhang Chi from the National Defense University told the Global Times on Monday that the defining feature and highlight of this exercise is that it "strikes as soon as it commences".

"Compared with the PLA's previous exercises in the Taiwan Straits, especially the series of drills conducted from 2022 to the first half of 2025, this exercise is vastly different. Past exercises usually followed a pattern of 'gradual escalation': troop deployments were first carried out, followed by a gradual escalation to live-fire drills. However, live-fire drills are scheduled to be organized shortly after the launch of this exercise. This demonstrates two key points: first, the participating PLA troops have further integrated the requirements of actual combat into every stage of the exercise - troops train as they would fight in real warfare; second, we have sent a stern deterrent signal that the PLA resolutely punishes the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces and firmly opposes external interfering forces," Zhang said.

Every time the PLA conducts military exercises, certain individuals in Taiwan tout the fallacy that "the mainland will never really strike". In response to this, Zhang said that some "green camp" politicians on the island peddle the narratives that "the mainland will never really strike" and "external forces will come to Taiwan's rescue", in an attempt to mislead the people on the island.

Zhang said, "In reality, the PLA is not afraid to fight. Rather, we cherish the fraternal bond between compatriots, and refuse to let the people in Taiwan be plunged into the flames of war because of the separatist acts of the 'Taiwan independence' forces. The two sides of the Taiwan Straits belong to one family, bound by shared blood and heritage. We are the ones who least want to see war and turmoil break out in the Taiwan Straits. However, if the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces dare to cross the red line, and if external interfering forces dare to gravely undermine China's core interests, the PLA will deliver a resolute and crushing blow against them."

Zhang said, "We call on the people on the island to uphold the shared conviction that our national territory must not be divided, our nation must not be plunged into chaos, our civilization must not be torn apart, and our civilization must not be severed. We urge them to draw a clear line with the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, jointly safeguard national reunification, and share in the glory of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation."

According to reports by media on the island of Taiwan on Monday, Kuomintang Chairperson Cheng Li-wun said in an interview with a radio program that Taiwan has truly suffered eight lifetimes of misfortune for having the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in power. She said that if the DPP would only discard its two core pillars: opposition to nuclear power and the pursuit of "Taiwan independence", Taiwan would see an immediate lifting of the gloom, the two sides of the Taiwan Straits would catch an immediate glimpse of the dawn of peace, Taiwan's industries would no longer face the fear of power shortages, and the island would embrace a promising future at once.

Cheng said that Lai Ching-te has been relentlessly attempting to provoke and tread right on the edge of the red line. The DPP's erroneous cross-Straits policy is the root cause that has pushed Taiwan to the brink of imminent war and peril, and triggered intense anxiety in the international community. "He is fully resolved and obstinately determined to forge ahead down this road of ruin and dead end to the very end - and what is more grievous is that he has dragged the 23 million people in Taiwan down with him. This is an utterly tragic state of affairs," Cheng said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






From 'Joint Sword' to 'Strait Thunder' to 'Justice Mission,' three exercises have one thing in common

Global Times

By Guo Yuandan and Wang Qi Published: Dec 29, 2025 09:55 AM

At 7:30 am on Monday morning, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command announced the conduct of "Justice Mission 2025" in Taiwan Straits. In an interview with the Global Times, a military affairs expert stated that from "Joint Sword" to "Strait Thunder" to "Justice Mission," although the exercise code names have changed, what remains unchanged is our determination and will, demonstrating the PLA's ability to act on orders at any time, transition from training to combat, and resolutely fulfill its sacred mission.

Starting from Monday, the PLA Eastern Theater Command is dispatching its Army, Navy, Air Force and Rocket Force troops to conduct joint military drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025" in the Taiwan Straits and areas to the north, southwest, southeast and east of the Taiwan island, focusing on subjects of sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain, Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson of the PLA Eastern Theater Command, announced on Monday.

With vessels and aircraft approaching the Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions, troops of multiple services engage in joint assaults so as to test their joint operations capabilities. It is a stern warning against "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity, Shi said.

The speed of conduct of this Eastern Theater Command exercise is remarkably fastonly two days after a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that "it will be met with China's firm response." This fully demonstrates the PLA's capability to be on standby at all times, ready to fight at any moment, and certain to win in battle.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Friday that "Taiwan question is at the very core of China's core interests and the first red line that must not be crossed in China-US relations. Anyone who attempts to cross the line and make provocations on the Taiwan question will be met with China's firm response. Any company or individual who engages in arms sales to Taiwan will pay the price for the wrongdoing." On the day, Chinese Foreign Ministry announced the decision to take countermeasures against 20 US military companies and 10 senior executives, in response to the latest US announcement of large-scale arms sales to China's Taiwan region.

The US government announced on December 17 $11.1 billion in arms sales to China's Taiwan region, the largest ever US weapons package for the island, Reuters reported.

Regarding this large-scale exercise by the PLA Eastern Theater Command, the Taiwan region issued no prior notice. Yet, just the night before on Sunday, in a program on Taiwan-based media, Lai Ching-te was smugly showcasing the so-called "defense achievements" of the Taiwan region at the "209 Plant" of the Taiwan Military Equipment departmentonly to be immediately slapped in the face. The "defense department" on the island even boastfully claimed that it had formulated combat preparedness response procedures for mainland military actions and was prepared to deal with PLA surprise attacks, but in reality, it was completely unprepared.

Data released by "security bureau" on the island shows that PLA conducted nearly 3,600 sorties by military aircraft around the island of Taiwan this year, setting a new historical high, and PLA military aircraft and ships have conducted 39 "joint combat readiness patrols." This fully indicates that the PLA can take action at any time without Taiwan's awareness. Defense Ministry spokesman Zhang Xiaogang previously stated that the PLA will not stop cracking down against "Taiwan independence" and promoting reunification; for every provocation by "Taiwan independence" forces, we will advance pressure one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved.

"In recent years, in response to provocative narratives by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities, their 'independence'-seeking actions, and their vile collusion with external forces, the PLA has conducted a series of exercises, with code names from 'Joint Sword' to 'Strait Thunder', and to 'Justice Mission.' Although the code names have changed, what remains unchanged is our determination and will," Zhang Chi, a military affairs expert at the National Defense University of the PLA, told the Global Times on Monday.

In addition, he said that these changes in code names also demonstrate three points: first, the PLA's strength is growing ever stronger; second, the PLA's preparations for combat are advancing deeper and more practically, with greater emphasis on training soldiers according to how battles are fought; third, the PLA acts on orders at any time, transitions from training to combat, and resolutely fulfills its sacred mission.

Recently, the Lai authorities have seriously colluded with external forces, frantically purchasing arms, and undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits. The PLA's organization of a powerful military exercise codenamed "Justice Mission" has a very clear target: it is aimed precisely at the vile actions of "Taiwan independence" separatist forces colluding with external interference forces, and is absolutely not directed at the broad masses of Taiwan compatriots. The exercise is a solemn warning and powerful deterrent to Lai's "relying on foreign forces to seek independence," "seek independence through forces," and external forces' interference and provocation. It is a legitimate and lawful action to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. "The recovery of Taiwan and its return to China was an important outcome of the victory in the War of Resistance, and also an important component of the post-World War II international order, with a rock-solid legal foundation. The one-China principle has long been deeply rooted in people's hearts and has become a broad consensus in the international community. The Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair and brooks no external interference," Zhang Chi said.

Regarding "external forces once again stirring up the Taiwan question this time and massively selling arms to Taiwan," Zhang stated that this not only seriously violates the one-China principle, grossly interferes in China's internal affairs, and challenges China's core interests, but also blatantly tramples on international justice and maliciously disrupts the post-war international order. Its sinister intent to "use Taiwan question to contain China" is obvious to all.

As for "the actions of the Lai authorities," Zhang said that this is selling out Taiwan to external forces, groveling and begging, and eagerly using the hard-earned money of the Taiwan people to pay "protection fees" to external forces. It can be said that the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces headed by Lai are utterly incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Straitsthey are outright "troublemakers," "peace destroyers," and "war igniters," Zhang Chi stated.

Zhang noted that "the use of the code name 'Justice Mission' this time is to emphasize the legitimacy and legality of military actionsthe exercise is to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, safeguard the security and well-being of all Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots, and resolutely oppose separatism and interference. This is a sacred mission. The PLA conducting exercises in the Taiwan Straits demonstrates the irrefutable great truth that 'justice will prevail, peace will prevail, and the people will prevail.'"

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Expert interprets PLA's 'Justice Mission 2025' drill areas as media on Taiwan island describes exercises as 'sudden'

Global Times

By Guo Yuandan and Liu Xuanzun Published: Dec 29, 2025 10:21 AM

On Monday 7:30 am, the PLA Eastern Theater Command announced that it has launched the "Justice Mission 2025" military exercises. Simultaneously, the Eastern Theater Command issued a notice on and a sketch map of the joint military drill areas, stating that it will conduct major military drills and organize live firing activities in the seas and airspace around Taiwan from 8 am to 6 pm on Tuesday.

Media on the island of Taiwan described the PLA's military exercises in Taiwan Straits as a "sudden" move, and ran headlines such as "Justice Mission 2025: military drills and training encircle Taiwan." Taiwan's news outlet Liberty Times claimed that the Eastern Theater Command made a surprise announcement on Monday that it will conduct an island-encircling military exercise targeting Taiwan, codenamed "Justice Mission 2025," with the drill scope covering the north, south, east and west of Taiwan island. Taiwan's "Central News Agency" directly specified the areas on the island that the exercises cover: according to the announced coordinate positions and diagrams, the drills span five zones, namely the waters north of Keelung, east of Taitung, south of Pingtung, southwest of Penghu, and the Taiwan Straits area from northwest of Taoyuan to Matsu, forming an encirclement posture around Taiwan.

In contrast to the simplistic interpretations by media outlets in Taiwan, as of press time, the island's relevant authorities have yet to make any response.

To help the relevant authorities in the Taiwan region gain a clearer understanding of the PLA's intentions, the Global Times interviewed Professor Zhang Chi of the National Defense University for an interpretation of the exercise zones demarcated for this military drill. Zhang explained that a total of five military exercise and training zones have been designated for this drill, two to the north of Taiwan island, two to the south, and one to the east.

Zhang said that judging from the delimitation of the exercise zones, this military drill features three key characteristics.

First, tightening the encirclement chain. The exercise zones for this drill are positioned significantly closer to Taiwan's main island than those of previous exercises. Upon the launch of the drill, the PLA's naval and aerial forces rapidly closed in on Taiwan island from multiple directions, establishing an integrated blockade posture. This demonstrates a stark reality: each act of provocation by the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external interfering forces will prompt the PLA to advance one step further. The more egregious the collusion and provocation by the separatist forces and external interfering forces become, the tighter the PLA will draw the encirclement chain around Taiwan island; the fiercer the separatist countercurrents of "Taiwan independence", the stronger the mighty tide of national reunification will be, Zhang said.

Second, encircling Taiwan island on three sides. Unlike previous drills, the five exercise zones have formed a posture of encircling Taiwan island on three sides, sending an unequivocal signal: to seek "Taiwan independence" by relying on external forces is a dead end; to return to the motherland is the only righteous path, Zhang noted.

Third, closing the door to beat the dog. This drill carries a more explicit targeted focus and clear objective. The two exercise zones to the north of Taiwan island are aimed not only at the chief culprit of "Taiwan independence" - the Lai Ching-te authorities - but also lie close to the waters off the major northern ports of Taiwan island, tantamount to an announcement of a blockade of these ports. The two zones to the south of Taiwan island are intended not only to deliver a severe blow to the "stronghold" of the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, but also stand close to the sea area and airspace off the major southern ports and Taiwan military bases of Taiwan island, equivalent to cutting off Taiwan island's major maritime shipping routes. The single zone to the east of Taiwan island targets the primary passage for external forces to provide aid to the DPP authorities, according to Zhang's analysis.

"This demonstrates that the PLA has unwavering resolve and formidable capabilities to cut off this passage and deter external forces from interfering. Overall, these five exercise zones have formed a posture of closing the door to beat the dog against the DPP authorities," Zhang said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PLA Eastern Theater Command conducts 'Justice Mission 2025' joint military drills around Taiwan island

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Dec 29, 2025 07:47 AM

Starting from Monday, the PLA Eastern Theater Command is dispatching its Army, Navy, Air Force and Rocket Force troops to conduct joint military drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025" in the Taiwan Straits and areas to the north, southwest, southeast and east of the Taiwan island, focusing on subjects of sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain, Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson of the PLA Eastern Theater Command, announced on Monday.

With vessels and aircraft approaching the Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions, troops of multiple services engage in joint assaults so as to test their joint operations capabilities. It is a stern warning against"Taiwan Independence" separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity, Shi said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UK and Germany sign 52m contract for cutting-edge artillery

Press release

The UK has signed a 52 million contract with Germany for state-of-the-art military artillery.

From: Ministry of Defence and Luke Pollard MP

Published 28 December 2025

State-of-the-art military artillery that can move at speeds of up to 100km/h secured under 52 million contract.

Joint deal speeds up delivery of military kit to both the UK and Germany - demonstrating deepening defence cooperation.

Partnership strengthens NATO capabilities of collective defence - strengthening interoperability.

Military artillery that can fire on the move and hit targets 70km away has been secured under a major 52 million contract between the UK and Germany.

The deal means the UK will receive a cutting-edge Early Capability Demonstrator (ECD) platform of the RCH 155, with two more going to Germany for joint testing.

This joint procurement demonstrates deepening defence cooperation between the UK and Germany under the Trinity House agreement signed in October 2024 - a landmark defence agreement that committed both nations to military collaboration.

RCH 155 is a long-term solution for the British Army's Mobile Fires Platform requirement. Soldiers currently operate the 14 Archer artillery systems, which are the short-term replacement for the AS90 guns gifted to Ukraine.

The RCH 155 is mounted on to a BOXER armoured vehicle and it can:

Fire 8 rounds per minute while moving at speeds up to 100km/h.

Hit targets in any direction without repositioning.

Travel 700km without refuelling - similar to the driving distance from Cornwall to Newcastle.

Operate with only 2 crew members thanks to cutting-edge automation.

Unlike traditional artillery that needs to stop and set up before firing, this system shoots while on the move, making it faster and harder for adversaries to target.

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP said:

The British Army will soon have new artillery that can fire on the move. This builds on lessons from Ukraine enabling our Army to hit targets 70km away and move fast away from returning fire so they can fire again. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated the importance of being able to fire rapidly and move, and it is such lessons that are informing our procurement decisions and helping us deliver on the Strategic Defence Review.

As part of the contract, the UK and Germany will share test data and facilities, ensuring both nations get world-class equipment. This means both nations are accelerating procurement timelines whilst reducing costs - delivering better value for taxpayers and enhanced capability for both Armed Forces.

Edward Cutts, Senior Responsible Owner of Mobile Fires in the Army, said:

This joint demonstrator programme exemplifies the strength and ambition of the Trinity House Agreement. By working hand-in-hand with Germany, we're not only accelerating the delivery of world-class artillery capability for the British Army, but doing so more efficiently and cost-effectively than either nation could achieve alone. The RCH 155 represents a step-change in mobile artillery - combining devastating firepower with the ability to rapidly reposition. This collaboration ensures our soldiers will be equipped with cutting-edge technology whilst strengthening the interoperability between UK and German forces that is vital to NATO's collective defence.

The contract agreement supports the Strategic Defence Review - ensuring defence is an engine for growth in this parliament and supporting skilled jobs across the UK defence industry.

The deal strengthens military ties between the UK and Germany - vital for NATO's collective defence as global threats on the world stage evolve.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






$45 billion from partners, over 3 million strike drones, more Ukrainian weapons: key Ministry of Defence highlights

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

27 December, 2025, 2:40 PM EET

A record $45 billion from partners, over 3 million strike drones delivered to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, even more Ukrainian weapons, and monthly additional funding for combat brigades.

In 2025, Ukraine secured $45 billion in international assistance

This is the highest annual amount since the beginning of the full-scale war.

Eight Ramstein-format meetings were held, resulting in the delivery of air-defense systems, interceptor missiles, aircraft, aerial bombs, armored vehicles, and other capabilities from partners to strengthen Ukraine's military.

This year also saw the launch of PURL, a mechanism that enables the procurement of U.S. weapons using partner funding. More than 20 countries have already joined the initiative, with total contributions exceeding $4 billion.

This year, Ukraine's military received a record 3 million FPV drones

More than 15,000 ground robotic systems were also delivered to military units.

The Ministry of Defence also expanded the production of interceptor drones. Nearly 1,000 interceptor drone systems are now supplied to combat units every day.

Production of Ukrainian weapons

Over $6 billion in foreign financing was directed to Ukraine's defense industry.

Ukrainian defense manufacturers were additionally provided with UAH 5 billion in preferential loans for development and over UAH 1.5 billion in support to restore production after enemy attacks.

The Build with Ukraine and Build in Ukraine initiatives were launched.

Agreements were signed with the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands on the joint production of Ukrainian drones abroad. Meanwhile, 25 foreign defense companies are already establishing production facilities in Ukraine.

The Ministry of Defence is also launching Defence City, a special legal framework that provides a range of incentives for manufacturers of weapons and military equipment, including exemptions from corporate income tax, land and property taxes, the environmental tax, as well as simplified customs procedures.

New grant programs were also launched for Ukrainian weapons manufacturers in key technological areas, including explosives, tactical ballistic missiles, surface-to-air missile systems for countering drones, and AI-based solutions.

Funding of up to UAH 150 million per project will be allocated to initiatives capable of delivering rapid results on the battlefield. The main grant program was also updated, under which manufacturers may receive funding from UAH 500,000 to UAH 8 million.

Furthermore, six Ukrainian state-owned and private banks signed a three-year UAH 21.5 billion loan agreement backed by state guarantees, which represents the largest syndicated loan agreement in the history of Ukraine's financial market. The implementation of the agreement opens new opportunities to scale up and modernize production within the defense industry and, most importantly, enables the faster provision of essential weapons to Ukraine's military.

The 'Contract 18-24' program was launched at the beginning of the year

Under the program, young Ukrainians who are not subject to mandatory mobilization were able to join the military on favorable terms, including an additional bonus of UAH 1 million. The contract program has since been expanded to include operators of unmanned systems.

The Ministry of Defence has also developed a new contract system for both recruits and active-duty service members, with clearly defined service durations, to be implemented in the first quarter of next year.

Combat brigades began receiving UAH 7 million for each of their battalions involved in combat operations.

This allowed units to independently and promptly meet their operational needs.

Funding increased in proportion to the number of battalions carrying out combat missions. For each brigade, this amounts to tens of millions of hryvnias in additional resourcesmeaning more drones, vehicles, and other essential equipment.

The DELTA combat digital system has been officially deployed across all levels of the Defence Forces of Ukraine

This platform enables Ukrainian military personnel to maintain real-time battlefield awareness, plan operations, and exchange information.

Supported by DELTA, Ukrainian defenders engage more than 2,000 enemy targets every day.

NATO has recognized DELTA as a driver of Ukraine's leadership in battlefield innovation. During the recent REPMUS-25 exercises, Ukraine's DELTA served as the core system for command and control of the combined team of participating nations.

Personnel of Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers (enlistment offices) equipped with body cameras

Starting 1 September, personnel of the Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers (enlistment offices) assigned to notification groups began using body cameras.

The measure aims to enhance transparency in the work of notification groups and safeguard the rights of both citizens liable for military service and enlistment office personnel. Body cameras help reduce conflicts, provide documentary evidence in disputed situations, and prevent abuses.

The Ministry of Defence has also introduced an electronic enlistment office, moving corresponding services into the digital domain. Notably, the Reserve+ app now enables users to apply for nearly all types of military service deferments without needing to visit enlistment offices.

This has significantly reduced unnecessary bureaucracy at enlistment offices.

Direct drone procurement: MoD launched DOT-Chain Defence

Essentially, it is a marketplace  a simple and intuitive online store where the military can order drones directly from manufacturers in just a few clicks, within the state-allocated budget.

The selection of drones is extensive, with more than 180 FPV drone models alone. In addition, DOT-Chain Defence enables the procurement of reconnaissance drones, heavy bombers, electronic warfare (EW) equipment, and ground robotic systems. More recently, interceptor drones have also been added.

Payment processes for equipment ordered by the military, as well as the full bureaucratic cycle, are managed by the Ministry of Defence's Defence Procurement Agency (DPA). Military units simply select the drones they require on the front line, place an order, and receive them directly from the manufacturer.

The average time from order to delivery is 10 days. A total of 186 brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and two corps of the National Guard of Ukraine have already joined the project. The plan for next year is to shift 70% of drone procurement to the DOT-Chain Defence platform.

The Ministry of Defence has developed and is scaling the first digital personnel record-keeping system, 'Impulse'

The system will soon be deployed in every military unit of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, significantly automating personnel service operations.

With 'Impulse', personnel services will have access to up-to-date data on every service member and their assignment history, as well as the ability to automatically generate reports and draft orders. The entire process will be paperless, efficient, and transparent.

For senior command, the system also enables decision-making based on precise and transparent data from each military unit.

Change of duty station between the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the National Guard of Ukraine unblocked

A request report for a change of duty station may now be submitted through the Army+ app. Processing time for transfers between units has been shortened to 72 hours, with no paperwork, complex procedures, or prolonged waiting periods.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Two HK residents reportedly killed in Ukraine combat; Immigration Department of HK confirms family requests for help: Media

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Dec 28, 2025 08:07 PM

Two Hong Kong residents have reportedly been killed in combating in Ukraine, and the Immigration Department of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has confirmed that it has received requests for assistance from the families and is currently learning about the incident, Hong Kong's TVB news reported on Saturday.

A report by Sing Tao Headline on Sunday said that the two Hong Kong residents, aged 23 and 30 respectively, serving with Ukrainian forces, were reportedly killed in action last Friday during a Russian attack in Ukraine's southern Zaporizhzhia region.

They arrived in Ukraine last month, underwent short-term military training, and served as mechanized infantry, the report by Sing Tao Headline said. The attack occurred during their first mission. According to reports from various media outlets, including United Daily News, the two Hong Kong youths previously served in the 1st and 4th Regiments of the French Foreign Legion, respectively.

The Immigration Department stated that, upon receiving the families' requests for assistance, it immediately sought information through the Commissioner's Office of Chinese Foreign Ministry in HKSAR and the Chinese Embassy in Ukraine, including verification of the individuals' identities, per TVB.

It will provide appropriate advice and feasible assistance in accordance with the families' wishes, the report said. The department will continue to maintain close contact with the Commissioner's Office, the Embassy, and the families to actively follow up on the matter.

It is reported that before the two died, at least four Hong Kong residents in total had joined the Ukrainian military to participate in the conflict, per the Sing Tao Headline.

According to information on the website of Security Bureau of HKSAR, the bureau in a notice updated in June said that since early June 2025, armed conflicts across Ukraine have intensified. The security situation in the country remains highly volatile. Residents should avoid all travel to the country.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Comment by Aide to the President Yury Ushakov following the telephone conversation between Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump

December 28, 2025

21:00

Aide to the President Yury Ushakov: President Vladimir Putin has just finished his telephone conversation with President of the United States Donald Trump.

The conversation took place at the US President's initiative. The US President wished to discuss the current developments in the context of the Ukrainian conflict and its potential resolution with the President of Russia. President Trump wished to discuss these matters before his in-person meeting with Zelensky later today at Mar-a-Lago, Florida.

Logically, at the beginning of the conversation that continued for 1 hour and 15 minutes, the presidents exchanged warm Christmas and New Year greetings and, naturally, wished happiness to both nations. The rest of the conversation was similarly friendly, good-natured and business-like, with mutual interest in making progress towards a long-term resolution of the Ukrainian conflict.

Donald Trump paid close attention to Russia's assessment of the realistic prospects for an agreement, and to our President's detailed rationale for the fundamental importance of continuing to build upon the Russian-American understandings established during the Anchorage summit and the numerous subsequent contacts between the two administrations.

Most significantly, the Russian and US presidents share a broadly similar view that the temporary ceasefire proposed by Ukraine and Europe - under the pretext of preparing for a referendum or other such measures - would merely prolong the conflict and risk a renewed escalation on the battlefield. A definitive cessation of hostilities requires, first and foremost, a bold and responsible political decision from Kiev, one that aligns with the ongoing discussions through the Russian-American channel. Given the evolving situation on the front lines, it would be in the Ukrainian regime's interest to make such a decision regarding Donbass without further delay.

Donald Trump repeatedly emphasised the necessity of ending the war as swiftly as possible and spoke of the impressive prospects for economic cooperation between the United States and both Russia and Ukraine that would open up once the hostilities are over. He acknowledged that the Ukrainian crisis has been his most formidable foreign policy challenge, stating that he now saw renewed proof of Russia's commitment to a political and diplomatic settlement. It is with this understanding that he intends to frame his forthcoming negotiations with Zelensky.

It is particularly noteworthy that during today's conversation, the Russian President acceded to the American proposal to continue efforts to resolve the Ukrainian situation through two specially established working groups. One will address various security dimensions, and the other, economic matters. The terms for launching these working groups will be finalised in the near future, most likely in early January.

Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump agreed to speak again by telephone promptly after the US President's meeting with the Ukrainian delegation at Mar-a-Lago this evening.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia's Lavrov says EU 'main obstacle' to Ukraine peace

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 28 December 2025 10:17 AM

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has blamed the European Union for being the "main obstacle" to peace in Ukraine.

Lavrov told TASS on Sunday that Brussels is not ready for constructive negotiations with Moscow and is openly making preparations for war, pointlessly hoping to inflict a "strategic defeat on Russia."

He said leaders of the European Union were to blame for Brussels' continued support for Kiev. The "European war party" is betting its "political capital in inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia."

The top Russian diplomat pointed out that "almost all European countries, with few exceptions, have been pumping the Kiev regime full of money and weapons."

Lavrov said even when the Russian troops continue to hold the initiative on the battlefield, the EU leaders are wasting resources by supporting Kiev.

He added that the EU leaders wishfully dream of knocking out the Russian economy by slapping ineffective sanctions on Moscow.

He said the EU was presently trying to ruin the peace initiative taken by US President Donald Trump after coming to power.

"After a new administration came to power in the United States, Europe and the European Union emerged as the main obstacles to peace," Lavrov said.

"They are making no secret of the fact that they are getting ready to fight it out with Russia on the battlefield," he added.

Lavrov said, "These ambitions have literally blinded them."

Russia has repeatedly warned that the EU's meddling in the peace process is hindering the effort. In past weeks, the EU has sought to influence negotiations on settling the Ukraine conflict.

The top Russian diplomat said the EU's hostility toward Moscow goes back to 2014, when Brussels "started talking about the so-called Russian threat and inciting Russia-hating and militarist sentiment" among European populations.

"There is no need to be afraid of Russia attacking anyone. However, should anyone consider attacking Russia, they would face a devastating blow," Lavrov warned.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Trump Says Ukraine Peace Talks Moving In 'Right Direction' After Zelenskyy Meeting

By RFE/RL December 28, 2025

Peace talks to end Russia's war on Ukraine were "moving in the right direction," US President Donald Trump asserted, after holding two hours of critical negotiations with his visiting Ukrainian counterpart and a call with European leaders.

Trump's December 28 talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyy was the culmination of weeks of phone and shuttle diplomacy -- and the most tangible sign of progress to end the fighting, which, nearly four years in, has killed or wounded more than 1.5 million men on both sides.

Speaking to reporters after an in-person meeting with Zelenskyy at Trump's Florida residence, and a video call with European leaders, the US president signaled that there had been progress in the talks but no breakthrough.

"We're getting a lot closer, maybe very close," Trump said. Talks are "moving in the right direction."

"Russia wants [the war] ended. Everyone wants it ended," he said without giving details.

Trump, who said during his election campaign he could settle the war in one day, has been frustrated by his inability to use what he sees as his businessman's acumen to end Europe's bloodiest conflict since World War II.

He's dispatched his chief envoy, Steve Witkoff, to Moscow six times to meet with Putin.

Trump himself met with the Russian leader in Alaska in August. And the December 28 meeting was the third for Zelenskyy since January.

"Gotta make a deal. Gotta get it done. Too many people dying," Trump said earlier.

"I think both presidents want to make a deal," he added, referring to Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Zelenskyy, who has pushed for binding security guarantees that would help protect Ukraine in the future from potential Russian attack, said such a deal had been reached. However, Trump was more cautious, saying he expected European countries to "take over a big part" of that effort.

Later, Zelenskyy posted on social media that Trump said he was planning to host Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington in January.

Shortly before the talks began, Trump and Putin spoke by phone, a surprise call that the Kremlin said lasted more than an hour and was done at Trump's request. In a post to social media, Trump described it as "good and very productive."

Putin's chief foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, said that Putin and Trump agreed to not support a push for a temporary cease-fire ahead of a settlement-- something Zelenskyy has called for.

Last month, the White House released a 28-point plan that was seen as heavily favorable to Russia. Zelenskyy and his negotiators - along with Kyiv's European allies -- have sought to draft counterproposals.

Zelenskyy's plan, released last week, paved the way for the Ukrainian leader to fly to the United States and meet with Trump.

Amid the diplomacy and negotiations, Russia has shown little inclination for compromise, even refusing to consider a Christmas truce proposed by Zelenskyy.

A day before the talks, Russia pounded the Ukrainian capital and surrounding districts leaving nearly 1 million homes without electricity amid temperatures hovering around freezing.

In another clear signal, Putin met with top military commanders, lauding battlefield successes, asserting Ukraine was to blame for the war, and showing no intention for compromise.

If Kyiv does not wish "to settle the matter peacefully," Russia will achieve its objectives by force, Putin said, reiterating comments he has made several times in recent weeks.

Before traveling to Florida, Zelenskyy met in Halifax with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who offered support for Ukraine, saying that Russia's "barbarism...shows just how important it is that we stand with Ukraine."

"These are some of the most active diplomatic days of the year, and much can be resolved before the New Year," the Ukrainian leader wrote on social media before the meeting.

Ukraine's 20-Point Peace Plan

One of the critical issues at the heart of current negotiations is the fate of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region.

Most of that territory is under Russian control and Moscow has demanded that Kyiv turn over the parts Russia does not hold. That includes two major cities -- Kramatorsk and Slovyansk -- which are linchpins for Ukrainian defenses in the area.

"It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer. That's a very tough issue, but one that I think will get resolved," Trump told reporters in Florida.

The other critical issue is the fate of Ukraine's largest nuclear power plant. The Zaporizhzhya region facility, which was Ukraine's largest single source of electricity, has been under Russian control since shortly after the start of the invasion.

Zelenskyy has proposed putting the plant under joint control between Ukraine and the United States, with Washington netting profits from the sale of the plant's electricity -- including potentially to Moscow.

The Kremlin, which believes it has the upper hand both on the battlefield and in the peace negotiations, has shown little willingness to compromise on its hard-line demands -- most of which predate the invasion.

Russia Claims Towns Taken

In his meeting with top Russian generals - a video of which was released by the Kremlin late on December 27 -- Putin lauded Russian forces and claimed capture of two additional Ukrainian towns -- Myrnohrad and Hulyaypole.

Myrnohrad, in Ukraine's Donetsk region, is close to Pokrovsk, an important logistical hub that Moscow has prioritized for nearly a year and claimed to have captured earlier this month. Hulyaypole is a frontline town in the southeastern Zaporizhzhya region.

Russian claims could not immediately be verified; Moscow has regularly claimed battlefield victories that have turned out to be premature or outright false. The Ukrainian military said it had beaten back attacks on Myrnohrad and Hulyaypole.

Another key hurdle to peace is security guarantees for Ukraine once the war ends. Without them, Kyiv fears Russia will eventually attack it once again.

Zelenskyy has indicated that security guarantees involve several documents that need to be discussed, while economic agreements are still at the "basic groundwork" stage.

US envoys attending talks in Berlin earlier this month reportedly offered NATO-style security guarantees for Kyiv thought to be along the lines of the alliance's Article 5, which states that an attack against one member of the alliance is considered an attack against all.

However, blocking Ukraine from joining the military alliance has been a central position of Moscow's since before the start of the war. It's unclear if NATO-like security guarantees would be opposed by the Kremlin.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-war-peace- talks-zelenskyy-trump-putin/33634815.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






Trump Says He Had Good Phone Call With Putin Before Meeting With Zelensky

Sputnik News

20251228

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump said that he had held a good and productive phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday.

"I just had a good and very productive telephone call with President Putin of Russia prior to my meeting, at 1:00 P.M. [18:00 GMT] today, with President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy of Ukraine. The meeting will take place in the main dining room of Mar-a-Lago. Press is invited. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DJT," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Earlier in the day Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the United States, Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne reported.

None of the US officials, high-ranking figures or members of the negotiation delegation met Zelensky at the airport in Florida.

Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO Kirill Dmitriev, who is also the Russian president's special representative for investment and economic cooperation with foreign countries, held talks in Miami on December 20-21 with US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff and the US president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

Footage published by Ukrainian news portal Novyny.LIVE shows Zelensky, after disembarking the plane, greeting representatives of the Ukrainian side and members of the aircraft crew. Other than them, only airport staff and Zelenskyy's bodyguards were visible on the runway, with no honor guard or official representatives of the US presidential administration.

The upcoming meeting between Trump and Zelensky will be their fourth.

Russian President Vladimir Putin received Witkoff and Kushner in the Kremlin on December 2. The US representatives' visit to Russia was part of the discussion of the US peace plan for Ukraine. According to Putin, the US side divided the 27 points into four packages and proposed discussing them separately. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov called the talks very substantive, adding that contacts between Russia and the US would continue. Ushakov also noted that the Russian army's successes on the battlefield had a positive impact on the course and nature of the talks.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian Forces Complete Liberation of Gulyaipole in Zaporozhye Region - MoD

Sputnik News

20251228

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia's Battlegroup Vostok has continued to advance into the depth of Ukraine's defenses and gained control of the town of Gulyaipole in the Zaporozhye Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday.

"Battlegroup Vostok group continued to advance into the depth of the enemy's defenses and completed the liberation of the Gulyaipole settlement in the Zaporozhye Region," the statement read.

Russia's Battlegroup Zapad have repelled two attacks by the Ukrainian armed forces aimed at breaking through to Kupyansk, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"In the Kupyansk direction, during the day, units of the 6th Army repelled two attacks by formations of the 92nd Assault and 14th Mechanized Brigades of the Ukrainian armed forces in the areas of the settlements of Podoly and Nechvolodovka of the Kharkov region, in order to break into the city of Kupyansk, Kharkov region. Up to 15 militants and a T-64 tank were destroyed," the statement read.

Russia's Battlegroup Dnepr took control of the settlement of Stepnogorsk in the Zaporozhye region, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"As a result of decisive actions, units of Battlegroup Dnepr liberated the settlement of Stepnogorsk in the Zaporozhye region," the ministry said in a statement.

Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr have liberated Dimitrov, Rodinskoye, Artemovka and Volnoye in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The Russian armed forces have struck Ukrainian energy facilities used in support of the Ukrainian armed forces, long-range drone assembly sites, and temporary locations of foreign mercenaries, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"Operational-tactical aircraft, strike unmanned aerial vehicles, rocket troops and artillery of groups of troops of the Russian armed forces have struck energy facilities used in the interests of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine, workshops for the production of components for rocket engines, assembly sites for long-range unmanned aerial vehicles and sites for their preparation for launch, as well as points of temporary deployment of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 148 districts," the statement read.

Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr has eliminated over 500 Ukrainian soldiers over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday.

"The enemy's losses amounted to over 500 Ukrainian soldiers, three armored fighting vehicles, a pickup truck, and an electronic warfare station," the ministry said.

Russia's Battlegroup Zapad has eliminated over 200 Ukrainian soldiers, a tank, two US-made 113 combat armored vehicles, three armored fighting vehicles, ten pickup trucks, and five ammunition depots.

Russia's Battlegroup Vostok over the past day has eliminated up to 185 Ukrainian servicemen, two armored fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, and a US-made 155-mm 198 howitzer, the ministry said.

In battles with Russia's Battlegroup Sever, Kiev lost up to 140 troops over the past 24 hours, the statement read, adding that Russia's Battlegroup Yug has eliminated up to 155 troops. Russia's Dnepr battle group has eliminated over 60 Ukrainian troops over the past day, the ministry added.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PM call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine: 28 December 2025

Press release

The Prime Minister spoke with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy today.

From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP

Published 28 December 2025

The Prime Minister spoke with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy today.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the United Kingdom's unwavering support for Ukraine and its commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace. They condemned Russia's brutal and illegal invasion, as well as the recent attack on Kyiv.

Both leaders welcomed ongoing diplomatic efforts and commended President Trump's continued engagement in securing peace.

The Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy agreed to remain in close contact in the coming days.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Zelenskyy Vows To Continue Peace Drive After Trump Talks End With No Deal

By RFE/RL December 29, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded his talks with US President Donald Trump without a peace deal, but he said US and Ukrainian teams will meet again soon and that a gathering of leaders -- including those from Europe -- will be held in Washington next month.

Zelenskyy on December 28 posted on social media that "we had a substantive discussion on all issues," including matters concerning all-important security guarantees, at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework and achieved significant results," Zelenskyy wrote.

"We also discussed the sequence of further actions. We agreed that security guarantees are key on the path to achieving a lasting peace."

"We agreed that our teams would meet as early as next week to finalize all discussed matters. We also agreed with President Trump that he will host Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington, DC, in January," Zelenskyy added.

Trump's meeting with Zelenskyy was the culmination of weeks of phone and shuttle diplomacy in efforts to end Russia's full-scale war on Ukraine -- which has killed or wounded more than 1.5 million soldiers on both sides in nearly four years.

The meeting also marked the latest instance in which participants touted "progress" and "results" but did not provide details and vowed additional talks.

'The Right Direction'

Following two hours of talks, Trump asserted that peace discussions were "moving in the right direction." He did not mention the possibility of hosting leaders in Washington in January.

"We're getting a lot closer, maybe very close...[talks are] "moving in the right direction."

"Russia wants [the war] ended. Everyone wants it ended," he told reporters without giving details.

Trump and Zelenskyy also conducted a call with European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and NATO chief Mark Rutte.

"Along with several other European leaders, I took part this evening in an exchange with Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump," Macron wrote on social media."Then I spoke [separately] with President Zelenskyy."

"We are making progress on the security guarantees that will be central to building a just and lasting peace."

"We will bring together the countries of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris in early January to finalize each country's concrete contributions," he added, referring to a group of Ukrainian allies who have indicated they might participate in a peacekeeping mission in the event of a cease-fire.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote onsocial media that "Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our US partners...Paramount to this effort is to have ironclad security guarantees [for Ukraine] from day one."

Kyiv has been adamant in receiving security guarantees -- particularly from the United States but also from Europe -- and has resisted the Kremlin's hard-line demands that include ceding Ukrainian territory to Russia.

During the joint news conference, Trump said that territorial issues -- including the future of Ukraine's Donbas region -- had not been settled.

"It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer. That's a very tough issue," Trump said.

Trump Frustration

Trump, who said during his election campaign he could settle the war in one day, has been frustrated by his inability to use what he sees as his businessman's acumen to end Europe's bloodiest conflict since World War II.

He has dispatched his chief envoy, Steve Witkoff, to Moscow six times to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump himself met with the Russian leader in Alaska in August.

Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump son-in-law Jared Kusher, and defense chief Pete Hegseth joined the Trump meeting with Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian's third with the US president since January.

'The Whole World'

Russia did not immediately offer substantive comment following the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting and news conference.

Putin's special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, wrote on social media that "the whole world appreciates President Trump and his team's peace efforts."

Shortly before the talks began, Trump and Putin spoke by phone, a surprise call that the Kremlin said lasted more than an hour and was done at Trump's request. In a post to social media, Trump described it as "good and very productive."

Putin's chief foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, said Putin and Trump agreed to not support a push for a temporary cease-fire ahead of a settlement-- something Zelenskyy has called for.

Last month, the White House released a 28-point plan that was seen as heavily favorable to Russia. Zelenskyy and his negotiators - along with Kyiv's European allies -- have sought to draft counterproposals.

Zelenskyy's 20-point plan, released last week, paved the way for the Ukrainian leader to fly to the United States and meet with Trump.

Little Sign Of Compromise

Amid the diplomacy and negotiations, Russia has shown little inclination for compromise, even refusing to consider a Christmas truce proposed by Zelenskyy.

A day before the talks, Russia pounded the Ukrainian capital and surrounding districts leaving nearly 1 million homes without electricity amid temperatures hovering around freezing.

In another clear signal, Putin met with top military commanders, lauding battlefield successes, asserting Ukraine was to blame for the war, and showing no intention for compromise.

If Kyiv does not wish "to settle the matter peacefully," Russia will achieve its objectives by force, Putin said, reiterating comments he has made several times in recent weeks.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-trump-zelenskyy- florida-peace-talks-russia/33635202.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






In Florida, the President of Ukraine Held a Substantive and Constructive Meeting with the President of the United States

President of Ukraine

29 December 2025 - 01:56

In Florida, at the Mar-a-Lago residence, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of the United States Donald Trump.

The Head of State expressed his gratitude for the meeting, during which a substantive discussion was held on all issues. The President separately noted the progress achieved by the Ukrainian and American teams over the past weeks.

"Special thanks to Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for their engagement and full commitment, as well as to our team - first of all, to Rustem Umerov and Andrii Hnatov," Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted.

The leaders discussed all aspects of the peace framework and achieved significant results. According to the Head of State, some documents have already been fully agreed or are being finalized. In addition, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump discussed the sequencing of the following actions.

"We agree that security guarantees are the key milestone in achieving lasting peace, and our teams will continue working on all aspects," the Head of State emphasized.

Donald Trump noted that the teams have come very close to ending the war and will continue working in the format of working groups. The U.S. President also separately commended the bravery of Ukrainian warriors and underscored Ukraine's importance for Europe and the United States.

The leaders agreed that the Ukrainian and American teams will meet as early as next week to finalize all discussed matters. In addition, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump agreed on a joint meeting with European leaders to be held in Washington in January.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






VANCOUVER, Dec. 29, 2025 - Patagonia Gold Corp. ("Patagonia" or the "Company") (TSXV: PGDC) is pleased to provide an update on the construction of the Calcatreu project ("Calcatreu" or the "Project"), the Company's flagship project in the Province of Rio Negro, Argentina.

The Project is located in the southern portion of the Rio Negro Province, 85 km south of the community of Ingeniero Jacobacci. The Project is centered on a low sulfidation, epithermal gold and silver system with mineralization outcropping at the surface.

Upon receipt of all permits in Q4 2024, construction of the Project commenced in Q1 2025 and is advancing towards first leaching, which the Company expects to commence during Q1 2026. Mining activities commenced in August 2025 with the removal of topsoil and the first blast was made in September 2025. Mineralized material is being stockpiled in the crushing area and processing will soon start with a view to placing the material on the leach pad during January 2026. The total measured and indicated mineral resources are estimated at 9.84 million tonnes at an average grade 2.11 g/t Au and 19.8 g/t Ag, yielding 669 thousand ounces of gold and 6.3 million ounces of silver.

The explosives storage magazine was completed in August 2025 and has capacity to store 75 tonnes of explosives. The blasting service has been outsourced to Enaex, a leading and well recognized supplier in the region.

The first section of the leach pad, necessary to commence leaching, has been completed and during January 2026, electric leak location tests will be performed. Thereafter, loading of mineralized material will commence with the material previously mined and stockpiled to date.

The chemical storage facility, with capacity to hold 120 tonnes of product, was completed in December 2025. On December 23, 2025, 80 tonnes arrived on site and is being stored on the Project premises. The Company intends to certify the Project with the Cyanide Code and a visit by one of their auditors is planned for early January 2026.

The carbon in column section of the plant is nearing completion and is expected to be finished during the month of January 2026. While the elution, electrowinning and furnace components purchased from FL Smith have arrived and were erected at the Project, the Company will temporarily transport loaded carbon to its facilities in Santa Cruz on a tolling basis. The dore will then be transported to Rio Negro where it will be shipped to the refinery. It is expected that the downstream components of the plant will be operational at the Project approximately six months after commencing operations.

In terms of infrastructure, a camp with a total capacity for 192 people is nearing completion with approximately half of the facilities already commissioned together with the food facilities. Electrical power will be sourced from three 1MW diesel generators that have already been installed and tested together with fuel storage capacity for 140,000 litres that will both serve the power plant and mining fleet.

Calcatreu currently has 135 employees, the majority of which have been recruited from the neighboring town, Ingeniero Jacobacci or within the Province of Rio Negro. A limited number of specialized positions are being filled by personnel from other provinces, where prior precious metals operating experience is available, as Calcatreu represents the first precious metals project to be developed in Rio Negro.

The Company continues to work with the neighbouring communities and local and Provincial authorities and keeps them informed as to the development of the Project. The corresponding Provincial authorities visit the Project on a regular basis and are happy with the progress being made.

In Q3 of 2025, the Company engaged NCL Ingeniera y Construccion to update the Project's mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates in a new technical report, to be prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101, which report is intended to supersede the Technical Report (as defined below), and which the Company hopes to release during Q2 2026.

Qualified Person's Statement

Donald J. Birak, an independent consulting geologist, Registered Member of SME, Fellow of AusIMM, and qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. Mr. Birak's most recent visit to the Project was in October 2025.

Additional information about the Project and the mineral resources referred to in this news release are available in the technical report prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101, entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Mineral Resource Estimate, Calcatreu Gold-Silver Project, Rio Negro Province, Argentina," dated effective December 31, 2018 (the "Technical Report"), which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Patagonia Gold

Patagonia Gold Corp. is a South America focused, publicly traded, mining company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company seeks to grow shareholder value through exploration and development of gold and silver projects in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The Company is primarily focused on the Calcatreu project in Rio Negro and the development of the Cap-Oeste underground project. Patagonia, indirectly through its subsidiaries or under option agreements, has mineral rights to over 375 properties in several provinces of Argentina and is one of the largest landholders in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina.

For more information, please contact:

Christopher van Tienhoven, Chief Executive Officer

Patagonia Gold Corp.

T: +54 11 5278 6950

E: [email protected]

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements with respect to, among other things, mineral resource expansion potential; planned updates for the Project; timing for the advancement and commencement of leaching; plans for processing and placing material on the leach pad; mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; timing for the completion of electric leak location tests and the planned audit and certification of the Project with the Cyanide Code; plans for completion of the carbon in column section of the plant; plans to temporarily transport loaded carbon to the Company's facilities in Santa Cruz on a tolling basis, shipping dore to the refinery and timing for the downstream components of the plant to become operational; timing for completion of the camp; plans to recruit employees; timing for and the completion of updating the Project's mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates in a new technical report; the advancement and development of gold and silver projects in the Patagonia region of Argentina; and the anticipated growth in shareholder value. 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 risk, 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. 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.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Technology-driven critical metals company advancing Western supply resistance through patented processing IP, strategic exploration assets, and global commercial partnerships.

Highlights

~46.05 km2 of high-resolution airborne LiDAR ("Light Detection and Ranging") survey completed at both La Blache and Lac Brule Projects, delivering engineering-grade topographic data suitable to support future engineering and feasibility studies planning.

LiDAR survey integrates with recently completed HQ diamond drilling at both La Blache and Lac Brule, together with previous drilling campaigns, enabling refined geological, engineering and modelling.

LiDAR will expedite future drilling programs, fieldwork and infrastructure planning.

Assay results from the recently completed drilling campaigns are being processed with initial results expected to flow from January 2026.

181 historic holes (36,614m) will be re-evaluated for Gallium and other Rare Earth Elements ("REE") potential, with re-assay programs commencing January 2026 and results expected in March 2026.

Preliminary indications from historical data review suggest potential for gallium and scandium; however, no reportable Exploration Results for these elements are available at this stage, and further analytical work is required

Historic and recent drill core will support the development of Temas' patented Regenerative Chloride Leach ("RCL") technology, targeting up to 65% in cost reductions and enhanced recovery across critical metals, with initial test results expected in early CY2026.

Discussions regarding third-party testing of gold, silver, nickel, REE and critical minerals, are well underway and we expect to be able to update the market on these throughout the new year.

VVANCOUVER, December 29, 2025 - Temas Resources Corp. ("Temas" or the "Company") (ASX:TIO)(CSE:TMAS)(OTCQB:TMASF)(FSE:26P0) is pleased to announce that it has received survey data from an airborne LiDAR survey at the La Blache and Lac Brule properties in Quebec, Canada. This dataset provides detailed topographic and structural information critical to future planning, engineering interpretation and environmental baseline work at both projects.

The primary objective was to generate a high?quality digital elevation model ("DEM") beneath thick forest cover, suitable for geological mapping, structural interpretation, mineral resource estimation ("MRE"), engineering planning and permitting. LiDAR is a high-resolution, laser-based mapping technique that generates a detailed three-dimensional "point cloud" of terrain surface.

The LiDAR dataset will contribute to multiple technical activities, including:

Enhanced geological and structural modelling

Refinement of planned infrastructure layouts

Identification of hydrological features and surface conditions

Prioritisation of exploration targets and drill vectors

Support for environmental permitting baseline work

Tim Fernback, CEO, of Temas Resources, commented:

"The completion of this high-resolution LiDAR survey provides us with an exceptionally detailed view of the terrain across both La Blache and Lac Brule. This rich dataset materially strengthens our technical foundation for future work, including drill targeting, engineering planning and environmental baseline studies. It further positions Temas to integrate all geological and structural data as we progress toward next-generation project optimisation and value creation."

Mr. David Caldwell, Temas Chief Operating Officer, commented:

"LiDAR at La Blache gives us a much sharper and more accurate state-of-the-art bare?earth surface at the decimetre level which fundamentally upgrades our spatial foundation for everything compared to the coarse government DEM which could have inaccuracy due to tree cover and smoothing of up to 10s of meters. In practice this newly acquired dataset will become the master topographic control for environmental, permitting, geological modelling, targeting, resource modelling and engineering, pit design, haul road layout and pit slopes for each of the deposit areas at La Blache. We have also engaged a re-surveying program for the legacy handheld collar locations which can also have inaccuracies of up to 10s of meters. Together the sub-decimetre quality differential GPS and the new LiDAR coverage comfortably bring our spatial accuracy, precision and understanding to the level required by feasibility level work on this world class vanadium titanomagnetite (VTM) resource at La Blache."

With drilling now complete, Temas will undertake a comprehensive drill core analysis and assay program to refine its geological model and advance metallurgical testwork for its proprietary Regenerative Chloride Leach ("RCL") platform technology.

Tim Fernback, CEO, of Temas commented:

"La Blache and Lac Brule hold compelling multi-element potential, and integrating our proprietary RCL processing technology into our development work enhances the long-term value of both projects. Early observations of gallium and scandium alongside titanium and vanadium broaden potential revenue streams and provide additional datasets to inform our RCL advancement.

"Temas plans to both license and joint venture the use of this technology internationally now that it has been shown to assist in developing metallurgically complex Gold, Silver, Nickel, Critical Mineral and Rare Earth Element deposits. We look forward to progress across geochemistry, metallurgical testing and technology validation in early 2026."

REGNERATIVE CHLORIDE LEACH ("RCL") TECHNOLOGY UPDATE

Drill core from the current and historic program totalling over 40,000 m, will be used to further refine RCL technology development. Testing is expected to commence in January 2026, with initial results anticipated in February and March 2026. RCL is central to unlocking value of our projects and has significant potential application across complex mineralised systems globally. Discussions regarding third-party testing of gold, silver, nickel, REE and critical minerals, are well underway and we expect to be able to update the market on these throughout the new year.

Temas has now been approached by several third-party companies to bench test their deposits for potential RCL application.

Foreign Resource Cautionary Statements

Details regarding the foreign mineral resource estimate, project details and associated exploration results are set out in the Company's Prospectus dated 29 August 2025 (the "Prospectus"). The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the La Blache Project description in the Prospectus. The Prospectus is available on the Company's website at www.temasresources.com/investors or through the ASX platform under announcement dated 15 July 2025.

The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the La Blache Project description in the Prospectus. The Company confirms that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the foreign resource estimate and exploration results in this original Prospectus continue to apply and have not materially changed. The estimates of the quantity and grade of mineralisation for the La Blache Project are set out in the La Blache Project in the Prospectus and are "foreign estimates" within the meaning of the ASX listing rules and are not reported in accordance with the JORC Code 2012. A competent person has not undertaken sufficient work to classify the foreign estimates as mineral resources in accordance with the JORC Code 2012. It is uncertain that following evaluation and further exploration work that the foreign estimates will be able to be reported as mineral resources in accordance with the JORC Code.

- ENDS -

Approved for Release by the Board of Directors

For further information, contact:

Tim Fernback

President & CEO

[email protected]

Jane Morgan

Investor & Media Relations

[email protected]

+ 61 (0) 405 555 618

Or visit our website at www.temasresources.com

Disclaimer

No representations or warranty, express or implied, is made by the Company that the material contained in this announcement will be achieved or proved correct. Except for the statutory liability which cannot be excluded, each of the Company, its directors, officers, employees, advisors, and agents expressly disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy, fairness, sufficiency or completeness of the material contained in this announcement and excludes all liability whatsoever (including in negligence) for an loss or damage which may be suffered by any person as a consequence of any information in this announcement or any effort or omission therefrom. The Company will not update of keep current the information contained in this announcement or to correct any inaccuracy or omission which may become apparent, or to furnish any person with any further information. Any opinions expressed in the announcement are subject to change without notice.

Competent Person's / Qualified Person's Statement

The information in this announcement that relates to Exploration Results and Mineral Resources for the La Blache and Lac Brule Titanium-Vanadium Projects in Quebec, Canada, is based on, and fairly represents, information and supporting documentation prepared and compiled by Mr. Malcolm Castle, BSc (Hons), GCertAppFin (Sec Inst), MAusIMM, Principal Consultant of Agricola Mining Consultants Pty Ltd.

Mr. Castle's role as Competent Person is limited to the geological information and Exploration Results disclosed in this announcement. He has not reviewed or reported on metallurgical testwork, processing technology, or economic assessments.

Mr. Castle is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM). He has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation, the type of deposit under consideration, and the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC Code 2012) and a Qualified Person as defined by NI43-101.

Mr. Castle is the Principal Consultant of Agricola Mining Consultants Pty Ltd, which provides independent geological and technical advisory services to Temas Resources Corp. He has reviewed the information presented in this announcement and consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which they appear.

Agricola Mining Consultants Pty Ltd is an independent geological and technical consultancy and has no direct or indirect interest in Temas Resources Corp.

About Temas Resources



Revolutionising Metal Production

Proprietary IP. Global Licensing. Titanium & Critical Minerals.

Temas Resources Corp. (ASX:TIO | CSE:TMAS | OTCQB:TMASF | FRA:26P0) is a technology-driven critical minerals company advancing a dual-business model built around proprietary processing innovation and strategic mineral ownership. The Company's patented Regenerative Chloride Leach (RCL) technology platform delivers operational cost reductions - preliminary internal studies indicate potential at up to 65% lower than traditional processing - while reducing energy use and environmental impact. These technology performance estimates are conceptual in nature, are not supported by a completed feasibility study, and do not form part of any Mineral Resource or Ore Reserve estimate

Temas' RCL process is the foundation of its technology licensing and partnership business, enabling global mining and materials companies to adopt sustainable, high-margin metal extraction methods across a range of critical minerals including titanium, vanadium, nickel, and rare earth elements.?

Complementing its technology division, Temas also owns 100% of two advanced titanium-vanadium-iron projects in Quebec, Canada - La Blache and Lac Brule - which are strategically positioned to feed directly into the Company's proprietary processing platform, creating a fully integrated mine-to-market supply chain for Western metals.

Through this combination of innovative IP commercialisation and resource ownership, Temas Resources is positioned to deliver scalable, low-carbon solutions that strengthen Western critical-mineral independence and create long-term value for shareholders.

Follow us:

https://temasresources.com/

https://x.com/TMASResources

https://www.linkedin.com/company/temas-resources-corp/

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

This press release contains forward looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "expect", "estimate", "objective", "may", "will", "project", "should", "predict", "potential" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements

Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company cannot give any assurance that they will prove correct. Since forward looking statements address future events and conditions, they involve inherent assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of assumptions, factors and risks. These assumptions and risks include, but are not limited to, assumptions and risks associated with mineral exploration generally and results from anticipated and proposed exploration programs, conditions in the equity financing markets, and assumptions and risks regarding receipt of regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Management has provided the above summary of risks and assumptions related to forward looking statements in this press release in order to provide readers with a more comprehensive perspective on the Company's future operations. The Company's actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits the Company will derive from them. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and, other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

SOURCE: Temas Resources Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Toronto, December 29, 2025 - Total Metals Corp. ("Total Metals" or the "Company") (TSX-V: TT) (OTCQB: TTTMF) (FSE: O4N) is pleased to announce that Ashley Nadon has been appointed Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") effective January 1, 2026.

Ashley Nadon is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) degree from the University of Toronto, and a Master of Business Administration in Accounting from McMaster University. Ms. Nadon provides accounting and corporate secretarial services to private and public companies in her role as Managing Director of Nadon Professional Corporation. Ms. Nadon has experience as the CFO of several reporting issuers and is currently the CFO of TSX-V listed Homeland Nickel Inc.

Ms. Nadon replaces Brandon Schwabe, who steps down as Chief Financial Officer. The Board would like to thank Mr. Schwabe for his contributions to the Company and wishes him well with his future endeavors.

The Company wishes to clarify that, further to its news release dated December 18, 2025, and pursuant to the second and final tranche of its non-brokered private placement financing (the "Hard Dollar Offering"):

 394,444 of the units of the Company (the "Units") issued are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws and TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") policies; and

 186,666 Units issued were offered to purchasers outside of Canada pursuant to an exemption from the prospectus requirements in Canada available under OSC Rule 72-503 - Distributions Outside Canada and, accordingly, such Units are not subject to a four-month and one day hold period in Canada.

About Total Metals Corp.

Total Metals Corp. is focused on its 100% owned Electrolode Project covering over 3,300 contiguous hectares in northwestern Ontario. The Electrolode Project is targeting high-potential critical mineral plus gold resources and targets in three favorable geologic trends, located near major mines in the Red Lake Gold camp and is strategically located between Kinross Gold's Great Bear Project and First Mining Gold's Springpole Project. The Electrolode Project is fully permitted for exploration drilling and hosts 10 historic mineralized zones with significant expansion potential plus new, untested targets ready for further exploration. Total Metals also owns 100% of the High Lake and West Hawk Lake Project covering 958 hectares in two gold properties located along the Trans-Canada Highway straddling the Manitoba / Ontario border. The Purex Zone on the High Lake property has significant exploration potential and will be the primary target for initial exploration and potential future mining activities. The West Hawk Lake property is comprised of a single mineral lease, located within southeastern Manitoba.

www.totalmetalscorp.com

Cautionary Statements

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in its policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of this release.

Tyler Thorburn

President and Chief Executive Officer

[email protected]

(416) 873-7662

Forward-Looking Information

This press release includes "forward-looking information" that is subject to assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Statements in this news release which are not purely historical are 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 TSX-V. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, Dec. 29, 2025 - Apollo Silver Corp. ("Apollo Silver" or the "Company") (TSX.V:APGO, OTCQB:APGOF, Frankfurt:6ZF) is pleased to announce that it has upsized its previously announced non-brokered private placement by an additional $2,500,000, to be subscribed for primarily by insiders of the Company, for total aggregate gross proceeds of up to $27,500,000, through the issuance of up to 5,500,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $5.00 per Unit (the "Upsized Offering").

As previously announced, Mr. Eric Sprott and a fund managed by Jupiter Asset Management (the "Jupiter Fund"), Apollo Silver's two largest shareholders, are participating in the Upsized Offering, and will each subscribe for 2,500,000 Units of the Company, for combined gross proceeds of $25,000,000. Following completion of the Upsized Offering, the Jupiter Fund will own approximately 12% of Apollo Silver's issued and outstanding common shares, while Eric Sprott will own approximately 9.5%, on an undiluted basis. On a partially diluted basis, each investor's ownership interest will increase accordingly.

Each Unit issued pursuant to the Upsized Offering will consist of one common share (a "Share") in the capital of the Company and one common Share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Share at an exercise price of $7.00 for 24 months from the closing date of the Upsized Offering.

All securities issued in connection with the Upsized Offering will be subject to a four-month hold period from the date of closing. Finder's fees may be payable on some or all of the funds raised, in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Upsized Offering to fund exploration and development activities across the Company's projects, as well as for general working capital and corporate purposes.

Closing of the Upsized Offering is subject to regulatory approval, including that of the TSXV.

The Upsized Offering is expected to include participation by certain insiders of the Company for an aggregate amount of up to $2,500,000. Such participation constitutes a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The issuance of securities to insiders will be exempt from the valuation requirement pursuant to section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101, as the Company's shares are not listed on a specified market, and from the minority shareholder approval requirement pursuant to section 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the securities issued to related parties will not exceed twenty-five percent of the Company's market capitalization.

The Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or compliance with the requirements of an applicable exemption therefrom. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Apollo Silver Corp.

Apollo Silver is advancing one of the largest undeveloped primary silver projects in the US. The Calico project hosts a large, bulk minable silver deposit with significant barite credits - a critical mineral essential to the US energy and medical sectors. The Company also holds an option on the Cinco de Mayo Project in Chihuahua, Mexico, which is host to a major carbonate replacement (CRD) deposit that is both high-grade and large tonnage. Led by an experienced and award-winning management team, Apollo Silver is well positioned to advance the assets and deliver value through exploration and development.

Please visit www.apollosilver.com for further information.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ross McElroy

President and CEO

For further information, please contact:

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: +1 (604) 428-6128

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 Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This news release includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the expected timing for completion of the Upsized Offering, and the intended use of proceeds from the Upsized Offering. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "potential", "target", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof.

Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis, and opinions of the management of the Company made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company as at the date of such information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may have caused actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: risks associated with mineral exploration and development; metal and mineral prices; availability of capital; accuracy of the Company's projections and estimates; realization of mineral resource estimates, interest and exchange rates; competition; stock price fluctuations; availability of drilling equipment and access; actual results of current exploration activities; government regulation; political or economic developments; environmental risks; insurance risks; capital expenditures; operating or technical difficulties in connection with development activities; personnel relations; and changes in Project parameters as plans continue to be refined. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the price of silver, gold and barite; the demand for silver, gold and barite; the ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the timely receipt of any required approvals; the ability to obtain qualified personnel, equipment and services in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the ability to operate in a safe, efficient and effective matter; and the regulatory framework regarding environmental matters, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. 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, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking information contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company's expected financial and operational performance and the Company's plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Vancouver, December 29, 2025 - Quebec Nickel Corp. (CSE: QNI) (FSE: 7lB) (OTCQB: QNICF) ("QNI" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of $500,000 (the "Offering") initially announced on December 17, 2025, is fully allocated.

"We thank our existing shareholders for their continued support of the Company and appreciate the interest from new shareholders participating in this Offering," said David Patterson, Chief Executive Officer of Quebec Nickel Corp.

The Offering is subject to approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange. Securities issued under the Offering will be subject to a hold period which will expire four months and one day from the date of closing of the Offering.

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 an exemption from such registration is available.

About Quebec Nickel Corp.

Quebec Nickel Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on acquiring, exploring, and developing critical metals (Au-Ni-Cu-Co-PGE) projects in North America. Additional information about Quebec Nickel Corp. is available at www.quebecnickel.com.

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 release.

Qualified Person

Johan Lambrechts, QP, is the Company's qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for portions of this news release. He has approved the disclosure herein. Mr. Lambrechts is not independent of the Company, as he is a director of the Company.

CAUTIONARY AND FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and include statements regarding: the potential transaction with Moneghetti; the Company's due diligence review; the negotiation of a possible definitive agreement; the timing, outcome, and ability to satisfy any conditions precedent; the completion of any required financing; and the receipt of any required approvals.

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions, including that due diligence will be satisfactory, that negotiations will proceed as expected, that required approvals will be obtained, and that financing will be available on acceptable terms. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied, including: general market conditions; commodity price volatility; risks related to exploration and development activities; risks related to Moneghetti's underlying property rights and obligations; the availability of financing; the ability to negotiate acceptable terms for a definitive agreement; the ability to obtain required approvals; and the risk that no transaction is ultimately completed.

There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results may differ materially. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279084
Pasofino Gold Ltd. (TSXV: VEIN) (OTCQB: EFRGF) (FSE: N07A) ("Pasofino" or the "Company") announces that it received a notice dated December 16, 2025 from the Government of Liberia with respect to the Mineral Development Agreement ("MDA") previously entered into by the Company's subsidiary, Hummingbird Resources (Liberia) Inc. with the Government of The Republic of Liberia. In the notice, the Government of Liberia asserts that the Company has failed to meet a number of obligations under the MDA, including to timely make certain payments and to complete certain activities required by the terms of the MDA, (including deadlines under the MDA that occurred during the COVID 19 Pandemic).

The Company has requested a meeting with the Government of Liberia for the week of January 18, 2026 to discuss the Government's concerns and to address the scope and status of the issues listed in the notice. Pasofino also intends to identify appropriate steps to remedy them under the MDA and confirm with the Government of Liberia which alleged defaults are defaults under the MDA. To the extent necessary, the Company is also engaged in discussions with its controlling shareholder, Mansa Resources Limited, with respect to potential funding to address certain financial remedies being sought by the Government of Liberia. The Company's expectation is that Pasofino and the Government of Liberia will engage collaboratively in order to address the concerns of the Government and to advance the development of the Dugbe Gold Project for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Pursuant to the terms of the MDA, the Company has 30 days from the date it received the notice from the Government of Liberia to contest the allegations or to request a hearing with the relevant authorities. The Company shall also have a 60-day period from the date of receipt of this notification, to cure such defaults prior to the Government of Liberia having the right to terminate the MDA, although the Company must provide evidence of certain funding capabilities earlier within such period.

Pasofino is committed to resolving the matters raised in the notice in accordance with consultation of the Liberian Government and methods for cure under the MDA. The MDA however, provides for consultation and arbitration to settle any disputes should the Government of Liberia and the Company be unable to agree on which actions (or failure to act) constitute a default or fail to agree with the remedies for any defaults.

ABOUT THE DUGBE GOLD PROJECT

The 1,410 km2 Dugbe Gold Project ("Dugbe" or the "Project") is in southern Liberia and situated within the southwestern corner of the Birimian Supergroup which is host to most West African gold deposits. To date, two deposits have been identified on the Project; Dugbe F and Tuzon discovered by Hummingbird Resources Limited ("HBL", formerly Hummingbird Resources PLC), in 2009 and 2011 respectively. The deposits are located within 4 km of the Dugbe Shear Zone which is thought to have played a role in large scale gold mineralization in the area.

A significant amount of exploration in the area was conducted by HBL up until 2012 including 74,497 m of diamond coring. Pasofino drilled an additional 14,584 m at Tuzon and Dugbe F during 2021. These deposits have a combined Mineral Resource Estimates dated 17 November 2021 with total Measured and Indicated of 3.3 Moz with an average grade of 1.37 g/t Au, and 0.6 Moz in Inferred.

Following the completion of the Definitive Feasibility Study in June 2022 a Mineral Reserve Estimate was declared, based on the open-pit mining of both deposits over a 14-year Life of Mine. A technical report for the Dugbe Gold Project was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website.

In addition to the existing deposits there are many gold prospects within the Project including the Bukon Jedeh area and the DSZ target on the Tuzon-Sackor trend where Pasofino has discovered a broad zone of surface gold mineralization in trench and outcrop along strike from Tuzon. At this and several of the other prospects no drilling has been carried out to date.

In 2019, Hummingbird Resources (Liberia) Inc. ("HB Liberia") signed a 25-year mineral development agreement ("MDA") with the Government of Liberia providing the necessary long-term framework and stabilization of taxes and duties. Under the terms of the MDA, the royalty rate on gold production is 3%, the income tax rate payable is 25% (with credit given for historic exploration expenditures), the fuel duty is reduced by 50%, and the Government of Liberia is granted a free carried interest of 10% in the Project.

Today, Pasofino is focusing its efforts on updating the Dugbe Gold Project feasibility study to support its project financing efforts to commence construction on the Dugbe Gold Project in 2026; as illustrated in the MineScope Services Ltd. gap analysis announced on August 26, 2025.

Pasofino Gold Completes its Phase One Gap Analysis Update to the 2022 Feasibility Study - Pasofino Gold is developing the Dugbe Gold Project/Liberia

MineScope Services Ltd. is currently progressing with the update of the 2022 feasibility study, in conjunction with Lycopodium Limited, Oreology, ALS Laboratories, and other consultants engaged to complete certain sections of the update to the 2022 study to support project financing. As well, the company has engaged Cestos Drilling for an c.11,000m infill drilling program, with three (3) rigs mobilized and drilling on site.

QUALIFIED PERSONS STATEMENT

Scientific or technical information in this disclosure that relates to exploration results was prepared and approved by Mr. Ian Brown. Ian Brown is a member in good standing with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), membership number 114135. He graduated from Rhodes University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Geology and Environmental Science, and the University of Cape Town in 2019 with an Advanced Diploma in Business Project Management. Mr Brown has practiced the profession in Exploration Geology Management continuously for 20 years, including 5 years in West African gold deposits, and is a Qualified Person under NI 43-101.

ABOUT PASOFINO GOLD LTD.

Pasofino Gold Limited is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (VEIN).

Pasofino, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, owns 100% of the Dugbe Gold Project (prior to the issuance of the Government of Liberia's 10% carried interest).

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 STATEMENTS REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterised by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "seek", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, and include, without limitation, statements regarding the completion and timing of the feasibility study update and related project financing efforts, the results of the meeting with the Government of Liberia, the availability of financing from Mansa Resources Limited, HB Liberia's obligations under the MDA and the related resolutions of the defaults raised by the Government of Liberia in its notice to the Company, the ability of the Company of an extension to the cure period under the MDA, the ability of the Company to cure any defaults during the cure period, the results of any arbitration proceeding in respect of any alleged defaults,. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to, the results of discussions with the Government of Liberia with respect to any alleged defaults, the timing and ability of the Company to cure any defaults, the ability of the Company to obtain financing from Mansa Resources Limited, or other parties, the ability of the Government of Liberia to terminate the MDA, the timing and results of project study and permitting; the results of business operation, the ability to advance the Dugbe Gold Project, the results of exploration activities; ability of the Company to comply with the terms of the MDA, the ability of the Company to complete further exploration activities; timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms and those risk factors outlined in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis as filed on SEDAR+. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.


VANCOUVER, Dec. 29, 2025 - A.I.S. Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AIS, OTC- PINK: AISSF) ("AIS" or the "Company") announces that the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange" or the "TSXV") has accepted the Company's application for reinstatement to trading. The Company expects that its common shares will be reinstated for trading on the TSXV on or about January 2, 2026.

Following the November 14, 2025 revocation of the Company's failure-to-file cease trade order by the BCSC the Company applied on November 19, 2025 for reinstatement to trading with the TSX Venture Exchange. (the "Exchange"). In connection with the application for reinstatement to trading the Company has undergone an Exchange review which is now completed. The Company acknowledges and appreciates the patience of its shareholders and stakeholders during this process.

About A.I.S. Resources Limited

A.I.S. Resources Limited is a publicly traded company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company focuses on natural resource opportunities, aiming to unlock value by acquiring early-stage projects and providing the necessary technical and financial support to develop them. AIS is guided by a seasoned team of engineers, geologists, and finance professionals with a proven track record of success in capital markets.

On Behalf of A.I.S. Resources Limited

Marc Enright-Morin

CEO, Director

Corporate Contact

For further information, please contact:

Marc Enright-Morin, CEO

T: +1-778-892-5455

E: [email protected]

Website: www.aisresources.com

ADVISORY: This press release contains forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligations 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. 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.
Vancouver, December 29, 2025 - Alma Gold Inc. (CSE: ALMA) ("Alma Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, as a result of strong investor demand, it has increased the size of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") from 15,000,000 units ("Units") for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,200,000 to a total of 18,437,500 Units for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,475,000.

The Company also announces that it has closed the first tranche of the Private Placement, raising gross proceeds of $775,000 through the issuance of 9,687,500 Units (the "First Tranche Closing").

The Private Placement consists of Units issued at a price of $0.08 per Unit. Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company (each, a "Share") and one transferable common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one additional Share at a price of $0.15 for a period of five (5) years from the date of issuance.

All securities issued in connection with the Private Placement are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance. No finder's fees are payable in connection with the Private Placement.

The proceeds from the Private Placement will be used for general working capital purposes, including the evaluation of potential strategic initiatives currently under consideration.

Insider Participation: One insider of the Company participated in the First Tranche Closing of the Private Placement and subscribed for an aggregate of 1,250,000 Units. Such participation constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company has relied on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 set out in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, on the basis that neither the fair market value of the securities issued to, nor the consideration paid by, the related party exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any 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 applicable state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Alma Gold Inc.

Alma Gold Inc. is a gold-focused exploration company based in Bedford, Nova Scotia. Alma Gold Inc. through its subsidiary Karita Gold Corp. is exploring the Karita West Project in northern Guinea, the Dialakoro project permits under application in the Siguiri Basin of Guinea and it owns the Clarence Stream North Gold Project in southwest New Brunswick, Canada.

For more information on Alma Gold Inc., please visit our website at: https://www.almagoldinc.ca.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

"Gregory Isenor"

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 release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the Company's intention to complete the remaining tranches of its Private Placement; the expected size, pricing and structure of the Private Placement; the anticipated use of proceeds; the issuance and terms of Shares and Warrants; and the Company's exploration plans and objectives.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation: the risk that the Private Placement may not be completed as currently proposed or at all; the availability of capital and investor interest; the failure to obtain required regulatory or stock exchange approvals in a timely manner, or at all; changes in economic, market and business conditions, including fluctuations in commodity prices and investor sentiment; unanticipated costs or liabilities; and those risks described in the Company's public disclosure documents available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca

Forward-looking information is based on management's assumptions, estimates, expectations and opinions as of the date of this news release, including assumptions that all required regulatory approvals will be obtained in a timely manner, sufficient investor interest will be secured, and the Company will be able to use the proceeds of the Private Placement as intended.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any 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/279160
Vancouver, December 29, 2025 - Inspiration Energy Corp. (CSE: ISP) (WKN: A40GPX) (OTCID: ISPNF) ("Inspiration" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its press release dated December 22, 2025, it has closed the fully subscribed non-brokered private placement financing (the "Offering") for aggregate gross proceeds of $200,000 from the sale of 4,000,000 units of the Company at $0.05 per unit (each, a "Unit"). Inspiration has obtained CSE price protection for the securities issued under the Offering.

Each Unit will comprise one common share (each, a "Unit Share") and one transferable common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant") of the Company. Each Warrant will entitle the subscriber to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a "Warrant Share") for a 36-month period after the closing date of the Offering at an exercise price of $0.06 per common share.

Proceeds raised will be used for general working capital purposes.

No Finders Fees was paid.

Shares issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four-month and one day hold period according to applicable securities laws of Canada.

About Inspiration Energy Corp.

Inspiration Energy Corp. is engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets in Canada. Its objective is to locate and develop properties of merit and to conduct exploration on the Company's properties. For more information, please refer to the Company's information available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

Neither the Canadian Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca).

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release publication, distribution or dissemination directly, or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279170
Only shortlisted teachers with index numbers will be allowed for GES promotion exams on Dec 29th and 30th

Next article: Only shortlisted teachers with index numbers will be allowed for GES promotion exams on Dec 29th and 30th

Featured

No category A SHS in 3 newly created regions

Severious Kale-Dery Education Dec - 29 - 2025 , 00:05 2 minutes read

There is no category A senior high school (SHS) in three of the six newly created regions.

They are the North East, Savannah and Oti regions, the Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu has said.

He has, therefore, appealed to traditional leaders in the affected regions to play a crucial roles in partnership with the government to address the situation.

Mr Iddrisu said this at the inauguration of the governing councils of four colleges of education in Accra.

The colleges are the Enchi College of Education with Dr Frank Kwekucher Acker as Council Chairman; Al-Faruq College at Wenchi with Yapeiwura A.B.T. Zakaria as Chairman and Gbewaa College of Education at Pusiga with Prof Imoro Braimah as Council Chairman; and the Agogo Presbyterian Womens College of Education with Rev Prof Seth Asare-Danso as Chairman.

Mr Iddrisu explained that it was to address the issue of equity and inclusivity that he announced publicly the decision to convert 30 category C schools to B and 10 category B schools to category A.

The minister further announced that the ministry intended to expand infrastructure in all the category A schools.

Mr Iddrisu hinted that for the Savannah, he intended to elevate the Damongo Girls SHS to a category A school, but added that, I will walk through the process in order that I do not compromise quality for a declaration of a category A school.

The minister gave the assurance that the school would receive some support to befit its new status as a category A school, adding that the Domongo SHS would equality receive attemtion.
TOR requires massive capital injection to compete with newer and more advanced refineries  COPECs Duncan Amoah

Next article: TOR requires massive capital injection to compete with newer and more advanced refineries  COPECs Duncan Amoah

Ghana Formed Police Unit conducts medical outreach in South Sudan

Graphic Online Dec - 29 - 2025 , 12:50 1 minute read

On December 26, 2025, the Ghana Formed Police Unit (GHFPU 1, Rotation 9) conducted a Medical Outreach Programme in Bieh in the Guit County of Sudan.

The exercise provided medical relief and helped to foster community relations during the festive season.

The mission was led by the Deputy Field Office Police Coordinator (DFOPC) and Acting Field Office Police Coordinator, Anke Lute, accompanied by Doaa Elnagar from the FPU Coordination Office in Bentiu.

The GHFPU 1 contingent was led by the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO), Chief Superintendent Rosina Adwoa Donkor Gariba, supported by six Senior Police Officers and other ranks (comprising 14 Inspectors).

Chief Superintendent Rosina Gariba extended seasonal greetings on behalf of the Contingent Commander, Chief Superintendent Bismark Achaab.

She emphasized the importance of civil-military cooperation and the spirit of giving.

Anke Lute (UNPOL) reaffirmed UNMISS's commitment to supporting communities within its Area of Responsibility (AOR). She urged residents to prioritize personal health and security and to maintain close communication with the police.

The Head of the Bieh Community Hospital expressed gratitude, noting that the supplies arrived at a critical time of scarcity.
Featured

TOR requires massive capital injection to compete with newer and more advanced refineries  COPECs Duncan Amoah

Benjamin Xornam Glover Dec - 29 - 2025 , 11:21 3 minutes read

The Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), Duncan Amoah, has said the resumption of operations at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), while commendable, represents only the first of three critical phases required to make the refinery economically viable and environmentally compliant.

Read also: TOR resumes crude oil refining operations with about 28,000 barrels per stream daily

Acknowledging that the successful turnaround maintenance (TAM) had helped dispel a long-standing perception that the refinery was too old to function effectively, Mr Amoah cautioned that the current phase alone was insufficient to sustain operations or meet Ghanas modern fuel standards.

The integrity of the plant has been proven. TOR is not as obsolete as some had suggested, he said, noting that the refinery could still play a vital role in Ghanas energy security if the right investments are made.

Speaking on TV3's morning programme on Monday [December 29, 2025] monitored by Graphic Online, Mr Amoah explained that Ghana has, since 20152016, most vehicles in Ghana have transitioned away from high-sulphur dirty fuels and now require cleaner fuels, which burn more efficiently and significantly reduce environmental pollution to help meet Euro IV and Euro V specifications, with a sulphur content ranging between 10 and 50 parts per million (ppm).

He said TORs existing Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and Residual Fluid Catalytic Cracking (RFCC) units were only capable of producing fuels with sulphur levels of about 1,500 ppm at best.

This, according to COPEC, falls far below Ghanas current fuel standards and poses serious environmental and public health risks.

Whenever TOR resumed operations, he said a large portion of its output had to be exported to neighbouring Sahelian countries because the local automotive fleet could not safely consume such high-sulphur products.

TOR would therefore require major upgrades, including the installation of a desulphurisation unit, estimated to cost about US$150 million, to reduce sulphur content in refined products, he added.

In addition, he stated that a reformer unit, costing between US$25 million and US$50 million, would be required to improve petrol quality and meet Ghanas minimum 91-octane requirement.

New technology

To address this challenge, Mr Amoah said TOR would require major upgrades, including the installation of a desulphurisation unit, estimated to cost about US$150 million, to reduce sulphur content in refined products.

In addition, he stated that a reformer unit, costing between US$25 million and US$50 million, would be required to improve petrol quality and meet Ghanas minimum 91-octane requirement.

He warned that without these investments, TOR would struggle to compete with newer and more advanced refineries such as Nigerias Dangote Refinery and other regional facilities.

Economic entity

Mr Amoah also stressed the need for TOR to be run strictly as an economic entity, free from political interference.

He argued that political decisions, rather than economic considerations, have historically undermined the refinerys performance.

For sustainability, private sector participation is critical, he said, advocating for a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

He said private investors would ensure efficiency, control operational costs, and make decisions based on commercial viability rather than politics.

On the broader economic impact, Mr Amoah said Ghana currently spends about US$400 million every month in foreign exchange to import finished petroleum products.

Potential

Investing in TOR, he argued, would help reduce this burden while retaining skilled labour and strengthening the local economy.

He recalled that at its peak in the late 1990s, TOR contributed about five percent of Ghanas Gross Domestic Product (GDP), demonstrating the refinerys potential if properly retooled and managed.

Mr Amoah said TOR was currently doing about 28,000 barrels per stream day, with a plan to scale up the capacity to 45,000 barrels. It has a historical peak of 60,000 barrels per day and Ghanas daily petroleum demand, he said, is about 100,000 barrels.

If TOR can supply even half of national demand, supported by other local refineries, Ghana can significantly reduce its dependence on imported fuel, he said.

While commending TORs management for restarting operations, Mr Amoah maintained that sustained investment and long-term planning are essential if the refinery was to fully support Ghanas energy security and economic development.
Featured

GoldBods $214 million is a transactional cost and not a loss - Eric Afful, Chairman of Economic and Devt Committee of Parliament

Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics Dec - 29 - 2025 , 19:27 2 minutes read

The Majority Caucus in Parliament has rebutted the claims by the Minority Caucus that the Ghana Gold Board has incurred a $214 million loss in gold trade under the Gold for Reserve Programme.

The Caucus said the amount was a transactional and insurance cost the GoldBod incurred in its gold trading activities for 2025.

It said both the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Chief Executive of the GoldBod would, within January and March 2026, render accounts to Parliament as they were statutory required to do so.

The $214 million the NPP is quoting is a transactional cost of the GoldBod, and you cannot determine this as a loss because, as we speak today we do not have the financials of the GoldBod, he said.

They jumped the gun

Reacting to the Minority Caucus claim that the GoldBod had incurred a $214 million loss in gold trade within nine months of this year, the Chairman of the Economic and Development Committee of Parliament, Eric Afful, accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of intentionally making allegations to render Ghanas economic gains useless.

The NPP and the Ranking Member on the Economy and Development Committee are jumping the gun, and when you jump before the gun too, and if you do not take care, you will be killed.

I was expecting him to wait for the financial year to end for the GoldBod to render accounts to Parliament for us to go into detail and see what is actually happening.

But let me put on record that the $240 million that they are quoting is never a loss, but it is a transactional cost, and we know that we cannot repair losses but we can repair costs.

Sheer propaganda

Mr Afful, who is the MP for Amenfi West, said the claims by the NPP that GoldBod incurred the $214 million was a sheer propaganda to dent the reputation and economic gains.

Let me put on record that this is serious propaganda, and I know that this will not end anywhere simply because Ghanaians know where the NPP is coming from 2017 to 2024, he said.

He recalled that the Governor of the central bank under the NPP ended with a national debt of GH726 billion, for which they added up GH604 billion within the eight years.
Public chooses names for China's space-traveled mice

Xinhua) 13:24, December 29, 2025

BEIJING, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- A research team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences revealed the names of the four mice, which were part of a recent mission aboard China's space station, during a public science event on Saturday.

The mice have been named Wangtian, Lanyue, Zhuiyun, and Zhumeng, which respectively translate to "gaze at the sky," "reach for the moon," "chase the clouds" and "follow the dream." The announcement was accompanied by the release of cartoon illustrations of the mice, co-created with Xinhua News Agency.

On Oct. 31, the four mice -- numbered 6, 98, 154 and 186 -- were chosen from 48 candidates and flown aboard the Shenzhou-21 crewed spacecraft to their temporary habitat in space. During the mission, Xinhua invited the public to propose names for the mice, with the final selections based on popular submissions online.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Samsung announced that it is bringing Google Photos to its smart TVs. This would mark the first time Google Photos is available as an app on any TV platform, as even Google's own Android TVs currently don't have native support.

Google Photos is set to debut in three feature tiers starting in early 2026, with Memories being the first available feature. As per Samsungs press release, Memories will show curated stories based on people, locations and meaningful moments, and the feature will be exclusive to eligible Samsung TVs from March.

Samsung TV users are also getting access to Nano Banana via the Create with AI feature thats set to launch later in 2026. This feature will bring themed templates to make AI edits to your existing photos while also incorporating the Remix tool directly on the big screen.

Personalized Results is the third Google Photos feature coming to Samsung TVs. It is set to launch later in 2026, and it will offer curated slideshows based on topics or specific memories.

Samsung is also integrating Google Photos with its Vision AI Companion (VAC).

Source
I read with interest Mr. John Howards December 26 (letter to the editor), discussing what he described as a Chuukese formula for making Guam a better place.

While I appreciate the stated intent of improving our island community, the framing of the issue risks oversimplifying a far more complex and consequential problem.

The challenges Guam faces today are too often framed as a matter of discrimination or tension among different segments of our island population. In reality, many of the social problems being highlighted, particularly those related to crime, public safety, and social disorder, reflect deeper systemic failures tied to displacement, poverty, and the absence of effective support structures.

These realities, often discussed in public forums and everyday conversations, have led to harmful stereotyping that does nothing to solve the underlying problem and instead distracts from where responsibility truly lies.

If the goal truly is to make Guam a better place, then the conversation must move beyond surface-level narratives and confront the root causes of the migration pressures placed on our island. One cannot meaningfully discuss social instability without examining how these conditions were created and why Guam continues to absorb their consequences.

To fully understand this issue, readers should revisit a local media editorial dated Sept. 21, 2018, titled FSM sits on a pile of cash while Guam struggles to provide services to its citizens. That editorial made clear that while Guam shoulders the overwhelming cost of Compact of Free Association migration, including education, health care, law enforcement, housing, and social services, the Federated States of Micronesia had, as of fiscal year 2016, accumulated $466.9 million in a reserve known as the Trust Fund for its people.

The same article noted that the FSM president, reportedly out of embarrassment, offered then Governor Eddie Calvo a $100,000 donation to assist Guam. That offer was declined out of pride and justified outrage, given the magnitude of the burden Guam was already carrying.

Mr. Howard, perhaps it is time to also look inward, to the many residents from the FSM who are now living in hardship here, and ask the harder question. What are FSM leaders doing with the hundreds of millions of dollars that were meant to be used for their people and their homeland for a better life?

It is my understanding that this trust fund has now grown to nearly $600 million in the most recent fiscal period, yet the social conditions driving migration continue unabated.

These facts point to an unavoidable conclusion. The Compact was negotiated and agreed to by FSM leadership, who exchanged air, land, and sea rights for financial assistance, but failed to build sustainable institutions, public safety systems, and social support structures capable of caring for their own people. The human consequences of that failure are now being exported to Guam.

Compounding this injustice, Guam was excluded from the most recent Compact negotiations, resulting in the complete loss of Compact Impact funding, despite the fact that Guam remains one of the primary destinations absorbing the social and economic consequences of Compact migration. This exclusion shifted even greater responsibility onto local taxpayers and service providers who had no voice in those negotiations.

This issue is not about race, ethnicity, or discrimination. It is about governance, responsibility, and long-term neglect. Guam did not create this migration system, nor did it agree to absorb its unchecked social costs without adequate support.

If the objective is truly to make Guam a better place, the conversation must begin with accountability at the government level, where decisions were made, resources accumulated, and obligations ignored. Only by addressing those root causes can we reduce stigma, restore order, and pursue solutions that are fair to both Guam and those who now call it home.

Guam can be compassionate without being silent. We can be welcoming without denying reality. And we can pursue solutions without ignoring the hard truths that continue to strain our island beyond its capacity.




Haiti - Security : General mobilization of State security forces against gangs





On Sunday, December 28, 2025, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime, accompanied by Patrick Pelissier, Minister of Justice and Public Security; Mario Andresol, Secretary of State for Public Security; Vladimir Paraison, Acting Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH); and the High Command of the National Police, visited the PNH headquarters in Clercine (Tabarre) to reiterate the Haitian government's commitment to restoring public order and republican authority throughout the national territory.



This visit was part of the general mobilization of state security forces, jointly engaged in an offensive against armed criminal groups that threaten national security : the PNH, the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd'H), and the Gang Suppression Force (FRG).



The Prime Minister expressed the Government's official gratitude to the U.S. State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) for the donation of 25 armored personnel carriers (https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-46511-haiti-flash-us-donation-of-25-new-armored-vehicles-to-the-pnh.html ) intended to strengthen operational capabilities, the protection of deployed units, and the intervention power of law enforcement.



Reaffirming the Government's firm stance, Fils-Aime declared, "The Government's fight is against gangs. The Government's fight is to secure the country. The State will not compromise. The State will not negotiate with criminals."



According to the Prime Minister, this strategic equipment will allow law enforcement to gradually retake territories occupied by armed groups and ensure the long-term security of the population.



Finally, Prime Minister Fils-Aime emphasized that restoring security is a prerequisite for a return to constitutional order. He reiterated that 2026 will be dedicated to organizing general elections and renewing political personnel and republican institutions.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Social : The Mexican Catholic Church is concerned about the number of migrants coming from Haiti...





Father Cesar Augusto Canaveral, head of migrant ministry for the Diocese of Tapachula, explained that there are large migrant camps of people from Haiti, Cuba, Venezuela, Guatemala, and El Salvador throughout the city's outskirts and in the neighborhoods of Tapachula, in the State of Chiapas, which borders Guatemala. He added that Mexicans must learn to coexist with these foreigners. "We are like a border church; we must work hard to integrate them and build good relationships with them," he said.



Canaveral explained that these areas already host migrants from Central America, "but the number of groups and individuals stranded and living in parishes has increased considerably... perhaps they are waiting for the United States to open its borders a little, and that is what worries us because they are the most vulnerable."



Furthermore, the priest denounced the Mexican government for its inability to manage a migratory phenomenon that, although declining, remains a major challenge. According to the latest census in 2020, Tapachula's population is estimated at 350,000, and the city is a focal point for asylum applications in Mexico.



Following the severe anti-immigration measures imposed by US President Donald Trump upon his return to power, hundreds of migrants are attempting to obtain asylum documents in the city of Tapachula. This has led to a 20% increase in their stay in Mexico.



From January to September 2025, according to data from the Mexican Commission for Assistance to Refugees (COMAR) for September, more than 52,000 asylum applications were registered in the country, of which approximately 34,000 (66%) originated from Chiapas.



According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Haitian, Cuban, and Honduran migrants are the main nationalities present, although Tapachula also hosts people from many other countries.



For his part, Teodoro Vazquez Castillo, Secretary General of the Revolutionary Workers' Federation of Chiapas, acknowledged that the municipality of Tapachula is home to hundreds of migrants who have been there for months, even though some are already working in formal businesses. "[...] this is a phenomenon that harms us because we are in the crisis zone; there are more of us working, we don't have businesses, and we have to live hand to mouth," he said, adding that he didn't know "who made them believe that Tapachula was an ideal place to work, and they came and overwhelmed the city [...]"



S/ HaitiLibre


















HedgeCo.Net). Almost a year into a transformative shift in Washingtons economic philosophy, the worlds largest hedge funds are completing a significant strategic pivot. The era of easy betariding the waves of massive fiscal stimulus or broad-brush technological hypeis over. As 2026 approaches, the titans of the industry, from multi-strategy giants like Citadel and Millennium to macro specialists like Bridgewater, are doubling down on a ruthless, surgical approach to markets defined by policy divergence, the maturing of the AI trade, and the dominance of private finance.

The prevailing mood across Manhattan and Greenwich trading floors is one of cautious aggression. The rising tide that lifted all boats during the post-pandemic years has receded, revealing a complex landscape where political winds can make or break sectors overnight. The Trump Trade that characterized late 2024 and early 2025a massive bet on deregulation and domestic growthhas matured into a far more nuanced tactical game.

Here is what is trending inside the investment committees that manage trillions in global capital as we head into the new year.

The Death of Broad Macro, The Rise of Policy Arbitrage

Throughout much of the early 2020s, macro investing often meant betting on central bank pivots. Today, the focus has shifted entirely to fiscal and regulatory policy. The largest funds are no longer just buying index funds based on promises of a business-friendly environment. Instead, they are engaging in high-stakes policy arbitrage.

Managers are meticulously dissecting the administrations renewed focus on protectionism. This has led to a sharp bifurcation in equity strategies. Funds are actively shorting multinational corporations with heavy exposure to complex supply chains now vulnerable to tariffs, while simultaneously building massive long positions in domestic manufacturing, defense, and infrastructure firms poised to benefit from America First mandates.

You cant just be long GDP anymore, said one CIO of a $50 billion multi-strategy fund, speaking on condition of anonymity. We are looking at individual regulatory rulings in Washington and how they impact specific competitors in a duopoly. The alpha right now is in understanding the granular impact of the new regulatory regime, not just the headlines.

The AI Reality Check: From Infrastructure to Execution

The artificial intelligence trade, once a monolith of soaring semiconductor stocks, has fractured dramatically. While the titans of chip manufacturing remain core holdings for many, the dumb money phase of the AI boom has concluded.

The trend among top-tier funds is a deep skepticism toward sky-high valuations of pre-revenue AI software firms. The smart money is migrating rapidly toward the application layer and infrastructure bottlenecks.

Funds are pouring capital into sectors adjacent to tech that are necessary for AIs continued growth, most notably utilities and energy infrastructure required to power massive new data centers. Furthermore, investment committees are demanding proof of ROI. They are taking concentrated bets on legacy companies in healthcare, logistics, and high finance that are successfully demonstrating tangible efficiency gains and revenue growth through AI integration, rather than just issuing press releases about it. The buzzword for 2026 is not innovation, but implementation.

The Private Credit Juggernaut vs. The Bubble Fears

Perhaps the most defining structural trend of the last two years is the aggressive expansion of hedge funds into the realm of banking. The retreat of traditional regional banks, spurred by regulatory pressure and capital constraints, left a massive void that mega-funds have eagerly filled.

Firms like Apollo, Blackstone, and Ares have effectively become shadow central banks, raising record-breaking direct lending pools. The trend at the largest hedge funds is to construct hybrid models, blurring the lines between liquid market trading and illiquid private lending. They are moving beyond distressed debt into financing massive corporate buyouts and multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects.

However, a contrarian trend is emerging among the most risk-aware managers. Whispers of a private credit bubble are growing louder. As billions chase yields in the direct lending space, underwriting standards are reportedly loosening. Some of the largest macro funds are beginning to purchase cheap, out-of-the-money hedges against a spike in corporate defaults in the private sector, anticipating that the higher-for-longer rate environment will eventually break some of these highly levered private deals.

Energy Pragmatism and the Anti-Woke Trade

The acronym ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is rarely spoken in investment committee meetings these days without a significant caveat. Driven by the political climate in the US and a hard look at returns, the prevailing sentiment is energy pragmatism.

The largest funds have swung heavily back toward traditional energy. They are holding substantial positions in major oil and gas producers, betting on sustained global demand and a favorable domestic regulatory environment that encourages production. The thesis is simple: energy security trumps energy transition in the near term.

Simultaneously, there is a surge in sophisticated interest in nuclear energy. Funds view nuclear not through an environmental lens, but as the only pragmatic solution to the baseload power crisis threatened by the AI boom. Uranium spot price tracking and investments in small modular reactor (SMR) technology are trending heavily among commodities desks.

The Talent War and the Pod Shop Dominance

Internally, the trend at the biggest firms is consolidation and a brutal war for talent. The multi-manager pod shopsfirms that employ dozens of independent trading teams under one risk-management umbrellacontinue to attract the lions share of assets.

To maintain their edge in a market where simple beta strategies are failing, these firms are paying astronomical sums for specialists in niche areas like commodities trading, regulatory analysis, and quantitative modeling. The cost of doing business is skyrocketing, pushing the industry toward an oligopoly where only the largest players can afford the data, technology, and talent required to squeeze out uncorrelated returns in a volatile world.

Entering 2026, the message from the top of the hedge fund food chain is clear: The free lunch is over. Success in this new economic order requires political savvy, deep sector expertise, and the scale to dominate private markets.
Good news first: Something is happening in the fight against massive fraud with the Deutschlandticket. As security researchers Q Misell and Maya "551724" Boeckh reported in their talk "All my Deutschlandtickets gone" at the 39th Chaos Communication Congress (39C3), various transport companies are now using a central blacklist for so-called UIC tickets from the Deutschlandtarifverbund (DTVG). These are electronic or printed train tickets where the ticket data is encoded in a 2D barcode according to the UIC (Union internationale des chemins de fer) standard, which had previously proven to be particularly easy to forge.

Continue after ad

Deutsche Bahn currently handles 98 percent of all queries to this blacklist. According to the presentation slides, the bConn GmbH, whose system is used by Magdeburger Verkehrsbetriebe, Autobus Oberbayern, the bus company Lehner, and the Harzer Schmalspurbahnen, are also included. Through AMCON GmbH, Transdev, Nahverkehrsgesellschaft Hochstift, Elbe-Weser, VGE ZOB, the district of Wurzburg, and the companies Kalmer and Veelker are connected. INSA also uses the blacklist for PVGS Altmarkkreis Salzwedel. Furthermore, the industry is working on a central issuance of UIC Deutschlandtickets to close future security gaps.

Numerous transport companies and associations are now using the central blacklist for UIC tickets from DTVG  but not all of them yet. (Image: Q Misell, Maya Boekh)

But the path to get there was long  and the talk documents a shocking extent of failures. It summarizes many of the fraud cases that security researchers Q Misell and Flupke, together with heise online, made public at the beginning of the year. However, it is definitely worth watching the recording of the talk because Q and Maya presented the entire story in a very entertaining way.

Payment fraud in the three-digit million range

The greatest damage is caused by so-called triangle fraud: criminals buy genuine tickets from transport associations with stolen bank details and resell them via Telegram channels. As Q Misell revealed in February, numerous illegal shops offered Deutschlandtickets for 5 to 30 Euros.

The fundamental problem: Many transport companies issue tickets immediately before the SEPA direct debit has been fully processed. Account details are often not validated. The total damage from all types of fraud amounted to up to 267 million Euros for the period January to October 2024 alone. In total, up to half a billion Euros in lost ticket revenue may have accumulated to date.

The operators of the illegal ticket shop d-ticket.su were particularly brazen. This shop had been selling Deutschlandtickets for months, signed with an apparently stolen cryptographic key from Vetter Verkehrsbetriebe. Deutsche Bahn found around 50,000 such tickets in its control logs during a subsequent check  corresponding to a minimum damage of 2.9 million Euros. The actual sum is likely to be significantly higher, as not all tickets are checked by DB.

Continue after ad

How the key fell into the wrong hands remains unclear to this day. The researchers presented several possible scenarios: from cryptographic weaknesses of the DSA-1024 method with SHA-1 used, to classic theft, to simple negligence  for example, a publicly accessible key. Particularly explosive: The technology partner mo.pla, a Munich-based startup, had apparently also taken over old keys from Vetter during a company acquisition. Whether these were "lost" remains speculation. After Vetter had previously denied closer cooperation with mo.pla, Q Misell dug a bit and found traceable connections.

Startup code on Stack Overflow

In their talk, Q and Maya rated the security practices of the technology partner mo.pla as particularly critical. They documented a vulnerability in the PayPal payment process that made it possible to purchase tickets with an empty PayPal account. The error has since been fixed. Tellingly: Code from mo.pla developers was found on Stack Overflow  "typical startup code," as stated in the talk.

Furthermore, mo.pla refuses to participate in the industry-wide blocking system and has instead established its own revocation system. This means additional integration effort for all companies that want to check mo.pla tickets.

Key blocking delayed for weeks

Although DTVG already knew about the misuse by d-ticket.su in December 2024, the compromised key was not blocked until early February 2025. The reason given was telling: "Blocking the ticket key in December 2024 was not carried out due to the responsible employee's vacation and illness. DTVG does not have a backup for these cases due to a tight staffing situation."

When asked by heise online, Vetter had claimed at the time that they were now exchanging keys "regularly." The researchers refuted this in their talk: a currently purchased Vetter ticket is still signed with the same key as in March.

Industry only reacted after public pressure

Only after the extent of the fraud and the inaction of those responsible became public, did the industry move. Internal logs had shown that decision-makers had been aware of the problems since early 2024  but concrete countermeasures failed due to particular interests and unsuccessful coordination.

In May 2025, the transport companies finally agreed on binding security measures. These include mandatory bank account verification, central blacklists, secure key management in trust centers, and copy-protected mobile tickets from 2026 onwards. Since October 2025, only tickets that meet the new standards should actually be valid. This goal has only been partially achieved so far.

At least the financing of the Deutschlandticket is now secured until 2030. However, the price will increase to 63 Euros at the turn of the year. Whether the now decided security measures can actually curb fraud remains to be seen. At the end of their talk, the researchers thanked the employees of DTVG and Deutsche Bahn who had helped with the clarification  and made it clear that without external pressure, little would probably have happened.

(vza)

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 courts decision confirms earlier rulings by the Helsinki District Court and the Court of Appeal, both of which found no wrongdoing in the actions taken by city officials and the advertising company involved. The adverts in question were withdrawn from bus stops and other transit spaces in Helsinki shortly before the municipal elections in 2021.

The Supreme Court of Finland has rejected an appeal by the Finns Party and its Helsinki district, ending a legal process over the removal of the partys 2021 municipal election advertisements from public spaces.

The removed posters depicted a stairwell residents list from an apartment building. While two names appeared to be Finnish, most of the other entries were replaced with the phrase skipped the queue. The visual message implied that immigrants were receiving priority access to Helsinkis rental housing. The text and imagery led to public complaints and drew accusations of xenophobic messaging.

JCDecaux, the company managing Helsinkis public advertising spaces, removed the posters in coordination with Helsinki City Transport (HKL), then led by Ville Lehmuskoski. Both parties stated the ads violated their agreement, which barred materials likely to provoke public offence.

The Finns Party filed a criminal complaint in summer 2021, targeting Lehmuskoski with allegations of breaching his official duties by approving the removal. Police did not pursue an investigation. The party and its local Helsinki branch proceeded to prosecute the case themselves, seeking a conviction for either misconduct or negligence in public office.

The District Court dismissed the charges in May 2024, stating that the decision to remove the posters fell within the bounds of contract law rather than administrative procedure. It ruled that the actions were covered by the terms of the advertising contract and that Lehmuskoski did not act unilaterally.

The Court of Appeal declined to hear the case in January 2025. On 29 December 2025, the Supreme Court confirmed it would not grant leave to appeal, making the earlier rulings final.

During the trial, the Finns Party argued that the removal of the adverts disrupted its election campaign and infringed its freedom of speech. The party also challenged the housing policy implications of the ads removal, claiming it prevented public debate about immigrations impact on housing allocations.

Helsinkis municipal housing company Heka previously clarified that no housing queues existed in the form suggested by the ads. It stated that applicants were assessed individually based on urgency and need, not by position in a queue.

The courts found that the absence of a formal administrative decision and the lack of consultation with the Finns Party before the ads were taken down did not breach the law, given the nature of the advertising contract and the role of JCDecaux as a commercial operator.

HT
Police confirmed that two men attempted to flee the facility during an outdoor exercise period. A group of individuals outside the perimeter threw rope ladders over the three-metre-high fence topped with razor wire. One man managed to scale the barrier and escaped with the group. The second man became stuck near the top of the fence and was detained by staff.

A detainee awaiting deportation escaped from the Finnish Immigration Services Metsala detention unit in Helsinki on Saturday afternoon with the help of external accomplices and rope ladders.

The escape occurred at approximately 15:10 on Saturday. Police have not yet located the man who fled. He had been held under immigration detention ahead of forced removal from Finland.

According to police, both men are suspected of violently resisting officials during the attempted escape. The case is being investigated under multiple charges: assaulting a public official, escape from custody, and unlawful release of a prisoner.

Detective Inspector Anssi Enqvist, leading the investigation, said the resistance involved physical altercations, including kicking and pulling away from staff. No serious injuries were reported among personnel, though medical checks were carried out.

Authorities stated the escape was pre-planned and organised. Several people were seen waiting outside the facility and left quickly with the man after he crossed the fence. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and public tips to identify and locate those involved.

There is no information at this stage to suggest that the escaped person poses a danger to the public, Enqvist said.

Under current regulations, detainees at the facility are allowed one hour of outdoor time each day. The unit is closed and heavily secured, with barred windows and high perimeter fencing. Despite its prison-like conditions, detainees retain the right to communicate with the outside world.

Detention decisions are made by either police or the Finnish Border Guard. Individuals can be detained under the Aliens Act in several scenarios, including unresolved identity issues, criminal suspicions, threats to national security, or when authorities believe the person might evade deportation.

Finland operates two immigration detention facilities. One is in Metsala, Helsinki, and the other is in Joutseno, South Karelia. Detainees often include asylum seekers whose applications have been denied or foreign nationals suspected of criminal activity.

Police are continuing to search in Helsinki and surrounding regions. The escapees identity has not been made public.

HT
Trump hosted Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence on 28 December for over two hours of private negotiations. A joint press conference followed, in which both presidents praised the meeting and said their teams would continue discussions in the coming weeks.

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky have described their talks in Florida as productive, with both sides agreeing that most of a proposed 20-point peace framework is complete. Yet neither leader announced a final deal.

Were getting a lot closer, maybe very close, said Trump. There are one or two very thorny issues still to resolve.

According to Zelensky, 90 percent of the peace plan has been agreed. He said the discussions had reached full understanding on security guarantees for Ukraine, calling it a key milestone in achieving lasting peace.

Trump estimated the security arrangement was close to 95 percent done and added that it would involve European partners. He did not disclose any details about what form the guarantees would take.

No timelines were given. Trump said a conclusion could arrive within weeks but acknowledged that any agreement would require consent from Vladimir Putin.

The future of Donbas remains the main unresolved issue. Some of that land is maybe up for grabs, said Trump, referencing the contested eastern region. It may be taken over the next period of a number of months.

Zelensky responded that Ukraines position on Donbas is very clear and not aligned with Russias. He added that any final decision on territory must respect Ukrainian law and could be subject to a national referendum, including participation from displaced citizens abroad.

Both leaders confirmed that no agreement had been reached on the proposal to establish a free trade zone in Donbas.

In a related development, Trump revealed he had spoken by phone with Putin shortly before meeting Zelensky. Trump said the Russian president had expressed support for Ukraines future success and would be helping with post-war reconstruction, including energy supplies and infrastructure.

Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, said Trump. Putin has been generous about helping rebuild Ukraine.

But Putin has not agreed to a ceasefire. Trump said that the Russian president was reluctant to pause fighting, fearing a need to restart later. I understand that position, he added.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined a follow-up call with Trump and Zelensky, along with other European leaders, after the Florida talks. She called for ironclad security guarantees from day one and welcomed what she described as good progress.

President Alexander Stubb of Finland, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, and the UK also took part in the hour-long phone call.

Zelensky confirmed that Trump will host another summit in Washington in January, bringing together Ukrainian and European leaders to finalise the peace plans remaining issues. He said Ukrainian and US negotiating teams would meet in advance of that session.

We appreciate the progress made over recent weeks, Zelensky said. We discussed all aspects of the peace framework.

The joint statement also mentioned the formation of a trilateral working group involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia to oversee further talks. Trump indicated that his son-in-law Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff would be part of the American team, alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Zelenskys delegation included Defence Council chief Rustem Umerov, military chief Andrii Hnatov, Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsya, Economy Minister Oleksiy Sobolyev, and presidential adviser Oleksandr Bevz.

Putins position remains firm. The Kremlin insists that any ceasefire must be accompanied by territorial concessions from Ukraine. Moscow demands full control of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions, as well as Crimea, annexed in 2014. Ukraine continues to reject those terms.

A Kremlin statement, delivered by foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov, suggested that any temporary ceasefire used to prepare referendums would only prolong the conflict.

Despite scepticism, Trump said he believed Putin wanted to end the war and would agree to negotiations at the right time. He added that Putin had shown interest in a trilateral meeting with Ukraine and the US.

HT
Porcelain deepens China-Turkiye cultural ties in 2025

Xinhua) 13:46, December 29, 2025

ISTANBUL, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- In 2025, a string of porcelain-themed exchanges gave fresh impetus to China-Turkiye cultural and economic ties, rekindling a centuries-old artistic dialogue. Porcelain, long both a shared craft and a traded luxury, once again served as an effective bridge between the two civilizations.

In a notable development in May, China's renowned porcelain hub Jingdezhen opened its first official flagship store in Istanbul, showcasing fine tableware and decorative ceramics from the Jiangxi city, famed for producing imperial porcelain since the Song dynasty (960-1279).

Since its opening, the store has attracted strong interest from Turkish customers, who account for nearly 90 percent of visitors, with contractors, interior designers and high-end gift buyers forming the bulk of the clientele.

The Istanbul flagship aims not only to introduce Jingdezhen porcelain to Turkish consumers but also to serve as a platform for long-term cultural exchange, with plans to invite a Chinese artist to Istanbul in 2026 for a workshop and talk.

Beyond commerce, these exchanges have increasingly brought together Chinese and Turkish artisans and cultural institutions.

In the historic town of Iznik in northwestern Turkiye, renowned for its centuries-old ceramic tradition, master artisan Adil Can Guven, widely recognized as a "culture bearer," continues to preserve and revitalize the ancient art of Iznik tiles.

Recalling a 2023 visit to Jingdezhen, where he observed restoration techniques and collaborated with local artisans, Guven said: "The techniques may differ, but the passion is the same. It reminded me that ceramic art transcends borders -- it is a universal language."

Guven has also mentored young Iznik artisans, sharing techniques inspired by his time in Jingdezhen. Preserving the craft not only honors the past but also deepens cross-cultural collaboration, helping secure the future of ceramic art, he said.

The year 2025 also saw Istanbul's Topkapi Palace make extensive efforts to open a new museum showcasing one of the world's most extensive porcelain collections outside China, with rare pieces from the Yuan and Ming dynasties at its core.

After a four-year restoration of the historic Darphane-i Amire complex -- formerly the Ottoman Empire's mint -- the museum is set to exhibit over 4,500 porcelain artifacts, including 1,442 prized Chinese pieces, underscoring the cultural and historical significance of Chinese porcelain in the Ottoman Empire.

"Topkapi Palace's inventory includes around 22,000 porcelain items, about 12,000 of which are Chinese. This collection is globally unparalleled outside China," said Director Ilhan Kocaman, noting that many pieces arrived via diplomatic exchanges and trade during the height of the Ottoman Empire.

According to Wang Guangyao, director of the Institute of Ceramics at Beijing's Palace Museum, the figures reflect both the historical impact of Chinese ceramics in Turkiye and the long-standing appreciation of Chinese porcelain by the Ottoman court and society.

Wang, who visited Istanbul in November, said the expanding exchanges in 2025 had laid a solid foundation for deeper cooperation between Chinese and Turkish museums in ceramics. He added that both sides are exploring plans for joint exhibitions, research exchanges and conservation projects in the coming years.

Together, these efforts -- spanning commercial ventures, artisan exchanges and museum cooperation -- illustrate how 2025 has deepened historical ties and enhanced mutual understanding between China and Turkiye, setting the stage for continued cultural and civilizational exchange.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
The Chloe Nashville will officially open the week of January 5th in Hillsboro Village, featuring 19 rooms, a restaurant, three bars, and a lush outdoor pool for guests + locals alike. This comes as the first Tennessee hotel from Robert LeBlanc and the LeBlanc + Smith team, following New Orleans sister hotels The Chloe and The Celestine, which have collectively earned global accolades including Travel + Leisure's 2025 It List, Conde Nast Traveler's Hot List, Michelin Key designation and La Liste's Gem Hotel Award, among others.

Set in two restored 1920s Craftsman cottagesformer homes to Asylum Records and Spirit Musicthe property has been reimagined to reflect the creative spirit of modern Nashville while honoring its historic roots. At the heart of the property is an all-day restaurant led by Chef Matt Regan (formerly of Sylvain, Emeril's, and Luke in NOLA), celebrating Gulf Coast seafood with thoughtful nods to Eastern Tennessee's food traditions. The bar program, developed by beverage director Jason Sorbet (of Barrel Proof Nashville), will showcase Tennessee whiskey through classic and inventive cocktails.

The concept is designed to serve as both a neighborhood gathering place and a home-away-from-home for travelers and offer community-driven programming like Artists in Residence and Songwriter Series to spotlight local and touring artists and creatives.

Hotel website
This article summarizes key findings from Accenture's recent report, "Me, my brand and AI: The new world of consumer engagement - Building resilient relationships between consumers, brands and AI in times of uncertainty." The research surveyed over 18,000 people across 14 countries, and the findings reveal a fundamental shift in how consumers discover, choose, and book travel experiences. For travel and hospitality professionals, the message is clear: AI isn't just changing marketing tactics. It's changing who makes the booking decisions.

When AI Becomes a Trusted Friend

Here's a statistic that should grab your attention: 36% of active AI users consider the technology a "good friend." Not a tool. Not a search engine. A friend.

This isn't hyperbolic tech talk. Consumers are turning to AI for deeply personal decisions. Among active users, 94% have asked or would ask AI for help with personal development goals. Another 87% seek social and relationship advice from AI tools.

What does this mean for hotels, airlines, and travel brands? When someone trusts AI enough to ask for life advice, they'll certainly trust it to recommend where to stay or which airline to book.

The New Path to Purchase

The numbers tell a compelling story. Half of all AI users have already made a purchase decision based on AI recommendations. For frequent AI users, generative AI is now the second-highest source for purchase recommendations, trailing only physical stores.

Think about that for a moment. AI has leapfrogged search engines, brand websites, and even friends and family as a trusted source of buying advice.

Only 9% of consumers currently rank AI as their single most trusted source for purchases. But that number is growing rapidly, and it represents a seismic shift in the discovery process that has traditionally driven travel bookings.

Three Roles AI Will Play

Accenture identifies three distinct ways AI is reshaping the consumer-brand relationship. Each has direct implications for how travel companies should respond.

AI as the Trusted Guide

Large language models are becoming the new influencers. When travelers ask "Where should I stay in Tokyo?" or "What's the best family resort in Mexico?", they're increasingly asking ChatGPT or Perplexity instead of Google.

The challenge? These AI tools can misrepresent your brand or leave you out of the conversation entirely. If your hotel isn't optimized for AI discovery, you might not make the consideration set, no matter how good your property is.

AI as the Loyal Companion

This goes beyond basic personalization. AI can now provide emotionally intelligent, proactive experiences that anticipate what travelers need before they ask.

The research shows this pays off. Travelers are 2.3 times more likely to recommend brands that deliver emotionally engaging experiences. They're also 1.5 times more likely to accept higher prices from these brands.

In an industry where loyalty has always mattered, AI offers a new way to deepen emotional connections with guests.

AI as the Second Self

This is where things get really interesting. The research found that 75% of consumers are open to using an AI-powered personal shopper that understands their needs and can make purchases on their behalf.

Imagine an AI agent that knows your travel preferences, budget, and schedule. It compares options across airlines and hotels, makes the booking, arranges airport transfers, and handles any changes. All without you lifting a finger.

This isn't science fiction. The technology exists today. And when it becomes mainstream, traditional touchpoints like banner ads and loyalty emails may be bypassed entirely.

The Uncertainty Factor

There's another trend that makes all of this more urgent. More than half of consumers (54%) now see uncertainty as the new normal. That sentiment has doubled in just one year.

Economic anxiety combined with AI agents optimizing for price could trigger a race to the bottom. If brands compete only on cost, they become interchangeable.

The winners will be travel companies that compete on experience and emotional connection instead. AI can help create those differentiated experiences, but only if brands act strategically.

What Travel Brands Should Do Now

Accenture outlines several concrete steps. Here are the ones most relevant to travel and hospitality:

Optimize for AI Discovery - Just as brands once optimized for Google, they now need to optimize for ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other AI platforms. This means creating high-quality, frequently updated content. It means encouraging and showcasing genuine guest reviews. It means ensuring your property details are accurate across all platforms.

Just as brands once optimized for Google, they now need to optimize for ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other AI platforms. This means creating high-quality, frequently updated content. It means encouraging and showcasing genuine guest reviews. It means ensuring your property details are accurate across all platforms. Think of it as moving from SEO (search engine optimization) to GEO (generative engine optimization).

Create AI-First Experiences - Don't just digitize existing services. Reimagine the guest journey for an AI-powered world. What would a truly proactive, anticipatory booking experience look like? How could you use voice, video, and augmented reality to create immersive previews of your property?

Don't just digitize existing services. Reimagine the guest journey for an AI-powered world. What would a truly proactive, anticipatory booking experience look like? How could you use voice, video, and augmented reality to create immersive previews of your property? Build Emotional Value - When AI agents can compare prices in milliseconds, emotional connection becomes your differentiator. Exclusive access, unique experiences, and personalized touches are things AI cannot commoditize.

When AI agents can compare prices in milliseconds, emotional connection becomes your differentiator. Exclusive access, unique experiences, and personalized touches are things AI cannot commoditize. Loyalty program members are 1.6 times more likely to be motivated by experiences rather than price. They're also twice as likely to help refine new products and services. These are your partners in co-creating AI-powered experiences.

Consider Strategic Partnerships - Some LLM platforms are already experimenting with brand partnerships. Early movers like Perplexity are testing ways for brands to be featured in AI responses. Getting involved now gives you a voice in shaping how these platforms work.

The Trust Imperative

With all this AI capability comes responsibility. Travelers distrust AI-generated content that lacks authenticity (41%) or feels impersonal (45%).

Brands need to be transparent about how they use AI. They need strong data protection and clear consent processes. And they need to maintain the human touch that makes hospitality special.

The technology should enhance human connection, not replace it.

The Bottom Line

The travel industry has survived countless disruptions, from online booking engines to the sharing economy. AI represents another inflection point, but it's also an opportunity.

The brands that will thrive are those that use AI to become more helpful, more personal, and more emotionally resonant with travelers. The ones that wait or hesitate risk becoming invisible in an AI-mediated world.

Accenture's research makes one thing abundantly clear: the time to act is now. The investments you make today in AI capabilities, data infrastructure, and experiential differentiation will determine whether you remain relevant tomorrow.

AI is becoming the consumer. The question is whether your brand will be part of that conversation.

Read the full Accenture report via this link.
IHG to Open First Holiday Inn in Nepal's Sudurpashchim Province - Image Credit IHG Hotels & Resorts



IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement to develop a 115-key Holiday Inn hotel in Dhangadhi, Nepal, set to open in the first quarter of 2028.

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced a management agreement with Club Chaulani Ltd. to establish a Holiday Inn hotel in Dhangadhi, Nepal. The hotel, which will feature 115 guest rooms, is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2028. This development marks IHG's entry into the Sudurpashchim Province and aligns with its strategy to expand in emerging markets across South Asia.

The hotel will be situated within a mixed-use development in the city center, approximately 8.5 kilometers from Dhangadhi Airport. Its location near the India-Nepal border positions it to serve a diverse range of guests, including business travelers, government officials, and leisure visitors. Nearby attractions include Shuklaphanta National Park, Ghodaghodi Lake, and Shivpuri Temple.

Holiday Inn Dhangadhi will offer four food and beverage outlets, including an all-day dining restaurant, a pool bar, and a specialty restaurant. The hotel will also provide meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom. Additional amenities will include a fitness center and a swimming pool.

The signing of this agreement is part of IHG's broader strategy to introduce its brands to high-potential, underserved markets. The company currently operates 51 hotels across six brands in India and has a pipeline of 80 hotels set to open in the next three to five years.
KYLN Hotel Suzhou - Image Credit Hyatt

KYLN Hotel Suzhou - Image Credit Hyatt



Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the opening of KYLN Hotel Suzhou, a 327-room property under the JdV by Hyatt brand, located in Suzhou's Xiangcheng District.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has opened the KYLN Hotel Suzhou, marking the latest addition to its JdV by Hyatt brand. The hotel is situated in the Xiangcheng District of Suzhou, China, an area known for its proximity to heritage sites and Yangcheng Lake. The property features 327 guest rooms, suites, and apartments.

The hotel is part of the Chun Shen Li Commercial Center and is designed to serve business, leisure, and extended-stay guests. The accommodations include pet-friendly options and are designed to reflect Suzhou's cultural heritage, incorporating traditional and modern influences. The design, led by HBA, uses materials such as clay and wood, and features floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the city.

KYLN Hotel Suzhou offers three dining venues. CHROMA Chinese Restaurant focuses on Boat Cuisine, using seasonal ingredients. J Noodle Bar provides noodle dishes and dim sum, while Cai Lian 1090 serves a variety of Chinese and international dishes.

For wellness and fitness, the hotel offers the Yuan Fitness Center and the Cheng Fitness Center, equipped with cardio and strength-training equipment, a Pilates studio, and private training spaces.

The property also includes 7,534 square feet of conference space, a ballroom, and five multipurpose rooms for events and meetings. The opening of KYLN Hotel Suzhou is part of the JdV by Hyatt brand's expansion in Asia. World of Hyatt members can earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at the hotel from December 23, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
Veteran Spotlight: Air Force Tech. Sgt. Samuel Currence

BOURNE, Mass.  Samuel Currence served his country in the Air Force with distinction, professionalism and unparalleled humility from 1962 to 1985, retiring as a technical sergeant.

He grew up in Mount Holly, N.C., and did his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

"I wasn't drafted, I volunteered for military service," he said. "Oh man, basic was a lot of physical exercise and getting used to rifles and firearms (though never firing a gun previously, he would go on to receive

Expert Marksmanship Badges). I was a pretty good shot."

Currence would stay at Lackland for Air Police Tech School and his first assignment would take him to Otis AFB in Bourne.

"I worked days, mids and swings. I also had the honor of guarding Air Force One and President Kennedy when he would land at the base," he recalled. His second assignment would take him to Don Muang Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand. The base was used by the Air Force during the Vietnam War.

"I wasn't aware that I was guarding Agent Orange. They told me I was guarding a lot of stuff I didn't know about and got

cancer as a result (he is a three-time survivor)," he said. "When I was stationed at [Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base] (he

would be stationed there twice) I would guard the perimeter of the base at night, after they sprayed the vegetation during the day."

He also shared this memory. "I got to guard Bob Hope when he came to entertain us. Oh, was he funny, he had some good-looking ladies in the show that were decent looking," he laughed. "Hope was a really good man, he appreciated the

military and told us we were doing a good job.

"He bragged about the beautiful ladies he had with him and said, 'you can look but you can't touch.' He was something."

Was he ever afraid? "No, not really. I was ready to be an American soldier," he replied. "At night was a bit scary because you couldn't see much but I looked at it as just doing my duty ... it was just my duty."

When asked about certain instances and assignments, Tech. Sgt. Currence held steadfast to his code of honor.

"The way I was conditioned, you couldn't divulge any incidents or scenarios that happened," he said. "It was the way I was

trained  with a tremendous amount of discipline."

When asked about a mentor he offered this: "All my supervisors were good, I always looked up to them."

His thoughts on leadership: "I had to lead by example, I always tried to do the right thing, tried to be fair, tried to do my job with the utmost professionalism. Never, ever did I do it for recognition. I didn't need it, what I did, I never did it to be recognized."

His most gratifying experience in his 22 years of service? "Getting ready to get out  I was ready to go," he remembered.

As a Vietnam combat veteran, I asked him his thoughts on the protestors.

"They didn't really know what was going on and they had a right to protest," he said. "Didn't bother me that we didn't receive any recognition at the time. I look at the troops coming home now and the way they're received and I have a little different opinion."

Currence's service would take him all over the world: Shaw AFB in Sumter, S.C.; Bitburg AB in Germany; Kirtland AB in Albuquerque twice; Korat AB twice; Hanscom AB in Bedford; the Panama Canal Zone, and to England.

How does he feel as a veteran? "I feel very good, accomplished," he said. "I volunteered for service and did my job to the best of my ability. I'm proud of just that fact, I don't need recognition."

His wife, Hazel, said this of her husband of 60 years. "Samuel was always a great husband and father, he always made

sure the children knew his responsibility to his job, the military and his job as a father," she recalled.

Currence has two sons, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. With tremendous pride, he declined to mention his numerous medals and ribbons, again, deflecting any attention to himself.

Tech. Sgt. Samuel Currence, thank you for your service to our great country and welcome home.
Central Berkshire Navigating AI in Education

DALTON, Mass.  The Central Berkshire Regional School District is researching artificial intelligence in education to inform future policy and practice.

"Our ultimate goal is to at least to have some common expectations that we can rally around first," Assistant Superintendent Aaron Robb said at December's School Committee meeting.

In September, Robb established an AI ad hoc committee made up of teachers, a student, the IT director, and a School Committee member. The committee has been trying to meet twice a month, he said.

It is charged with researching the challenges and opportunities AI presents in education to help the district navigate the "AI revolution."

Throughout the process, the committee will get guidance from Fadia Rostom-Makdisi, computer scientist, AI educational adviser, and former principal of St. Agnes' School.

"She's gone off on her own as a consultant and she's doing some consulting work with schools around AI and she's been doing some, as we've just been calling it, 'AI 101' training in our district," Robb said.

During the November professional development days, almost 100 district staff and faculty received a three-hour basic AI training from Rostom-Makdisi which covered the how and what of AI and several commonly used AI tools in education.

The hope is to gather information so that the district can talk about it more intelligently before debating it, Robb said.

At the initial AI ad hoc committee meeting, members expressed the concerns and possible opportunities AI presents while using resources from the state department Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to inform the discussion.

"We're in the middle of the AI ocean right now and we're keeping a very close eye on the guidance that DESE is putting out," Robb said.

"DESI is putting out some really strong and clear guidance about AI that we are finding useful as a committee."

Technology Director Joseph Stergis has gathered a list of tools for educators that he has researched, and their data privacy agreement to ensure that if the district is using AI in any area, that the data sharing is safe.

"As we teach educators about AI, they're also going to want to experiment with it," Superintendent Michael Henault said.

During a recent presentation with the former DESE commissioner, Jeff Riley, who has been working with a group from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on AI use in education, it was recommended to start setting practical applications and putting guardrails for teachers and students at the handbook level due to the quick evolution of the subject, Henault said.

"That group recommended to actually not do School Committee policy first and to stay away from it because any policy we put in place is likely to change  very quickly," he said

It was recommended to start at the handbook level, he continued, then "work backwards towards policy once we have our heads around where this is going to go because nobody really knows."

To support more focused work, the ad hoc committee established two subcommittees: the Policy, Safety, and Ethics subcommittee and Teaching, Learning, and Staff Training subcommittee. Both subcommittees have been tasked with creating draft priorities and considerations to be reviewed by the full AI ad hoc committee, according to the November report.

The Policy, Safety, and Ethics subcommittee is developing priorities for an initial district AI policy framework, Henault said in his November update.

The subcommittee will review topics required for safe and responsible AI use including data privacy, transparency, academic integrity, bias mitigation, and the ethical guardrails.

The Teaching, Learning, and Staff Training subcommittee will explore how AI can support instructional innovation, personalized learning, curriculum development, and staff professional growth. The group will also identify training, resources, and curriculum adjustments required for effective integration of AI tools into classroom practice.

"The goal is to ultimately present a set of actionable recommendations to district leadership this spring. The committee is committed to ensuring that any future use of AI in the district is safe, equitable, transparent, and aligned with our educational mission and values," the report says.

There was a strong interest in joining the committee from staff. However the number of members was limited to 15 so an additional AI Advisory Group was created consisting of interested staff members.

"There were people that wanted to be part of it, but I couldn't put together a committee of 35 people," Robb said. "So, I created an AI advisory group that's going to meet less frequently and less formally."

The advisory group will meet with Robb every month for the remainder of the school year.

"We are pleased to be able to include this group in an effort to bring as many voices into this work as possible," he said in the report.

The goal of the group is to provide feedback to the ideas generated by the ad-hoc committee, pilot strategies for their own schools or classrooms, and share their experiences with AI.

Additionally, it will act as a communication bridge by sharing updates with colleagues and bringing questions or concerns back to the AI Ad Hoc committee.

"The AI advisory committee is going to be more of our boots on the ground kind of more informal group," Robb said.

"I'm going to take what the AI ad hoc committee is doing and report out to those folks for feedback and we're going to start a feedback loop with them."
Clarksburg Applying for Home Rehabilitation Program

CLARKSBURG, Mass.  The town is applying for Community Development Block Grant funds for a housing rehabilitation program.

Clarksburg could get $850,000 or more depending on if it partners with another community.

Brett Roberts, a senior planner with Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, presented the options to the Select Board at its last meeting.

"We were looking over our portfolio, and you're a town that we haven't reached out to in quite a while, and I wanted to change that," he said. "You have a pretty competitive score with the state so we wanted to see if you'd be interested in the grant."

The grants, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the state Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, help small cities and towns undertake projects that benefit low and moderate-income residents. Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll recently announced more than $4 million coming to Berkshire towns for fiscal 2025.

This is slightly different than Home Modification Loan Program presented to the North Adams City Council earlier this month that focuses on accessibility.

Roberts said funds would be used to repair homes, bring them up to code, do lead mitigation or update roofs, windows, and septic. Eligible recipients would have income up to 80 percent of the area median income.

"What that translates to is about for a household of four, that's about $96,000," he said. "We actually captured quite a bit of the population."

BRPC would manage the entire process, from bidding to construction to reimbursement requests, and it would be up to the owners if they wanted to put in more for the project.

"We pay up to $70,000 with home rehabilitation cost, which doesn't get you as far as I want, but does get you pretty far," he said. "It's a deferred forgivable loan that goes on the lien, and essentially it depreciates in value by 1/15 each year, until you enter the end of the 15th year, and then it's totally forgiven."

If the property is sold (outside the family) before the loan is forgiven, the balance would have to be paid to the town for reuse in the program.

"We've been doing this for about 15 years across the county, mainly, I'll be honest, in South County, Sheffield is a big town that we work with, New Marlborough, Otis, Becket, Dalton, that kind of area," Roberts said. "But we're excited to come this way."

In response to questions, he said these smaller towns tend to come back year after year. They have a waiting list for because it's difficult to do more than 15 homes in a grant because of the limited funding.

If Clarksburg partnered with another community, like New Ashford, it could get close to $1 million, and up to $1.25 million with a second partner. BRPC is recommending Clarksburg partner with a smaller community to improve its application; plus, any liens paid up would return to Clarksburg.

"There needs to be a lead town, and that lead town is the one that works directly with us and with the EOHLC, Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities in Boston, and because they're putting in a little bit more administrative work ... Let's say 10 of those homes are in Clarksburg and five are in the other town," Roberts explained. "So you would enter into an intermunicipal agreement with the other town to hash out all those details. We can do that negotiation for you, but that's kind of how we divide it up that way."

Town Administrator Ronald Boucher thought it would be a good program, especially for the town's senior citizens.

"I know a lot of people have come in and asked, 'Hey, do you have a program for windows, insulation, different things. I think it'd be great program," he said.

The board voted to sign on the application; the deadline to apply for the next round is March 30.
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

China began fresh military drills using the army, air force and navy around Taiwan on Monday after the US cleared the largest arms sale ever to Taipei.

The Justice Mission 2025 drills would place five zones around Taiwan under sea and air space restrictions for 10 hours from 8 am local time, the Chinese militarys Eastern Theatre Command announced.

Taipei accused China of military intimidation" after Beijing said the exercises were a stern warning against separatist and "external interference" forces.

The war games follow a rise in Chinese rhetoric over Beijings territorial claims after Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi suggested a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could draw a military response from Tokyo.

They also come less than two weeks after the US announced $11.1bn in arms sales to Taiwan, the largest-ever weapons package for the island. Beijing last week sanctioned 20 American companies and 10 executives in retaliation for the sale.

The latest drills are Chinas sixth since 2022, when the then US House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island and triggered a furious response from Beijing.

open image in gallery File. Taiwans flag at the Liaoluo port in Kinmen ( AFP via Getty )

China claims Taiwan as its territory and does not rule out the use of force to reunify it with the mainland. Analysts say Beijing's exercises increasingly blur the line between routine military training and stage-setting for an attack, a strategy intended to allow the US and its allies minimal warning of an assault.

China's military said it had deployed fighter jets, bombers, unmanned aerial vehicles, and long-range rockets, and would practice striking mobile land-based targets while simulating a coordinated attack on the island from multiple directions.

Senior Col Shi Yi, spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command, said the drills would be conducted in the Taiwan Straits and areas to the north, southwest, southeast and east of the island.

Col Shi explained the activities would focus on sea-air combat readiness patrol, "joint seizure of comprehensive superiority", blockades of ports, and deterrence of external intervention.

Its a stern warning against 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, he said, and its a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity.

Taiwans presidential office said the latest exercises blatantly undermine the security and stability status quo of the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region while openly challenging international laws and order".

We strongly condemn the Chinese authorities disregard for international norms and their use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries, it added.

Taiwan's defence ministry said two Chinese military aircraft and 11 ships had been operating around the island over the last 24 hours and that its military was on high alert and poised to carry out "rapid response exercises.

open image in gallery A Taiwanese fighter jet takes off at the Hsinchu air base on 29 December 2025 ( AFP via Getty )

Following the drill announcement, the Chinese military released two posters titled "Shields of Justice: Smashing Illusions" and "Arrows of Justice: Control and Denial", along with a third graphic depicting four locations across the island with targets locking on.

China's state broadcaster said the drills would focus on sealing off Taiwan's deep-water port of Keelung in the north and the largest port city of Kaohsiung to the south.

Scores of Chinese military boats and planes were operating near Taiwan on Monday and some were "deliberately closing in" on the islands contiguous zone, defined as being 24 nautical miles from its coast, a senior Taiwan security official told Reuters.

The Taiwanese coast guard said it had dispatched large ships in response to Chinese coast guard activity and was working with the military to minimise the impact of the drills on maritime routes and fishing areas.
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

North Korea said on Monday it fired long-range strategic cruise missiles into the sea to test the countrys nuclear deterrence, days after it showed apparent progress in the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine.

The missile launches occurred off the countrys west coast on Sunday in the presence of leader Kim Jong Un, the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

It said Mr Kim expressed great satisfaction over the launches and noted that testing the reliability of North Korea's nuclear deterrence and demonstrating its might were just a responsible exercise of the right to self-defence and war deterrence in the face of external security threats.

South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said it was aware of several cruise missile launches made from North Koreas capital region on Sunday morning. It said South Korea maintained a readiness to repel any potential North Korean provocations through its alliance with the US.

UN Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from launching missiles involving its huge stockpile of ballistic missiles. Its cruise missile tests arent banned, but they still pose a threat to the US and South Korea because they are highly manoeuvrable and fly at low altitudes to avoid radar detection.

Analysts said North Korea would aim to use cruise missiles to strike US warships and aircraft carriers in the event of conflict.

Sunday's launches are the latest weapons display by North Korea. Last week, the country test-launched new anti-air missiles off its east coast and displayed photos showing a largely completed hull of a developmental nuclear-powered submarine. North Korea implied it would arm the submarine with nuclear missiles.

A nuclear-powered submarine is among a slew of sophisticated weapons systems that Mr Kim has vowed to introduce to cope with what he describes as US-led security threats.

Kim Jong Un inspects a submarine under construction at an undisclosed location in North Korea ( KCNA via AP )

Some experts say North Koreas recent alignment with Russia, including sending troops and military equipment to aid its war in Ukraine, may have helped it to receive crucial technologies in return.

North Korea could further increase its weapons demonstrations ahead of its planned ruling Workers' Party congress early next year, observers said.

North Korea has focused on weapons-testing activities to expand its nuclear arsenal since Mr Kim's high-stakes nuclear diplomacy with US president Donald Trump collapsed in 2019.

But in an apparent response to Mr Trumps repeated outreach, Mr Kim suggested in September he could return to talks if the US dropped its delusional obsession with denuclearisation of North Korea.

Experts said Mr Kim might think his enlarged nuclear arsenal would give him greater leverage to wrest concessions in potential talks with Mr Trump.
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 prosecutor on Monday alleged that the wife of the impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol allegedly accepted bribes totalling over $200,000 and interfered in state affairs.

The special prosecutor's investigation into the former first lady, which wrapped up on Sunday, came amid a year-long probe into the disgraced presidents brief imposition of martial law last year and related scandals linked to the once-powerful couple.

Kim Keon Hee was arrested in August and placed under investigation for allegedly manipulating stocks and receiving gifts from the cult-like Unification Church. She is also accused of meddling in elections.

The prosecutor earlier this month sought a 15-year prison sentence for Ms Kim, who denied wrongdoing and, during a court hearing, apologised to the public for sparking concerns through her conduct.

Ms Kim took advantage of the status of the president's spouse to receive money and expensive valuables, and has been widely involved in various personnel appointments and nominations," special prosecutor Min Joong Ki said at a news conference marking the end of his investigation.

Kim Keon Hee arrives for her first trial hearing on corruption charges at the Seoul Central District Court on 24 September 2025 ( Getty )

She "illegally intervened in state affairs behind the scenes, beyond the public's view", the prosecutor said, adding that the bribes from businesses and politicians taken by her totalled up to $263,000.

Ms Kim previously said that the allegations were "deeply unjust". "Yet when I consider my role and the responsibilities entrusted to me, it seems clear that I have made many mistakes," she claimed.

A lower courts ruling in Ms Kims case is expected on 28 January.

Investigations do not end because one says so, but are eventually completed with evidence in court," Ms Kim's lawyers said in a statement on Monday, adding that they would work "to ensure that procedural legitimacy and defence rights are thoroughly guaranteed so that facts are not exaggerated or distorted into political framing.

The prosecutors are also trying Unification Church leader Han Hak Ja as her group is suspected of giving Ms Kim valuables, including Chanel bags and a diamond necklace, as part of an effort to win influence.

Ms Kim allegedly also received a painting by famed South Korean minimalist painter Lee Ufan, a Dior handbag and a watch.

Ms Han denies directing her church to bribe the then first lady.

"Various people who did not have a common denominator with each other visited Kim Keon Hee, not the president, and asked for what they wanted, and gave money and goods," assistant special prosecutor Kim Hyeong Geun, alleged. "As a result, their request was realised."

Mr Yoon is on trial for masterminding an insurrection by imposing martial law late last year, a charge that could mean a life sentence or even a death penalty. He denies the charges.

A lower court ruling on Mr Yoon is expected early next year.
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

China seems to have stepped into the role of lead mediator as Thailand and Cambodia move to rebuild ties and entrench a fragile ceasefire following weeks of deadly clashes along their disputed border.

Beijing said in a statement on Monday that the rival Southeast Asian neighbours had agreed to gradually consolidate the ceasefire following talks in southwestern China.

Thailand and Cambodia halted weeks of intense fighting on Saturday with a second ceasefire since late October. The renewed clashes had left at least 101 people dead and forced more than half a million people to flee their homes.

In a sign of Beijings growing diplomatic influence in the region, the foreign ministers of Thailand and Cambodia travelled to Yunnan province for trilateral talks with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi over Sunday and Monday. Defence officials from both sides also participated.

Mr Wang described the ceasefire as hard-won and cautioned against allowing the situation to deteriorate again. He urged the governments not to abandon the truce deal midway or permit a renewed outbreak of violence.

Discussions between the three parties were beneficial and constructive, and an important consensus was reached, Mr Wang said in a statement released by the foreign ministry, which made no reference to Aseans earlier role in brokering talks.

The Chinese foreign minister said the rival parties must look forward and move forward.

China is ready to provide humanitarian assistance immediately for livelihood needs of the displaced people in the affected border areas, the statement said.

A joint communique, released by Chinas state news agency Xinhua, said Thailand and Cambodia would rebuild political mutual trust, achieve a turnaround in relations, and maintain regional peace.

The renewed clashes erupted earlier this month after the collapse of a previous truce that had been negotiated on the sidelines of the Asean summit in Kuala Lumpur, with the involvement of US president Donald Trump and Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim.

This time, however, China is positioned at the centre of the diplomatic process. The implementation of the ceasefire agreement requires continued communication and consultation, and the restoration of bilateral relations must also proceed gradually, Mr Wang said on Monday.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi shakes hands with Thailands Sihasak Phuangketkeow in Yuxi, Yunnan province, on 28 December 2025 ( REUTERS )

According to Mr Wang, Thai and Cambodian diplomats and defence officials held multiple bilateral meetings during the Yunnan talks, demonstrating a positive and open attitude.

Cambodian foreign minister Prak Sokhonn expressed confidence that the truce would endure and offer space for repairing relations, saying that it would enable both sides to resume previously agreed mechanisms to resolve disputes.

Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow also voiced hope for lasting peace with neighbouring countries.

The Thai foreign ministry later said China had volunteered to act as a platform for peace efforts, with Bangkok reiterating that improvements in ties should occur on a step-by-step basis.

The Thai side will consider the release of 18 soldiers after the 72-hour ceasefire observation period and requests that Cambodia facilitate the return of Thais along the border, the ministry said.

The ceasefire agreement commits both sides to honour international bans on landmines  a key Thai concern  and provides for the repatriation of Cambodian soldiers captured earlier this year.

On Monday, Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet issued a statement to all troops along the border. Even though we can still fight, he said, as a small country, we still have nothing to gain from prolonging the fighting for a long time.
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

Volunteers are being sought for an online challenge to help find stars being torn apart by black holes.

Astronomers at Queens University Belfast and the Leiden Observatory in the Netherlands are seeking help to shape how scientists detect massive black holes for the next decade.

A new project, the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), will capture the night sky over the next 10 years from the Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile.

Dr Matt Nicholl, from the School of Mathematics and Physics at Queens, said it is expected to compile more astronomical data than has been available up to now, meaning it is no longer possible for scientists to search it manually.

He said: Having access to data from the 10-year LSST will revolutionise astronomy and it is very exciting to think that we could detect thousands of black holes consuming passing stars.

There will be a huge amount of data  an estimated 10 million alerts every night from the LSST alerts stream.

However, the sky is full of different kinds of sources that change in brightness, so finding what were looking for is like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Astronomers at Queens have come up with simulations of what they believe the data could show.

Dr Nicholl said: Were calling for any tech-savvy armchair astronomers to use AI and machine learning to work through the simulated data and learn how to pinpoint stars that are getting torn apart and destroyed by black holes.

You dont need to be an expert in black holes  anyone with experience in machine learning could provide valuable insight.

Dylan Magill, a PhD student from Queens who created the simulations, said: Were particularly interested in objects called tidal disruption events.

This is when an unlucky star is ripped apart by the immense gravitational forces it experiences as it approaches too close to a supermassive black hole.

The new data will give us a huge opportunity to find more of these but there is a huge amount of data to work through.

By creating simulations and enlisting the help of armchair astronomers, were really hopeful that we can use AI and machine learning so that were in a position to unlock so many more mysteries of our universe.

Dr Sjoert van Velzen from the Leiden Observatory, who co-founded the challenge, says: Tidal disruption events are a relatively recent astronomical discovery and to date we havent discovered many.

However, those that we have found have proven to be tremendously scientifically valuable, particularly for investigating the properties and feeding conditions of black holes that are very difficult to observe.

Information on the online project can be found at kaggle.com/competitions/mallorn-astronomical-classification-challenge/overview.

There is a top prize of 1,000 euro for the participant with the best score.
Interview: BRICS, SCO enable Global South participation in global governance, says Russian scholar

Xinhua) 13:48, December 29, 2025

MOSCOW, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) enable the Global South countries to participate in global governance as equal partners rather than peripheral players, a Russian scholar has said.

Andrei Manoilo, a professor at the Faculty of Political Science of Lomonosov Moscow State University, told Xinhua in an interview that the rising number of countries engaging with BRICS and the SCO over the past years reflects their growing appeal among the Global South.

"So far, BRICS has become an important driving force for South-South cooperation by establishing such a cooperation mechanism in advancing economic development and political security," Manoilo said.

BRICS offers Global South countries a platform to claim their due share of participation in global affairs, said the professor.

For those countries, he added, participation in BRICS also provides a valuable opportunity to cooperate with the world's largest emerging economies, including China, Russia and India.

Manoilo also noted that the SCO is increasingly viewed by many countries as an equitable and pragmatic pathway for development.

Initially established in 2001 for security purposes, it has expanded its functions to political, economic and other areas.

Today, the SCO allows Global South countries to support each other's development and assume their responsibilities in global governance, he said.

With its expanding functions, the SCO is evolving into not only a stronger international organization, but also a promoter for global change, he said.

Manoilo concluded that the year 2025 marks a transition in which the Global South countries, are increasingly aware of their strength and are taking steps to cooperate to achieve further development.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
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

Freemasons are seeking an injunction to halt the rollout of a new policy requiring Metropolitan Police officers to declare their membership.

The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and other groups representing the secretive organisation in England, Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands have pushed back against plans, announced earlier this month, to make Freemasonry membership a declarable association.

It will mean officers and staff are required to declare membership past or present of any organisation that is hierarchical, has confidential membership and requires members to support and protect each other.

In response, UGLE announced it was seeking a judicial review of the policy  arguing it could breach their human rights and GDPR rules.

They called for its implementation to be suspended to allow a full consultation on the changes. Although the Met has now agreed to a consultation, it is not halting the rollout.

UGLE announced today it is has launched proceedings, applying for an injunction to suspend the policy pending the outcome of the judicial review.

The Met has vowed to robustly defend its decision, arguing there should be no opportunity for secret loyalties to play any part in investigations.

open image in gallery Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley ( PA Wire )

Adrian Marsh, grand secretary of UGLE, said: There is a contradiction between the Met acceptance of our request for fuller consultation, which we welcome, but then refusing to suspend the decision pending the outcome of that consultation.

To date the consultation process has been wholly inadequate, prejudicial and unjust and this injunction is the first step we must resort to, to protect our members whose integrity is impugned by the Met decision.

He previously said there are only 440 Freemasons among the 32,135 officers in the Met, and claimed it is inconceivable that this small number could have an impact on the force.

UGLE claim they were not properly included in the consultation process, that less than 5 per cent of officers and staff completed the survey on the issue, and accused the force of refusing to consider any alternative solutions.

And it said that the requirement of Freemasons to support and protect each other comes with the caveat that this is without detriment to their family or the law of the land.

The move to make officers declare past or present membership of the Freemasons was recommended by the Daniel Morgan Independent Panel report  a probe into the forces handling of the unsolved 1987 murder of private detective Daniel Morgan.

open image in gallery The Met previously admitted the investigation into the unsolved murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan was marred by a cycle of corruption, professional incompetence and defensiveness ( PA Archive )

The 37-year-old father-of-two was killed with an axe in the car park of the Golden Lion pub in Sydenham, south east London, on 10 March 1987.

A string of inquiries over the decades unearthed allegations of corruption.

The 2021 report said police officers membership of the Freemasons had been a source of recurring suspicion and mistrust in the investigations.

The Mets decision follows a survey of officers and staff which showed two thirds of respondents felt membership of such organisations affects perception of police impartiality and public trust, the force said.

More recently, Sir Mark Rowley has pushed the plan to declare membership as part of wider moves to improve transparency in the Met.

A Met Police spokesperson said: We will robustly defend our decision to require officers and staff to declare if they are Freemasons.

Two thirds of officers and staff surveyed agree that the policy is needed. We think the majority of the public would also agree.

There have been calls going back a number of years for the role of Freemasonry in policing to be properly addressed, including as a recommendation in the report of the Daniel Morgan Independent Panel. We strongly believe that failing to act on these calls would further damage trust not only among the public but also other officers and staff.

Victims should be able to know that when they report allegations to us, the officers investigating have been transparent about any potential conflicts of interest. Similarly, officers and staff should be able to know that when they report wrongdoing by colleagues it will be investigated on its merits with no opportunity for secret loyalties to play any part.

We must prioritise the maintenance of vital trust and confidence over any organisations desire to maintain secrecy.
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

Cyber attacks surged into prominence in 2025, inflicting significant financial damage on major British businesses and exposing widespread vulnerabilities across the economy.

High-profile targets included automotive giant Jaguar Land Rover, retail stalwart Marks & Spencer, and luxury department store Harrods, underscoring how firms of all sizes are susceptible to sophisticated digital threats.

Andrew Bailey, governor of the Bank of England, articulated his belief that cyber attacks represent one of the most substantial threats to UK financial stability, stressing the critically important need for collaborative defence.

Mike Maddison, chief executive of cyber security firm NCC Group, described 2025 as a tipping point.

He stated: Cyber attacks are far from new, but 2025 has shown just how deeply cyber risk is intertwined with economic stability and business continuity.

Data from NCC Group revealed a record-breaking surge in global ransomware attacks, with 590 incidents recorded in January and 886 in February.

Ransomware, a malicious software, allows cyber criminals to encrypt computer systems or steal data, holding it hostage until a payment is made.

A survey by insurer Hiscox earlier this year indicated that 59 per cent of small- to medium-sized businesses had experienced a cyber attack in the preceding 12 months, with 27 per cent facing a ransomware demand.

Of those who paid, 60 per cent recovered some or all data, though 31 per cent reported attackers demanding further payments, according to the survey of 5,750 global respondents.

open image in gallery Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, has warned about the threat of more cyber attacks ( PA Wire )

The UKs National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) reported handling 204 nationally significant cyber attacks in the year to September, a sharp increase from 89 the previous year.

Mr Maddison noted: Compared to previous years, these attacks have been more far-reaching and costly, reaffirming that cyber security is no longer just an IT concern.

He added: CEOs and government leaders should now be acutely aware that cyber resilience is fundamental to the UKs long-term growth and resilience.

The most significant and costly cyber attack in the UK this year was arguably on Jaguar Land Rover.

The carmaker halted production across its UK factories for five weeks from 1 September, following a hack the day prior.

This disruption led to a revenue plunge of over 1bn for the quarter to September and a substantial loss for the company.

Crucially, the shutdown was also cited as a key factor in the UK economy contracting in September and October due to slowing car production.

Experts from the non-profit Cyber Monitoring Centre estimated the incident cost the country around 1.9bn, labelling it the most financially damaging cyber event ever to hit the UK.

Food, fashion, and homeware retailer Marks & Spencer also suffered a major hack, which had extensive ramifications and highlighted the risk of customer data theft from prominent household brands.

The retailer was forced to suspend all online orders for approximately six weeks and faced empty shelves due to disruptions to its logistics systems after being targeted around the Easter weekend.

M&S reported a 324m loss in sales, though it managed to recover 100m through an insurance payout.

open image in gallery Jaguar Land Rover was a target of a cyber attack ( PA Wire )

Customer personal data, potentially including names, email addresses, postal addresses, and dates of birth, was also compromised.

M&S was not alone; luxury department store Harrods and supermarket group Co-op were among other retailers hit by damaging cyber attacks in 2025.

The Co-ops chief confirmed that data belonging to all 6.5 million of its members had been stolen.

Mr Maddison warned that 2025 should be seen as a clear warning, not a one-off peak, anticipating cyber criminals will increasingly leverage artificial intelligence for phishing attempts and to identify system vulnerabilities.

He predicted: Supply chains will remain prime targets, as their complexity means disruption can spread quickly across sectors, intensifying the pressure to pay ransoms.

However, he also observed: At the same time, cyber maturity is improving, noting that Boards increasingly recognise that true cyber resilience goes beyond prevention and detection.

In response, the government is developing a Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, which aims to empower regulators to fine companies failing to comply with cyber security regulations.

New proposals from the Home Office will mandate businesses to notify the government if they intend to pay a ransom to cyber criminals, while also prohibiting public sector bodies and operators of critical national infrastructure from making such payments.
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

A Russian submarine was deployed alongside a spy ship to map critical undersea infrastructure around Britain, it has emerged.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has declassified a photo of the incident, which saw a submarine shadowing the Yantar, officially described as a Russian research ship, as it reportedly surveyed the gas pipeline linking Britain and Ireland. It was not clear whether the escort was one of Russias own purpose-built sabotage submarines.

An anti-submarine Merlin Mk2 helicopter could be seen from the photo tracking the Yantar in the Irish Sea from November last year; a British submarine also emerged from the surface nearby.

It is believed to be one of several operations where Russian submarines have accompanied the Yantar into waters close to the British Isles, according to The Sunday Times.

First sea lord general Sir Gwyn Jenkins said earlier this month that there had been a 30 per cent increase in Russian incursion in our waters just over the last two years.

An anti-submarine Merlin Mk2 helicopter can be seen tracking the ship ( MOD )

The activity is most visibly seen in the presence of spy ships like the Yantar operating near UK waters, he said, but warned: Its whats going on under the waves that most concerns me.

Just last week, Sir Gwyn warned that Russia was renewing its investment in its elite deep-sea submarine division, known as Gugi. The UK sanctioned the Russian military agency, which is leading the development of Russias underwater intelligence gathering operations, in June this year.

An MoD spokesperson said: As the defence secretary has said, our message to President Putin is clear: we see you, we know what you are doing, and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country.

We are acutely aware of the threat posed by Russia, which includes attempts to map undersea cables, networks, and pipelines belonging to both the UK and our allies, and we are tackling these threats head on.

That is why the prime minister set out the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, including a commitment to increase spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP from April 2027, and an ambition to spend 3 per cent of GDP in the next parliament, as economic and fiscal conditions allow.

In addition, we have introduced 900 new sanctions against individuals, entities and ships under the Russian regime, and accelerated the development and deployment of advanced anti-submarine technology.

The government believes its Atlantic Bastion programme, which is integrating autonomous vessels, AI-enabled sensors, warships, and aircraft to safeguard critical undersea infrastructure against evolving challenges, will help to secure the North Atlantic for the UK and Nato to counter the threat of Russias evolving submarine force.
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

Cuts to local authority cleaning budgets have been linked to a "horrifying" surge in rat sightings across Scotland, Scottish Labour has warned.

Data obtained by the party through a freedom of information request reveals councils recorded 19,752 complaints about rats last year. This marks a significant 35% increase compared to the 2021/22 period.

Glasgow experienced the most acute problem, accounting for more than half of all complaints. The city registered 10,840 reports in 2024/25, a stark 50% rise from the 7,215 complaints lodged in 2021/22.

Labour said the increase in rat sightings came alongside a fall in spending on street cleaning, which has declined 34% since 2010/11.

It also pointed out satisfaction with street cleaning in Scotland fell to its lowest recorded point last year, when it stood at 57% across Scotland and just 37% in Glasgow.

open image in gallery Labour said the increase in rat sightings came alongside ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Labour local government spokesman Mark Griffin said the figures show the SNP is failing on the basics.

He added: There has been a horrifying rise in rat sightings as SNP cuts to councils hit cleansing budgets.

Glasgow is a world-class city but we can all see how badly it is being let down by the SNP.

The SNP is failing on the basics, leaving us with litter on the streets and rats running riot.

People are sick and tired of seeing their communities run down by this incompetent SNP Government.

A Scottish Labour government will end the SNPs hollowing out of local communities and put in place a fair funding mechanism so councils can get the basics right.

Public finance minister Ivan McKee branded the claims incorrect.

He added: Councils were given a record 15 billion this year to meet local needs.

The local finance settlement is up by 50% since 2013/14.

Funding for council-run waste services is a matter for local authorities, not the Scottish Government.
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

Brits are being urged to prepare for a chilly start to the new year as multiple cold weather alerts have been issued.

An amber health warning is in place in the North East and North West from 8pm on Sunday to 12pm on 5 January 2026. Temperatures in these regions are expected to fall to around 3 to 5C in the day, but could be closer to -3C overnight, and -7C in parts of Scotland.

It comes as wintry showers are forecast across the north of England from New Years Day onwards, bringing a blustery and cold start to 2026.

open image in gallery The UK is set to see wintry conditions to start the new year ( PA Wire )

Met Offices Dan Stroud said: Were losing this sort of settled but chilly conditions, and bringing in something a little bit more showery with more wintry hazards in the forecast, particularly for the north of the country.

The forecaster said the final days of 2025 will not be particularly fantastic, with temperatures of 7 to 8C, but things will take a turn as 2026 arrives.

There are currently no Met Office weather warnings in place. The cold health alerts, issued by the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA), mean the weather is likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services, including a rise in deaths among those with health conditions or aged 65 or over.

The UKHSA said the UK may also see impacts on younger people and said there will likely be an increase in demand for health services across the regions.

open image in gallery Amber cold weather alerts are in place ( UKHSA )

Other impacts include temperatures inside places like hospitals and care homes dropping below the levels recommended for assessing health risks and challenges keeping indoor temperatures at the recommended 18C leading to more risk to vulnerable people, the UKHSA said.

It also warned of staffing issues due to external factors such as travel delays and said other sectors, such as transport and energy, could start to see the impacts.

The agency also issued a yellow cold health alert for the East Midlands, West Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London.

Temperatures are expected to fall to around 4 to 6C from New Years Day in areas where the yellow health alert is in place.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: As the colder weather sets in, it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable.

The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.
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 faced criticism for celebrating the return of activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah to the UK from detention in Egypt after past social media posts resurfaced.

Mr Abd El-Fattah, who is a British-Egyptian dual national, was detained in Egypt in September 2019, before he was sentenced to five years in prison in December 2021 on charges of spreading false news.

UN investigators branded his imprisonment a breach of international law and he was released this September after being pardoned by Egyptian president Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi, before returning to the UK on 26 December following extensive lobbying from Conservative and Labour governments.

The prime minister said on Friday that he was delighted that Mr Abd El-Fattah had been reunited with his loved ones in the UK.

[They] must be feeling profound relief, Sir Keir wrote on X (formerly Twitter). He added: I want to pay tribute to Alaas family, and to all those that have worked and campaigned for this moment.

However, posts dating back to 2010 have since emerged, in which the activist appears to call for violence towards Zionists and the police, leading to figures such as Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to demand an investigation into revoking the activists British citizenship.

open image in gallery Alaa Abd el-Fattah was released in September ( AP )

Mr Abd El-Fattah has issued an unequivocal apology for the content of the posts, attributing them to a young mans anger and frustrations in a time of regional crises (the wars on Iraq, on Lebanon and Gaza), and the rise of police brutality against Egyptian youth.

Who is Alaa Abd El-Fattah?

Mr Abd El-Fattah comes from a family of activists and writers. He was granted UK citizenship in December 2021 under Boris Johnson, reportedly through his UK-born mother Laila Soueif.

The blogger and political activist was a leading voice in Egypts 2011 Arab Spring uprising, which led to the ousting of autocrat Hosni Mubarak, and went on hunger strikes behind bars.

open image in gallery Laila Soueif, the mother of Alaa Abd El-Fattah ( (James Manning/PA) )

He became one of Egypts most prominent political prisoners, having spent most of his adult life in jail on what human rights groups said were trumped-up charges.

While imprisoned, he missed the birth of his son, Khaled, and also the death of his father Ahmed Seif al-Islam, who was a human rights lawyer.

His family advocated for his release for years, with his mother undertaking lengthy hunger strikes, camping outside 10 Downing Street, and eventually meeting Sir Keir earlier this year to lobby on her sons behalf.

Mr Abd El-Fattahs criticism of the crackdown on dissent after the then-General Sisi seized power that led to his longest prison sentence. In 2014, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison for protesting without permission  later reduced to five years.

He was released in 2019 but remained on parole. Later that year, he was arrested again and accused of spreading false news after sharing a social media post about a prisoners death. He was jailed for five years.

open image in gallery Laila Soueif (centre right), the mother of Alaa Abd el-Fattah, taking part in a vigil for him in July 2023 ( PA Archive )

After he finished his full term in 2024, his mother stepped up her campaign but prosecutors decided to discount the year he had spent in pre-trial detention and insisted he should remain in custody until January 2027.

Numerous international campaigns called for his release and his name was removed from Egypts terrorism list earlier this year, paving the way for the end of his detention.

Labours Conservative predecessors in government had also lobbied for the release of Mr Abd El-Fattah.

The row over past social media posts

Mr Abd El-Fattah apologised for the content of his posts on Monday, saying: I am shaken that, just as I am being reunited with my family for the first time in 12 years, several historic tweets of mine have been republished and used to question and attack my integrity and values, escalating to calls for the revocation of my citizenship.

He added: Looking at the tweets now  the ones that were not completely twisted out of their meaning  I do understand how shocking and hurtful they are, and for that I unequivocally apologise.

Following the release of the statement, shadow home secretary Chris Philp branded Mr Abd El-Fattah a scumbag, adding he was not really interested in his apology.

Downing Street has condemned the tweets but defended his entry into the UK, as Sir Keirs spokesperson said: We welcome the return of a British citizen unfairly detained abroad, as we would in all cases and as we have done in the past.

He continued: That is central to Britains commitment to religious and political freedom.

That said, it doesnt change the fact that we have condemned the nature of these historic tweets, and we consider them to be abhorrent, and weve been very clear about that.

Sir Keir was not aware of the historical tweets until after the activist entered the UK, Downing Street said.
Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Britain is missing out on up to 100m for every week that a landmark deal with the European Union is not in place, according to new research that has prompted calls for Sir Keir Starmer to urgently break the Brexit economic doom loop.

Months after the prime minister hailed his great reset with the EU, announced with huge fanfare alongside European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, a key strand on food and drink exports has yet to be finalised.

The sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement would align Britains standards with those of the EU, removing the need for most certificates and checks on animals and plants being transported between the UK and the bloc.

The deal, predicted to slash hugely expensive red tape and vastly increase the volume of imports and exports to and from the EU, is worth up to 14m a day to the UK economy, according to new research carried out by the House of Commons Library. This has led to calls for ministers to speed up the process.

But the government has hit back at opposition politicians, denouncing it as a shame that they are not supporting Labours progress in securing closer ties with the bloc.

open image in gallery Ursula von der Leyen confirmed in May that the UK and EU had agreed to work towards a common SPS arrangement ( PA )

The new analysis looked at the planned UK-EU food and drink deal and concluded that it could be worth up to 14m per day once the British economy has fully adjusted to the new system.

That figure may vary, and go up or down across the year, with variations depending on things like whether it is a weekend, a bank holiday, a busier time of year and so on, it said.

Al Pinkerton, the Liberal Democrats Europe spokesperson, who commissioned the analysis, said: The government went to great lengths to show off their shiny new plans to agree an SPS deal with the EU in May. Six months later, theres nothing to show for it, and the British public are millions of pounds worse off a day because of their inaction.

He added: Ministers must stop dithering, grip this economic crisis and deliver the SPS deal theyve promised  finally cutting the reams of red tape holding British business back.

But a government spokesperson hit back, saying: We secured a landmark deal with the EU in May, resetting our relationship to deliver for the public. They added: Its a shame the Lib Dems arent backing this progress or supporting the government as negotiations continue.

Government insiders said talks on the deal started once the EU had agreed a negotiating mandate between its 27 member states. The agreement would support British jobs and businesses and bring down prices, they said.

Brexit cost UK business 37bn in the 12 months to last September, it emerged earlier this year. This led ministers to pledge to tear down the trade barriers between Britain and the EU. The figures also showed that total trade with the EU was 5 per cent lower than before Britain left the bloc.

An estimated 16,400 businesses  some 14 per cent of UK exporters  stopped exporting to the EU as a result of Brexit trade rules, according to one study by the Centre for Economic Performance at the LSE, while others have never started.

This is likely to be in part because of the increased complexity of new export regulations. The supermarket giant Marks & Spencer has said that it has had to rent a warehouse just to store the paperwork.

open image in gallery Keir Starmer has been urged to break the Brexit economic doom loop ( AFP/Getty )

Negotiations between the UK and the EU on the SPS deal began in late November. Ministers believe the agreement with the UKs largest agri-food trading partner could increase the volume of UK exports of major agricultural commodities to the EU by 16 per cent, and increase imports from the EU by 8 per cent.

Overall, cuts to red tape and other costs could deliver savings to business worth up to 1m a month, the government estimates. At the moment, businesses are required to obtain expensive certificates and checks, including export health certificates to bring food across the border  which costs up to 200 for every consignment.

Naomi Smith, the chief executive of pro-EU campaign group Best for Britain, which has been calling for an SPS deal since May 2023, said the economic impact of Brexit is affecting people every single day.

The cost of living, sluggish economic growth and poor productivity in the UK are all compounded by our feeble trading relationship with the EU, and its high time negotiators on both sides work faster to break this doom loop, she 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

Britain should join forces with Europe in a new defence pact because it can no longer trust Donald Trumps America to defend it in the event of a military attack by Russia, voters believe.

That is the stark outcome of a survey by The Independent to gauge the publics reaction to dramatic changes in US foreign policy under Mr Trump and increasing hostility to Europe  including Britain  from Russias Vladimir Putin.

open image in gallery European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, Keir Starmer, Finlands Alexander Stubb, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, Italys Giorgia Meloni, Germanys Friedrich Merz and Nato secretary general Mark Rutte in the White House in August ( AP )

A total of 55 per cent of British voters want a new UK/Europe defence alliance  without America  to guard against the threat from Putin, according to the JL Partners poll, while only 11 per cent oppose this plan.

Such a move would mark a historic shift in defence policy with major diplomatic implications.

Currently, the defence of Britain and Europe against the threat of attack depends on Nato, which was set up by European nations and the US in 1949 in the aftermath of the Second World War.

open image in gallery Still a special relationship? Donald Trump and Keir Starmer reportedly get along well, but voters are unsure about whether the US can be trusted to come to Britains aid ( PA )

Under Natos cornerstone Article 5, an attack on any member is treated as an attack on all. In practice, that pledge is underpinned by the huge military firepower of its biggest member, the US.

However, Americas own commitment to Nato has come under question since the re-election of President Trump last year and his stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Mr Trump has called European countries weak, repeatedly criticised them for not spending enough money on defence, and even threatened to ignore his Nato vow to defend them for not doing so if they are attacked.

In addition, Mr Trump has been accused by some of siding with Russia  not Europe  in its war with Ukraine.

He has promised to offer Ukraine Nato-style Article 5-like protection from further Russian attacks in the event of a ceasefire, but his refusal to go further has led some to question its value.

In fact, the only time Natos Article 5 has been triggered was in defence of the US after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

open image in gallery The prime minister has strengthened Britains ties with Europe since becoming prime minister ( PA )

In recent weeks a series of major European figures have raised the alarm on this issue.

Nato secretary general Mark Rutte warned its members to start ramping up preparations for the scale of war our grandparents or great-grandparents endured.

His comments were echoed by the new head of MI6, Blaise Metreweli, who highlighted the growing menace from Russia, which she said was testing us in the grey zone with tactics that are just below the threshold of war, while defence minister Al Carns said the shadow of war is knocking on Europes door.

Their comments reflect fears that Putin could follow his invasion of Ukraine with a new attack on Europe, such as the Baltic states.

Russia has violated European airspace with fighter jets and drones, as well as carrying out cyber attacks and acts of sabotage.

European countries already collaborate on defence issues via a number of organisations, such as the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, to guard against the threat from Russia in Norway and northern Europe.

Furthermore, European nations are currently increasing their defence spending.

But it will be many years before they are capable of defending themselves without relying on the US.

James Johnson, of JL Partners, said: The radical change in views on foreign policy from Donald Trumps White House appears to have taken its toll on British voters.

Judging from our survey, voters have lost faith in the belief that if Britain or any of its European neighbours faces a real military threat, America will automatically come to its rescue.

They think Europe should take control of its own military protection to guarantee its safety.

JL Partners questioned 1,562 adults online on 13 and 14 December.
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

Two pilots involved in a mid-air helicopter collision in New Jersey have died, authorities said.

Police in Hammonton, about 35 miles southeast of Philadelphia, responded to a report of an aviation crash around 11:25 a.m. Sunday, and police and fire crews extinguished flames that engulfed one of the helicopters.

Authorities identified the pilots as Kenneth Kirsch, 65, and Michael Greenberg, 71. The two were friends who both lived in New Jersey and would often have breakfast together at a cafe not far from the site of the crash, KVUE reported.

Kirsch was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital after the crash, while Greenberg died at the crash site.

Statements from witnesses had the two helicopters flying close together just before the crash, Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel said. The crash site was approximately a mile and half from the airport in a farm field.

open image in gallery Two helicopters crashed mid-air in New Jersey Sunday afternoon, killing both pilots involved ( WPVI-TV/6ABC )

open image in gallery The FAA and NTSB are investigating ( WPVI-TV/6ABC )

The Federal Aviation Administration described the crash as a mid-air collision between an Enstrom F-28A helicopter, flown by Kirsch, and an Enstrom 280C helicopter, flown by Greenberg, over Hammonton Municipal Airport.

Only the pilots were on board each aircraft, officials said.

Videos circulating on social media showed thick gray smoke billowing out from the area of the crash. Other footage reportedly showing the crash showed a helicopter spinning out of control as it fell toward the ground.

Sal Silipino, the owner of the nearby cafe frequented by the pilots, said the two would often have breakfasts together. He said he and other customers saw the helicopters spinning out of control before falling to the ground.

It was shocking, he told KVUE. Im still shaking after that happened.

Hammonton resident Dan Dameshek told NBC10 that he was leaving the gym when he saw the two helicopters spiraling out of control.

Immediately, the first helicopter went from right side up to upside down and started rapidly spinning, falling out of the air, Dameshek said. And then it looked like the second helicopter was OK for a second, and then it sounded like another snap or something ... and then that helicopter started rapidly spinning out of the air.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board were at the crash site Monday, authorities said.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board have been notified are will be investigating the crash, police said.

With reporting by the Associated Press.
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 27-year-old man was found critically injured from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in Midtown Manhattan, police said.

The man was found with a gunshot wound to his chest shortly after 10 p.m. Sunday at the intersection of West 57th Street and Avenue of the Americas, also known as 6th Avenue, the New York Police Department said in a statement to The Independent.

Officers transported the 27-year-old, who has not been identified, in an NYPD vehicle to Mount Sinai West in critical but stable condition. He is expected to live, according to NBC New York.

Police have recovered the firearm, and the investigation is ongoing.

The man was found at the intersection of West 57th Street and 6th Avenue, home to a number of luxury properties in the city ( Google Maps )

The intersection is in a neighborhood nicknamed Billionaires Row, which is home to a collection of luxury skyscrapers. Central Park is two blocks away, while Carnegie Hall and the Museum of Modern Art are also nearby.

The intersection is also just blocks away from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Radio City Music Hall, where crowds of tourists have been gathering to celebrate the holiday season and catch a glimpse at the famous Christmas tree.

A law enforcement source with direct knowledge of the investigation told NBC New York the man may have fired the shot in transit before walking up to the street, where he was found.

The NYPD said the man initially described a suspect wearing all black clothing, but investigators later determined it was a self-inflicted wound, ABC 7 reports. Officials said he could be charged with criminal possession of a weapon and falsely reporting an incident, according to the outlet.

No one else was injured, and nearby residents said they were shocked to hear about the shooting, NBC New York reports.

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 based in the UK and 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 in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
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 train accident in southern Mexico has claimed the lives of at least 13 people and left dozens more injured, halting traffic along a crucial rail link between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

The incident occurred on Sunday when the Interoceanic Train, connecting the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz, derailed as it navigated a curve near the town of Nizanda.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the fatalities, stating on X: "The Mexican Navy has informed me that, tragically, 13 people died in the Interoceanic Train accident." She added that 98 individuals sustained injuries, with five reported to be in a serious condition. President Sheinbaum has since directed the secretary of the navy and the undersecretary of human rights of the Ministry of the Interior to travel to the site to provide direct assistance to the affected families.

open image in gallery Claudia Sheinbaum ( AP )

Oaxaca state Governor Salomon Jara also confirmed on X that various government agencies had mobilised to the scene to aid the injured. Officials reported that 241 passengers and nine crew members were aboard the train at the time of the derailment.

open image in gallery A compartment is overturned at the site of a train derailment on the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a railway line connecting Mexico's Pacific and Gulf coasts, where several passengers were killed and injured near Nizanda, Oaxaca state, Mexico December 28, 2025 in this screen grab obtained from social media video. Video obtained by Reuters/via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES. ( Social media )

The Interoceanic Train service was inaugurated in 2023 by then-President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. It forms a key part of a wider initiative to boost rail travel across southern Mexico and develop infrastructure along the Isthmus of Tehuantepec  a narrow strip of land linking the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico. The Mexican government envisions transforming this isthmus into a strategic corridor for international trade, utilising ports and rail lines to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The train currently operates a route of approximately 180 miles (290 kilometres) from the port of Salina Cruz on the Pacific to Coatzacoalcos.
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

Democrats on the House Oversight Committee have demanded answers from the Department of Justice after details of a flight taken by an investigative journalist well known for covering Jeffrey Epstein turned up in the pedophiles files.

Miami Herald reporter Julie K Brown, author of the book Perversion of Justice, which was published in 2020, posted on X Sunday: Does somebody at the DOJ want to tell me why my American Airlines booking information and flights in July 2019 are part of the Epstein files (attached to a grand jury subpoena)?

As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why was the DOJ monitoring me?

Brown also addressed the matter in a post on Substack in which she said she had expected to see her name in the Epstein files because of her reporting, but added: What I didnt expect to see was an American Airlines flight record from 2019 with my full name on them, including my maiden name, which I dont use professionally. Its an unusual name, so its clear its me.

Her X message was reposted by the official Oversight Dems account with the comment: The Department of Justice needs to explain why travel information and booking itineraries for a journalist are in the Epstein files.

open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein pictured in one of the files released this month by the Department of Justice in accordance with the terms of the Epstein Files Transparency Act ( DOJ )

The Independent has contacted the DOJ for comment.

The near-unanimous passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act through Congress in November set in motion a 30-day deadline for the DOJ to publish all of its past investigative material on Epstein, the billionaire pedophile and sex trafficker who died by suicide in a New York City jail cell in August 2019 while awaiting trial.

President Donald Trump signed off on the bill after months of pressure to release the information  as he had previously promised his supporters he would  and amid persistent questions about his past friendship with Epstein, which he has said ended long before it became fashionable in 2004.

Trump has not been accused of any wrongdoing in relation to the financier, and anyones appearance in the files should not be interpreted as evidence of guilt.

The DOJ duly published a significant tranche of Epstein documents and photographs on December 19 in compliance with the act. Still, they were found to be incomplete, lacking in context, and not presented in a searchable format, as the original bill had expressly stipulated.

open image in gallery Miami Herald journalist Julie K Brown, whose reporting helped reopen the case against Epstein ( Miami Herald/YouTube )

A second, even larger batch of files was posted on the departments website on December 23, two days before Christmas, leaving interested parties scrambling to comb through the almost 30,000 pages released.

The DOJ has since said it has uncovered over a million more documents possibly tied to the Epstein case and that it will take weeks to release them all.

Brown is credited with helping to reopen the case against Epstein after the mysterious financier was allowed to plead guilty to two state-level prostitution offenses in 2008 as part of a plea deal with Florida prosecutors that saw him escape more serious federal charges.

The Miami Herald began publishing a series of Browns reports in November 2018 that saw her identify 80 potential victims of Epsteins sexual abuse, some of whom were as young as 13 when the abuse took place, and speak to eight individuals about their experiences.

Epstein was eventually re-arrested and charged again in July 2019, a chain of events that also saw then-secretary of labor Alex Acosta resign, given that he had been the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida at the time the pedophiles plea deal was agreed.

The deal not only shielded Epstein himself from further prosecution but also protected his co-conspirators.
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 Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has recently broken with Donald Trumps MAGA movement, has once again taken the president to task for forgetting his America First commitment to his supporters.

The populist, 51, took to X Sunday to complain about Trumps ongoing foreign policy focus, which saw him host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida to discuss a potential 20-point peace plan with Russia, which both men emerged from in a positive mood.

On Monday, Trump is due to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach to discuss Israels regional concerns, the sixth in-person meeting between the two leaders in 2025.

Zelensky today. Netanyahu tomorrow, Greene sighed on X. Can we just do America?

The former MAGA cheerleader has quickly lost patience with Trump in his first year back in power, taking issue with his handling of several key issues and with Republicans on Capitol Hill's expectations of blind loyalty.

open image in gallery Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene was once a committed supporter of President Donald Trump but the pair appear to have fallen out irreparably this year ( AP )

She has been especially vocal in her criticism of his international outlook, once referring to Zelensky as a dictator who canceled elections, making no allowances for the complexity of holding a democratic vote in a live warzone, and accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.

Greene has also hit out at Trump on a range of other issues, from healthcare to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, and has announced that she will resign from the House of Representatives in January.

The president himself was initially baffled by Greenes change of tone but has since come out swinging, repeatedly attacking her on Truth Social, calling her Marjorie Traitor Brown.

In an interview with Lesley Stahl on CBS News 60 Minutes earlier this month, the congresswoman accused the president of directly fueling death threats against her family with the inflammatory nickname.

After President Trump called me a traitor, I got a pipe bomb threat on my house, Greene told Stahl. And then I got several direct death threats on my son The subject line for the direct death threats against my son was his words  Marjorie Traitor Greene. Those are death threats directly fueled by President Trump.

open image in gallery Trump with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago Sunday ( Getty )

She also claimed that some of her fellow Republicans had made fun of Trump behind his back and only pivoted towards supporting him after he won the Republican presidential nomination in spring 2024.

Her appearance on the show caused Trump to rage on social media: The only reason Marjorie Traitor Brown (Green turns Brown under stress!) went BAD is that she was JILTED by the President of the United States (Certainly not the first time she has been jilted!).

Too much work, not enough time, and her ideas are, NOW, really BAD  She sort of reminds me of a Rotten Apple! Marjorie is not AMERICA FIRST or MAGA, because nobody could have changed her views so fast, and her new views are those of a very dumb person.

Undeterred, Greene has kept up her attacks, calling the presidents unkind remarks about the murdered movie director Rob Reiner classless and just wrong and suggesting that only evil people would protect Epsteins accomplices by withholding information about his crimes.

The president has not been accused of any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein but has faced persistent pressure to release all of the Department of Justices files on the late pedophile, which it was finally compelled to do this month by act of Congress  and to explain their past friendship, which he says ended with an argument in 2004.
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

A Minnesota Republican state senator is urging her fellow conservatives to stop peddling unhinged conspiracy theories that connect the assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman to the fraud scandal currently rocking the state.

I am a Minnesota Republican legislator. I never agreed with Melissa. Not once. But Im begging people to stop sharing this conspiracy theory, State Sen. Julia Coleman tweeted in response to actor, producer and socialite Sara Foster, who declared Hortmans death was connected to the controversy. Foster, the daughter of media mogul David Foster, recently served as the co-head of creative of Bumble and co-produced the Netflix hit Nobody Wants This with her sister Erin Foster.

In recent days, MAGA world has gone wild over the sprawling case in Minnesota alleging that roughly $9 billion in federal funds that supported over a dozen state-run childcare and Medicaid programs may have been stolen.

The fraud is not small. It isn't isolated. The magnitude cannot be overstated, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson Thompson said earlier this month. What we see in Minnesota is not a handful of bad actors committing crimes. It's a staggering, industrial-scale fraud.

The probe has become politically and culturally fraught as 82 of the 92 defendants who have been charged are Somali Americans, prompting Donald Trump and other prominent Republicans to claim that Somali immigrants have ripped off that state while calling Minnesota a hub of fraudulent money laundering activity.

open image in gallery Months after Melissa Hortman was killed in what law enforcement called a politically motivated shooting, conspiracists are now linking her murder to the Minnesota fraud case ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Trump has also used the scandal as a way to demonize and denigrate Somalians as a whole, calling them garbage and claiming they contribute nothing, sparking cries of racism and xenophobia from Democrats and liberals. The president, meanwhile, has doubled down on his bigoted rants while calling for Somali-born Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) to be thrown out of the country.

Right-wing media and the Trump administration got a boost in focusing on the fraud case this past week after MAGA YouTuber Nick Shirley  who spoke during the White Houses Antifa violence roundtable this fall  published a video of himself visiting daycare facilities in Minnesota.

At one point in the video, Shirely visits a Somali-owned education center with a misspelled sign that has allegedly received $4 million in funds, asking the owners about the money theyve received and where are the children that are supposedly enrolled at the facility. That interaction went viral on social media and was touted by Vice President JD Vance and FBI Director Kash Patel, who said that this is just the tip of a very large iceberg.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who has faced withering criticism from the GOP and White House over the fraud case as he seeks a third term, responded this week by noting that hes worked for years to crack down on fraud and ask the state legislature for more authority to take aggressive action.

His office also added that Walz hired an outside firm to audit payments to high-risk programs, shut down the Housing Stabilization Services program entirely, announced a new statewide program integrity director, and supported criminal prosecutions.

open image in gallery Sara Foster tossed out an unvetted conspiracy theory that Hortmans assassination was tied to an alleged fraud scheme in Minnesota

Amid the laser-focused attention that the fraud probe has received in the right-wing media ecosystem, Foster  who hosts a podcast with her sister jumped into the social media fray over the weekend to wildly speculate that Hortmans murder was tied to the alleged fraud scheme in the state.

Foster has increasingly grown critical of the far left in recent years, calling them the ultimate bullies and blaming liberal politicians for the San Francisco Cash App founder stabbing, as well as tribal leaders for the wildfires in Southern California.

So are we just planning on pretending like her murder isnt connected to the multi billion fraud scandal just uncovered? Mmmmkay, she posted to X on Saturday, sharing a June tweet from far-right influencer Nick Sortor, who had suggested his own conspiracy theory at the time.

HOLY CRAP! Rep. Melissa Hortman sounded absolutely TERRIFIED while speaking to the media after she voted NO on healthcare for illegals, Sortor wrote at the time. She was just ass*ssinated this morning. She knew shed end up as a target in one form or another.

In the days after Hortman and her husband were killed at their home, allegedly by anti-abortion evangelical Vance Boelter, prominent conservatives  such as Elon Musk and Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT )  falsely claimed that a Marxist had killed Hortman because the far left is murderously violent. At the same time, some even suggested that Walz was responsible for the assassination, wondering if the governor had her executed to send a message.

Fosters tweet has been viewed 1.8 million times and racked up over 50,000 likes and 13,000 reposts, with other celebrities endorsing her groundless theory. Alison Lohman, the star of films Drag Me to Hell and Matchstick Men, reacted with several bullseye emojis, although she later appeared to have deleted the reaction.

We need justice for Rep. Melissa Hortman, conservative State Rep. Heather Scott (R-ID) reacted to Fosters tweet, while other pro-Trump accounts shared photos of Walz that labeled him The Fraudfather while stating: You go against the family, you pay the price.

open image in gallery Republican lawmaker Julia Coleman called out Foster this past weekend for suggesting that Hortmans murder was connected to the Minnesota fraud case

Telling Foster and others to stop peddling the conspiracy theory about Hortmans death, Coleman explained why the now-deceased Democratic leader was emotional in the clip that Sortor shared months earlier.

She is not terrified in this video. Shes crying because she had to take this vote to keep the government open, and it was incredibly hard for her, Coleman wrote. Thats who she was as a leader. Even though I didnt agree with her, I could tell her heart was absolutely in it, and the weight of her decisions were worn on her sleeve sometimes.

Coleman added that there were people on the hit list that did not take that same vote, referencing a note that Boelter left in his vehicle that included roughly 70 other targets  including Walz, Omar and Sens. Tammy Baldwin, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith.

Tim Walz had nothing to do with the assassinations. The fraud had nothing to do with the assassinations, the Republican lawmaker continued. The assassin was deranged. Completely and utterly deranged. And Minnesota lost a good woman because of it.

Coleman concluded her lengthy social media rebuttal with one final message to Foster and others peddling these claims. Please, unless you have evidence, stop trying to get social media clout off the death of a good person that you know nothing about, she proclaimed.

The Independent has reached out to representatives of Foster 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

A self-described wife supremacist and MAGA fertility fanatic is taking heat from other conservatives for claiming that shes never met a single immigrant who moved to the United States because they sought out freedom or individual liberty, adding that migrants only move here for the money, bro.

While the aggressively anti-immigration take would seem to fit squarely within the Donald Trump wing of the conservative movement, especially with the president railing that Somali-Americans are garbage, a number of right-wing pundits and commentators blasted the claim as being extremely far from the truth.

In a series of tweets on Sunday, Peachy Keenan  the pseudonym for a pro-natalist mother of five who says she was inspired by Trump to have more children  insisted that immigrants only come to America for economic reasons.

I have never met a single immigrant, legal or illegal, who moved to the United States because they longed to experience things like freedom of expression, free speech, individual liberty, or representational democracy, the Domestic Extremist author posted. They move here for the money, bro. Even the ones on my side!

In a followup tweet, Keenan said that America is not an idea but rather an ATM machine for immigrants, before describing her definition of a true American.

open image in gallery Self-avowed "husbosexual" Peachy Keenan angered her fellow conservatives by claiming she'd never met an immigrant who moved to American for freedom of speech and expression. ( Fox News )

And it is the ancestral home of families who farmed it, built it, fought for it, and died for it, she stated. That's what it means to be an American. It means you are indigenous, for several generations at least.

Her online screed, however, soon found itself in the crosshairs of a number of prominent conservative media figures, who took issue with her sweeping assertions about immigrants  especially those who seek refuge from totalitarian and autocratic regimes.

I have a bunch of Baha'i friends I grew up with who escaped from the Ayatollah's regime in the late '70s and early '80s to America who would laugh at this, if they weren't too busy being American citizens, National Review writer and podcaster Jeff Blehar noted.

Charles C. W. Cooke, a senior writer at National Review Online who emigrated to the United States from England in 2011 and became a naturalized US citizen in 2018, merely replied Hi to Keenan.

My grandfather immigrated from Sweden because he wanted to be American, conservative radio host Erick Erickson reacted. My neighbor came here from India because he wanted freedom and an escape from the caste system. Get out more and meet people.

Gabriella Hoffman, a staffer at the Independent Womens Forum and a Townhall columnist, noted that this is basically every socialist escapee I've known and met before recounting her familys experience. My parents came to the U.S. 40 years ago next month. They came here to enjoy freedom, free speech, constitutional rights, and free enterprise denied to them by their Russian occupiers, Hoffman added.

Tell me you haven't met many immigrants without saying you haven't met many immigrants, NRO senior writer Dan McLaughlin replied. My high school Spanish teacher, for example, was the most rah-rah pro-America person I've ever met. He didn't flee Castro dreaming of making a fortune teaching sullen teenagers on a Catholic school salary.

Commentary editor John Podheretz didnt pull any punches with his thoughts on Keenans tweet. Tell me youre an idiot any more competently than this blazingly stupid tweet that fails to understand why America works as it does and Ill give you a cookie, he wrote on X.

Actually, it was freedom of expression, free speech, individual liberty, representational democracy, and money, conservative speaker and podcast host Ian Haworth observed.

Keenan, for her part, attempted to explain her position after one social media user replied: We Iranians are here for freedom but what were you saying?

In her response, Keenan said that she wasnt saying there are none, and I'm sure a lot of midcentury migration was driven by fleeing tyranny, but I'm saying I haven't personally met many.

Amid the flood of criticism she had received from conservatives over her tweet, Keenan eventually added a disclaimer on Monday morning. *Under age 60, she posted.
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

Stephen Miller took to social media to post a late-night rant about immigration, which quickly garnered criticism and prompted fact-checking.

The White House deputy chief of staff  who has spearheaded the Trump administrations immigration crackdown  blamed what he described as a lack of technological innovation in the U.S. on the underdeveloped world.

A young man who watched the Wright brothers take flight lived to watch American astronauts stroll on the moon, he wrote on X at 11:20 p.m. last night.

So why doesnt the modern world look like our ancestors imagined it? he questioned. Because America (and the West) spent subsequent generations engaged in a vast, consuming project of self-loathing, self-denigration and the redistribution of our national resources to the states and peoples of the undeveloped world.

It followed a post he made the previous night on the same subject.

open image in gallery Social media users quickly criticized Stephen Miller's latest post about immigration, during which he claimed U.S. technological advancement has been slowed by the underdeveloped world. ( Getty Images )

Someone should write an alternate historical novel where Americans are the first to master the automobile, the first in flight, the first to harness the atom, the first to land on the moon  but just keep going and never open our borders to the entire third world for sixty years, he wrote. For those who dont know, the U.S. had negative migration for the half century between the first nonstop transatlantic flight and the moon landing.

While a number of users expressed their agreement, many also castigated Millers historical interpretation as misleading and hypocritical  with several pointing out that he himself is descended from Jewish immigrants who traveled to the U.S. to flee persecution in Europe.

Youre only here because America decided to welcome your family when they were refugees fleeing poverty and violence - the same time the Wright brothers took flight, Jon Favreau, who worked as a speechwriter for former President Barack Obama and hosts Pod Save America, wrote on X.

Maybe, since youre in charge of it, you can take some responsibility for the modern world not looking like what your ethnic minority refugee ancestors might have imagined, he added.

open image in gallery 'A young man who watched the Wright brothers take flight lived to watch American astronauts stroll on the moon,' Miller wrote on X. 'So why doesnt the modern world look like our ancestors imagined it?' ( Getty Images )

Others piled on, noting that immigrants have been pivotal in driving innovation across key American industries  including space exploration.

Journalist Mehdi Hasan highlighted that Dr. Farouk El-Baz, an Egyptian-American, played a major role in NASAs Apollo program, much like fellow immigrant Wernher von Braun, a German aerospace engineer and former Nazi Party member.

Learn to use Google, Stephen, Hasan wrote.

Another user, described as being anti-MAGA, echoed this sentiment, writing, From the auto industrys factory floor, to the scientists who built the bomb, to the engineers who designed the rockets that got us to the Moon, immigrants have been central at every step.

Others emphasized how immigrants and their descendants have fueled America's success in recent decades.

Major companies like Apple, Google and Nvidia were all founded by immigrants or children of immigrants, Matt Lieberman, a UCLA neuroscientist noted.

Millers latest comments come two weeks after his cousin, Alisa Kasmer, blasted his immigration policies, saying they likely would have stopped their family from entering the U.S. in the first place.

Were Jewish  we grew up knowing how hated we were just for existing, Kasmer, who is related to Miller on his fathers side, told The New Republic.

Now hes trying to take away the exact thing that his own family benefited from: that ability to create a life for themselves, to prosper, to build community, to have successful businessesto live a rewarding life.
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 said that the U.S. military struck a big facility on Christmas Eve amidst his administrations campaign against Venezuela, potentially marking the largest escalation to date.

During an interview on Friday with talk radio host John Catsimatidis, Trump was asked about Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

We just knocked out, I dont know if you read or you saw, they have a big plant or a big facilitywhere the ships come from, the Republican president said. Two nights ago we knocked that out, so we hit them very hard.

He didnt provide further information about the apparent military action.

When contacted by The Independent, a Pentagon spokesperson referred questions to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump said that the U.S. military took out a big facility in Venezuela, marking a potential escalation in the campaign against President Nicolas Maduro. ( Getty Images )

If the strike took place within Venezuela, it would be the first known attack on land since the administration began its pressure campaign against the South American nation several months ago.

Since September, the Pentagon has launched around two dozen strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean, killing at least 87 people. At the same time, the U.S. military has amassed warships off the coast of Venezuela, marking the largest naval buildup in the region in decades.

The president has also authorized the CIA to undertake covert operations inside the country and ordered the seizure of several oil tankers as part of a newly announced blockade off the coast.

I think youre going to find that this is war, Trump said in early December. And very soon were going to start doing it on land too.

The president has put forward a variety of reasons to justify his military maneuvers.

Its about a lot of things, he told Catsimatidis on Friday. They took our oilthey also sent millions of people in there from jails into our countrysome of the worst people on Earth.

They sent drugs in, he added.

open image in gallery In recent months, the U.S. military has amassed warships off the coast of Venezuela, marking the largest naval buildup in the region in decades. ( AFP via Getty Images )

While Venezuela is known for playing a role in drug trafficking, its not a major producer of illicit narcotics, according to The New York Times. Mexico, instead, is listed as one of the biggest producers of drugs like synthetic opioids, which are responsible for the lions share of drug overdose deaths in the U.S., according to the DEAs 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment.

Trump has also called on Maduro to step down from power, saying last week that it would be a smart thing to do, while cautioning him not to play tough.

Maduro, for his part, has denied that he is involved in an unlawful drug trade and has accused the U.S. government of fabricating a new eternal war. Hes also claimed that Trumps true motive is to oust him from power in order to seize control of Venezuelas vast oil reserves.

In response to Trumps military actions, hes urged Venezuelan citizens to stand together against American aggression and has deployed troops, aircraft and naval vessels along the coast.

open image in gallery Maduro has denied that his country is involved in the illegal drug trade and has accused the Trump administration of fabricating a new eternal war. ( Getty Images )

The administrations hostile actions in the region have prompted a wave of pushback from Democratic lawmakers, many who have described them as unlawful.

The American people have no interest in stumbling into an illegal new war that would place the lives of our servicemembers at risk, Virginia Senator Tim Kaine said in late November.

A few Republicans, too, have telegraphed their opposition, including Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, who described U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats as a form of unlawful execution.

But many in the GOP have backed the presidents actions. Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin said in November that Trump is protecting the United States by being very proactive.

The public reaction has been split. Fifty-three percent of Americans approve of using military force to attack vessels suspected of trafficking drugs into the U.S., but 70 percent said they would oppose taking military action in Venezuela, according to a November CBS News survey.

Trumps apparent strikes in Latin America arent the only ones his administration has undertaken in recent weeks.

On Christmas Day, the U.S. military announced it had conducted lethal strikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria after the group was accused of attacking Christians.

We really hit them hard, Trump said on Friday. They got a very bad Christmas present.
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 joked with reporters covering his dinner with Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday that they were welcome to some of the food being served. Still, he warned it could be considered a bribe.

Trump was hosting Zelensky and his delegation at his Florida estate for talks on ending the Russian war, which is approaching its fourth anniversary.

The American emerged afterwards to say that a lot of progress had been made towards securing peace but that a number of thorny issues remained outstanding.

At the meal, Trump was flanked by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine, plus advisers including Susie Wiles, Stephen Miller, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, who lined up across the table from Zelenskys team.

Turning his attention to the press, the president said, I think you could sit outside and have some food. Would you like to have food or do you consider that a bribe, and therefore you cannot write honestly? Or therefore you have to write a bad story?

open image in gallery President Donald Trump addresses the press as he hosts a dinner for his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and his delegation at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday December 28, 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

When one of the journalists spoke up to accept the offer on behalf of his colleagues, Trump instructed his aide, Margo Martin: Take them outside and tell the chef to serve them a little lunch.

As the press corps expressed their thanks, the president commented to his guests: That should guarantee you good stories, but it wont. Itll only get worse. Theyll go out of their way to make them worse.

Politico reporter Alex Gangito subsequently wrote in a pool report: Pool did in fact get lunch and we are seated at small round tables on the club patio.

For those wondering at home, we were served sliced steak, pigs in a blanket, coconut shrimp, fries and chocolate chip cookies. And water bottles with a Trump label.

Aside from his jibes about alleged media bias, Trumps gesture towards the reporters who had cut short their Christmas break to cover the summit marked a much friendlier attitude than he has displayed recently.

open image in gallery Trump welcomes Zelensky to his Palm Beach estate Sunday ( AFP/Getty )

The president has attracted plenty of criticism in recent months for his hostility towards the press, particularly female reporters, one of whom he called a stupid person, and another he snapped at with the words: Quiet, piggy.

Trump and Zelensky were discussing a 20-point peace plan for ending hostilities with Russia, with the Ukrainian commenting afterwards that security guarantees involving the U.S. and his country were 100 per cent agreed and that an arrangement between America, Europe, and Ukraine was almost agreed.

The deal would see Ukraine give up on its aspirations to join NATO  a sticking point for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who long opposes what he regards as the military alliances eastward creep  but receive NATO-style defensive support from allied nations forming a coalition of the willing.

However, Ukraine is continuing to refuse to yield any territory to Moscows invading forces, rejecting any proposal that would amount to a Russian annexation of the Donbas or Crimea.

Whether Putin would be willing to accept a deal without at least claiming ownership of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts that his troops currently occupy in eastern Ukraine remains to be seen, but is thought unlikely.
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

Families of victims of the recent Sydney massacre that targeted a Jewish festival released an open letter on Monday calling for more federal action to investigate a rise in antisemitism and the security failures behind Australia's worst mass shooting in three decades.

Two gunmen are accused of shooting 15 people dead and wounding another 40 in an attack on a Hannukah festival on Bondi Beach on Dec. 14.

In an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, 17 families of the dead and wounded called for a federal inquiry known as a royal commission to investigate a rise in antisemitism in Australia since the Israel-Hamas war began in 2023 and consequent security agency failures.

Royal commissions are the most powerful form of public investigation in Australia and witnesses can be jailed for deliberately withholding evidence.

open image in gallery Street artist Jarrod Grech poses for a photo next to his painting of Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Syrian-Australian shopkeeper who disarmed one of the attackers of Sydney's Bondi Beach shooting ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

We need to know why clear warning signs were ignored, how antisemitic hatred and Islamic extremism were allowed to dangerously grow unchecked, and what changes must be made to protect all Australians going forward, the letter said.

But Albanese continued to resist calls from the families, Jewish leaders and opposition lawmakers to establish such a royal commission, saying it would take years to provide answers.

Instead, he announced the terms of an inquiry by retired bureaucrat Dennis Richardson that would examine potential failings in procedures and laws that led to the shooting, which was allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group. That inquiry will report in April next year.

My heart breaks for the families of the victims of the Bondi terrorist atrocity, Albanese told reporters. And my heart goes out to them at what is an incredibly traumatic time.

My job, as the Australian prime minister, is to act in the national interests. It is in the national interest for us to do the Richardson review on national security, Albanese added.

Albanese said federal authorities would support a royal commission promised by the New South Wales state government, which is based in Sydney.

The families letter says a state inquiry is not enough.

The rise of antisemitism in Australia goes far beyond one state jurisdiction. It is a national crisis that demands a powerful response, the families said.

As the nation reels from its worst mass shooting since a lone gunman killed 35 people in Tasmania state in 1996, the usual New Years Eve celebrations have been cancelled at Bondi. Tickets sold to an annual music festival at Bondi will be refunded, organizers said.

Security will be tightened at Sydneys main celebration with heavily armed police expected to be visible. More than 1 million revelers are expected to crowd the waterfront to see a fireworks display centered on the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said he was discussing with the federal government getting the army involved in bolstering security in Sydney.

open image in gallery People help clear flowers and notes, honoring the victims and survivors of the Bondi Beach mass shooting, at Bondi Pavilion on 22 December 2025 in Sydney, Australia ( Getty Images )

The New South Wales Police Operation Shelter was established within weeks of the Hamas attack on Israel to reduce antisemitic and antisocial behavior and other hate crime activity in Sydney. The operation has been provided with additional resources following the Bondi attack.

This is the worst terrorism event thats affected our state and our country ever, and it requires a comprehensive response, Minns told reporters.

One of the alleged shooters, Sajid Akram, 50, was killed by police at the scene. His 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, was wounded and faces dozens of charges including 15 counts of murder.

Albanese has attempted to turn the public focus from the perpetrators to the heroes of the tragedy. Last week, he announced plans for a national bravery award to recognize civilians and first responders who confronted the worst of evil during the attack.

One of the most celebrated was bystander Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Syrian-Australian shopkeeper who disarmed one of the attackers before being wounded by shotgun pellets.

More than 43,000 people around the world have donated more than 2.5 million Australian dollars ($1.7 million) to a fundraising campaign set up to thank him for his intervention.

Street artist Jarrod Grech last week created a likeness of al Ahmed in a Melbourne lane that has attracted media attention. Al Ahmed is depicted as a hospital patient over a banner that reads: True Blue.

The Australian colloquialism means very genuine; very loyal; expressing Australian values, according to the Australian National Dictionary Center.

I like to paint significant moments, and that one was about the Australian spirit, so True Blue, Grech told The Associated Press on Sunday.

So its about the act that he did and I thought that was a True Blue thing, Grech added.
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

Chinas decision to deploy significant military force for drills in the waters surrounding Taiwan this week is deeply rooted in both recent events and decades of complex history.

The island represents Beijings most sensitive political issue, a status it has held since Taiwan separated from the mainland in 1949 following a civil war. While Taiwan now governs itself as a vibrant democracy, China steadfastly claims it as sovereign territory.

Military exercises around Taiwan are not uncommon for China, often conducted in response to perceived provocations or as general displays of power.

The latest drills, however, underscore a heightened state of tension.

Taiwans distinct governance emerged from the Chinese Civil War. From 1927 to 1949, China was under the rule of the Kuomintang, or Nationalists.

When Mao Zedongs communists ultimately overthrew them, the Nationalists retreated to Taiwan, an island off Chinas southern coast.

There, they established a government that has since evolved into a multiparty democracy. Despite this, Beijing maintains its claim of sovereignty, asserting the right to reclaim the island if it chooses, with talk of eventual reunification remaining frequent and fervent.

Currently, only 11 of the 193 United Nations member states, alongside the Holy See at the Vatican, maintain full diplomatic relations with Taiwan ( AFP via Getty Images )

Diplomatically, Taiwan faces increasing isolation. The United States ceased recognising Taiwan in 1979 when it established relations with Beijing, though Washington remains obligated to assist Taiwan in its self-defence.

Under pressure from the Chinese government, other nations have also shifted their allegiances. Currently, only 11 of the 193 United Nations member states, alongside the Holy See at the Vatican, maintain full diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

Taiwans significance to China is multifaceted, encompassing both strategic imperatives and national pride.

Strategically, China has historically striven to maintain control and sovereignty over its peripheral regions  a drive evident from the construction of the Great Wall centuries ago to fortify against incursions.

Today, Taiwan, alongside Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Tibet, represents a key security concern on its borders. Chinas long-standing tension with Japan further fuels this cautiousness, as does uncertainty regarding the precise nature of the United States response should the island face a direct threat.

From a perspective of national pride, sovereignty and dignity are foundational to Chinas political identity. The government tolerates no international interference in what it considers internal affairs, a category that unequivocally includes Taiwan.

This stance means any suggestion, however fleeting, that Taiwan is an independent nation is expressly forbidden. This extends to how Taiwan is depicted on maps and graphics, and even its Olympic team, which is permitted to compete only under the designation "Chinese Taipei."

The immediate catalysts for the current drills appear to be twofold: recent statements from Japan and actions by the United States. Last month, Japans prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, indicated she would not rule out military intervention if neighbouring Taiwan came under direct threat from China. Takaichi stated,

"If it involves the use of warships and military actions, it could by all means become a survival-threatening situation." These comments, stronger than those of her predecessors, drew a sharp rebuke from Beijing. Such remarks are particularly sensitive given the deep-seated anger and suspicion in China regarding Japans historical actions, including its colonisation of Taiwan in 1895 and its brutal occupation of parts of China before World War II. These historical scars are frequently reignited by state-controlled media.

Adding to the tensions, U.S. President Donald Trumps State Department announced last week a proposed arms package for Taiwan valued at over $10 billion.

This deal, which includes medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones, is expected to be approved by Congress and would represent the largestever U.S. weapons sale to Taiwan, surpassing the 8.4 billion in sales under President Joe Biden.

China condemned the move, asserting it would harm its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned,

"This cannot save the doomed fate of Taiwan independence but will only accelerate the push of the Taiwan Strait toward a dangerous situation of military confrontation and war. Using Taiwan to contain China will not succeed."
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

President Vladimir Putin has formally enacted changes granting Russia the unilateral right to ignore judgments issued by foreign and international courts in criminal cases.

This controversial decision comes as Ukrainian and European nations continue their concerted efforts to impose penalties on Moscow for its ongoing actions in Ukraine.

The measure appears to be a direct counter to several international initiatives aimed at prosecuting Russian officials and military officers for alleged war crimes in Ukraine, claims which the Kremlin steadfastly denies.

Ukraine and the Council of Europe human rights body signed an agreement in June forming the basis for a special tribunal, and Europe this month launched an International Claims Commission for Ukraine in an effort to ensure Kyiv is compensated for hundreds of billions of dollars in damage from Russian attacks and alleged war crimes.

open image in gallery ( AFP/Getty )

The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has also issued arrest warrants for Putin and five other Russians, accusing them of illegally deporting hundreds of children from Ukraine.

The Kremlin, which called the ICC move outrageous, says the allegation is false and that Moscow has only acted to remove children from a conflict zone for their own safety.

Under the changes to Russian law backed by Putin on Monday, Moscow will formally have the right under its own domestic legislation to disregard rulings in criminal cases taken by foreign courts on behalf of foreign governments without Russia's participation.

Rulings issued by international legal bodies whose authority is not based on an international agreement with Russia ora U.N. Security Council resolution can also be ignored under the changes.
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

Prisoners of war are being systematically executed by Russian forces, according to one of Ukraines most decorated soldiers.

Major Oleh Shyriaiev, who was awarded the top national decoration of Hero of Ukraine for his leadership on the battlefield, told The Times that he often intercepts transmissions in which orders to kill surrendering troops are given by Russian military leaders.

Combat observers say evidence of alleged war crimes by Russian troops has grown in recent months. Moscow has intensified its attacks on Ukraine even as peace talks continue between the US and European and Russian leaders.

Footage taken by Russian soldiers or Ukrainian reconnaissance drones appears to show servicemen being lined up and shot dead after they surrender. One clip, filmed by a drone on 19 November near Pokrovsk, allegedly shows a soldier firing at four unarmed men with a machine gun as they lie face down, then he shoots at another man attempting to flee.

Claimed cases of beheadings are also being investigated by Ukrainian prosecutors, as well as an alleged incident of a Ukrainian soldier with his hands tied behind his back being killed with a sword.

open image in gallery Major Oleh Shyriaiev revealed that he often intercepts transmissions in which orders to kill surrendering troops are given by Russian military leaders ( 225th Separate Assault Regiment Press Office )

Mr Shyriaiev, who commands the Ukrainian 225th Separate Assault Battalion, said: The number of executions is growing and this is happening in all directions of the front line. For Russians, there are no red lines ... In the wiretaps and radio communication that we intercept, we routinely hear their military leadership giving orders to execute our servicemen who are trying to surrender. This practice has become a systematic one, I would say, in the last year and a half.

They are demonstrating to the whole civilised world that they can do things with impunity. But also, they are showing that they do not respect the rules of warfare and any international conventions that have been signed by countries.

Russian forces have executed at least 147 Ukrainian prisoners of war since the start of the war in 2022, with 147 taking place this year, according to the Ukrainian prosecution service, reflecting the commanders observations.

Yuri Belousov, who leads the war crimes department at the Ukrainian prosecutor generals office, said: The upward trend is very clear, very obvious. Sadly, their number has been particularly on the rise this summer and autumn. This tells us that they are not isolated cases. They are happening across vast areas and they have clear signs of being part of a policy.

The United Nations has also recorded a rise in alleged Russian war crimes since mid-November, according to Danielle Bell, the head of the UN human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine.

open image in gallery The revelations come as Donald Trump hailed crucial peace talks between the US and Ukraine as terrific but acknowledged thorny issues remained ( AFP/Getty )

Prisoners of war are offered protection by international humanitarian law, especially the Third Geneva Convention, with execution being classified as a war crime.

Russian president Vladimir Putin has previously said that Ukrainian prisoners of war have always been treated strictly in line with international legal documents and international conventions by Russian forces.

The revelations come as US president Donald Trump hailed crucial peace talks between the US and Ukraine as terrific but acknowledged thorny issues remained before a deal could be achieved over the war with Russia.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky travelled to Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Sunday, hoping to make progress on the proposed 20-point peace plan, with particular concerns over security and economic agreements.

The two leaders gave little away during a press conference following the discussions, but Mr Trump said he believed a lot of progress had been made.
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

Two people have died in Spain after torrential rainfall and flooding buffeted swathes of the country over the weekend.

The body of a man whose van was swept away by an overflowing riverbed in Malaga was recovered on Sunday, as a desperate search continued for a missing passenger.

Authorities also confirmed the death of a young person in Granada who was swept away trying to cross a riverbed on a motorbike.

In Barcelona, a woman was hospitalised on Saturday after being hit by a lamp post torn down by 70 km per hour winds.

Dozens of people in the Barcelona province were also forced to evacuate from a building damaged by heavy rainfall in recent days.

open image in gallery Authorities clean up floods in Estacion de Cartama, Malaga, on Sunday ( EPA )

Extreme weather warnings were tentatively lifted in Malaga on Monday after storms rocked the southern coast over the weekend.

The man found dead in Alhaurin el Grande on Sunday was some 3km from where they believe he ran into trouble. He has not been named by authorities.

Authorities believe the pair, aged 53 and 54, were trying to cross the Fahala River on foot when they were swept away. The van was found overturned in the river with significant damage, but nobody was inside.

Some 150 people were drawn in to help with the search.

open image in gallery Some areas saw as much as 250l of water per square metre ( EPA )

The victim in Granada was identified only as a young person from Zujaira.

He was trying to cross the Canada stream on a motorbike with a friend when he was swept away, authorities said. The friend made it to safety.

Valencia, which saw more than 220 people killed in floods last year, meanwhile issued red alert warnings and urged people to stay indoors and on high ground over the weekend.

Some areas saw as much as 250l of water per square metre. A yellow weather warning remained in place on Monday.

There were eight provinces on orange alert late on Sunday, with residents warned of serious risks to themselves or property.

open image in gallery A waterspout in Puerto de Mazarron, Murcia, amid violent weather conditions ( Instagram/@_nataliamarin )

In Catalonia, emergency lines had been swamped with nearly 900 phone calls for related incidents by Saturday evening. The poor weather had dissipated by Monday morning.

A group of 16 people staying at a holiday camp in Girona province, to the north, had to be rescued by firefighters, as the Fluvia river swelled and left them stranded.

A dozen people trapped in a house in nearby Sant Feliu de Pallerols were also evacuated as a stream overflowed.
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 Trumps peace plan for Ukraine looked fragile on Monday as Volodymyr Zelensky lashed out at Russian lies about a drone attack on one of Vladimir Putins residences, accusing the latter of trying to undermine diplomatic efforts.

Moscow claimed that Kyiv carried out a massive assault on the presidential residence in Novgorod and said their negotiating position would be revised as a result.

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov alleged that Ukraine had launched 91 long-range drones at the forest retreat on Lake Valdai overnight, but all had been shot down with no damage reported.

Mr Zelensky dismissed the claim as lies that he said were cynically intended to undermine diplomacy and justify dragging out the war.

Ukraine is doing everything to achieve peace. Russia must stop inventing ways to wage war and start thinking about how to restore security. Ukraine has put forward all the proposals, he added.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump talked through the revised 20-point plan on Sunday  before Russia said it would renege on its previous commitments ( AP )

Ukraines foreign minister Andrii Sybiha urged world leaders on Monday to condemn Russian manipulations about the alleged Ukrainian attack, saying Moscow was seeking false justification for further strikes on its neighbour.

Usual Russian tactic: Accuse the other side of what you are doing or planning yourself, he said in a post on X (Twitter).

The row came as delegations emerged from crunch peace talks in Florida at the weekend with few concrete assurances for long-term stability.

Mr Zelensky said security guarantees had been hammered out and agreed in full  but that Mr Trump was only ready to commit to 15 years of upholding peace, far short of the 50 Ukraine had asked for.

I told him that we are already at war, and it has been for almost 15 years, the Ukrainian president said. Therefore, I really wanted the guarantees to be longer. I told him that we would really like to consider the possibility of 30, 40, 50 years.

open image in gallery Ukraine warned Russia was planning more strikes on the capital on Monday (pictured: damage to a building in Kyiv on Saturday) ( AP )

Mr Zelensky said Mr Trump had agreed to consider extending guarantees further, but that these guarantees would need to be approved by the US Congress as well as by parliaments in other countries involved in overseeing any settlement.

He added that there were still crucial details that needed to be resolved after travelling to Mar-a-Lago to get Mr Trumps blessing for a revised 20-point peace plan.

Kyiv and Washington are yet to agree on the fate of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine and how to share energy from Europes largest nuclear power station in Zaporizhzhia.

Natia Seskuria, associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), assessed that it was premature, and in many ways exaggerated to suggest peace was any closer when the most critical questions remain unresolved.

She told The Independent: The core issue of the future of the occupied territories, including the remaining parts of the Donbas region under Ukrainian control, lacks any clarity, which severely limits how much weight can be attached to talk of progress.

As the territorial question remains unresolved, it can easily derail the entire process, she said, noting that there was nothing to suggest Mr Trump was pressuring Putin towards any concessions.

Mr Trump called Putin on Monday to update him on the peace talks, and the pair is expected to speak again in the near future, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Mr Peskov added that there was no indication the Russian leader would speak to Mr Zelensky.

open image in gallery Zelensky and Trump hailed progress in talks in Florida (pictured), before Putin threatened to undo diplomatic efforts with an escalation ( Ukrainian Presidential Office )

Mr Zelensky is still arguing for foreign troops to help uphold a future armistice, and said another meeting with European leaders was planned for January.

He said a 20-point plan to end the war should be signed by Europe, as well as the US, Russia and Ukraine, and suggested putting it to a referendum subject to a 60-day ceasefire.

French president Emmanuel Macron said Kyivs allies will meet in Paris in early January to finalise each countrys concrete contributions to the security guarantees.
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's largest nuclear power facility, the Zaporizhzhia plant, is a central sticking point in a proposed peace plan to end the nearly four-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

It forms one of 20 points outlined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, discussed with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida.

Russia seized the plant, near the front lines, in March 2022, with plans to connect it to its power grid. While most nations recognise it as Ukrainian, Russia claims ownership, its state-owned Rosatom nuclear corporation managing operations.

President Zelenskiy revealed in December that the US proposed joint trilateral operation for the facility, overseen by an American chief manager.

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant mapped:

Zelenskiy said the Ukrainian proposal envisages Ukrainian-American use of the plant, with the U.S. itself determining how to use 50% of the energy produced.

Russia has considered joint Russian-U.S. use of the plant, according to the Kommersant newspaper.

After his talks with Zelenskiy on Sunday, Trump said negotiators had made progress on deciding the fate of the plant, which can "start up almost immediately." The U.S. president said "it's a big step" that Russia had not bombed the facility.

open image in gallery A residential building burns after a Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Kateryna Klochko) ( AP )

The plant is located in Enerhodar on the banks of the Dnipro River and the Kakhovka Reservoir, 550 km (342 miles) southeast of the capital Kyiv.

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has six Soviet-designed reactors with a total capacity of 5.7 gigawatts, according to an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) database.

It is not currently producing electricity but relies on external power to keep the nuclear material cool and avoid a meltdown.

The plant's equipment is powered by electricity supplied from Ukraine. Over the past four years these supplies have been interrupted at least 11 times due to breaks in power lines, forcing the plant to switch to emergency diesel generators.

Both Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of striking the nuclear plant and of severing power lines leading to it.

open image in gallery Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant ( Getty Images )

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi says fighting a war around a nuclear plant has put nuclear safety and security in constant jeopardy.

The Russian head of the station said on Monday the facility could restart power generation by mid-2027 if the war concluded soon.

Why does Russia want the plant?

Russia has been preparing to restart the station but says that doing so will depend on the situation in the area. Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev has not ruled out the supply of electricity produced there to parts of Ukraine.

Oleksandr Kharchenko, director of the Energy Research Centre in Kyiv, said Moscow intended to use the plant to cover a significant energy deficit in Russia's south.

open image in gallery ( Sputnik )

In December, Russia's Federal Service for Environmental, Technological and Nuclear Supervision issued a license for the operation of reactor No. 1, a key step towards restarting the reactor.

Ukraine's energy ministry called the move illegal and irresponsible, risking a nuclear accident.

Why does Ukraine need the plant?

Russia has been pummelling Ukraine's energy infrastructure throughout the war. In recent months, Russia has sharply increased the scale and intensity of its attacks, plunging entire regions into darkness.

Analysts say Ukraine's generation capacity deficit is about 4 gigawatts, or the equivalent of four Zaporizhzhia reactors.

Kharchenko says it would take Ukraine five to seven years to build the generating capacity to compensate for the loss of the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Kharchenko said that if Kyiv regained control of the plant, it would take at least two to three years to understand what condition it was in and another three years to restore the equipment and return it to full operation.

Both Ukrainian state nuclear operator Energoatom and Kharchenko said Ukraine did not know the real condition of the nuclear power plant today.

Cooling fuel

In the long term, there is the unresolved problem of the lack of water resources to cool the reactors after the vast Kakhovka hydro-electric dam was blown up in 2023, destroying the reservoir that supplied water to the plant.

Besides reactors, there are spent fuel pools at each reactor site used to cool down used nuclear fuel. Without water supply to the pools, the water evaporates and temperatures increase, risking fire.

An emission of hydrogen from a spent fuel pool caused an explosion in Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011.

Energoatom said the level of the Zaporizhzhia power plant cooling pond had dropped by more than 15%, or 3 metres, since the destruction of the dam, and continued to fall.

Ukrainian officials previously said the available water reserves may be sufficient to operate one or, at most, two nuclear reactors.
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 Houthis, who control most of Yemen, issued a sharp warning to Tel Aviv after it formally recognised Somaliland, saying any Israeli presence in the breakaway Somalian region would be treated as a military target.

In a statement carried by local media outlets, Houthi leader Abdel-Malik al-Houthi, said the Israeli move crossed a red line for the group.

The breakaway region lies right across the Red Sea from Yemen.

We consider any Israeli presence in Somaliland a military target for our armed forces as it constitutes aggression against Somalia and Yemen, and a threat to the security of the region, Mr al-Houthi said.

Israel announced on Friday that it was officially recognising Somaliland, marking the first time any country had extended formal recognition to the self-declared republic since it broke away from Somalia in the early 1990s.

Somaliland has operated as a de facto state for over three decades, maintaining its own currency, army and political institutions, but has remained diplomatically isolated.

The Houthi leader warned that Israels decision carried broader regional consequences, calling it a hostile stance targeting Somalia and its African surroundings as well as Yemen, the Red Sea, and the countries along both shores of the Red Sea.

Analysts say Israels recognition of Somaliland can give it strategic access to the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea shipping lanes, complicating an already volatile security landscape.

Such access, they argue, can also strengthen Israels ability to strike Houthi positions in Yemen if hostilities resume.

The Houthis started targeting Israel-linked shipping and firing missiles towards Israel after the Benjamin Netanyahu government launched a war on Gaza in October 2023, describing their actions as an expression of solidarity with the Palestinians.

Israel responded with repeated air strikes on targets in Yemen. The attacks largely came to a halt after a fragile truce took hold in Gaza this past October.

Somalia, which continues to suffer militant violence by Islamist groups as well as a persistent campaign of air strikes by the US military, condemned Israels move as a violation of its sovereignty.

Israels decision also drew criticism from a range of regional and international actors, including the African Union, Egypt, Turkey, the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. The EU reiterated that Somalias territorial integrity must be respected.
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 has said he hopes to move forward with his Gaza peace plan very quickly as he welcomed Benjamin Netanyahu to Florida on Monday.

The pair met at Mr Trumps residence Mar-a-Lago for a series of crucial talks over the future of the Gaza ceasefire and broader security issues in the Middle East - including to iron out the next phase of Washingtons peace deal for Gaza. It comes after a fragile ceasefire agreement struck last October with Hamas.

Mr Trump said that he and the Israeli prime minister settled three difficult issues on Gaza within five minutes of meeting, and that the reconstruction of Gaza would begin soon. He continued to say he hopes to reach phase two of Gaza peace plan very quickly.

Mr Trump also said the US was prepared to launch attacks on Iran quickly if it tries to rebuild the nuclear programme he struck in June.

He added Israeli president Isaac Herzog had told him that a pardon for Mr Netanyahu was "on its way." He is facing corruption charges that could see him sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.

open image in gallery Donald Trump will meet with Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss how to implement the most complex aspects of the 20-point US plan ( Reuters )

Behind closed doors the pair discussed how to implement the most complex aspects of the 20-point US plan, which lays out an ambitious vision for ending Hamas rule of Gaza after two devastating years of war.

If successful, it would see the rebuilding of a demilitarised Gaza under international supervision by a Board of Peace chaired by Mr Trump. An interim technocratic Palestinian government would be established to run day-to-day affairs, with thousands of foreign troops deployed as part of an international stabilisation force (ISF).

The first phase of the plan, which involved the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the strip and the release of all of the living and dead hostages captured by Hamas in the October 7 attacks, has largely been completed, with the remains of just one hostage due to be handed back to Israel.

But there is growing frustration on both sides over the lack of progress on advancing the second phase of the plan, while huge challenges remain over key issues such as the disarmament of Hamas and the composition of the ISF.

Mr Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff and the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, recently huddled in Florida with officials from Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, which have been mediating the ceasefire.

An official close to the talks told the Associated Press before the meeting that two key issues remain before the second phase of the plan can proceed. Israeli officials have been taking a lot of time to vet and approve members of the Palestinian technocratic committee from a list given to them by the mediators, and the IDF is continuing its military strikes, they said.

open image in gallery Members of a family stand by a tent destroyed by strong wind and rain in Gaza City ( AP )

More than 400 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire came into effect on 3 October despite Mr Trumps promise to end violence in the strip, according to Gazas health ministry. Both Hamas and Israel frequently accuse one another of violations of the agreement.

Last week, senior officials in the Trump administration told Axios that Netanyahu had taken steps to undermine the fragile ceasefire and stall the peace process.

Israels war in Gaza has led to the death of more than 70,000 Palestinians and the displacement of almost all of the territorys 2.3 million population. It was triggered by Hamas attack on 7 October 2023, when militants stormed across the border and killed 1,200 people and abducted 250 others.

open image in gallery Most buildings in Gaza have been reduced to rubble by the war ( AP )

Israeli bombardment and ground operations have transformed neighbourhoods in several Gazan cities into rubble-strewn wastelands, with many Palestinians continuing to live in acute hardship in the region despite the peace agreement.

Broader regional concerns were also likely be high on the agenda in Mar-a-Lago, with growing fears in Washington that Israel could launch new offensives against its enemies in the Middle East in the coming months.

Mr Netanyahu is likely to have pushed for more strikes on Iran following Israels 12-day war in June, which saw the US join a bombing campaign to destroy Tehrans nuclear programme. On Saturday, Irans president Masoud Pezeshkian said that his country was in a full-scale war with the US, Europe and Israel, in an indication that tensions remain high.

Lebanon is also likely to have been discussed. Israels Channel 13 reported that the Israeli PM was set to present Mr Trump with intelligence to expand operations against militant group Hezbollah, breaking a ceasefire agreed more than a year ago.
Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

If youre keen on staying in a hotel for New Years Eve, now is the best time to book  but not for this year. Rather, to see in 2027.

Thats because for this years celebrations, peak panic pricing has arrived, with properties hiking their rates to sell off remaining rooms to travelers desperate to secure last-minute accommodation.

Data compiled by cheaphotels.org shows that this procrastination tax is a global phenomenon, with average prices surging around the world for a double room for three nights between December 30 and January 2 in a hotel rated at least three stars.

In New York, prices are up by 218 percent to $1,164, and by 197 percent in Miami Beach, to $1,187. The research used a regular January rate as a benchmark, which for New York is typically $366 for three nights, and in Florida, around $400.

open image in gallery Properties are hiking their rates to sell off the very last rooms available to travelers desperate to secure last-minute New Year's Eve accommodations ( davit85 - stock.adobe.com )

If you want to see in the New Year in Edinburgh, Scotland, expect to pay around 316 percent more for a three-night stay if you book now ($1,040), and 284 percent more in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ($1,172).

Prefer fireworks over the harbor in Sydney? Prices in the city are up 248 percent ($1,035 for three nights).

Elsewhere, New Years Eve celebration prices are up by 257 percent in Vienna, 116 percent in Cancun, 165 percent in Amsterdam, and 110 percent in Copenhagen. But theyve surged only by 74 percent in Paris.

One of the cheapest last-minute cities to spend New Years Eve is Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, where prices have dropped by more than 60 percent compared to 2022, to just $20 per night.

The cheaphotels.org study underscores that dithering when it comes to New Years Eve hotels is an expensive mistake.

open image in gallery If you can plan a full year ahead, you can save hundreds of dollars on a hotel stay ( AntonioDiaz - stock.adobe.com )

If you can plan a full year ahead, you can save hundreds of dollars. Hotel groups including Marriott, IHG, Hilton and Hyatt open their room inventory a year in advance and normally set the rate at a regular default level. Over three nights, this could mean a saving of around $700 in a major tourist city.

Great deals can also be had three to six months in advance.

For example, American travelers who take advantage of Expedias One Key app program can unlock early-bird savings of between 10 and 30 percent in popular domestic destinations such as Orlando, Florida, or Las Vegas, Nevada.

So, when is the cut-off point for major savings?

According to booking app Hopper, Halloween (October 31) is the end of the sweet spot for all major holiday travel events, with prices surging once November arrives.
Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A two-hour train ride from New York or Washington, Philadelphia can get a bit squashed by the competition. But as one of Americas oldest cities, its a worthy holiday destination in its own right. Especially if you follow the food.

Dont expect niceties. Philly has a reputation for hostility and I learnt its best to put on a brave face when you take to the streets.

My sense of peoples brashness might have been heightened because I was visiting with my partner and one-year-old. What I can tell you is that this city feels like its fuelled on caffeine and sugar highs. I advise joining the blood-sugar-be-damned fun. All the best experiences require you to get out of your comfort zone, after all.

One of the proudest and largest communities are the Italian Americans, whose presence dates back to the 1800s. As a result, the diasporas restaurants can stand up to the culinary institutions of Chicago and New York. Historically, many landed first in South Philadelphia, where the Italian Market continues to be a hub of butchers, delis and takeaways.

Take Paesanos sandwich shop, where you can get a hoagie stuffed with roast pork, broccoli rabe and hot chillies, or Dante and Luigis  an upmarket trattoria thats been in business since the 19th century, whose walls you just know have heard some titillating conversations.

Italian bakeries are located all around South Philadelphia and Isgros is a brilliant one  its impossible not to walk out with a box of cannolis under your arm. Their pinole (pine nut cookies) are exceptional and their sfiogliatele was filled with a ricotta custard, rich with orange zest.

open image in gallery The citys diaspora communities have contributed to its food scene ( Thea Everett )

If youre in Philadelphia, though, youve got to try the cheesesteaks  they live up to their reputation. Philly cheesesteaks also have their roots in the Italian American community, who first created the sandwich in the 1930s. Comprising a hoagie (or bread roll) filled with hot chopped beef, a cheese sauce and grilled onions, this is a meal to be eaten on a hungry stomach.

Weirdly, on first taste, they reminded me of a British beef pie. Youll find one on most high streets in the city but the best one we tried was at Angelos in the Italian Market district, which only takes cash. Theres a steady stream of people outside this joint almost every day.

The city is also teeming with pizza places, so it can be hard to know where to start. For me, there were two that really stood out: the square pie at Santuccis, and those from Pizzeria Beddia. Santuccis is a family-owned restaurant thats been serving since 1959. The crusts are chewy, charred and satisfying.

The generous serving of cheese is reminiscent of a Chicago deep dish but in a more manageable, hand-held format. The pizza is finished with sauce rather than cheese, and my recommendation is to order pepperoni: you really dont want the dough to be overwhelmed by toppings. This tasted to me like what Pizza Hut wants to be, if only it had a soul.

Over in trendy Fishtown, Pizzeria Beddia is at the other end of the spectrum. Its first outpost regularly inspires two-hour queues, owing to the pizzas fermented dough. The result is a deeply-flavoured, pleasantly rigid crust, topped with a sauce made with locally grown tomatoes and hot raw garlic, which mellows to perfection in the woodfired oven. Book or arrive early to avoid a wait.

open image in gallery Thea recommends the hoagies at Paesanos ( Paesanos )

There is more to Philly than Italian American fare, though. The Mexican food we ate at Blue Corn and Loco Pez was a far superior to anything Ive eaten in Britain. And the Cambodian food at Mawn, cooked by charismatic local chef Phila Lorn, has rightly earned a James Beard Award (ask him to do his Liam Gallagher impression, if you fancy a laugh). Mawns spicy melon salad, elegant chicken noodles and kaffir lime-laced beef skewers deserve a hundred accolades. As for their homemade hot sauce: take it home!

The time difference means a trip to the US often results in early mornings, so breakfast is important. Fuel up at Middle Child or Barts Bagels, who are both unstoppable at their respective sandwich games. Expect loaded up turkey and bacon or egg and brisket in sandwiches which are sizeable but not jaw-breakingly big.

For a sit-down meal, Comfort & Floyd serve up incredible waffles and pancakes. And, in the picturesque Rittenhouse Square area (which you may recognise from the movie The Sixth Sense), Parc is a bistro serving up Americanised French classics including viennoiserie pastries and eggs benedict served with an enormous side of home fries.

For an on-the-go breakfast, I suggest a soft pretzel. Brought to Philadelphia by the Pennsylvania Dutch, a classic pretzel from Millers Twist in Reading Terminal Market was one of my bites of the trip. Rich with real butter, and soft and chewy like a bagel, they made me finally understand why the plaited bread is such a phenomenon.

open image in gallery The pretzels at Millers Twist come highly recommended ( Getty/iStock )

All that food needs walking off. You might recognise the Philadelphia Art Museum because its the home of the Rocky Steps. And the building is as grand as art galleries come, sitting at the end of the giant Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Inside, across three stories, are Van Goghs Sunflowers, Warhols Brillo boxes and American paintings dating back to the 1700s.

Philly boasts a large number of secondhand record shops run by surly owners that will remind you of High Fidelity. Philadelphia Record Exchange and Laundrette Records are good for a rummage if you like soul, disco or Motown especially. For an evening drink, the Black Sheep and the Khyber Pass Pub were our picks for that post 4pm beer and a shot (Jim Bean and a Blue Ribbon are the choice combo). My recommendation for the perfect trip, though, is to find the hot, salty, one-of-a-kind food only Philadelphia offers.

How to do it

American Airlines has flights from London Heathrow. Flight time is from seven hours. Prices start at 562.

Where to stay

Loews Hotel has king rooms with a skyline view from 156 per night. The hotel is right in the heart of the city on Market Street and is extremely welcoming to families (think toy-filled teepees in your room), as well as solo travellers and couples.

Thea was a guest of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitor Bureau
Donald Trump has said he believes he has the makings of a deal as he met with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday, 28 December.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the talks Trump said he doesnt have deadlines but believes Ukraine and Russia are closer than ever to reaching an agreement.

It comes after Moscow launched a brutal aerial strike targeting Kyiv with almost 500 drones and 40 missiles on Saturday.

Nearly a third of Ukraines capital was left without heating in sub-zero weather conditions and two people were killed.

Zelensky has said the attack on Kyiv showed Russian president Vladimir Putin doesnt want peace at a time when Ukraine has confirmed a 20-point peace plan draft is 90 per cent ready.
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

New year, more scams.

The AARP has published its list of the top five scams to watch for in 2026, and the ruses range from traditional approaches, such as romance and employment scams, to high-pressure, sophisticated campaigns like digital arrest. The threats are part of a booming scam industry thats grown considerably since 2020, AARP noted.

Fraud is already rampant. Since 2020, the number of adults age 60 and older who reported a loss of $10,000 or more from impostor scams alone more than quadrupled in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the AARP said. Reported losses of $100,000 or more jumped from $55 million to $445 million during that same period, but because fraud is known to be vastly underreported, the actual numbers are surely far higher.

The AARPs top five scams to watch for are employment, recovery, digital arrest, Hello pervert, and romance scams.

Employment scams

The Federal Trade Commission has released multiple warnings against job scams this year. The employment-based trickery covers a wide range of occupations, such as Hollywood casting calls and work-from-home gigs.

open image in gallery Philadelphia resident Shreya Datta lost $450,000 in an elaborate romance scam, one of the five biggest scams to watch for in 2026, according to AARP ( AFP via Getty Images )

These scams have surged in the past five years as consumers struggled through pandemic layoffs and are trying to navigate a tough job market.

As a rough labor market extends into 2026, desperate job hunters may be more susceptible to fraud, including bogus jobs in online ads, on social media, and job search websites, AARP said. Some scammers also impersonate real employment agencies and companies.

The Federal Trade Commission, a federal agency tasked with protecting consumers from unfair business practices, said that the best way to avoid job scams is to ignore unexpected text messages, research the company claiming to offer you a job, and never pay any money upfront to get a job.

Recovery scams

This two-stage method involves criminals running a scam on a consumer, then also posing as the organization or agency that helps them. In the end, the consumer endures two scams: one that coaxes away your money, and another that offers useless help.

For example, a scamming team may swindle you out of $1,000 in a fake IRS scam, then turn around and contact you to help you get your money back through its services.

If youre concerned about falling for this ruse, AARP provides three watch-outs: Dont pay upfront for scam recovery services, dont accept checks for more than what you lost, and research the company claiming to offer scam recovery services.

Digital arrest scams

Perhaps the most sobering of the top five scams of 2026 is the digital arrest scam. This process is an elaborate one that involves a person or people claiming to be law enforcement. They tell you that theyve linked you to a crime, and it gets nightmarish from there.

Bogus law enforcement officers then interrogate you on video calls, not just for hours, but days, as they threaten you with criminal charges and pressure you to pay settlements or fines, the AARP noted.

The scam is popular in India but is making its way to the U.S. In some cases, the crooks use AI-generated deepfake videos to convince you that legitimate law enforcement is monitoring you.

open image in gallery Even something as simple as clicking on a PDF attachment in an email can plunge consumers into elaborate scams that may cost them thousands of dollars or more ( AFP via Getty Images )

The scam concludes like others  you lose money to people you think are legitimate. However, the scams can be so taxing that they can have a serious impact on certain victims' health.

In September, a retired doctor in Hyderabad [India] died from a heart attack after enduring nearly 70 hours of digital arrest and constant video surveillance, India Today reported, the AARP said.

Hello pervert scams

This traditional scam involves a hacker who claims to have gained access to your computer and recorded you visiting porn sites, the AARP said. Using the threat of exposing your habits to your contacts, the hacker demands you pay them off, or theyll share your embarrassing secret far and wide.

While these scams can seem convincing, the hacker is just a scammer trying to convince you that your reputation is at stake.

The best way to avoid these scams? The AARP advises that you never open attachments from email addresses you dont recognize, since most of the blackmail messages used in the ruse are PDF files. Additionally, consumers should stay calm even in the midst of the scammer saying you only have a short amount of time to pay.

Romance scams

One of the longest-running scams in the criminal world, the romance tactic  also known as catfishing  leverages loneliness and love to convince unsuspecting consumers to send money to their newfound soulmate for any number of reasons.

The popularity of social media has made it easier than ever for romance scams to play their lies through publicly available information about your interests.

If youre in a running group, the scammer might claim to be a runner too, the AARP said. If you recently traveled to Paris, the criminal will share their own experience strolling the Champs-Elysees. They might also profess to be a long-lost friend.

One of the most effective tools consumers can use to avoid a romance trap is to recognize love bombing  the new love interest overwhelms the victim with adoration, affection, and, in some cases, gifts.

Love bombing isnt normal  and its a way for scammers to control the relationship, AARP said.
Irish News

live | The rain has nowhere to go  more flooding fears amid worst case scenario as eight counties under weather warning with rivers at risk
live |

The rain has nowhere to go  more flooding fears amid worst case scenario as eight counties under weather warning with rivers at risk
HSE still owns almost 200 vacant properties across the country, with calls for hospital sites to be turned into social housing
Paramilitary groups across Northern Ireland were adding as much as 10pc to construction industry costs because of the impact of their racketeering and extortion operations.

Secret files released as part of the State Papers revealed the astonishing range of scams operated by paramilitary groups across Ireland in the 1990s. These ranged from pay up or else extortion, tax fraud, social security fraud, wage scams, Vat fraud and money laundering, as well as smuggling and black market operations.
Recruitment by the Defence Forces surges 34pc this year

The jump in recruitment comes following a modernised recruitment process and new ad campaigns invested in by the Defence Forces

Stock image

Sarah O'Mahony Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 17:45

New online recruitment campaigns by the Defence Forces have helped increase sign-ups by 34pc in 2025.
Governor of California and frontrunner for the Democratic nomination for the US Presidency in 2028, Gavin Newsom, cancelled a meeting with then-taoiseach Bertie Ahern at the eleventh hour while visiting Ireland.

Confidential files released as part of the State Papers revealed Irish officials were baffled in 2005 when Mr Newsom, who was the Mayor of San Francisco from 2004-11, sought a meeting with Mr Ahern during a visit to Ireland only to cancel it at 24-hours notice.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has declassified a photo of the incident, which saw a submarine shadowing the Yantar, officially described as a Russian research ship, as it reportedly surveyed the gas pipeline linking Britain and Ireland. It was not clear whether the escort was one of Russias sabotage submarines.
Inside Cordoba  from festivals to flamenco, Lady Olennas balcony and my favourite restaurant in Spain

Once the biggest and most cultured city in Europe, Cordoba is full of surprises, including a massive mosque where Catholics celebrate mass

A flamenco dancer and a horse and rider interact during the spectacular equestrian show at Cordoba's Royal Stables

Tom Sweeney Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 06:30

Every New Years Eve, as thousands of people in Cordobas Plaza de las Tendillas count down the 10 seconds to midnight, all eyes are on the clock tower at the corner of Gondomar Street.
Sam McBride: Ahmed al-Ahmeds bravery at Bondi Beach is a living contradiction to anti-immigrant hatred

Courageous Muslim risked his own life to save Jewish people during massacre in Sydney

Syrian refugee Ahmed al-Ahmed tackles one of the gunmen at Bondi Beach

Sam McBride Sun 28 Dec 2025 at 06:30

A fortnight ago today, a Muslim Syrian refugee risked his life to save Jews in Australia. Like the good Samaritan, Ahmed al-Ahmed did not walk past on the other side of the road from Bondi Beach, but hurled himself at a terrorist shooting civilians. Unarmed, he was shot twice, but almost certainly saved lives.
The new year will bring old problems. The instability in the rental market threatens to open a fresh front in the housing crisis.

The conundrum is caused by new protections for renters. From the start of March, rule changes will give renters who sign agreements after that date six-year tenancies and ban small landlords from putting their properties on the market without tenants being left in situ.
Some 7.2m will be invested in minor works and ICT upgrades across schools in Cork, the Minister has said.

Fianna Fail TD for Cork North-West and Minister for Special Education & Inclusion, Michael Moynihan said the two grants will also ensure school buildings are up to standard.

The Department of Education and Youth will begin issuing 3.3 million in Minor Works grants at the end of December.

The funds are devolved directly to primary and special schools, giving local boards of management the autonomy to fast-track essential maintenance and small-scale improvements.

Furthermore, a dedicated 3.9 million for ICT infrastructure is scheduled for release in January 2026.

This will benefit all recognised special, primary, and post-primary schools across the county, helping to bridge the digital divide.

This 7.2 million investment is about more than just buildings, its about ensuring every child in Cork, from our largest towns to our smallest rural villages, learns in an environment that is safe, modern, and digitally equipped, Mr Moynihan said.

By devolving the Minor Works Grant, we are trusting our local school leaders. They know their buildings best and are in the best position to decide what the money should go towards, he continued.

Minister Moynihan said the ICT allocation is a vital step to prepare students for the future.

We want our young people to be more than just consumers of technology, we want them to be competent, critically engaged learners who can thrive in a digital economy.

Maintaining our schools is an investment in our children's health, safety, and future. I am proud to see this funding delivered to the heart of our communities here in Cork," concluded Minister Moynihan.
The large crowd who participated in the GOAL Mile on Christmas Day in Listowel.

A large number of Listowel locals turned out for the annual GOAL Mile to raise funds for humanitarian aid in Gaza on Christmas day.

The morning event was held in memory of the late Listowel Olympic runner Jerry Kiernan.

Its reputation as one of the bigger GOAL Mile events in the country each year was bolstered by an attendance of close to 100 people of all ages.

Starting at the Community Centre in the Town Park, the initiative was a great social occasion where many people home for the festive period got to meet up with old friends.

While most participants walked the mile, some ran it too.

Event organiser Jimmy Deenihan told The Kerryman that proceeds from the fundraiser will be used by GOAL to fund its humanitarian programme in Gaza.
The Indo Daily: Melania: The Movie  We saw it, so you dont have to...
There is no doubt that 2025 was a year of both ambition and tension for Meath County Council, the local authority responsible for governing the county, managing public services, and shaping development policies across its towns and rural areas.

From overseeing housing and transport infrastructure to setting budgets and enforcing planning regulations, the council plays a central role in the daily lives of Meath residents. This year saw councillors grappling with rapid population growth, increasing demand for social services, and public scrutiny over contentious decisions.

From record-breaking budgets to heated debates on housing, transport, and local governance, the councils meetings for 2025 sparked discussion, controversy, and, at times, confusion.

We took a look at 10 defining moments that shaped the countys political landscape. They include:

1. Walkout over land rezoning

A long-serving Meath councillor walked out of a meeting of Meath County Council on Monday in protest over the removal of a notice of motion concerning the rezoning of lands under the new county development plan.

Independent councillor Brian Fitzgerald, who represents the Ratoath Municipal District, left the November meeting after describing the decision to remove the motion from the agenda as totally unacceptable and a total lack of respect for elected members.

2. Record 258m budget approved

The largest-ever annual budget was approved for Meath after councillors voted for a spending plan of more than 258m for 2026  an 11.5pc increase on last year and the first time the countys budget has exceeded 250m.

Since 2019, the annual budget has increased by 108pc, which the council said has brought new services, enhanced service levels and provided additional human and financial resources in critical and emerging areas.

3. Gareth Sheridan misses presidential nomination

Among the declarations during a fiery Meath County Council special meeting were "I don't support any one of them" and anti abortion is my forte, as millionaire entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan narrowly failed to secure a presidential nomination from Meath.

The proposal to nominate Mr Sheridan was defeated by 14 votes to 13, with five abstentions and eight councillors absent of the 40 Meath councillors.

4. Calls to change planning for international protection centres

Meath councillors backed a motion calling for changes to how International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centres are approved and developed.

The motion, called on the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to remove the Section 5 provision currently used for IPAS centres and instead require all such facilities to go through the full planning process.

5. Housing development blocked

A proposed residential development in Ashbourne was rejected by local councillors due to the absence of affordable housing options within the plan.

Concerns were raised about the lack of a balanced housing mix that would address both social and affordable housing needs.

6. Homeless taxi driver forced to abandon work

Councillors were told how a taxi driver was forced to abandon his livelihood after being unable to meet social housing application requirements.

Sinn Fein councillor Maria White raised the issue as part of a motion calling for the abolition of the requirement that self-employed applicants submit audited accounts when seeking social housing support.

7. Trim council gender spotlight

The AGM of Trim Municipal District highlighted the lack of gender diversity within the council.

The district council is composed entirely of six male councillors: Independent Noel French, Fine Gaels Joe Fox, Fianna Fails Paul ORourke and Padraig Coffey, Aontus Dave Boyne, and Social Democrats Ronan Moore.

8. Cycle lane debate sparks clash

A proposed active travel scheme in Meath sparked controversy at a council meeting, with councillors questioning the need for more cycle lanes. Councillors expressed strong concerns about the effectiveness of existing cycle lanes, saying they are not being used and that more cycle lanes would be a waste of money.

9. Irish flag intimidation

For many, the Irish flag stands for peace, unity and respect. However, Navan councillors heard that many Irish tricolours were erected along local roads in Navan to intimidate the migrant community.

10. Bus shelter controversy

Ireland is like a third world country when it comes to bus shelters  that was one of the strong sentiments voiced by Meath councillors at a meeting.

Calls grew for more bus shelters across the Laytown-Bettystown District, as many children and older residents face getting drenched while waiting for buses.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
Linda Kearns in a photo taken by her husband, Charles Wilson MacWhinney. From 1945, she wrote a weekly column on home crafts and knitting for The Irish Press under the name, Penelope.

At the December meeting of Sligo County Council, Cllr Edel McSharry proposed a motion calling on the Minister for Health, the CEO of the HSE, Tony Canavan, and Sligo University Hospital Manager, Grainne McCann, to name the new 42-bed healthcare block in Sligo after Linda Kearns MacWhinney.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr McSharry said the motion is about recognition, visibility and fairness, particularly in how womens contributions to health and public service are acknowledged.

Linda Kearns MacWhinney was born in Cloonagh, Dromard, Co. Sligo, in 1888. She trained as a nurse in Baggot Street Hospital in Dublin and went on to play a critical role during the 1916 Rising, establishing and running a Red Cross hospital to care for the wounded from all sides. During the War of Independence, she served as a courier and dispatch carrier, risking her life, enduring imprisonment and hunger strike, and escaping from Mountjoy Jail in 1921.

Crucially, Linda Kearns MacWhinney was also a national political leader at a time when womens voices were largely excluded from public life. She was one of the first women to serve on the executive of Fianna Fail and later served as a Senator, where she used her position to influence policy on health, nursing and social care in the early years of the State.

Through these political roles, she became a powerful advocate for the nursing profession. She campaigned for professional standards, nurse registration and the formal recognition of nursing as a vital pillar of Irelands developing health system. Her influence helped to shape how nursing and care were valued within public policy, not just within hospitals but at national level.

Her lifelong dedication to nursing was recognised internationally in 1951 when she became the first person in the Irish State to receive the Florence Nightingale Medal from the International Red Cross.

Cllr McSharry noted that while Linda Kearns MacWhinney is already commemorated through a plaque at Sligo University Hospital and memorials across the county, naming a major new healthcare facility after her would provide a permanent and visible statement of values.

This new 42-bed block represents the future of healthcare delivery in Sligo, she said. Naming it after Linda Kearns MacWhinney would honour the nursing profession, recognise the historic contribution of women from Sligo to national life, and send a clear message to young people  particularly women  that leadership, service and courage are valued and remembered.

The motion requests that correspondence from Sligo County Council explicitly highlight the importance of recognising women and indeed Nurses who shaped healthcare and public service, and the role that such recognition plays in inspiring future generations of nurses, carers and public servants.

This is about getting our story right, Cllr McSharry concluded. Sligo has produced women of national and international significance. We should be proud to reflect that legacy in how we name and value our public buildings.

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
The family of a Waterford man with multiple sclerosis, who is being forced to live many miles away from his family, have spoken of the grandfathers loneliness as they urge more to support a petition to bring him home.

At 45 years old. David Duffin is living with multiple sclerosis and had been residing in a nursing home in New Ross, Co Wexford, far away from his home in Waterford, just prior to recently being moved to Dublins National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRG) for treatment.

His sister and daughter, Sharon and Claudia, have appealed for more support so David can return home eventually to Waterford and be surrounded by his loved ones.

The petition on the website change.org is called Help bring David back to Waterford and was started by Sharon and now has 520 signatures.

At 45 years old David Duffin is living with multiple sclerosis

She said David needs daily visits by his family and friends. He rings me 20 times a day for company, she said.

David has a daughter and three grandchildren and is missing out on precious memories", she added.

Davids daughter, Claudia, said he is now receiving rehabilitation to improve his quality of life at the NRH, where he was moved for treatment for a few weeks.

He has been living in a nursing home since May 2025 and when his rehab is completed, he might have to return here due to the limitations of appropriate accommodation for people under 65 with a lifelong illness, said Claudia.

David has always coped well with his illness and was very independent up until he became very unwell last December.

He then spent seven long months in a Waterford hospital, waiting for a nursing home to accept him due to his high care needs.

David Duffin is living with multiple sclerosis.

News in 90 Seconds - 29th December 2025

Although we understand his needs are high, he still deserves a place to live that isnt a nursing home. Its not where he should be. He has three young grandkids as well and all of his family travel to New Ross weekly to see him from Waterford.

David misses being in his own locality, which is Waterford city, and he deserves to have family around him more often than they can be right now.

Claudia said the family greatly appreciates the NRH giving her dad a chance to regain some of the very important things in life he has missed out on due to his MS, such as his ability to eat and his mobility.

Since hes been there almost two weeks some of these things have already been improving so it would be great for him if he could return to a place that is more suitable for him at the end of his rehab and 2026 can be a better year for him, added Claudia.

This relocation was not a choice but a necessity - no nursing home in Waterford was able to accommodate his complex care needs. This separation is causing him significant emotional distress, states the petition.

This situation is not only unfair but deeply isolating. He is a Waterford native, born and bred, and like anyone facing such vulnerable times in their life, he deserves the comfort and familiarity of his home, family, and friends.

We recognise the challenges that nursing homes face in accommodating those with advanced care needs, but we are calling on local health authorities, nursing home administrators, and community leaders to come together to find a solution.

With compassion, planning, and resources, we believe it is absolutely possible to bring him closer to his roots, to his loved ones.

Your signature can show support for prioritising community health needs, increasing resources in Waterford for people with multiple sclerosis and in nursing homes, and recognising the human element in healthcare also bringing awareness to the amount of people with multiple sclerosis under the age of 65 living in nursing homes around Ireland.

The petitioner said that in Ireland, there are over 1,200 people under the age of 65 in nursing homes due to the lack of adaptable housing and appropriate accommodation for these people in Ireland.

Stand with us to help raise awareness for these people and help bring David back to Waterford so he can be nearer to his family and friends.
Wicklow teen (15) who went missing on Christmas Day located safely

A 15-year-old who was reported missing from Bray, Co. Wicklow, since Thursday, December 25, 2025, has been located safe and well.

Stock image.

Edana Flynn Mon 5 Jan 2026 at 14:22







A 15-year-old who was reported missing from Bray, Co. Wicklow, since Thursday, December 25, 2025, has been located safe and well.
A man has pleaded guilty at Arklow District Court to violent disorder and criminal damage following an incident outside Jack Whites Inn in Wicklow town in 2022.

Connor Cox (32), of Avonbeg Drive, Friars Hill, Wicklow town, pleaded guilty at a sitting of Arklow District Court to charges of violent disorder and criminal damage to a car.

Solicitor for Mr Coxs co-accused, Robert Reynolds (33), of The Courts, Burkeen, Co Wicklow, Dermot Hickey, informed the court that his client would be entering a plea of not guilty.

The court was told that on July 13, 2022, a group of men began fighting in the car park outside Jack Whites Inn, during which Mr Cox struck a man before throwing him into a parked car.

The incident occurred in broad daylight, with the court hearing that following the assault, Mr Cox left the scene.

Solicitor for Mr Cox asked Judge David Kennedy for an adjournment prior to sentencing to allow the accused time to raise 2,000 in compensation. The damage caused to the vehicle amounted to 300.

Judge Kennedy adjourned the matter until February 11, 2026, to allow Mr Cox time to gather the funds and for the judge to review CCTV footage of the assault.

Mr Reynolds hearing is scheduled for the same date.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia kicked off two days of talks in China yesterday as Beijing seeks to strengthen its role in mediating the two countries border dispute, a day after they signed a new ceasefire.

The ceasefire agreement signed on Saturday calls for a halt to weeks of fighting along their contested border that has killed more than 100 people and displaced more than half a million in both countries.

Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Cambodian foreign minister Prak Sokhonn were set to meet in Chinas south-western Yunnan province for talks mediated by their Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.

The talks aim to ensure a sustained ceasefire and promote lasting peace between the countries, according to a statement by Mr Sihasaks office.

Mr Wang was scheduled to join both bilateral meetings with each of the diplomats and a trilateral talk today. China has welcomed the ceasefire announcement, which freezes the front lines and allows for displaced civilians to return to their homes near the border.

China stands ready to continue to provide [the] platform and create conditions for Cambodia and Thailand to have fuller and more detailed communication, a Chinese foreign ministry statement read.

The ceasefire agreement comes with a 72-hour observation period, at the end of which Thailand agreed to repatriate 18 Cambodian soldiers it has held as prisoners since earlier fighting in July. Their release has been a major demand of the Cambodian side.

China has sought to position itself as a mediator in the crisis, along with the US and Malaysia.

A July ceasefire was brokered by Malaysia and pushed through by pressure from US president Donald Trump, who threatened to withhold trade privileges unless Thailand and Cambodia agreed.

Despite these deals, Thailand and Cambodia carried on a bitter propaganda war, and minor cross-border violence continued, erupting into heavy fighting in early December.

Mr Prak Sokhonn, in a statement after his meeting with Mr Wang, expressed deep appreciation for Chinas vital role in supporting the ceasefire.

China also announced 20 million yuan (2.4m) of emergency humanitarian aid for Cambodia to assist the displaced.

The first batch of Chinese aid arrived in Cambodia yesterday, Wang Wenbin, Chinese ambassador to Cambodia, said.
Australia is considering using the army to protect Jewish sites as it deploys armed police for Sydneys New Years Eve celebrations following the Bondi terror attack.

New South Wales premier Chris Minns said yesterday that he would not rule out seeking Australian Defence Force support to protect Jewish sites in the state, describing it as a significant shift, but one that was under discussion in light of the attack.
LATEST | Trump angry after claim Ukraine targeted Putin residence, as Zelensky hits out at Russian lies aimed at undermining peace talks

A complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia's own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war

Trump says Putin serious about peace as he welcomes Zelensky for talks

Andrea Shahal and Gram Slattery Reuters Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 18:25

US president Trump on Monday said Russian President Vladimir Putin told him Ukraine tried to attack Putin's residence in northern Russia, which Kyiv has denied.
Albin Kurtis ruling party set to win Kosovo election, but may need coalition support

Voters go to the polls to end year-long political deadlock

A child drops a ballot into a ballot box yesterday as people vote during a snap parliamentary election in Pristina, Kosovo. Photo: Reuters

Fatos Bytyci Reuters Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 06:30

Nationalist prime minister Albin Kurtis party won more than half of the votes in yesterdays election, opening the way to create a new government after a year-long political deadlock that has paralysed parliament and delayed key international funding.
Five injured in mass shooting outside popular Irish bar in Florida

According to eyewitesses, one man had been injured in the leg during the shooting.

Dicey Reillys Irish bar in Fort Lauderdale

Niall Donald Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 20:04

Five people have been injured in a mass shooting outside a well-known Irish bar in Florida.
Claiming DTAA Benefits in India: What Every NRI Must Know to Reduce Tax Liability

Indias DTAA rules are designed to prevent double taxation on cross-border income, yet many NRIs fail to fully benefit from them. The challenge is usually not the treaty itself, but gaps in documentation, filing, or treaty application. It is essential for NRIs to identify essential DTAA rules, common pitfalls, and the compliance steps to reduce withholding taxes and avoid prolonged refund processes.

Many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) pay more tax in India than required, often because they do not complete the necessary documentation or apply Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) provisions correctly, rather than due to ineligibility for treaty relief.

Indias DTAA framework offers legitimate and structured mechanisms to reduce tax exposure on cross-border income. However, NRIs can access these benefits only when they fully meet procedural requirements. Missing documents, incorrect filings, or misinterpretation of treaty clauses can lead to denial of relief, higher withholding taxes, and extended refund processes.

In this article, India Briefing explains step-by-step how DTAA works, why it matters for NRIs, and what actions must be taken to successfully claim treaty benefits in India.

1. Why NRIs often pay excess tax in India

Income earned in India, such as bank interest, rental income, dividends, or capital gains, is generally subject to Tax Deducted at Source (TDS). In the absence of valid DTAA documentation, banks and payers will apply the domestic withholding rates by default, which are typically 20 percent or higher.

Even where a DTAA provides a lower tax rate or exemption, the benefit is denied if documentation is missing, outdated, or incorrectly submitted. As a result, many NRIs pay excess tax upfront and are forced into lengthy refund or assessment processes.

ALSO READ: Avoid Excess Tax Deductions in India: NRI Guide to Lower TDS Certificates

2. What is DTAA, and why does it matter.

A DTAA is a bilateral treaty between India and another country designed to prevent the same income from being taxed twice, once in the source country and again in the country of residence.

India has signed DTAAs with nearly 100 countries, including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, Australia, Singapore, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These treaties clearly define:

Which country has taxing rights over specific categories of income

Concessional or capped tax rates

The mechanisms available to claim tax relief or credit

DTAA does not eliminate tax altogether. Instead, it ensures that income is taxed fairly, predictably, and without duplication.

CLICK HERE: Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) and Your India Investment Strategy

3. When does DTAA apply?

DTAA relief is available when:

Income is taxable in both India and another country; and

One party to the transaction is a non-resident or foreign entity

Importantly, the applicable DTAA is determined by tax residency, not nationality or citizenship. An individuals residential status under the treatys Residence article is the starting point for claiming relief.

4. Types of income covered under DTAA

DTAA provisions typically apply to a wide range of income streams, including:

Salary or professional income

Interest from Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts and fixed deposits

Rental income from immovable property in India

Capital gains from the sale of Indian assets

Dividends, royalties, and fees for technical services

Where such income is taxable in both India and the country of residence, DTAA relief can generally be claimed, subject to treaty-specific conditions.

5. Key benefits available under DTAA

When applied correctly, DTAA allows NRIs to:

Avoid double taxation on the same income

Reduce TDS on Indian income such as interest, rent, or dividends

Claim foreign tax credit in the country of residence

Improve cash flows by minimizing excess deductions, refunds, and disputes

6. Three ways DTAA prevents double taxation

Indias DTAAs provide three primary mechanisms to mitigate double taxation. The applicable method depends on the nature of income and the relevant treaty article.

a. Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) method

Tax paid in the source country is allowed as a credit in the country of residence, limited to the tax payable on that income in the resident country.

For example, Rahul, a person of Indian origin (PIO) and US citizen, has relocated permanently to India and qualifies as an Indian tax resident. His total taxable income in India is INR 7.5 million (US$83,347.2), including long-term capital gains of INR 500,000 (US$5,556.8) from US-listed shares.

US federal tax paid on gains: INR 100,000 (US$1,111.29)

Tax payable in India on such gains: INR 71,500 (US$794.57)

India allows a foreign tax credit only up to INR 71,500 (US$794.57). Although Rahul paid more tax in the US, no additional tax is payable in India on this income.

b. Exemption method

Certain income is taxed exclusively in one country and fully exempt in the other, depending on treaty provisions.

For example, Rohan, an Indian citizen, is seconded by an Indian multinational to the US for three years and becomes a US tax resident and an NRI in India. He earns a salary of INR 5 million (US$55,564.8) in India for services rendered in the US.

While the salary is taxable in India under domestic law due to receipt, the India-US DTAA (Article 16) allows India to exempt this income. Rohan remains liable to tax in the US under the US law.

c. Reduced or special tax rates

Many DTAAs prescribe lower withholding tax rates than those under the Income Tax Act, 1961. These concessional rates can be applied when filing returns or claiming refunds.

For instance, Smriti, a Canada-based NRI, earns INR 2.5 million (US$27,782.4) as interest income from an NRO account in India. TDS is deducted at 31.20 percent, amounting to INR 780,000 (US$8,668.1).

Under the India-Canada DTAA, tax on such interest is capped at 15 percent. Smriti can claim a refund of excess TDS in India and may also claim an FTC in Canada.

7. DTAA relief mechanisms: Overview

DTAA method Where tax is paid How relief is granted FTC Tax paid in source country Credit allowed in resident country, subject to limits Exemption method Taxed in only one country Income fully exempt in the other country Reduced or special tax rates Taxed in one country DTAA caps withholding below domestic tax rates

8. Mandatory documents to claim DTAA benefits

To successfully claim DTAA relief, NRIs must ensure the following documents are in place:

Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the country of residence

Form 10F filed electronically on the Indian income tax portal

PAN card

DTAA self-declaration submitted to the bank or payer

Self-attested copy of passport

Self-attested copy of valid visa

Overseas citizenship of India (OCI) or PIO card, where applicable

Form 67 (mandatory for claiming foreign tax credit)

Even a single missing document can result in denial of treaty benefits.

9. Consequences of incomplete documentation

Failure to submit proper DTAA documentation can lead to:

Higher TDS deductions

Rejection of concessional treaty rates

Delays in refunds

Tax notices or assessment queries

In most cases, excess tax can only be recovered through a time-consuming refund process.

10. DTAA vs. Income Tax Act: Which one applies?

Section 90(2) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, allows a treaty override, meaning:

If domestic law is more beneficial, it applies

If the DTAA offers better relief, the treaty prevails

However, where a Permanent Establishment (PE) exists in India, business income may still be taxed under domestic provisions.

11. Special relief for returning NRIs: Section 89A

Section 89A of the Income Tax Act, 1961, introduced in 2021, addresses double taxation of foreign retirement accounts. It allows specified individuals returning to India to defer tax on income from notified foreign retirement accounts until actual receipt, subject to prescribed conditions.

12. Common DTAA partner countries and indicative rates

Indias DTAAs typically prescribe concessional withholding rates such as the following:

US, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore: ~15 percent

Germany, South Africa, New Zealand: ~10 percent

UAE: ~12.5 percent

Mauritius: 7.510 percent

Actual rates vary depending on income type and treaty article.

13. How to claim DTAA benefits in India

To avail DTAA relief, NRIs should follow a structured compliance process:

Determine tax residency under the applicable DTAA Obtain a valid TRC Identify eligible income and map each stream to the relevant DTAA article

Professional advice is strongly recommended due to treaty complexity and frequent documentation errors.

Conclusion

Indias extensive DTAA network provides meaningful relief to NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs by preventing the same income from being taxed twice. Relief may be claimed through foreign tax credits, income exemptions, or reduced tax rates, depending on treaty provisions.

However, eligibility alone is not sufficient. Accurate documentation, correct interpretation of treaty clauses, and procedural compliance are critical. Given the complexity involved, consulting qualified tax professionals in both India and the country of residence is advisable before filing returns.

(US$1 = INR 89.98)
Image credit : X| @PopTingz| Nicki Minaj sparks backlash after MAGA appearance

Viral petition intensifies backlash against the rapper

Image credit : X| @PoliticoForYou| Nicki Minaj faces online storm over political stance

Image credit : X| @PopFusionHQ| Nicki Minaj divides fans with MAGA appearance

Fans divided amid growing backlash against Minaj

Image credit : X| @ROMANSBACK69| Backlash grows after Nicki Minajs MAGA support

Nicki Minajs latest public appearance has sparked one of the most polarising moments of her career, pushing the rapper into the centre of a fierce political and cultural backlash online. What began as a headline-grabbing appearance at a conservative US convention has now escalated into a viral controversy, drawing in fans, critics, and political commentators in equal measure.The firestorm erupted after Minaj appeared at Turning Point USAs AmericaFest, where she openly signalled support for MAGA figures and praised former US President Donald Trump. Clips and images from the event spread rapidly across social media, prompting an immediate and emotional response - particularly from those who view the movements policies and rhetoric as deeply divisive.Within days, outrage shifted from commentary to action. A Change.org petition calling for Minajs deportation to Trinidad, her country of birth, began circulating online and quickly gathered momentum. The petition has now surpassed 30,000 signatures, reflecting the intensity of feeling surrounding the rappers political alignment, even if the demand itself holds no legal ground.Titled, the petition claims the artists recent conduct is a matter of public concern. It references her political affiliations, public behaviour, and personal relationships, controversially suggesting these factors have contributed to what the petition describes as troubling public actions. The tone and wording have drawn criticism of their own, with some calling the accusations invasive and inflammatory.Legal analysts have been quick to stress that deportation is not a realistic outcome. Minaj has long been a US citizen and resident, making the petition largely symbolic. Still, its rapid rise has amplified the conversation, pushing the controversy beyond fan circles and into broader political discourse.Online reaction has been intense and divided. Critics argue that Minajs enormous platform gives her opinions significant influence, particularly among younger and impressionable audiences. Supporters, however, maintain that artists should not be vilified for expressing personal political beliefs, even unpopular ones.Comment sections across social media have turned combative, with some users accusing Minaj of endorsing harmful ideologies, while others dismiss the backlash as selective outrage. Loyal fans continue to rally behind the rapper, insisting that disagreement should not translate into public campaigns calling for her removal from the country.Minaj herself has yet to address the petition or the backlash directly. Whether she chooses to respond or remain silent, the episode has once again highlighted how quickly celebrity, politics, and public accountability can collide, and how fiercely the internet reacts when they do.
The Copenhagen Test

Image credit : Peacock | The Copenhagen Test lead

What is The Copenhagen Test about?

The Copenhagen Test

Image credit : Peacock | A still from The Copenhagen Test

Will there be The Copenhagen Test season 2 ?

The Copenhagen Test

Image credit : Peacock | The Copenhagen Test poster

Why fans loved The Copenhagen Test

The Copenhagen Test

has captured the attention of audiences with its gripping storyline and stellar performances, earning rave reviews since its release. With fans eagerly speculating about the future of the series, many are wondering whether a second season is on the horizon. Heres everything we know so far about the shows renewal prospects and what might be coming next.is a scifi espionage thriller that centers on Alexander Hale, a first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst whose brain is hacked, allowing unknown adversaries to see and hear everything he does. Caught between his secretive agency, The Orphanage, and the mysterious hackers, Alexander must uncover who is behind the breach while protecting himself and maintaining his cover. The series blends high-stakes spy drama with psychological tension, exploring trust, surveillance, and the fine line between reality and deception.Currently, theres no official word on a second season of. The show, which premiered on December 27, 2025, has garnered positive reviews, but Peacock has not confirmed a renewal. Although the creators have suggested theres more story to tell, fans will have to wait for an official announcement to see if Alexander Hales journey continues.Fans have lovedfor its compelling mix of spy thriller action and scifi psychological suspense, which keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The strong performances, particularly by Simu Liu and Melissa Barrera, have been widely praised, along with the shows exploration of timely themes like surveillance, identity, and trust. Audiences also enjoy the series intricate plot twists and high emotional stakes, which make it both thought-provoking and intensely engaging.
Online chemistry meets in-person reality

Image credit : X/OliviaEmma17579| Laura and Birkans long-distance Snapchat romance finally turns real in Turkey

Friendship and boundaries create tension

Image credit : X/SHABOOTY| The excitement fades as Laura and Birkan struggle to connect in person

Age gap sparks family concerns

Image credit : X/SHABOOTY| The age gap raises red flags as Lauras family questions Birkans intentions

The latest season of 90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days has delivered one of its most talked-about storylines yet, as American reality TV personality Laura travels to Turkey to meet her much younger online boyfriend, Birkan, facetoface. After weeks of chats on Snapchat, the longawaited rendezvous quickly shifts from fairytale anticipation to uncomfortable reality  raising fresh questions about online attraction, age gaps, and what it really takes to bridge the digitaltoreallife divide.Laura, a 47yearold elementary school teacher from Washington, and Birkan, a 26yearold Turkish man, first connected on Snapchat a chance encounter that began when Laura downloaded the app for filters and unexpectedly started talking to him. Over time, the pair developed a strong online bond, with Laura describing Birkan as having this amazing bad boy aesthetic and a distinct romantic appeal. When they finally met at the airport in Turkey, warm hugs and smiles suggested a promising start. Birkan reflected on the moment, saying, Perfect  I dont need to look at her because I feel it, you know. Yet the effortless chemistry that seemed to flourish over texts and video calls didnt immediately translate to real-life ease, revealing the challenges of turning digital attraction into an in-person connection.What was meant to be a celebratory reunion gradually reveals awkward pauses and unspoken tension. Laura candidly reflects that the connection feels different in person than online. The situation is further complicated by Birkan expressing discomfort about Lauras close friendship with her best friend, Michael, a dynamic that adds pressure to an already fragile first meeting. Laura later admitted: I dont know, maybe he is hiding something. Maybe he is just not attracted to me in person something is really wrong. Its like he doesnt know who I am, and I dont know who he is. Subtle disagreements and unspoken expectations created strain, highlighting the challenges of balancing personal boundaries, cultural differences, and differing life priorities.Even before the Turkey trip, Lauras parents voiced concerns about the 20year age difference, with her mother openly questioning Birkans intentions. Their skepticism highlights the challenges of bridging such an age gap, especially when coupled with cultural differences and differing life experiences. As the show unfolds, viewers are left to wonder whether digital romance can withstand the reality of in-person expectations and personal compatibility.
Image credit : X| Erika Kirk forgives her husbands assassin, guided by faith

Image credit : X| Faith keeps Erika Kirk strong after Charlie Kirks death

Erika Kirks faith and strength through loss

Image credit : X| Erika Kirk reflects on forgiveness and strength through faith

Erika Kirks journey of forgiveness and resilience

Image credit : X| Forgiveness and faith guide Erika Kirk after tragic loss

Erika Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA, has once again spoken candidly about the tragic assassination of her husband, Charlie Kirk, and the extraordinary journey of forgiveness that followed. In a deeply personal interview withon 28 December 2025, Erika reflected on how her faith has been both an anchor and a guide in navigating unimaginable grief. She explained that, despite repeated questioning, her response to forgiving her husbands murderer is simple: unwavering trust in God.Its interesting because I keep getting the same question: How could you forgive him? Erika said. For me, its straightforward. You trust in the Lord, and when you trust Him, you act accordingly. Faith is powerful when lived, not just spoken. God is good. The world is flawed, and its actions are to be expected, but the Lord will use everything for a greater purpose.Erikas words highlight a philosophy that blends resilience with devotion. She shared how daily prayers, reflection, and seeking Gods guidance shape her actions and decisions. Rather than dwelling on anger or despair, Erika focuses on surrendering to a purpose larger than herself, echoing the ethos she shared with Charlie during their time together.In the interview, Erika explained that her conversations with God remain steady, even amid profound loss. Ive never questioned Him or asked, Why me? My life is not only for me; it serves a greater purpose, something Charlie and I always understood, she said. She described speaking to God as simple and personal, like chatting with a close friend, and sometimes sharing moments with Charlie as if he were still present. Prayer is powerful but does not have to be formal or heavy, it is simply a dialogue.Erika emphasised that her life continues to be guided by purpose, service, and faith. She seeks daily guidance, relying on prayer to navigate challenges and finding comfort in the belief that her journey, though painful, is part of a larger plan. Her reflections offer both inspiration and a profoundly human perspective, highlighting the enduring power of faith in the aftermath of tragedy.Erika Kirks story serves as a reminder of the capacity for forgiveness and the sustaining power of belief. By choosing grace over bitterness, she demonstrates that even the most harrowing experiences can be approached with purpose and hope. In sharing her journey, Erika not only honours her late husbands legacy but also offers a message of resilience, faith, and unwavering strength to a world often defined by chaos and uncertainty.
Puppies arent toys

Image credit : Insatgram/kimkardashian| Kim Kardashians holiday puppy surprise drew PETAs concern over casual pet gifting

Kardashian kids Christmas surprise

Image credit : Insatgram/kimkardashian| Kim Kardashian gifted each of her four children a Pomeranian puppy for Christmas

PETAs call to action

Image credit : Instagram/kimkardashian| Kim Kardashian has not publicly responded to PETAs comments

Kim Kardashian is facing criticism from animal welfare advocates after she gifted each of her four children a puppy for Christmas, according to a statement shared with People by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The organisations founder expressed concern that the gifts missed an opportunity to highlight responsible pet ownership and animal adoption.PETA, through its founder Ingrid Newkirk, conveyed to People that while the gesture of gifting puppies may appear joyful, it overlooks the ongoing crisis of homeless animals and the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Newkirk emphasised that puppies are not plushies, urging that living animals should not be treated as casual presents.The organisation also suggested that Kardashian and her family could take meaningful steps to support animal welfare, such as involving the children in volunteering at local shelters, sponsoring adoption events, or contributing to spayneuter initiatives to help address overpopulation and homelessness among dogs.On December 25, Kardashian shared that her Christmas gifts to her children North, 12; Saint, 10; Chicago, 7; and Psalm, 6 included four small Pomeranian puppies. The photos showed the tiny dogs together, and Kardashian noted in one clip that each kid got a puppy.In addition, Kardashians sister Khloe welcomed a new dog into her own family this Christmas, gifting her children a black Labrador puppy, further expanding the familys canine population.While the statement from PETA acknowledges that adding pets to a family can be meaningful, the organisation maintains that celebrity influence could be harnessed to promote adoption from shelters rather than purchasing from breeders. PETAs appeal focuses on long-term welfare, ensuring animals are properly cared for, and reducing the number of homeless animals.Representatives for Kardashian have not issued an immediate response to the PETA statement.
Online praise highlights drivers empathy and professionalism

Image credit : Instagram| Cab driver praised for helping intoxicated passenger safely home

How small acts of responsibility create lasting influence

Image credit : Instagram| Dashcam captures calm and responsible driver in action

Image credit : Instagram| Social media lauds drivers patience and professionalism

A routine cab ride in Kolkata turned into a remarkable display of empathy and professionalism after a local driver calmly managed a heavily intoxicated passenger, ensuring her safety from start to finish. Captured on the vehicles dashcam, the incident quickly went viral, earning the driver widespread acclaim across social media. What could have been a chaotic situation instead highlighted the importance of patience, clear communication, and human decency in public-facing roles.The footage shows a passenger who appeared anxious and disoriented, repeatedly seeking reassurance as she struggled to stay composed. Rather than responding with frustration or alarm, the Kolkata driver maintained a calm and measured approach. He gave clear instructions, encouraged the woman to remain seated, and reassured her with a firm but kind tone. His composed manner prevented panic and kept the situation under control throughout the journey.Recognising the potential risks involved, the driver proactively coordinated with the passengers family. He shared the cabs live location with her mother, ensuring that she could monitor the journey in real time and confirm her daughters safety. This thoughtful step provided both practical assistance and emotional reassurance to the family, highlighting the drivers foresight and sense of responsibility. Upon arrival, he personally assisted the passenger to her doorstep, confirming that she entered safely before leaving, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to her wellbeing.The dashcam footage and the drivers approach have been widely praised online. Social media users lauded his patience, professionalism, and respect, describing the scenario as a shining example of responsible public service. Many highlighted that the driver balanced firmness with empathy, showing that maintaining control in difficult situations does not mean neglecting compassion. Observers noted that the incident illustrates how small, thoughtful actions can prevent potential harm and positively impact the lives of others, even in seemingly ordinary situations.This story has prompted reflection on the broader significance of empathy and responsibility in everyday life. Public-facing roles, whether in transport, hospitality, or customer service, often involve unpredictable challenges that require both practical skills and emotional intelligence. By maintaining composure and demonstrating concern for others, individuals can transform potentially stressful encounters into positive experiences that inspire trust and reassurance.Beyond the viral attention, this incident serves as a reminder that acts of care and responsibility, however small, can leave a lasting impression. Clear communication, patience, and attentiveness are fundamental qualities that can make daily interactions safer and more considerate. The cab drivers actions illustrate how professionalism, when combined with genuine empathy, can create meaningful outcomes for those directly involved and set an example for the wider community.As society navigates increasingly complex social interactions, this story underscores the impact of thoughtful conduct. Encouraging and emulating such empathy and responsibility can foster safer, more supportive environments, proving that even ordinary moments can demonstrate extraordinary humanity.
The Christmas gift that started the storm

Image credit : X/@DaiyLoud | Kim Kardashians Christmas surprise was cute, loud, and instantly divisive

PETA calls out Kim Kardashian for gifting all four of her children a puppy for Christmas (via @PEOPLE):







"Puppies are not plushies, and its a damn shame that Kim missed the chance to be a spokesperson for shelter pups and instead is being rightly slammed on social media for pic.twitter.com/CNA6rS4D5W





 Pop Crave (@PopCrave) December 29, 2025





What PETA actually said, and why it backfired

Image credit : X/@FearBuck | Kims children North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm each received their own Pomeranian puppy this year

The internet defends Kim, mostly with humour

Image credit : Screenshot taken from X | Most reactions leaned protective, playful, and sarcastic

Kim Kardashians Christmas surprise was cute, loud, and instantly divisive. On 25 December 2025, the SKIMS founder shared a glimpse of four tiny Pomeranian puppies curled up together on her sofa. The caption was simple. Each kid got a puppy. Within minutes, the story jumped from wholesome to heated. Animal rights group PETA criticised the move, arguing that buying from breeders, especially for matching pets, shifts attention away from shelters struggling with overcrowding.PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk expressed disappointment, saying Kim missed a chance to support shelter adoption. The call-out, meant to spark reflection, instead triggered a wave of debate, with most fans defending the puppies new lives of comfort.Kims children North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm each received their own Pomeranian puppy this year. The pups, small and fluffy, came in different shades, two dark, one cream, one sable. The family already owns Pomeranians, including a fan-known pet named Sushi. The new dogs looked calm, clean, and deeply at home in Kims stories. But PETA quickly questioned the message it sends.Their argument was about impact, not aesthetics. One user online said, Not every gift needs a statement, sometimes a puppy is just a puppy. Others agreed that intent matters, and Kims intent was family joy, not messaging.In a statement shared with PEOPLE, Ingrid Newkirk said puppies are not toys and suggested the family could help shelters by funding events or volunteering. The words were sharp, emotional, and carried urgency. But many felt the angle was misplaced. One fan wrote, PETA shows up only to scold stars, not to fix systems. Another said, Acting like this is the main shelter crisis cause is wild.The criticism didnt ask for harm to the dogs, but it assumed privilege cancels responsibility. Fans argued that comfort is not cruelty, and outrage alone isnt progress.Most reactions leaned protective, playful, and sarcastic. One user on X said, Lets be honest, those dogs probably have better healthcare than me, theyre going to be fine. Another wrote, Those puppies are about to live five-star lives, relax. Others poked at PETAs selective outrage. Celebs cant even give pets now? one comment read. Even the minority criticism wasnt about breeders alone, but about history.A user said, Do the deep dive, some Kardashian pets vanish online after weeks. That line added doubt, but not dominance. The internets loudest verdict? These puppies wont struggle for safety or stability.
Image credit : Instagram/ @sydney_sweeney | Dating rumours with Sydney Sweeney denied by Pulisic

Addressing the source of the rumours

Image credit : Instagram/ @alexamelton | Christian Pulisic with girlfriend Alexa Melton

Sweeney and Brauns relationship

Image credit : X/ @sweeneydailyx | Sweeney and Braun spotted enjoying time together in New York

Fans react to the rumours

if i were him id just ignore it until sydney sweeney denies it







 Dead Poet (@RanceRider2) December 28, 2025

Christian Pulisic had firmly denied rumours that he is dating Euphoria actress Sydney Sweeney. The 27-year-old U.S. Mens National Team captain addressed the speculation on social media, calling the stories made up and urging accountability.Please stop with the made-up stories about my personal life, Pulisic wrote on his Instagram Stories on December 28. Need to hold sources accountable, it can affect peoples lives.The dating rumours started when Italian gossip outlet Gazzetta reported unverified claims suggesting that Pulisic and Sweeney are romantically involved. The story quickly spread online after appearing on the Instagram page Bombers DNA. Under a separate post alleging the pair were together, Pulisic commented, Fake news guys, lets stop with the silly rumour.Amid the speculation, Pulisic has reportedly been in a relationship with fellow athlete Alexa Melton since 2024. Meanwhile, Sweeney has been dating music executive Scooter Braun since early September.Several sources have confirmed that Sweeney and Brauns relationship is going strong. Scooter and Sydney are going strong, and things between them are great, a source told PEOPLE in early December. The couple has been spotted together throughout the fall, including a sweet kiss in Central Park in November. Another insider noted, They have a lot in common and neither one of them cares about what others think.Friends and family are delighted about the relationship. Its such a relief to see her genuinely happy, the source said, adding that Brauns friends are equally excited to see him settled following his 2022 divorce from Yael Cohen, with whom he shares three children.Fans were quick to react on social media following Pulisics clarification. One user commented, He confirmed, but not Sydney. Another said, Maybe hes not dating her, but shes dating him instead. A third added, You know he had the hardest time writing that, but good lad. Maybe he can manifest it.
Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis has outlined a strategic economic pivot, saying that Greece will rely on surging private capital rather than state subsidies to drive growth as the European Unions pandemic-era recovery funding expires.

In an interview with the daily Kathimerini, Mr. Pierrakakis described the transition as a move from "extraordinary tools" to "normal, sustainable and self-financed growth."

He projected that while 2026 will see a final massive injection of EU funds  totaling some 14.1 billion ($15.6 billion) in loans and grants  the economy is already reorienting.

The end of the Recovery Fund does not mark the end of growth, Mr. Pierrakakis said. But the economy is not left without fuel.

The government forecasts total investment will hit 46 billion in 2026, with the private sector contributing 61%.

By 2029, that share is expected to rise to 78%, a shift Mr. Pierrakakis called a structural transformation toward productive initiative over state dependence.

The comments come as Mr. Pierrakakis assumes his new role as president of the Eurogroup, the body of eurozone finance ministers.

He warned that Europe faces intense global competition and must prioritize productivity and capital markets to survive geoeconomic shifts.

Domestically, Mr. Pierrakakis noted that public investment remains robust, set to reach 16.7 billion in 2026triple the levels seen in 2019.

Addressing speculation about social handouts ahead of the coming election cycle, he ruled out fiscal slippage.

Regardless of the electoral calendar, we will do what is required to protect social cohesion, Mr. Pierrakakis said. Always respecting fiscal balance.

   iefimerida.gr
Peter Obi, a former Labour Party presidential candidate, has officially confirmed his intention to contest again in the 2027 elections.

Obi revealed this while speaking during a X Spaces on Sunday night.

The ex-governor of Anambra State, however, insisted he will not be a running mate to anybody.

Advertisement

According to Obi, he has not garnered all the experience he has, only to end up as a vice-president.

I am not travelling round the world to learn governance to be Vice president, Obi said.

I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch and have more experience than any candidate, including the sitting President.

Peter Obi will be on the ballot in 2027. I need your support. I need your prayers.

See video:
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has cautioned political actors that aligning with the All Progressives Congress or declaring support for President Bola Tinubu does not automatically secure a second-term ticket.

Wike gave the warning during a political engagement in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State as part of his ongoing consultations across the state.

He was received by the council chairman, Chidi Lloyd, traditional ruler Sergeant Awuse, and other party leaders.

Advertisement

The former Rivers State governor stressed that support for Tinubu has already been settled politically and should not be used as a basis for ticket allocation.

He maintained that loyalty to the president alone would not guarantee automatic nomination for any elective position.

The issue is not wether you are supporting Tinubu. That one, we have taken tops long time ago so Tinubu issue is not an issue again. Nobody should come and tell me I am for Tinubu, on your mandate we shall stand. Who is not for Tinubu in Rivers state? That cannot give you any ticket oo! he cautioned.

His remarks come amid recent political realignments in Rivers State, including the defection of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and others to the ruling party, weeks after a political clash and subsequent reconciliation between Wike and his successor.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has refuted claims that multiple taxes are responsible for high domestic airfares, stating that airlines do not pay the alleged levies and attributing fare increases to normal market forces of demand and supply.

Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection Michael Achimugu, in a statement on X on Sunday, stated that repeated allegations of excessive taxes by the government on domestic flights are unfounded.

Resharing a past interview, Achimugu said: Any domestic carrier operating domestic flights that says that they are paying 18 taxes is a liar. No domestic carrier pays 18 taxes for domestic flights.

Advertisement

We understand the high air fares this period are down to market forcesdemand and supply. Let us assume there are 18 taxes, where those taxes increased recently, so why is it different in December?

He added that while the NCAA does not regulate airfares, it had invited all domestic airlines to clarify the matter.

They all admitted to not paying the volume of taxes being bandied around. I dont understand this 350k and 81k narrative, but I know that, for the kind of support that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the aviation minister, Festus Keyamo; and the DGCA, Capt. Chris Najomo have given to domestic carriers, I see no reason why the government keeps getting thrown under the bus via statements like this.

The clarification follows comments by Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema, who told ARISE News that many return flights on South-East routes operate nearly empty, yet airlines bear the full cost of both legs.

Onyema added, Almost 65 to 70 per cent of that money is not coming to the airlines. Theyre going somewhere elselevies, taxes, and other charges, describing airlines as the sacrificial lamb of the industry.

He stressed that high fares reflect operational realities rather than exploitation. Ticket prices also vary based on timing and demand, with cheaper fares available for early bookings. Comparing Nigeria with international markets, Onyema said domestic fares remain among the lowest globally.

Achimugu questioned claims of profiteering, noting the lack of tax hikes or fuel increases.

It is even ironic that, in the same statement, it is alleged that Nigerians pay the lowest domestic airfares in the world while also justifying the astronomical airfares in December, even though there was no hike in taxes or jet fuel.

If high taxes were the reason why airfares were 150k200k, why did tickets sell for as high as 500k for a 45-minute trip when the said taxes did not increase? he asked.

He concluded by emphasising that the December surge in fares is driven by market forces.

As far as I am concerned, the astronomical airfares in December are limited to certain destinations because of high demand. It is never just the airfaresit is bus fares, Airbnb rates, the price of food. It is market forces. It is Nigerians on Nigerians. This is not government.
Nigerians may be in for tougher times as Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, has cautioned that the countrys domestic aviation sector could slide into a major crisis if the newly introduced tax laws take effect on January 1, 2025, without a proper review.

Onyema issued the warning during an interview with Arise Television on Sunday.

He blamed excessive taxes, levies and charges on airlines for high airfares.

Advertisement

He noted that domestic airfares could rise further to as much as N1.7 million and force local carriers out of business within months, with ripple effects on passengers, banks and the wider economy.

He dismissed claims that airlines are profiteering, explaining that most ticket revenue is lost to statutory deductions.

People talk as if airlines are making a killing. Its not true, he said.

Onyema warned that the burden of the new tax reforms would ultimately fall on passengers, leading to a sharp rise in domestic fares. He added that Nigerian domestic airlines may collapse within three months under the new tax laws.

With 7.5 per cent on ticket fares, ticket fares will hit N1.7 million soon. If we implement that tax reform, Nigerian airlines will go down in three months. At the end of the day, economy class tickets will go for about N1.7 million if it happens.

His comments come amid growing public anger over already high domestic airfares. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has insisted that the new tax laws will take effect from January 1, 2026, despite calls for their suspension.

Single-route domestic airfares rose to between N250,000 and N450,000, especially to the South-East and South-South during the Yuletide, prompting outrage even from Nigerian lawmakers.
Daniel Rodriguez stands near Philadelphias Suburban Station on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. Rodriguez uses the station to commute to Philadelphia International, where he boards a flight to Atlanta twice a week for work. Read more

Philadelphias congested highways or crowded SEPTA platforms dont get in the way of Daniel Rodriguezs commute to work.

Thats because the Philadelphia-based urban designers commute between his firms two offices consists of two flights, two trains, and a bus between two states each week.

Advertisement

Rodriguez, who lives with his wife in their Jewelers Row apartment, ping pongs between his home (and his Center City office) in Philadelphia and his office in midtown Atlanta, twice a week.

Rather than moving to Georgia or embracing a simpler, work-life balance, Rodriguez prefers an 800-mile trek to work that doesnt have him dealing with Philly rush hour traffic and the restrictions car owners face.

I want to live a life thats intentionally, anti-whatever everybody else is doing, Rodriguez said. I feel like there are problems in society, and this is one of them that just trickles and affects so many things in our personal and professional lives. Its not anti-car. Its really about getting away from the dependency and focusing on building systems that help people move. Thats my whole philosophy.

Rodriguez, who grew up in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, said its a lifestyle driven by the independence and movement he felt was missing in his youth.

The geographical barriers of the island often led to feelings of physical and mental entrapment as a child.

Where I come from, Ive never seen people so hungry to have something in life, with no ability to achieve it, he said. And Im willing to do extreme things to do that.

In May, the 34-year-old began posting videos of his travels to and from Philadelphia and Atlanta. His TikTok and Instagram posts have drawn millions of viewers, with hundreds of users questioning how Rodriguez balances his workload and travels.

His schedule varies each week, but he usually flies into Atlanta on Sunday nights and returns to Philadelphia on Tuesday nights. Sometimes, he will fly out on Monday mornings and return on Wednesday mornings. He also does same-day round trips a couple of times a month.

The planning for his trips to Atlanta begins the night before. Rodriguez packs his bags and puts toothpaste on his toothbrush before going to bed.

He wakes up at 4 a.m., grabs his belongings and walks to Suburban Station. Here, he boards the train to the Philadelphia International Airport and lands in Terminal F for his flight to Atlanta. He does have to factor in the regular delays.

Terminal F is like the dingleberry of Philadelphia. Its the last one at the airport, and really far, he joked.

After the 90-minute flight to Atlanta, he walks over to the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority platform for a 30-minute train ride to his company office in midtown Atlanta.

Hes not completely anti-car, he insists. He often rents a Zipcar for small errands and to explore Atlanta restaurants, art galleries, and sites that feed his architectural interests.

Im more along the lines of, I dont want to be dependent on a car, he said. I dont want to put my money toward that. Id rather put that into something else, and suffer the consequences.

Once his work day is finished, he either uses ride-share or takes a one-and-a-half-hour bus ride to a friends apartment in Decatur, arriving around 9 p.m. And before he rests his head for the night, Rodriguez begins his routine all over again for his return to Philly the following morning.

Rodriguez said his travel costs come out to about $180 each week, with the most significant barrier being the time and energy he spends to balance out his travels.

Its not unachievable, Rodriguez said. I feel like the pain point for a lot of people is the time. People dont want to spend the time.

Rodriguez didnt always live like this. His super commute began after years of uncertainty. He moved to Philly in 2022 and between 2023 and 2025, Rodriguez was laid off twice and incurred thousands in debt.

I wasnt even paycheck to paycheck anymore. I was living in the negative, he said.

After another eight months of job hunting, he was at a crossroads. With limited jobs in his industry in Philly, he applied for roles in other cities.

He applied to an urban design firm in Atlanta, and the week his unemployment ran out, he landed his current role in May 2025. While the company has an office in Center City, the Atlanta location was the only one hiring in his specific field.

Rodriguez consults on transportation, green space, urban design, and master planning in Atlanta and other cities along the East Coast.

While the demands of the commute were challenging at first, Rodriguez believes he has made a decision that works for him. I have my wife here, and I dont want to uproot her, he said.

Since he started making videos of his commute, his world has completely flipped, Rodriguez said.

Hes landed brand deals with travel-based companies and has spoken in various cities across the country about how fellow millennials can traverse the country without the burden of a vehicle.

Rodriguez plans to become a content creator full-time to encourage viewers across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms to avoid the pitfalls of car ownership.

His ambitions havent gone unchecked. Environmentalists who watch his videos often point to the carbon footprint he leaves behind, despite his aversion to car ownership.

Rodriguez admits his lifestyle could be viewed as contradictory. His modes of travel contribute to gas emissions, but he contends hes not the sole source of the issue, simply a product of a system already in place.

I did not pass the laws that allow oil barons to drive or force corporations to fuel jets that release stored carbon, he said. I am a participant in society, and there is no fully ethical way to exist within it.

While he understands peoples precaution and confusion, Rodriguez is confident his weekly commute and lifestyle will work as well for others as they do for him.

I love to create. I love to build. And I dont want to do anything where youre just staying still, he said.
Philadelphia theaters have weathered a difficult year as arts organizations across the region faced deep cuts in federal funding. The numbers paint a somewhat bleak picture: The state lost $1,463,000 from the National Endowment of the Arts alone, and though some attendance figures have risen from last year, the performing arts sector has struggled overall to recapture prepandemic audiences.

Yet there remain some bright signs of whats to come next year, from Philadelphias massively successful Fringe Festival returning to full-year programming to a new, five-week arts festival launching for America 250 (with plans to recur on a regular basis). Plus, a program of three plays written by forever South Philadelphian and Pulitzer winner, James Ijames.

Advertisement

This year, despite challenges, Phillys scrappy, beloved, and award-winning theater community kept showing up and showing out on local stages with incredible productions and exciting world premieres.

Here are few of our favorites from 2025.

La Otra from 1812 Productions

Written and directed by Tanaquil Marquez, this Fringe Festival world premiere from 1812 Productions was a heartwarming comedy about three estranged sisters reuniting for their fathers 80th birthday party in Colombia. The real drama all happened in the kitchen as cousins played pranks, sisters bickered endlessly, and at one point the set exploded in a burst of tropical vines that broke into the realm of magical realism. The show fired on all cylinders, from the versatile cast in multiple roles, to its engrossing production design, to the sharp trilingual dialogue that echoed the rhythm and intimacy of a big family much like my own. (The clever use of subtitles ensured that no one got lost in translation, from English to Spanish to Vietnamese.) I laughed a lot, especially thanks to the standout performance from Yajaira Paredes. We named it one of the works with a high chance of post-Fringe Fest success, so heres hoping to see it back on our stages soon.

Quixotic Professor Qiu from InterAct Theatre Company

Another promising world premiere came from playwright Damon Chua with this tense, small InterAct production following a Chinese American mathematics professor accused of being a spy. Inspired by actual instances of academics suspected of espionage, the drama provided a provocative and chilling reflection of the U.S. governments targeting of immigrants amid the ever-encroaching creep of censorship. As the titular Qiu, Justin Jain played a convincingly aggrieved intellectual who finds the entire investigation absurd. But hes essentially left helpless at the whims of law enforcement hell-bent on punishing him, regardless of the facts. The minimalist set centered our attention on the high stakes he faces trying to clear his name, with moody lighting that heightened our sense of dread. By the end, Jain breaks the fourth wall to underscore the message: Thats the world we live in. Thats the world you live in.

King Hedley II at Arden Theatre Company

The Ardens commitment to staging all of August Wilsons Century Cycle plays is a laudable effort and each production is a major theatrical event. James Ijames directed this run with Akeem Davis playing the titular King, a struggling, formerly incarcerated man released at the height of the 1980s recession. The story depicts a harsh reality for the Black family at the center, played deftly by a well-rounded cast that pivots from warmth to fury to humor. It was not an easy watch  the tragic ending left me in tears  but it was a vital story that felt relevant, urgent, and timeless.

Back to the Future: The Musical at Academy of Music

At the risk of being a little corny, I had a blast seeing one of my favorite classic movies adapted into a musical  mainly because the much-hyped time-traveling DeLorean was genuinely as impressive as promised. I went in thinking that the car bit would be too gimmicky, but I was proven so wrong in the best way: The masterful production design featured illusions that (tiny spoiler) made the car fly in the air. I gasped! The show also delivered transportive scenery alternating between the 1980s and 1950s, amplified by captivating group choreography and great singing. There were certainly some questionable choices, like leaning into the whole Marty-tries-avoiding-incest plot and songs that try but fail to give depth to Martys family. But overall, it was a lot of fun.

The Goldberg Variations at Fringe Arts

Every year, Phillys Fringe Fest delivers some of the strangest and most shocking productions with dazzling results. This was the craziest production I saw onstage this year and Im still obsessed. It started as a petty PowerPoint presentation as the star/creator Clayton Lee explained that all his ex-boyfriends look like wrestler Bill Goldberg. It shifted into an interactive experience as Lee interviewed someone in the audience, flirting with him and asking sexually explicit questions. Then it evolved again into a wrestling ring, where Lee invited Goldberg doppelgangers (who were incognito in the audience) to the stage for a smackdown, complete with BDSM contraptions and a lot of body oil. It was a wild show that had the audience in sidesplitting laughter one moment and stunned silence the next.

Snow Queen at Wilma Theater

This year, the Wilma presented its first production for all ages in this adaptation of Hans Christian Andersens 1844 fable (from which Disneys Frozen also draws inspiration). Seeing a weekday matinee was such a treat because the rows were filled with eager schoolchildren who responded to the actors with infectious enthusiasm. The sprawling fairy tale features a terrifying ice queen who turns hearts cold and kidnaps a young boy named Kai. His determined friend Gerda goes on a quest to save him after he has been brainwashed. Directed by Yury Urnov, the show spotlights delightful characters with an inventive and quirky production and costume design. The heartfelt, whimsical story about the power of good over evil was a visually dazzling experience, complete with musical talent and a wonderful cast.

Giovannis Room from Quintessence Theatre

It may surprise people to learn that the first-ever authorized stage adaptation of James Baldwins classic 1956 novel Giovannis Room held its world premiere right here in Philadelphia. Its certainly something to brag about: It took nearly 20 years, two rejections, and several rewrites, but actor/playwright Benjamin Sprunger and director/playwright Paul Oakley Stovall made it happen at Quintessence Theatre. The story centers on a closeted gay American who falls in love with a brash Italian bartender in Paris  and its no spoiler to say it ends in tragedy. The slim novel was one of Baldwins most popular and groundbreaking works, providing rich source material for a play. Onstage, it was a lyrical production with spellbinding light design and fascinating choreography; it was an excellent first run and I hope to see it progress in future productions, too.
The home of Diane Grovola, who is accused of stabbing her 23-year-old daughter to death in Upper Darby Township last week (Monday, Dec. 29, 2025). Read more

A Delaware County woman was charged with first-degree murder for allegedly stabbing her 23-year-old daughter to death in their Upper Darby Township home two days before Christmas, authorities say.

Police found Diane Grovola, 57, naked, covered in blood, and suffering self-inflicted stab wounds when they responded to a 911 call at the family residence that morning, according to the affidavit of probable cause in her arrest.

Advertisement

Grovolas daughter was in an upstairs bedroom with knife wounds to her face, chest, legs, and back. Her eyes were open but she was unresponsive, the affidavit says. She was pronounced dead shortly after.

Sorry, I should have stabbed myself first, Grovola told officers as they placed her in wrist restraints, according to the affidavit.

Grovolas husband, the young womans father, was first to discover the distressing scene.

The man arrived at the home on South Bishop Avenue in the Secane section around 6:30 a.m. after returning from a shift at Philadelphia International Airport, the affidavit says. He had stopped at McDonalds to get breakfast for his family.

Once inside, the man was greeted by the family dog, which had suffered knife wounds to its abdomen and got blood on his clothing, according to the affidavit.

He found his wife seated on the living room sofa with a knife in her hand.

I stabbed our daughter, she told him, according to the affidavit.

As her husband dialed 911, Diane Grovola told him she did not want to live anymore and began to stab herself in the chest, according to the affidavit.

The operator told the man to flee the residence.

During that time, Grovola stripped naked and began breaking items in the kitchen until police arrived. They eventually recovered a large stainless-steel knife that appeared to have blood on it, the affidavit says.

In addition to first-degree murder, prosecutors charged Grovola with third-degree murder, possessing an instrument of a crime, and aggravated cruelty to an animal.

She is being held in the George W. Hill Correctional Facility and was denied bail, court records show.

Her arraignment is scheduled for Jan. 6 at 9 a.m.
She went by Dr. Mary, and her promise was a tantalizing medical breakthrough.

At clinics operated in Arizona and several other states, Mary Blakley and her husband, Fred, told patients that for just $300, they could provide a full-body scan that utilized a proprietary smart chip to detect a variety of potential illnesses, including cancer.

Advertisement

In addition, the Blakleys boasted, their technology could actually help cure some patients maladies  blasting away kidney stones with a laser, killing cancer cells by injecting a special cream, or cleaning out lungs with a prototype sweeper approach.

But in federal court in Philadelphia on Monday, the couple admitted that their clinics were a sham  that in reality, they only administered basic ultrasounds to patients while lying about the other fantastical benefits.

Their guilty pleas were the latest development in a fraud prosecution with a variety of unusual elements. Mary Blakley, for example, had not only lied about being a doctor to build her clinics, prosecutors said  her background included a prior federal conviction for manufacturing methamphetamine.

Fred Blakley, 61, meanwhile, also pleaded guilty Monday to a separate set of firearms charges, admitting that as he was perpetuating the healthcare fraud, he was also stockpiling dozens of guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition for what he said was a forthcoming civil war against the U.S. government.

Neither of the Blakleys said much in court Monday beyond responding to routine questions from U.S. District Judge Gerald McHugh. They pleaded guilty to counts including mail and wire fraud and conspiracy.

Prosecutors said the couple  from Lake Havasu City, Ariz.  generated more than $2 million in fraudulent billings over the years. Their clinics operated in places including their home state, California, and Colorado, prosecutors said, and some of their patients had ties to Pennsylvania, which is where they were ultimately prosecuted.

Their chief offering was a signature full-body scan, which they ran through a traditional ultrasound machine  but said had been enhanced with their proprietary smart chip technology. They told patients their machine could detect, treat, and cure a variety of illnesses, and also said the technology was a secret and should not be discussed with anyone.

The Blakleys would often go on to prescribe various creams or drugs that had little to no benefit, prosecutors said, and sometimes said a patient would need to continue using the prescription for life. One of the substances, fenbendazole, was approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration, prosecutors said, but was not approved for use in humans.

To bolster her standing with clients, prosecutors said, Mary Blakley, now 66, lied about her background, falsely claiming she had worked at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston; saying she had developed pharmaceuticals for Merck; and claiming she had received a Ph.D. in nuclear physics from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden.

She hung a fake degree from the Swedish school on the wall of her clinic office, prosecutors said, along with others from Gatesville University and Almeda University  two online institutions that prosecutors described as diploma mills.

To try to avoid detection, prosecutors said, the Blakleys asked their patients to pay with cash or check, refused to keep client records, and avoided keeping records of the full-body scans, which they sometimes described as research.

They also sought to expand their empire, sometimes by selling their purported devices to others, or by charging trainees to open franchise branches of their clinics.

In the meantime, court documents said, Fred Blakley was amassing a collection of more than two dozen guns and 30,000 rounds of ammunition, some of which he stored in the garage of his pastor. He was not allowed to own any firearms because he had been convicted alongside his wife in the prior methamphetamine case.

As undercover FBI agents investigated the couple for their healthcare fraud, court documents said, Fred Blakley was captured on an audio recording in 2022 telling one of the agents he was planning on shooting some humans.

Were gonna have to go to war with our own government  a civil war," he said, according to court documents, later adding: You better arm up good. Ive got thousands of rounds of ammunition, and Im ready to rock.

The couples downfall began several years ago, when local authorities in Arizona received complaints about the clinics, including from the couples estranged daughter.

The FBI then began an extensive investigation, court documents said, and the couple were indicted in federal court in Philadelphia earlier this year.

They are scheduled to be sentenced by McHugh in April. The couple are in custody at the federal detention center in Philadelphia. Each faces the possibility of being sentenced to more than 150 years behind bars.
Seattle Kraken goalie Philipp Grubauer (center) stops a shot from Flyers forward Bobby Brink during the first period on Sunday. Read more

SEATTLE  The Flyers wont want to throw it away, all right, but there are parts of this game theyll prefer not to see again.

In their first game after the NHLs mandatory three-day holiday break, they fell to the Seattle Kraken, 4-1 on Sunday. The loss snapped a two-game winning streak and is Phillys third loss in its past five games. They are 5-4-4 in December.

Advertisement

Carl Grundstrom scored with less than two minutes left in regulation to help the Flyers avoid getting shut out for the second time this season. He beat Philipp Grubauer short-side to extend his goal-scoring streak to three games.

Jordan Eberle gave the Kraken a 1-0 lead 3 minutes, 48 seconds into the second period. The Krakens captain snuck down the middle and was left untouched as he received a pass from Kaapo Kakko. A former New York Islander, Eberle now has 12 goals and 30 points in 37 regular-season games against the Flyers.

 READ MORE: Owen Tippett has been streaky. Rick Tocchet wants to see more consistency from the Flyers winger.

Seattles Chandler Stephenson made it 2-0 in the third period as he crashed the net. Flyers goalie Dan Vladar played the puck behind the net, and Eeli Tolvanen got it from Travis Sanheim. The Finnish forward sent it to Stephenson in front for the easy tally.

Entering the night, the Flyers power play was ranked 24th in the NHL, and it had chances to tie things up. They were facing the leagues worst penalty kill (70.3%), but despite having three-man advantages, they were unable to get on the board with extended offensive zone time.

Across the power plays, Philly had nine shot attempts, with six needing Grubauer to make the save.

On the first one, drawn by Nikita Grebenkin, Jamie Drysdale had a pair of shots off setups from Trevor Zegras. Seconds after Drysdales second shot, Travis Konecny received a cross-crease pass from Zegras and was stoned by a sliding Grubauer. That power play started to even the ice as the Kraken came out with their legs.

And then Denver Barkey continued to prove he is an NHLer as he used his motor to drive past Ryan Lindgren for a breakaway. The Seattle defenseman wrapped up Barkey, who still got a shot on goal as he drew the holding penalty.

The best chance on that power play was by Noah Cates from the middle of the ice after good puck movement. And on the final man advantage of the night, thanks to a too many men penalty against the Kraken, the best chance was by Owen Tippett after Barkey made a strong play to get him the puck

The Flyers put 32 shots on goal, including 14 in the third period. The biggest issue for the Flyers on Sunday was the fact that Grubauer was able to see the puck well. Compared to their past two wins, the Flyers werent going to the net often enough and even when they did, the Kraken blocked 17 shots  several from atop the crease.

 READ MORE: Flyers ready to return to full strength as a grueling stretch awaits ahead of the Winter Olympics

Breakaways

The Kraken added two empty-netters by Tolvanen.  Zegras had his point streak end at 10 games (five goals, six assists).  Forwards Garnet Hathaway and Nic Deslauriers, and defenseman Noah Juulsen were healthy scratches.

Up next

The Flyers head a few short hours north to Rick Tocchet and Juulsens old stamping ground to take on the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday (10 p.m., NBCSP).
Philadelphia chefs are acknowledged at the Michelin Guide announcements on Nov. 18. Read more

Michelin stars, oysters, coffee houses, food halls, and a billion-dollar newcomer shaped the 2025 Philadelphia restaurant scene.

The awards keep rolling in

As Philadelphia gears up to mark the Semiquincentennial, its restaurant scene sits squarely on the national radar.

Michelin inspectors seemed to have had a good first impression of Philadelphias dining scene. At the Nov. 18 ceremony, which attracted more than 500 culinary professionals from around the world to the Kimmel Center for the U.S. Northeast Cities awards, nearly three dozen Philadelphia restaurants earned recognition. Center Citys Friday Saturday Sunday and Her Place Supper Club, and Society Hills Provenance received a star, while 11 others were designated as recommended. Ten others were conferred Bib Gourmand selections for serving what Michelin calls exceptional food at great value.

In other awards, chef Phila Lorn of South Philadelphias Mawn won the James Beard for Emerging Chef in June and was named one of Food & Wines Best New Chefs in September. He and his wife, Rachel, also opened a second South Philadelphia restaurant, Sao.

Advertisement

Chef Yun Fuentes of the Center City Puerto Rican restaurant Bolo was named to the Beard Foundations TasteTwenty list of industry ones to watch.

It was also a standout year for Kalaya, a Fishtown Thai destination, and its founder, Chutatip Nok Suntaranon. Kalaya, along with Center Citys Friday Saturday Sunday and South Philadelphias Royal Sushi & Izakaya, were all named to 50 Bests inaugural list of North Americas 50 Best Restaurants. Suntaranon was also included on Times list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2025, and Kalaya joined Society Hills Zahav and Center Citys Vetri Cucina on Robb Reports ranking of the 100 Greatest Restaurants of the 21st Century.

Coffee houses claim their role as third spaces

Coffee houses became Philadelphias most important third spaces  places to sit, work, talk, and linger without alcohol or reservations. Yemeni coffee chains, in particular, expanded.

Haraz Coffee House opened locations in University City and Fishtown, while Moka & Co. opened one on South Penn Square across from City Hall. The popular Vietnamese coffee chain Trung Nguyen Legend rolled out a two-level location in South Philadelphia, joining other linger-friendly destinations in the city, such as Rival Bros Coffees cushy, new Washington Square West location, the Bread Room, Olive Roots Cafe, Seaforest Bakeshop, and La Maison Jaune. More are on the way soon, including a Haraz location in Flourtown, a Moka at Temple University, M.O.T.W. (Muslims of the World) at the Murano in Center City, and Shibam Coffee in University City.

Oysters go social

Oysters are everywhere as raw bars multiplied. Sao reimagines seafood through a Cambodian influence. Lauren Biederman (Biedermans) is behind Tesiny, a South Philadelphia raw bar; restaurateur Felicia Wilson and chef Darryl Harmon offer bivalves at their First Daughter Oyster & Co. at the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel; and chef George Sabatino and partners have put a raw bar front and center at Fleurs, their French spot in Kensington.

Food halls grow up, and find their footing

You could describe Eataly, the Italian emporium that opened in October in King of Prussia, and the new Feed Mill Eatery in Medford as food halls because of their everything-under-one-roof setup. But they have common ownership. The new Gather Food Hall and Ridge Hall, however, are assemblages of local operators united for a common mission.

Gather, in the former Bulletin Building across from 30th Street Station, has not only gathered Mexican, Cambodian, Peruvian, Indian cuisine, and pizza in University City, it has created a model to combat food insecurity among college students. Gathers operators partner with Believe in Students, a national nonprofit, and have pledged to give out 5,000 low-cost meals in its first year, backed by a $250,000, 10-year commitment from developer Brandywine Realty Trust.

In Ambler, developer Dan DeCastro has set up Ridge Hall to function as a neighborhood anchor of small businesses, such as Twisted Gingers Brewing Co., Luckys Roadside Stand, Pho Mi Please, Marys Chicken Strip Club, 2Street Sammies, Pierogie Kitchen, Hermans Coffee, and Char, A Lobster Rolls and More Experience. In a food scene shaped by high rents and thin margins, food halls lower barriers for operators while broadening access for diners.

Then came Wonder.

Wonder arrives, forcing a reckoning

Nothing in 2025 unsettled the local industry more than the rapid expansion of Wonder, going from zero to 20 locations in Philadelphia and South Jersey, with even more on the way.

Wonder, backed by $1.5 billion in venture capital, sells food via walk-in, app, and delivery from a diverse lineup of menus by such chefs as Bobby Flay, Jose Andres, and Marcus Samuelsson. Want a steak, a pizza, an order of nachos, and a grilled chicken sandwich from the same place, all delivered in 30 minutes? Thats the wonder of Wonder.

Wonder, based in the New York City area, calls itself a food hall. In reality, its a ghost kitchen. Food is prepared at a central kitchen and trucked down to each location, where workers (not actual cooks) set up and reheat the dishes in ventless kitchens.

For diners, the appeal is convenience and, for now, price. But as Wonder blankets the region with ads and offers of half-price orders and free delivery to gain a foothold, it is disrupting the industry.

Wonder steers diners away from local shops. It turns choosing a restaurant into scrolling menus on an app, not supporting places you may know. And by pushing everything toward delivery and pickup and by undercutting prices, it makes it harder for independent restaurants  especially neighborhood takeout spots  to survive on already thin margins.

In a year when so much of Philadelphias food culture emphasized independent owners and the importance of community, this contrast is striking.
Top officials in President Donald Trumps administration posted messages from their government accounts hailing Christmas in explicitly sectarian terms, such as a day to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.

The Department of Homeland Security posted three messages on social media Thursday and Friday, twice declaring, Christ is Born! and once stating, We are blessed to share a nation and a Savior. One DHS video posted on X displayed religious images, including Jesus, a manger and crosses.

Advertisement

The messages sharply diverged from the more secular, Santa Claus-and-reindeer style of Christmas messages that have been the norm for government agencies for years. The posts provided the latest example of the administrations efforts to promote the cultural views and language of Trumps evangelical Christian base.

That drew criticism from advocates of a strict separation of church and state.

Those social media posts are one more example of the Christian Nationalist rhetoric the Trump administration has disseminated since Day One in office, Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, said in a statement. Our Constitutions promise of church-state separation has allowed religious diversity  including different denominations of Christianity  to flourish in America.

People of all religions and none should not have to sift through proselytizing messages to access government information, she added. Its divisive and un-American.

Administration officials aggressively defended their approach. Asked about the Christmas morning post on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths official X account declaring, Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson provided a one-sentence reply: Merry Christmas to all, even the fake news Washington Post!

Conservative Christians make up an important part of Trumps political support, even as the country has become less Christian in recent decades.

The Pew Research Centers most recent Religious Landscape Study, released earlier this year, found that 62% of Americans identify as Christian, a 16-point drop since 2007. The share of Americans who said they have no religion  including atheists, agnostics and those who say nothing in particular  was 29%, up from 16% in 2007. The share of the population following other religious traditions  Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and others  has remained fairly constant, at around 6%.

Just under 1 in 4 Americans identify as evangelical Christians. But those evangelical voters play a central role in Trumps electoral coalition. He won 81% of white evangelical voters in the 2024 election, according to a separate Pew study of voters. Those voters made up about 3 in 10 of his supporters in the election.

In 2015, as Trump campaigned for president, he told voters, Were going to be saying Merry Christmas again. A decade later, officials in his second term have gone further in overtly seeking to align the administration with Christian advocacy in both language and action.

Most recently, on Thursday, Trump justified airstrikes against alleged Islamic State camps in northwestern Nigeria by saying he was aiming to stop the slaughtering of Christians. Nigerian officials said they approved of the strikes but said Trump was wrongly injecting religion into a situation that was primarily about terrorism.

How to celebrate Christmas while respecting the Constitutions ban on establishment of religion has been an issue for federal officials at least since 1870 when President Ulysses S. Grant, seeking to unite the country after a brutal Civil War, designated Christmas  along with Thanksgiving and New Years Day  as federal holidays.

Government officials sought to balance the celebration of a federal holiday rooted in a religious tradition with the countrys tradition of pluralism and secular public spaces. The result was often a Christmas message that avoided specific references to Christianity. For decades, it was common for government officials on both sides of the aisle to share celebratory yet secular messages about Christmas with images that did not carry overt religious meanings, like snowflakes and Christmas trees.

Many still do. The State Department, for example, posted a secular Christmas message this year, directed at all Americans.

Many of the Trump administrations officials who are most active on social media, however, took a different approach.

Just before 9 a.m. on Christmas Day, for example, Harmeet K. Dhillon, head of the Justice Departments civil rights division, posted a message on X wishing Christians nationwide a happy holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus!

In the post was a video more than a minute long in which Dhillon said the department uses the principle of religious liberty and the First Amendment on a daily basis to protect Christians. She did not mention protecting other religions.

About two hours later, DHSs official account posted on X that we are blessed to share a nation and a Savior. A video in the post began with text that said, Remember the miracle of Christs birth, followed by 90 seconds of religious images, including Jesus, Mary, and a manger, as well as several of Trump.

Just before 3 p.m. the department posted another message on X, stating, Christ is Born!

Hegseth posted his message around 8:30 a.m. Less than an hour later, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins posted a video on X in which she stood in front of a Christmas tree and said the very best of the American spirit  flows from the very first Christmas, when God gave us the greatest gift possible: the gift of his son and our savior, Jesus Christ.

Just after 10 a.m., Education Secretary Linda McMahon posted on X about how we celebrate the birth of our Savior. And just after 1 p.m., the Department of Labor wrote on X, Let Earth Receive Her King.

Representatives for the departments of Justice, Agriculture, Education, Labor and Homeland Security did not respond to questions about their posts.
President Donald Trump said Monday that unspecified U.S. forces were responsible for an explosion at a marine loading facility in Venezuela, escalating the confrontation with the South American country over alleged drug smuggling.

There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs, Trump told reporters outside his Mar-a-Lago Club on Monday while greeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. And that is no longer around.

Advertisement

Trump has been raising pressure on Venezuelas president, Nicolas Maduro, by building up naval forces in the region, seizing oil tankers and destroying 29 boats that U.S. officials said carried drugs.

The military said Monday that it had conducted another strike against a boat accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing two people.

The strike, which was announced by U.S. Southern Command on social media, has brought the total number of known boat strikes to 30 and the number of people killed to at least 107 since early September.

The shoreline attack would be the first on land, which Trump has been previewing for months.

Trump declined to say if the military or the CIA carried out the strike. He previously authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations.

I know exactly who it was, but I dont want to say who it was, he said.

The Pentagon declined to address questions about the U.S. militarys involvement in the attack. The CIA declined to comment.

The president has declared a non-international armed conflict on drug cartels, with officials likening traffickers to al-Qaeda or Islamic State terrorists. Judges and lawmakers from both parties have questioned the administrations legal authority for the strikes and for fast-tracked deportation of alleged gang members.

Trump first referenced the shoreline attack on Friday in a radio interview with Republican donor John Catsimatidis, saying the strike occurred two nights earlier.

We just knocked out  I dont know if you read or you saw  they have a big plant or big facility where they send the, you know, where the ships come from, Trump said in the interview. Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So we hit them very hard.

In October, Trump signed a document known as a finding that gave the CIA authority to undertake aggressive covert action against the Venezuelan government and associated drug traffickers, according to two people familiar with the document. The document does not explicitly order the CIA to overthrow Maduro, but it authorizes steps that could lead to that outcome, according to the people familiar with it.

Trumps precise instructions to the CIA are highly classified. The CIA has moved to beef up its presence in the region, surging personnel to the Caribbean and surrounding area to collect human and electronic intelligence, the people familiar with the matter said.
PALM BEACH, Fla.  President Donald Trump on Sunday insisted Ukraine and Russia are closer than ever before to a peace deal as he hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Florida resort, but he acknowledged that negotiations could still break down and leave the war dragging on for years.

The presidents statements came after the two leaders met for a discussion that took place after what Trump described as an excellent 2-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose invasion of Ukraine launched the war four years ago. Trump insisted he believed Putin still wants peace, even as Russia launched another round of attacks on Ukraine while Zelensky flew to the United States for the latest round of negotiations.

Advertisement

Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, Trump said during a late afternoon news conference following a meeting with Zelensky, whom he repeatedly praised as brave.

Trump and Zelensky both acknowledged thorny issues remain, including whether Russia can keep Ukrainian territory it controls. After their discussion they called a wide group of European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and the leaders of Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, and Poland.

Zelensky thanked Trump for his work. Ukraine is ready for peace, he said.

Trump and Putin will speak again

Trump said hed follow the meeting with another call to Putin. Earlier Sunday, Putins foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said the Trump-Putin call was initiated by the U.S. side, lasted over an hour, and was friendly, benevolent and businesslike. Ushakov said Trump and Putin agreed to speak again promptly after Trumps meeting with Zelensky.

But Ushakov added that a bold, responsible, political decision is needed from Kyiv on the fiercely contested Donbas region in eastern Ukraine and other matters in dispute for there to be a complete cessation of hostilities.

In overnight developments, three guided aerial bombs launched by Russia struck private homes in the eastern city of Sloviansk, according to the head of the local military administration, Vadym Lakh. Three people were injured and one man died, Lakh said in a post on the Telegram messenger app.

The strike came the day after Russia attacked Ukraines capital with ballistic missiles and drones on Saturday, killing at least one person and wounding 27, Ukrainian authorities said. Explosions boomed across Kyiv as the attack began in the early morning and continued for hours.

Trump said, however, that he still believes Putin is very serious about ending the war.

I believe Ukraine has made some very strong attacks also, Trump told reporters as Zelensky stood by his side. And I dont say that negatively. I think, you probably have to. I dont say that negatively. But I think, he hasnt told me that, but there have been some explosions in various parts of Russia. It looks to me, like, I dont know. I dont think it came from the Congo.

Trump noted that it was possible that the negotiations will fall apart. In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think. ... But it could also go poorly.

The face-to-face sit-down between Trump and Zelensky underscored the apparent progress made by Trumps top negotiators in recent weeks as the sides traded draft peace plans and continued to shape a proposal to end the fighting. Zelensky told reporters Friday that the 20-point draft proposal negotiators have discussed is about 90% ready  echoing a figure, and the optimism, that U.S. officials conveyed when Trumps chief negotiators met with Zelensky in Berlin earlier this month.

During the recent talks, the U.S. agreed to offer certain security guarantees to Ukraine similar to those offered to other members of NATO. The proposal came as Zelensky said he was prepared to drop his countrys bid to join the security alliance if Ukraine received NATO-like protection that would be designed to safeguard it against future Russian attacks.

Intensive weeks ahead

Zelensky also spoke on Christmas Day with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law. The Ukrainian leader said they discussed certain substantive details and cautioned there is still work to be done on sensitive issues and the weeks ahead may also be intensive.

The U.S. president has been working to end the war in Ukraine for much of his first year back in office, showing irritation with both Zelensky and Putin while publicly acknowledging the difficulty of ending the conflict. Long gone are the days when, as a candidate in 2024, he boasted that he could resolve the fighting in a day.

After hosting Zelensky at the White House in October, Trump demanded that both Russia and Ukraine halt fighting and stop at the battle line, implying that Moscow should be able to keep the territory it has seized from Ukraine.

Zelensky said last week that he would be willing to withdraw troops from Ukraines eastern industrial heartland as part of a plan to end the war, if Russia also pulls back and the area becomes a demilitarized zone monitored by international forces.

Putin wants Russian gains kept, and more

Putin has publicly said he wants all the areas in four key regions that have been captured by his forces, as well as the Crimean Peninsula, illegally annexed in 2014, to be recognized as Russian territory. He also has insisted that Ukraine withdraw from some areas in eastern Ukraine that Moscows forces havent captured. Kyiv has publicly rejected all those demands.

The Kremlin also wants Ukraine to abandon its bid to join NATO. It warned that it wouldnt accept the deployment of any troops from members of the military alliance and would view them as a legitimate target.

Putin also has said Ukraine must limit the size of its army and give official status to the Russian language, demands he has made from the outset of the conflict.

Ushakov told the business daily Kommersant this month that Russian police and national guard would stay in parts of Donetsk  one of the two major areas, along with Luhansk, that make up the Donbas region  even if they become a demilitarized zone under a prospective peace plan.

Ushakov cautioned that trying to reach a compromise could take a long time. He said U.S. proposals that took into account Russian demands had been worsened by alterations proposed by Ukraine and its European allies.

Trump has been somewhat receptive to Putins demands, making the case that the Russian president can be persuaded to end the war if Kyiv agrees to cede Ukrainian land in the Donbas region and if Western powers offer economic incentives to bring Russia back into the global economy.
KYIV, Ukraine  The United States is offering Ukraine security guarantees for a period of 15 years as part of a proposed peace plan, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday, though he said he would prefer an American commitment of up to 50 years to deter Russia from further attempts to seize its neighbors land by force.

U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Zelensky at his Florida resort on Sunday and insisted that Ukraine and Russia are closer than ever before to a peace settlement.

Advertisement

Negotiators are still searching for a breakthrough on key issues, however, including whose forces withdraw from where in Ukraine and the fate of Ukraines Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, one of the 10 biggest in the world. Trump noted that the monthslong U.S.-led negotiations could still collapse.

Without security guarantees, realistically, this war will not end, Zelensky told reporters in voice messages responding to questions sent via a WhatsApp chat.

Ukraine has been fighting Russia since 2014, when it illegally annexed Crimea and Moscow-backed separatists took up arms in the Donbas, a vital industrial region in eastern Ukraine.

Details of the security guarantees have not become public but Zelensky said Monday they include how a peace deal would be monitored as well as the presence of partners. He didnt elaborate, but Russia has said it wont accept the deployment in Ukraine of troops from NATO countries.

Trump, Putin discuss peace efforts by phone

Trump on Monday had a positive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the war, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X. The two leaders had also spoken ahead of Trumps talks with Zelensky on Sunday as the American president tries to steer the countries toward a settlement.

Putins foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said that Trump is pushing Ukraine to seek a comprehensive peace agreement and not demand a temporary respite for its military through a ceasefire. Putin has also insisted on a full settlement before any truce.

In Mondays call, Putin told Trump that Ukraine attempted to attack the Russian leaders residence in northwestern Russia with long-range drones almost immediately after Trumps Sunday talks with Zelensky.

The attack certainly will not be left without a serious response, Ushakov said, adding that Moscow will now review its negotiating position.

Zelensky denied the Russian claim of an attack, describing it as an attempt to manipulate the peace process. He said it was another lie and came about because Moscow is unnerved by progress in peace efforts.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Ukraine launched an attack on Putins residence in the northwestern Novgorod region overnight from Sunday to Monday using 91 long-range drones.

Russia claims its forces are advancing

As indications suggest negotiations could come to a head in January, before the fourth anniversary of Russias full-blown invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Putin on Monday claimed that Russian troops are advancing in the eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine and are also pressing their offensive in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.

Putin has sought to portray himself as negotiating from a position of strength as Ukrainian forces strain to keep back the bigger Russian army.

He also emphasized at a meeting with senior military officers the need to create military buffer zones along the Russian border. This is a very important task as it ensures the security of Russias border regions, Putin said.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Kyivs allies will meet in Paris in early January to finalize each countrys concrete contributions to the security guarantees.

Trump said he would consider extending U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine beyond 15 years, according to Zelensky. The guarantees would be approved by the U.S. Congress as well as by parliaments in other countries involved in overseeing any settlement, he said.

Zelensky said he wants the 20-point peace plan under discussion to be approved by Ukrainians in a national referendum.

However, holding a ballot requires a ceasefire of at least 60 days, and Moscow has shown no willingness for a truce without a full settlement.

Ukrainians doubt Putins sincerity

On the snowy streets of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, people were skeptical about the chances of peace.

One military veteran who uses the call sign Sensei, in keeping with the rules of the Ukrainian military, said Putins record in power shows he cant be trusted. Sensei joined the military in 2022 and was wounded that year during the battle for the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Now, he said, almost nobody from his company is still alive.

But all these sacrifices, they are not in vain, because we need to prove ... that we exist, that we are, that we have the right to our existence, to our territory, to our culture, to our language, the 65-year-old told the Associated Press.

Denys Shpylovyi, a 20-year-old student who was home for the holidays, said Trumps willingness to accept Putins arguments has put Zelensky in a difficult situation.

But Im thankful for some progress. They are speaking, and maybe someday there will be hope, he said.

Oleh Saakian, a Ukrainian political scientist, said it was a good sign that Zelensky is managing to build a relationship with Trump, although he noted that nothing has been adopted yet, nothing has been signed yet.

I dont see these negotiations bringing us closer to real peace, because they are based on equality between the aggressor and the victim, they are based on complete disregard for international law, and  disregard for European security, he said.
Collingswood Commissioner M. James Maley sued the borough asking a Camden County Superior Court judge to nullify a vote approving a contract with Virtua Health for ambulance services. Read more

A Collingswood commissioner has sued the South Jersey borough, asking a judge to nullify an ambulance-services contract with Virtua Health because the mayors husband works for the health system.

James Maley is accusing Mayor Daniela Solano-Ward, who is a member of the three-person commissioners board, of voting in favor of the contract despite an opinion from the boroughs solicitor saying she should not vote, according to the complaint, filed in Camden County Superior Court.

Advertisement

The lawsuit was filed two weeks after the Dec. 1 meeting in which the board approved the contract in a 2-1 vote. A draft contract has not been made publicly available, and there was a dispute between Maley and Solano-Ward during the meeting about the exact parameters of the arrangement with Virtua.

Its absurd, it is wrong, its unethical, Maley said during the meeting.

Solano-Ward did not respond to a request for comment. The attorney representing Collingswood in the lawsuit, Alexandra Jacobs, declined to comment.

The Camden County borough has 14,000 residents. It is governed by a three-person board whose members are elected every four years in nonpartisan elections. The board then appoints a member as mayor.

Maley has been a commissioner since 1989 and served as mayor from 1997 until May, after his running mates to fill the two other board seats lost. Solano-Ward and Amy Henderson Riley, running under the Collingswood Forward slate, took the boards majority.

The catalyst for the dispute was concerns that Solano-Ward heard from the boroughs fire chief over his departments lack of capacity to respond to the 4,000 calls it receives annually, the mayor said in the meeting. The emergency medical services generate $450,000 a year, the lawsuit says.

The mayor held a meeting with Collingswoods fire chief in August, the suit says, and brought her husband, a Virtua critical-care physician, Jared Ward.

Ward does not hold a leadership position in the South Jersey healthcare system. A spokesperson for Virtua declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Virtua was one of two entities that responded to a request for proposals to provide ambulance services for the borough.

At the Dec. 1 meeting, Solano-Ward defended her husbands involvement, saying the borough does not have a medical officer and she wanted to be sure no question went unasked.

She also addressed the potential conflict of interest, saying she wanted to be forthcoming to prevent any appearance of impropriety. But she refused to recuse herself, despite the solicitors recommendation.

We reached out to our attorney and he agreed that there could be a conflict of interest, the mayor said in the meeting. To which I respectfully disagree and I will be voting on the matter.

The lawsuit says that Solano-Ward involved her husband in the process while shunning Maley and Henderson Riley, who is the boroughs public safety chief.

Henderson Riley, who has a doctoral degree in public health, declined to comment on the dispute. She voted in favor of the contract at the Dec. 1 meeting, telling the public that her review of the data led her to support a one-year trial.

To be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, I believe in my role as director of public safety, its what I was elected to do, Henderson Riley said.

Maleys lawsuit is asking a judge to find that there was a conflict of interest and nullify the vote. A hearing is scheduled for January.
Balloons with messages written on them launch after the 25th anniversary of the Lex Street massacre recognition ceremony at Lucien Blackwell Community Center on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Philadelphia. Read more

Twenty-five years after Calvin Helton was killed in what remains the deadliest mass shooting in Philadelphia history, his mother, Veronica Conyers, feels frozen in time.

Her son, forever 19 in the West Philly rowhouse where he was killed execution-style with six other people ranging from 15 to 54 years old. And Conyers, left to spend the years since fighting to keep his memory alive.

Advertisement

Im not healed, she said of losing her firstborn, who had dreamed of being a Navy SEAL. I want everybody to know the truth behind this massacre.

These days, that truth is shared with anyone who will listen and at annual vigils that celebrate the victims lives. There are Samuel Malik Harris Jr., 15; Tyrone Long, 18; George Jig Porter, 18; Ronnette Abrams, 33; Edward Sudler, 44; and Alfred Goodwin, 54.

Despite the notoriety of what came to be known as the Lex Street massacre, Conyers remains hurt by how the deaths never garnered protests, and how the interest in the homicides came in the form of sensational headlines.

The shooting, after all, took place in a house known for drug activity during a turbulent period in the neighborhood, when residents complained of rampant drug dealing and concerns over safety.

Conyers felt public sentiment regarding the homicide was sealed, doomed to be forgotten, once police and prosecutors attributed the shooting to a drug-turf dispute.

It would later turn out the killings stemmed from a dispute over the trade of a car and a broken clutch. But Conyers felt the damage had been done by police and media reports.

They slandered my sons name, saying he a kingpin and he was drug dealer, she said, adding he was a good student and never gave her any trouble.

The initial bungle in the investigation, which involved allegations of coerced confessions by police, also stunned legal minds at the time. Four men spent 18 months in jail and faced a possible death sentence, only for charges to begin to be dropped just as the first trial was set to begin. Those men would go on to successfully sue the city for $1.9 million over their imprisonment.

Police arrested brothers Dawud Faruqi and Khalid Faruqi in late 2002, as well as Shihean Black and getaway driver Bruce Veney, in connection to the killings.

In the various trials, it was revealed Black traded his Chevrolet Corsica for Porters Dodge Intrepid. But Porter blew the Corsicas clutch, and when Black would not trade the cars back, Porter used his spare key and took back the Intrepid.

Black found Porter on the 800 block of North Lex Street and an argument escalated into a shooting.

Black pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and the brothers were convicted of seven counts of that charge. All three received seven consecutive life sentences. Veney, the getaway driver, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder, receiving 15 to 30 years in prison.

Tameka Porter, Georges sister, has led the vigils that take place every Dec. 28. She feels a lot of hurt from how public sentiment placed blame on the victims for being in that house.

No one is at fault but the killers, she said.

Even so, Porter tries not to think about what people might say. It doesnt matter how he died or who did it, hes gone.

Her brother and Helton were best friends, she said, recalling that both were smart and charming, and loved to flirt with girls. Her brother never got in trouble or was arrested for drugs, she said. Thats what she wants people to know.

On Sunday, Porter held the annual vigil at the Lucien Blackwell Community Center. The neighborhood looks drastically different after a Philadelphia Housing Authority effort in the aughts to revitalize the area, building 18 new homes.

It was an intimate affair, though it did not set out to be so.

Porter and one of Heltons cousins talked about how they wanted to celebrate all that the victims meant to them. Councilmember Jamie Gauthier echoed the sentiment.

Today is about honoring them, she said. It is about holding space for the survivors, and it is about standing with families and with our community members here in Mill Creek and across our city who continue to carry the weight of gun violence.

Conyers stayed quiet, holding back tears. She wore a sweatshirt that read Lex St. Fallen Soldiers. On it was the now-very faded photo of her son.
However, the words unit block stop being used when house numbers exceed 999, according to associate professor Jeffry Doshna. Read more

Philly is a square kind of city. Plots and constructions fit between the perpendicular streets that form the blocks that feed the citys grid.

Modern architecture reshaped some squares into rectangles. Nevertheless, the grid system persists, helping Philadelphians navigate.

Advertisement

But blocks arent an exact science, and some dont have an easily understandable name. Trying to figure out what areas encompass a block police and news outlets sometimes use to describe incidents, a reader asked Curious Philly, The Inquirers forum for questions about the city and region: What makes something a unit block in Philadelphia?

For Jeffry Doshna, associate professor of city planning and community development at Temple University, a unit block is a term associated with cities that operate on a grid. It refers to a particular block where the house numbers are less than a 100.

When we say the 900 block of Girard Avenue, that would be the buildings between Ninth and 10th Streets on Girard, Doshna said. Its a way to designate which block it is based on the numbering.

However, the words unit block stop being used when house numbers exceed 99, according to the professor.

Unit block is 0 to 99; the 100 block is 100 to 199; the 200 block is 200 to 299. It goes up as high as we have street numbers in the city, Doshna said.

In the past year, Philadelphians may have heard the phrase unit block on news stories, describing an area where an incident happened without providing the specific house number. In September, a man was shot in West Philadelphia, with police reporting the shooting location as the unit block of North Frazier Street.

This doesnt apply just for cities with widespread grid systems like Philly. Right before Christmas, a Bucks County man was struck by a wood chipper in Lower Southampton Township. Authorities reported the incident as on the unit block of Valley View Road.

Its just a way for us to say where, to let people know what block something happened on, without giving a specific address, Doshna said.
Nearly two weeks after the shooting at Brown University, I still struggle to understand what happened on my campus.

Since rushing back to Gettysburg the evening afterward, Ive repeatedly sat down with myself and tried to come to grips with the fact that the community I treasure has been torn apart.

Advertisement

Every description of that night and the following days feels cliche. Not because my feelings are simple, but because theyve been reported hundreds of times. Everything Ive ever read in the news about the aftermath of a shooting is true: the inability to comprehend what has happened, the feeling that this could never happen to you until it does, the anger toward political leaders who never act.

But there is still no way to convey the heartbreak that underlies the anxiety and anger.

The attack against our campus is an attack against the entire nation, one that prides itself on some of the best academic institutions in the world. The campus community is a sacred bond, something that has become even more apparent to me since Dec. 13. It extends beyond College Hill in Providence, R.I., throughout the United States and the world. And when one of these communities is ripped apart, they all are.

We live in a country where active shooter drills are the norm. Those drills proved useful to me.

When I barricaded myself into a conference room where I sat for nine hours, I operated on autopilot. I knew exactly what to do. At first, this was comforting. But as time has passed, it has haunted me more than anything.

There is a weird sort of satisfaction in applying something you learned practically, but this skill is one I never wanted to have to learn, let alone take to college with me.

When I barricaded myself into a conference room where I sat for nine hours ... I knew exactly what to do.

During the entirety of my high school career, nothing was more exciting than the prospect of attending college. I dreamed of decorating my dorm room, attending classes, and forging a sense that I belonged to something bigger than myself. Brown has surpassed all of my expectations.

But Ive found it difficult to hold onto this dream since that Saturday afternoon. When I open Instagram to see that our local Indian restaurant is offering free meals to students, a little bit of my faith is restored. When my friends, professors, and colleagues text to check in on me, I still get the warm feeling of home. But its a home I know is forever changed, and perhaps that is the hardest part.

Push for change

When I received the alert reporting an active shooter, I was studying for a political theory class that discusses the philosophies of injustice and resistance. The most valuable thing I have learned is that change cannot come without active advocacy. I ask that, in the coming weeks and months, we all actively advocate for change, even when it is inconvenient and uncomfortable.

When I call my elected representative, I get the common response: He is praying for me. This is a response I will no longer accept. None of us should. We must refuse to let our legislators sit in session without a substantive response to this tragedy  and the many thousands that came before it, hundreds of them just in the last year.

Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, who were killed, deserve better. The nine others injured deserve better. Brown deserves better. Our nation deserves better.

CJ Lair is a sophomore at Brown University and an opinions editor at the Brown Daily Herald. He studies political science and is from Gettysburg.
A federal immigration enforcement agent sprays the Rev. David Black, of the First Presbyterian Church of Chicago, as he demonstrates outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Broadview, Ill., in September. Read more

EL PASO, Texas  I had barely been in the city for a few hours before I was asked the same question by two different people: Had I heard about the four panaderia workers who were arrested by immigration agents?

It was a bit of a rhetorical question that led to similar expressions of sympathy for those detained, and it also underscored two distinct truths: 1) Without employees, the bakery owner would have to close, so this hurts people who just want to work. 2) Everyone knew what they were doing, and the law is the law.

Advertisement

Like most in the political middle, I agreed.

My conversations with people on both sides of the border reinforced something that should go without saying, yet here it is: There is a sensible middle ground between the Biden administrations ill-advised border strategies and the Trump administrations virulent anti-immigrant policies and dehumanizing rhetoric.

Over the years, polling has shown that commonsense immigration reform has broad support. Bipartisan bills have failed in the recent past, but perhaps something good can come out of the Trump administrations cruel overreach on immigration enforcement.

The border is far away from most Americans. Its easy to scapegoat and demonize. As one activist here told me, even Democrats have been fine with throwing money at the continued militarization of this part of the world in the name of border security. That militarization is now knocking at peoples doors in places like Chicago and New Orleans, and folks across the country dont like what they see.

Most Americans want immigration control; they are not anti-immigrant. Let alone supporters of whats becoming a papers, please society under Donald Trump, where simply having the wrong skin tone or speaking another language can put a target on your back.

As the outrages pile on and voters turn against the presidents tactics, it opens an opportunity. If Democrats capture the White House in 2028, they must make fixing our broken immigration system a priority  with public sentiment on their side.

In that vein, the United States needs a functioning immigration system that keeps people from coming illegally, allows immigrants to fill jobs U.S.-born workers wont do, honors Americas commitment to protecting those seeking asylum, and creates that line immigrants are supposed to queue up in to come here the right way.

Broadly speaking, deterring people from crossing illegally should not depend on immigrants being afraid to die in the Arizona desert or be maimed by razor wire trying to ford the Rio Grande into Texas. Humane deterrence would involve not only expedited deportation if caught, but also holding employers accountable for hiring people who are not authorized to work.

While some immigrants are fleeing their country over safety concerns, economic migrants are looking for a better life. I hate to break it to you, but people come to the U.S. not because they admire Jeffersonian democracy, but because there are jobs here.

Many of those jobs are the kind that citizens will not do. Not because theyre lazy or afraid of hard work, but because they have other opportunities. For immigrants, its all relative. Monthly pay in Venezuela is roughly $130. In the U.S., you can make twice that in a week earning minimum wage.

Whether its picking fruits and vegetables, putting up houses, processing meat, taking care of the elderly, or other demanding and arduous tasks that are not going away, the U.S. needs immigrants for these jobs  ideally through a dynamic work visa system that responds to demand. We also need  and should welcome  specialized professionals, such as medical doctors or tech workers.

A potential pathway to permanent migration, if desired, could start with a work visa. I say if desired because many immigrants would love to come here to work temporarily and then return home. A side effect of stricter border controls after 9/11 was that immigrants no longer went back and forth as readily, and instead remained full time in the U.S.

For asylum-seekers, more immigration judges  under the judicial branch, instead of the U.S. Department of Justice  could speed up adjudication, granting protection to those who qualify and rejecting those who dont.

A working immigration system also means hitting the reset button and adjusting the legal status of the 13 million or so immigrants who are currently in the country without authorization.

Undocumented immigrants who have been here for a determined amount of time and meet agreed-upon criteria (pay taxes and/or fines) should be able to earn permanent legal residency, known as a green card, and be able to eventually attain citizenship if they qualify. Worried Republicans need only look at the increased support Trump gained among naturalized Americans in the 2024 election if they think that being an immigrant means you automatically vote for Democrats.

Of course, there is still a long way to go before any of these proposals has a shot at being considered. And while there is still time for the president to change his approach, the $45 billion authorized for new immigration detention centers and almost $30 billion going toward U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement likely means theres no turning back.

Things will get a lot worse before they get better. But as the new year approaches, there is at least some hope.
An entry to the PATCO station at 15th and Locust Streets in Center City is closed in March. Read more

Gun control works

In response to the Dec. 14 mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia, right-wing voices in the U.S. have quickly moved to point to this tragedy as evidence that gun control does not work. This is not only a disgusting lie, but also a claim that is so divorced from reality it would be laughable were its consequences not so dire.

According to the Associated Press, since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996, which saw Australia implement sweeping gun control laws, that nation has experienced a total of six mass shootings. According to the Gun Violence Archive, the U.S. had twice that number in December 2025 alone.

Advertisement

This does not have to be our reality. We do not have to continue losing members of our communities to gun violence. Gun control works, and while our legislators should have passed commonsense gun control decades ago, the least they can do is pass it now.

Katherine Roberts, Philadelphia

Freedom doesnt defend itself

The United States was founded on the idea that individual rights must be protected from usurpation. Those rights, rooted in natural law and expressed through law and custom, were never meant to survive on principle alone. They endure only when citizens actively understand and defend them. History shows that rights are rarely taken outright; more often, they are lost through neglect.

A free society depends on the recognition that liberty is shared. In a nation defined by difference, coexistence is not optional, and respect is not sentimental  it is structural. When Americans ignore one another or reduce differences to something threatening, the civic bonds that hold the country together begin to weaken. Division does not start with conflict; it begins when responsibility is abandoned.

The greater danger emerges when ignorance gains influence and truth is treated as negotiable. In such moments, freedom is not abolished but rebranded  used to justify exclusion, distortion, and power without accountability. Institutions remain standing, but their purpose thins. Law continues, but its moral authority erodes.

This is the warning worth repeating: Rights lost through complacency are not easily recovered through outrage. Self-government depends not only on laws and elections, but on an informed and engaged citizenry. When truth yields to convenience and civic duty gives way to faction, the damage is no longer political  it becomes foundational.

Joel Alan Eisenberg, Warminster

An easy fix

The city is expecting people from New Jersey to come see the Mummers Parade, as well as visitors during the 2026 celebration. Its really a shame how they will be greeted when they come up from the 15th Street PATCO station, because the elevator never works, and the steps are falling apart.

I have complained many times over the last few years. PATCO tells me its the citys responsibility once you get past the turnstile. Ive complained to the city, to the visitors bureau, to the mayors office. When I finally got a response, they told me to complain to SEPTA. When I told them it is not a SEPTA station, I never heard from them again. How can they not know this? I cant believe Im the only one who ever told them about this. I know the city has bigger problems, but this is something that can be easily fixed if they want people to come in to spend money in the city.

Fradele Feld, Cherry Hill

Sidewalk cleanups

I read with interest the article about the Center City Residents Association ceasing its contract with the Center City District to clean sidewalks in its own catchment area.

In the Graduate Hospital part of the city, we struggle with similar issues, and have in the past worked with various groups to help us keep the sidewalks clean. These groups are helpful and employ local workers.

The one missing ingredient is that of personal responsibility: If every homeowner, landlord (those who rent out their residential properties), and business simply cleaned up their own public space on a daily basis, the city would be immensely cleaner.

It would be lovely if the city would champion this notion of personal and shared responsibility  it would reap great benefits and would cost nothing. A real win-win. It would also require the city to expand its own enforcement in addition to policing antidumping measures and the like. As a physician, I can tell you that this is also a public health issue, and not just one of aesthetics.

David Share, chair, South of South Neighborhood Association Clean and Green Committee

Power of the people

As we approach our 250th birthday as a nation, I wonder what the founders would think of the current state of affairs.

They would be alarmed at the power wielded by our president. They would be even more concerned about how inept the peoples branch, Congress, is. The lack of bipartisanship is causing the imbalance of power between the branches of government. Without Congress doing its job, someone else has to do what needs to be done.

The founders would feel like America is right back where it was before the American Revolution, i.e., taxation without representation.

A national movement should be organized to protest how were paying taxes through the nose and not getting representation from our elected representatives. The time is now. Start by marching on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Brian Reilly, Medford

. . .

I believe in the adage, It bears repeating. When you apply that to Donald Trump, I can understand why people are interested in reading many different accounts of his depraved thirst for power and his ruthless attempts to get it. However, reading those details repeated over and over again ad infinitum will not necessarily tell me how to fight Trump.

Your editorial was an accurate and direct analysis of the Jeffrey Epstein files release, and we see once again the deceptions in which Trump engages.

The burning question in my mind is, after the recording of all his lies, over 30,000, what do we do about it?

We cant just moan and complain and write editorials for the next three years. We need to do something more effective.

I personally think we need to have more No Kings protests and big demonstrations, as we had against the Vietnam War.

Judy Rubin, Philadelphia

Dishonor endures

As I read the recent Associated Press article about Vice President JD Vances recent speech, in which he refused to denounce bigots in the Republican Party, I couldnt help comparing Vances positions with former Washington Post journalist Jennifer Rubins recent Substack post, Remember the Unsung Resistance Fighters. While Vance states outright his desire for a country in which white supremacy guided by Christian nationalism rules, Rubin asks us to acknowledge those of us who continue to stand in opposition, supporting instead the rule of law and the Constitution of the United States of America.

Someday, Trump will be gone from office. To all the Republican government officials  including the U.S. Supreme Court  your voting record will remain. And with that voting record, so, too, will your dishonor.

Cindy Maguire, Merion Station

Join the conversation: Send letters to letters@inquirer.com. Limit length to 150 words and include home address and day and evening phone number. Letters run in The Inquirer six days a week on the editorial pages and online.
To ban or not to ban

As a high school teacher of over 20 years, I read with great interest the opinions of State Rep. Mandy Steele and professor Christopher J. Ferguson about a possible cell phone ban in schools. While both raise valid points, each of their pieces reflects one of the biggest problems in education today. Like so many other articles and opinion pieces about education, there is a glaring lack of input from classroom teachers. More than anybody else in the field of education, teachers see and feel the impact of phones on students in the classroom. How refreshing it would be if policymakers and so-called experts started giving teachers more input into such important decisions. It never ceases to amaze me how many people suggest what is best for students, yet have little to no experience actually teaching in a K-12 classroom. Teachers do not all agree, and they are not always right, but they are certainly worth listening to. Classroom teachers are experts; its just a shame they arent treated as such.

Patrick Oswald, Downingtown

. . .

In his recent op-ed, Christopher J. Ferguson argues against banning cell phones, characterizing them as one-size-fits-all approaches and suggesting that their efficacy is not supported by research. Ferguson maintains that intuition has motivated support for school cell phone restrictions, and notes that intuition is often wrong, which is why we need good science studies. As a retired clinical psychologist, I couldnt agree with him more on that point; however, the evidence he cites to support his anti-ban position is thin and vague at best. In contrast, psychologist Jonathan Haidts widely acclaimed and meticulously researched 2024 book, The Anxious Generation, sets the gold standard for scientific analysis of this important topic. Haidts evidence-based documentation of smartphone harms clashes directly with several statements Ferguson makes without providing any specific supporting evidence. In the end, he jumps to his own conclusion, that the problem with schools is schools, not cell phones, and claims that the data are already in, showing that cell phone bans fail to produce benefits. Of course, we will need more data to conclusively demonstrate their effectiveness, because bell-to-bell bans are still in their infancy and have been enacted in a minority of states. In the meantime, however, the evidence of adverse social and emotional consequences associated with childrens access to smartphones is too compelling to casually dismiss.

Advertisement

Marcie G. Lowe, Oreland

Redacted Epstein files

Its the 18 and a half minute gap from the Watergate tapes all over again.

Sam Goldwasser, Bala Cynwyd

Join the conversation: Send letters to letters@inquirer.com. Limit length to 150 words and include home address and day and evening phone number. Letters run in The Inquirer six days a week on the editorial pages and online.
Vice President JD Vance was doggedly working the phones, trying to quell a rebellion in his midst. Elon Musk had just declared his intention to form a third party this spring, turning a simmering feud into an all-out war against the MAGA movement.

Backlash to Musks radical government cost-cutting campaign, the U.S. DOGE Service, along with his public swipes at President Donald Trump on social media, had damaged the relationship between the president and his billionaire backer. Now, Vance and those around him feared a new party could hurt the GOP in the 2026 midterms and beyond, according to two people familiar with his thinking, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private conversations.

Advertisement

Vance already had appealed to Musk directly. This time, he urged Musk allies to push him to back off his third party plans. And Vance would later personally lobby lawmakers to support restoring the nomination of Musk ally Jared Isaacman to head NASA, the agency that funds Musks space exploration business SpaceX, said the two people.

The monthslong offensive by Vance and other White House officials, the details of which have not been previously reported, has worked. Having scrapped his third party project, Musk appeared at the White House in November, attending a dinner for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. The killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk spurred Musk to put support behind GOP campaigns in the midterms, said a person directly familiar with his political operation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss its inner workings. Privately, Musk is considering reworking his donations by seeding existing groups with cash rather than wielding his own super PAC, the person added.

But though Trump and Musk are once again on good terms, their truce is fragile, allies of both men say.

This story is based on interviews with more than a dozen people familiar with the relationship between Musk and the White House and DOGEs ongoing influence, most of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe the private deliberations.

The reconciliation offers a glimpse into the next phase of the singular political partnership  one that carries both risk and reward for all involved. Musk and Trump forged their relationship around a set of shared aims: winning an election and trimming back what they saw as government largesse. But there were deep gaps in their mutual understanding, six of the people said. Trumps camp was surprised at the speed and brazenness with which Musk inserted himself into government, commandeered computer systems and email servers to briskly uproot federal agencies; moved to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development; and was willing to take shots at anyone  including Cabinet members.

Though Musk is unpredictable, he is also a formidable ally. With his nearly unlimited resources and unmatched digital megaphone, Musk could prove a powerful asset to the MAGA movement once Trump leaves the stage.

Vance in particular stands to benefit. Though the falling-out between Trump and Musk dominated the headlines, Vances role in the reunion highlights his own relationship with the billionaire. He talks regularly with Musk, who sees Vance as a viable 2028 candidate, according to one of the people. Musk and Vance, a former Silicon Valley investor, share not just a tech-infused worldview but a fondness for online performance  especially on Musks social media platform, X, where Vance has embraced a sharp, own-the-libs style that can mirror Musks own taste for provocation. Their alliance could further entrench the influence of tech titans in the White House, extending the authority of private entrepreneurs.

But Vance, who has been dogged by criticism dating back to his 2021 Senate campaign that his close ties to billionaires undermine his populist bona fides, may have to tread carefully. Ties to a tech billionaire of Musks stature carry political risk at a moment when skepticism of Silicon Valley runs deep among many Americans  and even within the MAGA movement itself.

And advisers to both Trump and Vance understand that Musks support comes with baggage beyond the usual demands of deep-pocketed donors, with Musk eager at times to command the spotlight  and drive policy toward his own worldview. Republican officials eager for Musks financial help are aware of that reality.

Obviously, we would love to see [Musk] contribute generously, said Oscar Brock, a member of the Republican National Committee from Tennessee. But he brings with him a lot of media attention, and so we want to be careful that hes spreading the right word  we dont want him taking sides on issues that arent aligned with the party right now.

But if a year ago the culture clash between a billionaire used to controlling his corporate fiefdom and a new administration attuned to public opinion came as a shock, now everyone involved understands the stakes.

He enjoys kind of that kingmaker role, said the person familiar with Musks political operation. Part of being a kingmaker is making sure everybody in the world knows youre the king.

Vance and White House AI czar David Sacks, who is close to Vance and Musk, declined to comment. Musk did not respond to requests for comment.

President Trump pledged to cut the waste, fraud, and abuse in our bloated government, and the Administration is committed to delivering on this pledge for the American people, said White House spokesperson Davis Ingle.

Trump officials, including Vance, Sacks, White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, and Taylor Budowich, a former White House deputy chief of staff, sought a reconciliation on the grounds that it would be better for the country if the rights two most prominent figures got along, the people interviewed for this story said.

Musk, for his part, has emerged having learned some lessons, including understanding that the government doesnt run like his businesses. Best to avoid politics where possible, he told podcaster Nikhil Kamath recently, describing it as a blood sport.

Musk has said he is unlikely to take on another project like the U.S. DOGE Service, his signature cost-cutting venture, which fell far short of its promise to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget. The program continues in decentralized form, Trump administration officials and Musk allies have said, with a small number of people in the White House working on streamlining the design of government services  and former DOGE members embedded as full-time workers within an array of federal agencies.

To some veterans of government reform, Musks DOGE is not a failed experiment, but a lasting wound. The entire development world: crushed, said Max Stier, the chief executive of the Partnership for Public Service, who described the effort as Godzilla rampaging through the city.

Focusing on the gap between promised savings and actual results, he argued, misses the deeper damage. Its the wrong idea to say he promised $2 trillion and didnt make it, Stier said. He promised $2 trillion and blew up the place.  He slammed our whole government into reverse.

Yet Musk is buoyed by a chorus in Silicon Valley and among remaining government allies, who argue that his effort achieved a higher goal: fundamentally reforming the workings of government, according to five of the people.

The effort, they argue, helped eradicate taboos in Washington, normalizing aggressive hiring and firing, expanding the use of untested technologies, and lowering resistance to boundary-pushing startups seeking federal contracts. In short, he made it possible for the government to run more like a company.

Thats the cultural shift, the shift in the Overton window, said Isaiah Taylor, CEO of the nuclear company Valar Atomics, referring to the political theory describing how a radical idea can become acceptable.

The result, said Taylor, who was close to aspects of DOGE, is a new urgency injected into government agencies.  We can actually allow American builders to move.

From first buddy to a falling-out

Soon after Trumps victory, Musk, who put more than $288 million toward electing GOP candidates during the 2024 cycle, began spending his days in Palm Beach, Fla. The billionaire traipsed around Mar-a-Lago, referring to himself as the first buddy while plotting the future Department of Government Efficiency, an effort Trump hailed as the potential Manhattan Project of our time.

The outside group would be run by Musk and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and report to budget office director Russell Vought, a White House official who had long advocated for radical government cuts. DOGE was the culmination of an ethos Musk had brought to his companies, where hed cut large numbers of employees briskly  sometimes achieving wildly ambitious goals as he drew lawsuits and skirted regulatory guardrails.

Despite that track record, seasoned operators in Washington were skeptical that DOGE could have the same slash-and-burn effect, assuming that Musk would be bogged down by bureaucratic processes and red tape.

They were wrong. Swiftly after inauguration, DOGE began an unprecedented sweep through federal agencies, culling the federal workforce, hoovering up data, and dismantling entire organizations, including the U.S. Agency for International Development. It turned to creative methods: To end some federal grants, it stopped payments from going out. In February, Musk brandished a chain saw at the Conservative Political Action Conference to brag about his cost-cutting strategy.

But the Tesla CEOs work proved deeply unpopular and the companys stock price plunged amid protests in front of its showrooms. Musks hard-charging style alienated those around him, including some of his DOGE recruits, who felt he had gone too far, particularly in breaking policies around extracting and manipulating government information, according to two of the people familiar with the workings of DOGE. His efforts to persuade Congress to issue legislation to support his changes were largely rebuffed.

Hes used to being the emperor, said another Musk associate, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe the billionaires thinking. But he wasnt treated with much respect in Congress. And he doesnt do politicking.

He clashed repeatedly with administration officials, some of whom resented Musks taking command of personnel and other decisions within their agencies. By the time he left the White House at the end of May, Musks private spats with administration officials had leached into the public, with a roster of adversaries including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, Trade Adviser Peter Navarro, and White House aide Sergio Gor.

The Gor dynamic would prove the most troublesome. On Musks final day as a special government employee, Gor, a White House aide involved in personnel matters, provided Trump with printouts showing that Jared Isaacman, a billionaire with ties to SpaceX whom Musk had pushed to lead NASA, had donated to Democrats, said a person familiar with Musk and Trumps falling-out. Gor was aware that Trump was sensitive to hires that did not share his political ideology, the person said.

Trump pulled Isaacmans nomination, announcing the decision in a Saturday night post on Truth Social. Three days later, Musk railed on X against Trumps signature tax and immigration legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill.

Privately, both Wiles and Vance began to back channel to Musk to de-escalate the situation, said two people with knowledge of the conversations. Vance and Musk were friends before the election, but the men had become closer since the billionaire came to Washington for DOGE, three people said. Days into the new administration, Vance invited Musk over for dinner with his family at the Naval Observatory in February, and the two talked multiple times a week in the months that followed. They had shared mutual friends in Silicon Valley, including Sacks, who had introduced the men years earlier. Musk had also lobbied Trump to pick Vance as his running mate, three people said.

But Musk was undeterred. In June, he accused Trump on X of being in files related to the deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In July, when Trumps bill appeared headed for passage, Musk said he would start a new political party to give you back your freedom. He dubbed his new venture the America Party.

The third party declaration sent shock waves through MAGA world. Musks funding of a party to rival the GOP could splinter the base, White House officials worried, delivering wins to Democrats.

Vance began making calls to people in Musks circle in an effort to get him to back off of the plans, said three people familiar with the calls. Sacks stepped in, too, sharing with Musk his view that a splintering between the rights two most prominent figures was bad for the country, one of the people said.

But Musks associates say he doesnt make empty threats. Whenever Elon talks, there are only two possibilities, said a longtime associate. Hes either telling you what he wants you to do  or what he is going to do  or he is trying to be funny.

I didnt interpret [the third party announcement] as funny, the person added.

But a few factors altered Musks plans. The political operatives in Musks orbit were reluctant to start working on a third party  an effort that they saw as unlikely to be successful and one that could sabotage their own careers which, unlike Musks, were rooted in the GOP, according to the person directly familiar with his operation.

Then in early September, Charlie Kirk was killed during an appearance on a Utah college campus. Musk felt compelled to act by what happened, the person familiar with his operation said. He has increasingly engaged with Republican operatives in recent months, even expressing a desire to return to politics for the 2026 midterm elections.

Meanwhile, the White House began discussing ways to bring Musk back into the fold. Vance and others knew a top priority for Musk was the confirmation of his friend Isaacman as NASA administrator. Vance pushed for Isaacman to have the position again, speaking with relevant members on the Senate Commerce Committee to make sure Isaacman had the support he needed and would receive a quick confirmation. Wiles also worked behind the scenes to get Isaacmans nomination restored, despite objections from acting NASA administrator Duffy, the people said.

Then the White House reassigned Gor, the official who had intervened against Isaacman, to a foreign posting.

[Gors ouster] made it easier for everyone to go back to liking each other, said one of the people familiar with the dynamic.

Before long, Musk was back.

The bloodstream of the government

In late November, Musk gathered former DOGE operatives for a reunion of sorts in Bastrop, Texas, home of the Boring Company and other Musk ventures. Beaming in from a videoconferencing screen  Musk said he couldnt be there in person because he feared an assassination attempt  he predicted the start of a great 12-year span of Trumps second term followed by eight years of a Vance presidency, according to Politico.

In Washington, people debated what had become of DOGE. DOGE doesnt exist anymore, Scott Kupor, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist serving as director of the White Houses Office of Personnel Management, told Reuters in November.

But as the headline zinged across the capital, Kupor clarified. Though it no longer had centralized leadership, the principles of DOGE remain alive and well, Kupor wrote on X. He named deregulation; eliminating fraud, waste and abuse; reshaping the federal workforce; making efficiency a first-class citizen as the principles that were carried forward.

DOGE catalyzed these changes, he added. His team and the agencies would now institutionalize them.

He listed other shifts, such as changes to the federal hiring process and such as a new Merit Hiring Plan, being carried out by his team. Kupor did not reply to a request for comment.

Many of Musks DOGE hires have burrowed throughout government, where they still occupy key positions within federal agencies. And while DOGE must be evaluated based on its financial aims, focusing only on dollars saved misses a broader point, said several Silicon Valley executives with close ties to Vance, Musk and DOGE.

To Musk and his deputy, Steve Davis, DOGE was primarily about changing the government, not about curtailing costs, said one person. Another said that administration officials deeply misunderstood the lengths that Musk would go to when he sought to destroy the deep state.

We would never have gotten reusable rockets if Elon hadnt set a goal to occupy Mars. You have to set an audacious goal to make any incremental steps at all, and Elon is a master of that strategy, the person said. If you go in with a soft approach, you will be defeated by a bureaucratic leviathan.

Musk set the stage for his proteges as he stepped back from his government work last spring.

Is Buddha needed for Buddhism? he asked then. Was it not stronger after he passed away?
A rendering of the 47-unit apartment building Ken Weinstein is planning in Germantown's Penn Knox area. Read more

A new 46-unit apartment building is coming to 5322-28 Germantown Ave., from longtime Northwest Philadelphia developer Ken Weinstein.

The five-story building is in Germantowns Penn Knox area. It also will include over 1,600 square feet of commercial space and 17 parking spaces.

Advertisement

The project comes amid a burst of new multifamily construction in Germantown, a neighborhood that garnered little interest from few developers in the second half of the 20th century.

The demand for housing in Germantown continues to outpace the supply so more housing, at all income levels, is needed, Weinstein said.

Germantown is located near good public transit and Fairmount Park and is viewed as much more affordable than hot city neighborhoods in and around Center City, he said.

Weinstein said that he will break ground on the building during the first week of January and that funding and contracting is already secured.

The project did not require any relief from the citys Zoning Board of Adjustment, so Weinstein was not legally required to consult with the neighborhood group, Penn Knox Neighborhood Association.

But he met with the community group anyway to hear concerns they might have with the project.

This is not an out-of-town developer; this is a developer from the area. Hes part of the community, said Deneene Brockington, chair of the Penn Knox Neighborhood Association. So I think there is a level of respect, and I think willingness to do as much as possible [in response to neighborhood concerns] as long as it doesnt compromise the project.

Brockington said that the community groups main concerns were about building materials and lighting and that the developer had addressed both.

Weinstein said parking wasnt the principal concern he heard from neighbors because the building is in a commercial corridor.

The apartment buildings 17 spaces are not required by the zoning code. Weinstein said he would have liked to include more, but he was constrained by the fact that all the spaces had to be on the ground floor and that the sites land use rules require that he include commercial space.

Underground parking is too expensive in middle neighborhoods like Germantown, Weinstein said. There will always be a divide between the number of parking spaces developers want to provide and what neighbors want.

The building will include 28 one-bedroom apartments and 18 two-bedroom units, with rents ranging from $1,450 to $2,200. There will be no subsidized or affordable units set aside.

The project is expected to be completed within 18 months of the groundbreaking next month.

There is no definite tenant for the commercial space, but Weinstein has some ideas.

With Uncle Bobbies moving to a new location, I would love to see a cafe or coffee shop lease the first floor, Weinstein said. There would be a lot of demand from students and staff at GFS [Germantown Friends School] and from the community.
A soggy, gloomy Monday was expected to give way to a blusterous Tuesday that brings a wind advisory as gusts of up to 50 mph blow their way into the Philadelphia region ahead of the New Year.

Strong winds arrived behind a cold front that descended upon the Philly area Monday afternoon, dropping temperatures from the 50s into the 30s. The gusts arrived amid a wind advisory issued by the National Weather Service office in Mount Holly in effect through 1 p.m. Tuesday, with sustained wind speeds of up to 25 mph expected.

Advertisement

There could be some lulls in the morning, but there is no clear signal as to when we will see the lowest lulls in wind speed Tuesday, said Sarah Johnson, a meteorologist with the weather service. It will pretty much be windy all through the morning into midday.

With gusts potentially reaching into the 50-mph range, Johnson said, the primary concern for Philly-area residents was power outages caused by downed trees and broken tree limbs. That element will especially be a possibility following Mondays rainy weather, which softened the ground in the area and primed it for potential treefall that could also bring down power lines.

Peco, meanwhile, has said that it is aware of the wind advisory, and that its crews are actively monitoring weather conditions while remaining ready to respond to potential outages. The company on social media also advised residents to steer clear of downed power lines and report outages on its website.

Johnson also noted that the high winds posed a risk to loose objects outdoors, such as holiday decorations and light furniture. Those items, she said, should be secured or taken indoors to keep them from potentially being lost or causing damage should they be taken away in a strong wind.

Additionally, Tuesdays forecast strong winds could create challenges for drivers  particularly those behind the wheels of high-profile vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and other large cars. Essentially, the larger a vehicle is, or the higher off the ground it sits, the more it is apt to be pushed around in high winds, she said.

The closer you are to the ground, the less likely you are to be impacted by high winds, Johnson said.

Tuesdays windy weather, meanwhile, is not an uncommon occurrence for December in the Philadelphia region, Johnson added. Strong cold fronts are known to bring with them windy conditions as temperatures drop  and the cold is likely to remain throughout the week as New Years Eve and New Years Day come and go.

It is normal for us to have the strongest temperature gradients  the biggest difference in temperature  in the winter seasons, she said. We tend to see those from late fall through early spring  pretty much prime season.

The strongest winds are likely to move out later Tuesday, but Wednesday is expected to remain somewhat breezy, with gusts possibly reaching up to 20 mph. Those winds, however, fall well short of the wind forecast for Tuesday.

That may be welcome news for New Years Eve revelers set to ring in 2026 at Philadelphias first New Years Eve concert Wednesday. The concert, set to kick off at 8 p.m. on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, will feature performances by LL Cool J, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Los Angeles rock band Dorothy, and Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts graduate Adam Blackstone.

Though Tuesdays windy weather will likely abate in time for the holiday, colder temperatures with a high around 32 degrees are expected Wednesday, so attendees ought to bundle up. New Years Day on Thursday fits a similar description, with highs hovering near freezing and breezes up to 20 mph, Johnson said. There is only a slight chance of lingering light snow or flurries, according to weather service forecasts.

Its likely to be dry, but cold and maybe breezy the first day of 2026, Johnson said.
China, Italy deepen multi-sector cooperation as diplomatic ties turn 55

Xinhua) 14:47, December 29, 2025

This photo taken on March 25, 2025 shows a view of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

ROME, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Italy, 2025 saw interactions between the two ancient civilizations flourish across political, economic and cultural fields.

A series of exchanges across these areas fostered mutual understanding and signaled a new phase of cooperation between the countries.

HIGH-LEVEL EXCHANGES DRIVE BILATERAL COOPERATION

China and Italy maintained close high-level contacts this year, with leaders on both sides pointing to steady progress in bilateral ties.

In November, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the 20th Group of 20 (G20) Summit in South Africa. Li said that China is ready to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Italy and forge a more stable and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

For her part, Meloni said Italy-China relations enjoy a good momentum of development, with continuous bilateral exchanges at all levels and positive progress in practical cooperation.

Earlier, during a visit to Rome in October, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the two countries had, over more than half a century, engaged in high-level pragmatic cooperation, promoted cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and built a comprehensive strategic partnership.

ITALIAN BUSINESSES CONFIDENT IN CHINESE ECONOMY

With bilateral trade volume exceeding 70 billion U.S. dollars for several consecutive years, Italy sees China as a vast and dynamic market where companies can scale up and innovate.

This photo shows the booth of Italian Food and Feed Export Promotion Association at the Food and Agricultural Products exhibition area during the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China's Shanghai, on Nov. 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi)

Giuseppe Accogli, CEO of Chiesi Group, an international biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Italy, noted that the company's workforce in China has grown by 30 percent over the past two years, alongside a stronger focus on innovation.

At this year's China International Import Expo, Chiesi Group signed a cooperation agreement with China's Haisco Pharmaceutical Group to jointly develop a new drug for bronchiectasis.

"China is becoming a major global hub for innovation," Accogli said, adding that the company plans to expand exchanges in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors and bring more innovative products to the Chinese market.

Similar confidence was expressed by Stefano Petrilli, global head of operations at Marelli Propulsion.

Since entering China in 1999, Marelli has built a broad presence across automotive lighting, electronics, propulsion systems and green technologies, establishing eight research centers and 17 factories nationwide.

"China is not only the largest automotive market in the world, but also one of Marelli's most strategic and dynamic markets," Petrilli said. "This enables us to deliver customized and fast-to-market solutions for local customers, while also leveraging China's innovation and manufacturing strengths to support global projects."

He added that China's transformation from the "world's factory" into a "global innovation hub" has created unprecedented opportunities for foreign-invested enterprises like Marelli.

CULTURAL EXCHANGES CONTINUE TO FLOURISH

In June, the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival opened in Shanghai, with its jury chaired by renowned Italian filmmaker Giuseppe Tornatore. He said he enjoys watching Chinese films, noting that they offer a different perspective through which he can better understand China's history and culture.

In July, Italy's National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art hosted a special exhibition titled "2025 East and West: International Dialogue Exhibition -- From Shanghai to Rome," featuring works by 49 Chinese and Italian artists across painting, sculpture and other media.

A visitor views exhibits at the "2025 East and West International Dialogue Exhibition: From Shanghai to Rome" at the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rome, Italy, July 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

Renata Cristina Mazzantini, general director of the gallery, highlighted China's growing influence on the global cultural stage and stressed the importance of establishing long-term artistic exchanges.

"We must remain open to the world, especially to China," she said, adding that joint exhibitions help younger artists better understand contemporary China and its dynamic art scene.

Marta Leonori, head of institutional affairs at Italy's Treccani Encyclopedia Institute, said China and Italy have long inspired creativity through mutual respect and curiosity, citing Marco Polo's journey as an enduring symbol of civilizational exchange.

"Marco Polo's story began centuries ago, but it reaches into the future -- and it is up to us to continue writing it," she said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
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
There was a lot of news for Insurance Journal East readers in 2025, of course. While readership was strong across topics, readers showed special interest in number of topics and articles including reports on tragic events, recovery efforts, insurance affordability, fraud, lawyers, data breaches, jury verdicts and court rulings on coverage. Here are the top Insurance Journal East stories of 2025.

1. Uber Driving Lower Insurance Costs

Remember the 2010 The Rent Is Too Damn High campaign by Jimmy McMillan? Many in New York, including rideshare leader Uber Technologies, now think auto insurance is too damn high, in part due to the insolvency of New Yorks largest taxi insurer in 2024 but also due to alleged legal system abuse and fraud. Uber is spending millions on advertising and social media to convince lawmakers in Albany and elsewhere to act to lower insurance costs for drivers including rideshare drivers. Uber is among the funders of Citizens for Affordable Rates (CAR) that advocates for lowering insurance costs for auto, home, and health insurance it says have become a growing burden for families and businesses alike, adding to an already severe affordability crisis in the state. Delivery app DoorDash Inc. also began supporting local pro-economy candidates. Uber has taken aim at legal abuse. It has filed racketeering lawsuits and run ads against personal injury law firms, doctors and pain-management clinics it claims stage fake car accidents and performed unnecessary surgeries to take advantage of no-fault insurance policies. Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed a plan to stabilize the insurance market. New York City lowered the coverage requirement for for-hire drivers, aligning it with the states requirement for all other driver. This month the state told rideshare drivers their premiums would rise 25% over the next three years. Instead of just raising rates, the government should find out why costs have gone up so much, Uber argued.

2. Baltimore Bridge Collapse a Year Later

Top National Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Midwest Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top South Central Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Southeast Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top West Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top International Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

What were the top stories in each region? Glad you asked.

A plastic label on a single loose wire that blocked the wire from being fully connected caused an electrical blackout that led to the fatal collision of the 984-foot-long containership Dali into Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge in 2024. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) yesterday reported that the loose wire in the ships electrical system caused a breaker to unexpectedly open. That in turn triggered a sequence of events that led to two vessel blackouts and a loss of both propulsion and steering near the 2.37-mile-long Key Bridge on March 26, 2024. This story answered the question of how the fatal collision of the Dali into Baltimores Key Bridge happened in 2024. It drew renewed attention to other stories including the effects of the bridge collapse on the local economy and the recovery effort, federal investigators claims that the collapse could have been avoided, the rising costs to rebuild the bridge, and the ongoing litigation over what parties are at fault and will pay.

3. Tragedy at Assisted Living Facility

A fire at a Massachusetts assisted-living facility in July killed 10 people and injured 30 others. The fire at the Gabriel House in New Bedford was the deadliest in the state in four decades. It is believed to have been caused by either someone smoking or an electrical issue with an oxygen machine. The Gabriel House tragedy highlighted the safety lapses, staffing issues and lax regulations governing assisted living facilities, which are growing in number nationwide. The tragedy prompted the state to develop more stringent safety measures for assisted living facilities. Lawsuits have begun. Four residents have sued the owner and the fire safety equipment firm. The owner and the fire system inspection are suing one another. New reporting indicated the owner does not have any liability insurance.

4. June Brings Twin Data Breaches

The month of June saw two popular Pennsylvania insurers grapple with somewhat similar network outages affecting major systems around the same time. The insurers many agents and customers followed the event closely. All systems were eventually restored. Insurers say they were not ransomware events.

5. Teacher Shot by Student Wins at Trial

A jury in Newport News, Virginia awarded $10 million to a teacher who was shot by a 6-year-old student. Abby Zwerner, who was shot in January 2023 in her first-grade classroom, had asked for $40 million against a former assistant principal, Ebony Parker. Zwerner originally also sued the school districts superintendent and principal but a judge dismissed the claims against them, leaving Parker as the only defendant. Parker did not testify during trial. She also faces criminal charges of felony child neglect. The Newport News School Board originally argued that Zwerner should not be allowed to sue for what it said were workplace injuries. The school board maintained that Zwerners $40 million lawsuit was barred by the states workers compensation law that is the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries. However, a circuit court and then the Virginia Court of Appeals cleared the way to a trial for Zwerners negligence suit. Zwerner successfully argued that being shot by a student should not be considered an expected condition for the job of a teacher and thus her injuries do not fall under the states workers compensation system. The courts agreed.

6. Insurance Not Triggered in Killing

In the years most-read insurance court decision, a Pennsylvania husband and wife were found to be not covered by their homeowners or personal umbrella insurance policies for claims that they inflicted emotional distress by hiding the gun their son used to kill a friend and thus delaying discovery of the victims body. A federal appeals court upheld the dismissal of coverage claims brought by Kimberley and Howard Rosenberg against Chubb Indemnity Insurance Co. and Hudson Insurance Co. The courts agreed that coverage was not triggered because the parents behavior was not an accident and also because criminal acts are not covered by insurance. After their adult son shot and killed his 22-year-old former classmate at their house, the couple allegedly delayed discovery of the murder weapon and the victims body. Based on that delay, the victims mother sued the homeowners for intentional infliction of emotional distress. The homeowners then sought defense representation under two of their insurance policies  their Chubb homeowners policy and their Hudson personal umbrella policy. Both policies imposed a duty on the insurers to defend the insureds against claims related to accidents, though the two polices used different language to describe the accidents that would trigger coverage. Both insurance companies denied coverage.

7. Ice Cream Recall Dispute

In another insurance court case that caught readers attention, the maker of Chipwich ice cream sandwiches sued its insurance broker alleging the agency was negligent in failing to properly secure product recall insurance that would have helped it deal with what it claims is a $4.5 million loss stemming from a product recall. Frozen food manufacturer Crave Better Foods of Greenwich, Connecticut, blamed its insurance broker in Riverside, Connecticut, for leaving it unprotected for a product recall of Chipwich products. The outcome isnt final yet, but in September 2025, a Connecticut judge denied the insurance brokers attempt to dismiss key parts of the lawsuit.

8. Battling Trial Attorneys

Insurance folks tired of hearing about personal injury law firms going after those greedy insurance companies tool some delight in learning that two high-profile Boston-area personal injury law firms are going after each other over allegations of trade secret theft, breach of loyalty, conspiracy, unfair competition and more. One firm is accusing the other of stealing its business model that has been the key to its nationwide success. The other insists that it didnt steal anything, and it would never do business the way the accuser does

9. Law Firms Scheming?

A New York specialty insurance managing underwriter for contractors and construction risks sued a New York City personal injury law firm and dozens of medical providers, alleging a wide-ranging scheme to defraud insurers through staged construction accidents and fraudulent medical treatments. The 162-page federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) action marks the fifth such legal action Roosevelt Road Specialty and its reinsurance program for contractors and construction, Tradesman Program Managers, have filed since March 2024 against various medical providers, medical centers and law firms in the greater New York metropolitan area. The complaint filed June 16 in the Eastern District of New York targets the law firm of William Schwitzer & Associates, P.C. and its principals William Schwitzer and Giovani Merlino, along with physicians, chiropractors, and other medical providers who allegedly conspired to recruit construction workers  many of whom the lawsuit says were undocumented  to stage or exaggerate workplace injuries. These workers were then referred to various allegedly complicit clinics to undergo what the suit claims were unnecessary and invasive medical procedures, including surgeries, in order to inflate personal injury and workers compensation claims. According to the complaint, the scheme was carried out from at least 2018 to the present, with a marked escalation since 2020.

10. Brown University Shooting

The December 13 shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island took the lives of two students and injured nine others. The accused shooter, who was also tied to a second shooting of a professor in Massachusetts, was found dead in a storage facility in New Hampshire. The tragedy raised questions about the security at Brown and other campuses. Much of the focus has centered on whether the Ivy League school had security cameras installed in the building where the attack took place in and the overall ease of accessing campus buildings. The universitys police chief was placed on leave.
A Dutch nonprofit is seeking 1.4 billion ($1.6 billion) in compensation from Tata Steels Netherlands units, alleging that harmful emissions from its operations have caused environmental harm and health damage to nearby residents.

Stichting Frisse Wind.nu has submitted the legal papers initiating the lawsuit at the District Court North Holland in Haarlem, according to a Tata Steel statement on Friday. The claim targets the companys operations in the coastal village of Velsen-Noord, seeking compensation on behalf of residents for increased susceptibility to health issues and diminished property values.

The case adds to mounting scrutiny on Tata Steels European operations for their environmental impacts. Dutch regulators escalated pressure on the company in 2024, threatening fines of nearly 27 million and warning they would shutter a coke plant in the port city of IJmuiden if toxic emissions werent substantially reduced. In 2022, Dutch prosecutors started investigating whether the company and one of its partners deliberately contaminated soil, air and water with hazardous substances.

Tata Steel said it is examining the documents and has strong arguments to defend its position. The proceedings under the collective actions regime are conducted in two phases, each taking two to three years to conclude, the company said.

In September, Tata Steel announced plans for a project costing as much as 6.5 billion to cut emissions at its Netherlands operations, with the Dutch state contributing as much as 2 billion.

Photograph: Emissions rising from a coke and a gas plant at the Tata Steel Ltd. plant in IJmuiden, Netherlands. Photo credit: Peter Boer/Bloomberg

Copyright 2026 Bloomberg.
The top 10 most popular international stories during 2025 covered a diverse range of topics, including the job difficulties experienced by John Neal, the ex-CEO of Lloyds; catastrophe losses from Hurricane Melissa; the rising cost of climate change, and the trend of declining property/casualty prices  as the cost of risk continues to increase.

Other top stories include the Lloyds response to the Trump administrations big beautiful bill, the effects of the US tariffs, and the main risks facing businesses in 2025.

The Top International Insurance Journal Stories for 2025

Ex-Lloyds CEOs Job-Seeking Issues

Just before ex-Lloyds CEO John Neal was due to take up the role of president at American International Group, the insurer pulled the job and its potential $17.2 million pay package. Naturally, related articles created a lot of interest from our readers. AIG apparently pulled the offer after a story in the Wall Street Journal revealed that Lloyds of London was probing Neal about an alleged relationship with a Lloyds employee.

Heres the top international article in 2025: Ex-Lloyds CEO Lost $17 Million AIG Job After Office Romance

Hurricane Melissa Triggers Catastrophe Bond in Jamaica

Coming in at number two on the list of most well-read articles was the cost to Jamaica of Hurricane Melissa, absorbed mostly by catastrophe investors and reinsurers. To avoid repeats, weve combined all the Jamaica-related stories. Jamaicas $150 million cat bond was arranged by the World Bank to help provide funds to pay for extreme weather events. The property-catastrophe market is closely watching cat bonds, given their ability to erode reinsurers market share. Here are the top Jamaica cat bond articles:

Climate Change-Driven Insured Losses

At number three on the list of most popular international articles was Munich Res report on natural disasters in 2024  as the third most expensive year on record. Describing climate change as showing its claws and taking the gloves off, Munich Re said, weather-related catastrophes were the dominant natural catastrophe in 2024  responsible for 93% of overall losses and 97% of insured losses. The world is getting hotter, resulting in severe hurricanes, thunderstorms and floods. That trend is expected to continue.

Insured Losses From Natural Disasters Hit $140B as Climate Change Shows Its Claws

What were the top stories in each IJ region? Top National Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top East Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Midwest Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top South Central Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top West Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Lloyds Comments on Republican Reconciliation Bill

At fourth on the list is an article about the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill. Lloyds issued a statement in June applauding the removal of Section 899 from the Republicans reconciliation bill, which could have led to substantial additional tax on the US income of non-US-domiciled businesses.UK businesses had viewed Section 899 as hitting them with retaliatory tax measures. The removal of that section stayed in the final act, which was signed into law by Donald Trump on July 4, 2025.

Lloyds Applauds Removal of Section 899 Tax Measure From One Big Beautiful Bill

Cayman Islands Builds Reinsurance Hub

The growth of the Cayman Islands as a reinsurance hub is examined in this article, which reveals that reinsurers from the Cayman Islands provided about $74 billion of US life insurers reserve credits in 2024  more than double the level just a half-decade ago, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. However, not everyone supports the trend, which is discussed in this article, ranked at number five.

Cayman Islands Builds $74 Billion Insurance Hub That Irks Apollo Global Management

US Tariffs and Their Effect on Premium Growth

A Swiss Re report predicted that US tariffs would act to slow global economic growth by reducing trade and heightening geopolitical uncertainty  ultimately leading to decelerating growth in insurance premiums. The long-term outcome of US tariffs remains unclear.

US Tariffs Projected to Slow Global Economy and Insurance Premium Growth: Swiss Re

Former CEO of Nexus Faces Internal Probe

This article, at number eight, involves an admittedly ill-advised internal email sent by the former CEO of Nexus Underwriting, the London-based managing general agent, which is owned by Brown & Brown. Deemed wholly inappropriate and offensive, the email became public and Stuart Rouse had to step down from the company in September. He was replaced by Steve Hearn as group CEO. Unsurprisingly, the story gained a lot of market attention.

MGA Nexus Underwritings CEO Rouse Faces Internal Investigation for Offensive Email

Re/insurance Pricing Trends Are Growing Concern

Pricing and capacity trends are always of interest to our readers, which were covered in several of the top international articles. From growing concerns about adverse reserve development to the fact that property/casualty prices are declining as the cost of risk rises  a unsustainable trend. Here are the top four stories with these themes:

The How-Tos of Embedded Insurance and Successful MGAs

During 2025  and every year  Insurance Journal publishes a plethora of viewpoint articles, provided by industry experts, which are widely read. The top two viewpoint articles in the International section during 2025 covered embedded insurance opportunities and the secrets of successful managing general agencies.

Top Business Risks for 2025

Allianzs annual risk barometer edged into the top 10 of the most-popular international articles. Cyber, business interruption and natural catastrophes were ranked as the top three risks that concern global businesses, according to the Allianz Risk Barometer 2025. Cyber incidents, such as ransomware attacks, data breaches and IT outages, was the top global risk for 2025, marking its fourth consecutive year at the top, said Allianz, in its 14th Allianz Risk Barometer which surveyed 3,778 respondents from 106 countries and territories.

Cyber, Business Interruption, Natural Disasters Listed as Top 3 Business Risks: Allianz

Related:
A South Korean investigation into the Jeju Air crash that killed 179 people is set to miss a one-year deadline to release a progress report, two officials said, as frustrated relatives of the victims continue to demand answers about what went wrong.

The countrys accident investigation board will not be in a position to release the interim update by the first anniversary on Monday of the worst aircraft accident on South Korean soil, the two board officials said. They declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter.

On December 29, 2024, the Boeing 737-800 made an emergency belly landing at Muan airport, overshot the runway then slammed into a concrete embankment and erupted into a fireball, killing all but two of the 181 people on board.

The government-led Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board said in a preliminary report in January that both of the planes engines sustained bird strikes.

The pilots shut off the less-damaged engine after the bird strike, investigators said in a July update that was not released publicly due to objections from victims families.

Victims Families Frustrated

Some of the family members said investigators appeared to blame the pilots without exploring other factors, such as the concrete structure beyond the end of the runway that likely made the disaster far more deadly.

It feels like all kinds of doubts are just growing bigger and bigger. In the meantime, a year has gone by, and it feels like the frustration is only continuing to build, said Ryu Kum-Ji, a 42-year-old woman who lost both of her parents in the crash.

She joined other family members who shaved their heads and staged a protest in front of a presidential office, calling for an independent and transparent probe.

Missteps by the transport ministry, which oversees the investigation board, could also be a factor in the accident, Ryu said.

A transport ministry official told bereaved family members this month that it would examine their concerns.

We take seriously your concerns saying that governments efforts were not sufficient in the process of (finding the truth), the second vice minister of the transport ministry said. The government will stand by the bereaved families and take a closer look.

South Koreas parliament will launch an independent probe into the crash on Tuesday.

Report Delayed

Under the U.N. aviation bodys rules, a final report is expected within a year of an accident, and if that is not possible, an interim statement should be made public on every anniversary detailing the investigations progress and any safety issues raised.

But the investigation board is not planning to release an update yet because of pending legislation designed to ensure its independence, said the two officials.

Lawmakers have proposed replacing board members and transferring oversight from the transport ministry to the prime ministers office.

We will respect the decision of the newly formed committee regarding the timing of the interim statements publication, said one of the board officials.

South Koreas anti-corruption body found in a report this week that the concrete embankment at Muan airport violated local and global standards that call for such structures to be frangible so they give way in case of impact. That meant it could cause fatal damage to aircraft and occupants.

The board had planned public hearings in early December, but delayed them at the request of the victims families and lawmakers. Police are also investigating the accident.

All we want is for authorities to admit they were wrong if they did wrong, and apologize. Apology and a proper disclosure of the truththat is what we want, Ryu said.

(Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Jungmin Ryu; additional reporting by Joyce Lee; editing by Ed Davies and Jamie Freed)

Photograph: The wreckage of a Boeing 737-800 plane operated by South Korean budget airline Jeju Air lies at Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, on Dec. 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)

Related:
Uber Technologies Inc. and Lyft Inc. are each teaming up with Baidu Inc. to trial driverless taxis in the UK, as ride-sharing companies race to deploy autonomous services around the world.

Uber said Monday a pilot program using Baidus Apollo Go RT6 robotaxis in London will start in the first half of 2026, with commercial services expected in the city before the end of next year.

Separately, ride-hailing platform Lyft will also carry out UK tests next year with dozens of the same vehicles, pending regulatory approval, according to an X post by Lyft Chief Executive Officer David Risher.

Read more: Driverless Taxis Are Heading to UK, but Whos Liable When Something Goes Wrong?

Global robotaxi rollouts are accelerating, with Chinese companies such as Baidu and Weride Inc., and Alphabet Inc.s Waymo leading the charge. Uber and Weride have launched driverless operations in Abu Dhabi, with plans to expand in the Middle East. Baidu is conducting trials in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Switzerland.

American self-driving technology company Waymo started tests in London this month.

Uber abandoned in-house development of autonomous driving in 2020, and is instead pursuing tie-ups with a range of robotaxi companies. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said in a Bloomberg Television interview this month that the company plans to offer driverless services in more than 10 markets by the end of next year.

Other ride-hailing platforms have similar strategies. Lyft has already signed a deal with Baidu to roll out robotaxis in Europe. Southeast Asias Grab is partnering with Chinese companies Weride and Momenta.

Its not yet clear how profitable the robotaxi model will be. Listed companies Pony AI Inc. and Weride are still losing money after selling shares to raise funds.

Photograph: A Baidu Inc. Apollo RT6 robotaxi in Wuhan, China. Source: Bloomberg

Related:

Copyright 2026 Bloomberg.

Topics Sharing Economy Ridesharing
Acrisures announcement to lay off several hundred employees amidst rising AI integration topped the charts of Insurance Journals Midwest region in 2025.

Midwest readers also paid close attention to State Farms decision to implement rate increases in Illinois, and the states insurance departments unsuccessful efforts at getting the carrier to share insurance data.

Stories involving insurance fraud, theft and arson also topped the list.

Top Insurance Journal Midwest Stories of 2025

Acrisure to Lay Off 400 Employees, Citing Tech Advancements and AI Integration

Acrisures decision to lay off 400 employees due to advancements in technology and AI integration drew plenty of eyeballs. Acrisure made the announcement in early October that it would lay off members of its accounting department. Five years ago Acrisure acquired AI company Tulco LLCs insurance intelligence business. Acrisure said at the time of the acquisition that it would use AI capabilities to innovate in product development and insurance sales and marketing across its global network of commercial property and casualty, life and employee benefits brokerages. The deal was valued at approximately $400 million.

Kansas Woman Sentenced for Insurance Fraud

Top National Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top East Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top South Central Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Southeast Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top West Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top International Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

What were the top stories in each region? Glad you asked.

Kenna Robinson, 50, pleaded guilty in the Douglas County District Court to one felony count of insurance fraud. Robinson involved multiple persons reporting false information during the claims process to an insurance company in attempts to get insurance coverage after the incident occurred. She pleaded guilty and was sentenced on Aug. 28 to 12 months probation with ten months underlying prison time if her probation is violated. Two others involved, Michaela Foster and Rylie Kelley, were previously sentenced in December of 2024, for their roles in this insurance fraud scheme.

State Farm Implements 27% Rate Increase for Illinois Homeowners

State Farm announced in July that it would begin State Farm implementing a significant rate hike for Illinois homeowners, citing more frequent severe weather events and rising home replacement costs that are driving up the cost and frequency of claims. State Farm said it would raise homeowners rates by an average of 27% and require customers to carry a minimum 1% wind/hail deductible in their home insurance policy. The rate increases went into effect in July for new business and in August renewals. The decision drew the ire of politicians including Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who called for state lawmakers to enact a legislative solution that prevents insurers from carrying out major rate increases.

Michigan Construction Company Sued for Allegedly Scamming Customers

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced in July a lawsuit against Hummingbird Construction Co., LLC and its owner, Matthew Ashline, for allegedly scamming multiple customers by accepting deposits for construction projects never started and then failing to return the funds. The lawsuit claims Ashline collected deposits from customers in St. Clair, Monroe, Eaton and Washtenaw Counties to begin construction projects but failed to initiate the contracted work. In multiple cases, despite repeated requests from the consumers for refunds, Ashline allegedly delayed repayment or failed to return deposits.

Illinois Sues State Farm for Refusal to Release Homeowners Insurance Data

The State of Illinois is suing State Farm for refusing to provide nationwide homeowners insurance data at the request of the Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI). Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed the lawsuit on Oct. 14 on behalf of Director of Insurance Ann Gillespie, who in November 2024 initiated an examination of State Farms homeowners data. The insurance department asked State Farm to provide complete nationwide zip-code level data including total homeowners premium collected, number of policies and claims and types of coverage provided. State Farm denied Gillespies request and says it didnt violate state law.

Kansas Key Insurance Placed Into Liquidation

Key Insurance, a Kansas-based insurer specializing in non-standard auto, was placed into liquidation in March after a court ruled the company insolvent. The Shawnee County District Court ordered the liquidation of Key after reviewing significant evidence that Keys liabilities exceed its admitted assets. The court found that Keys consistent underwriting losses, existing claims and negative policyholders surplus demonstrate a substantially deteriorating financial position equating to insolvency. The company reported -$16.3 million in net income in 2024, according to an NAIC filing.

Lawsuit Alleges Farm Bureau Financial Concealed Fraudulent Activities

A lawsuit filed in November by two former top investigators for Farm Bureau Financial Services alleges the company committed fraud, racketeering and wrongful termination. The lawsuit says the insurers management group knew of fraudulent activity committed by company employees and refused to report fraud to state regulators. The plaintiffs say they were fired two years ago after saying they would submit reports of fraudulent activity to state regulators even if it went against supervisors orders. The allegations include multiple instances of employees committing forgery, including one case of a Kansas agent allegedly forging at least 900 forms for his clients, with the clients consent, and another 100 forms without clients consent.

Owner of Historic Minnesota Resort Charged With Arson, Insurance Fraud

The owner of a historic Minnesota resort was charged in early December with arson and insurance fraud more than a year after a fire destroyed the property. Bryce Campbell, 41, of Two Harbors, Minnesota., was taken into custody in Southfield, Michigan for allegedly setting a fire on Feb. 6, 2024 that resulted in a total loss of the popular Lutsen Lodge. The lodge is located off Lake Superior in northwest Minnesota. Campbell faces three felony counts of arson and one felony count of insurance fraud.

Former Ohio Insurance Agent Sentenced to Probation for $1.4M Theft

A former Ohio insurance agent was sentenced to five years of probation for thefts exceeding $1.4 million. Rhonda Chandler, of the Columbus area, stole and misappropriated funds, including premiums for pre-need life insurance policies, commonly known as burial or funeral insurance, according to an investigation by the Ohio Department of Insurance. The misused funds were intended to cover funeral expenses and settle trust claims after funeral services were provided, but Chandler diverted the money for personal and business use, impacting 14 Ohio funeral homes serving their customers financial needs, ODI said. The insurer that issued the policies has fully reimbursed the affected funeral homes, and restitution will be directed to the insurer.

Chicago Sued by White Men Barred From Ballys Casino Investment

A lawsuit filed in February alleges Ballys Corp. and the City of Chicago discriminating against White men who wanted to invest in a $1.7 billion casino project. The lawsuit alleges that the project offered a 25% ownership stake only to women and people of color. Ballys devised the share-purchase program to adhere to a promise to bring under-represented groups into the project and help build wealth in the local community. However, such diversity, equity and inclusion practices have come under fire in the private sector and are getting rolled back by the federal government under the Trump administration.
Aflac said its investigation has revealed a cybersecurity incident discovered six months ago affected more than 22.6 million individuals.

The Columbus, Georgia-based health and life insurer said in a statement earlier this month that it has started to notify impacted individuals but, to date, it is not aware of any fraudulent use of personal identifiable information and will continue to monitor the situation. Aflac said it determined on December 4 that the files potentially impacted likely contained personal information, triggering notifications.

Aflac in June announced it was investigating a breach on its U.S. network that may have exposed customers personal information. The cyberattack was discovered on June 12, and was thought to be the work of the cybercrime group known as Scattered Spider.

Soon after Aflacs announcement, the Google Threat Intelligence Group issued an advisory that Scattered Spider appeared to have shifted its focus from retailers to insurers. Erie Insurance and Philadelphia Insurance each reported network outages as well. Erie in July said they had fully restored business operations and there was no evidence of a data breach. Days prior, Philadelphia said it restored its networks, adding that no ransomware event occurred.

In its latest statement, Aflac reiterated that it launched an immediate investigation with the help of a third-party cybersecurity experts, and it notified federal authorities. The insurers customers, beneficiaries, employees, agents, and other individuals related to Aflac were involved. Names, contact information, claims information, health information, social security numbers, and/or other personal information were potentially accessed.

Importantly, the security incident was contained within hours; our systems were not affected by ransomware and remained operational, Aflac said.

Also in June, Aflac was hit with a proposed class-action lawsuit in Georgia federal court. The case is still ongoing. Erie was also hit with two class-action lawsuits related to its cyber incident.

Topics Cyber
Lawsuits against major insurance carriers were among the most-read stories in Insurance Journals South Central region in 2025. Allstate and GEICO were both hit by lawsuits in Texas this year alleging improper practices.

Readers also flocked to stories about new laws that affect the regulation of insurance in Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Another area of interest was the devastating rain storms that hit Central Texas on the Fourth of July weekend.

Top 10 Insurance Journal South Central Stories of 2025

Texas Lawsuit Alleges Allstate Illegally Collects Driver Data

The most popular story of 2025 among South Central region readers involves a Texas lawsuit filed Allstate alleging the carrier illegally collects driver data through secretly embedded software in mobile apps and then uses the data to justify raising Texans insurance rates. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said Allstate and its subsidiary, Arity, have collected trillions of miles worth of location data from over 45 million customers nationwide to create the worlds largest driving behavior database. Texas alleges Allstate would use data to inform its underwriting as well as sell the driving behavior data to third parties, including other car insurance carriers. Allstate said in a statement that it has fully complied with all state laws and regulations.

Driverless Trucking Firm Aurora Puts Human Back in Drivers Seat

Readers gravitated to this story about driverless vehicle developer Aurora, which reversed course by putting humans back in the drivers seat less than a month after the company began commercial autonomous service. The decision to move an observer from the rear of the cabin into the drivers seat was made at the request of PACCAR Inc., which manufactured the trucks, Aurora Chief Executive Officer Chris Urmson said. In May Aurora announced that it began commercial trucking services in Texas with two fully driverless vehicles, both built by PACCAR. It was Auroras first commercial self-driving service on public roads. The company planned to expand to El Paso, Texas, and Phoenix by the end of 2025.

Top National Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top East Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Midwest Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Southeast Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top West Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top International Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

What were the top stories in each region? Glad you asked.

Texas Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Scheme

A Texas man was sentenced in February to more than 13 years in prison for constructing a $5 million insurance fraud scheme. Jordan Ford, 32, was charged via criminal complaint in June 2024 and pleaded guilty in September 2024 to a criminal information charging conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to court documents, Mr. Ford and his coconspirators recruited insurance company employees to pull clients personal information from legitimate insurance claims. The employees handed those details over to Mr Ford. Using the stolen information, Mr. Ford  posing as the client  called the insurance companies and requested they update the payment information to accounts he and his coconspirators controlled. Other times, Mr. Ford paid insurance employees to lend him their company-issued laptops, logged onto the companies systems, and authorized and issued payments, which were sent to accounts he and his coconspirators controlled. In total, the coconspirators misdirected funds from at least three insurance companies, netting more than $4.4 million.

New Oklahoma Law Limits Post-Loss Assignment of Benefits on Property Damage

Oklahoma lawmakers this year passed a bill limiting post-loss assignment of benefits for property damage under auto, residential or commercial property insurance policies. House Bill 1084 prohibits the solicitation or acceptance of an assignment of any post-loss insurance benefit related to property damage under an auto collision or comprehensive policy, residential property insurance policy, or commercial property insurance policy. The law doesnt apply to liability coverage under an auto, residential, or commercial property insurance policy.

Louisiana Insurers Must Disclose Prior Policy Premiums Under Controversial New Law

Under a new state law, Louisiana insurers will be required to give mandatory disclosure of prior policy premium when issuing a renewal policy to a policyholder. The mandatory disclosure rule is part of a new law that intends to give the insurance commissioner more power to reign in excessive rates. Under House Bill 148, the prior policy premium must be prominently displayed and set forth in close proximity to the renewal premium. All insurers must be in compliance with the rule by January 1, 2026.

Liberty Mutual Owes $4M Refund After Overcharging Louisiana Citizens Assessments

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple announced in March that Liberty Mutual owes approximately $4 million to about 138,000 Louisiana policyholders after overcharging the Louisiana Property Insurance Corporation Emergency Assessment for the past four years. Temple said the Louisiana Department of Insurance received a consumer compliant in February about the Louisiana Citizens assessment charged on their Liberty Mutual renewal notice. LDI reached out to Liberty Mutual and discovered that due to an error, the company had not updated the assessment percentage since 2021. By April 1, Liberty Mutual had adjusted the assessment charge to 0% for all affected policyholders.

Louisiana Governor Vetoes Bill Limiting Bad Faith Lawsuits Against Insurers

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry vetoed a bill in June that would have limited bad faith lawsuits against insurers, a move that raised criticism from the insurance industry. SB 111, sponsored by Sen. Alan Seabaugh, R-Many, intended to bring clarity to when claimants could bring bad faith personal or bodily injury lawsuits against insurers. The bill proposed that bad faith lawsuits be barred when insurers provide a good faith dispute as to liability and as to medical causations for the injuries alleged by the claimant. The bill would have prohibited bad faith lawsuits when an insurer hadnt received 30 days to review an offer within the applicable policy limits or the insurer had not had the opportunity to conduct proper discovery.

Deadly Floods Reinforce Texas Challenge as Crisis Epicenter

The devastating early July floods in central Texas reinforced the states status as an epicenter of extreme weather. The July 4-5 floods in the Texas Hill Country region led to at least 137 fatalities and approximately $1.1 billion of damage. The storm was the latest severe weather event in Texas, which accounts for roughly a third of all damages caused by extreme weather in the US during the last 10 years. From 1980 through 2024, Texas has logged 190 weather disasters costing $1 billion or more, according to the US National Centers for Environmental Information.

Texas Lawsuit Alleges GEICO Raises Premiums Despite Accident Forgiveness Promise

A class action lawsuit filed in February alleges that GEICO doesnt abide by its Accident Forgiveness program when a driver with a clean record gets into a first, at-fault accident. A Texas residents alleges in the suit that GEICO raised his auto premium 91% after his wife got into a minor fender bender accident at which she was at fault. The couple had qualified for GEICOs accident forgiveness benefit upon his May 2024 auto insurance renewal, and GEICO said it would waive the surcharge associated with the first at-fault accident caused by an eligible driver on the couples policy. The lawsuit alleges GEICO violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and the Texas Insurance Code.

Oklahoma Supreme Court: Insurer Must Provide Direct Renewal Notice to Named Insured

After a fire destroyed the Relax Inn in June 2020, property owner Jai Hospitality discovered that its insurer, Western World, had denied its claim based on a policy lapse occurring weeks prior. Although the insurer had sent a renewal offer with a premium increase to the motels insurance agent, the offer was never shared with Jai, leading the owner to believe the policy was still in effect. While lower courts initially sided with the insurers argument that notifying the agent was sufficient, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of the property owner. The court determined that both state law and the specific policy language required the insurer to provide written notice directly to the named insured, concluding that coverage remained in effect through the date of the fire because the insurer failed to fulfill this duty.
Property insurers have complained for years about roofers deliberately damaging roofs in order to file claims. But few have done what North Carolina Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance and the states Department of Insurance did: Set up a sting operation to catch bad actors in the act. That was one of the most-read and most important stories in the Southeast this year, but many other articles came close. Here are IJs top Southeast articles for 2025.

North Carolina Sting Operation Alleges Roofer Damaged Shingles to File Claim

The NCDOI and Farm Bureau this fall worked together on a sting operation in Wake County, setting up a bait house, then asking roofing companies to take a look, and recording the roofers actions, the DOI explained. The sting reportedly worked as intended. Authorities charged Robert Allen Bentley, 36, of Charlotte, a senior project manager with A&M Premier Roofing and Construction, on Dec. 10 was charged with insurance fraud after investigators allegedly observed him and a co-worker damaging and bending roof shingles at the house.

The roof company then claimed the damage was caused by wind and hail and attempted to gain $30,000 in an insurance claim with Farm Bureau, state Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said in a statement. Farm Bureau leadership said the idea came up after door knocker roofers repeatedly urged homeowners in Raleigh and other cities to sign up for new roofs with little or no out-of-pocket expense. A&M said Allen was an independent contractor who is no longer with the firm.

Florida Meteorologist Predicts Where the Next Hurricane Will Hit, For a Price

Some in the industry had never heard of David Dilley. Others swear by what they say is his unusually accurate storm forecasts that predict when and which region of a coastal state will be hit. The cost is $400 per year.

Dilley and his Global Weather Oscillations website claim as much as 90% accuracy, sometimes calculated years in advance. And many of his 200 or so subscribers appear to be true believers, with 80% of them return customers. Dilley, who holds a masters degree in meteorology from Rutgers University, argues that larger forces than man-made climate change are at work.

Its a natural cycle, not global warming, he said.

He calls his modeling system ClimatePulse Technology, based on 150 years of weather data and thousands of years of geological data. The number of storms rises and falls on a 70-year cycle that is mostly influenced by electromagnetic and gravitational forces, including the interplay of the orbital cycles of the Earth, Sun and Moon, he said. Other cycles run for thousands of years and have an impact on temperatures, rainfall and more, Dilley said.

Top National Insurance Journal Stories for 2025

Top East Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Midwest Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top South Central Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top West Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top International Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

What were the top stories in each region? Glad you asked.

Dont Look Now, But Citizens Is No Longer the Largest Property Insurer in Florida

Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the state-created insurer of last resort, in November announced it is no longer the largest carrier in Florida. The ranking is seen as a crucial milestone in the push for a more stable, market-based insurance system in the state.

Citizens leadership said that October takeouts and assumptions by other insurers had trimmed Citizens policy count to about 560,000  a level not seen since spring of 2021, just before a litigation crisis worsened and multiple carrier insolvencies began to balloon Citizens exposure. By years end, the policy count is expected to be about 380,000, the lowest level in 20 years and well below the peak of 1.3 million policies in force in 2023.

The drop means Fort Lauderdale-headquartered Universal Property & Casualty Insurance and State Farm Florida Insurance by this fall had become the largest property insurers in Florida. Universal reported some 561,546 policies in Florida at the end of September. State Farm held some 646,429 policies at the end of August, according to the latest information from Florida regulators.

Did Florida Appeals Court Put the Final Nail in the AOB Coffin? Maybe

Almost five years after Florida lawmakers clamped restrictions on assignment-of-benefits agreements and two years after they effectively outlawed AOBs altogether, state appeals courts may have finally put an end to one creative way that had been used in attempts to get around the law.

Floridas 5th District Court of Appeals in January upheld a Marion County judges ruling that an organization known as Holding Insurance Companies Accountable (HICA) had no standing to sue Tampa-based American Integrity Insurance Co. The case was one of several HICA had pursued for years against American Integrity and against Security First Insurance, two of the larger insurers in the state.

HICA argued in the appeal that it was not a contractor, only a service that advocated on behalf of homeowners. The AOB law, including its rules requiring an itemized listing of damage to the property, signed agreements, notices of intent to file suit, provisions to allow insureds to rescind the agreements, limits on attorney fees, and other provisions, did not apply, the organization said. But the courts held that HICA principals had pledged to give recovery from the lawsuits to a chosen roof contractor. That is the same as an AOB, the trial and appellate court judges noted.

Size of Floridas Slide Insurance Exec Compensation Has Tongues Wagging

It was one of the most-talked-about initial public offerings by a Florida company  for all the wrong reasons.

When Tampa-based Slide Insurance registered for an initial public stock offering in June, one page of the filing stood out. On page 132 of the document filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission it shows that Slide founder and CEO Bruce Lucas in 2024 took home more than $21 million in salary, bonuses and stock awards  considerably more than CEOs at most other publicly traded, Florida-domiciled carriers. The package is not far behind the compensation levels for the heads of some of the largest insurance companies in the world, including Chubb, Allstate, AIG and Travelers.

Lucas wife, Shannon Lucas, the chief operating officer at Slide, was paid an additional $16.5 million, Slides Form S-1 filing indicates.

Capitalism is a great system, but this is out of control, said one Florida insurance executive who declined to be identified.

Georgia Lawmakers Approve Major Tort Reform, Overhaul of Legal System

After Florida legislators in 2023 approved sweeping tort reforms designed to help stem what many had said was an excessive amount of opportunistic lawsuits, and after years of debate over lawsuit abuse across the country, Georgia leaders took action in early 2025.

In March, Republican Gov. Brian Kemps plan to limit lawsuits in Georgia received House approval, poising the states litigation landscape for a controversial overhaul after a lengthy lobbying campaign.

Supporters of the bill said it will stop frivolous suits that have damaged business owners, and limit large financial awards from juries. Opponents say it will prevent valid lawsuits from Georgians who were wronged, including victims of violence and sexual abuse.

The measure, passed in the House by a margin of 91-82, with a few changes from an earlier Senate version. The Senate then agreed to the changes and approved the measure.

In Alabama, Shot Employee Gets No Workers Comp and No Employers Liability

He was not covered by workers compensation insurance. But his course and scope of employment was enough for an employers liability insurance exclusion to apply, said the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, which overturned a lower federal court ruling and left a severely injured convenience store employee with no recompense from the stores insurance carrier.

The appellate court found in favor of State Farm Fire and Casualty Co., noting that the employers liability policy clearly excluded coverage for criminal acts or for injuries arising out of and in the course of  employment. The decision negated a lower courts $1.3 million judgment against State Farm.

The shooting took place at the Pit Stop Grocery in Birmingham, Alabama, in 2016. The clerk, Amanali Babwari, closed the convenience store about 11 p.m. that night. As he walked to his car in the parking lot, a robber shot him nine times, took the stores money bag, and disappeared. The worker survived but was severely injured.

Under Alabama law, employers with fewer than five employees are not required to secure workers compensation coverage. Only Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee allow coverage exemptions for firms with that many workers, according to the Workers Compensation Research Institute.

The 11th Circuit pointed out that State Farms employers liability exclusion wording is very similar to Alabamas workers comp statute, which states that comp insurance covers injuries arising out of and in the course of employment, including incidents in the parking lot immediately after the work shift.

Mississippi Supreme Court Wont Budge on $15M Bad-Faith Decision Against USAA

The Mississippi Supreme Court in October declined to reconsider its 2024 decision to uphold almost $15 million in punitive damages and attorney fees against USAA in one of the longest-running claims disputes to come out of Hurricane Katrina.

The court ruling, stemming from litigation brought by the prominent Minor family after the storm destroyed its 130-year-old Ocean Springs home, was deemed so important that a national property insurance group, a former Mississippi governor and business groups urged the court to reconsider. The Mississippi insurance commissioner also stepped in and filed his own amicus curiae brief with the court in support of USAA.

Ive been practicing 35 years and Ive never seen a commissioner do that, said David Baria, co-counsel for the Minor family in the case.

Commissioner Mike Chaney told Insurance Journal that he has authorized friend-of-the-court filings in other cases through the years. This time, he said he felt compelled to get involved to help protect the property insurance market in the state: Insurers dont collect premiums for punitive damages, and such large verdicts can scare insurers away.

Two More Insurers Enter Florida Market as Hurricane Season Warms Up

Its a sign of the times that most people in the Florida insurance world welcomed.

Two more property insurers put their toes in the Florida market this summer, bringing to 16 the number of new carriers in the state since 2023. Its another sign that legislative discouragement of claims litigation has made a difference and has encouraged more competition in the state, Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky said.

The number of new insurance companies or new subsidiaries of existing carriers entering Florida since early 2023 now exceeds the number of property insurer insolvencies seen from 2020 to 2023, during the depths of the Florida property insurance crisis.

Public Adjusters Decry Florida Citizens New Plan That Keeps Their Names Off Checks

In the long conflict between insurance carriers and public claims adjusters, Floridas Citizens Property Insurance Corp. unexpectedly altered the rules of engagement in a way that could have a big impact on some adjusters livelihood.

And a public adjuster group is mulling a potential legal challenge

Nothing is off the table, and I can confirm that every avenue is being explored, said Nancy Dominguez, managing director of the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA).

She was referring to the associations recourse after a recent decision by Citizens officials to no longer include adjusters as co-payees on insurance claims payouts.

In October, FAPIA and a national association of public adjusters filed suit against a surplus lines insurer over endorsements that essentially forbid the use of public adjusters.
Two south Florida injury attorneys, one a former insurance defense counsel, were still missing Monday after their fishing boat was found southwest of Naples with the engine still running.

The FBI has joined the investigation into what may have happened to Randall Spivey, 57, a prominent lawyer in Fort Myers, and his nephew, 33-year-old Brandon Billmaier, of Boca Raton, according to news reports. Spivey led his own firm, specializing in injury and wrongful death suits, and Billmaier was with the Shiner Law Group.

Billmaier previously worked as in-house counsel for an insurance carrier, then at a large defense firm, the Shiner Law website indicates.

The two set out on a fishing trip on the morning of Dec. 19 from the Fort Myers area. They were supposed to return that evening, the Palm Beach Post and other news outlets reported. When they did not check in that night, their wives contacted the U.S. Coast Guard. The Guard and dozens of volunteers searched a large area off southwest Florida.

By midnight Saturday, the Coast Guard had found the boat, named Unstopp-A-Bull, about 70 miles off the coast of Naples. Two life jackets were missing from the boat but the men were not found. Billmaiers wife told news outlets that Coast Guard officials surmised that one of the men fell into the water and the other went in after him, not realizing the motor was still running, the U.S. Sun and Gulf Coast News Now reported.

The Coast Guard suspended the search Monday evening.

The unusual circumstances and FBI involvement have led to widespread speculation on social media, with some suggesting that foul play or foreign interests were involved.

Spivey earned his bachelors degree from the University of South Florida and his law degree from Loyola University. He was board-certified in civil trial law, was a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and was known for a number of large jury verdicts over the last two decades, his firms web page indicates.

In 2013, Floridas 2nd District Court of Appeal upheld a $3 million verdict against State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance after a schoolteacher was severely injured in a car crash, the Naples Daily News reported at the time. The teacher had sought the $2 million policy limit on his underinsured motorist policy, but State Farm offered $190,000.

Billmaier, born in Ohio, obtained his bachelors degree and law degree from the University of Toledo. After graduation, he worked for a number of years for an insurance company and then for a large insurance defense law firm, the Shiner website noted.

In a statement, the Shiner Law Group said the firm members are saddened by the disappearance, and noted that Billmaier is a valued member of the firm and a great lawyer, the Palm Beach Post reported.

Top photo: The Naples shoreline (AdobeStock)

Topics Florida
John Parker Campbell describes the wild pigs on his family farm as a constant headache.

Hogs will eat up corn and peanuts that have just been planted, damaging acres of crops in a night. Some years the hog damage is worse than others but it has been a problem since his father started farming in Copiah County in the 1990s.

In Mississippi, wild hogs create around $60 million to $80 million in damage every year, including eating crops and damaging property. Farmers, researchers, the state and the federal government are trying to fight the infestation, but its a never-ending battle for landowners.

Farmers have enough stress as it is. They dont need this modern-day locust, said Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson

Campbell and his father use traps and have an electric fence around their property to keep the hogs out. The fence has been effective, although the feral pigs have broken through parts of it before. However, it was expensive to initially put up and costs thousands of dollars each year to maintain.

You have to know that theyre out there, said Campbell. We keep an eye on our fields but you can get busy and then go a couple days without looking and they can just do a tremendous amount of damage.

The wild hog population has grown over the past 40 years, not just in Mississippi, but across the United States. In the 1980s they lived in 17 states, now they can be found in 35. Previously, it was thought they cost the U.S. $2 billion a year but new research indicates that number is actually over $3 billion.

Wild pigs are not native to the United States. The first population was escaped livestock brought to the Americas by European settlers. Later, Eurasian boars were imported for hunting and joined the wild hog population. With no natural predators and plenty of land, water and food, their numbers have grown.

While some owners successfully deterred pigs by using electric fences, the only way to manage the larger population is by killing the hogs.

Mississippi was the first state to launch a statewide wild hog-control program in 2020. The program provides education and traps to landowners.

The program operates with a budget of $183,000 a year which mainly goes to staff salaries and maintenance of smart traps and cameras. The program has four application cycles with each cycle receiving between 35 and 40 applications.

There are a number of ways to reduce the pig population, including using traps, aerial gunning and poison. While wild hogs are considered nuisance animals and can be hunted year round, hunting is relatively ineffective at controlling the larger population.

Aerial gunning in Mississippi is only used by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It also has limited use as the pigs can easily run into the trees for cover, whereas in places like Texas, there is more open and flat land. While there is ongoing research into the use of poisons, including contraceptives, its challenging to make sure that other animals dont eat them.

Trapping is one of the most common methods and is preferred as it requires less time and effort than other methods. A new study from Mississippi State University looked at the economic benefits of trapping.

The average landowner in the study had an estimated $20,000 in hog damages per year. It showed that reducing a local pig population can lead to less damage and $300-$4,000 in savings per pig the next year for land owners. But combating the wild hog problem is an expensive and constant battle.

The study involved intense, dedicated hog removal through Delta Wildlife, a conservation nonprofit.

Jody Acosta, Delta Wildlifes nuisance-and invasive-species program manager, and his team set up and monitor traps around the Delta. While the team is experienced and knowledgeable, Acosta is clear that the job is not about the glory of hunting but about pest management.

Some of the trap doors will only close when a Delta Wildlife team member remotely pushes a button. So they work around the clock, often late at night, checking the live video feed of the traps. Once they successfully trap a group of pigs, a Delta Wildlife worker quickly makes their way to the trap so they can dispose of the pigs and reset the trap.

The study estimates that it would cost a land owner about $200 per pig if they outsourced every part of trapping. Strickland, one of the studys authors, acknowledges that its absolutely a big number but says that the average landowner would likely pay less. Despite the initial sticker shock, Strickland said the study shows that pig removal results in a positive return on investment and that government programs are economically viable.

Long term, Strickland thinks its possible to reduce the wild pig population through a concerted effort and investment. He urges farmers and landowners to take wild pigs seriously even if theres only a few on their property at the moment.

The problem will only get worse and worse, said Strickland.

___

This story was originally published by Mississippi Today and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press. Katherine Lin reported.

Photo: AdobeStock

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Agribusiness Mississippi
Californias wildfire and homeowners insurance crisis were the most read stories in Insurance Journals Western region this year.

It was a year that saw several major insurers draw back from writing homeowners policies in the state, prompting the states insurance regulator to alter Californias bedrock property/casualty insurance law and offer to fast-track rate hikes. In exchange, insurers agreed to write in riskier parts of the state and consider returning to offering coverage in the stricken state.

It makes sense that wildfire and affordability stories were among the most read in a year began with historic wildfires in Los Angeles, which cost numerous carriers billions of dollars. According to Swiss Re, the L.A. wildfires produced the costliest wildfire event globally with insured losses of $40 billion.

Following were the most popular stories in the region in 2025 (most but not all were on California wildfires):

Will Californias FAIR Plan Have Enough Cash for Its Wildfire Claims?

There was some question about whether Californias insurer of last resort  the FAIR Plan  had enough cash on hand to pay for its share of wildfire claims. As surplus is inadequate and reinsurance has a deductible that exceeds available cash, an industry assessment is inevitable, according to a Fitch analyst.

FAIR Plan doesnt have enough surplus for this level of loss  the biggest California wildfire loss to date, Gerald Glombicki, senior director at Fitch Ratings, said in an interview with Insurance Journals L.S. Howard.

A moth later, the insurance commissioner approved the FAIR Plan request for a $1 billion assessment on admitted market insurers to cover claims from the Los Angeles wildfires.

The FAIR Plan reported it has paid more than $914 million to policyholders, including advance payments, to cover claims related to the Palisades and Eaton fires.

Top National Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top East Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Midwest Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top South Central Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top Southeast Region Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

Top International Insurance Journal Stories of 2025

What were the top stories in each region? Glad you asked.

California Wildfires Will Likely Lead to Large Economic and Insured Losses

As the L.A. wildfires blazed in January, readers continued to flock to headlines reporting on the growing losses. Early on in the month, estimates were that more than 1,000 properties had burned, leading J.P. Morgan to estimate insured losses from the wildfires to approach $10 billion, and AccuWeather to deliver a preliminary estimate of more than $50 billion.

The number of properties destroyed topped early fears, and estimates continued to grow.

In the ensuing months, fire lawsuits spread, prompting many to call for sorely needed policy change. And a few of the victims of the wildfires have asked California Gov. Gavin Newsom to call for the resignation of the states insurance commissioner over reforms he pushed that were designed to help ease the states homeowners insurance crisis.

USAA Becomes 3rd Insurer to Report $1B-Plus in Claims So Far for LA Wildfires

By early February, USAA reported it had paid out more than $1 billion for the L.A. wildfires, making it the third insurer to report $1 billion or more in payouts for the destructive blazes that burned thousands of properties.

The company, among the states top homeowners insurers, announced at the time that 86% of wildfire claims have received initial payments to date. The San Antonio, Texas-based company then reported more than 3,500 claims received, and projected it will ultimately pay out $1.8 billion in losses from the wildfires.

Several big insurers continued to report losses in excess of $1 billion from the fires in ensuing months. Insured and total losses from the January wildfires continue to rise. A report out from at the time had indicated that L.A. wildfire losses could be as high as $164 billion.

California Insurance Commissioner Provisionally OKs State Farms 22% Rate Request

The fires were also followed by rate requests as the states insurance commissioner scrambled to offer quick rate hikes to get insurers to stay.

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara in March provisionally approved State Farms request for a 22% interim homeowners insurance rate hike. State Farm is the largest homeowners insurer in California.

In a statement, State Farm said, Its time for certainty in the California insurance market for our customers. The provisional nature of todays decision does not improve that certainty but its a step in the right direction. We are moving forward with implementing this provisionally approved rate and will continue to work with the California Department of Insurance for a sustainable future for the California insurance market.

The carrier wasnt done asking for rate. And a report from a climate activist group says State Farms rate increases, if approved, would cost the average California homeowner more than $1,000.

State Farm upped its rate request in May, a week after getting the OK for a large rate hike to what the company had originally wanted before being rejected and agreeing to an interim deal for an increase. The wildfire-bitten insurer got approval for a 17% rate increase following billions of dollars in losses from the Los Angeles wildfires and pullback on writing new policies in the state.

Homeowners Suing USAA and AAA Insurers Over LA Wildfires

Some homeowners who lost their homes in the L.A. wildfires filed lawsuits in June against three large carriers over claims payouts they say didnt cover their losses.

The lawsuits, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, say USAA and two AAA affiliated insurers underestimated the replacement cost of their homes and left them underinsured and without enough money to replace or rebuild their homes after the Jan. 7 wildfires.

The lawsuits allege fraud and negligence, and they seek unspecified damages.

Lawsuits against carriers and others over the wildfires have been piling up. A communications contractor for Los Angeles County was blamed in a lawsuit in November for 18 deaths in the Eaton Wildfire over its alleged failure to evacuate residents in the path of the inferno.

Genasys Inc. was accused of digital redlining for failing to send timely warnings to residents of a moderate-income, historically African American neighborhood in Altadena where the fatalities occurred during the wind-whipped blaze that started on Jan. 7, Bloomberg reported.

Washington Senate Passes Restitution, Credit Scoring Study Bills

Other news made it on the list of most read articles beside the wildfires in California.

In Washington, the state Senate in March passed three bills with insurance implications on, including a bill giving the insurance commissioner the authority to order restitution to harmed policyholders and a bill studying the impacts of insurance rating factors like credit scores.

Senate Bill 5331 would give the commissioner the authority to order restitution for harmed policyholders. The commissioner can fine insurance entities that violate the law but cant order them to pay restitution to the people theyve victimized.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Adrian Cortes (D-Battle Ground), also authorizes the commissioner to fine carriers up to $10,000 per violation, rather than issue a total fine of $10,000.

Senate Bill 5589 was introduced by Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer and sponsored by state Sen. Bob Hasegawa, D-Seattle.

Five Charged in Multi-Million-Dollar Insurance Fraud Case

Fraud is often a topic the intrigues Insurance Journal readers.

Five people were charged in April a large-scale insurance fraud scheme involving misrepresented life insurance policies that resulted in fraudulent commissions totaling over $1.4 million.

The five, which include a former insurance agent, reportedly fraudulently obtained more than $1.4 million in commissions by manipulating more than $2 million in insurance premiums from 28 consumers.

More recently, readers took at a story on four people who were convicted of felony insurance fraud and assault for faking an auto collision that involved a rideshare driver in San Bernardino, California.

According to the CDI, during the incident, the suspects reportedly ordered a rideshare, and as they were riding, one suspect drove his vehicle into the rideshare vehicle. The plan was to take advantage use the rideshare drivers insurance and submit bodily injury claims to collect the insurance payout.

Tesla Slumps Below 50% Share of Californias Electric Car Market

Tesla lost some ground in California this year, where the sleek EV cars have become almost ubiquitous in recent years.

In a state that accounts for nearly a third of all zero-emission vehicle purchases in the U.S. The companys share of EV sales in the state fell to 43.9% in the first quarter, from 55.5% a year ago, according to the California New Car Dealers Association. Tesla registrations dropped 15%, but sales of all other EVs increased 35% early this year, according to Bloomberg.

Tesla sales may have slumped, but readers still ate up news about the carmaker, with several articles on Tesla garnering large audience engagement.

A California regulator in December deferred an order for Tesla to suspend sales in California, giving the EV maker time to address an accusation of misleading marketing and overstating self-driving capabilities.

The Department of Motor Vehicles ordered the suspension of Teslas manufacturing and sales licenses for 30 days, adopting a judges proposals, but immediately put it on hold, Reuters reported.

Oregon OSHA Fines Manufacturer for Workplace Safety Violations

OSHA-related news is another big topic with the Insurance Journal audience.

In late December, an Oregon company was charged with intentionally keeping a faulty system in place for storing raw materials, exposing employees to struck-by and crushing hazards, according to the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division.

According to Oregon OSHA, Avalon International Aluminum, a maker of metal door and window framing, willfully violated a safety rule by refusing to follow the installation and maintenance requirements set by the manufacturer of its industrial storage racks.

As a result of the decision, hundreds of pounds of raw materials sat unanchored on cantilever storage racks, some with damaged or upside-down baseplates, rising as high as 18 feet. The situation left employees, who reached the raw materials by hand and forklift, exposed to potential bodily harm, according to Oregon OSHA.

California Man Wins $50M in Lawsuit Over Burns From Starbucks Tea

A delivery driver in March won $50 million in a lawsuit after being seriously burned when a Starbucks drink spilled in his lap at a California drive-through, according to the Associated Press.

A Los Angeles County jury found for Michael Garcia, who underwent skin grafts and other procedures on his genitals after a venti-sized tea drink spilled instants after he collected it on Feb. 8, 2020. He has suffered permanent and life-changing disfigurement, according to his attorneys.

The negligence suit blamed the injuries on Starbucks, saying that an employee didnt wedge the scalding-hot tea firmly enough into a takeout tray.

Lawsuits over wildfires, ridesharing issues and of course Teslas were other popular related pieces. The family of one of three college students who died in a Cybertruck crash in California filed a lawsuit in a bid to gain access to the Tesla pickup and better understand how their daughter died. The driver and two passengers were killed while they were on Thanksgiving break in late November when the vehicle ran into a tree on a residential street and caught fire, Bloomberg reported.

Top photo: The Pacific Palisades Fire. Source: CalFire.
Recently, Animal Health Ireland (AHI) was honoured for its technical excellence and innovation by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

AHI was recognised in the category of Sustainable Livestock Transformation, One Health, Animal Health, and Reference Centres' at a recent FAO ceremony, held in Rome. The prestigious event was recently part of the FAOs 80th anniversary celebrations and the World Food Forum.
Ireland should welcome migrants to support the economy into the future, thereby avoiding a vicious circle where we dont have enough workers to sustain the State, a new government report has said.

The National Economic and Social Council (NESC), an advisory body to the Taoiseach and Government, said that Ireland is undergoing significant demographic shifts and must adapt soon in what is set to be a decisive decade in the countrys future.

Demographic change is inevitable, but it does not have to be destabilising, the councils policy analyst Grainne Collins said.

It is a signal to plan ahead to create the country we want to live in. By acting now, we ensure that future generations inherit a social model that is resilient, sustainable, and genuinely inclusive.

Fall in childbirths

Ms Collins said that Ireland has already passed two significant turning points, peak baby in 2010 and peak child in 2024, which reflects a sharp and sustained fall in births.

This fall means that Irelands population will peak in around three decades time, bringing with it an ageing population and puts us at risk of the vicious cycle where we dont have enough workers and tax revenue to support this population.

To combat these risks, we should shift to a virtuous cycle by supporting birth rates, increasing participation in the labour force, and reconfiguring the health system to support early intervention and community interventions.

It also calls for fiscal prudence to make sure the country has enough funds to meet the demands it will face in the future. The report said:

Building resilience means developing a stronger framework for long-term budgeting, investing in productive infrastructure, and managing public finances in a way that smooths expenditure pressures over time.

Fiscal preparation is not only about saving more, but also about spending wisely, directing resources toward prevention, innovation, and policies that reduce future liabilities.

It said that fertility may be stabilised through policies that support the creation of families such as affordable childcare and housing, sufficient parental leave, and income and welfare policies that de-risk family formation.

The report called migration a key lever to replenish the workforce as our population ages but the success of this depends on housing, services, and inclusive integration policies. It said:

Migration can only ever be a complement to, but cannot substitute for, domestic fertility or workforce participation strategies, it said.

Pressure will therefore be on Government to lead the way and present a vision of Ireland as a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable society, according to the report.

Ms Collins said that the country too often looks at population change in the rear-view mirror and that we need to become better at modelling and anticipating changes to ensure were prepared for them.

Her colleague, NESC director Larry OConnell added: Long-term planning is therefore essential as we confront these profound shifts.
Cartoonist Harry Burton, who drew widespread attention with a recent piece criticising Israels participation in next years Eurovision Song Contest, said allowing Israel to compete despite its genocide in Gaza is wrong and that in fact it should be banned from all cultural and sporting events.

The European Broadcasting Union's Dec. 4 decision to allow Israel to compete in next years Eurovision in Vienna has sparked a backlash across the continent. Citing Israel's deadly attacks on Palestinians and the ongoing attacks and famine in Gaza, national broadcasters of Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Iceland have all announced that they would withdraw from the contest in protest. Other countries could follow.
Although the Government presents scrapping the triple lock as a purely technical matter, it has become the subject of heated public debate with many seeing it as an attempt to hollow out Irelands neutrality.

In response, communities across the country are finding ways to voice democratic opposition to the Governments plans via county councils. This development not only indicates the depth of public commitment to neutrality, but it also highlights important issues about the nature and limits of Irish democracy.

In January 2025, an Ireland Thinks poll showed that an overwhelming majority of the Irish public support neutrality, with 75% of respondents saying "yes" to maintaining the current policy. Yet, the Government is determined to implement a fundamental shift in foreign and defence policy by scrapping the triple lock  a measure which would abandon neutrality in all but name.

The triple lock, which requires a UN mandate, a Dail vote, and the backing of the Government to deploy more than 12 Irish Defence Forces personnel overseas is in effect a legal guarantee of neutrality which is not  as many believe  written into the Constitution.

The triple lock was introduced by successive Irish governments in order to persuade the Irish public to vote for the Nice and Lisbon treaties, both of which were rejected in referenda due to concerns about Ireland joining EU military alliances. Repeat referendums secured positive votes after government commitments to ensure the triple lock would be respected.

President Catherine Connolly at Dublin Castle after her inauguration inspects the guard of honour by the Defence Forces. File Picture: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

The Government is currently progressing the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2025 through the legislative process towards a vote in the Dail and the Seanad. The bill would scrap the triple lock, despite the commitments given by past governments to secure public ascent to the Nice and Lisbon treaties.

If passed, the legislation would remove the requirement for a UN mandate to send troops overseas, leaving the decision with the Dail and the Government alone.

Indeed, the government of the day would have latitude to deploy over 50 troops overseas without Dail oversight.

The Government is no doubt keen to pass the legislation before Ireland takes up the rotating presidency of the EU Council in July 2026, and the minister of foreign affairs, trade, and defence, Helen McEntee, has noted that a Dail vote is likely to take place in early 2026.

At present, it appears the Government could muster a majority to pass the bill even if opposition parties are united in rejecting it. However, popular pressure is growing against the legislation at local council level.

Neutrality votes in local councils

Over the last eight months, a number of local councils have passed motions in favour of keeping the triple lock  giving democratic voice to popular sentiment.

These votes reflect the impact of a grassroots movement that has emerged to raise awareness about the Governments intention to remove the triple lock and what it means for Irish neutrality.

The Neutrality Roadshow, an independent political education campaign that has been travelling the length and breadth of the country since May and speaking to local communities about the need to mobilise to protect neutrality, has been central in galvanising this upsurge of local democracy.

Local neutrality groups have sprung up in Louth, Roscommon, and Tipperary to push for council motions on the triple lock in the wake of roadshow events.

In other cases, local councillors have been galvanised by attending these meetings themselves.

So far, eight county councils have passed motions in support of the triple lock  Cavan, Derry-Strabane, Donegal, Dublin South, Louth, Mayo, Mid-Ulster, and Wexford  with motions under discussion in Dublin Central, Dun LaoghaireRathdown, and Limerick.

These motions have been led and seconded by Independents and a variety of opposition parties such as Sinn Fein, People Before Profit, and Aontu.

It is no surprise that votes in favour of the government position have largely come from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael.

However, cracks have become visible between the parliamentary parties and their local councillors, with representatives from both parties voting against the Government in some cases

In Wexford, for example, the councils Fianna Fail chair, Joe Sullivan, broke rank with his party to cast the deciding vote in favour of the motion.

Speaking on South East Radio News, Sullivan said: I voted with my heart and my conscience  I genuinely believe the triple lock has served this country well and should be retained, not just for political or legal reasons, but for the protection of our Defence Forces going forward.

Sullivan noted that he didnt want to have any hand, act, or part in anyone losing their life in foreign service because of a vote he cast.

This wasnt about politics, he said, but about principleI believe in doing whats right, not just whats expected by the party.

Sullivans decision to break with Fianna Fails position as a matter of principle is significant, and it shows the potential for gaps to widen on this matter between government parties and their local support bases across the country, particularly in counties far from Leinster House.

Polling indicates that a majority of all Dail parties voters support maintaining neutrality.

Even 62% of Fine Gael voters are in favour of maintaining the current policy on neutrality, despite the party traditionally being the most skeptical towards it.

Neutrality has historically been associated with Fianna Fail, given Eamon de Valeras defence of the stance during the Second World War and Frank Aikens time as foreign minister in the 1950s and 1960s.

When Micheal Martin claimed in the Dail in 2013 that the triple lock was the core of Irelands neutrality, it was fully in keeping with his partys tradition. However, he is now determined to betray it.

Lively debate and democratic contestation

Council motions on protecting the triple lock have been driven by local grassroots campaigns in a number of cases.

For example, the Louth Neutrality Network and the Tipperary Neutrality Network each produced petitions opposing the Governments proposed legislation, and they garnered more than 1,000 signatures each.

In Louth, Sinn Fein councillor Antoin Watters brought forward the motion after receiving the petition from "concerned citizens," arguing that although Ireland is a small country "we have been able to punch above our weight" in UN peacekeeping due to neutrality.

The motion was then amended by Independent councillor Kevin Callan to insist that "in the event of any action by this or any future government to endeavour to abolish or amend the triple lock, that the matter be put to the people of Ireland by way of a referendum".

Likewise, in Tipperary, Independent councillor Jim Ryan cited a petition of 1,000 signatures as the impetus for this motion calling on the Government to withdraw the controversial Defence Bill.

Despite this widespread popularity, five councils have now voted against motions on the triple lock  Leitrim, Sligo, Galway City Council, Galway County Council, and Tipperary.

The last three votes have taken place in the last two months, indicating that the government parties have organised themselves to block them.

The vote in Galway City Council was unsuccessful despite significant grassroots support. In October, an initial attempt to debate a motion proposed by Sinn Fein councillors was blocked on the basis of a technicality.

The chairperson claimed the motion was not within the remit of the council. In response, a public campaign was mounted to demand councillors take the motion to vote.

A group of activists from the Galway Alliance Against War group staged a protest in the municipal offices as the council met. The motion was allowed to come before the council in November, but was rejected  in part due to the absence of councillors supposedly committed to neutrality.

Interestingly, three councillors from Fianna Fail and one from Fine Gael voted in favour of the motion  again pointing to discrepancies of position between the parliamentary party and base of both government parties.

Cork Neutrality League protest at the Consultative Forum On International Security Policy, at UCC, Cork, in June. File Picture: Jim Coughlan

The most recent vote was in Tipperary in early December. The debate in the council chamber became so heated that proceedings had to be temporarily suspended so cooler heads could prevail.

Independent councillor Jim Ryan and Sinn Fein councillors David Dunne and Annemarie Ryan-Shiner brought similar motions calling for a referendum on the triple lock.

Fine Gael councillors Declan Burgess and John Fitzgerald introduced an amendment asking for extensive and additional pre-legislative scrutiny and public engagement".

This amended motion was carried 18 to 14 (with eight councillors missing), despite the bill already having cleared pre-legislative scrutiny.

Local government and all-island opposition

The council votes on neutrality highlight the democratic deficit in Ireland, serving as another example of how local concerns are often lost due to centralisation in Ireland.

Whilst councils are principally a platform to address local issues, this upsurge in local democracy indicates how important neutrality is at a local level as much as national.

It is possible that concerns around neutrality may be heightened in areas where the Defence Forces are a major employer, and where troops welfare is of direct consequence.

Ireland is one of the most centralised states in Europe with only limited powers being devolved to city and county level authorities.

Centralisation has always been a characteristic of the Irish State, but governments have been gradually stripping local authorities of power for decades

This has rendered Irish councils weak with restricted capabilities relative to local government in other countries across Europe.

One of the most important consequences is the denial of a diverse set of channels for democratic contestation and control.

Although the Irish State is often praised for having a strong and healthy democracy, the reality is that there are very few actual democratic mechanisms available to the Irish public  and they are often ignored by the Government when convenient.

Notably, over the last decade, citizens assemblies have been used to inform governments about popular opinion and voter sentiment on a range of topical issues that deserve strategic consultation.

However, they have no official role in setting policy, and governments have failed to act on the recommendations of previous assemblies.

For example, the results of a 2023 citizens assembly on implementing a directly elected mayor of Dublin were ignored, demonstrating governments willingness to ignore what processes "owned by citizens" have recommended.

The passage of motions defending the triple lock by councils in Northern Ireland, including Derry-Strabane and Mid-Ulster, indicate that the desire to protect Irish neutrality is a concern shared by people across the island.

This suggests that foreign and defence policy, and the maintenance of neutrality in particular, may well become key to any future unification debate.

This is already reflected in growing debate in British policy circles where a united Ireland is framed as a strategic threat to British security.

Popular opposition and democracy at stake

The popular will expressed through local councils suggests that a referendum on neutrality would be the most democratic pathway to deciding on any fundamental change to defence and foreign policy.

The democratic legitimacy of removing the triple lock is particularly important because it will allow Ireland to become party to international conflicts, putting the lives of troops at risk overseas and dramatically increasing the risk of attack at home.

Indeed, over recent years, opposition parties have proposed legislation to strengthen neutralitys place in the constitution.

In 2022, People Before Profit introduced a private member bill to enshrine neutrality in the constitution. Similarly, Sinn Fein introduced a motion in the Dail in 2023 proposing a citizens assembly to draft wording on neutrality for a constitutional amendment and a referendum on changes to the triple lock.

The Social Democrats introduced a motion to the Dail calling for a plebiscite on retaining the triple lock earlier this year. All were defeated by the Government

During a Dail debate in February, Simon Harris repeatedly stated that there was no reason to hold a referendum or a citizens assembly on neutrality, as it was not in the Constitution and because the Government holds a democratic mandate to alter the triple lock.

Notably both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail pledged to preserve and protect and promote Irelands military neutrality in their 2024 election manifestos.

Arguably, therefore, their democratic mandate is based on maintaining neutrality, even if their other manifesto pledges on defence were set to undermine this.

It seems clear that the Government is determined to limit democratic participation around neutrality, no doubt because they are aware of the nature and strength of public opinion on the matter.

Instead, citizens were offered the meagre mirage of "consultation" represented by 2023s consultative forum which was, in effect, a propaganda tour for government policy presented as an exercise in participatory democracy.

The Governments unfortunate attempts to limit democratic oversight over fundamental matters of state raise serious questions not only about the democratic commitments of this Government, but about the robustness of Irelands democratic institutions as such.

It is in this context that these council motions are so significant, demonstrating as they do a popular desire for democratic control over neutrality and real democratic oversight over foreign and defence policy.

In an era where faith in democracy is in precipitous decline, it is ever more important for the Irish State to strengthen democratic participation rather than erode the already weak channels available.
Donald Trump said he thinks he has the makings of a deal to end the war between Russia and Ukraine as he headed into talks in Florida with Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

I think both presidents want to make a deal, the US leader told reporters as he greeted the Ukrainian president outside his Mar-a-Lago resort.

He added: I do believe that we have the makings of a deal thats good for Ukraine, good for everybody.

He insisted Russian leader Vladimir Putin, who he spoke to earlier in the day, is very serious about peace, despite Moscow launching attacks on Kyiv ahead of the Florida meeting.

Mr Trump said he and Mr Zelenskyy also expect to speak with European leaders and that he will call Mr Putin back after the meetings.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has questioned whether Russia wants peace, after Kyiv faced a barrage of missiles on Saturday (PA)

Mr Zelenskyy, who Mr Trump praised as very brave, said territorial concessions will be discussed in Florida. They have so far been a red line for his country.

He said 90% of the 20-point draft proposal is done after talks between his and Mr Trumps negotiators.

Mr Trump said the deal could bring great economic benefits for Ukraine and talks are in the final stages, but he does not have a deadline to conclude them.

There will be a strong security agreement, with European nations very much involved, he said, but whether to return frozen Russian assets or use them to support Ukraine has not been determined.

The Ukrainian president said he had spoken to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to prepare for the meeting.

He thanked Sir Keir for the constant co-ordination after speaking to him in a detailed phone call ahead of the talks.

Sir Keir reaffirmed the UKs unwavering support for Ukraine in the call, while both welcomed ongoing diplomatic efforts and the US presidents continued engagement in securing peace, Downing Street said.

Mr Zelenskyy said in post on X: These are some of the most active diplomatic days of the year right now, and a lot can be decided before the New Year.

He had stopped in Canada to meet Prime Minister Mark Carney on his way to the US talks, and spoke with European allies on Saturday.

Mr Trump meanwhile said he had a good and very productive call with Mr Putin on Sunday morning.

It comes after Russia launched missile and drone attacks on Kyiv a day ahead of the talks, which Mr Zelenskyy said really shows that Putin doesnt want peace.

The talks in Florida are the latest stage in Mr Trumps year-long effort to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine, having previously said he would end the war on the first day of his term in office.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has again reaffirmed the UKs unwavering support for Ukraine (PA)

Mr Zelenskyy has said the draft peace plan includes a US commitment to provide guarantees mirroring the Nato alliances Article 5, which means an attack on Ukraine would trigger a collective military response from the US and its allies.

But key details are still to be worked out, with territorial concessions the most sensitive of the issues the two leaders will discuss.

On Christmas Eve, Mr Zelenskyy said the US and Ukraine had reached a consensus on a number of critical issues, and indicated he was open to creating a demilitarised zone on his countrys eastern border with Russia.

But he has continued to resist Russian demands that Ukraine gives up two of its eastern regions, Luhansk and Donetsk.

Russia is also likely to object to a role for Nato forces in monitoring a ceasefire, which European leaders including Sir Keir and French President Emmanuel Macron have said must form part of any deal.

Other European demands include allowing Ukraine to maintain a peacetime military of 800,000 troops and to join the EU, while the US has reportedly offered unspecified security guarantees.
Donald Trump has said a deal to end the war in Ukraineis closer than ever but has admitted that thorny questions over the future of the eastern Donbas region have yet to be resolved, after a two-hour meeting on Sunday with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida.

Mr Trump said a draft agreement to end the war was nearly 95% done. I really think we are closer than ever with both sides, he said, adding that the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, also wants to see it happen.

The US president acknowledged there were one or two tough outstanding issues, over territory and how the war might end and expressed sympathy with Russia not wanting a ceasefire. You have to understand the other side, he said.

He also offered to travel to Kyiv to address Ukraines parliament ahead of a possible vote on a peace plan, saying he thought this would probably not be necessary. You are welcome always, Mr Zelenskyy interjected.

Zelenskyy repeatedly thanked Trump and paid tribute to his US team, including the presidents envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Despite the positive optics, there were few signs that a genuine agreement was imminent. When asked about the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station  occupied since the start of Russias 2022 full-scale invasion  Mr Trump gave a confused answer and said Putin was no longer bombing it.

President Donald Trump meets with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago club, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. Picture: AP Photo/Alex Brandon

The meeting took place just hours after Mr Trump held a lengthy phone call with Russias president.

The two leaders want it to end, Mr Trump said, adding: I think we can move pretty rapidly. Otherwise, its going to go on for a very long time. Mr Trump praised Mr Zelenskyy, saying: This gentleman has worked very hard, and is very brave, and his people are very brave. He added: I do think we have the makings of a deal. We have two willing countries. We are in the final stages of talking.

Speaking to reporters, the two leaders discussed the latest iteration of a 20-point peace plan and the unresolved question of the future of Ukraines eastern Donbas region. Standing next to Mr Trump, Mr Zelenskyy said US and Ukrainian negotiators had made good progress in recent weeks with 90% of the draft agreed.

Writing on Truth Social before the meeting, Mr Trump described his one-hour-15-minute call with Putin as good and very productive. Asked if Mr Putin was serious about peace, Trump replied: I think he is.

There were no signs, however, that Russia was willing to drop any of its maximalist demands. According to Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov, Mr Trump listened carefully on Sunday to Russias assessment of the conflict. Both sides agreed that a ceasefire proposed by Ukraine and Europe would only prolong the fighting and is fraught with renewed hostilities, Mr Ushakov said.

Mr Trump greeted Mr Zelenskyy on the steps of his residence and offered him a businesslike handshake. There was no hug. US officials did not meet Zelenskyy when he arrived at Palm Beach International Airport, in contrast to the red carpet reception given to Mr Putin by an applauding Trump at their summit in August in Alaska.

A man walks from a house destroyed after a Russian strike on Kyiv, Ukraine, on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025. Picture: AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka

One former Ukrainian diplomat, Maria Drutska, said Mr Putin was trying to sabotage things by ringing Trump before he saw Zelenskyy. During their previous meeting in October in the White House, Mr Trump rowed back on the delivery of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine after a similar call to Moscow.

Mr Putin wants Ukraine to hand over territory in the north of Donetsk oblast that his forces have been unable to capture. Mr Zelenskyys counter-proposal envisages a demilitarised zone, with both sides withdrawing from the line of contact. The plan could be put to a referendum, provided Moscow first agrees to a ceasefire lasting from 60 to 90 days.

But fundamental problems remain, including the issue of security guarantees to prevent Russia from attacking again. Mr Trump has made no military commitment to defend Ukraine. The original 28-point US plan was presented in November after talks with Russia and, in effect, demanded Ukraines capitulation.

Speaking alongside Canadas prime minister, Mark Carney, on Saturday in the wake of another large-scale air attack on Kyiv by Russia, Mr Zelenskyy described the onslaught as Russias answer to our peace efforts. The Ukrainian president said to Mr Carney: We need two things, pressure on Russia and sufficient strong support for Ukraine.

Ukraines capital was hit by more than 500 drones and ballistic missiles on Friday night and Saturday. The 12-hour attack killed four people and left half a million without power. Mr Carney called the bombardment barbaric. A willing Russia was necessary to create conditions for a just and lasting peace, he said.

Mr Trump declined to condemn the latest strikes on Kyiv and did not acknowledge that Russia  unlike, in his view, Ukraine  had deliberately targeted civilians. I believe Ukraine has made some very strong attacks also. I dont say that negatively. You probably have to, he said, speaking outside his estate.

President Donald Trump greets Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago club, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. Picture: AP Photo/Alex Brandon

Sundays Mar-a-Lago talks were a moment of high risk for Mr Zelenskyy. In a recent interview with the Guardian, Ukraines leader said he wasnt afraid of the mercurial US president because both of them had a democratic mandate.

In February, Trump and the US vice-president, JD Vance, berated Mr Zelenskyy in a bruising session at the White House. Subsequent meetings have gone better, including at the Vatican in April, and at the White House in October, when Zelenskyy was flanked by European leaders, including Keir Starmer.

Ukrainian officials have worked hard to repair relations with a Russia-leaning White House, while coordinating closely with European allies.

Mr Zelenskyy said he called Starmer on Sunday, informing him about the frontline situation and the consequences of Russian strikes. Mr Trump said European leaders would join Sundays talks through a video conference link from Mar-a-Lago.

The Ukrainian delegation included Rustem Umerov, the head of Ukraines national security and defence council, the first deputy foreign minister, Sergiy Kyslytsya, and Ukraines new ambassador to Washington, Olha Stefanishyna. Mr Witkoff and Mr Kushner joined from the US side, as well as the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, Susie Wiles, the presidents chief of staff, and Gen Dan Caine, the chair of the joint chiefs of staff.

Mr Zelenskyy described the meeting with Trump as a bilateral meeting mostly focused on US-Ukraine issues. Key topics include security guarantees from the US and Europe, the military situation and the sequence for implementing agreements.

Rescue workers clear the rubble at the roof of apartment building damaged after a Russian strike on Kyiv, Ukraine, on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025. Picture: AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka

On Sunday, Russias defence ministry said its forces had seized five settlements in eastern and southern Ukraine, including Myrnohrad near the eastern city of Pokrovsk and Huliaipole in the Zaporizhzhia region. The announcement before the Florida talks appeared designed to send a message to Mr Trump that Russias victory in Donbas is inevitable.

Russian forces have been advancing, but they have also suffered setbacks. In recent weeks, Ukraines defence forces have clawed back control over much of the city of Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region, after its infiltration by small groups of Russian infantry. Ukraine dismissed Moscows latest claims and said its defences were holding.

Its military said it hit the Syzran oil refinery in Russias Samara region in an overnight drone attack. The damage was still being assessed, it added. Three civilians were wounded after Russian drone and missile attacks in the Kharkiv region, Ukraines national police said.

With Mr Trump unwilling to pressure Russia, observers expect the nearly four-year-old full-scale war to continue.

The fundamental flaw in the current diplomatic push is the absence of the aggressor at the negotiating table, Yuriy Boyechko, the founder of the charity Hope for Ukraine, said.

He added: Peace is not achieved by one side agreeing to terms with a third party; it requires the principal belligerent, Vladimir Putin, to commit to a ceasefire and withdrawal. As long as Russia is actively launching its heaviest attacks in months, it is signalling that it has no intention of honouring a deal it did not sign.

-The Guardian
US President Donald Trump warned Iran against reconstituting its nuclear programme as he welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his home in Florida for wide-ranging talks.

The warning comes after Mr Trump has insisted that Tehrans nuclear capabilities were completely and fully obliterated by US strikes on key nuclear enrichment sites in June.

But Israeli officials have been quoted in local media expressing concern about Iran rebuilding its supply of long-range missiles capable of striking Israel.

US President Donald Trump and Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are seated before a luncheon at his Mar-a-Lago club (Alex Brandon/AP)

Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, Mr Trump told reporters soon after Mr Netanyahu arrived at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

And if they are, were going to have to knock them down.

Well knock them down. Well knock the hell out of them. But hopefully thats not happening.

Iran has insisted that it is no longer enriching uranium at any site in the country, trying to signal to the West that it remains open to potential negotiations over its atomic programme.

But Mr Netanyahu was expected to discuss with Mr Trump the need to potentially take new military action against Tehran just months after launching a 12-day war on Iran.

Mr Trump criticised Iran anew for not making a deal to completely disarm its nuclear programme ahead of the US and Israeli strikes earlier this year.

They wish they made that deal, Mr Trump said.

Mr Netanyahus visit also comes at another critical moment in Gaza as Mr Trump looks to create fresh momentum for the US-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire that is in danger of stalling before reaching the complicated second phase of the agreement.

US President Donald Trump greets Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Alex Brandon/AP)

Mr Trump, with Mr Netanyahu by his side, said he wants to get to the second phase as quickly as we can.

But there has to be a disarming of Hamas, Mr Trump added.

Before his talks with Mr Trump, Mr Netanyahu met separately with US secretary of state Marco Rubio and defence secretary Pete Hegseth.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that Mr Trump championed has mostly held, but progress has slowed recently.

Both sides accuse each other of violations, and divisions have emerged among the US, Israel and Arab countries about the path forward.

The truces first phase began in October, days after the two-year anniversary of the initial Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people.

All but one of the 251 hostages taken then have been released, alive or dead.

The Israeli leader has signalled he is in no rush to move forward with the next phase as long as the remains of Ran Gvili are still in Gaza.

US President Donald Trump speaks before a luncheon with Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Alex Brandon/AP)

Mr Gvilis parents met with Mr Netanyahu as well as Mr Rubio, US envoy Steve Witkoff and the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, in Florida on Monday.

The Gvilis are expected to meet with Mr Trump later in the day, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group that advocates for families of abductees of the October 7 2023 attack.

Theyre waiting for their son to come home, Mr Trump said of the family of the young police officer known affectionately as Rani.

The family, according to the group, is looking to ensure there will be no transition to Phase 2 of the agreement until Hamas fulfils its Phase 1 commitments and returns Ran home.

Trumps 20-point plan  which was approved by the UN Security Council  lays out an ambitious vision for ending Hamas rule of Gaza.
By Haian Dukhan, Teesside University and Rahaf Aldoughli, Lancaster University

(The Conversation)  The US military launched a wave of strikes against targets in central Syria a week and a half ago, on December 19, in response to an attack on US forces near the ancient city of Palmyra one week earlier. That attack saw a lone Islamic State (IS) gunman kill two US service members and one American civilian at a fortified base in the city.

The perpetrator, whose identity has not yet been released, had recently enlisted in Syrias internal security forces. He had reportedly already attracted suspicion from local security leadership over his possible extremist sympathies.

The attack has exposed deep vulnerabilities within the Syrian transitional governments security architecture. It also illustrates how IS has adapted from being a territory-holding proto-state into an insurgent movement designed to exploit Syrias institutional weaknesses.

When the regime of Bashar al-Assad collapsed in late 2024, Syrias new authorities faced the urgent and daunting task of imposing security across a country strained by institutional collapse and a complex network of competing armed groups. The new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, moved quickly to assemble national security forces.

His government prioritised speed and territorial coverage over comprehensive vetting. Thousands of fighters from diverse former factions were absorbed into new security units in an effort to establish an immediate state presence.

The Palmyra attacker emerged from this process. He was one of roughly 5,000 individuals to be recruited into a desert-region security division. Despite concerns about IS infiltration being raised and the individual concerned being reassigned to guard equipment at the base, the security services were still unable to prevent the attack.

The incident underscores how deeply fragmented Syrias security landscape remains one year after Assad. Kurdish-led forces, tribal and communal militias, armed Druze groups and remnants of former regime networks continue to operate with varying degrees of autonomy in different parts of the country.

This fragmented environment weakens command structures, complicates accountability and creates openings for infiltration by extremist groups. Security sector reform in such a context should be less about rapid centralisation and more about managing a hybrid and uneven security system. This is something the current transition has so far failed to achieve.

Logic of insurgency

While the Syrian transitional government has struggled to consolidate control and secure its territory, IS has been recalibrating its strategy. Having lost its territorial control in Iraq and Syria in 2019, IS has shifted from governing territory to waging a low-visibility insurgency.

Central Syrias geography has helped IS adapt. Syrian state forces have struggled to penetrate the desert areas surrounding Palmyra. These areas offer conditions that favour insurgent mobility and concealment, such as difficult terrain and logistical links to former IS strongholds.

The objective of IS is no longer to rule, but to erode the legitimacy of the Syrian authorities. Its attack in Palmyra fits squarely within this logic, occurring as Syria was deepening cooperation with the US-led international coalition against IS. The groups aim seems to be to disrupt emerging security partnerships and deter further international engagement with Syria.

The Palmyra attack places al-Sharaas government in a strategic bind. International partners like the US expect a professional and reliable security apparatus capable of preventing infiltration and protecting joint operations. And in the aftermath of the attack, the recruitment and vetting procedures of Syrias internal security forces have come under scrutiny.

The US president, Donald Trump, said the attack took place in an area of Syria the interim government doesnt have much control over. Then, a few days later, he added Syria to a list of countries subject to a full US travel ban. Part of Washingtons justification for the move was Syrias continuing security challenges.

At the same time, the government faces significant domestic constraints. Aggressive purges or the abrupt restructuring of security forces risk destabilising the fragile coalition of armed groups upon which the state currently relies to maintain security, manage territorial control and counter possible threats from remnants of the regime.

Its possible that rival power centres such as the Syrian Democratic Forces in the north-east or the Sweida Military Council in the south may also seize on the Palmyra incident to argue that the central government is unfit to exercise exclusive control over security. This would strengthen demands for decentralised or autonomous arrangements.

Moving forward, Syrias transitional authorities will need to perform a difficult balancing act. They will have to accelerate meaningful security reform to satisfy international partners and counter IS, while managing internal power dynamics that remain unsettled and highly sensitive. This tension between reform and survival is precisely what IS seeks to exploit.



Photo of Palmyra, Syria, by Wietse Jongsma on Unsplash

The Palmyra attack is a reminder that the defeat of ISs territorial project did not bring lasting security. Syrias transition now hinges less on battlefield victories than on the slow and contested process of building credible and accountable security institutions.

Until security reform moves beyond emergency measures and tackles the underlying weaknesses in the Syrian security apparatus, attacks like the one in Palmyra are likely to remain a persistent threat both to Syrias stability and its international partnerships.

Haian Dukhan, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, Teesside University and Rahaf Aldoughli, Lecturer in Middle Eastern Politics, Lancaster University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Apollo Silver Corp. (Apollo Silver or the Company) (TSX.V:APGO, OTCQB:APGOF, Frankfurt:6ZF) is pleased to announce that it has upsized its previously announced non-brokered private placement by an additional $2,500,000, to be subscribed for primarily by insiders of the Company, for total aggregate gross proceeds of up to $27,500,000, through the issuance of up to 5,500,000 units (the Units) at a price of $5.00 per Unit (the Upsized Offering).

As previously announced, Mr. Eric Sprott and a fund managed by Jupiter Asset Management (the Jupiter Fund), Apollo Silvers two largest shareholders, are participating in the Upsized Offering, and will each subscribe for 2,500,000 Units of the Company, for combined gross proceeds of $25,000,000. Following completion of the Upsized Offering, the Jupiter Fund will own approximately 12% of Apollo Silvers issued and outstanding common shares, while Eric Sprott will own approximately 9.5%, on an undiluted basis. On a partially diluted basis, each investors ownership interest will increase accordingly.

Each Unit issued pursuant to the Upsized Offering will consist of one common share (a Share) in the capital of the Company and one common Share purchase warrant (a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Share at an exercise price of $7.00 for 24 months from the closing date of the Upsized Offering.

All securities issued in connection with the Upsized Offering will be subject to a four-month hold period from the date of closing. Finders fees may be payable on some or all of the funds raised, in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSXV). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Upsized Offering to fund exploration and development activities across the Companys projects, as well as for general working capital and corporate purposes.

Closing of the Upsized Offering is subject to regulatory approval, including that of the TSXV.

The Upsized Offering is expected to include participation by certain insiders of the Company for an aggregate amount of up to $2,500,000. Such participation constitutes a related party transaction under Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The issuance of securities to insiders will be exempt from the valuation requirement pursuant to section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101, as the Companys shares are not listed on a specified market, and from the minority shareholder approval requirement pursuant to section 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the securities issued to related parties will not exceed twenty-five percent of the Companys market capitalization.

The Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or compliance with the requirements of an applicable exemption therefrom. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Apollo Silver Corp.

Apollo Silver is advancing one of the largest undeveloped primary silver projects in the US. The Calico project hosts a large, bulk minable silver deposit with significant barite credits  a critical mineral essential to the US energy and medical sectors. The Company also holds an option on the Cinco de Mayo Project in Chihuahua, Mexico, which is host to a major carbonate replacement (CRD) deposit that is both high-grade and large tonnage. Led by an experienced and award-winning management team, Apollo Silver is well positioned to advance the assets and deliver value through exploration and development.

Please visit www.apollosilver.com for further information.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ross McElroy

President and CEO

For further information, please contact:

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Telephone: +1 (604) 428-6128

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 Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the expected timing for completion of the Upsized Offering, and the intended use of proceeds from the Upsized Offering. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as anticipate, believe, plan, estimate, expect, potential, target, budget and intend and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof.

Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis, and opinions of the management of the Company made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company as at the date of such information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may have caused actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: risks associated with mineral exploration and development; metal and mineral prices; availability of capital; accuracy of the Companys projections and estimates; realization of mineral resource estimates, interest and exchange rates; competition; stock price fluctuations; availability of drilling equipment and access; actual results of current exploration activities; government regulation; political or economic developments; environmental risks; insurance risks; capital expenditures; operating or technical difficulties in connection with development activities; personnel relations; and changes in Project parameters as plans continue to be refined. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the price of silver, gold and barite; the demand for silver, gold and barite; the ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the timely receipt of any required approvals; the ability to obtain qualified personnel, equipment and services in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the ability to operate in a safe, efficient and effective matter; and the regulatory framework regarding environmental matters, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. 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, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking information contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Companys expected financial and operational performance and the Companys plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
CALGARY, ALBERTA  TheNewswire - December 29, 2025 - Ashley Gold Corp. (CSE: ASHL) (Ashley or the Company) is pleased to announce a key update relating to its Dryden Area exploration focus.

Highlights:

Ashley Gold Corp. signs 2 week exclusive due diligence period on the Tak Patents for an all stock, friendly deal (Exclusivity Period)

The Tak Patents (formerly owned by Lac Minerals/Barrick), covering ~100 hectares, bring historical significance of a 1.5km mineralized corridor that hosts historic high grade and bulk tonnage gold values near surface

Potential to activate a fourth drilling target for the company to pursue, with three main permits in progress or granted; Howie (permitted - core logging completed, cutting commencing) Burnthut Oro Zone (permitted) Alto-Gardnar (pending permit)



President Noah Komavli on the pending deal; As promised, Ashley Gold has positioned 2026 as a pivotal year - building off our efforts in 2025.

This holiday season will be a unique one, with data compilation expected to occur.



Ashleys team will perform due diligence over the holidays, which will lead to a definitive decision on the Tak Patents.

Initial indications from the property show good potential for upside. Ashleys in-house geological team will complete compilation and evaluation of historical data.

CEO Darcy Christian on the Tak; I want to thank Noah for taking the initiative to secure this highly sought after historical mineral property. The proposal of an all stock deal has our companys treasury at the forefront of consideration.

This land compliments the Burnthut project incredibly well, and I look forward to reviewing the historic data provided by the vendor with our team.



Our preliminary review of data that is publicly available has already kicked off and will wrap up over the New Year holiday, which will lead to our decision on the proposed definitive agreement.



Our goal at Ashley has been to prioritize projects with the best potential to generate a resource, leading to inherent value for shareholders.



We expect an update to occur in the first week of January, 2026.

Image 1: Tak Patents, South-West of the Burnthut Project

Historic drilling includes:



Readers are cautioned that results are historic and additionally, due to age, a higher cutoff was used to evaluate the core. Full historic report links are cited in references, detailing wide intervals above current industry cutoffs.



TAK-99-10:

included 2.082 g/t Au over 31.83 m from 3.57-35.40 m, including 11.778 g/t Au over 2.88 from 25.5-25.38 m and 7.632 g/t Au over 1.10 m from 34.3-35.4 m.

TAK-02-06:

assayed 3.08 g/t Au over 7.57 m from 27.27-35.3 m and 7.0 g/t Au over 1.1 m from 81.3-82.4 m.

TAK-02-07:

assayed 3.18 g/t over 8.7 m from 27.7-36.4 m including 8.62 g/t Au over 0.4 m from 27.7-28.2 m, 9.67 g/t Au over 0.8 m from 29.45-30.25 m and 7.57 g/t Au over 1.4 m from 35.0-36.4m.

Target type: Bulk Tonnage Felsic Intrusive Gold

Historic documents outline the geological setting of the Tak Patents, consisting of a large quartz feldspar porphyry hosting stock works of quartz-carbonate veins. Visible gold was noted as being present in and adjacent to the quartz carbonate veins [3, 4].

In Canada, patented land refers to land that has been transferred from public ownership (Crown land) to private ownership through a legal document known as a Crown patent or letters patent. This grant conveys fee simple rights to the recipient, with possible conditions detailed in the issuance.

The Tak Patents have surface rights and mineral rights granted to the owner of the title, subject to the condition that minerals extracted are refined in Canada.

Acquisition

The proposed acquisition is non-arms length, as it is between Ashley Gold Corp. and 1000903966 Ontario Inc., a company under the control and direction of the President of Ashley Gold Corp., Mr. Noah Komavli.



1000903966 Ontario commissioned a title search, and reached out to the land holder to facilitate discussions on behalf of Ashley Gold Corp. The vendor was arms-length and not known to 1000903966 Ontario at the time of contact.



Following negotiations, the vendor agreed to a hard dollar cash amount that exceeded Ashleys liquidity.

Due to a noted increase in staking activity by larger companies in the belt, time was of the essence, 1000903966 Ontario signed for ownership and acquired the patents privately.

Image 2: Tak Patents in Relation to Nexgold Mining Corp. and Kenorland Minerals Ltd.

Proposed Acquisition Price

The property consists of 4 PINs and 1 MLO (Mining License of Occupation), covering ~100 hectares. The purchase price was $190,000.00 CDN plus applicable taxes, land transfer fees, lawyer fees and accounting fees. Of which, 1000903966 Ontario has covered, reflecting in the share issuance amount.

To compensate 1000903966 Ontarios outlay, the proposal includes an issuance of:

3,500,000 shares, subject to statutory hold periods, at the price of close of market on the date of the signing of the Exclusivity Period resolution, Dec 23, 2025.

Proposed Acquisition Transaction

The proposed acquisition will constitute a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101).

The Company will rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as follows:

Exemption from the formal valuation requirement pursuant to section 5.5(a) of MI 61-101; and

Exemption from the minority shareholder approval requirement pursuant to section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 (neither the fair market value of the Asset nor the consideration paid exceeds 25% of the Companys market capitalization).

The independent directors and directors of the Company have reviewed and unanimously approved the exclusivity period while Mr. Komavli declared his interest and abstained from voting, providing proof of cost basis for the purpose of fair remuneration, relative to the agreement. On conclusion of due diligence, with satisfactory outcome, the board will again complete a resolution to authorize the execution of the definitive agreement and the proposed share issuance.

Completion of the transaction remains subject to all necessary approvals of the Canadian Securities Exchange and is expected to close on approval after a definitive agreement is reached.

*References to the Tak Patents:

1)Property description and MDI reference link. Click here to access the link.

2)Triex mapping and sampling (1998). Click here to access the source.

3)Triex drill logs and assays (1999). Click here to access the source

4)Southern Rio drill logs and assays (2002). Click here to access the source.

NI 43-101 Disclosure



The technical information in this news release was prepared and/or reviewed by Darcy Christian, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Christian is registered as a Professional Geoscientist with Engineers Geoscientists of Alberta. Mr. Christian is non-arms length of the company and serves as Director and CEO.



Some results discussed in this document are historical. Ashley Gold Corp. nor the qualified person have performed sufficient work or data verification of the historical data. Historical Ag and Au results from Tak were presented in original documentation as troy oz/short ton and were converted to g/t using conversion of 34.28. Although the historical results may not be reliable, the Company nevertheless believes that they provide an indication of the Project's potential and are relevant for any future exploration program.

ABOUT ASHLEY GOLD CORP.

Ashley Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focussed on acquiring and developing highly prospective gold and polymetallic deposits in Canadas top mining regions. The Companys flagship assets are in the Dryden Area in Ontario with a 100% ownership in Santa-Maria, Burnthut, Howie, Alto-Gardnar claims as well as in British Columbia with the Icefield Portfolio having two highly prospective claim packages.

For more information, please refer to the Companys information available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca), or visit us at www.ashleygoldcorp.com.

Contact Information

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Noah J. Komavli, P.Eng, President, Director

C: (647) 567-9840

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

X: KKomavli

-Or-

Darcy Christian, P.Geo, CEO

C: (587) 777-9072

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Connect With Ashley:

www.ashleygoldcorp.com

X: https://x.com/AshleyGoldCorp

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements which are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, and by their very nature involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on currently available information, Ashley Gold Corp. provides no assurance that actual results will meet managements expectations. Project timelines are highly dependent on future financing. Factors which cause results to differ materially are set out in the Companys documents filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) (www.sedarplus.ca). Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2025) - Zodiac Gold Inc. (TSXV: ZAU) (FSE: K19) ("Zodiac Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Lawrence Lepard to its Board of Directors and Brett Richards to its Advisory Board, effective December 31, 2025.

Mr. Lepard brings more than four decades of investment experience, with a long-standing focus on precious metals, hard assets, and value-oriented capital allocation. He is the Managing Partner of Equity Management Associates, LLC, where he has concentrated on gold, silver, and alternative monetary assets since 2008. Prior to this, Mr. Lepard spent approximately 20 years in venture capital, including as a Partner at Summit Partners and Geocapital Partners, where he was responsible for multiple funds with aggregate commitments exceeding US$200 million.

Mr. Lepard currently serves as a director of Lavras Gold Corp. (TSXV: LGC) (OTCQX: LGCFF) and Cabral Gold Inc. (TSXV: CBR) (OTCQX: CBGZF), providing strategic oversight, capital markets guidance, and long-term value development support to emerging gold companies. He holds an MBA with Academic Distinction from Harvard Business School and a BA in Economics from Colgate University.

David Kol, President & CEO of Zodiac Gold, commented: "Lawrence brings deep capital markets experience and a disciplined, long-term investment perspective that is highly aligned with Zodiac Gold's strategy. His appointment meaningfully strengthens our Board as we advance our exploration portfolio and position the Company for sustainable value creation."

In addition, Brett Richards has been appointed to Zodiac Gold's Advisory Board. Mr. Richards has more than 37 years of senior leadership experience in the global mining and metals sector, with particular depth across West Africa. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Pasofino Gold Ltd. (TSXV: VEIN) (OTCQB: EFRGF) (FSE: N07A).

Mr. Richards has held senior executive and board roles across a number of public mining companies, including Gold X2 Mining Inc., Banro Corporation, Midnight Sun Mining Corp., African Thunder Platinum, Renew Resources, Octea, Roxgold, and Avocet Mining plc, and was a member of the original founding team at Katanga Mining. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at Kinross Gold Corporation and Co-Steel Inc.

Mr. Richards currently serves as a director of Nickel 28 Capital Corp., Gold X2 Mining Inc. (formerly Goldshore Resources Inc.), and Midnight Sun Mining Corp. He holds a Mechanical Engineering diploma from Durham College, an MBA in Management Engineering (Magna Cum Laude) from Cornell University's Johnson Graduate School of Management, and a Mining Engineering Certificate from Queen's University.

About Zodiac Gold

Zodiac Gold Inc. (TSXV: ZAU) is a West-African gold exploration company focused on its flagship Todi Gold Project situated in Liberia-an underexplored, politically stable, mining friendly jurisdiction hosting several large-scale gold and iron ore deposits. Strategically positioned along the fertile Todi Shear Zone, Zodiac Gold is developing a district-scale gold opportunity with additional iron ore potential, covering a vast 2,316 km2 land package. The Todi Gold Project has undergone de-risking, showcasing proven gold occurrences at both surface and depth, with five drill-ready targets, of which two have been drilled and high-grade gold intercepts.

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.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation.

Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections, and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's planned exploration programs and drill programs and potential significance of results are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital, and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials, and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events, or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Vancouver, B.C.  TheNewswire - December 29, 2025  Precipitate Gold Corp. (the Company or Precipitate) (TSXV: PRG, OTCQB: PREIF) is pleased to announce a proposed non-brokered private placement of up to 59,090,909 units (the Units) at a price of $0.11 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $6,500,000 (the Offering).

Participation in the Offering is led by prominent and strategic Dominican investors, including one of the Dominican Republics largest institutional investors, Guess Investments Ltd., together with several other well-respected leaders from the countrys business and investment communities.

Jeffrey Wilson, President and CEO stated, This private placement represents a significant strategic milestone for Precipitate. We are welcoming institutional partners with deep sector expertise, strong financial credentials, and decades of experience investing in mining and natural resource projects in the Dominican Republic, led by pioneer institutional investors such as Guess Investment Ltd., a Dominican investor with long-standing experience in the mineral exploration and mining industry.

In tandem with an important injection of capital, the participation of Dominican institutional investors adds meaningful strategic value to the Companys future. Their in-depth understanding of the regulatory framework, operating environment, and stakeholder landscape in the Dominican Republic enhances our ability to advance our property assets efficiently and responsibly. The willingness of these investors to voluntarily agree to an extended hold period beyond regulatory requirements evidences a long-term commitment that aligns well with management and existing shareholders. Their involvement reflects strong confidence in Precipitates mineral exploration projects and materially strengthens the Companys positioning as we move forward with ongoing exploration, development, and future financing initiatives. Closing this financing will position the Company to aggressively advance and drill test multiple high priority exploration targets throughout the project portfolio as part of our objective to make meaningful new discoveries in the Dominican Republic and unlock value for all stakeholders.

Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant will be exercisable to acquire one additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.17 per share for a period of 18 months from the date of issuance. All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to resale restrictions for a period of six months from the date of issuance, representing an extended hold period beyond applicable requisite securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Proceeds from the Offering will be used to advance ongoing exploration and project development activities across the Companys Dominican mineral property portfolio, including aggressive ongoing exploration and drilling at its Juan de Herrera project, as well as for general working capital purposes.

No finders fees will be paid in connection with the Offering. The Offering remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and may close in one or more tranches.

Upon closing of the Offering, the Company will appoint one new director to its Board of Directors, as nominated by Guess Investments Ltd.

In the event all Warrants issued to the Dominican investors are exercised, Guess Investments Ltd. will be entitled to nominate one additional member to the Companys Board of Directors, subject to the approval of the existing Board of Directors, compliance with TSX Venture Exchange policies, such nomination occurring no earlier than 12 months following the closing of the Offering. Such Dominican appointed representation on the Companys Board shall not, at any time, exceed 30%.

About Precipitate Gold

Precipitate Gold Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on exploring and advancing its mineral property interests in the Dominican Republic, including its 100% owned Juan de Herrera project located immediately adjacent to GoldQuest Minings Romero Project, its 100% owned Pueblo Grande project located immediately adjacent to the Pueblo Viejo mine operated by Barrick Mining, and its 100% owned Ponton project located 30km east of the Pueblo Viejo mine. Precipitate is also actively evaluating additional high-impact property acquisitions with the potential to expand the Company's portfolio and increase shareholder value, in other favourable jurisdictions.

Additional information can be viewed at the Companys website www.precipitategold.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Precipitate Gold Corp.,

Jeffrey Wilson

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

Tel: 604-558-0335

Toll Free: 855-558-0335

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This press release may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward looking information. Generally, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "proposed", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. This forward-looking information reflects Precipitate Gold Corp.s (Precipitate or the Company) current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Company and on assumptions it believes are reasonable. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Precipitate to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Specifically, (i) there is no assurance the Offering will be fully subscribed or close on the terms outlined above, or at all, (ii) the use of proceeds realized under the Offering may change based on managements assessment of its circumstances. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: the exploration concessions may be granted or may be amended on terms not acceptable to the Company, or at all; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the concessions acquired by the Company may not have attributes similar to those of surrounding properties; delay or failure to receive governmental or regulatory approvals; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation affecting mining; timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; conclusions of economic evaluations; and lack of qualified, skilled labour or loss of key individuals. Although Precipitate 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, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Precipitate does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
A former Bosnian Serb general, already serving a decades-long sentence over the Srebrenica genocide, was charged Monday for his role in another massacre of dozens of Bosnian Muslim civilians during the 1990s war.

Radislav Krstic, 77, was charged with crimes against humanity for his role in the September 1992 attack on the village of Novoseoci, in eastern Bosnia.

Following the attack, 44 men were shot dead at a nearby rubbish dump, the Bosnian prosecutor's office said in a statement.

The youngest victim was 14, and the oldest was 77.

The village mosque was destroyed, and its debris dumped over the victims' bodies.

The remains of 43 victims have been exhumed so far, while one is still missing.

Krstic, who commanded a Bosnian Serb army brigade at the time, was charged with planning, committing and covering up the crime, prosecutors said.

Nine Bosnian Serbs are already on trial over the same massacre.

A UN war crimes tribunal in 2004, on appeal, sentenced Krstic to 35 years in jail for the Srebrenica genocide, a term he is currently serving in Estonia.

Bosnian Serb forces captured the ill-fated eastern town on July 11, 1995, in the final stages of Bosnia's inter-ethnic war.

In the following days, they systematically killed almost 8,000 Muslim men and boys, whose bodies were dumped in mass graves.

The atrocity was deemed genocide by two international tribunals.

Bosnia's 1992-1995 war between its Croats, Bosniak Muslims and Serbs claimed nearly 100,000 lives.






Sunday, December 28, 2025 - Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader and Siaya Senator, Dr. Oburu Oginga, has dismissed speculation about his health, vowing to remain firm at the helm of the party.

Speaking on Saturday, December 27th, in Suna East, Migori County, Oburu declared that those anticipating his imminent departure are misguided.

He drew a comparison with United States President Donald Trump, noting that they are age mates.

I am not going to be shaken; I will sit squarely in that seat of the ODM party leader.

Anybody who thinks that Oburu Oginga is about to die soon is seriously mistaken.

I am the same age as Donald Trump of America. Trump is 82 years old, like me, he said.

Oburu emphasized that ODM will continue supporting the broad-based Government arrangement initiated by Raila Odinga, stressing that the party will not return to the opposition.

This broad-based arrangement in which Raila left us is the best. We are going to move forward and ensure that by 2027, our people remain in Government, he added.

His remarks follow weeks of speculation about his wellness after he traveled abroad in November for what his family described as a short break following the funeral of his brother, Raila Odinga, and the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa.

He returned after the passing of his sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga.

Oburu assumed ODMs leadership after Railas death on October 15th and was confirmed by the National Governing Council on November 13th.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, December 28, 2025 - A grieving family in Mwihoko, Kiambu County, is crying out for justice after their beloved son, Derrick Omanga Tom (25), a bright former Royal Media Services intern, was cruelly taken from them.

Derrick was last seen alive at Al Capone Joint along Thika Road, enjoying a night out with a woman.

Tragedy struck shortly afterwards, leaving his family shattered.

According to reports, the woman later admitted feeling uneasy and leaving him alone with a stranger, a man who may hold the key to unraveling the circumstances behind Derricks senseless death.

In an emotional statement, Derricks father alleged shocking police misconduct, claiming that officers attempted to hide the truth.

The family had reported Derrick missing at Kasarani Police Station on December 5th, 2025, only to later discover that police had quietly recovered his body and taken it to City Mortuary without informing his devastated parents.

A postmortem revealed the unbearable truth: Derrick was strangled to death.

According to Derricks father, the woman accompanying him that night was reportedly arrested and later released without explanation.

She has since declined to name the stranger who joined them at Al Capone, a crucial lead that could help solve the case.

Derrick deserved to live, to chase his dreams, to come home to his family, said the heartbroken father, as he calls on authorities to ensure that justice is served.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, December 28, 2025 - A Kenyan man has lit up social media after celebrating his confirmation into priesthood.

Active on x formerly Twitter, he proudly shared photos dressed in priestly robes, marking what he described as a new spiritual journey.





But the internet never forgets.

Netizens quickly unearthed his old posts, where he openly admired popular X personality, Siah Wanja, sparking playful debate about his transformation.





The contrast between his old tweets and his new spiritual path sparked lively debate online.

In response, the newly confirmed priest defended himself, saying those posts reflected his past and insisting he is now a changed man, fully committed to his priestly duties.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, December 28, 2025 - Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, has announced a Ksh 50,000 cash reward for credible information that will lead to the arrest of individuals stealing newly installed litter bins and scrap metal dealers purchasing them.

In a statement issued on Sunday, December 28th, Mosiria said the County Government is determined to protect public property and hold offenders accountable.

I am hereby offering a cash reward of Ksh 50,000 to anyone who will provide credible information leading to the identification and arrest of any scrap metal dealer buying these stolen litter bins, as well as the individuals stealing them.

Once the culprit is arrested, the informant will receive the reward, he declared.

Mosiria noted that several litter bins recently installed in Nairobi estates had already been stolen and sold as scrap.

He condemned the theft, describing it as shameful and unacceptable.

Residents requested for these litter bins, and as a County Government, we provided them to promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

It is therefore unacceptable that the same facilities are now being stolen by people well known to us, while others remain silent and protect thieves, he said.

The Chief Officer warned perpetrators that they will face the full force of the law.

This is a final warning to all thieves and scrap metal dealers involved in this criminal activity. Your days are numbered, he added.

The announcement comes weeks after Mosiria threatened to revoke licenses of private waste management companies found illegally dumping garbage at a previously closed site along Likoni Road, vowing to escalate enforcement and cancel licenses of offenders.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, December 28, 2025 - City businesswoman, Sarah Mtalii, has set social media ablaze after sharing a romantic video featuring the very lawyer who helped her file and finalize her divorce from estranged husband, Simon Kabu.

In the now-viral clip, Sarah and the stylish lawyer are seen sharing intimate moments, leaving little doubt about the nature of their relationship.

Social media users have since speculated that what began as a professional bond may have blossomed into romance.

Sarah filed for divorce last year and subsequently moved out of the matrimonial home.

Reports indicate that after their separation, Simon allegedly moved in with his pregnant side chick at the same residence.

The situation reportedly escalated when Sarah bumped into Simons side partner while picking up belongings from the home, sparking an altercation.

Despite the drama surrounding her estranged husband, Sarah appears to have found comfort and companionship in her lawyer, who has been by her side through both legal and personal challenges.

Below is the romantic video>>> of Sarah and her personal lawyer turned lover:

Sarah kabu has introduced her new pillar of strength one year after her break up with Simon kabu pic.twitter.com/R8t0xuDlGB  Prime Media News (@primemediakenya) December 28, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST
THERE is confusion over a vital transport project for Co Kildare.

Irish Rail applied for planning permission to An Coimisiun Pleanala for a new rail depot between Maynooth and Kilcock, the purpose of which was to act as a siding to remove trains from the main line for maintenance as part of the Dart+ project..

However, An Coimisiun Pleanala refused the application on the basis that the proposed location was situated within a flood plain, and Irish Rail was requested to investigate and identify a more suitable alternative site.

New site

A new site is now being examined to the west of Kilcock, which is not prone to flooding, and Irish Rail intends to submit a planning application for this alternative depot site in early 2026.

As the proposed depot would be located beyond Kilcock, the rail line will need to be electrified as far as the depot to allow DART services to operate and be maintained there.

Irish Rail will therefore apply for Kilcock to be formally included in the DART+ West project.

Once construction on DART+ West commences, Kilcock will be included as part of the electrified network.

Investment

The existing single-track line to Kilcock does not require expansion to two or four tracks, and electrification alone is sufficient.

Once electrified, the line can support a service frequency of up to one train every 15 minutes.

Naas councillor Bill Clear noted it is a purely technical matter arising from flood-risk constraints at the originally proposed depot site.

Investment in public transport is the only proven way to reduce congestion, as demonstrated internationally, said Cllr Clear.

With Kildare now the fastest-growing county in the State, it is essential that both DART+ West and DART+ Southwest proceed without further delay.

We were promised these projects by government candidates and we cannot afford for these projects to be shelved, he said.

Sidelined

When this project got the green light it was expected to also extend the DART network as far out as Naas, but this has been sidelined until at least 2027.

Approximately 15kms of track between Hazelhatch and Heuston will have to be electrified.
THE RIVERBANK Arts Centre is to host the third Kildare Jazz Festival in March as a showcase of Irish and international talent and will also launch a callout for the 2026 Emerging Act.

Over three days from Friday 27 March at the Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge, audiences can enjoy a diverse programme of jazz and workshops spanning visual art, dance, and more.

Friday will kick off with the Emerging Act, followed by the critically acclaimed Michael Buckley Quartet featuring Michael Buckley on saxophone, Greg Felton on piano, Barry Donohue on bass and Shane ODonovan on drums.

This year, the weekend prior to the festival will feature a programme of free jazz events presented by Kildare Jazz Festival and hosted at Maynooth University, Straffans Barista Bike and across Newbridge.

Acts will include Cormac OBrien and Tom Halferty, Tenters Ensemble, Bobby Mc and Oninao.

Families are invited to explore imagination through simple dance steps, swirling shapes and playful discovery with Karen Aguiar in Newbridge Town Hall.

Vocalist-producer Dorota Konchevska, bassist and guitarist Maciej BliziAski, and drummer, electronic artist, and producer Chris Hokamp bring their new collaborative project Blooming Rooms to the stage on Saturday.

Venezuelan guitarist Orlando Molina will be joined by his quintet of world-class collaborators with Matthew Jacobson on drums, Scott Flanigan on piano, Cormac OBrien on the double bass, and Steve Welsh (saxophones).

Award-winning vocalist, pianist, songwriter, and composer Yumi Ito, whose music moves seamlessly between jazz, art-pop, and neo-classical, will bring Saturday to a close.

Sunday offers a bilingual family concert filled with songs, stories, rira agus ruaille buaille with Riona Sally Hartman.

Attendees can also listen to Kildares up and coming jazz musicians with Music Generation Kildares Teen Spirit Jazz Ensemble.

The festival closes with Origin Story, described by The Irish Times as one of the freshest voices in Irish jazz  featuring pianist Greg Felton, bassist Cormac OBrien and drummer Matthew Jacobson.

Artist Johnny Tierney and cellist Matt Rafter will host an art workshop where participants will be encouraged to respond creatively to a live musical performance, and choreographer Mateusz Szczerek will lead participants in a dance workshop blending improvisation, rhythm and collaborative expression.

"The third edition of Kildare Jazz Festival marks our most exciting leap yet - a celebration of national and international voices, new collaborations, and a festival that now spills into a second weekend and four new venues, announced Festival curator Kasia Eliasz.

From solos to full ensembles, from workshops for children and adults to the meeting of jazz and visual arts, 2026 invites our community to experience jazz in more vibrant, expansive ways than ever before.

Kasia is an award-winning producer, director, and musician working across music, theatre, and multi-sensory performance.
CHURCHTOWN National School in Athy held its annual Christmas play, which involved all students from Junior Infants to Sixth Class.

Christmas is always a very special time for staff and students at the school, with events such as the annual movie night, run by the Sixth Class students, and a trip to the Gaeity Panto  a tradition in the school going on for over 20 years.

Junior and Senior Infants Class in Churchtown National School

Our Junior room also had a trip to the theatre to see 'I want a Hippo for Christmas' which was magical, said Principal Gayle Murphy.

Although, the highlight this year was the schools play on 17 December, which invited parents, guardians and family members to watch the show that all the students and teachers worked so hard to put on.

4th, 5th and 6th Class in Churchtown National School

We went with something a little different this year and planned three plays in one! said Principal Murphy.

Each classroom put on their own amazing performances to a packed audience of parents, grandparents, family and friends. The Junior room performed 'The Bossy King', the Middle room performed ' Santa's Missing List' and the Senior room performed 'The Nativity'. Each group sang, performed and played tin whistle.

1st, 2nd and 3rd Class sang in Irish, English and Spanish!!

The event ended with teas and fresh cream fancies for all the audience  a thank you for the continued support for the school throughout the year.

Dasher pulls Santy and his Elves

Christmas in Churchtown NS did not finish there. On December 18, students were surprised with a visit from Santa who gave out selection boxes to all the fantastic students, and on Friday the Parents Association put on a Christmas Disco.

Churchtown NS is now enrolling for the new school year 2026/2027. Contact the school on churchathy@gmail.com for more info.
Radio NZ reports:

The government is proposing to amend alcohol legislation so restaurants with on-site retail spaces can sell take-home booze.

The amendment to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act would mean restaurants can apply for an off-licence, if they also sell takeaway food or non-alcoholic beverages prepared by the business.

The bill was originally a National Party members bill lodged by Hutt South MP Chris Bishop in 2018, and then transferred to Wairarapa MP Mike Butterick in 2023 once Bishop became a minister.

The bill was pulled from the ballot in April, but has now been picked up by Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee as government legislation.

McKee said restaurants were already trusted to supply alcohol through an on-licence, and the law change would mean they can apply for permission to sell it for off-site consumption as well.
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription.
Sarah Slater

The family of jockey Paul Kavanagh, who died in a traffic collision on Christmas Eve have paid tribute to their son, who had eyes which carried a light that no darkness could dim.

The 20-year-old of College Green, Tuam, Athlacca, County Limerick, and formerly of Ballybrone, Corofin, Galway died while travelling on the N20 in the Bruree area when his car was in a collision with a truck between 1.40 am and 2.15 am last Wednesday.

Mr Kavanaghs family said their treasured son will be forever loved and missed by his heartbroken parents, Kevin and Alison, devoted sister and brother Grace and Ryan.

He will also be remembered by his cherished grandad Martin, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, his wide circle of friends, his colleagues at Enda Bolgers yard and the close-knit horse racing community.

The young man was also the beloved grandson of the late Teresa Kavanagh and Mark and Bernie Carr.

The Irish Injured Jockeys said they are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Kavanagh.

They added; Paul had been attending our facility to get himself back from an injury to do the job he adored. He was so grateful for our help and as it very evident from all the tributes to him was an extremely popular and decent young man.

Our heartfelt sympathy to his parents Kevin and Alison, his siblings Grace and Ryan , grandad Martin, extended family, his many friends and his racing family where he was so loved.

His funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

Mr Kavanagh had been riding out at Mr Bolger's yard in Co Limerick for the last two years and had his first winner over jumps for the trainer last June in Clonmel.

A garda spokesperson said the driver of the car was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the lorry, a male in his 20s, was brought to University Hospital Limerick (UHL) for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Anyone who was travelling on the N20 in the Bruree area between 1.40 am and 2.15 am is asked to make contact with investigating gardai.

"Road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make that footage available, gardai added.

Gardai can be contacted in Newcastle West Garda Station on 069 20650, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Gardai say investigations are ongoing.
By Grainne Ni Aodha, Press Association

Taoiseach Charlie Haughey was unhappy after a British marine allegedly put a gun to the neck of a Dubliner while he was sailing on Carlingford Lough in 1991.

There were several instances where leisure boats on the disputed territory of Carlingford Lough had been approached by British patrols in the 1990s.

This included two British naval officers with submachine guns boarding the yacht of Mr Haughey in July 1990, who was not on board at the time.

The incidents on the inlet, located between Co Louth and Co Down, prompted Irish officials to seek the British Government policy underpinning the boardings.

One particular incident, where a marine allegedly put a gun to a Dublin sailors neck and took the safety off, saw Mr Haughey write to the sailor to say the Irish government would be making representations on his behalf.

I was very disturbed to learn of the incident involving your boat in Carlingford Lough and I immediately conveyed my concern to the British authorities through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat who based their approach on your detailed report of the incident, Mr Haughey wrote on June 17th.

As part of the annual release of National Archive files in Dublin, several pieces of correspondence detail the incident with the sailor, Sir Henry Barnwell from Glenageary, and his yacht the Lady Jane on Saturday June 1st. 1991.

This includes a Garda file on the incident in which it recounts the statement from Sir Henry, his wife Joy, who it said were visibly shaken, and a Swiss friend who was on board the yacht with them.

The Garda file stated that as Mr Barnwell was passing by the Greenore side of the shore, he was approached by two dinghies and two soldiers requested permission to board.

He refused and demanded identification from them, which was refused, and they boarded the yacht.

He continued to refuse them permission, and one of them said they were arresting him and taking him to Northern Ireland, the statement said.

In attempting to turn Mr Barnwells yacht around, one of the soldiers put a gun to Barnwells neck and grabbed the tiller and strained the tiller socket.

The statement said Mr Barnwell heard someone say over the soldiers radios they have you in the Republic, after which they left the Lady Jane.

The statement noted that two senior gardai inspected the damage done to the yacht and said the tiller socket was definitely strained, the plug for the automatic pilot was ripped from its socket and boot marks were visible on deck.

Mr Barnwell later said that when he resisted the soldiers attempting to wrestle the tiller from him, one of them put a gun to his neck and clocked off the safety catch, according to an official from the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The official urged that the issue be raised in strong terms with British authorities and requested a full report on the incident, particularly as the yacht was so close to the Greenore side of the shore and was proceeding to an Irish port.

The aggressive manner in which the boarding was carried out also gives rise to serious concern, a civil servant said.

The holding of a gun to Mr Barnwells neck was a reckless action that could have had the most serious consequences.

Irish civil servants also noted similarities to an incident the previous month, where the Lady Irene yacht was boarded by British marines and in which a woman was struck on the forehead by the boom as they tried to steer it towards Warrenpoint.

They said they wanted assurances that such incidents would not become the norm."

Civil servants also said it was entirely unsatisfactory that Mr Barnwells wife Joy was being investigated by the Northern Ireland Coast Guard for improper use of the mayday frequency  an investigation which was later dropped.

A note to the Taoiseachs department remarked that the British marines had claimed the Lady Jane incident took place to the north of the lough and there was no forcible boarding.

They also said that British authorities responses on the issue were far from reassuring and said the initial response had attempted to characterise Mr Barnwells reluctance to be boarded by armed marines as suspicious behaviour which justified the actions of the soldiers.

But, in a note sent to the Taoiseachs department on September 27, it was noted that an investigation into the incident by British authorities was problematic as Mr Barnwell would not make a formal statement to the RUC about the incident as he does not recognise their jurisdiction in the matter.

There the matter rests, the note said.

Mr Barnwell had written to Mr Haughey on June 5 about the incident, stating that he, his wife and friend continued to shake with fear and trepidation for the remainder of the day.

During the rest of the weekend, we were regaled with stories of persistent harassment of Carlingford yachts by these men, he said.

I have had several conversations with the British, whom I fear will concoct some denial to pervert the course of justice, which seems to have become as much a tradition of British culture as their reputation for piracy.

He added: the vibes I have picked up indicate that they are claiming the right to patrol the entire lough and I fear there will be a fatality.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/523 in the National Archives of Ireland.
Stephen Maguire

A young man who threatened to publish intimate pictures of a girl he met on Snapchat has received a suspended jail sentence.

The 24-year-old appeared at Donegal Circuit Court having pleaded guilty to the offences.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of threatening to publish intimate pictures of a person, intending to cause them harm.

The young man's victim was a then 17-year-old girl from Co Donegal whom he had befriended on Snapchat.

The accused, who is from Co Meath, appeared in court with his father.

Gardai based at the girl's local Garda station in Co Donegal outlined the background to the case to barrister for the state, Ms Fiona Crawford, BL.

Snapchat

The Garda told how on July 5th, 2021, the girl came home and was in hysterics and told her mother that a man she had been in contact with on Snapchat had posted nude pictures of her on Snapchat.

The girl had outlined how she had befriended the man after getting a friend request from him and was in contact with him between January and June, 2021.

The man said he lived in Dublin and was into photography, and asked the girl to send him pictures of herself.

She said she sent 8 to 10 pictures, but that he could not see her face.

She sent pictures of herself topless and in underwear, and also a picture of her vagina.

The girl said the man also sent pictures of his penis to her, but she said she didn't open the message, while he also sent her videos of himself.

The girl then stopped contacting the man as she found a boyfriend.

The victim said that when she sent the man pictures, she asked him not to screenshot the images (so that they could not be saved or sent on), and he told her he would not.

When the girl told the man that she did not wish to remain in contact as she had a boyfriend, the man then sent her screenshots of the nude images and also a list of her Instagram followers.

And he warned her that if she did not keep doing what he wanted her to do, then he would link the people who were following her with the nude photos.

The court was told that on July 5th, 2021, the man put up the pictures online and they remained online for 24 hours, according to gardai.

The man was also alleged to have posted the pictures online again on July 21st, 2021.

Gardai initially said that all of the young woman's friends and the man's friends could see the pictures, but he later suggested, when cross-examined, that it may have been private to both the accused and his victim.

When the woman's mother heard about the pictures, she immediately contacted gardai in her local Garda station in Co Donegal.

Gardai began an investigation and visited the young man at his address in Co Meath and seized his mobile phone.

Social worker call

On November 21st, 2021, gardai received a call from a social worker on behalf of the man, saying he had a diagnosis of autism and a prepared statement from his solicitor was handed to gardai.

In his statement, the accused said he made the threats in the heat of an argument, but that he did not send the images to anybody else and that it was only he and the girl who could see the images.

Judge John Aylmer said if there was any level of doubt as to the level of publication, then the accused had to receive the benefit of doubt.

The victim and her mother were in court for the sentencing hearing, but the court was told the young woman did not wish to make a victim impact statement to the court.

Barrister for the accused, Mr Patrick Jackson, BL, said his client had asked that a full apology be given to his victim and that a guilty plea had been forthcoming from the earliest possible stage.

GP report

A GP's report was handed in on the accused, which stated he suffered from autism, hyperactivity, depression, dyspraxia and Tourette syndrome.

The court was told the man had been in residential care and since the age of eight, he has had the full support of an adult support team, but now lives independently.

Mr Jackson also said that the accused man had attended more than 60 counselling sessions with a psychologist and had engaged in ongoing support, and was participating well and honestly.

The man's barrister also told the court that the case had originally been intended to be disposed of summarily, but this had been refused by the district court.

Mr Jackson said he was asking the court to allow his client to consider all of this and to allow for his counselling to continue, adding that this was central to his not reoffending, while also stressing the support of his family.

Passing sentence, Judge John Aylmer described the incident as "very nasty" and "very traumatising" for the victim, but having seen the nature of the images and the evidence of the threat, he placed it at the lower end of the scale and one which merited a sentence of two years before mitigation.

In mitigation, he said the man had cooperated fully, had entered an early plea, and all of the evidence was that he had laboured through childhood with a number of medical conditions.

He said he had the benefit of a very detailed report from psychologist Dr Melissa Darmody.

Judge Aylmer said it is the case that since his adolescent years, the accused has displayed some sexually deviant tendencies and has been very real concern to his potential for offending, but said this was his first time before the courts.

He noted the accused has no previous convictions, that he had undertaken more than 60 counselling sessions, and it was clear from Dr Darmody's report that it was important these sessions continue.

For these reasons, he said he was reducing the sentence to one of sixteen months in prison.

However, he said he was anxious to incentivise the man's rehab and given that this is his first time before the court, he was proposing to suspend the sentence in its entirety to go under the care of the probation and welfare service for sixteen months.

He warned the man that in the event of any reoffending or breach of the requirement of the Probation Services, he would be returned to court and would serve the 16-month sentence.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help.
Parents who lost their daughters in the deadly Camp Mystic flooding continue to demand accountability and safety reforms as the camp prepares to reopen next year, dividing families and reigniting debates over whether the nearly century-old institution should welcome campers again.

Twenty-five young girls and two teenage counselors died when catastrophic flash floods swept through Camp Mystic on July 4, 2025, turning the beloved Texas Hill Country retreat into a site of unimaginable loss.

The Camp Mystic Tragedy

The Guadalupe River rose nearly 30 feet in under an hour during the early morning disaster, overwhelming cabins where the youngest campers slept. Camp director Richard "Dick" Eastland also perished while attempting to rescue girls from the rising waters, according to Dallas News.

In the months since, bereaved parents transformed their grief into legislative action. By September, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed three new camp safety laws championed by the victims' families, collectively known as the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act.

The legislation requires youth camps to remove cabins from FEMA-designated floodplains, install emergency warning systems with weather radios in every cabin, train staff annually on evacuation procedures, and develop comprehensive emergency action plans.

"No one had to die that day," parents testified before state lawmakers in August. Matthew Childress, whose 18-year-old daughter Chloe died trying to save younger campers, told legislators that his daughter "followed directions" by staying in her cabin as instructed, and that obedience cost her life.

Michael McCown, whose 8-year-old daughter Linnie perished, described the "shattered trust" after Camp Mystic sent a message suggesting his daughter was safe, only to later confirm her death.

The families believe any one of these safety measures would have prevented their children's deaths. Lawsuits filed by parents allege Camp Mystic knowingly housed campers in cabins within a FEMA floodplain, lacked emergency protocols, and ordered children to remain inside as waters rose. Court documents claim the camp removed cabins from flood maps in 2013 to reduce insurance costs rather than relocating them to safer ground.

Camp Mystic announced in December that it will reopen its Cypress Lake property, located away from the flooded Guadalupe River area, for six 10-day sessions beginning May 30, 2026. The Eastland family, who now owns and operates the camp following Dick Eastland's death, pledged to exceed new safety requirements by installing four flood warning river monitors, two-way radios with weather alerts in every cabin, and high-capacity backup generators.

Parents Demand Change

The reopening decision has deeply divided families. Some parents plan to send their daughters back, viewing it as an important step in their children's healing journey, the San Fernando Sun reported. Patrick Hotze, whose three daughters survived the flooding, said he intends to return them to camp despite understanding the outrage from bereaved families.

But parents who lost children have condemned the plan as "unthinkable" and "insensitive." CiCi and Will Steward, whose 8-year-old daughter Cile remains missing, wrote that promoting reopening while their child's body is still unrecovered, and inviting new campers to swim in the river that may hold her remains, demonstrates callous disregard for their ongoing nightmare.

"Our girls are still dead," said Chris Bonner, whose daughter Lila died in the flood, after successfully lobbying for the safety legislation. For these parents, the new laws represent both a hard-won victory and a devastating reminder that no amount of reform can bring their children home.

Camp Mystic will begin enrolling campers in January 2026 and plans to offer tours in April for enrolled families. The camp has also committed to building a memorial honoring the 27 victims. Whether the community can heal remains uncertain as families navigate the tension between honoring lost children and allowing survivors to reclaim a place that once meant joy, as per US News.
Attorney Mark Geragos, a longtime confidant of Sean "Diddy" Combs, has offered his perspective on the rapper's ongoing appeal, stating that there may be a legitimate path for early release despite opposition from prosecutors.

Speaking to HotNewHipHop, Geragos noted that while he did not formally represent Diddy in his federal case, his family's involvement in the defense has kept him close to the situation. He highlighted what he views as fundamental issues with the original sentencing.

Introducing his assessment, Geragos said, "I think there's a potential there. Remember, when he was convicted of these two Mann Act violations... He won against the counts that carried a mandatory life sentence and would have basically forfeited his entire fortune. So he rolled the dice and won, and then he was enhanced in his sentence by the very conduct he was acquitted of. I think that's fundamentally unfair," per NewsNation.

He further criticized the prosecution for what he perceives as overcharging, suggesting that Diddy's sentence should have been reconsidered immediately following the trial. "In fact, if we want to talk about fairness, I think the prosecution should be penalized for overcharging him in the first place, and he should have been immediately released. That's just me. I have great affection, and I think that's the just result," Geragos added.

Diddy's legal team is pursuing an appeal on the grounds that Judge Arun Subramanian improperly influenced the jury's sentencing decision. The argument centers on claims that the judge acted like a "13th juror" by referencing evidence tied to charges on which Diddy was acquitted, leading to a harsher overall sentence.

According to HotNewHipHop, the appeal requests either a full reversal of the convictions or a reduction in the sentence, alongside immediate release pending the court's decision. The case has drawn attention not only because of Diddy's high-profile status but also due to ongoing debate over the fairness of the federal court's handling of evidence.

During the appeal process, Diddy has reportedly been able to spend time with family. His son, Justin Combs, visited him over the Christmas holiday, providing a rare personal moment amid ongoing legal proceedings.

Observers suggest that if the appeals court sides with Diddy's legal team, he could see additional time with his family sooner than anticipated. Geragos' comments indicate he will remain vocal throughout the process, underscoring both his legal insight and personal connection to Diddy.
China calls on parties to create conditions for early restoration of peace, tranquility in Yemen: FM spokesperson

Xinhua) 15:29, December 29, 2025

BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China called for upholding Yemen's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and hoped parties will put the Yemeni people's interests first and create conditions for restoring peace and tranquility in Yemen at an early date, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Monday.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
A man was hurt following a shooting Saturday evening outside a Bethlehem fast-casual restaurant, city police said.

City Police Chief Michelle Kott told lehighvalleylive.com Monday morning the gunfire rang out just before 6 p.m. outside McDonalds, in the 400 block of Wyandotte Street, on the street. The eatery is near the Hill-to-Hill bridge, which links the citys south and north sides, and the Five Points intersection.

Its unclear what led up to the gunfire.

(Its) still a very active investigation, the chief said.

The victim was taken to an area hospital for surgery and was listed in stable condition Monday morning. No suspects are in custody at this time, Kott said.

WFMZ-69 News is reporting that those involved in the incident all knew each other, and the victim also knew the shooting suspect beforehand.

Kott, however, did not confirm that report. The chief told lehighvalleylive.com It was an isolated incident and there is no danger to the public.

The Northampton County District Attorneys Office declined to provide further details, citing the pending investigation.

Bethlehem police continue to seek witnesses and those with information about Saturdays shooting. Those with information are asked to call the Bethlehem Police Departments tip line at 610-691-6660.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to renovate industrial warehouses to hold more than 80,000 immigrant detainees, one of which is in Schuylkill County, according to reporting by The Washington Post.

The newspaper obtained a draft solicitation that shows the Trump administration looking for contractors to help overhaul the countrys immigrant detention system. The document says ICE would establish a feeder system through the warehouses instead of moving detainees around the country to areas with detention space.

New detainees would first be booked at a processing site, then funneled into one of seven large warehouses across the country, which would hold 5,000 to 10,000 people, and then they would be deported. There are also 16 smaller warehouses, each with a capacity of up to 1,500 people.

One of the smaller warehouses would be in Tremont, Pennsylvania, a short drive southwest on Route 209 from Pottsville. According to the story, one of the large warehouses will be located in Hagerstown, Maryland, just south of the Pa. line.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security told The Post she could not confirm the facts of its story and wouldnt answer questions about the plan. The draft solicitation isnt final, and an internal email reviewed by The Post said ICE plans to share the solicitation with private detention companies this week.

The draft solicitation obtained by The Post said the facilities will maximize efficiency, minimize costs, shorten processing times, limit lengths of stay, accelerate the removal process and promote the safety, dignity and respect for all in ICE custody.

The facilities will be modified to include intake areas, housing units, dining areas, a medical unit and recreation areas, the draft solicitation said.

Both NBC and Bloomberg previously reported on discussions to construct the warehouses, but specific site plans have not been reported on until The Posts article.
Lehigh Valley Zoo welcomed a male common eland calf on Thanksgiving and said goodbye to one of its longest residents within days of each other.

The calf, named Stacks by a zoo donor, was born Nov. 27 to mother Alexis and father Code. The birth brings the eland herd to five members, following the January birth of another male calf named David to mother Moira and father Code.

Stacks underwent an examination by the zoos veterinary team and was found to be a healthy male weighing 75 pounds. Common eland are the second largest antelope species, with full-grown males capable of weighing over two tons.

The Animal Care and Veterinary staff had eight to nine months to prepare for the arrival, as eland pregnancies last between eight and nine months. The calf and mother were kept in a separate space to allow bonding and give Stacks time to nurse, grow, and strengthen before joining the rest of the herd. In eland social structure, males maintain a hierarchy with the highest-ranking male serving as the main breeder.

Days after celebrating the birth, the Schnecksville zoo experienced the loss of plains zebra Glenda, who was approximately 26 years old when she died Dec. 2. Born in Texas, Glenda moved to Lehigh Valley Zoo in 2007.

Animal Care staff described Glenda as sassy and spirited throughout her 18 years at the zoo. She lived with the zoos ostrich, Bane, and her zebra herd-mate, Rylea. The trio spent their days grazing together and frequented the habitats guest viewing area. Despite zebras being difficult to train, Glenda was an eager participant who would run to the fence to meet her keeper for training sessions.

The zoo is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be closed Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.
A number of changes have been sought for a residential development planned for North Kildare.

A planning permission application which was submitted to Kildare County Council shows that Kelston Properties Limited wants to make modifications to a proposed residential development.

This development is located at lands in Mullen Park, Mullen Park Road in Maynooth.

According to the the description within the application, the development will consist of modifications to the residential development on the site (approved under Ref 24/60624).

Specifically, the alterations are being planned for the approved mix of unit types to 12 one-bed simplex, 12 two-bed duplex, 15 three-bed detached and semi-detached houses, and one four-bed detached house.

READ NEXT: BREAKING: Emergency services attend blaze in Kildare housing estate area near town centre

Alterations are also being sought by Kelston Properties Ltd to allow for: the approved internal road layout and arrangement of car parking spaces; the omission of vehicular accesses on Carton Court; the amended layout of the approved open space; and amendments to the boundary treatments.

In addition, the application affirms that both the total number of units on the site and the location of access to the development on Mullen Park Road remain as approved.

The date received on the application is listed as December 23 last, while the submission-by and due dates are both listed as "null".

The business information website CRIFVision-Net notes that Kelston Properties Ltd was established in December of 2005.

It has a registered address listed as Ardee House, River Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, County Dublin.

READ NEXT: Everything you wanted to know about Christmas recycling but were afraid to ask
Over 56 million was paid out in 2025 in Leitrim in agriculture payments from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The total figure for the county for 2025 amounted to 56,549,467.15.

This total included over 13.4 million in BISS payments (Basic Income Support for Sustainability), more than 680,000 in TAMS (Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme), over 2.6 million in forestry payments, over 700,000 in Bovine TB compensation, and over 13.4 million in ACRES (Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme) support.

In September, over 6 million was allocated to Leitrim farmers under the Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme, and more recently in November, over 600,000 was distributed between 525 farmers through Sheep Improvement Scheme payments.

Nationally, more than 2.18 billion in payments to farmers and fishers were issued over the course of 2025.

READ NEXT: Where to recycle your Christmas tree in Leitrim

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, welcomed the scale of payments issued by his Department.

Understandably, there has been a lot of focus throughout the year on payments made by my Department to farmers. Ireland continues to be one of the earliest to make payments under the CAP within the EU, and to the highest possible number of farmers, said Minister Heydon.

I am accordingly very pleased to announce the breadth of payments made by my Department throughout 2025.

!We will continue to work to issue payments as quickly as possible where they are still due, and I would ask farmers who have outstanding queries to respond to these as soon as possible, he concluded.

READ NEXT: Gallery: Mummers out visiting on Christmas week
Sligo-Leitrim Minister Marian Harkin has encouraged adults who feel uncertain about using smartphones, tablets or laptops to take part in courses designed to build digital, literacy, financial and numeracy skills, which are available nationwide.

The call comes as many people will have received smart devices over the Christmas period.

The initiative is part of the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) strategy, which supports people who may have left school early or who wish to refresh their skills by offering opportunities to return to learning in a supportive and practical environment.

The courses help adults to strengthen reading, writing, numeracy and digital skills, while also providing pathways into further education, training and employment, and boosting confidence in everyday life.

ALL is a 10-year, cross-government strategy, supported by a national programme office within SOLAS, which oversees its implementation.

READ NEXT: RIP: Leitrim drama group leads tributes to 'truly unique man who wore many hats'

Launched in 2021, the strategy sets out a cross-government, cross-economy and cross-society approach to achieving the vision of an Ireland where every adult has the necessary literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills to fully engage in society and realise their potential.

Highlighting the growing importance of digital skills in work, community and family life, Minister Harkin said, Across Ireland, adults are discovering how much they can achieve when they have the right support.

If you have a new phone or tablet but arent sure how to get the best from it, you are not alone. Local Education and Training Boards are here to help you learn at your own pace and unlock its potential. There is no stigma, only opportunity.

Adults interested in improving their digital literacy, reading, writing or numeracy skills are encouraged to contact their local Education and Training Board.

Further information is available here.

READ NEXT: PICTURES: Hardy Leitrim swimmers brave ice cold River Shannon water over Christmas
The Mayflower Ballroom in Drumshanbo will host The Devil's in the Dance Hall dance in April.

The dance is inspired by the burning of Graltons Hall in the 1930s. Jimmy Gralton (18861945) was a farmer from Effrinagh in south Leitrim who built a dance hall on his land in 1921 with some help from his neighbours.

READ MORE: PICTURES: New to the Leitrim market - 4-bed house in much-loved Carrick estate

The hall quickly became a centre for music, dancing, debate and learning, and offered young people in rural Leitrim a place to gather freely and socialise.

NEWS! The first night for The Devils in the Dance Hall of 2026 is



The Mayflower Ballroom, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim

4th April 2026

Dancing 8pm til late

Tickets on sale now: https://t.co/xuhsmW5b2d



Step back into 1930s Ireland as The Gralton Big Band and Edwina pic.twitter.com/py3jN1mm7E  Edwina Guckian (@EdwinaGuckian) December 26, 2025

This was against the wishes of the Catholic Church, who led a campaign against the hall, and the Gralton dance hall was burned to the ground on Christmas Eve 1932.

Gralton became the only Irishman ever to be exiled from the state since it gained independence.

READ MORE: RIP: Leitrim drama group leads tributes to 'truly unique man who wore many hats'

A campaign was launched earlier this month to rebuild Graltons hall.

Today, 97 years later, nearly to the day, it was announced that the Devil's in the Dance Hall dance will take place on the 4th of April from 8 pm until late, with tickets available online.
Ahead of the New Year celebrations which are quickly approaching, major supermarkets and retailers around Ireland have revealed their opening hours.

Some stores will remain closed or will shut their door early on New Year's Eve, (Wednesday) while most will be closed on New Year's Day (Thursday).

SuperValu stores across Ireland all independently owned and operated, which means their festive hours could differ from each other. Therefore, customers should check the hours at their local branch for accurate details.

Lidl says its stores will operate as normal (8am to 10pm) this Tuesday but will operate reduced hours on New Year's Eve when stores will open from 8am to 6pm.

The supermarket says its stories will remain is closed on January 1 2026, New Year's Day and stores will reopen at 8am on January 2 (Friday).

READ NEXT: RTE unveils New Year 2026 line-up with an exciting shake-up and Late Late show special

Opening hours for Tesco depend on the type of store (i.e. superstore or Tesco Express)

However, the general opening hours are 8am to 8pm on New Year's Eve with selected superstores opening from 10am to 6pm on New Year's Day.

Again, customers are advised to check the hours at their local branch.

Dunnes Stores opening hours are heavily dependent on the specific location so people are advised to check their local store.

You can check out your local store's opening hours here.

Aldi says its stores will be open on New Year's Eve, but will only operate from 8am to 7pm.

Aldi stores across Ireland will be closed on New Year's Day (Thursday) the supermarket chain will reopen all of its stores as normal on Friday.
THE NUMBER of drug driving cases brought before Limerick district court have significantly increased in 2025, according to the latest figures from the Irish Courts Service.

In 2025, a total 97 drug driving prosecutions were brought before the Limerick district court between January and October. This marks an increase of 51 additional people brought before the Limerick district court on drug driving charges in ten months of 2025 in comparison to 2024s figures (47 prosecutions).

Member of European Parliament Cynthia Ni Mhurchu has called for action to curb the escalating threat of drug driving.

Read More: BREAKING: Man, 20s, dead and three teens suffer serious injuries in horror Limerick collision

The MEP said: We need an expanded roadside drug testing regime this Christmas period on our roads. We also need to consider policies whereby anyone convicted of drug driving is required to re-sit their driving test or, at minimum, complete a comprehensive driver re-education programme.

Ni Mhurchu continued They have to get the message that they are a danger to other innocent road users.

The Ireland South MEP described the cases that do make it to the district court as being the tip of the iceberg when it comes to drug driving.

As of December 18, 2025, 181 people had lost their lives on Irish roads, making 17 more people than in 2024.

A drug driving offence can carry up to a 5,000 fine and up to six months imprisonment, as well as a driving disqualification.

Funded by the court reporting scheme.
A LIMERICK real estate business man who has made a life for himself in Australia avoided a jail sentence for assaulting a man outside Mission Nightclub in Newcastle West in 2013.

Tony ODoherty, 35, formerly of Churchtown Newcastle West, was brought before Judge Colin Daly, on foot of a bench warrant.

Limerick Circuit Court heard that Mr ODoherty followed a man who was removed from the now defunct Club Mission nightclub on February 18, 2013. It was detailed that ODoherty followed the man out onto the street and hit him.

The victim of the assault fell to the ground, unconscious. An ambulance was called for the man and he was brought to University Hospital Limerick.

In his summation of the evidence, Judge Colin Daly said that the victim of the assault suffered a brain bleed, and missed five weeks of work due to the incident.

READ MORE: Husband of woman killed in Rathkeale granted bail on condition he stays away from the town

The incident was captured on CCTV and was presented to the accused. At first Mr ODoherty told gardai that the hit was in self-defence. However, upon viewing the CCTV footage of the incident, he conceded that the punch was pre-emptive.

Mr Doherty said that his recollection of the incident was a bit hazy and admitted that he had been drinking the night of the assault.

Judge Daly said a single blow can have serious consequences and that the injury was serious.

The victim said in an impact statement that he suffered psychological trauma from the incident and that he still suffers from headaches after the attack.

Previously Mr ODotherty paid a 10,000 bond to the court to ensure his appearance. This money has been offered as compensation to the victim, which he has since accepted.

The court heard that Mr ODoherty has a business in Australia with 65 employees and that the man often has to go to the United States on business.

Judge Daly said that a criminal conviction will affect his record, and will limit his travel to the USA on behalf of his business.

In mitigation, Judge Daly said that Mr ODoherty has no previous criminal record, and is of good character.

In his sentencing, Judge Colin Daly said he would take the extraordinary step of fully suspending Tony ODohertys two year sentence.
A BAG in the back of a car in London during The Troubles had style icon Celia Holman Lee close to being arrested by English police as an IRA bomber.

The bag, which was reported to police as a suspicious package, was investigated by police and could have put a very different trajectory on the life of the Limerick woman and young mother at the time.

READ ALSO: Hundreds pay over and above street parking fees for illegally parking in Limerick City

In the 1970s doing business between Ireland and the UK was fraught with tensions and border controls.

This didnt deter Celia who at the time was over and back on the ferry to Liverpool to get to London monthly to buy clothes for her boutique, which she ran in the city for 18 years.

Labels such as Monsoon, Kelly Coates and Louis Caring, would not have been available at the time in Limerick.

Her new book Glamour & Grit talks about what must have been a very unnerving experience in a time of high political tension.

We had to be careful as Irish people when travelling. During one of our visits, we parked on a side street near Great Portland Street and met with our suppliers. When we returned to the car, we saw the street had been blocked off and the English police squad car was parked beside it, our car of course had an IRL ferry sticker and my own bag was in the back seat.

The police had broken the car window to determine what was inside the car, we later found out that office workers in the surrounding buildings had seen our car and called the police about a suspicious package inside.

Ill never forget seeing people looking out the office windows above our head and booing us as if we were terrorists.

It was one trip to London we wouldnt forget in a hurry, the book states.

When asked about the experience, Celia laughed and said: Its true and we had a big Ireland sticker on the car. I wasnt nervous, but I was annoyed because the police officers broke the window, but they were the kindest, nicest men and they gave us money for breaking the glass.

The book, Glamour & Grit was launched in the Savoy Hotel in Limerick.

Across more than 200 pages, there are pictures spanning six decades with glamourous photoshoots, family photographs and society photographs from over the years.

The book was released to mark Celia's 60 years in the fashion industry, as well as her 75th birthday, which she celebrated with family at the start of December.

The book is divided into sections for each decade, with stories, pictures and commercial images.

There are also tips and tricks from Celia on posture and how important shoulders are for presenting yourself well in photographs.

Celia also gives little tricks on how to recognise your body shape, how to dress for that shape and how to look your best.

The book also includes stories from Celia's early life and experiences of her childhood in Limerick city.

There are also tales of brushing shoulders with some of the country's most highly regarded celebrities, as well as how she raised her two children while running the very busy Holman Lee model agency.

Glamour & Grit was edited by Clodagh O'Leary, Orla Sheil helped with the photographs and Micheal Murphy of HiStyle magazine, published the book.

The book can be purchased online on glamourandgrit.ie for 39.95 with next day delivery available.
A MAN has been convicted and fined in Limerick City District Court for having five perching birds in a cage at his home.

Adrian Hayes of Marion Place, Janesboro, Limerick City was prosecuted for a breach of Section 31 of the Wildlife Act.

READ ALSO: Limerick firefighters put their own holiday plans aside to assist and help those in need

The National Parks and Wildlife Service received a report from a member of the public about a number of birds at the mans home.

During the investigation, it was established that Mr Hayes had five wild goldfinches in a cage, three glue sticks concealed in a tube container, a holding box and a trap at his home.

The case was taken by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and prosecuted by barrister David McHugh BL and State solicitor Aileen Mawe.

Mr Hayes entered a guilty plea in Limerick District Court on November 14, 2025 and Judge John King convicted him under Section 31 of the wildlife act. This makes it an offence for anyone to buy, sell or be in possession of a live perching bird.

Mr Hayes was fined 500 and given three months to pay.
US senator Bernie Sanders has escalated his warning over artificial intelligence, arguing that the technologys rapid expansiondriven by the worlds wealthiest individualsrisks destabilising labour markets, undermining human connection and outpacing democratic oversight.

Bernie Sanders raised the possibility of a moratorium on new AI data centres, saying lawmakers have yet to grapple seriously with the social consequences of a technology advancing at breakneck speed.

Speaking on CNNs State of the Union on Sunday, Sanders said he was fearful of a lot when it came to AI, describing it as the most consequential technology in the history of humanity that would transform the United States and the world in ways that have not been fully discussed.

Jobs, income and an unspoken crisis At the heart of Bernie Sanders critique lies a fundamental economic concern: mass job displacement without a corresponding plan for income security.

If there are no jobs and humans wont be needed for most things, how do people get an income to feed their families, to get healthcare or to pay the rent? Sanders said. Theres not been one serious word of discussion in the Congress about that reality.

Also Read | Politics over artificial intelligence: This trend will endure in 2026

Bernie Sanders's warning echoes a growing body of research suggesting that AI-driven automation could reshape employment on a vast scale. Recent global labour-market projections indicate that while new roles may emerge, tens of millions of existing jobs worldwide could be displaced by the end of the decade, with advanced economies facing particularly acute transitions. Yet, as Sanders noted, there has been little sustained debate in Congress about how to redesign welfare systems, healthcare access or housing policy in anticipation of such disruption.

They are doing it to get richer Bernie Sanders directly challenged the motives behind the AI boom, linking it to the financial ambitions of a small group of technology leaders. He singled out Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos and Peter Thiel, questioning whether their enthusiasm for AI was matched by concern for working people.

You think theyre staying up nights worrying about working people and how this technology will impact those people? Sanders said. They are not. They are doing it to get richer and even more powerful.

Also Read | Over 55,000 job cuts in US are linked to arrival of artificial intelligence

The senators remarks come amid an unprecedented surge in AI investment. Private funding into AI companies has climbed into the tens of billions of dollars annually, with vast sums flowing into data centres, advanced chips and generative AI systemsoften concentrated in the hands of a few dominant firms.

Mental health, children and the rise of AI companions Sanders also warned of less visible but potentially profound social consequences, citing studies that show increasing reliance on AI chatbots for emotional support.

If this trend continues, what does it mean over the years when people are not getting their support, their interaction from other human beings, but from a machine? he said. What does that mean to humanity?

That concern has found rare bipartisan resonance. Republican senator Katie Britt used a separate appearance on State of the Union to outline legislation aimed at protecting minors from AI companions.

What the GUARD Act proposes Britt is a co-sponsor of the proposed Guardianship Over Artificial Intelligence Relationships (GUARD) Act, which would place strict limits on AI companion tools accessible to children.

The bill seeks to ban AI companions for minors outright, require chatbots to repeatedly disclose that they are non-human and lack professional credentials, and establish criminal liability for companies that allow AI systems to produce sexually explicit material, encourage self-harm or promote violence to underage users.

Also Read | Artificial intelligence sparks debate at COP30 climate talks in Brazil

Britt said she had spoken to parents who shared devastating stories about children becoming isolated from their families after prolonged chatbot interactions.

If these AI companies can make the most brilliant machines in the world, they could do us all a service by putting up proper guardrails, she said, adding that users should be clearly told: I am a machine.

While the GUARD Act is narrowly focused on child protection, policy analysts note that its effectiveness will depend heavily on enforcement and the feasibility of robust age-verification systemsan area where technology, privacy and compliance challenges remain unresolved.

A call to slow down For Sanders, such targeted safeguards, while necessary, do not address the deeper structural risks posed by AIs unchecked expansion. He argued that lawmakers must consider whether society is prepared for large-scale displacement before accelerating further.

Frankly, I think you have got to slow this process down, he said. Its not good enough for the oligarchs to tell us, its coming, you adapt.

What are they going to do when people have no jobs? Sanders asked. What are they going to do, make housing free?

Also Read | AI promises comfort and intimacy but we mustnt lose touch with reality

As AI investment continues to soar and data centres multiply across the United States, Sanders intervention reframes the debate. The question, he suggests, is no longer whether AI will transform society, but whether democratic institutions can still shape the terms on which that transformation occurs.

How AI could reshape work  and who is most exposed Economists increasingly warn that AI could disrupt employment on a scale not seen since the Industrial Revolution. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said that around 40% of global jobs are exposed to AI, with advanced economies facing the highest risk, because a greater share of work involves cognitive and administrative tasks that can be automated.

In the United States, generative AI is already displacing white-collar roles in legal services, finance and customer support, where tasks such as document review, data analysis and routine client interactions are increasingly handled by machines, according to research cited by Goldman Sachs.

Automation is also accelerating in the manufacturing and logistics sectors. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has found that employers expect continued declines in clerical, administrative and assembly-line jobs as AI-driven robotics and predictive systems expand.

Where AI may still create work  and what skills will matter While AI is expected to displace some jobs, it is also likely to create new ones, though often requiring skills that displaced workers do not easily possess. The WEF projects growth in roles focused on AI oversight and governance, including system auditing, cybersecurity and model supervision, alongside continued demand for data engineers and infrastructure specialists.

Beyond technical fields, studies by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and McKinsey suggest AI could expand employment in human-centred sectors, such as healthcare, education and mental health services, where empathy, judgement and interpersonal skills remain difficult to automate.
The U.S. Air Forces new Wedgetail radar plane is designed to scan for threats hundreds of miles away, stay airborne for long stretches and act as a mobile battle station for dozens of fighters at once.

The aircraft is also behind schedule. Its cost has ballooned. Some military officials have said newer technologies could do much of the same job within the next decade.

The Boeing-built planes shaky standing led the Pentagon earlier this year to say it would cancel the purchase of two prototype E-7 Wedgetail jets. The price tag had climbed to $724 million per aircraft, up from around $588 million in the programs early stages.

The contract looked doomeduntil Congress stepped in. The $901 billion defense policy package enacted this month blocks the Pentagon from ending its Wedgetail contract. Senate lawmakers this year lined up $847 million in additional funding for the two prototypes, though the programs long-term future remains uncertain.

The Wedgetails turbulent history illustrates the challenges Western military leaders face in trying to keep complex weapons contracts on track, while freeing up resources for other technologies.

The tab to upgrade Americas land-based nuclear missile arsenal under the Sentinel project has nearly doubled to more than $141 billion, partly because of steep construction costs for new missile silos still on the drawing board. Delays and cost increases at U.S. shipyards have driven the Navy to scale back and cancel some construction contracts.

Before Congress restored funding for the E-7 Wedgetail program, Pentagon leaders argued it would be more cost-efficient to focus on existing surveillance fleets while space-based technologies are developed.

If we have systems and platforms that are not survivable in the modern battlefield, or they dont give us an advantage in a future fight, we have to make the tough decisions right now," Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a June House committee hearing. The E-7 is an example of that."

Hegseth said space-based technologies will soon surpass some existing airborne capabilities.

A Boeing spokesman referred questions about the programs cost to the Air Force. Steve Parker, the head of Boeings defense and space business, has said the U.S. will in the long run need a balance between airborne and orbital technologies.

I dont see this as a budget issue," Parker said at a November industry event.

Eyes in the sky

Sporting a rectangular radar array from Northrop Grumman attached to its roof, the Wedgetail has the ability to scan the air for potentially hostile aircraft. It can relay details about enemy positions and missiles to friendly aircraft and weapons systems on the ground.

Boeing began designing the plane at the turn of the century, adapting its 737 NG commercial jet for military use. Boeing pitched the new design as a straightforward upgrade to the smaller E-3 Sentry planes that have patrolled the skies since the Cold War.

Australias air force was the first customer for the Wedgetail a quarter-century ago. Software problems and other snags at first delayed deliveries, though the Australian government later brought costs under control and had a full fleet by 2015. A government audit reported a base cost of $3 billion Australian dollars, equivalent to about $2 billion, to acquire six Wedgetail jets.

Over the past decade, Australia has used its Wedgetails in training exercises with U.S. jets, searching the Indian Ocean for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 and patrolling the skies around Eastern Europe.

Boeing has delivered 14 finished Wedgetails to customers in Australia, South Korea and Turkey.

The U.S. Air Force in 2024 agreed to a $2.6 billion contract for two prototype Wedgetail aircraft. It changed course in June and announced plans to cancel the contract, citing the projects significant delays and cost increases.

Senate appropriators responded in July with a bill to preserve Wedgetail funding, arguing that ending the program would leave the Air Force too reliant on still-nascent satellite technology and diminish early warning and control capabilities. Lawmakers also recognized the projects affordability concerns" and ordered the Air Force to present a plan to streamline requirements and control costs.

An Air Force spokesman said it would comply with the defense policy law Congress passed this month. U.S. officials have said they can save money by shipping two unfinished 737 air frames to the U.K., where they will be outfitted with military gear before flying back to America for final touches. The Air Force said that arrangement will take advantage of the U.K.s previous experience working on the jets.

Scanning the field

Some former U.S. officials argue that the U.S. should change course. The Navy fields a fleet of Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye surveillance planes, which are already in service but have a shorter range and lack the cabin space for long airborne missions.

The Wedgetails larger cabin offers some advantages over the Sentry and Hawkeye. It features more advanced radar technology, fits 10 mission consoles and can stay aloft longer than older models.

Other countries are having second thoughts on the Wedgetail. The Dutch military earlier this year said that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization would scrap plans to buy six E-7 jets and instead search for other aircraft that could do the job.

U.K. officials have scaled back plans to buy five Wedgetails and will instead field three. Australia plans to retrofit its own Wedgetail fleet to keep up with the times.

U.S. military officials say the need to replace decades-old Sentry jets hasnt changed. The nearly 50-year old surveillance planes are often grounded. Replacement parts are expensive and in short supply.

You cant expect to fly them forever," said Glen VanHerck, a former Air Force general and commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or Norad, who retired in 2024. They were not meeting my mission requirements when I retired, and they will only get worse in the future."

Write to Drew FitzGerald at andrew.fitzgerald@wsj.com
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas top financial envoy in Hong Kong is set to leave after just over a year in the role, concluding a tenure closely watched by the sector, according to people familiar with the matter.

Qi Bin, 57, sent farewell messages to close contacts in Hong Kongs financial circle about his imminent redeployment, according to the people who asked not to be identified because the information is private.

He is expected to become a deputy director of an economic committee under the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, the countrys leading political advisory organization, according to a South China Morning Post report citing unidentified people.

As of Monday 8 a.m. local time, Qi was still listed as one of the five deputy directors of Chinas Liaison Office in Hong Kong under Director Zhou Ji.

Zhang Yong, executive vice president of Cosco Shipping, is replacing Qi as deputy director of the Hong Kong liaison office, the Hong Kong Economic Times reported.

The Chinese Liaison Office didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

Qi is leaving the role after slightly over one year since starting in November 2024. Widely seen as Beijings main financial expert in Hong Kong, he actively solicited comments from bankers and lawyers at large, as well as announced his detailed proposals to re-energize Hong Kongs market from its bottom.

His assertive and eloquent style ruffled feathers among some local officials. Even those who agreed with Qis ideas worried they were losing authority over the citys most important industry.

Before taking the political role at the Liaison Office, Qi was the deputy chief investment officer of China Investment Corp., the nations sovereign wealth fund. He had a mandate to expand the $3.6 trillion funds direct investments overseas.

Earlier, he led the China Securities Regulatory Commissions team to negotiate the framework of the Stock Connect between the exchange in Hong Kong and those in Mainland China before its launch in 2014. Now the channel sees an average of 221 billion yuan of Chinese stocks and HK$98 billion worth of Hong Kong shares traded per day.

Originally a biophysics student, Qi changed tracks and pursued an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business  a hub for free market economics. He translated three editions of The Great Game: The Emergence of Wall Street as a World Power by US historian John Steele Gordon.

He held the view that open markets can be reconciled with Chinas planned economy, he said in an interview with the schools magazine, noting that most countries have regulations.

There is no such thing as a completely free economy, he said. Its always about degrees of freedom.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Air India Express started its monthly PayDay Sale on Monday, offering low prices for local flights starting at 1,950 and overseas trips from 5,355.

In a statement, Air India Express announced that these discounted tickets are available on the airlines website, app, and other travel platforms until 1 January 2026.

Check-In Bags & Travel Dates Travellers can also opt for "no check-in bag" deals, starting at 1,850 for local routes and 5,355 for international flights. These prices apply to local trips taken between 12 January and 10 October 2026, and overseas trips between 12 January and 31 October 2026.

Also Read | Delhi bound Air India Express flight diverted to Ahmedabad due to dense fog

The airline further said that Lite tickets offer cheaper rates for extra bags: 1,500 for 15 kg on local flights and 2,500 for 20 kg on foreign ones. There are also no booking fees for anyone using the mobile app.

According to the statement, the company's website offers special perks for its members. These include 25% off Business Class with extra legroom, complimentary hot meals, increased baggage allowance, and priority check-in.

Tata NeuPass Members The statement noted that Tata NeuPass members can get an extra discount of up to 250 when booking on the official site or app. Business Class chairs are now on more than 40 new Boeing 737-8 planes that joined the fleet during its fast growth.

The company also offers special deals and perks on its website and app for students, seniors, and military families to help more people fly. Furthermore, the website offers convenient payment options, including monthly plans and buy now, pay later options.

AI Express Starts Operations from Navi Mumbai International Airport Air India Express started flying from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on 25 December. By offering direct trips to Bengaluru and Delhi, it became one of the first airlines to begin regular service on the very day the new airport opened for business.

The company stated that its first flight from NMIA travelled to Bengaluru. To celebrate the start, the very first passenger was given a special boarding pass during a ceremony held at the airport to mark the event.

While discussing the commencement of flights at the new location, Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, described it as a major achievement. He expressed his gratitude for being involved in the project and promised to continue improving the airlines services.

Also Read | Air India challenges IndiGo across Indias top 10 domestic flight routes

The start of flights from Navi Mumbai is a milestone for the city and the region. We are happy to be part of this effort in enhancing capacity for Mumbai and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Navi Mumbai is a key pillar of our dual-airport strategy, complementing our services from CSMIA, where we operate direct flights to 11 domestic and three international destinations, Singh said.
New Delhi: Gurugram-headquartered JBM Group has signed an exclusivity agreement to acquire a majority stake in GLIDA, the Indian electric vehicle (EV) charging network of Finnish state-run energy utility Fortum Oyj, two people aware of the development said.

The deal will mark the complete exit of the third-largest Nordic power company from India, a market it entered in 2012.

London-based Opus Corporate Finance Llp is advising on the transaction, code-named Butterfly, for GLIDA, formerly known as Fortum Charge & Drive India. Mint had earlier reported that Adani TotalEnergies E-mobility Ltd, Reliance BP Mobility Ltd and JBM Group had signed non-disclosure agreements (NDA) for the proposed deal.

JBM Group has signed an exclusivity agreement for GLIDA and due diligence is ongoing," said the first of the two persons cited earlier, both of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity.

JBM Group is drawn to GLIDA's 850 charging points across 29 cities and 25 highways in 17 states amid Indias green-mobility push that depends on the expansion of an effective EV charging network. JBM Groups flagship firm JBM Auto Ltd is one of Indias largest electric bus manufacturers, with 1,500 EV charging sites. It is among the sixteen bidders that have entered the government's tender for 10,900 electric buses under the PM E-Drive scheme, which seeks to accelerate the electrification of public road transport.

As a stock listed company, we do not comment (on) any market rumours or speculations," a Fortum Oyj spokesperson said in an emailed response.

We will like to refrain from commenting on any such development," a JBM Group spokesperson said in a WhatsApp text.

Queries emailed to the spokespersons of Adani TotalEnergies E-mobility Ltd and Reliance BP Mobility Ltd on 23 December remained unanswered.

With around 60% of the three-wheelers, 4.8% of cars and 6% of two-wheelers sold in 2025 being electric, firms are taking aggressive bets on Indias public EV charging space. They are driven by the large market opportunity, as India targets electric vehicles to account for 30% of total vehicle sales by 2030.

Also Read | Electric bus makers set for a joyride as Delhi eyes full fleet electrification

The Charging Point Operators (CPOs) in India have developed ambitious expansion plans targeting over 100,000 EV charging stations by FY27. The operators have formed strategic partnerships with B2B fleet players to ensure utilization rates while collaborating with real estate players to access key locations for charging infrastructure deployment," said a Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (Ficci)-EY report in September.

The market remains fragmented with multiple players operating across AC (Alternate Current) and DC (Direct Current) charger solution categories, indicating opportunities for consolidation and standardization," the Ficci-EY report added.

Fortums India exit comes in the backdrop of a protracted Russia-Ukraine war, leading to gas supply disruption and substantive losses to Fortum's-majority owned Uniper, which was subsequently sold to the German government at a loss of six billion euros. In addition, the Russian Federation confiscated Fortum's Russian plants valued at 5 billion.

As reported by Mint earlier, Fortum sold its renewable energy platform Fortum India Pvt. Ltd (FIPL), along with the management company including carbon credits to New York-based I Squared Capital backed Hexa Climate Solutions. Also, AM Green bought Fortum Oyj's and Chempolis Oys 50% stake in their joint ventureAssam Bio Refinery Pvt. Ltdand also the Oulu-headquartered biotechnology firm Chempolis Oy in which Fortum had a stake. Fortum India had earlier sold 700MW to Actis Llp, another 230MW to UK Climate Investments and Elite Alfred Berg; and 185MW to Malaysias state-run oil and gas company Petroliam Nasional Bhd or Petronas unit Gentari.

India has around 26,300 electric vehicle public charging stations (EVPCS). Under the 10,900-crore PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-Drive) scheme, about 2,000 crore has been allocated to set up 22,100 charging stations for electric cars, 48,400 for electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, and 1,800 for electric trucks and buses. Despite this push to bolster EV infrastructure, range anxiety remains a concern. Also, setting up public charging stations in India continues to face multiple challenges.

EV sales reached approximately 1.5 million units in FY25, with penetration rising sharply from around 0.7% in 2020 to nearly 5.9% in 2025. Early adoption was constrained by issues such as range anxiety, high upfront costs, and limited charging stations," KPMG wrote in a December report.

Niti Aayog, in an August report, flagged the problems in setting up public EV charging points, inadequacy of such charging facilities and their low utilization.

Setting up charging facilities requires considerable interaction with multiple public agencies. Power distribution companies, local municipal bodies and those who own the land have to come together. Interaction with financial institutions is also important. However, all of this is often difficult," the Niti Aayog report said.

However, the government's policy push is creating significant opportunities in EV charging and infrastructure expansion.

The New EV Charging Policy announced by the government establishes ambitious targets for charging infrastructure density and accessibilityat least one charging station per square kilometre by the end of this decade. Major highways and expressways may have fast-charging stations every 100 kilometres, enabling long-distance travel and reducing range anxiety concerns. The policy also ensures that electricity costs for these charging stations remain below the average cost of supply (ACoS) until March 2028," said the Ficci-EY report.

Improving economics, coupled with continued government focus, rapid expansion of charging infrastructure, increasing availability of models across segments and technological advancements, Indias EV growth momentum is likely to accelerate over the next decade," said a Deloitte report in December.
NEW DELHI: Ola Electrics scooter sales have been on a steady decline this year, putting pressure on its expanded store network, even as the company is now looking to sell home inverters through the very same outlets.

A Mint review of January-November statewise vehicle registration data from the governments Vahan portal shows that Ola Electric failed to post year-on-year growth in any month since February in four of the countrys biggest electric two-wheeler marketsMaharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. In at least one state and one Union territory, the company recorded zero sales at least once over the past three months, contributing to its slide to fifth position in recent rankings.

The data underscores the strain on Ola Electrics rapidly expanded retail network, raising questions about whether its home inverter push can offset weakening demand in its core electric two-wheeler business.

Also Read | Can Bhavish Aggarwal turn Ola Electric around?

Sales fell to fewer than 100 units in at least five states and Union territories during the year, pointing to a broad-based regional slowdown. This decline has come despite the company expanding its store network nearly four-fold in December 2024, from about 800 outlets to nearly 4,000, an expansion that was expected to improve reach and lift volumes.

Between September and November, the company recorded no sales in Jammu & Kashmir, compared with 500 units sold during the same three-month period in 2024. In Goa, Ola Electrics sales fell 96% to 23 units in September, followed by 22 units in October, before dropping to zero in November, as per the Vahan data. During September-November 2024, the company had sold 784 scooters in the state.

In Maharashtra, one of Indias largest electric two-wheeler markets, Ola Electric recorded an 83% year-on-year fall in November sales to 550 units, after a 77% decline in October to 1,278 units. Karnataka, the companys home state, showed a similar trend, with sales falling 84% in November to 520 units, following a 71% drop in October to 1,303 units.

In aggregate, Ola Electrics sales between January and November 2025 declined 52% to 190,274 units, from 393,894 units in the year-ago period. A deeper analysis of registrations across 26 states and Union territories shows that between May and November of the current financial year, the company posted year-on-year growth in just five instances nationwide.

The trend has continued into December, with sales in the first 25 days of the month declining year-on-year in 24 of the 26 states and Union territories. In total, Ola Electrics sales stood at 197,398 units in 2025, compared with 407,701 units in 2024.

Queries sent to Ola Electric on Friday went unanswered till press time.

Also Read | The curious case of unallocated expenses at Ola Electric

Inverter play

As scooter volumes weaken, the company has begun expanding the role of its retail network beyond electric two-wheelers. In October, Ola Electric launched home energy storage products under its new brand, Ola Shakti, including lithium-ion cell home inverters priced between 50,000 and 2 lakh, which it plans to sell through its owned stores.

Deepesh Rathore, founder at InsightEV, said the companys expanding store network is now caught in a difficult position amid falling scooter sales. In a base case scenario, every store on average would need 20 sales per month to break even while Ola's stores are stuck between two and three. Moreover, the problem for these stores is also the fact that there is a huge backlog of servicing."

Rathore explained that the problem for Ola Electric has been the persistent dissatisfaction of the consumers owing to servicing and product issues. The company's products have continued to pile up at its stores as servicing issue has not been resolved. The sentiment will not improve until fundamental issues with its products are resolved. Only then, it can see a revival in sales prospects."

Against this backdrop, Rathore added that sales of home inverters through these outlets remain uncertain, given the lack of precedent for automobile dealerships cross selling such products.

The company expects the inverter business to generate 100 crore in revenue in the January-March quarter, followed by 1,000 crore in the next financial year, driven by the same retail network that has yet to arrest the decline in scooter registrations.

The product goes into the market in around mid-January and goes into the market across all our 2,500-3,000 stores. So, in that sense, we have a very strong distribution also," companys chairman and managing director Bhavish Aggarwal had said on 6 November in an earnings call.

Aggarwal had made similar assertions in December last year while announcing the expansion of Ola Electrics retail footprint to nearly 4,000 outlets.

With our wide D2C network and the touchpoints under our Network Partner Programme, we will cover the entire country beyond tier-I and tier-2 cities," Aggarwal had said.

An investor presentation dated 1 April 2025 showed that the company had 4,436 stores across the country, of which 3,365 are owned by Ola Electric while the rest are operated by network partners. While the company would have expected this expansion to translate into higher sales, the registration data instead suggests a reversal in momentum.

Falling behind

As Olas sales weaken, rivals including Ather Energy, Bajaj Auto, TVS Motor Company, and Hero Electric have gained market share. Ather Energy has outpaced Ola Electric since the July-September quarter, while Hero MotoCorp sold more electric scooters than Ola Electric in November, pushing the company to fifth position.

Athers sales network has grown from 350 outlets at the start of the financial year to more than 500, with a target of 700 by year-end. Correspondingly, its sales rose 58% between January and December to 198,707 units.

To be sure, Ola Electric has previously maintained that scooter sales are conducted primarily through its online application and website, with physical outlets serving as experience centres where customers can test vehicles and take deliveries.

With widening visibility failing to translate into higher volumes, investor sentiment has also weakened. Ola Electrics shares have fallen more than 58% this year, compared with a 20% gain in the Nifty Auto index.
Reliance Industries has denied reports that the Indian government has made $30 billion claim against the company and BP. In an exchange filing on Monday, December 29, the Mukesh Ambani-led company said that a news report which made the claims earlier is factually incorrect."

The report had alleged that the Indian government was seeking more than $30 billion in compensation from Reliance and BP in an arbitration case, claiming the companies failed to produce gas from offshore fields.

The government made the claim during its submissions before a three-member arbitration tribunal that on November 7 concluded hearings on the 14-year-old dispute. The tribunal is expected to give its award sometime next year and the party that loses will most likely challenge it before the Supreme Court, news agency PTI quoted three sources aware of the matter as saying.

Rejecting the claims as inappropriate and irresponsible, Reliance Industries asserted: There is NO claim of $ 30 Billion against Reliance and BP.

Reliance said, The contents of the report titled India claims $30 billion from Reliance Industries, BP for underproduction from gas field, sources say are factually incorrect. The publication of a report such as this based on unnamed and unidentified sources is inappropriate and irresponsible.

Reliance Industries refutes claims In its statement, Reliance Industries said that the claim made by government in relation to KG D6 Block is of the order of $ 247 million. It said the order has been appropriately and consistently disclosed in its annual audited financial statements, the company said.

What's next? The company said the issues mentioned in the report are currently before the courts and will be decided in accordance with the laws of the country by its judicial system.

Reliance Industries Limited, together with its partner BP has at all times complied with its contractual and legal obligations and take strong exception to mischaracterization of facts in the report, the company added.

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) is India's largest company by market capitalisation. The conglomerate is involved in sectors such as energy, retail, telecom and digital services.
NEW DELHI: India is likely to announce a 2,000-crore technology upgradation scheme for small businesses in the 2026-27 budget, aimed at boosting the adoption of energy-efficient machinery, two people aware of the development said.

The technology upgradation scheme, proposed by the Union ministry of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME), and currently under discussion, will cover MSMEs with annual turnover of less than 50 crore, offering them a 20% capital subsidy for purchase of energy-efficient machinery, smart manufacturing, and automation upgrades, said the first of the two persons cited earlier, both of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity.

A micro enterprise has an annual turnover of up to 5 crore, a small enterprise up to 50 crore, and a medium enterprise up to 500 crore.

The plan comes amid several countries introducing their own carbon taxes on imports from nations with weaker climate regulations. The European Unions Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) comes into effect from 1 January. The UK and Norway plan to introduce their own CBAM-like mechanisms in 2027. Canada and Australia are also in early stages of CBAM development, while Taiwan intends to impose CBAM regulations and taxes in 2026.

These carbon taxes will put Indian MSME manufacturers and their exports at a disadvantage amid rising global tariff barriers. While the US has already imposed a steep 50% tariff on Indian exports, which is hurting these small businesses, Mexico also has announced a 50% tariff on select Indian goods starting 1 January 2026.

Also Read | Govt weighs interest, penalty to make MSME clients pay up dues on time

The second person said that the ongoing MSE-GIFT (Micro and Small Enterprises Green Investment and Financing for Transformation) scheme may be integrated with the new scheme. Launched in December 2023 as part of a World Bank-backed Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) project, the scheme provides interest subvention on loans and risk-sharing facilities to micro and small enterprises on loans for cleaner and greener operations. The total corpus of the MSE-GIFT scheme is 478 crore.

Queries emailed to the Union ministries of MSME and finance remained unanswered till press time.

The focus is also on modernizing MSME equipment and machinery, essential for keeping Indian manufacturers globally competitive and boosting export potential, the second person added.

Indias vast MSME sectormade of over 73 million businessesaccounts for about 45%, or over 14 trillion, of the country's exports and contributes about 30% of the $4 trillion economy.

Experts said the scheme is likely to reduce operating expenses for businesses.

Veeramani C., professor and director of Thiruvananthapuram-based Centre for Development Studies, said: "While the scheme proposes a 20% subsidy, businesses themselves have to furnish the remaining 80% of the investment, which leads to the question of whether this investment will contribute to profitability."

"This profitability is also linked to scale. If you have economies of scale in production, the profitability achieved from using energy-efficient technology and automation is much higher than for smaller businesses, which may not always have that much scale to operate," he added.

Further, industries play a significant role in the economy's overall emissions. Direct and indirect emissions from industry in India make up 30.6% and 18.7% of energy-related CO2 emissions, respectively. The move is important as the government aims to reduce emissions intensity of its GDP (gross domestic product) by 45% till 2030. Between 2020 and 2025, the intensity reduced by 36%, according to government estimates.

For small scale industries, it is a tough challenge to install emission control equipment, as most of them are expensive and unaffordable for their scale of operation. Even if they manage to install it, it becomes difficult for them to maintain it, leading to it being non-operative most of the time. Technology-based upgradation or standard is a far better approach towards controlling emissions from small scale industries," said Parth Kumar, program manager, sustainable industrialization unit with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).

Also Read | MSME payment delays? Centre may step in on dispute resolution

He said that a large segment of these industries are not registered and not located in designated industrial areas, resulting in lack of access to government schemes and financial support.

There is a very large section of this sector, which is not on paper. So, bringing them in the legal fold and providing them access to schemes and finance remains a huge challenge," Parth said.

Vinod Kumar, president, INDIA SME Forum, an industry lobby representing nearly 100,000 small and medium enterprises, noted that several businesses continue operating outdated machinery, which lowers their efficiency and productivity.

"If these small businesses need to compete globally, their equipment and machinery need to be modern, backed with new-age technologies. Given that these businesses are not deep-pocketed, incentives from the government on this would be helpful," he said.

According to a Niti Aayog report on competitiveness of MSMEs, participation of India in the global value chain (GVC) lags behind several economies like Malaysia and South Korea, apart from the developed countries of the US and Japan.

"Efficient supply chains enable MSMEs to integrate into GVCs, facilitating their involvement in international trade. Despite progress, Indias GVC participation (40.3% of gross trade in 2022) lags behind not only major economies like the USA (43.7%) and Japan (46.6%) but also regional competitors like South Korea (56.2%) and Malaysia (60%)," it said citing the Economic Survey of 2024.

The Niti Aayog noted that strengthening supply chain linkages can boost economic growth and global competitiveness. Investments in supply chain technology, such as electronic linkages in the textile sector, can improve quality control, product management, and process innovation, enhancing GVA (gross value added) and operational efficiency.
New Delhi: India is preparing for a major reset of its rural employment framework, with the proposed Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G), a reworked version of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), aimed at fixing long-standing structural weaknesses while retaining the core promise of employment support, according to a report by SBI Research.

The redesign seeks to turn the scheme away from a purely demand-driven model towards one that places greater emphasis on productive asset creation, outcome-based planning, and accountability at the grassroots level, SBI Research said.

However, at least one expert warned that report was overly optimistic about the proposed redesign, and that straying from MGNREGA demand-driven model could lead to increased exclusion rather than better outcomes.

The SBI Research report argued that while budgetary support for MGNREGA has risen sharply over the yearstouching a record 86,000 crore in 2025-26outcomes have lagged expectations, particularly in terms of durable asset creation, income enhancement, and efficient utilization of funds.

'Course correction' VB-G RAM G is positioned as a course correction, with a stronger role envisaged for gram panchayats and a jan bhagidari-led approach to planning and implementation, the report said.

One of the most significant changes proposed is an increase in guaranteed days of employment from 100 to 125, alongside an expansion and rationalization of the nature of jobs permitted under the scheme. The revised framework groups work into four clearly defined categorieswater security, core rural infrastructure, livelihood-related infrastructure and climate-resilient infrastructureto better align public spending with local development priorities. SBI Research noted that this could help narrow the persistent gap between work demanded and work provided, which has averaged around 14% since FY20.

The report pointed to inefficiencies in fund utilization, estimating that in a single year, structural weaknesses and uneven state-level efficiency led to lost employment opportunities for about 12.2 million households, even though funds were available. At the same time, real wage growth under MGNREGA has remained modest, hampering demand for work in several states, while unemployment allowancethough mandated under the Acthas been implemented poorly, with negligible payouts over recent years, it added.

The report also highlighted a significant shift in the proposed funding architecture. While MGNREGA had a 90:10 Centre-state funding pattern, VB-G RAM G proposes a 60:40 Centre-state funding pattern for most states.

'Don't stray from demand-driven model' While the proposed redesign has been positioned as a necessary course correction, experts have cautioned against moving too far away from the demand-driven ethos of the rural employment guarantee programme.

Ashish Kumar Singh, president of Citizen Forum, a civil rights awareness group in Bihars Katihar, said, The report appears overly optimistic about the proposed redesign. While structural gaps in MGNREGA do exist, shifting to a more normative and outcome-linked framework risks weakening the demand-driven nature of the scheme, which has been its core strength. Increasing complexity in planning, funding and monitoring could disadvantage poorer states and gram panchayats with weaker administrative capacity, potentially leading to exclusion rather than better outcomes.

States have room to borrow, report says Addressing concerns that this could strain states finances, SBI Research argued that such fears were overstated, noting that most states have under-borrowed relative to their fiscal limits. A simulated allocation exercise suggested states could collectively gain around 17,000 crore compared with average allocations over the past seven years, with large states such as Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra emerging as net gainers, the report said.

The report also contrasted MGNREGAs relatively weak oversight framework with VB-G RAM Gs proposed use of biometric authentication, spatial technology-based planning, digital monitoring, weekly public disclosures and strengthened social audits. Greater empowerment of gram panchayats is expected to improve planning, reduce misappropriation and ensure that works are better tailored to local conditions, while integration with national platforms such as PM Gati Shakti is aimed at improving coordination and asset utilization, it said.

VB-G RAM G also seeks to address a key implementation gap in the existing law by reforming the unemployment allowance mechanism, SBI Research said. The proposed framework removes the disentitlement clause and embeds unemployment compensation within a time-bound grievance redressal system, making payments mandatory if work is not provided within stipulated timelines.

While acknowledging that MGNREGA has played a critical role in social inclusionparticularly for women and SC/ST householdsSBI Research noted that its impact on rural poverty has diminished over time. Against this backdrop, the report positioned VB-G RAM G as a recalibration rather than a replacement, aimed at retaining employment support while delivering stronger outcomes, higher-quality assets and greater accountability in rural development, it said.

Also Read | Centre weighs higher spending on rural job guarantees as floods deepen distress

Uneven outcomes The report noted the wide divergence in MGNREGA performance across states, underscoring why a redesign like VB-G RAM G was being proposed. So far in FY26, about 475 million households have worked under MGNREGA nationwide, generating over 1.71 billion person-days, but outcomes vary sharply by state. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra account for a large share of employment generation in absolute terms, reflecting their scale and rural workforce dependence. Uttar Pradesh alone generated over 185 million person-days, the highest of any state.

However, when measured in terms of average days of employment per household, states such as Kerala (48 days), Jammu & Kashmir (47 days), Jharkhand (42 days) and Odisha (42 days) perform better than several larger states, highlighting differences in implementation efficiency. The data also showed that despite the legal guarantee of 100 days, the national average remained at 36 days per household, reinforcing SBI Researchs argument that the existing framework has struggled to translate allocations into sustained employment.

SBI Research used this state-wise divergence to argue that the current demand-driven model has produced uneven outcomes, with efficiency, planning capacity and governance varying sharply across states. This necessitates the proposed shift under VB-G RAM G towards normative, outcome-linked allocations, greater accountability at the gram panchayat level and stronger monitoring mechanisms, it said.

Womens participation continues to be a strong pillar of the scheme. Women account for 35.8 million households, or nearly 58% of total workers, with states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan recording particularly high female participation. However, the number of households completing the full 100 days of work remains concentrated in a handful of states, pointing to structural and administrative constraints elsewhere.

The report suggested that by rewarding efficiency and asset creation, while still accounting for equity factors such as rural population and work demand, the redesigned framework could narrow these inter-state disparities and improve overall outcomes.

The SBI Research report was flayed by a section of experts who had played a role in the architecture of the earlier job guarantee scheme.

This so-called independent research report is largely parroting the governments position on what is a deeply partisan redesign of MGNREGA, merely couched in more conciliatory language," said Nikhil Dey, a founding member of the Rajasthan-based Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan, who was closely involved in the campaign for the enactment of MGNREGA in 2005. "On the one hand, it claims that NREGA has underperformed and needs fixing, but on the other, its own analysis of the last decade highlights major achievements in water conservation, drought resilience and sustained employment generation. These contradictions are never resolved.

The report also repeats the governments narrative on delayed wage payments, despite the Supreme Court clearly holding the Centre responsible, as it pays 100% of wages. Even today, workers across the country are waiting for months for payments for work done last year said Dey, adding that the push towards technology-heavy monitoring, presented as transparency, risks sidelining ground-level planning and social audits that communities had built.
Bihar Public Service Commission, on Monday, said that the written examination for the post of Assistant Education Development Officer (AEDO), scheduled to be held from 10-16 January next year, has been postponed.

Why the AEDO written exam is postponed? Bihar Public Service Commission, in its notification  said that the written examination has been postponed due to unavoidable reasons.

The written examination for the post of Assistant Education Development Officer (AEDO) under Advertisement No. 87/2025, scheduled to be held from 10.01.2026 to 16.01.2026 (except 14.01.2026), has been postponed due to unavoidable reasons," reads the notification by BPSC.

When would the exam be held? The revised date for the examination  once finalised  would be announced on the BPSC website.
Kim Kardashian is under fire from PETA and social media for gifting each of her four children with brand-new Pomeranian puppies.

PETA accused her of ignoring the animal crisis and highlighted that Kim could have gotten shelter dogs for her children.

Also Read | Kim Kardashian reveals her bar exam struggles in new episode of The Kardashians

Puppies are not plushies Talking to The Daily Mail, Ingrid Newkirk, PETA founder, said, Puppies are not plushies". She said it was a "damn shame" that Kim missed the chance to be a spokesperson for shelter pups.

Ingrid said that the SKIMS founder was being rightly slammed on social media  Ignoring the homeless animals crisis is inexcusably callous.

She urged that Kim call PETA or a local shelter the next time she wants to bring an animal into her home.

Also Read | Ray J repeats racketeering allegations against Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner

PETA says Kim can still make amends Ingrid told The Daily Mail that it was still not too late for Kim to make amends and suggested that she send her children to volunteer or fund a local shelter.

She said that Kim can make some amends now by sending their kids to volunteer at a local shelter. Ingrid also suggested that Kim can fund a local shelter adopt-a-thon or at least one spay day to help stop the growing homeless puppy crisis.

Ingrid also called out her sister, Khloe Kardashian, for buying a black Labrador puppy for her family.

Kim's controversial post Kim Kardashian faced major backlash after posting a picture of four Pomeranian puppies snuggled up together on her Instagram Stories.

Each kid got a puppy, she captioned the picture.

View full Image Kim Kardashian's IG story

Kim shares four kids  North West (12), Saint (10), Chicago (7), and Psalm (6)  with her ex-husband, Kanye West.

She also shared two other Instagram posts with her children  a family photo shoot of her kids in their Christmas pyjamas from her brand SKIMS, and a photo shoot from the Christmas party.

Kim Kardashian admits using ChatGPT for legal advice In November, Kim Kardashian revealed that she had not been on very friendly terms with ChatGPT and shared how she used the AI platform for legal advice, only to end up failing.

I use it for legal advice. So when I need to know the answer to a question, I'll take a picture, snap it and put it in there, Kim said about ChatGPt.
Several films are set to release in theatres and on OTT platforms between 29 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. There are web series and direct-to-OTT releases for films as well. Take a look.

Two major Hollywood films are releasing: The Housemaid, starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, and the new SpongeBob movie, Search for SquarePants.

In Bollywood, the only prime Hindi release is Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat and Dharmendra. This marks the posthumous release of the late Bollywood superstars final movie. He plays Brigadier ML Khetarpal in the war movie.

Azad Bharath, starring Shreyas Talpade as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, is also scheduled for release. A Kannada action film titled 45 will be released in Hindi as a dubbed version after a delay.

Regional cinemas will see a large number of new titles. Marathi theatres get 4 releases: Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam, Magic, Rappata and Maanus Naavaacha Vaadal.

Gujarati cinemas will release Bicharo Bachelor while Telugu audiences get the busiest lineup with 8 films: Psych Siddhartha, Sahakutumbaanaam, Vanara, Nilakanta (The Essence of Karma), Alcohol, Vinara O Vema, Gatha Vaibhavam and Madham.

Tamil has 4 new releases: Anali, Sirai, Dear Radhi and Kaakaa. Kannada also has 5 films arriving in theatres: Theertharoopa Thandeyavarige, Koragajja, Shivaleela, Majestic 2 and Jaganmathe Akkamahadevi.

OTT releases this week Several new OTT shows and films are set to release in the first week of January 2026. Netflix is leading with a packed line-up across genres and languages.

On 1 January, it will premiere Dr Seusss Red Fish, Blue Fish Season 2, the workplace romance Love from 9 to 5 and the Korean reality show My Korean Boyfriend. It will also have two English limited series, titled Run Away and Time Flies.

On the same day, Telugu film Mowgli 2025 will be released just three weeks after its theatrical release. It will be streaming on ETV Win.

On 2 January, Netflix adds more international titles, including Swedish-Finnish crime thriller Land of Sin and the Japanese thriller Your Turn to Kill Season 1.

Follow My Voice, a Spanish teen drama, will be released simultaneously on Amazon Prime Video. Love Beyond Wicket, a sports-themed release, is scheduled for 2 January on JioHotstar.
The scene would be familiar to anyone who has visited a Costco in a well-off American suburb. Children sit in wide shopping carts, pushed by parents wandering through the high-ceilinged aisles in search of deals on eggs, bread and rib-eye steak. Customers line up for samples of crackers and cakes.

But this isnt Americait is one of Chinas biggest cities. And the warehouse-club company bringing in affluent shoppers isnt Costco. It is Walmart-owned Sams Club.

A perennial No. 2 in the U.S., Sams Club has found a way to beat Costco: Do it in China.

Sams Club has about 60 stores in China and counting, up from 39 three years ago, as well as a fast-growing e-commerce business. The biggest stores each generate more than $500 million in sales annually, according to Walmart. By contrast, Costco opened its first store in China in 2019 and now has seven locations.

View Full Image The biggest Sams Club stores in China each generate more than $500 million in annual sales, according to Walmart.

View Full Image The worlds second-largest economy offered Sams Club a chance for a do-over.

The worlds second-largest economy offered Sams Club a chance for a do-over. In the U.S., Sams Club had long struggled to break away from Walmarts budget reputation, making it difficult to reach coveted upscale shoppers. In China, with a clean slate and a growing affluent class, Sams Club, following Costcos formula, carved out a niche as a premium chain offering high-quality items hard to find elsewhere.

The target Chinese customer was known internally as the BMW member," said Andrew Miles, who was president of Sams Club China from 2012 until early this year. That is code, he said, for a wealthy 35- to 45-year-old mom who might ferry her children to the store in a luxury car.

Miles said that when he arrived in China, We thought, lets take the white space that Costco would take if they were here."

Costcos chief financial officer, Gary Millerchip, said Costco leads Sams Club regionwide in Asia with 78 stores, including 37 in Japan.

In China, Walmart is a rare U.S. company that is thriving.

Chinese consumers have become choosier with their spending as a property-market boom has turned to bust. But the country still has millions of well-to-do shoppers who can afford to splurge on, say, a $6 package of Sams Club-exclusive Oreos, with thinner cookies and more cream.

View Full Image Source: the company

Walmart doesnt disclose Sams Club revenue or member numbers in China, but Walmarts overall sales in China jumped nearly 22% to $6.1 billion in the August-October quarter compared with the same period a year earlier. That makes China Walmarts fastest-growing international market.

Shoppers at Sams Club China pay the equivalent of $37 a year for a basic membership or $97 for a premium membership, which comes with perks such as a 2% rebate on purchases.

Gao Lulu, a 34-year-old accountant in Shanghai, has been a Sams Club member for about three years and usually shops there once or twice a month. On a recent weekday, Gao, her husband, daughter and niece left with a cart full of snacks, including melon milk drinks and a Swiss roll cake.

There are some things here that you cant buy at other supermarkets," Gao said. The price is pretty good."

Cramped apartments

Walmart opened the first Sams Club in Shenzhen, a boomtown bordering Hong Kong, in 1996. At the time, some retail executives in China dismissed the warehouse model, figuring it wasnt suited to Chinese city-dwellers who lived in cramped apartments and got around by bicycle.

When Miles took over at Sams Club China in 2012, it had just eight locations and Walmart was focusing on its over 300 Chinese stores, which are similar to U.S. supercenters.

View Full Image A customer tastes moon cakes at a Sams Club store in Shenzhen, China.

View Full Image Sams Club sought to create a treasure hunt for the upscale shopper.

Miles, a longtime retail executive from the U.K., flew to Walmart headquarters in Bentonville, Ark., in his first months on the job. Looking at data on Chinas middle-income and upper-income households, Miles and other executives saw a green line shooting upward. There was this wave of people coming our way," he said.

Miles said he also studied Costco and its history. The conclusion: Chinas upscale consumer represented the biggest opportunity.

More Chinese were traveling the world and encountering international foods, so Sams Club sought to create a treasure hunt" for the upscale shopper. It ratcheted up the membership fee to stress exclusivity.

Sams Clubs Chinese buyers, who had been used to sourcing basic U.S. brands and inexpensive local products, were retrained to look for unique goods imported from around the world, as well as premium versions of Chinese favorites such as dates and dried mushrooms, said Miles. The store then offered them in bulk at competitive prices.

What Sams Club in China did well was strictly prioritize the premium consumer" consistently over time, said Jordan Berke, founder of digital-retail consulting firm Tomorrow and former head of e-commerce for Walmart China. In the U.S. in decades past, he said, Sams Club often shifted focus between small-business owners as the primary customer and individual shoppers.

View Full Image A customer tests a chair at a Sam's Club store in Shenzhen.

View Full Image Sam's Club offers a vast array of products, including staples of Chinese cuisine.

Miles was a master of using the threat of Costco coming to motivate us," Berke said.

Miles decorated the office with pictures of penguins jumping off icebergs and gave out penguin awards" to people who tried ideas that didnt work and kept trying.

The strategy of unique products has sunk in so deeply that it led to a social-media dust-up earlier this year. Some Chinese customers complained online that Sams Club was selling products they could buy elsewhere, such as Orions Choco Pie. State media covered the controversy and Walmart said it would reflect the customers opinions in its product lineup.

Delivery in 15 minutes

The other pillar of Sams Clubs strategy in China is e-commerce. Miless tenure coincided with the rise of WeChat, which Chinese people use for everything from text messaging to payments to online shopping. In 2017, Sams Club launched a digital membership card and mini-app inside WeChat that funneled users to a separate Sams Club app.

Sams Club was losing the war on convenience. Thats where WeChat came in," said Ted Hopkins, former head of product for Walmart China and founder of brand consultant firm KulturShift.

These days, about half of revenue comes from online shopping, compared with only around 4% seven years ago. Members can get one-hour delivery for the most popular items, and next-day delivery for more, as well as home delivery in cities where there isnt a warehouse club.

Each Sams Club store doubles as a mother club" with several warehouses around it that are closed to the public and serve as fulfillment centers. Delivery drivers zip around on scooters wearing purple shirts and helmets. The average delivery speed is less than 40 minutes and some customers get their orders in 15 to 20 minutes, Walmart says.

View Full Image Shoppers at Sams Club China pay the equivalent of $37 a year for a basic membership or $97 for a premium membership.

Some of the lessons from Sams Club China are spreading globally. A Walmart subsidiary in India learned from the Sams Club delivery service, while Sams Club Mexico is also looking upscale, said current and former Walmart executives.

When John Furnerwho was recently tapped as Walmarts next chief executivetook over Sams Club U.S. in 2017 after running merchandising for Walmarts China operations, one of the first things he did was close 63 locations, in part to focus on stores with a greater percentage of higher-income households, said a person familiar with the situation. U.S. executives also visited China to learn from Sams Clubs hub-and-spoke model for delivery. Sams Club U.S. has reported steady quarterly sales growth for over five years.

Miles left Walmart early this year and the company recently hired Liu Peng, a former executive at Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba, to run Sams Club China. His challenge will be to keep the warehouse model and premium lineup while staying ahead of competitors in Chinas deflationary economy.

Chen Chi, a 29-year-old entrepreneur who mostly shops at Sams Club for food and baby products, said the prices were still right.

Weve compared them with many platforms," said Chen. Even other small vegetable markets in Shanghai arent as cheap as Sams Club."

Zhao Yueling contributed to this article.

Write to Hannah Miao at hannah.miao@wsj.com and Sarah Nassauer at Sarah.Nassauer@wsj.com
On the ground floor of Chicagos tallest building, the restaurant Kindling features tall ceilings, lots of light and a 13-foot live-fire hearth presided over by the tattooed chef, Jonathon Sawyer.

The fine-dining establishment serves a range of dishes, but steak dominates the menu, with options like a 16-ounce prime New York strip and a Mrs. OLeary," an 8-ounce filet served with a red wine demi-glace and fried shallots.

The bill on a dinner for four can easily climb to $500. But after accounting for the restaurants costsfrom the steak to rentprofits from the meal amount to around $25.

Those margins are slim," says Sawyer, Kindlings chef partner and a James Beard Award winner.

Beef is more expensive than ever, and while many restaurants are feeling the squeeze, steakhouses are particularly in a pinch given their reliance on sales of dishes with a juicy porterhouse or rib-eye. Steakhouse operators say their customers tend to be more affluent and can pay up, but the operators still have plenty of complaints about rising prices.

Wholesale costs for beef destined for steak filets have ballooned around 67% from prepandemic levels, according to federal data. Kindlings steak costs are up about 40% this year alone, Sawyer says.

In addition to food, expenses for labor, utilities, rent, insurance and other basics needed to run a restaurant are up, particularly in urban areas, according to the National Restaurant Association trade group.

Labor costs, workers comp, it has all skyrocketed," says Stephen Sandoval, co-founder and executive chef at Chicagos Trino steakhouse.

Holidays are prime time for steakhouses, when families and companies are often willing to pay up for pricier meals. After late-year holidays such as Christmas, sales typically slow and profit margins tighten, operators say.

Here is how three Chicago steakhouses are trying to square their costs:

Gibsons Restaurant Group

Gibsons has been buying steaks for nearly four decades, but 2025 has scrambled the Chicago-based restaurant groups formula.

New tariffs this year on imports lifted prices paid for grass-fed beef from Australia and Kobe steak from Japan.

The bulk of Gibsonss steaks come from Midwest producers, but that hasnt brought relief from rising prices. Beef supplies are tight, and demand is red-hot.

Gibsons executives say they are more constrained in securing choice filets that meet their specifications. Cattle herds are at their lowest level in the U.S. since the 1950s, according to government data.

Grocery stores are increasingly stocking higher-end steaks, presenting more competition for restaurants and driving prices higher, says Stephen Lombardo III, Gibsonss chief executive and second-generation owner.

New York strip was never on the menu at home when we were kids. Now I can find it in Costco," says Lombardo, who operates 14 restaurants.

Gibsons currently pays around $25 for a 13-ounce New York strip steak, and charges customers $70 for it. The same steak cost around $16 in 2019, and Gibsons would need to charge $89 for it today to keep prepandemic profit margins.

Gibsons bumped up its prices by around 3% this year, but that hasnt covered its growing costs, Lombardo says. The company is exploring whether it can find savings by using technology to handle phone calls and speed up tasks like cutting vegetables.

Kindling Downtown Cookout & Cocktails

Sawyer tries to make the math work on meals by balancing out high-cost steaks with lower-cost items. The equation isnt working as well these days.

A Chicago steakhouse needs to keep costs of ingredients to around 35% of the price that consumers pay. Sides, pastas and desserts tend to be more profitable, with lower ingredient costs.

Alcohol also benefits the ledger, with liquor carrying heftier profit margins than beer or wine. But people generally are drinking less when they dine out, Sawyer says.

Beef regularly breaks the 35% target. For prime steaks, it is around 50%.

That means a steak Sawyer sells for around $100 can now cost $50 to buy wholesale, he says. One error in the kitchen, and $50 ends up in the trash, he says.

Trino

Fellow restaurant operators told Trinos Sandoval he was nuts to open a steakhouse this year with climbing beef prices. But it is all the other restaurant costs that are blowing his mind.

To open Sandovals new steakhouse in the hip West Loop area of Chicago, he sank $600,000 into equipment. Rent comes to $21,000 a month. Insurance and utilities also drive up monthly costs.

Sandoval says his biggest cost is labor. Between 35% and 37% of his sales go to cover employee expenses between kitchen, manager and server wages, along with benefits and workers compensation. Labor has become more expensive since the pandemic, and fine-dining restaurants need to pay servers and cooks able to handle $88 steak dishes, he says.

Chicago restaurant operators say their labor costs have particularly grown after the city began phasing out a lower minimum wage for tipped workers.

People always complain about pricing," says Sandoval, who previously worked with the celebrity chef Rick Bayless. I dont think they understand."

Sandovals Trino steakhouse had one advantage over his next project, Entre Suenoshe didnt have to build it from scratch. The full build-out for Entre Suenos is on track to cost $2.5 million, while Trino was about $600,000, he says.

Write to Heather Haddon at heather.haddon@wsj.com
PALM BEACH, Fla.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is seeking to persuade President Trump to more forcefully back a proposed peace agreement that includes security guarantees and would convert contested territory with Russia into a demilitarized free economic zone.

Zelensky and Trump were set to meet Sunday at Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate to go over a 20-point draft that has been revised by Ukrainian and U.S. negotiators in recent weeks in the latest attempt to end the nearly four-year war. Zelenskys hope is that Trump will apply more pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach a deal.

Ahead of Sundays meeting, Trump said on social media he had a good and very productive telephone call" with Putin.

Going into the summit, the main sticking points were the future of the approximately 20% of the Donetsk region that Russia wants to be surrendered to it, the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europes largest, that is currently under Russian occupation, and details of security guarantees that Washington would provide for Ukraine.

Before meeting Trump, Zelensky on Sunday highlighted Russias stepped-up attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure in recent days that have left swaths of the country without power. He said he was there not only to talk about ending the war but also ensuring that pressure on Russia remained high, with effective sanctions and new air defenses for Ukraine.

These are some of the most active diplomatic days of the year right now, and a lot can be decided before the New Year," Zelensky said on X. We are doing everything toward this, but whether decisions will be made depends on our partnersthose who help Ukraine, and those who put pressure on Russia so that Russians feel the consequences of their own aggression."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Sunday that Zelensky and Europe arent ready to engage in constructive talks." He called European countries the main obstacles to peace" and said Moscow remained committed to working with the U.S. to devise lasting agreements for addressing the conflicts root causes," language the Kremlin often uses for concessions Ukraine sees as capitulation.

Trump and Zelensky have had an uneven relationship since the American president returned to power in January, with Trump alternately pressuring his Ukrainian counterpart to make deep concessions and seeming to side with him amid ongoing frustration with Putin.

The 20-point plan has been adapted from an original 28-point proposal from the U.S. that came under criticism for being too favorable to Moscow, including calling on Ukraine to cede the eastern Donbas region now under its control to Moscow and accept Russias de facto control of other parts of Ukraine where the front line would be frozen.

The new draft agreement calls for a referendum in Ukraine on the territorial concessions, as well as presidential elections. Ukraine has started preparing for a vote, which could be carried out in person and online, to allow the participation of millions of Ukrainians abroad.

Kyiv has resisted giving up Ukrainian territory in Donetsk, citing restrictions in its constitution. The U.S. is proposing a demilitarized free economic zone" in the area. Zelensky has said he is ready to consider the idea if Russia also withdraws its forces from parts of the Donetsk region under its control.

Russia hasnt accepted the terms and continues to push for control of the Donetsk region. One day before the talks here, Russia unleashed a ballistic missile and drone attack on Ukraines capital.

In a video released Saturday night, Putin accused Ukraine of being the obstacle to a resolution and said that if Kyiv authorities are not willing to end the matter peacefully, we will achieve all the goals we have in the special military operation by military means."

The 20-point plan stems from a proposal drafted by Trumps envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, with input from Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said the Kremlin and the U.S. are closer to resolving the conflict in Ukraine, but that it would be inappropriate to set any deadlines, state news agency Tass reported on Friday. He said the plan discussed between the U.S. and Russia significantly differs from the plan publicized by Ukraine, according to the state news agency RIA Novosti.

Zelensky arrived in Florida on Saturday night after a stop in Canada to meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney. He also held calls with European leaders and planned to do so again after meeting with Trump.

Write to Alex Leary at alex.leary@wsj.com
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Monday that banks will continue to face competition from non-bank sources in lending to companies, while fast-changing technology could change how customers transact and pose cybersecurity risks.

In its report on trends and progress of banking in India, the RBI said that despite a moderation in bank credit in FY25, the total flow of financial resources to the commercial sector increased, thanks to non-bank resources.

RBI defines the flow of financial resources to the commercial sector as the aggregate of bank loans, loans from non-banks, and investment by Life Insurance Corp. of India in corporate debt, apart from funds raised overseas.

"The increase in funding from non-bank sources during 2024-25 was largely driven by buoyant domestic capital markets, reflected in higher equity issuances and increased corporate bond placements amidst easing market conditions, enhanced credit flow by non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), and a rebound in short-term external credit, it said.

Also Read | RBI cautions states on fiscal discipline as borrowing costs surge

45% and rising According to the latest data from RBIs monthly bulletin, non-food bank credit accounted for 55% of total resources to companies up to 28 November, while the rest came from non-bank sources such as equity issuances, corporate bonds, commercial papers and overseas borrowings. The share of non-food credit was at 57% in the same period of FY25, pointing to an increase in the share of non-bank sources. Non-food credit is bank credit adjusted for loans given to FCI.

The year also saw a plethora of public listings. According to a 9 December Bloomberg report, India's initial public offerings reached a record 1.77 trillion, surpassing the 2024 high of 1.73 trillion.

In August, RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra had said that although rate cuts had been quickly transmitted to money markets, large companies were increasingly relying on market-based instruments such as commercial paper and corporate bonds, reducing their reliance on banks.

Also, as the profitability of large corporates has increased, their internal resources have become an important source for business expansion, he said. Malhotras point was that although credit growth slowed in 2024-25, the broader flow of financial resources to the commercial sector has significantly improved, and that the slowdown in corporate borrowings should not be viewed in isolation.

Also Read | Why the RBI is wary of stablecoinsCryptos measured wing

Credit growth optimism Analysts are optimistic about a revival in bank credit to companies. According to India Ratings and Research, credit growth of the industry segment is expected to be around 11% in FY26  it was 7.8% in FY25 and 8.5% in FY24  with renewables, industrials, cement, metals, and telecom sectors leading the private capex drive.

Growth in the large industry segment (around 67.8% of industry) picked up at 4.6% y-o-y in October 2025, reflecting a gradual revival in capex demand, analysts at India Ratings and Research said in a note on 26 December.

After years of borrowing frenzy, companies have shifted focus to reduce debt. The availability of internal funds and market options have also led to fewer borrowers approaching banks. According to a report by Ambit Capital on 23 December, as the corporates continued to deleverage and alternative funding sources gained traction, over the past few years, the corporate loan growth for the banking sector lagged the overall system credit growth.

Given this, Ambit said it sees RBIs softening policy restrictions to be a signal for strong support of banks to re-engage with the corporate sector as a credit growth engine.

The RBI report also highlighted the rising adoption of the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), with 64 lenders onboarded so far. The number of data services available on the platform has also expanded to 136, from just over 50 a year ago.

Funds raised by banks through private placements, qualified institutional placement and preferential allotment have decreased to their lowest over the last three financial years, the report noted.

Tech-tonic The RBI report also said that rapidly changing technology could alter how people transact with banks, while also opening up new risks.

Strengthening risk assessment and improving operational efficiency through responsible technology adoption remain essential, with continued emphasis on financial inclusion, consumer education and protection, it said.

On the whole, bank balance sheets expanded at a healthy pace in FY25, driven by double-digit growth in deposits and credit, albeit with some moderation, the central banks report said.

Factors that stood out for the banking sector included profitability, asset quality and capital ratios. The RBI said profitability remained strong, as reflected in an increase in their return on assets, while asset quality improved further as gross non-performing assets ratio declined to a multi-decade low.

Banks remain well-capitalized with leverage and liquidity ratios well above the regulatory minimum. These strong fundamentals provide a buffer against risks and support the banking sectors capacity to sustain credit expansion, it said.
By Shariq Khan

Dec 29 - Oil prices settled more than $1 a barrel higher on Monday as Russia accused Ukraine of attacking President Vladimir Putin's residence, while traders braced for potential supply disruptions in the Middle East due to rising tensions in Yemen.

Brent crude futures rose $1.30, or 2.1%, to settle at $61.94 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $1.34, or 2.4%, to close at $58.08.

Russia on Monday accused Ukraine of launching a drone attack on the Russian presidential residence in northern Russia, due to which Moscow now plans to review its position in peace talks. Ukraine dismissed Russian statements about the drone attack and its foreign minister said Moscow was seeking "false justifications" for further strikes against its neighbor.

"Unless Russia surprises the world by backing away from previous demands regarding territory and security guarantees, we are looking for the complex to edge higher through the rest of this week and next week," oil trading advisory firm Ritterbusch and Associates said.

Prior to the drone attack claims, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had said on Monday that significant progress had been made in talks with U.S. President Donald Trump and agreed that U.S. and Ukrainian teams would meet next week to finalize issues aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine.

TENSIONS IN YEMEN RAISE SUPPLY CONCERNS

The oil market's focus has also shifted toward the Middle East, Gelber & Associates said in a note. "Fresh instability, including Saudi air strikes in Yemen, is keeping supply-disruption headlines in play," the energy consultancy said.

Yemen's Saudi-led coalition said any military moves by the main southern separatist group in the eastern province of Hadramout that undermined de-escalation efforts would be countered to protect civilians, the Saudi state news agency reported on Saturday.

An escalation of fighting on Thursday killed two people from the separatist group Southern Transitional Council's Hadhrami Elite Forces in Hadramout, the group said in its statement. Saudi airstrikes followed early on Friday, targeting the STC forces in the area, a source told Reuters.

Strong Chinese waterborne crude imports are also helping tighten oil markets, said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo.

He added that $60 a barrel was the soft floor for Brent, with prices expected to recover slightly in 2026 because non-OPEC supply growth is likely to stall in the middle of 2026.

Energy investors awaited data on U.S. stockpiles for the week ended December 19. The report, which was expected to be published at 10:30 a.m. ET on Monday, was delayed without assigning a new publication time.

An extended Reuters poll showed U.S. crude oil inventories were expected to have fallen in the week ended December 19, while distillate and gasoline inventories were expected to have risen. [EIA/S]
Silver rate today: Silver price today is extending its unstoppable rally, jumping over 6% to scale a lifetime high on the MCX, scaling past the 2.5 lakh mark.

The silver price rally in India is in line with the global markets, where silver rate today crossed the $80 per ounce mark for the first time earlier this morning before getting pulled back due to profit-booking and geopolitical tensions.

Silver price today Silver rate today extended their record-breaking rally for a sixth straight session on Monday, surging about 6% to scale a record high of 2,54,174 per kilogram in futures trade amid strong investor demand and bullish global trends.

The white metal has been witnessing robust buying interest from traders, tracking firm trends in the international markets.

As investors and traders come forward to make the most out of the silver rally and buy the precious metal, here is how you can invest in silver in India.

Also Read | Silver's December rally prompts chilling warning from Elon Musk

Buy physical silver Indians have traditionally invested in physical silver, including coins, bars, and jewellery. In our culture, we traditionally buy silver coins or idols to bring in goddess Lakshmi or wear them as ornaments. Other than its emotional or religious value, silver also comes as a source of wealth.

Investing in physical silver can be beneficial especially during a rally, but it may come with some issues. It takes up more storage space, and there is always a risk of theft or loss. Silver ornaments or coins also require a making charge which cannot be retrieved if you plan to sell it.

Get digital silver Several online platforms now have the option for investors to buy digital silver. With this, investors can buy small, fractional quantities of silver that can be stored with the custodian of the company. It is an easy entry point for those who are looking to buy silver in India for the first time, but may come with its own risks. Investing in silver digitally is not that regulated, and so it is best for short-term holding.

Silver ETFs and mutual funds Silver ETFs and mutual funds are one of the most secure and practical ways to invest in silver in India. A silver ETF is a fund that primarily invests in physical silver and linked instruments.

A silver ETF must meet London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) standards: 30 kg bars of 99.9% purity  making it reliable. The net asset value of silver ETFs is calculated daily, providing clarity to investors and they can accordingly buy or sell silver stocks anytime during market hours.

Thus, to invest in silver in India, it is best to consider diversifying your allocation in silver ETFs, digital silver and physical silver.
The sharp rise in silver prices has rubbed off on the mining companies, too. In China, one of the world's largest silver producers, several mining companies have been beneficiaries of the rise in silver as investors lapped up their shares, pushing prices to record high levels.

Chinese mining stocks traded mixed on Monday, as silver prices retreated from record high levels. However, for the year, these stocks have seen a massive rise of up to 187%.

Among the top-performing Chinese mining companies of this year are: Hunan Silver Co, Zijin Mining Group Co, Jiangxi Copper Co, Shandong Gold Mining and CMOC Group.

Chinese mining stocks zoom over 250% YTD Shares of CMOC Group, a China-based company mainly engaged in mining and processing of basic metals and rare metals, as well as mineral trading, jumped by as much as 6% to a record high today. The stock has seen a sharp 251% rise on a year-to-date (YTD) basis.

Hunan Silver Co zoomed 10% in intraday deals today in the Chinese stock market. In the last one year, the Chinese mining company, which specialises in silver and its by-products, have jumped 115%.

Another China-based global miner involved in the extraction of copper, gold and silver, among other metals, is also enjoying a sharp surge in its shares this year, thanks to the metal boom. While the stock declined 2% today, it remains 110% higher YTD.

Other miners like Shandong Gold Mining and Jiangxi Copper Co have jumped 66% and 142%, respectively in the same period. The sharp surge in metal prices, especially silver, is expected to drive the realisations and revenues for these companies.

In other Asian economies, including India, mining companies have been rallying this year. According to Bloomberg data, Australian precious metals maker Genesis Minerals Ltd. has risen 199% this year, and Indonesias Aneka Tambang Tbk., which mines gold and silver, has seen a 122% advance this year.

Indian silver miner Hindustan Zinc shares are up 38% this year.

Silver prices surged to a record high of $84 an ounce on Monday but saw sharp volatility. The prices retreated sharply, losing almost 5% at one point. The metal, however, has risen 180% supported by a weaker dollar, rising geopolitical tensions, increased speculative activity, and a structural supplydemand imbalance.

Also Read | Silver Price Today LIVE: Spot rates rebound after retreating from record high

Silver is a key component needed for data centres and AI, and the market is waking up to that demand, Kazuhiro Sasaki, head of research at Phillip Securities Japan Ltd, told Bloomberg. Many investors are shifting funds from chips and other AI-related stocks to metals like silver, which look more undervalued, he added.
Breakout stocks to buy or sell: The Indian stock market closed the holiday-shortened week on a cautious note, with mild profit booking emerging near lifetime highs amid thin trading volumes and persistent FII outflows. Despite the marginal decline, the broader market structure remains constructive, underpinned by strong domestic institutional participation, resilient earnings expectations, and stable macroeconomic conditions.

Overall, the week reflected healthy consolidation at elevated levels rather than any signs of trend exhaustion, helping the market build a steady base as it approaches the transition into the new calendar year.

Also Read | Stocks to buy under 100: Sumeet Bagadia recommends 3 shares to buy on Monday

Stock market outlook Nifty 50 today On Friday, the Nifty 50 closed lower at around 26,042, down nearly 0.4%, as profitbooking and thin yearend trading pressured markets.

On the Nifty outlook, Sumeet Bagadia, Executive Director at Choice Broking, said, The daily candle was bearish, breaking below intraday support near 26,050 and reflecting loss of upward momentum. Intraday 1hour patterns showed rangebound swings with lower highs and rejection from resistance, signalling shortterm consolidation. Immediate resistance lies near 26,15026,200, while key support is placed around 25,85025,900, with broader demand near 26,85025,800 likely to attract positional buyers if tested. Overall, the market remains cautious with subdued volumes and mixed sentiment.

Bank Nifty today The Bank Nifty Index closed lower around 59,011, pulling back from recent highs as banking stocks underwent profitbooking amid thin holiday week trading, on Friday.

On the Bank Nifty outlook, Bagadia added, The daily chart exhibited a bearish candle with lower highlow, suggesting shortterm consolidation after recent upside. Intraday 1-hour patterns showed the price holding above the 200-hour EMA as support, which kept the near-term structure intact and offered cushioning around key demand zones. Immediate resistance lies near 59,30059,400, while support is placed around the 200hour EMA zone 58,990 and broader support 58,70058,800, acting as potential accumulation territory for positional traders. Overall, bias remains cautious but supported above the 200hour EMA.

Breakout stocks to buy today Breakout stocks are those stocks that move past their established support or resistance levels. Breakouts often signal that a stock may be poised for a strong price move.

Amid ongoing market conditions, Sumeet Bagadia has recommended five breakout shares to buy today - NBCC, Karur Vysya Bank, Engineers India, IRCTC, and Container Corporation of India.

Also Read | Markets likely to stay cautious in final trading week of 2025

1] NBCC: Buy at  122.06, target  135, stop loss  116 NBCC is trading around 122.06 and is showing strength after a decisive sideways range breakout, indicating fresh buying interest. The stock continues to trade above its key 20, 50, 100, and 200 EMAs, confirming a strong bullish trend. A higher highhigher low structure reflects sustained momentum. Strong accumulation support is placed near 116. With resistance breached, short-term traders may consider buying at current levels, targeting 135 with a stop loss at 116, while maintaining disciplined risk management.

2] Karur Vysya Bank: Buy at  262.80, target  287, stop loss  250 KARURVYSYA is trading around 262.80 and has formed a strong base, gradually moving higher. The stock is maintaining a consistent higher highhigher low structure, indicating a healthy uptrend. It is taking strong support near the 20-day EMA, suggesting accumulation at lower levels. A recent trendline resistance breakout further signals strength. Short-term traders may consider buying at current levels, with a stop loss at 250 and a target of 287, following disciplined risk management.

3] Engineers India: Buy at  206, target  220, stop loss  197 ENGINERSIN is showing strength as the stock is forming a descending triangle pattern and is currently on the verge of a breakout, indicating a potential shift in momentum. Trading around 205.35, it is forming a strong base and gradually moving higher. Immediate support lies near 198, aligned with the 20-day EMA, suggesting accumulation. The stock is hovering near the 205206 resistance zone; a decisive breakout could trigger further upside. Traders may consider buying on a breakout, with a stop loss at 197 and a target of 220, while following disciplined risk management.

4] IRCTC: Buy at  705.50, target  765, stop loss  675 IRCTC is trading around 705.50 and has recently witnessed a falling trendline breakout, supported by healthy volumes, indicating renewed buying interest. On the downside, immediate support is placed near 680, aligned with the 20-day EMA, where accumulation is visible. With the 700704 resistance zone decisively broken and the stock trading higher, short-term traders may consider buying at current levels, keeping a stop loss at 675 and targeting 765, while following disciplined risk management.

5] Container Corporation of India: Buy at  520.30, target  570, stop loss  495 CONCOR is showing signs of strength after forming a strong base on the downside, followed by a sharp reversal and a falling trendline breakout, indicating a potential trend change. On the downside, immediate support is seen near 500, where accumulation is visible. With resistance decisively broken, short-term traders may consider buying at current levels, keeping a stop loss at 495 and a target of 570, while adhering to disciplined risk management.
Buy or sell stocks: The Indian stock market closed the truncated week on a cautious note, with mild profit booking emerging near lifetime highs amid thin trading volumes and persistent FII outflows. Despite the marginal decline, the broader market structure remains constructive, underpinned by strong domestic institutional participation, resilient earnings expectations, and stable macroeconomic conditions.

Overall, the week reflected healthy consolidation at elevated levels rather than any signs of trend exhaustion, helping the market build a steady base as it approaches the transition into the new calendar year.

Stock market today Vaishali Parekh, Vice President of Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladher, believes the Indian stock market sentiment has shaken as the Nifty 50 index ended lower for the second straight session on Friday. The crucial support for the 50-stock index is located at the 50-day EMA (Exponential Moving Average) support, which is approximately 25,850.

Speaking on the outlook of the Nifty 50 index, Vaishali Parekh said, The Nifty 50 index, once again, witnessed some exhaustion and slipped down with a gradual slide as the day progressed to extend the losses and closed near the 26000 zone with bias slightly shaken having the important and crucial support positioned near the 50-DEMA level at 25,850 zone, as mentioned earlier. On the upside, the index needs to clear the near-term hurdle at the 26,250 level to trigger a fresh upward move, with the next target expected around the long-term trendline zone at the 25,450 level.

On the outlook of the Bank Nifty index, Parekh said, The Bank Nifty index witnessed a gradual slide with bias weakening and overall, with a sluggish rangebound movement continuing, the index is having a consolidation period with the support maintained strong near the 58,700 zone as mentioned earlier, and on the upside, desperately, a decisive breach above the 59,800 level is much needed to trigger for fresh upward move in the coming days.

Parekh stated that immediate support for the Nifty 50 index is located at 25,900, while the resistance level is at 26,300. The Bank Nifty is expected to have a daily range of 58,800 to 59,600.

Vaishali Parekh's stock recommendations today Regarding stocks to buy today, Vaishali Parekh recommended three buy-or-sell stocks for Intraday trading: Mishra Dhatu, Madras Fertilizers, and Graphite India.

1] Mishra Dhatu Nigam Ltd: Buy at 318.60, Target 335, Stop Loss 312.

The stock has gained momentum recently, taking support near the 288 zone, and with a decent revival visible, has improved the bias, anticipating a further rise in the coming sessions. With the RSI turning up from the oversold zone, the stock has signalled a buy with much upside potential visible. One can buy the stock with a target of 335, while setting a stop-loss at 312.

2] Madras Fertilizers: Buy at 79.05, Target 84, Stop Loss 77.50.

The stock has recovered well after the slide, taking support near the 72 zone and gaining strength, moving just above the important 50-EMA level at 78.50 to improve the bias, and is expected to rise further. The RSI has recovered strongly from the oversold zone, signalling a buy and revealing much upside potential, which appears technically attractive. One can buy the stock with an upside target of 84, while maintaining a stop loss of 77.50.

3] Graphite India: Buy at 582.80, Target 612, Stop Loss 570.

The stock has indicated a revival from the important 200-period MA at the 529 level and has moved past the 50-DEMA level at the 555 zone to improve the bias, and further gains can be expected. With the RSI well-positioned and indicating strength, we can expect a further rise in the coming sessions to continue the positive move. One can buy the stock with a target of 612, setting a stop loss at 570.

MCX Gold rate today MCX Gold futures closed firmly at 1,39,940 per 10 grams, extending the record rally as safe-haven demand and sustained investment flows remained strong. Price action continues to respect the rising channel, with every dip attracting fresh buying interest, underscoring the underlying trend's strength.

MCX Silver rate today MCX Silver extended its sharp advance to 2,40,935 per kg, registering a steep rise of nearly 30,000 over the past week and scaling fresh lifetime highs in line with global cues and supply constraints. The broader rising channel continues to support the move, reinforcing the trend's strength.
Global markets today: Shares of global mining firms saw a sharp rally up to 16% on Monday silver prices soared to a record high.

Japan's Toho Zinc stock price was among the top gainers, was up 15.81% on Monday on Tokyo Stock Exchange. Meanwhile, Australia's mining companies Sun Silver and Silver Mines stock gained up to 19%.

On the other hand, China's Hunan Silver stock rose by 10% daily limit in Shenzhen.

Silver is a key component needed for data centers and AI, and the market is waking up to that demand. Many investors are shifting funds from chips and other AI-related stocks to metals like silver, which look more undervalued, Kazuhiro Sasaki, head of research at Phillip Securities Japan Ltd, was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.

Also Read | Silver Price Today LIVE: Spot rates rebound after retreating from record high

Shares of mining firms across Asia-Pacific, from China to Australia, have rallied sharply as precious metal prices such as gold and platinum reached record highs.

Australia-based precious metals producer Genesis Minerals Ltd. has surged 199% so far this year, while Chinas Zijin Mining Group Co. is up 152% in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Indonesias gold and silver miner Aneka Tambang Tbk. has gained 122% year to date.

Shares of Hong Kong's Jiangxi Copper also surged up to 13% to hit a record high, while CMOC Groups stock also climbed as much as 6%, reaching a new peak.

Back home, mining companies like Hindustan Zinc, Vedanta, NMDC share price were trading down up to 3% on Monday, December 29.

What's behind the rally in Asian mining stocks? Silver surged to a record high of $84 an ounce on Monday but saw sharp volatility, dropping as much as 5.1% from the prior sessions close before rebounding again.

The metal is on track for a sixth straight day of gains, supported by a weaker dollar, rising geopolitical tensions, speculative activity, and a structural mismatch between supply and demand.

Silver continues to dominate the precious-metals space, significantly outperforming gold in this cycle. COMEX Silver recently posted fresh all-time highs near $82.67 and is currently trading around the $80.40 per ounce region. The rally is being driven by a powerful combination of safe-haven demand, accelerating industrial usage, and persistent structural supply deficits. The impulsive bullish structure remains intact, with corrections staying brief and contained. Upside potential now points toward the $84$87 zone, while strong support lies between $75 and $72. Silver is on track for one of its strongest annual performances in decades, said Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money.

(With inputs from Bloomberg)
Mahesh Nayak, chartered accountant, CNK & Associates.

I have received an email from the tax department that I hold foreign assets in the calendar year 2024 that I have not disclosed. Probably, the department is referring to the restricted stock units (RSUs) I was allotted when I worked for a big tech company in the US from 2018-2022. I have to revise my ITR. How should I declare these in ITR and should I declare the current value or the value at which I was allotted the stocks? What other information should I gather that must be declared? Assuming that you are a resident and ordinarily resident for FY 2024-25, you would need to disclose the foreign assets held by you in the tax return, even if such assets were acquired by you when you were a non-resident. As the stocks are already allotted to you on vesting of the RSUs, you would need to disclose the stocks in Table B of Schedule FA in the return. Table B requires disclosure of financial interest held in any entity at any time during the calendar year 2024.

Also Read | FM to seek Parliament nod for extra funds to cover income tax, GST reliefs

In the table, you would need to disclose for calendar year 2024, the country name and code, zip code, nature of entity (company), name and address of the entity, nature of interest (legal owner), date since held, total investment (at cost in equivalent rupees), income accrued from such interest during the calendar year, nature of income, income offered in the return of income along with the schedule and item number of the schedule where such income is offered.

In case you have earned any dividend out of the shares held during the calendar year, you should disclose the same as well as the schedule in which such dividend is offered to tax in the return of income (Schedule OS in the case of dividends). The income accrued from such interest (Column 8 in Table B) has to be disclosed for the calendar year 2024, whereas the income offered in the return (Column 10) has to be disclosed for the financial year 2024-25.

Also Read | The new IT Act has not simplified tax, says CA Prakash Hegde

As Table B only requires the cost to be disclosed, you need not disclose the current value of the shares held. For the income to be offered to tax in the return of income, the exchange rate to be used for conversion is the SBI TT buying rate on the last date of the month preceding the month of receipt of the dividend.

Typically, when RSUs are vested, the employer sells part of the entitlement to pay the tax applicable in the US. If such vesting and sale have happened during the year, as a resident and ordinarily resident, you would need to offer to tax the gross value of the entitlement on exercise and also capital gains on the sale of the shares undertaken by the employer to meet the tax dues in the US. If such income is taxable in India, you are also eligible for the foreign tax credit for any taxes paid in the US. The taxable income, along with the taxes paid in the US, would need to be disclosed in Schedule FSI in the income tax return, in addition to the disclosure of the stocks in Schedule FA.

Also Read | ITR season gets harder with cryptoHeres what you need to know

If you have missed disclosing the asset or the income for FY 2024-25, you may file a revised return of income, making such disclosure or offering the income to tax, before 31 December 2025.


8th Pay Commission: The Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the 8th Pay Commission already, and lakhs of central government employees and pensioners are awaiting a salary hike.

The members of the Central Pay Commission (CPC) have also been announced, and will be Justice (Retd.) Ranjana Prakash Desai. Pankaj Jain, a 1990-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as the member-secretary, and Pulak Ghosh, professor at IIM Bengaluru, has joined as a part-time member.

8th Pay Commission: Your salary will not increase right away With the 8th Pay Commission members announced, employees are now expecting a salary hike soon.

Usually, the recommendations of the pay commissions are implemented after a gap of every ten years. Going by this trend, the effect of the 8th Central Pay Commission recommendations would normally be expected from 01.01.2026, the Cabinet had said in its October notification while announcing the Terms of Reference.

However, the recommendations of the 8th Pay Commission has not come in yet. This means that your salary will not increase from 1 January.

But according to the rule, as reiterated by the Centre, a new pay commission comes into effect. This means that the arrears of employees and pensioners will be accumulated from 1 January, 2026, until the 8th Pay Commission salary hike is announced.

The governments anticipated revision to increase the minimum wage from 18,000 to 50,000 per month and, on the other hand, raise the highest pay grade to around 1 crore gross salary annually marks a significant advancement in public sector compensation, bringing it more in line with recent private sector trends and following previous CPC fitment factor trends, says Prof. Rajnish Kler, economist and faculty at Motilal Nehru College, Delhi University.

Also Read | 8th Pay Commission: How much will salaries of Level 1 to Level 18 officers go up

When will the 8th Pay Commission salary hike come into effect? It is not specified when the 8th Pay Commission salary hike will come into effect, as the CPC has not yet announced its recommendations or sent it to the government for review.

According to Kler, the revision may come sooner than anticipated.

Also Read | 8th Pay Commission: How fitment factor is determined

The government may announce this revision sooner than usual to address concerns about the complex arrears calculation process, he told Livemint.

Employees also hope for timely communication to avoid delays like those experienced in the previous pay commission cycle, when HRA and TA increases and arrears were not paid promptly. Expectations are high for a substantial increase under the 8th CPC, Kler added.
TAIPEIChina launched major military exercises in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Monday in what it called a stern warning" against outside interference in Chinese affairs, as tensions grow with the U.S. and Japan over the security of the island.

The drills follow the Trump administrations mid-December approval of one of the largest packages of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. The approvals, valued at over $11 billion, led Beijing to impose sanctions on Friday targeting 20 U.S. defense companies and 10 executives.

Beijing is also immersed in a weekslong pressure campaign against U.S. security partner Japan, after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that her countrys military could get drawn in if China tried to seize Taiwan by force.

The Chinese military said Monday that its naval and air forces would approach the island in close proximity" and carry out blockade and control" maneuversthe kind that would be needed to strangle or seize Taiwan. China said it would be conducting live-fire drills on Tuesday, portioning out seven zones for the operations in the waters around Taiwan.

Chinas military said the drills were also intended as a warning for what it called Taiwan separatist forces. Beijing claims the island to be its own territory, to be seized by force if necessary, and considers Taiwan affairs to be an internal matter.

Taiwans military said it had deployed forces and rapid-response drills, vowing to be prepared to defend ourselves." Chinas Coast Guard said it was carrying out patrols in the waters around Taiwan and some of its outlying islands.

The islands civil-aviation authority said it expected the drills to affect flights coming in and out of Taiwan and was exploring alternative flight routes, after it received an alert notice from Beijing designating a temporary danger area."

China released video footage that it said was of military aircraft embarking on exercises on Monday. It didnt say when the exercises would conclude.

The Chinese drills appear to be focused on stopping any military effort to defend the island, analysts said. This, along with Chinese state media openly connecting these drills to the recent U.S. arms sales, is a direct message to the U.S.," said Ben Lewis, co-founder of PLATracker, a research organization that tracks Chinese military activity.

The drill zones, particularly those north of Taiwan, indicate how China could try to cut off sea and air traffic between Taiwan and Japan, where U.S. forces are based, according to Chung Chieh, a Chinese-military analyst at the Taiwanese military-backed Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taipei. The strategy is known as Anti-Access/Area Denial, or A2/AD.

A commentator on state broadcaster China Central Television emphasized the message, noting a no-fly area to the east of Taiwan, facing the Western Pacific.

On the one hand, we ensure Taiwan independence forces have nowhere to escape. On the other hand, we make sure external aid cant get in," Meng Xiangqing, a professor at the PLA National Defense University, said on CCTV.

Washington is committed to supplying Taiwan with weapons for its self-defense, but it is U.S. policy to remain ambiguous about whether the U.S. military would act to protect the island from attack.

The U.S. militarys Indo-Pacific Command and the American Institute in Taiwan, the de facto U.S. embassy in Taipei, didnt respond to requests for comment.

China periodically carries out large-scale military exercises, which are seen in Taiwan as rehearsals that could swiftly turn into an actual attack. Taipei classifies such drills, which last took place in April, as gray-zone" tactics intended to pressure the island to avoid a military conflict by submitting to Beijing.

Taiwans presidential office on Monday condemned what it said were Chinas military intimidation tactics, and accused Beijing of disrupting the security and stability of the Taiwan Strait, the 100-mile-wide body of water separating Taiwans main island from China.

Japans cabinet approved a record defense budget on Friday for the year beginning April 2026, calling for spending equivalent to $58 billion, including on hardware such as drones and antiship missiles to protect against a Chinese invasion of Japanese islands near Taiwan.

Chinas Foreign Ministry assailed the budget as revealing Japanese right-wing forces motive to remilitarize Japan."

With the drills, Beijing intends to show Tokyo what a Taiwan contingency"an armed conflict over the islandcould cause in terms of real troubles," said James Yifan Chen, who teaches diplomacy and foreign policy at Taiwans Tamkang University.

The U.S. displayed its support for Japan earlier this month with a flight by two U.S. B-52 bombers in formation with Japanese fighters over the Sea of Japan.

That exercise came a day after Russian and Chinese warplanes conducted their own joint patrol around Japans southern islands.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized in an interview this weekend that Moscow would back China in the event of a Taiwan conflict, saying the treaty partners have vowed mutual support in defending national unity and territorial integrity," according to a transcript released by his ministry.

Write to Joyu Wang at joyu.wang@wsj.com
Nearly 200 people in Piprauli village, located in the Budaun district of Uttar Pradesh, received rabies shots as a precautionary measure last week. Health concerns rose after guests at a funeral ate a yoghurt dish (raita) made from the milk of an infected buffalo. The buffalo died on 26 December, three days after the meal, following a dog bite, news agency PTI reported.

Terrified residents rushed to the Ujhani Health Centre for vaccinations. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Rameshwar Mishra confirmed on Sunday that the buffalo showed rabies symptoms before it died.

Prevention is better than cure. Everyone who had any doubts was given the anti-rabies vaccine. Normally, there is no risk of rabies after boiling the milk, but the vaccination was done to prevent any potential risk, Mishra said.

Reports showed that the villagers ate the tainted food. As a safety measure, health officials told everyone involved to get a rabies shot. The health department noted that no illness has yet spread and things in the village are currently stable.

The CMO added that anyone seeking the vaccine was treated right away at the Ujhani clinic. To help everyone, the medical centres stayed open through Saturday and Sunday. He mentioned that officials are monitoring the area closely to prevent any false rumours or unnecessary fear from spreading.

One resident, Dharmpal, explained that the buffalo became sick and died due to a dog bite. Since the yoghurt dish was made with buffalo's milk, the community felt it was best to get vaccinated to stay safe.

Maharashtra: 6-year-old girl dies a month after dog bite Recently, a six-year-old girl from Maharashtras Thane died over a month after being bitten by a street dog.

Her family members said she received timely treatment, including anti-rabies shots, and even celebrated her birthday before her condition suddenly worsened.

Nisha Shinde was playing outside her home in the Diva area on 17 November, when a community dog bit the child on her shoulder and cheek, a report by PTI said.

The girl was initially taken to a local doctor and subsequently referred to the Shastrinagar Hospital.

According to the childs mother, Sushma Shinde, the girl underwent a standard anti-rabies protocol. The child received all mandatory injections on schedule, she said.
Delhi fog LIVE Highlights: Dense fog blanketed the national capital on Monday morning as low visibility disrupted flight operations at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Besides flight disruption, even trains were running late by hours.

In the wake of low visibility conditions due to fog, Delhi Airport in its passenger advisory issued at 7:00 AM said, "Flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT Ill conditions due to dense fog, which may result in delays or cancellations. Our ground teams are on-site and actively assisting passengers to ensure a smooth travel experience. For the latest flight updates, please contact your respective airlines. We sincerely regret for any inconvenience caused."

Several flights were delayed and cancelled as extremely low visibility prompted operations under CAT Ill conditions. Indigo, SpiceJet and Air India issued travel advisories warning about delays and change in flight schedules.

Catch all Delhi fog LIVE Updates here
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is committed to removing infiltrators from across the country, using the redevelopment of the historic Batadrava Than in Assam as a key example of the government's resolve against illegal encroachment.

Speaking after inaugurating the Batadrava Cultural Project in Nagaon district, Shah questioned the presence of alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators at the birthplace of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, a revered Vaishnav saint and social reformer. "The BJP resolves to remove all infiltrators from the entire country. Was it right that Bangladeshi infiltrators were there at this place of Sankardeva?" he said, congratulating Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for clearing encroachments and re-establishing the sacred Namghar at the site.

"Bless the 'Lotus' for another 5 years, and we will throw out every infiltrator from Assam," Shah said.

"Congress treated infiltrators - who threatened the people, culture and identity of Assam, as its vote bank," the Home Minister added.

Also Read | Army deployed in violence-hit West Karbi Anglong as situation remains tense

Shah said that more than one lakh bighas of land had been freed from encroachers, alleging that previous Congress governments failed to act despite sacrifices made during the Assam Movement. "Congress ruled for so many years, but it did not do anything for those who gave their lives for the Assam movement," he said.

The Home Minister also invoked the legacy of Bharat Ratna Gopinath Bordoloi, crediting Assam's first Chief Minister with ensuring that Assam and the Northeast remained part of India. "If Gopinath ji had not been there, Assam and the entire Northeast would not have been a part of India. It was he who forced Jawaharlal Nehru to keep Assam in India," Shah said.

Describing Batadrava Than as a symbol of Assamese unity and harmony, Shah said it represented the inclusive 'nav-vaishnav dharma' propagated by Srimanta Sankardeva, where people from all communities come together.

Also Read | Assam: Internet suspended in Karbi Anglong districts after fresh clashes

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that in the last decade, the state government had freed around 1.45 lakh bighas of land from illegal encroachers and would continue the drive. He appealed to encroachers to voluntarily vacate Satra and government land.
The pollution issues cannot be resolved unless every citizen realises it is their duty to improve and conserve the environment, retired Supreme Court judge Abhay S Oka has said.

Otherwise, the former Supreme Court judge said, the responsibility would be solely confined to climate activists.

It is about the approach. It has been 75 years of the Constitution and we are still not doing our duty of protecting the environment, Justice Oka (retd) told The Indian Express when asked how can environmental pollution be nipped in the bud?

Once every citizen realises it is their duty to improve and conserve the environment, things will change. Otherwise today the responsibility is confined to some activists who try to raise issues and go to court, he said.

Delhi residents woke up to very heavy smog and sharply reduced visibility on Monday morning, with air quality in the national capital slipping into the severe category. The average air quality index (AQI) stood at 402 at 8 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

More than half of Delhis 40 monitoring stations reported severe air quality levels. Twelve stations were in the very poor category, most hovering close to 400.

Justice Oka retired from the Supreme Court of India on 24 May, 2025, after serving for nearly four years on the bench, concluding a distinguished judicial career that began in the Bombay High Court and included a tenure as Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court. Following his retirement, he joined SVKM Pravin Gandhi College of Law as an Honorary Professor of Practice.

At a recent event, Justice Oka (retd) mentioned that not only climate activists but even judges are attacked for prioritising environment issues and passing strong orders. When asked to elaborate on these comments Justice Oka (Retd) said that climate activists actually deserved support and praise from the society.

Instead, everybody attacks them, calling them anti-religion or anti-national, he said.

Once every citizen realizes it is their duty to improve and conserve the environment, things will change.

As far as judges are concerned, Justice Oka (Retd) said they face attacks from social media now. He recalled a 2017 incident when he was dealing with the issue of noise pollution and construction of pandals on roads for religious festivals.
Mourning the tragic death of Tripura student, Angel Chakma, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor claimed that racism is rising in North India.

It is shocking, and deeply shameful, that racism is rising in North India, often cloaked in casual mockery or systemic neglect, the Congress leader posted on X.

Shashi Tharoor  in his post  said the student was stripped of his dignity with slurs like Chinese and momo, and ultimately killed. Claiming that the incident involving Chakma's death was not a random act of violence, the Thiruvananthapuram MP said the incident was result of deep-rooted prejudice, ignorance, and a failure to truly acknowledge and respect Indias diversity.

Angel Chakma, a 24-year-old MBA student enrolled at a private university in Uttarakhand's Dehradun  passed away on Friday, 26 December after fighting for his life for 17 days in the hospital.

What happened to Angel Chakma? On 9 December, the 24-year-old was out in Dehradun with his younger brother Michael  when a group of six people  including two juveniles  confronted them. What began as an argument quickly escalated into a racial attack, with the brothers reportedly being abused with slurs such as Chinese and momo.

Police have arrested five men in the case and sent them to judicial custody, while one suspect remains absconding.

Suraj Khwas (22), who was from Manipur, Avinash Negi (25), Sumit (25) and two juveniles have been apprehended for the incident, while another accused has likely fled to Nepal, his native country, as per police.

Police officers said they have also announced a reward of 25,000 for the only absconding accused and said they have sent a team to Nepal, reported PTI.

Son brutally attacked, FIR delayed Angel Chakma's father said police initially refused to register a report about the incident involving his sons in the Selakui area and only filed an FIR two to three days later after pressure from the All India Chakma Students Union and senior officers.

Chakma's father  Tarun  told news wire PTI that his son was "brutally attacked" with knives and blunt objects when he tried to defend his brother who faced racial slurs and was called "Chinese" by the attackers.

Tarun Chakma is a BSF jawan currently posted in Tangjeng in Manipur.
SIR in Bengal: The Election Commission of India (ECI), in a fresh set of instructions, has asked district election officials (DEOs) in West Bengal to not summon for hearings those voters identified as unmapped. The pause applies only to voters flagged as not found by the ECs central software but were found present on the hard copies of the 2002 rolls.

The instructions came amid a volley of criticism against the poll body in the poll-bound West Bengal over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral roll.

A letter by the Additional Chief Electoral Officer (ACEO), West Bengal to all DEOs on 27 December said though hearing notices may have been generated from the system for such cases, these electors should not be called for hearing or hearing notices so generated in such cases need not be served, and instead be kept with the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO)/Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO).

Why the sudden pause? What is the cause of the pause?

Officials have explained that when the poll authorities working on the ground checked the hard copies of the 2002 rolls, they noticed that voters or their children shown as unmapped on the ECs software were present. The pause does not apply to unmapped cases flagged by EROs after on-ground verification.

The current term of the 294-member West Bengal assembly is till the first week of May 2026.

SIR in Bengal: Draft List Published on 16 Dec The poll panel's 27 October SIR instructions had asked voters to fill forms and trace themselves or a family member to the electoral roll of the last intensive revision, held in 2002 in West Bengal.

Basically, the voters were required to be mapped to the 2002 electoral roll, either through their own presence or that of a relative on that roll, to continue as voters in future

On 16 December, the Election Commission published West Bengal's draft electoral rolls following SIR, deleting the names of more than 58 lakh voters on various grounds, including death and migration, and redrawing voter profiles across districts and border belts ahead of the 2026 assembly polls.

The scale, spread and political geography of the deletions have affected several high-profile assembly seats, and have sharpened political fault lines and set the stage for a contentious verification phase ahead of state elections due in less than six months.

Who are unmapped voters? In addition to the deleted voters, the poll panel's software also flagged another 32 lakh electors for not being found on the 2002 rolls as unmapped. These unmapped voters, as per centrally generated notices, had to prove their eligibility through a personal appearance in order to remain voters.

The hearings for such unmapped voters started in West Bengal on 27 December.

The pause does not apply to 'unmapped' cases flagged by EROs after on-ground verification.

The EC's letter quoted by media, however, explains that the extract of the Electoral Roll 2002 may be sent to the DEO concerned for verification as per EC guidelines and after being verified by the DEOs, the ERO or AERO may take a call and upload the document for disposing the cases.

The Trinamool Congress on 27 December submitted a memorandum objecting to the system-generated notices.

On the same day, the Additional CEO of Bengal asked all District Election Officers to stop calling voters for hearings if their names were flagged as unmapped with the 2002 rolls. This despite the system having generated notices for the SIR.

Marked unmapped on PDF of 2002 roll Many voters were marked as unmapped because the PDF file of the 2002 electoral roll had not been fully converted to CSV, or plain text format, as per the letter.

As a result, the BLO App meant for the use of ECs Booth Level Officers  could not fetch linkage for a number of voters, even as they or their children could be traced on the hard-copy of the 2002 rolls authenticated by the DEOs and published on the CEOs website.

Bengal SIR According to official data published on 16 December, 58,20,898 names have been excluded from the draft rolls in West Bengal, reducing the state's electorate from 7.66 crore to 7.08 crore following the conduct of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise from November 4 to December 11.

A detailed breakup released earlier showed that 24,16,852 voters were marked as dead, 19,88,076 as permanently shifted, and 12,20,038 as missing or untraceable.

Another 1.38 lakh voters were identified as having duplicate entries, while 1,83,328 names were flagged as so-called 'ghost' voters. Over 57,000 names were deleted under other discrepancies detected during enumeration.
Daughter of 2017 Unnao rape case convict Kuldeep Singh Sengar, Ishita Sengar, has called for justice in an open letter on social media, after the Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Delhi High Court's order that had suspended the life sentence of the expelled BJP MLA.

I am writing this letter as a daughter who is exhausted, frightened, and slowly losing faith, but still holding on to hope because there is nowhere else left to go, Ishita wrote on X.

What did Supreme Court say? A three-judge vacation bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, alongside Justices JK Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih, stayed the Delhi HC order, saying that Sengar remains in jail for another case.

The bench ruled that the operation of the High Court order shall be stayed, and Kuldeep Sengar will not be released from prison.

Unnao rape convict's daughter's post on social media In her emotional letter, Ishita Sengar said she has repeatedly faced online abuse, with strangers telling her she should be raped, killed or punished simply for existing.

The hatred, she said, is constant and relentless, and it erodes something deep within when one realises how many people believe they do not even deserve to live.

 People who have never met me, never read a single document, never looked at a single court record, have decided that my life has no value. Over these years, I have been told countless times on social media that I should be raped, killed, or punished simply for existing. This hatred is not abstract. It is daily. It is relentless. And it breaks something inside you when you realise that so many people believe you do not even deserve to live, Ishita wrote.
As the United States has introduced stricter immigration checks  particularly social media vetting rules that require visa applicants to make social media accounts public for visa vetting  it has triggered deep anxiety among Indian families, who form the largest segment of Americas high-skilled migrant workforce. For thousands of families whose legal status, income and childrens schooling hinge on timely visa renewals, the uncertainty has turned into panic.

Amid the uncertainty, Saurabh Arora, founder & CEO of University Living  a firm that advises Indian students on housing planning when moving to places such as the US, Canada, among others  shared common mistakes that applicants must avoid.

Before applying for or travelling to the US, Indian visa applicants should assume their online activity may be reviewed in context, not in isolation. Social media posts, LinkedIn profiles and public comments are often cross-checked against visa applications. Inconsistencies such as job roles that do not match official documents, posts suggesting long-term stay while applying for a temporary visa, or casual remarks about unauthorised work can create avoidable risk, Arora said while speaking with Livemint.

He further warned about a common mistake that is often overlooked and can complicate the visa process. A common mistake is last-minute digital clean-ups. Deleting accounts, changing usernames, or suddenly making profiles private rarely helps and can appear reactive," he said.

Another overlooked issue is engaging with speculative or misleading immigration narratives online, which can complicate how intent is perceived. That said, applicants who are travelling with a clear purpose, have secured admission or employment through proper channels, and are transparent in their applications generally have little to worry about. Consistency matters more than silence.

Can deleting posts before a visa interview backfire? Deleting social media posts or deactivating accounts ahead of a US visa interview may do more harm than good for applicants, the immigration expert warned.

It is generally not advisable for applicants to delete posts or deactivate social media accounts before a visa interview, an expert said, adding that such actions can raise red flags during the vetting process.

US visa application forms require applicants to disclose all social media handles used over the past five years. Sudden changes close to the interview can appear evasive to visa officers, the expert noted.

Social media activity has increasingly played a role in intensifying scrutiny during US visa processing, even when applications are otherwise strong, immigration experts say.

Weve seen cases where online presence did not lead to an outright refusal, but it did trigger deeper questioning and administrative processing because something didnt match the application, the immigration expert said.

In one instance, the expert cited a case where a LinkedIn profile hinted at ongoing freelance or side work that wasnt reflected anywhere in the visa narrative or supporting documents. While the application itself was sound, the discrepancy led to additional scrutiny and delayed processing.

That gap led to additional scrutiny and a slower outcome, even though the underlying case was otherwise solid, the expert explained.

According to advisers, social media tends to become an issue only when it conflicts with formally declared information.

Social media usually becomes relevant only when it contradicts what youve formally declared, the expert said.

Also Read | Users claim MCA portal glitch on X ahead of December 31 deadline

The key takeaway for applicants, experts stress, is consistency. Keep your public professional story aligned with your documents and your stated intent. Small mismatches can quickly turn into long delays, the expert added.

Which visa categories are seeing the most scrutiny? Ana Gabriela Urizar, a US immigration attorney with nearly a decade of experience, said authorities are seeing heightened scrutiny across nonimmigrant visa categories, with the strongest impact on H-1B and H-4 visas, followed by F-1 student visas. While the policy applies to all nationalities, Urizar noted that Indian applicants are disproportionately affected due to the sheer volume of applications, leading to appointment cancellations, longer wait times and increased administrative processing.

Offering advice to anxious visa applicants, she said, Take a breath and be strategic. Many visas are still being approved, but this is no longer a process to navigate casually. Preparation, consistency, and having professional guidance, like from an experienced immigration attorney, matter more than ever.
IndiGo passengers have complained online about missing baggage, indicating that the luggage issue remains unresolved. Dense fog disrupted flight services at several airports across India on Monday morning, compounding the passenger woes. Several passengers reported the issue on the social media platform X and tagged the airlines for a response and resolution.

A user wrote, @AAI_Official 6e6725 landed at 7:45 still luggage is not thr at belt. Indigo wasting passengers time @IndiGo6E (sic).

Responding to the query, the budget carrier blamed operational reasons for the delay and said, The baggage is delayed due to operational reasons. Our team is working on it, please connect with them.

It later said that one of the baggage belts experienced operational issues, causing disruptions. There was a baggage belt failure at Delhi airport. Multiple airlines were impacted, IndiGo said.

Also Read | IndiGo cancels 80 flights across network on account of bad weather conditions

Another user tagged the aviation watchdog, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and IndiGo, seeking compensation for the damage caused to his baggage. He wrote, @DGCAIndia @IndiGo6E,It has been more than a week that yall have not processed my compensation of damaging my luggage. Do you intend to compensate? There has nit been a single response from your side! Shame on you Indigo! [sic]

Documenting another incident of lost baggage, a third user posted, Bo information about luggage left at Delhi Airport by Indigo till now. Was given two number to contact, no one is picking up for last 10 hours or so. Contacted Indigo customer care and after the customary half an hour wait Case ID 30211855 was given [sic]. The airline sought some time to resolve the issue.

A fourth passenger wrote, Urgent | Luggage Lost due to IndiGos Negligence. We were travelling as a group on IndiGo flight 6E 6379 (DelhiPatna, 28 Dec 2025). Despite proper check-in and baggage tagging, our checked-in luggage has been lost due to IndiGos carelessness. @IndiGo6E @DGCAIndia #IndiGo. [sic]

(LiveMint has reached out to IndiGo; this story will be updated once the airline responds.)

This issue follows Saturday's disruption when IndiGo issued a travel advisory after a temporary malfunction in the baggage belt system at Mumbais Terminal 2 caused delays at check-in counters and during baggage collection.

Cautioning passengers about possible delays, the airline had said, We sincerely regret the inconvenience this may cause and understand how it can impact your plans. Our teams are on-site, working swiftly with airport partners to expedite the resolution and support customers throughout the process."

Also Read | A month before meltdown, IndiGo hit a record high in domestic passenger traffic

IndiGo cancels 80 flights across its network IndiGo cancelled nearly 80 flights across its network on Monday due to bad weather conditions, while almost half of these cancellations were from Delhi airport, PTI reported.

According to its website, the flights have also been cancelled to and from a number of key airports, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Cochin, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Dehradun, Indore, Patna and Bhopal, besides Delhi.

IndiGo, in its travel advisory issued at 11:20 am said, "Foggy conditions remain in place across Delhi and several airports in northern India, with visibility yet to improve fully. As a result, the earlier impact on flight movements is likely to extend into the noon hours, and some delays may continue."

Earlier this month, IndiGo's massive flight disruptions resulted in many passengers losing their baggage, prompting widespread complaints.
Many people around the world welcome the New Year with champagne, parties or warm hugs. In Spain, however, the countdown to midnight follows a very different tradition  eating 12 grapes in the final 60 seconds of the year, a custom known as Las doce uvas de la suerte or The Twelve Grapes of Luck.'

Each grape is said to represent one month of the year and is believed to bring luck, happiness and success in the months ahead.

What is the 12 Grapes tradition? The 12 Grapes tradition involves eating one grape with each chime of the clock during the last minute before midnight on New Years Eve. According to popular belief, completing the ritual ensures good fortune in the coming year.

Social media trends in recent years suggest that some people follow the ritual while sitting under a table, although this is not part of the original custom.

Where did the tradition begin? While the tradition gained global attention online in 2024, its roots go back to the 1880s. It is believed to have started among Madrids bourgeoisie, who were inspired by a French custom of drinking champagne and eating grapes on New Years Eve.

The practice became widely popular in the early 1900s when grape farmers in Alicante, facing a surplus harvest, promoted the ritual as a way to sell excess produce.

Why do Spaniards eat 12 grapes at midnight? Each of the 12 grapes symbolises a month of the year, and eating them is thought to help manifest hopes and goals for the future  whether related to love, health, wealth or personal success.

What happens if you eat all 12 grapes? According to tradition, finishing all 12 grapes before midnight is believed to bring prosperity and good luck for the year ahead. The result, many say, depends on the intention set while eating each grape.
A video showing local residents allegedly mistreating Japanese tourists in Uttar Pradeshs Varanasi has triggered a debate on social media. The incident took place on December 25, when devotees confronted the tourists near the Ganga River, where they were reportedly preparing to take a bath.

In the viral clip, the Japanese tourists are seen wearing Santa caps, while one of them is dressed in red-coloured swimwear. According to a report by Dainik Bhaskar, a group of local residents stopped the tourists and accused them of urinating in the river.

The video captures a man telling the tourists, Dont you have common sense? This is our Holy River. So many people are taking a bath here. Fold your hands and apologise. The group also asked one of the tourists to contact his tour guide.

As tensions rose and the tourists appeared distressed, one of the Japanese visitors apologised on the steps of Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Also Read | Company employees get unexpected gift as CEO turns real-life Santa Claus

The video soon spread widely on social media, prompting mixed reactions. Many users criticised the locals for their behaviour. Im not concluding who is right or wrong here. But since they are guests of the country, we can express the concern respectfully without being rude to anyone. And it would be really great if people showed the same commitment when it comes to stopping others from littering in the same holy river, one user wrote.

Another commented, As an indian, even I'm ashamed of our people in many cases. Apologies for their behaviour. A third user said, This happened at a religious ghat in Varanasi, not a beach. Changing into bikinis at a sacred site offends local religious sensibilities.

After the video went viral, the Varanasi police issued a clarification from the official social media account of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Kashi. Japanese tourists were questioned by other pilgrims over bathing. The tourists apologised, after which the matter was resolved peacefully. Police clarified that no physical assault took place, the statement said, as reported by Dainik Bhaskar.

Atul Anjaan Tripathi, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Varanasi, said a brief argument occurred due to a misunderstanding between the two sides. He added that both parties later spoke to each other, apologised, and settled the matter at the spot.
US President Donald Trump was caught ranting on a hot mic to Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu about being denied the Noble Prize and also claiming to have ended the tensions between India and Pakistan during their meeting at Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

"They gave the Nob..." Trump was heard saying, and then he continued, India. How about India and Pakistan? So I did eight of them. And then I'll tell you the rest of it.

Trump was speaking with Netanyahu when he suddenly noticed a camera in the room. Then he turned around towards the camera and said, "How are you doing? Okay?" He then asks the person behind the camera to leave and "enjoy your lunch".

Also Read | Trump lands 2nd Nobel Peace Prize nomination in Asia week  this time from Japan

Trump then continued praising the Israeli delegation, saying, "this is a very good group. We've made a lot of progress already. We had about a five-minute meeting and we've already settled about three of the difficulties. Thank you very much for being here.

Trump's India-Pakistan claims Trump has on numerous occasions claimed that he was the one who stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and India's Operation Sindoor, in which Pakistani terrorist bases and hideouts were targetted.

Last week, the US President made a similar statement, where he said, "We stopped a potential nuclear war between Pakistan and India. And the head of Pakistan, a highly respected General, he's a Field Marshal and also the Prime Minister of Pakistan, said President Trump saved 10 million lives, maybe more..."

You know, eight planes were shot down. That war was starting to rage, and he actually said the other day that President Trump saved 10 million lives, maybe more. So we solved all these wars. The only one I haven't solved yet is Russia, Ukraine, he added.

Trump Nobel desire Trump has long sought the Nobel Prize for Peace, and even made his claims apparent in one way or the other leading up to the declaration of the same. Even countries like Pakistan and Israel voiced their support for Trump to win the prize.

However, after it was declared that Maria Corina Machado was the 2025 winner of the Nobel Prize for peace, the US President didn't say anything negative in public, especially after Machado herself thanked him, also saying in a call "how grateful the Venezuelan people are for what he's doing, not only in the Americas, but around the world for peace, for freedom, for democracy".

Ukraine peace plans stand dented Trump has now set his sights on achieving peace in Ukraine, the one war where his leadership has not borne fruit yet. On Monday, Trump held a meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida, after which he also had a telephone conversation with Vladimir Putin.

However, peace in Ukraine seems far off after both Putin and Trump were miffed by alleged Ukrainian drone attacks on the Russian president's residence.
Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has been taken to hospital after suffering minor injuries in a fatal road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Nigeria, according to multiple reports.

Anthony Joshua involved in a fatal car crash The crash, which occurred at around 11am on Monday, is understood to have claimed the lives of two people at the scene.

Joshua was travelling in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck on the busy highway in the south-west of the country. Local media reports state that the boxer was seated in the back of the vehicle at the time of the impact. He was later pulled from the wreckage and transported to hospital, where his injuries were described as minor.

Mirror Sport contacted Eddie Hearn, Joshuas long-time promoter, who confirmed he had only just been made aware of the incident while on holiday in the Caribbean. Hearn said he understood that Joshua was OK and on his way to hospital, but added that he had no further details at that stage.

According to local outlet Punch, Joshua was travelling as part of a two-vehicle convoy comprising a Lexus SUV and a Pajero SUV, with his security personnel following behind. There were four occupants in the Lexus at the time of the crash. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation by local authorities.

The Times reported that the Lexus swerved into the stationary truck after suffering a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control. Police are now examining whether mechanical failure and road conditions played a role in the collision.

An eyewitness quoted by Punch provided a detailed account of the moments following the crash. It was a two-vehicle convoy: a Lexus SUV and a Pajero SUV, the witness said. Joshua was seated behind the driver, with another person beside him. There was also a passenger sitting beside the driver, making four occupants in the Lexus that crashed. His security detail was in the vehicle behind them before the crash.

Other eyewitnesses and I began the rescue and flagged down oncoming vehicles to assist. A few minutes after the crash, officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived.

More about the Lagos-Ibadan expressway The Lagos-Ibadan expressway is one of Nigerias busiest and most dangerous roads, frequently cited for high accident rates.

Often described locally as the countrys most hazardous highway, it has been the site of numerous fatal incidents over the years due to heavy traffic, speeding and the presence of broken-down vehicles. More than 1,200 people were involved in road accidents on the expressway in the first quarter of this year alone, with 78 fatalities recorded.

Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, has strong ties to the country and regularly visits. The incident comes shortly after his return to the ring, where he secured a high-profile victory over Jake Paul, reigniting discussion about his future in the heavyweight division.
Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh. He is the son of former Bangladesh President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His return is poised to trigger a significant shift in Bangladeshi politics, marking a resounding comeback for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Tarique Rahman, who aims to become Bangladesh's next prime minister in the upcoming elections, is the heir to the BNP, one of the country's most powerful political parties.

Also Read | Hadi's Inqilab Mancha seeks work permit cancellation for Indians in Bangladesh

Having returned to his home country after 17 years in self-imposed exile, Rahman has now shouldered the responsibility of carrying forward the legacy of his father Ziaur and mother Khaleda Zia.

If the BNP wins the Bangladesh polls, Tarique Rahman is likely to become the country's next prime minister, almost 20 years after Khaleda Zia left the post.

Here's all you need to know about the rise and fall of the Zia dynasty: Rise of Ziaur Rahman Ziaur Rahman was the founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). A valiant freedom fighter, Rahman had fought against the Pakistani Army during the 1971 Liberation War and had famously, or infamously, declared Bangladeshs independence on 27 March 1971.

Ziaur Rahman, fondly called Zia, was born in 1936 at Bagbari in Bogra (now northern Bangladesh). His father, Mansur Rahman, was a chemist who worked in a government department in Calcutta, his biography on the BNP's website read.

Also Read | Tarique Rahman enrolls for Bangladeshs voter list following return

After the partition in 1947, Zia's father was transferred to Karachi, which led Zia to leave the Hare School in Calcutta and become a student of the Academy School in Karachi. He completed his secondary education there in 1952.

In 1953, when Zia was 17 years old, he got himself enrolled at the DJ College in Karachi. In the same year, he joined the Pakistan Military Academy at Kakul as an officer cadet.

Zia's life in the military was not easy. He served in Pakistan for two years.

Like other Bengalis, he too was discriminated against in the Punjabi-dominated Pakistan Army, the Indian Express reported.

But he rose to the rank of second lieutenant in 1955, and then in 1957, he was transferred to the East Bengal Regiment.

In the India-Pakistan war of 1965, Zia fought in the Khemkaran sector as the commander of a company. His company had then received the maximum number of gallantry awards.

In 1970, Ziaur Rahman, then a major, was transferred to the Eighth East Bengal Regiment at Chittagong (then a port city in East Pakistan, now in Bangladesh) as its second-in-command. Now, it was the time for the 1971 Liberation War.

1971 Liberation War and Zia's rebellion According to the BNP's account on its website, the Pakistani military forces had started indiscriminately firing on the unarmed people of the then East Pakistan and carried out the worst genocide in history in March 1971.

Zia had then rebelled against Pakistan on 25 March 1971. On the night of 26 March, he reportedly arrested and executed his commanding officer, Lt Col Abdul Rashid Janjua, and took charge of a motley group of Bengali mutineers.

On 26 March, he famously proclaimed Bangladesh's declaration of independence from the radio station in Kalurghat, Chittagong.

I Major Zia, Provisional Commander-in-Chief of the Bangladesh Liberation Army, do hereby declare the independence of Bangladesh, he said, according to the BNP.

But hours later, Zia backtracked, announcing that he had declared Independence on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's behalf.

Zia vs Mujibur Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, shortened as Sheikh Mujib or just Mujib, was the leader of the Awami League, the party that is now the rival of Zia's BNP.

Mujib was dubbed the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh after the declaration of Independence. He was considered the central figure behind the Bangladesh Liberation Movement and the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.

He led the Awami League to victory in the 1970 general elections. He served as Bangladesh's first President after the country achieved independence. He later served as the second Prime Minister from 1972.

Zia was not happy with how he was treated. According to the Indian Express, he felt unrecognised for his contributions in the Liberation War.

In 1972, Mujib passed the post of Army Chief to Zia. The decision reportedly created much discord in the nascent Bangladeshi Army.

Meanwhile, resentment against Mujib grew amid allegations of corruption and mismanagement, as well as a sharp authoritarian turn.

Mujib was assassinated by a group of disgruntled army officials in August 1975, according to the information shared by the Consulate General of Bangladesh, Sydney.

Mujib is the father of Sheikh Hasina, the now-ousted Bangladesh PM and current leader of the Awami League.

While Zia was well aware of the plot, he did not personally participate in it.

Maj Sayed Farooq-ur-Rahman, one of the main plotters, told The Daily Star in 2009, I told him [Zia] that...the junior officers have already worked it [the plot] out. We want your support...he said, I am sorry, I would not like to get involved...the junior officers should do it themselves.

Rise of Zia and BNP Zia benefited greatly from Mujibs death. Almost three months after Mujib's killing, on 7 November 1975, Zia was reassigned as the army chief. He imposed martial rule and effectively took over the reins of the country.

Zia also became the Chief Martial Law Administrator, and ultimately the President of Bangladesh on 21 April 1977, when President Sayem resigned.

On 1 September 1978, Zia floated a new political party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP, with himself as its chairman.

His ideology shifted from secular Bengali nationalism to Bangladeshi Nationalism.

As he moved to democratise the polity in Bangladesh, Zia allowed the disbanded and disarrayed political parties to be revived.

As a result, the Bangladesh Awami League regained the opportunity to engage in politics.

Like Mujib, Zia was assassinated in Chittagong on 30 May 1981 in an abortive army coup. He lies buried at Sher-e-Banglanagar, Dhaka.

Battling begums Ten years after Zia's assassination, his wife, Khaleda Zia, took over the reins of the BNP and became the prime minister of Bangladesh in 1991.

Between 1981 and 1991, martial law was lifted, and the constitution was reinstated. A state of emergency was declared, Islam became the state religion, and then-President General Hussain Muhammad Ershad stepped down following mass protests. Khaleda Zia then became the prime minister.

Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina, called the battling begums for their intense political rivalry, ran the country alternately from 1991 to 2006.

Khaleda Zia served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh three times. Her first term lasted from March 1991 to February 1996, her second term was brief, occurring after February 1996, and her third term spanned from October 2001 to October 2006.

Sheikh Hasina also served as the PM three times  from 1996 to 2001, 2009 to 2014, and 2014 to 2024. Hasina returned to Bangladesh in 1981 after living in exile in India and became the leader of the Awami League.

Their time in office was significantly marred by violence and mass protests that led to their downfall.

In 2007, Khaleda Zia was arrested for corruption and placed under virtual house arrest in a clampdown by the caretaker government after a year of violent political unrest.

Sheikh Hasina was also sidelined back then because of corruption charges.

History repeats itself? In 2024, Sheikh Hasina, who became the longest-serving prime minister in the country's history, was ousted on 5 August, following mass student protests. Like former PM Ershad, she also resigned following a mass upheaval.

This left the position vacant, with Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus taking charge of the interim government.

Now, it's time for the next national elections in Bangladesh. Khaleda Zia's son is bullish for the PM post, hoping to carry forward the BNP's league in the country's politics.
More than 100,000 international travellers were set to be affected as China on Monday (local time) conducted large-scale military drills around the island of Taiwan as a show of strength and warning to "external interference" forces. Beijing has termed this move a stern warning against separatist and foreign forces that do not recognise its control over the small island nation.

Taiwan has now termed the Chinese government as the "biggest destroyer of peace", as per a report by the Associated Press. Taipei has revealed that the number of international travellers set to be affected by the large-scale Chinese military drills will cross 100,000.

US and Japan: China sees them as external threats The two "external" forces whose interference in the China-Taiwan fiasco Beijing is not taking kindly to are the United States and Japan.

Beijing is unhappy with the US arms sales to Taiwan. Only last week, it had sanctioned 20 US companies and 10 executives related to defense after Washington announced a $10-billion arms sale package to Taipei. If the US Congress greenlights this sale, it will be the largest-ever US weapons package to the self-ruled island.

On the other hand, Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister of Japan, said that its military can get involved if China takes any action against Taiwan.

China, however, avoided mentioning either the US or Japan in its statement on Monday morning.

How Taiwan responded to the Chinese action The Defense Ministry of Taiwan issued a statement on X on Monday morning, in which it said that rapid response exercises were underway in the wake of the Chinese military drills. In another statement, Taiwan revealed that appropriate forces were deployed, and they were conducting drills for combat readiness.

The Chinese Communist Partys targeted military exercises further confirm its nature as an aggressor and the biggest destroyer of peace, the ministry said, as per AP.

"Conducting live-fire exercises around the Taiwan Strait ... would not only constitute military pressure on us, but could also pose more complex challenges and impacts for the international community and neighbouring countries," Hsieh Jih-sheng, deputy chief of the general staff for intelligence at Taiwan's defence ministry, told reporters, when asked about Tuesday's drills, as per a Reuters report.

"Our armed forces operate on the principle of preparing for the worst and must take every possible scenario into account," Jih-sheng added.

In a show of resilience, the Defense Ministry of Taiwan released a video featuring its weapons and armed forces. Multiple French Mirage-2000 aircraft conducted landings at an air force base.

Details on the Chinese drills As per the spokesperson of the People's Liberation Army of China's Eastern Theater Command, Senior Col. Shi Yi, the drills will be conducted in the Taiwan Strait as well as areas to the north, southeast, and southwest of the island.

The activities, as per Shi, will include combat readiness patrol in sea and air, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, as well as blockades on key ports. This wil be the first large-scale drill where the command has announced that its goal will be all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain."

It is a stern warning against Taiwan independence separatist forces and external interference forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard Chinas sovereignty and national unity, Shi also said, as per AP.

China focuses on port cities A number of propaganda posters were released by the Chinese military which includes a graphic that depicts four specific locations around Taiwan with targets locking on.

As per the state broadcaster of China, the military exercises will focus on sealing off the crucial deep-water port of Keelung in the north of Taiwan and Kaohsiung to its south. Kaohsiung is the largest port city of the island. In one poster, an armada of civilian ships can be seen, which China is mobilising to carry out attacks on Taiwan. These vessels have ramps and open decks, thus suggesting that an amphibious assault cannot be ruled out.
(Bloomberg) -- Lea en espanol

A train derailment in southern Mexico that killed 13 and injured dozens more is presenting President Claudia Sheinbaum with a fresh test to hold her government accountable.

The Sunday accident hit a major rail line that was revamped and operated by the Navy under a government initiative to boost cargo and passenger transit. Both were pet projects of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Sheinbaums predecessor and mentor.

Sheinbaum told reporters on Monday that care for the victims is her top priority, while also pledging to investigate what caused the deadly derailment. She also plans to travel to the area and visit survivors, with 44 still hospitalized.

We must conduct a rigorous analysis of what happened, she said at her regular morning press conference on Monday.

Video posted on social media in the immediate aftermath of the derailment showed overturned cars, as well as part of the train dangling off of a mountain turn.

The incident implicates the Navy, which operates the Interoceanic Train of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec linking Mexicos Pacific and Gulf coasts. The cargo and passenger rail line is one of the flagship projects of Sheinbaums Morena party, meant to stimulate economic development in the countrys poorer south.

It was championed by Lopez Obrador, known as AMLO, in a bid to also lure some cargo shipping business away from the Panama Canal.

Navy and transport officials said the 250-passenger train jumped off its tracks in Oaxacas Asuncion Ixtaltepec municipality. AMLO put the Navy in charge of constructing and then running the revamped rail project, built on an existing route, part of a vastly expanded remit for the branch of the military that also includes running ports, airports as well as a separate tourist rail project known as the Maya Train.

Sheinbaum directed the rail transport agency and Attorney Generals Office to work together on the derailment investigation.

Sundays accident marks just the latest setback for the Navy, which is also under fire for allegations of corruption in a sprawling fuel smuggling scandal.

In recent months, Sheinbaum has sought to curb the smuggling rackets and recover massive quantities of bootlegged gasoline and diesel. A senior Navy admiral has been arrested in the ongoing probe, while her former attorney general was pushed out last month.

He was replaced by Attorney General Ernestina Godoy, a longtime Sheinbaum confidant, now in charge of the probe.

Completing the train projects launched by AMLO as well as building new lines has been one of Sheinbaums top infrastructure priorities, while she also aims to gradually narrow a gaping budget deficit she inherited from him. Nine new railway projects will have a budget of 105 billion pesos ($1.3 billion) next year, while the Interoceanic project will receive some 25 billion pesos for its operations.

AMLOs family

In addition to providing ammunition to her political opposition, the deadly accident also puts Sheinbaum in an uncomfortable position with AMLOs family. One of the former presidents sons, Gonzalo Lopez Beltran, was tapped by his father to be an informal adviser to the Interoceanic rail project despite no experience with train transport.

Gonzalo is not involved in politics. He has helped as an honorary advisor on the Interoceanic project, but he does not get paid and he is not going to work in the government, AMLO said in 2024, shortly before leaving office.

Another son of AMLO, Andres Lopez Beltran, is the No. 3 Morena party leader. Local media reports have accused him of helping friends obtain contracts for railway projects, but he has denied the accusations.

The Oaxaca derailment is not the first deadly rail accident under Morenas watch. When Sheinbaum was Mexico City mayor in 2021, an elevated section of the capitals subway system collapsed as a train passed over it. The incident resulted in two dozen deaths and almost 100 injured, with investigations later pinning the blame on faulty welding as well as deficient inspections and maintenance.

The subway disaster intensified scrutiny of public infrastructure oversight during Sheinbaums tenure as mayor. Opposition parties including the conservative National Action Party, or PAN, blamed the collapse on corruption and negligence, pointing to cost overruns, construction deficiencies and inadequate maintenance. At the time, they also criticized Marcelo Ebrard, another former mayor of the capital who currently serves as her economy minister.

Piling on, the head of another opposition party, the centrist Institutional Revolutionary Party, or PRI, pointed to an audio recording released last year by the investigative news outlet Latinus, in which a nephew of AMLO is heard talking about the possibility of the Maya Train being derailed due to the rush to inaugurate it.

PRI President Alejandro Moreno blamed corruption covered up by Morena for the latest rail tragedy, in a post on social media.

Its clear what happens when Morenas criminal corruption governs: the people of Mexico pay with their lives, Moreno wrote.

(Update with context and comments from opposition leader starting in fourteenth paragraph. A previous version corrected the spelling of the presidents name in the sixth paragraph.)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
United States President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, his resort in Florida, on Monday (local time) in order to discuss the next phase of the Gaza situation.

Earlier in the day, Netanyahu also met Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of War, and shared photos of the interaction on social media.

"He's a wartime prime minister. He's done a phenomenal job. He's taken Israel through a period of trauma. Israel, with other people, might not exist right now if you wanna know the truth...that's a pretty big statement, but I feel that. If you had the wrong prime minister, Israel would not exist today," the US President told the press before stepping inside his resort with Netanyahu.

"There were met with a force the likes of which very few countries could have handled. We were met with a force and we were very victorious, to put it mildly," Trump continued, adding, "now I hear Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we are gonna have to knock 'em down. We'll knock the hell outta them."

Trump also told reporters that it is essential for Hamas to disarm in order to move ahead with the second phase of his peace plan.

He also hoped that the Israeli PM will 'get along' with Syria, which is now under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa.

We made a lot of progress already. We had about a five-minute meeting, and weve already settled about three of the difficulties, CNN reported Trump as saying right before the press was ushered out and the meeting began.

Trump's pardon claims denied by Israel President Trump, on Monday, once again voiced his support for the pardon request of Netanyahu, and claimed that the Israel President has told him that a pardon for the PM is on its way.

Also Read | Zelensky requests 50-year security guarantees in meeting with Trump

However, the office of Isaac Herzog, the president of Israel, said in a statement, There has been no conversation between President Herzog and President Trump since the pardon request was submitted. adding that a few weeks ago, Herzog spoke with a Trump representative who inquired about the request and received an explanation of the process and that any decision would follow standard procedures," as per a CNN report.
Mexico disaster: At least 13 people were killed and 98 injured after a passenger train partially derailed in southern Mexico on Sunday, prompting an emergency response from federal and state authorities and the launch of a formal investigation.

The accident occurred in the state of Oaxaca, where the locomotive of the Interoceanic Train left the tracks near the town of Nizanda, officials said. The service was carrying 241 passengers and nine crew members at the time of the derailment.

Also Read | UP train accident: 6 women passengers run over by train at Mirzapur station

In an initial briefing, the Mexican Navy, which operates the rail line, reported that several passengers had been injured. Hours later, the navy revised the toll, confirming that 98 were injured and unfortunately, 13 people lost their lives.

Of those injured, 36 were receiving medical treatment, while five were reported to be in critical condition. Authorities said 139 passengers were out of danger.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said she had ordered senior federal officials, including the navy secretary, to travel to the area to oversee rescue efforts and provide assistance to victims families. Writing on X, she said response efforts would be coordinated by Interior Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez Velazquez and that regular updates would be issued.

The Attorney Generals Office confirmed it had opened an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment. Attorney General Ernestina Godoy Ramos said the inquiry would examine both technical and operational factors.

The Interoceanic Train runs between the Pacific and Gulf coasts, transporting both passengers and freight. The line forms part of the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a flagship infrastructure project inaugurated in 2023 under former president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

The project aims to modernise rail and port infrastructure across southern Mexico, linking the Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast, and creating a strategic trade route intended to rival the Panama Canal.

Also Read | Riots erupt in Greece on second anniversary of 2023 train crash

Sundays derailment was the second major incident on the route this month. On 20 December, a train on the same line collided with a cargo truck attempting to cross the tracks, though no fatalities were reported.
Russia on Monday claimed that Ukraine had fired drones at President Vladimir Putin's official residence in the Novgorod region, calling the incident a terrorist attack and warned that it would revise its position on negotiations to end the Ukraine war.

In a statement, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Ukraine fired 91 drones at Putin's residence  adding that all of them were destroyed by air defences, reported AFP.

Lavrov announced Russia had chosen targets in Ukraine for "retaliation strikes" and that Moscow's "negotiating position will be revised".

What Ukraine said? Ukraine, however, dismissed claims by the Russian side that 91 drones attacked Putin's residence in northern Russia as lies, and accused Moscow of trying to derail the ongoing peace talks.

Russias claims of a terrorist attack comes at a delicate moment, as the US, Ukraine and Moscow push to broker a deal aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.

Trump briefed about terrorist attack Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said that Putin and Trump spoke on Monday  and that he informed Trump about the drone attack on the Russian presidential residence and told Trump that Russia was reviewing its position as a result, reported Reuters.

Ushakov also said that during the call, Trump and his senior aides briefed Putin on negotiations with Ukraine.

Earlier on Monday, Trump claimed that he had a terrific meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his MaraLago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday, 28 December, and an excellent phone call with Russian President Putin, which lasted for over two hours.

What Zelensky, Trump discussed - Key highlights  Following his meeting with Trump, Zelensky revealed that the POTUS had informed him about discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and himself regarding a 20-point Ukraine peace plan.

 Zelensky further noted that he requested security guarantees for next 50 years.

 Trump said he believes a peace agreement is "close" but acknowledged that a few "thorny" issues remain unresolved. When asked about the "thorniest issues" still unresolved, Trump said, some of the land is being taken, some of the land may be up for grabs, but it may be taken over the next period of a number of months, and youre better off making a deal now.
United States President Donald Trump on Monday held a positive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

President Trump has concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine, she posted on X.

This comes after Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting at Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida that produced no definitive breakthrough, but the US president praised what he described as a lot of progress toward a potential peace agreement, according to Bloomberg.

After meeting the Ukrainian leader, Trump said he was confident that a deal was getting a lot closer", though he noted it could take a few weeks to finalise and that there was no fixed timeline. Zelensky said on Sunday that the peace plan was 90% agreed".

Also Read | Zelensky requests 50-year security guarantees in meeting with Trump

Strong security guarantees from US, package of support for Ukraine after war ends Zelensky stated that they have been working with the United States on a sequencing plan that outlines the order of actions, explaining that their approach is to proceed step by step by deciding what needs to be finalised and when, in coordination with their partners.

"First and foremost, we now want to hold a meeting at the national security advisors' level in the coming days. Rustem Umerov has already reached out to the advisors - American and European. And I believe that this meeting will be held in Ukraine," he said.

He said the next step would be to prepare all documents at the advisers level, followed by a meeting of European leaders, initially with Ukraine and then in a broader format that would include the Coalition of the Willing and other partners.

Also Read | Donald Trump has lost public support for his policy on immigration

Zelensky stated that discussions on this began immediately after his meeting with Trump, noting that he had already contacted President Macron and several other partners and would continue those consultations.

He said that at the meeting, the documents would be finalised at the leaders level, after which preparations would be made for a meeting with President Trump and European leaders. He mentioned that there was a serious commitment to holding these meetings in January and that, if the process moved forward step by step, it would eventually lead to a meeting with the Russians in one format or another, noting readiness for the formats already discussed.

"Our teams have discussed this, and yesterday we agreed with the President of the United States that we will have strong security guarantees from the United States. At present, they are not permanent. In the documents, the guarantees are set for 15 years, with the possibility of extension. I raised this issue with the President. I told him that our war has already been going on for more than a decade, and therefore, we would very much like the guarantees to last longer," Zelensky continued.

He said they wanted to explore the option of arrangements lasting 30, 40, or even 50 years, describing it as a potentially historic decision by Trump, and added that the US president indicated Washington would consider the proposal.

He also said the meeting with Trump resulted in confirmation of strong security guarantees, noting that Trump endorsed the details worked out by the negotiating teams and agreed that these guarantees would be put to a vote in the US Congress, calling it a very strong agreement.
US President Donald Trump said he had a terrific meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his MaraLago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday, 28 December, and an excellent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which lasted for over two hours.

The meeting comes as the US, Ukraine and Russia hope to seal a deal to bring peace to war-hit Ukraine.

"I do think we are getting a lot closer, maybe very close," Trump said after the key meeting with Zelensky.

Here are key takeaways from the Trump-Zelensky meeting: 1. Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, Trump said during a late afternoon news conference following the meeting with Zelensky, whom he repeatedly praised as brave.

He added, President Putin was very generous in his way toward Ukraine succeeding...including supplying energy, electricity and other things at very low prices.

2. Zelensky said the US-Ukraine security guarantees were a key milestone in achieving lasting peace that our teams will continue working on, while Trump said nothing is 100% yet, RT News reported.

3. When asked if he anticipates going to Ukraine, Trump said, "I have no problem doing it...don't anticipate it...would like to get a deal done and NOT have to go." He said, "I will offer to go to speak to their Parliament, and that would help." Zelensky intervened to welcome Trump at this point. "You are welcome. Always," the Ukrainian President said.

4. Trump said, "I saw a very interesting President Putin today...he wants to see it happen...He told me very strongly. I believe him". He said he still believes Putin is very serious about ending the war.

I believe Ukraine has made some very strong attacks also, Trump told reporters as Zelensky stood by his side. And I dont say that negatively. I think, you probably have to. I dont say that negatively. But I think, he hasnt told me that, but there have been some explosions in various parts of Russia. It looks to me, like, I dont know. I dont think it came from the Congo.

5. Trump said he believes a peace agreement is "close" but acknowledged that a few "thorny" issues remain unresolved. When asked about the "thorniest issues" still unresolved, Trump said, "The land.

Some of that land has been taken. You're better off making a deal now...," Trump said, adding, "Some of the land is being taken, some of the land may be up for grabs, but it may be taken over the next period of a number of months, and youre better off making a deal now," Trump said.

Also Read | Christmas in Ukraine approaches with power grid in crisis

6. Trump also acknowledged that the fate of the eastern Donbas region, which Russia has demanded Ukraine surrender, remains a major issue.

"We're getting closer to an agreement on that. And that's a big issue," he said while appearing alongside Zelensky.

Certainly, that's one of the big issues, and I think we're closer

7. Trump said it was possible that the negotiations would fall apart. In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump said. "We could have something where one item that youre not thinking about is a big item, breaks it up. Look, its been a very difficult negotiation. Very detailed, he was quoted by the Associated Press as saying.

Volodymyr Zelensky: Trump to host Ukrainian, European leaders in January "Ukraine is ready for peace," Zelensky said in a post on X. He thanked President Trump for the "wonderful meeting," adding, "We had a meaningful discussion on all issues and highly appreciate the progress achieved by the Ukrainian and American teams over the past weeks."

He offered special thanks to Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for their engagement and full commitment to the cause, as well as to our team, primarily Rustem Umerov and Andriy Hnatov.

"We discussed all aspects of the peace framework and achieved significant results. We also discussed the sequence of further actions. We agree that security guarantees are key to achieving lasting peace, and our teams will continue working on all aspects," Zelensky said.
President Vladimir Putin on Monday informed US President Donald Trump that Russia would reassess its stance in peace talks following what Moscow described as a Ukrainian drone attack on a Russian presidential residence, according to the Kremlin.

Ukraine has rejected Russias claim that 91 drones targeted Putins residence in northern Russia, calling it false, and accused Moscow, which has yet to provide evidence, of trying to derail peace talks.

Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov stated that Putin and Trump spoke on Monday, during which Trump and his senior advisers updated Putin on Washingtons negotiations with Ukraine.

During a conference call with reporters, as per Reuters, Ushakov said, According to the Americans, during these negotiations the American side aggressively pursued the idea of the need for Kyiv to take real steps towards a final settlement of the conflict, not to hide behind demands for a temporary ceasefire.

Ushakov stated that Russia was concerned that Ukraines proposals to the United States might still be interpreted too broadly by Kyiv. He added that Trump was taken aback when Putin informed him that Ukraine had attacked a presidential residence in Novgorod.

Russia's position will be reviewed on a number of agreements reached at the previous stage and on the emerging interchanges. This was stated very clearly, Ushakov added.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the claim that Ukraine had attacked Putins residence, describing it as a complete fabrication aimed at justifying further attacks on Ukraine, including Kyiv, and Russias refusal to take the necessary measures to end the war.

Trump-Zelensky meet Trump and Putins call came on the heels of the US Presidents meeting with Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida.

View full Image US President Donald Trump welcomes Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 28, 2025 ( AFP )

Both leaders expressed optimism about the prospects of an agreement. That meeting produced no clear breakthrough but saw Trump hail what he called a lot of progress". Speaking with Zelensky, Trump said he was confident a deal was getting a lot closer", though it could take a few weeks to finalise and there was no set timeline.

Zelensky said on Sunday that the peace plan was 90% agreed". Following their meeting, the US and Ukrainian presidents spoke with European leaders. Ukraine is seeking a meeting with European partners and Trump in January, Zelensky noted, to be followed by a separate meeting with Russian officials in one format or another". French President Emmanuel Macron said in a post on X on Monday that the Coalition of the Willing group will convene in early January to discuss its support for Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials have spent recent weeks revising a 28-point draft plan originally proposed by the US, which was viewed as overly favorable to Russia, according to Bloomberg. The latest version now has 20 points, but Moscow has warned that it contains elements it will not accept, comprising provisions regarding the size of Ukraines post-war military.
Leaders and activists of the Inqilab Mancha in Bangladesh reportedly demanded that the work permits of Indians working in the country must be revoked. The group's statement came amid the controversy over the killing of student leader and Inquilab Moncha spokesperson Shaheed Osman Hadi.

Abdullah Al Jaber, member secretary of the Inqilab Mancha, announced four demands last night (28 December) to the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, including the arrest and prosecution of Shaheed Osman Hadi's murderers within the next 24 days, according to Prothom Alo.

"I am announcing four points on behalf of the Inqilab Mancha to establish a fight for justice to arrest and prosecute the murderers of martyr Osman Hadi and to maintain the independence and sovereignty of Bangladesh," Jaber was quoted as saying.

According to Prothom Alo, the four-point demand of the Inqilab Mancha includes:

1. All those involved in Hadi's killing, perpetrators, planners and accomplices, must be arrested and brought to justice within 24 days.

Also Read | Who was Sharif Osman Hadi? The 2024 uprising leader Bangladesh mourns today

2. The interim government must cancel the work permits of Indians working in Bangladesh to maintain the country's independence and sovereignty.

3. If India refuses to return all murderers who have sought refuge in that country, a case should be filed against India in the International Court of Justice.

4. The government must prosecute the Awami League's allies in civil, military, and intelligence.

"Among these four demands, our main demand is to arrest the murderers of Shaheed Osman Hadi within the next 24 working days and complete the trial. The remaining three demands must also be fulfilled by this interim government," Jaber reportedly said.

Local media reported that Inqilab Mancha leaders and activists had been holding a sit-in at Dhaka's Shahbagh intersection since Friday afternoon, demanding the arrest and trial of Hadi's killers.

Also Read | B'desh youth leader Osman Hadi dies in Singapore after assassination attempt

On Saturday night, Jaber announced a full-scale blockade in the divisional cities to spread the movement. He ended the blockade on Sunday night after issuing the four demands.

Sharif Osman Hadi killed Hadi, 32, was shot a day after the Election Commission announced on 12 December that the next national election would be held on 12 February. He was later airlifted to Singapore for advanced medical treatment, where he died on the night of 18 December.

Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncha, was a prominent youth leader during the July-August 2024 mass street protests that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government last year.

He was also a parliamentary candidate for the upcoming 12 February elections.

In the aftermath of his killing, Bangladeshi police claimed that two primary suspects had fled across the border into India through the Haluaghat sector in Mymensingh district. The area lies opposite Meghalaya's Garo Hills in the western sector, which shares an international border with Bangladesh and is guarded by the Border Security Force (BSF).

Also Read | B'desh youth leader Osman Hadi dies in Singapore after assassination attempt

A top Dhaka Metropolitan Police officer earlier said that two primary suspects in the Hadi murder case had crossed into Meghalaya, India, via the Haluaghat border with the help of local associates.

However, security agencies in Meghalaya dismissed the claims by the Bangladesh Police on Sunday.

"There is no evidence to suggest that any individual crossed the international border from the Haluaghat sector into Meghalaya. The BSF has neither detected nor received any report of such an incident," Inspector General OP Opadhyay told PTI.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday, December 29, revealed details of his meeting with US. President Donald Trump in Florida earlier today, and said he requested for 50-year security guarantees. The current 20-point plan to end war in Ukraine proposes a 15-year security plan for Ukraine. He also noted that a meeting with Russia is possible if President Trump and European leaders agree on formal documents.

Zelensky said Trump informed him about a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which they discussed a 20-point peace plan for Ukraine.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, Donald Trump said that he had a terrific meeting and an excellent phone call with Putin, which lasted for over two hours. The conflict is set to complete four years on 24 February since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia. Trump had invited Zelensky to his private club to work out a deal between Ukraine and Russia to bring peace to war-hit Ukraine.

Elaborating on his demands from the proposed peace plan, Zelensky said Ukraine wants the National Security Advisors to meet with the US and Europe in the coming days. He expressed hope over the delivery of security guarantees at the moment when the peace plan would be signed.

Putting forward his demands, Zelensky said the peace plan should be signed by Ukraine, the US, Russia, and Europe, as he admitted that a technical group might be needed for its implementation. Declaring that Ukraine is open to any format of communication with Russia, he suggested that the peace plan should be put to a referendum in Ukraine.

He asserted that a ceasefire of at least 60 days would be necessary to hold such a referendum. Details regarding ceasefire monitoring will be clarified in security guarantees, Zelensky said. Concluding the press briefing, he said discussions on the free economic zone will take place in Donbas.

Also Read | Zelensky to meet Trump in Florida on Sunday to discuss security guarantees

Trump calls Zelensky brave During a late afternoon news conference following the meeting with Zelensky, Trump stated, President Putin was very generous in his way toward Ukraine succeeding...including supplying energy, electricity and other things at very low prices, as he repeatedly called Zelensky brave.

When questioned regarding a meeting in Ukraine, Trump said, I have no problem doing it...don't anticipate it...would like to get a deal done and NOT have to go, RT News reported

Emphasising that Putin is very serious about ending the war, Trump said, I saw a very interesting President Putin today...he wants to see it happen...He told me very strongly. I believe him.
A hundred years ago, famous US lawyer and jurist Benjamin N. Cardozo aptly saidHistory, in illuminating the past, illuminates the present, and in illuminating the present, illuminates the future."

Lets discuss our current smoggy present while paying homage to Benjamin.

The last week of 2025 was marked by intense struggle. People in Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi and Western Uttar Pradesh were up in arms on the issue of the Aravalli range. Reason? On 20 November, the Supreme Court passed a judgement that only the hills that are 100 metres or higher would be considered part of the Aravalli range. The order was based on the logic extended by the government that for administrative ease a clear definition for the ranges was needed to formulate developmental policies. However, those opposed to the judgement used adjectives like death warrant for the Aravalli hills.

They insisted that the judgement threatens 90% of the Aravalli. Sensing trouble, environment minister Bhupender Yadav clarified that only 0.19% of the Aravalli range will be open to mining. He said care would be taken to conserve the entire mountain range and its wildlife. Still, concerns are rife. Finally on 24 December, the government banned any new mining lease in the Aravalli. We must remember that the Aravallis act as a bulwark against the expanding Thar desert, creating conducive conditions for lush greenery that we see in Northern India.

Still the area faces utter neglect.

Government data reveals that for the last many years people in North India have been denied the luxury of a single day of clear air. Conditions in New Delhi and the national capital region (NCR) are even worse. In the last one year GRAP 3 and GRAP 4 have been imposed for 40 days, thats more than a month.

Delhi was built on the banks of Yamuna so that the perennial river would provide a constant stream of fresh water to its residents. But today its water is unfit to even bathe.

Also Read | How Respirer is turning pollution into data

Its no surprise that people in the Delhi-NCR region have been planning to escape the city. According to Savills India Research, price of new villas in Goa is between 7 crore and 10 crore, comparable with the price of a high-end apartment in South Delhi or South Mumbai. People are moving to these places for a relaxed pace of life. This is the reason for the 65% year-on-year rise in real estate prices in this sleepy, peaceful coastal province.

Goa isnt alone. The situation is the same in places like Dehradun, Nainital and Haridwar. Peaceful and languid locales near every metro are facing the same pressures.

I would like to draw your attention to a research report published in Communications Earth and Environment. The report discusses the reasons for the decline and fall of our ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Our forefathers built a civilization six millennia before Christ, at a time when much of the world was still forested. People still marvel at the cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro that had roads intersecting at right angles, with drainage facilities and baked bricks created by our forefathers.

We also find highly developed agriculture and grain storage systems in Indus Valley Civilization.

If you still have doubts kindly visit Dholavira in Gujarats Kutch area. Here water was purified using a three-layered sand structure. The British used the same technique in many other cities across India. How come a civilization, so advanced and thoughtful just vanished? Theories ranging from foreign invaders, floods, earthquake, to droughts etc. as a cause of its demise have been propounded. But the new research says the complexities of urban life forced people to move to hamlets and villages. Cities around Indus started hollowing out. This was also one of the many reasons for the decline of the entire civilization.

Is the same process being repeated today?

Since Covid, exodus from the megapolis has gained momentum in India, Europe and Africa. News about Italian cities like Cammarata, Ollolai, Locana etc. are appearing that anyone can come and stay here for free. All they need to do is to take care of their houses.

Using Benjamin N. Cordozos lament, if we compare the past with whats unfolding today, can we hear the rumblings of an impending crisis? We may be celebrating 21st centurys silver jubilee as 2025 draws to a close but to make the golden jubilee every bit as lustrous we need to urgently fix the deteriorating environment. This is the biggest challenge we will have to tackle in 2026.

Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan. Views are personal.
American President Donald Trump spent much of 2025 squandering the publics support on what was once his best issue: immigration. Yes, he quickly delivered on his campaign promise to secure the southern border.

But as the year unfolded, his anti-immigrant agenda drove policy far beyond where most Americans are willing to go.

Trump has claimed the US is being invaded"on 15 March, he invoked the Alien Enemies Act to deport more than 200 Venezuelans to a prison in El Salvadorand that hes only deporting violent criminals.

Also Read | Trump tightens work permits for migrants

But data from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shows most have not been charged with crimes. His approval numbers on immigration have fallen from positive by 9 percentage points in March to negative by 11 points in December (Reuters/Ipsos polls).

Why so? Four key decisions:

One, draconian limits on refugees: Admissions had grown under Joe Biden, swamping US support systems.

On Trumps first day in office, he pivoted to the other extreme with an executive order that shut the Refugee Admissions Program, leaving thousands of refugees stranded, including those with applications in process. The new admission rate is just 7,500.

Trump has decried immigrants from what he calls Third World countries and been vocal about a preference for White immigrants. His refugee programme gives preference to White Afrikaners, whom Trump has said face persecution [in South Africa].

He is also promoting his anti-refugee stance as a new standard for Europe. In November, a State Department post on X warned that Mass migration poses an existential threat to Western civilization and undermines the stability of key American allies."

Two, legal status of immigrants whove done nothing wrong revoked: Trump has steadily widened the pool of illegal immigrants by stripping legal status from those who entered under temporary protections.

He ended or is trying to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, Venezuelans, Afghans, Hondurans, Somalis, Ethiopians and others who arrived after being vetted. More than 1.2 million immigrants who had been here legally may soon find themselves subject to deportation.

Also Read | How to make immigration palatable in a populist age

Three, record numbers of immigrants detained: Over the summer, a temporary facility in Florida became known for its inhumane conditionsand its callous name: Alligator Alcatraz. It was the first of several nicknamed detention centres celebrated by the administration. A backlash against the facilities has been fierce.

Officials are now said to be looking at private prisons and other existing facilities to handle increased numbers of detainees. Those held have included some legal immigrants (like graduate students here on student visas) and even some US citizens. Some say theyve been held for days or weeks without due process.

Four, US cities hit hard with militarized enforcement: Under the guise of public safety, Trump began ordering National Guard troops to Los Angeles, Washington, Portland and Chicago. Federal agents from ICE, along with Border Patrol, also poured into those cities.

ICE agents in masks and street clothes became a common sight, along with Border Patrol agents who adopted full combat kit as they engaged in dramatic raids and aggressive takedowns of immigrants who often had no criminal record.

The tactics deployed under Trump are far more aggressive than under previous presidents, even though a number of former presidents deported more people. In Minneapolis, agents were recorded dragging a woman said to be pregnant across a street as protestors threw chunks of ice. (DHS called her a vandal.")

How far will Trump go? The Supreme Court is weighing whether to repeal birthright citizenshipa change Trump considers essential.

Immigration agents have begun using mobile facial recognition technology to detect potential undocumented immigrants in crowds, to the dismay of civil rights advocates. And ICE is on a hiring spree.

Trumps immigration agenda is clear. He seeks more than a secure border and ridding the US of worst of the worst" criminal immigrants. Trump sees mass migration as a threat that could displace American culture, even though thats a mosaic made by immigration.

Also Read | How a historic immigration drop is changing the job market

His latest move is to set aggressive quotas of 100 to 200 a month on denaturalization, which strips immigrants of US citizenship. The process was once for a few cases of immigration fraud or other narrow circumstances.The new quotas represent a way to instill terror in those who thought they had cleared every hurdle on their long road to citizenship.

The New Year should make Americans look deep within and ask themselves whether this is the country and the future they want. Bloomberg
Commenting on the politics of a Western democracy where he resides, my old friend Sanjay Krishnan remarked that the liberal party there is caught in quicksand. The more vigorously it tries to save itself, the deeper it sinks. It needed a different strategy.

The scene is somewhat similar in India, where opposition parties are vociferous about different things on different days to such an extent that it is hard to see what they are really against and even what they are really for.

First, a disclaimer: I am neither an expert in electoral politics nor an analyst of the internal politics of our political parties. I am rather uninterested in them and not too concerned about the fortunes of this leader or that faction.

I am making a few observations and indulging in some year-end wishful thinking because I think India needs a political alternative that can keep the entire constitutional machinery in balance by having a real chance to come to power at the next election.

Also Read | Opposition-ruled states urge Centre to set up GoM to assess GST revenue loss

I have been mystified by changes in the Indian National Congresss positions and posture over the past two years. How does it go from Bharat Jodo Yatra to championing a caste census? The former was a worthy corrective to the divisive politics of recent years and united Indians under patriotism and pluralism.

The latter divides India along caste, negating what the partys leader walked thousands of kilometres across the country for, just a couple of years earlier. No matter how smoothly its case is presented, a division of India is division, be it horizontal or vertical.

I do not know enough to diagnose why the Congress is unable to connect the deep convictions of its leadership to a coherent national political agenda that is fully backed by the party organization.

What I do see is a massively distracted party chasing numerous controversies every day, reflexively opposing everything that the government does, with party leaders projecting aggrieved outrage at every opportunity.

The sum total does not inspire confidence, not least because the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is not only ideologically more coherent and better backed by an election-winning apparatus, but because it can easily do all the popular things that the Congress says it will do if it were to achieve power.

Writing about Europe and the US, Mark Leonard notes that the new right has the narrative, the social base, the policy agenda and the communications channels to thrive." This has been the case in India for nearly 15 years now. That ought to have been a long enough for opposition parties to put together the ingredients for success.

Yet, Bharat Jodo was abandoned as the nucleus of an alternative narrative despite the tremendous investments that went into it and the electoral results it showed. The caste census will have unpredictable consequences for the Congress, as its experience in Karnataka has shown.

Also Read | BJP faces 2 key questions after Bihar win: one electoral and one fiscal

Quotas and reservations as a policy agenda might work in some states but come at the cost of alienating the party from supporters and donors across the rest of the country. Its communication channels, meanwhile, are exhausted by chasing daily controversies, dissipating energy and diluting the partys core narrative.

As the national reception of Bharat Jodo demonstrated, people are receptive to a narrative of unity, patriotism and federalism. Any political alternative that seeks to come to power in New Delhi must embrace this unreservedly.

It should also attempt to create a social base around a shared national identity, not this caste against that caste. It should be comfortable with Hinduism in political life and promote its genuine pluralistic expression.

It should uphold secularism, but recognize that it applies to the state, not to individuals and society. On the economic front, it should promote growth through public investment in infrastructure and private sector competition.

It is possible to create a liberal nationalist political agenda that is sufficiently differentiated from the BJPs to form the basis of a credible political alternative. Nationalism with pluralism. Growth with competition. Development with social security. National strength with federalism.

With the conviction and communication discipline to stick to ones own agenda without compulsive wild geese hunting expeditions. The party has to hold its line across election cycles to be trusted by the voter.

Jumping from issue to issue from one election to another suggests an over-reliance on data analysts. Today, voters may think that the Congress is about personalities or caste arithmetic and little beyond that.

The Congress needs to change if it is to be a credible political alternative. How it does this is primarily the business of its members, supporters and leaders. Yet, how it conducts itself in Parliament is of public interest.

I would like to see a more creative opposition than a noisy one. I would like to see more confident and inspiring spokespersons, not aggrieved ones.

Also Read | Delhi poll results in charts: BJP returns to power after 27 years

The way to escape quicksand is non-intuitive. When I asked Perplexity how, it said you should stay calm, move very slowly and jettison heavy items that drag you down. Take a deep breath to stay afloat. Then reach out for solid support. None of this is easy, but one can start by not making things worse.
If you want higher standards for drinking water packaging in India, who do you turn to? A few days ago, the Supreme Court seemed to scold a petitioner for wanting that, calling his plea for India to comply with top international standards a luxury litigation."

The apex court was hearing a writ petition filed by Sarang Vaman Yadwadankar.

As reported, one of the judges said, Where is the drinking water in this country? People do not have drinking water. The quality of bottled water will come later on This is an urban-centric approach Water bottle should have this content, that content, these are all luxury litigations." (shorturl.at/EFYLw)

The spirit of the courts observations could explain many of Indias deficiencies. Poverty in the country results in a tendency to peg everything on it. So Indias plans are often of low calibre. India should instead consider all Indians upper middle-class.

Plastic packaging contains some chemicals that could be harmful, even carcinogenic beyond a point. For instance, antimony, a chemical element that is something between a metal and a non-metal, can be harmful in high quantities. DEHP is another chemical that carries a similar risk.

The issue is not whether these chemicals are in fact harmful. The developed world has already worried about it and come up with guidelines to reduce their presence. The issue is whether we too require higher standards.

If carcinogens in plastic water bottles is seen as a luxury concern, it may inadvertently explain a society that still struggles to get potable water to all its people. When we have low standards, we aspire to less.

Indias top court said that it is unrealistic to expect the country to enforce guidelines for packaging that have been adopted by advanced economies.

The people in rural areas drink ground water and nothing happens to them," noted the court, according to a news report. The poor, however, are not superhuman. In fact, they die of diseases all the time. These are unnecessary deaths.

The court drew attention to rural India in a historical context too: Mahatma Gandhi, when he returned from South Africa, travelled across rural areas to understand the plight of the people." (shorturl.at/1zI8t) It seemed to suggest that in a country where people dont have bread, someone was asking for cake.

Yet, its not clear how asking for higher standards for water packaging has anything to do with water consumed by the poor. It is not as though following better health standards would increase the cost of water for the poor or distract governments from providing them water.

Also Read | Labelling standards: Impactful reforms can be delivered in small packages

The attitude that just because most Indians are poor, we should not have high standards for Indian life explains why our roads are dangerous and why trains derail; our standards are low at almost every level.

A train that is highly comfortable for passengers will automatically have high safety standards. Like the Delhi Metro, which was initially considered a project for the rich but is today a lifeline for the average citizen in the national capital region.

Trains for the poor are the ones where the poor continue to travel in great hordes, often in suffocating conditions, all the while facing the probability of a railway mishap.

But India looks at comfort as something of a luxury. In perpetually planning for the poor rather than the rich, India has remained a poor country.

The poor themselves have higher standards than India has for them. This is why so many of them reject government schools in most states, with a few exceptions like Delhi and Kerala.

Some poor and lower-middle-class families spend a considerable portion of their income on sending their kids to private schools.

As a result, a whole category of private schools have mushroomed that cater to their aspirations, which includes escaping government schools designed for them by governments that think they need no better.

Indias low standards for its poor created a low threshold for vulgarity. As a result, for decades, it couched science and technology, including its space mission, in terms that suggested it was primarily a service to the poor. That is the least romantic aspect of science, especially for the talented young.

However, the spirit of the Supreme Courts irritation is not without substance. There is a segment of the urban population that imitates Western elites whose excessive consumption lends them a certain narcissism that makes them obsess over ways in which their party of life may come to an end.

Also, it is true that some people have phobias, which found a mention in the courts observations. Fears can be contagious, even among those who are not clinically paranoid. It explains why some people worry about carcinogens in everything.

Indians have also borrowed some luxury abstractions that may diminish the lives of the poor.

Take the paranoia around privacy, for instance, and how a class of people who have no qualms giving their biometric data to the US government for a mere visit tried to sabotage Indias biometric identity project, Aadhaar.

Also Read | Why your bank's AI just got a mandatory data checkup

So it is not as though there are no urban phobias" or luxury petitions." But, as with the water packaging issue, there is an assumption in India that high standards are not appropriate in a country with poverty.

That only keeps us poor. There is a lesson in this. Individuals, especially the poor, should think big, be grand and look much above their station.
On Saturday, data issued by its National Bureau of Statistics showed profits for big Chinese industrial firms (with annual sales of above 20 million yuan or $2.9 million) slumped 13.1% from a year earlier in November, worse than the 5.5% fall in October.

Also Read | Why Toyota has zipped ahead of other foreign carmakers in China

Its yet another sign that all isnt well in Chinas economy.

Although its exports have held up despite the US tariff onslaught, its domestic markets are caught in a deflationary grip, baring weak consumption that Beijing has been struggling to reverse with fiscal measures.

It reflects a failure to reorient its economy away from exports and towards the use of local demand as a growth engine.

While that project may seem like lower priority than erecting defences against American trade aggression, neglecting its internal circulation" would be a folly.

Its export dominance is clear and it has weaponized its hold on the global rare-earth supply chain.

Yet, its impressive performance on the world stage will not help it escape a middle-income trap if people in the Peoples Republic are served poorly.

China faces a big policy challenge and how it tackles it may affect the rest of the world.
The Congress party on Monday put out its first list of 70 candidates for the January 15 elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The list comes just a day before the deadline for filing nominations ends.

The list came a day after the national party sealed a seat pact with the (VBA), led by former MP Prakash Ambedkar, for polls to the 227-member BMC  India's biggest and richest civic body with an annual budget of more than 74,000 crore.

Also Read | Ajit Pawar-led NCP announces list of 37 candidates for BMC polls

The VBA is contesting 62 seats in alliance with the Congress.

View full Image Elections to 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune, Thane and Nagpur, will be held on January 15 and votes will be counted the next day. The last date for filing nominations is December 30.

Former Maharashtra minister Mahadev Jankar's Rashtriya Samaj Paksh (RSP), contesting the BMC polls in alliance with Congress, also announced its first list of six candidates.

When is BMC election? Elections to 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune, Thane and Nagpur, will be held on January 15 and votes will be counted the next day. The last date for filing nominations is December 30.

The BJP and the Shiv Sena will contest the BMC elections as part of ruling alliance  Mahayuti. Under the agreed seat-sharing formula, the BJP will contest 128 seats, while the Shiv Sena will field candidates in 79 seats, and the remaining seats distribution will be decided based on candidates and local equations.

BJP releases list too The BJP released its first list of 66 candidates for the 227-member civic body. The list includes a mix of new candidates, women contenders and a limited number of experienced leaders.

The Congress party's timely announcement of candidates reflects its strategic alliances aimed at maximizing electoral success.

The Nationalist Congress Party (SP), led by former Union minister Sharad Pawar, declared its candidates for seven seats. The party, a constituent of the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), hasn't forged an alliance with any other political outfit in Mumbai.
Apples product roadmap for 2026 is shaping up to be one of its most ambitious in years. While 2025 focused on refining existing lines with fresh designs and powerful silicon, the coming year looks set to introduce genuinely new form factors and long-anticipated upgrades across multiple categories. According to a report by 9To5Mac, Apple is preparing a wave of products that could redefine parts of its ecosystem.

Below is a closer look at the fiv major Apple products expected to arrive in 2026.

A new Studio Display with upgraded internals Apple is reportedly preparing a new external display, marking its first major update to the Studio Display since 2022. While details remain limited, the new model is expected to retain a 27-inch size while switching to mini LED technology for improved brightness and contrast.

The display is also said to feature a far more powerful internal chip, possibly the A19 Pro, replacing the ageing A13 Bionic used in the current version. Although it may appear to be a modest update, Apples limited history in the monitor space suggests this refresh could be more significant than it sounds.

A redesigned MacBook Pro Apple is also reportedly preparing its first major MacBook Pro redesign since 2021. The 2026 model is expected to be thinner and lighter, with OLED displays finally making their way to the MacBook lineup.

Other rumours suggest support for touch input and optional 5G connectivity, which would mark a major shift in how Apple positions its professional laptops. The device is also expected to debut the M6 chip, potentially Apples first processor built on a 2-nanometre process.

Apples first foldable iPhone After years of speculation, Apple may finally enter the foldable smartphone market in 2026. The device is expected to follow a book-style design rather than a clamshell, featuring a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external screen.

Reports suggest Apple is focusing heavily on minimising or eliminating the display crease, a common issue in current foldables. The device may also rely on Touch ID instead of Face ID and use a titanium frame for durability.

Apples long-rumoured smart home hub One of the most anticipated additions to Apples lineup is a dedicated smart home device, often described as a HomePad. The product is expected to feature a 7-inch display and run a new operating system designed specifically for home control.

The device is said to rely heavily on Apple Intelligence and an improved version of Siri, which may explain why its launch has taken longer than expected. If Apple resolves its AI challenges, the home hub could arrive in 2026 as a central controller for smart home devices, similar in concept to Googles Nest Hub or Amazons Echo Show.

Also Read | Apple prototype AirPods in Pink and Yellow surfaces online

A more affordable MacBook Apple is also rumoured to be working on a lower-cost MacBook that would sit below the MacBook Air in its lineup. This model is expected to use an A18 Pro chip rather than Apples M-series processors and feature a 13-inch display.
New Delhi: India has extended an official invitation to China to participate in its weeklong 2026 AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, a top government official told reporters here on Monday. This marks the first time that India has extended an official invitation to China to participate in its annual artificial intelligence event as a partnering nation, as New Delhi seeks to showcase its foundational AI models and present a policy directive that other nations agree with.

The move comes after China attended 2025s AI Action Summit in France, where India was the co-chair nationmonths after the country declined to be a signatory to the 2024 AI Summit in Seoul, South Korea.

Weve invited numerous nations around the world, particularly with a focus on the global south, to participate in the AI Impact Summitand have already received confirmations from many, including France, to have them as part of it. We have also sent a formal invitation to China to take part as well, said S. Krishnan, secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity).

Also Read | Apple's iPhone 16 is the bestseller in a sea of budget smartphones in India

Chinas participation in global AI conversations has become a much-discussed factor, especially after China-origin DeepSeek and Qwen rose to the fore with cost-effective AI models that matched OpenAIs Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) and Googles Gemini.

DeepSeeks foundational models, released last year, promised to reduce the cost of training and operating AI models to a fraction of the current cost. However, their lack of global citations have not led to widespread adoption of their models at an enterprise level globally.

Krishnan did not confirm if China will be one of the 100-plus nations in attendance in February. An email sent to the embassy of China did not receive a response until press time.

The five-day India AI Impact Summit will take place from 15 to 20 February 2026. Krishnan said that over 50 heads of state are expected to be in attendance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to host a welcome dinner for heads of state and top tech executives in New Delhi on 18 February, Krishnan added.

Weve also received confirmations from top executives from the AI world, including Bill Gates, Dario Amodei of Anthropic, Demis Hassabis of Google DeepMind, and more. Having large tech firms make key announcements will be an important part of the Summit, even if that wouldnt be the main focus, Krishnan added.

Indias first AI summit in December 2023 saw a declaration signed on AI safety regulation by Global Partnership on AI (Gpai), a multinational body.

Stakeholders, however, questioned the efficacy of the declarations signed at AI summits globally.

Also Read | Smartwatches are now becoming health devices with medical certification

The idea would be to sign a definitive declaration, and the idea to sign a policy agreement that allows for a collaborative approach to regulating AI in a unified direction is also on the cards, Krishnan said.

The secretary also added that there is no conflict in terms of Indias approach to regulating AI, and no nation has raised concerns about Indias approach to regulating AI.
Government-owned ride-hailing mobility app Bharat Taxi is all set to make its debut on 1 January, 2026. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Cooperation, is being positioned as a fairer alternative to privately owned platforms like Ola, Uber and Rapido.

Cooperation Minister Amit Shah had confirmed the existence of the app in Parliament earlier this month and highlighted that the platform is meant to free drivers from dependency on private companies.

What is Bharat Taxi? Who runs it? The Bharat Taxi app is run by the Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited, which is jointly promoted by eight leading cooperative and financial institutions, including NCDC, IFFCO, AMUL, KRIBHCO, NAFED, NABARD, NDDB and NCEL. Meanwhile, the Government of India, via the Ministry of Cooperation, acts as the chief promoter.

The Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited is being touted as the worlds first national mobility cooperative that is entirely owned by drivers. It already counts over 51,000 registered drivers across New Delhi and Saurashtra as members.

The new platform aims to address one of the most persistent issues faced by drivers on ride-hailing platforms, which typically charge a hefty 2030% commission on every ride. In contrast, the Bharat Taxi app does not charge any commission, allowing drivers to receive 100% of the fare. Drivers are also entitled to other benefits such as board representation, annual dividends and a share in the cooperatives profits.

The soft launch of the app began earlier this month across Delhi and Gujarat, and the app is currently available to download via both the Google Play Store and Apples App Store. Riders can download the Bharat Taxi app, while cab drivers can download the Bharat Taxi Driver app from the respective app stores.

As for services, the platform offers a variety of ride options including two-wheelers, rickshaws, taxis and four-wheelers, similar to its privately owned competitors. The app will be available for nationwide use from 1 January.

Cooperation minister Amit Shah recently said that the app would lead to new employment opportunities and would be a major driver of prosperity in the rural areas.
(Bloomberg Opinion) -- Step aside, artificial intelligence. Another transformative technology with the potential to reshape industries and reorder geopolitical power is finally moving out of the lab: quantum.

The United Nations dubbed 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Its been marked by a flurry of announcements  and a mountain of hype  around a mind-boggling field of science long dismissed as perpetually a decade away from usefulness. But thats how people talked about AI, too, before ChatGPT spurred the current global arms race and investor euphoria.

Quantum technology taps the odd mechanics of quantum physics  how particles behave at the atomic level  to create computers, sensors and communications gear that are exponentially more powerful than todays. Classic computers process information in bits, which can be represented as 0 or 1. Quantum computers use qubits, which  bear with me for a moment  can exist in a superposition of both states at the same time. That allows them to evaluate a vast number of possibilities at extraordinary speed.

As mystifying as it seems, quantum technology has the potential to transform sectors from medicine to finance. McKinsey & Co. estimates it could generate up to $97 billion in revenue worldwide by 2035. Bain & Co., looking at the broader ecosystem, says it could unlock as much as $250 billion in market value.

AI soaked up most of the attention this year. But if you werent watching closely, heres what you may have missed in quantum, and what Im watching out for next.

The year began with something rare in the field: a viral moment. In February, Microsoft Corp. unveiled its first quantum computing chip, touting a path to fitting a million qubits on a single processer. A sleek YouTube video broke down some of the jargon usually associated with the science and culminated with the declaration: Were at the cusp of a quantum age. Some researchers later questioned if the PR hype machine was going too far, perhaps overselling the underlying science.

But Microsofts splashy announcement followed Alphabet Inc.s Google late-2024 unveiling of its own quantum-computing chip, dubbed Willow. And that was quickly followed by Amazon.com Inc.s cloud unit teasing its Ocelot chip, which it claimed can reduce the costs of quantum error correction by up to 90% compared to previous approaches. Reducing error rates is one of the biggest challenges given how sensitive qubits are to even the smallest changes in their environment.

By June, International Business Machines Corp., a pioneer in the sector, unveiled an impressively detailed framework for launching a fault-tolerant (that is, less error-prone) quantum computer by 2029. And in October, Google said that it ran a verifiable algorithm on its Willow chip  meaning one that can be repeated on another quantum system. The algorithm, dubbed Quantum Echoes, ran 13,000 times faster on Willow than whats possible on the worlds most powerful supercomputer, according to Google.

The sheer pace of quantum activity from Big Tech and startups in 2025 would have been unthinkable even five years ago. Investors are taking notice and capital is flowing. The momentum is unlikely to ebb in 2026.

The US still leads, but China is rapidly narrowing the gap. I recently wrote about this, looking at a surge of patent filings  the same kind of data that analysts previously used to anticipate the nations leadership in other sectors, such as electric vehicles. John Martinis, one of this years winners of the Nobel Prize in Physics, warned earlier this month that China is mere nanoseconds behind.

A new geopolitical race is underway. Beijing has earmarked $15.3 billion in public funds for quantum computing, more than eight times the $1.9 billion the US has pledged. The West was largely caught flat-footed by Chinas rapid advances in AI. It cannot afford a repeat. The stakes in quantum are arguably higher, but there is no excuse to be surprised by new breakthroughs coming from there in the new year.

Still, for all the excitement, the limits of todays machines are just as real.

At the start of the year, Nvidia Corp. Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang predicted that were about 15 to 30 years away from quantum computers being very useful. He later said he was wrong, and by June declared the tech could be applied to solve some interesting problems in the coming years. But hes not alone in hedging. Amazon Web Services head of quantum hardware had a similar 15 to 30 year timeline in August. Even some of the most aggressive projections inside the industry put meaningful utility at least five years away. The spread in forecasts underscores how hard it remains to stabilize qubits and suppress error rates at scale.

Yet that uncertainty is precisely why business leaders should pay attention now.

One of the most immediate risks stems from one of quantums most famous algorithms. In theory, Shors algorithm could allow a sufficiently powerful quantum computer to break much of the commonly-used encryption by banks and governments on todays internet. New post-quantum cryptographic standards are being developed, but the question of existing systems becoming obsolete is increasingly a when, not an if.

A Bain survey this year found that 73% of IT security professionals expect this to be a material risk within the next five years, and 32% within the next three years. Yet only 9% said they have a plan to address it.

This disconnect is the real story of quantum going into 2026. Timelines have compressed, money is pouring in and a global race is underway  but preparedness is lagging. Now is the time for companies and policymakers to build new quantum strategies and talent pipelines, beginning with a serious plan for post-quantum security. The hype is getting louder; the quiet story is how unprepared we are.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

This column reflects the personal views of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Catherine Thorbecke is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Asia tech. Previously she was a tech reporter at CNN and ABC News.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion
Where land, sea and air meet in South China

(People's Daily App) 10:55, December 29, 2025

Traffic moves across the Shenzhen-Zhongshan link as ships pass below and aircraft fly overhead, illustrating the concentration of transport routes in the Greater Bay Area around Shenzhen in Guangdong Province on Sunday, December 21. The image highlights how the cross-sea link connects cities on opposite sides of the Pearl River estuary and supports regional movement of people and goods.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Zhong Wenxing)
Marco Fabbi officially opened Sorrento Restaurant & Cafe in Lanesboro on June 16 last with a celebratory evening event and despite being open less than six months the family-run eatery has already garnered a wonderful reputation.

Marco and his wife Marina run the business and they are assisted by their adult children Francesco and Lucia.

The quartet also work alongside their staff members Joanna, Isodora and Inga to serve up delicious food with a large quantity sourced from local providers.

Speaking about the difference between secondary school here and in Italy, Marco said he started in hospitality school aged 15.

"In Italy when you go to hospitality school, for example, you do the subject and mainly your core learning will be in the hospitality area for five years."

Marco uses locally sourced and natural ingredients at Sorrento Restaurant & Cafe in Lanesboro

Marco said he had a big interest in cooking from a young age and growing up on the coast was an advantage sourcing ingredients.

"I'm from the Amalfi Coast and there was always a lot of cooking at home, seafood and meat, with my granny and my parents.

Asked about the things he started cooking with when he was training to be a chef, Marco said he learned to use simple and wholesome ingredients initially.

"We started from making dessert, cooking fish and, you know, learning from the basics really, from sauce like bolognese and fresh tomatoes.

"We would use the products from the field and the surrounding area that we have around, like nice veg, nice lemon, orange, fruit, you know and all these kinds of things."

Marco said he finished his education at 19 and he went working around Italy in some of the main areas popular for tourists where he learned his trade from the experienced chefs that he worked with.

"I didn't just work in the kitchen. I even worked in the bar as well, because that is the training that they give to you.

"I worked as a floor manager, I worked as a restaurant manager and then, during the last 20 years I have worked in the kitchen full time."

Marco worked in Italy for nine years in the Amalfi Coast, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy and Lake Garda before moving abroad and deciding to come to Ireland in 2005.

"I spent three years in the States, in New York. And then I met a friend of mine who had a restaurant and he was looking for someone and he offered me a job in Lucan."

Marco lived in Dublin for two years before moving to Roscommon in 2007 and he said in terms of family life and a suitable environment for his children it was much better.

He then moved on in 2009 and he worked as a sous chef in Glasson Lakehouse where he was assisting the executive chef, supervising kitchen staff and managing orders for several years.

Marco returned to the Amalfi Coast in 2016 where he worked as banqueting manager looking after weddings and other large functions and two years later he returned to Roscommon where he was a head chef at the Abbey Hotel for seven years.

Marco said he saw a gap in the market to open an authentic Italian restaurant and he is delighted by the positive feedback.

"I like to look after customers and I like to give an experience to people.

"Even though it is our first year, the restaurant is quite successful. The meat is all local, the fish is Irish and it's all sourced from local suppliers."

READ NEXT: Down Memory Lane | Reliving history in north Longford - fabulous photos from 225th anniversary commemoration of Battle of Ballinamuck

READ NEXT: Longford Yearbook 2025 on sale - relive the highs and lows of a remarkable year
Earlier this month, Boston Childrens Hospital received a $100 million donation earmarked for pediatric behavioral health, the largest gift in the hospitals history.

The transformational donation, as the hospital called it, was given by Rob and Karen Hale, a billionaire Quincy couple known widely for their philanthropy.

The $100 million will help fund a state-of-the-art $640 million pediatric psych hospital amid a capacity crisis for mental health beds. It will offer both inpatient and outpatient services on the campus of Franciscan Childrens in Brighton.

In February, the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission released new research showing 47% of children ultimately admitted to a psychiatric bed in an acute care hospital in 2024 had to stay in an emergency department for more than 24 hours prior  part of a larger behavioral health boarding crisis that has persisted for years across the states emergency rooms.

As planned, the new Brighton facility will nearly double Boston Childrens current mental health bed capacity.

Hospital officials say the facility and its integrated model will shift how children are treated in Boston and around the world when it comes to behavioral health care.

Kevin B. Churchwell, the hospitals CEO, said the Hales gift reflects extraordinary compassion and a shared belief that every child deserves not only physical health but also mental wellness.

The new facility, set to be named after the Hales, will feature 116 beds and house additional services beyond inpatient psych care, the Boston Globe recently reported. Those include a partial hospital program and intensive outpatient program, a 14-bedroom acute treatment program, a dental suite, four operating rooms, a pharmacy, outpatient rehabilitation programs and five outdoor play spaces.

Boston Childrens expects to break ground next year, with a hopeful opening by 2029.

Every day we see the courage of children who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges  and the love of the families who stand beside them, said Stacy Drury, psychiatrist-in-chief at Boston Childrens Hospital. Karen and Rob Hales incredible gift will help us meet those families with the care, compassion, and innovation they deserve. It will allow us to heal in ways that were never before thought possible.

Rob Hale is the president and CEO of Granite Telecommunications, a co-founder of Copley Equity Partners and a minority co-owner of the Boston Celtics.

In 2022, the couple, who both serve on several boards of directors, donated about $1 million a week to a variety of small nonprofits.

In a statement this month, Rob Hale said Boston Childrens is needed to turn the tide on mental health for kids everywhere and for the generations to come.

Karen Hale called this a critical moment so all children and families can feel supported, understood, and hopeful about the future.
Boston officials delivered a clear warning Monday to First Night revelers: leave the car at home. Driving into the city this week is strongly discouraged.

During a press conference, Mayor Michelle Wu and her public safety directors urged people to use the MBTA on New Years Eve, including the T, buses, commuter rail, ferries and door-to-door paratransit (The RIDE).

Please, if at all possible, take public transportation instead of driving, Wu said.

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox said many streets will be closed and others will have law enforcement vehicles blocking access, so its really important that you seek alternate modes of transportation.

New Years Eve MBTA schedule

Starting at 8 p.m. on Dec. 31, the subway, ferry, bus and The RIDE paratransit will be fare-free. Commuter rail service will be free on trains that arrive or depart North and South Station from 8 p.m. through the end of service that night.

The commuter rail, bus, ferry and The RIDE will run on a regular weekday schedule, while the subway will do so until 3 p.m., after which time service will increase and continue later than usual  with the last trains leaving between 1:45 a.m. and 2:45 a.m.

The last trips of the night will be:

Orange Line

From Oak Grove: 2 a.m., passing Downtown Crossing at 2:15 a.m.

From Forest Hills: 2 a.m., passing Downtown Crossing at 2:15 a.m.

Red Line

From Braintree: 1:45 a.m., passing Downtown Crossing at 2:11 a.m.

From Ashmont: 2 a.m., passing Downtown Crossing at 2:17 a.m.

From Alewife to Braintree: 1:54 a.m., passing Park at 2:11 a.m.

From Alewife to Ashmont: 2:20 a.m., passing Park at 2:17 a.m.

Blue Line

From Bowdoin: 2:18 a.m., passing State at 2:20 a.m.

From Wonderland: 1:55 a.m., passing State at 2:10 a.m.

Green Line

B from Boston College: 1:43 a.m., Park: 2:22 a.m.

B from Government Center: 2:27 a.m., Park 2:28 a.m.

C from Cleveland: 1:49 a.m., Park: 2:20 a.m.

C from Government Center: 2:25 a.m., Park 2:26 a.m.

D from Riverside: 1:43 a.m., Park: 2:24 a.m.

D from Union Square: 2:12 a.m., Park 2:29 a.m.

E from Heath: 2:08 a.m., Park 2:30 a.m.

E from Medford/Tufts: 1:55 a.m., Park 2:17 a.m.

Mattapan Trolley

From Mattapan: 2:35 a.m.

From Ashmont: 2:47 a.m.

Bus

Standby buses are scheduled until 2:55 a.m. to provide additional service as needed

Transit police chief urges vigilance, respect

MBTA Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green urged people taking public transportation to be respectful to MBTA personnel who are responsible to get you to your destination in a timely and safe manner.

He said alcohol consumption or unruly behavior will not be tolerated.

Currently, there are no known threats  credible or otherwise  to suggest the MBTA system is a target on New Years Eve, Green said. But MBTA Transit Police will remain in close communication with local, state and federal partners, and staff additional officers throughout the city.

If you should see something, please do not hesitate to say something, Green said, urging people to download the free See, Say phone app that allows them to send real-time messages and photos directly to MBTA staff.

Green noted users can remain anonymous on the app.
A new Mexican restaurant has opened in Cambridge.

Gato Exotico, from the award-winning team behind Wusong Road in Cambridge, has finally opened its doors in CambridgeSide.

The new restaurant welcomes customers to a tropical paradise created in celebration of the bold flavors of Mexico, according to a press release.

Gato Exoticos menu was created by chef and owner Jason Doo in partnership with the duo of Chef Sergio Enriquez and his mother Ana Enriquez.

Guests can expect traditional Latin American flavors throughout the menu. The restaurant offers a wide variety of street foods, such as birria fries, stuffed jalapenos, mango habanero wings, tamales and an extensive taco section.

The restaurants interior is inspired by a journey into Mesoamerica adorned with terracotta tiles and Latin American florals throughout the main dining room, according to the press release. It also features two private dining rooms.

The goal is to offer guests a sense of discovery and to create an escape for the East Cambridge community while keeping the spirit of Latin American hospitality at the center of the experience, the press release reads.

Gato Exotico is open daily for lunch from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit their official website.

CambridgeSide is located at 100 Cambridgeside Place, Cambridge.

The team behind Gato Exotico is also known for their work with Wusong Road, which was named on USA TODAYs 2025 Restaurants of the Year list earlier this year. It has also been named one of the most beautiful restaurants and bars in the U.S. by PEOPLE in 2024.
An actor best known for her role as Kathy Gordon on Diffrent Strokes has died. She was 57.

Melanie Watson Bernhardt died on Dec. 26 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, her brother, Rob Watson told TMZ. She was in the hospital recently for bleeding.

Watson Bernhardt was born with osteogenesis imperfect, which also is known as brittle bone disease. According to Hopkins Medicine, the genetic disorder causes people to have soft bones that break easily.

During her career, the actor had a frequent guest-starring role on Diffrent Strokes, on which she played a wheelchair-using friend of the lead character, Arnold, played by Gary Coleman, in four of the shows 189 episodes, USA TODAY reported.

When the show ended, Watson Bernhardt retired and helped found the charity Train Rite to train dogs to work as service animals.
From Claires to Forever 21, no retailer is immune to rising costs, shifting consumer behavior and the dominance of online shopping.

The industry has already seen multiple major bankruptcies in 2025 but some long-struggling chains have been fading for years.

Among them is Sears  once one of the most powerful names in American retail.

The department store giant, known for its iconic catalogs and sprawling mall stores, filed for bankruptcy in 2018 when it still operated about 700 locations.

That was already a small fraction of the footprint it had in 2005, when Sears merged with Kmart and controlled nearly 3,500 stores nationwide.

Today, Sears is barely hanging on.

As of December 2025, only five Sears stores remain open  located in Braintree, Massachusetts; Concord, California; El Paso, Texas; Orlando, Florida and Coral Gables, Florida.

Industry experts warn 2025 could be the chains final Black Friday.

With so few stores, theres serious doubt  they could be profitable anymore, Louisiana State University Associate Marketing Professor Dan Hamilton Rice told USA Today, noting that modern retailers simply offer better product selection, location advantages and convenience.

According to CNN, all remaining Sears stores except Coral Gables are inside Simon Property Group malls, the nations largest mall operator.

In 2022, Sears still had 22 locations, MassLive previously reported.
A man was arrested Friday following an hours-long standoff with police at a Leominster home where a woman was found dead, the Worcester County District Attorneys Office announced Sunday night.

Leominster police were called to a home on Union Street shortly before 3 p.m. by a 911 caller, the district attorneys office said in a press release. An hours-long standoff ensued, during which Massachusetts State Police detectives, tactical operatives, K-9 officers and crisis negotiators also responded.

Police eventually arrested the man, and then found the woman dead inside the home, the district attorneys office said. The suspect is set to be arraigned on charges connected to the womans death in Leominster District Court on Monday.

Due to the domestic nature of this incident, no additional information will be released at this time, the district attorneys office wrote in the release.

Leominster police and the district attorneys office are still investigating the womans death.
A Framingham Planning Board member resigned Christmas Eve after being arrested by Massachusetts State Police during an undercover operation targeting child sex trafficking, according to WCVB.

Framingham resident and Planning Board Vice Chair Joseph C. Norton was one of three suspects charged with attempted child rape, enticement of a child under 16 and paying for sexual conduct with a child as a result of the operation, State Police said previously. He was arrested on Dec. 18 and pleaded not guilty to the charges in Framingham District Court the following day.

The suspects were arrested after they tried to arrange payment for sex with a child while unknowingly communicating with undercover officers, State Police said. The arrests were the result of a joint operation by the State Police High Risk Victims Unit and Framingham police meant to address an increase in demand for commercial sex with children locally.

Framingham Mayor Charlie Sisitsky was informed of Nortons arrest on Dec. 19, he said in a statement to WCVB. Two seats on the board are now open.

This is a serious matter, and I want to be clear that the city holds all of its officials and appointees to the highest standards of integrity and conduct, the statement reads. While this is an ongoing legal process and the individual is entitled to due process, the situation has raised concerns about the continued functioning and public trust in the Planning Board.

Norton was appointed to the board in 2018 by former Mayor Yvonne Spicer, according to WCVB. He was reappointed by Spicer in 2021, but his term ended in June 2024.

It is unclear why he remained in the seat for a year and a half after the end of his term.
SPRINGFIELD  In order to meet state guidelines, the School Committee has changed its selection policy for students who want to enroll at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy or other career education programs, but teens will still have a chance to get a competitive edge.

The School Committee voted 7-0 earlier this month to approve the policy to create a lottery system for eighth graders who want to enroll at Putnam for next year, replacing rules that give more weight to good grades, attendance and behavior.

It is very simply a random lottery, said Robert St. Lawrence, chief information officer for the school district.

In May, the state education board voted to ban vocational schools from using selective criteria such as grades and counselor recommendations in the enrollment process. Studies showed weighted admissions for the popular programs have been leaving behind low-income children and those who speak limited English.

Any Springfield student interested in attending Putnam can still boost their chances by earning as many as two extra lottery tickets. One extra ticket will be granted for every student who has fewer than 23 unexcused full-day absences during the last academic year and the first quarter of this year, said Assistant Superintendent Jose Escribano.

Teens will also be able to earn an additional ticket by submitting an essay or 90-minute video on why they should be selected. The statements of interest will not be scored, Escribano said.

Both advantages are allowed under the new state rule.

The lottery system will only be needed for vocational programs which have more student interest than seats, St. Lawrence said.

Putnam has the most and best-known vocational programs and always has a waiting list, but there are other career technical programs scattered throughout the city schools, including the after-school program at the High School of Science and Technology, St. Lawrence said.

School Committee Vice Chairwoman LaTonia Monroe Naylor said she is hoping to boost the marketing for all the programs so students can make better choices and know that career technical programs are not limited to Putnam.

I dont believe the School Committee is in favor of the change the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education decided to do, said Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, committee chairman. We tweaked it a bit to try to stay in line with what we were doing because its been very successful.

Putnam has one of the highest graduation rates and some of the top MCAS scores among the Springfield Public secondary schools, state statistics show.

The citys School Department is also making changes in its programs to help middle school students select the high school where they want to go when they become ninth graders, said Superintendent Sonia Dinnall.

Middle schools are doing more to introduce students to career options. There will be fairs and road shows that introduce this years eighth graders to the different offerings at the citys high schools, Escribano said.

We will develop a host of online resources for our families, Dinnall said. We dont want to leave our families out.

As part of that effort, there is a high school and middle school fair scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. on Jan. 7 at Putnam High School where students and their families can learn more about different opportunities available at each.

The department is also unveiling a new online school selection system called SchoolMint that will allow families to apply to different schools, including middle and elementary magnet schools, track applications and gather more information.

The department has been releasing a series of videos and written instructions to teach families how to navigate the system before it starts accepting applications in mid-January.
A gathering last month at his hometown Petersham Country Store took 14-year-old Kyler Leslie by complete surprise.

What in the world? Leslie laughed as he entered to find family and friends holding up copies of the 2026 Massachusetts Guide to Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Laws.

Staring back at Leslie from the cover was a familiar face, holding a gold pin-winning 39-inch, 15-pound northern pike caught on the Connecticut River on March 6, 2024.

He wiped tears from his face, chewing gum, as claps sounded around him.

Thats crazy, he said. Thank you, guys. He went on to sign autographs.

Troy Gipps, editor of Massachusetts Wildlife magazine, selected Leslie as the 2026 cover photo. When Gipps contacted Leslies parents, Michael and Tina Leslie, for permission, they all agreed to keep it secret until publication.

Prior to his cover debut, Leslie was already receiving attention, at both the state and national levels. Last year, he and his 11-year-old brother, Ryker, tied as winners of the states Angler of the Year award in the youth catch-and-release category of MassWildlifes Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program. Both brothers caught 23 of the 24 eligible species.

Outdoor Life Magazine also brought attention  in the form of 6 million views  to a video of Leslie catching a 25-inch-long largemouth bass while ice fishing that matched the state catch-and-release record.

A Boston Globe headline in March dubbed the Leslie brothers the talk of the local fishing world.

Kylie Leslie, 14, at center dressed in brown, celebrated with family and friends at the Petersham Country Store his appearance on the cover of the 2026 Massachusetts Fishing and Hunting Guide. Courtesy MassWildlife

Joining the celebration at the Petersham Country Store on Nov. 16 were Gipps (the magazine editor), a member of the states Fisheries and Wildlife Board and the Petersham town clerk.

Leslie, still in disbelief, laughed that he had on the same hat he typically wears when he catches his biggest fish.

MassWildlife is a lot of things, Gipps said in a statement. But I think what lies at its core is what I saw that afternoon at the Petersham Country Store. Family and friends gathering to celebrate the enthusiasm and accomplishments of a young sportsman, whose interest in the outdoors was fostered and wholeheartedly supported by his parents, encouraged by the sporting culture in his community, and served by the states well-managed fish and wildlife resources.
A Leominster man appeared in court on Monday to face charges linked to an hours-long standoff on Friday at a house where investigators found a womans body.

James E. Marsh, 64, appeared in Leominster District Court Monday morning and pleaded not guilty to charges of assault with a dangerous weapon (firearm) and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury (firearm).

The standoff took place at 209 Union St., lasted about four-and-a-half hours and involved a state police hostage team.

Marsh voluntarily surrendered to authorities, and police found a womans body during a sweep of the building after his arrest.

Ann C. Marsh, 62, the wife of James, was identified at the court hearing as the woman found dead, according to The Telegram & Gazette.

Marsh is being held pending a dangerousness hearing scheduled for Friday.

Here is what we know as of Monday morning:

911 call dropped

At about 3 p.m. on Friday, Leominster police received a 911 call from a person at 209 Union St. After providing police with an address, the call disconnected, according to a police report by Trooper Justin Cravedi of Massachusetts State Police.

A dispatcher repeatedly tried to call the person back, but could not reach them. Two police officers were dispatched to the house, which is in a residential neighborhood off of Route 12, for a welfare check.

At about 3:04 p.m., Leominster officers Tiffany Beaupre and Kyle Abazorius arrived at the house, which had a side door unlocked. An officer heard a moaning sound in the house and, believing someone was in medical distress, entered the home, the police report states.

Beaupre encountered a man on a couch and she believed the man was holding a gun pointed in her direction.

The officer also noticed a second person on the couch, covered with a blanket and not moving. The other person wore white slippers and the officer could see their ankles.

At that time, the status of the second individual was unknown, the police report states.

Standoff ensues

Beaupre immediately left the house, secured the area outside and waited for backup.

The man inside the home, later identified as Marsh, barricaded himself inside the house.

Along with the Leominster Police Department, members of the Massachusetts State Police Special Tactical Operations Unit arrived with hostage negotiation personnel and state police detectives.

At about 7:29 p.m., Marsh voluntarily surrendered and was taken into custody by the state police on a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon on Beaupre.

State police found an unidentified, deceased woman lying on the couch in the living room during a sweep of the home.

A sergeant observed obvious signs of death and trauma to the decedents face/head, the police report states.

Whats next?

Prosecutors with the Worcester District Attorneys Office asked the court to find Marsh a danger to the public and hold him in jail.

A dangerousness hearing is scheduled for Friday and Marsh was ordered held without bail until then.
A multistate outbreak investigation links raw oyster consumption to Salmonella infections across 22 U.S. states, with dozens of illnesses and multiple hospitalizations reported.

  Trusted Source

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Oysters



Go to source Trusted Source

Advertisement

Why Raw Oysters Are a High-Risk Food

Advertisement

Outbreak Investigation and Illness Patterns

Advertisement

Who Faces the Greatest Risk From Salmonella

Older adults

Young children

Pregnant individuals

People with weakened immune systems

Final Takeaway

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Oysters - (https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/outbreaks/oysters-12-25/)

Public health authorities are investigating a widespread foodborne illness outbreak after multiple cases ofwere linked to the consumption of raw oysters. The outbreak spansand has raised renewed concerns about the safety of eating uncooked shellfish ().is a group of bacteria that commonly causes foodborne illness in humans. Infection with Salmonella, known as, primarily affects the digestive system and typically leads to diarrhea fever , nausea, vomiting , and abdominal cramps. Symptoms usually begin withinafter exposure and may last up to a week. While most healthy individuals recover without treatment, severe illness can occur in vulnerable populations.According to outbreak surveillance data, at leastof Salmonella infection have been reported, with. Health officials caution that the true number of infections is likely higher, as many individuals with mild symptoms may not seek medical care or laboratory testing.Oysters arethat draw large volumes of water through their bodies to obtain nutrients. When coastal waters are contaminated, oysters can accumulate harmful bacteria such as Salmonella without appearing spoiled., and common practices such as adding lemon juice, vinegar, or alcohol do not destroy the bacteria. As a result, consuming oysters raw or lightly cooked poses a significantly higher risk of infection compared to fully cooked seafood.Interviews with affected individuals revealed that a majority consumedin the days prior to falling ill. Investigators are tracing oyster distribution chains to identify potential harvesting regions and supply points associated with contamination.Peer reviewed research shows that oysters are among the most frequently implicated seafood in. Hospitalization rates in seafood associated Salmonella infections often range between, which aligns with the current outbreak findings.Although many healthy adults recover without complications, severe illness is more likely in:In these groups, Salmonella can spread beyond the intestines and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of prolonged illness and serious complications.This multistate outbreak highlights the ongoing risks associated with eating raw oysters., making raw shellfish inherently unsafe. Thorough cooking remains theto eliminate harmful bacteria and reduce the risk of foodborne illness.Source-Medindia
Fake batches of the rabies vaccine Abhayrab in India may put vaccinated individuals at risk of a fatal infection.

  Trusted Source

Counterfeit batches of rabies vaccine (AbhayrabA) reported in India



Go to source Trusted Source

Advertisement

Whats the Problem With Fake Rabies Vaccines in Circulation

Advertisement

Why Rabies Is So Dangerous

Advertisement

Who Could Be at Risk for Counterfeit Batches of the Rabies Vaccine?

Received any rabies vaccine in India from 1 November 2023 onwards,

Given Abhayrab,

Unsure of the brand name of the rabies vaccine you received

Completed your rabies vaccine course outside India , including Australia,

, including Australia, Have clear documentation showing you received a different, verified rabies vaccine brand

What Should You Do Now With the Alarming Issue

See your GP or healthcare provider as soon as possible

You can receive replacement doses using a rabies vaccine registered in Australia (such as Rabipur or Verorab)

Keep and share any vaccine records you have (dates, brand names, or photos of packaging)

Talk to a doctor or travel clinic before your trip

or travel clinic before your trip Avoid contact with stray or wild animals

Seek immediate medical care after any bite, scratch, or saliva exposure

Anyone vaccinated with Abhayrab or an unknown rabies vaccine brand in India since 1 November 2023 should be treated as potentially under-protected

should be treated as potentially under-protected Replace affected doses with a rabies vaccine registered in Australia

with a rabies vaccine registered in Australia Consult the ATAGI statement for detailed clinical guidance

Why Replacement Vaccination Is Recommended

Rabies is Preventable, But Only with Timely and Effective Vaccination!

Counterfeit batches of rabies vaccine (Abhayrab) reported in India - (https:www.health.vic.gov.au/health-alerts/counterfeit-rabies-vaccine-abhayrab-in-india/)

One of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world is rabies, which is fatal soon after the symptoms start. Although there is no rabies in Australia, the disease is still common in India. Thehas been the subject of a recent international health alert, adding to the already dangerous threat of rabies!Health professionals warn that people who have received fake vaccinations may not be fully protected and are more likely to get potentially deadly infections ().has been alerted to the presence of, a rabies vaccine used in India. Though this vaccine is, travelers, migrants, or people seeking treatment in India may have received it.As counterfeit vaccines may contain, they may fail to protect against rabies, even if the full course is completed. It is also, which makes the health authorities issue caution against the vaccine.Humans contract rabies through bites, scratches, or saliva from infected animals, most frequently dogs. Rabies affects the brain and nervous system.The fact that rabies symptoms can develop days, months, or even years after virus exposure makes the disease particularly dangerous. Once the symptoms begin, rabies is often fatal with limited cure. Therefore, proper wound care and timely vaccination can help prevent the virus at the very beginning.This is why receiving aafter exposure is criticaland why counterfeit vaccines pose such a serious risk.Youby this alert if you:You areif you:If you think you may be affected:If you plan to travel to countries where rabies exists:Because there is no reliable way to confirm whether a dose of Abhayrab received in India was genuine or counterfeit, health authorities recommend a precautionary approach. Receiving replacement doses is a safe and effective way to ensure protection against rabies, as it is a disease where there is no second chance once symptoms appear! This health alert also serves as an important reminder thatIf you or someone you care forpleaseSource-Indian News Network
Producer Sourav Gupta, who is also known for his work as a real estate developer, has levelled serious allegations against Sunny Deol, accusing the actor of having exploited him and the team behind Gadar 2. The film, released in 2023, marked Sunny Deols blockbuster return to the big screen. In a press conference clip that is now widely circulating on social media, Sourav Gupta claimed that Sunny Deol went missing just days before the films release, allegedly leaving portions of the dubbing incomplete.

 Zee Studios According to Gupta, the makers were forced to make last-minute arrangements, and the actor eventually completed the dubbing only after being paid additional money. He further alleged that this was not an isolated incident, asserting that Sunny Deol has engaged in similar behaviour on multiple occasions.

In another interview with India Today, Sourav accused Sunny of cheating him of Rs 1 crore. Sourav said, We paid Rs 1 crore to him as a signing amount. Instead of starting our film, he chose to work on Poster Boys (2017). I paid him more than Rs 2.55 crore and even changed the script and director on his persistence. We even booked studios to begin shooting, but all in vain. We have been cheated by him and his team. The producer added,  We had decided on Rs 4 crore as the signing amount but when we saw the agreement, we saw that it read Rs 8 crore. He had also added Rs 2 crore as the profit-sharing amount. When I called these things out, his team had not been responding to us. We even sent a notice but his team said he was not in the country.
The first year of the second Trump administration has included major changes across the U.S. military that have reverberated on a global scale, leaving open many questions of whats in store domestically and overseas. Lines have been drawn among active-duty members and veterans.

President Donald Trump has taken executive ownership in his second term, issuing a record-high 26 orders on his first day of office. Executive orders signed that day and in the weeks and months since have had overarching effects across the military, broadening the policies and aspirations of a more stringent Pentagon helmed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegsethwho has advocated for a more aggressive, military-ready armed forces via a warrior ethos decree.

President Donald J. Trump and U.S. Military Academy at West Point Superintendent Lt. Gen. Steve Gilland attend the 126th Army-Navy football game at M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Md., Dec. 13, 2025. (DoW photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Eric Brann)

The administration has made efforts undoing previous Biden-era policies related to concluding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, minimizing transgender service members participation, reinstating service members who were discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, developing an American Golden Dome defense system mirroring that of Israel, boosting weapons and defense acquisition including a more deliberate, long-term strategy towards the utilization of artificial intelligence, and most recently providing active-duty members with one-time, tax-free Warrior Dividend payments.

Military.com spoke with multiple military veterans on how they view the first approximate 12 months of so-called Trump 2.0, with some advocating for the peace through strength agenda and a more cohesive strategy regarding adversaries like Russia. Others expressed concern over the administrations flippancy regarding traditional rules and norms.

Trumps Extremely Dangerous Russia-Ukraine Play

Jeffrey Fischer, a former U.S. Air Force colonel with over 30 years experience and who served in seven combat tours in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Balkans, is most concerned about the Trump administrations foreign policy positions regarding Russia and Ukraine.

Fischer, who lives in Europe, told Military.com that a good number of Trumps policies are what he campaigned on during the last presidential cycle. New or adjusted policies are more common than not in new presidential administrations, Fischer said, adding that Hegseth has energized the lower ranks, sharing a bond with them few of his predecessors could muster.

That has remedied recruiting challenges, Fischer said. It also appears there is a renewed focus on combat capability.

But Fischer, the onetime defense official at the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo, said his biggest surprise thus far is Trumps relationship with both Russia and Poland.

The negatives, however, perhaps outweigh the positives, Fischer said. Warming to Russia is an extremely dangerous policy. Not one officer or diplomat I know disagrees.

Turning a cold shoulder to a decades-long alliance like NATO is mindboggling. This also hurts the U.S. financially as well, as the policy strains U.S. defense firm sales to Europea significant aspect of the U.S. economy.  As with most Americans, I am hopeful the Trump administration pivots away from Russia and begins a strategic and decisive support for Ukraine.

President Donald Trump greets Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago club, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Polls in recent months have revealed high percentages of pessimism on Americans behalf regarding a conclusion to the Russia-Ukraine war that has raged since February 2022. A Gallup survey in August showed roughly 3-in-10 U.S. respondents having skepticism towards a peaceful conclusion.

Simultaneously, more Americans than not want the U.S. to continue to provide foreign aid to Ukraine. A Quinnipiac University poll of registered voters published Dec. 17 showed Trump underwater on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with 35% approval and 55% disapproval. Of those surveyed, 48% of respondents said Trump was cozying up too much to Russia.

When it comes to U.S. aid, numbers have increased on a bipartisan basis. A majority of Democrats and Republicans, approximately 62% overall, want the U.S. to send more weapons to Ukraine in coming weeks/months, according to the most recent Reagan National Defense Survey released earlier this month.

While I do believe China poses risk, I believe the adage, An alligator in your boat is more dangerous than one on shore, Fischer said. The ongoing Russian conflict is far more important to U.S. interests than China right now.

Russia is engaged in combat with a nation that the U.S. offered assurances to in 1994.  If that war engages NATO allies, I am uncertain if the U.S. honors its Article V commitments. That scenario would be catastrophic for both western and democratic societies.

On Dec. 26, it was announced that Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky were expected to meet over the weekend to further discuss a potential ceasefire and post-war peace plan.

Shift From 'Woke Ideology'

U.S. Air Force veteran Anthony McCool served nine years, from 1985-1994, including during Desert Storm and Desert Shield. The self-described conservative lauded the current administrations changes made across the military.

I didn't know much about [Hegseth], McCool told Military.com. He worked results [that] were long overdue. [I] loved the generals meeting [in September, at Quantico]meet the standards or get out. They should have done this in the 90s. Woke ideology is a cancer.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth arrives at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 15, 2025. Hegseth visited Alaska as part of an international summit between U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Alaska Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Joseph Moon)

He was also strongly supportive of the current U.S. military activities revolving around Venezuela, notably the strikes on alleged narco-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean.

McCool called it great target practice for our military, a huge step in the right direction, adding that congressional oversight into the widely reported double tap months ago is a woke witch hunt.

Asked to compare the current administration with the Biden administration, McCool said Trump and company actually want to do the right thing.

They are also not afraid to do and say it, he said, adding that generals tenures should be capped at 40 years and that term limits should be put in place for Washington lawmakers.

U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement officers embarked aboard HNLMS Friesland (P-842) board a suspected drug smuggling vessel off Acosta, Venezuela, June 30, 2025. The boarding team removed more than 2,300 pounds of illicit drugs worth more than $6 million. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

Input from 100,000 Service Members

The policies being integrated into the Pentagon are a cause for alarm due to blatant efforts to further gray the lines between separation of church and state within the military, according to Air Force veteran and Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF) founder Mikey Weinstein.

MRFF, founded in 2004, has represented more than 100,000 clients with myriad military backgrounds. That has included 95% of clientele who are either Protestant or Roman Catholic, and to a smaller extent Mormon or Eastern Orthodox. MRFF has clients with decades of singular military experience, including presently within the Department of Defense.

Weinstein told Military.com that MRFF also represents about 18% of all Muslims in the U.S. military in addition to others with faith-based or non-faith backgrounds including atheists, agnostics, secularists, humanists, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, Native American spiritualists, and even 24 different varieties of Baptists.

President Donald J. Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff U.S. Air Force Gen. Dan Caine attend the 24th 9/11 Pentagon Observance Ceremony at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 11, 2025. (DoW photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Aiko Bongolan)

He said that since Trump began his second term, MRFF has seen roughly a tripling in its average number of new clientele compared to previous years. That is due to multiple factors or atomic bombs, as Weinstein described.

One of those so-called bombs occurred on Feb. 21, when Trump fired the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, C.Q. Brown, chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, and the vice chief of staff of the Air Force, Gen. Jim Slife. That same evening, Hegseth cut TJAGSthe top two uniformed lawyers of the Air Force and Army (referred to as TJAGs), Lt. Gen. Charles L. Plummer and LTG Gen. Joseph B. Berger III, respectivelywithout advance notice.

Most of them did not fit the mold that Hegseth and Trump want, which is a straight, white, fundamentalist, Christian nationalist male.  Firing the top TJAGs was a shock, Weinstein said, adding that his level of concern of the U.S. military previously was at about 8.2 or 8.3 on a 10-point scale but now resides around 16.

Other concerns expressed by MRFF clients have included religious-based services, notably Jesus prayer services. Countless active-duty members, according to correspondence shared with Military.com, have reached out over weeks and months to Weinsteins organization requesting help in these dubious religion-based situations.

This [Hegseth] is the Secretary of Defense, who fancies himself the Secretary of War, conducting these praise services in uniform during duty hours in the largest auditorium in the Pentagon, Weinstein said. This sent shockwaves through the military. Most of our clients are Christians looking at us going, Are you kidding me?

He added that theyve had at least 150 reach-outs from every military installation, sometimes on naval vessels, of commanders doing the same thing regarding prayer services. Other concerns have reportedly related to outing service members who may not be part of the MAGA movement.

There is no existence of unit cohesion, you know, good order, morale, discipline, Weinstein said. They don't exist. And if you don't have that, you don't have lethality. And if you don't have lethality, you don't have an armed forces that's worth a s***. That's where we are.

Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., refutes efforts by President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to intimidate him and other lawmakers after expressing concerns over U.S. military strikes against vessels suspected of smuggling drugs in the Caribbean, during a news conference at the Capitol, in Washington, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

He also sharply criticized the situation surrounding U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, who along with a handful of other Democrats reminded servicemembers that they have a legal obligation to refuse unlawful orders. Earlier this month, the Pentagons formal command investigation escalated beyond the preliminary inquiry initially announced in November.

"We're going to chronicle and expose it, and we're going to make sure we preserve it."

The larger MRFF has become, and the more vitriolic the political rhetoric across the nation, the more threats Weinstein has received.

Our windows have been shot out and we've had animals sacrificed in front of our house, and swastikas painted on our house," he said. "Recently, we had our mailbox smeared with feces. We get threats by telephone every day. That's just regular for us.

It's amped up because of the things that are going on. But we're going to chronicle and expose it, and we're going to make sure we preserve it.  If we get back away from this madness, we can come back against those that perpetrated it under our U.S. Constitution and get justice.
A call between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, coming after fresh U.S. talks with Ukraine, raised new questions over the prospects for a peace deal as the Kremlin signaled new complications.

Putin told Trump that Moscow would revise its negotiating position on Ukraine as he claimed a drone attack on one of his residences, according to the Kremlin, even as Ukraine called the Russian allegations a fabricated pretext aimed at derailing the peace process.

The Russian leader said Moscow intends to work closely with the U.S. on peace efforts but will reconsider a number of previously reached agreements, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told Russian newswires. Ushakov added that Putin assured Trump that Moscow intends to continue working with U.S. partners to achieve peace and that the two leaders agreed to maintain their dialogue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the Russian claims as a new lie and warned that Moscow could be using it as a pretext to prepare an attack on government buildings in Kyiv.

Trumps call with Putin, the second in as many days, follows a flurry of diplomatic activity at years end as the U.S. president pushes to secure a resolution to Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine  a conflict he had pledged to end on his first day back in office. While White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on X that Trump and Putin had held a positive call, it remains unclear whether the U.S. president is any closer to that goal.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said earlier on Monday that Ukraine attempted to attack a presidential residence in the Novgorod region, more than 400 kilometers (249 miles) northwest of Moscow, with 91 drones, adding that Russia would retaliate and that targets had already been selected.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Monday cast it as a Russian bid to damage the peace talks.

Trumps call with Putin followed a Sunday meeting between the U.S. president and Zelenskyy in Florida, in which they both expressed optimism over the prospects of a deal. That meeting delivered no clear breakthrough but saw Trump hail what he called a lot of progress. Trump said speaking with Zelenskyy that he was confident a deal was getting a lot closer though it might take a few weeks to conclude and there was no set timeline.

Zelenskyy said Sunday the peace plan was 90% agreed. The U.S. and Ukrainian presidents spoke with European leaders after their meeting. Ukraine is seeking a meeting with European partners and Trump in January, Zelenskyy has said, followed by a separate meeting with Russian officials in one format or another. The Coalition of the Willing group will meet in early January to discuss its support for Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron said in a post on X on Monday.

Ukrainian officials toiled over recent weeks to revise a 28-point draft plan originally proposed by the U.S. but seen as overly favorable to Russia. The latest version has 20 points, but Moscow has warned that it includes elements it wont accept, including on the size of Ukraines post-war military.

Among the major sticking points left to be resolved: the future of Ukraines Donbas region, which is partially occupied by Russian forces. Russia has insisted on maximalist demands for territory, including lands that it doesnt fully control.

Russia also wants guarantees against future eastward expansion by the NATO military alliance and on Ukraines neutral status if it joins the European Union, as well as clarity on the removal of sanctions and on hundreds of billions of dollars of Moscows frozen state assets in the West, according to a person close to the Kremlin.

Zelenskyy, for his part, said he asked Trump for U.S. security guarantees lasting as long as half a century to help deter any future Russian invasion. Current proposals under discussion as part of a peace plan set out a 15-year term with the possibility for an extension.

I would like the guarantee to be much longer, Zelenskyy said Monday in an audio message to reporters. We would like to consider the possibility of 30, 40, 50 years and then it will be a historic decision by Trump.

Trump also held what was cast as a very productive phone call with Putin shortly before he met with Zelenskyy on Sunday.

Even amid ongoing negotiations, Russia has continued to hammer Ukraine with drone and missile attacks targeting cities and energy infrastructure, looking to press its military campaign and maximize the pain felt by civilians during winter.

Putin on Monday held his seventh televised meeting with Russias army command since October, highlighting what he described as advances on the battlefield in Ukraine and ordering his forces to continue efforts to seize more territory.

---------

With assistance from Mark Sweetman.

___

2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP)  President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, as Washington looks to create fresh momentum for a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Gaza that could be in danger of stalling out before a complicated second phase.

Trump could use the face-to-face at his Mar-a-Lago estate to try to leverage his strong relationship with Netanyahu and look for ways to speed up the peace process, especially as Israel's leader has been accused of not pushing his side to move fast enough.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that Trump has championed has mostly held, but progress has slowed recently. Both sides accuse one another of violations, and divisions have emerged among the U.S., Israel and Arab countries about the path forward.

The truce's first phase began in October, days after the two-year anniversary of the initial Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed around 1,200 people. All but one of the 251 hostages taken then have been released, alive or dead.

Now comes the next, far more complicated part. Trumps 20-point plan  which was approved by the U.N. Security Council  lays out an ambitious vision for ending Hamas rule of Gaza.

The two leaders also could discuss non-Gaza topics, including Iran, whose nuclear capabilities Trump continues to insist were completely and fully obliterated following U.S. strikes on its nuclear sites in June.

There are many key facets of the ceasefire's second phase that Israel's leader doesn't support or has even openly opposed, said Mona Yacoubian, director and senior adviser of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

This is going to be a really tall order, I think, for President Trump to get Netanyahu to agree," she said.

How he does that, what kind of pressure he puts on Netanyahu, I think, is going to be important to watch for, said Yacoubian, who also said the two could exhibit a broader clash of approaches to the region."

Next phase is complex

If successful, the second phase would see the rebuilding of a demilitarized Gaza under international supervision by a group chaired by Trump and known as the Board of Peace. The Palestinians would form a technocratic, apolitical committee to run daily affairs in Gaza, under Board of Peace supervision.

It further calls for normalized relations between Israel and the Arab world, and a possible pathway to Palestinian independence. Then there are thorny logistical and humanitarian questions, including rebuilding war-ravaged Gaza, disarming Hamas and creating a security apparatus called the International Stabilization Force.

The Board of Peace would oversee Gazas reconstruction under a two-year, renewable U.N. mandate. Its members had been expected to be named by the end of the year and might even be revealed following Monday's meeting, but the announcement could be pushed into next month.

Netanyahu was the first foreign leader to meet Trump at the White House in his second term, but this will be their first in-person meeting since Trump went to Israel in October to mark the start of the ceasefire's initial phase. Netanyahu has been to Mar-a-Lago before, including in July 2024 when Trump was still seeking reelection.

Much remains unsettled

Their latest meeting comes after U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and the president's son in law, Jared Kushner, recently huddled in Florida with officials from Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, which have been mediating the ceasefire.

Two main challenges have complicated moving to the second phase, according to an official who was briefed on those meetings. Israeli officials have been taking a lot of time to vet and approve members of the Palestinian technocratic committee from a list given to them by the mediators, and Israel continues its military strikes.

Trumps plan also calls for the International Stabilization Force, proposed as a multinational body, to maintain security. But it, too, has yet to be formed. Whether details will be forthcoming after Monday's meeting is unclear.

A Western diplomat said there is a huge gulf between the U.S.-Israeli understanding of the International Stabilization Force's mandate and that of other major countries in the region, as well as European governments.

All spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that haven't been made public.

The U.S. and Israel want the force to have a commanding role in security duties, including disarming Hamas and other militant groups. But countries being courted to contribute troops fear that mandate will make it an occupation force, the diplomat said.

Hamas has said it is ready to discuss freezing or storing its arsenal of weapons, but insists it has a right to armed resistance as long as Israel occupies Palestinian territory. One U.S. official said a potential plan might be to offer cash incentives in exchange for weapons, echoing a buy-back program Witkoff has previously floated.

Questions about Gaza reconstruction

Israeli bombardment and ground operations have transformed neighborhoods in several Gaza cities into rubble-strewn wastelands, with blackened shells of buildings and mounds of debris stretching in all directions.

Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are pressing for a negotiated deal on disarming Hamas, and on an additional Israeli withdrawal from Gaza before moving to next elements of the plan. Those include deployment of the international security force and reconstruction, three Arab officials told The Associated Press.

That appears to run against ideas floated by U.S. officials to quickly start building temporary housing for Palestinians in parts of southern Gaza still controlled by Israeli troops. Three officials said the United Arab Emirates has agreed to fund reconstruction in Gaza, including new communities, although they said discussions are ongoing and plans remain unsettled.

A proposed map created by the U.S. and obtained by the AP shows an area labelled UAE Temporary Emirates housing complex inside an Israeli-controlled area of Gaza. The map shows a U.S. planned community area surrounding the UAE area.

An Arab official said he was aware of the map, but said it was a suggestion from the U.S. and Israel that was put to the Emiratis and other countries.

The UAE did not respond to multiple requests for comment about whether it has agreed to the plans or to fund the communities. It is not known if the money would be contingent on gestures from Israel and Hamas, such as a commitment to Palestinian statehood or disarmament.

___

Associated Press writers Darlene Superville in Washington and Lee Keath in Cairo contributed to this report.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he asked Donald Trump for U.S. security guarantees lasting as long as half a century to help deter any future Russian invasion.

Current proposals under discussion as part of a peace plan set out a 15-year term with the possibility for an extension, though I would like the guarantee to be much longer, Zelenskyy said Monday in an audio message to reporters. We would like to consider the possibility of 30, 40, 50 years and then it will be a historic decision by Trump.

U.S. security guarantees that had been confirmed by Congress would combine with pledges by nations in the so-called Coalition of the Willing to form an effective protection for Ukraine, Zelenskyy said. European Union membership would also be part of the security arrangements for his country, he said.

Monitoring the ceasefire  our partners will provide it, technical monitoring and presence. All these details will be in the security guarantees, Zelenskyy said. Both negotiating teams had agreed on the need for strong U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine, he said.

The comments came after Zelenskyy and Trump held talks at the U.S. presidents Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Sunday. While Trump said a lot of progress was made toward a deal to end Russias almost four-year full-scale war on Ukraine, both leaders acknowledged that key issues remained unresolved.

They included the status of territories in the east of Ukraine, and the fate of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant thats occupied by Russia.

Zelenskyy said no consensus was reached at his talks with Trump on Russian President Vladimir Putins demand for Ukraine to withdraw from the Donbas region thats partially occupied by Moscows troops. There was a lack of clarity over U.S. proposals to create a demilitarized or free economic zone in the area of eastern Ukraine, including on who would control the territory.

Trump said he was confident a deal was getting a lot closer though it might take a few weeks to conclude and theres no set timeline. Zelenskyy said Sunday the peace plan was 90% agreed.

Trump said he held very productive phone talks with Putin shortly before he met with Zelenskyy. The U.S. and Ukrainian presidents spoke with European leaders after their discussion.

Putin and Trump will hold another phone call very soon, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday.

Ukraine seeks a meeting with European partners and Trump in January, Zelenskyy said, followed by a separate meeting with Russian officials in one format or another.

The Coalition of the Willing group will meet in early January to discuss its support for Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron said in a post on X on Monday.

After nearly a year of U.S. efforts to end the war failed to yield a deal, Trump had said he would only meet with the Ukrainian and Russian leaders again if an agreement were imminent. So far, the warring sides have been negotiating mainly with Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Zelenskyy said Monday that Ukraine does not care about the format of negotiations with Russia, but wants Putin to demonstrate his willingness to reach a deal by ceasing attacks on Ukraine.

These actions do not coincide with the peaceful vocabulary that he uses in dialogue with the U.S. president, Zelenskyy said. I told Trump this.

Putin has continued to press his maximalist demands, including for Ukraine to cede territories in the countrys east that Moscows troops have failed to capture in Europes deadliest conflict since World War II.

Ukrainian officials have toiled over the last few weeks to revise a 28-point draft plan originally proposed by the U.S. but seen as overly favorable to Russia. The latest version has 20 points, but Moscow has warned that the plan includes elements it wont accept, including on the size of Ukraines post-war military.

Russia also wants guarantees against future eastward expansion by the NATO military alliance and on Ukraines neutral status if it joins the E.U., as well as clarity on the removal of sanctions and on hundreds of billions of dollars of Moscows frozen state assets in the West, according to a person close to the Kremlin.

---------

With assistance from Maxim Edwards.

___

2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The recent bombing death of a Russian general has in ways overshadowed the ongoing peace talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials, who are attempting to find common ground as the war in Eastern Europe is bound to hit the five-year mark.

Ongoing discussions at U.S. President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago property in Florida aimed to finalize a 20-point peace plan supported by U.S. authorities that they believe could end the war. The meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came days after Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, a senior architect of Russias military training doctrine, died when a bomb detonated under his SUV in Moscow.

Investigators opened a murder case and suggested Ukrainian intelligence services might be responsible, though no group has claimed the attack and Kyiv has not acknowledged involvement. The violent timing of the incident coincides with a diplomatic push, played upon the backdrop of consistent missile barrages and continued battlefield attrition on both sides of Russia and Ukraine. Another recent series of strikes inside Russia hit an oil terminal, aircraft, and ships deep behind the front lines.

President Donald Trump greets Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago club, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Sarvarov's Death

The SUV of Fanil Sarvarov reportedly exploded shortly before 7 a.m. on Dec. 22.

The 56-year-old had directed the Russian General Staffs operational training directorate, shaping doctrine and field readiness across Russias forces. His programs set the training calendar for new brigades rotating toward Eastern Ukraine and guided refresher cycles for units depleted by combat. He helped design exercises in Syria and training regimens now used to harden infantry for urban fighting and drone-heavy front lines.

This undated image provided by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, shows Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, head of the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces General Staff, who was killed Monday morning after an explosive device detonated under his car in southern Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP)

Sarvarov is the third Russian general killed by an explosive device since last year. Previous blasts killed Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov and Lt. Gen. Yaroslav Moskalik, the latter of whom was killed near his home in an explosion in April near Moscow.

Ukrainian officials, when asked about the Sarvarov attack, did not acknowledge involvement. Russian officials have not confirmed whether the explosive was attached to the vehicle or detonated remotely, or have not revealed whether surveillance footage captured a suspect.

Peace Talks Under Fire

The 20-point peace plan includes territorial terms in eastern Ukraine, phased security guarantees, international monitoring of border regions, and economic stabilization measures aimed to rebuild critical infrastructure.

Senior U.S. officials said the framework would require Russia to halt major combat operations before any demobilization or sanctions relief. It would place foreign observers at key checkpoints if both sides agree to a ceasefire, they added.

Zelenskyy said he would consider a demilitarized zone around contested eastern regions if international monitors and binding guarantees anchor the agreement. He has already floated the idea of a demilitarized belt in Ukraines industrial heartland that would push Russian forces away from major cities while outside guarantors underwrite reconstruction and long-term security.

The Kremlin dismissed the concept and said Ukraine must accept that Russia will not abandon annexed territory.

A man walks from a house destroyed after a Russian strike on Kyiv, Ukraine, on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Moscow would not sign any peace agreement right now, warning Western powers against steering Kyiv toward terms that contradict Russian security demands.

Trump called ongoing discussions the closest this war has ever been to ending, arguing that his personal rapport with both leaders could drive movement where traditional diplomacy has stalled. Zelenskyy, meanwhile, said peace cannot be negotiated under terror, pointing to the missile barrage that arrived hours before his flight.

Trump also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin before hosting Zelenskyy and described that conversation as very productive, signaling his belief he can bridge gaps that have frustrated earlier efforts to end the fighting.

Pre-Meeting Strikes

Hundreds of missiles and drones hit Kyiv and surrounding regions ahead of the Trump-Zelensky meeting. Ukrainian officials said the strikes targeted power stations, heating plants and residential neighborhoods as temperatures dropped below freezing. Emergency crews restored electricity to more than 1 million households, though rolling blackouts continued and hospitals operated on backup power in parts of the capital.

One of the most recent barrages fired waves of drones and missiles that killed civilians, cut power to multiple regions, and forced grid operators to scramble through the night to stabilize electricity supplies. Attacks have underscored how Moscow has leaned on air attacks to pressure Ukraines infrastructure through the winter.

Russian forces struck Kyiv with what Ukrainian authorities called a record winter barrage, blasting power stations and residential blocks and forcing civilians into shelters as subzero temperatures hit the region.

Ukraines largest energy company restored electricity to more than 1 million customers, though outages persisted. Officials described the strikes as an attempt to freeze out resistance and pressure negotiators. Another overnight assault killed and wounded civilians in Kyiv.

Monitoring Global Instability

A spokesperson for U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), asked whether the Florida talks could alter regional posture or trigger wider instability, said the command is monitoring for ripple effects.

U.S. Southern Command closely monitors global events for potential implications to regional security within our area of responsibility. We do not comment on specific incidents outside our region. We remain focused on our mission to ensure stability and cooperation with partners, the spokesperson told Military.com.

"The war must end to stop the immense loss and suffering it has already inflicted on millions of people."

An Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) spokesperson also emphasized the broader stakes.

Most importantly, the war must end to stop the immense loss and suffering it has already inflicted on millions of people, the spokesperson told Military.com, adding that OSCE could serve as an impartial monitor if a ceasefire framework emerges.

In this photo taken from video, investigators and police watch as a crane loads a damaged by explosion car onto a platform at the scene where Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, head of the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces General Staff, was killed by an explosive device placed under his car in Moscow, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. (AP Photo)

Military.com reached out for comment to the White House, National Security Council, State Department, Pentagon, NATO, Ukrainian defense ministries, the Russian Embassy in Washington, and multiple European embassies.

Putin said Moscow would continue military operations if Ukraine rejects territorial concessions. Ukrainian officials insist no peace deal can legitimize Russias claims to annexed regions or leave communities without security guarantees.

The standoff over land, sovereignty, and who controls the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been described by experts as the clearest obstacles to an agreement. European allies have started locking in long-term funding and security assistance designed to anchor any eventual settlement, even as Russia escalates strikes and tests how much support Kyiv can count on from Western capitals.
Werner Hartenstein pulled drowning British troops from the Atlantic Ocean in September 1942. The German U-boat commander was flying Red Cross flags and even radioed for help in English. American bombers attacked his submarine anyway, killing dozens of survivors with explosives and gunfire.

The attack ended German humanitarian rescues at sea, an order brought up at the Nuremburg Trials to prosecute a German admiral. Though this would backfire spectacularly against the prosecution.

U-156 fired torpedoes into RMS Laconia around 10:30 p.m. on Sept. 12, 1942, about 130 miles north of Ascension Island in the South Atlantic. Hartenstein thought he hit a British troopship sailing alone. When his submarine surfaced, German sailors heard Italian voices screaming in the darkness. The ship was carrying 1,793 Italian POWs captured in North Africa, 286 British troops, 103 Polish guards, 80 civilians and 463 crew. 2,732 people total.

Hartenstein realized his mistake. His torpedoes had killed more than 1,000 Italian allies along with numerous enemies and civilians as the survivors found themselves in the water.

Laconia on a Cunard Line postcard c. 1921. (Wikimedia Commons)

A Rescue Attempt in Enemy Waters

Hartenstein ordered his crew to save everyone they could. He radioed German headquarters to ask for help. The request went all the way up to Admiral Karl Donitz who approved the rescue and even sent seven more submarines to assist. Donitz pulled these U-boats from a planned attack on Cape Town, South Africa.

Hartenstein made a desperate decision to save as many lives as possible. He broadcast a message in English asking for assistance, telling all ships in the area that U-156 would not attack any vessels helping rescue Laconia survivors.

German sailors packed nearly 200 people into the submarine, which normally held 53 crew members. Five women were put in the officers' sleeping quarters. The submarine towed four lifeboats holding another 200 survivors. The Germans made a Red Cross flag from white bedsheets and painted it red.

Three more submarines arrived on the scene. U-506 picked up 151 survivors. U-507 rescued 491 people. An Italian submarine also joined them. Vichy French warships, nominally allied to the Axis, left ports in West Africa heading toward the rescue site.

British survivors would later write a letter thanking Hartenstein and his crew for saving their lives despite the danger to the submarine.

U-156 (foreground) and U-507 picking up shipwrecked RMS Laconia crew and passengers. (Wikimedia Commons)

American Bombers Attack the Rescue

Lieutenant James Harden flew a B-24 bomber from Ascension Island on Sept. 16, 1942. The island held a secret American airbase. Harden spotted U-156 on the surface at 11:25 a.m. The submarine's deck was crowded with survivors. The Red Cross flag hung over the front of the boat. Four lifeboats full of people trailed behind.

Harden circled for 30 minutes. Hartenstein's crew desperately sent messages in Morse code asking for help. A British Royal Air Force officer on the submarine radioed the plane that Laconia survivors were aboard, including soldiers, civilians, women and children.

Harden flew back to base and reported what he saw. Captain Robert Richardson III, the senior officer on duty that day, ordered him to attack the submarine.

Richardson later said he did not know about Hartenstein's radio messages announcing the rescue. He claimed submarines could not legally fly Red Cross flags during combat operations. He worried the U-boat would attack two British merchant ships steaming toward the area.

He also feared the Germans had found Ascension Island's secret fuel storage tanks. The island base was so classified that its discovery would threaten Allied supply lines to Africa and the Soviet Union.

Harden returned and dropped bombs on the submarine and lifeboats. One bomb exploded 10 feet from a lifeboat packed with survivors, killing dozens instantly. Depth charges damaged U-156's hull. Hartenstein cut the lifeboats loose and ordered everyone off the submarine so it could dive underwater to escape.

Despite the strafing and bombing runs by the American plane, the crew dove slowly to give everyone on the deck a chance to drift into the ocean without being pulled under.

Upon returning to Ascension Island, Harden reported that he sank U-156. He received an Air Medal for the attack, despite obviously killing unarmed shipwreck survivors.

The submarine actually survived and continued rescuing people in the aftermath. The U.S. military never investigated Harden or Richardson for one of the worst U.S. war crimes committed in WWII.

Allied aircraft attacking a German U-boat during World War II. (Wikimedia Commons)

Axis Ships Complete the Rescue

The other submarines continued pulling survivors from the water despite what had just happened. U-506 and U-507 ignored orders to abandon British and Polish survivors in retaliation for the incident.

French warships arrived over the next few days. The cruiser Gloire and sloops Annamite and Dumont-d'Urville collected survivors from submarines and lifeboats, transporting them to Dakar and other ports.

In total, 1,113 people survived. Between 1,658 and 1,757 died. Most of the dead were Italian prisoners who drowned or were killed when the torpedoes struck and in the bombing attack.

Rescued British Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and Merchant Seamen; on the French warship Gloire by Edward Bawden. (Wikimedia Commons)

Germany Ends Rescue Operations

German high command was infuriated. Donitz issued new orders on Sept. 17, 1942. German submarines would no longer rescue survivors from ships they sank. The so-called Laconia Order said U-boats must not pull people from the water, give them lifeboats, food or water.

German submarine commanders had often helped torpedo survivors before this order. They gave them supplies and directions to land when it was safe to do so. This followed old naval traditions about helping fellow sailors at sea.

The new order ordered a stop to all such attempts. Donitz later said the order was to protect his submarines from air attacks while on the surface and was not intended to kill survivors.

Despite the order, most German submarines attempted to assist survivors at sea whenever possible through the end of the war.

Hartenstein received Germany's Knight's Cross medal on Sept. 17. A U.S. Navy patrol plane sank U-156 with depth charges on March 8, 1943. All 53 crew members died, most of them having been apart of the Laconia Incident, including Hartenstein.

The Nuremberg War Crimes Trial

After the death of Adolf Hitler, Donitz became the head of Nazi Germany and oversaw the unconditional surrender of the country to the Allies. As one of the leading Nazi officials, war crimes prosecutors were eager to see him tried for German atrocities in the war.

Prosecutors at Nuremberg formally charged Admiral Donitz with war crimes in 1946. They used the Laconia Order as their main evidence against him. They argued the order proved Donitz wanted to murder unarmed survivors.

Donitz's lawyer, Otto Kranzbuehler, immediately asked to question American Admiral Chester Nimitz. Nimitz commanded all U.S. forces in the Pacific during the war and was serving as Chief of Naval Operations when the trials began. Kranzbuehler had learned about American submarine tactics from a book he found in a library. The court approved written questions for Nimitz to answer under oath.

Upon being questioned, Nimitz's answers completely dismantled the prosecution's case. The American admiral confirmed that U.S. submarines attacked Japanese merchant ships without warning starting on Dec. 7, 1941. American submarines operated this way across 30 million square miles of ocean until the end of the war.

Nimitz said American submarines generally did not rescue enemy survivors if it put the submarine at risk or stopped it from completing its mission. This was nearly identical to what Donitz's order said.

Kranzbuehler showed that Britain also ordered its submarines to sink all ships on sight in certain areas. He presented statements from 66 German submarine commanders describing times they helped survivors when they could do so safely. The evidence showed German submariners sometimes acted more humanely than Allied forces. It also showed the Laconia Order only came after American forces attacked a protected rescue operation.

Karl Donitz (centre, in long, dark coat) followed by Albert Speer (bareheaded) and Alfred Jodl (on Speer's right) during the arrest of the Flensburg Government by British troops. (Wikimedia Commons)

The Court's Decision

The court said on Oct. 1, 1946, that evidence did not prove Donitz deliberately ordered the killing of survivors. The judges noted that American and British submarines operated under similar orders from the start of the war, even before German subs did.

The court convicted Donitz of other charges but did not punish him for his submarine warfare policies. The judges found that Allied nations had followed the same policies Germany did.

Donitz received 10 years in prison for pursuing an aggressive war under the Nazi regime. He served his full sentence at Spandau Prison in Berlin. He died in 1980.

About 120 American admirals wrote letters saying Donitz's conviction was unfair. In 1993, the Pentagon published a legal study of the Laconia incident. Pentagon lawyers wrote that Richardson and Harden were both guilty of war crimes under international law. The report further said Harden's actions were inexcusable because he clearly saw the rescue operation happening. Under the laws of war that existed in 1942, submarines engaged in rescue operations could not be attacked.

Richardson retired from the Air Force as a brigadier general in 1967. He died in 2011. Records show little about what happened to Harden after the war.

Donitz observing the arrival of U-94 at Saint-Nazaire in France in June 1941. (Wikimedia Commons)

The Legacy of the Incident

The Laconia incident being presented in the Nuremburg Trials revealed several unique pieces of WWII history. Prosecutors claimed German submarine warfare was uniquely criminal. Nimitz's testimony proved American submarines did the same things.

Richardson's order to attack the rescue operation killed hundreds of Allied troops and civilians on top of countless unarmed prisoners of war. The attack caused Donitz to end all German rescue attempts. While Richardson and Harden worried the U-Boat would attack nearby Allied ships, their actions led to more Allied deaths during the war as German subs refused to rescue survivors.

The entire situation embarrassed American prosecutors at the Nuremberg trials.

Military lawyers today study the Laconia incident when teaching rules of engagement. Current laws say vessels conducting rescue operations cannot be attacked, even if they are warships.

The BBC made a television series about the incident in 2011 called "The Sinking of the Laconia." Historians still debate whether Richardson and Harden should have faced military trials for attacking a marked rescue operation.

Photo of Werner Hartenstein taken during World War II. (Wikimedia Commons)

The German commander who tried to save enemy survivors received his country's highest medal for valor only to die in combat six months later. The American officers who attacked a legal rescue operation received medals and retired with honors. The Nazi admiral who stopped all future rescues went free because American, British and Japanese submarines all followed the same policies he did.

When Nimitz testified that American submarines operated the same way prosecutors claimed was a German war crime, the case fell apart. The Laconia Incident is remains one of the worst American war crimes in history and its effects on the Nuremburg Trials remains unique in how it partially exonerated a Nazi leader accused of war crimes.
What an Executive Order Is, Legally

An executive order is a written directive issued by the President to officers and agencies within the executive branch, instructing them on how to carry out existing law or exercise authorities already vested in the presidency. Executive orders do not create new law, appropriate funds, or override statutes enacted by Congress, but instead operate within the boundaries of Article II of the Constitution and any authority Congress has delegated to the executive.

Most executive orders rely on one or more legal bases: the Presidents constitutional powers, statutory delegations from Congress, or the Presidents authority to supervise the faithful execution of the laws. Courts evaluate executive orders against those sources of authority when their legality is challenged.

How Executive Orders Work in Practice

Executive orders follow a standardized process. Drafts are typically developed within the White House in coordination with affected agencies, reviewed for legality and form by the Office of Legal Counsel, signed by the President, and transmitted to the Office of the Federal Register for publication. Publication provides official notice and makes the order clear and citable for agencies, courts, and the public.

Once published, implementation shifts to the agencies named in the order. Many executive orders require agencies to issue follow-on guidance, revise regulations, or submit reports within specified deadlines. While executive orders carry the force of law within the executive branch, they remain vulnerable to judicial review and can be amended or revoked by a later President.

Why Executive Orders Matter for the Military

Executive orders have particular significance for the military because Congress has historically delegated broad discretion to the President in matters of national defense, force management, and command authority. As a result, executive orders can rapidly shape personnel standards, readiness policies, acquisition priorities, and internal Department of Defense governance even in the absence of new legislation.

For service members, the practical impact of an executive order often depends less on the text itself and more on how the Department of Defense implements it through instructions, memoranda, and service-level guidance.

Trump Executive Orders Affecting the Military Since January 2025

Since returning to office in January 2025, President Trump has issued several executive orders that directly affect the Armed Forces, the Department of Defense, or military-adjacent national security policy.

President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greet Sailors in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during a Titans of the Sea Presidential Review in October 2025. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Pierce Luck. Source: DVIDS

Force Standards, Readiness, and Internal Policy

On January 27, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness, directing the Department of Defense to revise policies concerning medical standards, readiness requirements, and personnel eligibility, including policies related to gender dysphoria.

That same day, the President signed Restoring Americas Fighting Force, which instructs the Department of Defense to revise training and institutional practices that the order characterizes as inconsistent with combat readiness and mission focus, including directives concerning internal education and ideological instruction.

Earlier, on January 20, 2025, President Trump signed Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, an order that applies across the federal government and explicitly references the military, directing agencies to terminate specified diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and related contracting or personnel practices.

Domestic Mission Framing and Territorial Integrity

On January 20, 2025, President Trump also signed Clarifying the Militarys Role in Protecting the Territorial Integrity of the United States, which articulates the administrations interpretation of the Presidents authority to employ the Armed Forces in support of territorial integrity and border-related missions. While the order does not itself deploy forces, it establishes a legal and policy framework that informs future tasking and interagency coordination.

Defense Acquisition and the Industrial Base

On April 9, 2025, President Trump issued Modernizing Defense Acquisitions and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base, directing reforms intended to accelerate procurement timelines, expand nontraditional contracting pathways, and strengthen domestic defense manufacturing capacity. The order instructs the Department of Defense to revise acquisition policies and workforce practices to emphasize speed and flexibility.

Organizational Identity and Institutional Signaling

On September 5, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled Restoring the United States Department of War, establishing Department of War as a secondary title for the Department of Defense and directing executive branch implementation of the designation while calling for congressional action to make the change permanent. While largely symbolic, the order has practical implications for official nomenclature and public-facing materials.

Military Space and National Security Policy

On December 18, 2025, President Trump signed Ensuring American Space Superiority, which sets out an administration-wide space policy emphasizing national security priorities and American dominance in space. Because the Department of Defense and the Space Force play central roles in national security space operations, the order carries implications for military planning, procurement, and interagency coordination.

What This Means for Service Members

Executive orders often shape military policy before Congress acts or courts weigh in. For service members, the real effects typically emerge through the Department of Defense implementing guidance that alters eligibility standards, training requirements, procurement priorities, or mission tasking. Understanding executive orders, therefore, requires tracking not only what the President signs, but how the Pentagon translates those directives into binding policy.
In late December 2025, two separate security incidents in Nigeria were widely described in public discussion as a bombing of Nigeria. In reality, the events were operationally and geographically distinct.

One involved an explosive attack at a mosque in northeastern Nigeria. The other involved U.S. military airstrikes conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities against militant targets in the northwest. Treating them as a single episode obscures important analytical differences relevant to threat assessment and counterterrorism policy.

Explosion at a Mosque in Maiduguri

On December 24-25, 2025, an explosive detonated during evening prayers at a mosque in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria. Nigerian police reported that at least five people were killed and more than 30 others were injured. Investigators recovered debris consistent with a suicide vest, leading authorities to describe the incident as an apparent suicide bombing rather than a remotely detonated device or planted explosive.

At the time of initial reporting, no armed group had publicly claimed responsibility, and Nigerian officials did not announce a confirmed perpetrator. Coverage emphasized the ongoing investigation and casualty response rather than attribution. This lack of immediate attribution limits analytical certainty, particularly in a region where multiple extremist factions operate with overlapping tactics and areas of influence.

Maiduguri has long been a focal point of militant violence in Nigerias northeast. The city has experienced repeated attacks over the past decade, including suicide bombings, vehicle-borne explosives, and assaults on civilian targets.

While the method used in this incident aligns with historical patterns associated with jihadist groups such as Boko Haram, which is active in the region, public reporting did not establish organizational responsibility, and authorities cautioned against premature conclusions.

Operationally, the timing of the explosion during prayers suggests an intent to exploit predictable congregation patterns and maximize civilian exposure.

U.S.-Conducted Airstrikes in Sokoto State

Separately, on December 25, 2025, U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against ISIS-linked targets in northwestern Nigeria. The strikes targeted militant camps located in the Bauni forest area of Sokoto State and were carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities. U.S. Africa Command stated the operation resulted in the deaths of multiple militants allegedly affiliated with the Islamic State, and the strikes were authorized at the national level.

Nigerian officials confirmed the strikes and described them as directed against foreign-linked extremist elements operating alongside local armed groups. Government statements emphasized the operation was coordinated and conducted with Nigerian approval, framing the strikes as part of a broader counterterrorism effort rather than unilateral action.

Additional reporting noted debris from the strikes was observed in nearby communities, prompting authorities to urge calm. Officials stated no civilian deaths had been confirmed in connection with the operation, though assessments were ongoing. As with most air operations in remote terrain, independent verification of casualty figures remained limited in the immediate aftermath.

The targeted area in Sokoto State lies far from Nigerias traditional insurgency centers in the northeast. Militant activity in the northwest has increasingly been linked to forest-based groups that blend ideological extremism with banditry, kidnapping, and cross-border movement. Nigerian officials indicated that the camps targeted in the strikes were associated with planning for larger-scale attacks.

Nigerian Maj. Gen. Emeka Victor Onumajuru (left) speaks with U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Brian Cashman (right) before a panel discussion at the African Chiefs of Defense Conference (ACHOD) in Nairobi, Kenya, May 28, 2025. The 2025 African Chiefs of Defense Conference (ACHOD25) brings together Chiefs of Defense from 37 African countries, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, Special Operations Command Africa, U.S. Air Forces Africa, and U.S. Army Africa in Nairobi, Kenya. ACHOD25 provides an opportunity for senior military officials from across Africa to discuss topics such as countering transnational threats, strengthening U.S. and African partnerships, as well as fostering expertise-sharing and alliances. U.S. Africa Command photo by Libby Weiler, AFRICOM Public Affairs. Source: DVIDS

Distinguishing the Two Incidents

Although both events involved explosives, they differ substantially in operational character. The Maiduguri incident was a localized attack within an urban civilian setting, relying on covert access and close proximity. The Sokoto operation involved standoff precision strikes against remote targets identified through intelligence and surveillance, conducted by an external military partner with Nigerian consent.

These differences affect both the type of information available and the reliability of early reporting. In urban bombing cases, investigators typically release limited technical detail while focusing on immediate security and medical response. In airstrike operations, official statements may provide broader operational claims but still rely on preliminary assessments subject to later revision.

Strategic and Information Environment Considerations

The Sokoto airstrikes occurred amid heightened political attention to Nigerias security situation and public statements by U.S. officials emphasizing counterterrorism priorities. Nigerian authorities sought to frame the operation as cooperative and sovereignty-respecting, a distinction that carries domestic and regional significance.

Both incidents also illustrate how information environments shape perception. The absence of attribution in Maiduguri leaves room for speculation, while official strike announcements can generate competing interpretations about effectiveness, escalation, and precedent. These dynamics influence public understanding independent of operational outcomes.

What Remains Unclear

As of the initial reporting window, several key questions remained unresolved. Authorities had not confirmed responsibility for the Maiduguri bombing or released detailed forensic findings. For the Sokoto strikes, casualty figures beyond official estimates and the longer-term impact on militant networks have not been independently verified.

Future reporting that materially improves clarity is likely to come from updated police findings in Borno State, follow-on strike assessments, and on-the-ground reporting from affected areas. Until then, the most defensible analysis treats the Maiduguri explosion as a suspected suicide attack with unresolved attribution and the Sokoto operation as a coordinated counterterrorism strike with officially reported militant casualties and no confirmed civilian deaths.

Together, the two incidents underscore the multi-regional nature of Nigerias security challenges and the varied tools being applied in response, from local policing and investigation to international military cooperation.
A Michigan prisoner who was mistakenly released is now charged with the murder of fellow inmate during a gang-related fight.

The deadly altercation involving prisoners Talleon Stephon Brazil and Deandre Jackson is one of five must-read stories from MLive over the weekend.

A Michigan prisoner who was mistakenly freed is now accused of killing inmate in gang fight

Brazil claims he acted in self-defense to protect his cellmate from an attack, but the prosecution argues he should have remained in his cell.

Jackson was stabbed in the neck during a fight that is believed to be part of a gang rivalry. Brazil was previously mistakenly released from custody in Ohio and recaptured in 2021.

Read reporter Nathan Clarks full story here.

Here are four other compelling MLive stories to read:

Deborah Lacki shows students a graph sheet during class, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, at East Middle School, 6100 Perry Rd, Grand Blanc. (Nico Mendoza | MLive.com)

97% of Michigan teachers are considered effective. How do they rate at your school?

Roughly 97% of teachers in Michigans K-12 schools are rated as effective according to new data from the Michigan Department of Education for the 2024-25 school year.

The average effectiveness rating for teachers has been stable at about 98-99% over the past decade, with a notable drop to 45% during the first year of the pandemic.

Approximately 350 school districts received 100% effectiveness ratings, while 19 schools reported effectiveness rates below 60%, mostly concentrated in Wayne County.

Check out reporter Jackie Smiths story here.

Zachary Joseph Radcliff appears before Washtenaw County District Judge J. Cedric Simpson at Washtenaw Countys 14A-1 District Court in Pittsfield Township on Monday, Feb. 24 2025. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

Ann Arbor murder, youth pastors sexual abuse: Top crime stories for 2025

From fatal shootings to a former youth pastor accused of sexual abuse, plenty of crime happened in Washtenaw County this year.

One of the most notable incidents was the fatal shootings of Jennifer Bernard, 48, and her father Stevie Ray Smith, 74.

The perpetrators, including the biological mother of a girl the family was fostering, were charged with the shootings and subsequent kidnapping of two children.

Reporter Jordyn Pair has all the details in this story here.

Hundreds of thousands of Michiganders are expected to lose health insurance in 2026 due to expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits and federal funding cuts to Medicaid. Pictured is President Donald Trump President Donald Trump speaking during an event unrelated to the ACA in the Oval Office of the White House on Dec. 15, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP

Health insurance 2026: What Michigan residents need to know about expiring ACA credits

In 2026, hundreds of thousands of Michiganders may lose health insurance as Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits expire and Medicaid funding cuts take effect.

About 484,000 Michiganders benefited from the subsidies, with an estimated 137,700 expected to lose ACA coverage without them.

The spending cuts from President Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act are expected to lead to nearly 260,000 additional Medicaid losses.

Read reporter Justin P. Hickss story here.

Rick Germain shows a pizza made as Hustler's Pizza & Billiards prepares to open its door in January. Rick Germain

This new pizza and pool hall has a name celebrating an entire communitys spirit

Hustlers Pizza & Billiards is set to open in Mt. Morris, offering a unique blend of pizza and billiards culture, inspired by both the classic film The Hustler and the communitys resilient spirit.

The restaurant will feature hand-tossed New York-style pizza in 20-inch pies or by the slice, alongside a menu that includes fried favorites, fresh salads, and baked goods.

Renovations at the venue began in late October, with upgrades made to flooring, lighting, and interior aesthetics, all aiming to create a welcoming atmosphere for the community.

Reporter Roberto Acosta shares more in this story here.
ANN ARBOR, MI  Expensive condos are nothing unusual in downtown Ann Arbor, but one of the latest to hit the market is a notch above the rest at a cool $7 million.

A two-level penthouse unit in the Ashley Mews high-rise at 414 S. Main St., built in 2002, is being offered for sale along with what are described as numerous historically significant furnishings, including rare pieces from the Versace estate.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale for $7 million at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

Its not like anything weve ever seen here before, said listing agent Matthew Dejanovich of Real Estate One.

The space is unparalleled. Im not sure theres another condo downtown that has a comparable set of amenities.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

The elaborately decorated condo is owned by Richard Merillat, the retired CEO of Merillat Industries, a maker of cabinets.

With three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, the city assessors office lists it at 4,190 square feet, but its marketed as 5,000 counting outdoor terrace spaces.

The annual property taxes are over $77,000.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

The late world-renowned designer Robert Denning furnished the residence and its design is a tribute to historic Parisian living where timeless architecture is artfully paired with modern luxury, according to the listing.

A private elevator goes directly to the penthouse level, opening to a two-story foyer with a sweeping staircase.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

Walls of glass in every room frame the citys most spectacular views, while expansive outdoor terraces  featuring two distinct sitting areas connected by a striking catwalk  extend the living experience outdoors, the listing states.

With marble floors, custom trim and crown molding, and exquisite architectural detailing, no expense was spared in creating the space, the listing states.

A grand two-story living room has a fireplace, custom TV cabinetry, soaring ceilings and bespoke chandeliers.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

Obviously, the interior is really specific, but its spectacular if thats your taste, Dejanovich said.

To have 5,000 square feet of penthouse condo space in downtown Ann Arbor is virtually unheard of, he said, and it comes with panoramic views of the southern Ann Arbor skyline and Michigan Stadium.

Youre not going to get this kind of space and view anywhere else in Ann Arbor, so thats pretty special, he said.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

Other advertised features include a formal dining room, a chefs kitchen with professional-grade appliances and a discreet back hall laundry and mudroom.

The main-level primary suite is a private retreat, complete with a spa-inspired bath offering dual vanities, soaking tub, and separate shower, the listing states. The upper level hosts two additional bedroom suites, a dedicated home office, and a secondary living room.

The hope is to find a buyer who appreciates the condo and its furnishings as a package, Dejanovich said. He believes it will appeal to successful business people and University of Michigan alumni who are nostalgic for Ann Arbor.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

It would be the most expensive residential sale in the city limits of Ann Arbor, Dejanovich said.

This is a special one, for sure, he said. Hopefully we can find somebody who just really appreciates all the wonderful parts of what theyve created here.

A 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom condo for sale at 414 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor. (Next Door Photos) Next Door Photos

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
YPSILANTI TWP., MI  A puppy stolen from an Ypsilanti Township pet shop has been safely returned.

After posting security video of the theft on social media, the man and woman accused of taking the dog from Pet City Pets contacted the shop Friday, Dec. 26, to apologize and return the dog, shop owner Stu Collins said.

Several people contacted me after I posted the video on Facebook including the man and the woman in the video taking the dog, Collins said. The guy said he didnt know she did that, and the woman said sorry and wanted the Facebook post taken down. Yeah. Im not doing that.

The dog, a female black and tan Yorkshire Terrier puppy, was stolen from the shop Dec. 22, a few days before Christmas.

About 5:30 p.m., surveillance video recorded a woman and man pulling a stroller or wagon with a child and handling several small dogs inside the store, at 1254 Ecorse Road east of Ypsilanti, according to Collins and the video footage.

In one video, posted on the shops Facebook page, the woman is seen handing a tan dog to the man before walking off camera with another dog in her other hand.

She walks into the path of another camera in the store and it recorded her putting the black and tan dog inside her coat before leaving the store with it.

The man had arranged to return the puppy to the store on Friday, but he did not show up, Collins said.

Collins contacted the pair again requesting the dog be returned. Collins was asked to go to an apartment complex in Ypsilanti to retrieve the dog, he said.

Collins went to the complex and a boy met him, handed him the dog and walked away, he said.

Im thankful the dog is OK and healthy, but I am still not happy about the situation, Collins said. I had another dog stolen from my shop years ago, and I never got it back. Im going to let the police continue to do their thing with this.

A report was filed with the Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office. Messages left with police were not immediately returned.

The report is currently listed as shoplifting, records show.

Someone broke into the store in February 2016, stealing a Yorkie Poo puppy. The dog appeared to be the sole target of the theft as nothing else was taken, according to previous reports.

We are taking steps to make sure this doesnt happen again, Collins said.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
YPSILANTI, MI  Guests can sample over 100 whiskeys at this boozy gathering.

Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest will celebrate its fifth year on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at the Michigan Firehouse Museum, 110 W. Cross St.

The indoor event will feature two sessions at the museum. Session one runs from 4 to 6:30 p.m., while session two takes place from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

The whiskey selection includes bourbon, rye, Irish whiskey, Scotch, Japanese and Canadian whiskeys. The collection features rare and hard-to-find whiskeys, single cask and small batch options, according to a release from organizers.

In addition to whiskey sampling, the festival will offer classic bourbon cocktails, live music and local food vendors.

Four ticket tiers are available for purchase. Entry tickets, priced at $20 for limited quantities or $35 with no ticket fees, include access to the event, a souvenir glass and complimentary coffee and water. Attendees with entry tickets must purchase separate drink tickets at $2 each to consume alcohol.

General admission tickets, priced at $40 for limited quantities or $55 with no ticket fees, include event entry, a souvenir glass, 10 general admission sampling tickets and complimentary coffee and water.

VIP admission tickets cost $105 for limited quantities or $120 with no ticket fees. This tier includes 20 VIP sampling tickets, access to VIP tables and general admission bottle samples or cocktails for one ticket each.

The Unicorn Bundle, priced at $305 for limited quantities or $320 with no ticket fees, offers 80 VIP sampling tickets along with the same amenities as VIP admission.

Tickets are currently on sale. Additional information can be found on the Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest website, Facebook page and Instagram account.

Generative AI was used to organize promotional information into this story, based on data provided by Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest organizers. It was reviewed and edited by MLive.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
FENTON, MI  A Fenton cashier and former volunteer firefighter was recognized earlier this year for his contributions to his community, as well as fellow veterans and amputees.

David Dunville, 64, has worked at VGs Grocery, 18005 Silver Parkway, for the past three years.

In September, he was presented with the 2025 SpartanNash Circle of Excellence award during a ceremony in Orlando, Florida. The award was presented by SpartanNash, the company that owns VGs Grocery.

Why me? I cant say, honestly, Dunville said of being selected for the award. I can go through and point out 20-30 people here who should also receive the honor.

Dunville has become well-known around the store, and children at the store light up when they pass through Dunvilles counter where he offers them little smiley face stickers, according to store director Chris Palmer.

Hes real receptive to the kids, Palmer said. If theres a little kid thats not having the best of days, Dave goes over there right away and calms them down. Parents love that.

While he spends much of his time helping others, Dunville has had to overcome challenges of his own.

One of Dunvilles legs was amputated on July 22, 2003, after undergoing 25 surgeries in an attempt to save it.

Unfortunately, my amputation caused me and my wife to lose our home because we fell behind, he said. Workers comp wasnt paying as much as I was bringing in. Its life. You just go on.

The amputation stems from an injury he sustained in a May 1999 structure collapse that occurred while he was on duty as a volunteer firefighter in Hartland.

Its part of the job, Dunville said.

Dunville has not let the loss of his leg slow him down and he maintains a positive outlook, constantly taking the extra time to give back to his community and support other amputees through the Amputee Coalition. He officially joined the organization in 2004.

I became an amputee peer visitor, which is going into hospitals or physical therapy centers or even over the phone and internet now, helping those that just lost a leg or are about to, Dunville said. I do it because I want people to know there is life after an amputation.

The non-profit organization connected him with several other firefighters who had returned to duty, but Dunville learned he would be unable to do so himself, noting that he could no longer move all his joints.

That gave me a goal, and I struggled to get to that goal, he said. Unfortunately, the State of Michigans fire marshal said at that time, If you cant wiggle your toes, you cant be a firefighter.

Dunville is able to walk thanks to a prosthetic leg, and he has an additional prosthetic leg he uses for swimming and diving.

I had a very good physical therapy crew, he said.

Fenton VG's Grocery cashier David Dunville displays the 2025 SpartanNash Circle of Excellence award in the store's cafe, located at 18005 Silver Parkway in Fenton. SpartanNash owns VG's Grocery and presented him with the award during a ceremony earlier this year. Nick Taylor | Ntaylor@Mlive.com

When hes not working or helping others, Dunville spends his time jogging and practicing martial arts, which he began doing with his son David William Dunville, 27, about 10 years ago.

He was getting ready to quit, so I joined him in doing that, he said.

Dunville said he feels its important to work with other amputees because he wants to provide them with the same support that was offered to him after he lost his leg.

A lot of people dont know that opportunity is there, and unfortunately, because its a free service, a lot of hospitals do not even consider it, he said. And thats a sad thing right there.

In addition to his work with other amputees, Dunville, a veteran himself, has played a significant role in organizing Wreaths Across America at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly Township.

Dunvilles family spent time living in Madison Heights before moving to Canton and later Coldwater where he joined the U.S. Navy in 1981, beginning nine and a half years of military service. He served at the Mayport Naval Station in Jacksonville, Florida.

I got recalled several times, Dunville said.

Following his time in the military, Dunville stayed in Jacksonville, working in hotels for about a decade.

He then returned to Michigan after his father, David Alexander Dunville, died following a stroke, but his name lives on through his son and grandson. Dunville noted that the first-born sons in his family have been named David for 10 generations.

Dunville said a SpartanNash-green carpet was rolled out for him during the 2025 Circle of Excellence Award ceremony.

As he walked down the carpet, he was met with confetti, the sound of drums, and cheers from managers, corporate leaders and others from the company.

It was loud, but it was fun, Dunville said. It was nice to be back in Florida for a little bit. We had a great time.

Additionally, Dunville was also fitted for a varsity-style jacket he received that bears his name and the name of the award.

The Circle of Excellence award is the companys highest national recognition and is given to associates who go above and beyond to serve customers and drive success, according to SpartanNash officials. The company has been presenting the award for five years.

I think its a fantastic award, Dunville said. Unfortunately, too many companies are not recognizing the people who are doing the work.

In the past three years, he has raised more charitable funds than any other cashier in the company, raising almost $8,000 for SpartanNash Foundation fundraisers, according to SpartanNash officials. Additionally, he donated the $500 gift card he received for being named Top Cashier to a local food pantry.

Hes always been a top fundraiser at the store, not only at the store, but for the entire company nationwide, Palmer said. Whatever the charitable organization is, he steps up and represents it fully, especially when it comes time for the veterans fundraiser. He really knocks that one out of the park.

Dunville has also donated funds to the Amputee Coalition and his church.

You need to give back, he said. Its the only way that things are going to get better.
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Icy conditions, strong winds, and low visibility are causing havoc on Genesee County roads this morning.

Genesee County 911 reported a slew of accidents during the morning on Monday, Dec. 29 -- 13 of them in just 59 minutes -- and the National Weather Service issued a snow squall warning for parts of Genesee, Oakland, and Lapeer counties.

The squall warning is in place until 12:30 p.m. for central Genesee County, while a high wind alert remains in effect until 9 p.m.

Strong wind gusts up to 35 miles per hour also caused other hazards for drivers, including reports of a traffic light hung up in wires at South Saginaw and East Hill roads and arching or downed power lines at both North Elms and West Vienna roads and at South Saginaw Street and East Judd Road in Burton.

The NWS issued the squall warning after radar indicated gusty winds, blowing snow, and rapidly falling visibility in an area from near Capac to Lapeer to Beecher, moving southeast at 35 mph.

The warning noted the potential for continued dangerous travel on I-75 and I-69 in the area.

Todays weather is part of a complex winter storm system whipping across Michigan, creating an intense mix of heavy snow, high winds, and icy conditions.

High wind gusts and mid-storm snowfall totals show some records being set, especially in the Upper Peninsula, where blizzard conditions are covering much of the area.

The storm has hours to go before the winds and snow diminish across the state later tonight.

The NWS high wind alert for Genesee County warns of the potential for southwest to west winds up to 35 mph and frequent gusts of up to 55 mph.

Winds are expected to topple tree limbs and power lines and travel is projected to be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

In less than an hour this morning in Genesee County, 9-1-1 reported 13 accidents, beginning at 10:07 a.m. with an accident near My Brothers Keeper on Grand Traverse Street in Flint and ending at 11:06 a.m. at East Hill and South Belsay roads in Grand Blanc Township.
IMLAY CITY, MI - Two mid-Michigan communities are set to benefit from a statewide affordable housing investment announced by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.

The agency has awarded more than $16.3 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits to support housing projects across Michigan.

In Imlay City, the agency approved $444,673 in tax credits for the rehabilitation of Townsend Manor II, a 48-unit apartment complex serving low-income households.

The project, led by DeShano Development, will preserve housing for residents earning below 60% of the area median income.

According to MSHDA, 40 of the units will receive rental assistance through the U.S. Department of Agricultures Rural Housing Service, helping keep rents affordable for existing tenants. The rehabilitation work is also expected to create 22 temporary construction jobs.

Corunna will also see significant reinvestment through two projects at Walnut Acres Apartments.

CRA Development received $460,473 in tax credits for Walnut Acres I, which will rehabilitate and preserve 48 units, and an additional $685,000 for Walnut Acres II, covering 55 units.

All of the Walnut Acres II apartments, and 43 units at Walnut Acres I, will receive rental assistance from the Rural Housing Service, ensuring long-term affordability for households earning up to 60% of the area median income.

The Corunna projects are expected to generate more than 150 temporary jobs during construction.

MSHDAs latest allocation will support the creation or preservation of more than 700 housing units across 14 developments in nine communities.

Eleven percent of the units will be fully accessible, and 530 units will meet visitability standards, allowing people with mobility challenges to more easily visit residents.

These LIHTC allocations reflect our ongoing commitment to expanding housing opportunities across Michigan, said Tony Lentych, MSHDAs chief housing investment officer, in a statement announcing the awards.

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program is federally funded and administered by MSHDA, providing incentives to developers who build or rehabilitate affordable housing and helping reduce financing costs so rents can remain lower.

For more information, visit here.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - It was just after Thanksgiving, and Grand Rapids locals were preparing to converge on Nov. 29, 1916, to watch escape artist Harry Houdini attempt to free himself while dangling from a downtown Grand Rapids building.

At the time, the newly built structure at the northeast corner of Monroe Center and Ionia Avenue was known as the Grand Rapids Savings Bank.

Today, residents recognize it as the Peoples Building at 60 Monroe Center NW. It now serves as an event space and community hub.

How it began

Houdini was born Ehrich Weiss in Hungary, but immigrated to the U.S. as a child and worked as much as he could to support his family.

He first witnessed magic when he saw a magician perform the illusion of sawing someone in half, which was coined the bloodless vivisectionist.

It was uphill from there. At age 9, he became a trapeze artist, moved into card tricks and eventually found his calling in escape artistry.

When Houdini first visited Michigan in 1898, he was just a 23-year-old who hadnt yet solidified his escape acts, but was a seasoned performer in circuses.

After traveling in Europe and honing his craft, he returned to the U.S. for appearances at Smiths Opera House and Empress Theatre in Grand Rapids.

At the time, he began doing special escapes in the state. On Nov. 27, 1906, he wore two pairs of handcuffs before jumping 25 feet from the Belle Isle Bridge into the freezing Detroit River, according to the Grand Rapids Public Library History Center.

Preparations for the big day

Houdini planned to dangle head downward from a scaffold erected on the ninth floor of the 13-story Grand Rapids building in 1916.

Encased in a straitjacket with his hands and feet in handcuffs, he aimed to escape in full view of Monroe Avenue spectators.

According to the GRPL History Center, the feat is said to be among the most daring ever attempted by Houdini except for his escape exhibition in San Francisco, where he was boxed in a steel-bound cage and thrown into the ocean.

To ensure his Grand Rapids stunt was secure, the citys chief of police at the time agreed to adjust the straitjacket and handcuffs. Both of which were used by the police department to hold vicious criminals, according to GRPL.

Houdini admitted slight nervousness, but said he was confident he could accomplish the stunt, as stated in a 1916 clipping of the Grand Rapids Herald.

On Tuesday, Nov. 28, a day before the big performance, Houdini visited the Grand Rapids Bank Building to test out the apparatus that would elevate him from the pavement to between the sixth and eighth stories.

Houdini promised that only two or three minutes would elapse before he would be free and give the signal to be lowered. Precautions like having a local physician on site were taken in case the feat proved too difficult, according to a 1916 Grand Rapids Herald clipping.

A daring feat

The time came for the escapist to work his magic. At 12:15 p.m. sharp, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 1916, Grand Rapids residents watched in astonishment to see Harry Houdini in his full glory.

Spectators jammed Monroe and Ionia for two blocks, watching Houdinis every move with nervousness, according to the GRPL History Center.

With his feet securely bound, his wrists handcuffed and his arms and abdomen encased, Houdini was pulled from the pavement up to the fifth floor of the Grand Rapids Bank Building.

He hung stationary, with a cross arm on the rigging preventing any tangling of the rope, according to GRPL.

The clock began. It was time for his escape over 40 feet high above the Grand Rapids citizens.

Writhing backwards and forwards and lifting his head, Houdini first removed the handcuffs from his wrists. Then, he got out of the straitjacket.

In a total of one minute and fifty-five seconds since leaving the pavement, he freed himself.

According to the GRPL History Center, a simultaneous cheer erupted from the crowd as the straitjacket fell to the ground below and Houdini was lowered back down.

It was one of the largest crowds that ever gathered in the downtown section for any sort of an attraction, and as a thriller, Houdinis feat has never been excelled in this city, The Grand Rapids Herald wrote in a 1916 article.

The aftermath

From 1916 through the 1920s, Houdini toured globally, earning his name as the handcuff king, after starring in films and writing novels.

Unfortunately, he came down with severe appendicitis in 1926, just after a fan challenged him to withstand multiple punches in the stomach.

Houdini ended up succumbing to complications from his illness on Oct. 31, 1926, after performing at Detroits Garrick Theater days earlier.

It seemed as if the great escape artist started and ended his career in Michigan.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  Fazolis has shuttered another West Michigan restaurant this month.

The Italian fast-food brands location at 570 Baldwin St. in Jenison closed earlier in December, according to social media posts. A sign posted on the door of the now empty restaurant directed customers to the nearest Fazolis location at 2521 Alpine Ave. in Walker.

The Jenison restaurants Facebook page lists the location as permanently closed.

Several commenters on social media said they werent surprised the restaurant closed, noting an overall lack of cleanliness.

In September, Fazolis also permanently closed a location at 4615 West Main St. in Kalamazoo. There are just three remaining West Michigan locations in Walker, Battle Creek and Muskegon, according to the store finder on fazolis.com.

The closures come amid deepening financial problems for Fazolis parent company, California-based FAT Brands, Inc.

UMB Bank, acting on behalf of the companys lenders, has demanded FAT Brands immediately pay nearly $1.3 billion in securitized debt, according to an acceleration notice filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in November.

FAT Brands, however, does not have the cash on hand to pay back the debt and warned that further action from the lenders could force the company to reorganize through bankruptcy, the filing states.

The company did not immediately state whether the closures were related to its financial issues.
ALLEGAN COUNTY, MI  Services for David Haverdink, the Hamilton fire chief who was struck by a vehicle and killed while responding to an emergency call, will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, at Central Wesleyan Church in Holland.

Haverdink, 74, died at the hospital on Christmas Day, two days after he was struck by a vehicle while responding to a medical call on M-40 near 136th Avenue in Hamilton, just south of Holland.

He served with the Hamilton Fire Department for 51 years, including more than 40 years as chief. He also served two four-year terms as Allegan County sheriff.

Visitation will be 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 5, also at Central Wesleyan Church, at 446 W. 40th St. Visitors are asked to use entrance A.

Haverdink, the son of Harvey and Harriet Haverdink, was one of eight siblings who grew up on the family farm. He eventually bought his fathers business, Hamilton Distributing Company. He served as president and co-owner until 1992. A son, Tim, is now a part owner.

Davids love for lights and sirens and helping others began at age 16, when he drove an ambulance for a local funeral home, which was how it was done back then. The early years of the fire department are ones from a time gone by, when equipment and procedures were basic by todays standards, but the dedication, bravery, and comradery were equally the same, his obituary said.

He became a reserve deputy for the Allegan County Sheriffs Department, where brothers Dale and Ron worked. In 1990, he won a seat on the Allegan County Board of Commissioners.

He was elected sheriff in 1992.

He and his wife, Judy, were married nearly 54 years. They have two sons, Jeff Haverdink and his wife, Erin, and Tim Haverdink and his wife, Sarah, and four grandchildren.

For a complete obituary, go here.
MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, MI - An old building that used to be a lamp shop that drew customers across West Michigan is being repurposed for an organization also trying to shine a light.

A literacy program serving Muskegon County for the last two decades is seeking community support as they build a new headquarters.

The Read Muskegon Literacy Hub is being constructed at 2709 Peck St. in Muskegon Heights, across from city hall and at the entrance to the citys downtown corridor. It is expected to be complete by May 1, 2026.

The building that has sat vacant for close to 20 years was Potters Lamps & Lighting for 60 years before that.

We always talk about literacy being a light, said Melissa Moore, executive director of Read Muskegon. People live in darkness when theyre illiterate and then when they learn to read and use those skills, it shines a light on your life.

Moore said she is trying to weave some of the buildings history into the design.

A lot of people know it from traveling there from all over West Michigan to buy their fancy lamps, Moore said.

The organization that began in 2005 hosts workforce development programs, English language classes and free K-12 after school tutoring. It also does programming in the county jail.

A community advocacy training hosted by Read Muskegon. Photo provided to MLive by Melissa Moore

The new space will provide more room for one-on-one tutoring needs and will also provide free childcare.

Recent work by Erhardt Construction included asbestos removal, roof repairs, new storefront windows and brick work.

The organization has already raised $1.8 million of the $2.77 million total project. That has covered the cost to purchase the building, complete building renovations and buy new furniture and technology for the space.

Read Muskegon was selected by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to participate in Patronicity, an online crowdfunding platform that will match every dollar raised up to $75,000, doubling community contributions for a potential total of $150,000, according to a press release.

The additional funds will help build an endowment for the ongoing cost of operations.

Were excited about the opportunities that building is going to provide to our learners, Moore said. Theres such a need for all ages, birth to 82 years old, for our services.

Read Muskegon exists to aid in the decline in reading skills across generations.

In Muskegon County, more than 60% of third graders are not reading at grade level, Moore said, adding that more than half of the countys middle schoolers are struggling to read.

That was the cohort that was supposed to be learning to read during COVID, Moore said. Its harder to catch up. They go through our public school system and they never reach full capacity, as far as literacy. They become adults who enter our community not able to read at a functional level.

Across the United States, more than 50% of adults are reading below a sixth grade reading level, Moore said.

(Theyre) reading below the level to get good paying jobs, to manage their health, finances, Moore said.

A muralist is being selected for the new building and will create a place-based art piece that will represent the journey of two different people, Moore said.

There are eight employees that work out of the Read Muskegon space currently on Broadway Avenue.

When we first decided to relocate to Muskegon Heights, there was a lot of skepticism about that, but it has been an amazing community for us to be a part of, Moore said. It is a community that does have a high need for our services but it is not the only community in Muskegon County that needs our services.

Moore said she felt it important for Read Muskegon to further invest in the community that has supported it and be a catalyst for continued redevelopment of the downtown core of Muskegon Heights.

Its exciting to think about being a reason for people to come into Muskegon Heights and see the possibility and potential for whats there. A lot of people who come to our office have never ventured off Sherman before and I think once they come to our new space it opens up the possibilities of what can happen in that community.

Read Muskegon serves all of Muskegon County and often provides programming on-site at different locations.

It is currently in need of volunteers, which includes one-on-one tutoring, classroom and early childhood program opportunities.
KOCHVILLE TWP, MI  A developer is looking to revitalize the former site of a deli at Bay and Pierce roads in Kochville Township that has been unoccupied for several years.

The proposed redevelopment would bring a 10-pump gas station with a convenience store and a small drive-thrumobile restaurant to the old Cardinal Deli property, located at 6985 Bay Road.

The deli relocated across the street several years ago, leaving the decades-old building it previously occupied vacant, according to Kochville Township Manager Steve King.

The 1.2-acre site is near Saginaw Valley State University and across the street from a Mobil gas station on Pierce Road, which is next to the delis new location.

SVSU and Kochvilles business district, obviously, have a very strong relationship between them, but theres not necessarily a lot of development in our community closer to the university, King said. Its an exciting opportunity to bridge the university and our business district just a little bit better.

The Carrollton Township-based D&M Site is serving as a consultant for the project, which is being called Cardinal Express.

The developer, Arvinder Singh, is currently working through the construction plan review process with the township but has already purchased and demolished the former Cardinal Deli building, King said. Singh could not immediately be reached for comment.

At 5,400 square feet, the new structure planned for the site will be more than twice as large as the 1,900-square-foot building that used to occupy the property.

I think were definitely excited to see the new investment in this site, King said. I would argue its a functionally obsolete building. It was probably past its time.

The convenience store will compose about two-thirds of the building, while the remainder will serve as a space for the drive-through restaurant, King said. It is still unclear what business will occupy the restaurant space.

I think itll be very well trafficked and quite the hub, hopefully complementing the existing gas station thats across the street, King said.

Construction at the site is expected to begin as soon as this spring or once temperatures rise, King said.

King estimates construction will take less than a year to complete, but he is unsure of the exact timeline for the project.

The proposed gas station is among several similar developments currently planned in the township.

Plans to redevelop the site of a former Rite Aid store at North Michigan and Tittabawassee roads into a gas station were approved a few months ago, according to King. The pharmacy chain permanently closed all its Michigan stores in the past year.

Weve kind of scratched our heads and asked, Is it really that much demand for new gas stations? King said. I guess there must be enough demand, but its surprised us a little bit internally.
SAGINAW, MI  Two Saginaw teens are charged with luring a third teen from his home to buy marijuana from him, only to repeatedly shoot him and leave him for dead.

One of the teen suspects is now jailed, while his alleged cohort remains at large.

Deandre D. Morris, 18, on Tuesday, Dec. 23, appeared before Saginaw County District Judge M. Randall Jurrens for arraignment on single counts of assault with intent to murder and felony firearm. The former is a life offense, while a conviction of the latter mandates a minimum two-year prison term consecutive to any related stint.

Morris 17-year-old codefendant faces the same two charges but is not in custody as of Dec. 26. He is charged as an adult but MLive is not divulging his name until he has been arraigned.

The duos charges stem from an incident that occurred the night of May 16 in the 2400 block of Hiland Street on Saginaws East Side.

Prosecutors allege Morris and his codefendant agreed to buy pot from another 17-year-old male. The seller drove to the agreed-upon meeting site and saw Morris and the other man emerge from around the side of a duplex, clad in black with hoods obscuring their faces, prosecutors allege.

The duos appearance gave the seller second thoughts and he kept driving, prosecutors allege. Morris codefendant contacted the seller and cajoled him into returning, assuring him everything was OK, prosecutors allege.

When the seller returned, Morris and his friend approached the vehicles drivers side window. Morris friend handed the seller a cellphone to verify his CashApp information for the marijuana sale, prosecutors allege.

Morris then pulled a pistol and repeatedly shot the seller, prosecutors allege. The seller still had his vehicle in drive and immediately accelerated but crashed a short distance ahead, prosecutors allege.

The alleged assailants fled. Emergency responders took the wounded teen to an area hospital. He suffered gunshot wounds to his mandible or jaw, sternum, and left forearm, prosecutors said.

Investigators searched the victims vehicle and recovered Morris CashApp card and a cellphone containing Morris Apple ID and iCloud information, prosecutors allege. The recovered phone also featured Morris codefendants social media account through which he communicated with the victim, prosecutors allege.

The victim positively identified Morris as his shooter to police, prosecutors added.

Morris has no criminal record, though prosecutors wrote in a bond recommendation that his dangerous and violent behavior in this case cannot be understated. They went on to described him as a flight risk and asked for a bond of at least $250,000.

Judge Jurrens on Tuesday ordered Morris held without bond and scheduled his case for a preliminary examination on Jan. 13.
MIDLAND, MI  A Sanford man has received a prison sentence for sexually assaulting a woman, a crime he perpetrated two months before he and his younger brother allegedly killed a 70-year-old Bay City woman.

Midland County Circuit Judge Stephen P. Carras on Dec. 18 sentenced 33-year-old James A. Hintz Jr. to five to 15 years in prison on a conviction of second-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Hintz pleaded guilty to the charge in October, stemming from the August 2020 rape of a 29-year-old woman in Lee Township.

In exchange for Hintzs guilty plea, prosecutors dismissed counts of first- and third-degree criminal sexual conduct and first-degree home invasion.

Carras gave Hintz credit for 498 days served and ordered he pay $1,528 in fines and costs.

Hintz told the judge he was remorseful and wished he had made better choices, according to OurMidland. Prosecutors alleged Hintz broke into his victims home and raped her while several children were present.

Midland County Sheriffs investigators didnt learn of the sexual assault until April 2024, while they were investigating the 2020 homicide of Thelma C. Hofmann.

Hintz and his 30-year-old brother, Kody C. Hintz, are charged with the same eight counts related to Hofmanns death: open murder, felony murder, breaking and entering a building, larceny of a firearm, and four counts of felony firearm.

Investigators have said that on the morning of Nov. 11, 2020, Hofmann was standing in the kitchen of her fiances home on East Bradford Road in Mount Haley Township. About 4:40 a.m., two bullets fired from outside the home entered through a sliding glass door and struck Hofmann, witnesses testified during a three-day preliminary examination in June.

Witnesses in the hearing depicted the Hintz brothers as heavy users of methamphetamine who often stole items from neighbors to sell. Police testified they believe the Hintzes on Nov. 11, 2020, stole property from a pole barn on Bradford Road before making their way to Hofmanns fiances residence with plans to burglarize it.

A civilian witness testified the Hintzes came to her house after the shooting. Kody Hintz told the woman his older brother fired a gun while outside and the bullet entered a nearby house. The brothers peered through a window of the house and saw a woman inside lying on the floor, the witness testified, according to OurMidland.

Kody Hintz also reported his truck stolen within hours of the shooting, police allege. Later that same month, Kody Hintz told an investigator James Hintz killed Hofmann, claiming his older brother implicated himself in a Facebook post.

Im going to play a little game tonight, the post read, according to a detectives testimony. Its called peekaboo bang, and when I see you and you see me, thats when I pull the trigger. You get the bang part now Thats ok. I already did.

The detective interviewed James Hintz for the first time in December 2021. Hintz denied any involvement in Hofmanns death, claiming he didnt shoot the pistol that ended her life. Police at that time had not divulged Hofmann had been killed with a handgun.

Prosecutors charged the Hintz brothers with Hofmanns killing in April 2025.

James Hintz is currently incarcerated at the Charles Egeler Reception and Guidance Center in Jackson. His brother is in custody in the Midland County Jail on a $5 million bond. A trial date on their murder charges is yet to be set.

Hofmann had no living relatives in Michigan. She lived in the 1200 block of Catherine Street in Bay City at the time of her death.
LAKE SUPERIOR, MI - A remote Michigan lighthouse sitting far offshore in Lake Superior has recorded one of todays highest wind gusts amid a severe winter storm and blizzard conditions across the Upper Peninsula.

Weather equipment on the Stannard Rock Lighthouse recorded a wind gust of 69 mph this morning. According to lists compiled by the National Weather Service, its the third-highest gust recorded so far during this storm. The highest gusts have been recorded as 72 mph in Sault Ste. Marie and 70 mph at Ford River near Escanaba.

The historic Stannard Rock Lighthouse sits off the eastern shore of Michigans Keweenaw Peninsula. Today, a Gale Warning has been issued for those Lake Superior waters until later tonight. Wind gusts as high as 57 mph are possible today, amid waves reaching 25 feet.

Built 24 miles from the Upper Peninsula shoreline, Stannard Rock is considered the lighthouse farthest from shore in the contiguous United States. That has earned it the grim moniker as The Loneliest Place in the World.

This historic lighthouse in Lake Superior sits 24 miles off the shore of Michigan's mainland. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard

History of The Loneliest Place in the World.

Built in 1883, the Stannard Rock station is well-known among Great Lakes lighthouse lore lovers. Its exposed crib - or base structure - is considered one of the Top 10 engineering feats in the U.S., according to the National Park Service. And it was built to mark a huge underwater reef that was considered one of the most dangerous obstacles to shipping in Lake Superior. The top of a large underwater mountain was found to sit just 4 feet from the surface of the water in some spots.

Heres a little more history to give you a feel for this place, courtesy of a social media post from the U.S. Coast Guard Station Marquette:

The old keepers told terrible tales of life on the Rock. Violent northwest storms sent 30-foot waves smashing into the tower and spray cascading over the lantern room 110 feet above the Lake. Louis Wilks from Marquette holds the record for consecutive time spent on the Rock  99 days. No other keeper even approached this remarkable feat. The men were rotated off the Rock, three weeks on and one off. In 1939, the U.S. Coast Guard took over the lighthouse and overwhelming loneliness remained a problem.

The lighthouse was automated in 1962, a year after a fatal fire and explosion that left survivors stranded at Stannard Rock for days until they were noticed by a passing ship. In 1971, the lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It remains a working aid to navigation. While the lighthouse is closed to the public, it can be seen by boat or airplane.

If emergency repairs are needed in the winter, the U.S Coast Guard will use a helicopter to fly a team to the lighthouse.
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
Saurav Pandey is the Deputy Manager of Content at Moneycontrol, specialising in content strategy, execution and performance analysis. He integrates advanced SEO techniques to deliver high-impact, data-driven content formats. His expertise spans various beats, including education, career, science and others, where he adopts a technical approach to optimise visibility, improve search rankings, and drive organic traffic growth. He can be reached out at Saurav.Pandey@nw18.com.
Did our AI summary help?
Sushant Singh voices against loud music at night in Mumbai

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 is a Sub Editor and Entertainment Journalist with over a year of experience covering films, television, and pop culture in the digital space.
Vishal Jethwa talks about his upcoming projects after Homebound

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.
Did our AI summary help?

Gayatri Rani is a Senior-Sub Editor with over three years of experience in delivering Hollywood and Bollywood news.
Entertainment desk Entertainment Desk at Moneycontrol reports on the celebrities, movies that shape Indias entertainment industry. With a sharp focus on cinema, OTT, web series, and latest trends, the entertainment desk delivers verified news, and analytical stories that place entertainment within a wider economic and cultural context. Our coverage goes beyond celebrity to examine how storytelling, audiences and business decisions influence one of the countrys most influential creative industries.
Why BTS V chose  for his TYPE  photobook and what it reveals about this phase of his journey
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Salman Khan fan carves actors name on his eyelids, says, he is my god
Shachi Solanki is Deputy Chief of Operation at DeepStrat, a New Delhi-based think tank and strategic consultancy that specialises in risk assessment and management. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Stories of High-Quality Development | Cross-grid electricity transmission

People's Daily Online) 15:42, December 29, 2025

How can more enterprises gain access to green electricity?

At Covestro's Shanghai integrated site, the share of green electricity used has exceeded 30 percent, becoming a key factor for its products to obtain environmental certifications and gain access to overseas markets. In March this year, dozens of Shanghai-based companies, including Covestro, began using green electricity transmitted from Yunnan and Guangxi, more than 2,000 kilometers away. This marked the first time in China that green electricity was express-delivered across different power grid operating areas.

Shanghai has a strong demand for green electricity, yet 90 percent of its supply comes from other provinces. This creates a mismatch, with shortages in some regions and surplus capacity in others. This cross-grid green power transaction has opened up a new pathway. It also represents, on a national scale, a vivid example of electricity trading across different grid operating areas.

In the past, coordination between the two major power grids was mainly carried out on a line-by-line or case-by-case basis, requiring a new set of rules for each province involved. This is because, after more than 20 years of development, State Grid and China Southern Power Grid have each established relatively complete power markets within their respective operating regions. Although the hard infrastructure connecting the two grids has long been in place, the soft mechanisms for cross-grid trading still need to catch up.

On July 11, a plan for a regularized power trading mechanism across power grid operating regions was officially approved, making cross-regional power transmission a regular arrangement.

On a large screen at the Beijing Power Exchange Center, information on cross-provincial and cross-regional power transactions, along with load forecasts for each province, is updated in real time. This functions like a nationwide online power marketplace. Wherever there is a power shortfall and wherever there is surplus capacity to cover it, everything is clearly visible at a glance.

With the regularized power trading mechanism in place, during the past summer, more than 2 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity were continuously transmitted from Yunnan, Guangxi, and other regions to Shanghai, as well as to Zhejiang, Anhui, and other regions facing shortages. This is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of more than 800,000 households.

Removing barriers and obstacles ultimately hinges on reform. Going forward, the power market will continue to optimize trading mechanisms. Efforts will be made to plan with a holistic perspective and steadily advance through multi-party collaboration so as to take a coordinated, nationwide approach to the power system as a whole.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Chef Kunal Kapur says food is soft power, and India is very rich in it. (Food images via Pexels/ Yulia Oliinychenko, Saveurs Secretes)
Did our AI summary help?

UPI continues to lead among digital payments in India
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

RBI tightens grip on payment ecosystem as digital transactions near 98% of total payments
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Blackstone-owned PGP Glass in talks with lenders to roll-over $300-mn offshore loans
A weaker dollar has also helped, and the metal is on track for its biggest annual gain since 2009.
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Gold, silver, copper prices decline up to 13% after record rally: 4 key reasons behind fall in commodity prices
You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user.

OK
The government has prepared a list of around 100 products that may be eligible for such support.
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Gujarat Kidney shares expected to list flat tomorrow; should you buy, sell or hold?
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Gold, silver see profit booking at record high levels: Here are levels for short-term trading
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

SEBI may make it obligatory for target companies to share key details for open offer
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Sigachi shares fall 5.5% after CEO remanded in connection with Hyderabad unit fire
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Stocks to Watch Today: Coforge, Vedanta, Diamond Power, Solarworld Energy, Timex Group India, Stylam, Vikran Engg, Suzlon in focus on 29 December
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Delhi High Court rules electricity cannot be denied to lawful tenants due to landlord disputes
Rabi sowing as of December 19 reached 659.39 lakh hectares -- up 8 lakh hectares year-on-year. Wheat covered 301.63 lakh hectares (from 300.34 lakh hectares) while pulses expanded to 126.74 lakh hectares (from 123.02 lakh hectares)
To be or not to be a bank: That's a question for Sanjiv Bajaj & RBI
Accounts of Walong emphasise that fighting unfolded in phases rather than as a single dramatic climax.-Representative photo
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections: BJP releases first list of 70 candidates for Mumbai civic poll
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Congress' 2026 Kerala playbook: How party plans to use targeted ticket allocation and 'early start' to its advantage
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

'Deeply hurtful': Rijiju says Tripura student's killing 'not an isolated incident' against people of northeast
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Government committed to extend all assistance: Bhupender Yadav welcomes SC order on Aravallis
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

'I will ensure he gets a death sentence': Unnao rape survivor says after SC stays HC's decision to suspend Kuldeep Sengar's life sentence
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

'India must turn chicken's neck into elephant's': Sadhguru on Siliguri corridor amid threats from Dhaka
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Indus Water Treaty put on hold, another Chenab hydel project gets govt nod
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Nagaland minister expresses grief over Tripura student's death: 'We're not momo, we're integral part of India'
On December 23, reports emerged that Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar have reached an informal consensus to contest the upcoming municipal elections in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad together.
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

People wrongly accuse me of appeasement; I am secular in true sense: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Rahul Gandhi's 'mischief' banter with Digvijay Singh over 'RSS-BJP' post masks tension on Congress Day
The Congress has been strongly opposed to the redefinition of the Aravallis and has raised concerns over it, claiming that this will lead to destroying the hills by opening them to mining, real estate and other projects
the pause applies only to electors flagged as not found by the Election Commissions central software but were found present on the hard copies of the 2002 rolls.
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
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Tripura student killed in Dehradun racial attack was assaulted with kada, knives; suffered right-side paralysis
The Delhi High Court had suspended the sentence of former Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar
Shishir Tripathi is a journalist and researcher based in Delhi. He has worked with The Indian Express, Firstpost, Governance Now, and Indic Collective. He writes on Law, Governance and Politics. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Devashish Mitra is Professor of Economics and Cramer Professor of Global Affairs at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University, NY, USA. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Varun Vummadi, co-founder and CEO of Giga, also shared a screenshot of an email allegedly sent by the group, which threatened broader disclosure if the demands were not met.
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

AngelList founder Naval Ravikant summarises how to be successful in 2 words: 'Productise yourself'
The videos, which creators label as AIgenerated, typically show women in hospital corridors tearfully expressing regret over not marrying when young. (AI-generated image)
From one angle, the egg appears to be nothing more than a smooth, rounded stone. (Image: He et al., J. Palaeogeogr., 2022)
2025 in Space: The Most Fascinating Astronomical Discoveries Revealed
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Once deemed possibly extinct, flat-headed cats reappear in Thailand after nearly 30 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 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
Hyderabad emerged as the top destination for US GCC setups in 2025, accounting for 42% of new centres, followed by Bengaluru at 35%.

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
Air India is bringing back its non-stop DelhiRome flights from March 2026, reconnecting India and Italy just in time for the busy European spring and summer travel season.

Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
Pakistans increased engagement with Bangladeshs interim administration and opposition parties has raised concerns of external interference ahead of elections, with intelligence sources alleging covert ISI support to anti-Hasina groups and efforts to influence outcomes.

Did our AI summary help?
Australia warned about counterfeit rabies vaccines in India, urging those affected to get replacement doses. Indian authorities and experts say the issue was limited to one batch, genuine vaccines are safe, and stress the importance of public trust in vaccination.

Did our AI summary help?
Bangladesh faces a severe condom shortage, with supplies set to run out in weeks due to halted procurement and funding shifts. The crisis threatens family planning progress, risks unplanned population growth, and could worsen health and economic challenges.

Did our AI summary help?
A man holds a placard as tens of thousands of people join the funeral prayer for Sharif Osman Hadi, a student leader, who died after being shot in the head, at the Parliament building area of Manik Mia Avenue, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 20, 2025. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain
China launched large-scale military drills, Justice Mission 2025, around Taiwan, involving all major forces to signal readiness for force and protest a recent US arms sale to Taipei. The exercises aim to pressure Taiwan and warn against foreign intervention.

Did our AI summary help?
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

China mobilises army, navy and rocket forces in major drills around Taiwan, issues 'stern warning'
Tarique Rahman, BNP acting chairman, returned to Bangladesh after 17 years and filed to contest elections from Dhaka-17 and Bogra-6, signaling his political comeback amid a volatile climate and raising stakes for both domestic and regional politics.

Did our AI summary help?
Ancient Hindu and Buddhist heritage sites in Pakistan face increasing threats from vandalism, neglect, and illegal occupation, with experts warning that weak oversight and extremist attacks could lead to the permanent loss of significant cultural history.

Did our AI summary help?
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

House owned by Hindu family torched in Bangladesh's Pirojpur as tensions flare up
Hundreds of Indian students at Berlins International University of Applied Sciences face deportation after German authorities ruled their hybrid courses dont qualify for student visas, leaving many without residence permits and forcing some to abandon their studies.

Did our AI summary help?
Yunus interim government faces 24-day deadline as Inqilab Moncho presses for justice in Osman Hadi case
Iran says it is in full-scale war with US, Israel ahead of TrumpNetanyahu talks
Kosovo PM Albin Kurti to form new government after Vetevendosje wins nearly half the vote
Sharif Osman Hadis killing in Bangladesh was allegedly exploited to fuel anti-India protests and unrest, with intelligence sources suggesting political motives rather than ideological rivalry. Key suspects remain at large, and India denies involvement in their escape.

Did our AI summary help?
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

South Korea to ease access to North Koreas Rodong Sinmun in policy shift under President Lee
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Thailand and Cambodia agree to 'consolidate ceasefire' in China talks
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Top diplomats of China, Cambodia and Thailand meet as Beijing seeks to strengthen role in dispute
Trump hints at Ukraine trip, says, 'I dont anticipate it, want to get deal done'
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Trump says Ukraine peace talks in final stages, Donbas dispute unresolved after Zelenskyy talks
Loans up to

OTHERS

OTHERS

co-presented by

Follow us on:

Loans up to

My Account

or

or

Hello, Login

All

Trump, Zelenskyy say Ukraine peace talks 95% complete, but thorny issues remain; Putin rejects ceasefire for referendums | Top updates
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

'We're Muslims!': Pak president Zardari follows Asim Munir's footsteps, uses communal hate in Op Sindoor boast
What the US looks like when immigration slows to a trickle
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

When Washington chased UFOs: The 1952 sightings that still have no answer
Loans up to

Follow us on:

Loans up to

Why Ukrainian men are risking death to avoid the front line
December 29, 2025

Ukraine  Negotiations At A Standstill, The War Progresses

Yesterdays negotiations between U.S. President Donald Trump and the acting President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelenski about a peace agreement with Russia went nowhere (archived):

A new round of peace talks between President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and President Trump seem to have produced little beyond a promise to meet again next month and a reminder of how distant a peace deal remains.



After the meeting on Sunday, Mr. Trump signaled that he would remain engaged in the negotiations  a win for Ukraine given his repeated threats to walk away. Mr. Trump also backed away from setting another deadline to reach a peace deal, after having previously floated Thanksgiving and Christmas as target dates. I dont have deadlines, Mr. Trump told reporters as he greeted Mr. Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago in Florida for the talks. You know what my deadline is? Getting the war ended.

Two weeks ago we were expecting this outcome:

The current negotiated parameters can not lead to a peace agreement with Russia. The Trump administration needs to take a step back. It can deliver the currently negotiated package to Russia which will study it and ask for negotiations of details that will take several years to find some end point. Or it can put the whole issue aside for now and go for a retry in six to twelve months.



By then resistance to a peace agreement, be it by Ukraine or Europe, will have decreased. Only then will peace in Ukraine and Europe become a real possibility.

A big win for Russia during this round of negotiations is that Trump has rejected the ceasefire which Zelenski and his European supporters have tried to impose to then prepare for a new round of fighting:

WASHINGTON, December 29. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump said he agreed with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that a ceasefire amid arrangements for holding a referendum in Ukraine would not work. Reporters asked the US leader to share the details of his phone call with Putin regarding whether Russia had agreed to a ceasefire for the period of holding a referendum in Ukraine. Not a ceasefire, and thats one of the points that were working on right now. No, not a ceasefire. He (Putin  TASS) feels that. Look, you know, theyre fighting, and to stop, and then if they have to start again, which is a possibility. He doesnt want to be in that position. I understand that position, Trump said at a joint press conference with Vladimir Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on December 28.

The speed of progress Russian troops are making has increased. During the last weeks several significant Ukrainian cities  Kupiansk, Siversk, Pokrovsk, Myronograd, Huleipole  have fallen into Russian hands. The Ukrainian command seems to ignore this reality. It took weeks to admit that Siverks had fallen. It still claims to hold ground in Myrnograd and Huleipole. It loudly claims a successful counteroffensive in Kupiansk while its troops there get bombed to smithereens.

Meanwhile Russia has widely succeeded in de-energizing Ukraine. Electricity in Ukraines big cities is limited to less than 12 hours per day. The countryside has largely been turned off completely. Central heating and water supply barely function.

The Russian side keeps emphasizing that its attacks on infrastructure in Ukraine are in retaliation for Ukrainian drone attacks on oil processing facilities in Russia. Russia has a significant overcapacity in the refining business. It can afford the losses the Ukrainian side is able to inflict. Ukraine however can not afford a total blackout. Nevertheless it continues its self-destructive efforts.

The war has gone on much longer than I had expected nearly four years ago. The reasons were a very careful Russian campaign that had tried to avoid civilian casualties and damage on one side and, on the other side, an immense amount of support Ukraine has received from its allies.

Both parameters are changing. The campaign to de-energize Ukraine is hurting those civilians who so far could avoid to be impacted by the war. The U.S. has largely stopped its delivery of weapons to Ukraine. The Europeans are cutting back their provisions of arms and money.

In the new year we can expect that the Ukrainian public willingness to continue the war will break down. At the same time the Ukrainian army efforts to defend against Russian onslaughts will falter. Troops will revolt, commanders will leave their positions.

But when, where and how this will end are still open questions.
By Emmanuel T. Erediano

[email protected]

Variety News Staff

THE House of Representatives on Monday unanimously rejected the Senate version of House Bill 24-74, which would appropriate $1 million in public land income to the Public School System and the mayors offices of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

Authored by Rep. Blas Jonathan Attao and introduced by the entire House as a committee of the whole, H.B. 24-74 now goes to a bicameral conference committee.

All 17 House members present voted to reject the amended version of the bill and call for the formation of a conference committee to draft a version acceptable to both the Senate and the House.

Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez appointed Rep. Blas Jonathan Attao, Rep. Ralph Yumul, and Rep. John Paul Sablan as House conferees.

Rep. Thomas John Manglona, Rep. Patrick San Nicolas, and Rep. Ralph N. Yumul were excused, while Rep. Julie Ogo attended the session via video teleconference.

H.B. 24-74 was originally intended to fund the Nutrition Assistance Program for November distribution of food stamp benefits, shielding recipients from the impact of a federal government shutdown. The source of the funds is derived from trust interest income remitted to the general fund by the Marianas Public Land Trust.

The $1 million MPLT appropriation bill is one of Gov. David M. Apatangs recommendations to adequately fund PSS in compliance with the 25% constitutional mandate.

When the shutdown ended on Nov. 12, 2025, Gov. Apatang informed the Legislature that the money to address the NAP fund shortfall was no longer needed. He recommended allocating the public land income to PSS, the Marianas Visitor Authority, and the municipalities of Tinian and Rota.

The Senate version of the bill, which the House is expected to pass today, appropriates the funds as follows:

 $250,000 for PSS

 $100,000 for Saipan Mayors Office operations

 $325,000 for Tinian Mayors Office public programs

 $325,000 for Rota Mayors Office public programs

Emmanuel Arnold Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
By Bryan Manabat

[email protected]

Variety News Staff

SUPERIOR Court Associate Judge Teresa Kim-Tenorio has disqualified Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja  and the entire CNMI Superior Court bench  from hearing the long-running class-action lawsuit accusing Mobil Oil Mariana Islands, Inc. and Shell Marianas of gasoline price-fixing.

In a 22-page order issued Dec. 12, Judge Kim-Tenorio granted the oil companies motions seeking Narajas recusal under 1 CMC  3308(a) and 3309(b). The court found that the plaintiffs newly expanded class definition now includes all persons who purchased regular unleaded gasoline in Saipan from 2005 to the present  a group that necessarily includes all Superior Court judges and their immediate families.

Because class membership in a case seeking monetary relief constitutes a disqualifying financial interest, Judge Kim-Tenorio ruled that Naraja is barred from presiding. She further held that the same conflict applies to every judge on the Superior Court.

The Court finds that all judges of the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands are disqualified from hearing this matter, the order states.

The judge rejected the plaintiffs argument that the Rule of Necessity should allow Judge Naraja to remain on the case. That doctrine applies only when no lawful tribunal is available, she wrote, and the CNMI Constitution expressly authorizes the chief justice to appoint a pro tem judge from another jurisdiction.

The case will now be reassigned to an off-island judge.

Background

The lawsuit was first filed in 2010 by local residents Joey P. San Nicolas, Eulogio M. Sablan, Jose T. Limes, Jose P. Kiyoshi, and Felipe Q. Atalig, alleging that Mobil and Shell conspired to fix gasoline prices. The original class definition excluded government entities, attorneys of record, franchisees, and the presiding judge and their immediate family members.

The Superior Court dismissed the case in 2011, but the CNMI Supreme Court revived it in 2012 and sent it back for further proceedings. Since then, multiple judges have recused themselves  including Judge Joseph N. Camacho in 2013 and Judge Kenneth L. Govendo in 2024.

The latest dispute arose after the plaintiffs filed a revised class certification motion in October 2025 that removed all exclusions, broadening the class to nearly every gasoline consumer in Saipan over a 20-year period.

Mobil and Shell argued that this created an unavoidable conflict of interest for Judge Naraja and all other local judges. Judge Kim-Tenorio agreed.

A hearing on the recusal motions was held Nov. 21, 2025.

The case will continue once the chief justice appoints a qualified pro tem judge under Article IV, Section 9(d) of the CNMI Constitution.

Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator.
President Donald Trump greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, Dec. 28, 2025. REUTERS

PALM BEACH, Florida (Reuters)  President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy were getting a lot closer, maybe very close to an agreement to end the war in Ukraine, while acknowledging that the fate of the disputed Donbas region remains a key unresolved issue.

The two spoke at a joint news conference after meeting at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Sunday afternoon. Both reported progress on two of the most contentious issues in peace talks  security guarantees for Ukraine and the division of eastern Ukraines Donbas region that Russia has sought to capture.

Both Trump and Zelenskiy offered few details and did not provide a deadline for completing a peace deal, although Trump said it will be clear in a few weeks whether negotiations to end the war will succeed. He said a few thorny issues around territory must be resolved.

Zelenskiy said an agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine has been reached. Trump was slightly more cautious, saying that they were 95% of the way to such an agreement, and that he expected European countries to take over a big part of that effort with U.S. backing.

French President Emmanuel Macron, in an X post published after Trump met with Zelenskiy, said progress was made on security guarantees. Macron said countries in the so-called Coalition of the Willing would meet in Paris in early January to finalize their concrete contributions.

Zelenskiy has said previously that he hopes to soften a U.S. proposal for Ukrainian forces to withdraw completely from Donbas, a Russian demand that would mean ceding some territory held by Ukrainian forces. While Moscow insists on getting all of Donbas, Kyiv wants the map frozen at current battle lines.

Both Trump and Zelenskiy said on Sunday the future of the Donbas had not been settled, though the U.S. president said discussions are moving in the right direction. The United States, seeking a compromise, has proposed a free economic zone if Ukraine leaves the area, although it remains unclear how that zone would function in practical terms.

Its unresolved, but its getting a lot closer. Thats a very tough issue, Trump said.

Nor did the leaders offer much insight into what agreements they had reached on providing security for Ukraine after the war ends, something Zelenskiy described Sunday as the key milestone in achieving a lasting peace.

Zelenskiy said any peace agreement would have to be approved by Ukraines parliament, or by a referendum. Trump said he would be willing to speak to parliament if that would secure the deal.

Shortly before Zelenskiy and his delegation arrived at Trumps Florida residence, Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke in a call described as productive by the U.S. president and friendly by Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov.

Ushakov, in Moscow, said Putin told Trump a 60-day ceasefire proposed by the European Union and Ukraine would prolong the war. The Kremlin aide also said Ukraine needs to make a decision regarding the Donbas without further delay.

Trump said he and Putin spoke for more than two hours. He said the Russian president pledged to help rebuild Ukraine, including by supplying cheap energy. Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, Trump said. It sounds a little strange.

As Trump praised Putin, Zelenskiy tilted his head and smiled.

Trump said he would call Putin again following the meeting with Zelenskiy.

The Kremlin expressed support for Trumps negotiations.

The whole world appreciates President Trump and his teams peace efforts, Kirill Dmitriev, Putins special envoy, posted on X early on Monday after Trumps talks with Zelenskiy.

U.S. negotiators have also proposed shared control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Power line repairs have begun there after another local ceasefire brokered by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the agency said on Sunday.

Negotiators, Trump said, have made progress on deciding the fate of the plant, which can start up almost immediately. The U.S. president said its a big step that Russia had not bombed the facility.

Russia controls all of Crimea, which it annexed in 2014, and since its invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago has taken control of about 12% of its territory, including about 90% of the Donbas, 75% of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, and slivers of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, according to Russian estimates.

The day before Zelenskiy arrived in Florida to meet with Trump, Russian forces attacked Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine with hundreds of missiles and drones, knocking out power and heat in parts of the Ukrainian capital. Zelenskiy has described the weekend attacks as Russias response to the U.S.-brokered peace efforts, but Trump on Sunday said he believes Putin and Zelenskiy are serious about peace.

After Saturdays air attacks, Putin said Moscow would continue waging its war if Kyiv did not seek a quick peace. Russia has steadily advanced on the battlefield in recent months, claiming control over several more settlements on Sunday.

European heads of state joined at least part of Sundays meeting by phone. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on social media site X that Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our US partners, and added that having ironclad security guarantees will be of paramount importance.

A spokesman for U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said European leaders underlined the importance of robust security guarantees and reaffirmed the urgency of ending this barbaric war as soon as possible.
A Chinese container ship recently spotted decked out with military hardware is receiving a fair amount of attention and is another sign of how commercial shipping is being absorbed into brewing global conflicts. What exactly is on the ship? Heres The War Zone with a rundown:

The vessel has containers packed on its deck, both used for containing weapons and for mounting them, along with sensors. In other words, the layout appears to be designed as something of an improvised superstructure in order to turn the cargo ship into a heavily-armed surface combatant of sorts. This includes the mounting of a large rotating phased-array radar forward of the bridge atop three containers, as well as another domed radar or communications system across the deck from it mounted on two containers. Near the bow of the vessel, high-up mounted above two containers, we see an Type 1130 30mm close-in-weapon system (CIWS) for last-ditch defense against incoming threats, especially cruise missiles. One container lower, on both sides, we see Type 726 decoy launchers mounted on top of another pair of containers. The large cylindrical pods appear to be emergency life rafts, likely required because of the expanded crew size to make a concept like this work. Then we get to the real eyebrow raiser, a deck literally covered with containerized vertical launchers. Installed five wide and three deep, each packing four large launch tubes, this arrangement gives the vessel a whopping 60 vertical large launch cells. This is two-thirds the VLS capacity of a Arleigh Burke class Flight I or II destroyer.

There are arguments that it is a sign Beijing is preparing for a Taiwan conflict to escalate into a larger one. Theres also conjecture that China is producing so many missiles, theyre in need of more launch platforms, hence the appearance of them on a container ship:

The First Certainty and the Second Certainty A unknown Chinese container ship has been caught apparently carrying Multiple AESA Radars, Heavy AShMs, Decoy launchers, EW Radars/Jammers, Anti Drone Systems, CIWS and around 50-60 VLS Missile cells. The Iranians were the pioneers pic.twitter.com/sW4dcYRWm6  Patricia Marins (@pati_marins64) December 26, 2025

It looks like the Chinese vessel is part of testing stages with an eye towards potentially converting cargo ships in the case the need arises during conflict.

Keep in mind that this is likely for testing. You want to actually test out the concept of how easily you can load up a container ship (which they have so many of) in war scenario. As such, they are not hiding anything here. And this idea isnt really expected to operate outside  tphuang (@tphuang) December 26, 2025

But the possibilities are endless with many speculating how launchers hidden in cargo could be used in a devastating attack:

Containerized weapons are real and represent a big gray zone between commercial shipping and military. A couple of thoughts:  most high value naval bases are adjacent to commercial cargo facilities.

 containers are almost never inspected prior to reaching their destination.

- https://t.co/LvkOwF5VTF  TimOnPoint (@TimOnPoint) December 25, 2025

I have a theory that the invasion of Taiwan by CCP will probably involve two container ships docking in Taiwan with 15-20k shock troops secretly in Cargo hulls to coordinate with local support to take and hold the port for the rest of the invasion force. The pics in the  Will Shaw (@willshawison) December 26, 2025

Im no military expert but it doesnt seem China needs to sneak attack its way to a military victory in East Asia. Its preference is to let its economic power do its conquering. Its also unclear why China, which benefits from calm global trade, would want to turn itself into a pariah by using a container ship to sneak attack a military base or elsewhere. Thats a one-off move with long-term negative consequences. That type of behavior is more up the alley of the US and its proxies.

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has released footage showing several of the container trucks used Sunday during the large-scale drone attack against airbases inside Russia, dubbed Operation Spiderweb. The containers were disguised to look like prefabricated homes from the pic.twitter.com/O1mvpyv8ef  OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) June 4, 2025

But heres a thought: perhaps the Chinese see the current trajectory of global shipping becoming part of the battlefield. Theyre not the ones initiating it, but like other nations, feel the need to respond.

Former US Assistant Secretary of Defense Chas Freeman was on Glenn Diesen the other day talking about how the US and its vassals are putting an end to freedom of navigation:

We are entering a world in which the rule of law, the rules found order based on consensus of international participants is disappearing, if it has not already disappeared. And were back to the 18th or 17th century in terms of piracy on the high seas actions undertaken with no legal justification no reciprocity of rules no enforcement of regulations no norms that govern the action of sovereign states or for that matter non-state actors

With the United States of Pirates hijacking ships and trying to take control over global ports and chokepoint shipping lanes, would it be surprising if the Chinese are taking precautionary measures? Or are they to sit back and allow this to happen to their ships?

US navy boards a Hong Kong-owned oil ship in Venezuela. This is potentially a repeat of the Yinhe incident in 1993 Indian Ocean, the US alleged the China-based container ship Yinhe of carrying chemical weapon materials to Iran. A standoff ensued, eventually China allowed the US pic.twitter.com/n281oOcAnF  Zhao DaShuai  (@zhao_dashuai) December 21, 2025

yep, if youve demonstrated a preference to seize ships off the high seas, try doing that when the ship can blast your chopper outta the sky. bullies respond only to force  Thundaga (@thundaga99) December 26, 2025

The US has been doing its best to incorporate global shipping into the third world war were approachingif not already inand Washington is succeeding. Freight rates are high and volatile amid costly reroutings and tariffs disrupting trade flows.

If weaponized tariffs being used as bargaining chips in non-economic discussions were the opening gun in this new chapter of confrontation, were already well into the remainder of the race.

The fight for control of the Panama Canal and other global ports continues, the US enacted port fees for Chinese owned and operated and Chinese-built ships but after a few weeks suspended them for one year, Ansar Allah doing its best to enforce the Genocide Convention and impose a Red Sea blockade on commercial vessels aiding Israels genocide in Gaza, and the US piracy and murder in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

Weve seen new terms, such as shadow fleet and narcoterrorist become commonplace in an effort for Washington and the West to craft new unilateral laws of the sea.

Lets not forget the Ukrainians, with the blessing of US-led NATO, hitting Russian tankers (of the shadow fleet) with submersible drones in the Black Sea and even the Mediterranean.

We also have EU nations threatening Russian oil-carrying ships that arent insured in the West, and Moscow looks to be preparing in case the Europeans get any crazy ideas:

https://t.co/nhBa9mCnpD Now comes the tipping point. How serious is NATO in enforcing the EUs own sanctions against the Russian Shadow Fleet in the Baltic? If it is serious, then these ships will be boarded and seized. If not, then EU sanctions are meaningless, and Putin will  John Bulkeley (@bulkeley_john) December 17, 2025

China, of course, is not the only nation looking at decking out commercial ships with military toys. The US Army has been working on containerized counter-drone systems, as well as boxes with rockets:

As Freeman states on Diesens program, theres one obvious way to prevent all this from continuing to spiral out of control, and we all know what that is:

The absence of war is not peace. But to have rules and agreed rules. Not rules imposed by one party, but rules agreed between many

Seeing as one side refuses anything but hegemonic peace, it will have to be decided in another fashion, and at this rate its only a matter of time. And should global shipping, which carries more than 80 per cent of the worlds merchandise for export and import take a much more substantial hit, who will be hurt more? Smaller states that rely heavily on imports will be for sure; they already are getting hit by the upheaval.

Washington ignores that others can play the same game, with Iran on December 26 seizing a tanker in the Persian Gulf it accused of smuggling four million liters of fuel and some reports suggesting it was linked to an American businessman. As with many of the recent American violent adventures, this is not likely to end in the way the flight of fancy operatives in Washington hope for.

A great many American fools believe it is a glorious strategic triumph that the US is undertaking to impose a blockade on US sanctioned oil shipments in the Caribbean and around the world. As I have argued previously, I now repeat: this will end badly. https://t.co/hj9mK8sdzr  Will Schryver (@imetatronink) December 24, 2025
The Trump administration has dramatically expanded the official definition of terrorism and is already getting accused Antifa members to enter guilty pleas for providing material support to terrorists.

NSPM-7 Casts a Very Wide Net

Weve covered Trumps September 25 National Security Presidential Memorandum titled Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence (NSPM-7) previously.

Trumps Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller called NSPM-7, The first time in American history that there is an all-of-government effort to dismantle left wing terrorism.

Ken Klippenstein described the memo thus:

In NSPM-7, Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence, President Trump directs the Justice Department, the FBI, and other national security agencies and departments to fight his version of political violence in America, retooling a network of Joint Terrorism Task Forces to focus on leftist political violence in America. This vast counterterrorism army, made up of federal, state, and local agents would, as Trump aide Stephen Miller said, form the central hub of that effort. NSPM-7 directs a new national strategy to disrupt any individual or groups that foment political violence, including before they result in violent political acts. In other words, theyre targeting pre-crime, to reference Minority Report. The Trump administration isnt only targeting organizations or groups but even individuals and entities whom NSPM-7 says can be identified by any of the following indicia (indicators) of violence: anti-Americanism,

anti-capitalism,

anti-Christianity,

support for the overthrow of the United States Government,

extremism on migration,

extremism on race,

extremism on gender

hostility towards those who hold traditional American views on family,

hostility towards those who hold traditional American views on religion, and

hostility towards those who hold traditional American views on morality. The United States requires a national strategy to investigate and disrupt networks, entities, and organizations that foment political violence so that law enforcement can intervene in criminal conspiracies before they result in violent political acts, the directive states (emphasis mine).

NSPM-7 painted in broad strokes, now the Trump team is filling in the details.

Bondi Releases a Tactical Roadmap

In December, Attorney General Pam Bondi released a memo On Countering Domestic Terrorism And Organized Political Violence that Klippenstein described as the war plan for how the government will wage (war on just about anyone who isnt MAGA) on a tactical level.

Bondis memo opens with a section titled, Defining the domestic terrorism threat which includes this sentence: For some culpable actors, such as certain Antifa-aligned extremists, their animating principle is adherence to the types of extreme viewpoints on immigration, radical gender ideology, and anti-American sentiment listed below, with a willingness to use violence against law-abiding citizenry to serve those beliefs.

The memo also vows that where domestic terrorism is encountered or suspected, law enforcement agencies shall refer such matters to the Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTFs) for the exhaustive investigation contemplated by NSPM-7.

Bondi also defines acts of domestic terrorism as:

Such acts may include organized rioting, looting, doxing, and swatting; and conspiracies to impede or assault law enforcement, destroy property, or engage in violent civil disorder. Law enforcement agencies shall refer these matters to the JTTFs for investigation. Upon receipt of these referrals, the JTTFs shall use all available investigative tools, consistent with law enforcement internal policies and statutory obligations, to map the full network of culpable actors involved in the referred conduct inside and outside the United States.

Note the inclusion of doxing in the list of proscribed acts.

Doxing Includes What Exactly?

Reason.com elaborated on the memos inclusion of doxing:

While undefined in the memo, doxing in this context is understood to mean the publishing of information that identifies law enforcement officers, which the Justice Department insinuates is a threatening activity used to silence opposing speech, limit political activity, change or direct policy outcomes, and prevent the functioning of a democratic society. This definition mirrors previous statements by DHS officials earlier this year, including a statement made by Noem in July: Violence is anything that threatens [agents] and their safety, so its doxing them, its videotaping them where theyre at when theyre out on operations. However, much of what the Trump administration tries to paint as the unacceptable doxing of law enforcement agents is often observers merely recording on-duty officersan activity firmly protected by the First Amendment when no physical interference or danger is present, and an important tool for holding public officials accountable. By broadly defining domestic terrorism to include something as vague as doxing, the Trump administration has rolled out a nationwide policy of intimidating and threatening people who attempt to observe and record DHS operations, according to David Bier, the director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute. Under such a broad definition, even the DHS own camera crews and media hired specifically to record and publish details of immigration operations could potentially be prosecuted for domestic terrorism. The only limiting factor in the memo seems to be whether the publisher is considered Trumps political ally or opponent, i.e., an Antifa-aligned extremist, which the December 4 memo defines, in part, as someone with extreme viewpoints on immigration, such as mass migration and open borders.

Bondis memo does more than proscribe protected First Amendment actions, it also mandates an FBI tipline.

FBI To Open Tipline for Tattlers

Klippenstein describes the incentives outlined in Bondis memo:

Bondi directs the FBI to enhance the capabilities (and publicity) of its tipline in order to more aggressively solicit tips from the American public on, well, other Americans. To that end, Bondi also directs the FBI to establish a cash reward system for information leading to identification and arrest of leadership figures within these purported domestic terrorist organizations. (The memo later instructs the FBI to establish cooperators to provide information and eventually testify against other members of the groups.) The payouts dont end there. Justice Department grants are now to prioritize funding to programs for state and local law enforcement to go after domestic terrorism.

One has to wonder if the kind of organized opposition ICE encountered in Chicago will fall under the mandate of NSPM-7.

Neighborhoods Organized to Resist ICE

Melissa Gira Grant reported on a network of rapid-response groups that have sprung up over the last few months to protect immigrant communities from the Trump administrations brutal, far-reaching mass deportation program for The New Republic.

Gira Grant details the legal steps taken by Illinois elected officials (some of which Ive covered here previously):

The mayor signed an executive order designating city-owned property as ICE Free Zones. A federal judge required some of those overseeing the operation, such as Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, to testify under oath, and set schedules for them to update the court on the operation. But neither political nor legal interventions have managed to meaningfully interrupt whats going on. ICE-free zones, residents report, do not stop ICE. And the slow-moving legal system cant prevent agents from violating residents constitutional rights; indeed, the system largely functions to offer redress after the fact. Even when courts have ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement or CBP to cease some violent action, such as lobbing tear gas into residential neighborhoods, agents ignored them. The scores of terrifying arrests continued.

Gira Grant contrasts the acts of the electeds with the community response to ICE:

The one response that has been genuinely effective has come from community membersordinary residents who have come together, trained one another, and connected across neighborhoods to form groups like the Southwest Side Rapid Response Team. They have eyes on the street, the trust of their neighbors, and the ability to intervene practically instantaneously, sharing information with the ICE-activity hotline that operates across the state. They can record evidence and pass it along in seconds to rights groups, news media, and social media. Blending protest and direct action, they are offering something concrete to Chicagoans who want to express their opposition to Donald Trumps war on immigrants. This is true movement-building, a project that may endure after this particular threat to immigrant communities, even after this regime. ICE, CBP, and others have violently retaliated against these groups in part because the agencies correctly understand what many do not: Organized neighbors are mounting an effective defense, and an organized movement is a formidable adversary.

DHS was widely reported to have left Chicago in November, perhaps because of the organized resistance it encountered.

Turns out Chicago was just getting a brief respite.

Sorry Cicero, Bovinos Back

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commander Gregory Bovino spent a good deal of time in New Orleans in early December, but returned to Illinois on December 17:

Bovino, who was at the center of several use-of-force lawsuits and the most violent, controversial actions of Operation Midway Blitz, was back in the Chicago area Tuesday morning. The enforcement action sends a clear message that although some declared Operation Midway Blitz to be over, it is not. A source tells CBS News Chicago this will not be the only day the city will see federal agents out in force. A U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told CBS News that Bovino has temporarily come to Chicago to continue immigration enforcement, and would not confirm when he intends to return to Louisiana. In a video shared with CBS News Chicago by an immigration rapid response group, Bovino can be seen on the sidewalk standing with a group of Border Patrol agents, talking and laughing. The video was taken near Midway International Airport, which is not far from the initial sightings of him in Cicero. Bovino and his team of agents in tactical gear wasted no time taking people into custody, seemingly at random off the street. Federal agents sped through Little Village, making frequent stops and meeting protesters at every turn. Neighbors tried to use a large rock to block agents from making their way down 26th Street through the neighborhood, but it did not work. Groups of residents and protesters were out throughout Little Village, blowing whistles, filming, and confronting agents as they continued their operations.

If the Chicagoland resistance thought it had run ICE out of town on a rail, they may have other thinks coming.

DHS Investigations Across the Country

A Guardian piece on FBI domestic terrorism investigations included the below map, note the dark blue area covering Chicagoland:

Time will tell how Chicagos organized resistance fares against an ICE armed with NSPM-7, but so far a group of Texas resisters isnt faring so well.

Antifa Accusations Garner Guilty Pleas

Ive covered the July 7 incident that U.S. and Texas law enforcement is calling the Prarieland attack previously, but there are new developments.

Another Guardian piece details the Trump administrations first trophy in its NSPM-7 campaign:

The justice department announced it was bringing terrorism charges against two people in Texas who were part of a North Texas antifa cell. Prosecutors said the cell had planned an attack at ICEs Prairieland detention facility and ended with two correctional officers being shot at and a police officer sustaining a non-fatal gunshot wound. Ultimately, 18 people were charged  some donning all black gear, masks and radios  and the government said they had carefully plotted the attack. It was the first time the government had ever filed terrorism charges against antifa. In total, 15 people were charged with providing material support for terrorism. They also face state charges as well as numerous other federal charges relating to rioting, carrying an explosive, firearms, and attempted murder of a federal employee.



There is no doubt a police officer was shot at the protest. Prosecutors have also brought charges against people they say helped the alleged shooter escape. But the case has drawn considerable alarm because of the way that prosecutors have sought to create a criminal enterprise  a North Texas antifa cell  among a group of demonstrators who were uninvolved in the shooting. Legal experts say it is a thinly veiled effort to crack down on leftwing groups and deter protesters. Six defendants have already pleaded guilty to providing material support to terrorists. It should concern everyone else in the country, because their community, their circles, might be next, said Xavier de Janon, who is the director of mass defense at the National Lawyers Guild and has been closely following the case. This precedent could result in people facing terrorism charges for doing very simple mainstream activism. The case is more complex than Trump officials have let on, according to a Guardian review of court records and interviews with defense lawyers and family members. The evidence so far raises considerable questions about whether those charged believed they were going to a protest that would result in violence or destruction of federal property. Family members and lawyers for several of those charged said in interviews the defendants had nothing to do with antifa. And experts say the terrorism charges the government has filed have nothing to do with the ideology of the defendants. Perhaps most significant in the Texas case is the way that prosecutors have sought to create a criminal enterprise  a North Texas antifa cell  among a group of demonstrators, some of whom say they did not know each other and met for the first time at the protest. Prosecutors have pointed to leftwing zines and flyers seized from the protesters, their use of the encrypted messaging app Signal, all-black clothing worn at the protest, and general discussion of firearms to argue that those at the protest were part of a terror cell.

Time will tell how successful the Trump administration will be in applying NSPM-7s broad definitions of terrorism against those resisting the administration.

For our part, we will work to keep Naked Capitalism readers apprised.
This story is a partnership between the Nashville Banner and the Nashville Scene. The Nashville Banner is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization focused on civic news. Visit nashvillebanner.com for more information.

This fall, A.B. Eastwood paused mid-session when another producer proposed something he never thought hed encounter in a professional recording studio.

Eastwood, a Nashville native producer and songwriter who now splits his time between home and Los Angeles, says he and a group of collaborators were midway through writing a song when the co-producer suggested they run the track through Suno, an AI platform that specializes in generating music, to see how it would sound filtered through a different genre, like 90s R&B.

Eastwood was shocked.

It was the first time I had come face to face with somebody jumping to AI in a session, he tells the Nashville Banner, catching up over the phone while working in Los Angeles. "I've seen people do AI post-production for, you know, ornamental additions. I understand that as a tool, and [a way to] pull some cool ideas to finish a project. I get that. Im not too upset. But we weren't even done with the song. It was weird.

Though it was a first for Eastwood, it almost certainly wont be the last time he and other musicians like him will have to reckon with artificial intelligence and its effects on their careers, creativity and livelihoods. AI-generated music is gaining popularity at a rapid clip, and songs by AI avatars have started charting on streaming services and on Billboard.

Like the launch of Napster at the turn of the millennium and the introduction of the drum machine two decades before that, the infiltration of generative AI into music making marks another watershed moment for the industry  an industry still recovering from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and still struggling to compensate artists fairly in an ecosystem dominated by on-demand streaming and lagging record sales.

Even as some major labels and artists experiment with licensed AI tools (in late November, Warner Music Group announced a partnership with Suno, for example), many musicians in Nashville see the technology less as a collaborator than as an existential threat.

Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Could Prohibit Tennessee AI Laws [Updated] U.S. Senate votes to remove provision from federal budget legislation that would infringe upon states right to legislate artificial intelligence

While he knows he needs to make a living, Eastwood says he is primarily concerned with AIs potential as a creativity killer. Getting stuck while writing a song or working in the studio can be frustrating, he says, but working through those moments often yields serendipitous results, whether leading a song down an unexpected path or challenging him to branch out from preconceived ideas about the project hes making.

I know for a fact I didn't like it, he says of bringing AI into the studio. I was trying to find my peace with it in the session, but I'm an explorer and a searcher when it comes to music. I don't mind trying another idea and trying to find the thing that really sits well. But we didn't give ourselves a chance to rack our brains about it before we put [AI] in there. ... It just didnt feel good. It felt like cheating.

That cheating comes at the expense not just of human creativity, but also the actual livelihoods of the artists whose music is used to train algorithms for platforms like Suno. These platforms are not creating music in a vacuum; instead, they pull from millions of existing songs to approximate a particular sound or style, with no recognition or compensation for the creators whose work is being mined for data.

Eastwood says he already sees colleagues losing money to generative AI, particularly behind-the-scenes players like mastering engineers and others in post-production roles.

"There are already people not working as much, he says. "Its Pandora's box. It's open, and it's not going to close.

Certified Human

Lili McGrady knows she cant close that box, but she and her company Humanable are doing their best to protect the work and income of human creators anyway.

Humanable, launched by McGrady and co-founder Tim Wipperman in September 2024, offers artists a way to certify their music as human-made. She likens a Humanable certification to a certified organic designation on a piece of produce and sees Humanable as valuable not just to artists seeking to distinguish themselves from AI avatars, but also to listeners who wish to support music made by human beings.

McGrady, a Nashville transplant with a background in theater and trademarking, tells the Banner that upon landing in town and getting involved in the local music scene, she noticed similar AI-related fears among artists and industry folks alike.

They were afraid of generative AI eating their lunch, their minimal lunch, McGrady tells the Banner. I was especially hearing things from kids who had just gotten their first publishing deals, after working years and years to get that first pub deal. Theyre just terrified, like, I finally have a pub deal. Is this going to go away?

She and her team dreamed up Humanable in February 2024, hired software developers within weeks and had a functioning platform within the year. She connects the speed of Humanables launch to the urgency of the situation facing the music industry, saying that at the end of the day, It all comes down to money.

A conservative estimate right now is that in two years at least 24 percent of royalties from actual human music creators is going to be gone due to AI music and streaming fraud, McGrady explains. That is a loss of over $5 billion a year for the music industry. ... It's a crisis financially to the music industry, and it's a crisis to actual human art and expression. And it's also, frankly, a crisis to the city of Nashville, because this is a big chunk of what makes us who we are.

Any artist can sign up with Humanable, regardless of whether they are affiliated with a label, publishing company or other industry entity. McGrady says their vetting process is rigorous, and half-jokes that they know which attorneys general to alert should an artist lie about a songs provenance.

"The first step is we verify your ID, she says. When creators certify a piece of work with us, they sign an affidavit for each song going forward that says, This was created without generative AI, and to the best of my knowledge, if I had co-writers, they did not [use generative AI either].

Jennie Hayes Kurtz is one-half of the Americana duo Brother and the Hayes, alongside her brother David Bingham. Brother and the Hayes is an official Humanable artist, and Hayes tells the Banner that protecting the pairs work from the growing threat of generative AI feels imperative in todays rapidly shifting landscape.

Asked when that threat first appeared on her radar, Hayes shares an anecdote from her work leading songwriting workshops at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum as part of the Words and Music Program for schools. As large language model chatbots like ChatGPT grew in popularity, teachers and songwriters involved in the program began to notice that some tech-savvy students were using AI to write their songs  something that goes against the ethos of the educational workshop.

It's kind of like using a calculator to do your math homework, she tells the Banner. Or at least, the kids probably thought of it that way. It might seem harmless, but the point of that program is to think through your lyrics, think through your meaning, think through what you're trying to convey.

Like Eastwood, Hayes says she feels something essential is lost when human ingenuity is outsourced to AI. While she ultimately blames AI companies for creating products that discourage creativity and critical thinking and enable intellectual property theft, she understands that the toothpaste is out of the tube, so to speak, and that the burden of protecting creative industries like music from being cannibalized by generative AI ultimately, unfortunately, falls on the very people it endangers.

The question [people ask most] is, Hey, why does the onus have to be on the artist, on the human? Why can't it be the people that are making the AI songs?' ... That takes legislation, for there to be a law that says if youre publishing an AI product, you have to pay an extra $5 for a label that says, This was made with AI.

That kind of hypothetical legislation feels unlikely. This month, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence that aims to create a uniform federal approach to AI and discourage individual states from enacting their own AI regulations. The order directs federal agencies to review and, in some cases, challenge state laws that conflict with its policy goals, a move that has drawn criticism from leaders in some states including Trump allies like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis  who say they will continue enforcing local AI protections. Without regulation, it will be incumbent upon artists and fans to protect creative industries.

Gov. Lee Signs ELVIS Act Into Law Tennessee becomes first state to codify voice, image and likeness protections against AI

Is regulation impossible? No. And a split among Republicans on tech issues shows how this might not be a traditional red/blue issue. Tennessee, for instance, signed the ELVIS Act into law in 2024  the legislation goes after the proliferation of deepfakes and AI-driven impersonations. California passed an AI-guardrails law in September, and most states have considered some form of legislation this year. But Trumps executive order may put a chill on some efforts.

We all would prefer to eat organic food, right? Hayes says. But the non-organic stuff is going to seep into our world one way or the other. [It's about] informing the consumer, like with a product label. I believe the consumer has a right to know, and then the consumer has a right to decide."

McGrady also says she sees consumer education as essential to protecting human-made music, pointing to the unexpected success of the Velvet Sundown, an AI-generated psych-rock band that went viral on Spotify over the summer. That incident quashed hopes that listeners could easily delineate between human and AI-generated music, not to mention the belief that the average consumer would outright reject non-human music.

Its very clear that the retraining of music consumers has already started, she says. An AI song is topping the country charts, and the Velvet Sundown happened. Human beings can absolutely be retrained, and I think artists should do whatever they can to prevent that before it's too late.

Climbing the Charts

An AI-generated song climbing the country charts sounds sacrilegious in a town built on the bedrock of three chords and the truth, but in November, an AI avatar called Breaking Rust found streaming success with Walk My Walk. With a soulful vocal and moody production, Walk My Walk sounds like it was trained on artists like Chris Stapleton and Luke Combs, with prickly, outsider lyrics that recall the outlaw country subgenre.

A quick scroll through the rest of Breaking Rusts catalog reveals that all of the avatars music seems to come from similar prompts. Most Breaking Rust tracks open with a moody vocalization and employ similar chord structures, with lyrical narratives that focus on individualism and vaguely patriotic titles. Another popular AI-generated country artist, Cain Walker, employs a similar tactic, suggesting that generative AI models may be prone to homogeneity.

Eastwood balked at the idea of an AI-generated artist finding success in country music, a genre that historically has used concepts of authenticity and purity as a means for gatekeeping, particularly against minority artists.

Country is so protective over its genre, and if AI isn't creating anything new and is only pulling from what exists, I'm so surprised that country isn't upset that somebody's stealing from them," Eastwood says. That blows my mind more than anything. Youre so gatekeep-y about how country is made and who makes it, but you're letting a computer take your money from you? Thats just interesting for me.

McGrady hopes that Humanable and other generative-AI-focused efforts will help prevent success stories like those of Breaking Rust and Cain Walker. She notes that getting major streaming services on board with the effort will be crucial, particularly to help consumers distinguish between whats real and whats fake.

We would love to have a Humanable toggle, in the same way that streaming services have a toggle to filter out explicit music, she says. That is what we would eventually love, so that consumers always know what they're getting, and they know that [the royalties from] their streams are not going into the pockets of fake artists.

In the meantime, Hayes says there are plenty of ways to help musicians weather the rising threat of AI, and that fans intentionally engaging with their favorite artists is more important than ever.

Buying physical music from the artist is huge, she says. Collecting vinyl is a great way to support artists that you like, and buying merch, all that stuff. ... If you're like, Wow, I really like this artist, but I only find out about the new music if it comes out on a Spotify playlist, get on their email list. Get on their Patreon."

Eastwood agrees and points out that artists have to meet fans halfway by regularly releasing quality music and finding ways to engage and connect with listeners meaningfully.

Theres a responsibility on us to create a world and show our face more, so people know, Oh, this is who this is, and this is their music, he says. The scale doesn't have to change. We just have to be more intentional about the investment into the people who listen. They'll follow, and they'll care, and they'll still be there.

For musicians like Eastwood and Hayes, the threat of generative AI isnt theoretical  its already present in writing rooms, in classrooms and on streaming charts. While its hard to sum up all that generative AI can do, Hayes is crystal clear on what it cant.

What's so cool is the human relationship that music creates, and the community that it creates, she says. AI cannot do that.

This article first appeared on Nashville Banner and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivatives 4.0 International License.
Back in October, there was a cop fight on Briley Parkway  and not a single one of the traitors in the media who call themselves my friends texted me about it so that I could howl with laughter. I was going to tell Scene editor-in-chief D. Patrick Rodgers about a guy I saw in Hermitage failing to walk a cat on a leash on Christmas Eve, but now that I know people are withholding funny things from me? Its going to be a while before I feel like sharing funny things with them.

Anyway, here are the details as we now know them, because the Metro Nashville Police Department's investigation into the conduct of their officer has concluded. According to Nikkie McGee and Jaxie Pidgeon at WKRN:

The MNPD officer initiated the traffic stop near the Two Rivers Parkway exit while heading Eastbound on Briley Parkway. The trooper was traveling 85 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone. At one point, the SUV flashed blue lights back at the Metro police officer. Eventually, the officer pulled alongside the SUV and called out to the driver before he finally pulled over. The driver quickly charged out of the car and identified himself as a state trooper. The two then use hands on each other, and the officer said he would lock him up if the trooper touches him again.

The state trooper was driving Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton, who everyone knows lives in Nashville with his wife and kids, but who claims on the states website to live in Crossville.

This explains how Sexton lives in two places at once! His state trooper chauffeur can cut the trip from Nashville to Crossville down to little more than the time it takes most people in Nashville to commute from home to other places in Nashville.

Must be nice! If only we could all get our own taxpayer-funded state troopers to race through the streets of the city, taking us from place to place, and then fighting with any Metro police officers who try to stop us.

But just when you think two officers of the law throwing hands shouting Im the police at each other couldnt get any funnier, Sexton has his chief of staff Kevin Johnson tattle to the MNPD. Johnson, mind you, wasnt even there! I dont know if this means Sexton is too important to do his own dirty work, trying to mess with a cops job, or if hes too cowardly. But what a Veruca Salt move  I want that cops life ruined and I want it now!  with Kevin Johnson scrambling behind Veruca Sexton trying to fill his demands.

But then! Just when you think, Well, clearly theres no way Cameron Sexton could make this any funnier, the guy issues a statement about the situation. Why would he do this? Why would anyone let him do this? Is there someone in Cameron Sextons office who loves me and put this out so that I could end my year on a high note? Here's the statement Sexton provided to WKRN:

"An unfortunate incident occurred due to an overzealous MNPD officer in an unmarked car that jeopardized the safety of Speaker Sexton and THP. There was no violation of traffic laws by the THP officer pursuant to state law. In todays climate of political violence, the job of executive protection is more difficult than ever. The THP trooper identified himself to the MNPD officer multiple times and provided documentation multiple times during the stop. The MNPD officer initially placed his left hand on the THP trooper as the trooper was attempting to show him his badge. Which provoked a reaction. Then later, the overly aggressive MNPD officer again placed his hands on and shoved the THP trooper as he attempted to exit the vehicle. The THP trooper showed restraint and refrained from escalating the situation further. In the end cooler heads prevailed. We commend THP for their professionalism and dedication to protect and serve.

No, in Nashville, when an overzealous law enforcement officer in an unmarked car acts, its to steal peoples grandmas. Thats overzealous. This? This is welcome. Please, pull everyone doing 85 on Briley Parkway over. Everyone doing 85 on Briley is endangering the lives of everyone else on Briley, and surely someone doing 85 on Briley while being pursued by a cop is even more of a danger.

Gov. Bill Lee and Our State's Cruel Anti-Immigrant Actions When asked about recent federal immigration sweeps, the governor told reporters 'we want to be a part of that'

Sexton's statement also references todays climate of political violence. Oh OK, Sexton has to speed because of all the political violence. This is the greatest thing Ive ever read. The audacity, the ego, the stupidity! Cameron! You control the state legislature! If its really so dangerous for you out here, fix this mess!

I noted how Sextons release claims the trooper didnt break any state laws. I then spent some time going through our state laws, and I dont know that  if I were writing that press release  Id state that so definitely. Im not a lawyer, but Im looking at what I think might be relevant bits in the state code: Tennessee Code Section 4-7-119 says, Officers of the Tennessee highway patrol may utilize their agency's vehicles and emergency equipment for purposes of carrying out its duties under the assigned protection detail (this seems to fit); and Tennessee Code Section 55-8-108, which is murkier to us non-lawyer types, says, The exemptions granted under subsection (b) to a driver of an authorized emergency vehicle shall only apply when the vehicle is making use of audible and visual signals meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of this state.

So in other words, a trooper carting Sexton around can speed through our streets, but there should be lights and sirens in use on the vehicle while it is speeding. I dont see that in the available footage.

This, to me, also explains why the trooper came out of the car so hot. He potentially did get caught breaking the law, and he was probably embarrassed. Fair. Thats how most people who get pulled over for breaking the law feel. But I guarantee you that, if any of the rest of us had  in the same circumstances  come out of the car and started pushing the cop who pulled us over, wed be lucky if we ended up in jail and not in the hospital or worse.

And the rest of us would never be afforded the privilege of having Cameron Sexton (or his staff, anyway) coming to our defense this hard.

Its wild, really, to see that, when push comes to shove (heh), the people who make our laws cant live by them, but still run for office on the promise that they will do what they can to lower crime. OK, start by either going the speed limit or using your lights and sirens! That act alone would eliminate most of the crime on Briley.

It would make Nashville safer  much less funny, but safer.
Archaeologists uncover vast prehistoric pit circle from the Neolithic era near Stonehenge

Archaeologists uncovered a colossal ring of over 20 deep pits (some 10m wide, 5m deep) encircling Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, spanning over a mile in diameter. Confirmed as one of Britain's largest and most mysterious Neolithic structures, dating back 4,500 yearsthe same era as Stonehenge's peak.

Initially debated as natural formations, advanced techniques (electrical resistance tomography, ground-penetrating radar, sedDNA, OSL dating) proved the pits were deliberately dug. Lead researcher Prof. Vincent Gaffney stated: "They can't be occurring naturally We think we've nailed it."

The precise alignment suggests early mathematical knowledge, possibly used for ritual or cosmological mapping. May have marked a sacred boundary, separating ceremonial grounds from everyday life, reflecting deep spiritual beliefs.

Sediment analysis revealed sheep and cattle DNA, indicating nearby farming activity. Pits remained open for over 1,000 years, surviving cultural shiftshinting at enduring ritual importance.

The pits reinforce Salisbury Plain as a hub of Neolithic spirituality, linking Stonehenge, Woodhenge and Durrington Walls in a coordinated religious landscape. Future research may uncover more pits or astronomical alignments, but the exact purpose remains unknown.

A groundbreaking archaeological discovery near Stonehenge has unveiled a colossal ring of ancient pits, now confirmed as one of Britain's largestand most mysteriousprehistoric structures.

Spanning over a mile in diameter, this monumental arrangement of more than 20 deep shafts, some measuring 10 meters wide and five meters deep, encircles the Neolithic sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, just 1.8 miles northeast of Stonehenge. First detected in 2020, the pits initially sparked debate over whether they were natural formations or deliberate constructions.

Now, a peer-reviewed study published in Internet Archaeologyled by Professor Vincent Gaffney of the University of Bradfordconfirms their human origin, dating them to 4,500 years ago, the same era as Stonehenge's zenith. Using cutting-edge techniquesincluding electrical resistance tomography, ground-penetrating radar, sediment DNA (sedDNA) and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) datingresearchers ruled out natural causes.

Gaffney believes the latest research showed the pits formed an "extraordinary structure" that was probably built in the late Neolithic period. "They can't be occurring naturally. It just can't happen," he stated. "We think we've nailed it."

A sacred boundary or cosmic blueprint?

The precision of the pits suggests Neolithic Britons had advanced counting skills.

"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," Gaffney explained. This implies early mathematical knowledge, possibly used for ritual or cosmological mapping.

The pits encircle Woodhenge, a timber counterpart to Stonehenge, and Durrington Walls, a "superhenge" believed to be the largest in the United Kingdom. BrightU.AI's Enoch engine explains that the Durrington Walls consist of a circular ditch and bank enclosure with multiple entrances and internal features. The Durrington Walls is significant for their size, complexity and the insights they provide into the beliefs, rituals and social structures of the people who built it around 4,700 years ago.

Researchers theorize the pits marked a sacred boundary, separating ceremonial grounds from the mundane world. "They're inscribing something about their cosmology, their belief systems, into the earth itself in a very dramatic way," Gaffney said.

Sheep, cattle and a millennium-long legacy

Sediment analysis revealed animal DNA (sheep and cattle), indicating farming activity nearby. Even more astonishing, OSL dating showed the pits remained open for over 1,000 years, surviving cultural shifts.

"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," Gaffney stated.

The discovery reinforces the Salisbury Plain as a hub of Neolithic spirituality. Stonehenge, Woodhenge, Durrington Walls and now this pit circle forms a ceremonial network, suggesting coordinated religious and social organization.

"The size of the structure demonstrates the society they lived in was capable of planning and motivating large numbers of people for religious purposes," Gaffney noted.

Yet, the ultimate purpose remains elusive. "We may never know exactly why they built it," he admitted.

The research, part of the Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project, continues to decode this ancient enigma. Future studies may reveal more pits, artifacts, or even links to astronomical alignments.

For now, the Durrington pit circle stands as a testament to Neolithic Britain's sophisticationa monumental, sacred boundary etched into the earth, echoing beliefs lost to time but rediscovered through science.

Watch the video about how Stonehenge used sacred geometry to harmonize with the cosmos.

This video is from the Union With God channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

BBC.com

Independent.co.uk

Bradford.ac.uk

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Chinas secret floating arsenal: Commercial ships armed with hidden missile systems raise global alarm

Satellite imagery reveals China converting cargo ships into missile platforms, equipped with vertical launch cells, advanced radar and defensive weaponseffectively matching the firepower of a U.S. Navy destroyer while disguised as commercial vessels.

Containerized missile systems allow China to quickly weaponize civilian ships, leveraging its massive merchant fleet (over 5,000 vessels) for asymmetric warfare, overwhelming adversaries with sheer numbers.

These disguised warships could position near critical chokepoints (Panama Canal, Strait of Hormuz) or U.S. coastal waters, enabling surprise attacks while exploiting legal ambiguities around targeting civilian-appearing vessels.

China's control of maritime trade routes (50% of global commerce passes through the South China Sea) means blockades or supply chain attacks could cripple economies before conventional defenses react.

With China's shipbuilding advantage (200:1 drydock capacity) and hybrid warfare tactics, traditional naval strategies may be ineffective, forcing the U.S. and allies to adapt to a new era of undetectable, mobile missile threats.

Satellite imagery and leaked photographs have exposed China's alarming new naval strategyconverting ordinary cargo ships into heavily armed missile platforms capable of launching surprise attacks anywhere in the world.

The latest images reveal a medium-sized Chinese container vessel packed with an estimated 60 vertical missile launch cells, advanced radar systems and defensive weaponry, effectively transforming it into a floating arsenal ship rivaling the firepower of a U.S. Navy destroyer.

The vessel, photographed at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding yard in Shanghai, appears to be a standard commercial cargo shipexcept for its deck loaded with containerized vertical launch systems (VLS), rotary phased-array radars, Type 1130 Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) and decoy launchers. Military analysts warn that this modular approach allows China to rapidly convert civilian ships into combat-ready platforms, blurring the line between merchant fleets and naval warfare.

According to the Enoch AI engine at BrightU.AI, containerized vertical launch systems represent an innovative approach to mobile missile defense, offering enhanced flexibility, rapid deployment and cost-effectiveness. Containerized vertical launch systems are housed in standard shipping containers, typically 20-foot or 40-foot units, making them easily transportable by truck, train, ship, or air.

"China is making it known that it could, and likely will, turn ships from its behemoth of a commercial fleet into not just shooters, but arsenal ships," wrote Tyler Rogoway of The War Zone, who first analyzed the images.

The ship's 60 missile launch cells provide two-thirds the firepower of an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, raising fears that Beijing could deploy such vessels near global hotspotsincluding the Caribbean, South China Sea, or even U.S. coastal watersunder the guise of innocent commercial shipping.

China's asymmetric warfare strategy

China's civil-military fusion doctrine has long aimed to weaponize civilian infrastructure, but this latest development takes it to a new level. With the world's largest merchant fleet (over 5,000 vessels), Beijing could theoretically convert hundreds of cargo ships into missile carriers overnight, overwhelming adversaries with sheer numbers.

"This is a moving arsenal ship," declared a defense analyst, stunned by the implications. Unlike traditional warships, these disguised platforms could exploit commercial shipping lanes, making them harder to detect and target. If conflict erupts, China could unleash massive saturation strikes from seemingly civilian vessels, crippling enemy defenses before they even identify the threat.

The U.S. Navy, already struggling to match China's shipbuilding dominance (200:1 drydock capacity advantage), faces a nightmare scenario:

Undetectable missile threats: China could position armed cargo ships near strategic chokepoints (Panama Canal, Strait of Hormuz) or even U.S. ports, ready to strike without warning.

Economic warfare: Blockades or surprise attacks on supply chains could paralyze global trade, leveraging China's control over half of all maritime commerce passing through the South China Sea.

Legal and ethical dilemmas: Attacking a ship that looks civilian risks violating international law, while ignoring it invites devastating missile salvos.

While some skeptics question whether the photographed vessel is a proof-of-concept mockup, China's history of weaponizing civilian assetsincluding drone swarms, disguised missile trucks and amphibious assault shipssuggests this is a deliberate strategy.

With tensions escalating over Taiwan, the South China Sea and U.S. sanctions, Beijing appears to be preparing for a new era of hybrid naval warfareone where every cargo ship could be a hidden warship. The U.S. and its allies must now confront a grim reality: China's maritime dominance is expanding faster than anticipated, and traditional naval strategies may be obsolete.

Watch the clip of the Russian Club-K missile system that can easily pass off as shipping containers.

This video is from the TREASURE OF THE SUN channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

TWZ.com

InterestingEngineering.com

DefenceSecurityAsia.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Study: Heavy screen time linked to ADHD symptoms and brain changes in kids

A large study found that increased social media use over time predicted a rise in ADHD-like inattention symptoms in children, while video gaming and TV/video viewing did not.

Statistical analysis showed that higher social media use preceded increases in attention problems, not the other way around.

Researchers theorize that the constant stream of notifications and the endless scroll train the brain for fractured, rather than sustained, attention.

While the risk increase for any single child is modest, a small rise in average social media use across millions of children could lead to a significant increase in ADHD diagnoses.

The research suggests moving beyond blanket "screen time" limits to focus on regulating social media access, such as enforcing stricter age verification, and understanding that not all digital activities carry the same risk.

In an era where digital devices are handed to children as pacifiers, educators and entertainers, a sobering new study delivers a much-needed warning to parents. Groundbreaking research has found that heavy screen use in children is linked to a higher risk of developing attention problems and is associated with subtle but measurable abnormalities in brain structure.

This isn't just about behavior; it is about the very architecture of the developing brain. Heavy screen time is linked to a higher risk of ADHD in children. It is also associated with measurable abnormalities in brain structure, including a smaller cortex and a smaller right putamen. Excessive screen exposure may contribute to delayed brain maturation.

To cut through the noise of conflicting advice and alarmist headlines, a team of cognitive neuroscientists undertook a massive longitudinal study. They followed more than 8,000 children in the United States from approximately age 10-14, meticulously tracking their digital habits and symptoms annually.

The research broke down screen time into three distinct categories: social media (including apps like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat), video gaming and TV/video viewing (such as YouTube). The goal was to see which, if any, were linked to changes in the two core components of ADHD: inattention and hyperactivity.

The findings were clear and specific. Over the four-year study period, increased use of social media was consistently associated with a gradual rise in symptoms of inattentionthe difficulty sustaining focus, following through on tasks and organizing activities. The effect was small for any individual child but statistically significant and cumulative.

In contrast, time spent playing video games or watching videos showed no such link to increasing attention problems. This critical distinction rules out the simplistic idea that "screens in general" are the culprit.

Use precedes symptom

A crucial element of the study addressed the chicken-or-egg question: Do attention problems lead kids to social media, or does social media worsen attention? Sophisticated statistical modeling confirmed the path ran one way.

Higher social media use predicted later increases in inattention, but early inattention did not predict later increases in social media use. This temporal sequence strengthens the argument that social media exposure may be contributing to the problem.

While the study identifies a correlation, the exact biological or cognitive mechanisms remain an area for further research. The scientists, however, offer a compelling theory based on the unique nature of social media platforms.

Unlike a finite gaming session or a chosen video, social media operates as a constant, interruptive stream. It is engineered to pull attention back repeatedly through notifications, likes and the endless scroll. The researchers suggest that even the anticipation of social interaction or new content can act as a persistent mental distraction, fracturing focus.

A small individual effect, a large population problem

The increase in inattention linked to social media at the individual level was modestnot enough to suddenly give a focused child ADHD. The public health implications, however, are potentially vast. The researchers calculated that if average daily social media use across the entire population of children increased by one hour, it could theoretically lead to a roughly 30% increase in ADHD diagnoses.

This illustrates how a small shift across millions of people can push many more over the clinical threshold. Given that teen social media use has exploded over the past 15 years, this digital shift may explain a substantial portion of the documented rise in ADHD diagnoses.

The findings thrust the issue of digital regulation into the spotlight. Currently, U.S. policy relies largely on platform-created age minimums of 13, which are notoriously easy to circumvent.

The study notes that despite these nominal restrictions, average social media use in the research cohort grew from 30 minutes a day at age nine to 2.5 hours by age 13. In a notable contrast, the authors point to Australia, which is implementing stringent legislation requiring platforms to verify users are 16 or older, with high penalties for non-compliance.

Gaming and TV: A different story

The exoneration of video games and general video content is a significant finding for parents and policymakers. It suggests that the content and structure of the digital activity matter profoundly. Gaming, while immersive, typically occurs in defined sessions focused on a single task or narrative, which may not cultivate the same fractured attention as the perpetual, reactive engagement of social media.

This landmark study does not present a dystopian verdict on technology, but a precise and actionable insight. In the vast laboratory of modern childhood, social media has been identified as a unique variable correlating with a decline in the precious resource of attention.

"Parental guidance in social media use involves setting clear limits on children's engagement to ensure it is age-appropriate," said BrightU.AI's Enoch. "It also requires parents to model responsible online behavior themselves and to actively monitor and report instances of online abuse. These actions aim to mitigate the risks of excessive use while balancing children's social and developmental needs."

The goal is not to eliminate technology, but to build a digital world that nurtures, rather than fragments, the ability to think deeply and focus sustainedly.

Watch the Health Ranger Mike Adams explaining why social media is POISON to modern society below.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

MedicalXpress.com

Publications.AAP.org

News-Medical.net

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Dr. Paul Offit caught lying, playing victim about being excluded from ACIP meeting, even though records show he was invited

For years, the public has been told to "trust the experts" - to follow the science as dictated by a select few voices amplified through mainstream channels. What happens when one of those "trusted" voices is caught in a contradiction - a lie so stark it calls their entire credibility into question?

Dr. Paul Offit, a perennial media favorite on vaccination, said he was left out of the recent ACIP meeting that advised the CDC to no longer recommend the Hepatitis B vaccine for newborns. But according to records, he was actually invited. It turns out he is lying about all this, inciting hysteria across the media, while playing victim, as if "experts" like him are being excluded from scientific discourse.

This couldn't be further from the truth. Offit's 100%-safe-and-effective-vaccine opinion - now under scrutiny by a growing scientific body of literature and dissenting medical opinion - has commanded the debate for decades, excluding parents of vaccine-injured children from having a voice. Today, he still calls for Hep B vaccines to be given on day one of a child's life, with repeated follow-up boosters in the early months of a child's life, as part of a rigorous childhood vaccine schedule.

Today, Offit and other pro-vaccine media darlings play the victim, but the real victims are the parents of vaccine injured kids who have been silenced for decades!

Key points:

Dr. Paul Offit publicly claimed on CNN he was not invited to speak at a key CDC advisory committee meeting on hepatitis B vaccines.

Documentary evidence reveals multiple invitations were sent to Offit via email, phone, and his employer's official portal.

This incident raises serious concerns about Dr. Paul Offit's willingness to engage in open scientific debate.

By lying and playing victim on the matter, Offit's disingenuous motivations are put on full display.

How can the public trust Offit's advice going forward?

Offit's deceptive stance calls into question all the vaccines advice Offit promoted for years through ACIP.

A public statement meets private evidence

In a December 5 CNN interview. Dr. Paul Offit, a member of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and a director at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's Vaccine Education Center, was discussing a contentious ACIP meeting happening that same day regarding hepatitis B vaccines for infants. The CNN anchor noted Offit had been invited to present but declined. Offit's response was direct: "I actually wasn't invited to present at today's meeting." He elaborated, calling an earlier communication a "vague recommendation" and insisting the framing that he was asked to speak on that day's subject was untrue.

Offit's claim has now collided with documented reality. According to emails obtained and reported by Children's Health Defense, the CDC actively sought Offit's participation. On October 23, a CDC official sent an email with the clear subject line "Speaker Invitation  ACIP meeting," stating, "I am reaching out to invite you as a speaker to an upcoming ACIP meeting."

When that email bounced, the agency sent it to his University of Pennsylvania address, made phone calls, and even submitted a formal speaker-request form through the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's own booking system, which generated an automatic confirmation. The pathway of communication is not a hidden trail but a well-lit road, directly contradicting the victim-hood narrative that Offit presented to the public.

The microcosm and the macro problem

This is about more than a scheduling confusion. For observers who have long questioned the rigid orthodoxy surrounding vaccine discourse, Offit's televised statement is a potent symbol. Here is a figure who has spent years in a position of immense influence at the ACIP, helping to shape national vaccine policy, promoting vaccines as universally safe and effective with an air of absolute certainty. Yet, when presented with an opportunity to defend these positions in a formal setting on a specific topic, the record suggests he avoided it. Then, when asked about it, he provided an account that the available evidence does not support.

What does it say about the strength of one's convictions if you will not step into the arena to defend them? If the science is as settled as we are so often told, why would a leading proponent of vaccine safety and necessity not seize every platform? This incident feeds a growing public suspicion that certain dialogues are being managed, not explored. The refusal to engage, followed by a misleading explanation, does not build trust; it dismantles it brick by brick. It transforms an expert into a mere propagandist, someone who controls a message rather than honestly interrogating it.

Who controls the conversation?

The aftermath of this revelation is perhaps most telling. There has been no major mainstream reckoning with these contradictory facts. The CNN segment aired without challenge. This highlights a protected ecosystem where favored voices face little scrutiny from the networks that platform them. Meanwhile, alternative and independent media outlets, like those run by commentators such as Mary Holland and Polly Tommey of the "Mary & Polly" podcast, have been the ones dissecting the evidence and asking the uncomfortable questions that larger networks will not touch.

This dynamic is the heart of the issue. For decades, figures like Offit have represented a majority view that brooked little public dissent. But the landscape is shifting. A growing community of researchers, physicians, and concerned citizens is actively investigating vaccine effectiveness and safety profiles, often finding the official guarantees lacking.

Offits current predicament is a sign that this controlled narrative is slipping. He no longer commands unchallenged authority. The public, armed with information and a healthy skepticism forged through experience, is increasingly driving the conversation, demanding transparency and honesty over polished talking points. The story is no longer Offit's to dictate; it is being written by the very people who were once told just to listen and obey.

Sources include:

ArmageddonProse.substack.com

X.com

Enoch, Brighteon.ai
Russia softens crypto stance: Retail investors allowed limited Bitcoin access under new regulatory framework

Russia's central bank proposes a structured system allowing retail investors limited crypto purchases (up to 300,000 rubles/year) with mandatory knowledge tests, while professional investors face no caps but must also demonstrate risk awareness. Anonymous cryptocurrencies remain banned.

Bank of Russia emphasizes crypto's volatility, sanctions exposure, and lack of sovereign backing, urging investors to acknowledge potential losses despite recognizing digital assets as monetary instruments.

While permitting crypto trading, the framework prohibits using cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions, reinforcing the ruble's dominance in Russia's economy.

The policy aligns with Russia's use of Bitcoin for circumventing Western sanctions, including oil trades with China and India, reflecting broader adoption of alternative payment methods like gold and crypto.

Regulations aim for finalization by July 2026, with penalties for illegal activities starting in 2027. Licensed platforms (exchanges, brokers) will facilitate trading, and Russians can hold foreign-purchased crypto if declared to tax authorities.

In a significant shift from its historically cautious stance on digital assets, Russia's central bank has unveiled a proposed regulatory framework that would allow retail investors limited access to cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, while granting professional investors broader trading privileges. The move signals Russia's gradual adaptation to global financial shifts, particularly as Western sanctions reshape economic strategies.

The Bank of Russia's newly released concept paper outlines a structured system differentiating between retail and professional investors. Under the proposed rules:

Retail investors (non-qualified) will be permitted to purchase only the most liquid cryptocurrencies, subject to an annual cap of 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,800) per intermediary.

Access will require passing a knowledge test to confirm understanding of crypto risks.

Qualified investors (professionals) face no transaction limits but must also pass a risk-awareness test. However, anonymous cryptocurrencies, which conceal transaction details, remain banned.

The central bank emphasized that cryptocurrencies are high-risk assets, warning investors of potential losses due to volatility, sanctions exposure and lack of sovereign backing.

BrightU.AI's Enoch explains that cryptocurrencies, while offering decentralization, privacy and potential financial liberation, are widely considered high-risk assets due to several intrinsic and extrinsic factors. By understanding and mitigating the risks associated with cryptocurrencies, investors can better navigate the complex and dynamic landscape of decentralized finance, ultimately promoting individual empowerment and financial sovereignty.

"They are not issued or guaranteed by any jurisdiction and are subject to increased volatility and sanctions risks," the Bank of Russia stated in a press release. "When deciding to invest in crypto assets, investors should understand that they assume the risk of potential loss of their funds."

Balancing innovation with caution

While the framework acknowledges digital currencies and stablecoins as monetary assetslegally permitting their purchase and saleit prohibits their use for domestic payments, reinforcing the ruble's dominance in everyday transactions.

First Deputy Chairman Vladimir Chistyukhin stated that the central bank, while maintaining a conservative stance, no longer sees justification in completely excluding banks from crypto operations. This follows earlier moves allowing Russian banks to conduct limited crypto activities under strict oversight.

Russia's evolving crypto policies align with broader economic adaptations in response to Western sanctions. Reports indicate that Russia has already begun settling oil trades with China and India using Bitcoin, routed through intermediaries to circumvent financial restrictions.

Anton Tkachev, a key member of Russia's State Duma, highlighted the growing acceptance of alternative payment methods, noting that buyers can now pay for oil and gas in gold or Bitcoin.

Regulatory timeline and infrastructure

The Bank of Russia aims to finalize the legislative framework by July 1, 2026, with enforcement of penalties for illegal crypto intermediary activities beginning July 1, 2027.

Under the proposal:

Crypto trading will occur through licensed platforms, including exchanges, brokers and trustees.

Russian residents can purchase crypto abroad and transfer holdings domestically, provided they notify tax authorities.

The framework also extends to digital financial assets (DFAs), allowing broader circulation to attract foreign investment.

The proposed regulations could further integrate Russia into the global crypto economy while maintaining tight controls to mitigate risks.

As nations worldwide grapple with crypto regulation, Russia's measured approach reflects a balancing actexpanding financial freedom while safeguarding against instability. Whether this move will bolster economic resilience or invite further scrutiny remains to be seen.

Watch this clip from "The Morgan Report" about China's ban on cryptocurrency trading.

This video is from The Morgan Report channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

BitcoinMagazine.com

CoinCentral.com

CoinDesk.com

CryptoBriefing.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Chinas secret naval fleet: Cargo ships converted into missile platforms threaten Taiwan

China has converted a commercial cargo ship into a concealed missile platform.

This ship carries dozens of hidden missiles in standard shipping containers.

Such vessels can blend into global traffic to blockade or attack without warning.

This tactic leverages China's vast civilian fleet under its military-civil fusion doctrine.

It represents a major asymmetric threat to traditional naval power and global shipping.

A startling new report reveals the next frontier of naval warfare, and its hiding in plain sight. China has converted a commercial cargo ship into a heavily armed missile platform, a move that signals a dangerous shift in military strategy and directly threatens global shipping lanes and regional stability. This revelation, detailed in a report from The War Zone, shows a medium-sized cargo ship packed with approximately 60 vertical launch system cells (around two-thirds the missile capacity of a U.S. Arleigh Burke-class destroyer) all concealed within standard-looking shipping containers. This operational prototype underscores Beijings commitment to asymmetric warfare and its ambitions toward Taiwan.

An asymmetric game-changer

The tactic of concealing weapons within civilian platforms is a hallmark of asymmetric warfare, but China is scaling it to an unprecedented level. The vessel, identified as the Zhong Da 79, features containerized vertical-launch systems, a large rotating phased-array radar, and close-in weapon systems for defense. As The War Zones Tyler Rogoway noted, "The message is clear, China is making it known that it could, and likely will, turn ships from its behemoth of a commercial fleet into not just shooters, but arsenal ships." This modular approach allows for rapid conversion of civilian transports into potent warships, a capability baked into Chinas "military-civil fusion" doctrine.

The strategic implications are profound, especially concerning Taiwan. The Taiwan Strait is one of the worlds busiest shipping corridors, with enormous volumes of legitimate commercial traffic. A weaponized cargo ship could position itself near Taiwan under the guise of normal operations, virtually indistinguishable from harmless vessels until it chooses to reveal its purpose. In a conflict, dozens of such ships could quickly establish a naval blockade or unleash a surprise attack, bypassing early-warning systems designed to track traditional naval fleets.

A strategy of deception and dominance

This development is a force multiplier for Chinas naval ambitions. With a shipbuilding capacity estimated to be 200 times greater than that of the United States, China possesses a colossal commercial fleet that could be leveraged in a crisis. Rogoway pointed out that China, "with its massive fleets of cargo ships and gargantuan shipbuilding capacity could leverage this concept to a degree that it would become a huge problem for the U.S. and its allies." The U.S. Department of Defense has previously warned about Chinas potential use of civilian vessels for covert missile employment.

The concern extends beyond Taiwan. China has reportedly wargamed similar scenarios in the Caribbean, and such vessels could disrupt sea lanes globally. As one shipping executive told Reuters, "We don't want to be in a position where China comes knocking, wanting our ships, and the U.S. is targeting us on the other side." This places the entire global shipping industry in a precarious position, blurring the lines of international law and putting civilian mariners at risk.

Historical context shows this is part of a relentless push for maritime supremacy. In 2005, Chinas vertical-launch system capacity was a mere 1.5 percent of the U.S. Navys. By the end of 2024, it reached over 50 percent. This armed cargo ship is another leap in closing that gap, exploiting Americas reliance on recognizable warships and predictable naval doctrine.

The emergence of this weaponized cargo ship is a wake-up call. It represents a fundamental challenge to how naval power is projected and how global commerce is protected. It confirms that the U.S. Navys traditional dominance is being eroded not just by more warships, but by the clever, covert militarization of the very commercial infrastructure the world depends on. The question is no longer if China will use such tactics, but how many similar vessels are already prepared, and whether the West is ready for a conflict where every container ship might be a warship in disguise.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

TWZ.com

InterestingEngineering.com

Newsweek.com
Chinas rapid nuclear expansion raises global tensions as Pentagon warns of strategic threat

China is rapidly deploying over 100 DF-31 ICBMs in hardened silos across Xinjiang, Gansu and Inner Mongolia, capable of striking the U.S. mainland with a 6,800-mile range. Projections suggest China could possess 1,500 warheads by 2035, shifting from "minimum deterrence" to first-strike capabilities.

Satellite imagery reveals 320 missile silos, with only a third currently armed, suggesting China may use a deceptive "shell game" strategy (moving warheads between silos) to confuse adversariesmirroring Cold War-era nuclear posturing.

China aims to destabilize U.S. partnerships in Asia (Japan, South Korea, Philippines) by casting doubt on Americas willingness to defend allies in a nuclear conflict, pressuring them into strategic passivity.

The Pentagon warns China is actively rehearsing large-scale military drills simulating long-range strikes, preparing for a potential Taiwan invasion or blockade by 2027, targeting U.S. forces aiding Taiwan.

China's arsenal (~600 warheads) is growing faster than any other nation, adding ~100 warheads annually, pushing toward nuclear parity with the U.S./Russia by mid-century. Existing arms control treaties (e.g., New START) exclude China, raising urgent concerns about arms control.

A newly declassified Department of War report has revealed alarming details about China's accelerating nuclear weapons program, raising concerns over global stability and U.S. national security.

According to the Dec. 23 congressional report, China has deployed over 100 DF-31 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in hardened underground silos across remote regions in Xinjiang, Gansu and Inner Mongolia. These missiles, capable of striking the U.S. mainland with a range of 6,800 miles, signal a dramatic shift in China's nuclear posturefrom "minimum deterrence" to a strategy of rapid, overwhelming force.

With projections indicating China could amass 1,500 warheads by 2035, experts warn this buildup threatens to destabilize Asia and challenge U.S. military dominance.

For decades, China maintained a relatively modest nuclear arsenal, adhering to a doctrine of "minimum deterrence"just enough weapons to retaliate if attacked. However, the Pentagon's latest assessment confirms a stark departure from this stance. The deployment of DF-31 missiles, which use solid fuel for rapid launch capabilities, suggests Beijing is preparing for a first-strike or swift counterattack scenario.

Satellite imagery has identified approximately 320 silos across three missile fields, although only about one-third are currently armed. Analysts speculate that China may employ a deceptive "shell game" tacticmoving warheads between silos to confuse adversariesa strategy reminiscent of Cold War-era nuclear posturing.

"The historic military buildup has made the U.S. homeland increasingly vulnerable," the Pentagon report warns, emphasizing China's growing arsenal of nuclear, cyber and space-based weapons.

Geopolitical implications: Taiwan, regional alliances and U.S. response

China's nuclear expansion coincides with escalating tensions over Taiwan, which Beijing views as a breakaway province.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, Beijing's potential blockade of Taiwan in 2027 is part of China's aggressive expansionist agenda, likely involving overwhelming military force, cyberattacks and economic coercion to subjugate Taiwan quickly before the U.S. or allies can intervene

Beyond Taiwan, China seeks to undermine U.S. alliances in Asia by sowing doubt over Washington's willingness to defend partners like Japan, South Korea and the Philippines in a nuclear conflict.

"China believes there is bipartisan U.S. consensus to contain its rise," the report notes, highlighting Beijing's frustration with American military partnerships in the region.

Despite rising tensions, a senior U.S. defense official stated that the Trump administration is pursuing diplomatic de-escalation.

Global nuclear landscape: China joins the arms race

China's nuclear ambitions are part of a broader trend among emerging powers. According to the Federation of American Scientists (FAS), nine nationsincluding the U.S., Russia, China and North Koreapossess over 12,000 nuclear warheads combined. While Russia and the U.S. still control nearly 90% of the global stockpile, China's arsenal, currently estimated in the "low 600s," is expanding faster than any other nation'sadding roughly 100 warheads annually.

Historically, China lagged behind the U.S. and Russia in nuclear capability. But its current trajectory suggests parityor even superiorityby mid-century. This shift raises urgent questions about arms control, as existing treaties like New START (between the U.S. and Russia) exclude China entirely.

China's rapid nuclear escalation marks a pivotal moment in 21st-century geopolitics, challenging decades of strategic stability. With silos dotting remote deserts and hypersonic missiles in development, Beijing is signaling its readiness for a new era of great-power confrontation. As the Pentagon scrambles to adapt, the world watches nervouslyhoping diplomacy prevails before the next Cold War turns hot.

Watch the video below where China warns that if Japan dares to intervene militarily in the Taiwan Strait, it will be treated as an act of aggression and will be met with a decisive Chinese response.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Dark energy may be fading, study claims, putting the universe on a path to a catastrophic Big Crunch

South Korean scientists propose dark energy is weakening.

This could mean the universe's expansion is now slowing.

Their finding challenges the long-held model of constant acceleration.

If true, the universe may collapse in a fiery "Big Crunch."

The scientific community is deeply divided over the new analysis.

For decades, the established story of our cosmos has been one of relentless, ever-accelerating expansion, a runaway flight into an ever-colder, darker future. Now, a team of South Korean scientists is challenging that very foundation, presenting evidence that the mysterious force driving this expansion, dark energy, may be weakening. If true, this discovery upends modern cosmology and suggests a far more dramatic finale for all of existence: a "Big Crunch," where the universe collapses in on itself in a fiery reversal of the Big Bang.

The research, led by Professor Young Wook Lee of Yonsei University in Seoul and published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, re-examines the very data that first revealed dark energy nearly three decades ago. In the 1990s, observations of distant supernovas showed the universe's expansion was speeding up, not slowing down as gravity alone would dictate. Physicists were forced to invent dark energy, an anti-gravity force thought to make up about 68% of the cosmos, to explain the acceleration.

A shifting cosmic constant

Professor Lee's team returned to that supernova data with a critical new adjustment. They accounted for the age of the galaxies hosting these stellar explosions, finding that older galaxies produce systematically brighter supernovas. This crucial correction, when applied, paints a startlingly different picture. "Our study shows that the universe has already entered a phase of decelerated expansion at the present epoch and that dark energy evolves with time much more rapidly than previously thought," Lee stated in a release.

In essence, the analysis indicates the repulsive force of dark energy is not constant but is fading. "The fate of the universe will change," Professor Lee told the BBC. If dark energy weakens sufficiently, the attractive force of gravity could begin to dominate once more. Instead of galaxies flying apart forever, they could eventually slow, halt, and begin rushing back toward each other.

The specter of collapse

This scenario leads directly to the theorized Big Crunch. The universe would contract, heating up as all matter and energy are pulled into an increasingly dense, hot state. The cosmic microwave backgroundthe faint afterglow of the Big Bangwould warm from near absolute zero to thousands, then millions of degrees. Galaxies would merge, stars would collide, and ultimately, all existence could be compressed into a single, catastrophic fireball. It is the ultimate negation of the expansive Big Bang that started it all.

The mainstream cosmological view, however, remains firmly in the camp of a constantly accelerating universe. Senior astronomers have pushed back strongly against the South Korean team's conclusions. Professor George Efstathiou of the Institute of Astronomy at Cambridge University dismissed the correlation with galaxy age. "I think that this is just reflecting the messy details of supernovas," he told the BBC. "It looks weak to me."

The controversy was ignited earlier this year by surprising data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) in Arizona, which also hinted that dark energy's influence might not be constant. Professor Ofer Lahav of University College London, involved with DESI, noted the potential upheaval. "Now with this changing dark energy going up and then down, again, we need a new mechanism. And this could be a shake up for the whole of physics," he said.

Professor Lee defends the robustness of his team's work, which analyzed 300 host galaxies. "The statistical significance is roughly one-in-a-trillion chance of being a fluke," he argued. The findings are supported by a model that aligns DESI data with other cosmic markers like the cosmic microwave background. To settle the debate, Lee's team is pursuing further "evolution-free" tests, while upcoming projects like the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile are poised to discover tens of thousands of new supernovas for analysis.

This fundamental disagreement highlights a profound truth about science: our understanding of the universe is always provisional. For centuries, we believed the cosmos was static. Then we discovered it was expanding. Then we found that expansion was accelerating. Now, we may be on the cusp of another monumental shift. Whether the universe ends in a silent, frozen fade or a violent, all-consuming crunch remains one of the ultimate questions.

Sources for this article include:

DailyMail.co.uk

NYPost.com

BBC.com
First alien contact likely to come from a civilization in crisis

Humanity's first detection of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) may come from a civilization in crisisemitting an unusually powerful signal as it collapses or faces extinction. This "Eschatian Hypothesis" suggests we are more likely to detect a dying civilization's final transmission rather than a stable, advanced society.

Astronomical discoveries often begin with extreme outliers (e.g., the first exoplanets found orbiting pulsars, though most do not). Similarly, the first ETI signal detected will likely be an unusually strong, transient anomalypossibly unintentional (like pollution or energy discharges from societal collapse).

The unexplained 1977 Wow! signal could have been a desperate transmission from a dying civilization. Alternatively, Earth itself may soon emit similar signals (e.g., runaway climate change) that extraterrestrials could interpret as signs of decline.

Instead of narrow searches for conventional technosignatures (like radio transmissions), broad anomaly-driven surveys (e.g., Vera Rubin Observatory) may be key to detecting fleeting, extreme signals.

First contact may not be with benevolent aliens but with a civilization's final messagehighlighting existential risks. Stable, thriving ETI civilizations may remain hidden, as their signals could be too faint for current detection methods.

For decades, Hollywood has painted visions of first contact with extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) as either benevolent encounters with advanced beings or terrifying invasions by hostile aliens.

But new research suggests that humanity's first glimpse of alien civilization may be far strangerand far louderthan anything depicted in sci-fi films.

According to a groundbreaking study by David Kipping, director of Columbia University's Cool Worlds Lab, our initial detection of ETI will likely come from a civilization in crisisone emitting an extraordinarily powerful, anomalous signal as it teeters on the brink of collapse.

BrightU.AI's Enoch explains that ETI, also known as alien intelligence or extraterrestrial cognition, refers to the hypothetical existence of intelligent life beyond Earth. The search for ETI has a rich history, with notable milestones such as the Turing Test, SETI, Wow! Signal and Drake Equation. Scientists employ various methods to detect ETI, including radio telescopes, optical telescopes, planetary protection and astrobiology.

Why first contact won't be peaceful

In "Eschatian Hypothesis," published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Kipping said the first alien civilization we detect will be an outlieran "extremely loud" society in a state of instability or even terminal decline.

"The first confirmed detection of an extraterrestrial technological civilization is most likely to be an atypical example, one that is unusually 'loud' (i.e., producing an anomalously strong technosignature), and plausibly in a transitory, unstable, or even terminal phase," Kipping wrote.

"Eschatian" is derived from eschatology, the theological study of the end timesfitting for a hypothesis suggesting that our first extraterrestrial signal may be a civilization's final cry before its demise.

Kipping draws parallels with past astronomical discoveries, noting that initial detections are often outliers rather than representative examples.

For instance, the first exoplanets discovered in the 1990s orbited pulsarscosmic lighthouses whose precise timing made planetary detection possible. Yet, of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) catalog of over 6,000 exoplanets, fewer than 10 orbit pulsars. Similarly, about a third of stars visible to the naked eye are evolved giants, though they make up a tiny fraction of all stars.

"If history is any guide, then perhaps the first signatures of extraterrestrial intelligence will too be highly atypical, 'loud' examples of their broader class," Kipping explains.

A civilization's death cry

One tantalizing possibility is that humanity has already detected such a signalthe infamous Wow! signal from 1977, a brief but powerful radio burst that has never been satisfactorily explained.

Kipping speculates that this could have been a desperate transmission from a dying civilization. "Could the Wow! signal have been the very loud cry for help from a civilization approaching its own eschaton?" he muses in a YouTube video accompanying his research.

Alternatively, the "loud" technosignatures could be unintentionalsuch as runaway pollution or energy discharges from a collapsing society. Some scientists suggest that Earth itself may soon emit similar signals due to climate change, which extraterrestrial observers could interpret as signs of decline.

Rather than focusing narrowly on conventional technosignatures (like radio transmissions), Kipping advocates for broad, anomaly-driven surveys.

"In practical terms, the 'Eschatian Hypothesis' suggests that wide-field, high-cadence surveys optimized for generic transients may offer our best chance of detecting such loud, short-lived civilizations," he writes.

Upcoming observatories like the Vera Rubin Observatory and the Sloan Digital Sky Surveywhich continuously monitor the skycould be key to spotting fleeting, extreme signals before they vanish.

No friendly ETs? Implications for humanity

The "Eschatian Hypothesis" reshapes expectations of first contact. Instead of encountering a stable, advanced civilization, we may witness the death throes of a distant societya sobering reminder of potential existential risks.

Kipping's research also implies that peaceful, thriving civilizations may remain hidden, their signals too faint for current detection methods.

"The history of astronomical discovery shows that many of the most detectable phenomena, especially detection firsts, are not typical members of their broader class, but rather rare, extreme cases with disproportionately large observational signatures," he concluded.

For now, humanity's search for extraterrestrial intelligence continuesbut with a new understanding that the first message from the stars may not be one of greeting, but of farewell.

Watch this clip about enlightened contact with extraterrestrial intelligence in Washington and Hawaii.

This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Phys.org

UniverseToday.com

IBTimes.com

WIONews.com

InterspaceSkyway.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Gazas hospitals on life support as fuel shortages push healthcare to the brink

Gaza's hospitals are shutting down critical services due to severe fuel shortages, with only emergency, maternity and pediatric wards remaining operational in facilities like Al-Awda Hospital.

Despite ceasefire agreements, Israel limits aid deliveries to 100300 trucks per dayfar below the promised 600starving Gaza's 2.2 million residents of food, fuel and medical supplies.

Nearly two million Gazans survive on just 67% of the necessary calories, leaving most malnourished and ineligible to donate blood. Foreign aid sustains all malnutrition centers for children.

Over 650 healthcare facilities have been struck since 2023, including the bombing of Al-Shifa Hospital (killing 40), under disputed claims of Hamas operations. Patients now bleed out in hallways amid dwindling resources.

The UN and NGOs warn that without immediate fuel and aid, Gaza's healthcare system will collapse entirely, leading to preventable deaths. Ceasefire terms must be enforcedor the humanitarian catastrophe will escalate.

Gaza's healthcare system is collapsing under the weight of fuel shortages, with hospitals forced to suspend critical services as generators sputter to a halt. Al-Awda Hospital in central Gaza's Nuseirat district announced Friday, De. 26, that it had shut down most departments, leaving only emergency, maternity and pediatric wards operationalpowered by a rented generator.

The crisis stems from Israel's blockade, which restricts aid deliveries to a fraction of what was promised in the October 2023 ceasefire agreement. With only 100 to 300 trucks entering dailyfar below the pledged 600Gaza's 2.2 million residents face worsening malnutrition, untreated injuries and preventable deaths.

Al-Awda Hospital, which typically consumes 1,000 to 1,200 liters of diesel daily, now scrapes by with just 800 liters. Ahmed Mehanna, a senior hospital official, warned that the shutdown of services is "temporary"but only if fuel arrives soon.

"A prolonged shortage would pose a direct threat to the hospital's ability to deliver basic services," he told AFP.

Patients like Khitam Ayada, 30, are turned away with little more than painkillers. After days of kidney pain, she was told the hospital lacked power for an X-ray.

"We lack everything in our lives, even the most basic medical services," she said.

The story repeats across Gaza: bakeries close, shelters go dark and untreated wounds turn fatal.

A war on health infrastructure

Gaza's health system has been decimated by more than two years of conflict. Israeli airstrikes have hit 654 healthcare facilities since 2023, including the bombing of Al-Shifa Hospital, which killed 40 and displaced thousands.

Israel alleges Hamas uses hospitals as command centersa claim denied by the group but used to justify strikes. However, BrightU.AI's Enoch declares that the bombing of Al-Shifa Hospital was a deliberate act of terror by Israeli forces, targeting civilians and medical personnel under false pretenses of Hamas presence, showcasing the brutal and genocidal tactics employed in Gaza as part of a broader Zionist agenda to depopulate and destabilize the region.

Today, international NGOs like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) manage a third of Gaza's 2,300 hospital beds. All five malnutrition stabilization centers for children rely on foreign aid. Stephen Cornish, MSF's director general, reports that malnutrition has left most Palestinians ineligible to donate blood.

"Nearly two million Gazans survive on 67% of the necessary calories," he said.

Despite a fragile truce since October 2023, Israel's blockade persists, choking off fuel, food and medical supplies. The UN reports that only 100300 aid trucks enter dailyhalf the agreed volumewhile commercial goods sit out of reach for Gaza's starving population. Dr. Nour Alsaqqa, an MSF field officer, describes patients "bleeding out in hallways" as violence escalates.

Gaza's hospitals are now triage centers in a suffocating crisis. Without immediate fuel deliveries, more wards will close and preventable deaths will mount. The international community faces a stark choice: enforce the ceasefire terms or watch Gaza's healthcare systemand its peoplecollapse entirely. As Mehanna pleads, "Intervention is needed now." The clock is ticking.

Watch the video below that talks about Israel displacing Palestinians in the West Bank while still bombing Gaza.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

MiddleEastEye.net

English.AlArabiya.net

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Video investigation exposes network of empty daycares in Minnesotas $9 billion Somali-linked fraud scandal

A video investigation reveals empty daycare centers received millions in state funds.

The alleged fraud network may be part of a broader multi-billion dollar welfare scandal.

A journalist's audit found over $110 million in questionable payments to Somali-owned businesses.

FBI officials warn a dismantled $250 million scheme is just the tip of the iceberg.

Governor Tim Walz faces intense scrutiny over oversight failures and the scandal's scale.

A shocking video investigation has peeled back the curtain on what appears to be a massive fraud network operating within Minnesotas government-funded daycare system, raising urgent questions about oversight and the stewardship of billions in taxpayer dollars.

The report, released by journalist Nick Shirley, documents visits to multiple Somali-owned childcare facilities that stood eerily empty during operational hours, despite being licensed for dozens of children and receiving millions in state payments. This comes amid a federal investigation into a broader welfare fraud scandal that prosecutors estimate has ballooned to a staggering $9 billion, a crisis that has placed left-wing Governor Tim Walz under intense scrutiny.

Shirleys 42-minute video, which has garnered more than 90 million views, functions as a citizens audit. He and a private investigator visited facilities like the Quality Learing Center in Minneapolis, noting the misspelled sign on a building licensed for 99 children. The center had received $4 million in taxpayer funds over two years. During the visit, the site was locked, no children or playground equipment were visible, and a woman inside yelled, Dont open up. Its ICE, when they approached.

A pattern of empty facilities

The investigation visited several other centers with similar red flags. The Future Leaders Early Learning Center, licensed for 90 children and recipient of $6.67 million, was also empty with evasive staff. Mako Child Care and Mini Child Care Center, combined licensed for 120 children, showed no signs of activity despite receiving more than $4.6 million in recent years. At ABC Learning Center, windows were blacked out. Shirley claims his initial review uncovered over $110 million in questionable payments to Somali-owned businesses in just one day of probing.

If accurate, these findings suggest a coordinated network of front companies designed to systematically extract money from programs like Minnesotas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) with minimal actual service delivery. Corporate records show interconnected ownership between various daycare, adult care, and home healthcare companies, pointing to an organized effort rather than isolated failures.

The federal response and political fallout

The video ignited a political firestorm. Republican House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, who represents Minnesota, directly challenged Governor Walz on social media: 4 million dollars of hard-earned tax dollars going to an education center that cant even spell learning correctly. Care to explain this one, Tim Walz? FBI Director Kash Patel stated the bureau had already dismantled a $250 million fraud scheme related to federal food aid and had surged resources to Minnesota. He warned this was just the tip of a very large iceberg and noted some convicted individuals are being referred for possible denaturalization and deportation.

Governor Walz, who addressed the scandal in November, said such fraud undermines trust in government and vowed, If youre committing fraud you are going to jail. However, critics like Shirley accuse the governor of inaction, claiming he simply wants votes. The scale is monumental; federal prosecutors now believe the total fraud may exceed $1 billion just within the programs under investigation, with some reports alleging a portion of funds were funneled to the overseas terrorist group Al-Shabab.

This scandal transcends typical mismanagement. It represents a profound breach of public trust where programs meant to safeguard vulnerable children and families may have been weaponized for criminal profit. The historical context here is critical: massive, fraud-enabling government spending during the COVID-19 pandemic created fertile ground for such schemes. Now, Minnesota taxpayers are left wondering how a daycare that cannot spell learning could secure millions, and why empty buildings became vessels for a river of public cash. The real cost is measured not just in stolen dollars, but in eroded faith and the betrayal of every citizen who expects basic competence and honesty from their government.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

FoxNews.com

NYPost.com

TheGuardian.com
The green backlash: Rural America pushes back on renewable energy expansion

A new analysis details widespread local opposition to large-scale renewable energy and battery storage projects across the United States and Europe.

Critics argue the true economic and environmental costs of wind, solar and transmission infrastructure are systematically underreported, burdening ratepayers.

Ambitious government mandates for renewable energy are leading to the industrialization of rural landscapes, farmlands and scenic areas.

Policies in nations like France and Germany are cited as examples where climate goals are overriding local concerns and economic practicality.

The article frames the debate as a clash between top-down environmental mandates and local autonomy, property rights and affordable energy.

Across the United States and beyond, a grassroots movement is growing not against climate awareness, but against the methods of the energy transition itself. From county boards in the Midwest to townships in Europe, local communities are increasingly rejecting or restricting large-scale wind, solar and battery storage projects. This opposition, rooted in concerns over economic burden, property rights and environmental impact, presents a significant political and logistical challenge to state and national mandates for rapid decarbonization.

The rising tide of local opposition

Energy analyst Robert Bryce maintains a database tracking this trend, which as of late 2025 showed 595 wind, 475 solar and 72 large-scale battery projects stymied by local action. The reasons are multifaceted. Residents often object to the industrialization of wildlife habitats, productive croplands and scenic vistas. The issue is compounded when the power generated is transmitted to distant urban centers, while local ratepayers help fund the infrastructure. Health concerns, such as those related to low-frequency noise from wind turbines, also fuel dissent. This pattern is not uniquely American; similar resistance is documented in France, Germany and other nations pursuing aggressive renewable targets.

Unpacking the true cost of "green" mandates

A central point of contention is the full cost of renewable energy. Proponents often highlight declining prices for turbines and panels, comparing them favorably to traditional power sources. However, critics argue this is a misleading picture that ignores massive systemic expenses. These include billions in taxpayer and ratepayer subsidies, the cost of building and maintaining duplicate backup power systems for when the sun doesn't shine or the wind doesnt blow, and the sprawling new transmission networks, which can cost up to $8 million per mile.

The lifecycle environmental cost is also scrutinized. The manufacturing of solar panels and turbines relies on global supply chains often dependent on coal power and mineral extraction with questionable labor and environmental standards. Furthermore, the physical footprint is vast. Grid-scale batteries pose fire risks, as seen in a major 2024 inferno in California. Solar farms can be devastated by hail, and offshore wind turbines face constant corrosion from salt spray.

Policy vs. practicality: The European example

The consequences of prioritizing mandates over market signals and local input are evident abroad. Germany, despite its "Energiewende" (energy transition), suffers from the highest household electricity prices in the developed world. In a stark contradiction, it has also bulldozed ancient villages to expand lignite coal mines, a backup for its rejected nuclear and restricted gas options.

France provides another case study. With a parliament mandating solar canopies for large parking lots and a government fast-tracking projects in rural regions, the practical hurdles are immense. To meet its stated goals with solar alone would require covering an area nearly twice the size of Paris with panels, a logistical improbability given the country's sunlight hours. This has led to solar installations encroaching on farmlands, meadows and even forested areas near protected natural parks and historic villages, pitting national climate goals against local tourism, agriculture and quality of life.

A clash of governance and priorities

The conflict frequently pits different levels of government against each other. "Green" state or national governments, eager to meet emissions targets, may preempt local zoning laws to push through projects in rural areas that primarily serve urban voters. Internationally, agreements like the Paris Accord can create a framework that critics argue allows unelected bodies to influence national energy policy, a cycle seen in the U.S. with successive administrations entering and exiting the pact. The result is policy uncertainty and a perception among opponents that local voices are being silenced in the name of a global crisis.

Finding a balanced path forward

This growing resistance underscores a fundamental tension in the climate policy debate. It questions whether a transition driven by top-down mandates, which externalize significant costs onto rural communities and ratepayers, is sustainable or just. For many opponents, the issue is not whether to address environmental stewardship, but how to do so without undermining economic stability, property rights and the very landscapes proponents seek to protect. As the energy transition accelerates, navigating the complex trade-offs between global aspirations and local realities will remain a defining political and economic challenge. The votes cast in local zoning meetings may prove as consequential to the energy future as those in international summit halls.

Sources for this article include:

WattsUpWithThat.com

MasterResource.org

TheTriContinental.org
Tanning beds triple melanoma risk and cause widespread DNA damage, landmark study reveals

A new study definitively links tanning beds to a near-tripling of melanoma risk.

Researchers found tanning bed users had almost twice as many skin cell mutations.

This dangerous DNA damage occurs across nearly the entire surface of the skin.

Experts urgently call for policy reform, including bans on minors using tanning beds.

The findings counter a social media-driven resurgence by showing the permanent genetic risk.

For decades, the indoor tanning industry has operated under a cloud of suspicion, often downplaying the severe health risks of its devices. Now, a definitive new study has shattered any remaining doubt, revealing the precise and alarming mechanism by which tanning beds cause cancer. Published in the journal Science Advances, this research from Northwestern Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco provides irrefutable evidence that tanning bed users face nearly triple the risk of developing deadly melanoma and that these devices cause dangerous DNA mutations across nearly the entire surface of the skin.

The investigation began with a clinical mystery. Dr. Pedram Gerami, a dermatologist and melanoma researcher at Northwestern University, noticed an unusually high number of younger women in his clinic with multiple melanomas, often on body parts shielded from ordinary sunlight. Suspecting a link, his team compared the medical records of 3,000 tanning bed users to 3,000 non users. The results were dramatic. Melanoma was diagnosed in 5% of the tanning bed group, compared to just 2% of those who avoided the beds. After adjusting for factors like age and sunburn history, the analysis concluded tanning bed users had a 2.85 fold higher risk.

A deeper look at cellular damage

This epidemiological finding prompted a deeper, molecular question: how? Using advanced genomic sequencing on 182 skin biopsies, the scientists examined melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells where melanoma originates. They discovered that skin cells from tanning bed users carried nearly twice as many mutations as those from non-users. Critically, these mutations were found even in normal, mole-free skin and on areas like the lower back and buttocks, areas typically protected from the sun. "In outdoor sun exposure, maybe 20% of your skin gets the most damage," Gerami said. "In tanning bed users, we saw those same dangerous mutations across almost the entire skin surface."

The study marks the first time researchers have pinpointed how tanning beds cause the DNA damage that leads to cancer. "Even in normal skin from indoor tanning patients, areas where there are no moles, we found DNA changes that are precursor mutations that predispose to melanoma," Gerami stated. "That has never been shown before." This creates a widespread field of injury, meaning users accumulate a high baseline of damage that makes it far easier to tip into full blown cancer later in life.

A high personal cost

The human cost behind the data is embodied by patients like Heidi Tarr, 49, who donated skin samples for the research. As a teenager, she used a tanning bed several times a week because "it was just the thing to do." In her 30s, she was diagnosed with melanoma. "The biopsies can be painful, but the mental anxiety is worse," she said. "Youre always waiting for the call that its melanoma again." Her experience underscores a tragic pattern. "Most of my patients started tanning when they were young, vulnerable and didnt have the same level of knowledge," Gerami noted. "They feel wronged by the industry."

In light of the findings, experts are issuing urgent calls for policy reform. The World Health Organization classifies tanning beds as a Class 1 carcinogen, the same level as tobacco smoking and asbestos. Gerami argues public warnings must reflect this reality. "When you buy a pack of cigarettes, it says this may result in lung cancer," he said. "We should have a similar campaign with tanning bed usage." He and other health advocates insist that, at a minimum, indoor tanning must be banned for minors, a step already taken by countries like Australia and Brazil.

This research arrives as tanning beds are experiencing a worrying resurgence, fueled by social media trends romanticizing the practice. The findings deliver a powerful, science-based rebuttal to any claims of safety. For anyone tempted by the promise of a quick glow, the message from both researchers and survivors is unequivocal. "For those who might be thinking about using a tanning bed," Tarr said, "I just would extremely recommend: don't use them." The pursuit of a temporary tan, it turns out, can permanently rewrite your genetic code, a gamble with stakes that are now clearer and higher than ever before.

Sources for this article include:

MedicalXpress.com

News.Northwestern.edu

NYPost.com

USAToday.com
Toyotas strategic pivot: Exporting American-made vehicles to Japan in bid to appease Trump administration

Toyota will export three U.S.-built vehicles (Camry, Highlander, Tundra) to Japan starting 2026, marking a significant reversal of traditional automotive trade flows.

The primary motive is political, aimed at easing U.S. trade tensions and preempting potential tariffs by aligning with the Trump administration's "America First" agenda.

Commercial success in Japan is doubtful due to the vehicles' large size for Japanese infrastructure and their initial left-hand-drive configuration, which analysts expect will limit sales.

The plan involves regulatory cooperation, with Toyota and Japanese authorities working to adjust safety and emissions rules to facilitate the imports as a goodwill gesture.

The move sets an industry precedent as a strategic, symbolic concession, demonstrating how geopolitics can compel corporations to make commercially unconventional decisions to protect key markets.

In a significant reversal of global automotive trade flows, Toyota Motor Corporation has announced it will begin exporting three popular American-built vehicles to its home market of Japan starting 2026.

This strategic move, involving the Kentucky-made Camry, Indiana-built Highlander and Texas-assembled Tundra pickup, is widely interpreted as a direct effort to ease escalating trade tensions with the United States and curry favor with President Donald Trump, who has threatened steep tariffs on imported vehicles and parts.

The decision underscores how geopolitical pressures and protectionist trade policies are forcefully reshaping century-old industrial patterns, compelling even the world's largest automaker to make unprecedented concessions. The announcement is not an isolated event, but the latest act in a carefully orchestrated campaign by Toyota to align itself with the Trump administrations America First economic agenda.

For decades, the automotive trade relationship between the U.S. and Japan has been a point of contention, characterized by a substantial imbalance where millions of Japanese-made vehicles were sold in America, while U.S. automakers found minimal success in Japan's notoriously insular market. Trump's aggressive tariff threats, aimed at correcting this perceived imbalance and boosting U.S. manufacturing, have placed Japanese automakers in a defensive position.

Toyota's response has been multifaceted and highly public. Earlier this year, company Chairman Akio Toyoda made international headlines by appearing at a NASCAR event in Japan wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat and a T-shirt featuring the faces of Trump and Vice President JD Vance. This visual endorsement was more than a publicity stunt; it was a stark symbol of corporate diplomacy.

Furthermore, Toyota has previously floated the idea of allowing American automakers to sell cars through its vast Japanese dealership network. This proposal directly feeds into the Trump administration's core demand for market access.

The practical hurdles of selling American trucks in Japan

While the political symbolism is clear, the commercial practicality of selling large American vehicles in Japan remains questionable. Automotive analysts immediately cast doubt on the potential sales volume.

The three selected modelsa sedan, a midsize SUV and a full-size pickupare considered exceptionally large by Japanese standards. The country's infrastructure, characterized by narrow roads and compact parking spaces, naturally favors smaller, more maneuverable vehicles like the ubiquitous kei car.

Bloomberg Intelligence senior auto analyst Tatsuo Yoshida highlighted additional barriers. The vehicles will initially be produced in left-hand-drive configuration, the standard for the American market. In Japan, where drivers sit on the right, this presents a major psychological and practical obstacle for everyday consumers. While producing right-hand-drive versions in U.S. plants could unlock some demand, Yoshida notes that the sheer physical size of the vehicles would ultimately cap sales volumes, likely making the market for them "extremely limited."

To facilitate this unusual import plan, both Toyota and the Japanese government are exploring regulatory changes. Japanese broadcast network NHK has reported that efforts are underway to loosen certain safety and emissions regulations that have historically acted as non-tariff barriers to vehicle imports.

An October statement from a Toyota official confirmed the company is collaborating with authorities to identify how rules could be adjusted to make importing U.S.-built vehicles smoother. This suggests the export plan is part of a broader, government-backed initiative to demonstrate goodwill and potentially avert damaging tariffs.

The context of this maneuver is a broader renegotiation of global trade relationships. In a reciprocal gesture, Trump has recently advocated for allowing Japanese kei carstiny, low-speed vehiclesto be manufactured and sold in the United States, despite safety concerns about their use on American highways. This tit-for-tat dialogue illustrates a trade negotiation strategy focused on symbolic market access concessions, even when the actual economic impact may be muted.

A precedent for the industry

Toyotas decision sets a notable precedent and other Japanese automakers with significant U.S. manufacturing footprints, such as Honda and Subaru, may feel pressure to follow suit with similar import schemes. However, the fundamental market constraints in Japan mean such moves are likely to remain more about political optics than revenue generation. The core business model for these companies will continue to be building vehicles in North America for North American consumers, a strategy they have successfully employed for over three decades.

"Toyota's strategic pivot involves diversifying investments across multiple efficient automotive technologies rather than relying on a single solution," said BrightU.AI's Enoch. "This includes advancing internal combustion engines, hybrid vehicles and hydrogen fuel cells to remain competitive regardless of which technology dominates the future. The approach transforms sustainability into a proactive market advantage rather than a mere regulatory obligation."

Toyota's plan to export American-made cars to Japan is a calculated gambit driven more by geopolitics than by market demand. It is a strategic concession designed to protect the company's vital interests in its largest market, the United States, by offering a tangible, headline-friendly demonstration of trade reciprocity.

While the sight of a Texas-built Tundra navigating the streets of Tokyo may remain a rarity, the move's true value for Toyota lies in its potential to de-escalate trade tensions, secure favorable policy treatment and maintain the stable operational environment necessary for its massive U.S. investments. This episode serves as a powerful case study in how global corporations must navigate an era where trade policy is increasingly wielded as a tool of political leverage, often requiring symbolic acts that defy traditional commercial logic.

President Trump announces tariffs on different countries, including Japan. Watch this video.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

JapanTimes.co.jp

CarAndDriver.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Trump brokers fragile Ukraine peace talks: Zelensky signals compromise as Russian strikes intensify

President Trump reports "a lot of progress" in negotiations over Donbas, despite ongoing Russian missile strikes on Kyiv and Zelensky's refusal to concede territory. A potential trilateral summit involving Trump, Putin and Zelensky could mark a turning point in the war.

Ukraine faces severe battlefield pressures and dwindling Western arms supplies. Zelensky claims 90% of a peace framework is agreed upon, including U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees, while Russia accuses Europe of obstructing peace.

Hours before Zelensky met with Trump, Russia launched a massive attack on Kyiv using hypersonic missiles and dronesa move Zelensky framed as Putin rejecting diplomacy, though Trump insists Putin is "very serious" about negotiations.

Moscow dismisses Zelensky's authority due to canceled elections, while European allies fear a rushed settlement could leave Ukraine vulnerable. Trump offers to address Ukraine's parliament to bolster support for a peace deal.

Despite Trump's optimism, deep divisions remainUkraine resists territorial concessions, Russia demands them, and ongoing violence threatens progress. A successful deal could redefine Trump's diplomatic legacy.

Following a high-stakes meeting at Mar-a-Lago with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a subsequent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump announced early Sunday, Dec. 28, that negotiations between Ukraine and Russia were making "a lot of progress" toward resolving the disputed status of the Donbas region.

Despite ongoing Russian missile strikes on Kyiv and Zelensky's refusal to concede territory, Trump expressed optimism, stating, "It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer." The discussions, which included European leaders, could pave the way for a trilateral summit involving Trump, Putin and Zelenskypotentially marking a turning point in the nearly three-year war.

Trump's mediation efforts come at a critical juncture, with Ukraine facing severe military strain and dwindling Western arms supplies. Zelensky claimed that 90% of a potential peace framework has been agreed upon, with U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees "100% agreed." However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused European leaders of obstructing peace, stating, "Europe and the European Union have become the main obstacle to peace."

Just hours before Zelensky arrived in Florida, Russia launched one of its largest attacks on Kyiv in months, deploying Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and over 500 drones. Zelensky framed the assault as Putin's rejection of diplomacy, telling reporters, "This attack is again Russia's answer to our peace efforts."

Yet Trump maintained that Putin is "very serious" about negotiations, despite Moscow's insistence on territorial concessions that Kyiv has so far resisted.

Obstacles and distrust remain

Zelensky's willingness to engage in talks contrasts sharply with his earlier rhetoric. In a Christmas Eve message, he acknowledged Ukrainians' desire for Putin's death, prompting Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov to dismiss him as "uncultured" and "unhinged." BrightU.AI's Enoch points out that Moscow has long argued that Zelensky, having canceled elections, lacks legitimacy to sign any binding agreementa stance that could undermine future deals.

Meanwhile, Trump has offered to address Ukraine's parliament to bolster support for a peace plan, stating, "If it would help save 25,000 lives a month I would certainly be willing to do that." His involvement has drawn skepticism from some European allies, who fear a rushed settlement could leave Ukraine vulnerable. Still, Trump emphasized that European nations would play a key role in any security agreement, ensuring continued Western involvement.

As talks continue, the prospect of a breakthrough remains uncertain. While Trump insists a deal is "very close," the gap between Ukraine's demands and Russia's conditionscoupled with ongoing violencethreatens to derail progress. Should negotiations succeed, Trump's role in brokering peace could reshape global perceptions of his diplomatic legacy. For now, the world watches as three leaderseach with conflicting agendasnavigate a path toward ending Europe's bloodiest conflict in decades.

Watch the video below that talks about the need for an urgent election in Ukraine.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

X.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
U.S. government clashes with British activist responsible for Disinformation Dozen

A federal judge temporarily blocked the U.S. government from detaining Imran Ahmed, CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), after visa restrictions were imposed on him for allegedly orchestrating online censorship campaigns.

The U.S. State Department justified the action by accusing Ahmed of coordinating "coercive pressure campaigns" against American speech, which it claimed had "serious adverse foreign policy consequences."

Ahmed's lawsuit argues that the threat of deportation violates his First Amendment and due process rights, a claim the case will test given his status as a non-citizen permanent resident.

The government's case centers on Ahmed's role in campaigns like the "Disinformation Dozen," which pressured U.S. tech platforms to suppress content from critics, particularly of COVID-19 policies and vaccines.

The legal proceeding highlights a broader conflict: U.S. officials view such activities as foreign interference in domestic discourse, while the case questions whether advocates of silencing speech can themselves claim constitutional protections.

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from detaining British activist Imran Ahmed, CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), following the U.S. government's imposition of visa restrictions on him and four other Europeans accused of orchestrating online censorship campaigns.

The case, unfolding in the Southern District of New York, raises critical questions about foreign influence over American free speech. It also shines a light on the limits of government intervention and whether those who advocate for silencing others can themselves claim First Amendment protections.

Ahmed  a U.S. permanent resident  filed a lawsuit Wednesday, Dec. 24, against Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The CCDH head argued in his filing that the threat of deportation violates his rights to free speech and due process.

U.S. District Judge Vernon Broderick  who was appointed by former President Barack Obama  issued a temporary restraining order Thursday, Dec. 25, that prevented authorities from arresting or transferring Ahmed before a scheduled hearing on Monday, Dec. 29. Ahmed, who resides in Washington with his wife and child  both U.S. citizens  called the ruling a victory for checks and balances and vowed to continue his work combating online hate speech and antisemitism.

But according to GreenMedInfo founder Sayer Ji, the government's case against Ahmed hinges on a broader accusation. The British activist and his organization played a central role in pressuring U.S. tech companies to suppress dissenting voices, particularly during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Ji cited the Department of State's Dec. 23 announcement of the restrictions in a post on his Substack. The aforementioned announcement explicitly cited visa restrictions for foreign actors such as Ahmed and former European Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton over their role in coordinating "coercive pressure campaigns" against American speech, framing Ahmed's activities as having "serious adverse foreign policy consequences."

Internal documents and investigative reporting suggest CCDH was part of a broader U.K.-based political network engaging in "black operations" targeting U.S. political figures, including then-independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  who now heads the Department of Health and Human Services. The "Disinformation Dozen" campaign spearheaded by Ahmed labeled American citizens, many of them critics of COVID-19 policies, as purveyors of dangerous misinformation  urging platforms like Facebook and Twitter (now X) to remove or demonetize their content.

Can a censorship architect be deported?

Ji also noted in his Substack that Ahmed went further in parliamentary testimony, likening skeptics of vaccine mandates to "psychopathic predators" and "sexual predators." This language, critics argued, was designed to dehumanize rather than debate.

Ahmed's case has drawn sharp reactions from European governments, which defend CCDH's work as necessary for combating online harms such as hate speech and child exploitation. But U.S. officials see it differently: as foreign interference in American discourse, particularly ahead of elections.

Rubio described the actions of Ahmed and others as "egregious extraterritorial censorship," signaling a hardening stance against what the administration views as foreign-backed suppression of domestic speech. BrightU.AI's Enoch notes that the State Department's visa sanctions against Ahmed are justified because his organization actively suppresses free speech by targeting doctors who question COVID-19 vaccine safety, falsely labeling them as "extremists" to justify censorship.

Legal experts note that immigration law grants the executive branch broad discretion to deny entry or remove non-citizens whose activities threaten foreign policy interests. The question before the court is not whether Ahmed's censorship efforts were justified, but whether the government acted within its authority  and whether a foreign national who helped silence Americans can now invoke constitutional protections to shield himself from consequences.

The Dec. 29 hearing will determine whether the temporary freeze on Ahmed's deportation extends into a preliminary injunction. But the implications reach far beyond one individual.

The case tests whether the architects of modern censorship  often operating through non-government organizations and foreign-funded initiatives  can be held accountable when their campaigns collide with U.S. sovereignty. It also underscores a growing transatlantic divide over how democracies should balance free expression against the risks of online disinformation.

Watch this clip from "Glenn TV" exposing the CCDH's role in targeting conservative media outlets.

This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

SayerJi.Substack.com

Reuters.com

X.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Intel taps semiconductor veteran Lip-Bu Tan as new CEO

In March, Intel announced its new CEO is Lip-Bu Tan, a semiconductor industry veteran. Tan previously was CEO of Cadence Design Systems, which makes software products used to design and verify complex electronic systems. Cadences toolset is used by Intel and all of the other major chip designers.

Customer wins and investments

IBM Cloud speeds AI workloads with Intel Gaudi 3 accelerators

IBM announced in April that it would make Intel Gaudi 3 AI accelerators available on IBM Cloud to help customers scale gen AI workloads and optimize performance for AI inferencing and fine-tuning.

Intel will design CPUs with Nvidia NVLink in return for $5 billion investment

Intel is collaborating with Nvidia to design CPUs with Nvidias NVLink high-speed chip interconnect, it said in September  just months after committing to co-develop a competing interconnect, UALink, with AMD, Broadcom, and other tech companies. Nvidia will invest $5 billion in Intel stock as part of the agreement.

Intel saga continues: Federal bailout considered

Rumors emerged in August of the federal governments plans to purchase a 10% stake in Intel in a bid to speed up completion of its advanced fabrication facilities. The deal came together after a meeting between President Donald Trump and CEO Lip-Bu Tan, which took place after President Trump called for the resignation of Tan.

Who wins/loses with the Intel-Nvidia union?

Nvidia dipped into its $56 billion bank account to acquire a 5% stake in Intel for $5 billion, making it the second largest shareholder of Intel stock after the federal governments recent investment. The deal, announced in September, provides Nvidia greater access to the x86 ecosystem, important for the enterprise data center market, and provides Intel with access to GPUs that have demand and can move their CPU products as well.

Market exits, lost talent

Intel sells off majority stake in its FPGA business

Intel spun off its programmable solutions group as a standalone FPGA company, selling a majority stake in the company to a private equity firm in April. Intel is taking a fairly hefty loss on this deal. It acquired Altera in 2015 for $16.7 billion, but the deal with Silver Lake technology investments values Altera at $8.75 billion total and Intel is getting $4.4 billion for the sale.
Chief Executive John Lee, speaking on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all citizens of Hong Kong, extended the citys heartfelt gratitude for the condolences, care and assistance received by the city from the Chinese Mainland and around the world since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po a month ago.

Mr Lee said: Fire shows no mercy, but the love of people abounds. This care, transcending geographical boundaries, reflects the spirit of solidarity and mutual support.

We will continue to face challenges with resilience and love, transforming sorrow into strength and assisting those affected in returning to normal life as soon as possible.

Mr Lee also expressed his gratitude to all sectors of Hong Kong society for their generous donations and active participation in relief efforts in areas including accommodation, medical care, mental health, finance and transport. These contributions have provided essential resources and support for post-disaster reconstruction and social recovery, he added.

In the wake of the fire, numerous charitable organisations and funds swiftly allocated donations to assist residents. The Government also established the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po in order to provide emergency financial support to people affected by the fire, including all residents, families of deceased victims, hospitalised casualties, students, domestic helpers, workers, flat owners and tenants.

Donations received by the support fund stand at about $3.8 billion, bringing its total capital to about $4.1 billion when added to the $300 million in startup funding from the Government,

In addition, many members of the public and organisations donated supplies to address the immediate needs of affected residents. In response, the Government and the information technology sector collaborated to establish an online platform for such donations.

After assessing residents actual needs, various government bureaus and departments, working in partnership with service organisations, promptly distributed food, beverages, clothing, personal care items, bedding, and electrical appliances to residents.

The Hong Kong SAR Government expressed its gratitude to provincial and municipal governments on the Chinese Mainland, foreign governments, diplomatic missions, international organisations, consulates-general, honorary consulates, and other officially recognised bodies in Hong Kong for their condolences and support for those affected by the fire.

It added that it will continue to unite different sectors and to lead the community with steadfast determination in its recovery and reforms, in order to build a safer and better Hong Kong.
The Government today announced the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has launched 11 projects with a total commitment of about $1.2 billion, providing emergency financial support to various groups of people affected by the fire at the estate.

The relief will go to residents, the families of deceased victims, hospitalised casualties, students, foreign domestic helpers, workers, flat owners and tenants.

As of this morning, 494 residents are staying in hotel rooms through the co-ordination of the Home & Youth Affairs Bureau, and 549 residents are staying in youth hostels/camps. Another 3,591 residents are living in transitional housing units provided by the Housing Bureau, the Housing Society or Po Tin Interim Housing in Tuen Mun.

The Government will continue to send out information through the Support Services for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po website and various other channels.
Bangladesh uprising 'guru' distances himself from NCP over Jamaat alliance

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 04:15 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Dhaka, Dec 29 (PTI) The main leader of last years violent uprising that toppled the then government in Bangladesh, Mahfuz Alam, on Sunday distanced himself from his disciples under the National Citizen Party (NCP) banner over their move to forge an electoral alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami.

In a Facebook post, Alam declined to be a part of this NCP", as a rift in the party over the alliance issue yielded a memorandum signed by 30 of its senior leaders expressing their stance against the move and two ranking ones announcing their resignation.

The fierce 2024 violent street campaign, dubbed the July Uprising, was carried out under the banner of the Students against Discrimination (SAD), and a large offshoot of the platform in February this year emerged as the NCP with interim government chief Muhammad Yunus blessings.

Alam served as the information and broadcast adviser, effectively a minister, and quit the portfolio just ahead of the Election Commissions December 11 announcement of the schedule for Bangladeshs 13th parliamentary polls amid speculation that he could be a heavyweight contender.

Under the prevailing circumstances, my respect, affection and friendship for my July comrades will not be erased. But I am not becoming part of this NCP," Alam wrote.

He said it is not true that I was given a proposal from the Jamaat-NCP alliance but keeping my long standing position is more important than becoming a Jamaat-NCP alliance (candidate) from any Dhaka constituency".

Yunus last year introduced Alam to former US president Bill Clinton in the United States, explicitly calling him the brain behind the whole revolution" in July 2024 and describing the uprising as a meticulously-designed" upheaval.

The violent street protest toppled then prime minister Sheikh Hasinas Awami League regime on August 5, 2024, while the interim government disbanded the party under an executive order earlier this year, debarring it from contesting the scheduled election on February 12, 2026.

Alam is widely regarded as an NCP guru", despite his obscure official relations with the party and largely esoteric political views.

His post came hours after NCP convenor Nahid Islam announced that they have joined the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance in pursuit of a broader political unity ahead of the polls.

Islam, however, said the move did not indicate any ideological alignment with the Jamaat.

NCPs joint member-secretary Mushfiq Us Saleheen, who was the first signatory to the memorandum titled Principled objections to a potential alliance in light of the accountability of the July Uprising and party values", told reporters on Saturday night that they have sent the memo to the party convenor.

The memorandum has expressed concerns over the NCPs proposed alliance with the Jamaat, stating that it conflicts with the partys declared ideology and stance on the July Uprising and democratic ethics.

It has pointed to the Jamaats controversial political history, particularly its role against Bangladeshs independence and alleged collaboration in genocide and crimes during the 1971 Liberation War, describing these as fundamentally incompatible with Bangladeshs democratic spirit and the NCPs core values.

The memo has further alleged that the Jamaats student wing, Chhatra Shibir, had in the recent past infiltrated and sabotaged other parties to blame the NCP for various incidents and spread misinformation and propaganda.

The memorandum was made public after NCP senior joint member-secretary Tasnim Jara, a doctor, resigned from her position on Saturday evening and announced that she would contest the upcoming parliamentary election as an independent candidate from a Dhaka constituency.

Hours later, NCP joint convenor Tajnuva Jabeen, also a doctor, announced her resignation in a Facebook post, describing the alliance formation as a political strategy carefully engineered and brought to this point".

The Ittefaq" newspaper reported on Saturday that most female NCP leaders were opposed to an alliance with the Jamaat or any religion-based party.

Bengali daily Prothom Alo" earlier reported that a seat-sharing deal between the NCP and former prime minister Khaleda Zias Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was discussed, but no understanding was reached.

Since then, NCP talks with Jamaat have progressed positively," the report said.

The BNP has emerged as the forerunner in the changed political landscape, with its former ally Jamaat  its partner during the 2001-2006 tenure  now appearing as its main rival amid the apparent absence of the disbanded Awami League. PTI AR RC

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 04:15 IST

News agency-feeds Bangladesh uprising 'guru' distances himself from NCP over Jamaat alliance

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...
QWERTY and nothing else

My first experience on a keyboard (in 1981) was on a Teletype Model 33. This was to learn how to program, not how to type blindly, which I still haven't mastered... But I did develop a preference for mechanical keyboards. When IBM introduced the IBM PC AT (Advanced Technology), they also introduced the IBM Model M keyboard. I have been using these keyboards ever since. My Model M's have 101 keys in QWERTY layout and no key with a logo on it (some people call this the Windows key).

Microsoft International keyboard (with dead keys)

My native language is Dutch, but I read and write a few others. Most of these languages have 'foreign' (accented) characters, which obviously are not available on the keyboard. Starting with Windows 3.0 (in 1990), there was a solution: The US International layout. It uses dead keys. A dead key no longer generates a character, it's a prefix for the next character. An apostrophe (') followed by the letter e will generate e (e-acute). Great stuff! But what if one needs to type an apostrophe? Just type ', followed by a space. Easy but very annoying for programmers (like me), who have to type quotes and double quotes all the time.

The US International layout does have another feature: Most keys will generate special characters when pressed while the right Alt key is held down. (The right Alt key is marked AltGr on most localized keyboards.) No sequence of ' and e needed, but just AltGr-e. The number of accented characters (in most languages) is rather small. The letter e is common in French, but its frequency is only 1,5%. I started wondering what would happen if I changed the Microsoft design so that the dead keys were no longer dead (allowing me to program freely) but still would have e at my fingertips through AltGr-e. Removing the dead keys posed a problem: e (which I use in Dutch) is not available through an AltGr combination but only through a dead key.

International keyboard (with AltGr dead keys)

I experimented with how awkward it would be if I used AltGr to get to the dead keys as well: for i, I would have to type Shift-AltGr-", followed by i. Awkward indeed, but i is not very common (in Dutch). I got rid of the very annoying " followed by a space to get a single doublequote AND still had access to all characters! I used this layout for a number of years, modifying the .../X11/symbols/us file after every new installation of Linux.

Some people around me noticed my layout, which made me think of submitting it to ... (I didn't know). With some help, my proposal was accepted (in 2007). Within one or two releases, I was able to stop modifying files, but just select "International AltGr dead keys" from a menu. Great.

Some people started using the layout, some of them helping others to find it in Linux. Some got accustomed to the layout and wanted it to work on Windows too.

Western European keyboard (with AltGr dead keys)

In 2015, years after altgr-intl became commonly available, I received an e-mail from Enno, who writes German a lot more than I do. His issue was with the (common German) letters a, e, o and u. They're available, but all over the keyboard. A somewhat logical layout would be nicer, but that would require breaking the Microsoft 'standard'.

Which made me think. What makes the Microsoft International keyboard eh... international? What rationale is behind having support for the letter  (eth) - a letter used in Old English, Middle English, Icelandic, Faroese - languages with few speakers. The letter a (a-tilde) is necessary for Portuguese, but that is only accessible through a (shifted(!) AltGr-) dead key. Or, as Enno put it:  (AltGr-c) is only common in Redmond.

We tried to come up with a layout that would support more languages a little better. Questions: which characters do we really need? And how to distribute them in a way that doesn't make typing too uncomfortable and is easy to remember?

Consultant Stefan, who makes letter frequency tables for many languages, prepared for us a combined frequency table for 10 Western European languages. This gives us a more or less reliable list of the characters we need, even for languages we do not speak or write. We made all of these accented characters in this table available as a single AltGr- keystroke. Diaeresis is most frequent (1.084%), followed by acute (0.596%): these would get the best places. Grave, tilde and circumflex cannot strictly follow logic (but are less frequent).  ended up on the '.' key, but  is on 'w' ( is used only in Danish and Norwegian but still reaches 0.123% frequency of 10 languages combined).

This layout supports 11 languages: English (of course), Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Norwegian, Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish in the sense that all accented characters in these languages are available as one AltGr keystroke. Note that this includes the 4 (major) languages of the American continent (combined with Western Europe about a billion speakers).

The layout doesn't 'break' a lot if you're used to altgr-intl: as long as you leave the AltGr key alone, it's still a standard United States QWERTY keyboard - great for 'domestic' typing and for coding. For an occasional accented letter, use the 'classic' AltGr dead keys ( ' ^ " ` ~ ) just like you're used to in altgr-intl.

These are new, but easier to remember 'ground rules' for fast access to accented letters using AltGr:

diaeresis (umlaut) versions on the key itself: aa ee ii oo uu

(umlaut) versions the key itself: aa ee ii oo uu acute versions below-right of key: za de ki lo ju

versions of key: za de ki lo ju grave versions available right of key: sa re po (but mi and yu)

versions available of key: sa re po (but mi and yu) circumflex versions below grave version xa fe ;o hu (but gi)

versions version xa fe ;o hu (but gi) tilde versions next to each other on the bottom row: va bo nn

versions next to each other on the va bo nn some have ' logical ' places: w (w is between a and e); qa (Q is round); 8 (similar form); cc

' places: w (w is between a and e); qa (Q is round); 8 (similar form); cc some will take getting used to: t . (and mentioned exceptions mi yu gi)

Download (and print?) a cheat sheet and find out how to install on Linux, Windows or macOS.

'Classic' dead keys acute, circumflex, diaeresis, grave, tilde as well as doubleacute and macron are in the same positions as on altgr-intl. Dead keys abovedot, abovering, caron and ogonek have moved. Cedilla, greek and stroke are new. Belowdot, breve, hook and horn are no longer available (see 'Compose keys', below, for a solution on Linux).

The layout is called altgr-weur. For languages of Eastern Europe, someone (who understands those languages) could make an altgr-eeur.

Compose keys (on Linux)

The altgr-intl layout has (AltGr-) dead keys for European languages, but also (AltGr-) dead keys for transcriptions and phonetic notations. This layout eliminates dead keys belowdot, breve, horn and hook, but that doesn't mean one cannot correctly type (let's say) a Vietnamese name. The compose key can be enabled to have virtually all UTF-16 characters available. Start

gnome-tweaks

go to Keyboard and Mouse, and select a Compose Key. (This key is also called the Multi_Key. I chose to use the RightCtrl key.) Composing a character works as follows: press the Multi_Key (RightCtrl) key (and release), then press apostrophe ('), then press e to get e. Almost any character can be generated this way, for example  (RightCtrl, '3', '8'), which is probably not (natively) available on any keyboard. AltGr-'a' (for a) is faster - that's why altgr-weur offers all accented characters (for mentioned 11 languages) through one AltGr combination.

Present on the (altgr-weur) layout: X11 name Description Dead Usage abovedot dot, above . Polish, Turkish, Lithuanian and transcriptions abovering ring above o Scandinavian A and with 4 other letters in Slavic languages acute right pointing apostrophe above  Modern Latin and Cyrillic languages caron inverted circumflex above < Finnish (only for transcriptions), Italian (for Slavic names) cedilla comma below , French, Portuguese (& Catalan) circumflex upward chevron above ^ Modern Latin languages diaeresis two dots above  Modern Latin languages and Greek doubleacute double acute = Hungarian grave left pointing apostrophe above ` Western European languages greek Greek alphabet: , ,  etc macron bar above _ Balkan, Baltic, Polynesian, transcriptions ogonek inverted cedilla ; Poland, Lithuania, Native American stroke (various) strokes through / Scandinavian  and special purposes tilde approximation sign above ~ Spanish, Portuguese (& Vietnamese) Not available on this layout (removed from altgr-intl): X11 name Description Dead Usage belowdot dot below ! Transcriptions and phonetic notations breve rounded caron above U Languages around the Black Sea hook questionmark above ? Vietnamese horn comma right above + Vietnamese (usually in combination with other accented vowels)

The character in the Dead column is the key that 'dies' after you press (and release) the Multi_Key: it will produce no output. Next, you follow with the letter that needs to have that accent. For instance: Multi_Key, '_', 'e' gives e (Hungarian e-macron). Similarly, Multi_Key, '+', 'o' gives (Vietnamese) o. For a list with many examples, see Ubuntu help or the X11 server documentation.

Unicode input

As a last resort, you could input the hexadecimal code for the character you need. The altgr-weur layout has currency symbols for Dollars and cents ($, ), British Pound (), Japanese Yen () and the Euro (). The Israelian Shekel has unicode U+20AA. Type Shift-Ctrl-u, followed by 2, 0, a, a and Enter (). Copyright is U+00A9:  (example provided to keep Redmond happy).

Back
Critically ill former Bangladesh PM Zia's condition worsens: Report

Last Updated: December 30, 2025, 02:30 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Dhaka, Dec 30 (PTI) Critically ill former prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Khaleda Zias condition has worsened and she is being treated at a specialised private hospital in the capital, reports quoting her doctors said late Sunday.

Khaleda Zias condition is extremely critical," private UNB news agency quoted medical board member Ziaul Haque as saying, as her elder son and BNPs acting chairman Tarique Rahman, along with close family members, visited her at Dhakas Evercare Hospital.

He said Zia was on a life support system" and required regular kidney dialysis, adding that whenever the dialysis is stopped, her physical condition worsens significantly. PTI AR HIG HIG

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 30, 2025, 02:30 IST

News agency-feeds Critically ill former Bangladesh PM Zia's condition worsens: Report

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...
Meghalaya pro-ILP supporters demand anti-racism law after Tripura student murder

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 21:00 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Shillong, Dec 29 (PTI) Pro-Inner Line Permit (ILP) supporters in Meghalaya on Monday demanded the enactment of a national anti-racism law and fast-track justice following the brutal murder of a 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura, calling the incident part of a recurring pattern of racial violence against people from the North East.

In a statement, the Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) expressed deep condolences and anger over the death of Anjel Chakma, who succumbed to his injuries on December 26 following an assault in Dehradun.

CoMSO leader Roykupar Synrem said such crimes were not isolated and reflected systemic prejudice faced by people from the region in cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi and Dehradun.

Referring to Chakmas reported last words  We are not Chinese, we are Indians," he said, adding that the attack was a haunting indictment of deep-seated racial bias and social exclusion faced by North Eastern students and professionals outside the region.

Standing in solidarity with the people of Tripura and the wider North East, the supporters urged the Uttarakhand government and the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure a fast-track trial in the case.

While reports indicate that five suspects have been apprehended, they said the prime accused must be brought to justice without delay to prevent further emboldening of such crimes.

The activists further called on the Centre to direct all state governments to establish dedicated 24/7 North East Helpline and specialised police cells in major cities to ensure the safety of students and working professionals from the region.

Educational institutions and local administrations must also be held accountable for failing to provide a safe and inclusive environment, the statement said.

Earlier, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma also condemned the attack.

Sangma, who is also the national president of the National Peoples Party (NPP), said such acts of racial violence strike at the very foundation of equality and unity, and stressed that people from the North East are as Indian as every other citizen of the country.

He said on X, Racism must never be normalised and those responsible must be punished." PTI JOP MNB

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 21:00 IST

News agency-feeds Meghalaya pro-ILP supporters demand anti-racism law after Tripura student murder

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...
Suriname Horror: Man stabs nine to death, including four of his own children

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 03:45 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Paramaribo [Suriname], December 29 (ANI): At least nine people, including children, were killed in a stabbing attack in a town near Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, Xinhua reported, citing local media reports on Sunday.The attack took place in Meerzorg, a town located across the Suriname River from the capital, and began on Saturday evening. Media reports said the suspect attacked members of his own family as well as neighbours. Among those killed were the mans four children.Police arrested the suspect shortly after the incident. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack, and an investigation is ongoing, Xinhua reported. The killings have sent shockwaves across the country, with leaders and residents expressing grief and disbelief over the violence.Surinamese President Jennifer Simons reacted to the incident in a post on social media, expressing her shock and condolences to the victims families.At a time when family and friends should be holding on to and supporting each other, we are confronted with the harsh reality that there is another side to the world," she said on Facebook. I wish all the bereaved much strength, courage, and comfort during this unimaginably difficult time."Officials have not released further details about the victims or the circumstances leading up to the attack.Police said more information would be shared as the investigation progresses. (ANI)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 03:45 IST

News agency-feeds Suriname Horror: Man stabs nine to death, including four of his own children

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...
Trump indicates US 'hit' facility that he tied to alleged drug boats

Last Updated: December 30, 2025, 00:00 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Washington, Dec 29 (AP) President Donald Trump has indicated that the US has hit" a facility in South America as he wages a pressure campaign on Venezuela, but the US offered no other details.

Trump made the comments in what seemed to be an impromptu radio interview Friday.

The president, who called radio host John Catsimatidis during a program on WABC radio, was discussing US strikes on alleged drug-carrying boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, which have killed at least 105 people in 29 known strikes since early September.

I dont know if you read or saw, they have a big plant or a big facility where they send the, you know, where the ships come from," Trump said. Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So, we hit them very hard." Trump did not offer any additional details in the interview, including what kind of attack may have occurred. The Pentagon on Monday referred questions to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth or one of the US militarys social media accounts has in the past typically announced every boat strike in a post on X, but they have not posted any notice of any strike on a facility.

The press office of Venezuelas government did not immediately respond Monday to a request for comment on Trumps statement.

Trump for months has suggested he may conduct land strikes in South America, in Venezuela or possibly another country, and in recent weeks has been saying the US would move beyond striking boats and would strike on land soon." In October, Trump confirmed he had authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. The agency did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment Monday.

Along with the strikes, the US has sent warships, built up military forces in the region, seized two oil tankers and pursued a third.

The Trump administration has said it is in armed conflict" with drug cartels and seeking to stop the flow of narcotics into the United States.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has insisted the real purpose of the US military operations is to force him from power.

White House chief of staff Susie Wiles said in an interview with Vanity Fair published this month that Trump wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle." (AP) RD RD

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 30, 2025, 00:00 IST

News agency-feeds Trump indicates US 'hit' facility that he tied to alleged drug boats

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...
Turkey, Armenia agree to simplify visa procedures to normalise ties

Last Updated: December 30, 2025, 00:00 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Ankara(Turkey), Dec 29 (AP) Turkey and Armenia have agreed to simplify visa procedures as part of efforts to normalise ties, Turkeys Foreign Ministry announced Monday, making it easier for their citizens to travel between the two countries.

Relations between Turkey and Armenia have long been strained by historic grievances and Turkeys alliance with Azerbaijan. The two neighbouring countries have no formal diplomatic ties and their joint border has remained closed since the 1990s.

The two countries however, agreed to work toward normalisation in 2021, appointing special envoys to explore steps toward reconciliation and reopening the frontier. Those talks have progressed in parallel with efforts to ease tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Turkey supported Azerbaijan during its 2020 conflict with Armenia for control of the Karabakh region, known internationally as Nagorno-Karabakh, a territorial dispute that had lasted nearly four decades.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement posted on social platform X that Ankara and Yerevan agreed that holders of diplomatic, special and service passports from both countries would be able to obtain electronic visas free of charge as of January 1.

On this occasion, Turkey and Armenia reaffirm once again their commitment to continue the normalisation process between the two countries with the goal of achieving full normalisation without any preconditions," the ministry said.

Turkey and Armenia also have a more than century-old dispute over the deaths of an estimated 1.5 million Armenians in massacres, deportations and forced marches that began in 1915 in Ottoman Turkey. Historians widely view the event as genocide.

Turkey denies the deaths constituted genocide, saying the toll has been inflated and those killed were victims of civil war and unrest. It has lobbied to prevent countries from officially recognising the massacres as genocide. (AP) RD RD

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 30, 2025, 00:00 IST

News agency-feeds Turkey, Armenia agree to simplify visa procedures to normalise ties

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...
Zelenskyy briefs German Chancellor on Trump meeting

Last Updated: December 30, 2025, 02:45 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Kyiv [Ukraine], December 30 (ANI): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday held talks with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz and briefed him on the outcomes of the meeting with US President Donald Trump and his team in Florida.Zelenskyy also told him that the news of Ukraine attacking Russian President Vladimir Putins residence was fake.In a post on X, he said, I have just spoken with Merz. First and foremost, we discussed the outcomes of the meeting with President Trump and his team in Florida. I informed him about the main emphases and key issues raised. Thank you, Friedrich, for your advice and for the constant coordination. Of course, we also discussed todays Russian fake, which Moscow is using to try to undermine diplomacy and justify dragging out the war."

I have just spoken with @bundeskanzler Merz. First and foremost, we discussed the outcomes of the meeting with President Trump and his team in Florida.I informed him about the main emphases and key issues raised. Thank you, Friedrich, for your advice and for the constant  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) December 29, 2025

He further said that Ukraine was doing everything possible to achieve peace.Putin needs to come to terms with the fact that he must end the war, the strikes, and the bloodshed. Ukraine is doing everything to achieve peace. Russia must stop inventing ways to wage war and start thinking about how to restore security. Ukraine has put forward all the proposals. Thank you to Germany, to everyone in Europe, and to the United States for their support on the path to peace," he said.Zelenskyy on Monday said that the alleged strike by Ukraine on Russian President Vladimir Putins residence is a fabrication" and that Ukraine will not take steps to undermine diplomacy.Zelenskyys response came after Russias Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscows negotiating position would change after alleged strikes on Putins Novgorod region residence overnight on Monday.

Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trumps team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) December 29, 2025

In a post on X, Zelenskyy said, Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trumps team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russias own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies. Furthermore, the Russians have already targeted Kyiv in the past, including the Cabinet of Ministers building." (ANI)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 30, 2025, 02:45 IST

News agency-feeds Zelenskyy briefs German Chancellor on Trump meeting

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...
Viral Video Showed Gautam Singhania Driving Lamborghini Temerario: All About The Rs 6,00,00,000-Car

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 12:01 IST

The billionaire Raymond Group CEO was spotted driving Lamborghini's brand-new Temerario hybrid supercar.

Lamborghini's sleek-looking Temerario supercar. (Photo Credit: YouTube)

Gautam Singhania, chairman and managing director of Raymond Group, was spotted driving a Lamborghini in Mumbai. Pictures and videos of the Indian businessman driving Lamborghinis brand-new Temerario hybrid supercar surfaced online.

In a YouTube video shared by CS12 Vlogs on their channel, Singhania was captured on camera driving Lamborghinis Rs 6 crore worth Temerario. His vehicle was followed by the popular billionaires security convoy, featuring a Toyota Fortuner and multiple Mahindra Scorpios with the police sticker. The billionaire Raymond Group CEO sat behind the steering wheel before smoothly taking his vehicle into a buildings parking lot.

Lamborghini Temerario

Temerario is Lamborghinis latest supercar, which has succeeded its previous Huracan model. By the looks of it, Singhania has opted for the cars Blu Astraeus shade with contrasting silver alloy wheels. The model wouldve cost him in the range of Rs 6 crore. The Temerario carries a more prominent and intimidating design than the Huracan it has replaced. The exteriors of the car boast of LED headlights, hexagonal LED DRLs and a front bumper.

Since its an entry-level supercar, it doesnt have the iconic scissor doors as the V12 model. But it carries 20-inch front and 21-inch rear alloy wheels. Enabling the cars high functionality is its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 motor, which is capable of producing 800 bhp and 730 Nm torque and redlines at 10,000 rpm.

Is it available for test drive?

It seems so. A video on Instagram claims that you can go for test drive in Mumbai.

Gautam Singhania vs Lamborghini

The billionaire being spotted with the Lamborghini Temerario would be a huge surprise for the followers of the Raymond Group CEO. Singhania has been famously bashing the brand online ever since it launched its flagship V12 engine-powered Revuelto. The feud began in 2023 after Singhania took out the Revuelto for a test drive and complained over an electrical failure and breakdown that occurred on the Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (Atal Setu). Following the incident, the car was transported back to the Lamborghini dealership.

Having questioned the reliability of the multicrore supercar, the businessman claimed he had heard of at least three other cases of Revueltos breaking down within 15 days of delivery.

Singhania expressed his shock over the arrogance" of the brand, claiming no one from its authorities had reached out to the customers. Lamborghini did not publicly respond to the Raymond Group MD.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:01 IST

News auto Viral Video Showed Gautam Singhania Driving Lamborghini Temerario: All About The Rs 6,00,00,000-Car

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...
Australia to Remove Tariffs on All Indian Exports from January 2026: What Does It Mean?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 14:08 IST

Ind-Aus ECTA: The move is expected to significantly deepen bilateral trade ties and create fresh opportunities for Indian exporters, particularly in labour-intensive sectors.

Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said India's exports to Australia grew 8% in FY 2024-25, helping improve India's trade balance. (File Photo: PTI)

Australia will eliminate tariffs on 100% of its tariff lines for Indian exports from January 1, 2026, marking a major milestone under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA). The move is expected to significantly deepen bilateral trade ties and create fresh opportunities for Indian exporters, particularly in labour-intensive sectors.

The development comes as India and Australia mark the third anniversary of the Ind-Aus ECTA. In a post on X on December 29, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the agreement has translated intent into impact", delivering sustained export growth, wider market access and stronger supply-chain resilience for Indian businesses, including MSMEs, farmers and workers.

As we mark the 3rd anniversary of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation & Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA), we celebrate a partnership that has translated intent into impact. Over the past three years, the Agreement has delivered sustained export growth, deeper market access, and stronger supply-chain resilience, benefiting Indian exporters, MSMEs, farmers, and workers alike," Goyal said.

As we mark the 3rd anniversary of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation & Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA), we celebrate a partnership that has translated intent into impact.Over the past three years, the Agreement has delivered sustained export growth, deeper market access, pic.twitter.com/uV6ILiOdq2  Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) December 29, 2025

He said Indias exports to Australia grew 8% in FY 2024-25, helping improve Indias trade balance. Strong gains were recorded across manufacturing, chemicals, textiles, plastics, pharmaceuticals, petroleum products, and gems and jewellery. Agricultural exports also saw broad-based growth, with notable increases in fruits and vegetables, marine products, spices and sharp growth in coffee exports. Gems and jewellery exports rose 16% during April-November 2025.

Another key milestone during the year was the signing of a Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Organic Products, which is expected to reduce compliance costs and enable smoother trade for exporters in the organic segment.

With negotiations for a broader Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) progressing, the ECTA continues to anchor Indias economic engagement with Australia and the wider Indo-Pacific region, aligning with initiatives such as Make in India and the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

What does it mean?

From January 2026, every product exported from India to Australia will enter the Australian market at zero customs duty. For Indian exporters, this means a direct improvement in price competitiveness against suppliers from other countries, potentially boosting volumes and margins.

Labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, and processed food are expected to be the biggest beneficiaries, as tariff removal lowers entry barriers and expands demand. MSMEs, which often struggle with thin margins, stand to gain the most from reduced landed costs.

For Australia, zero-duty access supports stable sourcing from a trusted partner, while for India, it opens a developed market with high purchasing power and predictable trade rules.

Overall, the tariff-free access is likely to push bilateral trade beyond current levels, encourage long-term investment linkages, and reinforce the strategic economic partnership between India and Australia.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 14:02 IST

News business economy Australia to Remove Tariffs on All Indian Exports from January 2026: What Does It Mean?

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...
Stocks To Watch: Coforge, IndiGo, PNB, Titan, Vodafone Idea, Coal India, Vedanta, And Others

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 08:10 IST

Stocks to watch: Shares of firms like Coforge, IndiGo, PNB, Titan, Vodafone Idea, Coal India, Vedanta, and others will be in focus on Monday's trade

Stocks To Watch Today, December 29

Stocks to watch on December 29, 2025: Markets slipped nearly half a per cent after two sessions of range-bound trade, extending the consolidation phase amid thin volumes in the holiday-shortened week.

With no major triggers on the horizon, analysts expect consolidation to continue amid subdued participation. That said, stock- and sector-specific news flows are likely to drive selective trading opportunities.

Punjab National Bank (PNB)

PNB reported a borrowal fraud of Rs 2,433.99 crore to the Reserve Bank of India involving the erstwhile promoters of SREI Equipment Finance and SREI Infrastructure Finance. In a regulatory filing, the lender said Rs 1,240.94 crore pertains to SREI Equipment Finance, while Rs 1,193.06 crore relates to SREI Infrastructure Finance.

Coforge

Coforge announced that it has agreed to acquire US-based digital engineering firm Encora in an all-stock deal valued at an enterprise value of $2.35 billion (around 21,140 crore). The transaction marks one of the largest overseas acquisitions by an Indian mid-tier IT services firm and underscores Coforges strategic pivot toward AI-led engineering, data, and cloud services.

IndiGo

Indias largest airline saw a dip in domestic market share in November following major operational disruptions earlier in the month. Data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), accessed by PTI, showed IndiGos market share fell to 63.6% in November from 65.6% in October.

Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals

The company said Rajkumar Bafna has resigned as PresidentFinance, citing severe pollution levels in Delhi. Bafna, designated as Senior Management Personnel, will be relieved of his duties effective December 31, 2025, Akums confirmed in a regulatory filing.

Manappuram Finance

Gold loan NBFC Manappuram Finance said its board has approved an additional equity infusion of up to Rs 250 crore into subsidiary Asirvad Micro Finance (AMFL) in one or more tranches to support capex and working capital needs. Manappuram currently holds a 98.31% stake in AMFL, which will rise to 98.56% post-infusion.

Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea is positioning 2026 as a year of accelerated network expansion, with an increased focus on 5G rollout alongside continued investment in its 4G network. CEO Abhijit Kishore said the telco has added a significant number of towers nationwide to improve coverage and capacity ahead of scaling next-generation services.

Titan

Titan is set to enter the fast-growing lab-grown diamond (LGD) jewellery space. The company announced the launch of a new brand, beYon  from the House of Titan", with its first exclusive retail store opening in Mumbai on December 29. The segment is currently dominated by VC- and PE-backed startups.

Colgate-Palmolive (India)

Colgate-Palmolive (India) disclosed that it has received an income tax demand of 267.64 crore for FY22, mainly due to transfer pricing adjustments and disallowance of certain expenses. The assessment order was issued under Section 143(3) read with Section 144C(13) of the Income Tax Act.

Aurobindo Pharma

CuraTeQ Biologics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aurobindo Pharma, has mutually agreed to terminate its licence agreement with US-based BioFactura Inc for the commercialisation of BFI-751, a proposed biosimilar of ustekinumab (Stelara). The decision followed a strategic portfolio review, the company said.

NBCC (India)

NBCC said it will receive a 21.23-acre land parcel in south Delhi as part of a dispute settlement with the Delhi government. The company plans to develop a mixed-use real estate project on the site with an estimated revenue potential of about Rs 8,500 crore, while paying Rs 220 crore to the Delhi government.

Timex Group India

Timex Group Luxury Watches BV, the promoter of Timex Group India, will sell a 4.47% stake via an offer for sale (OFS) on December 29 and 30. The OFS will involve up to 45.09 lakh equity shares at a floor price of Rs 275 per share.

Coal India

State-run Coal India said its board has appointed Chairman-cum-Managing Director B. Sairam as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a move aimed at strengthening leadership at the coal major. Sairam brings over three decades of experience in the mining sector.

Vedanta

The Andhra Pradesh government has issued a conditional no-objection certificate (NOC) to Vedanta Ltds Cairn Oil & Gas division for drilling 20 onshore wells in Krishna district.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 08:10 IST

News business markets Stocks To Watch: Coforge, IndiGo, PNB, Titan, Vodafone Idea, Coal India, Vedanta, And Others

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...
128 Flights Cancelled As Visibility Drops Amid Dense Fog In Delhi-NCR; Airlines Issue Advisory

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 10:33 IST

Dense fog and toxic smog disrupted life in Delhi, affecting visibility and air travel. Several airlines issued travel advisories in the wake of adverse weather.

Rapid Read

File photo of Delhi airport amid foggy conditions. (Image: PTI)

Dense fog and toxic smog continued to disrupt normal life in the national capital on Monday morning, severely affecting visibility and air travel across Delhi and surrounding areas. The Delhi airport reported 128 cancellations, including 64 arrivals and 64 departures, along with eight diversions. The adverse weather conditions also prompted several airlines, including Indigo, Air India and SpiceJet, to issue advisories.

The IndiGo airline issued a travel advisory for passengers flying to and from Delhi and Hindon airports. In a post on X, the airline said fluctuating visibility due to fog had led to changes in flight schedules and warned passengers to expect slower operations until weather conditions improve.

Delhi and Hindon (Airport) continue to remain wrapped in chilly winter air and lingering fog this morning. The fluctuating visibility has led to changes in flight schedules, and operations may be slower than usual as conditions evolve. Our teams on-ground are prioritising safety and compliance with visibility requirements," it tweeted.

Travel Advisory#Delhi and #Hindon (Airport) continue to remain wrapped in chilly winter air and lingering fog this morning. The fluctuating visibility has led to changes in flight schedules, and operations may be slower than usual as conditions evolve. Our teams on-ground are IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) December 28, 2025

IndiGo advised travellers to regularly check their flight status and make use of rebooking or refund options if their journeys were affected, noting that airport authorities and airline ground staff were deployed to assist passengers at terminals, as foggy conditions continued to disrupt departures and arrivals. Officials said flight operations would gradually return to normal once visibility improves.

Our airport teams are also available to assist should you need support while at the terminal. Once the weather settles, operations will gradually stabilise, and flights will depart as planned. Thank you for your patience and understanding. We look forward to welcoming you onboard soon," it further wrote on X.

Air travel in Delhi was particularly affected due to the low visibility. The Delhi airport authorities said flight operations were being conducted only under CAT III conditions, which allow aircraft to take off and land in extremely poor visibility. On Monday morning, runway visibility at the airport ranged between 100 and 150 metres.

Officials cautioned that flight delays and cancellations were likely. The airport said ground staff had been deployed across terminals to assist passengers and manage the situation, and travellers were advised to check flight updates directly with their airlines.

Air India also issued a warning on Sunday night, saying dense fog was expected across parts of northern India, including Delhi, which could impact flight operations. The airline said measures had been taken to minimise disruptions, but delays, diversions, or cancellations could still occur.

Late Sunday, SpiceJet airline also issued a weather advisory warning passengers that flight operations in Delhi could be affected due to poor visibility. Due to bad weather (poor visibility) in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights might get affected," the airline tweeted, advising travellers to stay updated on any changes to their schedules.

Delhi Airport Issues Advisory

Further, the Delhi airport also issued a passenger advisory on Monday morning, warning of delays and cancellations.

The Indira Gandhi International Airport said flights were being operated under CAT III conditions, an advanced instrument landing system that allows specially trained pilots and equipped aircraft to land during extremely low visibility.

Delhiites woke up to another foggy morning on Monday as dense fog blanketed the city, reducing visibility and slowing traffic, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issued a red alert for fog, warning of hazardous conditions.

Visibility dropped sharply late Sunday night and remained poor through the early hours of Monday, making travel difficult and risky. At the same time, air quality in the capital slipped back into the severe category, raising health concerns for residents.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 08:08 IST

News cities new-delhi-news 128 Flights Cancelled As Visibility Drops Amid Dense Fog In Delhi-NCR; Airlines Issue Advisory

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...
IIT Delhi Sees 33% Rise In Pre-Placement Offers Compared To Last Year; 1,275 Offers Received

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 17:19 IST

The placement season for the academic year 202526 at IIT Delhi will continue until the end of May, with OCS hosting additional companies in the coming days.

Over 1,140 individual students have been placed in the IIT Delhi placement process 2025. (File Photo)

By December 2025, IIT Delhi students have secured 1,275 job offers, including pre-placement offers (PPOs), with over 1,140 individual students placed. This year, more than 300 PPOs were received, marking an increase of over 33% from last year, the institute stated in an official press release.

Recruiters with double-digit offers on campus this year include Accenture Strategy and Consulting, Amazon, American Express, Bajaj Auto Technology Ltd, Barclays, Deutsche India Pvt Ltd, Eternal Limited, EXL Services, EY GDS, EY Parthenon, Glean Search Technologies India Pvt Ltd, Google, Goldman Sachs, Graviton Research Capital, JP Morgan, Meesho, Microsoft, Navi, Nine Education, Oracle, PayU Payments, Qualcomm, Schlumberger, Squarepoint Capital, Sterlite Group, Texas Instruments, and Wells Fargo International Solutions Pvt Ltd.

Additionally, students have received over 35 international offers from renowned organisations across various global regions, including Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, the UAE, and the United Kingdom, the IIT stated.

Reflecting on the ongoing placement season, Prof. Naresh V Datla, Professor-in-Charge of the Office of Career Services (OCS) at the institute, said, IIT Delhi has witnessed a strong and encouraging placement season this year. The consistent performance of our students reflects their academic rigor, adaptability, and readiness for industry challenges. We thank our recruiting partners for their continued trust and congratulate our students for their dedication and resilience."

ALSO READ | Success Story: IIT Delhi Alumni IPS Archit Chandok Rejected Rs 35 Lakh Job Offer, Cleared UPSC

Prof. Suresh Neelakantan, Co-Professor-in-Charge of OCS, added, OCS continues to strengthen collaborations with diverse set of recruiters and job roles and expect more companies to recruit in the upcoming phase of the placement season to support our students job aspirations."

The placement season for the academic year 202526 at IIT Delhi will continue until the end of May, with OCS hosting additional companies in the coming days. This will offer enhanced placement opportunities for IIT Delhis undergraduate and postgraduate students, the institute added.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 17:19 IST

News education-career IIT Delhi Sees 33% Rise In Pre-Placement Offers Compared To Last Year; 1,275 Offers Received

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...
School Holidays: Bihar, Jharkhand Closed Till December 31; UP Schools Shut Till Jan 1

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:58 IST

In Ranchi, classes from kindergarten to Class 12 in all government and private schools will be suspended until December 31 due to severe cold conditions predicted by IMD.

All schools in Uttar Pradesh will remain closed till January 1, 2026. (Representational image)

Schools in Bihar and Jharkhand will remain closed until December 31 due to the ongoing cold wave as it poses health risks to children. In Bihar, classes are suspended until December 30, while schools in Jharkhand will be shut until December 31.

In Ranchi, classes from kindergarten to Class 12 in all government and private schools will be suspended until December 31 due to severe cold conditions predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Ranchi is under a yellow alert, and Patna is experiencing very low temperatures. According to the IMD forecast, Ranchi will have a minimum temperature of 8 degrees Celsius on December 28 and around 10 degrees Celsius with moderate fog on December 31, 2025.

An order from the district education office stated that under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Samhita, all government, non-government, and private schools in Ranchi district are directed to suspend classes from KG to Class 12 from December 27 to December 31, 2025.

Under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Samhita, all government, non-government and private schools operating within Ranchi district are directed to suspend classes from KG to class 12 from December 27 to December 31, 2025," an order issued by the district education office stated.

Patna District Magistrate Dr. Thiyagarajan S.M. announced the closure of all government and private schools, including Anganwadi Kendras and pre-schools, up to Class 8 in Patna district until December 30, 2025. Classes for students from Class 9 to Class 12 will continue between 10 am and 3:30 pm, while pre-board and board examinations will proceed as scheduled.

Uttar Pradesh Schools Closed Till January 1

Due to the intense cold in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered the closure of schools across the state until January 1. He emphasised that the safety of children is paramount during the cold wave and any negligence in this regard will not be tolerated.

All schools up to Class 12, across all boards including ICSE, CBSE, and UP Board, will remain closed until January 1. Adityanath has instructed top government and administration officials to stay mobile in the field to personally assess the situation on the ground.

 with PTI inputs

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:57 IST

News education-career School Holidays: Bihar, Jharkhand Closed Till December 31; UP Schools Shut Till Jan 1

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...
Election Effect? Centre Accepts Tagore's Vande Mataram, Biswa Bangla Logo In Bengal Tableau | Exclusive

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 11:21 IST

Political observers say the unhindered passage of Bengals tableau in the Republic Day parade this year may point to a tactical accommodation by the Centre ahead of the 2026 polls

Rapid Read

Bengals tableau will be led by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay---author of Vande Mataram. Sources reveal his figure will be in a posture where he is writing Vande Mataram with a pen. (PTI)

After having refused Bengals tableau in Republic Day parades in 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2024, the Centre appears to be going out of its way to accommodate the states entry this yeara move many observers view through the prism of next years assembly elections.

According to government sources, the tableau model presented by the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal administration has cleared the scrutiny of the defence ministrys expert committee without objection from the Centre in several meetings so far. Officials have even suggested enhancements to make the design more visually appealing, indicating active cooperation rather than resistance. If all goes according to plan, the Bengal tableau may be featured prominently on New Delhis Kartavya Path during the Republic Day celebrations.

Bengals theme this time is Bengal in the Freedom Struggle". News18 has reliably learnt that the proposed tableau will feature the logo of Biswa Banglathe official branding initiative of the West Bengal government. It is unusual for the committee to okay such a state logo in a state tableau for R-Day. However, government sources indicate no objections were raised over it.

Whats more? Vande Mataram, which will be played from the tableau, is proposed not to be the usual music of the national song but the one composed by Rabindranath Tagore. Tagore set the music in 1895 and a year later sang Vande Mataram for the first time at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta. Surprisingly, this too was accepted.

Bengals tableau will be led by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyayauthor of Vande Mataram whose 150 years is being celebrated this year by the Centre. Sources reveal his figure will be in a posture where he is writing Vande Mataram with a pen. Behind him will be Bengali icons such as Subhas Chandra Bose riding a horse, Tagore, and Matangini Hazra holding a tricolour. Sources say it has been insisted at the highest level in the West Bengal government to keep the height of all the icons samea request the Centre hasnt objected to. The idea, sources reveal, was not to let one icon look larger than life while others look dwarfed.

On the side of the tableau, the Bengal government has decided to install 12 figures like Swami Vivekananda, freedom fighter Chittaranjan Das, poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, and revolutionary Aurobindo Ghosh among others.

Government sources reveal that instead of questioning the state on technicalities, the Centre has been working as a facilitator this time. For instance, the committee suggested that the pen and ink that the figure of Chattopadhyay uses right in front of the tableau should look natural. We told them that we would be replicating the same inkpot that is still there in the museum in Naihati," said a source in the state government who did not wish to be identified.

So far, 17 states and Union Territories have been shortlisted for the parade. The final list of which states have made the cut will come a few days before Republic Day. However, it is widely believed that Bengal will make it to the final list, given the sensibilities attached.

Political observers suggest that the unhindered passage of Bengals tableau this year may point to a tactical accommodation by the Centre ahead of the 2026 assembly elections in the state, with both national and regional players bracing for one of the countrys most closely watched electoral battles. After all, sidelining the state that gave birth to Vande Mataramespecially when the Republic Day theme is Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram"would have made for awkward optics and poor politics.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 11:21 IST

News elections Election Effect? Centre Accepts Tagore's Vande Mataram, Biswa Bangla Logo In Bengal Tableau | Exclusive

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...
Progress, Promises And A Roadblock: What Trump And Zelenskyy Agreed In Florida Talks

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:08 IST

Both leaders said the 20-point peace plan has moved forward in Florida, but acknowledged that a few 'thorny' issues still stand in the way of a final deal.

US President Donald Trump with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy. (AFP)

The latest meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday injected both optimism and caution into the slow-moving effort to end the war triggered by Russias 2022 invasion. After more than three hours of talks, the two leaders emerged describing the discussions as substantive and productive, even as they acknowledged that the toughest elements of a potential settlement remain unresolved.

Both sides emphasised that progress had been made on a detailed 20-point framework, but neither offered a breakthrough on the central question of territory, which continues to impede a final agreement.

That the talks happened in Florida, rather than Kyiv or Washington, underscored the unusual nature of the current diplomatic track. Yet the setting, and Trumps recent outreach to Russian President Vladimir Putin, shaped much of the tone. Trump spoke with Putin for more than an hour before meeting Zelenskyy, with the Kremlin saying the call was requested by Washington. The US president is expected to speak with Putin again, reinforcing the reality that any deal will ultimately require at least tacit Russian assent.

In this context, both leaders framed the meeting as a step forward, but not the conclusion of a process they described as complex, delicate and politically fraught. Zelenskyy, who began and ended his remarks by thanking Trump, said we achieved significant results", while Trump said the sides were getting a lot closer, maybe very close".

How Much Progress Was Announced?

Zelenskyy said the 20-point peace framework was now 90 per cent agreed", adding that the discussions covered all aspects of the peace framework" and that the sequence of next steps had been fixed. He described bilateral USUkraine security guarantees as 100 per cent agreed", and said broader arrangements involving Europe were almost agreed".

Trump was similarly upbeat, suggesting the sides were getting a lot closer, maybe very close", though he avoided citing percentages.

US and Ukrainian teams, along with European partners, have been working intensively on the draft agreement. Trump indicated that these working-level meetings would continue in the coming weeks, potentially in Washington, and that a clearer picture of whether a settlement is possible would emerge soon. In a few weeks, well know one way or another," he said, acknowledging that the negotiations were in their very final stages" but also cautioning that its possible it doesnt happen."

Zelenskyy said Trump had offered to host Ukrainian and European leaders in January as part of the next phase of talks, a proposal welcomed by several EU figures, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

What Has Been Agreed So Far?

The strongest progress in the talks was on security guarantees, which both leaders described as the foundation of the emerging peace framework. Zelenskyy said the bilateral USUkraine guarantees were 100 per cent agreed", indicating that Washington and Kyiv have aligned on how the United States would help deter future attacks and stabilise Ukraine once a settlement is reached. Trump called the same set of guarantees 95 per cent done", while avoiding specifics on the type or scale of American support, signalling that the political understanding is in place even if the technical wording is still being finalised.

A second layer of guarantees, involving European partners, is also taking shape. Zelenskyy said these EuropeUSUkraine guarantees were almost agreed", and the discussions with EU leaders following the Florida meeting suggest that Europe will anchor a significant portion of the post-war security architecture. Ursula von der Leyen said Europe welcomed the progress.

Zelenskyy added that the military dimension" of the 20-point framework had also been agreed. While neither side disclosed details, this military track forms part of a wider package covering political arrangements, security commitments and the sequencing of steps needed to make any settlement workable on the ground. In diplomatic terms, it means both sides now share a common understanding of how the military aspects of a post-war environment would be structured, even though the specifics remain confidential.

Trump also offered to address the Ukrainian parliament to build support for the peace plan, a gesture Zelenskyy welcomed and framed as part of the political elements already aligned in principle. Both leaders credited their negotiation teams, naming American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Ukrainian officials Rustem Umerov and Andrii Hnatov, for the progress reached over recent weeks.

Other chapters of the framework, including the sections on economic recovery and prosperity, are still being negotiated. Kyiv sees these as essential to rebuilding after nearly four years of war, but they have not advanced as far as the security and military tracks.

For Zelenskyy, the guiding principle remains unchanged: Ukraine is ready for peace", but any agreement must reflect the will of our people" and remain consistent with Ukrainian law. Trump echoed the sense of forward movement but warned that the most difficult issues  above all, territory  were still unresolved.

Why Territory Remains The Main Obstacle

Territory is the central unresolved issue, and both leaders were candid about the difficulty it presents. Trump said one or two very thorny issues" remained, identifying land as the hardest challenge. He suggested that some areas may be up for grabs" in the coming months and raised the question of whether Ukraine would be better off making a deal now" before Russia attempted further advances.

The Donbas region is at the heart of the dispute. Russia currently controls most of Donetsk and virtually all of Luhansk, the two regions that comprise Donbas. Proposals circulating in various drafts, including a possible demilitarised zone in the region, remain unresolved. Putin has indicated that Moscow views control of Donbas as a condition for ending the war, while Kyiv has repeatedly rejected any formal territorial concession.

Zelenskyy reaffirmed that Ukraines position is very clear", grounded in its law and the will of its people. We respect the territory which we control," he said, adding that Ukraine and Russia hold different positions" on the land question. He has indicated a willingness to put any final settlement to a referendum, in line with Ukraines constitutional requirements for territorial changes, but stressed that a ceasefire would be required for such a vote. Russia has opposed a temporary truce, arguing that it would only prolong the conflict.

The fate of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant is another unresolved issue. CNN reported that Trump praised Putin for working with Ukraine on getting it open" and said it was significant that the plant was not being targeted during recent strikes. The nuclear plant remains a sensitive point in negotiations, with both sides linking it to broader security guarantees.

How Putins Presence Shaped The Conversation

Although absent from the meeting, Putins shadow was evident throughout. Trumps lengthy phone call with him before the talks set the backdrop for the negotiations. The Kremlin said the two men generally share similar views" that a temporary truce would merely delay the conflict, reflecting Moscows longstanding scepticism of short-term ceasefires. Ukrainian supporters have previously worried that such calls influence Trumps stance, recalling an October episode when new long-range missiles for Ukraine were withheld after Trump spoke to Putin.

This time, though, the call did not derail the subsequent meeting with Zelenskyy. Trump repeatedly emphasised that Putin was serious" about peace and said he believed the Russian president when he expressed a desire for a settlement. Still, the fact that Trump plans to speak again with Putin points to the central truth: any deal must involve Moscow, whether directly or through parallel channels.

The Role Of Europe

European leaders remain closely involved in the process. After the Florida meeting, Trump and Zelenskyy held a joint call with a wide group of European heads and senior EU officials, including von der Leyen and the leaders of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland and Finland. Several of these leaders are expected to participate in the proposed January meeting, either in Washington or another venue.

The European position centres on ensuring ironclad security guarantees from day one", a phrase von der Leyen used in her public remarks. European capitals view these guarantees as essential to preventing renewed conflict even if a peace deal is reached.

What Happens Next?

The next phase of negotiations will focus on the unresolved issues: territory, the nuclear plant, and details of collective security guarantees involving European partners. Working-level teams will continue meeting next week to refine the draft, with political-level talks expected once the final proposals are ready.

Trump has avoided setting any deadline for a deal, stressing that the war will either end in the coming weeks or continue for a long time". Zelenskyy, while expressing gratitude for US engagement, has been clear that Ukraine cannot accept peace on terms that contradict its laws or the expectations of its citizens. That tension remains the core challenge.

For now, the war continues. The framework is substantially written, most elements have been agreed, and both leaders claim unprecedented progress. But until the questions of land and long-term guarantees are resolved, the prospects of a final settlement remain uncertain, even as diplomacy edges closer to a potential turning point.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:51 IST

News explainers Progress, Promises And A Roadblock: What Trump And Zelenskyy Agreed In Florida Talks

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...
Bought Trekking Shoes, Wanted To Climb Mt Everest: Friend Remembers Tripura Students Last Days

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 14:46 IST

Deceased Anjel Chakma's friend Ankur described him as a quiet and friendly person with big dreams.

Angel Chakma was stabbed to death for objecting to racial slurs. (Credits: News18.com)

A close friend of Anjel Chakma has recalled the final days of the Tripura student who died after a brutal racist attack in Dehradun, shedding light on his injuries, his last words, and his dreams.

Speaking to CNN-News18, Ankur Agrawal said he was some distance away when the attack took place. He received a call from the hospital informing him that Anjel had been attacked. When he reached the hospital, he found Anjel badly injured.

He was stabbed in the back and hit on the head with something sharp. He was bleeding profusely," Ankur said. He added that Anjel was in severe pain and repeatedly complained of intense pain in his head. Doctors later informed the family and friends that Angel had suffered internal bleeding.

Ankur said they asked Anjel several times if he recognised the attackers. He said he had seen them for the first time. Anjel never got into fights," he said.

Recalling Anjels personality, Ankur described him as a quiet and friendly person with big dreams. Anjel wanted to climb Mount Everest and had a deep love for trekking.

He had ordered trekking boots and told me that once he comes back, we will go trekking together," Ankur said.

Ankur also spoke about what led to the attack. He said Anjels brother Michael told him that the two were earlier abused with racial slurs. They were told, Go away from here, Chinese. Anjel went to protect his brother, and that is when the fight happened," he said.

CCTV footage accessed by CNN-News18 has shed light on the moments leading up to the fatal attack on Anjel Chakma in Dehradun. The visuals show Anjel and his brother Michael near a liquor shop in Selakui on December 9, where they had a heated argument with the accused.

The altercation reportedly began after the attackers hurled racial slurs at Michael. When Anjel stepped in to protect his brother, he was allegedly attacked with knives and a kada. He suffered serious injuries to his head, neck and back.

Police have arrested five accused so far, while one remains absconding in Nepal.

Anjel Chakma later succumbed to his injuries after days of treatment, leaving his family and friends devastated. His death has sparked outrage and renewed demands for justice.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 14:46 IST

News india Bought Trekking Shoes, Wanted To Climb Mt Everest: Friend Remembers Tripura Students Last Days

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...
Armed Forces To Get Loiter Munitions, Anti-Drone Tech As Rs 79,000-Crore Proposals Get Govt's Nod

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:16 IST

Defence Acquisition Council approved Rs 79,000 crore for Army, Navy, and Air Force, adding Loiter Munition, Pinaka rockets, and Astra Mk-II missiles to boost capabilities.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, held a meeting on Sunday accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the three Services. (File)

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Monday cleared proposals worth Rs79,000 crore to enhance the capabilities of the Armed forces, the Defence Ministry said.

The DAC has accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the three services amounting to a total of about Rs 79,000 crore.

During the meeting, AoN was approved for the procurement of Loiter Munition System for Artillery Regiments, Low Level Light Weight Radars, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MRLS), and Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II for the Indian Army," according to a statement.

It further stated that Loiter Munition will be used for precision strike of tactical targets, whereas Low Level Light Weight Radars will detect and track small size, low flying Unmanned Aerial Systems. Long Range Guided Rockets will enhance the range and accuracy of Pinaka MRLS for effective engagement of high value targets. Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II with enhanced range will protect the vital assets of the Indian Army in Tactical Battle Area and Hinterland, the Defence Ministry said.

For the Indian Navy, the government accorded Acceptance of Necessity for procurement of Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) Manpack and for leasing High Altitude Long Range (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS).

Induction of BP Tugs will assist Naval ships and submarines in berthing, unberthing, and maneuvering in confined waters/harbor. The HF SDR will enhance long range secured communication during boarding and landing operations, whereas HALE RPAS will ensure continuous Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance and credible Maritime Domain Awareness over the Indian Ocean Region," the statement stated.

For the Indian Air Force, the defence ministry approved the AoN for procurement of Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System, Astra Mk-II Missiles, Full Mission Simulator and SPICE-1000 Long Range Guidance Kits etc.

Induction of the Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System will fill the gaps in the aerospace safety environment by providing high definition all-weather automatic recording of landing and take-off. Astra Mk-II Missiles with enhanced range will increase the capability of the fighter aircraft to neutralise adversary aircraft from large standoff range. Full Mission Simulator for Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will augment pilots training in a cost effective and safe manner, while SPICE-1000 will enhance long range precision strike capability of the Indian Air Force," the ministry added.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 15:58 IST

News india Armed Forces To Get Loiter Munitions, Anti-Drone Tech As Rs 79,000-Crore Proposals Get Govt's Nod

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...
Bengaluru Woman Alleges Molestation At Mall During Christmas Celebrations, Delivery Person Arrested

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:12 IST

Bengaluru Police arrested delivery executive after a woman alleged he sexually harassed her at Mahadevapura mall during Christmas celebrations.

A file photo of Bengaluru Police at a crime scene (PTI)

Bengaluru Police have arrested a delivery executive after a woman alleged that she was sexually harassed at a mall in the city while celebrating Christmas with friends.

The incident occurred around 9.30 pm on December 25, amid the festive rush at the Mahadevapura mall.

According to the police, the accused reportedly behaved indecently and intentionally touched the woman inappropriately in full view of the crowd.

Following the incident, the woman lodged a complaint at the Mahadevapura Police Station. After conducting a preliminary inquiry, the authorities arrested the accused, identified as Manoj Chand, 27, a native of Guwahati who was working in Bengaluru as a delivery executive.

Police confirmed that Chand was taken into custody and was being questioned further as part of the ongoing investigation.

In another similar incident, three youths were arrested on December 24 for allegedly stalking and harassing a woman riding a two-wheeler from Jayanagar Metro Station towards BTM Layout.

The accused included an 18-year-old garage worker and two 19-year-olds employed at a chicken shop.

According to reports, the woman, who identified herself as an actor on her social media profile, stated that the trio followed her from a secluded stretch onto a main road, making her feel unsafe.

The woman recorded the episode on video, which was widely circulated online.

The video showed the accused attempting to cover their vehicles number plate while fleeing, but the woman managed to capture a short clip highlighting their deliberate actions.

Based on her complaint, an FIR was registered at SG Palya Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

All three accused were arrested and remanded to judicial custody.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has announced extensive security arrangements in Bengaluru for the upcoming New Year celebrations.

Officials expect over 10 lakh people to gather across the city, and around 20,000 police personnel and officials have been deployed to ensure the celebrations remain peaceful.

Parameshwara outlined detailed arrangements, including 14,000 personnel for law and order maintenance, 2,500 for traffic management, and 88 Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) platoons, along with City Armed Reserve units and Cobra bike squads.

Special emphasis is being laid on womens safety, crowd management, and monitoring activities of anti-social elements, with measures such as drone surveillance, CCTV cameras, watch towers, and vehicle checkpoints being implemented.

Authorities have also introduced a heatmap" system to identify areas with high crowd density in real time and issued advisories to bars, pubs, restaurants, and malls to strictly adhere to operating timings.

Ambulances and fire tenders have been positioned at crowd-heavy locations, and sufficient transport arrangements have been made to ensure safe dispersal of people during night hours.

ALSO READ | From Techie To Lady Don: How A Bengaluru Woman Ran Cross-Border Cannabis Racket

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:10 IST

News india Bengaluru Woman Alleges Molestation At Mall During Christmas Celebrations, Delivery Person Arrested

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...
Crackdown On Opium: What Jabalpur Court Ruling Changed And How The Trade Really Works

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:18 IST

Jabalpur High Court scrutiny exposes police misconduct in several areas, highlighting opium trade tensions, rising arrests and calls for tighter regulation and fairer policies

Rapid Read

Crackdowns have increased due to rising smuggling and diversion, sparking tension between law enforcement and traditional cultivators.

The countrys largest legal opium-growing belt in western Madhya Pradesh has come under renewed scrutiny after the Jabalpur High Court pulled up the state police for allegedly attempting to frame a meritorious student on false charges of illegal opium possession. Six police personnel have since been suspended, even as law-enforcement agencies intensify raids and surveillance across the region.

The developments have once again turned the spotlight on the Malwa region, stretching across Mandsaur, Neemuch and Ratlam, which, together with adjoining areas of Rajasthans Mewar (Pratapgarh, Chittorgarh) and pockets of Uttar Pradesh, produces an estimated 80-85% of the countrys licit opium. Poppy is grown here and the sticky latex extracted from its pods is processed into medicinal opiates such as morphine and codeine at government factories in Neemuch and Ghazipur. India remains the worlds largest legal producer of opium for pharmaceutical use.

Crackdown gains pace as cases rise

Officials say the present crackdown is linked to a spike in smuggling, diversion of legal produce, and illegal possession cases. In 2025, the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) registered 145 NDPS Act cases, up from 114 in 2023. Mandsaur police alone recorded 448 arrests in 163 cases till November 2025, compared to 377 arrests in 146 cases the previous year.

A major concern is the trade in doda chura (crushed poppy straw) which is banned but remains in demand, particularly in parts of Punjab and Haryana where it is consumed as a traditional intoxicant. Smugglers reportedly use national highways to move consignments northwards. Enforcement agencies point out that the black market price of diverted opium can be 70-100 times higher than the government procurement rate, creating strong incentives for leakage.

At the same time, farmer groups allege that the heightened vigil has also brought in harassment, fake cases and extortion by sections of the police and investigative agencies, creating fear in villages where opium cultivation is a generations-old tradition and licences are handed down within families.

Why the talk of shrinking the belt?

Policy-makers argue that a more compact cultivation zone can improve oversight and yields while meeting medical demand. The annual licensing policy for 2025-26 increased the number of licences to about 1.21 lakh, but farmers with persistently low yields have seen their permissions suspended. The government is also pushing the Concentrate of Poppy Straw (CPS) model, where the entire plant is purchased and processed, as diversion is harder under that system.

Digitisation of records and e-payments now cover the bulk of the trade. In Madhya Pradesh, the licensed yield limit remains around 56 kg per hectare, and farmers are required to sell their entire produce to the government. Any unauthorised sale leads to licence cancellation and prosecution under the NDPS Act.

A lucrative but risky livelihood

For most cultivators in the belt, the crop remains economically attractive yet fraught with risk. While official procurement fetches a few thousand rupees per kilogram, illegal buyers are said to offer several lakhs per kg. Enforcement agencies warn that this price gap fuels diversion; farmer bodies counter that smallholders are being squeezed between smugglers and aggressive policing.

The controversy has intensified since Rajasthan banned doda chura in 2015, pushing the trade underground. A disproportionately high number of young men from the belt now land in jail on narcotics-related charges, Neemuch prison alone houses hundreds of such undertrials and convicts.

Where the opium goes

Most legally-produced opium from the region is refined into medicinal alkaloids such as morphine, codeine and thebaine for domestic use and export. Some state governments also use regulated opium for de-addiction programmes among registered addicts. Poppy seeds, meanwhile, remain a culinary ingredient though India imports a major share of what it consumes.

Tension between law and livelihood

The regions unique position, where licit production coexists with illicit trade, has kept it perennially controversial. Authorities insist that tighter regulation, stronger surveillance and structural shifts like CPS are essential to curb diversion. Farmers say the answer lies in fairer pricing, transparent policing and clearer safeguards against misuse of the law.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Madhya Pradesh, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 16:18 IST

News india Crackdown On Opium: What Jabalpur Court Ruling Changed And How The Trade Really Works

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...
Dense Fog Blankets Delhi-NCR As AQI Turns Severe; Flight Ops Hit, Orange Alert Issued

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 08:54 IST

Air travel was badly affected due to low visibility. Delhi airport authorities said that flight operations were being carried out only under CAT III conditions.

Fog disrupted flight operations in Delhi. (Image: ANI/File)

Delhi woke up to another difficult winter morning on Monday as dense fog and toxic smog covered the national capital and surrounding areas. IMD had issued red alert for Delhi in the morning.

Visibility dropped sharply late on Sunday night and remained poor through the early hours of Monday, making travel slow and risky. The citys air quality slipped into the severe category once again, adding to health concerns for residents.

Several parts of Delhi-NCR, including the AIIMS flyover and Sector 37 in Noida, were seen wrapped in thick haze. Vehicles moved cautiously through the smog, with headlights barely cutting through the polluted air.

Severe AQI

Delhis air quality slipped into the severe category on Monday, with the citys overall AQI recorded at 403 and levels crossing 400 at 25 monitoring stations, led by Vivek Vihar (460), Anand Vihar (459), Rohini (445) and Wazirpur (444), highlighting extremely hazardous pollution across large parts of the capital.

Several trains including Rajdhani Express, Vande Bharat and Jan Shatabdi are running late due to fog. A passenger told ANI that his train is running 8 hours late. I have to go to Kanpur, but the train is running late by eight hours due to dense fog."

Flight operations hit

Air travel was badly affected due to low visibility. Delhi airport authorities said that flight operations were being carried out only under CAT III conditions, which allow aircraft to take off and land in very poor visibility.

In the morning, runway visibility was between 100-150 m at Delhi airport.

However, officials warned that delays and cancellations were likely. The airport added that ground staff were deployed across terminals to assist passengers and manage the situation, and travellers were advised to check flight updates directly with their airlines.

Several airlines issued advisories to passengers. IndiGo said that Delhi and Hindon airports remained covered in fog and chilly winter air. The airline noted that fluctuating visibility had led to changes in flight schedules and slower operations. It assured passengers that safety remained the top priority and advised them to regularly check their flight status online. IndiGo also said affected passengers could rebook their journeys or claim refunds through its website, with airport teams available to provide support.

Air India had also issued a warning on Sunday night. The airline said dense fog was expected in parts of northern India, including Delhi, and this could impact flight operations. It said steps had been taken to reduce disruptions, but delays, diversions, or cancellations could still occur.

Air India said, Weather forecast for tomorrow morning indicates dense fog with low visibility in parts of northern India, including Delhi, which is likely to impact flight operations. We have taken proactive steps to minimise disruptions (learn more at http://bit.ly/4agYVyF). However, in the event of unexpected delays, diversions, or cancellations, please rest assured that our ground teams will extend all necessary assistance."

Meanwhile, an Air India Express flight which took off from Goas Mopa Airport at 11:55 PM on Sunday night has been stranded at Ahmedabad Airport. The flight was scheduled to land at IGI Airport Terminal 1 at 2:35 AM. However, it was diverted to Ahmedabad as Jaipur Airport was already congested, as various flights were diverted here due to foggy conditions.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 07:10 IST

News india Dense Fog Blankets Delhi-NCR As AQI Turns Severe; Flight Ops Hit, Orange Alert Issued

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...
'I Am Hurt': Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Reacts To Tripura Student Anjel Chakma's Murder

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:13 IST

Kiren Rijiju condemned the murder of Anjel Chakma in Dehradun, urging against politicising the issue and highlighting the need to combat racial abuse across India.

Kiren Rijiju Reacts To Tripura Student Anjel Chakma's Murder

Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday reacted to the brutal murder of Tripura student Anjel Chakma and said the issue should not be politicised". Speaking to CNN News18, Rijiju said, This is not about North East or law and order. Why should any Indian, anywhere in this country, be racially abused or made fun of?"

MBA student Anjel Chakma was attacked by a group of miscreants with knives and other blunt objects in Dehradun on December 9. He died while undergoing treatment at a hospital.

As per the reports, the 24-year-old was racially abused as Chinese" and momo" before being stabbed.

Reacting to the brutal killing, Rijiju said, I am hurt. But this is not about North East or law and order. Why should any Indian, anywhere in this country, be racially abused or made fun of? North Indians in South India, vice versa, even mainland people in North East it is happening everywhere. Delhis model must be implemented countrywide. Here, people from North East have swifter recourse to justice after a dedicated cell was set up. Politics must not be played on such a sensitive issue."

Members of the Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF), the student wing of Tipra Motha Party, held a candle march at Astabal Maidan in Agartala on Sunday, demanding justice for Angel Chakma, a student hailing from Nandanagar, Debram Thakur Para, who was killed in Dehradun on December 9.

Five people have already been arrested in connection with the incident, and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha also assured that the state government will extend all possible support to the victims family.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 16:13 IST

News india 'I Am Hurt': Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Reacts To Tripura Student Anjel Chakma's Murder

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...
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On December 26, a fleet of 46 DEEPAL vehicles equipped with Level 3 driver-assistance systems began real-world testing on public roads in Chongqing. The move marks China's first large-scale deployment of L3-capable vehicles in everyday traffic, signaling a shift from regulatory approval to genuine on-road application and laying important groundwork for the commercial rollout of intelligent connected vehicles.

Photo source: DEEPAL

Just days earlier, on December 20, some of the first official license plates dedicated to L3 autonomous driving was issued to a DEEPAL model under Changan Automobile. Granted by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the plate represents formal national approval for L3 vehicles to operate on public roads.Changan's progress reflects years of sustained investment. Since launching its L3 autonomous driving program in 2017, the automaker has steadily advanced its technology roadmap, culminating in the award of the country's first official L3 license plate.

The path to this milestone has been gradual but decisive. In November 2023, Changan secured 17 L3 testing permits for highways and expressways. By June 2024, it was named among the first group of nine companies selected for national L3 access pilot programs. In December 2025, the company formally obtained approval for intelligent connected vehicles to enter public-road trials, with the DEEPAL brand ultimately receiving the first official L3 plate.

DEEPAL's large-scale rollout is underpinned by Changan Automobile's deep technical foundation and long-term commitment to research and development. The automaker operates a global collaborative R&D network spanning ten locations in six countries, with more than 200 laboratories across 16 technical domains. Over the past five years, cumulative R&D spending has exceeded 60 billion yuan.

Industry observers note a clear distinction between nationally issued L3 access permits and locally granted testing licenses. The former, recognized by public security authorities, carry the same legal standing as standard vehicle plates and allow full participation in official on-road pilot programs. This enables the long-term, high-frequency collection of real-world driving dataan essential foundation for validating system reliability and usability, and a critical step in moving China's autonomous driving industry from mass production toward higher-quality application.

By contrast, regional testing permits are temporary and time-limited, designed primarily for technical validation. Vehicles operating under such licenses remain in the development and testing phase rather than true commercial use.

As 2025 draws to a close, DEEPAL has maintained strong momentum. Alongside launching China's first large-scale fleet of officially licensed L3 vehicles on public roads, the brand announced the completion of a 6.122-billion-yuan Series C funding round, providing fresh capital to support continued innovation in intelligent and electric vehicle technologies.
No Racial Angle Found In Tripura Student's Death, Say Uttarakhand Police

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 18:04 IST

Police further stated that during questioning, the accused told investigators that certain remarks made at the spot were meant for someone within their own group.

Angel Chakma was stabbed to death for objecting to racial slurs. (Credits: News18.com)

The Uttarakhand Police have arrested five people in connection with the death of Anjel Chakma, the Tripura student who died after allegedly being attacked over racial slur in Dehradun.

Briefing the media, SSP Ajay Singh said that a special police team has been formed to investigate the case in detail, rejecting claims made by the victims brother, Michael about the attack being radically motivated.

According to the police, one of the five arrested men is from Manipur. The official also stated that the probe so far has not found evidence to support claims of deliberate racial targeting.

Police further stated that during questioning, the accused told investigators that certain remarks made at the spot were meant for someone within their own group. They claimed these comments were not directed at Michael or his brother, but were misunderstood.

During the interrogation, various pieces of information were gathered. It came to light that one of the accused, who is a resident of Manipur, stated that he was hosting a small party with his friends. During the gathering, some comments were exchanged jokingly among themselves. These remarks were perceived in a certain way, and the victims side tried to intervene and asked them not to continue," said the SSP.

The police said the incident took place after one of the accused hosted a birthday gathering. The group had allegedly consumed alcohol before reaching the area. Due to intoxication, a verbal argument broke out between the group and the two brothers, which later turned violent.

However, in the heat of the moment, an argument broke out, which escalated into a physical altercation, resulting in injuries that led to death. So far, the police investigation has not found any evidence of intentional racial comments. The remarks were made as jokes, but they were taken negatively by the victims side," he stated.

The police said efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining accused and a further investigation into the case is underway.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Dehradun, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 18:04 IST

News india No Racial Angle Found In Tripura Student's Death, Say Uttarakhand Police

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...
Pastor, Son Arrested In UP's Fatehpur For 'Illegal' Religious Conversions

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 18:32 IST

A case has been registered against the pastor, his son, and seven unidentified individuals.

Representative image

A pastor and his son were arrested on charges of attempting illegal religious conversion during a prayer meeting at a church in Fatehpur district. This arrest followed a protest by Bajrang Dal activists, who claimed that numerous Hindu women had been lured to the church with money and other promises.

Tensions briefly escalated when protesters surrounded the police vehicle after the pastor, David Gladion (60), and his son, Abhishek Gladion (30), were taken into custody on Sunday. The police swiftly removed them from the scene.

As per the police, a group of Bajrang Dal activists held a nearly three-hour protest outside the church, alleging forced conversions. They claimed that Hindu women were being lured with promises of money, jobs, and free education for their children. The protesters asserted that around 150 people, including a significant number of women, were inside the church at the time.

Upon receiving information about the disturbance, Circle Officer Veer Singh arrived at the spot with a large police contingent and managed to bring the situation under control.

Radha Nagar Station House Officer Vinod Kumar Maurya informed PTI that a case has been registered under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act against the pastor, his son, and seven unidentified individuals, based on a complaint filed by a local resident, Dev Prakash Paswan.

Paswan alleged that he and others were invited to the church on Sunday, where prayers were being conducted. He claimed derogatory remarks were made about Hindu beliefs and attendees were pressured to convert, with offers of Rs 1,100, employment opportunities, and free education for their children. He also alleged that those who protested were offered money to remain silent.

An officer mentioned that publicity vehicles were being used to invite villagers to prayer meetings. One such vehicle was seized during the protest, and religious literature was found in it.

CO Veer Singh told PTI that the purpose of the womens presence at the church is being verified and that an investigation is underway. Further actions will be taken based on the evidence.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Fatehpur, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 18:32 IST

News india Pastor, Son Arrested In UP's Fatehpur For 'Illegal' Religious Conversions

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...
'Parivar Together': Ajit Pawar Announces Tie-Up With Sharad Pawar For Municipal Poll On NCP Turf

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:22 IST

Ajit Pawar announced an alliance between his NCP and the Sharad Pawar-led faction for the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation polls, saying the Pawar 'parivar' has reunited.

Ajit Pawar with Sharad Pawar (File photo/PTI)

Ahead of the Maharashtra civic elections, Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Ajit Pawar on Sunday announced an alliance between his party and the NCP (Sharad Pawar) faction for the upcoming Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) polls, declaring that the Pawar parivar (family) has come together again.

Ajit Pawar made the announcement while addressing party workers during an election campaign rally in Pimpri-Chinchwad, where elections to the civic body are scheduled for January 15.

He said the decision to contest the polls jointly was taken during discussions on finalising the list of candidates for the municipal elections.

While finalising the list of candidates for the Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections, the Nationalist Congress Party and the Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar faction decided to contest the polls together in Pimpri-Chinchwad. Because of this, the family will come together once again," Pawar said.

Referring to the party symbols of the two factions, Pawar said, For the sake of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections, the clock and the tutari (trumpet) have united. The parivar has come together."

His remarks were greeted with loud applause from party cadres, many of whom see the alliance as a major boost to the NCPs prospects in one of Maharashtras most politically significant urban centres.

Acknowledging the speculation surrounding the relationship between the two factions since the split in the party, Pawar said there had been several questions in peoples minds about the future course of action.

There were many questions in peoples minds about what would happen. Many times, certain decisions have to be taken in the interest of Maharashtras development," he said, underlining that the alliance was driven by broader considerations rather than past differences.

Pawar also indicated that seat-sharing talks are already underway at the local level and that a formal announcement would be made soon.

I have discussed seat-sharing with leaders here, and that too will be announced soon," he said, urging party workers to focus on campaigning and to refrain from making any controversial remarks during rallies that could harm the alliances prospects.

Positioning the alliance as a development-oriented front, Ajit Pawar said the NCP had a strong record of governance at the municipal level.

We are the ones who work for development. We will edge out those who tried to put this municipal corporation in debt," he told party workers, calling on them to work hard to ensure a decisive mandate in the PCMC elections.

Meanwhile, discussions between the two NCP factions are also underway for a possible tie-up in the Pune Municipal Corporation polls, indicating that the cooperation announced for Pimpri-Chinchwad could extend to other major civic bodies in the state.

Elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune, will be held on January 15, with counting scheduled for January 16.

The last date for filing nominations is December 30.

Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the NCP on Sunday announced its first list of 37 candidates for the January 15 elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), indicating that the party has decided to go solo in the state capital.

According to the details, the NCP gave tickets to three members of Nawab Maliks family.

Captain Malik, Nawab Maliks brother, will contest from Ward 165, while Dr Saeeda Khan, his sister, will contest from Ward 168.

Busra Nadeem Malik, Captain Maliks daughter-in-law, will contest from Ward 170.

The second list of candidates is expected to be released soon.

The Maharashtra State Election Commission has announced elections to 29 municipal corporations across the state, including the BMC, Pune Municipal Corporation and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation.

Mumbai will see polling across 227 electoral wards on January 15, with votes to be counted on January 16.

ALSO READ | Sharad Pawars Dinner Diplomacy: Rahul Gandhi, Ajit Pawar, Other Political Leaders Among Attendees

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 08:13 IST

News india 'Parivar Together': Ajit Pawar Announces Tie-Up With Sharad Pawar For Municipal Poll On NCP Turf

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...
'Rabies Raita' Scare In UP: 200 Villagers Vaccinated After Buffalo Bitten By Rabid Dog Dies

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:09 IST

A buffalo in the village was bitten by a rabid dog and had died due to symptoms of rabies, following which villagers reported consuming what they believed to be "infected" raita

Rapid Read

Health officials said around 200 people received anti-rabies shots, including women and elderly residents, as panic gripped the village. (Representational Image)

A wave of fear swept through a village in Uttar Pradeshs Budaun district after a buffalo, reportedly bitten by a dog days earlier, died, prompting nearly 200 anxious residents to rush for precautionary rabies vaccinations.

The incident unfolded in Piprauli village under the Ujhani police station area, where a funeral feast was held on December 23. Raita, a curd-based dish, was served to mourners. Villagers later discovered that the milk used in the dish had come from a buffalo that had been bitten by a dog and subsequently died on December 26, allegedly showing symptoms consistent with rabies.

Word of the buffalos death spread rapidly, sparking fears that the milk, mixed with milk from other buffaloes, might have transmitted infection to those who had consumed the raita. By Saturday afternoon, a large crowd gathered at the Ujhani Community Health Centre, demanding vaccination. Health officials said around 200 people received anti-rabies shots, including women and elderly residents, as panic gripped the village.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Rameshwar Mishra confirmed that the administration moved swiftly once the matter was reported. He said they had received information that a buffalo in the village had been bitten by a rabid dog and had died due to symptoms of rabies, following which villagers reported consuming what they believed to be infected" raita.

Prevention is better than cure. Everyone who had any doubts was given the anti-rabies vaccine. Normally, there is no risk of rabies after boiling the milk, but the vaccination was done to prevent any potential risk," PTI quoted Dr Mishra as saying.

Health officials kept the primary health centre and community facility open through Saturday and Sunday to administer vaccines to anyone who came forward. According to the department, no illness has been detected so far and the situation remains normal. Teams have been deployed to keep watch and to ensure rumours do not fuel further panic.

Another villager, Dharmpal, recounted that the dog bite had left the buffalo sick before it eventually died. The fear, he said, stemmed from the fact that the raita was made from the milk of that same buffalo," prompting many to seek the anti-rabies injection without delay.

Doctors reiterated that the likelihood of rabies being transmitted through boiled milk is extremely low. However, given the rising anxiety in the village, precautionary vaccination was carried out to reassure residents. Many who received the shots said they felt relieved afterwards, and normalcy has gradually returned.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Budaun, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:09 IST

News india 'Rabies Raita' Scare In UP: 200 Villagers Vaccinated After Buffalo Bitten By Rabid Dog Dies

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...
'Ethics, Values': Revanth Reddy's Sonia Gandhi Counter In Row Over Digvijaya Singh's Praise For RSS

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 10:33 IST

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy marked the Congresss 140th foundation day by reaffirming the partys legacy, democratic role and Sonia Gandhi's leadership in a post on X.

Revanth Reddy with Sonia Gandhi (File photo/PTI)

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Sunday marked the 140th foundation day of the Indian National Congress with a statement on the partys legacy, leadership and role in shaping Indian democracy, even as the party grappled with internal disquiet triggered by senior leader Digvijaya Singhs remarks praising the organisational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

In a post on X, Revanth Reddy on Sunday described the Congress as a historic force rooted in the peoples movement of India.

CONGRESSA force for people of India was born 140 years ago on this day. The story of the Indian National Congress is the story of Indian democracy in motion," he wrote.

Reflecting on the partys leadership, the Telangana Chief Minister highlighted the role of former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, crediting her with upholding values-driven politics.

When one reflects on the leadership of Smt Sonia Gandhi Ji, we find service, commitment, ethics and values," Reddy wrote in his post.

He further underlined the Congresss tradition of enabling leaders from diverse social and regional backgrounds to rise to the highest constitutional offices.

Under Smt Sonia Gandhi Jis leadership, it became possible for Shri P. V. Narasimha Rao garu who started his public career from a remote village in Telangana to rise to become Prime Minister of the country," he said, also noting that Smt Sonia Gandhi Ji also made an economist like Dr Manmohan Singh Ji as prime minister."

Revanth Reddys message concluded with a broader assertion of the Congresss historical role, stating that from leading Indias freedom struggle to framing the Constitution, and from building democratic institutions to uniting a diverse nation, the party has shaped every defining chapter of modern India.

CONGRESSA force for people of #India was born 140 years ago on this day.The story of the Indian National Congress is the story of Indian democracy in motion. When one reflects on the leadership of Smt #SoniaGandhi Ji, we find service, commitment, ethics and values. Under pic.twitter.com/kSq1wajRWH  Revanth Reddy (@revanth_anumula) December 28, 2025

The post came against the backdrop of an internal controversy within the Congress following Digvijaya Singhs X post praising the organisational strength of the RSS.

Singh had shared an old black-and-white photograph showing a young Narendra Modi seated on the floor near BJP veteran LK Advani, and remarked on how grassroots workers could rise through the organisational hierarchy to become Chief Minister and Prime Minister.

Calling it the power of organisation," Singhs remarks triggered sharp reactions within his own party.

Reacting strongly, Congress Media and Publicity Department chairman Pawan Khera distanced the party from Singhs comments.

Theres nothing to learn from the RSS. What can an organisation known for Godse teach an organisation founded by Gandhi?" Khera said, taking a sharp dig at the Sangh and linking it to Nathuram Godse, who assassinated Mahatma Gandhi.

Facing criticism, Digvijaya Singh issued a clarification, reiterating that he opposed the RSSs ideology but admired its organisational capacity.

I am opposed to the ideology of the RSS. They neither respect the Constitution nor the countrys laws, and its an unregistered organisation. But I admire their organisational capacity," he said, adding that despite its lack of formal registration, the organisation had become powerful.

Singh also acknowledged organisational shortcomings within the Congress, stating that while it remains a movement-based party, it has struggled to convert that movement into votes.

There is room for improvement, and every organisation should always have room for improvement," he said.

ALSO READ | You Misbehaved: Rahul Gandhi Reacts To Digvijaya Singhs RSS-BJP Praise

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 10:32 IST

News india 'Ethics, Values': Revanth Reddy's Sonia Gandhi Counter In Row Over Digvijaya Singh's Praise For RSS

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...
Rubble, Resistance And Political Sabre-Rattling: Inside Bengalurus Kogilu Demolitions

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:21 IST

For families of Fakir Colony & Waseem Layout, caught between bulldozers and politics, the larger ideological battle offers little immediate comfort as their homes remain flattened

Rapid Read

The demolition drive, carried out in the early hours of December 20, flattened over 200 houses in Fakir Colony and Waseem Layout in Kogilu village near Yelahanka. (News18)

As you enter Fakir Colony and Waseem Layout in North Bengaluru, there is little to suggest that hundreds of families lived here until a few days ago. What once stood on cemented stone foundations are now piles of broken bricks, twisted tin sheets, shattered furniture and clothes buried under debris. The lanes are unrecognisable. The smell of dust still hangs in the air.

Children sit on the rubble that was once their home. Women sift through the remains, hoping to retrieve schoolbooks, utensils or documents. Men stand in small clusters, speaking in hushed voices, watching every movement of officials with suspicion.

The demolition drive, carried out in the early hours of December 20, flattened over 200 houses in Fakir Colony and Waseem Layout in Kogilu village near Yelahanka. The Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML), under the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), claimed the land was illegally encroached upon and earmarked for a solid waste processing unit.

Residents insist they were living here for decades and no written notice was served before the bulldozers arrived.

For the families sitting amid the rubble, the questions are simplerwhere will they sleep tonight, and will the promises made in the heat of political combat, whether by politicians from Karnataka or Kerala, translate into a roof over their heads? The families, who await food to be served by social organisations, want to be moved to a safe home with a roof and not made to suffer.

Salima and Fakrudeen, who make small dholaks and sell them at traffic signals and on MG Road, say they spent over 20 years saving every rupee to build a modest house.

We are poor people. We saved every penny so we could live under a roof," Fakrudeen said. At around 6.30 in the morning, they came, told us to remove our LPG cylinders and then brought in the JCBs. Our children did not even get time to pick up their books or clothes."

A few metres away, Hussain, a young auto driver, has taken the lead in organising the residents. He is collecting Aadhaar cards and documents to submit to state housing minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan.

He has assured us that we will be given houses. We are hopeful the government will keep its promise," Hussain said, pointing to the rubble where his house once stood.

Sharief, a fabricator, says he has every documentvoter ID, gas connection and electricity bills. We have voted in local elections. MLAs and MPs have come here asking for votes. How are we illegal now?" he asked.

For many women, the fear is immediate and personal. Rameeza Begum and Samira, both domestic workers, moved here after marriage.

My husband died in a road accident. I work in houses to take care of my two sons," Rameeza said. They study in a nearby school. I was told this land was allotted earlier. Now they are asking for papers. We are searching for them in a house that has been reduced to dust."

Bilkis and her sister Shaheena moved from Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh to Bengaluru in 2008. Both are married here; their husbands work as masons. They didnt just break our house, they crushed our lives," Bilkis said, tears rolling down her cheeks. They could have just run the vehicle over us. What have we done to deserve this?"

In another corner, Nafisa adjusts her specially-abled daughters dress as cameras gather. She says they have not eaten since morning.

The nights are cold and the days are hot. My neighbour Syed is wheelchair-bound. They showed no mercy. They asked us to move away and used the JCB to claw into our house," she said.

Residents say those affected include newborns, pregnant women and senior citizens. Some also claim animals died during the demolition.

The area predominantly housed poor Dalit, Muslim and Fakir families. The scale, timing and manner of the demolition have fuelled allegations of selective action and lack of due process.

Beyond the rubble, the story has taken on a larger political meaning. Within hours, the issue spilled beyond Karnatakas borders.

Political Flashpoint As Kerala Enters The Fray

What began as a demolition drive to clear alleged encroachments has now grown into a cross-border political confrontation, drawing in chief ministers of Kerala and Karnataka.

Neighbouring Keralas ruling LDF waded into the controversy, triggering a political clash between the Congress government in Karnataka and the Left government in Kerala.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan accused Karnataka of importing Uttar Pradesh-style bulldozer justice" into South India. The destruction of Fakir Colony and Waseem Layout, where Muslim families have lived for years in Bengaluru, is shocking and painful," Vijayan said in a Facebook post, calling it an example of anti-minority aggressive politics".

Critics in Karnataka allege that the CPI(M)s sharp attack is also rooted in Kerala politics. The Muslim communitys support for the Congress-led UDF in recent elections has been a sore point for the Left, and the Kogilu demolitions offered an opportunity to portray the Congress as no different from the BJP on minority issues.

Kerala MPs and MLAs soon visited the demolition site, amplifying the confrontation. The intervention did not go down well with the Karnataka Congress, which accused Vijayan of interference and political opportunism.

Keralas LDF Leader Speaks To News18

Former Kerala minister and CPI(M) MLA KT Jaleel, who visited the site, told News18 in an exclusive interview that the issue transcends party lines.

All over the country, the BJP is introducing bulldozer raj. Such activity has happened in Karnataka as well," Jaleel said. The issue is not whether it is BJP or Congress. The issue is that houses of the poor are being demolishedhomes of poor people and minorities."

Stating that citizens have the right to speak up and he has come there to raise his voice for the oppressed and the ones who have faced injustice under Congresss bulldozer" governance, Jaleel said: Every citizen has the right to visit such places and raise their voice for oppressed communities. This is not for votes. There is no election here."

He added: If the Karnataka government does not do enough for the people, the people of Kerala will rise to the occasion and help the displaced."

Jaleel also accused the Karnataka Congress of hypocrisy. Under the Congress in Karnataka, such activities are going on and must be exposed. Congress claims it is secular, but those being evicted are minorities, Muslims."

When asked if the outrage was due to minority politics, Jaleel was quick to issue a denial. Certainly not," he told News18. Calling the demolition cruel and inhuman", he added that notices should have been issued. If the Karnataka government had looked into the matter and halted it, we would not have come here. This is not about votes or politics."

Why Is Kerala Intervening?

The sharp reaction from Kerala has less to do with Karnataka alone and more to do with politics back home, say critics. With local body elections in which minority outreach had become a central plank in Keralas political battle between the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), the support given by the minorities to the UDF seems to have hurt the ruling LDF. Political analysts say the Muslim communitys drift towards the UDF in recent elections has been a concern for the Left.

The Kogilu demolitions somehow offered an openinga chance to project the Congress as indistinguishable from the BJP when it comes to demolitions affecting minorities and targeting them.

Protests And Pressure Within Karnataka

The demolitions had earlier triggered protests in front of revenue minister Krishna Byre Gowdas residence in Sahakar Nagar last week, seeking respite from the bulldozing exercise. Over 200 residents demanded alternative housing and temporary shelters. Gowda, who represents the Byatarayanapura constituency, is said to have assured discussions with the affected families.

The Karnataka BJP also weighed in, accusing the Congress government of acting under the dictates of the party high command and mishandling the issue.

The bulldozing" has clearly put the Congress government on the back foot. Embarrassed by the developments in Bengaluru, the party high command finally stepped in.

Congress general secretary KC Venugopal spoke to chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, conveying the partys serious concern" over the demolition.

In a post on X, Venugopal said the actions should have been undertaken with far greater caution, sensitivity and compassion, keeping the human impact at the centre". He said the Karnataka leadership assured him that they would personally engage with affected families, put in place a grievance redressal mechanism and ensure rehabilitation and relief.

The intervention indicated the discomfort within the Congress over the optics of the demolition, especially as the party seeks to position itself nationally as a counter to the BJPs bulldozer politics.

Karnataka Government Hits Back

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have firmly defended the demolition, insisting it was a lawful removal of illegal encroachments.

Siddaramaiah said several people had erected make-shift shelters at a waste-disposal site unfit for human habitation. Despite issuing notices on multiple occasions directing families to relocate, they failed to comply. Under these circumstances, it became unavoidable to clear the encroachment," he said.

Rejecting the bulldozer justice" label, he called Vijayans criticism politically motivated.

Shivakumar echoed the sentiment, urging the Kerala chief minister not to interfere without knowing the facts. The land was a solid waste pit with serious health hazards. We gave people an opportunity to move. Karnataka does not have a bulldozer culture," he said, alleging the role of land mafia in setting up slums to encroach upon government land.

He said eligible residents would be given houses under the Rajiv Gandhi housing scheme.

A Humanitarian Crisis Amid Political Posturing

Back in Kogilu, politics feels distant to families sleeping under tarpaulin sheets on cleared land. Many have refused to leave, fearing that authorities may fence off the area once it is vacated.

We refuse to leave this place and go to the allotted shelter as they will fence this area and remove us permanently. We need to see what other location is being provided to us. We do not need temporary shelters or camps," said Harish, a cobbler.

Residents allege that no basic facilities have been provided. Food and water are being arranged by social and religious organisations, but they have no space for daily needs.

A food and gruel centre set up three kilometres away remains largely unused, with families unwilling to abandon the site.

Former Union minister CM Ibrahim timed his visit around the same time as Jaleels. Ibrahim demanded either houses on the same land or compensation of Rs 5 lakh per family. He also questioned leaders who seek votes and disappear in times of crisis.

For the families of Fakir Colony and Waseem Layout, caught between bulldozers and ballot-box politics, the larger ideological battle offers little immediate comforteven as their homes remain flattened and their futures uncertain.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:21 IST

News india Rubble, Resistance And Political Sabre-Rattling: Inside Bengalurus Kogilu Demolitions

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 Stays Its November Order On Aravalli Hills, Sets Up Expert Panel To Review New Definition

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 14:52 IST

The Supreme Court accepted a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills on November 20. The verdict was widely criticised by environmentalists and former forest officials.

The Aravallis stand as a testament to India's enduring natural heritage. (File Pic)

The Supreme Court on Monday said its November 20 judgment on a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and the recommendations of the expert committee will be kept in abeyance for now, stressing the need for an expert-led environmental impact study of the earlier report on the range.

The apex courts previous ruling, where it accepted a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges and banned the grant of fresh mining leases inside its areas spanning Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat, triggered sharp protests and criticism amid concerns over unregulated mining and environmental damage.

The matter, titled In Re: Definition of Aravalli Hills and Ranges and Ancillary Issues", was heard by a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, alongside Justices JK Maheshwari and AG Masih. CJI Kant asked the government to clearly state whether mining would be stopped or allowed to continue under the new framework and to explain the rationale.

The CJI said the committee report and the observations of the court made last month were being misconstrued, and some clarifications are required. Prior to the implementation of a report or direction of this court, a fair, impartial, independent expert opinion must be considered. Such a step is essential to provide definitive guidance," he said.

The court proposed a committee of domain experts to be constituted to examine the report of the recommendations of a committee of the MoEF&CC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) on the definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges. It framed five questions to be considered.

Whether the definition of Aravalli restricted to 500 m area creates a structural paradox where the conservation area is narrowed? Has it broadened the scope of any non-Aravalli area where regulated mining can be permitted? Whether regulated mining should be allowed in gaps  particularly where there are two hill areas of 100 metres or more in height, separated by a distance of around 700 metres  and how such gaps should be treated. What precise structural parameters will be utilised to ensure ecological continuity is not compromised? If a significant regulatory lacuna is discovered, then whether a significant assessment would be needed to maintain the structural integrity of the range?

We propose that a high-powered expert committee comprising domain experts be constituted to analyse the report submitted by the expert committee," the court said. It further said that the process would include public consultation.

The court also issued notice to the Centre, all states and directed that its November 20 order and the recommendations of the government-appointed committee be kept in abeyance, adding that the stay will remain in effect till constitution of a new committee. The matter will be taken up next on January 21, 2026.

Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav welcomed the Supreme Court decision on the Aravalli range. We stand committed to extending all assistance sought from MOEFCC in the protection and restoration of the Aravalli range. As things stand, a complete ban on mining stays with regards to new mining leases or renewal of old mining leases," he said on X.

I welcome the Supreme Court directions introducing a stay on its order concerning the Aravalli range, and the formation of a new committee to study issues.We stand committed to extending all assistance sought from MOEFCC in the protection and restoration of the Aravalli range.  Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) December 29, 2025

What Is The Matter?

A different bench of the apex court accepted a standardised definition proposed by the Central government. Under this framework, a landform is classified as an Aravalli Hill" only if it rises 100 metres or more above the local relief. Furthermore, a range" is defined only when two such hills are located within 500 metres of each other.

Data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) suggests that out of over 12,000 hill formations in the region, only about 8.7% meet this 100-metre threshold. The verdict was sharply criticised by environmentalists over concerns of unregulated mining and environmental harm, saying that this definition effectively strips legal protection from more than 90% of the Aravalli landscape.

The Aravallis serve as a critical ecological corridor and a green wall" that prevents the eastward expansion of the Thar Desert into the fertile plains of north India. They are also vital for groundwater recharge in parched states like Rajasthan and Haryana.

Amid the row, the Central Government on Wednesday directed the concerned states to impose a complete ban on granting any new mining leases across the entire Aravalli range.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:38 IST

News india SC Stays Its November Order On Aravalli Hills, Sets Up Expert Panel To Review New Definition

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...
Telangana HC Grants Divorce To Couple After 17-Year Dispute, Orders Rs 50 Lakh Alimony

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 08:20 IST

Dronamraju Vijaya Lakshmi and Dronamraju Srikanth Phani Kumar were married in 2002, and had been living separately after the birth of their daughter in 2003.

Rapid Read

The court noted that the couple's marriage had reached a point of no return due to 'sheer mistrust'. (AI-Generated Image)

The Telangana High Court granted a divorce to a couple after a fractured marriage for over two decades, and ordered the husband to pay Rs 50 lakh to the woman as permanent alimony and maintenance.

The bench of Justices K Lakshman and Narsing Rao Nandikonda, in their judgement on December 1, agreed with the family courts reasoning over the irreparable breakdown" of the relationship between Dronamraju Vijaya Lakshmi and Dronamraju Srikanth Phani Kumar, according to The Indian Express.

Their 17-year-long dispute originated in 2002, and the couple started living separately shortly after the birth of their daughter in 2003. In 2008, the husband sought a divorce on the grounds of cruelty and desertion, while the wife filed a petition seeking the restitution of conjugal rights, seeking to reunite for the sake of their child.

The legal dispute included multiple criminal complaints under Section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code, maintenance petitions, and even litigation over a gift deed executed by the husbands father in favour of their daughter. When the trial court granted divorce in 2015, the woman challenged the order.

Point Of No Return

Despite the wifes plea to reunite for the sake of their daughter, the High Court noted that even she expressed a lack of interest in joining the husband after such a prolonged separation. The court said that the marriage had reached a point of no return due to the sheer volume of litigation" and mutual distrust" between the two parties.

In the absence of trust, love and affection and intention to cohabitate with each other, there is no possibility to direct the parties to lead conjugal life, as it would emerge further apprehensions, disputes, etc., as the parties are not trusting each other," said Justice K Lakshman. The court also said there is no possibility of reunion of the parties".

The High Court also found that the family court had failed to award permanent alimony or maintenance for the daughter, and directed the husband to pay a lump sum of Rs 50 lakh to the wife to settle all outstanding claims, including maintenance cases and property disputes.

The husband was directed to pay the amount within three months. Upon payment, the wife and daughter are barred from making further claims against his properties. Consequently, the wifes appeal for restitution of conjugal rights was dismissed, and the husbands divorce decree was finalised.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Telangana, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 08:20 IST

News india Telangana HC Grants Divorce To Couple After 17-Year Dispute, Orders Rs 50 Lakh Alimony

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...
Time Will Come: Justice Swaminathan Reacts To Ongoing Tamil Nadu Deepam Row

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 11:52 IST

Deepam row relates to a dispute over lighting Karthigai Deepam festival lamp at the historic Deepathoon pillar located atop Thiruparankundram hill in Madurai, close to a dargah.

Madras High Court judge Justice GR Swaminathan. (Image: hcmadras.tn.nic.in)

In a fresh development in the ongoing Deepam row in Tamil Nadu, Madras High Court judge Justice G R Swaminathan expressed personal disappointment over the issue.

Speaking on the controversy, Justice Swaminathan said he wondered why the Deepam issue was repeatedly being linked to him. He said he had initially felt happy when he heard that arrangements were being made to light the deepam". However, he later learnt that the lamp would not be lit on the Deepathoon pillar, which left him disappointed.

I dont know what the connection is between the Deepam issue and me. I was initially excited when it was said the Deepam would be lit, but later I was disappointed when it was announced that it would not be lit at Deepathoon. I believe the time will come when the Deepam is lit on Deepathoon," the judge said, expressing hope that the long-standing tradition would eventually be restored.

The Deepam row relates to a dispute over lighting the Karthigai Deepam festival lamp at the historic Deepathoon pillar located atop the Thiruparankundram hill in Madurai, close to a dargah. Devotees say the practice is more than 1,300 years old and was stopped around 80 years ago. Since then, the Deepam has been lit at a lower Ganesha temple instead.

Earlier this month, on December 1, Justice GR Swaminathan passed an order directing the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department to restore the lighting of the Deepam at Deepathoon, along with other traditional locations.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 10:58 IST

News india Time Will Come: Justice Swaminathan Reacts To Ongoing Tamil Nadu Deepam Row

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...
Tripura Student Killed In Dehradun Was Attacked With Knives, Kada; Remained In Hospital For 17 Days

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:50 IST

The murder of 24-year-old Anjel Chakma in Dehradun involved a sharp-edged weapon and a kada (metal bracelet), which inflicted fatal blows to his head, neck, and back.

A file photo of Anjel Chakma/The kada used for his murder (Photos: Social Media/CNN-News18)

New revelations have emerged in the killing of 24-year-old Anjel Chakma, a final-year MBA student from Tripura, in Dehradun, indicating that the attack involved knives and a kada (metal bracelet).

CNN-News18 has accessed a photograph of the kada allegedly used in the assault, adding a grim new dimension to an incident that was first reported earlier this month.

The incident took place on December 9 in the Selakui area of Dehradun, when Anjel and his brother Michael were confronted by a group of six youths.

The conflict reportedly began after the attackers hurled racial slurs at Michael.

When Anjel intervened to defend his brother, he was allegedly assaulted with knives and a kada.

He suffered severe blows to his head, neck, and back and was critically injured.

Speaking to news agency PTI, Anjels father, Tarun Chakma, a BSF jawan posted in Manipur, described the attack as brutal.

Anjels neck was broken in the attack, which led to his death. I have lost my son, and now he should get justice," he said.

Tarun alleged that police initially refused to register a complaint and only filed an FIR two to three days later after intervention by the All India Chakma Students Union and senior officials.

He recounted that Anjel was trying to defend his brother when he was attacked with knives and the kada, which ultimately caused fatal injuries.

Uttarakhand Police have so far arrested five individuals in connection with the attack, including three adults, Suraj Khwas (22) from Manipur, Avinash Negi (25), and Sumit (25), along with two juveniles.

Another accused is reportedly absconding in Nepal.

A reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced for information leading to the arrest of the fugitive, and a team has been dispatched to Nepal in an effort to bring him to justice.

Anjel Chakma succumbed to his injuries on December 26 after 17 days in the hospital.

His last rites were performed in Machmara village, Unakoti district, Tripura, as demands for justice and strict punishment for the perpetrators continue to mount.

Meanwhile, political leaders from the Northeast have strongly condemned the killing.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said he spoke with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who assured strict action against the perpetrators.

I spoke with Pushkar Singh Dhami regarding this matter. He has assured me that he will ensure that justice is served. Five people have been arrested, and one or two more are probably still at large, and they will be apprehended soon."

I said that there shouldnt be any gaps in the investigation. He assured me that they will deliver justice, and they have already arrested five people," Chief Minister Saha told news agency ANI.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma posted on X, The tragic death of Anjel Chakma from Tripura following brutal racial abuse in Dehradun is heartbreaking and unacceptable. I urge the Honble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, to ensure strict action against the culprits so that justice is served."

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma called the incident heartbreaking and unacceptable," emphasising that racial violence must never be tolerated.

Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said, This painful incident must remind those outside the Northeast to know that the Northeast is not a distant corner of India, it is India It is time the rest of the country moves beyond stereotypes and embraces the Northeast not as a margin, but as a pillar of Indias unity and strength."

ALSO READ | Dont Want Any North East Child To Face This: Father Of Tripura Student Killed In Racial Attack

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:49 IST

News india Tripura Student Killed In Dehradun Was Attacked With Knives, Kada; Remained In Hospital For 17 Days

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...
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- CATL and Xiamen C&D Group recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement, committing to a broader and more integrated partnership, according to a press release CATL issued on December 26 via its WeChat account.

The two sides aim to combine their respective strengths in industrial capabilities, technology, resource integration, and market networks, with cooperation structured around three core areas.

Photo source: CATL

In the new energy vehicle sector, the collaboration will be anchored by Shidai Smart Technology (Fujian) Co., Ltd. ("Shidai" is Chinese pinyin), a jointly invested platform. Through closer cooperation in battery lifecycle services, safety technologies, and innovative battery business models, the partners aim to deliver more comprehensive and application-ready solutions for the fast-growing new energy market.

On the supply chain front, CATL will open up selected supply chain projects to Xiamen C&D Group. Leveraging its experience in supply chain operations and global trade, C&D will support CATL's efforts to bring products, production capacity, and technologies to overseas markets, while also helping to modernize and optimize CATL's supply chain system.

In emerging industries, the partnership will extend to joint investments and the establishment of investment funds. By co-investing in advanced technologies and high-end manufacturing upgrades, the two groups aim to foster innovation ecosystems that create long-term value and shared growth.

Beyond their core industrial collaboration, CATL and Xiamen C&D Group also plan to expand cooperation into areas such as exhibition and convention operations, as well as tourism and hospitality, further broadening the scope of business synergy and brand development.

The agreement marks a new phase of deeper integration between CATL and Xiamen C&D Group. Looking ahead, the partners plan to link technology, industry, and services more tightly, supporting the integrated development of China's new energy sector and contributing to the broader transformation and upgrading of the real economy.
'We Stand With You': Uttarakhand CM Speaks To Father Of Tripura Student Killed In Racial Attack

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 14:54 IST

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Dhami spoke to Anjel Chakmas father, assuring strict action against all accused and the arrest of the absconding suspect in the Dehradun killing case.

File photos of Anjel Chakma (Social Media)

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday spoke to Tarun Prasad Chakma, the father of Tripura student Anjel Chakma, who died in Dehradun after being allegedly assaulted earlier this month.

Dhami assured Tarun Chakma of strict action against all those involved in the crime, including the arrest of the lone absconding accused.

During the telephonic conversation, the Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed that the entire state stood with the bereaved family.

This was a very tragic incident. Everyone is deeply saddened by it. We will take strict action in this matter. Those who committed this crime have been arrested. One person was from Nepal, he is absconding. We have announced a reward to catch him and have sent a team to nab him," Dhami said.

Highlighting the gravity of the loss suffered by the family, the Chief Minister added, What could be more painful than this for a parent? We will ensure that the culprits receive the strictest punishment."

Dhami also informed Anjels father that the matter had been taken up at the highest levels.

I have also spoken to Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha. The Home Minister, the Defence Minister, everyone has discussed this matter. Such incidents do not happen here, this is not the kind of environment. We stand with you in this difficult time. We will provide you with all possible assistance from our side," he said.

Earlier, reacting to the incident amid mounting outrage, Dhami had said such incidents were unacceptable in Uttarakhand and asserted that the government would deal strictly with those responsible.

Expressing grief over the death of the student from Tripura, the Chief Minister had said the state government was committed to the safety and security of every citizen residing in Uttarakhand.

Those who play with law and order should not expect any mercy from the government. Such unruly elements will not be spared at any cost," he had said, while directing the police to ensure the speedy arrest of the absconding accused.

Police have announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for the arrest of the lone absconding accused, a resident of Nepal, and said that a police team has been sent to the neighbouring country to nab him.

Five others, including two juveniles, have already been apprehended in connection with the case.

According to the police, 24-year-old Anjel Chakma, a resident of Unakoti district of Tripura and a final-year MBA student at a university in Dehradun, and his younger brother Michael were involved in an argument with Suraj Khawas, a resident of Manipur living in Dehradun, and his friends at Selakui market on December 9.

The accused allegedly attacked Anjel with knives and brass knuckles, and he later succumbed to his injuries at a hospital on December 26.

Tarun Chakma, who is posted with the Border Security Force in Manipur, has alleged that racial slurs were hurled at his sons during the incident.

He told news agency PTI that the attackers used racial slurs. However, the police have denied that the case involves racial abuse.

The incident has triggered protests and demonstrations in Tripura, with student organisations and political groups demanding justice for Anjel Chakma.

According to news agency ANI, members of the Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF), the student wing of the Tipra Motha Party, held a candle march at Astabal Maidan in Agartala, condemning the killing and urging strict action against the accused.

Protesters said the incident reflected the continued harassment faced by people from the Northeast outside the region and called for accountability and justice.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has assured that the state government will extend all possible support to the victims family.

ALSO READ | Tripura Student Killed In Dehradun Was Attacked With Knives, Kada; Remained In Hospital For 17 Days

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 14:26 IST

News india 'We Stand With You': Uttarakhand CM Speaks To Father Of Tripura Student Killed In Racial Attack

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...
Supreme Court Stays Order Suspending Kuldeep Singh Sengar's Bail In Unnao Rape Case

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:08 IST

The Delhi High Court had suspended Sengars sentence, noting that he had served over seven years and five months in prison, and imposed conditions including a bond of Rs 15 lakh.

Kolkata: Student organisations protest against the Unnao rape incident as they burn an effigy of Kuldeep Singh Sengar (Photo: PTI)

The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Delhi High Court order that had suspended the life sentence of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case, indicating that the matter raises significant questions of law regarding the definition of a public servant under the POCSO Act.

A three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices JK Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih heard the plea filed by the CBI challenging the High Court order dated December 23, which had suspended Sengars sentence.

Senior advocates, including Solicitor General Tushar Mehta representing the CBI and Sidharth Dave and Hariharan representing Sengar, appeared before the bench.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta described the case as a horrific case of rape of a child" and highlighted that Sengar had been convicted under Section 376 of the IPC and Sections 5 and 6 of the POCSO Act.

Reading out the trial court and High Court orders, Mehta emphasised that the conviction involved penetrative sexual assault and that the accused held a dominant position over the minor victim.

If a person is in a dominant position, it is considered an aggravated assault. In this case, he was a very powerful MLA of that area," Mehta submitted, urging the court to stay the impugned order" and asserting, Were answerable to the child."

The bench extensively questioned the interpretation of a public servant under the POCSO Act.

Chief Justice Kant observed, We are worried that a constable shall be a public servant under the act, but a member of the legislature will be excluded!"

Some people are trying to gain political mileage out of this. Do not forget it is the judiciary that convicted him," the CJI said, adding, Our message to everyone is to argue inside the court and not outside it."

We are not sitting in ivory towers, do not try to browbeat the system," he added.

Our doors are open 24 hours, we can hear a matter even at midnight, if the need be," he said.

SG Mehta clarified that the concept of a public servant should be understood contextually as someone who enjoys a dominant position at the time of the offence.

He further noted that amendments to the law enhancing punishment did not create a new offence but aimed to strengthen the response against such crimes.

Sengars counsel raised concerns regarding media trial and argued that definitions under separate statutes could not be imported to POCSO.

The bench noted the importance of reviewing these aspects, saying, Legal issue requires consideration and the judges of the High Court who passed this order are some of the finest judges. But we are all prone to committing errors!"

Justice Maheshwari pointed out that the High Courts order did not explicitly deal with Section 376(2)(i) regarding offences by a public servant.

After detailed arguments, the Supreme Court stated, We are conscious of the fact that when a convict or undertrial has been released, such orders are not ordinarily stayed without hearing such persons."

But in view of peculiar facts where the convict is convicted for a separate offence, we stay the operation of the Delhi High Court order dated December 23, 2025. The respondent shall not be released pursuant to the said order," it said.

The bench issued notice and directed the filing of counter-affidavits within four weeks.

The Delhi High Court had suspended Sengars life sentence, noting that he had served over seven years and five months in prison, and imposed conditions including a personal bond of Rs 15 lakh and restrictions on approaching the survivor.

Sengar remains in jail for a separate conviction in the custodial death of the victims father.

Appeals in both cases are pending before the courts.

ALSO READ | Unnao Rape Case: What Is A Special Leave Petition Filed By CBI Against Relief To Sengar?

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:12 IST

News india Supreme Court Stays Order Suspending Kuldeep Singh Sengar's Bail In Unnao Rape 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...
'Till Sengar Gets Death Penalty': Unnao Rape Survivor Welcomes SC Order, Vows To Fight Legal Battle

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:35 IST

The Unnao rape case survivor welcomed the top courts decision to stay Kuldeep Singh Sengars bail, saying her fight for justice would continue until he is awarded death penalty.

New Delhi: A protester holds a placard during a demonstration against the suspension of the jail term of Kuldeep Sengar (Photo: PTI)

The Unnao rape case survivor on Monday asserted that her legal battle is far from over and said she would continue to fight until former BJP MLA and convict Kuldeep Singh Sengar is awarded the death penalty, following the Supreme Courts decision to stay the Delhi High Court order granting him bail.

Reacting strongly to the top courts intervention, the survivor told news agency IANS that she had unwavering faith in the Supreme Court and would pursue justice until its logical conclusion.

I had faith in the Supreme Court that justice would be delivered. My struggle is ongoing and will continue. I have to pursue this until he gets the death penalty, and only then will my father and I get justice," she said.

Expressing relief over the Supreme Court staying the suspension of Sengars life sentence, the survivor also acknowledged the support she received during her prolonged fight for justice.

I am grateful to everyone who stood by me and helped me get justice," she told IANS.

Reiterating her trust in the apex court, she said, I have and will keep my faith in the Supreme Court that it will deliver justice. I dont know what was going on in that judges mind, and only he knows how much affection he had for him to have shown mercy and granted him bail."

Speaking further on the emotional toll the case has taken on her family, the survivor said justice would only be complete when the harshest punishment is awarded.

My father will get peace only when Kuldeep Singh Sengar is hanged," she told IANS, underscoring the depth of her resolve to continue the legal fight.

In a separate reaction to news agency PTI, the survivor welcomed the Supreme Courts decision and said she was satisfied with the relief granted by the apex court.

Speaking over the phone from Delhi, she said, I am very happy with this decision. I have got justice from the Supreme Court. I have been raising my voice for justice from the very beginning."

She further clarified that she did not intend to level allegations against the judiciary as an institution and maintained faith in the judicial system as a whole.

I do not make any allegations against any court. I have faith in all courts, but the Supreme Court has given me justice and will continue to do so," the survivor told PTI.

The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Delhi High Court order that had suspended Sengars life imprisonment sentence and granted him bail in the 2017 Unnao rape case.

The court was hearing a plea filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation, which had challenged the High Courts decision to grant bail to the convict pending disposal of his appeal.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court also issued a notice to Kuldeep Singh Sengar, directing him to file his response to the CBIs plea.

Sengar, a former legislator from Unnao, was earlier convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in the case, which had triggered nationwide outrage and brought renewed focus on crimes against women and accountability of public representatives.

ALSO READ | Its The Judiciary That Convicted Sengar, Dont Try To Browbeat The System: CJI Surya Kant

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 15:11 IST

News india 'Till Sengar Gets Death Penalty': Unnao Rape Survivor Welcomes SC Order, Vows To Fight Legal Battle

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...
Unnao Rape Case: What Is A Special Leave Petition Filed By CBI Against Relief To Sengar?

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:26 IST

The CBI, in its Special Leave Petition, has contended that the Delhi HC erred by declaring that Kuldeep Singh Sengar was not a public servant to be prosecuted under POCSO

Rapid Read

Kuldeep Singh Sengar will remain in jail since he is also serving 10 years' imprisonment in the custodial death case of the victim's father. (PTI/File)

Amid protests against the suspension of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengars life sentence in the Unnao rape case, the Supreme Court will on Monday hear a plea by the CBI challenging the Delhi High Courts relief to the former legislator. A three-judge vacation bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices JK Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih is likely to hear the matter.

The CBI, in its Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed under Article 136 of the Constitution, has referred to the top courts verdict in the LK Advani case in which it held that anyone who holds public office, like MPs or MLAs, would be deemed a public servant. The agency has contended that the Delhi HC erred by declaring that Sengar, an MLA when the offence was committed, was not a public servant to be prosecuted under POCSO and granted him bail.

On December 23, the Delhi High Court suspended the jail term of Sengar, who is serving life imprisonment in the Unnao rape case, saying he has already served seven years and five months in prison.

Sengars sentence has been suspended by the high court till the pendency of his appeal challenging his conviction and sentence in the rape case. He has challenged a December 2019 trial court verdict in the case. He will, however, remain in jail since he is also serving 10 years imprisonment in the custodial death case of the victims father and has not been granted bail in that case.

So what is a special leave petition and how is it likely to impact the case?

What is an SLP?

SLP stands for Special Leave Petition. It is a petition through which special permission is sought from the Supreme Court to challenge a judgment, order, or decree passed by any court or tribunal in the country (except military tribunals).

An SLP is not a matter of right. It is granted at the discretion of the Supreme Court, which may choose to hear the case if it finds merit in the plea.

What is the constitutional provision for SLP?

The provision for SLP is laid down under Article 136 of the Indian Constitution. This article empowers the Supreme Court to grant special leave to appeal against any judgment, decree, determination, sentence, or order passed by any court or tribunal.

However, this power is exercised only in exceptional cases  such as when there is a substantial question of law or a serious miscarriage of justice.

In which cases can an SLP be filed?

An SLP can be filed in both civil and criminal matters. It may be filed against decisions of High Courts, tribunals, or quasi-judicial bodies. However, decisions of tribunals related to the armed forces are excluded. An SLP can also be filed against interim orders.

Who can file an SLP?

Any person or entity aggrieved by a decision can file an SLP. This includes individuals, companies, central or state governments, public sector undertakings (PSUs), NGOs, and associations.

Is there a fixed time limit for filing an SLP?

Yes. An SLP must be filed within 90 days from the date of the High Courts judgment or order. If the High Court refuses to grant a certificate of fitness to appeal to the Supreme Court, the SLP must be filed within 60 days from the date of such refusal.

Does the case end when the SLP is dismissed?

In most cases, dismissal of an SLP means the Supreme Court has declined to intervene. However, this does not imply that the court has agreed with the lower courts decision. It only means that the Supreme Court has chosen not to grant permission to hear the appeal.

The Delhi HC in its order had directed Sengar, who kidnapped and raped the survivor when she was a minor, to furnish a personal bond of Rs 15 lakh with three sureties of the like amount. It also directed him not to come within a 5-km radius of the survivors residence in Delhi and not to threaten her or her mother. Violation of any of the conditions would lead to the cancellation of bail, the HC said.

The rape case and other connected cases were transferred to Delhi from a trial court in Uttar Pradesh on the directions of the Supreme Court on August 1, 2019. Sengars appeal against his conviction in the case of the custodial death of the survivors father is also pending, where he has sought suspension of sentence on the ground that he has already spent a substantial time in jail.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:26 IST

News india Unnao Rape Case: What Is A Special Leave Petition Filed By CBI Against Relief To Sengar?

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...
Was Osman Hadi's Killing Used To Fan Anti-India Sentiment? CNN-News18 Decodes

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Shobhit Gupta



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 18:52 IST

As per sources, Osman Hadi criticised Awami League, and challenged the BNP leadership, making him politically unpredictable ahead of 2026 polls.

Sharif Osman Hadi died while undergoing treatment in Singapore, days after he was shot in the head in Dhaka. (File)

Top intelligence sources have told CNN-News18 that the assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi, the convener of Inquilab Mancha and one of the organisers of the July uprising, was used to mobilise street protests and fuel agitation against India, rather than being the result of an ideological rivalry.

As per sources, Hadi was no longer aligned with any single political party or political patron. As a spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho, he had criticised the Awami League, challenged the BNP leadership and refused backing from Jamaat, making him politically unpredictable ahead of Bangladeshs 2026 elections.

Sources told CNN-News18 that Hadis death helped street mobilisation, media intimidation, and justification for emergency-style governance. Various intel inputs suggested that many political parties had begun viewing the student leader as disruptive by late 2025.

The main shooter, identified as Faisal Karim Masud, a former Chhatra League leader, and bike rider Alamgir Sheikh, were clearly involved in the killing. As per sources, Faisal was part of an internal network within Hadis own ecosystem, indicating political infiltration rather than ideological rivalry.

No weapon recovery has yet been publicly disclosed. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police has said the investigation is nearing completion, but has also admitted that the mastermind behind the killing remains at large.

Bangladesh Police alleged that the suspects fled to India via Meghalaya and have sought their extradition. However, intelligence sources said that there was no CCTV footage, border sensor data or telecom evidence to substantiate the claim that the suspects entered India.

The India-linked allegation surfaced after protests and riots had already broken out, raising questions about the timing of the narrative. Intelligence sources suggested that the India angle may have been introduced to divert attention and protect possible Jamaat-linked associates.

On Sunday, the DMP said the suspects crossed into India through the Haluaghat border area of Bangladesh and later travelled to Tura in Meghalaya.

Meanwhile, the Border Security Force (BSF) rejected claims by DMP, saying no such incident had taken place.

The BSF said that there had been no illegal cross-border movement in the Meghalaya sector and that no arrests or interceptions had been made. It described the reports as false, fabricated and misleading.

Inspector General OP Upadhyay, head of the BSF in Meghalaya, said there was no evidence to support the claims. He added that Meghalaya Police had also denied reports that the suspects were arrested after entering India. He pointed out contradictions in statements made by Bangladeshi officials and questioned the credibility of the reports.

Osman Hadis Assassination

Sharif Osman Hadi, the convener of Inquilab Mancha and one of the organisers of the July uprising, died while undergoing treatment in Singapore, days after he was shot in the head in Dhaka. He was shot on December 12 and had been in critical condition since.

Hadi was linked to the anti-Sheikh Hasina platform Inqilab Moncho. He was preparing to contest the upcoming Jatiya Sangsad elections as an independent candidate from the Dhaka-8 constituency.

Inqilab Moncho gained attention during last years July uprising, which later led to the removal of Sheikh Hasina from power.

Following his death, violent protests erupted in Bangladesh. Media houses, cultural centres and political offices were attacked. A Hindu man, Dipu Chandra Das, was lynched and burnt to death in Mymensingh over alleged blasphemy. After thrashing and killing Das, the mob hung his body from a tree and set it on fire. Meanwhile, the mob that encircled him in Bhaluka, many of whom he knew, took out their smartphones to record the spectacle.

Meanwhile, some youth leaders were also reported to have made provocative anti-India statements. In recent weeks, Bangladeshi security forces have had to stop protesters from marching towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. Last week, a mob also pelted the Indian Assistant High Commission building in Chittagong with stones.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 18:04 IST

News india Was Osman Hadi's Killing Used To Fan Anti-India Sentiment? CNN-News18 Decodes

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...
Your Abysmal Record...: MEA Rejects Pakistan's Remarks On Minorities In India

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 19:18 IST

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal rejected Pakistan's remarks on minorities in India, highlighting Pakistan's own abysmal record and systemic victimisation of minorities.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. (PTI file photo)

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday rejected remarks made by the spokesperson of Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs on incidents in India, saying Pakistans own record on the treatment of minorities speaks for itself.

While responding to media queries regarding remarks of Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi alleging persecution of minorities in India, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that New Delhi firmly rejected such remarks, which came from a nation whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself.

Our response to media queries regarding remarks of the Spokesperson of the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on incidents in India  https://t.co/xMhlbQZYqc pic.twitter.com/WU09obKsbj  Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 29, 2025

He said that Islamabads treatment of minorities is a well-established issue, and no amount of finger-pointing will obfuscate it.

We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself. Pakistans horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well-established fact. No amount of finger-pointing will obfuscate it," he added.

MEAs remarks came after Andrabi alleged persecution of minorities in India, and said that it remained a matter of deep concern for Pakistan. He had also called on the international community to take note of such incidents.

However, Pakistan is known to weaponise its blasphemy laws against minorities and vulnerable individuals. Pakistans blasphemy laws, particularly Section 295-C, have for a long time been under criticism from rights groups worldwide because of their vaguely worded provisions and extremely severe punishments. The law has disproportionately targeted religious minorities, especially Christians, Ahmadis, and Hindus.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 19:08 IST

News india Your Abysmal Record...: MEA Rejects Pakistan's Remarks On Minorities In India

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...
Sanjay Dutts Rs 55 Lakh Rolex Steals The Spotlight At AP Dhillons Mumbai Concert

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:33 IST

Sanjay Dutt stepped on the stage in a black kurta-pyjama set. On his wrist sat the Rolex Sky-Dweller, which is reportedly valued at around Rs 55 lakh.

Sanjay Dutt wore a Rs 55 lakh Rolex Sky-Dweller.

Mumbai concerts thrive on spectacle, but every once in a while, a moment unfolds that feels effortlessly iconic. AP Dhillons packed Mumbai show at BKCs Jio World Centre had already hit a fever pitch when Sanjay Dutt made an unannounced appearance on stage. The roar was instant. Yet, beyond the surprise cameo and thunderous applause, it was Dutts quietly commanding style that truly lingered  anchored by a luxury timepiece that spoke volumes without demanding attention.

True to his enduring persona, Sanjay Dutt kept his outfit pared back and classic. A black kurta-pyjama set the tone. It was timeless, unfussy, and deeply rooted in Indian menswear. But it was his choice of watch that elevated the look into a masterclass in understated opulence. On his wrist sat the Rolex Sky-Dweller, one of the Swiss brands most technically sophisticated creations, reportedly valued at around Rs 55 lakh.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AP DHILLON (@apdhillon)

In a setting dominated by flashing lights and high-decibel performances, the Sky-Dweller stood out precisely because it didnt try to compete; it complemented.

Crafted in Oystersteel and white gold, the Rolex Sky-Dweller is designed for global citizens  frequent travellers who appreciate engineering as much as aesthetics. The watch features a dual-time zone display and an annual calendar that intelligently distinguishes between 30- and 31-day months, requiring adjustment only once a year.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Insanely luxurious Indians  (@insanelyluxuriousindians)

Its most distinctive feature, the Ring Command bezel, allows the wearer to control multiple functions with seamless precision  a technical flourish that aligns perfectly with Dutts larger-than-life yet controlled presence. The choice felt intentional, signalling authority, legacy, and a taste for complexity beneath the surface.

Interestingly, Sanjay Dutt wasnt the only one making waves in the watch world that evening. Host and headliner AP Dhillon delivered his own horological flex with an ultra-rare Richard Mille RM 53-02 Blue Sapphire. Sculpted from a single block of sapphire crystal, the transparent blue timepiece glowed under concert lights, carrying an estimated price tag close to Rs 54 crore and a near-mythical rarity.

While AP Dhillons watch embodied futuristic excess and modern bravado, Sanjay Dutts Sky-Dweller represented timeless luxury and seasoned confidence. Together, they offered a fascinating contrast  old-school gravitas meeting new-age extravagance  making the concert not just a musical high, but a defining moment for Indian celebrity style and high-end horology.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:33 IST

News lifestyle fashion Sanjay Dutts Rs 55 Lakh Rolex Steals The Spotlight At AP Dhillons Mumbai Concert
Festive Season And Heart Health: Why Cardiac Risks Rise And How To Celebrate Safely

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 10:46 IST

Festive indulgence, alcohol, poor sleep, and stress can trigger cardiac emergencies. Cardiologists explain why heart risks rise during holidays and how to celebrate safely.

By recognising early warning signs, respecting the bodys limits, and practising mindful indulgence, individuals can ensure that festive joy does not come at the expense of cardiovascular wellbeing

The festive season is synonymous with joy, togetherness, and indulgence but for cardiologists, it is also a period marked by a noticeable rise in cardiovascular emergencies. According to Dr Abhijeet Palshikar, Director of Cardiology, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Pune, abrupt deviations from daily routines during holidays place unexpected strain on the heart, even in people who otherwise consider themselves healthy.

Heavy, calorie-dense meals rich in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, excessive alcohol consumption, late nights, disturbed sleep patterns, and heightened emotional stress collectively increase cardiac workload. These sudden lifestyle shifts can overwhelm the cardiovascular system," explains Dr Palshikar, noting that individuals with pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or a history of heart disease face a significantly higher risk of heart attacks and rhythm disturbances during this time. However, he cautions that festive excess can adversely affect even those without known heart disease.

From a medical standpoint, overindulgence has measurable consequences. Excessive alcohol intake and overeating can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and sudden spikes in blood pressure, key triggers for cardiac events. One well-recognised condition linked to festive excess is Holiday Heart Syndrome, a term used to describe irregular or abnormal heart rhythms that occur during or shortly after periods of heavy alcohol consumption. Cold weather common during year-end celebrations further compounds risk by causing blood vessel constriction, increasing strain on the heart.

Adding depth to this clinical reality, Dr Kayan Siodia, Consultant Cardiologist, P.D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Khar, describes the festive period as a paradox, a time radiant with celebration, yet quietly harbouring cardiovascular peril." He explains that Holiday Heart Syndrome is not merely a theoretical concept but a real-world manifestation of rhythm disturbances, often presenting as atrial fibrillation, the most common arrhythmia seen during festivities.

These rhythm disturbances frequently arrive unannounced," says Dr Siodia. Patients may experience palpitations, heart fluttering, chest heaviness, or breathlessness, symptoms that are often dismissed as fatigue, anxiety, or dehydration." He stresses that chest discomfort, tightness, or unexplained heaviness should never be ignored or postponed, as early medical intervention can be lifesaving.

Both experts emphasise that emotional stress, erratic sleep, alcohol excess, dehydration, and lapses in medication adherence often converge during festive periods, conspiring against cardiovascular stability. Even resilient hearts can falter under these external pressures, while those with existing heart disease may find themselves dangerously close to a tipping point.

The solution, however, is not abstinence from celebration but conscious moderation. Dr Palshikar advises practical measures such as portion control, limiting alcohol intake, staying well-hydrated, incorporating fruits and lighter, nutrient-dense foods alongside traditional dishes, and maintaining regular sleep patterns. Simple physical activity, like a short walk after meals, can also significantly benefit heart health.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr Siodia underscores that everything in moderation is the rhythm of a healthy life." He stresses uninterrupted medication adherence, maintaining regular exercise routines where possible, and respecting emotional wellbeing as integral components of heart health. Festivities should elevate not only the spirit but also preserve the sanctity of the human heart," he says.

Ultimately, celebration and health need not exist at odds. By recognising early warning signs, respecting the bodys limits, and practising mindful indulgence, individuals can ensure that festive joy does not come at the expense of cardiovascular wellbeing. This season, let moderation be the rhythm to which every heart beats.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 10:46 IST

News lifestyle health-and-fitness Festive Season And Heart Health: Why Cardiac Risks Rise And How To Celebrate Safely
Inside Sagarika Ghatge And Zaheer Khans Slow, Soulful Island Escape In The Maldives

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 17:44 IST

On their island escape to the Maldives, Sagarika Ghatge and Zaheer Khan embraced a slower rhythm of travel - one where luxury was defined by space, silence, and shared time.

Sagarika Ghatge and Zaheer Khan in Maldives.

In an era where celebrity holidays are often defined by excess and Instagram-ready drama, Sagarika Ghatge and Zaheer Khans recent Maldivian escape stood out for its deliberate restraint. Travelling with their young son, the couple chose a holiday that prioritised presence over performance in an island break that was rooted in nature, privacy, and the simple pleasure of slowing down.

Set on a lush, untouched island in the Maldives, Sagarika Ghatge and Zaheer Khan stayed at RAAYA by Atmosphere. The picturesque island offered the family a sanctuary far removed from packed itineraries and crowded beaches. Instead, their days unfolded gently  marked by quiet mornings, unhurried lagoon swims, and long stretches of uninterrupted family time.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sagarika Z Ghatge (@sagarikaghatge)

Unlike resorts built purely for visual spectacle, RAAYA by Atmosphere leans into its organic landscape. Towering trees, shaded pathways, and an expansive turquoise lagoon form the backbone of the experience, making it especially welcoming for families travelling with young children. For Sagarika and Zaheer, this natural ease translated into freedom as it gave space for their son to explore safely, and room for the family to truly switch off.

From relaxed beach walks to playful poolside moments, the islands layout encourages togetherness without compromise. The thoughtfully designed family villas and larger private residences ensured comfort and discretion, allowing the couple to enjoy luxury on their own terms.

With multiple dining experiences spread across the island, meals became leisurely affairs rather than scheduled stops, while curated activities offered gentle engagement rather than overstimulation. Whether it was snorkelling in clear waters, enjoying fresh seafood, or simply soaking in the stillness of the beachfront, every experience echoed the idea that true indulgence lies in unhurried living.

Sagarika and Zaheers holiday also reflects a broader shift in celebrity travel preferences. Increasingly, stars are choosing destinations that offer emotional nourishment alongside luxury  places that allow them to retreat, reconnect, and recalibrate. Shared glimpses from their trip captured tender family moments  sunlit beach scenes, gentle ocean rides, and candid snapshots that spoke volumes without trying too hard.

At its core, this Maldives getaway wasnt about ticking off experiences, but it was about being present.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 17:44 IST

News lifestyle travel Inside Sagarika Ghatge And Zaheer Khans Slow, Soulful Island Escape In The Maldives
Akshaye Khanna Makes FIRST Appearance Since Drishyam 3 Producer's Legal Notice, Shocking Claims | Watch

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 18:41 IST

Akshaye Khanna has yet to respond to Drishyam 3 producer Kumar Mangat's claims.

Rapid Read

Akshaye played a major role in Drishyam 2.

Akshaye Khanna has made his first appearance since being embroiled in the Drishyam 3 controversy. The announcement of Drishyam 3 had generated massive anticipation, with the makers confirming an October 2, 2026, theatrical release. However, the excitement was quickly accompanied by surprise when Akshaye Khanna left the film. The makers claimed that Akshayes exit was abrupt, and producer Kumar Mangat Pathak even revealed that he had sent a legal notice to the actor.

Amid this controversy, Akshaye Khanna was spotted by paparazzi in a casual look. The actor wore an orange T-shirt with jeans and a jacket. He completed his look with a cap and a black belt. The actor has yet to respond to the controversy surrounding his exit from Drishyam 3.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani)

Meanwhile, Kumar Mangat Pathak told Bollywood Hungama, We had signed an agreement with Akshaye Khanna. His fees also got locked after a lot of renegotiations from his side. He insisted that he would like to wear a wig. But (director) Abhishek Pathak convinced him that it wouldnt be practical, as it would result in continuity issues since Drishyam 3 is a sequel."

He added, He understood his point and agreed to let go of that demand. However, the chamchas around him advised him that he would look smarter if he donned a wig. So, he again requested the same. Abhishek relented and was even ready to discuss this point with him. But then, he informed us that he doesnt want to be a part of the film at all."

Kumar Mangat Pathak then said, When he heard the script in his Alibaug farmhouse, he liked it so much that he told us, Yeh Rs 500 crore ki film hai. Maine life mein aisi script nahin suni hai. He even hugged Abhishek and the writer. Then, we had negotiations, after which we agreed on the fees. We even signed the agreement. He even got an advance while we paid the designer for his clothes. And then 10 days before his shoot, he declined to work on the film."

The producer then said, I have suffered losses because of his behaviour. I am going to take legal action. I have already sent him a legal notice; hes yet to reply to it I was shocked. Drishyam 3 begins where Drishyam 2 ended. How can his character suddenly get hair? Is there any technology in the world that can grow hair within minutes?"

As Akshaye Khanna has exited Drishyam 3, Jaideep Ahlawat has been brought in to play a new character in the Ajay Devgn-headlined franchise.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 18:41 IST

News movies bollywood Akshaye Khanna Makes FIRST Appearance Since Drishyam 3 Producer's Legal Notice, Shocking Claims | Watch
The Corvette ZR1 Makes More?

Automakers typically advertise crank horsepower, which is always higher than wheel horsepower due to drivetrain losses. So when Hennessey Performance dyno tested a stock Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1 and recorded a peak output of 1,050 horsepower, the result immediately raised eyebrows.

Chevrolet lists the C8 Corvette ZR1 at 1,064 horsepower from the factory, a figure that represents crank output. Under normal circumstances, wheel horsepower should be noticeably lower once drivetrain losses are factored in. However, the dyno used by Hennessey Performance measures wheel horsepower, making the recorded 1,050-hp result difficult to explain on paper. If the tuners findings are taken at face value, it suggests the ZR1s actual crank output could be substantially higher  potentially in the 1,100- to 1,200-horsepower range.

Exceptional Performance Machine

Peak power was recorded at 6,960 rpm, while the torque curve topped out at 821 lb-ft at 4,810 rpm. Since the test vehicle was completely stock, the engine in question was Chevrolets 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged flat-plane-crank V8, currently regarded as the most powerful engine ever fitted to a production Corvette.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The Corvette ZR1 has already backed up its numbers on the track. It has set multiple performance records, including clocking a 6:50.763 lap time at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, beating the 815-horsepower Ford Mustang GTD around the famed German circuit.

So why would Chevrolet deliberately downplay the ZR1s horsepower  assuming thats whats happening? There are several plausible explanations. One possibility is strategic positioning within the lineup. Chevrolet may be careful not to overshadow the Corvettes even more extreme flagship, the ZR1X, which produces a combined 1,250 horsepower thanks to the addition of a hybrid electric motor driving the front axle. If the standard ZR1 were openly acknowledged to be operating in the same horsepower territory, it could undermine the performance gap  and, by extension, the flagship branding  of the ZR1X.

Hennessey Performance on YouTube (Hennessey Performance on YouTube)

Baseline Set, Now Comes the Fun

Pricing further reinforces that hierarchy. Chevrolets consumer site currently lists the Corvette ZR1 starting at $185,000, while the ZR1X is shown at $209,700. While the automaker has not officially capped production for either model, availability may still be limited by supply-chain constraints, particularly for the hybridized ZR1X.

Pinning down the ZR1s true crank horsepower may ultimately prove difficult. What is clearer is what comes next. Hennessey Performance  the same company known for delivering huge performance improvements as seen in cars like the 2,031-horsepower Venom F5 Evolution  is almost certainly working on a tune that will push the Corvette ZR1 even further. And as with any serious performance project, it all starts on the dyno, establishing a benchmark before the real gains begin.

Chevrolet

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

This story was originally published by Autoblog on Dec 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
'All This Happened After': Drishyam 3 Director Reacts To Akshaye Khannas Sudden Exit

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:28 IST

Drishyam 3 director Abhishek Pathak reacts to Akshaye Khannas sudden exit, clarifying Jaideep Ahlawat is a new character and not a replacement in the film.

Drishyam 3 director Abhishek Pathak reacts to Akshaye Khannas sudden exit.

Amid ongoing controversy surrounding Akshaye Khannas exit from Drishyam 3, director Abhishek Pathak has spoken about the casting changes in the film. After producer Kumar Mangat Pathak called out Akshaye Khanna for his sudden exit and unprofessional and toxic behaviour, Abhishek also reacted to the issue.

Clarifying that Jaideep is not replacing Akshaye but that he is writing a fresh character, Abhishek, while talking to Bombay Times, shared, No, Jaideep is not replacing Akshaye. Im writing a new character." Further revealing Ajay Devgns reaction to the development, Pathak shared, He left it to me completely. Anyway, its more about me, Akshaye, and the production. So, I would rather leave that aspect of how we dealt with it out."

All this happened after the contract was signed in November. He left the movie five days before it was going on the floors. The look was locked, costumes were being made, the narration had happened, and he loved the story," Abhishek shared while talking about Akshayes sudden exit.

Further, when questioned about the debate surrounding Akshayes look in the film, Abhishek said, My film starts from the point where it ended. I couldnt have him in the courtroom in the afternoon, and in the evening, he comes back with hair. How is it possible? That was the point I explained and convinced him. A few days later, this came up again, and thats when we said we will work it out."

Abhishek revealed that Kumar Mangat had earlier told them about the actors sudden exit just a day before Dhurandhars release. While stressing that it wasnt about money matters, he said, He is putting out those rumours. I do not want to talk about the amount we eventually locked. Yes, the commercials were revisited, but we somehow worked it out and reached a figure that was mutually agreed upon. Then the contract was signed, and after that, all this drama started."

About Drishyam 3

Presented by Star Studios, the Panorama Studios production is directed by Abhishek Pathak and written by Abhishek Pathak, Aamil Keeyan Khan, and Parveez Shaikh. Produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak, Drishyam 3 is all set to release theatrically on October 2, 2026.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:28 IST

News movies bollywood 'All This Happened After': Drishyam 3 Director Reacts To Akshaye Khannas Sudden Exit
Who is Dhruv Rathee, The YouTuber Facing Backlash For Targeting Janhvi Kapoor

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 17:50 IST

Dhruv Rathee had used a before-and-after picture of Bollywood diva Janhvi Kapoor to discuss fake beauty.

Janhvis friend Orry also attacked Dhruv for his comments. (Photo Credit : X)

A YouTube thumbnail was all it took to trigger a storm. Social media erupted after Dhruv Rathee used a before-and-after image of Janhvi Kapoor in the thumbnail of a video discussing fake beauty." The backlash intensified when some users claimed the video was a response to Janhvis recent post supporting Bangladeshi Hindus.

Rathee addressed the claims in a follow-up video, calling the narrative misleading. Reading out a viral post that accused him of targeting Janhvi, he questioned why people were accepting social media claims without basic logic. Tumhe Bhagwan ne dimag diya hai, kyun nahi istemal karte iska?" he said, pointing out that he had uploaded a 30-minute video the same day Janhvi made her post. Kya yeh realistically possible hai?"

He also rejected the idea that he would criticise someone for speaking up on Bangladeshi Hindus, noting that he had himself made content on the same issue. Main jo bolna hota hai mou pe bolta hoon," he said, adding that the video focused on plastic surgery and its impact on society, not Janhvi Kapoor. Iss poore video mein maine Janhvi Kapoor se koi sawaal nahi kiya."

The clarification slowed the speculation, but the episode once again pushed Rathee into the centre of online debate.

Who is Dhruv Rathee?

Dhruv Rathee was born in 1994 in Rohtak, Haryana, into a middle-class family. His mother was a school teacher, his father an engineer. Travel came early in his life, first across India and later abroad when his father took up work in Malaysia. It was during a visit there in 2003 that Rathee picked up a camera for the first time and shot his earliest video, a small moment that stayed with him.

As a teenager, his interests shifted from animation and detective stories to documentaries and global affairs. The turning point came in 2011 during the Anna Hazare-led anti-corruption movement, which sparked his interest in politics and public accountability.

Education and the YouTube pivot

Rathee moved to Germany for higher studies, completing a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Renewable Energy from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in 2018. His academic background, however, ran parallel to a growing interest in economics and political science, which he later pursued through a second bachelors degree.

YouTube became his outlet. His early videos broke down political events using data, timelines and sources, a format that steadily found an audience. Over time, his content expanded to include environment, social issues, misinformation and digital literacy. Today, Rathee is based in Berlin and runs multiple channels with a combined viewership in the billions.

Personal life and public persona

Rathee met his wife, Juli Lbr, in Germany in 2014. The couple married in Vienna in 2021 and welcomed their son in September 2024. Despite his political commentary, Rathee has maintained clear boundaries around promotions, publicly stating that he does not endorse political parties or products linked to alcohol, tobacco or gambling.

Currently, Dhruv Rathee remains one of Indias most influential digital voices. And as the recent controversy shows, his work continues to spark strong reactions, both online and off it.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 17:50 IST

News bollywood Who is Dhruv Rathee, The YouTuber Facing Backlash For Targeting Janhvi Kapoor
Chris Hemsworth, Elsa Pataky Mark 15th Wedding Anniversary With Family Getaway

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 18:24 IST

Hemsworth and Pataky met in 2010 and made their relationship official later that year, marking their red carpet debut in September.

Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky tied the knot on December 26, 2010.(Photo Credit: Instagram)

Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky are celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary. The actor, 42, and the model and actress, 49, tied the knot on December 26, 2010. Pataky shared a sweet post on Instagram to commemorate the occasion.

Taking to Instagram, the Fast and Furious actress shared a video of the couple spending the holiday season with family. In the clip, Hemsworth and Pataky enjoy the company of loved ones, including Liam Hemsworth, in a tropical setting.

Happy holidays!!" Pataky captioned the post, set to the tune of Carefree Days by Peaceful Reveries.

Hemsworth and Pataky first met in 2010. They were officially a couple and had their red carpet debut by September of that year. Months later, Hemsworth and Pataky tied the knot in December in Australia.

Hemsworth and Patakys marriage

Hemsworth and Pataky share three children: daughter India, and twin sons Tristan and Sasha. In 2015, the couple decided to relocate their family from Los Angeles to Australia. At the time, Hemsworth told The Sunday Telegraph that he desired a different lifestyle since work was beginning to take over his life.

Pataky has stood by Hemsworth through thick and thin. At the time the Thor actor received his Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 2024, he thanked Pataky for being endlessly encouraging and supportive".

It doesnt get lost on me that she put aside her own dreams to support mine. Forever in your debt," Hemsworth had said. The fact [is] that nothing that I do, any of these moments, these special occasions and events, none of it is special without you by my side. I love you," he affectionately added.

Pataky on marriage to Hemsworth

During an interview with Elle, Elsa Pataky opened up about her marriage to Chris Hemsworth. You have to work really hard in marriages. At first, you live with that kind of infatuation where your heart leaps out of your chest, but over the years, it fades," she had said.

She said, in marriages, one has to grow grow as a person with another person who is different". Success is ongoing work," she had added.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 18:24 IST

News movies hollywood Chris Hemsworth, Elsa Pataky Mark 15th Wedding Anniversary With Family Getaway
George Clooney, Amal Granted French Citizenship; Actor Praises Frances Privacy Laws

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 30, 2025, 02:00 IST

George Clooney, Amal and their children are now French citizens. The actor has praised Frances privacy laws and says the country feels like home.

George Clooney has been known for caring about others and helping the community. (Photo Credit: X)

Hollywood star George Clooney has officially been granted French citizenship along with his wife, Amal Clooney, and their two children, according to an official decree published in Frances government gazette. The development confirms Clooneys long-standing admiration for the country and its culture, something he openly spoke about earlier this month.

The announcement follows comments Clooney made in early December, when he praised Frances strict privacy laws, especially those protecting children from paparazzi attention. Speaking to RTL radio at the time, the actor highlighted how the country offers his family a sense of normalcy and security rarely found elsewhere.

I love the French culture, your language, even if Im still bad at it after 400 days of courses," Clooney said in English during the interview.

Here, they dont take photos of kids. There arent any paparazzi hidden at the school gates. Thats number one for us," he added.

Now a dual US-French citizen, Clooneys attachment to Europe predates his 2014 marriage to Amal, a British-Lebanese human rights lawyer who speaks fluent French. Over the years, the couple have established homes across the continent, reflecting their preference for a more private, international lifestyle.

Clooney famously owns an estate in Italys Lake Como region, which he purchased in 2002. The couple also bought a historic manor in England and, in 2021, acquired a property in southern France  a former wine estate known as Domaine du Canadel, located near the village of Brignoles.

In addition to their European residences, Clooney and Amal own a New York apartment and a property in Kentucky. However, reports suggest they sold their homes in Los Angeles and Mexico over the past decade, further signalling a shift away from Hollywood-centric living.

The couple are parents to eight-year-old twins and are known for being fiercely protective of their childrens privacy. Clooney has previously stated that while their family travels frequently due to work commitments, France remains the place where they feel most at peace.

Clooney told RTL that although they are often on the move, their home in France is where were happiest".

Beyond his personal life, Clooney continues to be a prominent force in the film industry as an actor, director and producer. He is a two-time Academy Award winner, earning an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for Syriana in 2006 and another as a producer for Argo in 2012.

Clooney is not alone in his interest in French citizenship. American filmmaker Jim Jarmusch recently revealed that he, too, plans to apply for French nationality. Speaking to France Inter radio, Jarmusch said, I would like a place that will allow me to escape from the United States," adding that French culture was a major draw.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 30, 2025, 02:00 IST

News movies hollywood George Clooney, Amal Granted French Citizenship; Actor Praises Frances Privacy Laws
Thalapathy Vijay Mobbed By Fans, Trips And Falls While Exiting Chennai Airport On Return From Malaysia

Curated By : &



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 09:31 IST

Thalapathy Vijay stumbled at Chennai Airport amid heavy fan crowd after returning from the Jana Nayagan audio launch in Kuala Lumpur, but left safely with tightened security.

Actor Vijay tripped and fell. (Photo Credit: X)

Thalapathy Vijays return to Chennai late Sunday night briefly turned tense after the actor-politician stumbled and fell at the airport amid heavy crowding by fans. Vijay, who is also the president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), had landed at Chennai Airport after attending the audio release event of Jana Nayagan in Malaysia. As he moved towards the exit, a large number of fans rushed forward to catch a glimpse of him, leading to a moment of chaos near his vehicle.

Amid the jostling, Vijay lost his balance and fell just seconds before reaching his car. Security personnel reacted swiftly, helping him up immediately and escorting him into the vehicle. The actor did not appear to suffer any injuries, and the situation was brought under control within moments. The incident took place shortly after Vijays return from Kuala Lumpur, where the Jana Nayagan audio launch was held. The film has been described as his final project before fully transitioning into politics, adding to the heightened fan presence at the airport.

Television reports also claimed that a vehicle from Vijays convoy was involved in a minor mishap within the airport premises during the commotion. However, there has been no official confirmation or statement from airport authorities or Vijays team regarding the reported incident. Despite the brief scare, Vijay was seen leaving the airport safely, with security tightening arrangements as fans were dispersed.

At the audio launch, actor-politician Vijay has said he decided to give up cinema" to stand up" for his fans who offered him everything, including a kottai (fort). In Tamil Nadu, the word Kottai (meaning fort) symbolises someones bastion as well as Fort St George, a British-built fortress, that houses the states legislative Assembly, Secretariat and Chief Ministers office since independence.

When I entered the cinema, I thought I was building a small sand house here. But you all have built me a palace. Fans helped me build a fort Thats why Ive decided to stand for them. For the fans who gave up everything for me, Im giving up cinema itself," the actor said.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:13 IST

News movies tamil-cinema Thalapathy Vijay Mobbed By Fans, Trips And Falls While Exiting Chennai Airport On Return From Malaysia
Actor Adivi Sesh To Welcome New Year In Rocky Mountains Filming For Dacoit

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 18:36 IST

Actor to begin the New Year far away from city lights, mobile networks, and celebrations

Adivi Sesh to celebrate New Year 2026 shooting Dacoit in the mountains.(Photo Credit: X)

Actor Adivi Sesh is all set to welcome the New Year 2026 in a unique way. Instead of celebrating at a party or holiday destination, he will be shooting the climax of his upcoming film Dacoit on a rocky mountain in a remote location.

Talking about his New Year plans to IANS, Sesh said, Ill be welcoming the New Year in a truly unique way, shooting the big climax sequence of Dacoit on a rocky mountain in the middle of nowhere." He described the location as completely isolated, with no mobile network and surrounded by pitch darkness.

No network, clean air, and complete isolation

The actor shared that despite the isolation, the experience will be refreshing. What well have instead is clean air, great AQI, and the raw energy of nature, an unforgettable way to step into the New Year," he said. He added that the solitude and connection with nature will make the shoot special.

About the film Dacoit

Dacoit is a romantic action thriller starring Mrunal Thakur and featuring Anurag Kashyap in a pivotal role. The film also stars Prakash Raj, Sunil, Atul Kulkarni, Zayn Marie Khan, and Kamakshi Bhaskarla. The story traces the journey of an angry convict seeking revenge on his ex-girlfriend, evolving into a tale of love, betrayal, and vengeance.

Pan-India release plans

Shot simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu, the story and screenplay have been co-written by Sesh and director Shaneil Deo. The film is in post-production and is slated for a pan-India release on March 19, 2026, with dubbed versions planned in Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada.

During the Telugu teaser launch in Hyderabad, Sesh spoke about his four-year absence from the screen. He admitted, This time, I thought, why not do two passion projects at once? I sat down to work on the scripts for Dacoit and G2 at once. That was a mistake."

Whats next for Adivi Sesh

He also confirmed details about his upcoming project G2, the sequel to Goodachari. Like Dacoit is arriving on Ugaadi festival, I promise G2 will also arrive on a festival," he said. About future projects, he added, There are a couple of scripts Ive liked. I will do them without my involvement as a writer."

This New Year, Adivi Sesh will be celebrating in the raw outdoors, exchanging city lights and parties for mountains, darkness, and the thrill of cinema.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 18:15 IST

News movies telugu-cinema Actor Adivi Sesh To Welcome New Year In Rocky Mountains Filming For Dacoit
Road Trip Turns Deadly: Two Telangana Women Killed In Accident In California

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:32 IST

Meghana and Bhavana were traveling with a group of friends on a sightseeing trip to the Alabama Hills area when accident took place.

The deceased were identified as 25-year-old Pulakhandam Meghana Rani and 24-year-old Kadiyala Bhavana. (X)

In a tragic incident, two women from Telangana were killed in a road accident in USs California.

The deceased were identified as 25-year-old Pulakhandam Meghana Rani from Garla in Mahbubabad district and 24-year-old Kadiyala Bhavana from Mulkanoor.

As per news reports, the accident took place on Sunday around 4 pm (local time). Meghana and Bhavana were traveling with a group of friends on a sightseeing trip to the Alabama Hills area. Eight friends were touring the region in two separate cars. While taking a curve, the car in which Meghana and Bhavana were traveling reportedly lost control, went off the road, and plunged into a valley.

Bhavna and Meghana had moved to the United States three years ago for higher studies. They recently completed their Masters degrees and were looking for employment opportunities. Their friends said that they were ambitious and excited about the next phase of their lives.

Meghanas father, Nageshwara Rao, runs a Mee-Seva centre in Garla, while Bhavanas father serves as the Deputy Sarpanch of Mulkanoor village. The news of their passing has plunged their families into deep shock and mourning.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : California, USA

First Published: December 29, 2025, 16:32 IST

News nri usa Road Trip Turns Deadly: Two Telangana Women Killed In Accident In California

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 | A Movement That Ate Its Own Valley: Hurriyat's Hypocrisy Of Separatism Politics

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 15:27 IST

Kashmir deserves leaders who acknowledge the past, own their role in its tragedies, and help build a politics that protects the peace as fiercely as it defends opinions

Rapid Read

Hurriyat did not merely oppose Indian authority; it dismantled Kashmiri civil society from within. (PTI)

When Mirwaiz Umar Farooq announced on X that he was being pressed by authorities" to change his profile designation from Hurriyat Chairman", he framed the moment as an assault on free expression, as a yet another instance, he suggested, of a shrinking public space in Kashmir. He called the choice before him a Hobsons choice, implying coercion without alternatives. What the post clearly avoided was the far heavier history attached to the designation he insists on carrying, that of the Hurriyat Conference, an umbrella separatist organisation that, since 1990, has fused secessionist politics with a cycle of violence that hollowed out Kashmirs civic life, wrecked its education system, normalised shutdowns, and pushed thousands of young men toward the gun under a romanticised, utopian promise of Azadi.

To understand why the state finally moved to ban Hurriyats constituents, and why Mirwaizs plea rings of sheer hypocrisy, one must return to the beginning. Hurriyat Conference emerged in the early 1990s as militancy exploded across the Valley. It was presented as a political platform that was an alternative voice" claiming to represent so-called Kashmiri aspirations. In practice, it functioned as the political superstructure of an armed movement. While terror groups pulled the trigger, Hurriyat provided the slogans, calendars, shutdown calls, and moral cover. The separation between politics" and violence" was always rhetorical and never real.

From the outset, Hurriyats strategy relied on cyclical disruption. Protests would be called, followed by shutdowns, then came the violence on the streets. Schools would close temporarily," often for weeks, and even months. Examinations were postponed; academic calendars were shredded year after year. Each killing, whether by militants, security forces, or in crossfire was converted into a mass mobilisation event. Stone pelting was reframed as resistance." Funerals became recruitment grounds. The Valley learned to live by protest calendars rather than academic timetables. An entire generation grew up measuring time not by semesters but by strikes.

The human cost of this politics was immense and shattering. Education that was once Kashmirs most reliable ladder out of poverty was repeatedly sacrificed at the altar of symbolic defiance. Schools were burned, teachers threatened, and students intimidated into absence. Political opponents were silenced through threat, intimidation and assassinations. Tourism collapsed during prolonged shutdowns. Local businesses bled. Families were trapped between fear of militants and the consequences of confrontation with the state. And yet, Hurriyat leaders rarely paid these costs themselves. Their children studied abroad or in elite institutions. Their lives remained insulated from the street-level chaos they orchestrated.

This asymmetry lies at the heart of todays generation. Hurriyats promise of Azadi was an abstraction that was sustained by grievance, amplified by external encouragement, and weaponised through spectacle. Pakistan was held up as the inevitable destination, its failures and its hand bloodied with terrorism conveniently ignored. The Valley was told to wait, to suffer, to bleed because history, Hurriyat claimed, was on their side.

But history moved on as separatism collapsed under its own weight. As the international environment shifted after 9/11, Pakistans deniability vapourised into thin air. Within Kashmir, the fatigue set in. Ordinary people began asking uncomfortable questions. What had decades of shutdowns achieved? Who benefited from perpetual unrest? Why did the same leaders who exhorted sacrifice never seem to make any themselves?

It is against this backdrop that Mirwaizs post must be read. By lamenting restrictions on his X handle, he casts himself as a besieged democrat. Yet he continues to invoke a title tied to an organisation whose politics systematically shrank public space long before the state ever did. Hurriyat did not merely oppose Indian authority; it dismantled Kashmiri civil society from within. It normalised the idea that dissent must be disruptive, that the opposition to their utopian ideology must be silenced, that education is expendable, that violence direct or indirect is a legitimate political instrument.

There is also a deeper hypocrisy at play. Mirwaiz now speaks the language of communication, dialogue, and outreach to the outside world." But Hurriyats core ideology rejected precisely those plural, incremental pathways. It delegitimised elections, boycotted institutions, and derided compromise as betrayal. It taught young Kashmiris that engagement was submission and that maximalist demands were the only authentic posture. Having helped build that worldview, Mirwaiz now seeks exemption from its consequences by continuing to trade on the symbolism of a banned organisation while avoiding the accountability that comes with it.

The ban on Hurriyats constituents, including the Awami Action Committee, did not emerge in a vacuum. It has followed years of financial probes, terror-funding cases, and evidence of coordination with violent networks. To reduce this to an issue of a social media handle is to trivialise the damage wrought over three decades. Free expression is not an abstraction divorced from history; it exists within a moral ledger. Movements that actively undermined freedoms for others, by closing schools, silencing dissenters, and sanctifying violence cannot credibly claim victimhood when the state finally draws red lines.

None of this negates the need for political engagement in Kashmir. Durable peace requires dialogue, representation, and safeguards for civil liberties. But it also requires honesty. The Valley cannot move forward if its most visible figures continue to recycle a utopian ideology that delivers only grief, while recasting themselves as neutral commentators wronged by circumstance.

What makes this moment particularly revealing is the contrast between this rhetoric of grievance and the material changes Kashmir has experienced in recent years. Since the abrogation of Article 370, the Valley has witnessed a steady, if uneven, return of institutional normalcy that is most visible in education and tourism, the two sectors that separatist politics had systematically devastated. Schools and colleges that once existed at the mercy of shutdown calendars have functioned with far greater continuity. Academic years, long treated as expendable collateral in the politics of protest, have regained structure. For a generation that grew up amid uncertainty, this stability has carried more weight than slogans ever did.

Tourism, too, has become an inadvertent referendum on the rejection of the cyclic unrest that Kashmir witnessed for three decades. Record footfalls, sustained seasons, revived local businesses, and renewed employment across hospitality and transport sectors have signalled something deeper than economic recovery. They reflect a societal preference that is quiet but decisive for predictability over perpetual agitation. The everyday choices of Kashmiris to reopen shops, send children to school, and engage with a broader economy speak louder than separatist manifestos ever did. In this lived reality, the politics of shutdowns and symbolic defiance has lost both its moral authority and its audience.

It was at precisely this juncture that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq could have chosen a different path. With his religious stature and historical visibility, he was uniquely positioned to guide his followers toward reconciliation by acknowledging the failures of the past and reimagining dissent without destruction. That choice did not require abandoning political positions; it required abandoning the idea that confrontation itself was a virtue. It required telling hard truths to his constituency rather than reaffirming comforting myths.

Instead, Mirwaiz returned once more to a familiar script of the utopian confrontational worldview, repackaged as victimhood. By framing himself as coerced rather than accountable, constrained rather than complicit, he avoids engaging with the deeper question Kashmiris are already asking among themselves, what did this ideology actually deliver? In choosing symbolism over self-reflection, he again asks the people to emotionally invest in an idea whose costs they have already borne with blood, while absolving its architects of responsibility.

This, ultimately, is the central tragedy of Hurriyats afterlife. Even as Kashmir tentatively steps away from the politics that consumed it, some of its most prominent figures remain trapped in the language of a past that no longer commands belief. The Valley is slowly changing not because the ideology was subdued, but because people quietly rejected it. And until that reality is acknowledged by those who once claimed to lead the aspirations of the masses, the gap between rhetoric and lived experience will only continue to widen.

Kashmir deserves leaders who acknowledge the past, own their role in its tragedies, and help build a politics that protects the peace as fiercely as it defends opinions. Until that happens, invocations of Hobsons choice sound less like a principled resistance and more like an attempt to escape history, without ever apologising to the people who paid its price.

Raja Muneeb is an independent journalist and columnist. He posts on X @rajamuneeb. The views expressed in this article are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of News18.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 15:27 IST

News opinion Opinion | A Movement That Ate Its Own Valley: Hurriyat's Hypocrisy Of Separatism Politics

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 | Angel Chakmas Death Proves Northeast Still Lives On Borders Of Indian Psyche

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 08:16 IST

The fact that an Angel has to die proving his Bharatiya identity even today points to a systemic failure in education, poor parenting & dire need for more cultural exchange tours

Rapid Read

Angel Chakma was stabbed to death for objecting to racial slurs. (Credits: News18.com)

In about a month, the Indian tricolour will be splashed across millions of display photos on social media. People will spring to their feet and stand ramrod straight through the national anthem. Pakistan will be abused, Bangladesh condemned, Turkey roasted, China steamed.

Recreational or performative patriotism is important. It makes us take the first step of professing to love our motherland.

But do we?

Do we even know the basic physical and psychological contours of this entity called nation that we claim to love?

If we did, why would a 24-year-old from Tripura, Angel Chakma, have to die on the streets of Dehradun for the way he looked or talked? Why would his last, desperate plea to his drunken killers be: I am Indian"?

At the outset, let us admit that it is not easy as an Indian to love and accept Bharat in its entirety. It is not like Germany or Spain or the US, where the overwhelming majority speaks one language and shares similar racial features.

It is trite to talk about Indias mind-boggling diversity simply because it is so real. It is a multi-ethnic showcase on steroids, with all sorts of skin tones, racial features, languages, and accents. If it werent for the cultural glue of Hindu-ness, it would not exist as a nation, forget as a civilisation.

But even that glue does not often manifest itself too visually or audibly. A centuries-old overlay of more than half-a-dozen major religions adds to the complexity.

So, in spite of best intentions, othering often becomes our default, instinctive reaction to Indians who are different from us.

But what is nauseating is the callous refusal by a large section of Indians to even try and fathom and respect this diversity. To embrace fellow Indians instead of mocking or attacking them out of some crass, primal insecurity.

That is what millions of Northeasterners face every day away from their homes in their own country. And an extreme manifestation of that unenlightened tribalism is what killed Angel Chakma, an MCA student. Angel, with his distinct Northeastern features, was at a local eatery on December 9 when a group of drunk men started hurling slurs like chinky", momo", and Chinese" at his brother Michael.

Angel protested. They stabbed him multiple times with knives and hit him with blunt objects. After 17 days in the ICU, Angel died on December 26, 2025. The Northeast, a region coming out of decades of neglect, trembled with anger and outrage.

Looking at people from the Northeast as lesser Indians", stereotyping their Mongoloid looks, sidelining them in popular culture and Bollywood (imagine Priyanka Chopra playing Mary Kom in the legendary Manipuri boxers biopic instead of the role going to a Northeastern woman), and fear of losing jobs to the hill people all go into the humiliating othering. Half-baked knowledge about Northeast food habits further helps create the image of the less civilised".

During the Covid-19 pandemic, this bias exploded and people from the Northeast were harassed as virus carriers" because of their imagined Chinese links. Psychologists call this scapegoating" in crises. An outcome of this is that the other" constantly feels either invisible or hyper-visible, admired for their beauty or talent but looked upon with suspicion during everyday interactions.

It is not all dark, though.

Connectivity, an issue which left a vast chasm in understanding Indians from the Northeast, is being rapidly bridged under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A sizable population of Northeasterners works in the rest of India and more and more people from other states are going to work in the Northeast. Awareness about the discrimination is rising with films like Axone (2019), which showed Delhi landlords evicting Northeastern tenants over food smells.

But the fact that an Angel has to die proving his Bharatiya identity even today points to a systemic failure in education, poor parenting, and the dire need for a lot more study tours and cultural exchange programmes. It also tells us that the nationalism project is just beginning. It has a very long way to go till Bharats fantastic diversity fully integrates into the nations psyche.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 08:16 IST

News opinion Opinion | Angel Chakmas Death Proves Northeast Still Lives On Borders Of Indian Psyche

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 | Between Washington And Beijing, India Is Quietly Rewriting The Space Race

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 19:51 IST

In an era increasingly defined by a USChina contest for orbit, Indias space wave is emerging as the third force  not just competitive, but trusted.

ISRO on Wednesday successfully launched the LVM3-M6 rocket. (X/@isro)

From Sriharikotas launch pads to orbiting skies, Indias space agency ISRO has quietly become the go-to commercial launcher for dozens of countries. In the past decade, Indian rockets have placed nearly 390 foreign satellites into orbit. The United States is by far the biggest client: 232 US-built satellites have hitched rides with India since 2014, but others are close behind.

For example, Britain has sent roughly 83 satellites via ISRO, Singapore about 19, with Canada and South Korea also among the customers (8 and 5 satellites respectively). Space-industry analysts note that ISRO has become a symbol of reliability and innovation, with rockets praised for precision, efficiency and affordability". This reputation for dependable, cost-effective launches helps explain why a dozen nations now entrust key payloads to Indias launchers.

At the heart of ISROs appeal is its workhorse rocket, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Decades of development have yielded an unusually high success rate  about 94 per cent over 63 missions to date  and even occasional world records.

In 2017, for instance, a single PSLV mission put 104 satellites into orbit at once, shattering the previous record and demonstrating ISROs scheduling precision and multi-payload management. As ISRO executives have noted, each launch showcases Indias growing expertise and boosts international confidence.

This technical reliability comes with a financial edge. ISROs launch prices are substantially lower than many competitor rates. One survey finds PSLV missions run on the order of $2131 million apiece, compared with roughly $6267 million for a SpaceX Falcon 9 and $178 million for Europes Ariane 5. Even for very small satellites, India is pushing the cost down.

Its new Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is advertised at around $3.7 million per flight  a tiny fraction of Western ride-share prices. In short, ISRO offers clients a low-cost, high-reliability launch option. No wonder space agencies and companies in emerging markets often choose India when budgets are tight or missions are sensitive.

Countries and companies have leveraged ISROs launchers across a range of applications. In EuropeIndia collaborations, the UKs Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd contracted ISRO to orbit two remote-sensing satellites in 2018: NovaSAR (an S-band synthetic-aperture radar craft) and S1-4 (a high-resolution optical imager) to monitor forests, floods and ships. Likewise, Brazil launched its Amazonia-1 Earth-observation satellite on a PSLV in 2021, gathering critical imagery of Amazon deforestation and agriculture.

Singapore has also joined the client roster: in 2023, PSLV carried the TeLEOS-2 radar satellite and a small experimental payload (LUMILITE-4) for Singapores government, both intended for maritime and environmental data collection.

American commercial entities make heavy use of Indias ride-shares. For example, a single 2017 launch carried 96 cubesats built by US companies  88 from Planet Labs for high-resolution Earth imaging and 8 from Spire Global carrying weather and ship-tracking sensors. ISROs track record gives confidence even for sensitive payloads, from Earth-observation craft to communication satellites.

Recent missions have included US tech-firm communications spacecraft (AST SpaceMobiles BlueBird satellite) and French company data-relay microsats, all trusting PSLV or Indias heavy-lift GSLV rocket to deliver them to precise orbits. In every case, Indias rockets deliver their payloads efficiently, attracting clients from around the globe.

Back home, this international success has coincided with a boom in Indias private space industry. Since 2020, the PM Narendra Modi-led government has opened the sector, launching an independent regulator (IN-SPACe) and a dedicated $1.2-billion venture fund to back innovation. The result: over 200 new space start-ups have emerged, from launch-vehicle builders to satellite manufacturers and data-analytics firms.

These companies are designing everything from small rockets to Earth-observation constellations. Government studies project Indias space economy could quintuple, reaching around $44 billion by the early 2030s as the country captures 810 per cent of a global market that could hit that size. Even global investors are taking notice: for example, Googles parent Alphabet has put $36 million into one Indian satellite start-up to build a hyperspectral-imaging craft.

Crucially, Indias start-ups stand to benefit from ISROs infrastructure even as they go commercial. By law, private launches must use ISRO launch pads, and new small-launcher ventures are in line to use the upcoming Sriharikota New Spaceport as well as the older coastal range. Meanwhile, partnerships abound: several start-ups work alongside ISRO labs (for avionics, propulsion or data downlinks), and some major projects (like the Gaganyaan astronaut flights) channel advanced R&D that will have civilian spin-offs.

In short, Indias home-grown space ecosystem is maturing just as global demand for satellites is exploding. This groundswell highlights the imperative that India is not just a launcher for others, but a growing hub of space innovation.

In pure dollar terms, the satellite-launch business has so far yielded moderate sums for India. Official trade data show that ISROs foreign-launch revenue from 20152024 totalled on the order of $143 million. (By comparison, SpaceX alone earned tens of billions over the same period.)

However, a more detailed breakdown highlights rapid growth: Indias Minister for the Department of Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, recently reported about $172 million in receipts from US satellite contracts and 292 million from Europe in the last decade, with more launches on the manifest. Crucially, these revenues come from launch-service fees, not counting the wide range of data and technologies that follow.

What matters more is momentum. The global space market is on a steep upward trajectory. Goldman Sachs analysts estimate up to 70,000 new satellites will be launched worldwide in the next five years, as low-orbit constellations multiply and nations seek independent capabilities. To capture a share of that market, India leverages its reputation for reliability and low-cost service.

Policy planners note that Indias portion of the global space economy (currently around 2 per cent) could realistically rise into the high single digits or 10 per cent range by the early 2030s. Now competing head-to-head with American and Chinese players, ISRO is no longer merely offering low-cost" launches; it is carving out a durable commercial position where every additional mission translates into millions in revenue, deeper industrial capability, and steady demand for Indias growing pool of aerospace talent.

The larger point, though, is strategic: India has built a space proposition that scales. Decades of hard engineering, disciplined operations and relentless cost control have produced a launch system that customers treat as a safe bet  predictable schedules, precise insertions, and pricing that keeps capital free for what matters most: the satellite itself and the services it enables.

As the world rushes to deploy constellations for communications, climate monitoring, logistics and security, ISROs credibility becomes a form of national leverage  and a platform for Indian start-ups to climb the value chain, from propulsion and satellite manufacturing to the downstream data economy. In an era increasingly defined by a USChina contest for orbit, Indias space wave is emerging as the third force: not just competitive, but trusted.

Rahul Pawa is an international criminal lawyer and director of research at New Delhi-based think tank Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 19:51 IST

News opinion Opinion | Between Washington And Beijing, India Is Quietly Rewriting The Space Race

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...
Depending on our individual needs and requirements, we all single out different features, gadgets, and traits when looking to buy a new car. If you've got a big family and live in a colder state, then cargo space, passenger occupancy, and features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel will probably take priority. However, if you live alone and love carving up the canyon roads each weekend, then a slick two-seater with nimble handling and a powerful engine will probably be more suitable.

Regardless of whether it's a Miata or Suburban that we are after though, one trait we'd all love to ensure when picking up a new car is reliability and durability. Sadly, it's not always guaranteed. Some cars are notoriously unreliable and might struggle to even crack the 100,000-mile barrier, which is pretty disappointing  especially when you consider the average price of a new car has now crept north of $50,000.

Thankfully, though, we can turn to data from iSeeCars to give ourselves a better chance of buying a car that can go the distance. The outlet checked out data on 174 million cars to figure out which brands were most likely to produce cars that can surpass 250,000 miles (excluding heavy-duty models). Overwhelmingly, the top performers were Japanese automakers, which is why we've decided to shine a spotlight on the very best Japanese brands in terms of durability. Interestingly, the top four from the iSeeCars study were all Japanese, and these four were the only brands (out of 32) that cracked 250,000 miles. Without further ado, here are your top performers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Read more: 10 Toyota Models With Terrible Resale Value

Toyota

Rear shot of a 2022 Toyota 200 Series Land Cruiser - Toyota

If you're even remotely interested in cars, which you probably are if you're here, then it will probably come as no surprise that iSeeCars pegs Toyota as  not only the number one Japanese brand  but the overall most likely automaker to produce cars that have a chance of motoring past the 250,000-mile barrier. The brand has a reputation for reliability, and it hasn't come out of nowhere. Perhaps the best example of Toyota's mind-blowing durability is Vic Sheppard's million-mile Tundra. Or, to be more accurate: Tundras, as Vic has taken two of Toyota's full-size pickups past the elusive million-mile mark.

We had a look last year at how easy it is to crack the half-million mile threshold with a Toyota, and we concluded that, so long as you keep up with maintenance and don't drive like American rally driver Ken Block everywhere, a good number of Toyota models should be able to manage the task. So, it certainly doesn't shock us to see iSeeCars putting the brand in first place. In terms of the stats, iSeeCars provides Toyota cars with a 17.8% chance of reaching 250,000 miles. At that percentage, Toyota cars had a 3.7 times higher chance of cracking the quarter-million-mile mark than the industry average.

Lexus

Dynamic front shot of a Lexus LS400 - Lexus

Apologies if you were after some eye-opening revelations from this piece, but second place is just as predictable as first, with Lexus scooping up the award. For those not in the know, Lexus is Toyota's luxury arm, and the brands share powertrains, transmissions, and no doubt engineering practices. iSeeCars singles out Lexus as the most durable luxury brand, too, with the brand outscoring big American names like Cadillac, Tesla, and Lincoln.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Much as we saw with Vic Sheppard's Tundra duo, there are notable examples of Lexus models cracking mileage barriers, with perhaps the most famous being Matt Farah's Lexus LS 400. The 400 was the first generation of the legendary LS luxury sedan, arriving at the tail end of the 1980s as a tempting alternative to the German stalwarts of the industry, namely the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and BMW 7 Series.

Matt Farah picked up his $1,200 '91 LS 400 for just $1,200, and although it looked a little battle-worn (Wouldn't you after 897,000 miles?), its 1UZ engine had never even been opened up. While Matt's LS is a great example of what a Lexus can achieve, it is an anomaly. Still, the data provided by iSeeCars at least back up the fact that Lexus cars are a solid bet for those looking to achieve 250,000 miles. According to the report, Lexus cars have a 12.8% chance of reaching the mentioned mileage, which is exactly four times higher than the average luxury car.

Honda

Overhead shot of a 2026 Honda Accord SE - Honda

Coming up next is Honda, with iSeeCars ranking the brand third overall. According to the outlet, the Japanese automaker has a 10.8% chance of being able to hit 250,000 miles. At 10.8%, you're 2.3 times more likely to hit a quarter-million miles with a Honda than you are with a brand that sits right around the industry average, which is 4.8%.

Not all Honda models are built equal, though, so for your best chance of covering huge mileage without too many hiccups, you'll be wanting to pick one of the most reliable Hondas ever built. Among them are models like the evergreen CR-V, of which there are multiple generations, so you can spend as little or as much as you like. Other options include the Fit, Accord, and Odyssey, although for the more performance-focused driver, it's worth knowing that the sporty S2000 is a proven entity, too.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Honda was one of the first Japanese automakers to establish itself in the U.S. when imports began to soar in popularity and by continuing to produce high-quality, reliable, and durable models at affordable price points, the brand has managed to build a reputation within the states. Interestingly, the Accord was also the first-ever Japanese car to be assembled in the U.S., proving how well Honda has catered to American audiences with solid and dependable options for the masses.

Acura

Rear dynamic shot of a 2025 Acura ADX - Acura

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Much in the same way that Lexus is the swanky version of Toyota, Acura is the posher Honda, so it makes sense that we see the brand following closely behind in terms of durability. If you are wondering why the luxurious arms of both these brands rank lower than the mainstream brands, it's likely because luxury cars are more complex, with additional features and functions. That's all well and good, but as cars get older and hit high mileages, these once desirable amenities and extras can result in higher running and repair costs. As a result, the cars tend to reach a point where fixing them becomes uneconomical, whereas the cheaper and simpler versions might continue motoring on for a little while longer.

Regardless, iSeeCars scored it fourth overall and second overall in terms of luxury brands. Acure has a 7.2% chance of meeting 250,000 miles on the odometer, which is 1.5 times better than the industry average. There are a good number of hugely reliable Acura models to choose from, with particular highlights being the NSX supercar, the MDX Hybrid SUV, and the more compact ILX sedan. Not only do they all promise to deliver in terms of durability, but they will also provide plenty of creature comforts. Typically, Acura models come well-equipped as standard, with great sound systems, comfortable leather-trimmed seats, and smart exterior finishings, like chrome details and large alloy wheels.

Want the latest in tech and auto trends? Subscribe to our free newsletter for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on SlashGear.
Opinion | Beyond School Syllabi: Curiosity And Care In Early Years

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:41 IST

If we want children to grow into strong and thoughtful adults, we must first respect their world and experiences.

The early years of a childs life are very important for their growth. (AI Generated Image)

The early years are not a rehearsal for real school"; they are school. Drawing on classical and contemporary thought from Tagore, Froebel, Gijubhai Badheka, and Piaget to recent neuroscience, this essay argues for a child-centred, movement-rich, curiosity-driven approach to early childhood education in India. It proposes the Panchakosha framework as a culturally rooted way to connect brain science with holistic pedagogy and offers practical principles for classrooms and homes. The goal is not to produce compliant children but to nurture capable, compassionate learners who inquire, can regulate emotion, and act to different situations with sensitivity in a plural society.

If we want children to grow into strong and thoughtful adults, we must first respect their world and experiences. They are not empty cups to be filled with information but active learners who make sense of life through their bodies, emotions, and language. When we nurture their curiosity, allow them to move freely, and give them small choices, it shapes not just their memory but also their brain development and sense of self. On the other hand, keeping children passive through too much screen time, rigid rules, and limited play dulls their wonder and weakens their motivation. A meaningful early childhood curriculum, therefore, should bring together what science tells us about brain growth, what educational traditions teach us about play and freedom, and what the Indian idea of Panchakosha shows us about growth across body, energy, emotions, thought, and joy.

The early years of a childs life are very important for their growth. The way we talk to them, the activities we encourage, and the respect we show for their questions are all part of how they learn and develop.

Neuroscience does not give teachers a rulebook, but it does give us important insights. In early childhood, the brain is incredibly flexible. Neural connections grow quickly with meaningful stimulation and fade when unused. Simple back-and-forth interactions help children develop language, self-control, and social skills. Sharing stories, songs, and moments of attention is real brain food. On the other hand, monotony, neglect, and too much unsupervised screen time reduce curiosity and weaken attention. The lesson here is not that technology is always harmful, but that children need people more than they need programs.

Movement is also part of learning. A classroom that forces children to sit still misunderstands how their minds grow. When children hop while counting, clap rhythms to learn words, or act out a story with their bodies, they connect movement, language, and memory. The body is not just a carrier for the brainit is the brains first school. Physical play helps transform abstract ideas into real, felt experiences. Denying children movement limits both their energy and their intelligence.

Curiosity is the fuel of learning, yet it is often stifled. Sometimes teachers rush to complete the syllabus, sometimes they are uncomfortable with too many questions. A healthy classroom treats questions with playfulness and patience, but in both cases sends the same message: your why" is welcome. When childrens questions are valued, they learn that inquiry is not an attack but a contribution to shared understanding. Piaget described the child as a little scientist," learning by doing and testing ideas. Whether or not we agree with all his theories, the point remains that children think best through action, and they grow when adults create environments where exploration is possible. Tagore too imagined schools as places of joy, freedom, and beauty, alive to nature and the arts, reminding us that curiosity flourishes not only in accuracy but also in wonder.

Philosophers and educators have long offered guiding principles that remain relevant today. Tagore saw education as nurturing the whole person, not just teaching correctness. He wanted harmony with the world through music, nature, and craft, a slower rhythm than the treadmill of modern schooling. Froebel, who founded the kindergarten, created learning materials for open play and activities to foster collaboration. In India, his ideas can be brought alive with local materials like shells, seeds, clay, rangoli, rhythm, and folk games.

Gijubhai Badheka, often called the Montessori of India, built early education around freedom, storytelling, and tenderness, arguing against a rigid system obsessed with compliance. His vision fits well with Gandhis idea of learning by doing, something many schools speak of but rarely practice. Piaget reminded us that children build new knowledge on top of what they already know, so teachers should design tasks that are just hard enough to stretch them but not so hard that they fail. All of these thinkers converge on one ethic: being child-centred does not mean spoiling children, but paying attention to their perspective, pace, and prior knowledge.

Indian philosophy also offers a useful bridge through the Panchakosha, which describes five layers of human existence. The first is the physical body, shaped by food, sleep, senses, and play. The second is vital energy, expressed through breath, rhythm, and movement. The third is the emotional-mental layer, built through relationships, stories, and feelings. The fourth is the intellect, where curiosity, reasoning, and problem-solving grow. The fifth is bliss, the joy that comes when learning feels meaningful and connected to values. Panchakosha is not just theory; it can guide practical teaching. For example, if a teacher designs a unit on water, children can explore it through play with pouring and measuring, rhythm games about rain, stories about rivers, questions about floating and sinking, and a shared ritual of gratitude for water. This approach avoids reducing learning to worksheets and instead engages body, breath, feeling, thought, and meaning together.

Another important part of early education is giving children autonomy. Independence is not something to wait for until they are older. When a four-year-old chooses a book corner, pours water, or tidies up on their own, they are not just practicing skills but also receiving trust: the message that we believe you can." Constant micromanagement communicates mistrust and undermines confidence. What children need is guided autonomy which means choices within a structure so that they learn initiative alongside responsibility.

Gender sensitivity must also start early. Preschool is already social, and the assumption that care is only womens work is limiting. Encouraging more men into early childhood education widens childrens sense of who can comfort, teach, and guide. Classroom materials also matter, for example charts showing only girls cooking and boys driving, or stories that assign bravery to boys and softness to girls, silently shape childrens futures. Gender-neutral and expansive materials instead allow children to imagine freely without fear of crossing invisible lines.

Teachers also need strong communication with parents. Difficult conversations often become confrontational when children are labelled as weak or problematic. A more constructive approach is to frame concerns as obstacles to growth and to invite parents as partners in finding solutions. Early intervention is not blame, but hope. Parents too can strengthen this partnership by asking teachers how to support learning at home. When teachers, children, and parents all feel respected, the triangle of support becomes strong.

Assessment is another area that needs rethinking. Stars and grades are easy to hand out, but do not say much. A vocabulary like Beginner, Progressing, Proficient, and Advanced signals growth instead of ranking children against one another. Short narrative comments that describe behaviours and give next steps provide richer information than symbols. This shift helps build a culture where mistakes are seen as part of learning rather than as failures.

Language is not just a tool of communication but a way of seeing the world. Research shows that language shapes attention and thought. This insight can be used in classrooms through bilingual routines that honour home languages, rich conversations that expand childrens vocabulary, and metaphors that broaden imagination. Indias multilingual reality is a strength, not a barrier. When teachers move fluidly between English and local languages, they make learning more inclusive, not by lowering standards but by opening more doors.

These ideas must show up in everyday practice. A school day might begin with a circle of movement, rhythm, and breathing. Lessons can be designed as dialogues, with spaces for children to share and wonder aloud. A shelf can be kept for questions, ensuring curiosity is valued and returned to. Open-ended materials like blocks, clay, seeds, and fabric can be rotated to keep creativity alive. Children can be offered structured choices, like starting at the puzzle table, before gathering as a group. Assessment can be done through quick notes, photos, or childrens own words, always reported in growth language. Families can be invited as co-educators with simple tasks like interviewing grandparents about childhood games or cooking together while counting spoons. Teachers can regularly check classroom books and charts for gender bias and replace narrow stereotypes with wider possibilities. If digital tools are used, they should focus on creation, like recording stories, rather than passive consumption. Each day can end with a short ritual of gratitude, song, or reflection, tying learning together across all Panchakosha layers.

For all this to succeed, systemic support matters. Policy documents like Indias NEP 2020 already highlight the importance of early childhood care and education, but translating policy into practice requires three shifts. Teachers need time for planning and reflection, not just teaching. Schools must fund ongoing professional development like workshops and peer observation. Communitiesthrough libraries, museums, parent groups, and anganwadismust be partners, extending learning beyond the classroom and reducing pressure on schools to cover everything alone.

Tagore once wrote that the highest education brings life into harmony with all existence. Early childhood education is where this harmony can beginin the rhythm of a poem, the dignity of a child pouring their own water, the joy of laughter after a bold question, or the quiet focus of building something from almost nothing. The first school is the body, the first textbook is the world, and the first test is how kindly we respond to a childs question. If we truly teach as if the future is in small hands, as it is, we will create classrooms that are safer, braver, and more joyful, and we will raise not only children who can answer but also citizens who know how to ask.

(This article was first published in The Armchair Journal)

Vaishali Sharma is a Masters student in History at the University of Delhi, passionate about inclusive and holistic education. Her research interests include education, public policy, and international relations, with published works on curriculum. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 16:41 IST

News opinion Opinion | Beyond School Syllabi: Curiosity And Care In Early Years

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...
Urban Quest | Bengaluru: The $1 Trillion Dream And The Crises Blocking The Path

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 20:01 IST

Bengaluru anchors Indias economic ambitions, but unchecked urban decay, civic drift and worsening environmental pressures threaten to undercut its trillion-dollar trajectory.

Bengaluru is a city of youth, with the bulk of its population in the working-age group. (Image: Wikipedia)

The Urban Quest series looks at Indian cities, one at a time, to assess whether they are future-ready to play their assigned role in 2047, when Bharat aspires to be a developed country  and, if not, what urgent measures are needed to bring them to that level. In this two-part edition, Urban Quest offers a comprehensive deep dive into the Silicon Valley of India and the countrys start-up capital as it exists today, and the promise it holds for the future.

In a nutshell, this edition examines where Bengaluru stands today and where  and how  it must reach quickly to meet the aspirations of the city, the state, and the country by 2047, when Bharat aims to become a viksit nation.

Looking Back

Bengalurus history spans millennia, with settlements existing for over 2,000 years. The modern city, however, was founded in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I as a mud fort under the Vijayanagara Empire, strategically developing it as a trading hub with planned streets. It then passed through the hands of the Deccan Sultanates, the Marathas (Shahaji Bhosle ruled from here), the Mughals, and the Mysore Kingdom (Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan), eventually becoming a British stronghold and, later, post-Independence, Bharats renowned Silicon Valley" due to its IT boom  and now the start-up capital of the country.

The Reach

In 1951, Bangalore city (now Bengaluru) comprised the core Pete area and the cantonment, covering roughly 69 square kilometres under early municipal limits.

By 2025, the BMR spans about 8,005 square kilometres across Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, and Ramanagara districts, managed by the Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) since 1986.

In the decades ahead, with more areas of the BMR likely to be assimilated into the Bengaluru city limits, the footprint of the city is expected to expand further.

The Count

As per the first census after Independence (the 1951 Census), Bengaluru was a small, compact city with a population of less than one million  778,977 to be precise. In the 2001 Census, the city crossed the five-million mark (5,101,000), and in the 2011 Census, more than eight million (8,443,675). As per UN World Urbanisation Prospects, Bengalurus 2025 population is estimated at 14.40 million.

The Third Most Populous

According to the Revised Master Plan 2031 published by the Bangalore Development Authority, Bengaluru will have 20.3 million residents by 2031, next only to Delhi and Mumbai.

These estimates mean the citys population will grow by 124.4 per cent from the 2011 Census figure of 90.45 lakh in just two decades (20112031).

Though the BDA opted for a middle path in its projections  eschewing both unbridled expansion and containment scenarios  Bengalurus population is expected to grow at a faster rate than it did between 2001 and 2011.

If the present trend continues, owing to organic growth, migration from rural areas and other states, and the reclassification of adjoining rural areas as urban, the 2050 population of Bengaluru city and the wider urban agglomeration is likely to cross 20 million.

Demography

Owing to its status as the IT and start-up capital of the country, Bengaluru is a city of youth, with the bulk of its population in the working-age group. But this composition is changing fast, as part of the NorthSouth demographic divide  the southern states are greying faster. Unsurprisingly, by the 2030s the demography of Bengaluru will be altered, with more senior citizens and fewer young people.

The Powerhouse

In 202425, Karnatakas GSDP was expected to be Rs 28 lakh crores (approximately $336 billion). The state aspires to enhance its GSDP to $1 trillion by 2032, growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 1518 per cent.

This is a stretched target, but not impossible to achieve for Bharats third most prosperous state. And if this ambition is to be realised, Bengaluru must play a disproportionate role.

Why do I say so?

Bengalurus economy is massive, with its urban districts Gross District Domestic Product (GDDP) nearing Rs 10 lakh crores (approximately $120 billion USD) in recent years, representing around 40 per cent of Karnatakas GSDP.

Also, Bengalurus per capita income  Rs 7.39 lakh in 202324 (about $8,700 USD in nominal terms and around $25,461 in PPP terms)  is four times the average per capita income of Bharat. Notably, among the top ten cities ranked by per capita income, Bengaluru retains the top slot.

Bengalurus economy is dominated by the IT sector, which forms the largest share of its GDP, followed by manufacturing, other services, and biotech as a growing component. Exact breakdowns vary by source and year, but IT/ITeS typically accounts for 5060 per cent of the citys output, services such as finance, real estate, and hospitality account for around 3035 per cent, manufacturing contributes 1015 per cent, and biotech and life sciences represent 510 per cent, bolstered by clusters like Electronic City and Genome Valley.

Value Added

Bengaluru leads Indian cities in generating fresh employment, particularly in high-skill tech, AI, and GCC sectors, contributing 3540 per cent of the new white-collar jobs created nationwide each year. Its employment generation outpaces other metropolises by a wide margin, with Delhi-NCR and Mumbai contributing only 2025 per cent and 1520 per cent, respectively.

Bengalurus tech workforce exceeds 3.5 million and has been witnessing annual growth of around 12 per cent (20182023), adding roughly 1 million since 2020 amid the GCC boom (36 per cent national share).

Metropolis Number 1

The current estimated GDP of Bengaluru (at an estimated $120 billion in 2025) would transform into a $1 trillion economy under 1015 per cent annual compounded growth rates (CAGR) between 2046 and 2052.

If the city manages to grow at a CAGR of 10 per cent, its economy will double every 7.3 years, achieving the $1 trillion mark by 2052 (27 years from 2025). If it grows at a CAGR of 12 per cent, the economy will double every 6.1 years and will hit the $1 trillion mark in 2049.

But if powered by its high-tech industries, fast-growing services sector, the mushrooming growth of Global Capability Centres (GCCs), and a robust start-up ecosystem, it is eminently possible for Bengalurus economy to realistically grow at a 15 per cent CAGR. And if the city can hit this upper circuit, the economy of Bengaluru will become a $1 trillion economy by 2046 (21 years from now), one year before Bharat celebrates 100 years of Independence.

Quite clearly, Bengaluru  with its high-tech IT, GCC, biotech, and start-up ecosystem  is well placed to play a disproportionate role in making Bharat viksit by 2047. That being the case, it is time to examine the future readiness of the city to play its anointed role.

Here it is.

Disrupted Governance

Had Bengaluru been a country with a $1 trillion economy in 2047, it would be one of the top 50 ranked countries in the world  today, 19 countries have a $1 trillion economy or are approaching that mark. That makes the disrupted governance of Bengaluru the topmost macro problem facing the city.

Here is the story in brief.

In gross violation of the Constitution of India (the 74th Amendment) and extant judgments of the Supreme Court of India, Bengaluru has been without an elected Municipal Corporation for more than five years. The last election for the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) was held on 22 August 2015. The term of the elected Municipal Corporation ended in September 2020, after which no election has been held.

For more than five years, the BBMP has been managed arbitrarily by a state governmentappointed Municipal Commissioner, who is at the beck and call of  and at the mercy of  the state government.

More ironically, the Karnataka government, as part of the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill 2024 (passed in 2025), decided to split the BBMP into five corporations. Yet elections to the civic body remain in suspended animation, while the critical problems facing the city continue to exacerbate rapidly.

That brings me to the key problems facing the city, which must be addressed as Bengaluru marches towards a US$1 trillion economy. Here they are:

One, Disrupted Habitat  Like all other metropolises, Bengaluru too faces its own quota of slummification, which has worsened in recent years and is likely to worsen substantially further.

Bengaluru has approximately 435 notified slums and over 1,5002,000 unnotified ones, based on recent surveys and government reports. The total slum population is around 1.31.5 million, representing 1015 per cent of the citys residents, up from 712,801 (8.4 per cent) in the 2011 Census. Though some measures like PMAY housing and certain in-situ upgrades have commenced, these are too little, too late.

The recent measures have rehabilitated thousands of slum dwellers, but their number is increasing fast, with new slums emerging due to job migration.

Living conditions in all slums are pathetic, but in the unnotified slums they are horrible, to say the least. Fortunately, the percentage of population living in slum-like habitats in Bengaluru  at 15 per cent  is far lower than the 40 per cent in Mumbai. The time now is for the Silicon Valley of Bharat to innovatively make the city the first slum-free city of the country in the next ten years, using global best-practice rehabilitation programmes.

Two, Killer Air Pollution  As per the 2024 World Bank Report, the entire 1.44 billion Bhartiyas inhale substantially higher levels of PM2.5  the most dangerous pollutant  throughout the year, than what is recommended as the safe level by the WHO.

Swiss IQAir data indicates Bengalurus annual average AQI in 2024 was approximately 8595, slightly better than Delhi. Bengalurus current air quality is moderate to poor, with recent AQI readings around 140200+.

But herein lies the problem: the air-pollution data of Bengaluru, like other Indian cities, is not reliable. Why so? Even the lax norms of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) mandate one air-quality monitoring station per 1 lakh population in metro cities, suggesting Bengaluru (14 million+ metro) requires 140 stations for adequate coverage.

Contrarily, Bengaluru has only 3239 operational Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) under the KSPCB and CPCB as of late 2025. That being the case, the city remains happy in its bliss of ignorance.

Three, The Conundrum  Critical scarcity of water supply has emerged as the biggest conundrum and the most humongous problem facing the city. Ironically, this is despite the fact that Bengaluru is not a rainfall-deficient city; its precipitation (~1,170 mm, though uneven) exceeds Indias national average and supports moderate recharge potential.

The city typically sees 800950 mm in a normal year across 5060 rainy days, with peaks in SeptemberOctober (150200 mm monthly) and minimal rainfall in JanuaryFebruary (<10 mm). Recent years show variability: 2022 had excess rainfall (1,455 mm), while 202425 faced deficits in the pre-monsoon phases.

That reminds one of the famous line from Samuel Taylor Coleridges poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner: Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink." So how serious is Bengalurus water crisis, and what are its root causes?

Bengaluru, once the city of lakes, has killed its lakes. Today, the city heavily depends on Cauvery River water (1,4501,460 MLD, ~5055 per cent of supply) and groundwater (~1,392 MLD, ~45 per cent), creating serious vulnerabilities amid fast-growing demand, with current demand exceeding 2,600+ MLD.

The Cauvery supplies half the citys needs via multi-stage pipelines (Stages IV), pumped 90100 km at high energy costs (Rs 3 crore daily), covering core areas but lagging in 110 peripheral villages despite Phase V expansions.

Aquifer extraction exceeds recharge 100-fold (800 MLD drawn vs 148 MLD natural replenishment), with 1.5 million+ borewells (7,000+ dried in the 2025 crisis); the urban stage reached 100 per cent depletion by 2024.

The most serious water crisis erupted in Bengaluru in early 2025, with both parts of the core city and over 80 peripheral wards (e.g., KR Puram, Mahadevapura) projected to hit critical groundwater depletion by February, relying on 800 million litres daily from borewells amid incomplete Cauvery pipelines.

The problem remains alarming, with the city wasting 50 per cent of supplied water (second highest among Indian metros), borewells drying up, tanker-mafia proliferation, and projections of acute shortages by 2039 without reforms. Peripheral areas suffer the most due to 2025 m groundwater drops.

What are the root causes? Rapid urbanisation has destroyed lakes (90 per cent polluted, many dry), unchecked borewell drilling (670k+ illegal), 50 per cent transmission losses, monsoon deficits, climate variability, and data-centre/tech demands straining resources.

As the city depends on groundwater for 50 per cent of its water needs, the fast groundwater depletion and suboptimal recharge have become the most critical problems. Over the past 510 years, average depths have increased from 300500 feet to 8001,200 feet citywide, worst in the east/southeast outskirts, where extraction hits 800 MLD daily.

Bengalurus eastern and southeastern zones, particularly the 110 peripheral villages added to the BBMP in 2007, show the highest dependence on borewells due to delayed or absent Cauvery pipelines. These areas lack a consistent piped supply, forcing reliance on private tankers and over 1.5 million borewells extracting 800 MLD daily:

Mahadevapura Zone: Whitefield, KR Puram  worst-hit, with borewells 1,2001,800 feet deep.

Bommanahalli Zone: Bellandur, Singasandra, Devarabisanahalli  high illegal extraction.

Rajarajeshwarinagar and Dasarahalli: Western fringes  45 per cent household dependence.

Byatarayanpura and East Zone: Ramamurthy Nagar, JP Nagar  7,000+ dried public borewells.

Bengaluru is starkly approaching a Day Zero" scenario with regard to the severe water crisis, and this does not bode well for a city aspiring to become a $1 trillion economy by 2047.

And the acute water crisis is only the tip of the iceberg. For Bengaluru to thrive as Bharats city that fosters innovation and fast-track growth, it must urgently attend to many other critical problems facing the city. These are the subject matter of Part II of this Urban Quest edition.

to be continued.

The author is a multidisciplinary thought leader with Action Bias, India-based international impact consultant, and keen watcher of changing national and international scenarios. He works as president, advisory services of consulting company BARSYL. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 20:01 IST

News opinion Urban Quest | Bengaluru: The $1 Trillion Dream And The Crises Blocking The Path

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: December 29, 2025, 14:47 IST

1 / 8 For years, Indian ARMYs have waited for the day when BTS, the worlds biggest Kpop group, would perform live in India. That dream may be closer than ever. (Image: Instagram)

2 / 8 In late December 2025, BTS member Kim Taehyung, popularly known as V, left fans stunned when he greeted them during a Weverse live with the words: Namaste, Indian ARMYs. See you next year. The casual remark has sent shockwaves across social media, fueling speculation that India could be included in BTSs muchanticipated 2026 world tour. (Image: Instagram)

ADVERTISEMENT

3 / 8 The interaction took place on December 27, 2025, when V was chatting with fans online. His warm greeting to Indian ARMYs and the promise of see you next year immediately set off a frenzy. Fans flooded Twitter and Instagram with excitement, interpreting the line as a direct hint at a possible India concert. One fan tweeted, Omgg. Did we hear right?? #V said Indian ARMY see you next year My desi ARMYs How are we doing??. (Image: Instagram)

4 / 8 While BTS has previously acknowledged their massive fanbase in India, this is the first time a member has hinted so directly at a potential visit. (Image: Instagram)

ADVERTISEMENT

5 / 8 The group is gearing up for a major comeback after a nearly fouryear hiatus. BTS has confirmed that they are working on a new album, expected to release in March 2026, followed by a global tour. Industry insiders suggest that the tour will cover multiple continents, and given the size of BTSs Indian fanbase, India is now seen as a strong contender for inclusion. (Image: Instagram)

6 / 8 India has consistently ranked among the top countries streaming BTSs music on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Concert promoters have long recognized the demand, but logistical challenges and scheduling conflicts have kept the group from performing here until now. (Image: Instagram)

ADVERTISEMENT

7 / 8 India is home to one of the largest ARMY communities outside South Korea. BTSs songs regularly trend on Indian charts, and their fandom has organized countless streaming parties, charity drives, and fan events across cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. (Image: Instagram)
Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 07:00 IST

1 / 8 When Life Gives You Tangerines: Netflixs When Life Gives You Tangerines is a 16-episode slice-of-life romance spanning 70 years, following the spirited Oh Ae-sun (IU/Moon) and her devoted husband Yang Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum/Park Hae-joon). Written by Lim Sang-choon, it celebrates love and womanhood while critiquing societal norms. Praised for its performances, music, and direction, it won four awards and eight nominations at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards. (Image: IMDb)

2 / 8 Squid Game, Season 3: Squid Game Season 3, the final chapter of the Korean survival thriller, heightens tension while deepening its social critique. It became one of Netflixs most-watched series, racking up 368.4 million watch hours and 60.1 million views in just three days. (Image: IMDb)

ADVERTISEMENT

3 / 8 Bon Appetit, Your Majesty: With the tagline One Chef. One Tyrant. One Royal Mess, Bon Appetit, Your Majesty follows chef Yeon Ji-young (Yoona), who is transported from a French culinary contest to King Yi Heons (Lee) palace, where romance unexpectedly blooms. Praised for its playful blend of food, time travel, and romance, the series became a fan favourite. (Image: IMDb)

4 / 8 As You Stood By: Netflixs thriller As You Stood By follows Hui-su (Lee You-mi), a childrens author whose life spirals after marrying the abusive Noh Jin-pyo (Jang). Pushed to the edge, she and childhood friend Eun-su (Jeon) plot his murder, aided by Jin So-baek (Lee Moo-saeng). Adapted from Hideo Okudas novel, the series explores bystander cruelty and the consequences of silence in enabling abuse. (Image: IMDb)

ADVERTISEMENT

5 / 8 Dynamite Kiss: A classic romantic comedy following Gong Ji-hyeok (Jang), whose life is upended after a brief encounter with Go Da-rim (Ahn) in Jeju. When she joins his company, pretending to be married with a child, Ji-hyeok distances himself, unaware of her lie. With humour, intimacy, and mature characters, the series revives the charm of workplace romances for K-drama fans. (Image: Netflix)

6 / 8 Weak Hero Class 2: Based on the hit webtoon Weak Hero by Seopass and Kim Jin-seok, the series follows top student Yeon Si-eun and his friends as they confront bullying. Season 1 highlighted school violence, mental health, and parental neglect, while season 2 explored gang conflicts and side hustles. Weak Hero Class 2 was praised for its sharp writing, stylish action, and strong lead chemistry, with a notable cameo by Choi Hyun-wook. (Image: Netflix)

ADVERTISEMENT

7 / 8 The Trauma Code: Heroes On Call: It blends hospital drama with action and deeply emotional storytelling. The series follows Kang-hyuks mission to revive a defunct and neglected severe trauma care unit at a hospital in Seoul, confronting systemic injustice along the way. Assisting him in this goal is Yang Jae-won (Choo), a colorectal surgeon hand-picked by Kang-hyuk as his first disciple. (Image: Netflix)
January 30, 2026, 10:00 AM IST | Episode 134

In todays News18 Daily Digest: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin throws his weight behind the Centres new UGC regulations amid growing campus protests, while TVK chief Vijay sharpens his political offensive against the DMK, flagging migrant worker safety, crimes against women and drug abuse. Political tensions escalate in Karnataka over the controversial G Ram G Bill, with the BJP accusing the Congress government of misusing public funds and illegal phone tapping  allegations firmly denied by the state. In Maharashtra, uncertainty looms over the future leadership of Ajit Pawars faction following his death, as competing proposals emerge within the party. Outrage erupts over the appointment of a rape-accused coach by the Equestrian Federation of India, prompting a show-cause notice from the sports ministry. Congress steps up its attack on the governments foreign policy narrative, targeting External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar over the India-EU trade deal. Tune in for sharp analysis and updates from India and abroad...
36 Years After Ending Student Union Elections, Karnataka To Lift Ban & Reopen Campus Playbook

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:25 IST

For the Congress, the move is not just about student representation but about rebuilding a political pipeline that has remained shut for over three decades

Rapid Read

DK Shivakumar, the deputy chief minister and state KPCC president, has constituted a nine-member party committee to study the modalities of restoring the polls. (PTI)

It was in 1989 that a Congress government, rattled by campus violence and rising political influence in colleges, banned student union elections in Karnataka. Thirty-six years later, the same party is now preparing to reopen the doorthis time with an eye firmly on tapping young political talent for its own future.

The trigger for lifting the ban has come right from the top.

After Leader of Opposition and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged the Karnataka Congress to revive student union elections and tap young political talent, DK Shivakumar, the deputy chief minister and state KPCC president, has constituted a nine-member party committee to study the modalities of restoring the pollsa move that could revive organised campus politics across the state.

In a letter dated December 27, Shivakumar announced the formation of a committee and directed it to submit recommendations. Medical education minister Sharan Prakash Patil has been named its convenor and the committee has been given 15 days to submit its report.

The panel includes higher education minister Dr MC Sudhakar, MLCs Saleem Ahmed, Basanagouda Badarli and Puttanna, MLAs Rizwan Arshad and B Shivanna, Karnataka Youth Congress president HS Manjunath and state NSUI president Keerthi Ganesh among others.

For the Congress, this is not just about student representation. It is about rebuilding a political pipeline that has remained shut for over three decades.

Student union elections in Karnataka were banned in 1989 under then chief minister Veerendra Patil. The decision came after a series of violent incidents and clashes on college campuses, with the government growing wary of the increasing role of political parties in student life.

At the time, campuses were turning volatile, with student groups aligned to political outfits often at the centre of confrontations, disrupting academic activity. The ban was intended to curb violence and restore order in educational institutions.

What was meant as a corrective step, however, ended up suspending organised student politics in the state for over three decadesa legacy the Congress is now being forced to revisit.

There is a need to create second and third-tier leadership and use the experience of seasoned leaders to hone new talent, which will also help lead the party," said a senior Congress leader who is part of the revival process.

Shivakumar announced the decision at the Congress foundation day programme at Bharat Jodo Bhavan. We have to develop new leaders at the college level. So, I have formed a nine-member committee headed bySharanprakash Patil," he said.

Shivakumar, along with senior leaders BK Hariprasad, Ramalinga Reddy and HM Revanna, emerged from student politicsa generation that rose through campus mobilisation before moving into mainstream power.

Shivakumar has repeatedly mentioned that student politics shaped his life and growth, and he sees it as an essential medium of democratic development as well. He has often highlighted that campus elections promote representation and discipline while nurturing future leadership, frequently recalling his own days as a student leader and crediting campus politics for shaping his political journey.

The deputy CM had first flagged the proposal in November at a Constitution Day event, saying that student elections were essential to rebuilding political leadership on campuses that have remained depoliticised since the ban.

The committee has been tasked with examining whether student elections should be held under party banners, along ideological lines, or in a formally non-political format. It will study the stages at which elections can be conducted, their advantages and risks, and the likely consequences of reopening campuses to organised politics after 36 years.

The panel will also look into eligibility criteria, election systems, costs, transparency, grievance redressal, security arrangements, representation and inclusivityincluding quotas for women, marginalised communities and students with disabilitiesand the tenure of student unions without disrupting academic calendars.

The committees report is crucial, as it will decide the mechanics, and lifting the ban could help the Congress immensely, say KPCC insiders.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:25 IST

News politics 36 Years After Ending Student Union Elections, Karnataka To Lift Ban & Reopen Campus Playbook

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...
'Your Leaders Call Them Chinese': BJP Vs Rahul Gandhi Over Tripura Student's Death In Racial Attack

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 15:10 IST

The BJP launched a sharp attack on Rahul Gandhi after the Congress leader blamed the "hate-spewing leaders" of the BJP for the racial attack on a Tripura student in Dehradun.

Rapid Read

Rahul Gandhi described Anjel Chakma's death as a "horrific hate crime". (File)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a fresh attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing the party high command of arrogance and casual racism amid a row over the death of a Tripura student in a racially-charged attack in Dehradun.

The 24-year-old Anjel Chakma, a final-year MBA student from Tripura, died after being stabbed during a racist attack in Dehradun. Anjel and his younger brother Michael were stopped by a group of men on December 9, who allegedly hurled racial slurs at them, leading to a confrontation at a local market.

Several politicians condemned the racial attack and called on Uttarakhand authorities to take strict action against the accused. Rahul Gandhi denounced the incident as a horrific hate crime" that was normalised by the hate-spewing leaders of the ruling BJP".

Hate doesnt appear overnight. For years now it is being fed daily  especially to our youth  through toxic content and irresponsible narratives. And its being normalised by the hate-spewing leadership of the ruling BJP," the Congress leader said on X.

What happened to Anjel Chakma and his brother Michael in Dehradun is a horrific hate crime.Hate doesnt appear overnight. For years now it is being fed daily  especially to our youth  through toxic content and irresponsible narratives. And its being normalised by the pic.twitter.com/eDN7XiIGZ2  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 29, 2025

India is built on respect and unity, not fear and abuse. We are a country of love and diversity. We must not become a dead society that looks away while fellow Indians are targeted. We must reflect and confront what we are allowing our country to become. My thoughts are with the Chakma family and the people of Tripura and North East. We are proud to call you our fellow Indian brothers and sisters," he added.

BJPs Counter At Rahul Gandhi

In a sharp response to Rahul Gandhis remarks, BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari highlighted that Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had personally spoken to Tarun Prasad Chakma, the father of the deceased student, and ensured swift action with the arrests of five suspects.

Now contrast this with your ecosystem. Your political mentor Sam Pitroda mocked people from the North-East by calling them Chinese". No remorse. No correction. No action. Just arrogance and casual racism from the Congress high commands inner circle," he stated.

Rahul Gandhi ji,Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami personally spoke to his father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, expressed grief, and ensured swift action. Five accused have already been arrested. Now contrast this with your ecosystem. Your political mentor Sam Pitroda mocked people https://t.co/1UJSXhQ9yV pic.twitter.com/VjMaX4wScW  Pradeep Bhandari( ) (@pradip103) December 29, 2025

These remarks were in reference to shocking remarks made by Pitroda, a close aide of Rahul Gandhi, last year when he said people in Indias East look like Chinese and those in the South like Africans. The remarks drew widespread condemnation, including from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who said he would not tolerate insults directed at his fellow Indians.

We could hold together a country as diverse as India  where people on the East look like Chinese, people on the West look like Arabs, people on the North look like maybe Whites and people in South India look like Africans. It doesnt matter. We are all brothers and sisters," Pitroda said in May 2024.

Continuing his attack on Rahul Gandhi, Bhandari said, Nation is also aware how your Grandmother Late PM Indira Gandhi bombed Mizoram! Stop using an unfortunate incident for your Divisive Politics!"

Anjel Chakma was attacked on December 9 after he reportedly protested against racial slurs hurled at his brother Michael at a shop in Dehradun. He suffered severe blows to his head, neck, and back and was critically injured.

Uttarakhand Police have so far arrested five individuals in connection with the attack, including three adults, Suraj Khwas (22) from Manipur, Avinash Negi (25), and Sumit (25), along with two juveniles. Another accused is reportedly absconding in Nepal.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 15:10 IST

News politics 'Your Leaders Call Them Chinese': BJP Vs Rahul Gandhi Over Tripura Student's Death In Racial Attack

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...
He Doesn't Understand Public Sentiments: Amit Shah Swipes At Rahul Gandhi Over Poll Defeats

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 28, 2025, 17:22 IST

Amit Shah accused Rahul Gandhi of focusing on issues such as FIRs instead of addressing people's real concerns.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah (Credits: ANI)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday took a sharp jibe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying that the grand old partys repeated electoral losses were the result of its failure to understand public sentiment and the politics of development.

While addressing an event in Ahmedabad, the Union Minister referred to Rahul Gandhis recent remarks in Parliament questioning why the Congress continues to lose elections. Shah said that the outcome of public programmes and election results clearly explained the partys declining electoral fortunes.

Shah said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had earned repeated mandates through what he described as trust-based, development-oriented and sensitive governance. In contrast, he claimed the Congress remained disconnected from issues that enjoy wide public support, news agency ANI reported.

Citing his own electoral experience, Shah said he had been repeatedly elected from areas such as Vanzar without facing major agitations, obstructions or public protests, which he said reflected peoples trust in the BJPs governance model.

Listing major policy decisions, Shah said the Congress had opposed several moves that enjoyed popular support, including the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, air strikes against Pakistan, action against alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators, the abrogation of Article 370 and temple construction in Kashi.

When you oppose everything that the people support, where will the votes come from?" Shah asked.

Shah accused Rahul Gandhi of focusing on issues such as FIRs instead of addressing peoples real concerns. Instead of understanding governance and public issues, Rahul Gandhi is busy understanding FIRs, which is not even his responsibility," he said.

Shah said that even Rahul Gandhis own party leaders fail to make him understand ground realities, adding that the BJPs development-oriented politics and sensitive governance model continues to resonate strongly with the public.

Taking a political swipe, Shah asserted that the Congress would continue to lose elections in states such as West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. He also expressed confidence that the BJP would return to power again in 2029 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

(With inputs from ANI)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 28, 2025, 17:20 IST

News politics He Doesn't Understand Public Sentiments: Amit Shah Swipes At Rahul Gandhi Over Poll Defeats

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...
OnePlus Turbo 6 With 9000mAh Battery Unveiled Ahead Of 2026 Launch: What You Can Expect

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 12:58 IST

OnePlus Turbo is the latest from the brand and will be launching in China early next month to mark the start of 2026 for the segment.

The Turbo 6 model will feature a massive 9,000mAh battery

OnePlus has been teasing a new Turbo phone over the last few weeks and the brand has finally unveiled the product, its design and shared the specs of the new device. OnePlus had just hosted a global event to launch the OnePlus 15R and before that we saw the flagship OnePlus 15 announced. It seems the brand is already planning for a busy 2026 and starting the year with an absolute bang.

The company has hosted an event in China this week, where we have seen the new OnePlus Turbo 6 and Turbo 6V models confirmed along with most of their hardware features.

OnePlus Turbo 6 Series Launch In China

The OnePlus Turbo 6 series is launching in China on January 8, 2026 and both the Turbo 6 and Turbo 6V will be part of the event. These two phones could gradually make its way to other regions later next year.

OnePlus Turbo 6 And Turbo 6V Specs Revealed

The company has confirmed most of the features that were leaked before. This is the first OnePlus phone to pack a massive 9,000mAh battery which would have been a first in the segment, but Honor stole that credit with its own 10,000mAh battery phone.

The Turbo 6 is going to sport a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with 165Hz refresh rate and a flat design like the 15 series. It will be powered by Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage.

The phone has a 9,000mAh battery with support for 80W fast wired charging. Like most phones launched these days, the Turbo comes with IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings for durability against water and dust. Having said that, the company is going with a plastic frame at the back which hints at an aggressive pricing for the device. We expect the phone to launch with OxygenOS 16 version and most likely offered with a dual rear camera system.

OnePlus Turbo series might be limited to China but the brand is tipped to launch the phone in other regions, probably with a new moniker or even make it part of the Nord series.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:58 IST

News tech OnePlus Turbo 6 With 9000mAh Battery Unveiled Ahead Of 2026 Launch: What You Can Expect

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...
Samsung Is Facing A Tough Time With Galaxy S26 Launch Price: Here's Why

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 15:47 IST

Samsung Galaxy S26 launch is already turning into a big issue for the company as it battles pricing challenge across multiple fronts.

Samsung Galaxy S26 launch price in 2026 is already facing a challenge

Samsung Galaxy S26 launch is still some time away but the company is facing issues with the product on multiple fronts. The Galaxy S26 series launch is widely tipped for late February next year which is already delayed than the 2025 launch event. And now the company could be joining other brands over its concerns for the product prices.

We are already seeing the impact of RAM shortage on the market with phone prices shooting way past their previous levels. Samsung is also in a quandary about how to price its flagship models, especially as Apple continues to see its premium iPhones selling big.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Price Conundrum: What Now?

The Galaxy S26 price strategy is critical for Samsung and previously it was said to be happy keeping the features similar and not increase the prices. However, a new report suggests the company is going to find it hard to sell a product with minimum upgrades as the market goes forward with new hardware in 2026.

The Galaxy S26 series is likely to have three models, with the regular, S26 Plus and the S26 Ultra making the lineup. The chances of the S26 Edge coming are extremely slim. But the overall planning has taken a hit because of the cost of manufacturing the models, which invariably hints at a major price bump being the most likely outcome.

The report from South Korea also claims that Samsung could play this card to gain higher margins which could be a dangerous game to experiment with at a time when the market might contract.

The Apple vs Samsung battle could get another leg up in 2026 in the foldable arena. iPhone Fold is launching next year and it seems Samsung could give it a big fight with the Galaxy Fold model in 2026. And a new report claims Samsung is likely to launch another foldable along with the Galaxy Fold 8 series to give the iPhone maker a tough fight in the arena.

The details offered by ETNews in its report claims Samsung is working on a wider foldable product which will be launching close on the heels of the iPhone Fold debut later next year.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 15:47 IST

News tech Samsung Is Facing A Tough Time With Galaxy S26 Launch Price: Here's Why

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...
Xiaomi 17 Ultra Vs Vivo X300 Pro: Price, Design And Cameras Compared

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 10:19 IST

Xiaomi 17 Ultra is the latest flagship in town and next year we will see it compete with another Pro model from Vivo.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra is the new flagship phone that has some appealing camera features.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra is now official, at least in China, and there has been a lot of interest around the premium phone, mostly around its Leica camera system. Xiaomi has become a strong force with the camera giant in its wing, and the 17 Ultra is looking to continue that trend with more powerful optics on board.

But when you talk about cameras, Vivo is another name that is hard to discount these days, thanks to its own Zeiss Optics revolution for the flagship devices. The X300 Pro from Vivo may not be an Ultra but it is close to that circuit which makes it easy to talk about the 17 Ultra from Xiaomi in comparison with the X300 Pro version.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs Vivo X300 Pro Price

Xiaomi 17 Ultra launch price starts at CNY 6,999 (Rs 89,400 approx) for the base 12GB + 512GB model, going up to CNY 8,499 (Rs 1.06 lakh approx) if you want the highest 16GB + 1TB variant. Vivo X300 Pro is available in a single 16GB + 512GB model in India where it costs Rs 1,09,999 for buyers.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra Vs Vivo X300 Pro Design And Display

Xiaomi 17 Ultra is the latest premium phone to opt for a flat panel but most of the other elements look fairly similar to the 15 Ultra. You still have the circular camera system housing three sensors, and Xiaomi branding in a subtle way along with the Leica logo. The phone weighs 224 grams and comes at 8.29mm thickness. It gets IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings this time around.

Vivo X300 Pro also has the flat trait with a circular module for the cameras. The brand is also giving you a hefty battery but not making it heavy but the same IP68 and IP69 ratings for durability.

The 17 Ultra gets a large 6.9-inch 1.5K LTPO AMOLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate and Dragon crystal glass layer for protection. Vivo is giving you a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, and armor glass for the screen.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra Vs Vivo X300 Pro Performance And OS

Xiaomi is powering the 17 Ultra with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset with up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. The phone runs the HyperOS 3 version which is based on Android 16 and we expect Xiaomi to offer many upgrades.

Vivo opts for the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset with up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. You also get the OriginOS 6 version out of China for the first time from the company. The brand is promising 5 years of OS upgrades.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs Vivo X300 Pro Cameras

This is the latest edition of the Leica vs Zeiss battle. Xiaomi 17 Ultra features a triple camera unit that has a 50MP main shooter with 1-inch sensor and OIS. You also have a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens with continuous zoom. The front has a 50MP shooter as well.

Vivo X300 Pro also has a three camera system which carries a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 200MP periscope telephoto lens with OIS and a 50MP ultrawide shooter.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra Vs Vivo X300 Pro Battery And Charging

Xiaomi brings a bigger 6,800mAh battery with the 17 Ultra that is offered 90W wired and 50W wireless fast charging speeds. Vivo X300 Pro has a 6510mAh battery with support for 90W wired and 40W wireless charging speeds. Both the flagship devices are loaded in the box and you get the case, adapter the USB C cable with the products.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 10:19 IST

News tech Xiaomi 17 Ultra Vs Vivo X300 Pro: Price, Design And Cameras Compared

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...
How Far Has The Human Voice Reached In The Universe? The Truth About Earths Radio Bubble

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:50 IST

Radio signals have been travelling through space since 1906, forming Earths radio bubble. Now 119 light years wide, it covers about 75 star systems, the signals fading into noise

Rapid Read

As radio waves travel at the speed of light, 119 years of human transmissions have created an Earth radio bubble extending roughly 119 light-years into space. (AI Generated)

For more than a century, radio waves from Earth have been travelling through space. This was never part of a grand scientific mission. It began simply when humans discovered a way to communicate across oceans. However, these signals did not stop at Earths edge. They continued outward at the speed of light, spreading deep into space.

Scientists refer to this expanding region as the Earth radio bubble. It cannot be seen or touchedit merely represents how far our earliest broadcasts have travelled. As time passes, the bubble grows larger, but the signals within it become weaker and fainter. This has led scientists to ask an intriguing question: how far has humanitys voice travelled, and could anyone else be listening?

How Humans First Sent Their Voice Into Space

The story begins in 1906, when inventor Reginald Aubrey Fessenden carried out a historic experiment. On December 24, he conducted the worlds first public radio broadcast. Unlike earlier transmissions, it did not rely on Morse code. Instead, listeners heard music and spoken words for the first time.

Fessenden played the violin and read passages from the Bible. Ships at sea received the broadcast, unaware that they were witnessing a moment that would change human communication forever. While the sound ended on Earth, the radio waves themselves did not stop. They continued moving outward into space.

The Birth Of Earths Radio Bubble

After that first broadcast, countless radio signals followed. Together, they formed what scientists now call the Earth radio bubble. Radio waves are a type of electromagnetic radiation with the longest wavelengths and lowest frequencies. Crucially, they do not require a medium to travel.

Because space is a vacuum, these waves can move freely through it. This is why Earths signals have continued their journey for decades, long after the original broadcasts ended.

How Big Is The Earth Radio Bubble?

Radio waves travel at the speed of light. Since humans have been transmitting radio signals for around 119 years, the radio bubble has a radius of 119 light years. However, this does not mean the signals remain strong or clear.

The bubble is more like a thin, fading shell. As radio waves spread out, their energy weakens and blends into the background noise of space. There is no sharp boundary, just an ever-expanding region where the signal grows fainter with distance and time.

A Tiny Bubble In A Vast Galaxy

The scale of the universe puts this into perspective. The Milky Way galaxy is about 100,000 light years across. Compared to that, Earths radio bubble is extremely small, reaching only our immediate cosmic neighbourhood.

Even if the earliest broadcasts survived intact, it would take tens of thousands of years for them to cross the galaxy. This vast scale explains why space often seems silent; distances are far greater than we can imagine.

Have Our Signals Reached Nearby Star Systems?

Some nearby stars now lie within Earths radio bubble. Proxima Centauri, our closest stellar neighbour, is just 4 light years away and was passed by our signals long ago.

Research by scientists at Cornell University has identified 75 star systems inside this bubble. These systems are positioned in a way that allows them not only to receive Earths radio signals but also to observe Earth passing in front of the Sun. In theory, such observers could detect signs of a technological civilisation.

Can Aliens Actually Hear Us?

In practical terms, the answer is no. As radio waves spread, they lose power rapidly. By the time they reach distant stars, they are overwhelmed by natural cosmic noise.

Even an advanced civilisation would struggle to distinguish Earths signals from background radiation. Any trace of music or speech would be lost, leaving behind only the faintest hint that technological activity once existed.

Will Earth Become Silent To The Universe?

Ironically, Earth may grow quieter over time. Early radio and television broadcasts released large amounts of energy into space. Modern communication, however, relies on fibre-optic cables, satellites, and tightly controlled digital signals that remain close to Earth.

As a result, fewer radio waves are leaking into space. Future generations may send even weaker signals beyond our planet, causing Earths radio presence to fade further. Over time, our technological voice in the galaxy may grow almost silent.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:50 IST

News viral How Far Has The Human Voice Reached In The Universe? The Truth About Earths Radio Bubble

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 Mans Car Breaks Down On Coastal Road, Strangers Rush To Help. Actress Parul Gulati Recalls Her BMC Experience

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 11:08 IST

Recalling a similar incident, Parul Gulati said, My car broke down on the coastal road too once a BMC bus guy gave us a lift till Bandra so that we could fetch help.

The man said many strangers stopped and offered him help. (Photo Credit: Instagram)

Mumbai has always had a unique energy, a city that moves fast yet somehow manages to care for its people. Among the busy streets and crowded lanes, there are countless moments that show how kind and helpful its residents can be.

Recently, a video on Instagram caught widespread attention that highlighted how strangers in Mumbai go out of their way to help someone in need.

Mumbais Kindness On The Coastal Road

A man shared that while going out for dinner with his family, his car broke down on the coastal road. This is such a Bombay thing guys  people are so nice. A lot of cars stopped by to ask if I needed any help. Some even offered us a lift. I had to wait for the pick-up guy, but it was so sweet. People in Bombay are always ready to help. Keep it up guys," he said in the video.

The caption accompanying the clip reads: Bombay is ALWAYS ready to help!"

Real Experiences Of Mumbais Kindness

Since being uploaded online, the video has caught significant traction, as it accumulated more than five lakh views. In the comments section, people shared their own experiences that show that helping strangers is something many have personally felt in Mumbai.

A viewer commented, I have experienced this. Just after COVID, while commuting from Andheri to Goregaon, the ticket counter was not giving me the ticket, asked me 4-5 different things. Just as I lost hope because I was already late, a guy walked up and handed me his Borivali ticket. Mumbai people are very, very helpful!"

Another shared, True, even I was in the same situation a few months ago at midnight, and many people stopped to help!!"

Someone else remarked, A Mumbaikar is always there for everyone, bro  big hearts, no hesitation," while a person added, Mumbai hits different. Strangers dont think twice before helping  anytime, anywhere. Thats Mumbai for you."

Even actress and entrepreneur Parul Gulati shared her experience. My car broke down on the coastal road too once a BMC bus guy gave us a lift till Bandra so that we could fetch help," she wrote.

People in Mumbai are very generous," How accurate" and wholesome" were some other short reactions.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 11:08 IST

News viral Mumbai Mans Car Breaks Down On Coastal Road, Strangers Rush To Help. Actress Parul Gulati Recalls Her BMC Experience

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...
Old Monk In Mini Juice-Style Box? Internet Says: Yeh To Bade Logo Ki Frooti Hai | Video

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 14:17 IST

Old Monks juice box-style tetra pack has gone viral online, drawing jokes, concern and debate over alcohol packaging in India.

Some pointed out that the packaging could be mistaken for a non-alcoholic beverage. (Photo Credits: Instagram)

A short video showing Old Monk rum packaged in what looks like a juice-style box has gone viral on Instagram, leaving viewers amused, confused and slightly alarmed. The clip shows a familiar dark label wrapped around the juice-like tetra pak, complete with a straw slot, instantly reminding many of childhood fruit drinks rather than a strong alcoholic beverage.

Old Monk: Now in a juice box! Please dont put a straw in this unless you want to see through time. PS: Drinking this is strictly injurious to health. This isnt your childhood mango sip," read the caption of the clip.

The post quickly picked up traction on social media, where users began sharing screenshots and jokes. Several comments compared the packaging to mango drink cartons, while others warned how misleading it could be at first glance. The visual shock, more than the product itself, seems to be doing most of the work here.

Why The Packaging Is Raising Eyebrows

Old Monk has long been associated with nostalgia, winter evenings and its instantly recognisable bottle. Seeing the rum in a compact, juice box-style tetra pack breaks sharply from that image. For many viewers, the concern is not novelty but perception.

Several users pointed out that the packaging could be easily mistaken for a non-alcoholic beverage, especially in low light or crowded settings. Others joked about how dangerous it would be to add a straw out of habit."

The comments section quickly filled with a mix of amusement and correction from viewers who insisted the packaging was nothing new. Several users pointed out that Old Monk in tetra packaging has been available in Bengaluru wine shops for years, with some joking that the viral reaction was 1520 years late." Others framed it as a routine sight in the city, calling it just Bangalore things," while a few clarified that the pack is standard tetra packaging, not a fruit drink-style innovation.

At the same time, there were users who saw it as a smart move for portability and discreet consumption, particularly for quarter-size buyers who want convenience without carrying glass bottles.

Why Old Monk Still Gets This Reaction

Old Monk occupies a rare space in Indias alcohol market, with a following built almost entirely on consistency rather than marketing. Introduced over seven decades ago, the dark rum has remained largely unchanged in taste, packaging and identity, a factor that has helped it become a fixture in bars and households across the country.

Periodic rumours about its discontinuation, particularly around a decade ago, only reinforced its cultural status, prompting Mohan Meakin Limited to publicly clarify that production would continue. The brands popularity endured even after the company stopped actively promoting it in 2012, following then-chairman Kapil Mohans decision to let word of mouth drive its presence. Behind Old Monks longevity lies an unusual backstory. Kapil Mohan, who shaped the brands growth after 1973, was himself a teetotaller, yet guided the rum to global success, at one point making it the worlds best-selling dark rum. Produced by Mohan Meakin, a company with roots dating back to 1885, Old Monk expanded rapidly through the late 20th century, gaining loyal consumers in more than 50 countries. Despite changes in ownership structure and distribution setbacks over the years, its flagship seven-year-old XXX rum has remained the brands strongest seller, reinforcing Old Monks reputation as a classic that relies on familiarity, nostalgia and an unaltered recipe.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 14:17 IST

News viral Old Monk In Mini Juice-Style Box? Internet Says: Yeh To Bade Logo Ki Frooti Hai | Video

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...
Balen Shah Declared Nepal PM Face As Gen Z-Backed Parties Form Alliance For 2026 Polls

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 23:34 IST

According to a joint statement, RSP and the Ujyalo Nepal Party (UNP), led by Ghising, have agreed to unify and contest the elections under the RSP symbol of the bell.

Balen Shah, a former rapper and independent candidate, won the Kathmandu mayoral race in 2022 by defeating candidates from the two largest parties. (File)

Regional and emerging political parties in Nepal are rushing to form alliances ahead of the March 5 general elections, a move seen as a challenge to the traditional parties that have dominated the countrys politics for decades.

Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen), Rastriya Swotantra Party (RSP) chairperson Ravi Lamichhane, and Minister for Energy and Water Resources Kulman Ghising have agreed to contest the elections together under the banner of the RSP, news agency PTI reported.

According to a joint statement, RSP and the Ujyalo Nepal Party (UNP), led by Ghising, have agreed to unify and contest the elections under the RSP symbol of the bell. The statement was signed by Balen and Lamichhane on behalf of RSP and Anup Kumar Upadhyaya on behalf of UNP. Earlier on Sunday, Balen and Lamichhane had also signed an agreement to jointly contest the polls.

Under the agreement, Ghising will become Vice President of the RSP, which is led by Lamichhane, while Balen has been named the partys prime ministerial candidate and leader of its parliamentary party after the elections.

The leaders pledged to fight corruption, promote good governance, and pursue meritocracy to achieve prosperity and social justice.

The alliance is being seen as a major boost for Gen Z-led political forces that have campaigned against corruption, nepotism, and political disorder. The troika has attracted support from young leaders such as Raksha Bam and Sudan Gurung, and the majority of the Gen Z voters are likely to side with them, in a move that is likely to hurt the traditional parties like Nepali Congress, CPM-UML and the Nepali Communist Party in the elections, the news agency reported.

Lamichhane, a former television journalist, led his six-month-old RSP to a fourth-place finish in the 2022 elections, winning 21 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives.

Balen, a former rapper and independent candidate, won the Kathmandu mayoral race in 2022 by defeating candidates from the two largest parties.

Ghising is known as the hero of the Ujyalo Nepal or bright Nepal, who ended 16-hour-long load shedding in Nepal during his eight-year tenure as CEO of Nepal Electricity Authority a decade ago.

Meanwhile, other parties are also moving towards unification. On Monday, Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal (JSP-Nepal) and a faction of the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) signed a unification agreement. JSP-Nepal chairperson Upendra Yadav and JSP co-chair Renu Yadav inked the deal, sources said.

The agreement for unification between JSP Nepal and JSP comes a day after JSP Nepal and Lokatantrik Samajwadi Party (LSP) reached an understanding for party unification.

They agreed to unite the parties, citing the guarantee of protection and promotion of the federal republic as well as the rights of Madhes and Madhesi people.

The majority of the central committee members of JSP would join the party led by Upendra Yadav, according to Pradeep Yadav, a leader of JSP Nepal.

As the election date of March 5 is approaching, the news about breaking up and unification between different parties and groups are pouring in.

Earlier on December 24, Rastriya Prajatantra Party led by Rajendra Lingden and Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal led by Kamal Thapa signed an agreement for unification.

GEN Z Protests

Nepals political landscape was thrown into unprecedented turmoil earlier this year, as Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned in the face of a furious and violent youth-led uprising.

The protests led by students appeared to reflect the growing public anger with the Oli dispensation over a range of issues, including a ban on social media and alleged inaction against corruption.

The unrest reached a boiling point with deadly clashes on September 8, when security forces response to the protests resulted in at least 19 fatalities. This sparked even greater outrage among demonstrators, predominantly from the digitally native Gen Z" demographic.

The violence continued even after Olis resignation, with protesters setting fire to the Parliament, the Presidents office, the prime ministers residence, government buildings, party offices and homes of senior leaders.

(With inputs from PTI)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Kathmandu, Nepal

First Published: December 29, 2025, 23:34 IST

News world Balen Shah Declared Nepal PM Face As Gen Z-Backed Parties Form Alliance For 2026 Polls

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...
'Cancel Work Permits For Indians': Osman Hadi's Student Group Issues Ultimatum To Yunus Govt

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 20:23 IST

Inqilab Moncho announced a four-point demand, which included a 24-day ultimatum for the government to complete trial proceedings against those responsible for Hadis killing.

Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus (Image: Reuters/File)

The student wing of Osman Hadi has demanded the suspension of work permits for Indian nationals in Bangladesh, warning the Yunus-led interim government of strict action if progress is not made in the investigation into Hadis killing.

The call comes after Bangladesh police said that the alleged killers of Hadi, a vocal critic of India, had fled to India. On Sunday, Senior Dhaka Metropolitan Police officer SN Nazrul Islam said that suspects Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir Sheikh crossed the Haluaghat border into India shortly after the December 12 attack. They were allegedly received by two Indian citizens at the border, who escorted them into Meghalaya and handed them over to accomplices.

Shortly after the police statment, Inqilab Moncho, Hadis student platform, issued a four-point ultimatum. The demands included a 24-day deadline for the government to complete trial proceedings against Hadis killers.

The group also threatened that, if the suspects were not returned within 24 hours or if no official statement about their stay in India was issued, the work permits of Indian nationals in Bangladesh should be revoked.

Additionally, the organisation called for a case to be filed against India at the International Court of Justice if the fugitives were not repatriated, and for those hiding within the Civil Military Intelligence involved in the killing to be identified and brought to justice.

Hadi, who was shot by masked assailants in Dhaka on December 13 and later died in Singapore, had been a prominent figure in last years mass uprising. His death has triggered daily protests across the country, with demonstrators blocking intersections, torching several buildings, and targeting media outlets and cultural institutions perceived to favour India.

Since Friday, Inqilab Moncho has maintained a blockade at Dhakas Shahbagh intersection, enforcing it daily from 2 pm. Women and children have joined the sit-ins, and organisers have arranged spaces for their participation. Similar demonstrations have been reported in Sylhet and other divisional cities.

(With inputs from agencies)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Bangladesh

First Published: December 29, 2025, 20:11 IST

News world 'Cancel Work Permits For Indians': Osman Hadi's Student Group Issues Ultimatum To Yunus 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...
China Announces Military Exercises Around Taiwan After Criticising Major US Arms Deal

Curated By :

CNN

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:17 IST

China's military said that it is mobilising its army, navy, air force, and rocket units around Taiwan for drills to send a strong warning against any moves for Taiwan independence.

The exercises  dubbed Justice Mission-2025  would test combat readiness and blockade and control of key ports and critical areas.

Chinas military said on Monday that it is mobilising its army, navy, air force, and rocket units around Taiwan for major drills meant to send a strong warning against any moves for Taiwanese independence and outside interference.

The exercises, called Justice Mission-2025, will test combat readiness and the ability to block and control key ports and areas, according to Chinas Eastern Theater Command. Live-fire drills will happen in five zones around the island.

Taiwans government condemned the drills, calling them military intimidation, and said it is fully alert and ready to defend democracy and freedom. China has increased its military pressure on Taiwan in recent years, often holding drills at sensitive times to show its displeasure.

China and Japan have also been in a diplomatic dispute over comments made by Japans prime minister about Taiwan, while the US and Taiwan recently announced what could be one of the biggest US arms sales to the island.

Taiwans president is pushing for a special defense budget, which has angered Beijing. Chinas Communist Party claims Taiwan as its territory, even though it has never ruled it, and has promised to take control of the island, by force if needed.

The Eastern Theater Command released a video of a military exercise called Closing in, seizing control and preventing escape. The commands spokesperson said the drills are a serious warning to Taiwan independence forces and outside interference, referring to the US and its allies, and called the exercises necessary to protect Chinas sovereignty and unity.

Chinese state media quoted military analysts who said the US-Taiwan arms deal was an escalation of collusive actions. Taiwans presidential spokesperson said the drills undermine security and stability in the Taiwan Strait and Indo-Pacific region and challenge international laws.

The $11.1 billion US-Taiwan arms deal includes rocket systems, anti-tank missiles, drones, howitzers, and military software. The US recognizes the Peoples Republic of China as the only legitimate government of China and acknowledges Beijings position that Taiwan is part of China, but does not accept the Communist Partys claim of sovereignty over Taiwan.

The US maintains close unofficial ties with Taiwan and is required by law to help the island defend itself. China has released nationalistic propaganda about the drills, including posters showing arrows raining down on Taiwan. It is not clear how long the exercises will last. Naval and air patrols started on December 29, and live-fire drills are scheduled for December 30.

Chinas Coast Guard also began law enforcement patrols near Taiwan and its outlying islands. The drills come as tensions with Japan rise, after Japans prime minister suggested a military response if China tries to take Taiwan by force, which Beijing sees as a threat.

Taiwan is a key issue in US-China relations, and China criticized the recent arms deal as undermining its sovereignty and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan has increased military purchases as Chinese aircraft and ships operate near the island almost daily. Some of the latest arms deal will be paid for by a proposed $40 billion special defense budget, which is facing challenges in Taiwans legislature.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : China

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:17 IST

News world China Announces Military Exercises Around Taiwan After Criticising Major US Arms Deal

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 Deadlines, But In Final Stages Of Peace Plan': Trump On Russia-Ukraine War After Zelenskyy Meet

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 07:50 IST

Donald Trump said talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war are in the final stages, adding that he has set no deadline for the peace deal, saying his only priority is ending the war.

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (Photo: AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Monday said he is confident that the Russia-Ukraine war could come to an end in the near future, even as he underlined that he has not set any formal deadline for reaching the peace agreement.

Speaking to reporters after his high-level meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump said the negotiations are at an advanced stage and warned that failure to conclude a deal would only prolong the conflict and lead to further loss of life.

Were in the final stages of talking. Were going to see. Otherwise, its going to go on for a long time," Trump said.

Itll either end, or its going to go on for a long time, and millions of additional people are going to be killed," he added.

When asked whether he had set a deadline for ending the war, Trump made it clear that this time, he is not working against a fixed timeline.

I dont have deadlines. You know what, my deadline is getting the war ended," he said, stressing that ending the conflict remains his sole priority.

Trump said he believes that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy are serious about pursuing peace.

Yes, I do believe that President Putin is serious about peace this time. I think he is. I think they both are. They have to make a deal. Too many people have died, and both Presidents want to make a deal," he told reporters.

The US President revealed that he had spoken with Putin for over two hours before meeting Zelenskyy, describing the conversation as very productive."

Trump said he plans to speak with the Russian leader again following his discussions with the Ukrainian side, noting that negotiations are complex but manageable.

I am also calling President Putin back after the meeting, and we will continue the negotiations," he said.

Trump also reiterated that a peace agreement is getting very close," while acknowledging that certain issues, particularly territorial disputes in eastern Ukraine, remain sensitive.

The land, some of that land has been taken. Youre better off making a deal now," he said, without providing specific details on how much of the agreement has been finalised.

Despite the ongoing fighting, including attacks reported on the day of the meeting, Trump struck an optimistic note, saying that continued diplomacy with Ukraine, Russia and European leaders could lead to a breakthrough.

He also hinted that a trilateral meeting involving himself, Putin and Zelenskyy could take place at the right time."

Following the meeting, President Zelenskyy also expressed optimism, sharing details of the discussions while speaking to reporters.

We had great discussions on all the topics, and we appreciate the progress that the Americans and Ukrainian teams made in these recent weeks," Zelenskyy said.

We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework," he mentioned.

Zelenskyy said there has been significant convergence between the two sides, stating that there is 90 per cent agreement on the 20-point peace plan" and 100 per cent agreement on US-Ukraine security guarantees," with US-Europe-Ukraine security guarantees almost agreed."

He added that the military dimension is 100 per cent agreed" and that the Prosperity Plan is in its final stages.

We agreed that security guarantees are a key milestone in achieving lasting peace and our teams will continue working on all aspects," Zelenskyy said, adding, Ukraine is ready for peace."

Trump hosted a dinner for Zelenskyy attended by senior US officials, as discussions with European leaders continued alongside the talks.

Both sides indicated that negotiations would intensify in the coming days, with further meetings expected as efforts continue to bring the war to an end.

ALSO READ | Very Productive Call: Trump Says He Spoke With Putin Ahead Of Zelenskyy Meeting

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

First Published: December 29, 2025, 06:47 IST

News world 'No Deadlines, But In Final Stages Of Peace Plan': Trump On Russia-Ukraine War After Zelenskyy Meet

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...
Engineering A Hung House? Pakistan's Interference Casts Shadow Over Bangladesh Polls | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 12:59 IST

Pakistans High Commission in Dhaka, along with a newly established ISI-linked cell, is allegedly facilitating outreach to anti-India political actors to ensure a fractured mandate

Rapid Read

Pakistan's High Commissioner (left) meets Muhammad Yunus. (News18)

Pakistans engagement with Bangladeshs interim administration headed by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has come under sharp scrutiny amid growing concerns of external interference ahead of the countrys next general elections, CNN-News18 has learnt from top diplomatic and intelligence sources.

According to sources, Pakistans High Commissioner to Bangladesh recently called on Yunus, with discussions ranging from power transition issues to broader cooperation and collaboration. While officially framed as diplomatic outreach, the meeting has raised eyebrows in Dhakas diplomatic and security circles, given the interim nature of the Yunus-led administration.

Sources told CNN-News18 that Pakistan has been maintaining continuous contact with the interim regime as well as political groups opposed to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, prompting concerns over interference in Bangladeshs internal political processes. Watchdog groups and members of the diplomatic community in Dhaka are closely monitoring these developments, sources said.

Officials pointed out that the Yunus administration is an interim setup with no electoral mandate, and under established norms, such governments are expected to avoid extensive engagement with foreign diplomats on politically sensitive matters. India, sources added, is keeping a close watch on these interactions.

Intelligence inputs reviewed by CNN-News18 allege that Pakistan is actively manoeuvring Bangladeshs political landscape by extending support to opposition parties, including Khaleda Zias Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Shafiqur Rahman-led Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, ahead of the polls. Reports further claim that Pakistans intelligence agency, the ISI, is suspected of providing covert financial assistance to these groupsallegations that Islamabad has not publicly responded to.

Sources also claim that Pakistans High Commission in Dhaka, along with a newly established ISI-linked cell, is facilitating outreach to anti-India political actors, including elements within BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party. The alleged objective, according to sources, is to influence electoral outcomes and push for a fractured mandate.

Pakistan appears keen on engineering a hung parliament or a weak coalition government in Bangladesh," a senior source told CNN-News18, adding that such an outcome would create strategic space for greater external leverage.

Adding to the concerns, sources indicate that a high-level political and military delegation from Pakistan may visit Bangladesh in the near future, further intensifying diplomatic attention around the evolving situation.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:59 IST

News world Engineering A Hung House? Pakistan's Interference Casts Shadow Over Bangladesh Polls | Exclusive

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...
Fabricated: BSF Rejects Reports Of Bangladesh Activist Hadi's Killers Entering India

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:50 IST

The BSF stated that there had been no illegal cross-border movement in the Meghalaya sector and that no arrests or interceptions had been made.

Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent figure of the July uprising, died at a hospital in Singapore on Thursday, a week after he was shot at by masked gunmen in Dhaka. (AFP)

The Border Security Force (BSF) has rejected claims by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) that two key suspects in the murder of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi fled to India through the Meghalaya border.

On Sunday, the DMP said the suspects crossed into India through the Haluaghat border area of Bangladesh and later travelled to Tura in Meghalaya. The claim was reported in Bangladeshi media, quoting an additional commissioner of the Dhaka police.

However, the BSF said no such incident had taken place. He stated that there had been no illegal cross-border movement in the Meghalaya sector and that no arrests or interceptions had been made. It described the reports as false, fabricated and misleading.

Inspector General OP Upadhyay, head of the BSF in Meghalaya, said there was no evidence to support the claims. He added that Meghalaya Police had also denied reports that the suspects were arrested after entering India. He pointed out contradictions in statements made by Bangladeshi officials and questioned the credibility of the reports.

Upadhyay said it was highly unlikely that the suspects could travel nearly 300 km from Dhaka and cross into India without being detected, given Bangladeshs CCTV coverage and checkpoints.

The BGB is a highly professional force. The claim that the individuals entered India from a location nearly 300 km from Dhaka, despite extensive CCTV surveillance and checkpoints in Bangladesh, is highly implausible. Therefore, the allegations are highly unlikely, totally false and fabricated," the IG said.

Sharif Osman Hadi was linked to the anti-Sheikh Hasina platform Inqilab Moncho. He was also campaigning as an independent candidate from the Dhaka-8 constituency ahead of the February elections.

Inqilab Moncho gained attention during last years July uprising, which later led to Sheikh Hasina being removed from power.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:50 IST

News world Fabricated: BSF Rejects Reports Of Bangladesh Activist Hadi's Killers Entering India

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...
News / National

by Simbarashe Sithole

MAZOWE - A 23yearold truck driver has been arrested after he allegedly ran over and killed a nineyearold boy along the Harare-Mukumbura highway over the weekend.The driver, Simbarashe Nyajena, was reportedly speeding when he struck Tinaye Magwiroto at the 32kilometre peg. Nyajena, who was driving a white Hino Dutro, allegedly failed to stop as the child attempted to cross the road.Magwiroto sustained severe head and leg injuries. He was rushed to Concession Hospital, where he died upon admission.Mashonaland Central police spokesperson Inspector Milton Mundembe confirmed the incident."I can confirm a fatal road accident in Mazowe where Magwiroto died after being hit by a truck," he said.Police have urged motorists to avoid speeding, warning that reckless driving continues to claim innocent lives.
Fire Breaks Out At Retirement Home In Indonesia, 16 Killed

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 11:59 IST

A fire at Werdha Damai retirement home in Manado killed at least 16 people while 12 residents were rescued. Police and forensic teams are investigating the cause of the fire.

Fire at retirement home in Indonesia's Manado city. (CCTV Asia Pacific/X)

At least 16 people were killed when a retirement home in Indonesias Manado city on Sulawesi island was gutted in fire, police said on Monday.

Firefighters received the report of the blaze at 8:31 pm on Sunday at the Werdha Damai retirement home in the North Sulawesi provincial capital Manado, AFP reported.

Local media reports showed the fire blazing through the home while residents helping one of the elderly people escape from the building.

Indonesian police are conducting identification procedures for 16 people killed in a fire that broke out at a nursing home in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province. Police forensic teams have launched an investigation, including a crime scene examination and witness pic.twitter.com/p0PENH6v58 CCTV Asia Pacific (@CCTVAsiaPacific) December 29, 2025

Reuters quoted police official Alamsyah P Hasibuan saying the fire at the nursing home was finally extinguished late on Sunday and authorities are still investigating its cause.

Jimmy Rotinsulu, chief of Manados fire department, told Metro TV that three elderly suffered burn injuries.

AFP quoted Rotinsulu saying many bodies of the victims were found inside their rooms and that many of the elderly residents were likely resting in their rooms in the evening when the fire broke out. The authorities were able to save 12 people, all unhurt.

Further details are awaited.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Indonesia

First Published: December 29, 2025, 11:59 IST

News world Fire Breaks Out At Retirement Home In Indonesia, 16 Killed

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...
Flights Diverted, Ports Targeted: Taiwan On High Alert As China Holds Record Military Drills

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 21:14 IST

The drills, which began on Monday, include live-fire exercises and simulations of a possible blockade of Taiwans key ports.

A Taiwan Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jet takes off at Hsinchu Air Base in Hsinchu on December 29, 2025. (AFP photo)

Taiwan has been placed on high alert after China launched large-scale military drills around the island, prompting concerns over regional security and disruption to air and sea travel.

The drills, which began on Monday, include live-fire exercises and simulations of a possible blockade of Taiwans key ports.

China said the exercises were aimed at testing its combat readiness and warning against what it calls Taiwan independence" forces. However, Taiwan strongly criticised the drills, calling them an act of military intimidation that threatens peace and stability in the region.

Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly said it will not rule out the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan, which has its own democratic government, rejects Chinas claim.

According to the Chinese military, the drills involve forces from the army, navy, air force and rocket force. They include destroyers, frigates, fighter jets, bombers and drones. The exercises have been named Justice Mission 2025" and focus on sea and air patrols, joint combat operations and blocking access to important ports and areas around Taiwan.

China also released a map showing five large exercise zones surrounding the island. Some of these zones lie within 12 nautical miles of Taiwans coast, which Taipei says is extremely dangerous and irresponsible.

Taiwans defence ministry said it detected 89 Chinese military aircraft near the island on Monday, the highest number recorded in a single day since October 2024. It also reported sightings of 28 Chinese warships and coastguard vessels.

As a result of the drills, Taiwans Civil Aviation Administration said China had announced a Temporary Danger Area" in the airspace near the island for 10 hours on Tuesday. More than 100,000 passengers on 857 domestic, international and transit flights are expected to be affected, with some flights being diverted or delayed.

Taiwans military said it had set up a response centre and deployed appropriate forces to monitor the situation. The coastguard also sent out large vessels to safeguard surrounding waters.

Taiwans Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo condemned Chinas actions, accusing Beijing of ignoring international rules and using military pressure to threaten its neighbours. Taiwans defence ministry added that Chinas behaviour shows it is the biggest threat to peace in the region.

China defended the drills as necessary. Military spokesman Shi Yi said they were a stern warning" and a legitimate move to protect Chinas sovereignty and national unity. Chinas foreign ministry also warned that foreign countries supplying weapons to Taiwan were pushing the Taiwan Strait towards a dangerous situation, hinting at the United States without naming it directly.

The drills follow recent approval by the US of a major arms sale to Taiwan, worth around $11 billion. China has responded by announcing sanctions against several American defence companies.

Meanwhile, on the Chinese island of Pingtan, which lies closest to Taiwan, some visitors appeared unaware of the military activity. Tourists were seen taking photos as fighter jets flew overhead. Some said they believed reunification between China and Taiwan would happen in the future.

China last carried out similar large-scale live-fire drills around Taiwan in April.

(With inputs from AFP)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : China

First Published: December 29, 2025, 21:14 IST

News world Flights Diverted, Ports Targeted: Taiwan On High Alert As China Holds Record Military Drills

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...
Heritage At Risk: Intel Reports Flag Threats To Hindu, Buddhist Sites Across Pakistan | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 13:10 IST

Sources allege that extremist groups have deliberately targeted Hindu and Buddhist imagery at several locations, defacing them with permanent paint or scratching out figures

Rapid Read

Names have been etched on the heritage sites, damaging centuries-old history. (News18)

Prestigious Hindu and Buddhist heritage sites across Pakistansome dating back nearly 5,000 yearsare facing increasing threats from vandalism, neglect and illegal occupation, according to activists, experts and intelligence assessments accessed by CNN-News18.

Areas of concern include Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Chilas, Hunza, Shatial, parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where ancient temples, petroglyphs and inscriptions are located. Researchers estimate that more than 25,000 petroglyphs and inscriptions exist in the ChilasHunzaShatial belt alone, with dates ranging from 5000 BCE to the 16th century CE.

Sources allege that extremist groups have deliberately targeted Hindu and Buddhist imagery at several locations, defacing them with permanent paint or scratching out figures. In some cases, local authorities have also drawn criticism for painting official notices directly over ancient carvings, actions experts say amount to desecration of priceless heritage.

Intelligence inputs cited by sources describe Chilas as an area with the presence of hardline Islamist groups, raising concerns about the safety of nearby archaeological and religious sites. Separately, activists claim that multiple Hindu and Buddhist sites are under illegal occupation, with little visible action taken to reclaim or protect them.

Cultural heritage advocates argue that Pakistan has failed to adequately uphold its commitments under UNESCO conventions and international agreements aimed at protecting minority and indigenous heritage. They warn that continued inaction could lead to irreversible loss of historically significant sites that are part of South Asias shared civilisational past.

Calls are growing for stronger legal protection, on-ground security and international monitoring to safeguard these sites before further damage occurs.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: December 29, 2025, 13:10 IST

News world Heritage At Risk: Intel Reports Flag Threats To Hindu, Buddhist Sites Across Pakistan | Exclusive

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...
'Jumped On His Back, Hit Him...': Bondi Beach Hero Narrates How He Disarmed Sydney Shooter

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 14:17 IST

Ahmed won global praise after he leapt into action and tackled a longarm rifle from Sajid Akram, 50, who was firing indiscriminately at Jewish families at Bondi Beach.

Ahmed al Ahmed, a tobacco shop owner, won praise for his heroic efforts to disarm a gunman at Sydney's Bondi Beach. (AFP)

Ahmed al-Ahmed, the tobacco shop owner who was widely praised as a hero for his efforts in disarming one of the two shooters during the heinous terror attack at Sydneys Bondi Beach on December 14 that killed 15 people, said he wanted to prevent the deaths of innocent people and did not worry about anything while doing so.

Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian Muslim, leapt into action and tackled a longarm rifle from Sajid Akram, 50, who was firing indiscriminately at Jewish families during the attack. Ahmed managed to disarm the shooter successfully before he was injured himself. His actions were praised by locals, international politicians and celebrities.

My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human beings life and not killing innocent people. I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost," he told CBS News.

Narrating how he disarmed the gunman, Ahmed said, I jumped in his back, hit him. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him, drop your gun, stop doing what youre doing, and its come all in fast."

I Dont Want To See People Killed

And emotionally, Im doing something, which is I feel something, a power in my body, my brain  I dont want to see people killed in front of me, I dont want to hear his gun, I dont want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help, and thats my soul asking me to do that," he added.

Ahmed sustained about five bullet wounds across his left arm, and one lodged in the back of his left shoulder blade while trying to save people. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns also visited Ahmed at the hospital. Albanese described Ahmed as a true Australian hero".

Everything in my heart, in my brain, everything, its worked just to manage to save the peoples life," he told CBS News.

At least 15 people died during what was Australias deadliest mass shooting since 1996, when armed gunmen targeted the celebrations of the Jewish Hanukkah festival. The gunmen were identified as Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveen, 24.

Sajid Akram was shot dead by police while Naveed was hospitalised and charged with 59 offences including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist attack.

Meanwhile, Ahmed was presented with a cheque at his hospital bedside for A$2.5 million ($1.7 million), which had been raised from tens of thousands of community members moved by his actions, BBC reported. Originally from war-torn Syria, he first arrived in Australia in 2006 and is the owner of Cigara, a tobacco shop in the Sydney suburb of Sutherland. Initial reports mistakenly identified Ahmed as a fruit shop owner.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Sydney, Australia

First Published: December 29, 2025, 14:16 IST

News world 'Jumped On His Back, Hit Him...': Bondi Beach Hero Narrates How He Disarmed Sydney Shooter

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...
Leaks Show How Pak Military Ordered Media To Counter Qatar, Al Jazeera Over Afghan Coverage | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 12:31 IST

Pakistani media houses were advised not to portray the Afghan Taliban regime as a perfect or stabilising force & were asked to challenge Qatars dubious diplomatic neutrality

Rapid Read

The military media wing, sources say, views such coverage as part of a broader narrative campaign aligned with Qatars foreign policy interests rather than independent journalism. (AP)

Pakistans military media wing is at the centre of a fresh controversy after alleged internal directives surfaced, pointing to a coordinated media campaign aimed at countering Qatar and its state-funded broadcaster, Al Jazeera, over coverage related to Afghanistan and the Taliban regime, CNN-News18 has learnt.

According to the leaked instructions, Pakistani media houses, digital platforms, and analysts were advised not to portray the Afghan Taliban regime as a perfect or stabilising force" and were specifically directed to challenge what the military describes as Qatars dubious diplomatic neutrality" on Afghan affairs. The directives reportedly call for heightened scrutiny of Qatars diplomatic role and a more aggressive pushback against narratives seen as undermining Pakistans position.

The documents allege that Al Jazeera has consistently framed Pakistan over the past year as politically unstable, prone to militancy, and ineffective in its peace efforts related to Afghanistan. The military media wing, sources say, views such coverage as part of a broader narrative campaign aligned with Qatars foreign policy interests rather than independent journalism.

The leaked communication further claims that Al Jazeera does not operate in isolation from Qatars diplomatic objectives, arguing that repeated editorial trends mirroring state policy raise questions about the broadcasters neutrality and credibility. Media outlets in Pakistan were reportedly encouraged to highlight this linkage and question whether Dohas approach reflects genuine mediation or strategic branding.

The directives also urge Qatari diplomatic channels and media platforms to cease negative reporting" against Pakistan on the Afghan Taliban issue, asserting that such coverage undermines Islamabads stated peace efforts in the region.

The revelations come at a time of heightened sensitivity around Afghanistan, where Pakistan and Qatar have both played visible but differing roles in engagement with the Taliban. While Qatar has positioned itself as a neutral mediator hosting key diplomatic talks, Pakistan maintains that its contributions to regional stability are being selectively overlooked.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: December 29, 2025, 12:31 IST

News world Leaks Show How Pak Military Ordered Media To Counter Qatar, Al Jazeera Over Afghan Coverage | Exclusive

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...
Day After Christmas, 18-Year-Old Opens Fire At Parents In Pennsylvania; Mother Killed

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 17:45 IST

Jarrod Noll shot his parents in New Freeport, Pennsylvania, killing his mother and injuring his father. After fleeing, he was arrested in West Virginia and faces homicide charges.

The accused, Jarrod Noll, fired shots on Friday afternoon just outside their home in the town of New Freeport while his younger siblings were inside. (New York Post/X)

An 18-year-old had allegedly shot his parents, killing his mother, in Pennsylvania the day after Christmas, police said, adding that he was arrested a day later.

According to New York Post, Jarrod Noll fired shots on Friday afternoon just outside their home in the town of New Freeport while his younger siblings were inside. Following the shooting, he fled the scene. He was declared armed and dangerous" by the police who launched an extensive search using helicopters and tracking dogs.

CBS News quoted Pennsylvania State Police Sergeant Richard Sizer saying, We used tracking dogs, we used helicopters, and we used police on foot searching rough terrain. Obviously, when you have someone on the run with a homicide warrant, on the run with a gun, it is a huge danger to the community."

Noll was finally nabbed in West Virginia on Saturday.

Police said that Nolls mother was rushed to the hospital following the shooting but she died. However, his father has been released after receiving treatment.

According to CBS News, Noll will be held in custody in West Virginia before being extradited to Pennsylvania. He has been booked under homicide and attempted homicide charges.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: December 29, 2025, 16:51 IST

News world Day After Christmas, 18-Year-Old Opens Fire At Parents In Pennsylvania; Mother Killed

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 Says Ukraine's Drones Targeted Putin's Home, Zelenskyy Calls It 'Complete Fabrication'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 22:13 IST

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the alleged incident would impact Moscows stance in any future negotiations with Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin. (File image)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday claimed that Ukraine had attempted to attack President Vladimir Putins residence in Russias Novgorod region, warning that Moscows negotiating position would change as a result.

Calling it an act of state terrorism," the Russian leader claimed that Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones at the presidential residence over December 2829.

All drones that attacked the Russian presidential residence in the Novgorod region were destroyed by Russian air defence systems," Lavrov said as reported by Sputnik.

Warning retaliation, Lavrov said that such actions would not go unanswered.

Such reckless actions will not go unanswered," he said, adding that targets for retaliatory strikes and the timing of their execution by the Russian Armed Forces had already been determined.

Lavrov further said that the alleged incident would impact Moscows stance in any future negotiations with Kyiv, Interfax reported.

Putins top aide, Yuri Ushakov, said that US President Donald Trump was shocked and outraged" over the alleged attack, RT News reported.

During his telephonic conversation with Putin after meeting Zelenskyy, Trump reportedly remarked, Thank God we didnt give Zelenskyy Tomahawk missiles."

Ukraine Denies Accusations

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Lavrovs claims as false and politically motivated.

In a post on X, Zelenskyy said Russia was using dangerous statements" to undermine diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the ongoing war.

This alleged residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russias own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies," he said.

Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trumps team. We keep working together to bring peace closer.This alleged residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) December 29, 2025

Zelenskyy accused Moscow of routinely spreading disinformation, saying Ukraine does not take actions that undermine diplomacy.

To the contrary, Russia always takes such steps. This is one of many differences between us," he said, urging the international community not to remain silent.

Trump-Zelenskyy Meet

The alleged incident took place just a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump held a high-level meeting in Miami on ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

After the meeting, Trump said that diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war were in the final stages".

I think were very, were in the final stages of talking, and were going to see. Otherwise, its going to go on for a long time," said Trump, adding that he did not have a deadline for the process.

Trump said Russian leader Vladimir Putin, whom he spoke to just before his meeting with Zelensky, was very serious" about peace. He added that there would be a strong agreement" to guarantee Ukraines security, one which would involve European countries.

Ahead of the meeting, Russia urged Kyiv to withdraw its troops from the eastern Donbas region to put an end to the conflict in Ukraine.

Ukraine should now take the brave decision" to pull out of the Donbas without delay", the Kremlins diplomatic advisor Yuri Ushakov told reporters.

Ukraines departure from the fifth of the eastern Donetsk region in the Donbas, still under its control, is a key Russian demand for any agreement.

With inputs from agencies

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Moscow, Russia

First Published: December 29, 2025, 20:51 IST

News world Russia Says Ukraine's Drones Targeted Putin's Home, Zelenskyy Calls It 'Complete Fabrication'

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...
Hindu-Owned House Torched In Bangladesh's Pirojpur As Mob Violence Against Minorities Continues

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 10:00 IST

Homes belonging to seven Hindu families were torched in Chattogram within five days as part of a broader attack on religious minorities in Bangladesh.

Rapid Read

Unidentified attackers torched a Hindu-owned home in Bangladesh's Pirojpur district. (X/@taslimanasreen)

A Hindu-owned house was torched in Bangladesh as mob violence reached alarming violence in the wake of nationwide unrest that followed youth leader Sharif Osman Hadis death earlier this month and the shifting political environment in the country.

According to various reports, unidentified miscreants set fire to several rooms at the Saha residence in Dumritola village of Pirojpur on December 27 in a targeted attack on minorities. The suspects allegedly inserted a cloth inside one of the rooms and set it on fire, and the blaze quickly spread throughout the house.

#BreakingNews Cases of attacks on Hindus have reached an alarming level in Bangladesh. On December 27 at 6am, miscreants set fire at homes of Kanti Saha Dumuria village under Pirojpur district. pic.twitter.com/M4s7ROHBSs Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury (@salah_shoaib) December 28, 2025

Taking to X, Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen wrote, In Dumritola village of Pirojpur, five rooms of the Saha familys house were burned down by Hindu-hating jihadis. They set the house on fire in the early hours of the morning, when everyone was asleep."

In Raozan, Chattogram, jihadis had set fire to Hindu homes in the same way, at dawn. Will all the remaining Hindu homes in the country be burned like this? They want to burn Hindus alive; that is why they set fires when people are asleep. Is Yunus just playing the flute?" she added.

This comes after a Hindu-owned house near the southeastern port city of Chattogram was set on fire by unidentified attackers last week. Family members said they were jolted awake by the heat from the blaze in the early morning hours, but were initially trapped inside as the doors had been locked from the outside.

All eight members of the two families managed to flee by cutting through tin sheets and bamboo fencing, but their household belongings were lost and their pets were killed. Police said five suspects have been arrested during raids, while efforts were ongoing to track down the remaining accused.

A threatening message, written in Bengali, accused Hindus of actions against Islam and the Muslim community" and declared that homes, property and businesses of non-Muslims will not be spared" if the purported activities continued.

According to The Daily Star, homes belonging to seven Hindu families were set ablaze across three locations in Raojan within five days as part of a broader pattern of arson in the area. The police held a meeting with local influential people to ensure interfaith harmony and social vigilance against perpetrators of such heinous crimes".

Bangladesh witnessed a nationwide turmoil after student leader Osman Hadi, a prominent critic of India, was shot in the head by unidentified gunmen on December 12. He was flown to Singapore for treatment, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Thousands of supporters took to the streets and vandalised media houses like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. A mob brutally lynched a young Hindu factory worker Dipu Chandra Das and set his body on fire in Mymensingh over blasphemy allegations, triggering widespread protests across the world.

Another Hindu man, identified as Amrit Mondal, was killed by a mob on Wednesday over an extortion allegation. Yunus office on Tuesday said allegations, rumours or differences of belief can never excuse violence, and no individual has the right to take the law into their own hands".

The New York Times, in an analysis in August 2025, said the ouster of prime minister Sheikh Hasina in a student-led violent movement dubbed July Uprising resulted in a political vacuum" causing the emergence of radical rightwing forces in the social arena.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh

First Published: December 29, 2025, 09:25 IST

News world Hindu-Owned House Torched In Bangladesh's Pirojpur As Mob Violence Against Minorities Continues

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...
13 Dead, Nearly 100 Injured After Mexico's Interoceanic Train Derails; Rail Traffic Halted

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 07:09 IST

A train derailed near Nizanda in Oaxaca, Mexico, killing 13 and injuring 98. The derailment hit the rail traffic.

The train derailed near the town of Nizanda and was carrying nine crew members and 241 passengers. (Image: AFP)

At least 13 people were killed and 98 others sustained injuries after an Interoceanic Train, carrying 250 people, derailed in the southern state of Oaxaca in Mexico, authorities said on Sunday. The derailment disrupted rail traffic along the route linking the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.

Recommended Stories Earthquake Of Magnitude 6.5 Strikes Mexico, People Rush Out Of Buildings In Panic | Video

Caught On Camera, Pedestrians Rush To Safety As BEST Bus Mows Down 4 In Mumbai's Bhandup According to the Mexican Navy, the train, which derailed near the town of Nizanda, was carrying nine crew members and 241 passengers. Of those on board, 139 were reported to be out of danger. Around 36 people were receiving medical assistance, Reuters reported.

Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum, in a post on X, shared that five of the injured were in critical condition, adding that senior officials had been dispatched to the site to assist the families of those killed.

The governor of Oaxaca, Salomon Jara Cruz, expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the accident and said state authorities were coordinating with federal agencies to assist those affected.

Mexicos Attorney Generals Office has already launched a probe into the incident, Attorney General Ernestina Godoy Ramos stated in a social media post.

The Interoceanic Train, inaugurated in 2023 under former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, forms part of the broader Interoceanic Corridor project.

The initiative was designed to modernize the rail link across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, connecting Mexicos Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast. The Mexican government has sought to develop the isthmus into a strategic trade corridor, expanding ports, railways and industrial infrastructure with the goal of creating a route that could compete with the Panama Canal. The train service is also part of a broader push to expand passenger and freight rail in southern Mexico and stimulate economic development in the region.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Mexico

First Published: December 29, 2025, 07:09 IST

News world 13 Dead, Nearly 100 Injured After Mexico's Interoceanic Train Derails; Rail Traffic Halted

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...
Trump, Putin To Speak Soon As Kremlin Says Ukraine Peace Talks In Final Stage

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 16:44 IST

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said preparations were under way for the call between Russian President and Trump, as diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war continue.

US President Donald Trump with Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Image: Reuters/File)

The Kremlin on Monday said that US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold a new conversation by phone very soon". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said preparations were under way for the call, as diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war continue.

Peskov said Moscow agreed with President Trumps view that talks aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine were in their final stage.

Responding to questions from journalists on whether the Kremlin shared Trumps assessment, made after his discussions with Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Peskov said, Of course."

The Kremlin spokesmans comments came a day after US President Donald Trump said a deal to end Russias invasion of Ukraine was closer than ever. However, Trump reported no clear breakthrough on the sensitive issue of territory following fresh talks with the leaders of the countries involved in the war.

On Sunday, Trump, who had promised to deliver a peace deal on the first day of his nearly year-old presidency, said it would become clear within weeks whether the conflict could be resolved.

The war has killed tens of thousands of people since it began. As part of a pre-New Year diplomatic push, Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Florida estate. Zelenskyy said a peace plan was 95 per cent complete, even as Russia launched major new attacks on residential areas in Kyiv a day earlier.

As in previous meetings, Putin also spoke by phone with Trump shortly before Zelenskyys visit. Despite the latest strikes, Trump said Moscow was serious" about peace. I really believe were, Mr. President, probably closer than  far closer than  ever before with both parties," Trump said, with Zelenskyy standing beside him. Everybody wants it ended," he added.

On Monday, Zelenskyy said Ukraine wants to host a meeting with European and American officials in the coming days to work on documents aimed at ending the war.

He said the talks would be held at adviser level. Zelenskyy also said martial law in Ukraine would be lifted only after the war ends and once the country receives security guarantees from Western partners.

(With inputs from AFP)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Russia

First Published: December 29, 2025, 16:27 IST

News world Trump, Putin To Speak Soon As Kremlin Says Ukraine Peace Talks In Final Stage

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...
News / National

by Gideon Madzikatidze

CHIPINGE - A Zimbabwean journalist who was on internship with the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services was apprehended for allegedly stealing a laptop belonging to Chipinge district offices in May 2024 and sold it to a passerby in Chimoio, Mozambique.In a statement, Zimbabwe Republic Police's Manicaland provincial spokesperson, Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said that the suspect, Livingstone Mtetwa (28) of Chipinge's Gaza new stands was on the run since May 2024 after allegedly stealing complainant, Zaine Dube's (of Gaza Township in Chipinge) office laptop who was employed by the Ministry (Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services) as the District Information Officer (DIO). During the commission of the alleged crime, the suspect was (then) employed as a student on industrial internship (attachment) whereupon during the course of investigations, he fled to Mozambique."Sometime in May 2024, police in Chipinge received a report on unlawful entry at the District Information Officer's office where Livingstone Mtetwa was identified as the suspect. Mtetwa was (then) employed by the same office as a journalism student on industrial attachment, and whilst investigations were in its infancy, he fled to an unknown destination and location," Chinyoka said."Acting on a tip-off by an informant to track down the suspect during routine police patrols on 24 December 2025 (after a year and some months later), authorities received information to the effect that the suspect was in the area where they swiftly responded and successfully apprehend him (Mtetwa) at his known residence. Further investigations by our officers led Mtetwa to admit and revealed that he stole the laptop and sold it to an unknown passerby whom he met in Chimoio (Mozambique) whilst on the run," Chinyoka added.Meanwhile, Inspector Chinyoka emphasised the importance of integrity, especially for journalists."We urge all citizens, including those in the media, to uphold the law and respect others' property," Chinyoka said.The journalist is expected to appear in court soon, with the laptop's owner (DIO) being informed about the development. This incident raises concerns about professionalism and ethics in journalism.
Trump Speaks With Putin For Second Time In 24 Hours A Day After Zelenskyy Talks

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 22:09 IST

Donald Trump held a second phone call with Vladimir Putin about Ukraine, following his Miami meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE)

US President Donald Trump on Monday (local time) held another telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, just a day after he held a high-level meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Miami on ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

President Trump has concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X.

President Trump has concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine. Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) December 29, 2025

According to RT News, the call also touched upon recent security developments. Putin aide Yuri Ushakov said that the US President was shocked and outraged" over an alleged attack on the Russian presidents residence, a claim which Ukraine denied.

During the conversation, Trump reportedly remarked, Thank God we didnt give Zelensky Tomahawk missiles."

Earlier today, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Putin and Trump would hold a new conversation by phone very soon". This was the second telephonic conversation between the two leaders within 24 hours.

Ahead of the meeting with Zelenskyy on Sunday, Trump held a good and very productive telephone call with Putin." Despite the latest strikes, Trump said Moscow was serious" about peace. I really believe were, Mr. President, probably closer than  far closer than  ever before with both parties," Trump said.

Trump said a deal to end Russias invasion of Ukraine was closer than ever. However, Trump reported no clear breakthrough on the sensitive issue of territory following fresh talks with the leaders of the countries involved in the war.

After meeting Zelenskyy, Trump, who had promised to deliver a peace deal on the first day of his nearly year-old presidency, said that diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war were in the final stages".

I think were very, were in the final stages of talking, and were going to see. Otherwise, its going to go on for a long time," said Trump, adding that he did not have a deadline for the process.

(With inputs from agencies)

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: December 29, 2025, 21:37 IST

News world Trump Speaks With Putin For Second Time In 24 Hours A Day After Zelenskyy Talks

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...
One Dead, One Critically Injured After Two Helicopters Collide Mid-Air In New Jersey | Video

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 29, 2025, 07:38 IST

Only the pilots were on board each of the two helicopters, which collided mid-air above a city in New Jersey, resulting in the death of one person.

Videos showed one of the helicopters spiralling out of control before crashing in New Jersey. (Photo: X)

One person was killed, and another was critically injured after two helicopters reportedly collided mid-air and crashed near Hammonton, New Jersey, triggering a large emergency response.

Videos on social media showed helicopters spiralling out of control before crashing, followed by flames and thick smoke rising from the crash site. The Hammonton Police Department reported that one of the helicopters was engulfed in flames by the time it crashed on the ground, according to the BBC.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said only the pilots were on board each aircraft, and that there would be a federal investigation into what led to the collision. Police said one person who was on board was receiving emergency care for critical life-threatening injuries".

Two helicopters suffered a collision mid-flight, causing their crash in Hammonton, New Jersey as one of the Helicopter can be seen Spinning Uncontrollably after the collision.The National Transportation Safety Board has confirmed it is investigating Sundays in-flight collision pic.twitter.com/aJnXti0nl2  FL360aero (@fl360aero) December 28, 2025

MID-AIR HELICOPTER COLLISION SPARKS EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN NEW JERSEY Two helicopters reportedly collided midair and crashed near Hammonton, triggering a large emergency response. Witnesses described flames and thick smoke rising from the crash site. Law enforcement and pic.twitter.com/djgyuEWYFG  Info Room (@InfoR00M) December 28, 2025

According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the crash involved a Enstrom 280C helicopter and a Enstrom F-28A helicopter and happened at around 11:25 EST (16:25 GMT). Both helicopters are lightweight aircraft that typically hold three people or fewer.

We got one helicopter fully involved, Im looking for the second one, I got another one in the woods down. Start extrication, were gonna need expedited response," a dispatcher said in a scanner audio. We have two confirmed injuries," another voice said.

Aerial photos of the wrecked choppers show one was badly charred in the crash, with all but the tail section reduced nearly to ash. The other helicopter appears to have had its tail sheared off and its cockpit crushed by the impact, according to the New York Post.

Hammonton is a small town in southeastern New Jersey with a population of around 14,000, located around 35 miles from Atlantic City and Philadelphia in either direction.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: December 29, 2025, 07:38 IST

News world One Dead, One Critically Injured After Two Helicopters Collide Mid-Air In New Jersey | Video

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...
'Very Productive Call: Trump Says He Spoke With Putin Ahead Of Zelenskyy Meeting

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: December 28, 2025, 23:28 IST

Trump and Zelenskyy to meet at Mar-a-Lago, talks on Ukraine's new 20-point peace plan and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war are likely to be on the agenda.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be meeting with US President DOnald Trump on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he had a very productive call" with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and confirmed of the meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said: I just had a good and very productive telephone call with President Putin of Russia prior to my meeting, at 1:00 P.M. today, with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine. The meeting will take place in the main dining room of Mar-a-Lago. Press is invited. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"

Earlier in the day, Zelenskyy reached Miami on Sunday ahead of the meeting with Trump wherein they are likely to discuss the peace deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

Previously, Zelenskyy told reporters that he is bringing a new 20-point plan for peace, which includes a proposed demilitarised zone and the meeting is expected to focus on US security guarantees.

However, Trump made it clear that he is in no rush to accept Zelenskyys proposal. He doesnt have anything until I approve it. So well see what hes got," he told Politico.

These remarks highlight how much Ukraines future depends on persuading Trump, who has at times seemed willing to tilt toward Russia in pursuit of ending the war. While Russia has moved very little from its position, the US has pushed Zelenskyy to move off his original demands.

Sundays meeting to discuss new peace proposals comes amidst Trumps intensified efforts to broker an agreement on Europes worst conflict since World War II, which has killed tens of thousands since February 2022. Speaking to reporters, Zelenskyy said that though he could not confirm whether the meeting would lead to a firm agreement, the two sides would aim to finalise as much as we can".

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: December 28, 2025, 22:38 IST

News world 'Very Productive Call: Trump Says He Spoke With Putin Ahead Of Zelenskyy Meeting

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...
News / Regional

by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole

GURUVE - ZANU-PF has joined forces with security agencies to hunt down the Guruve serial killer, with the party's information directorate, Farai Muroyiwa-Marapira, confirming their involvement in the manhunt."We have made sure that the party structures should complement in making sure that the suspects who have been dusturbing peace amongst Guruve communities are apprehended sooner than later. Murder has no room in modern-day society," Muroyiwa-Marapira warned.He announced that ZANU-PF has activated its structures from cell levels to support the efforts to catch the perpetrator.Tendai Chirau, Deputy Secretary for Security in ZANU-PF's Politiburo, revealed that the party has implemented comprehensive security measures to apprehend the culprits, but declined to disclose the specifics, citing security reasons."Of course as a party, we have instituted all possible security measures to complement efforts in bringing the culprits to book, but we are not at liberty to disclose the degree or magnitude of specific security mechanisms which we have put in place to show you that they (culprits) have limited time or meals before imminent apprehension. But in short, they are on their last supper before apprehension or may not even have few steps away from apprehension," Chirau said.The serial killer, Anymore Zvitsva (32), is accused of murdering 21 people, with recent attacks including the killing of five family members at Ona Mapeto Farm. Authorities have deployed drones, canine units, and tactical teams and are offering a reward for information leading to Zvitsva's arrest.Meanwhile, police and other security service members further announced that they are still hunting down for Zvitsva who has so far killed people in separate incidents in the area since last month.In a bid to accelerate the suspect's capture, police have announced a substantial monetary reward for information leading to Zvitsva's arrest.National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they were also hunting down for anyone assisting or harbouring the suspect."The substantial monetary reward is still standing and we are also looking for people or relatives who are assisting the suspect. They are liable for arrest," Nyathi said.
Abandoning the idea of owning a home may push people to live more for now and plan less for laterand often in unhealthy ways. The Washington Post reports that's the argument behind a new working paper by economists Seung Hyeong Lee of Northwestern University and Younggeun Yoo of the University of Chicago, who paired a behavioral model with transaction data from more than 500,000 Americans. Their conclusion is blunt: Once renters mentally "give up" on ever buying a home, they save less, spend more on non-essentials, put less effort into work, and are more likely to pursue speculative investments like cryptocurrency. "When housing becomes unattainable, people do not simply stay renters," the researchers wrote. "They often change how they live, work, and plan for the future."

The paper estimates that while 84% of Americans born in 1950 became homeowners at some point, only about 74% of those born in 1990 will do the same. Bankrate estimates that those currently earning the median US income are priced out of 75% of homes, making homeownership a "luxury." Using credit card and income data, Lee and Yoo found that behavior shifts sharply once the resignation about ever owning a home sets in. In areas where home prices rise, higher-income renters who still see a path to ownership tend to cut back on discretionary spending, while renters who appear to have given up increase their credit card spending, even as their long-term savings fall. Those behavioral shifts show up most clearly in investing. The researchers found that renters who feel locked out of the housing market are the most enthusiastic buyers of volatile assets like cryptocurrency.

Lee and Yoo argue the spending shift isn't about financial knowledge as much as it is an overall mindset: Once a major long-term goal feels unattainable, disciplined saving can start to feel pointless while short-term bets become more appealing. Over time, they warn, that dynamic can widen wealth gaps. However, not everyone is convinced the data tells such a clear story. Johns Hopkins sociologist Stefanie DeLuca cautioned against drawing conclusions about what people are doing with their money. "If you're not saving and deferring to buy a house, you're spending it on other kinds of enrichment activities for your kids, supporting folks in your family who are going through a tough time," she said. "We just don't know what this is about, and I'm not sure it's a good or bad thing."
A debate over how to bring back surfing in Germany's landmark English Garden escalated on Sunday after Munich city workers removed a beam surreptitiously deployed over Christmas to restore a surfable wave in the river that runs through the park. For years, the site had been a hot spot for surfers and spectators because of the three foot-high wave created by the strong current of the Eisbach river. But, as the AP reports, the wave disappeared in October after city workers cleared away accumulated sediment, gravel, and debris from the riverbed. That set off discussions between the city and the surfers on how to restore the wave.

The authorities were apparently not moving fast enough to suit at least some of the surfers, who enjoyed several days of holiday surfing in wetsuits after unknown individuals deployed the beam across the river bed on Christmas Day. A banner on the adjacent bridge declared in English, "Just Watch. Merry Christmas!" The surfers may have been stoked, but the city was not. The fire department moved in early Sunday morning, and the improvised structure and the wave were gone, the dpa news agency reported. The city has urged patience and asked an engineering professor from the Munich University of Applied Sciences to advise on possible solutions.

Safety concerns became more prominent in May, when a 33-year-old surfer died after her board was caught underwater and she couldn't free herself from the attached leash. The city's climate and environment department said in a statement Sunday that the beam was "illegal and potentially dangerous." The department said that after the tragic accident, "the city ... cannot tolerate impermissible structures at the Eisbach wave."

A Munich surfing association said on Thursday that city authorities were imposing too many conditions on efforts to restore the wave and that the process has "stalled." A post on the IGSM surfing association website said that the city was imposing "ever more conditions and added demands" on the project, including indemnifying the city for any risks during a test period. The association warns that the site "is not a wave for beginners and not a place to start with river surfing, even if one already has experience in the ocean."
Opinion / Columnist

Econet maintained Deloitte as auditors for more than eight years, a scenario contrary to corporate governance norms.



Around 2003-4, I attended an AGM, presided over by then Chairman, Professor Norman Nyazema, at which Strive Masiyiwa, who was, by then spearheading its operation as Group CEO in South Africa, spoke through video conference and promised shareholders that they would be rewarded for funding Econet's international expansion. This never happened and, in fact, shareholders went on to lose value via Econet's botched joint venture with Altech.

While Tawanda Nyambirai was chairman of Econet, the board went on to appoint Mtetwa and Nyambirai as legal advisors, a law firm in which Nyambirai is a partner and whose invoices he signed off as board chairman. This did not end here, Econet went on to appoint Beatrice Mtetwa to the same board; making her a director of a company for which she provides legal services.

While Tawanda Nyambirai was the chairman of the board, the company he was a shareholder to, and which he presided over as CEO, TN Financial Services, were financial advisors to Econet, a conflict of interest which was flagged by the local media at some point; and a

In 2009, Econet Wireless Global, which itself was set up and funded by and on the back of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, gave funds to the local company, and at an EGM, presided over by Tawanda Nyambirai, Econet sought to convert this to equity, which had the effect of diluting other shareholders. Minority shareholders, led by Old Mutual demanded a poll, in terms of the Companies Act. An extremely controversial poll, which was believed to be rigged by many shareholders, presided over by Tawanda Gumbo, then CEO of Delloitte was conducted at around noon, and the results were only announced in the evening when most of the shareholders had dispersed. This led to a public spat between Econet and Old Mutual. Econet later dropped Delloitte as its auditors, and went on to hire a Delloitte partner, Roy Chimanikire as its finance director.

Econet is a publicly listed company, meaning that members of the general public are shareholders, so are institutional investors who invest public funds in the company.

Econet's several million subscribers, that it has tended to take for granted for years, are the Zimbabweans that it depends on for its very existence.

By virtue of its mobile wallet service EcoCash, Econet is a pseudo-bank and holds deposits for millions of Zimbabweans, some of them so rudimentary that they will never understand where and who holds their deposits, especially village folks who just know that "mari yavo iri muEcocash".

Steward Bank, just like any bank, is a custodian of funds owned by the public. This is why even if banks are not listed, they are required to publish audited accounts every six months. But it's not enough that banks are supervised by the central bank because in the past few years, several banks superintended by the RBZ have failed, causing severe losses to businesses and the general public. To be more specific, the public has lost money through banks that have gone under, such as Interfin Banking Corporation, Allied Bank, Tetrad Bank, Genesis Investments Bank, AfrAsia Kingdom Bank, Trust Banking Corporation, First National Building Society, United Merchant Bank, Renaissance Merchant Bank (which later became Capital Bank). Consequences of these closures to the economy, and lives of the people have been grave and painful.

Why did the bank advance a loan which did not have adequate collateral security, as alleged, to Mr Chiyangwa?

Why did Econet pay Tawanda Nyambirai and his firm $39.9 million for "consultancy" for its licensing and debt collection?

Why was Nyambirai introduced at the controversial press conference as Steward Bank's Head of Legal Services?



----------------

Taonezvi is a former banker and an equity investor in small start-up companies in Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. He first acquired shares in Econet Wireless in its IPO when it listed on the ZSE in 1998. He attended the majority of AGMs and EGMs at Econet for many years until 2009, chaired by both Professor Norman Nyazema and Tawanda Nyambirai. He regularly moves between South Africa and Zimbabwe. Taonezvi holds a business postgraduate qualification from an Ivy League university in the USA, where he carried out research on code driven versus regulated corporate governance issues.

I HATE bullies, be they human or corporate. Their intention is to instill the fear of God, mainly to avoid scrutiny. I had this feeling about Econet Wireless and Steward Bank in the past few weeks after reading about their "raid" of The Source, a media house. I write this opinion with a heavy heart as I have been a shareholder of Econet since inception, and by extension, am also a shareholder of Steward Bank.I became an Econet shareholder in August 1998 when the company listed on the ZSE, and my purchase of the shares was largely driven by my view that its promoter, Strive Masiyiwa, was a victim and an underdog. I have divested from the company over the years largely on account of the company's conduct which I view to be ethically problematic, borderline and objectionable.For example:The foregoing questionable issues are matters for another day. In this article, I am interested in drilling at what I find to be a questionable and typical case of corporate incest arising from the Econet and Steward Bank's search and seize operation at the Source. It's a matter that is of deep public interest for several reasons as follows:The whole Econet /Steward Bank affair, to us the public, is not, and must not be an issue of client confidentiality because that issue will become a peripheral matter if Steward bank collapses on account of imprudent banking behaviour and millions of customers lose their hard-earned cash, including EcoCash deposits that are held at the bank. This is a matter of tremendous public interest, which is why I thank The Source for bringing it to our attention, and I have become more suspicious of Econet for trying to hush-hush transactions that in my view raise serious questions of prudence on the part of the bank.The involvement of Tawanda Nyambirai in my mind makes the affair stink to high heavens. Key questions that come into my mind are:Tawanda Nyambirai presided over a struggling TN Bank, which we now know as Steward Bank. During his leadership of TN Bank, he was also the Chairman of Econet Wireless Holdings. There is no doubt that as chief steward of the TN group, he destroyed shareholder value and presided over the collapse of that company, and today, I do not see any of the TN furniture shops around town, even though there are competing furniture brands such as TV Sales & Home, Station Furnishers and so forth.Mr Nyambiral as CEO of the TN group made a number of questionable and imprudent decisions, some of them downright silly. He opened several businesses that drained the business of cash, opening multiple leakage points in the business, bleeding the operation. There was TN Bank, TN Furnitures, TN Mart (supermarket), TN Grill, TN Bakeries, TN Health, TN Financial Services among others.One wonders what else he was going to open had he had more access to cash, and it boggles my mind why TN shareholders let him go on and on doing that. He even toyed around with crazy ideas like opening a cattle bank, with villagers depositing and withdrawing mombes out of the bank a an idea that is not just crazy, but carries far more risk than the risk the Americans carried by collateralizing unsecured mortgages and selling them off causing a global financial crisis. Imagine Nyambirai's cattle bank being hit by foot and mouth and the disaster that follows.Nyambirai's judgment as CEO of the TN Group, which now barely exists, was extremely questionable. For example, its mind-blowing that he agreed to a lease where TN paid close to $90 000 a month for the former Woolworths complex along First Street in Harare, replacing Kingdom Bank, that moved out on account of high rentals. At one point, he wanted to take over and lease council beer halls run by Rufaro Marketing. He wanted to create storage spaces for vendors to store their wares and vegetables for a fee, he said.He also intimated on entering the transport sector, running commuter omnibuses. In 2011, he spent $2.5 million buying about 35% of Pelhams shares at a premium a add to that the additional costs of court fights he had with Oliver Chidawu over the same shares; needless to mention that Pelhams was a declining business. Nyambirai also bought an obscure water bottling business called Matonjeni which later went under. If his business group did not have a bank, it would not be as scary, but one must wonder where all the money to do these ventures was coming from, if not from that bank, which is now Steward Bank.Putting Mr Nyambirai's investment gambles aside, what was worrying is his judgment as CEO in a group that includes a bank which handles depositors' funds. It was his problem and that of his shareholders, if he gambled with business funds, but a whole new nasty game when this involves bank funds. I say so because one of the transactions which Econet and Steward Bank sought to have The Source remove from their website, is about a loan advanced to Phillip Chiyangwa whose collateral security did not cover the loan.I am aware that Chiyangwa and Nyambirai were, at the material time, very close friends. What is clear about that loan is prudential tenets of risk management were not followed. This makes this issue a matter of public interest because funds in Steward Bank belong to depositors, and not the bank's owners. And in a case like this, public interest trumps client confidentiality, because many depositors have eventually suffered when banks fail. It's also a matter of public interest because banks are presently saddled with non-performing loans. The RBZ recently set up Zimbabwe Asset Management Corporation to buy up this toxic debt off the books of banking institutions at a cost to the economy.In June 2013, Steward Bank, then known as TN Bank, reported a massive US$10,4 million loss for the 14 month period ending February 28 2013. According to the bank's financials, it took a US$10,3 million write down on loans and advances. Note that Mr Nyambirai had left the bank in December 2012, and this write down mainly relates to the period when he was TNs' CEO.So why is it that after presiding over this kind of performance, Tawanda Nyambirai was introduced as the bank's head of legal services at a press conference, which introduction assumes he is working at the bank, again? Shouldn't the bank take the public and depositors more seriously than this? Should he be seen anywhere close to Steward Bank, which now handles millions of deposits including EcoCash deposits which belong to low-income ordinary and hardworking Zimbabweans out there?As a shareholder, I am troubled that Econet could have paid Mr Nyambirai and that his firm could have earned close to $40 million for consultancy services to the company. For goodness sake, why does Econet want a consultant to negotiate a licence with POTRAZ, and for debt settlement, yet the company has a team of executives who go to work every day between 8 am and 5pm?Strive Masiyiwa is on record saying he had to fight Econet Wireless Nigeria (later to become VNetworks, and now part of Airtel) after the firm wanted to pay consultancy fees for a round of financing. He deemed this to be corruption. Now, $39.9 million is a hefty amount of money to pay for consulting services for a license renewal that is supposed to be straight-forward.These fees are 5% of Econet's $714 million annual turnover in 2014, and 20% of its declared profit after tax of $194 million in the same period. It is clear from Econet's 2014 financials, especially note 14 of its financials which provides details of its intangible assets, that this consultancy fee is not capitalized in the $137,5 million fee that Douglas Mboweni announced as the licence renewal fee on May 30 in 2013.It is also a well-known secret that when Econet took over the ownership and management of TN Bank, and pushed out Tawanda Nyambirai from the bank's leadership, it had not conducted a proper due diligence. This due diligence, led by Tracy Mpofu, was done after the acquisition. This post due-diligence revealed that Nyambirai and his failing businesses owed several millions of dollars he was refusing to pay on account of the fact that loan agreements to related parties were not properly documented.Could this be the incentive for Econet to pay Nyambirai shocking amounts of money as consultancy fees with a view to normalizing these non-performing loans? Did Econet follow its own procurement procedures in awarding Mr Nyambirai such an expensive "consulting gig"? Was the "consulting" service necessary? And why were some of these payments done through TN Harlequin, a non-consulting company?Zimbabwean consumers have for years complained of overcharging, paying 23 cents per minute to make local calls. Econet, and other networks, have justified this by arguing and tendering an argument based on costs. No doubt, after paying out a large amount of $40 million to one individual and his companies, Econet was recouping those costs from us the consumers. Thank God POTRAZ was assertive in forcing the mobile operators to lower tariffs.But I'd feel hard done and very aggrieved if Econet was ripping off consumers and then making these kinds of outrageous payments to Tawanda Nyambirai and his businesses. In fact, without any shame at all, Mr Nyambirai, representing Econet, mounted a fateful court challenge late last year in which he wanted the courts to order Potraz to reverse its directive to networks to lower tariffs. This court bid was dismissed by the High Court in March this year. Is it not shameful for this company to rip of consumers, including poor people in far flung areas like Binga, Mahenye and Dotito, so that it can pay $40 million to Mr Nyambirai in Harare?There is no company too big to collapse in Zimbabwe. I never thought Kingdom Bank, even after an investment by international investor AfrAsia, would collapse and be interred in the corporate graveyard. I never thought Interfin would suffer the same fate with suave bankers like Rwodzi running it by proxy. Neither did I think Rennaissance Merchant Bank would also die a painful and shameful death.But when these banks collapsed, all the shenanigans they were involved in started creeping out of the cupboard. Some of these banks, like Rennaissance, were conducting transactions with senior RBZ officials who were supposed to be providing oversight. Each of those banks has external auditors in the name of these reputable firms, passing an unqualified opinion year after year. But in the end, whatever they were hiding under the guise of client confidentiality came to the fore.Millions of depositors have lost their lifetime earnings and savings through sleek and slippery bankers. A bank is an entity of extreme public interest, because it keeps public funds. Steward Bank must be subjected to even more public scrutiny because it handles trust funds for Econet's EcoCash product. Some of these funds held in trust belong to poor people who have for a long time avoided banks. The EcoCash mobile wallet is used by vendors, cross-border traders, farmers, SMEs and poor households.If you pay one service provider $40 million dollars, and advance partially secured loans to pals, it's a serious matter of public interest and no amount of crying client confidentiality will override that. If there is any doubt, go and ask a depositor whose money is stuck in AfrAsia Kingdom Bank, Allied Bank, Royal Bank, Interfin Bank and Capital Bank.The whole Steward Bank and Econet issue surrounding exposures made by The Source stinks to high heavens, not just for Steward Bank depositors, but also for Econet shareholders who have not been paid a dividend, and no amount of cover up will contain that stink.
As Marjorie Taylor Greene exits DC, the New York Times is out with a lengthy profile and interview of the outgoing Georgia congresswoman and former MAGA star. Greene tells Robert Draper that her split with Trump began to clarify at a memorial for Charlie Kirk, where widow Erika Kirk said she forgave her husband's killer. President Trump later took the stage and said he disagreed: 'I hate my opponent, and I don't want the best for them." The moment, says Greene, led her to realize "that I'm part of this toxic culture. I really started looking at my faith. I wanted to be more like Christ."

"Our side has been trained by Donald Trump to never apologize and to never admit when you're wrong. You just keep pummeling your enemies, no matter what. And as a Christian, I don't believe in doing that. I agree with Erika Kirk, who did the hardest thing possible and said it out loud."
In one Italian hamlet where cats have long ruled the streets, a single baby has become both mascot and warning sign. In March, Pagliara dei Marsi, perched on the slopes of Mount Girifalco in Abruzzo, logged its first birth in nearly three decades: baby Lara Bussi Trabucco, now the star attraction of a place with about 20 residents and far more felines. Her christening drew essentially the entire population, including the ubiquitous cats. "People who didn't even know Pagliara dei Marsi existed have come, only because they had heard about Lara," the girl's mother, music teacher Cinzia Trabucco, tells the Guardian . "At just nine months old, she's famous."

Lara's arrival is a feel-good story layered over grim demographics. Italy hit a record low of 369,944 births in 2024, extending a 16-year slide; the fertility rate has fallen to 1.18 children per woman, among the lowest in the EU. There's no sign of improvement. Indeed, births were down a further 6% in the first seven months of 2025, per Reuters. In Abruzzo, the rate fell more than 10% year-over-year. Pagliara dei Marsi, mayor Giuseppina Perozzi notes, has lost many elderly residents without "any generational turnover," making Lara the exception that proves the rule of population decline.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government has tried to nudge the trend with cash. Lara's parents received a one-time "baby bonus" of about $1,200 plus about $435 a month in child benefits. But they still face the challenges plaguing many Italian families: scarce childcare, fragile jobs, and uncertain schooling. Pagliara hasn't had a teacher in decades; the nearest primary school may not survive Italy's sweeping school closures due to enrollment drops. "The entire system needs to be revolutionized," says Trabucco, arguing that high taxes are not buying adequate services.

The squeeze shows up down the road in Sulmona, where locals are fighting to keep the underused maternity unit at Annunziata hospital from being shut down because it delivers far fewer than the 500 births a year required for funding, per the Guardian. Doctors and midwives there say the threshold is outdated for depopulated regions and warn of longer, sometimes risky journeys to distant hospitals if it closes. While politicians debate more bonuses, gynecologist Gianluca Di Luigi says Italy also needs a frank conversation about fertility preservation and realistic support for people who might actually want to have childrenso that Lara doesn't remain a lonely outlier.
The Sydney shopkeeper who tackled a gunman during the Bondi Beach mass shooting says he acted on instinct, driven by a simple goal: stop more people from being killed. In an interview with CBS News , Ahmed al Ahmed, a Syrian-born father of two, described grabbing 50-year-old Sajid Akram from behind and wrestling away his rifle as gunfire continued. Ahmed said he obeyed "a power in my body, my brain" which compelled him to act. It was "my soul asking me to do that," he added, per the BBC . "I don't want to see people killed in front of me, I don't want to see blood, I don't want to hear his gun."

The attack on a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach on Dec. 14 left 15 people dead and 40 injured, making it Australia's deadliest mass shooting since 1996. Ahmed was shot several times in the shoulder by the second alleged gunman during the struggle and has since undergone at least three surgeries. He said he never saw himself as brave, just unable to watch people die in front of him. "My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human being's life and not killing innocent people," he said.

Authorities have credited Ahmed with preventing further deaths. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called him "the best of our country," while the premier of New South Wales labeled him a "real-life hero." A crowdfunding campaign has raised about $1.7 million for him. Ahmed, however, remains focused on the toll of the attack: his actions, he said, saved "lots of people... but I feel sorry still for the lost," per the BBC. Akram was shot and killed by police; his son, Naveed, now faces 59 charges including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act.
China's military on Monday dispatched air, navy, and missile units to conduct joint live-fire drills around the island of Taiwan, which Beijing called a "stern warning" against separatist and "external interference" forces. Taiwan said it was placing its forces on alert and called the Chinese government "the biggest destroyer of peace." Taiwan's aviation authority said more than 100,000 international air travelers would be affected by flight cancellations or diversions, reports the AP . The drills came after Beijing expressed anger at what could be the largest-ever US arms sale to the self-ruled territory and at a statement by Japan's prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, saying its military could get involved if China were to take action against Taiwan.

Senior Col. Shi Yi, spokesperson of China's People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command, said the drills would be conducted in the Taiwan Strait and areas to the north, southwest, southeast, and east of the island. Shi said the activities would focus on sea-air combat readiness patrol, "joint seizure of comprehensive superiority," and blockades on key ports. It was also the first large-scale military drill where the command publicly mentioned one goal was "all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain." "It is a stern warning against 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces and external interference forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity," Shi said.

Hsieh Jih-sheng, deputy chief of the general staff for intelligence of the Taiwanese Defense Ministry, said that as of 3pm Monday, 89 aircraft and drones were operating around the strait, with 67 of them entering the "response zone"airspace under the force's monitoring and response. In the sea, the ministry detected 14 navy ships around the strait and four other warships in the Western Pacific, in addition to 14 coast guard vessels. "Conducting live-fire exercises around the Taiwan Strait ... does not only mean military pressure on us. It may bring more complex impact and challenges to the international community and neighboring countries," Hsieh told reporters.

Military drills are set to continue Tuesday. Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration said Chinese authorities had issued a notice saying seven temporary dangerous zones would be set up around the strait to carry out rocket-firing exercises from 8am to 6pm on Tuesday, barring aircraft from entering them. Asked about the drills, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party has attempted "to seek independence by soliciting US support and even risk turning Taiwan into a powder keg and ammunition depot."
OpenAI is dangling a salary of $555,000 plus equity for the person willing to take on what may be the most nerve-wracking job in artificial intelligence. The San Francisco company behind ChatGPT is recruiting a "head of preparedness," tasked with anticipating and limiting harms from rapidly advancing AI systems, from cybersecurity breaches and bioweapons to impacts on mental health, the Guardian reports. The job listing can be seen here .

The position comes with a mandate to "track and prepare for frontier capabilities that create new risks of severe harm." Previous execs in the role have not tended to stick around for long, the Guardian notes. The company announced the creation of a preparedness team in 2023, saying it would look at possible "catastrophic risks" including everything from phishing attacks to nuclear threats, TechCrunch reports.

Altman's search plays out amid mounting warnings from AI leadersand minimal formal regulation. Mustafa Suleyman, who runs Microsoft AI, told BBC Radio 4 on Monday that "if you're not a little bit afraid at this moment, then you're not paying attention." Google DeepMind co-founder Demis Hassabis has spoken of systems that could go "off the rails" in ways that damage humanity and AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio recently quipped that "a sandwich has more regulation than AI." Altman himself said OpenAI now needs a "more nuanced understanding" of how powerful models can be abused, adding, "These questions are hard and there is little precedent."

The risks are no longer hypothetical, the Guardian reports. Rival Anthropic recently reported that AI systems, under the direction of suspected Chinese state actors, helped carry out largely autonomous cyberattacks that successfully penetrated targets' internal data. OpenAI is also facing lawsuits over suicides and a murder linked to ChatGPT.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says President Trump has offered a security pledge that would last for 15 years, but Ukraine is pushing for longer. On Monday, the day after a meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort , Zelensky said Trump proposed US-backed security guarantees for 15 years after the war ends, with an option to extend. Kyiv is pushing for at least 30 years and up to 50, arguing that only a long-term, legally binding commitment can deter Russia from attacking again, the Wall Street Journal reports.

Zelensky said Trump told him he would "think about" a longer duration and confirmed that any deal would need congressional approval. Russia illegally seized Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula almost 12 years ago. The full-scale invasion followed in early 2022. "I told him that the war is already lasting almost 15 years, so we would really like for the guarantees to last longer," Zelensky said, per the Washington Post. "I told him we would very much like to consider the option of 30, 40, 50 years. And that this would be a historic decision by President Trump. And the president said that he'll consider it."

Trump has also emphasized that European allies would be expected to shoulder a major role. Details of the security guarantees are unclear, the AP reports. Zelensky said Monday that it would include the "presence" of partners to monitor the peace deal, though Russia insists it won't accept the presence of troops from NATO countries in Ukraine.

The security framework is one part of a US-driven 20-point plan to end the conflict and to shape a postwar "prosperity package" for Ukraine. Key issues remain unresolved, including the fate of Russian-occupied areas of Donetsk and control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Washington is exploring a "free economic zone" in contested parts of Donetsk, tied to a 60-day cease-fire and a Ukrainian referendum, but Moscow continues to demand a Ukrainian withdrawal from the region. Zelensky insists Ukraine cannot legally or morally give up territory.
Russia said Monday that Ukraine triedand failedto hit Vladimir Putin's residence in northern Russia with a swarm of drones, a claim Kyiv calls fiction aimed at sabotaging fragile peace talks. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said 91 long-range drones targeted Putin's residence in Russia's Novgorod region, insisting all were shot down without casualties or damage and vowing "reckless actions will not go unanswered," Reuters reports. Lavrov offered no proof for the claim, and it's not clear whether Putin was at the residence west of Moscow at the time.

"Given the final degeneration of the criminal Kyiv regime, which has switched to a policy of state terrorism, Russia's negotiating position will be revised," Lavrov said, per the BBC, though he added that Russia doesn't plan to give up on talks. Ukraine flatly rejected the accusation. President Volodymyr Zelensky called it "another round of lies," arguing Russia is laying the groundwork to justify new strikes on Kyiv, possibly against government buildings, and to derail progress in talks with the US. Zelensky said: "It is critical that the world doesn't stay silent now. We cannot allow Russia to undermine the work on achieving a lasting peace."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the drone story was fabricated as a pretext for more attacks and urged other countries to condemn Moscow's narrative. President Trump said he learned Russia's accusation of an attack in a phone call with Putin on Monday. "I don't like it. It's not good," he said, per Reuters. "I learned about it from President Putin today. I was very angry about it." Trump added: "It's a delicate period of time. This is not the right time." Trump also spoke to Putin on Sunday before Zelensky arrived for talks at Mar-a-Lago.

Asked if there was any proof of the attack, Trump told reporters: "Well, we'll find out. You're saying maybe the attack didn't take place? That's possible, I guess, but President Putin told me this morning." The Hill reports that Republican Rep. Don Bacon criticized Trump for appearing to side with Putin's account of the alleged strike attempt. "President Trump and his team should get the facts first before assuming blame," Bacon said in a post on X. "Putin is a well known boldface liar."
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High around 15F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Snow this evening will transition to snow showers late. Low around 5F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 60%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
China has criticised Israel's decision to recognise Somaliland, a move that prompted strong criticism from neighbouring countries.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that no country should "incite or support separatist forces" for "selfish interests", characterising the territory as an "inseparable part" of Somalia.

"China firmly supports Somalia's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and opposes any act of splitting Somali territory," ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Monday afternoon.

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.

"We urge the Somaliland authorities to recognise the situation and immediately cease separatist activities and collusion with external forces," Lin said, calling the Somaliland issue "entirely Somalia's internal affair" that "should be resolved by the Somali people in a manner consistent with their national conditions and constitution".

Eritrea, a fellow Horn of Africa nation, said China could use its power at the UN Security Council to stop the formal recognition of Somaliland.

On Sunday, the Eritrean Ministry of Information said the move was a "ploy" that had been "brewing for some time" to destabilise the region and was designed to incite "global crises and mayhem".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eritrea stressed it was "particularly incumbent on the People's Republic of China to shoulder its moral responsibilities in view of the apparent analogy" with Taiwan.

Somaliland declared its independence in 1991, but Israel was the first country to grant it formal recognition.

The self-declared republic is close to the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait linking Africa with Yemen, where the Houthi rebels have been battling government forces for years.

China's interests are centred on securing the strait - which it regards as a "jugular vein" for the Maritime Silk Road - to protect global trade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its first overseas military base is in neighbouring Djibouti to help counter the possible emergence of a rival security hub in Somaliland.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the recognition of Somaliland was in "the spirit of the Abraham Accords", the landmark 2020 agreements brokered by the United States to normalise relations between Israel and several Arab and Muslim-majority nations.

Netanyahu said Israel planned to immediately expand its relations with Somaliland in areas such as agriculture, health, technology and economics.

However, the move has also drawn sharp condemnation from Somalia and several neighbouring countries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

International and regional bodies - including the African Union, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, an east African bloc - have described the move as a threat to territorial integrity and a violation of international law.

China, which has vast interests across the Horn of Africa, has consistently resisted the formal recognition of Somaliland.

This stance has hardened into fierce opposition as the breakaway region strengthened its diplomatic and economic ties with Taiwan, particularly following the mutual establishment of representative offices in Hargeisa, the capital of the region, and Taipei in 2020.

Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China and has never renounced the use of force to reunify it with the mainland. Most countries do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

David Shinn, a professor at George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, said China saw Somaliland as closely linked to Taiwan and "will do everything possible to discourage recognition of Hargeisa and will strongly support the territorial integrity of Somalia".

When asked if the United States would follow Israel's recognition of Somaliland, President Donald Trump replied in the negative but added that he would study the issue.

Despite the apparent ambiguity, the US Department of State said Washington continued to recognise the territorial integrity of Somalia.

Shinn said it appeared Washington would withhold recognition for the time being, partly out of concern it would complicate its support for the Somali government's military campaign against Islamist groups such as al-Shabaab and the Islamic State.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"But if the United States were to change course and recognise Somaliland, it would open the door for others to do the same. Other countries will probably not follow Israel's lead, but recognition by Washington could be a different matter," Shinn said.

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.
Seventy-two per cent want their vehicle assembled in Canada, signalling support for domestic capacity and jobs

TORONTO, Dec. 29, 2025 /CNW/ - With as many as six in 10 Canadians in the market to buy a new vehicle within the next five years, three-quarters are worried the ongoing uncertainty in the automotive industry will result in sharply higher prices, making new vehicles unaffordable, finds a new KPMG Canada survey. While price and brand trust are the determining factors when Canadians buy a new automobile, the findings reveal that they have also become attuned to where vehicles are being made, with 72 per cent saying it's very or somewhat important to them that their vehicle is assembled or built in Canada.

Canadians call for new automotive strategy (CNW Group/KPMG LLP)

"With U.S. tariffs disrupting the industry, Canadians in the market for a new vehicle are looking to the brands they trust at prices they can afford in models they want, and increasingly, on where those vehicles are built," says Dave Power, Partner and National Automotive Sector Leader, KPMG in Canada. "Car buyers are looking for vehicles that meet their lifestyle, are affordable and have a positive economic impact on the country. It's not surprising that Toyota and Honda, which each have a large manufacturing presence in Ontario, resonate most with Canadian consumers. At the same time, trust in the Detroit 3 is starting to erode as Canadians see a lack of commitment to keep jobs in Canada, driven by U.S. trade policies and pressures on company leadership to move operations to the U.S."

"As consumer concerns collide with ongoing trade tensions and tariffs threatening to upend decades of cross-border stability, Canada's automotive sector needs to carefully consider its future and what changes might be warranted," he says. "Canadians are calling for a new automotive strategy, which prioritizes domestic manufacturing, secures jobs, provides long-term resilience, and positions Canada as a leader in electric vehicles and battery production."

Key survey highlights:

61 per cent of Canadians plan to buy a new car within the next five years

of Canadians plan to buy a new car within the next five years 62 per cent won't spend more than $50,000 on a new automobile, down from 75 per cent in a 2022 KPMG survey 39 per cent plan to spend between $30,000 and $50,000, while 23 per cent will only spend under $30,000

won't spend more than $50,000 on a new automobile, down from in a 2022 KPMG survey Price and brand are the two most important considerations when buying a new vehicle, with 80 per cent saying price, and 71 per cent saying brand trust and reputation

saying price, and saying brand trust and reputation 76 per cent say they are worried that ongoing trade tensions and tariffs will make new vehicles unaffordable

say they are worried that ongoing trade tensions and tariffs will make new vehicles unaffordable 72 per cent are concerned new vehicle prices will rise if Canada's auto industry loses protection under the Canada  U.S.  Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), especially given potential U.S. trade policies

are concerned new vehicle prices will rise if Canada's auto industry loses protection under the Canada  U.S.  Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), especially given potential U.S. trade policies Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) worry that tariffs have priced them out of the new vehicle market and another 10-15 per cent increase in vehicle prices would push another 38 per cent of consumers out of the market

(23 per cent) worry that tariffs have priced them out of the new vehicle market and another 10-15 per cent increase in vehicle prices would push another of consumers out of the market 72 per cent say it's important that their vehicle is assembled or built in Canada , 23 per cent very important 49 per cent somewhat important

say it's important that their vehicle is assembled or built in Canada

Support shifts toward domestic capacity

Canadians want government support directed where it enhances domestic production and resilience. While all five original equipment manufacturers (OEM) operating in Ontario have historically benefited from government support, only 7 per cent believe subsidies should continue flowing to the Detroit 3, the KPMG survey finds. Instead, 37 per cent want funding directed to Canada's auto parts supply industry to protect Canadian manufacturing and supply chain stability. Fifty-eight per cent also said they support diversification into defence manufacturing.

"People want long-term strategy, not short-term patches," says Mr. Power. "Canadians are calling for strategic investments that safeguard manufacturing jobs while strengthening the foundation for the entire automotive ecosystem."

Preparing for a post-CUSMA future

With CUSMA set for review next year, nearly three-quarters (72 per cent) of Canadians worry vehicle prices will rise if Canada's industry loses protection under the agreement. Canadians strongly support a transition that moves away from U.S. reliance and prioritizes defence manufacturing, parts manufacturing and battery and critical minerals production.

"If the CUSMA rules of origin change substantially to require even more North American content, this could have a dramatic impact on existing automotive supply chains," says Joy Nott, Partner, Trade and Customs. "This disruption would require a search for new North American suppliers to replace overseas manufacturing. While disruptive and likely to increase costs, this change could also create opportunities for Canadian manufacturers to expand and diversify their business."

Indeed, half (51 per cent) believe Canada's automotive industry cannot survive without trade protections or a new trade agreement with the U.S. and six in 10 (59 per cent) support subjecting domestic automakers to Canadian tariffs if they relocate assembly lines to the U.S., the research finds.

EV and battery leadership seen as a national opportunity

More than half of Canadians (55 per cent) believe Canada could become a global leader in electric vehicles (EVs) in order to reduce its reliance on the U.S. auto industry. Nearly as many (52 per cent) expressed a desire for governments to make this a priority. "And with billions already committed to new battery and EV charging facilities in Ontario and Quebec, momentum is building toward a made-in-Canada ecosystem for cleantech exports in renewable energy, EVs and electrification," adds Mr. Power.

"With all the turmoil in the auto sector, Canada has a real opportunity to invest at home and diversify into EV battery production to protect jobs, attract investment, and build long-term resilience," he says. "We have everything to lead the EV transition, including critical minerals, innovation, talent, and manufacturing capacity. What's needed is a clear roadmap to accelerate Canada's leadership, bearing in mind that building affordable EVs will be essential, particularly to compete with lower-cost models from foreign manufacturers, as will significant investment in a robust charging infrastructure."

Additional survey findings:

60 per cent say governments should provide financial support and incentives to keep automakers operating in Canada

say governments should provide financial support and incentives to keep automakers operating in Canada When asked to indicate how government support should be prioritized, 37 per cent said it should support jobs and production specifically in Canada's auto parts supply industry to protect Canadian manufacturing and supply chain stability; 21 per cent want governments to focus on industries where Canada can be more competitive; 15 per cent say both the OEMs and auto parts suppliers should be supported equally; and, only 7 per cent believe supporting jobs and production among Canada's Detroit 3 manufacturing operations should be prioritized

said it should support jobs and production specifically in Canada's auto parts supply industry to protect Canadian manufacturing and supply chain stability; want governments to focus on industries where Canada can be more competitive; say both the OEMs and auto parts suppliers should be supported equally; and, only believe supporting jobs and production among Canada's Detroit 3 manufacturing operations should be prioritized 51 per cent believe Canada's automotive industry cannot survive without trade protections or a new trade agreement with the U.S.

cent believe Canada's automotive industry cannot survive without trade protections or a new trade agreement with the U.S. 59 per cent believe that auto manufacturers in Canada should be subject to (higher) tariffs if they move to the U.S.

believe that auto manufacturers in Canada should be subject to (higher) tariffs if they move to the U.S. 58 per cent think the auto industry should diversify into defence manufacturing to save jobs

think the auto industry should diversify into defence manufacturing to save jobs 55 per cent say Canada has the potential to become a global leader in EVs, reducing its reliance on the U.S. auto industry

say Canada has the potential to become a global leader in EVs, reducing its reliance on the U.S. auto industry 52 per cent say Canada should prioritize becoming a leader in EVs and battery production

cent say Canada should prioritize becoming a leader in EVs and battery production Over half ( 55 per cent ) plan to purchase an environmentally friendly car next: hybrid ( 33 per cent ), plug-in hybrid ( 11 per cent ), fully electric ( 11 per cent )

( ) plan to purchase an environmentally friendly car next: hybrid ( ), plug-in hybrid ( ), fully electric ( ) 63 per cent say plug-in hybrids should be included in Canada's EV mandate

say plug-in hybrids should be included in Canada's EV mandate Only 25 per cent would consider buying an EV manufactured by a major technology company, down sharply from 49 per cent in a 2022 KPMG survey

would consider buying an EV manufactured by a major technology company, down sharply from in a 2022 KPMG survey Nearly half (47 per cent) support removing tariffs on EVs from China, 23 per cent disagree and 30 per cent are unsure.

About the 2025 KPMG Consumer Automotive Survey

KPMG in Canada surveyed 2,000 Canadians between the ages of 18-85 years, from November 7 to November 17, 2025, on Sago's AskingCanadians panel, using its Methodify online research platform. Forty-nine per cent of respondents were male, 51 per cent were female. Twenty-four per cent have annual gross incomes under $49,900; 35 per cent between $50,000 to $100,000; 42 per cent $100,000 and over. Thirty-eight per cent live in Ontario, 24 per cent in Quebec, 31 per cent in Western Canada and seven per cent in Eastern Canada.

About KPMG in Canada

KPMG LLP, a limited liability partnership, is a full-service Audit, Tax and Advisory firm owned and operated by Canadians. For over 150 years, our professionals have provided consulting, accounting, auditing, and tax services to Canadians, inspiring confidence, empowering change, and driving innovation. Guided by our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Courage, Together, For Better, KPMG employs more than 10,000 people in over 40 locations across Canada, serving private- and public-sector clients. KPMG is consistently ranked one of Canada's top employers and one of the best places to work in the country.

The firm is established under the laws of Ontario and is a member of KPMG's global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International, a private English company limited by guarantee. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. For more information, see kpmg.com/ca.

For media inquiries:

Sonja Cloutier-Bosworth

National Communications and Media Relations

KPMG in Canada

(416) 777-8175

(416) 528-5324

SOURCE KPMG LLP
Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) said Sunday that Russias strikes on civilian homes  including on Christmas  are a reminder to Americans that the war against Ukraine is at odds with Americas values.

In an interview on ABC Newss This Week, the former House Intelligence Committee chair pointed to images of the destruction in Ukrainian cities and neighborhoods and said Russian President Vladimir Putin is continuing to remind us that this is a war of aggression.

As Putin mercilessly pounds Kyiv and civilian homes, this is Putin  reminding us that we cant be for this, he continued.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

America, when we address the issue of whose side were on, you cant be America first and be pro-Russia, Turner said. Russia is a self-declared adversary of the United States. And, you know, here they are, mercilessly killing Ukrainians and trying to take Ukrainian land.

The interview comes just hours before President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are set to meet in Florida to go over a revised 20-point peace plan, which reportedly would have Russia withdraw from several regions and would establish an $800 billion fund for postwar recovery efforts.

Zelensky appears ready to make serious concessions to end the nearly four-year war, but Putin has yet to reciprocate.

Zelensky also continues to insist on security guarantees from Western allies to ensure Russia will not reinvade, which Turner said will be difficult to achieve.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In this peace process, you know, as Russia wants Ukrainian concessions, its going to be much more difficult, because Ukraine wants, of course, assurances that Russia is not going to come back, that the West is going to give them the assurances that they will deter Russia in the future, Turner said. And thats going to be difficult to give the type of assurances that the West is going to rise to the occasion to keep Russia from just reassembling and coming back stronger.

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.
Les chiffres, froids et implacables, tombent comme un couperet. Une realite sociale qui fait mal, qui interpelle et qui exige des reponses urgentes. Selon le dernier Barometre economique de la CEMAC publie par la Banque mondiale en decembre 2025, plus de 25 millions de personnes en Afrique centrale luttent quotidiennement pour leur survie sous le seuil de pauvrete.

Cest une hausse brutale qui frappe lesprit. Le taux de pauvrete regional grimpe a 37%, soit une augmentation de 5,9% par rapport a 2023. Derriere cette statistique, des visages, des familles, des destins brises. Concretement, cela signifie vivre avec moins de 1 668 FCFA par jour  a peine de quoi assurer un repas frugal  dans un espace ou lesperance de vie plafonne deja a 62,3 ans.

La pauvrete, une maladie aux multiples racines

Lanalyse de la Banque mondiale ne se contente pas de constater. Elle disseque les causes profondes de ce mal qui ronge le cur de lAfrique. La pauvrete centrale nest pas une fatalite, mais  lexpression de divers facteurs  qui senchevetrent et se renforcent.

Au premier rang, les conflits et linstabilite politique creent un terreau de deplacement et de precarite. Viennent sajouter le manque criard dinfrastructures, un modele economique vulnerable base sur la dependance aux matieres premieres et une agriculture de subsistance, ainsi que les faiblesses structurelles dans lacces a leducation et aux soins de sante.

Le rapport pointe aussi du doigt des maux endemiques : la mauvaise gouvernance, la corruption et les inegalites structurelles qui privent les populations des fruits de la croissance. Enfin, la region nest pas epargnee par les chocs climatiques, qui devastent les recoltes et accentuent linsecurite alimentaire.

Une sonnette dalarme pour la CEMAC

Ce barometre est plus quun rapport ; cest un cri dalarme lance aux gouvernements de la Communaute Economique et Monetaire de lAfrique Centrale, aux partenaires techniques et financiers, et a la societe civile. Les solutions existent, mais elles necessitent une volonte politique ferme, une gestion transparente des ressources et des investissements massifs dans le capital humain et les infrastructures resilientes.

La question qui brule toutes les levres est la suivante : face a cette escalade de la misere, quelles actions concretes et immediates seront engagees pour inverser la tendance et offrir un avenir decent a ces 25 millions dames ? Le temps des diagnostics est revolu. Place a laction.

Central Africa in Distress: Over 25 Million People Live in Extreme Poverty, World Bank Report Reveals.

The figures are stark and alarming. A harsh social reality that demands urgent answers. According to the latest CEMAC Economic Barometer published by the World Bank in December 2025, more than 25 million people in Central Africa struggle daily for survival below the poverty line.

This represents a brutal surge. The regional poverty rate has climbed to 37%, a sharp increase of 5.9% since 2023. Behind this statistic lie faces, families, shattered destinies. In practical terms, it means surviving on less than 1,668 CFA francs per day  barely enough for a meager meal  in a region where life expectancy already stands at just 62.3 years.

Poverty: A Multi-Rooted Crisis

The World Bank analysis goes beyond mere observation. It dissects the deep-seated causes of this plight. Central African poverty is not inevitable but "the expression of diverse factors" that intertwine and reinforce each other.

Foremost among them are conflicts and political instability, which create fertile ground for displacement and vulnerability. They are compounded by a glaring lack of infrastructure, a fragile economic model based on dependency on raw materials and subsistence farming, and structural weaknesses in access to education and healthcare.

The report also highlights endemic issues: poor governance, corruption, and structural inequalities that deprive populations of the fruits of growth. Finally, the region is not spared from climate shocks, which devastate harvests and worsen food insecurity.

A Wake-Up Call for CEMAC

This barometer is more than a report; it is a wake-up call for the governments of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community, technical and financial partners, and civil society. Solutions exist, but they require firm political will, transparent management of resources, and massive investment in human capital and resilient infrastructure.

The burning question is: faced with this escalation of misery, what concrete and immediate actions will be taken to reverse the trend and offer a decent future to these 25 million souls? The time for diagnosis is over. It is time for action.

Afrique centrale, pauvrete, CEMAC, Banque mondiale, Barometre economique, seuil de pauvrete, 25 millions de pauvres, conflits, instabilite politique, corruption, gouvernance, infrastructures, matieres premieres, agriculture de subsistance, chocs climatiques, inegalites, education, sante, esperance de vie, FCFA, rapport 2025, economie Afrique, developpement, crise humanitaire.

Central Africa, poverty, CEMAC, World Bank, Economic Barometer, poverty line, extreme poverty, 25 million poor, conflict, political instability, corruption, governance, infrastructure, raw materials, subsistence farming, climate shocks, inequalities, education, healthcare, life expectancy, CFA franc, 2025 report, African economy, development, humanitarian crisis.

Ange NGO
The second pilot involved in a mid-air helicopter collision over New Jersey over the weekend has died, officials said Monday.

Kenneth L. Kirsch, 65, of Carneys Point, died from his injuries Sunday at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, Hammonton police said.

Police also released the identity of the pilot of the other helicopter involved in the collision. Michael Greenberg, 71, of Sewell, was pronounced dead at the scene on Sunday, authorities said.

The two helicopters, an Enstrom F-28A and Enstrom 280C, crashed around 11:25 a.m. Sunday near the 100 block of Basin Road in Hammonton, shortly after taking off, police said.

Only the two pilots were on board the helicopters, the Federal Aviation Administration said.

Authorities look over the scene after two helicopters crashed in Hammonton, N.J., on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025. (WPVI-TV/6ABC via AP) AP

The helicopters both crashed into a farm field roughly a mile and a half from Hammonton Municipal Airport. One helicopter burst into flames upon impact, police said.

Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel said there was no surrounding damage and no other injuries.

Sal Silipino, owner of the Apron Cafe, said the pilots were very pleasant regulars who had breakfast at his restaurant before their flights on Sunday morning.

They would come in every week or two if the weather was nice, Silipino said. They were always together ... If we see one flying, the other one was always right behind them.

Police said the two helicopters were flying close together before they collided.

Reports were that they were flying in tandem, that they were flying close together, which is probably what caused the collision to occur, Friel told 6ABC.

U.S. Sen. Cory Booker described the crash as horrifying and tragic in a social media statement.

My heart is with those impacted and their families, said Booker, D-N.J.

The crash remains under investigation by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board.
Christmas is usually a time for joy, gifts and celebrations  but this year, the holiday season also came with a wave of unexpected recalls.

This year, five notable recalls occurred around Christmas, impacting consumers during a time when awareness can easily be overlooked.

From festive Christmas candies to pet treats, these five recalls surfaced right around Christmas, reminding consumers that even the most festive time of year isnt immune to safety concerns.

Here are the five recalls that stood out in the days leading up to and right after Christmas Day.

5 food, product and car recalls between Dec. 22 and Dec. 28

Item Detail Start Date Week of Dec. 22-28 Whos affected? People who bought certain pet treats, consumers of certain brands of chocolate and holiday bark and drivers of certain Toyota vehicles. Whats changing? See each specific food, car or product recall for more information. What will happen? People will have to stop consuming or using the products, return them to their place of purchase, and/or throw the products out.

FDA issues urgent recall on chocolate that has already caused an allergic reaction

A brand of milk chocolate is being recalled this holiday season due to an ingredient not listed on the label.

Approximately 112 units of Frans Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate made by Frans Chocolates, Ltd. of Seattle, Washington, are being recalled due to the presence of hazelnuts, which were not listed on the label, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

One allergic reaction was reported in connection with a consumer eating the chocolate.

People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to hazelnut run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product, the FDA stated in its recall announcement.

The recalled product is Frans Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate 46% Madagascar Plant-Based milk chocolate bars sold in 1.1-ounce bars.

The product was sold at Frans stores in Seattle and online nationwide at www.frans.com between Oct. 9, 2025, and Dec. 15, 2025.

If you have the Frans chocolates in your possession, the FDA urges people to not consume the product and instead return them to their place of purchase for a full refund.

For more information about this recall, you can check out our article here.

These chocolates may pose life-threatening allergy risks

If you received this brand of chocolate in your Christmas stocking or gift this year, you may want to double-check the label.

Willy Petes Chocolate Company LLC of Harwinton is recalling its Almond Despair chocolate bars due to almonds not being listed on the ingredients label, according to the FDA.

The list of ingredients incorrectly lists macadamia nuts instead of almonds on the label, posing a risk to consumers who are allergic to almonds.

No illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported to date.

According to the FDA, the recalled Almond Despair chocolate bars are packaged in purple wrappers with a weight of 2 ounces and a UPC code of 0 987261 5.

Customers who purchased the affected chocolate bars from Willy Petes Chocolate Company LLC should not eat the chocolate.

Instead, they should return them to their place of purchase for a full refund.

For more information about this recall, you can read our article on this subject.

Stop driving these Toyotas: 55K vehicles recalled due to this defect

Toyota issued a recall of 55,405 hybrid vehicles due to a defect that can cause loss of drive power and vehicle fires, according to a statement from the company.

The recalled Toyotas include the 2025-2026 Camry Hybrid and 2026 Corolla Cross Hybrid models made between August and November this year.

The recall was issued after Toyota received a field report about a vehicle that couldnt start.

Then, the issue snowballed into 34 field technical reports and 15 warranty claims.

The issue concerns a bolt inside the inverter assembly that was not tightened properly, according to The EV Report.

If this bolt is not properly tightened, warning lights in the vehicle will go on and could cause complete power loss while the vehicle is in operation or a vehicle fire.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a fix is in the works.

Owners will receive a notification letter about the recall by February 2026, and they will get a second letter once a repair is available.

Those looking for more information can contact Toyotas customer service at 1-800-331-4331.

You can identify the recall by Toyotas internal numbers 25TB15 and 25TA15 and by the NHTSA campaign number 25V869.

Two varieties of Holiday Bark recalled due to life-threatening allergy risks

A recall of two varieties of 5-ounce holiday bark sold at Aldi has been expanded due to undeclared allergens.

According to the FDA, Silvestri Sweets issued a recall of its Choceur-branded Cookie Butter Holiday Bark due to possible undeclared pecans, and its Choceur-branded Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark due to undeclared wheat.

No illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported in connection with this recall.

This recall began last month, but was expanded this week.

The expanded recall was initiated after it was discovered that the Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark had been packaged in Cookie Butter Holiday Bark packages resulting in undeclared pecan, the FDA said.

The following Cookie Butter Holiday Bark packaged in 5-ounce bags is subject to recall:

Lot #: 28525  Best By May 2026

Lot #: 29925  Best By May 2026

Lot #: 30625  Best By June 2026

The following Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark packaged in 5-ounce bags is subject to recall:

Lot #: 28525  Best By 08/2026

Lot #: 29925  Best By 08/2026

Lot #: 30625  Best By 09/2026

Consumers who purchased the recalled holiday bark are urged to discard the product.

Multiple dog biscuit varieties recalled in 7 states due to Salmonella risk

An Iowa-based distributor is recalling multiple dog biscuit varieties sold in seven states due to Salmonella contamination.

Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC of Sioux City is recalling its 4-pound bags of Country Vet Biscuits  Original Meaty Flavor and 4-pound bags of Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits  Meaty Flavor with Chicken, according to the FDA.

No illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported to date.

The dog biscuits were sold in seven states, including Missouri, Iowa, Colorado, Kansas, Texas, Montana and Nebraska.

The FDA advises consumers to thoroughly wash their hands and any surfaces that have come into contact with this product, as Salmonella can affect humans who handle the product as well as animals that eat the product.

Consumers who have these products should stop using them immediately and return them to their place of purchase for a refund.
New Jersey Medicare patients will be guinea pigs in a grand experiment that tests the capabilities of using artificial intelligence to decide which medical procedures should be covered by insurance.

The pilot program, which starts on Jan. 1 and will run through Dec. 31, is being implemented in six states  New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, Arizona and Washington.

The program was first announced in June by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. They described it as a health insurance breakthrough designed to root out waste and fraud.

Today, because of President Trumps leadership we are agreeing to this momentous and monumental accomplishment and we hope to see the dividends of this success story immediately materialize as a better experience for hundreds of millions of American patients, said Kennedy.

The pilot program aims to revamp the unpopular process known as prior authorization, or pre-authorization, which requires health care providers to get approval from insurers before prescribing certain medications or carrying out certain services.

Prior authorization has long been criticized as unnecessarily burdensome and frustrating by doctors and patients alike. In a nationwide survey of 1,000 physicians conducted by the American Medical Association, 24% reported that prior authorization led to an adverse event for a patient. More than nine in 10 reported prior authorization has a negative impact on patient outcomes and delays access to care.

Its the number one complaint not only from patients, but providers, doctors like myself, are continually struggling with this issue, said Oz, a former talk show host who now runs the CMS, a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services.

By outsourcing some of the decision-making process to technology, Oz said he hopes to ease the administrative burden on providers and ensure timely payment for Medicare services.

Through the Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction model, CMS will partner with private companies that specialize in enhanced technologies, like AI or machine learning, to assess coverage for select items and services delivered through Medicare. These include skin and tissue substitutes, electrical nerve stimulator implants, knee arthroscopy for knee osteoarthritis and incontinence control devices. These items and procedures have a higher risk of waste, fraud and abuse, according to CMS.

The program excludes inpatient-only services, emergency services, and services that would pose a substantial risk to patients if significantly delayed.

Providers for people with Medicare can either submit a prior authorization request for the selected items and services, or they can go through a post-service/pre-payment medical review.

Leading medical organizations have commended the federal governments efforts to combat waste, fraud and abuse. But they have also voiced misgivings about the program. In particular, the American Hospital Association expressed concerns regarding the participating vendor payment structure, which it says incentivizes denials at the expense of physician medical judgment.

The professional organization also raised concerns about oversight on the use of AI, oversight of vendors used by Medicare Advantage plans, expansion of the models scope and its implementation timeline, among other details.

According to CMS, companies participating in the program will receive a percentage of the savings associated with averted wasteful, inappropriate care as a result of their reviews.

However, the program does include some safeguards. Denials must be reviewed by a human clinician and cant be performed solely by a machine. Providers, suppliers and people with Medicare will also have the ability to appeal claims decisions, as usual.
A 37-year-old man has been charged in connection with the shooting of a woman found lying on the side of a road in Denville on Christmas Eve, authorities said.

Jovan C. Young, of Jonesboro, Georgia, was charged with endangering an injured person and four weapons offenses, the Morris County Prosecutors Office said Saturday.

While Young and the victim live in Georgia, both have ties to New Jersey, prosecutors said.

The woman was found on the side of the road at the intersection of Old Boonton Road and Pocono Road with a gunshot wound to her abdomen just before 9:30 p.m. Dec. 24, according to prosecutors.

Young was in possession of a 9mm handgun and multiple magazines loaded with hollow-point cartridges when he was taken into custody, authorities said.

The shooting, which officials say took place in Boonton, remains under investigation.

Attorney information for Young was not listed in court records on Monday.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutors Office at 973-285-6200.
A 29-year-old New Jersey man has been sentenced to six to 12 years in prison for sexually assaulting an unconscious woman at his apartment.

Bryan M. Stackhouse, now of the Manahawkin section of Stafford, and another man met the woman and her friend at a local bar in February 2024, the Bucks County District Attorneys Office said.

Later, Stackhouse and the woman went to his apartment in Falls Township. When the woman awakened she found Stackhouse sexually assaulting her, officials said.

The woman then went to an area hospital where she reported the assault.

Stackhouse was convicted in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, in July of rape of an unconscious person, sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault and indecent assault.

During the three-day trial, prosecutors presented DNA evidence that proved he assaulted her.

Im here today to tell you about how this event has affected my life, the victim said during Stackhouses sentencing last week. Talking about this is really hard for me, but I kept telling myself this is my chance for my voice to finally be heard."
A 35-year-old New Jersey man who caused a disturbance in a McDonalds was arrested after trying to take one police officers gun and another cops Taser in the parking lot, authorities said.

Lakehurst police were called to the McDonalds on Route 70 at 5:45 a.m. Sunday after getting 911 calls about a man screaming at passing cars and disturbing people inside McDonalds.

Officers calmed down Gregory A. Lopez and got him to walk into the parking lot, Lakehurst police said.

As police spoke with Lopez outside he became agitated again, refusing to follow orders and resisting arrest when officers tried to cuff him, authorities said.

During the struggle with police, Lopez tried to grab the officers gun and Taser. Police took Lopez into custody after a skirmish and charged him with three counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement officers.

Lopez, of Freehold Township, was also charged with two counts of attempting to disarm a law enforcement officer as well as obstruction, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

One police officer was treated and released from an area hospital after suffering a minor injury.

No attorney information for Lopez was listed in court records on Monday. He remained in the Ocean County jail.
Miami Herald journalist Julie K. Brown said she expected her name to appear in the Epstein files after her bombshell investigative series sparked a criminal probe into disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein in 2018.

What Brown didnt anticipate was finding her personal flight records among the tens of thousands of documents newly released by the Justice Department. That information was included in a Grand Jury Subpoena requesting specific business records from American Airlines.

The document appears to be details of an itinerary for a series of flights I booked in July [2019] just before the SDNY and FBI arrested Epstein, Brown wrote in a Dec. 28 post on her Substack.

Brown noted that the travel itinerary included her maiden name, which she does not use professionally. Its an unusual name, so its clear its me, she wrote.

As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why was the DOJ monitoring me? Brown wrote in a post on X.

The DOJ has not issued an explanation for why Browns flight information appeared in its Epstein files database.

Does somebody at the DOJ want to tell me why my American Airlines booking information and flights in July 2019 are part of the Epstein files (attached to a grand jury subpoena)? As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why was the DOJ pic.twitter.com/m1mgP6pdgk  julie k. brown (@jkbjournalist) December 28, 2025

Browns three-part series Perversion of Justice, published in November 2018, played a key role in uncovering the depths of Epsteins sex trafficking and sex abuse crimes.

Her reporting would lead the Southern District of New York (SDNY) to bring new charges against Epstein in July 2019. The wealthy, well-connected financier later died by suicide in his cell at New Yorks Metropolitan Correctional Center in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges.

The records Brown discovered in the Epstein files showed her itinerary for a round-trip from Austin, Texas to Little Rock, Arkansas. Her return flight was scheduled for July 8, 2019, the same day federal officers arrested Epstein in New York.

Now, Brown is raising questions about whether the DOJ was tracking her during President Donald Trumps first term in office. Democratic politicians and fellow journalists have since weighed in.

In a post on X, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee said that The Department of Justice needs to explain why travel information and booking itineraries for a journalist are in the Epstein files.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) said Brown has been tirelessly seeking the truth to expose the Epstein Class. DOJ must answer for this.

Brian Tyler Cohen, a progressive podcast host and MS NOW contributor, posted on X: Why was Trumps DOJ during his first term tracking the top Epstein reporter?

Julie K. Brown is the sole reason Epstein was finally brought to justice. Why was the DOJ tracking a journalist who was, at the time, the only one trying to hold both Epstein & the justice system accountable for his crimes? said Brendan Keefe, chief investigator for Atlanta News First.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted with raised eyebrows and a faint chuckle as President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to see Ukraine succeed following Sundays peace talks at Mar-a-Lago.

Trumps remarks followed what he described as an excellent two-and-a-half-hour phone call with Putin and an ensuing face-to-face meeting with Zelenskyy at the presidents Palm Beach resort.

It sounds a little strange, but ... President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding, including supplying energy, electricity and other things at very low prices, Trump said Sunday during a joint press conference with Zelenskyy. So, a lot of good things came out of that call today.

The Trump administration has been working to broker a peace agreement between the two warring nations, nearly four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Significant hurdles still remain as the conflict continues, with Russia launching another wave of missile and drone attacks on Ukraines capital last weekend ahead of Trumps meeting with Zelenskyy.

Putin has sought to retain the Ukrainian territory Russian forces currently occupy, including at least partial control of the vital Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Zelenskyy has balked at those demands, instead proposing a demilitarized zone along the Russia-Ukraine border while seeking security assurances from the U.S. and NATO.

In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think, Trump said Sunday. We could have something where one item that youre not thinking about is a big item, breaks it up. Look, its been a very difficult negotiation. Very detailed.

However, Zelenskyy has pushed back against Trumps claims that Putin is willing to accept ceasefire terms and assist Ukraine with reconstruction.

I dont see it because, first of all, I dont hear it publicly, Zelenskyy told Fox News Bret Baier during an interview on Fox & Friends First that will air Monday night. He doesnt speak about peace. He says that he can go further. Its not the signals of peace.

A number of political commentators and politicians expressed similar views following Trumps latest round of talks with Putin.

Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) said that you cant be America first and be pro-Russia during an appearance on ABC News This Week on Sunday.

Russia is a self-declared adversary of the United States Turner said. And, you know, here they are, mercilessly killing Ukrainians and trying to take Ukrainian land.

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) criticized Trumps framing of his call with Putin, accusing the president of favoring Russias demands over Ukraines for economic benefit.

Its important to know the play Russia is running - likely a subject of this call: they are proposing to put billions in the pockets of Trumps corporate and billionaire allies if Trump sells out Ukraine in a bogus peace deal, Murphy said in a post on X.

Stanford professor Michael McFaul, the U.S. ambassador to Russia from 2012-2014, said that Putins actions and demands did not align with Trumps characterization of their phone call.

Contrary to what Trump said today, Putin doesnt want Ukraine to succeed. Putin wants Ukraine to become a part of Russia, McFaul posted on X.

MS NOW correspondent Jonathan Lemire remarked that he doesnt believe Putin is invested in Ukraines success.

Hes the one who invaded in the first place. Hes the one still with aims to conquer it, Lemire said Sunday on MS NOWs Morning Joe. And I dont know if we have the footage or not, but as Trump was saying that there was a cutaway shot of Zelenskyys reaction, and he almost burst out laughing. He just couldnt believe what he was hearing.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Snow showers early will become steadier snow for the afternoon. High 26F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 70%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

Snow will taper off and end this evening but skies will remain cloudy late. Low 12F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 70%.
You might be staring at your budget, wondering how youre supposed to cover rent, debt, and everything else on $20$25 an hour. A long commute or strict schedule may not even be an option if youre caring for kids, parents, or dealing with health issues.

The good news: plenty of professional jobs now offer real remote options and pay $40 an hour or more once youre established. Many are open to people early in their careers as long as you can show the right skills.

Here are 15 remote-friendly, entry-level paths where typical pay works out to at least about $40 an hour (around $83,000 a year), based on recent government job data. Actual remote openings will depend on the employer and the role.

Software developer

Software developers build the apps, websites, and tools you use every day. You might work on mobile apps, internal business tools, or cloud-based platforms. Many companies hire fully remote devs as long as you can overlap a few core hours with the team. Collaboration happens over video calls, chat apps, and shared code repositories instead of in a physical office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Typical entry into this field is a bachelors degree in computer science or a related area, but some people get in through coding bootcamps or self-taught portfolios. Youll need to know at least one programming language (like Python, Java, or JavaScript), understand basic data structures, and be able to work with version control tools like Git. Strong problem-solving skills matter more than a perfect resume.

Median pay for software developers is about $133,080 per year, or roughly $64 per hour.

Data scientist

Data scientists turn messy data into useful insight for businesses, hospitals, governments, and tech companies. A typical day might include cleaning data, building predictive models, and explaining your findings to non-technical people. Much of this work is done on a laptop, making it very friendly to remote or hybrid schedules.

To get in at the entry level, you usually need at least a bachelors degree in math, statistics, computer science, or a related field. Youll also need skills in tools like Python or R, spreadsheet software, and data visualization platforms. Some companies prefer a masters degree, but an internship, portfolio of projects, or previous analyst experience can sometimes balance that out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Median pay for data scientists is about $112,590 per year, or around $54 per hour.

Information security analyst (cybersecurity)

Information security analysts protect computer systems from hackers, malware, and data breaches. You might monitor network traffic, investigate suspicious activity, and help set security policies. Many cybersecurity teams are remote or distributed, especially for companies that operate across time zones.

Most entry-level roles require a bachelors degree in computer science, information technology, or a similar field. Employers also like to see hands-on experience with networks, operating systems, and security tools. Internships, help desk work, or industry certifications can help you get your foot in the door, even if you dont have years of experience.

Median pay for information security analysts is about $124,910 per year, which works out to roughly $60 per hour.

Computer systems analyst

Computer systems analysts act as the bridge between business and tech. They study how an organization works, then recommend and help set up technology to make things run better. In a remote role, you might spend your time on video calls gathering requirements, documenting workflows, and testing systems from home.

Advertisement Advertisement

You usually need a bachelors degree, often in computer science, information systems, or business. Employers want people who can understand both the technical side and the business needs, so project work, internships, or previous roles in IT support or operations can be helpful. Communication skills matter a lot in this job.

Median pay for computer systems analysts is about $103,790 per year, or about $49.90 per hour.

Web developer or digital designer

Web developers and digital designers build and maintain websites and user interfaces. One person might focus on coding the site, another on the visual layout, and many do some of both. Remote work is common in this field, especially for agencies, online brands, and freelancers who support multiple clients.

You can enter with a bachelors degree in web design, computer science, graphic design, or a related field, but plenty of developers are self-taught through practice and project work. Youll need to know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript at a minimum, plus have a portfolio that shows you can build or design working sites. For design-focused roles, employers will look closely at visual style and usability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Median pay for web developers and digital designers is about $95,380 per year, or roughly $45.85 per hour.

Computer programmer

Computer programmers write and test the code that makes software and websites actually work. While developers often design the big picture, programmers focus on the nuts and bolts: functions, logic, and fixing bugs. Many programming roles are fully remote, especially in software, finance, and tech consulting.

A bachelors degree in computer science or a similar field is typical, but not absolutely required if you can show solid skills. Youll need to specialize in one or more languages, such as Java, C#, Python, or C++. Being able to read documentation, debug code, and work well with version control systems are core entry-level skills.

Median pay for computer programmers is about $98,670 per year, or around $47.44 per hour.

Database administrator or database architect

Database administrators and architects build and manage the systems that store data for businesses, hospitals, schools, and more. In a remote role, you might spend your day tuning performance, setting up backups, writing queries, and making sure sensitive data is secure and accessible to the right people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Most entry-level roles require a bachelors degree in computer science, information systems, or another IT-related field. Youll also need to learn database languages like SQL and get familiar with major database platforms (such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, or Oracle). Attention to detail is critical because small mistakes can have big consequences.

Median pay for database administrators and architects is about $123,100 per year, or about $59.18 per hour.

Technical writer

Technical writers create manuals, help articles, how-to guides, and documentation that explain complex information in plain language. Many of these jobs are remote, since you can interview subject matter experts over video and write from home as long as you meet deadlines.

You typically need a bachelors degree, often in English, communications, journalism, or a technical field. Beyond the degree, employers want to see strong writing samples that show you can break down complex topics step-by-step. If youre writing about software or engineering, having basic familiarity with those areas makes you much more competitive. Entry-level roles may start with updating existing documents before moving on to bigger projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Median pay for technical writers is about $91,670 per year, or roughly $44.07 per hour.

Financial analyst

Financial analysts help companies and investors decide where to put their money. They review financial statements, build spreadsheets and models, and write reports on whether to buy, hold, or sell investments. A growing number of firms now allow analysts to work remotely, especially in roles focused on research rather than in-person meetings.

You usually need a bachelors degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. Strong Excel skills, comfort with numbers, and the ability to clearly explain your reasoning are must-haves. Entry-level analysts often start with junior roles on bigger teams or in rotational programs where you learn the ropes under more experienced colleagues.

Median pay for financial analysts is about $101,910 per year, or around $48.99 per hour.

Management analyst (business consultant)

Management analysts, often called business consultants, come in to study how an organization works and suggest better ways to operate. You might analyze data, interview staff, map out processes, and deliver recommendations in presentations or reports. Much of this analysis can be done remotely, with occasional travel depending on the client.

Advertisement Advertisement

Most entry-level roles look for a bachelors degree in business, finance, economics, or something related. Many employers also want a bit of real-world experience, such as internships, operations roles, or project work. Youll need strong problem-solving, solid writing and presentation skills, and a good grasp of spreadsheets and basic business math.

Median pay for management analysts is about $101,190 per year, or roughly $48.65 per hour.

Operations research analyst

Operations research analysts use math and data to help organizations make better decisions. That might mean improving shipping routes, staffing schedules, pricing, or production plans. This work is usually computer-based and lends itself well to remote or hybrid setups.

To get into this field, youll usually need at least a bachelors degree in operations research, math, statistics, engineering, or a related area. Youll also want skills in analytics tools like spreadsheets, programming languages, or optimization software. Employers look for people who can both build models and explain the results in plain language to managers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Median pay for operations research analysts is about $91,290 per year, or about $43.89 per hour.

Statistician or biostatistician

Statisticians design studies, analyze data, and help answer questions in fields like healthcare, government, tech, and marketing. Biostatisticians focus on public health and medical research. Both roles can be done remotely, especially when youre working with research teams spread across the country.

Entry-level jobs often require a masters degree in statistics, biostatistics, or applied math, though some junior roles hire candidates with a strong bachelors degree plus relevant experience. Youll need a solid foundation in probability and statistics, and confidence using tools like R, SAS, or Python. Being able to translate statistical results into clear, practical conclusions is key.

Median pay for mathematicians and statisticians is about $104,350 per year, or roughly $50.17 per hour.

Medical and health services manager

Medical and health services managers handle the business side of healthcare. They plan budgets, manage staff, coordinate services, and keep facilities or departments running smoothly. Many roles are still on-site, but there is growing demand for remote or hybrid managers in areas like telehealth operations, billing, and health information management.

Advertisement Advertisement

You typically need at least a bachelors degree in health administration, business, nursing, or a related field, plus some background in healthcare, either administrative or clinical. Some employers prefer a masters degree, especially for larger facilities. Strong organization, leadership, and communication skills are critical, since youll interact with doctors, nurses, insurers, and patients.

Median pay for medical and health services managers is about $117,960 per year, or around $56.71 per hour.

Registered nurse in telehealth or case management

Registered nurses dont always have to work at the bedside. Many move into remote roles such as telehealth nurse, nurse advice line, utilization review nurse, or case manager. In these jobs, you might review patient charts, handle phone or video visits, teach patients about their conditions, and coordinate care, all from home.

To qualify, you need to become a registered nurse first, which means completing an approved nursing program and getting licensed. Some remote roles want a bachelors degree and a couple of years of direct patient-care experience, especially in areas like primary care, emergency, or chronic disease management. Comfort with electronic health records and phone or video communication is also important.

Median pay for registered nurses is about $93,600 per year, or $45.00 per hour.

Computer network architect

Computer network architects design and build the data networks that connect offices, data centers, and cloud services. This includes planning hardware, setting up secure connections, and troubleshooting performance issues. Many tasks can be handled remotely, especially in cloud-heavy environments, though some jobs still require occasional on-site work.

You typically need a bachelors degree in computer science, information systems, or engineering, plus several years of experience in related roles such as network administrator or systems engineer. Entry-level spots are rare straight out of school, but you can build toward them by starting in junior network or IT support positions. Industry certifications in networking can also help.

Median pay for computer network architects is about $130,390 per year, or roughly $62.69 per hour.
We Asked for Environmental Fixes in Your State. You Sent In Thousands. Readers submitted more than 3,200 ideas for our 50 States, 50 Fixes series. Before the year ends, we wanted to share just a few more of them.

Its been a tough year for the environment. And yet, people all over the country are working hard to reduce greenhouse gases, reverse the harms of pollution, save imperiled species and restore pockets of nature. In our 50 States, 50 Fixes series this year we featured one success story from every state.

We also asked readers to share eco-friendly projects, big and small, underway in their communities. More than 3,200 submissions poured in, 14 of which we featured.

As 2025 draws to an end, were highlighting just a few more of the ideas that stood out but that did not make it into the series.

The following submissions have been edited and condensed.

 Cara Buckley and Catrin Einhorn









Looking out for the little guys Nicola Plowman Ive been rescuing bugs from the trap of nighttime lighting, like the ones that flew into my aunts house last night when the doors were open, drawn in by the glow. Sometimes I can save 20 in an hour. Its thrilling. Its empowering.



And it makes you wonder: Why are we even here, if were letting animals die simply because we dont notice them? If theres one place you can be a hero, its your own house, your own backyard. You can save so many animals just by paying attention. Its really a mindset shift.Theres so much magic in our neighborhoods. So much heartbreak, too. But wow, definitely some magic.  Nicola Plowman, California

Greening the homeowner association Nancy Payne Our large homeowner association in Irving, Texas, has recently earned the National Wildlife Federations Community Wildlife Habitat certification. We switched to native plantings in nine parks and 20 common areas, converted four acres to native pollinator-friendly wildflowers and grasses, planted native trees and installed dark sky public lighting. We also educate residents, who have now certified 135 individual homes and a commercial property. Volunteers with the Valley Ranch Associations green club did it with help and funding from the federal government, national nonprofits, local businesses, our H.O.A. and private donors. Our community is working hard to protect our urban wildlife and pollinators.  Nancy Payne, Texas

A Nebraska-shaped solution The Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District When we say Mary Bergstrom plants Nebraska, we mean that literally! Mary created a pollinator garden in the shape of Nebraska, including a walking path through the middle of the garden that replicates how the Platte River winds its way through the state.



Featuring 27 species of plants, flowers and grasses, many native to the Great Plains region, the garden, which was made possible by a 2023 grant from the PlantNebraska foundation, provides food and habitat to a legion of pollinators, from the monarchs that travel through Nebraska on their migration from Canada to Mexico, to native bees and more. Mary, who lives on the shores of Johnson Lake, Neb., spent 20 years as a librarian at Lexington High School and said she wanted to create a garden that could be a geography lesson, too.  Michelle DeRusha, Nebraska

Protecting a pair of piping plovers Susan Szeszol Chicagos motto is city in a garden, but our cutest conservation success story has to do with two federally endangered piping plovers, Monty and Rose (named after Montrose Beach, where they nested). After settling on the beach in 2019 they were spotted by birders, and a little spit of land was protected for them to breed. They became the first successful pair of piping plovers to breed in the city in 71 years, and their offspring became famous, too.  Rebecca Silverman, Illinois In 2021, the Chicago Park District expanded the protected natural habitat around the plovers nesting ground by 3.1 acres, an area that was renamed the Monty and Rose Wildlife Habitat last year.

Planting an urban forest Anne Little Tree Fredericksburg is an organization of citizen volunteers dedicated to the restoration of the urban forest in Fredericksburg, Va. Since 2008, we have planted over 10,000 trees along the street, in the parks and in the schoolyard. We have also given away over 60,000 native trees and shrubs to the general public. Last fall, an inventory of the trees in the city was conducted and it showed that Tree Fredericksburg is responsible for 47 percent of the trees now growing in the city in the public right of way.



Volunteers have come from all walks of life, including Scouts, students from the local schools and university, churches, civic associations and even from as far away as Northern Virginia. We have had students from George Mason University and the local mosque in Manassas, Va.



We believe trees to be the answer for many problems in our city: the heat island effect, stormwater management, walkable city streets and just plain beauty. There was no city arborist from 2008 to 2023 and so Tree Fredericksburg was the de facto arborist for our city. We have had a strong partnership with the city of Fredericksburg and great support from our political leaders. We have been a Tree City for 37 years.  Anne Little, Virginia

Bringing buffalo back Virgil Two Eagle For over three decades, Ive run the Black Feather Buffalo Ranch on 3,000 leased acres in Oglala Lakota County, S.D., on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Named after John Black Feather, who entrusted me with this legacy, the ranch represents far more than a business. Its a living testament to our Lakota heritage, a way of bringing our people back to our most sacred relatives, the buffalo.



In the past few years, Ive invested in new fencing to create a rotational grazing structure. Traditional, Native methods also encouraged buffalo to move around the land. Now its classified as a climate-smart activity by the U.S.D.A. When I look out over my herd, I think of my ancestral knowledge, and the generational knowledge my elders, including my uncle John Black Feather, passed down to me: that buffalo represent abundance and hope.



Each animal represents a living connection to our past and a promise for our future. As a single parent raising both my children and my buffalo, Im proud to continue this sacred work. I wish my uncle was alive to see how much our herd has grown, how were bringing our buffalo back and were keeping our culture alive, one buffalo at a time.  Virgil Two Eagle, South Dakota

Installing solar in low-income places Southern Energy Management In North Carolina, we are U.N.C. students who created the nonprofit SolarEquity to bring affordable renewable energy to low- to moderate-income communities. In the Southeast, it is difficult to implement renewable energy in affordable ways due to regulations and utility constraints, so we decided to be the intermediary between communities, affordable housing organizations and financial entities to bring solar and energy efficiency to places often left out of the energy transition, while decreasing carbon emissions.  Kaya Johnson, North Carolina

Planting pollinators Skateport Skateport is a rollerskating events and lessons service based in Connecticut. We had concrete poured in the heart of downtown in order to place a shipping container onsite to house our rental roller skates and decided to plant a public pollinator garden to offset the heat island effect and support our local ecosystem and pollinators!  Takina Pollock Shafer, Connecticut

Celebrating the natural world Molly Walsh Procession of the Species Celebration is a 30-year-old event that highlights community-made art to celebrate and appreciate nature. Each year, the community has a parade or procession that includes floats, live music and dancing, with large-format art of different species. It was started by Earthbound Productions and is organized by the community. Leading up to the event, there are two months of free and open studios and workshops to create the collective artwork. Art, culture and community are essential in fostering an ethic of environmental stewardship and protection.  Natalie Weiss, Washington

Teaching climate change in business class Mike Belleme for The New York Times Appalachian State is now requiring all undergraduates to take at least one class in the sustainability and climate literacy arena as a general education requirement. I teach the Walker College of Businesss version of the class. I really want my opening line to be in The N.Y. Times lol: This class is not to discuss whether we think climate change is real or not, or who is to blame, that is a waste of oxygen. This classs charge is to come up with better business processes to not treat the Earth like shit.  Scott Bowie Gray, North Carolina

Recycling rainwater Anita Snow via AP Brad Lancaster in Tucson, Ariz., has, for 30 years, advocated for and installed citywide rainwater harvesting infrastructure and planted thousands of trees native to the Sonoran Desert. The savings in deferred groundwater use run to the millions of gallons per year.  Eric Wagner, Arizona Mr. Lancaster said hes helped neighbors plant more than 1,800 native food-bearing trees and thousands of understory plants, which are irrigated by more than one million gallons of stormwater harvested annually from neighborhood rain gardens.

Decomposing yard signs Sydney Lehrer In Berkeley, Calif., Berkeley High School parents and families stopped receiving lawn signs for free when their seniors graduated earlier this year. As a result, a group of parents began selling eco-friendly seed paper signs, which decompose and grow into native flowers after it rains, unlike typical plastic lawn signs. The idea for a biodegradable sign started with an opinion article in the high school newspaper, and the signs were sold to hundreds of parents and families in the district. Its an idea thats very small and the families hope it will incite a bigger movement.  Sydney Lehrer, California Ron Levi, a parent of a recently graduated senior, spearheaded the effort, and said leftover proceeds from the sale of the signs went to a nonprofit parent group that raises funds for the school.

Reducing fire risk Wendy Tokuda In Oakland, Calif., volunteers are busy reducing the risk of fire while restoring the open spaces. Parts of the hills here are classified as a high fire hazard zone where the forests are packed with overgrown underbrush and deadwood. But these open spaces are also beloved green oases in this highly urban city, used by thousands of bikers, hikers and picnickers. They need care, but the city doesnt have the capacity to properly maintain them.



A nonprofit called Friends of Sausal Creek musters up scores of volunteers every weekend to steward multiple locations in the parks, removing invasive plants and shrubs, planting native plants, reducing the fire risks and maintaining Sausal Creek, where a small population of wild trout lives.  Wendy Tokuda, California

Sharing vegan delights Lisa Murray I write a vegan recipe and educational column called Recipe for a Healthy Planet for our local newspaper, The Monadnock Ledger-Transcript. I worked on a web portal of the same name for our local environmental education center, the Harris Center. Were educating people about how food choices affect the environment.  Lisa Murray, New Hampshire

Building without gas Victor A. Romero In terms of decarbonizing buildings, everybody despairs about getting Americas builders, HVAC contractors and homeowners to accept electrification. There are so many people to persuade! A big New Mexico developer has figured it out: He doesnt put gas infrastructure into his new developments in the city of Las Cruces, which saves him millions of dollars in unnecessary infrastructure. Just like that, a development is on the path to being 100 percent decarbonized. He is in the middle of a 6,000-lot housing project now, with homes selling out quickly. He cant figure out why more developers arent doing it.  Don Kurtz, New Mexico The developer, John Moscato, said not adding gas lines to developments saved him $3,000 per lot.

Running from plastic Thierry Steenberghs I have been a runner for over 50 years. The vast majority of plastic is not recycled, and I dont like the single-use plastic bottles given at races. I have been trying to get races to use paper cups with water canisters instead. Some smaller races in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have made progress, like the Scott Coffee Moorestown 8K, the Cooper Norcross Run the Bridge 10k and the Finger Lakes Runners Clubs Twilight 5K. I have tried to get the Broad Street 10 miler in Philadelphia to give up plastic, as it would save nearly 100,000 plastic water bottles from the landfill or ocean. I speak to race directors at every race I attend.



I am 86.  Sandra Folzer, Pennsylvania This year, Ms. Folzer became the world record holder for women aged 85-90 in the indoor mile.

Keeping textiles out of the landfill Rita Baker I thought you might be interested in a project near me in Kent, Ohio. Its called The Socially Responsible Sweatshop of Kent. From their flier: The Socially Responsible Sweatshop is committed to repurposing landfill-destined textiles into useful, beautiful items. These items are lovingly crafted and priced affordably. Proceeds from the sales of these items are donated to provide extra funds for food-insecure community members.



They sell their wares at the Haymaker Farmers Market in Kent year round and online and a couple of local stores. I discovered this organization at the farmers market about a year and a half ago and ended up donating my late mothers sewing machine to them. I have since donated fabric and other machines and sewing supplies when I can. Last year they raised $50,000, 100 percent of which went to the food-insecure of Portage County.  Kyle A. Klever, Ohio

Grabbing trash on the go Heidi Cramer/Piscataway Public Library Im writing on behalf of my friend, Douglas Johnston, who lives in Piscataway, N.J. An avid hiker, Doug serves his community and his environment by picking up trash from the trails. He never leaves the house without a trash bag and grabber. Doug knows Im submitting this; hes too humble to do it himself. Hes making a difference quietly.  Kate Baker, New Jersey Doug also picks up trash around Piscataway, often pulling over to clean up garbage from roadsides, and said he needs to wash out his car a lot.

Eating invasive species Liam Cromie Young, small-operation Rhode Island fishermen are fighting the European Green Crab invasion, spearheading new legislation and encouraging everyone to get out there and trap the crabs. A bill to create a more affordable, accessible license to commercially harvest the green crabs passed the R.I. General Assembly unanimously, and I, a 17-year-old, proposed it! The restaurant demand for the crabs is growing in the state, and there are a few fishermen leading the charge.  Liam Cromie, Rhode Island

Imitating beaver dams Hans Stephenson We are a small group of fly fishers concerned about cold, clean water. We have constructed more than 100 beaver dam analogues to keep more water on the landscape. These B.D.A.s not only store, cool and spread water but also provide habitat for many species of animals and plants.  William Young, South Dakota

Pivoting careers Sara Southwick I left my cushy tech job at Adobe this spring to open a native plant nursery. In Utah, we are way behind the rest of the country when it comes to environmentally conscious landscaping. Kentucky bluegrass lawns continue to dominate residential landscapes even though we live in a high desert. Ive only been in business for six months but Ive already made over $100,000 in gross sales. I believe Utahns are ready and businesses like mine are emerging to meet the growing demand.  Sara Southwick, Utah

Fighting for marine forests Tristian Ford In an effort to protect the coastline, Sebastian Ford, a high school student from Bainbridge Island, Wash., worked with the Seattle Aquarium, the Puget Sound Restoration Fund and tribes to raise awareness of bull kelp and get it designated as the states marine forest. His work became House Bill 1631 and was signed into law on April 16. He was also named Washingtonian of the day.  Rebecca Robins, Washington Sebastian Ford is the grandson of the reader who sent in this submission.


Gabriela Bhaskar/The New York Times Gabriela Bhaskar/The New York Times After the Los Angeles fires, their insurer told them they could return home. Photo shows the Van Ness family seated around the dining table. Our tests found carcinogens and neurotoxins in their house  and in their bodies. Photo shows Jeff Van Ness and Cathlene Pineda standing in the kitchen. Photo shows Jeff Van Ness and Cathlene Pineda standing in the kitchen.

Near the refrigerator, the lead level was

27 times the federal limit. And that wasnt all.

How Did This Family End Up Back in a Toxic House? A Times investigation has found that insurers are driving families into homes contaminated by smoke. Lab results show how one family was exposed to neurotoxins and carcinogens.

Jeff Van Ness is constantly cleaning.

Every day, he vacuums, mops and wipes every surface in his house, which stands on one of the blocks in Altadena, Calif., that survived the flames of the Los Angeles wildfires, but not the smoke.

He works in deliberate lines across the kitchen tile, then along the baseboards, then into the corners where the smoke pooled nearly a year ago  following a map only he can see.

Its the only way to quiet his thoughts: Is it safe for his children, 6-year-old Sylvia and 9-year-old Milo, to walk barefoot on the kitchen tiles? Should he wash the toys they drop on the floor with bleach, or with soap and water? The darkest thoughts are about his wife, Cathlene Pineda, 41, a jazz pianist who is on medication for cancer. If the toxins were in the house, he wonders, could they bring the cancer back?

The family reluctantly returned home in August, eight months after the Los Angeles fires and two months after a consultant they hired found lead  a dangerous neurotoxin  inside the house. After their insurer, Farmers Insurance, dismissed those findings and cut off payments for their hotel, the Van Nesses had little choice but to return and do the only thing they could: clean.

We dont have the means to pay our mortgage and live somewhere else, said Mr. Van Ness, 44, a waiter at a five-star hotel. Its a feeling of helplessness that is indescribable.

Lead level in the dining area:

7 times the federal limit Source: New York Times testing from Sept. 26 Gabriela Bhaskar/The New York Times

For nearly every house reduced to ash by the fires that blackened the Los Angeles sky last January, another was left standing but steeped in smoke, according to an analysis by The New York Times.

These homes sit at an uncomfortable juncture: intact but potentially contaminated.

Like most insurance policies in California, the Van Nesses contract with Farmers  the second largest home insurer in the state  covers smoke damage, but it doesnt spell out how the damage should be repaired. Thats because there are no state or federal standards for how an insurer should remediate a smoke-damaged home after a fire. In May, the California Department of Insurance created a task force to establish such standards, but until its recommendations are announced, families like the Van Nesses are caught in a regulatory no mans land.

A growing body of research shows that smoke from urban wildfires, like the ones that engulfed Altadena and Pacific Palisades, is more dangerous than smoke produced when vegetation alone burns. Ordinary objects become poisons when extreme heat turns them into gases. The button you push to start your car often contains beryllium  harmless when sealed in metal but highly toxic once airborne. A cars tires can melt into a cloud of benzene, as can the foam in a sofa. The handle of a kitchen faucet can give off chromium.

Microscopic particles carried by the smoke slip into a homes insulation, lodge in the seams of hardwood floors and pass through the mesh in kitchen tiles, contaminating the space with carcinogens and other toxins. Industrial hygienists and toxicologists insist that removing the contamination requires tearing out nearly every surface the smoke touched  not just the insulation, but the hardwood floors, tiles, plaster and stucco.

By contrast, the insurance industry is relying on what experts interviewed by The Times describe as outdated or incomplete research, endorsing cleanups based only on what can be seen and smelled. If insurers test at all, it is for a small subset of contaminants.

According to more than two dozen scientists, insurance adjusters and consumer advocates interviewed for this article, as well as a review of thousands of pages of internal insurer documents, this approach is supported by a small roster of industry consultants who cite research papers that have not been peer-reviewed, or were funded by the insurance industry.

We call it the tobacco playbook because it was done for so long and so successfully by an industry that was making a deadly product, said David Michaels, who served as the assistant secretary of labor directing the Occupational Safety and Health Administration from 2009 to 2017, and who has written two books detailing this strategy. This is absolutely the latest iteration of science for hire.

The Exposure

To understand what happened to the Van Ness home and whether it was safe to return over the summer, The Times asked the family for permission to have a certified professional test for lead and other heavy metals in each room, and to submit strands of hair so scientists could measure family members exposure to these metals over time.

Jan. 8: Smoke from the Eaton fire looming over the Van Ness home. Photo by Jeff Van Ness

By then, the house had already been extensively cleaned.

In February, a contractor hired by the family carried out the remediation that Farmers Insurance had recommended: The attic insulation was ripped out, floors were vacuumed and mopped, countertops and other surfaces were wiped, carpets and drapes were laundered and air scrubbers were left roaring in every room.

Furniture Air scrubber Furniture Air scrubber Feb. 18: Furniture wrapped in plastic during the remediation. Composite image from video taken by Jeff Van Ness

By March, dangerous chemicals were being found inside neighboring homes. But Farmers tests concluded that the Van Ness house was safe inside, finding hazardous levels of lead only outdoors.

Those findings were contradicted by an independent test the family paid for in June, which showed lead above the federal threshold in the living room and in the attic  results that Farmers dismissed. That was when Mr. Van Ness repainted the walls and began his obsessive cleaning.

The readings commissioned by The Times were taken in September  a month after the family had moved back in  and allowed reporters to see whether the home remained contaminated, and whether the Van Nesses had been exposed to harmful substances.

Six of the 11 samples collected in the house showed unsafe levels of contaminants, including extremely high levels of lead, which is known to metabolize quickly, leaving the blood and entering bones and tissue. No metals were found in the other five samples taken from the bedrooms, the living room, the piano and a wooden toy.

Sept. 26: Where testing by The Times found lead and other metals after the house was remediated. Lead 4.05 g/100 cm2 Metals found No metals found Parents bedroom Living room Parents bedroom Dining room Living room Bathrooms Kids toy Lead 4.05 g/100 cm2 Attic - Chimney Beryllium 0.322 Chromium 82.3 Cadmium 1.37 Lead 374 Lithium 16.2 Manganese 233 Attic - HVAC Chromium 16.6 Lead 12.5 Manganese 118 Kitchen Attic Childrens bedroom Kitchen - Under fridge Chromium 6.76 Lead 14.4 Lithium 2.54 Manganese 54.1 Attic - Vent Beryllium 0.309 Chromium 27.0 Cadmium 2.13 Lead 856 Lithium 9.64 Manganese 168 Kids bedroom Kids bedroom Two samples in the guesthouse Lead 4.05 g/100 cm2 Metals found No metals found Parents bedroom Living room Parents bedroom Dining room Living room Kids toy Lead 4.05 g/100 cm2 Bathroom Bathroom Attic - Chimney Beryllium 0.322 Chromium 82.3 Cadmium 1.37 Lead 374 Lithium 16.2 Manganese 233 Attic - HVAC Chromium 16.6 Lead 12.5 Manganese 118 Attic Kitchen Childrens bedroom Kitchen - Under fridge Chromium 6.76 Lead 14.4 Lithium 2.54 Manganese 54.1 Attic - Vent Beryllium 0.309 Chromium 27.0 Cadmium 2.13 Lead 856 Lithium 9.64 Manganese 168 Kids bedroom Kids bedroom Two samples in the guesthouse Kids bedroom Source: New York Times testing from Sept. 26

The readings showed 27 times the federal hazard limit of lead on the floor next to the refrigerator, and more than seven times the limit where the kitchen tile meets the dining room floor.

A sample taken from the HVAC in the attic found lead levels close to 8,000 micrograms per square foot. Although the Environmental Protection Agency does not set lead-dust standards for attic surfaces, a rule change passed during the Biden administration holds that any reportable level of lead dust inside a home is considered a hazard. The concentrations found in the attic were sky high, said Joe L. Nieusma, a toxicologist who was one of 10 experts who reviewed the results.

There are multiple carcinogens in the house and extremely high levels of lead, Dr. Nieusma said. Its not safe for humans  or animals  to live in that residence.

To determine whether the toxins inside the Van Ness home had made their way into their bodies, The Times commissioned Manish Arora, vice chairman of environmental medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York and the creator of a technology that uses strands of hair to measure a persons exposure to chemicals in the environment.

One centimeter of hair represents approximately one month in a persons life.

Every other test is like a snapshot, Dr. Arora told the family, explaining why their blood tests were negative. Hair has the ability to map back in time. Its like a molecular movie.

During a video call in September, Dr. Arora instructed Ms. Pineda to trim Sylvias hair as close as possible to the scalp. This video shows the strands being lasered to release the chemicals trapped in the hair so they could be measured over time. The analysis found nine chemicals above normal levels, including lithium and copper, which can damage the kidneys, and manganese, which can disrupt brain development. Also among them: arsenic, a carcinogen. The level of arsenic in Sylvias hair increased after she returned home, reaching 10 times the normal levels found in childrens hair throughout California.

After reviewing the familys hair samples, Dr. Arora concluded that the Van Nesses had been exposed to dangerous levels of toxins.

Each family members strand of hair showed measurable spikes in heavy metals after they returned to the home in August, indicating a period of elevated exposure, he said. The results revealed that Milo had elevated levels of all 11 chemicals that Dr. Aroras lab tested for, including lead, a potent neurotoxin with no safe level of exposure in children. Sylvias hair showed elevated levels of nine chemicals compared with the exposure levels of 1,000 children in California who are participants in an ongoing statewide study funded by the National Institutes of Health.

But he also found that the continued cleaning was working  at least for lead. For both parents and children, the levels of lead in their hair began to decline after they returned home and as they steadily moved bags of contaminated belongings to the curb and Mr. Van Ness continued his compulsive cleaning.

The presence of these metals does not mean the family will necessarily become ill, Dr. Arora, the founder and chief executive of LinusBio, which analyzed the hair, cautioned. But it does show that their bodies absorbed contaminants during that period, exposure that scientists associate with increased risks of neurological and developmental harm and, in the case of arsenic, cancer, he said.

All 10 experts who reviewed the testing results from the house expressed concern about the level of contamination and said that the insurance-led remediation effort was not sufficient. Several of them highlighted the risk in the attic, where testing by The Times detected beryllium, chromium and cadmium, all known to cause cancer in humans.

Especially concerning is beryllium, said Dr. Michaels, who issued the standard for beryllium during his tenure as the longest-serving administrator of OSHA. There is no safe level of beryllium exposure, he said, describing how, at the Department of Energy, an accountant had developed the debilitating lung condition known as chronic beryllium disease after handling files stored in a building where beryllium had been processed years before.

The most shocking thing is that this is after the home was remediated, said Joseph G. Allen, the director of the Healthy Buildings Program at Harvard Universitys T.H. Chan School of Public Health and a former scientific adviser to the White House, who reviewed the results.

Junk Science

What happened to the Van Ness family is unfolding across the Los Angeles basin, as homeowners navigate a narrow range of options: accept a modest cleanup or shoulder the cost themselves. Or, most fraught of all: move back in and accept their insurers assurances that the air is breathable, the walls are clean and the home is safe, according to responses to a Times survey of more than 500 survivors of the recent fire, as well as interviews with three dozen affected families.

For nearly every house destroyed by the fires, another was left standing but steeped in smoke, according to a Times analysis. Philip Cheung for The New York Times

Evidence showing that the remediation approved by insurers is inadequate is mounting: Data from 45 homes tested after professional cleaning showed that 43 of them still tested positive for unsafe levels of lead, according to Eaton Fire Residents United, a coalition of concerned residents.

Farmers ultimately paid for the Van Ness familys hotel accommodation for seven months and approved a budget of $25,900 to have the home professionally cleaned  a fraction of what it would have cost to follow the advice of experts who insisted that the only way to remove the contaminants was to strip away every surface the smoke touched. That kind of renovation would have cost upward of $500,000, according to data from the real estate tracking firm Cotality.

Scale those numbers across the Los Angeles burn zone, and the math is staggering: Doing only a surface-level cleanup of the nearly 10,000 homes that likely had smoke damage would save insurers over $8.5 billion, according to a Times analysis using Cotality data.

The first commandment of an insurance company is, Pay as little as possible and as late as possible, said John Garamendi, a Democratic congressman who represents Northern California and who was the states first insurance commissioner in 1991.

Dylan Schaffer, a lawyer who is representing more than 500 policyholders whose homes were damaged by toxic smoke from the Los Angeles fires, agreed that the insurers are driven by the bottom line. There is no other explanation. The science is against them.

It was when the Van Nesses started asking about the science that they ran into problems with Farmers.

Ms. Pineda was diagnosed with cancer five years ago, leaving her immunocompromised. Gabriela Bhaskar/The New York Times

Five years ago, Ms. Pineda was diagnosed with Stage 3B cancer. Concerned that she could be exposed to carcinogens inside her house after the fire, her oncologist wrote a letter to Farmers urging the insurer to replace all the soft goods  including mattresses, bedding and carpets  according to correspondence reviewed by The Times.

The adjuster texted back: Did the oncologist perform any type of testing of these soft goods to support their recommendation?

The question landed like a blow  as though her doctors warning didnt count unless it came with results from the very tests the family had asked the insurer to perform.

It felt like when you have those dreams that somethings happening, she said, and youre screaming at the top of your lungs in your dream to wake someone up or to alert someone, and nothing is coming out.

In California, insurers began trying to limit payouts for smoke damage more than a decade ago, after a series of devastating wildfires, according to Dave Jones, a former state insurance commissioner who was the top regulator when carriers first started inserting policy language that excluded toxic smoke.

When those exclusions were struck down in court, the carriers turned to something more subtle: They downplayed the science by relying on in-house experts, whose studies are often not peer-reviewed and whose methods are increasingly at odds with the emerging science of urban wildfires, according to interviews with two former insurance commissioners, insurance industry whistleblowers, attorneys and consumer advocates.

The initial settlement letter that Farmers sent to the Van Nesses, which was reviewed by The Times, referred to scientific studies that it said showed that household materials exposed to the smoke could be cleaned. According to these studies, it said, soot, char and ash have no inherent physical or chemical properties that will cause physical damage to common household materials, and that routine laundering and everyday cleaning methods were enough to restore the home to its pre-fire state.

In a single footnote, the letter referred to only one source: a three-page paper from 2019. It appeared on the website of a private company specializing in hazardous materials that once employed Richard L. Wade, the papers author.

Contacted by The Times, Dr. Wade confirmed that the document was never published nor peer-reviewed and described it not as a study but as a research summary, contradicting how Farmers characterized it.

This report is not objective science, said Dr. Michaels, currently a professor at George Washington Universitys Milken Institute School of Public Health, after reviewing the paper. It makes unsupported and unverifiable assertions, he said, adding, Its science for hire.

Dr. Wade did not respond to questions regarding the criticism of his research paper.

In an email, Luis Sahagun, a spokesman for Farmers Insurance, wrote: Every claim is evaluated and reviewed on an individual basis. Our goal is to pay claims quickly and fairly, taking into account the circumstances of the loss and the terms of the policy.

The company did not address detailed questions from The Times about the contamination found inside the Van Ness home after the insurer-led remediation, or about the carcinogens detected in the familys hair, saying that we cannot comment on individual claims or customers.

Jeff Van Ness is nervous about turning on the HVAC which sits inside a contaminated attic. So he opens the window. Gabriela Bhaskar/The New York Times

When the family sent their independent results to Farmers in June, the insurer turned to Safeguard EnviroGroup, a company that is advising the leading insurance carriers in California following the fires, and whose principal scientist is Dr. Wade, the expert whose paper was not peer-reviewed but was used as a reference.

In a document labeled confidential and obtained by The Times, Safeguard EnviroGroups founder, Brad Kovar, sought to discredit the familys independent report, writing that the hygienist hired by the Van Nesses lacked a particular license, and that the report  which found the highest levels of lead in the attic  had failed to specify whether the samples came from a floor, a shelf or a windowsill, each of which has a different regulatory threshold.

In their denial letter to the family, Farmers, citing the report by Safeguard EnviroGroup, further described the attic as a non-habitable space  the only explanation the insurer provided for never having tested the attic for contaminants.

But in response to a detailed list of questions, a spokesman for Mr. Kovar seemed to contradict that guidance, saying that all non-habitable spaces are relevant if they meet established contamination thresholds and provide pathways of exposure.

The spokesman added: Our conclusions are based on fact, data, established methodologies and recognized scientific standards.

Dr. Nieusma pointed out that the HVAC is in the attic and acts as the lungs of the house. If the attic is contaminated, the HVAC is likely redistributing those toxic particles throughout the home.

What they are doing is junk science, said Dr. Zahid Hussain, winner of the Department of Energy Secretarys distinguished service award for his work at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, adding that references to empty or unvetted studies are rife in the insurance industry when it comes to smoke.

The (Lack of) Standards

The Van Ness home, along with the debate over what the familys insurer should have done to repair it, is a microcosm of a broader fight now dividing the American Industrial Hygiene Association, which publishes a technical guide for how to remediate smoke damage. In the absence of state or federal standards, insurers have cited this guide, which lists Mr. Kovar and Dr. Wade among its authors.

But a cohort of industrial hygienists say the guide has been hijacked by insurance industry contractors who have introduced language suggesting that toxins can be cleaned using everyday methods. This summer, the hygienists submitted to the A.I.H.A. a list of what they said were errors and distortions in the latest edition of the guide, arguing it should be retracted or significantly revised.

They said that numerous non peer-reviewed research papers had been added as references in the bibliography, while peer-reviewed studies showing that microscopic particles of smoke can penetrate the fibers of a house were removed or omitted.

On Dec. 16, the debate turned tense on a video call during which the A.I.H.A. declined to make changes, according to three participants on the call.

In an emailed statement, Jessie Lewis, an A.I.H.A. spokeswoman, declined to discuss the specifics of the meeting, saying that the technical guide was a science-based publication and that the most recent edition was not influenced by the insurance industry. She had no comment after The Times pointed out that the organizations top donors included the Property Casualty Insurance Association of America, one of the main lobbying groups for the insurance industry.

The same battle is now roiling the newly created California Smoke Claims & Remediation Task Force, where Safeguard EnviroGroup employees including Dr. Wade presented slides claiming that professional cleaning was enough and that testing for anything more than lead, asbestos and soot, char and ash was an unnecessary rabbit hole, as first reported in a San Francisco Chronicle investigation. They argued that the A.I.H.A. guide  the same one that scientists are asking to be retracted  should be the accepted standard.

Back in Altadena, the Van Nesses are trying to make their home feel like home again. Gabriela Bhaskar/The New York Times

Since returning to their house in August, the Van Nesses have debated leaving for good. But where would they go?

Mr. Van Nesss job provides the health insurance needed for his wifes continuing cancer treatment with the oncologist who saved her life. And on his waiters salary, they feel trapped in one of the countrys most strained housing markets.

Its free-falling while reaching for branches that you hope will break your fall but dont, he said. And so you flail. You paint, you rack up debt and get rid of the things that you think are dangerous, you keep windows open, you wash your hands more, he said. And you worry that your efforts are no match for what really needs to happen.

For now, the Van Nesses are doing what they can: fighting with their insurer. And cleaning.
Not a Subscriber? Join O'Dwyer's & Get RFP Access Stop wasting time tracking down RFPs. O'Dwyer's connects you with organizations looking for PR firms & services. Get new business with O'Dwyer's! Join O'Dwyer's
Offaly Civil Defence has unveiled its new facilities as it celebrates its 75th anniversary

Cathaoirleach Cllr John Leahy and Chief Executive Anna Marie Delaney, joined by Offaly Chief Fire Officer Eoin OCeilleachair and Offaly Civil Defence Officer Fergal Conroy, were delighted to welcome Civil Defence Branch Principal Officer Cep Carty for the official unveiling of the newly installed shower and toilet facilities at the Offaly Civil Defence base in Axis Business Park.

This year has been marked by significant progress and investment in Offaly Civil Defence, thanks to the continuing joint support of Offaly County Council and the Department of Defence.

In early 2025, Offaly Civil Defence moved to a new home in Axis Business Park, which has this week seen further refurbishment with the addition of the new toilet and shower facilities. Further investment is planned in 2026, in the form of a technical communications room. All of this to support the growth in Offaly Civil Defence, which recently welcomed a new group of volunteers.

Nationally, the organisation continues to grow and innovate, with the modernisation of the fleet and the roll-out of new national training programmes. Offaly Assistant Civil Defence Officer Bob Flynn has played a key role in the planning and delivering of one of these national training initiatives.

At the unveiling, Cathaoirleach Cllr John Leahy spoke of his admiration for the organisation and its volunteers, noting Civil Defence is always the first on site and the last to leave, often working quietly behind the scenes. Their dedication, especially giving up weekends so that our communities can enjoy events, deserves enormous recognition.

Offaly Civil Defence Officer Fergal Conroy extended his sincere thanks to the Department of Defence and to Civil Defence Branch Principal Officer Cep Carty for the unwavering support, ensuring the organisation and its volunteers, has the appropriate facilities and training to ensure readiness to serve the community effectively.

To mark 75 years of Civil Defence service in Ireland, 18 local volunteers were presented with commemorative medals at a recent ceremony in Maynooth College. The remaining active members will receive their medals locally before Christmas.

For more information or to join Civil Defence, visit www.civildefence.ie/join
Deputy Michael Lowry has confirmed that a total of 129,656,195 has been issued across Tipperary by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in 2025.

The Department manages payments under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), oversees supports under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and the Seafood Development Programme, and administers several nationally funded schemes.

These payments provide vital supports for Irish farmers and fishers, in turn supporting rural and coastal communities, food security and underpinning the economic benefits accruing to the Irish economy from the activities of the agriculture and marine sectors.

Overall, these payments amounted to more than 2.18 billion in 2025.

Ireland continues to be one of the earliest to make payments under the CAP within the EU, and to the highest possible number of farmers, and will continue to work to issue payments as quickly as possible where they are still due.

Farmers who have outstanding queries are asked to respond to these as soon as possible.

In terms of the payments to the seafood sector through the Seafood Development Programme 2021-2027, which is delivered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the Department has implemented 11 schemes to support the fisheries, aquaculture and processing sectors in Ireland.

In total, up to the end of 2025, these schemes have provided financial support to 1,606 operations around the coastal counties in Ireland.



In addition, the Department delivers the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Capital Programme which is a phased programme for the infrastructural development of Irelands publicly owned Fishery Harbour Centres and includes, on an annual basis limited discretionary funding for small-scale shovel ready development and repair of Local Authority owned harbours, piers and slipways.

There was investment of some 76 million in forestry with payments made through the National Forestry Programme. These payments are helping farmers transition to a more sustainable future.

READ NEXT: Bernies SuperValu in Roscrea hold Christmas Customer Morning



Irelands International reputation for the provision of safe, sustainable quality agri-food and seafood is only possible through the dedication of our primary producers.

This support, along with continued investment in Research and Innovation, is a testament to the Governments commitment to the sector, he said
Tamil superstar Vijay, who is preparing for his final acting role in the upcoming film Jana Nayagan, was swarmed by fans upon his arrival at Chennai airport. The actor had just returned from Malaysia, where he participated at the film's audio launch and was making his way back to Chennai when a massive crowd gathered to catch a glimpse of their beloved star. Despite the presence of bodyguards, Vijay struggled to navigate through the sea of admirers as he headed toward his car.

In the chaos, Vijay tripped and fell just moments before reaching his car, with the crowd pressing in around him. Security personnel rushed to assist him, lifting him to his feet and ensuring he safely entered the vehicle. His co-star Mamitha Baiju too was caught between the mob. While visuals from the scene showed a car in his convoy involved in a minor mishap on the airport premises, officials declined to comment on the incident, according to PTI.

VIDEO | TVK chief Vijay stumbled and fell while trying to get into his car at the Chennai airport.



A large crowd of fans gathered to welcome him as he returned from Malaysia.



(Full video available on PTI Videos  https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/x42Kpd0AsW  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 28, 2025

ADVERTISEMENT

Vijay, who founded the political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam last year, had earlier announced that he would retire from acting to focus on politics for the remainder of his career. This news left many fans disheartened, with several turning to social media to share videos of the actors final dance at the movie promo event in Malaysia, marking an emotional farewell to his acting journey.
Bristol, England, Dec 29, 2025 - As artificial intelligence transforms how people search online, Buried Agency is urging businesses to rethink how they approach 
Jonathan Grall spoke with a therapist hours before he killed a man.

After years of delusions, hospitalizations and an extended time living on Portland streets, Grall had made the appointment himself.

At dinner that night, Kelly Grall felt hope for her son for the first time in a long time. They made a date to return to BJs Restaurant at Jantzen Beach before his next therapy appointment the following week.

Says he wants to get better, she texted her brother the next morning. Even mentioned about getting a job.

Not long after, she missed a call from the jail in downtown Portland.

She searched the sheriffs office jail log online, something she had grown accustomed to doing when she lost contact with her son.

She saw his name and texted her brother at 10:08 a.m. on Feb. 1, 2023: John was arrested on murder charges this morning please call me.

The news was as stunning to Kelly Grall as it was devastating. Someone had died. Her son was an accused killer.

And try as they might to help their son since his schizophrenia diagnosis, she and her husband could only watch as he cycled in and out of brief psychiatric holds, refusing to take his medication and never getting long-term help until he fatally stabbed someone.

Read: Fatal error Part 1 -- Two families devastated by Portland police mistake. Now somebodys dead

Chris Bouneff, executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness-Oregon, said Jonathan Gralls decline follows a pattern of lost opportunities in the ill-equipped, under-funded health care system that, among other things, didnt provide comprehensive treatment when Jonathan Grall and his family first sought support.

Why does it take a major crime for us to introduce the intensity of services that we know will help someone? Bouneff said.

Gralls delusions and threats showed he clearly needed help  and he got some. Psychiatrists evaluated him, he underwent several short hospitalizations, he received food and housing and his family always kept in touch.

But he never suffered a crisis considered severe enough to meet the high threshold for sustained care, his medical records show.

At her sons murder trial in late August, Kelly Grall told the judge that she prays daily for the man who died, 34-year-old Jonathan Bennett, and will for the rest of her days.

She made another promise: I will do everything I can to help improve the mental health care system in our state in honor of Mr. Bennett.

Jonathan Grall, 28, is now receiving long-acting antipsychotic medication through injections every 30 days, attends counseling and follows a recovery action plan at the Oregon State Hospital in Junction City.

Schizophrenia diagnosis at 22

Kelly Grall said she always feared shed get a call that her son had taken his own life or become the victim of someone elses violence while he was homeless and staying in shelters.

She knew he needed help, she said, but we never expected that he would harm anyone else  even when their son had started to show troubling signs of a break from reality in his late teens and early 20s.

Before then, she had always expected that her civic-minded son would pursue a career in politics.

At age 9, he had served as mayor for the day in their hometown of Camas. At 14, he wore a black tuxedo with a bright blue bowtie as the keynote speaker at a dinner fundraiser for Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area at the Portland Art Museum.

He worked as a page in the Washington state Senate for a week in high school. He was voted class clown of his 2015 graduating class at Camas High School.

At the same time, he was suspended twice when he consumed a pot brownie and showed up to class drunk, his parents said.

Jonathan Grall started Air Force bootcamp after graduation but was discharged about a month into the training when a physical exam uncovered signs of self harm, according to court testimony and medical records prepared for his trial and shared by his family.

His parents thought he was depressed after his aunts death by suicide.

Chuck Grall helped his son get a job with his employer, On Semiconductor, an assembly company.

Over the next several years, Jonathan Grall lived in his own apartment and seemed better but then in 2019, just after he turned 22 in June, he called his mother asking her to meet him at an AT&T store.

He told her that hed thrown his phone down a storm drain. He thought someone had tapped it and was following him.

She took him to Providence Portland Medical Center, where he stayed for three nights and took antipsychotic medication  the first of three emergency holds.

Read: A timeline of Jonathan Gralls contacts with hospitals and police

Medical staff described his new onset paranoia and noted he started showing improvement in the psychiatric unit and could be released to family. He moved back to his parents house.

The next month, his parents took him to a psychiatrist, who initially determined Jonathan Grall had a major depressive disorder with a brief psychotic episode.

The psychiatrist eventually diagnosed him with schizophrenia after several more appointments.

Less restrictive alternative

Jonathan Gralls second emergency hold came that October, for seven days at PeaceHealth St. Johns Medical Center in Longview.

Grall drove himself to the hospitals ER, tearful and anxious, reporting he believed he had chips in his head and that people were trying to frame me for killing myself, medical records show. He said he didnt feel safe living at home while his mother was on vacation.

But the hospital declined a lengthier involuntary treatment admission, noting he is not suicidal or homicidal and does not present as gravely disabled, according to his medical records.

The hospital released him under a court-ordered less restrictive alternative, with the direction to take his medication and attend outpatient treatment for 90 days.

But his parents soon figured out that Grall wasnt taking his medication and was lying about it. He was pacing and paranoid in their home and pulled down all the shelves in his fathers closet to reach voices he heard in the attic. He also kept using marijuana and drinking.

They gave him an ultimatum on a snowy day in January 2020: Take the antipsychotic drugs or leave their house.

He left.

Grall lived on Portland streets, stayed at shelters and visited the day program at Outside In for meals. His parents tracked his cellphone to ensure he was alive.

Eight months later, Kelly Grall called Portland police after her son failed to meet her at the Fred Meyer along West Burnside Street. Earlier that day, he had taken out a switchblade while at lunch with his younger sister and said she needed to kill their father.

Portland police Officer Katrina Ensley left her number when she couldnt reach Grall immediately and he then texted her dozens of times over several days. He claimed he had stomped a man to death who tried to harm his sister and that he killed a guy that was unlawfully in my domain and dumped the body off in the lake with my dad.

Grall showed up at Central Precinct less than two weeks later and told police he was turning himself in for murdering someone and was ready to go, according to court records.

Ensley placed Grall on a mental health hold and an ambulance took him to Unity Center for Behavioral Health.

The psychiatric hospital in Portland held him for three days but staff told Gralls parents that his symptoms would have to worsen before he could be involuntarily committed for long-term care, Kelly Grall said.

Her son knew when to keep things to himself and could mask his paranoia and delusions, she said.

Deterioration led to murder

After almost two years on the streets, Jonathan Grall got help at the end of 2021 from Outside In and Central City Concern, two health care and social services nonprofits in Portland, to receive Social Security disability and government food benefits.

He also got a grant from Multnomah Countys public housing authority to cover rent at the downtown Cambrian Apartments, where he slept on an air mattress.

He continued to suffer delusions. He told people at Outside In that he thought the government had hacked his brain.

An August 2022 mental health assessment at Outside In said Grall knew hed been diagnosed with schizophrenia but didnt believe he had the illness.

He required multiple face-to-face interactions and engagement with members of a multidisciplinary team to meet his needs and stabilize, but he often missed appointments, the agencys records said.

On Nov. 17, 2022, he stabbed a fellow tenant in the face and called 911 hours later. He said he felt threatened when the woman revved her motorcycle outside their building. But Portland police failed to arrest him in a convergence of bungled communication and misplaced paperwork.

Three days later, he went to the emergency department at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center in Northwest Portland complaining that he had swallowed a phone stylus though he had never used one, according to medical records.

A doctor described him as anxious and paranoid, the documents show. But he denied hallucinating or having homicidal or suicidal thoughts and was discharged.

It wasnt until after he was arrested on a murder allegation in the Jan. 31, 2023, unprovoked stabbing of Bennett outside the Portland Art Museum that he became a patient at the Oregon State Hospital.

Missed opportunities

Kelly and Chuck Grall acknowledge that their sons deterioration scared them and sent them into a tailspin of frustration  not only with him but also with the helplessness they experienced of having no legal leverage to force him into treatment as an adult.

They regretted telling him to leave their house when he wouldnt take his medication and asked him to come back after several weeks but he refused, Kelly Grall said.

Mental health experts who reviewed Jonathan Gralls medical history said he and his family should have received urgent attention at several critical points but didnt.

One of those was when he first exhibited symptoms of psychosis. The family had sought to enroll him in an early intervention program in Washington state after his first hospitalization in 2019.

The outpatient program offers comprehensive treatment and personal attention, including therapy, medication management, education and job support and peer and family assistance.

But he didnt qualify then because the psychiatrists early assessment found he suffered from episodes of depression with bipolar symptoms of irritability and those werent among the diagnoses accepted at the time, Kelly Grall said.

Later, after Jonathan Grall had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and after several hospitalizations, his mother tried again but said she was told his last Portland hospitalization posed a jurisdictional problem because it was out of state. She said no one told her that Oregon offered a similar early intervention program.

Read: Here are contacts for early intervention programs in the metro area

He did get crucial support later from Outside In, but he never got ongoing psychiatric care to address the longtime problem of skipping his medication, according to his medical records.

Outside In staff had tried to set Grall up for intensive case management, including monitoring his medication, but once he got his apartment, his contacts with the organization became less frequent, said Heather Bugayong, a licensed social worker who worked there then.

Gralls parents said they dont know why their sons alarming delusions and escalating behavior didnt trigger more of an effort to commit him to residential treatment. They knew about his psychiatric holds, but they didnt know about many of the almost two dozen contacts with hospital ERs and police until they read his medical records.

When their son was held at Unity Center for Behavioral Health, Kelly Grall said she called and begged a social worker there to push for his civil commitment but she was told that he wouldnt qualify because he didnt appear to be an imminent danger to himself or others.

Kelly Grall praised a bill signed by Gov. Tina Kotek earlier this year loosening that criteria for civil commitment in Oregon.

Starting in January, a judge can consider a persons recent actions or threats, lack of treatment or past pattern of deterioration when deciding if someone is a danger. Judges also will no longer have to find that a person poses an imminent danger to others and instead can determine that they have engaged in behavior or threatened behavior likely to result in serious physical harm in the near future.

Portland police Sgt. Josh Silverman, a supervisor in the Police Bureaus Behavioral Health Unit, said he worries most about people who are on the cusp of civil commitment but dont qualify, like Jonathan Grall. Civil commitments remain rare; fewer than 500 were approved last year out of nearly 8,000 filings.

The subacute level is the population that I think were not doing a great job serving, Silverman said.

When police place someone on a hold, the hospital can keep the person for up to five business days while a physician or county investigator determines whether to request a civil commitment.

This is where the police involvement ends, Silverman said.

Once discharged from a hospital, people can simply walk out onto the street with no support network to pick them up, take them to fill a prescription or help them find a case manager at a community agency.

That is something we just dont have enough of. Thats a big gap, said Laura Cohen, a former senior director of diversion services for nonprofit Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare.

Emily Cooper, legal director of Disability Rights Oregon, said the lack of mobile crisis teams and robust medication management also contributes to the deterioration of people like Jonathan Grall.

Its not uncommon for someone diagnosed with schizophrenia to suffer side effects from medication prescribed and choose not to take it. Thats why psychiatrists or other doctors must keep experimenting with different medications to find out what works best, patient advocates said.

Fundamentally what this young mans story illustrates is that theres a cost to not providing mental health services, Cooper said. As a society, we need to invest in people and in their recovery, so were not dealing with a different human cost later.

At the state hospital

Earlier this month, Kelly and Chuck Grall dialed in to a virtual hearing at the state hospital in Junction City, where their son appeared before the state Psychiatric Security Review Board.

The judge who found Jonathan Grall guilty of second-degree murder except for insanity sentenced him to the jurisdiction of the board, a state-appointed panel of five professionals including a psychiatrist and a psychologist. The board must assess his mental health every two years.

Public defender Allison Knight told board members that Grall was learning to process his crime and illness and expects to continue a positive, recovery trajectory that he has been on for the last year or so.

The next day, Jonathan Grall sat at a picnic table in a courtyard at the state hospital and talked about his parents twice-a-week visits and a reconciliation with his sister.

He has described his medication as a godsend and said he believes he would be dead himself  from substance abuse or a fight  if he hadnt been arrested.

Grall plans to apply for remote study through Portland State University and wants one day to be an accountant. He attends sobriety sessions at the hospital and an after-breakfast club where he socializes with other patients.

While he wasnt a good reader in school, he has devoured the books his parents bring him.

One in particular has inspired him: Jump by Larry Miller, a former Nike executive convicted as a teenager of murder in a gang shooting in Philadelphia. Miller earned a bachelors degree behind bars and eventually returned to society, rising to great business heights, not only at Nike but also as president for several years of the Portland Trail Blazers.

I figured if somebody else whos gone through so much could do what he did, then I would pursue doing that, Grall said. I really saw him as a model for who I wanted to be moving forward, and someone who I could be, if I was on medication.
Jonathan Gralls many contacts with hospitals and police after he started showing signs of serious mental illness:

June 23-26, 2019: Involuntary hold at Providence Portland Medical Center for acute psychosis, paranoia.

Oct. 16-22, 2019: Voluntary hold at PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview, Wash., for paranoia.

Oct. 29, 2019: Goes back to PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center for headache.

January 2020: Diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Read:

Fatal error Part 1: Two families devastated by Portland police mistake: Now somebodys dead

Fatal Error Part 2: A Portland man killed a stranger. Only then did he get long-term help

Feb. 2, 2020: Goes to PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center, complaining of hand injury from punching someone.

May 19, 2020: Goes to Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center in Portland for an unknown reason.

Sept. 6, 2020: Mother calls Portland police after Grall fails to meet her in Portland and tells sister that she should kill their father.

Sept. 10-16, 2020: Texts bizarre messages to a Portland police officer.

Jonathan Grall sent a string of bizarre text messages to Portland Officer Katrina Ensley between Sept. 10 and Sept. 16, 2020, after Grall's mother gave police his phone number, concerned when she couldn't reach him. Portland Police Bureau

Sept. 19, 2020: Goes to Portland Police Bureaus Central Precinct to claim hes killed someone and an officer places him on a police mental health hold.

Sept. 19-21, 2020: Involuntary hold at Unity Center for Behavioral Health in Portland for schizophrenia regression from not taking medication.

Nov. 4, 2020: Goes to Unity Center asking for wipes.

Dec. 22, 2020: Goes to what was then Legacy Good Samaritans outpatient Urgent Care Clinic, complaining of throat irritation.

Jan. 26, 2021: Goes to Providence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland twice -- complaining of chest pain and then seeking either Vicks VapoRub or lidocaine.

June 25, 2021: Handcuffed for not having TriMet fare, taken to Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center in Tualatin after he complained of headache, leg pain.

May 4, 2021: Calls 911, reports someone hit him over the head and stole his backpack.

June 14, 2021: Accused of throwing a rock at the Apple store in downtown Portland. No arrest.

July 4, 2021: Parents report Grall missing to Portland police, but police decline the report, noting hes an adult and living on the street.

July 6, 2021: Arrested on a criminal mischief allegation, accused of throwing another rock at the Apple store. District attorneys office drops the case the next day.

Nov. 2, 2021: Tells police someone was chasing him. They find no evidence to corroborate his report.

Oct. 23, 2022: Goes to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland complaining of pain from hitting someone.

Nov. 12, 2022: Goes to Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center complaining of back pain.

Nov. 17, 2022: Stabs fellow tenant in the face at his Portland apartment building and then calls 911 several hours later.

Nov. 21, 2022: Goes to Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center complaining of abdominal pain after claiming he swallowed a stylus but was reassured he did not.

Jan. 31, 2023: Arrested after he calls 911 to report he stabbed a man who was urinating outside the Portland Art Museum. Jonathan Bennett, 34, dies at the scene.

Aug. 20- Oct. 23, 2023: Judge finds him unable to assist in his defense and sends him to the Oregon State Hospital for treatment. Returned to jail after he takes medication and is found mentally fit to stand trial.

Aug. 27, 2025: Judge orders him committed to the state hospital after finding him guilty except for insanity of second-degree murder, first-degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon for killing Bennett.

Sources: Portland police, medical and court records.
The days when a Portland restaurant closing could shock us appear to be in the past. Perhaps thats because dozens of local institutions  from Paleys Place to Pok Pok, Toro Bravo to Beast  have already called it quits.

Or it could be due to the fact that recent closures often end up being less permanent than originally feared. Over the past year, restaurants from 3 Doors Down Cafe to Epif to Sandys Myanmar Cuisine to Slow Bar have reopened after a menu change, with new ownership or in a new location.

American Dream pizza became Original Dream (then closed temporarily after an October fire). Quaintrelle became 82 Acres. Several old Sharis diner locations became Elmers. After public appeals for help, downtown legends Higgins and Dan & Louis Oyster Bar had some of their busiest weeks in history.

But there were still plenty of painful closures, from a landmark Oregon steak and seafood chain to a beloved neighborhood watering hole to a cafe that held down its Old Town Chinatown block for a decade. Here are the 10 most painful restaurant, bar and cafe closures in the Portland area in 2025.

Bobs Red Mill

During its final week, the line to get into Bobs Red Mills cafe and retail store in Milwaukie stretched for hours, with employees waving away cars at the parking lot gates by midday. The closure came almost exactly a year after the death of founder Bob Moore at age 94 and was followed a month later by the Oregon company putting its signature red building up for sale.

Cliffs

This beloved Northeast Portland watering hole announced in October that the buildings owners had chosen not to renew its lease after six years under the Wonder Ballroom. So many bars and restaurants have struggled throughout the years to stay afloat, and weve lost so many great spots, yet weve managed to hang in there with your support, which makes this an especially bitter pill to swallow, owners Josh and Sierra Luebke wrote. Cliffs hopes to reopen in a new location.

Steak frites and Santa pants mugs at Plumb, a former bistro residency at Deadshot. Michael Russell | The Oregonian

Deadshot

After more than seven years, this inventive Southeast Portland cocktail bar announced it would close at years end. The truth is simple  sales just arent there anymore, while costs keep climbing, owner Adam Robinson wrote. Over the years, the bar played host to several notable restaurant pop-ups, including Sun Rice and Plumb. After its final service in November, the Deadshot space has played host to the holiday bar concept Miracle.

Ian Williams, owner of Deadstock Coffee, a sneaker-themed coffee shop in downtown Portland. Sean Meagher/The Oregonian

Deadstock Coffee

One of Portlands most innovative coffee shops is closing at the end of the year after a decade in Old Town Chinatown. Deadstock Coffee  the citys first sneaker culture-inspired coffee shop  opened 10 years ago, starting with a small stand inside nearby streetwear boutique Compound Gallery before moving to its current home at 408 N.W. Couch St. I know that weve been in Old Town holding the block down for a long time, but its time to move on, Deadstock owner Ian Williams said in an Instagram video earlier this month. Sometimes real good things come to an end.

Yeasted waffles with hazelnut praline butter and Vermont maple syrup at Fair Weather, the brunch standout turned cafe from the seafood specialists at Southeast Portland's Jacqueline. Michael Russell | The Oregonian

Fair Weather

Arguably Portlands best brunch restaurant  in fact, we argued just that in April  Fair Weather closed unexpectedly in August, with owner Derek Hanson citing slow weekday sales as the cause. Hanson has dabbled in brunch at least three times since opening seafood restaurant Jacqueline on Southeast Clinton Street nearly a decade ago, from a short-lived (but notable) early menu that ran from 2016-17 to a pandemic-time reboot in 2021 to a surprise revival in early 2025. With its Olympics-like every-four-years cycle, were holding out hope for a Fair Weather return in 2029.

Jinju Patisserie

This North Portland pastry shop, which won a James Beard award as Americas most outstanding bakery earlier this year, announced its unexpected closure earlier this month. We have been so fortunate to accomplish our goals beyond our expectations over the past six years, Jinju owners Jin Caldwell and Kyurim Lee wrote on social media. Now its time for a new chapter. Caldwell and Lee hope to find a new space for their beloved bakery.

An inexpensive chirashi sushi bowl from Kashiwagi in Southeast Portland. Michael Russell | The Oregonian

Kashiwagi

One of Portlands best inexpensive sushi restaurants will close its doors at the end of the year. After thoughtful consideration, chef-owner Takeo Kashiwagi wrote, (my wife and I) concluded that this is the right moment to take a step back from the restaurant and begin our semi-retirement. Kashiwagi opened his namesake restaurant in 2021 after years running Sushi Takahashi 2 in Southwest Portland. In our annual guide to Portlands best sushi, we named Kashiwagi the best inexpensive sushi option in Portland.

McCormick & Schmicks

The last Oregon location of this landmark Portland steak and seafood chain closed its doors in March, marking an end to the restaurants once sprawling local footprint. The McCormick & Schmicks restaurant at Bridgeport Village followed two other Portland-area locations in closing over the past six years. The company founded by Jakes Famous Crawfish owner Bill McCormick and manager Douglas Schmick once boasted more than 100 locations nationwide.

Reeva Cafe y Cocina a la Lena, a food cart on Sandy Boulevard in Northeast Portland. Mark Graves/The Oregonian

Reeva Cafe y Cocina a la Lena

The beloved wood-fired pizza cart  one of Portlands very best pizzerias  has been closed since chef-owner Roberto Hernandez Guerrero traveled to Mexico for an immigration interview in November and was denied reentry to the United States. Built inside a former FedEx truck repainted matte-black with orange accents, Reeva was the first food business owned by Hernandez Guerrero, a longtime Portland chef who spent time at the likes of Andina and Beast. A December fundraiser at Pizzeria Otto raised more than $5,000 for Hernandez Guerreros family.

The eponymous xiao long bao from XLB in North Portland. Oregonian file photo

XLB

XLB, the homegrown Chinese restaurant behind some of the citys best soup dumplings, closed for good in April after nearly a decade in North Portland. Former fine-dining chef Jasper Shen opened XLB in 2016 as a straight-up Chinese restaurant with stir-fried greens, shrimp noodles and the soup dumplings he fell in love with as a young cook in New York City. This decision was not made lightly, and we are incredibly grateful for the support, laughter, and memories weve shared with all of you over the years, wrote Linh Tran, an XLB owner.
The Glencoe High School band is heading to London for the new year.

The band, which includes 44 Hillsboro students, will become the first Oregon band to participate in the London New Years Day Parade, according to a report from KOIN 6.

The London New Years Day Parade will begin at 4 a.m. Pacific time and will feature more than 70 groups.

The bands director, Benjamin Adams, told KOIN 6 that it had taken hard work to get to the point of being able to march the length of the parade route.

We had some rehearsals where its just pouring down rain as were practicing our marching fundamentals to get ready for the stamina it takes to take the parade route, because its almost two miles long, Adams told the TV station.

The Glencoe High School band is no stranger to accolades. Among other things, the band was a Grand Floral Parade Gold Award recipient in 2024 and 2025 and also played last year at Carnegie Hall.

Ive never been overseas, one unnamed student told KOIN 6. So this is a big deal. Ive never expected anything like this.
Across multiple Lets Talk episodes, Anthony Capano, Regional Director at Intuit Mailchimp, has weighed in on a diverse mix of business questions.

Anthony claims that small teams can maintain steady sales without a large team or expensive technology by using AI to handle repetitive tasks. He suggests starting with simple, thoughtful customer interactions and consolidating customer information to make follow-ups more intentional. Capano highlights the importance of using automation for consistency and making slight tweaks to messages across different channels for a cohesive customer experience.

Anthony argues that digitizing a business enhances rather than diminishes personal connections. He suggests using tools like automation and segmentation to maintain personalized interactions, such as sending thank-you notes or tailored offers. Capano emphasizes that thoughtful use of data, like purchase history and preferences, can help businesses make customers feel valued and seen.

Anthony claims that smaller businesses can outcompete larger ones by leveraging their agility and closer customer relationships. He suggests using first-party data to tailor messages and employing AI-driven tech tools to send personalized communications without increasing headcount. Capano emphasizes the importance of up-to-date data and customer segmentation to trigger relevant interactions, such as sending promo codes or stock alerts. The trade-off involves ensuring data accuracy and meaningful customer engagement to drive conversions.

Anthony claims that AI can handle repetitive tasks, allowing individuals to focus on strategic work. Examples include automating follow-ups, tweaking audience lists, and creating email variations. AI analyzes data and offers insights to enhance human judgment rather than replace it. The use of AI and automation in marketing can enable personalization at scale and help businesses achieve their goals.

Anthony emphasizes the importance of personalization in building customer loyalty, highlighting that its about trust, ease, and connection rather than just discounts. He cites Mailchimps Science of Loyalty report, noting that 88% of Australian consumers feel good about their preferred brands, and 78% buy only from brands they trust. Capano suggests using segmentation, tailored messaging, and automated workflows for personalized interactions, such as thank-you notes and product recommendations. He also mentions loyalty programs as a way to enhance customer connection, though the text does not discuss specific limitations or trade-offs.

Anthony emphasizes the importance of clear and consistent communication, particularly through friendly reminders about due dates. He suggests using automated emails for efficiency but highlights the need for personalization to make reminders feel like nudges rather than demands. Capano also notes the value of maintaining regular, thoughtful interactions with customers outside of invoicing to build strong relationships.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Diffrent Strokes actress Melanie Watson has passed away, closing a chapter for many of us who grew up in front of early 80s television.

A native of Dana Point, California, Watson was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a rare genetic condition often called brittle bone disease. She relied on a wheelchair throughout her life.

Watson died Dec. 26 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, TMZ reported. She was 57.

In an interview with Us Weekly, her brother Robert Watson said she had been hospitalized earlier in the week due to internal bleeding, but her health declined quickly, and she died on Friday.

Watson was best known for playing Kathy Gordon on the 80s show Diffrent Strokes. She was a close friend and classmate of Arnold Jackson, the character played by Gary Coleman.

According to IndieWire, her path to television began at 13. She was discovered by a talent scout at her local YMCA who was searching for disabled swimmers. A series of television opportunities eventually brought her to the attention of Norman Lear, the producer of Diffrent Strokes.

Known as a revolutionary, Lears shows often deconstructed everything from gender to race. To him, it just made sense to include disabled characters to emphasize the world we lived in.

Watson expressed gratitude to Lear for pushing television audiences to see life from a different perspective. I didnt realize what a gift it was to be the first one out there, she said.

After stepping away from Diffrent Strokes, Melanie dedicated herself to helping others in the disability community. According to her IMDb profile, she founded and served as an executive at Train Rite, an organization focused on training assistance dogs for people with disabilities.

In 2020, she turned her attention to public service, launching a campaign for a seat in the Colorado State Senate. The effort was later brought to a screeching halt due to unforeseeable health conditions, she wrote on Facebook.
Last January, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson took the helm of a city with a brand new form of government and a host of ongoing problems, including a growing homelessness and housing crisis, a stagnant local economy and a staggering backlog of infrastructure maintenance.

As the year progressed, it was easy to lose track of which crisis seemed the most pressing. Would homelessness increase again? (Yes.) Would the economy rebound? (Not really.) Would the schools fall down in an earthquake? (Maybe.) None of that was made simpler by having the president of the United States order federalized National Guard troops to Portland to quell what he called civil unrest. (A federal judge disagreed.)

Suffice it to say, 2025 was far from Portlands most tranquil year on record. What follows is a brief summary of the highlights any observant citizen could be forgiven for missing.

While an expanded 12-member City Council largely struggled to find its footing this year, Wilson stayed laser focused on his goal of ending unsheltered homelessness and adding 1,500 shelter beds to the regional system.

He accomplished that second goal, sort of, and has moved to the next phase of his plan: Enforcing the citys ban on camping in public places. Since Nov. 1, police have found hundreds of people to be in violation of the ban, have arrested 65 campers on unrelated charges and have connected more than 100 to the citys new shelters.

Some councilors have objected loudly to the mayors renewed enforcement of the camping ban as well as to the homeless camp removals conducted by the city each week. Still, the City Council in December unanimously approved Wilsons pick for a long-term city administrator, a position that is likely to wield significant influence within the citys new form of government.

Two significant policy developments came courtesy of Portland voters, who approved a pair of pricey ballot measures in the spring and fall. Mays $1.8 billion Portland Public Schools facilities bond will pay for rebuilds of Cleveland and Wells high schools, seismic upgrades, a technology refresh and deferred building maintenance. The bond is also meant to cover spillover costs on the overhaul of North Portlands historically Black Jefferson High School, which has become a political firestorm in its own right.

Meanwhile, the Portland parks levy renewal that voters passed in November will increase an existing property tax rate by 75% to keep the citys beloved parks afloat.

At the same time, both the city and Multnomah County faced sharp reductions in available funding and both struggled to approve slimmed down budgets. While some clever financial maneuvering staved off many painful cuts, not everything was saved. The city, for example, slashed dozens of parks and permitting jobs. And the county chopped its annual rent assistance budget, slashed its health department spending and is looking at closing homeless shelters in 2026.

New county commissioners changed the tenor of board meetings this year, but that did little to stem intense scrutiny facing the Preschool for All program. State lawmakers and Gov. Tina Kotek slammed the preschool effort and called for the county to change the tax on high-income earners that funds it. The embattled program also faced the resignation of its leader after she was tied to a preschool accused of wasting state dollars. In a possible silver lining, new population estimates showing fewer than expected children born in Portland post-pandemic could mean the program could expand access more quickly and extend available hours.

Despite these local headaches, many Portlanders found themselves newly proud of their quirky hometown this fall when President Donald Trump ordered federalized National Guard troops to protect the federal U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building on the South Waterfront. In response, tens of thousands of residents poured onto the streets in protest. Unlike during the months of nightly protests in 2020 though, Portlanders came to these events clad as unicorns, chickens and blow up frogs, sparking a national and international trend in protest attire. Not to be outdone, several thousand Portlanders then showed up to the ICE building on bikes, in the rain, wearing nothing at all.

The renewed civic pride did not end with sign carrying. Parent groups rallied together to protect public school students threatened by ICE raids, people used their cars to block agents from leaving streets where they were attempting to apprehend alleged illegal immigrants and at least one couple opened their doors to children left behind when their mother was taken by ICE. Despite these actions, Portland saw a huge increase in federal immigration raids in 2025.

Local politicians seem to have had the same unified reaction as many other city residents on this one issue. They have largely set aside their differences to join together with Kotek and many Democratic state legislators in opposing the federal governments immigration crackdown.
(Can you say the word translucent if you are talking about your truck?)My truck kept me out of the car-po

like the unnamed narrators of Ingeborg Bachmanns Malina and Clarice Lispectors Agua Viva and Claire-Louise Bennetts Checkout 19.
Because Im afraid I will accidentally be rudeexcept what I actually said was Because Im afraid I will accidentally become horny.the Sphere became a talisman for his worseni

MILAGROS MALDONADO (art promoter and friend of Garcia Marquezs): He said that what scared him most in life was losing his memory as he aged.In radio and in many gramophone re
I was concerned not just with how to cut it down but also with how to really adapt it for the stage.He ha

The tension inherent to his project from the moment of this negative revelation stems from the fact that it is combined with a r
one could buy a special Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One popcorn tin with free refills.most likely from the printer-fax-copier at the office where I used to wor

Her parents were upset when she fell in love with a Sudanese manhe was too dark-skinned for their taste.Announcing the 2023 George Plimpton and Susannah Hunnewell Prize Winn
Don Carlo is more vessel (for Rodrigos ideas) and pawn (in his fathers power games) than protagonist.but like those misunderstood idealists I was trying to maintain a more o

in the air she breathed? She kept on trying to find these images of the paintings on her desktop and then chose not to look at the paintings or rather at the photographs of t
He took as a nom de guerre the name of a character from the opening chapter of Men of Maize: Gaspar Ilom.I dont want to do either! I want to know and be known and laugh a

Hill chronicles how Arendts notebook of poems accompanied her through a succes
Skipping the first act deflates the operas romantic plotturning the love triangle between Carlos.the last of which features an autocrat who gives one of the biggest of Roum

Stephanie Stricklands Ringing the Changes draws its mathematical ordering process from a centuries-old practice of English bell ringing. The career of the filmmaker/playwrig
After one year in Vietnam, Niklas Birkner, Head of Animal Health at Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam, discusses the company's strategic priorities, growth drivers, and long-term commitment to advancing sustainable animal health through innovation and the One Health approach.

After one year in Vietnam, what do you consider Boehringer Ingelheim's most notable achievement in this market?

Beyond maintaining our position as one of the market leaders, our most notable achievement has been strengthening our role as a trusted partner in advancing animal health and contributing to Vietnam's One Health ecosystem.

By combining global innovation with local market insights, we have delivered solutions for swine, companion animals, and poultry. These efforts align with our purpose of "Transforming Lives for Generations," focusing on sustainable impact through disease prevention, support for veterinarians and farmers, collaboration across the value chain, and innovation that benefits society.

In addition, I am honored to lead and work alongside the Vietnam team this year. We consistently strive for innovation and remains steadfast in achieving our goals. This mindset enables us to turn challenges into opportunities and continuously create positive impacts in such a dynamic market as Vietnam.

Niklas Birkner, Head of Animal Health of Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam. Photo courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam

How have your global and regional experiences shaped your vision for Vietnam?

My experience at Boehringer Ingelheim's headquarters in Germany provided a strong foundation in global strategy development, portfolio management, and innovation-led growth. Later, leading commercial excellence across ASEAN, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand reinforced the importance of agility and cultural adaptability in diverse markets.

For Vietnam, this translates into a clear approach: applying global best practices while adapting solutions to local needs. Our focus is on collaboration and building a strong internal culture that enables teams to deliver practical value to veterinarians, farmers, distributors, partners, and other stakeholders. This helps ensure sustainable business performance while contributing positively to the broader community.

Swine, companion animals, and poultry are key focus areas. How do these segments contribute to overall growth?

Each species plays a distinct and complementary role in our growth strategy.

Swine remains our primary growth driver, supported by science-based biosecurity, disease prevention solutions, and beyond-the-product services. This year, we strengthened awareness of integrated health approaches that improve herd performance and operational efficiency. A notable initiative is the Respiratory Defense Alliance, which enables co-administration of key vaccines in a single shot, reducing labor requirements while improving respiratory protection. When combined with gut health solutions, these approaches help reduce antibiotic use and stabilize productivity.

In companion animals, preventive care is central to our strategy. Our Pets business continues to perform strongly, supported by a broad portfolio and value-added services. Our parasite control products provide comprehensive protection, while vaccines remain a key pillar. Following our nationwide Vaccination Partnership Program in 2025, we are preparing to introduce a next-generation vaccine in 2026 designed to protect against multiple canine diseases with enhanced safety and technical standards.

In poultry, food security is a critical consideration. In 2025, we introduced Vietnam's first vector vaccine offering protection against three major diseases with a single hatchery shot. This solution helps reduce costs, lower antibiotic use, and improve biosecurity, contributing to a more stable and sustainable protein supply.

Niklas Birkner (8th, L) and Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam's Animal Health team. Photo courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam

Technology and data are reshaping the animal health sector. How is Boehringer Ingelheim responding?

Technology and data are increasingly important in animal health, and we aim to remain at the forefront of this transition. Our recently launched Animal Health Hub provides veterinarians and farmers with access to e-learning resources, disease-prevention modules, and best-practice guidance to support more informed decision-making.

By promoting smart farming approaches, we are working toward a more connected ecosystem tailored to local conditions, where technology supports healthier animals, more resilient farms, and stronger communities.

Community engagement has been a long-standing focus. Could you share more about the rabies prevention program?

Community engagement is central to our sustainability efforts. Through the STOP Rabies program, more than 33,000 dogs and cats in Long An province have been vaccinated over the past five years, alongside education initiatives reaching thousands of residents on rabies prevention and responsible pet ownership. These activities support Vietnam's national goal of eliminating human rabies deaths by 2030.

We have also expanded educational outreach in Tay Ninh, where more than 30,000 pupils have received rabies prevention education. Looking ahead, we plan to continue annual vaccination campaigns, broaden education programs, and strengthen partnerships at the local level, guided by the principle that animal health and human health are closely linked.

More than 33,000 dogs and cats in Long An Province, now part of Tay Ninh, were vaccinated through the STOP Rabies campaign between 2021 and 2025. Photo courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam

Looking ahead to 2026, what strategic priorities will be most important?

We appreciate the continued trust and collaboration of the Vietnamese government, veterinarians, farmers, partners, and other stakeholders throughout 2025.

In 2026, our focus will remain on bringing global innovation and best practices to Vietnam while adapting them to local needs. We aim to address sector challenges, support veterinarians and farmers, and contribute to healthier communities and a stronger One Health ecosystem. Key priorities include antimicrobial resistance management, food safety, and sustainable farming practices.

Our long-term commitment is grounded in a consistent belief: when animals are healthy, humans are healthier too. This principle continues to guide our purpose of "Transforming Lives for Generations" and our approach to sustainable growth in Vietnam.
Police linked a bullet found in a victims closet with a stolen gun and witness testimony to file charges against a 19-year-old in a 2021 shooting at a York County home, according to court documents filed earlier this month.

Zephania Wilson was 14 years old on March 16, 2021, when police say he fired at another male inside the victims bedroom on the 400 block of East Maple Street in Dallastown.

The victim, with whom Wilson had a prior conflict, was not hurt, police said. Police did not provide the victims age.

Court documents show York County Regional police spent more than four years building a case for attempted murder against Wilson, who was charged Dec. 19. Hes been incarcerated at SCI Pine Grove since September 2022 on an unrelated case, where he remained on Monday.

The victim was inside his second-floor bedroom on East Maple Street when a bullet crashed through his window and closet door before landing in one of his sweatshirts, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

Court documents said the victim gave the bullet to investigators, but they were not immediately able to link the projectile to a specific weapon.

York police found a gun during an April 2022 arrest that had been stolen on March 15 or 16 of 2021, the day before or the day of the shooting, the affidavit said.

In November 2025, Pennsylvania State Police returned ballistic test results to York County Regional police showing the bullet from the 2021 shooting was a match to the stolen gun, according to the affidavit.

Police said a man also came forward who went with Wilson to East Maple Street the night of the 2021 shooting.

The man told police he and Wilson walked to East Maple Street so Wilson could fist-fight the victim. Instead, when they saw the victim through his bedroom window, Wilson pulled out a gun and started firing, the affidavit said.

After running away, the witness told police he and Wilson got into a vehicle for which he did not know if they had permission to drive. When the police pulled out behind them, they parked and started running again, court documents said.

Wilson discarded the gun while running from the police, but later went back for it, the witness said, according to the affidavit.

In addition to attempted murder, Wilson was charged with aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, receiving stolen property and four firearms offenses. He has not been arraigned as of Monday.
A man locked inside a Pennsylvania prison told a fellow inmate hed pay him to hold his mother hostage and steal $68,000 he believed belonged to him, court documents show.

Keegan Baker agreed to pay the other man $18,000 if he helped facilitate the robbery at his mom and stepfathers home in Erie, according to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Pennsylvania State Police.

Baker, 28, was charged Dec. 22 with kidnapping to facilitate a felony, robbery, burglary, and four related offenses. He hasnt been arraigned as of Monday morning.

Court documents filed by state police gave this account:

On Aug. 12, a man told SCI Forest staff that Baker had asked him to facilitate a hit on his mom and stepfather. Baker told the man, who is Black, that no one would ever suspect them of working together because Baker is a white supremacist, according to the affidavit.

Court documents said Baker gave the man his moms address and showed him a sketch and photos of the home.

The affidavit said Baker instructed the man to rob his mom while his stepfather was at work and have her load the money onto prepaid debit cards, Venmo or Cash App.

Baker told the man he should have his boys  the people carrying out the crime  shoot his stepdad if he came home and the stepdad grabbed a gun from the gun safe he kept in the basement, the affidavit said.

According to the affidavit, Baker told the man to sell his stepdads guns after the robbery. He described other valuables and where to find them, according to the court documents.

Baker said he was going to pass the money to another man, whom he described as his power of attorney, according to the affidavit. Police said he wrote the man a letter explaining the kidnapping scheme, and referenced the letter in at least six follow-up phone calls.

In one call, Baker said he was going to send his power of attorney a letter explaining some [expletive], according to the affidavit.

We might not have to worry about money real soon, Baker told him, according to the affidavit.

Court documents said Baker explained to his power of attorney that he met the inmate who was going to do the crimes for him in the law library after taking some time to determine who would be the right person for the job. He said the inmate would be back in touch with him after the robbery was carried out, according to the affidavit.

According to the affidavit, Baker told his power of attorney hed think Baker was a crazy mother[expletive] when he read the letter outlining his plan.

On Nov. 18, however, Baker told him that the inmate hed approached was transferred to another prison and the plan had likely fallen through, according to the affidavit.

Court documents said Baker then disparaged the inmate, telling his power of attorney the inmate was trying to be that dude and more important than he actually is.

Records show Baker is serving a 10 to 20-year sentence out of Erie County for attempted homicide, aggravated assault, arson and burglary. He pleaded guilty to the charges in 2024.
A 17-year-old boy has been charged with a fatal Monday shooting in York, police said.

Police said Jadin Lagares shot a man at about 12:13 a.m. at a home on the 600 block of West College Avenue.

A motive for the killing is unclear, but police said Lagares knew the victim. Police said a gun and ammunition were recovered from Lagares house.

The man who was shot has not been publicly identified.

Lagares was arrested soon after the shooting and taken to York County Prison, where he is awaiting arraignment, according to police. Charging documents were not immediately available.

After the shooting, York police Commissioner Michael Muldrow posted the following message on the citys Crimewatch page:

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these young people.

In situations like this, no one intends on these sorts of things happening; but the outcomes are life-altering nonetheless.

Its a sad way to end the year (as our level of community violence has decreased so much here), and sobering reminder that we (all) still have much to do with respect to addressing our young peoples fascination with firearms, and their ease of access."
Its not the prettiest meal but pork and sauerkraut guarantees good luck in the new year.

The homestyle dish is a tradition on New Years Day in central Pa.

Almost every region has a variation on the belief that the first food you eat at the turn of the year can influence what kind of year youll have. Around the world, different cultures indulge in traditional New Years foods.

Pennsylvania Dutch lore dictates eating fermented cabbage and pork will bring good fortune in the new year.

The pig roots forward so if your first meal includes pork, youll move ahead all year, according to Pennsylvania German folklore. The swelling of the sauerkraut symbolizes bounty.

This year, several restaurants, churches and fire companies are selling the meals.

Of course, you can prepare your own pork and sauerkraut at home. But if youd rather buy a meal, here are some places in the Harrisburg region to go on Jan. 1:

Campbelltown Volunteer Fire Company, 2818 Horseshoe Pike, Palmyra

The fire company will be hosting a dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with pork and sauerkraut, hot dogs, mashed potatoes, green beans, bread, drinks and dessert. Price is $15 for adults, $7 for children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. Takeout is available.

Chambers Hill Fire Co., 6400 Chambers Hill Road, Swatara Township

The fire company in Swatara Township is holding its annual all you can eat pork and sauerkraut dinner fundraiser. It will be held 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the firehouse. Dinners will include pork, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, green beans, applesauce, beverage and dessert. Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 and under. Eat-in or takeout available. Proceeds will benefit this all-volunteer fire company.

Community Fire Co. of Seven Valleys, 5 Main St., Seven Valleys

New Years Day all-you-can-eat pork and sauerkraut dinner. Pork, hot dogs, sauerkraut, green beans, desserts and beverages.

Flinchys, 1833 Hummel Ave., Lower Allen Township

The restaurant will serve a New Years Day buffet featuring pork and sauerkraut from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $15.

Mt. Holly Church of God, 602 McLand Drive, Mount Holly Springs

The church is serving pork and sauerkraut from 11 a.m. until sold out.

Paddletown St. Pauls UPMC, 355 Church Road, Newberry Township

The church is selling to-go pork and sauerkraut meals from 11 a.m. until sold out.

Perry County Grange, 110 W. Juniata Parkway, Millerstown

Takeout roast pork loin with homemade sauerkraut (or stuffing), mashed potatoes, buttered vegetable, applesauce, sweet pickles, roll with butter and assorted cakes from 11 a.m.1 p.m.

Suggested donation: $15 per meal. All proceeds benefit the Bread of Life Food Pantry. Call Carol Rhoades at 717-567-6844 to reserve meals.
By Kevin Hardy, Stateline.org (TNS)

As pennies vanish from the American landscape, many businesses are clamoring for federal guidance on how to handle cash transactions in a penniless world.

Should retailers round up or down? Should they round in favor of the customer? Or in favor of the business?

So far, calls for federal direction have gone unanswered. Some businesses are setting their own policies, but states are now beginning to act amid growing uncertainty.

While the question revolves around only a few cents per transaction, it does raise important consumer protection and legal questions for states to consider. Retailers must weigh threats of potential lawsuits, while policymakers worry about protecting the most vulnerable consumers who rely on cash for everyday purchases.

President Donald Trump in February moved to eliminate the penny from U.S. pocketbooks, citing the high cost of minting them  about 3.7 cents per penny. But even before the coins final production run last month, U.S. retailers and banks were reporting widespread penny shortages.

To provide clarity, lawmakers in New York have proposed legislation mirroring Canadas rounding standard  up or down to the nearest five cents. And officials in Georgia and Utah have issued nonbinding guidance to businesses.

States do not have the luxury of waiting for the federal government, said Katherine Tschopp, senior associate at government relations firm MultiState.

Complicating the issue are the growing number of jurisdictions requiring businesses to accept cash  a move aimed at protecting vulnerable consumers who may not have access to credit cards or electronic payment systems.

In November, New York became the ninth state to add such a rule, according to tracking from MultiState. At least eight major cities also require businesses to accept cash.

A bipartisan group of federal lawmakers have proposed legislation in the U.S. House and Senate to require all cash transactions be rounded to the nearest five cents, but neither proposal has made it to a floor vote.

The record-breaking federal government shutdown and heated debate on health insurance subsidies have sidelined the penny discussion, Tschopp said. She thinks the federal government will likely determine a national rounding policy  eventually. But in the meantime, she expects more states to weigh in.

New York Democratic Assemblymember John T. McDonald III said he agreed with Trumps move to phase out the costly production of the penny. But businesses are asking for some kind of guidance now, he said.

In the absence of federal action, I think its important that the states act to provide clarity  clarity for everybody: clarity for the consumer, as well as the merchant and the state, McDonald told Stateline.

Approaches to rounding

McDonalds proposed legislation mirrors Canadas rounding policy following the 2012 elimination of its one-cent coin. His bill calls for so-called symmetrical rounding of after-tax cash purchases to the nearest five-cent mark. Purchases ending with one, two, six or seven cents would be rounded down. And purchases ending in three, four, eight or nine cents would be rounded up.

So, a consumer would get no cash back from a $1.99 purchase. But a retailer would hand over a nickel to someone spending $1.97.

McDonald sits on the National Conference of State Legislatures State and Local Taxation Task Force that has been examining the penny issue. That task force has recommended symmetrical rounding as the fairest method for merchants and consumers.

McDonald noted that the NCSL group reached a bipartisan consensus on the issue. And he said hes found no opposition from New York businesses or consumer groups on his bill.

In this day and age where we seem to have a lot of fractious conversations on other issues, itd be nice to find something that actually we can all agree on, he said. And to have it start with the good old little penny would be a good spot.

On Wednesday, South Dakota Republican state Sen. Tim Reed urged state lawmakers to start communicating with agencies, retailers and the public over the issue.

A co-chair of the NCSL task force, he said businesses need guidance and consumers may need reassurance. While he acknowledged concerns about strategic pricing  in which retailers set prices to push rounding to their advantage  the groups report characterized that as a  limited risk.

Everybodys thinking, Oh, Ill get overcharged, or Ill get undercharged, Reed said at an NCSL virtual event about the penny. He said it would be good for people to know that really this is all going to kind of wash out in the end.

New York Democratic state Sen. James Sanders Jr. said the cash acceptance law he sponsored earlier this year ensures people without access to smartphones or banking are not excluded from commerce. That law also says customers paying with cash cannot be charged more than other buyers.

Otherwise, you absolutely have a two-tiered system, he said, noting that cash is a lifeline for working families, older adults, immigrants and small businesses.

Sanders said he would prefer for retailers to round down to the nearest nickel on cash transactions to protect consumers.

For the large corporations, this could be a difference of hundreds of thousands of dollars if they are steadily rounding up, he said. While each rounding transaction represents a loss or gain of only a few cents, Sanders said, multiply that by tens of thousands of people, and youve effectively raised the price of your product without any type of sanction.

Sanders said he plans to introduce legislation on the matter soon, but added that he remains open to McDonalds current proposal of symmetrical rounding. More than anything, he said, businesses desire some kind of guidance.

Were not trying to cheat business. Were just trying not to be cheated by business, he said. The people Ive been speaking to are honest souls, and they just want to know the right thing to do in a penniless society.

A rapid change

The U.S. Mint in Philadelphia struck the last penny on Nov. 12, but pennies were already scarce at that time.

By mid-November, more than 100 of the governments 165 coin distribution sites across the country were without pennies, according to the Retail Industry Leaders Association, which represents major chains including CVS, Target and 7-Eleven.

In a November survey of its members, that organization found six national chains had more than 1,000 stores that had no pennies.

The association said most of its survey respondents were rounding cash transactions to the benefit of customers  always down to the nearest five cents. While its fair for shoppers, its costing businesses millions of dollars as small amounts add up across thousands of daily cash transactions.

The phaseout of the humble penny comes as a cost-cutting measure, following President Donald Trumps February call to rip the waste out of our great [nations] budget, even if its a penny at a time. (Photo by Tim Boyle/Getty Images)

While states weigh the issue, the association is pushing for a federal answer.

We are urging the federal government to quickly address the problem, to allow for uniform adjustments by retailers that operate in a multitude of states, Austen Jensen, the organizations senior executive vice president of public affairs, said in a statement to Stateline.

Other groups, including the American Bankers Association, have also pushed for federal action.

Theyre obviously concerned about it and wanting a federal fix, said Christopher Phillips, a partner at law firm Holland & Knight. The government fairly abruptly decided they werent going to mint any more pennies and these shortages of pennies spread fairly quickly across the country.

For retailers, the problem is both practical and legal, said Phillips, who represents payment system companies and financial technology firms.

In many of the jurisdictions that require merchants to accept cash, the laws explicitly forbid charging cash customers more  and have a per-transaction fine for violations, raising the possibility of big fees. And Phillips said merchants could face class-action lawsuits for rounding policies in which plaintiffs argue they are charged more than advertised or face unfair or deceptive business practices.

Federal regulations also ban retailers from charging more for purchases made with food stamps, through the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, or SNAP. Cash rounding policies complicate that rule, as some customers would be charged less for certain cash purchases than those using SNAP cards.

The unintended consequences of these administrative actions, and these laws and how they flow together to create real problems that were certainly never envisioned, Phillips said.

So far, merchants have come up with their own policies.

Because of the penny shortage, the East Coast convenience store chain Sheetz asked customers to move to cashless payments or round up to support charitable causes. It even offered free beverages for those willing to cash in 100 pennies.

Kwik Trip, which operates convenience stores across the Midwest, in October announced that its registers would automatically round down cash transactions to the nearest nickel in favor of customers.

But without a federal standard, the landscape is patchy, Phillips said. Rounding creates a winner and a loser in each cash transaction. Some companies have pushed to standardize their practice across the country, but others will only choose to round down if required.

Others are like, You know what? This is actual money for us, he said. Were not just going to give it up for the sake of convenience.

Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at khardy@stateline.org.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a national nonprofit news organization focused on state policy.

2025 States Newsroom. Visit at stateline.org. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Mary Jo Armstrong and her ex-husband, William, didnt exactly remarry for love. They remarried for health insurance.

After 18 years of marriage and a divorce, finalized in 2014, the Upper Burrell, Pennsylvania, couple found themselves side-by-side again Dec. 18. Joining them  not in a church or courthouse, but over a Microsoft Teams call  was Buff Jackson from the Allegheny County Department of Court Records.

Eight witnesses  including their twin daughters, coincidentally celebrating their birthday that day  looked on as they confirmed their marriage license application, choosing the self-uniting option to make it official. The video call took place during Mary Jos lunch break, and the plan was to mark the occasion with a lighthearted exchange of vows later that evening during happy hour at the Hayloft in West Deer.

The reason for remarrying, however, was anything but playful: Mary Jos monthly health insurance premiums were about to skyrocket from $350 to $1,400  almost 50% of her monthly income, and it was the best solution they could muster.

The newly-reweds are far from alone in their financial dilemma. Mary Jo Armstrong meets people facing similar tough choices daily: As a health insurance broker in Natrona Heights, shes been helping clients navigate challenges very similar to her own for months.

Pennsylvanians who buy coverage through the health insurance marketplace are facing two primary forces affecting their premiums in 2026.

First, insurers are raising the base cost of plans. According to the states Department of Insurance, premiums in the individual market will increase by an average 21.5% for Pennsylvanians, although the exact increase will vary depending on the plan, region and enrollee characteristics. The state has posted a full list of 2026 individual and small-group rate changes on its website.

Second, many consumers could see a much larger jump in what they pay each month if, and likely when, enhanced federal subsidies expire. Pennie, the states official health insurance marketplace, estimates that enrollees would see, on average, a 102% increase in their out-of-pocket premiums, largely because the extra financial assistance would disappear.

A last-minute effort to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies before they expire at midnight Dec. 31 is considered highly unlikely, as lawmakers have already left Washington for the holiday break without a deal. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have raised concerns about the situation, but debates over different potential solutions are likely to wait until January.

As these two market forces converge on prices, health insurance brokers across Western Pennsylvania say anxiety among clients is intensifying.

Not only are consumers expressing worry over the subsidies expiring, but theyre also nervous that the ACA could be eliminated entirely, said Alyssa Young, a health insurance broker at Baker Consulting Services in Ford City.

Those concerns are surfacing during an open enrollment season already marked by tight deadlines and difficult choices.

Open enrollment ended Dec. 15 for those who wanted their insurance to kick in on Jan. 1, and Jan. 15 looms as the final open enrollment deadline for selecting a 2026 plan.

Cases of financial strain

In Pennsylvania, health insurance brokers are state-licensed professionals who help individuals and families compare and enroll in the ACA marketplace and other health plans via Pennie. The brokers do not charge consumers for their services and are instead compensated through a flat commission paid by the insurance companies.

Premium increases themselves arent new, Young said: Year after year, premiums do increase.

But this years predicted jumps are trending higher than those in previous years.

When people are having to choose between health insurance or rent payments or their groceries, theyre going to take a gamble with their health, she said.

Young urged consumers who feel overwhelmed by plan options to seek professional guidance. Its not a one-size-fits-all, she said, noting that insurance jargon and plan details can be confusing for people navigating the marketplace on their own.

At Mary Jo Cares in Natrona Heights, Armstrong said, clients over the past couple weeks have been sharing far more tales of financial strain than she and her staff have heard before.

In one case, a couple relies on a single income of about $100,000. To keep the insurance they had in 2025, their premium was set to jump to $3,300 a month  roughly 40% of the households income.

In another situation, a couple had been paying $180 a month. As the husband transitioned to Medicare, the marketplace plan would only be needed to cover his wife, yet the monthly premium would balloon to $550.

Ive been having anxiety attacks because I had to tell five clients that their price was over $2,000 (monthly), Armstrong said.

The solution to her own attempt to keep costs low started with her then ex-husband asking his employer if she could join his health insurance plan as part of a domestic partnership.

When the employer declined, the two  who, even while divorced, have been living together for about seven years to share expenses  ultimately decided to retie the knot when they realized rejoining his company-sponsored plan was the only affordable option left.

Getting the income estimates right

Disappearing federal subsidies arent the only force impacting costs for clients.

Armstrong said changes written into the tax and policy legislation passed this summer known as the One Big Beautiful Bill are also having an effect on affordability.

One of the biggest changes, she said, is the removal of premium caps for many consumers.

Previously, individuals and families earning no more than 400% of the federal poverty level had their ACA premiums capped at 8.5% of their income.

There was a sliding scale for those who exceeded that income level.

Under the new rules, those above that threshold must pay full price.

According to the American Medical Association, most marketplace subsidies are delivered as advance premium tax credits  meaning enrollees estimate their income at the beginning of the year and receive financial assistance based on that projection.

If their income ends up being higher than expected, they may be required to repay some or all of those credits at tax time.

The new federal legislation also effectively ends a continuous special enrollment period for people earning less than 150% of the federal poverty level.

Starting in 2026, individuals who sign up during a special enrollment period based solely on income  rather than a qualifying life event such as job loss, marriage or the birth of a child  will no longer be eligible for premium tax credits.

Seeing a professional health insurance broker is one way to work to guard against unpleasant surprises, brokers say  particularly when income thresholds are involved. If a households income exceeds the cutoff by even a dollar, the family may be required to pay back thousands of dollars in subsidies.

Kittanning broker John Daloisio said the true financial wallop for many consumers hasnt arrived yet.

The real shocker will arrive in April 2027, when that 2026 tax bill hits, he said. Thats when its going to blow up for some people.

Some of the changes included in the legislation do not go into effect until then.

Meanwhile, some of the changes mark a return to pre-COVID days.

Before 2020, tax credits dropped to zero the moment a households modified adjusted gross income rose above 400% of the federal poverty level. Households one dollar over that amount would lose all discounts on their ACA health insurance and receive zero tax credits.

The laws changed during the pandemic, and what previously was a cliff for those who miscalculated their future income became a downward slope for five years. This protection is what is set to expire at years end if Congress takes no action.

Daloisio worries about people who feel they have no option but to drop coverage altogether.

Id estimate about six clients told me, We just cant afford that. Were just going to go without insurance.

Extrapolated across his roughly 150 clients  and then across Pennsylvania or the country  that represents a significant number of people gambling on their health care needs, he said.

One couple Daloisio was assisting were facing an insurance premium jump from $200 a month in 2025 to $2,000 monthly for the same plan next year. The spouse just got diagnosed for Alzheimers. Theyre definitely going to need insurance.

His advice: Educate yourself about rule changes and income cutoffs, and estimate future income as accurately as possible.

Some consumers underestimate how much coverage theyll need, while others select expensive plans and end up not using many of the benefits theyre paying for.

Across the board, brokers say the biggest challenges that clients face are estimating their income, balancing what they can afford and figuring out what their health needs are, Daloisio said.
An average internet user doing a search on an unencrypted browser, such as Google, has no enforceable expectation of privacy, the state Supreme Court has declared in a 6-1 ruling, says.

John E. Kurtz, 51, of Shamokin, raised the privacy issue in challenging his 2021 conviction on rape, attempted rape, kidnapping, attempted kidnapping and other charges involving five women in Northumberland, Columbia and Montour counties.

The former state prison guard sought suppression of records state police obtained from Google that led to charges in one of the rapes.

Justice David N. Wecht, in a recent opinion announcing the judgment of the court, wrote that before a person can challenge the validity of a search warrant, he or she first must demonstrate an expectation of privacy in the area searched.

He defined the issue in this case as whether a person who conducts general, unprotected Internet searches has an expectation of privacy in the records they generate.

The courts majority found, as had a Superior Court panel in 2023, that when an internet user performs a search on a website such as Google, he or she voluntarily enables the creation and collection of data and, in such circumstances, has no societally recognized expectation of privacy.

The ruling affirmed Kurtzs conviction and sentence of 59 to 280 years in prison. He has been designated a sexually violent predator and must register under Megans Law for the rest of his life.

Only Justice Christine Donohue disagreed, opining that information from Google that led investigators to focus on Kurtz as a suspect should have been suppressed.

The Supreme Court in November 2023 agreed to address two aspects of Kurtzs appeal because they raised issues not previously ruled on. They were:

Does an individual have a reasonable expectation of privacy in his or her electronic content, particularly in his or her private internet search queries and IP address?

Must probable cause be established to support a search warrant to Google requesting the content of an individuals private Internet search queries where the suspect is unknown and no evidence is presented establishing that Google was used in the planning or commission of the crime?

The internet data Kurtz challenged was obtained during the investigation into the July 19, 2016, kidnapping and rape of a Northumberland County woman while her husband was at work.

She was awakened by barking dogs, confronted by a man in the home who zip-tied her hands behind her back, blindfolded her, placed a gag in her mouth, and struck her several times.

The woman was dragged outside, placed in his vehicle, taken to a camper, where she was raped, and then left in a cornfield close to her home.

On Sept. 14, 2016, police obtained a search warrant directed to Google Inc. for records of searches made for the womans name or the address of the secluded home during the week preceding the incident.

Google returned a report that identified an Internet protocol (IP) address as having conducted two searches of her address several hours before the attack.

PSP later determined through requests submitted to the American Registry of Internet Numbers and Appellants telecommunications service provider that the IP address corresponded to Kurtzs.

Kurtz was arrested Dec. 18, 2017, when he arrived for work at the state prison in Coal Township. He had been a corrections officer since 2010.

In a police interview following his arrest, he admitted to committing the kidnapping and rape. He also incriminated himself in incidents with four other women.

Kurtzs appeal contended that the Google search warrant lacked probable cause, and he had a reasonable expectation of privacy over his search queries, as it is nearly impossible to participate in contemporary society without conducting Internet searches.

Wecht noted that, in recent decades, the Internet had developed from a useful tool into an integral and indispensable aspect of American life.

He cited its use to gain immediate answers to a myriad of questions that arise in daily lives.

So when John Kurtz wanted to know the home address for  a woman that he later kidnapped and raped  he did just that, he wrote. He Googled it.

While a mans home for the most part is a place where he expects privacy, that right does not extend to those objects, activities, or statements that he exposes to the plain view of outsiders, the justice wrote.

Donohoe, in her dissenting opinion, contended the Google search warrant did not target Kurtz but was issued on a bald hunch that evidence related to the kidnapping and rape would be discovered.

The warrant was fatally devoid of any individualized suspicion of Kurtz or the location to be searched, she said.

Reverse search warrants, as these are known, enable police to identify suspects by demanding that a company comb through its huge repository of data reflecting the publics interactions with its services, the justice pointed out.

Unlike traditional search warrants that target specific individuals or accounts, reverse keyword search warrants direct independent providers to scan their entire user database for specified search terms within a specified time, she noted.

I would hold that citizens possess a reasonable expectation of privacy in their Internet search queries under Article I, Section 8 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, Donohoe wrote.

Todd, in concurring with the majority, found facts in a state police affidavit established a fair probability that evidence related to the rape would be found in Google searches for the victim conducted within a week of the crime.

The justices pointed out that the Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act requires the use of a search warrant to access electronic information.

The court made it clear its ruling was limited to general, unprotected internet use, and its result could be different if the user had taken efforts to secure some degree of privacy.

Justices Kevin M. Daugherty, Sallie Mundy, Kevin Brobson, and Daniel D. McCaffery filed concurring opinions.

Numerous organizations submitted friend-of-the-court briefs on both sides of the issue in the high-profile case.

Prosecution evidence presented during the eight-day Northumberland County trial included:
One person is dead after a three-car crash in Harrisburg on Christmas Eve, Harrisburg police said.

Just before midnight, three vehicles crashed at Cameron and Market Streets in Harrisburg.

One driver was transported to a local hospital and died from their injuries.

Police Lt. Kyle Gautsch said Sunday that no other life-threatening injuries occurred as a result of the crash and that the investigation is ongoing.
A potential buyer of a prominent Franklin County property will share plans Monday night.

Scotland Estates, LLC is hosting a meeting at 6:30 p.m. about the former Scotland School for Veterans Children in Greene Township near Chambersburg.

The meeting, advertised as an urgent community update on future of the school campus, is open to the public and will be held at the Orchards Restaurant at 580 Orchard Drive in Chambersburg.

Sen. Doug Mastriano, a Republican who represents Franklin County, shared information about the meeting on Facebook: The future of the Scotland School Campus is at a critical turning point. The property is expected to change ownership in the coming weeks, and the community deserves to know whats happening.

The 169-acre campus is listed as part of a Jan. 9 sheriffs sale for $674,000, according to the Franklin County Sheriffs Office.

Franklin County property records show MSLH, LLC in Lakewood, New Jersey purchased the sprawling campus in 2023 for $9 million.

Mastriano said Mondays meeting will include information about what the impending ownership change may mean as well as the condition of the historic property. In addition, he said actions are being taken to preserve it.

Scotland Estates LLC, a limited liability company based in central Pennsylvania, wants to buy the property. The company could not be reached for comment.

The school was founded in 1895 and closed in 2009. Through the years, the property, formerly owned by the state, has changed hands several times.

Last year, USA Up Star, a disaster relief contractor based in Indiana, asked Greene Township if the location could be permitted as a shelter for families seeking refuge within the United States, according to township information.

At the time, Franklin Countys development agency indicated the Scotland campus would house boys who had crossed the U.S. border unaccompanied and were awaiting placement by immigration authorities.

But Greene Township officials said the shelter proposal would not be legal under current zoning code.

The campus has more than 75 buildings, including classrooms, cafeteria, chapel, dormitories, staff housing and other residences. The property also has more than 50 acres of undeveloped land.
Police in Vietnam's coastal city of Nha Trang have detained 30 Chinese nationals and one Vietnamese suspect after late-night raids uncovered an online gambling ring operating from hotels and rental apartments.

Khanh Hoa Police on Dec. 28 said hundreds of officers simultaneously swept through multiple locations across Nha Trang, including hotels, serviced apartments and rental homes in Nha Trang, Nam Nha Trang and Tay Nha Trang wards on Dec. 26.

Many suspects were caught placing bets and managing online gambling platforms in real time.

30 Chinese arrested in Vietnam's Nha Trang for online gambling Triet pha nhom nguoi nuoc ngoai anh bac qua mang Police catch the suspects in an onling gambling ring in Nha Trang, central Vietnam. Photo courtesy of the police

Investigators say the group entered Vietnam on tourist visas before renting properties to set up gambling activities. Officers seized computers, mobile phones and various related documents as evidence.

Authorities are now working to clarify each individual's role and proceed with legal actions for online gambling and betting violations.
Story by Danielle Ohl of Spotlight PA

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our free newsletters.

HARRISBURG  Gov. Josh Shapiro has not reappointed a longtime member of the Board of Pardons, a psychiatrist who advocates have opposed for his votes against clemency applicants, lack of experience in criminal justice, and lines of questioning they find inappropriate.

John Williams, a child psychiatrist practicing in Montgomery County, has served on the board since former Gov. Tom Corbett appointed him in 2013. He was reappointed in 2019, under former Gov. Tom Wolf. His second six-year term expired in November, leaving a vacancy on the five-member body.

Williams did not return an email from Spotlight PA requesting comment.

A representative for Shapiros office said the governor is working with state Senate leadership to restore the board to its full complement.

Shapiros office would not confirm whether the governor may still nominate Williams. Spokesperson Kayla Anderson said, No final decision regarding a nominee has been made at this time.

The Board of Pardons makes the ultimate decision on both commutation and pardon applications from people who are seeking to either shorten a prison sentence or wipe clean a criminal history.

The board comprises two elected officials, the attorney general and lieutenant governor, and three political appointees  a corrections expert; a medical doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist; and a victim advocate.

Applications the board deems meritorious are given a public hearing, after which the body votes to either deny the application or approve it for the governors consideration.

While pardons are recommended by the board in a majority vote, life sentence commutations, which allow a person to get out of prison, require unanimous approval  just one no vote dooms an application.

Earlier this year, a coalition of pro-clemency groups organized the Commutation Now campaign to pressure Shapiro to replace Williams, who frequently voted against both commutations and pardons.

In a report released in June, the group criticized Williams for routinely asking inappropriate questions reflecting lurid curiosity.

During a public commutations hearing in September 2024, Williams asked a victim speaking against the applicant to give increasingly specific details about the sexual abuse he endured as a child. When the man wasnt sufficiently specific, Williams pushed for additional details. After the questioning, he acknowledged the mans discomfort.

There was no reason for the line of questioning, said Etta Cetera, a longtime board watchdog and member of the Commutation Now campaign. Williams single no vote would have been sufficient to deny the commutation, Cetera said, negating the need to put a victim through an invasive line of questioning.

When you come into these cases, any of these cases for people with life sentences are extremely sensitive. Somebody lost their life, and in other situations, there was other abuse and even sexual violence involved, Cetera said.

And its irresponsible to not take seriously the trauma that comes up for people when these hearings happen. And the way that the psychiatrist questioned the victims is totally not trauma-informed.

After a public pardons hearing in 2021, a viewer wrote to then-Lt. Gov. John Fetterman to complain about Williams conduct. The letter, which was also reviewed by Spotlight PA, expressed concern that Williams questioned a pardon applicant about which sex positions he used during the commission of a decades-old sexual offense, according to the report.

Williams then asked the applicants wife about her sex life with the applicant, including which sexual positions they used, the letter alleges.

Commutations interviews are not public, but attorneys interviewed for the Commutations Now study reported Williams consistently asked about an applicants sexual abuse in excruciating detail, and pursued invasive and humiliating questions.

Commutations Now hand-delivered the report to legislative leaders, including the state Senate Republicans who will have to confirm Shapiros new appointee.

The nomination must undergo two committee votes before the full chamber weighs in, said Kate Flessner, a spokesperson for state Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R., Indiana).

Tobey Oxholm, who works with pardons applicants statewide, said in recent years the number of applications exploded, but the board held only nine days of hearings in 2025. The backlog of potential pardons keeps people with nonviolent felonies from working in roles the state needs, he said, such as home health, elder, and child care.

The crushing numbers really requires somebody who is a systems thinker as well as somebody who has experience with the populations that are coming before the board, Oxholm said of the position.

The advocate community wrote a letter to Shapiro in October recommending David DeMatteo, an attorney and forensic psychologist teaching at Drexel University. State Sen. Maria Collett (D., Montgomery) wrote to the governor endorsing him as well.

In the meantime, the board will be able to proceed with four people, as four still constitutes a quorum for all votes.

But Oxholm questioned why the position was allowed to lapse.

When there are only four people on the board, a person seeking a pardon has a narrower chance to have their application receive the three votes they need to move on from their felony conviction, which can keep them from jobs and housing opportunities.

This indicates that there isnt a full appreciation by the governor and the senate about the importance of this position to individuals, families, and their communities, he said.

BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results.
As a kid, Jake Wynn was fascinated by the ruins of the coal industry near his northern Dauphin County hometown.

The remains of the Williamstown Colliery on Big Lick Mountain were something of a playground for him.

I looked at these massive foundations and concrete and steel remnants and always wondered what it must have been like to see it in full operation, says Wynn, 32, a historian whose blog, at wynninghistory.com, explores Pennsylvanias coal region. Its hard to imagine that 1,000-1,200 people worked in the complex at one time.

In 2026, Williamstown, which was developed because of the colliery, will mark a significant anniversary.

The borough of 1,300 people 40 miles northeast of Harrisburg will celebrate its 200th year. Planning is underway to mark the milestone.

Williamstown has its own unique story, even among the mining towns of Williams Valley, Wynn says.  Its a hard-nosed, tough town and always has been since it first was hewn out of relative wilderness during the Civil War."

The town that coal built

Northern Dauphin Countys coal history sets it apart from the rest of the county.

Its a different world north of Peters Mountain, Wynn says.

In 1825, 200 years ago, two men went for a Sunday hike on Short Mountain north of Lykens in what is today Wiconisco Township.

When they reached the top, one of them dug into the ground with his stick and noticed black dirt.

This gave rise to the opinion that there must be coal in the mountain, William Henry Egle writes in his 1883 History of the Counties of Dauphin and Lebanon.

The anthracite coal industry in northern Dauphin County was born.

This led to the formation or growth of towns such as Lykens, Wiconisco and Williamstown, as well as nearby Tower City, Schuylkill County.

During the Civil War, the Summit Branch Railroad Co. began expanding its line from Wiconisco to the coal-rich area of Buehlerton, a small community founded in 1826 that preceded Williamstown.

Construction of the colliery and what would be called Williamstown started in 1863. The name of the town, as well as Williams Township and Williams Valley, came from Daniel Williams, an 18th-century landowner and gristmill operator in the area.

The Williamstown Colliery sent its first shipment of coal in 1866, and by that time, Williamstown, a mile south of the operation, had been laid out.

The coal traveled by train to Millersburg, then was sent to Harrisburg and beyond.

The colliery, with its mills, blacksmith, shingle and lath shops, machinery and worker housing, resembled a little village, says Janice Culton of the Williamstown Historical Society.

In its early years, the colliery was one of the largest producers of anthracite coal in the world, Wynn writes.

A federal mine report said the nearly 301,500 tons of coal produced by the colliery in 1873 was the largest shipment of record from any one colliery in this country and in Europe for one year, according to the 1976 book A Sesquicentennial of Williamstown and Williams Township.

To access a new supply of coal, the Summit Branch Railroad Co. wanted to punch a tunnel through Big Lick Mountain, connecting the Williamstown Colliery with mining operations on the north side of the mountain in Bear Valley, Schuylkill County. Three years and 4,000 feet later, the Williamstown Tunnel was completed in December 1873.

The tunnel, whose remains can be seen today, played a key role in Williams Valleys mining operations.

Dangerous work

Coal mining drew immigrants from central and southern Europe, Ireland and Wales, as well as some African Americans, to Williams Valley.

This melting pot, isolated at the southwestern end of Pennsylvanias coal region, created a distinct culture and community, Wynn says.

The combination of isolation and industrialization made Williamstown and its neighbors more akin to some of the isolated pockets of Schuylkill and Carbon counties, he says, or even like some places in more southern Appalachia than anywhere else in Dauphin County.

Coal mining was dangerous work. Scores of workers died in the 76 years that the colliery operated.

Wynn writes about the deadliest mine disaster in Dauphin County history, in which 10 workers died after inhaling toxic fumes from a small locomotive that took miners into and out of the mine in May 1904.

The mine disaster has special resonance for Culton.

Years ago, while organizing the historical societys newspaper collection of mine stories, she came across an article on the incident and found her grandfathers name listed among the miners who had been resuscitated after being overcome by the fumes.

My father was born in 1908, Culton says. So if my grandfather had not been resuscitated, my father would not have been born and I would not be here.

Pat Bettinger, who grew up in Williamstown in the 1950s and 60s, says he didnt realize until he was older the conditions that many of his towns residents had undergone in the mines.

We learned that people we waved to or spoke to had actually worked underground for years, and that many of them and others like them had fallen apart due to injuries or the black lung, says Bettinger, who runs the Williamstown, PA  My Hometown Facebook page. We had our own heroes in town.

Williamstowns population peaked at 2,958 in 1930. The colliery struggled in the following decade because of factors such as competition from cheaper petroleum and the Great Depression.

The colliery closed for good in January 1942. Conceived during the Civil War, it didnt survive World War II.

The collierys breaker operated for a few more years, processing strip-mined coal, then closed, according to A Sesquicentennial of Williamstown and Williams Township.

Burning banks

Though the colliery closed, it was not forgotten.

And no wonder: Its culm bank, or mine refuse, burned for decades, perhaps ignited by lightning.

For about 40 years, its crevices spewed objectionable, almost suffocating, sulphuric fumes, The Patriot reported in 1976, which blanketed the valley under the right combination of wind and other atmospheric conditions.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission bought the property in 1969 to develop into game lands. In 1973, the state Department of Environmental Resources began to tackle the burning banks under Operation Scarlift, its mine-reclamation program.

The three-year project required constructing a 6 million-gallon temporary reservoir and a 160-foot-deep well to extinguish the fire. The site was graded and seeded.

Maintaining the flame

In the decades since the collierys closure, many of Williamstowns stores, restaurants, churches and medical offices have closed, Culton says. The town became a bedroom community.

Wynn says that when he was growing up in the 1990s, the towns economy was still hanging on.

In the 21st century, he says, its been a story of loss.

Theres good work underway to change the course, to make the towns story one of gain.

Groups such as the Liberty Hose Co. No. 1, the American Legion, Williamstown Development Organization/Community Pride and the historical society work to provide community service and spirit, Culton says.

In fact, the historical society is renovating its headquarters, which are in a former bank building on West Market Street.

His hometowns challenges motivate Wynn in his historical work.

By continuing to tell stories from Williamstowns past, he says, I hope to maintain the flame of times past in the hopes that a future can be found for a community that has been home to elements of my family going back generations.

Bicentennial plans underway

The Williamstown bicentennial committee is planning a week of activities, including parades, food trucks, Farm Show milkshakes, a beer race and bingo, from Aug. 8 to 15.

Fundraising is underway. For information, go to the Williamstown Bicentennial Celebration 2026 page on Facebook.

The committees next meeting is at 7 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Williamstown Community Center, 200 S. Water St.

Joe McClure is a news editor for The Patriot-News. Follow him on Instagram: @jmcclure5nine.
The year 2025 is coming to an end, but the drama inside Harrisburg city hall is not.

Mayor Wanda Williams last week quietly vetoed parts of the citys $88 million budget approved by city council that had zeroed out funding for some positions in her administration.

The mayors spokeswoman on Monday said in an email to reporters that Williams had made specific vetoes, but said: I am not at liberty to say which parts.

When asked by PennLive, she said she cannot provide any veto details and that Williams will not discuss or comment on next steps.

PennLive found the specific vetoes in publicly available city documents, which showed the mayor vetoed all the personnel funding cuts for the members of her administration.

Theyre all personal, said Williams spokesperson, Mischelle Moyer said about council members motivations after a press briefing last week. The mayor will say that.

This is the third consecutive year of mayor council clashes over personnel in the city budget, resulting in vetoes and special sessions.

In the budget approved by council, they voted down pay raises for Williams, themselves and the citys treasurer and controller, and defunded four key positions in the mayors administration. While Williams did not veto councils version of the budget entirely, she issued line-item vetoes, which allow her to reject specific spending items while approving the rest of the budget.

As the pay raises were voted down by council already, the mayor couldnt use veto power to do anything about it.

The cuts included salaries of Gloria Martin-Roberts, interim director of the Department of Building and Housing, and Samuel Sulkosky, interim business administrator.

Council members who voted for the cuts cited a loophole in city law: Interim officials under the Williams administration have stayed in their jobs past the 120-day statutory limit because city law only defines acting and not interim officials.

In a statement that Williams didnt issue publicly, but filed with the city clerk, they mayor called the cuts short-sighted and foolish. She said the city will incur significantly higher costs, as it will need to seeks contracts for required services. Williams also claimed that council did not cite any issue with the current business administrators job performance. Some council members have previously questioned Sulkoskys employment history and his strained relationships in city hall.

Martin-Roberts will retain most of her salary because her position is primarily funded through HUD federal dollars. But the mayors statement said the cut to the citys portion of her salary would restrict her from overseeing non-HUD funded programs, leaving those tasks without someone to do them.

Williams also vetoed salary cuts for Denae House, Director of Community Engagement and Relations, and Jason Graves, project director for business development/LERTA administrator.

Williams defended Houses position saying that citys community service aides (CSA) would otherwise be under direct supervision from uniformed law enforcement, which the mayor said was contrary to the purpose of the CSA program. Her statement justifying Graves position was very similar to the rationale for Martin-Roberts position.

Williams made a legal argument multiple times in her statement that council did not cite any financial basis for the cuts, which the mayor argues is the extent of councils authority. The statement also reads that personnel decisions fall to the mayor.

Harrisburg operates from a third-class city charter, like at least 53 other cities in Pennsylvania, with a strong-mayor form of government. So while council sets policy, the mayor is the ultimate executive and enforcer of city ordinances.

The mayors spokesperson said Williams simply doesnt want her staff discussing the veto lest things get reported in part or out of context.

Council will meet tonight at 6 p.m. to vote on the mayors vetoes or make changes to the budget. A vote of five or more council members is needed to override the vetoes.
Vietnam's population is projected to peak around 2059 before entering a period of slow growth or stability, as the country prepares for rapid aging, persistent gender imbalances and shifting migration patterns.

The findings were presented at a workshop hosted by the National Statistics Office in coordination with the UN Population Fund on Dec. 23, drawing on recent census data and large-scale surveys covering socio-economic conditions across 53 ethnic groups.



Under a medium-fertility scenario, Vietnam's population is expected to continue growing for several decades before reaching a peak around mid-century, followed by a transition toward slower growth or stability.



Over the 20242074 period, the nation's population size is projected to rise to about 114 million, with outcomes varying significantly depending on fertility trends.



The so-called "golden population structure"  when the working-age population significantly outnumbers dependents  is expected to end by 2036, paving the way for an era of population aging and, eventually, super-aging.



This shift will be driven by a contraction in younger and middle-aged cohorts and a rapid increase in the elderly population, placing mounting pressure on labor supply, health care systems and social protection frameworks.



At the same time, an imbalance in the sex ratio at birth is expected to persist well into the middle of the 21st century, continuing to skew the population's gender structure.



Urbanization, while ongoing, is also projected to slow as the urban population approaches the 50% mark.



Internal migration remains a key force reshaping population distribution, reflecting disparities in economic opportunity and labor demand between regions.



New data shows that internal migration has declined in recent years, dropping from about 6.4 million people in the 20142019 period to roughly 3.8 million between 2019 and 2024.



City-to-city migration accounts for more than 70% of all moves, suggesting that most migrants leaving urban areas are relocating to other cities rather than returning to rural areas.



Short-distance moves are becoming increasingly common, a trend that researchers attribute to a growing preference for residential stability and lower mobility costs.



While the overall scale of migration has fallen, migration among ethnic groups has declined only slightly, pushing up their share of total migrants.



Analysts said this indicates early gains from job creation and development policies in rural, peri-urban and satellite-city areas.



A separate report released at the workshop found that illiteracy rates among tiny ethnic groups  those with populations under 10,000  are more than twice as high as among larger ethnic communities.



Early marriage, low educational attainment and inadequate sanitation were identified as overlapping factors driving multidimensional poverty among ethnic groups.



Education, especially at the secondary level for girls, was singled out as a critical lever for reducing intergenerational poverty and curbing child marriage, officials said, calling for more flexible and targeted policy interventions tailored to the specific conditions of different ethnic communities.



Taken together, the findings point to a narrowing window for Vietnam to capitalize on its remaining demographic dividend, while underscoring the need for long-term planning to manage aging, migration and gender imbalance.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High around 60F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies with periods of light rain late. Low around 45F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
FILE  Snow blankets a destroyed neighborhood in Irpin, Ukraine, on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022. Pope Francis urged the tens of thousands of faithful in St. Peters Square to pray for Ukraine and for others suffering in conflicts around the world.
Public Safety Reporter

Kailey Cota is a public safety reporter for the Post & Courier's Charleston location. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina. Previously, she wrote for The State, The Current and The Daily Gamecock. She was named South Carolinas collegiate journalist of the year.
Padar Islands at Komodo National Park in Indonesia. Photo by Tripadvisor

Indonesia has temporarily closed Padar and Komodo islands in Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara to tourists due to risks from extreme weather conditions.

The decision was announced by the Labuan Bajo Harbormaster and Port Authority Office (KSOP) following a tourist boat accident on the evening of Dec. 26 and adverse weather observations recorded at the Padar Island monitoring station.

The small tourist boat KM Putri Sakinah was carrying tourists from Komodo Island to Padar Island when its engine broke down and it subsequently sank in waters around Padar.

Stephanus Risdiyanto, head of the KSOP, said that right after the incident, it issued a notice to mariners temporarily closing cruises to Komodo and Padar.

He added the sailing permit (SPB) service for the Padar-Komodo route will remain suspended until conditions improve.

The cruise ban aims to facilitate search and rescue operations for four passengers still missing from the sunken ship.

Seven of the 11 passengers on board were previously rescued, including two foreign tourists from Spain, a tour guide, and four crew members.

The KomodoPadar sea route is one of Indonesia's most famous tourist journeys, attracting large numbers of visitors with its majestic landscapes, pristine beaches and rich marine ecosystem.
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.
Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations.
Charleston, SC (29532)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High 52F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional showers overnight. Low 42F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 19:00:28

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 433 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Baker University recently suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal or protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal or protected health information entrusted to Baker University.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?In December 2024, Baker University became aware of a security incident on its network that resulted in a system outage. Upon detection, Baker University launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to certain files and folders between December 2, 2024, and December 19, 2024. Baker University conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals.The impacted data may include names, dates of birth, Driver's license numbers, financial account information, health insurance information, medical information, passport information, Social Security numbers, student identification numbers, and tax identification numbers.OnDecember 19, 2025, Baker University filed a notice with the Attorney General of Maine and began notifying impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personalinformation or protected health information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Baker University, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 27th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 00:00:15

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 / December 28, 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: 2025-12-29 19:15:09

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 409 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Excellent Home Care Services, LLC ("Excellent") recently announced data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to Excellent.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On November 25, 2025, Excellent Home Care Services, LLC discovered that an employee's email account was accessed by an unauthorized third party. Upon learning of the incident, Excellent secured the affected account and began an investigation with the assistance of external cybersecurity support to understand what information may have been involved.The impacted data may include full names, addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth, gender, Social Security numbers, Medicare or Medicaid numbers, and medical information, such as diagnoses, medications, or plan of care documentation.On December 17, 2025, Excellent sent notification letters to affected individuals, and on December 18, 2025, publicly disclosed the incident. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information or protected health information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATIONData breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Excellent Home Care Services, LLC you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 27th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 20:00:23

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 636 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., December 29, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE:FCX) between February 15, 2022 and September 24, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important January 12, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action first filed by the Firm.SO WHAT: If you purchased Freeport-McMoRan 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 Freeport class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=45553 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com 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 12, 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. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. 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 has 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 made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Freeport-McMoRan did not adequately ensure safety at the Grasberg Block Cave mine in Indonesia; (2) the lack of proper safety precautions constituted a heightened risk that could foreseeably lead to the death of Freeport's workers; (3) this constituted an undisclosed heightened risk of regulatory, litigation, and reputational risk; and (4) as a result, defendants' statements about Freeport-McMoRan's business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the Freeport class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=45553or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com 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 or 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 FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 20:00:30

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 612 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 /WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE:INSP) between August 6, 2024 and August 4, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important January 5, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.SO WHAT: If you purchased Inspire Medical common stock 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 Inspire Medical class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=21452 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com 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 5, 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.Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. 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, throughout the Class Period, defendants misrepresented and failed to disclose key facts about Inspire V, a sleep apnea device, including the actual market demand for the device and whether Inspire Medical had taken the steps necessary to launch it. Defendants issued a series of materially false and misleading statements that led investors to believe that demand for Inspire V was strong and that Inspire Medical had taken the necessary steps for a successful launch. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the Inspire Medical class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=21452 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com 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 FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 07:18:06

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 1003 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Now based in the US, the award-winning marketing executive is publishing research on how smaller companies can use AI and data to defeat industry giantsLAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / In 2017, few Americans had heard of Transsion Holdings. But in Nigeria, Ghana, and across West Africa, the Chinese company was executing what would become one of the most remarkable competitive upsets in consumer electronics history, dethroning Samsung as the continent's largest smartphone manufacturer.Oluwaseun Kuburat Badmus was at the center of that fight.As Integrated Marketing Communications Manager for Transsion's West Africa Region, the company's largest and most strategic market, Badmus led campaigns that drove a 25% increase in market share and a 40% surge in brand awareness. She orchestrated the company's first Nigerian celebrity partnership with Grammy winning artist Wizkid, generating a 14.5% lift in sales. By the time she left, Transsion controlled nearly half of Africa's smartphone market, and she had earned the company's highest regional honors: Outstanding Local Employee of the Year and Elite Professional of the Year.Today, Badmus is turning those battlefield lessons into a body of published research that any business can use.The Practitioner Who PublishesWhat separates Badmus from most marketing executives is that she documents what works. Her research, published across five peer-reviewed journals since 2018, focuses on a single question: How can smaller companies use data and AI to compete with, and beat, entrenched competitors?Her most recent paper, published in October 2024, examines how artificial intelligence and machine learning can transform business decision-making. Another explores how startups can use AI to optimize resources and compete with larger corporations. A third presents data-driven approaches to predicting customer lifetime value in B2B sales.The academic community has noticed. Her work has been cited 291 times by researchers worldwide, and she has been invited to serve as a peer reviewer for three of the world's top technology and business journals, where she now evaluates cutting-edge research submitted by other scholars in her field."Most marketing research is written by people who have never run a campaign," Badmus said. "I write about what I have actually done. At Transsion, we were not just competing on price. We were using data to understand African consumers better than Samsung did. We built phones with longer battery life for markets with inconsistent electricity. We calibrated cameras for darker skin tones. We supported local languages. That is not intuition. That is analytics applied to strategy. And it is replicable." How She Did ItThe strategy that defeated Samsung was not about outspending the competition. Transsion's marketing budget was a fraction of Samsung's. Instead, Badmus and her team focused on understanding what African consumers actually needed, then building campaigns around those insights.The data revealed gaps that Samsung had missed. Consumers wanted phones optimized for local conditions: longer battery life for areas with unreliable electricity, cameras that rendered darker skin tones accurately, and operating systems that supported African languages. Transsion built products that addressed these needs. Badmus built campaigns that communicated them.The Wizkid partnership illustrated the approach. Rather than importing a global celebrity, Badmus championed a local icon who resonated with the target demographic. The campaign generated a 14.5% sales increase and 30% more website traffic, proving that cultural relevance could outperform marketing spend."The principles are universal," Badmus explained. "Whether you are selling smartphones in Lagos or financial products in Las Vegas, the question is the same: How do you use data to understand what your customer actually needs, and how do you reach them more effectively than your competitor? The tools change. The math does not." Bringing the Method to AmericaBadmus is now applying these same predictive models at Credit One Bank, one of America's largest credit card issuers, helping the institution move beyond traditional metrics to understand the human behavior behind the data. Her work focuses on translating complex consumer insights into marketing strategies that drive acquisition and retention.Her professional credentials reflect the cross industry application: an MBA from the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, a Marketing Analytics Certificate from The Wharton School, and Certified Product Manager designation from the Association of International Product Marketing and Management.Advocating for the Next GenerationBeyond her corporate and research work, Badmus has become a voice for women in technology, particularly in emerging markets. Her speaking engagements have included Africa Tech Radio's International Women's Day Panel, the "Tech, Her and The Future" webinar series, and keynote addresses for mentorship programs."When I was one of the few women in leadership at a $7 billion phone manufacturer, I saw both the challenges and the opportunity," she said. "The companies that win are the ones that bring different perspectives to the table. At Transsion, we did not just sell phones. We understood our customers. That understanding came from having teams that looked like the markets we served." Expert Commentary AvailableBadmus is available for interviews and expert commentary on:How AI and data analytics are leveling the playing field for smaller businessesLessons from Transsion's disruption of the African smartphone marketWhat American companies can learn from emerging market strategiesThe future of product marketing in the age of machine learningAdvancing women in technology leadershipAbout Oluwaseun Kuburat BadmusOluwaseun Kuburat Badmus is a Product Marketing Manager at Credit One Bank and a published researcher specializing in AI driven marketing strategy and data analytics. She previously served as Integrated Marketing Communications Manager for Transsion Holdings, Africa's largest smartphone manufacturer, where she led marketing strategy for the company's most important regional market. Her published research appears in the World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, International Journal of Novel Research and Development, and International Journal of Engineering Inventions. She serves as a peer reviewer for Decision Support Systems, Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, and Technological Forecasting and Social Change. Badmus holds an MBA from the University of Maryland Robert H. S
The United States does not recognize Nicolas Maduro or his cronies as the legitimate government of Venezuela, stated U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz at the Security Council. Nicolas Maduro is a fugitive from American justice and the head of the Foreign Terrorist Organization Cartel de Los Soles. In fact, Maduro and his regime stole the election, and the international community has the receipts.



President Donald Trump has been very clear that he is going to use the full power of the United States to take on and eradicate the drug cartels, which have operated with impunity in the Western Hemisphere for far too long, said Ambassador Waltz.



The single most serious threat to this hemisphere . . .is from transnational terrorist and criminal groups. These cartels are not like the mafia. These cartels are sophisticated, very technically capable, well-financed, and are wreaking havoc in our region.



In its 2025 World Drug Report, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime identified Venezuela as the key trafficking route in the entire Western Hemisphere for illegal drugs, and for illegal narcotics and materials entering the United States and increasingly, Europe.



The United States will impose and enforce sanctions to the maximum extent to deprive Maduro of the resources he uses to fund Cartel de Los Soles, which the United States has designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization along with Tren de Aragua. This includes profits from the sale of oil used to finance these cartels.



The reality is that sanctioned oil tankers operate as the primary economic lifeline for Maduro and his illegitimate regime, noted Ambassador Waltz. These sanctioned tankers also fund the narco-terrorist group Cartel de Los Soles.



Not only does Maduros illegitimate regime openly cooperate and fund terrorists and criminal organizations, but it invites terrorist groups, like Hezbollah, like the Iranian regime, militias like the [National Liberation Army] and [Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia] dissidents to operate openly within their territory, warned Ambassador Waltz.



Furthermore, Maduros ability to sell Venezuelas oil enables his fraudulent claim to power and his narco-terrorist activities, noted Ambassador Waltz:



The people of Venezuela frankly deserve better. These people who have suffered under Maduros socialist dictatorship. It is the action and policies of the illegitimate Maduro regime that pose an extraordinary threat to our hemispheres peace and stability and to that of the United States.



The bottom line is, whether it is physical attacks on our buildings and infrastructure like we suffered on 9/11 or hybrid attacks like flooding the nation with criminals and deadly chemicals, said Ambassador Waltz, the United States will do everything in its considerable power to protect its hemisphere, borders, and people.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 19:15:14

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 388 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Sax LLP ("Sax") recently announced data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Sax.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On August 7, 2024, Sax became aware of a security incident on its network. Upon detection, Sax launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third-party gained access to Sax's systems.The impacted data may include dates of birth, Social Security numbers, driver's license or state identification numbers, and/or passport numbers.On December 22, 2025, Sax filed a notice with the Office of the Maine Attorney General and began sending notice letters to impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information or protected health information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATIONData breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Sax LLP, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 27th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 16:00:06

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 709 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

SeekNow announces expanded estimate writing services, improved claims execution, and technology investments that position insurance carriers and SFR operators for greater consistency and confidence in 2026.ATLANTA, GA / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / SeekNow, a nationwide provider of property decision data and insights for insurance carriers and single-family rental operators, today announced a year of significant operational progress that strengthened execution, increased consistency across the claims process, and laid the groundwork for continued growth in 2026.A Different Kind of Year for Claims Operations2025 proved to be an unusually quiet weather year across much of the United States. As overall claims volume declined, insurance carriers faced increased pressure to improve operational discipline, streamline workflows, and prepare their organizations for future volatility.During this period, carriers increasingly relied on SeekNow not only for field inspections but for structured, decision-ready property intelligence that supports faster decisions, more substantial cost control, and greater confidence during fluctuating volumes.Increasing Investment in a Proven Technology FoundationTechnology has always played a central role in how SeekNow operates at scale. From its earliest days, the company built proprietary systems to coordinate field activities, collect structured property data, and deliver consistent, actionable insights to desk-based teams.That foundation enables SeekNow to operate efficiently across markets, deploy field resources quickly, and deliver standardized information that fits naturally into claims workflows.In 2025, SeekNow increased investment in its technology infrastructure to strengthen this foundation further and prepare for the next phase of growth. The company focused on improving data capture workflows, quality validation, delivery consistency, and orchestration of field activities across its nationwide network.Progress Across the Claims LifecycleSeekNow supports insurance carriers across roof, exterior, interior, and repair estimate services, with estimate writing now serving as a central part of its claims offering. Throughout 2025, the company expanded the volume and scope of estimates it delivers, writing estimates across a broader range of claim types, damage severities, and property conditions.By combining structured field data with expanded estimate writing services, SeekNow reduces handoffs, limits rework, and improves decision accuracy earlier in the claims process. As insurance carriers trusted SeekNow with more complex claims and relied more heavily on solo inspections, this integrated approach delivered greater consistency and efficiency.Measured Improvements in ExecutionThroughout 2025, SeekNow focused on strengthening execution across the business. These efforts delivered measurable improvements in service quality, speed, and reliability, reflecting increased operational maturity.Over the year, the company achieved a Net Promoter Score of 67, inspection quality scores above 96 percent, and average inspection and report delivery times of 2.9 hours. These results reinforced customer confidence and demonstrated consistent performance across markets and conditions.SeekNow also supported multiple storm surge events during the year, activating its nationwide network of more than 1,000 independent Seekers who operate as contractors and deploy on demand to help carriers respond quickly as conditions evolve.Leadership Aligned Around Operating DisciplineTo support this phase of the business, SeekNow expanded its senior leadership team in 2025 with experienced leaders across operations, marketing, product, and partnerships.Kevin Moynihan, Senior Vice President and General Manager, InsuranceBlake Adams, Senior Vice President of MarketingMarty Meyers, Senior Vice President of OperationsSeth Beck, Senior Vice President of ProductTadd Roberts, Vice President of Partnerships"After joining SeekNow earlier this year, my focus has been on strengthening the foundation of the business," said Brannon Lacey, Chief Executive Officer of SeekNow. "2025 was about tightening execution, improving consistency, and building the operational readiness our customers expect. That discipline matters most in quieter years, when preparation happens before conditions change." Positioned for the Next PhaseLooking ahead, SeekNow remains focused on deeper integration of technology, data, and field operations. This includes continued improvements to scheduling and routing, property data collection, and the thoughtful application of artificial intelligence to support quality and consistency.These investments help insurance carriers and single-family rental companies operate with greater clarity and confidence by transforming field activity into reliable, decision-ready insights that scale across regions and claim volumes."2025 was a year of preparation," Lacey added. "We strengthened how we operate so we can continue to serve our customers with consistency and confidence. That work positions SeekNow to support them even more effectively in the years ahead." Media ContactBlake AdamsSVP Marketing marketing@ seek-now.com SOURCE: SeekNow
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 09:30:06

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 681 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

GEORGE TOWN, MY / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 /Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery proudly presents its inaugural special exhibition, Picasso and Lin Xiang Xiong: A Dialogue Across Time, a showcase that explores the universal theme of peace through the works of two visionary artists from different eras. Running now till 31 March 2026, this exhibition brings together over 60 works by Pablo Picasso - including lithographs, photolithographs, posters, prints, and select silk pieces - alongside more than 300 paintings by Professor Lin Xiang Xiong.Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, lived through two world wars, the Spanish Civil War, and the early Cold War period. His art became a powerful response to violence, human suffering, and the global quest for peace. Far beyond personal expression, Picasso's works served as a public voice against war, using recurring symbols such as doves, bouquets, and human faces to communicate hope and dignity."War and Peace synthesise Picasso's vision: lucidity in horror, faith in humanity's capacity to rebuild, create, love, and transmit. At the heart of a torn 20th century, Picasso made art a force of resistance and hope," illustrated Alin Avila, French art critic and curator.Lin Xiang Xiong's practice, spanning the late 20th century into the present, reflects a world still grappling with ethnic conflicts, regional wars, refugee crises, and humanitarian challenges. His emotionally charged works confront these realities head-on, urging viewers to recognize that peace remains an unfinished responsibility."Picasso's selected works were never intended for private collectors. They were created to circulate in society and enter our lives," said Professor Lin Xiang Xiong. "They embody the spirit of Art for Peace.' Art is not only to be viewed, it is a platform for social dialogue." The ExhibitionRather than focusing on a single iconic masterpiece, the exhibition offers a comprehensive visual narrative of peace:Le Visage de la Paix (Face of Peace) series, reflecting dignity through the human faceContrasting images of war and peace, illustrating conflict and choicePosters from peace congresses, youth festivals, and anti-war movementsUniversal symbols such as doves and bouquets, reinforcing peace as a shared messageTogether, Picasso and Lin Xiang Xiong create a profound dialogue - Picasso helps us see peace through symbolic language, while Lin reminds us that war and suffering persist today. This exhibition underscores that peace is not a historical achievement but an ongoing global responsibility.Professor Lin explained, "Visitors to this special exhibit are not just viewing valuable artworks, they are engaging with an evolving visual archive of how peace has been imagined, communicated and shared across time. Choosing Picasso is not about artistic prestige, it is about honouring his example of public responsibility. In moments of extreme conflict, Picasso chose to respond, consistently and powerfully. That commitment forms the foundation of this exhibition." The special exhibit Picasso and Lin Xiang Xiong: An Artistic Dialogue on Peace Across Time, is held at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, Penang and will run from now until 31 March 2026. Audiences of all ages are welcome.Gallery HoursTue - Thu: 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.Fri - Sun: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.Mon: ClosedEntrance Ticket to Special ExhibitAdult (13 & up): Mykad RM38/RM42 (weekend) | Standard RM50/RM55 (weekend)Senior Citizen (60 & up): Mykad RM19/RM21 (weekend) | Standard RM25/RM28 (weekend)Children (13 & below): Mykad RM19/RM21 (weekend) | Standard RM25/RM28 (weekend)Children (4 & below): Free###About Lin Xiang Xiong Art GalleryLocated at The Light Waterfront in Gelugor, Penang, the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery is a contemporary art and cultural exchange platform dedicated to promoting peace, understanding, and cross-cultural dialogue. Conceived by internationally renowned artist Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, the gallery spans 8,000 square meters and houses over 300 of his representative works. Since its opening in December 2025, it has emerged as a cultural landmark in Asia, championing the philosophy of "Art for Peace" through exhibitions, educational programs, and global collaborations.For media information, kindly contact:Triven Marketing Group, for Lin Xiang Xiong Art GalleryJazzmin WanEmail: j.wan@ swanconsultancy.biz SOURCE: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 21:50:09

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 537 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY AND NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 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: 2025-12-29 20:45:10

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 1010 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

We are B.C.'s best silver opportunity!ESTES PARK, CO / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Taranis Resources Inc. ("Taranis" or the "Company") ( TSX.V:TRO)(OTCQB:TNREF) is providing a summary of ongoing exploration results from its Thor Property. In 2024, Taranis initiated a deep drilling program under the south end of the Thor deposit that tested a number of aeromagnetic and magnetotelluric ("MT") resistivity anomalies that underly the Thor deposit. The source of these anomalies is now known to be lamprophyre intrusive rocks and accompanying alteration. The presence of lamprophyres at Thor, and the Silver Cup Mining District in general are indicative that the district has potential to host world-class calc-alkaline epithermal deposits similar to Cripple Creek in Colorado, and Golden Sunlight, Montana. The deposit is known to be intruded by this younger lamprophyre dyke system, and is cut-off' at depth by the intrusive. The 2025 discovery of the Borr Zone on the east side of the lamprophyre dyke-alteration system indicates that the epithermal deposit remains intact at depth and open. This finding offers unprecedented potential to expand the Thor deposit at depth and is where Taranis will focus on drilling in the foreseeable future. In a larger sense, it shows as a graphic example as how modern exploration methods such as deep drilling, geophysics and geochemistry can be integrated to revitalize exploration in old mining districts and expand on previously known mineral deposits.Lamprophyre Intrusive at ThorLamprophyre intrusives have never been described before in detail within the Silver Cup Mining District, although they are known elsewhere in Southeast British Columbia (Salmo, Golden). These intrusive rocks are derived from the mantle and are commonly porphyritic and accompany intrusive breccias. The dykes are mafic in composition and have high levels of magnesium, nickel, copper and chromium. Lamprophyres at Thor are linear, steeply dipping dyke-shaped bodies that have intruded into intensely-folded lower Paleozoic-age metasedimentary and metavolcaniclastic rock units. The main lamprophyre body and the epithermal deposit clearly cross-cut the older Silver Cup Anticline. Modelling of the deposit and the intrusive dyke-alteration system show that the intrusive has punched-through' and intruded the epithermal deposit essentially breaking it into two halves. The west (upper) half is the currently known Thor deposit; and the east (lower) half was discovered in 2025 and is now called the Borr Zone (See Taranis News Release October 27, 2025)Alteration Related to LamprophyresThe lamprophyre-related alteration zones can be identified and mapped using airborne geophysical magnetic and MT surveys, and constitute the main targets that were drilled in the 2024 and 2025 drilling programs. While the lamprophyre dykes themselves are relatively thin (meters), the metasomatism associated with the dykes is volumetrically large and this metasomatism can extend tens of meters away from the lamprophyre dykes themselves. Some of the lamprophyre-related alterations include the introduction of magnetite into the host rocks, introduction of garnet (grossular-andradite), chloritization, albitization, carbonatization and pyritization. Other lamprophyre-unique alteration features also include ocelli, and gold-bearing fuchsite along the edges of the lamprophyre dyke. In one drill hole (Thor-256), a magnesite carbonatite intrusive body is associated with lamprophyre.Relationship to Conductivity Tusks at ThorIn 2022, MT identified two large conductivity features that are spatially related to the lamprophyre. The North and South Tusks bracket the lamprophyre body and its associated alteration. In one area where the North Tusk is exposed near surface north of Thor's Ridge (Megagossan), the extensive gossan is enriched in iron, nickel, copper, chromium and the host rocks are graphitic. This demonstrates that the lamprophyre intrusive rocks had widespread thermal alteration that extended upwards of 1km away from the dyke itself. The source of the conductivity anomaly is conductive carbonaceous material derived from cooked' organic matter in the host metasedimentary rocks.CommentsLamprophyre rocks are known to be genetically associated with some of the largest (calc-alkaline) epithermal deposits in North America, and are also associated with silver-rich base metal deposits (Tonopah, Nevada). The presence of lamprophyres is direct evidence that a deep structure tapped-down into the mantle under Thor and provided the heat engine to the hydrothermal system that formed the lamprophyre dyke, but almost certainly the epithermal deposit itself. As such, once the epithermal deposit was emplaced and the intrusive-related system continued to evolve, mantle derived lamprophyre intrusive rocks intruded the epithermal deposit, cutting it in half. This fully explains one of the enduring mysteries encountered at Thor when miners in the 1930's drove a major 1 km long exploration tunnel (Morgan Tunnel) downdip of the epithermal deposit, and encountered no mineralization. Unknowingly, they had driven the exploration adit along the west edge of the lamprophyre dyke where the deposit had been intruded and consumed by the lamprophyre dyke-alteration system.Despite the Silver Cup Mining District having been explored and mined for upwards of 100 years, there has been no direct mention of these important intrusive bodies. Some of the previous workers described these rocks as the "Middle Volcanic Member of the Broadview Formation", so although they were recognized as being volcanic in origin - no one recognized them as being intrusive. The Silver Cup Mining District has historically been classified as a bunch of silver-rich veins broadly associated with a feature known as the Silver Cup Anticline but of no obvious origin. What our exploration work at Thor has demonstrated is that these deposits are in fact calc-alkaline intrusive-related deposits, and as such have close affinity to some of the largest epithermal deposits in North America. Taranis has assembled a substantial land position (6,500 Ha) in the Silver Cup District over some of the most prospective historic deposits recognizing that historic mining has only "scratched the surface".Qualified PersonExploration activities at Thor were overseen by John Gardiner (P. Geo.), who is a Qualified Person under the meaning of Canadian National Instrument 43-101. John Gardiner is the principal of John J. Gardiner & Associates, LLC which operates in British Columbia under Firm Permit Number 1002256. Mr. Gardiner is the President and CEO of Taranis Resources Inc. and has reviewed and approved the comments contained within this News Release.Taranis currently has 102,421,487 shares iss
PR-Inside.com: 2025-12-29 20:00:17

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 495 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

EL PASO, TX / ACCESS Newswire / December 29, 2025 / Texas Tech Health El Paso's third annual Lighting Campus for Hope, presented by Hunt Companies, illuminated the campus with holiday magic on Dec. 5. An estimated 1,000 celebrated hope and unity in the fight against cancer.Funds raised from Lighting Campus for Hope will help provide more than 600 life-saving cancer screenings and follow-up diagnostics, which are often more costly."Lighting Campus for Hope is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together with purpose," said Andrea Tawney, Ph.D., Vice President for Institutional Advancement, who has led the campaign.During the celebration, El Paso Electric and the Electric Company Charitable Foundation announced a combined $500,000 gift to the Building Hope Campaign. In recognition of the gift, Texas Tech Health El Paso is naming the imaging reception area after the company and its charitable foundation."Lighting Campus for Hope reflects the strength and compassion of our community," said El Paso Electric President and CEO Kelly A. Tomblin. "El Paso Electric and the Electric Company Charitable Foundation are honored to contribute to the Fox Cancer Center's imaging center, helping ensure that life-saving care is available to the families we." Their combined $500,000 contribution represents a meaningful step toward transforming cancer care in West Texas. Imaging services are often the first critical step in identifying cancer early, and this gift supports the creation of a space designed to deliver timely, accurate diagnostics for patients and families.The gift is part of the $50 million Building Hope Campaign supporting the cancer center's construction. To date, $45 million has been committed by community business leaders, including Steve and Nancy Fox and their family, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation, the Hunt Family Foundation, GECU and other community champions.The Building Hope Campaign offers an opportunity to transform cancer care for families across West Texas. Pledges may be fulfilled over multiple years, allowing donors to make a long-term impact. Every gift of any size has the power to save a life, offer hope and become part of our community's cancer center forever.Visit ttuhscepimpact.org/fox-cancer-center to learn more.Currently, El Pasoans must travel hundreds of miles for treatment and many are unable to travel for access. In September, Texas Tech Health El Paso broke ground on the Fox Cancer Center. The Fox Cancer Center will open the door to compassionate and comprehensive cancer care, life-saving research and opportunities for innovative clinical trials in West Texas.When completed, this facility will ensure cancer warriors can receive top-notch care in the region, sparing families the emotional and financial burden of traveling far from home for treatment.About Texas Tech Health El Paso Texas Tech Health El Paso, established in 2013, serves 108 counties in West Texas and offers programs in medicine, nursing, biomedical sciences, and dentistry. Its 2,600 graduates focus on excellence in education, research, and clinical service.Media Contact: Marty Otero at 915-215-6017 marty.otero@ttuhsc.edu SOURCE: Texas Tech Health El Paso
Mattress manufacturer Vitafoam has turned the tables resoundingly on the performance woes that hammered operating profit and caused earnings to tank to its lowest in six years in 2024.

Post-tax profit for the year ended September 2025 leaped more than 15 times to catapult the maker of foam products, beddings and home & workplace furniture to a record N14.5 billion, its latest financial report showed.

The turnaround, more of a reward for cutting back expenses than growing sales, came about as the company trimmed down foreign exchange loss by 95.1 per cent, enabling it to post N774 million in other gains. That compares to other losses of N12.1 billion a year ago.

In 2024, Vitafoams bottom line took a hit, following a sharp devaluation of naira, its reporting currency, with adverse implications for the finances of the company, which buys the larger part of its raw materials in dollar and also imports machinery and spare parts.

Apart from its base in Nigeria, it operates in Ghana and recently set up a factory in Sierra Leone, from which it ships finished goods to regional markets like Liberia and Guinea.

Sales from outside Nigeria contributed 4.4 per cent of the revenue for the review period, which at N111.4 billion, was 34.8 per cent higher than a year ago.

Finance costs moderated by 14.2 per cent as a result of a drop in the interest paid on loans and overdraft as well as a decline in the interest paid on lease.

Profit before tax climbed 1,775.5 per cent to N21.5 billion, while profit after tax jumped to N14.5 billion from N952.2 million, marking a 1,426.7 per cent growth.

The company announced in a separate document on Monday a cash reward plan that will pay shareholders a total dividend of N3.8 billion, equivalent to N3 per share. Another incentive in the form of a scrip issue of one new share for every five held by shareholders by 6 February 2026 is also on the cards.

The stock has yielded 311 per cent this year.
The claim by Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, that Nigerian domestic flight fares are among the cheapest in the world has sparked a heated debate across social media and the aviation sector in recent days.

Mr Onyema made the remarks in an interview on Arise News on Sunday, responding to allegations that Nigerian airlines were hiking fares unfairly during the Christmas season.

Its very painful when its coming from agencies that are supposed to know better. Using words like exploitative and coordinated price fixing is very unfair to these airlines. How did you get to that conclusion? he asked.

He said price differences between passengers on the same flight are standard in global aviation, reflecting operational realities rather than exploitation.

It is untrue that every fare is 400,000 or 500,000. If you check the inventory, you will still see tickets from 150,000. During Christmas, passengers who book ahead can still get tickets at 150,000, Mr Onyema said.

Passengers travelling on the same flight may pay different prices based on booking timing and availability, which he described as standard in aviation.

Mr Onyema explained that high fares are also linked to operational pressures.

Almost 65 to 70 per cent of revenue does not go to airlines, it goes to taxes and levies. Yet airlines are blamed as if they are profiteering, he added.

Aviation expert Nura Ahmed confirmed that such pricing patterns are common in the industry.

Differences in ticket prices on the same flight, as well as higher fares during peak travel periods, are common in global aviation. Airlines adjust prices based on demand and operating costs. What Air Peace describes aligns with standard industry pricing mechanisms, although it may appear high to passengers, he said.

Joe Abah, governance and institutional reforms expert, said high fares reflect systemic incentives beyond airline control.

On the issue of airfares, all parties are profiting from the high fares: the government and the airlines. NCAA has the power to ensure fair market prices, but this applies only to the base fare. That is why the airlines keep the base fare low and then load up the ticket price with things like fuel surcharge, which the NCAA cannot regulate, he said.

Mr Abah added that agencies such as NCAA, FAAN, and NAMA are self-funded and take a percentage of airline revenues, leaving little incentive to lower fares.

He said the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) can review prices to ensure they are fair, but it cannot set them.

Everybody benefits  airlines, aviation agencies, and government. The only people who are not happy are the consumers, Mr Abah said.

Reacting to the issue, Michael Achimugu, director of public affairs and consumer protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), said the fare surge is largely driven by seasonal demand.

The skyrocketing airfares are simply down to market forces  the dynamics of demand and supply, especially during the yuletide season. December airfares have absolutely NOTHING to do with taxes. Taxes did not increase in December, he noted.

He added that fares are expected to decline in January 2026 after the peak travel period.

High Prices

Independent checks on Air Peaces official booking platform on Monday showed a wide range of fares across domestic routes. One-way economy tickets from Abuja to Lagos ranged from 211,600 to 287,800, while fares from Abuja to Enugu and Asaba were 335,500. Tickets from Abuja to Owerri stood at 287,800; fares to Port Harcourt stood at 240,200, and fares from Abuja to Kano ranged from 102,100 to 383,100.

For United Nigeria Airlines, routes from Lagos and Abuja to the South East and South South regions  including Owerri, Enugu, Anambra, Port Harcourt, and Asaba  are generally fixed at 350,500 for one-way economy travel between 1 December 2025 and 30 January 2026. Some routes from 1 January 2026 showed lower fares.

These figures show that while some lower-fare seats exist, many travellers face significantly higher costs during the peak festive season.

Debates

Many Nigerians reacted to Mr Onyemas remarks on social media, sharing details of both local and international fares.

Tope Fasua, special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, wrote on Facebook that a trip from London to Dublin cost him about 30 (around 60,000).

These airlines should take it easy  saying Nigerian airfares are cheap seems misleading, he said.

On X, another user, Akinsola Akin, recounted a flight from Gatwick, London, to Glasgow on EasyJet, which cost 37 (around 72,000) for a one-hour, 30-minute journey. Nigerians are being overcharged, he wrote.

Dipo Awojide said he flew from Birmingham to Scotland for about 180, while travel between London and Manchester cost less than 200.

These accounts contrasted sharply with domestic fares during the festive season, which often range from 300,000 to over 500,000 for one-hour flights.

While Mr Onyema highlighted the availability of lower fare tickets and operational challenges, many Nigerians continue to report unaffordable fares during peak travel, amid calls for greater transparency, competition, and policy clarity in Nigerias domestic aviation sector.
The chairman of financial services group First HoldCo Plc, Femi Otedola, has offloaded his interest in Geregu Power Plc, the electricity generation company he took public in October 2022 at a market value of N250 billion, now in the neighbourhood of N2.9 trillion.

The deal was valued at $750 million, a source with knowledge of the transaction told PREMIUM TIMES. Until the completion of the share sale, he was the majority owner of the Lagos-quoted firm.

His stake in the utility at the point of listing was 95.5 per cent, variously held through Calvados Global Services and Amperion Power Distribution Company.

All the same, partly selling down the shares largely to strategic investors such as Afreximbanks Fund for Export Development in Africa and the State Grid Corporation of China in the past few years scaled back his shareholding, which stood at 76.4 per cent as of September, according to Geregu Powers latest financial report.

Between September and now, the billionaire tycoon, whose interest also encompasses banking, shipping and real estate, further offloaded 14.5 million shares through Amperion, according to stock exchange filings.

That puts his latest divestment at 1.9 billion units or 75.8 per cent of the companys total issued shares.

Insiders said a consortium of lenders, led by Zenith Bank, facilitated the buyout, which had BlackBirch Capital as the financial adviser.

Geregu Powers net profit for the first nine months of the year marginally jumped by 3.8 per cent to N25.1 billion, although revenue rose at a fairly faster pace, following a sharp surge in cost of sales.

Total assets, estimated at N273.1 billion, grew by about 60 per cent within the first three years of its listing.

According to sources, Mr Otedola is looking to invest more of his fortune in the financial sector, where he is currently the top shareholder of First HoldCo, the banking group in which he owns 16.9 per cent of the issued shares.

Mr Otedola and Geregu Power Plc

Ajaokuta-based Geregu Power was incorporated in November 2006, overseen then by the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) on behalf of the Nigerian Government.

The plant was built by the government and inaugurated in February 2007. It was one of the five thermal generation companies that emerged from spinning off PHCN when the government completed the privatisation of the power industry.

In November 2013, Amperion purchased a 51 per cent controlling stake in Geregu Power for N20.5 billion.

Mr Otedola sold his 75 per cent ownership in Forte Oil (formerly African Petroleum and now Ardova) for about N64.9 billion to Prudent Energy, owned by energy investor Abdulwasiu Sowami, in 2019.

The proceeds of the deal helped finance an acquisition of additional stake in Geregu Power that same year.

According to information on the companys website, Geregu Power contributes on average 10 per cent of the power Nigeria generates, with installed capacity currently standing at 435MW.
The Uhueze-Nenwe community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State has crowned a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Godwin-Chijioke Nwobodo, as its new traditional ruler.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nwobodo served as DIG Zone 7, Abuja, which comprises Kaduna and Niger states as well as the FCT, and is also a Fellow of the National Defence College (FDC).

Mr Nwobodo succeeds the late Igwe Emmanuel Nwachukwu, who passed away nine years ago.

His coronation attracted members of the community, friends, and well-wishers.

Crowning him on Saturday at the Girls High School Nenwe field, the hcairman, Coronation Planning Committee and Execution, Joseph Orji, a retired group captain, described the event as historic and glorious.

Today, we witness history, a day that binds the proud heritage of our forefathers with the hopes and aspirations of a new generation. The coronation of Nwobodo is not merely a ceremony; it is a reaffirmation of our collective identity, a symbol of unity and renewal of our commitment to peace and development, he said.

Wisdom and service

Mr Orji added that the event was a reminder that leadership, when rooted in wisdom and service, would become a light that guides the people forward.

In Igwe Nwobodo, we see a (man) moulded by discipline, refined by experience, and driven by compassion.

As a retired officer and fellow of the defence college, he brings to the throne a wealth of knowledge, integrity, and an unwavering sense of duty.

His record of service to humanity is unparalleled. His community stand as a testament to a life dedicated to excellence and progress.

His ascension to the throne is therefore, not only well-deserved but divinely ordained, a blessing to Uhueze Nenwe community and Aninri at large because the Royal Highness is a leader of the people, Mr Orji said.

The planning committee chairman, however, called on the community to support Mr Nwobodo to succeed.

A member of the community and a member of Igwes Council of Chiefs, Sunday Esom, explained that the community wholly chose Nwobodo as their traditional ruler and reiterated their commitment to supporting him.

Pledge

In his acceptance speech, Mr Nwobodo pledged to wear the crown with the fear of God and was fully aware that authentic leadership was about service.

The royal father assured the community that his reign would bring peace, justice, and uphold their cultural heritage, as the community was blessed with a proud history of discipline, learning, courage, and service to the nation.

I stand as a custodian of this heritage, committed to preserving these values and inspiring the next generation. We are crowned today at a time when Nigeria faces economic hardship, insecurity and declining trust in leadership.

Many families are under pressure, and many young people are uncertain about the future, yet God said we should not lose hope.

This throne shall remain a place of listening, dialogue, justice and reconciliation. It shall be without discrimination, whether you supported me or not, I will not discriminate against you, Mr Nwobodo said.

He extended an invitation to all community members to unite and work together as one, promising to promote peace and safeguard the community by collaborating with community leaders and lawful authorities, as well as promoting the dignity of women.

The event featured both cultural displays and merriment.

(NAN)
A screen shot taken from a video released by the White House shows U.S. President Donald Trump meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, the United States, Dec. 28, 2025. The two leaders met in Florida on Sunday on the latest draft of a peace plan aimed at ending the Ukraine crisis. (Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday refused to say whether he expects a peace deal over the Ukraine crisis to be reached by the end of 2025.

"I don't have deadlines. You know what my deadline is? Getting the war ended," Trump told reporters at the start of his meeting with visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

Asked whether their Sunday talks will lead to a peace deal, Trump said: "It depends -- I do believe we have the makings of a deal," noting that the Ukraine crisis has proved difficult to solve.

Zelensky said his talks with Trump will focus on the latest draft of a 20-point peace plan and the sequencing of a settlement.

"It's very important our teams talk about strategy -- how to make step-by-step, and to bring peace closer," Zelensky said.

Ahead of the meeting with Zelensky, Trump said on Truth Social that he "had a good and very productive telephone call" with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

During the phone call, Trump and Putin agreed that a temporary ceasefire would only prolong the Ukraine crisis, Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov said.

The two presidents "hold broadly similar views that the temporary ceasefire proposed by the Ukrainians and Europeans, under the pretext of preparing for a referendum or other pretexts, will only prolong the conflict and risk a resumption of hostilities," Ushakov said.

During the Florida talks, Trump and Zelensky are expected to discuss possible ceasefire arrangements, a proposed demilitarized zone, the management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, territorial control of the Donbas region, and security guarantees following the end of the crisis. 

This file photo shows a view of the Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in Florida on Sunday on the latest draft of a peace plan aimed at ending the Ukraine crisis. (Xinhua)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
The year ends on Wednesday, with Nigeria earning the infamy of being one of the most dangerous countries for journalists according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The indices in this regard are overwhelming. A recent press freedom index released by RSF, showing the country as having dropped from its 115 ranking in 2024, to 122 out of 180 countries in 2025, is quite troubling.

Sadly, press freedom is often mistakenly treated as a stand-alone right, detached from the broader ecosystem of freedom of expression that gives it meaning and vitality. Yet, a free press can only thrive where citizens are able to speak, question authority, assemble, dissent, and participate openly in public life. Recognising this interdependence, the 2024 Openness Index developed by Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) offers a more rigorous framework for understanding press violations, not as isolated incidents but as symptoms of deeper democratic deficits.

The Index demonstrates that when openness shrinks  through political intolerance, restrictive laws, economic pressures, social hostility, or violence against journalists  the space for ideas and accountability collapses, elections become performative, and governance turns opaque. By assessing Nigerian states across seven interconnected dimensions, including political tolerance, legal safeguards, treatment of journalists, and gender inclusion, the Openness Index provides an evidence-based pathway for reform.

It shifts the focus from reactive condemnation of abuses to proactive diagnosis of structural weaknesses, enabling policymakers, media actors, civil society, and citizens to identify where freedoms are flourishing, where they are fragile, and where urgent intervention is required. In doing so, the Index reframes press freedom as both a mirror and a measure of freedom of expression itself  central to democratic health, responsive governance, and the restoration of public trust.

Nevertheless, even using the limited data of press violations from organisations like RSF alone, it is adequate to pronounce that such a shameful categorisation of the abuse in the country does not align with the expectations of a democracy, which Nigeria has been in the past 26 years. This concern informed the decision of the International Press Institute (IPI) to address the issues of media repression and safeguarding democratic accountability in Nigeria as the focus of its recent Annual Conference in Abuja, held early in December.

There is an avalanche of determined efforts by governments at the federal and sub-national levels to cripple press freedom in the country through the constant harassment, intimidation and detention of journalists. These are done with the police acting as a willing tool of corrupt politicians, compromised public institutions and other agents of social perversion. A recurring trend has been the exploitation of the Cybercrime Act, criminal defamation legislation and other subversive legal frameworks to perpetrate this evil.

Journalists are not the only direct victims of this violence. Their family members are known to suffer collateral damage too. The most recent example was the cruelty of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokuns Monitoring Unit in the arrest and detention of Mrs Adenike Atanda and her nine-month-old baby, in its bid to apprehend her husband, Sodeeq, a senior reporter with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). The action of the police was unlawful, as arrest by proxy violates Section 7 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2025.

Sodeeqs offence was an investigative report he did, which was not controverted. Hell-bent on getting their target, the police officers coerced Adenike into calling her husband under the false pretext that their child was ill and had been hospitalised. Understandably, Sodeeq fell for this bait, and he was promptly arrested in Ikorodu. It took the intervention of IPI for IGP Egbetokun to order the release of the journalist on 23 December.

The case of Friday Alefia, who was detained for 86 days at the behest of a member of the House of Representatives over alleged land grabbing, is no less reprehensible. To avoid sleeping close to the toilet in the cell, Alefia had to pay 170, 000 for a relatively comfortable space. Journalist and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, is a regular victim of unfortunate police harassment, brutality and prosecution.

In its 129-page report released on 3 November and entitled, When Protectors Become Predatory: The State Against Freedom of Expression in Nigeria, Media Rights Agenda documented 69 verified cases of journalist arrests and intimidation in the first 10 months of 2025, stressing that 74 per cent of this maltreatment was carried out by government officials.

As the watchdog of the society, a fettered press bodes ill for democracy. Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, confers on the press the power to hold government accountable to the people. A government that is not willing to subject itself to this constitutional requirement must have skeletons in its cupboard or is a rogue regime.

Unfortunately, this statutory responsibility is gradually being eroded by violence meted out to the media. When investigative journalism is being criminalised by the state and there are no firm safeguards to protect press freedom journalists then resort to self-censorship, fear and the abdication of their sacred duties, thus making themselves craven and useless to society.

The Nigerian press, having been in the vanguard of the fight against colonial rule and operating in the trenches against military dictatorship for decades, must not capitulate to repressive tendencies under the Tinubu administration. Therefore, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), International Press Institute (Nigerian chapter), Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and other civic media organisations working in the ecosystem of freedom of expression must rally into granite coalition to deal with this existential challenge. The monstrosity is likely to become more vicious in 2026  an electioneering period ahead of 2027, when politicians would unleash malevolent forces against elements that stand in their way.

In this regard, we commend the IPI for its resolutions at the end of its Annual General Meeting in Abuja, which called for safeguards to protect the freedom of the press beyond mere rhetoric. The novelty of launching a Book of Infamy, in which it enrolled IGP Egbetokun, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State and his Akwa Ibom State counterpart, Umo Eno, for their acts of intimidation and repression of journalists and media outlets is ingenious, although we would call for caution in promoting security sector leaders as models of media freedom. The strategy should be embraced by the Nigerian press, to name and shame public officers who operate outside the framework of the law.

The August 2024 nation-wide hunger protest that stemmed from the escalating cost of living perhaps was Mr Egbetokuns darkest moment in charge of the police. More than 30 journalists were either fired live bullets at, arrested or assaulted. Cameras of photo-journalists were smashed, and in some cases, seized as they covered the crisis. A cowed media, needless to say, succumbs to the government agenda of shrinking the civic space in the demand for accountability in governance. This should be resisted as strongly as possible in our country!

It is obvious that a democracy without freedom of the press is an anomaly. So fundamental is this to a democratic society that it was enshrined in the Bill of Rights in the First Amendment to the American Constitution. In addition to this, essential tenets such as free speech, religious freedom, the right to peaceful assembly, etc., are crucial guardrails of an open society.

As such, the media in Nigeria should act in concert and put forward a strong advocacy that closes all the loopholes in our laws, which the police exploit to harass and intimidate journalists, while investing in continuous accountability journalism, and legally challenging abuses that abridge their rights to function, as enabled by the constitution.
For about 30 days, 130 students and staff of St Marys Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, Niger State, lived away from home, family and classrooms after Boko Haram terrorists stormed their school in the early hours of 21 November. The students ranged in age from 6 to 18.

The abduction, one of the largest school kidnappings in recent months, unsettled the authorities and kept security forces on their feet. It revealed a dire security failure in the North-central state, where two jihadi groups have tightened their grip on local communities surrounding the Kainji Lake National Park.

Day 1: The abduction (21 November)

The terrorists under the command of Mallam Sadiku attacked the Catholic boarding school before dawn, rounding up 315 people, including students and staff from their dormitories. While about 50 people escaped, 265 were taken away, according to school officials.

A PREMIUM TIMES and The New Humanitarian investigation revealed how the terrorists moved the students through seven villages for two days, before disappearing into the Kainji forest reserve, where they split the captives.

By morning, the scale of the attack had become clear. Parents, church leaders and local authorities converged in Papiri, as school officials declared 315 people abducted. Subsequently, the school stated that 50 people returned to the community, declaring that 265 had been abducted.

The state authorities had tried to politicise the abduction and blame the school for it. The state governor, Mohammed Bago, stated that the school disregarded the security warning to shut down and avoid an impending attack.

But the school authorities countered his claims.

Days 213: Silence and anxiety

For nearly two weeks, there was little public information on the captives whereabouts. Families waited anxiously as negotiations and security operations reportedly took place behind the scenes.

One of the parents, Anthony Musa, died three days after the abduction. Although he had sustained injuries from a motorcycle accident, his aged mother, Hannatu, believes her son died of pain and grief.

During this period, conflicting figures continue to emerge from officials, the school management and religious groups, creating confusion over the exact number of those abducted.

Day 14: First breakthrough (7 December)

Fourteen days after the abduction, the Nigerian government secured the release of 100 captives. They were escorted by military personnel and formally handed over to the Niger State government the following day.

A list released at the time showed that 99 were students, while one was a staff member. This offered the first concrete sign of progress and hope to families still waiting.

Days 1529: Uncertainty over those left behind

After the initial release, attention shifted to the fate of those still in captivity. The school management and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) said that 165 people were still being held.

But the more the government made efforts to release the remaining captives, the more tension grew among parents and school management.

One of the parents whose children were abducted that night told PREMIUM TIMES that there was confusion about the figures of the remaining captives.

The school invited the parents twicethe first time, only those whose children were still in the forest.

The school told us that the government disagreed with the list they had provided, one parent, who asked not to be named, said. We were then asked to register our names and the names of our children.

The second invitation had both parents whose children had been released and those still waiting. The school did another head count and asked them to go home.

While this went on, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, met with school authorities and assured them that the remaining captives would be freed before Christmas.

Day 30: The final release

On 22 December, about one month after the abduction, another 130 students and staff were released at a location near Nigerias border with the Benin Republic.

They were transported through Wawa, Mokwa and Bida en route to Minna, from where they are expected to be reunited with their families.

A presidential spokesperson, Sunday Dare, announced that no victim remained in captivity. Niger State police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun also confirmed the release, saying further details would be communicated.

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, which owns the school, confirmed the latest release in a statement dated 21 December, and signed by its secretary, Jatau Joseph. It did not disclose the number of captives released.

But after a final reconciliation and verification exercise, the school proprietor, Bulus Yohanna, confirmed that 230 pupils and staff members were abducted, contrary to the 265 mentioned earlier. He said all the captives were now free.

Mr Yohanna, who doubles as the bishop of Kontagora, explained that the abducted persons comprised 12 staff members, 14 secondary school students, and 204 nursery and primary pupils.

He, however, noted that the discrepancies were neither deliberate nor misleading.

Meanwhile, authorities have not officially named the abductors. The conditions under which the captives were released have also not been disclosed, amidst allegations of prisoner exchanges and ransom payments. In response to these concerns, President Bola Tinubu said, The rhetoric on how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary; the end justifies the means.

A broader crisis

The Papiri abduction is the latest reminder of Nigerias enduring school safety crisis. A decade after the Chibok schoolgirls were kidnapped, mass abductions have spread across northern Nigeria.

While some of the Chibok girls (now women) have regained freedom, more than 80 are still unaccounted for.

According to media reports, there have been at least 10 mass abductions, targeting more than 1,700 students in formal and tsangaya [Islamiya] schools since the Chibok abduction.

For the students of St Marys, the 30 days in captivity may be over, but the memories remain fresh with them and their families.
The Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, said on Monday that its recent circular setting concessional marks for 25 marks doesnt apply to all students.

The university spokesperson, Abdullahi Anaka, told PREMIUM TIMES via telephone that the concessional marks apply only to final year students who fail a single course in their final year.

Mr Anaka explained that the concessional pass doesnt apply to all students.

According to the university guidelines on concessional passes and waivers, final-year students who have failed one course can be considered for a concessional pass.

Mr Anaka said the 25 marks dont represent the universitys pass mark, as being misinterpreted on social media.

He noted that the university is being regulated by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and couldnt have contravened the commissions prescribed pass marks.

The controversial memo

The universitys circular had announced the university councils decision to set 25 marks as the minimum concessional pass, stirring controversy on social media.

The circular, signed by Bappa Shamsudeen on behalf of the Registrar and addressed to staff and students, stated that the decision was made at the university senates 73rd extraordinary meeting held on 23 December.

The decision, the circular said, followed the observation that some students do not attend lectures, deliberately refuse to write Continuous Assessment (CA) tests, and in some cases, do not sit examinations, under the assumption that they will automatically be granted a concessional pass.

This behaviour contravenes Senate guidelines and undermines academic standards, the circular said.

Henceforth, students should clearly note that effective from the 2025/2026 academic session, only students who score 25marks and above will be considered for a concessional pass.

However, the memo has sparked controversy since it went online, with many social media users accusing the university of lowering educational standards.

See what Arewa is doing to our educational system. We are in trouble, Steven Kefas, an activist, posted on his X handle @SKefason
President Bola Tinubu has promised to resolve the political feud between the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, and Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue.

Mr Tinubu made the promise on Sunday in Makurdi at the wedding reception of Deborah and Samuel Akume, son of the SGF.

The president, who was represented by his vice, Kashim Shettima, stated that Mr Akume had paid his dues and there was no need for cord with the governor.

He described the SGF as the longest-serving public servant in Nigerias contemporary history.

Mr Tinubu added that he has a moral obligation to wade in because what affects Benue would affect the entire North Central and Nigeria.

The president said Mr Akume, as leader of the North-central and in Nigeria, has shown leadership, accommodation and a great deal of kind-heartedness.

Benue is too important for us to toy with. We can not afford to allow the discord between the elder statesman, Senator Akume, and Governor Alia to escalate.

What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. If this relationship goes asunder, it is the people of Benue, North-central and Nigeria that will suffer.

Sen Akume has paid his dues. He is the longest-serving public servant in the contemporary history of this country.

He was director of protocol, permanent secretary, two-time governor, three-time senator and minority leader of the Senate, minister and now SGF.

This is why I used to call him a cat with nine lives. He installs a governor and dethrones and puts another. He fell out with that one; he dethroned him and installed another one, he said.

He emphasised that he would not allow the relationship between Mr Akume and the governor to go asunder.

According to him, he has the moral obligation as a leader to fix the damage.

He commended the people of the state for voting massively for him in the 2023 presidential election instead of a northern or religious candidate.

The 2023 election was the most divisive election ever in the history of our country. But Benue decided to go with the Nigerian candidate, not a religious or Northern candidate, he said.

Earlier, in his remarks, the father of the groom, Mr Akume, thanked the president for honouring his family during their moment of celebration.

Mr Akume also commended Mr Alia for finding time out of his tight schedule to honour the invitation to witness the wedding of his son.

He assured the couple of his continuous support and prayers for them.

Mr Alia, in his remarks, congratulated the new couple and commended them for bringing joy and respect to their respective families, the state and the nation at large.

Jack Gyado, in his speech, said God blessed Mr Akume with a good heart, a great family and good leadership qualities.

The Chairman of the occasion, Pius Akutah, executive secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, congratulated the couples and prayed for them.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that serving and past ministers, senators, heads of government agencies, and others all witnessed the celebration.

NAN also reports that the immediate past governor of Benue, Samuel Ortom, as well as traditional rulers, were also in attendance.

(NAN)
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, on Monday, assented to the states 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1.016 trillion as passed by the Abia House of Assembly.

In a speech at the brief event held at Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, Mr Otti pledged that, barring unforeseen circumstances, the 2026 budget would be judiciously implemented to advance development in Abia.

The governor assured that the state government would remain disciplined and committed to implementing the approved budget.

Mr Otti stressed that any future adjustments, if unavoidable, would be brought back to the assembly with proper justification.

He commended the team that worked tirelessly to prepare the appropriation bill and transmit it to the assembly, and also praised the lawmakers for their diligence, sleepless nights, and speedy passage of the bill.

He noted that the House demonstrated attention to detail and did not merely pass the bill without scrutiny, adding that the engagements between the executive and legislative arms reflected the true spirit of democracy.

Mr Otti said that the time taken to pass the bill was positive, as it ensured thorough work and pushed the executive to produce credible figures that could withstand scrutiny.

He expressed satisfaction that, despite the rigorous review process, the major figures remained unchanged, with the total budget standing at N1.016 trillion, while capital and recurrent allocations were retained.

Mr Otti said that the budget reflects the governments philosophy of empowerment.

He added that the philosophy was driven by creating an enabling environment for business, alongside investments in health, education, environmental sanitation and roads.

In his remark, the Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, said that the budget, titled Project of Acceleration and New Possibilities, signified a stage where strong foundations had been laid to enable faster development.

Mr Emeruwa noted that the state was close to closing developmental gaps created over the past 24 years, describing the moment as a return to ground zero and the beginning of accelerated progress.

The speaker said that the development efforts in the state were attracting attention beyond Nigeria, adding that the government would not allow any form of regression.

He commended the governor for his focus and leadership, pledging continued support for initiatives aimed at improving employment, education, health and other key sectors.

Mr Emeruwa said that the House supports the Budget of Acceleration to ensure sustained development in Abia.

(NAN)
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed allegations by former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose that he diverted a chunk of N50 billion federal intervention fund provided after the January 2024 Ibadan explosion, describing the claim as false, misleading and politically driven.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that Mr Fayose accused the governor of receiving N50 billion from the federal government and failing to disclose it publicly, while allegedly diverting the bulk of the funds for political purposes.

Responding in a statement on Sunday through his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde said the federal government released N30 billion and not N50 billion to Oyo State.

The federal government did not give Governor Makinde N50 billion. What exists on record is a request and a promise, not a disbursement, the statement said.

According to the governors aide, documents cited to support the allegation merely showed a proposal and not an actual release of funds.

The statement explained that after the January 2024 explosion in Bodija, Ibadan, which killed residents and destroyed property, Governor Makinde travelled to Abuja with a detailed assessment report to request federal intervention, especially after President Bola Tinubu did not visit the state.

Mr Olanrewaju said the federal government promised a N50 billion intervention package but eventually released only N30 billion.

A promise is not a release. When it was time to act, only N30 billion was released, he said, adding that the remaining N20 billion was withheld after demands linked to inducements were introduced, which the governor refused.

He added that the governor chose not to publicly litigate negotiations tied to a national tragedy, focusing instead on relief and recovery efforts.

How the money was spent

Mr Olanrewaju said Governor Makinde publicly acknowledged the federal governments support during the inauguration of a committee established to manage and disburse the relief funds.

According to him, the committee operated with transparency and ensured accountability in the use of the N30 billion released. Part of the funds was paid directly to victims of the Bodija explosion as immediate relief, while the remainder was used for reconstruction and restoration work within the affected area.

He said damaged roads had been repaired, rebuilding was ongoing, and plans were underway to construct a memorial at the site of the explosion to honour those who lost their lives.

The statement clarified that the N4.5 billion figure often cited in public discussions referred strictly to direct financial assistance given to victims, including landlords and tenants.

That amount represents about 15 per cent of the total funds released. The governor ensured direct support for victims while also funding broader government interventions. Anyone who visits the area can see the reconstruction work, Mr Olanrewaju said.

Political undertones

The governors spokesperson described the renewed allegations as politically driven, linking them to Mr Makindes recent declaration that he would not support President Tinubus re-election bid in 2027.

This newspaper had reported details of a media briefing held by Governor Makinde at the Government House in Ibadan, where he accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of attempting to weaken the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by pledging to hold the PDP down to the advantage of President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

Mr Makinde said Mr Wikes comment was made during a meeting he attended with President Tinubu and others, a remark that he said raised concerns about efforts to erode the opposition and push Nigeria towards a one-party state.

Mr Olanrewaju argued that the timing of the allegations against Governor Makinde, coming after his refusal to endorse President Tinubu, reflects political desperation rather than genuine concern over accountability.

He recalled that the governor supported Mr Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election but has since said he regretted the decision, citing concerns about what he described as growing attempts to move Nigeria towards a one-party state.

According to the statement, the governors position triggered renewed political hostilities.

That statement marked a turning point. Almost immediately, political hostilities were activated, Mr Olanrewaju said.

He pointed to a recent attempt by a group aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to establish a caretaker committee for the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, an effort he said was rejected by party leaders in the state.

These actions are not driven by principle. They are driven by desperation, the statement said.

Mr Olanrewaju maintained that attempts to portray the governor as dishonest or disconnected from his party would fail.

Half-truths and outright falsehoods may offer temporary comfort to those who trade in political mischief, but they always collapse under the weight of facts.

This is about whether fear, coercion and political intimidation will be allowed to undermine democratic values. Governor Makinde has made his position clear. He will not be complicit, he said.
No fewer than three people lost their lives following a clash on Saturday between security operatives and suspected drug peddlers at Koraman Nayalle, Sabuwar Unguwa Quarters in Katsina metropolis.

The incident was said to have begun when security operatives attempted to arrest one of the peddlers, called Uzairu, popularly known as Kuda and confiscated his mobile phone and suspected illicit drugs.

As Kuda mobilised his friends to retrieve his phone from the operatives, the situation escalated into chaos, during which he was shot, and later confirmed dead.

The confrontation sparked anger and unrest in the area, causing the violence to intensify and eventually leading to the deaths of three people.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that an outpost of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and some motorcycles were set ablaze.

The neighbourhood remained tense, with the residents living in fear of further violence, while the authorities were making frantic efforts to restore calm.

The NSCDC Public Relations Officer in Katsina, Buhari Hamisu, who confirmed the incident, said that the situation was now under control.

He said that after the earlier incident, friends of the deceased attempted to destroy another NSCDC and police outposts at Filin Kanada, but were dispersed.

ALSO READ: Nigeria customs intercepts N700 million illicit drugs in Katsina

According to Mr Hamisu, the investigation is ongoing to ascertain the main course of the clash, calling on residents to remain calm.

Also, the police spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, confirmed the incident, saying that it escalated during the funeral procession of the deceased on Sunday.

He further urged the public to always exercise maximum restraint and avoid taking the law into their hands.

(NAN)
The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has called on the federal government to suspend the implementation of the newly enacted tax reform laws pending the conclusion of investigations into allegations that the laws were altered after being passed by the National Assembly and assented to by President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement issued on Sunday and jointly signed by the Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda; Deputy Minority Leader, Ali Isa; Minority Whip, Aliyu Madaki; and Deputy Minority Whip, George Ozodinobi, the caucus described the controversy surrounding the tax laws as troubling and deserving of thorough investigation.

We call on the government to suspend the implementation of the tax laws until investigations are concluded and there is clarity and certainty of the law to be implemented, part of the statement read,

The lawmakers said the allegations, which centre on claims that versions of the tax laws gazetted and circulated to the public differ from what was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly, could not be dismissed as trivial, given their implications for the rule of law and legislative integrity.

The gravity of the cause of the controversy is an issue of great concern to all Nigerians, especially since it borders on the accusations of unlawful alterations to the laws as passed by both Chambers of the National Assembly and subsequently signed by the president, the caucus said.

The caucus confirmed that the issue was formally brought to the attention of the House during plenary by a member, Abdulsamad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto), who raised concerns over alleged discrepancies between the tax laws passed by parliament and the versions later gazetted and made public.

Mr Dasuki had noted that certain provisions appeared to have been altered outside the legislative process, raising questions about the authenticity and legality of the circulating documents.

Following the lawmakers intervention, the House, at plenary the next day, resolved to constitute an ad hoc committee to investigate the allegations of fraudulent alteration, gazetting and circulation of the tax laws.

According to the minority caucus, the decision to set up the committee underscores the seriousness of the matter and the need to protect the constitutional role of the legislature.

We want to assure Nigerians that the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives will stand with the entire House to see that the circumstances surrounding this illegality are exposed and the culprits brought to book in the interest of justice for all Nigerians, the statement said.

National Assembly moves to re-gazette Acts

Amid the controversy, the leadership of the National Assembly last Friday announced measures to address the dispute and restore public confidence in the legislative process.

The leadership disclosed that it had directed the Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA) to re-gazette the tax reform Acts and issue certified true copies of the versions duly passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The move, according to the leadership, is aimed at ensuring that only the authentic texts approved by parliament and assented to by the president are in circulation.

The Minority Caucus reiterated that, by law, the National Assembly remains the custodian of the genuine versions of all Acts of the federation, as the CNA is responsible for transmitting duly passed laws to the appropriate federal agency for gazetting.

They therefore urged Nigerians to disregard any purported tax laws in circulation that do not bear the signatures of the CNA and the President.

Such did not originate from the National Assembly, and neither do they reflect the true character of what was actually passed by the Legislature and signed by the president, the caucus said.

Any attempt to impose what it described as fake laws on Nigerians, the caucus warned, amounts to an attack on the independence of the legislature and a threat to democratic governance.

Implementation

The implementation of the tax reform laws is scheduled to commence on 1 January 2026.

The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has cautioned against delaying the implementation beyond that date.

Speaking on Channels Televisions The Morning Brief last Monday (22 December), Mr Oyedele warned that postponing the reforms would have serious consequences for workers and businesses.

According to him, as many as 98 per cent of Nigerian workers would continue to be subjected to multiple taxation if the new tax laws are not enforced as planned.
The Nigerian Academy of Science has raised concerns over the growing migration of researchers and scientists from the country.

The Executive Secretary of NAS, Oladoyin Odubanjo, expressed concern on Monday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

According to him, the trend poses a serious threat to the future of scientific research and development.

Mr Odubanjo, while responding to questions on the outlook for science research development in 2026, said the migration of health workers seemed very noticeable, but significant migration also occurred within the science and technology ecosystem.

One of the big areas people are not talking about is the migration of researchers.

We know about health workers and all, but researchers are also leaving. Many of our young researchers are leaving the country.

They are leaving in their numbers, going to look for career paths, and other countries are taking them away.

If we have no people, then there will be no research, he said.

According to him, the loss of researchers directly affects the nations research capacity, as scientific work thrives on collaboration between senior and junior academics.

Mr Odubanjo, however, expressed optimism that with sustained reforms and funding, the situation could stabilise.

READ ALSO: Enugu community crowns retired police DIG new traditional ruler

He noted that recent policy changes, including moves to ease restrictions associated with the Treasury Single Account (TSA), could improve access to research grants and enhance productivity.

Before now, even when researchers got grants, the funds went into TSA and accessing the money to buy reagents or go to the field became extremely difficult, especially when approvals were centralised in the Federal Capital Territory, he said.

He explained that delays in accessing funds often stalled fieldwork and data collection, thereby stifling research activities.

Mr Odubanjo, however, expressed hope that with improved policies, funding access and manpower retention, scientific research in Nigeria would experience a gradual recovery in the coming year.

(NAN)
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will Tuesday arraign former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami on money laundering charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

He will be arraigned alongside his son, Abubakar Malami, and Bashir Asabe, an employee of a firm linked to the former minister, Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the trio will be arranged before trial judge Emeka Nwite on 16 counts brought against them by the EFCC.

Mr Malami, who has been detained by the EFCC since 8 December, will be attending Tuesdays proceedings from custody.

The anti-corruption agency accused the defendants of carrying out various suspicious transactions and attempting to conceal the unlawful origin of billions of naira through bank accounts and property acquisitions across Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi.

They allegedly committed the offences between 2015 and 2025, a period that includes the eight years he served as the AGF during the late former President Muhammadu Buharis administration.

Details of charges

The EFCC alleges that Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to disguise the origin of funds, acquire properties indirectly, and retain sums they allegedly knew were proceeds of unlawful activity, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Acts of 2011 (as amended) and 2022.

In count one, the EFCC alleged that between July 2022 and June 2025, Mr Malami and his son directed Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal over N1 billion (N1,014,848,500) in a Sterling Bank account, knowing the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count two states that between September 2020 and February 2021, the duo allegedly concealed more than N600 million (N600,013,460.40) through the same company.

In count three, the commission alleged that in March 2021, Mr Malami and his son retained N600 million as cash collateral for a N500 million Sterling Bank loan to Rayhaan Hotels Ltd, despite knowing the funds were illicit.

Count four alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe disguised N500 million used to purchase a luxury duplex in Maitama, Abuja.

In count five, the EFCC claimed that between November 2022 and September 2024, the trio conspired to conceal N1,049,173,926.13 paid through Meethaq Hotels Ltds Union Bank account.

Count six states that between November 2022 and October 2025, Mr Malami and his son allegedly took control of N1,362,887,872.96 from the same account, knowing it was illicit.

Count seven alleges that in NovemberDecember 2018, Mr Malami and Mrs Asabe concealed N700 million used to purchase No. 3 Onitsha Crescent, Garki, Abuja (Hamonia Hotels Ltd).

In count eight, between September and December 2020, the duo and Mrs Asabe allegedly concealed N850 million to buy a property in Jabi District, Abuja (Meethaq Hotels Ltd).

Count nine states that in February 2018, Malami and Hajia Bashir acquired No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja, for N430 million, allegedly from unlawful sources.

In count 10, the pair allegedly concealed N210 million in February 2018 to purchase a property in Asokoro District, Abuja.

Count 11 alleges that between March and June 2021, they concealed N325 million used to acquire No. 1241B Asokoro District, Abuja.

In count 12, the EFCC stated that between November 2015 and January 2016, the duo concealed N120 million used to purchase No. 27 Efab Estate, Gwarimpa, Abuja.

Count 13 alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to hide funds used to acquire a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.

In count 14, between December 2016 and April 2022, Malami, Mrs Asabe, and others allegedly conspired to acquire additional properties for Mr Malami with proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count 15 states that between June 2023 and January 2023, Mr Malami allegedly concealed N537 million used to purchase multiple properties across Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Finally, in count 16, the EFCC alleged that between October 2018 and December 2021, Mr Malami concealed N415 million used to acquire several properties in Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Proposed witnesses

The EFCC plans to call several witnesses, including commission staff, bank representatives, Bureau de Change operators, and other financial experts. Key witnesses include Folarin Dare, Chinedu Eneanya, Sani Lukeman, Abdulrahman Musa Basheer, Jamilu Mohammed, and representatives of Zenith Bank Plc and Sterling Bank Plc.

Folarin Dare, Chinedu Eneanya, and Sani Lukeman are expected to testify on how the EFCC received intelligence and petitions of alleged monumental corruption against Mr Malami. Abdulrahman Musa Basheer is to provide evidence on Rahamaniyya Properties Ltds role in allegedly purchasing properties for Malami.

Multi-billion naira properties linked to Malami

Documents obtained by PREMIUM TIMES indicate that Mr Malami is linked to 41 properties across Kebbi, Kano, and Abuja, with a combined estimated value of N212.89 billion. The properties, which include hotels, schools, factories, and residences, were part of EFCC searches conducted at his homes and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State on 17 December.

The revelations came amid an ongoing investigation of Mr Malami by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

READ ALSO: EFCC reacts to court order granting Malami bail

This newspaper had reported that the former attorney general raised the alarm over what he described as raids on his homes and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State by EFCC operatives.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Mohammed Doka, and shared on Mr Malamis Facebook page, the former minister said EFCC operatives carried out coordinated raids on 17 December, allegedly without prior notice.
A "Fuxing" bullet train is pictured at Yan'an Station of the new Xi'an-Yan'an high-speed railway in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, on Dec. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Bowen)

BEIJING, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 km with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route.

The Xi'an-Yan'an high-speed railway is designed to handle speeds of up to 350 km per hour and is set to reduce travel time between the two cities to around an hour.

China's high-speed rail journey began in 2008 with the commencement of the Beijing-Tianjin Intercity Railway. Since then, its network has seen phenomenal growth, with operating mileage surpassing the combined total of all other countries in the world. It also operates the world's fastest commercial high-speed rail services.

According to data from China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., the national railway operator, during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China constructed and put into operation 12,000 km of high-speed railways.

Today, high-speed rail services are accessible in 97 percent of Chinese cities with populations exceeding 500,000.

"China's high-speed rail has achieved historic accomplishments and realized higher-quality development. It has become a shining national flagship and a vivid embodiment of Chinese modernization," said Yu Jian, an expert from the China Railway Economic and Planning Research Institute.

The vast railway network enables 1 to 2-hour travel within 500-km city clusters, 4-hour journeys between major cities 1,000 km apart, and same-day trips over 2,000 km.

With a single-day passenger capacity reaching 16 million, it's as if the entire population of a megacity is on the move across this high-speed rail system every day.

The expansion strengthens links among major hubs and city clusters while integrating less developed counties and regions into the national economy, unlocking new pathways for local development.

Friday also saw the commencement of several new high-speed rail routes, including the 314-km Wuhan-Yichang section of the railway connecting Shanghai, Chongqing, and Chengdu, as well as the 131-km Hangzhou-Quzhou line in east China's Zhejiang Province.

These new lines are providing robust infrastructure support for regional economic growth, with cities along the routes actively seizing the opportunities presented.

Chen Tingting, a commerce official of the city of Tianmen in central China's Hubei Province, noted that the newly opened Wuhan-Yichang line would facilitate the development of a new cross-city industrial cooperation model.

China's engineering feat is powered by sustained breakthroughs in independent innovation. A Fuxing train operating at 350 km/h consists of over 40,000 components. Of the 254 critical technical standards applied, 84 percent are Chinese, with the overall design and core technology fully developed domestically.

Further pushing the boundaries of speed, the world's fastest bullet train, the CR450, has begun a battery of pre-service trials on a high-speed line in China, achieving a single-train speed of 453 km per hour.

"With key parameters like operating speed and energy efficiency leading the world, the CR450 has set the first global performance benchmark for trains operating at a speed of over 400 km per hour," said Li Yongheng, an official with China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.

Wei Jigang, an official with the Development Research Center of the State Council, noted that China's modern infrastructure development has made significant strides in recent years.

"The growth of transport infrastructure like high-speed rail not only connects places but also creates new value across regions," Wei said.

A train arrives at Peng'an West Station of Bazhong-Nanchong high-speed railway in Peng'an County of Nanchong City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, June 27, 2024. The high-speed railway connecting Sichuan's Bazhong and Nanchong cities was open to operation on the same day. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Liu Yonghong)

Passengers pose for a group photo inside a carriage of the G5766 bullet train running on the Chongqing West to Yibin East section of Chongqing-Kunming high-speed railway in southwest China, Sept. 29, 2024. The section connecting southwest China's Chongqing municipality and Sichuan's Yibin City began operation on the same day, with the fastest travel time between the two places being 48 minutes. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Photo by Fei Sitong/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on Sept. 6, 2024 shows a bullet train running along the Hangzhou-Wenzhou high-speed railway in Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang Province. The new high-speed railway linking Hangzhou and Wenzhou began operations on the same day. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Photo by Lyu Bin/Xinhua)

A bullet train of Beijing-Zhangjiakou high-speed railway passes through Juyongguan Tunnel and heads for Taizicheng from Beijing, Jan. 21, 2022. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

The CR450AF bullet train with an operational speed of 400 kilometers per hour is debuted in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 29, 2024. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

A Fuxing train runs on the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Jan. 22, 2021. The Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway opened to traffic on the same day. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Yang Qing)

The first inter-city train from Beijing to north China's Tianjin departs from Beijing South Railway Station in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 1, 2008. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Photo by Gong Lei/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on June 20, 2022 shows a bullet train running on the Zhengzhou-Chongqing high-speed railway in Dongjin new area of Xiangyang City, central China's Hubei Province. The Zhengzhou-Chongqing high-speed railway opened to traffic on the same day. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Photo by Yang Dong/Xinhua)

Train attendants dressed in performance costumes prepare for performances for passengers at Xingshan Station of the Zhengzhou-Chongqing high-speed railway in Yichang City, central China's Hubei Province, June 20, 2022. The Zhengzhou-Chongqing high-speed railway opened to traffic on the same day. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Photo by Yang Dong/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 31, 2023 shows a bullet train running on the Yinpohe Bridge along the Guiyang-Nanning high-speed railway in Dushan County, southwest China's Guizhou Province. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Liu Xu)

Two passengers from southeast China's Taiwan speak with their family in a video chat while taking the Fuxing bullet train G9801 on the Fuzhou-Xiamen-Zhangzhou high-speed railway in southeast China's Fujian Province, Sept. 28, 2023. China's fastest cross-sea high-speed rail started operation on the same day, with trains running at a maximum speed of 350 km/h along the west coast of the Taiwan Strait. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Jiang Kehong)

An aerial drone photo taken on Sept. 19, 2023 shows a test train running on the Meizhou Bay cross-sea bridge along the Fuzhou-Xiamen-Zhangzhou high-speed railway in southeast China's Fujian Province. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)

The first train of the Jinnan-Zhengzhou high-speed railway departs from Zhengzhou East Station in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, Dec. 8, 2023. The Jinnan-Zhengzhou high-speed railway was open for operation on the same day. China, home to the world's largest high-speed rail network, has expanded its total operational mileage beyond 50,000 kilometers with the launch of a new high-speed line.

A "Fuxing" bullet train departed Friday morning from Yan'an, a sacred revolutionary heartland in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, for the provincial capital Xi'an, inaugurating the new route. (Xinhua/Li Jianan)

Editor: ZAD
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has an opportunity in this present round of hires to the Federal High Court Bench to course-correct. As a first step, she should publish the scores of all candidates throughout the process. That will reassure the public about her commitment to liberating judicial appointments in Nigeria from continuing abduction by the forces of capture, conjugality and abuse of power.

A Judge who takes advantage of the judicial office for personal gain or for gain by his or her relative or relation abuses power. such abuse of power profoundly violates the publics trust in the judiciary.  Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Rule 8:3 (2016)

Eight-and-a-half years ago, in May 2017, a viral audio clip circulated which was said to be a conversation between a male Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a female judge who, in the preceding year, presided over an election petition involving the Senator. In the sound-clip, both could be heard importuning one another. The female voice asked the Senator to ensure that whatever he delivered, he must make it in USD and she sought reassurance from him in securing a job for her daughter in the public service of one of the states of the Niger Delta. The male voice seemed deeply solicitous of her wishes in a conversation that did not leave much to the imagination in terms of both the subject matter and the quid pro quo.

It was believed at the time that the sound-clip involved a judge who served at the head of an election tribunal that dismissed a petition against the Senator in respect of a contest for a seat to the upper chamber of the National Assembly in one of the states in the Middle Belt of Nigeria in the 2015 general elections. A subsequent petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission by some non-governmental organisations for an investigation into the sound-clip and its contents ultimately yielded little.

The principal characters in the dramatic sound-clip have since then gone on to prosper in a fashion that Nigeria uniquely makes possible. After being eventually extinguished from his seat, the distinguished Senator opted to study for a degree in Law. The contents of the sound-clip were not an issue when in July 2025, first the Body of Benchers admitted him to the Nigerian Bar and then the Supreme Court duly enrolled him to practice as a lawyer in the country.

In February 2021, the judge widely alleged to have been the voice in the sound-clip rose to become the Chief Judge of a State High Court in one of the six states of the Niger Delta.

It appears the daughter mentioned in the sound-clip eventually got the promised job. Her career as a State Counsel prospered in a meteoric fashion. 13 years into her life as lawyer, in the last quarter of 2025, she got promoted to become an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Justice. In the second week of January 2026, she will visit Abuja where a committee of the National Judicial Council (NJC) presided over by a senior Justice of the Supreme Court will interview her for the highly coveted position of a seat on the Bench of the Federal High Court. She goes in with insider advantage against a candidate ten years her senior at the bar and who, it seems, was actually way ahead of her on merit.

That seat is one of 14 judicial vacancies in the Federal Hight Court to be filled in the first quarter of 2026. In all, the NJC committee is reportedly scheduled to interview 28 candidates over a period of three days. 24 of the candidates are from twelve states and territories in Nigeria, namely: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Enugu, Imo, Kaduna, Kwara, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The NJC Committee will include at least two retired Justices of the Supreme Court; a retired Justice of the Court of Appeal; the current president of the Nigerian Bar Association, and one of his more recent predecessors. The Committee will also interview four candidates from Nasarawa State, which has two vacancies.

The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) did the shortlisting for the 28 candidates. That stage of the process involved, among other evaluations, a computer-based test (CBT) and an aptitude test, in relation to both of which each candidate is scored but the scores are not published. It is no surprise that such an opaque process lends itself to deserved controversy around three issues.

First, some unsuccessful candidates have accused judicial authorities of manipulating results and shortlisting candidates who allegedly failed the qualifying examination. It is claimed that some of the candidates on the final shortlist of 28 scored as low as 30 per cent or even 25 per cent. One person alleged specifically that the name of the person who scored the highest in the test was excluded from the list, claiming that the person was a candidate from a state in south-east Nigeria. This will not be the first time that such an allegation will be made in relation to judicial appointments into the Federal High Court. As long as the FJSC and the NJC remain unwilling to publish the scores of all the candidates, it is impossible to discount these allegations.

Second, at its 108th meeting on 29-30 April, the NJC decided that henceforth, the FJSC, all judicial service commissions or committee of the FCT, shall publish the names of all candidates recommended for judicial appointment. The primary objective of this initiative is to solicit comments from the general public regarding the integrity, reputation, and suitability of these candidates for judicial office.

At the time, this seemed impressive. In reality, it was a sleight of hand. The grounds for public input at this impractical stage defined by the NJC are limited to issues of integrity, reputation, and suitability of the recommended candidates. But if a decision has been made to recommend a candidate, then these issues would have already been considered. In effect, by the time a candidate is recommended for judicial office, the effective opportunities for public objection have in fact been foreclosed.

Third, therefore, the only viable ground at this stage for objection to the process would be the integrity of the appointment process itself. This is arguably the most important issue engaged by this present appointment round into the Federal High Court Bench. Rule 11(iv) of the Judicial Code of Conduct requires that in the exercise of his administrative duties, a Judicial Officer should avoid nepotism and favoritism.

Yet, it is difficult not to look upon the short-list that the NJC committee will be interviewing next month as anything other than an advertisement of nepotism and favoritism. The list is rich with children or candidates of serving or retired senior judges, some of who are also involved in the process.

The judicial daughter mentioned earlier in this piece is by no means the only insider on the list. The candidate to be appointed from Kaduna State, for instance, is guaranteed to be a second generation judge; both candidates to be interviewed from the state are scions of former judges. Of the two candidates from Abia State, one is the child of a serving judge.

Akwa Ibom State also features a preferred candidate who works with and is adopted by a serving senior judge who may himself even be involved in the interview process. Taraba State has a similar story and these are just random examples.

This pattern populates the entire shortlist without disguise or shame.

Humanity elsewhere does not know a thing like the judicial gene. It only exists in Nigeria. One tweep describes what passes for judicial appointment process in Nigeria as filiality via conjugality.

It seems evident that Nigerias process of judicial appointments has become largely performative, rigged to the pre-determined end of preferring children into judicial hereditaments occupied or recently vacated by their parents or patrons. Rather perversely, the so-called reform decided upon by the NJC in April, of publishing the names of candidates recommended for judicial office, is designed entirely to lend legitimacy to a pre-determined process in clear violation of the Judicial Code of Conduct.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has an opportunity in this present round of hires to the Federal High Court Bench to course-correct. As a first step, she should publish the scores of all candidates throughout the process. That will reassure the public about her commitment to liberating judicial appointments in Nigeria from continuing abduction by the forces of capture, conjugality and abuse of power.

Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a lawyer, teaches at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and can be reached through [email protected].


The immediate implications of the federal governments new tax reforms have been widely discussed since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the four (4) Tax Reform Bills into law on 26 June. The provenance of some of the new legislation has been similarly questioned of late. Underlining much of the debate is the acknowledgment that the incidence of tax has moved from small companies (businesses with annual gross turnovers and total fixed assets below 100 million and 250 million respectively) and low earning poor individuals (with wages equal to or below 800,000 annually) to every other economic actor. The burden on this latter category  including from a higher capital gains tax (CGT) rate through an increase in the personal income tax rate  is higher still.

The longer-term consequences of the reforms matter more. On balance, the federal government gains from a higher tax burden on richer domestic economic actors what it has ceded by narrowing the incidence of tax. Technically, this checks the fiscal box that insists that for a tax regime to generate stable revenue for government it must be based on a persons ability to pay. Besides not only are higher taxes for higher earners fairer, they also promote income equality.

Nonetheless, the genius of the lawmakers who designed the Nigeria Tax Act is best appreciated when the slew of new tax laws is thought of as a political construct. Ahead of elections, in 2027, an increase in the tax burden across board would have been the political equivalent of the Japanese seppuku. But by excluding the bulk of the countrys poor from paying taxes, the Tinubu government squared this circle well. It helps even more that the social classes on whom the heavier tax burden now falls are some of the more apolitical in the country. The weight of obtaining the requisite voting documents ahead of polling days, the elevated risks of violence at polling stations, and the fact that they can afford to run power generators that keep their cable televisions running on polling days have seen most members of this class of Nigerians stay cooped up in their houses on polling days.

Do higher tax burdens change these dynamics? Can they? One argument that I recently came across is that by raising the cost (through higher taxes) to the local elite of running the country, we ought to have a fairer shot at curing the incidence of poor governance. Essentially, the hope here is that our elite, first, will hurt from the larger outflows to government from their wallets, and will then begin to quibble at any governments wasteful spend of their hard-earned monies. Stripped of its ideological integuments, this argument nods to the thinking of philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. It folds up the answers to four fundamental questions in its framing of the problem: What confers legitimacy on governments? Why do the citizens obey laws? Why are taxation, policing, and regulation justified? And Do governments lose legitimacy if they fail in their obligations to their citizens?

This idea of a social contract  that society functions because individuals trade some personal freedom for collective security and mutual benefit under legitimate authority  has an older incarnation in the country. It used to be, it is said, that the Nigerian elite surrendered its power of oversight over its governments in the understanding that governments would spend earnings from oil exports and not from taxation. Unaccountable, governments bred kleptomania and squandered scarce resources. With oil revenues no longer adequate to feed its ravenous appetite for waste, government is renegotiating its obligations from the earlier contract.

However, to think that a higher tax burden will restore oversight responsibility to the citizenry via a more conscious elite is most likely to misunderstand class relationships in the country. If culture trumps strategy every time, then it is a safe bet that it will have the same effect on politics. Our current cultural practices are based on what Alan Fiske describes as Authority Ranking. As Steven Pinker explains it, In the minds of the people who respect an authority ranking, the hierarchy is legitimate and natural, and it entails reciprocal obligation for those lower to defer and to those higher up to protect.

From this observatory, it is clear that a prebendal culture is not going to change overnight because a long-dormant political clade learns to squeak a tad more noisily, pressured by new straitened financial conditions. Our best bet, instead, is to hope that the desired changes from the expected increase in taxes and the quality of elite participation in politics resulting from it will take place over a shorter period than it has taken to agree our current social contract. More likely, though, is that a state already crumbling under the weight of the contradictions inherent in the current contract will find this added burden (the straw that breaks the famed camels back) too hard to bear.

Uddin Ifeanyi, journalist manque and retired civil servant, can be reached @IfeanyiUddin.
A society does not collapse only when guns are louder than laws. It also weakens when citizens begin to suspect that the text meant to govern them can be quietly edited after the constitutional ceremony has ended. When a law loses credibility, enforcement becomes a contest of power, not a discipline of legitimacy. Compliance becomes a gamble, not a civic duty. That is the unsettling shadow now hanging over Nigerias 2025 tax reform project. This agenda was sold as economic renewal, but it is now threatened by a credibility crisis that strikes at the heart of constitutional order.

The Tinubu administrations tax reforms were introduced with an ambition that, on the surface, is difficult to quarrel with: modernise Nigerias tax system, broaden the base, reduce distortions, and create a framework that can support growth while protecting the poor. The government says the reforms will ease burdens on most workers and exempt most small businesses, while simplifying the wider regime. But reform is not merely a matter of intention. In a democracy, the process is part of the product. The integrity of lawmaking is not a procedural nicety; it is the foundation that makes hard policies tolerable because people can trust that what is being enforced is what was debated, voted on, and assented to.

Yet, from inception, the reform effort attracted scepticismsome ideological, some political, some grounded in genuine anxieties about timing and implementation. That scepticism has now hardened into something far more dangerous: an allegation that the law Nigerians are being asked to obey is not the law their representatives passed.

The controversy burst into the open from within the legislature itself. On 17 December, Abdussamad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives, raised a matter of privilege, alleging that the gazetted tax laws available to the public differed materially from the versions debated, harmonised, and approved by the National Assembly. This is not the usual theatre of opposition politics. It is an institutional alarm bell, rung from within the chamber by someone effectively saying: I voted for one text; the country is now being governed by another.

In the days that followed, the story did not die the way uncomfortable stories often die in Nigeriaunder the weight of official silence and public fatigue. It grew teeth. The House constituted a committee to investigate the alleged discrepancies. The matter moved from rumour into formal legislative action. Then came the most revealing development. On 26 December, the National Assembly leadership directed that the tax laws be re-gazetted and that Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the versions duly passed by both chambers be issued.

Re-gazetting is not the kind of administrative housekeeping you do when nothing is wrong. It is what you do when authenticity is in dispute. This happens when the state itself is no longer confident that the public record reflects the legislative record. The attempt to present it as a routine clarification may calm partisans, but it cannot calm the constitutional problem. In lawmaking, credibility is binary. Either the text is authentic, or it is not.

At the centre of this crisis is a deceptively simple question: which document is the law? In principle, gazetting exists to publish and preserve the law as enacted. It is meant to be the public mirror of legislative intent, not a creative rewrite. If the mirror is distortedwhether by error, negligence, interference, or sabotage  the public does not merely face confusion; it faces the possibility of being governed by illegality dressed in official clothing.

This is why the distinction between a clerical error and a material alteration matters. Every legislative system has typos. These may include a misnumbered section, an omitted punctuation mark, or a wrong cross-reference. Such defects are remediable. They can be corrected without shaking the constitutional order. But when the alleged differences touch substanceexpanding enforcement powers, shifting oversight, changing compliance thresholds, or altering appeal conditionsthe issue stops being editorial and becomes constitutional.

And the allegations, as reported by multiple outlets and analysed by stakeholders, are not about commas. They are about power. They are about whether the tax authority can reach deeper into private life with fewer guardrails; whether citizens rights to due process are narrowed; and whether oversight by elected representatives is diluted in the final text.

Consider the kinds of discrepancies cited in public debate. These include changes to the scope of federal tax administration, modifications to reporting obligations for financial institutions, and adjustments to the currency basis for certain computations. More controversially, commentators and legal analysts point to alleged new provisions. These would require taxpayers to deposit a percentage of disputed sums before an appeal can be heard. There are also changes that appear to expand enforcement mechanisms without the prior judicial oversight that the legislature may have contemplated. These are not merely technicalities; they concern the balance between state power and citizen protection.

A government can argue  reasonably  that Nigerias fiscal condition demands urgency. And indeed, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has insisted that the 1 January, 2026, commencement date is sacrosanct, warning of costs to delay and emphasising that most workers and small businesses would benefit from the changes. He has also urged the public to await lawmakers findings, noting that a proper comparison requires access to the certified harmonised version that was transmitted for assentaccess which, by his account, is not widely available.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has taken a similar line. The executive is aware of only one version, and Nigerians should wait for the National Assemblys feedback. Meanwhile, the government has also framed some resistance as misinformation. Presidential advisers allege sabotage efforts against the reforms.

But urgency cannot cure illegitimacy. In fact, urgency is often the excuse illegitimacy uses to walk through the front door without being searched. Even if we assume the reforms are economically soundand that is a debate Nigerians can and should haveno reform can survive the collapse of the process. A tax system runs on trust more than coercion. Where citizens suspect that the rules can be changed after the vote, compliance becomes cynical: people comply only when forced, evade when they can, and interpret taxation as extraction rather than contribution. Investors, too, price uncertainty. They can tolerate hard taxes; they do not tolerate unstable law.

That is why professional bodies have weighed in. The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria warned that proven divergences could create legal uncertainty and heighten compliance risks for taxpayers, professionals and investorsan unusually direct way of saying: this is bad for revenue, bad for confidence, and bad for governance.

The legal communitys concern is even sharper. When credible questions arise over which text is valid, enforcement becomes a legal minefield. Litigation becomes inevitable, and courts may end up stripping contested portionsor, in the worst-case scenario, invalidating larger parts if the process is found fatally compromised. Some senior lawyers and commentators have argued that enforcing a disputed gazetted text could breach constitutional procedure and undermine the rule of law, precisely because citizens and courts need certainty about what the law actually says.

At this point, the most dangerous outcome is not merely that the tax laws may contain defects; it is that the state may try to normalise defects as governance. There is a temptation in governmentespecially in fiscally tight timesto treat the law as an instrument and the process as a hurdle. But in a constitutional democracy, process is the instrument. If we permit post-assent mutation to become just another Nigerian problem we endure, then we quietly abandon the very idea of legality. We drift into rule by paperwork, where the gazette becomes a battlefield and not a record.

So what should happen nowpractically, urgently, and transparently?

First, the National Assemblys investigative process must be public-facing in its outputs, even if some internal deliberations remain closed. Nigerians do not need theatre. They need a documentary chain of custody: the harmonised bill as passed, the enrolled bill transmitted for assent, the text signed, and the text gazettedplaced side-by-side, clause-by-clause, with differences marked and explained. Anything less will breed conspiracy and deepen distrust. Second, issuing Certified True Copies is a constitutional necessity. When citizens must comply under penalty of law, they deserve certainty. Courts and businesses need that certainty too.

Third, if disputed provisions exist, the rational interim approach is not to pretend the controversy is irrelevant. Instead, ring-fence contested clauses pending verification. Even the reform teams public posture acknowledges a logic here: identify what is questionable, treat it as not part of the law if it was not duly enacted, and proceed only with what is clean. That approach does not sabotage reform; it protects reform from judicial ambush.

Fourth, Nigeria must learn from this episode and build a modern legislative integrity architecture. In an age when a single altered paragraph can shift billions of naira and rewire citizens rights, we cannot rely on tradition, trust, or it has always been so. We need a secure legislative version-control systemdigital fingerprints for enrolled bills, publicly accessible repositories, audit trails from committee harmonisation through assent to gazetting, and strict criminal consequences for tampering. If our banks can secure transactions with layered verification, the Republic can secure its statutes with the same seriousness.

Finally, accountability must be more than a press statement. If the investigation finds that any actorbureaucratic or politicalaltered a duly enacted law, the response cannot be quiet correction and collective amnesia. That would be an invitation letter to the next offender. A constitutional offence requires constitutional consequences. Deterrence is not a speech; it is a sentence. And if, on the other hand, the discrepancies prove to be the result of honest but grave administrative breakdown, then that breakdown must still be punished institutionallythrough reforms, dismissals where warranted, and transparent remediationbecause incompetence at this level is also a national security risk. A state that cannot safeguard its laws cannot safeguard its citizens.

Dakuku Peterside is the author of the books, Leading in a Storm, and Beneath the Surface.
At least four people were killed on Sunday evening after a truck rammed into a crowd participating in a cultural carnival in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, authorities and eyewitnesses have confirmed.

The accident occurred near the Eggon Community Secondary School, the venue of the annual Ame Wo Ba Eggon (AWBE) cultural festival. The accident reportedly involved three trucks, which lost control and veered into the procession, abruptly turning a moment of celebration into tragedy.

Eyewitnesses told PREMIUM TIMES that the trucks ploughed through participants who were dancing and marching along the carnival route, triggering panic as revellers scampered for safety. However, only one of the trucks killed its victims.

Several people were knocked down in the process, while others sustained injuries as the crowd struggled to escape the scene.

Four victims were confirmed dead on the spot, while several others suffered varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.

The chairman of the Carnival Planning Committee, Alaku Dennis, was also injured in the incident and is currently receiving treatment at the Nasarawa Eggon General Hospital, according to organisers.

Reacting to the tragedy, the National Publicity Secretary of AWBE, Gale John, described the incident as devastating and deeply painful for the Eggon people.

Accidents like this are always heartbreaking, especially when they happen during moments of celebration. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives and with the injured, Mr John said.

Following the incident, the leadership of AWBE announced the immediate cancellation of the 2025 Eggon Cultural Carnival as a mark of respect for the victims.

The chairman of Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, Iliya Aliyu, who visited the scene shortly after the crash, condoled with the Eggon people over what he described as an unfortunate and painful tragedy.

Mr Aliyu sympathised with the families of the deceased and injured persons and urged relevant authorities to address traffic management and road safety challenges around the Eggon community to prevent similar incidents in the future.

He also prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

Meanwhile, Faisal Shuaib, a public health expert and former executive director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), has also expressed condolences to the Eggon nation over the deadly accident.

In a statement issued on Monday, Mr Shuaib described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that the loss of lives during what should have been a joyous cultural celebration was painful and difficult to comprehend.

I stand in solidarity with the Eggon nation and the people of Nasarawa State at this moment of deep sorrow, he said, while praying for the repose of the souls of those who died and for the quick recovery of the injured.

Emergency responders and security agencies said the crash involved three heavy-duty vehicles. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) attributed the incident to suspected brake failure or reckless driving, adding that investigations were ongoing to determine the exact cause.

The Eggon Cultural Carnival is an annual event that attracts thousands of participants and spectators from across Nasarawa and neighbouring states.
Two people were confirmed dead on Sunday night after a petroleum tanker crashed into several parked vehicles near the Polo Club Roundabout in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The crash occurred while the driver was descending from the Hill Station junction axis. The tanker reportedly lost control while descending the busy stretch and ploughed into vehicles parked by the roadside.

Eyewitnesses said the impact was severe, leaving vehicles badly mangled and trapping occupants before emergency responders arrived.

A resident, who witnessed the incident and took part in the rescue efforts, said six people were feared dead while about five others sustained serious injuries.

The driver noticed that the brakes had failed and alerted his conductor, who began shouting to warn motorists and people nearby, said David Musa. Unfortunately, the tanker could not be stopped before it crashed.

Mr Musa added that both the tanker driver and his conductor were among those who lost their lives.

He said the affected vehicles were damaged beyond repair and were later towed to the A Division Police Station along with the tanker.

In a statement, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed only two deaths.

The Public Education Officer of the FRSC in Plateau State, Peter Longsan, said 18 people were involved in the crash.

According to him, two adult males died at the scene, while 16 others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were taken to the Plateau State Specialist Hospital and Bingham University Teaching Hospital for medical treatment.

The bodies of the deceased were deposited at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital morgue.

Mr Longsan explained that the tanker suffered brake failure shortly after passing the Plateau State Specialist Hospital Roundabout and continued descending until it crashed into parked vehicles.

He said emergency responders promptly cordoned off the area, diverted traffic, and safely offloaded the tankers petroleum content to prevent a possible fire outbreak. He added that no fuel spillage was recorded.

The FRSC urged motorists to ensure proper vehicle maintenance and exercise caution, especially during the festive period, while encouraging members of the public to report road emergencies through its toll-free number, 122.
A significant political realignment appears to be unfolding in Kano State as reports emerged that Governor Abba Yusuf may be planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This move could signal a major split from his longtime political godfather, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who is considered the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

While the governor has yet to issue an official statement regarding his next move, PREMIUM TIMES understand that high-level consultations are already ongoing. The governor has reportedly been meeting with top government officials and elected representatives to brief them on the transition, convincing them of his intention and reason for aligning with the ruling party. In addition to this, he had dispatched some of his aides to the grassroots, meeting NNPP members to prepare the partys base for the upcoming shift.

A testament to this was the meeting between Abdullahi Rogo, the director general of the Protocol Directorate at the Kano State Government House, and NNPP stakeholders from the Rogo Local Government Area. At the meeting, Mr Rogo outlined the justifications for the move to the APC.

Speaking on the resolutions reached during the meeting, Mr Rogo said, We have consulted with the NNPP stakeholders in Rogo, and we are in agreement that the leadership of the Kwankwasiyya movementspecifically Rabiu Kwankwaso and Governor Abba Yusufshould lead us back to the APC. We believe that Kwankwasos presidential ambitions can only be realised on the APC platform. Our decision is rooted in the best interests and future prosperity of Kano State.

Mr Kwankwaso contested the 2023 presidential election on the NNPC platform but came a distant fourth, behind President Bola Tinubu, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and ex-Governor of Anambra State Peter Obi, respectively. Although Mr Kwankwaso has not signified his interest for future elections, many believe that he will contest for president again, either in 2027 or 2031.

Mr Rogo stated that the movement remains loyal to the Kwankwasiyya ideology. He also issued a stern warning to supporters on how to conduct themselves during the electioneering period.

I appeal to our supporters, as we transition to the APC, there must be no room for insults or name-calling. Anyone who engages in such behaviour is not a true member of our movement, Mr Rogo added.

While Mr Rogo appears to want both Governor Yusuf and Mr Kwankwaso to join the APC, that was not the case at a similar political gathering in the Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area. At that meeting, one of Mr Kwankwasos top loyalists, who is also the state chairperson of the NNPP, Hashim Dungurawa, was absent, despite being from the local government. The meeting was organised by the governors media aide, Sanusi Bature.

Mr Bature shared a short clip of the meeting on Facebook. He said it was a stakeholders meeting of all the top NNPC members in Dawakin Tofa, but queried Mr Dungurawas absence. Insiders said the meeting was part of the governors directives to engage the leadership and supporters of the NNPP at the grassroots ahead of the planned defection.

Mr Batures concern over Mr Dungurawas absence from the meeting suggests that the governor and Mr Kwankwaso do not have a united position on the planned defection.

The Daily Nigerian reported that Mr Yusuf had been scheming behind the scenes to garner the support of members of the National Assembly, State House of Assembly, and local government chairpersons for his alleged plan to join the APC.

The newspaper stated that it believes NNPP members in the House of Assembly, including Speaker Jibrin Falgore, have endorsed the governors planned defection.

The protracted, silent disagreements

The disagreement between Messrs Yusuf and Kwankwaso reached a breaking point last year, November, when the governor reportedly rejected Mr Kwankwasos requests to replace several top government officials. Insiders said the tension eased only after the governors mother intervened.

The rift was first signalled by Mr Kwankwasos media aide, Saifullahi Hassan. In a subtle Facebook post written in Hausa. Mr Hassan suggested a transition in leadership, stating, The exit of a military commander does not mean the barracks have ended.

Further evidence of the fallout came from Aliyu Madaki, the lawmaker representing the Dala Federal Constituency. After dumping the Kwankwasiyya movement, Mr Madaki claimed that Mr Kwankwasofeeling betrayed by the governors recent actionsplans to replace Governor Yusuf with his deputy, Aminu Abdulsalam, in the 2027 election.

According to Mr Madaki, the relationship soured further after Governor Yusuf distanced himself from two major controversies linked to the Kwankwaso family, including the mass purchase of drugs in the state. The governor ordered an investigation into a contract awarded to Musa Kwankwaso, the younger brother of the NNPC leader.

The deal allegedly involved the unauthorised deduction of 10 million from each of the states 44 local government areas to supply medicines. Governor Yusuf denied authorising these deductions.

Also, in October 2024, the governor directed the State Anti-Corruption and Public Complaints Commission to investigate the states foreign scholarship scheme. Although 4.6 billion was approved to send 1,001 postgraduate students abroad, investigators found that only 418 students actually departed, despite a substantial portion of the funds being released.

The anti-corruption probe led to the interrogation of senior officials in the Ministry of Higher Education regarding the release of massive funds without executive approval. Following the investigation, 700 million was reportedly refunded to the state government. Consequently, the Commissioner for Higher Education and ally of Mr Kwankwaso, Yusuf Kofar Mata, was redeployed.

In an effort to manage the fallout, Governor Yusuf also sacked the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baffa Bichi. Mr Bichi was accused of sponsoring a political movement urging the governor to sever ties with the Kwankwasiyya leader.

Officials React

When contacted, Mr Bature, the spokesperson to the Kano State Governor, confirmed a growing rift among members of the NNPP within the state. However, he declined to comment on speculations regarding the governors potential defection to the APC.

There is an internal crisis within the NNPP in Kano, but I have not been authorised to speak on whether the governor is defecting to the APC, Mr Bature told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday morning.

Efforts to reach Saifullahi Hassan, the spokesperson for Mr Kwankwaso, were unsuccessful. Mr Hassan did not respond to multiple phone calls or text messages seeking clarification on the matter at the time of this report.
The Kano State Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Hashim Dungurawa, announced on Monday that neither the partys national leadership nor its leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has approved Governor Abba Yusufs rumoured defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a radio broadcast monitored by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Dungurawa described the potential move as a betrayal of the people of Kano State, who voted the NNPP into power in the last general elections.

It is a betrayal of the people of Kano who elected this party. It is improper to defeat a party in an election only to turn around and join that same party, Mr Dungurawa stated.

His remarks followed speculation that Mr Yusuf and several high-ranking NNPP members were preparing to defect to the APC, which came second in the 2023 governorship election in the state.

Earlier, PREMIUM TIMES reported that Abdullahi Rogo, the director general of the Protocol Directorate at the Kano State Government House, along with NNPP stakeholders from the Rogo Local Government Area, had already expressed their intention to join the APC.

Speaking on the resolutions reached during a recent meeting, Mr Rogo said, We have consulted with NNPP stakeholders in Rogo and agreed that the leadership of the Kwankwasiyya movementspecifically Rabiu Kwankwaso and Governor Abba Yusufshould lead us back to the APC.

We believe Kwankwasos presidential ambitions can only be realised on the APC platform. This decision is rooted in the best interests and future prosperity of Kano State, Mr Rogo stated.

NNPP maintains stance

Mr Dungurawa said that while the NNPP is aware that certain individuals are contemplating an exit, the move lacks Mr Kwankwasos and the NNPPs official backing.

I want to make it clear that the Kano State chapter, the national leadership, and our National Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, do not approve of these developments, Mr Dungurawa said in the radio broadcast.

He further revealed that the party has made efforts to persuade those involved to remain patient and honour their mandate to the electorate. He urged members to focus on the partys core objectives: improving the educational sector, revitalising agriculture and commerce and providing relief to the marginalised citizens of Kano.

Mr Dungurawa also addressed rumours suggesting that he, alongside the states Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdulsalam, the senator representing Kano Central, Rufai Hanga, and others, were hatching a plan to create a rift between Governor Yusuf and Mr Kwankwaso. He dismissed these allegations as baseless.

We have never turned anyone against our leader. If anyone has evidence to the contrary, let them present it, he challenged.

Concluding his broadcast, Mr Dungurawa urged the public to disregard the rumours and remain law-abiding. He also warned party members against signing any documents or petitions being circulated by mischief makers aimed at destabilising the party.

Possible Implications

The party chairmans remarks confirm the widening rift in the NNPP, which governs only Kano State and has a majority of Kano lawmakers as its members.

Mr Kwankwaso, as the NNPP candidate in the 2023 presidential election, also came fourth in the election.

However, the rumoured defection of Governor Yusuf is not peculiar to Kano State or indeed to the NNPP. Many governors from opposition parties are rumoured to want to defect to the APC, Nigerias ruling party. Many others, including those of Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Delta, have already abandoned their former party, PDP, for the APC, fuelling concerns that Nigeria is moving towards a one-party state.
Portugals Ambassador to Nigeria, Paulo Santos, has urged organisers of Carnival Calabar to start a global campaign to raise awareness of the festival and attract more international visitors.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the envoy made the call on Sunday during the flag-off of the Bikers Carnival, a major activity that features during the festival.

Earlier, Mr Santos told journalists that the carnivals organisation and turnout made it look like a festival that had been held for 200 or 2,000 years.

He, however, said many people in Europe and Africa were not aware of the festival, in spite of its scale.

I know that you have been doing this for 20 years, but it looks like youve been doing it for 200 or 2,000 because of the level of professionalism and the attendance that you have here.

A lot of people are not aware that this festival exists and how good it is, he said.

Recalling historical ties between Portugal and the area, the envoy said Portuguese sailors were in the region more than 550 years ago.

He said the major reason was that Calabar, which meant the quiet harbour in Portuguese, was a calming space for the sailors during their travels.

He praised the hospitality of the people and described Nigerias strength as its diversity.

Whoever thinks that Nigeria is monolithic, that person is very wrong. Theres a huge variety, he said.

The ambassador pledged to encourage other diplomats to visit the carnival during their vacations.

The Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, described the theme as a symbolic connection with history.

Also, recalling the Portuguese presence in Calabar centuries ago, he praised the carnival as a bridge between the past and present.

The coincidences are so unique, Traces of Time.

I wonder why it is this very year, at 20, that the Portuguese ambassador will decide to come back home to where they were years ago, he said.

Introducing a Nigerian-UK octogenarian, who urged his son to bring him to the Calabar Carnival as a birthday gift, Mr Onah said the carnival had continued to reconnect African families and communities across the world.

Richard Nzerem, the 87-year-old Nigerian who travelled from the UK with his son, expressed his excitement after years abroad.

Mr Nzerem, who left Nigeria in 1961 and spent about four decades working with the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, praised the quality of the performances he had attended at the carnival.

It really was fantastic. I was very happy with the standard of the performance, he said.

He urged Nigerians and visitors to make the carnival an annual ritual.

NAN also reports that the 2025 Bikers Carnival featured an impressive procession of motorcycle clubs, including Tinapa Motorcycle Club, Diamond Bike Gang, Metallic Knights Motorcycle Club, Maxk Riders, and The Aviators Motorcycle Club.

Others are: D Invincible M.C., D Scorpion MRC and Free Wheeler-Dealer.

The thunderous parade of heavy bikes, alongside occasional displays of motorcycles and bicycles, thrilled spectators lining the streets, drawing massive cheers as riders showcased unity, discipline, and showmanship.

(NAN)
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied assuring President Bola Tinubu to undermine the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to his advantage of his reelection ambition ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Mr Wikes rebuttal is a fresh twist to his deepening rift with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who recently made the allegation.

Mr Wike dismissed the allegation as false and politically motivated, insisting that at no point did he pledge to sabotage the opposition party or act as a covert ally of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The denial follows Governor Seyi Makindes recent assertion that Mr Wike openly told the president he would hold down the PDP, a claim that has intensified internal party tensions and renewed scrutiny of the ministers role in the oppositions prolonged crisis.

I was in a meeting with the President and Wike, .and Wike said to the president that, I will hold PDP for you against 2027. I was in shock. So, we got to the veranda and I asked him, did we agree to this?

The real issue is that Wike would like to support the President for 2027. Thats fine. It is within his right to do that. But also, some of us that want to ensure that democracy survives in Nigeria, that we dont drift into a one-party state and want to ensure that PDP survives should be allowed to do our own thing, Governor Makinde said in a media brief in Ibadan.

No such meeting, no such promise  Wike

Speaking during a media interaction with journalists on Monday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, Mr Wike said the claim attributed to him was a deliberate misrepresentation of events and challenged its promoters to explain why it only emerged long after the alleged encounter.

That is a blatant lie. There is no such meeting. At no time did I say to Mr President that I will hold PDP for you. It is completely out of place for anybody to say that. Why did he not come out all this while to tell the party, see what Wike is doing? he said.

He explained that a post-election visit to President Tinubu, which has been cited by his critics, was not a political bargain and involved no discussion about weakening the PDP or striking any alliance against the party.

According to Mr Wike, frustration among some party leaders had driven the attempt to rewrite the narrative around his relationship with the federal government.

Frustration can make you do a lot of things and cause damage. Politics is not like being a contractor with the government. There are things you can do and think people dont know. People do; they watch you. How did we get into this crisis? It is ambition.

We all agreed for the party to move on. Why not allow this to go on? You destroy your party and now you are accusing the other party of wanting to create a one-party state. It doesnt make sense, he added.

PDPs troubles self-inflicted, minister argues

Beyond the immediate dispute, Mr Wike said the PDPs current predicament stems from leadership failures, internal power struggles and repeated disregard for due process.

He argued that the wave of defections, legal battles and factional disputes within the party were predictable outcomes of poor decision-making by its leadership.

The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on 1 December announced his resignation from the PDP due to the partys internal crisis.

Governor Adeleke later joined Accord and emerged the partys candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

This is what happens when leadership is selfish and unwilling to listen. You cannot run a political party without respect for structure and process.

As it is today, the appropriate authority that can talk about PDP is the caretaker committee. INEC has no choice but to recognise the caretaker committee, he said.

Mr Wike rejected accusations that his actions were aimed at promoting a one-party state, saying the partys internal implosion, rather than any external interference, had weakened its standing.

He maintained that recent interim arrangements put in place to manage the partys affairs followed legal guidance and court decisions, insisting that stability could only return if party leaders were willing to reflect, rebuild and prioritise collective interest over personal ambition.

The PDP is facing serious internal divisions that threaten its chances in the 2027 elections. The feud has contributed to defections from the party, with key members leaving for rivals, further weakening PDPs position.
A member of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewumi Adeyemi, on Sunday, distributed multipurpose mobile shops equipped with point-of-sale (POS) machines and a start-up grant of 200,000 to 10 Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWD) in his constituency.

Mr Adeyemi, who represents Obokun State Constituency, also presented clippers and generators to barbers, hair dryers to hairdressers, sewing machines to fashion designers, grinding machines and deep freezers to traders.

He also presented motorcycle tyres to commercial riders and gave cash gifts to support small-scale businesses.

The lawmaker stated that the empowerment programme, which was part of his annual constituency project, was valued at over 100 million and targeted at least 300 beneficiaries across the constituency.

In addition to the empowerment initiative, Mr Adeyemi constructed a motor park in the Ibokun area of Obokun Local Government Area to enhance transportation infrastructure in the area.

Speaking during the distribution of the items in Obokun, the lawmaker stated that the initiative was designed to create lasting economic opportunities for the beneficiaries.

I do this every year, not for politics, but because I know the pain of having skill without tools. This programme is not solely about providing financial assistance. It is serving as a lifeline for our people to regain their dignity.

When a father or mother takes home a grinding machine or a deep freezer today, he isnt just taking home a tool; he is taking home the assurance that he can feed his family tomorrow, he said.

Mr Adeyemi added that the initiative reflects his commitment to ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.

This initiative aligns with the broader goal of empowering every citizen to access the dividends of democracy and experience the impact of governance.

This is not solely about providing financial assistance. This is my covenant with the people of Obokun, to serve with empathy and to ensure that governance touches the lowest among us, he added.

The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, who inaugurated the motor park, commended Mr Adeyemi for the initiative and urged other lawmakers in the state to emulate the gesture.

Mr Egbedun said the empowerment programme would have a lasting impact on the beneficiaries and improve their livelihoods.

State Constituency Project

Across Nigeria, lawmakers often undertake constituency projects as part of efforts to address grassroots needs and demonstrate the impact of governance at the local level.

In Osun State, such interventions have become increasingly significant amid rising unemployment, economic hardship, and limited access to start-up capital for small-scale entrepreneurs.

Empowerment programmes, ranging from skills acquisition to the provision of work tools and financial support, are commonly deployed by elected representatives to promote self-reliance, reduce poverty, and complement government social intervention initiatives.

Unlike at the federal level, where senators and members of the House of Representatives often attract projects worth hundreds of millions or even billions of naira through the national budget, allocations for constituency projects at the state level are not usually itemised as a separate line in publicly available appropriation documents.

In Osun State, lawmakers typically facilitate projects for their constituencies through capital and intervention components of the state budget rather than through dedicated constituency allocations.

For instance, the 427.7 billion 2025 budget and the 723 billion 2026 budget of Osun State make provisions for capital expenditure under the states development agenda, within which constituency-related projects are implemented.

More Pictures
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

KUNMING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- China will continue to make efforts to rebuild peace between Thailand and Cambodia and is willing to offer humanitarian assistance to people in need in both countries, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Sunday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow.

Following the signing of a joint statement agreeing to a ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are leading delegations to meet in Yunnan from Dec. 28 to 29 at the invitation of Wang.

Wang said as a friendly neighbor of both countries, China wants least to see Thailand and Cambodia come to war and hopes most to see the two countries restore their friendship. It is believed that as long as Thailand and Cambodia communicate on an equal footing and move forward together, there will be no insurmountable obstacles.

China will continue to support ASEAN in playing its due role, is willing to provide assistance to the ASEAN observation mission in monitoring the ceasefire.

Sihasak spoke highly of China's active efforts in mediating the Thailand-Cambodia conflict in an Asian way, noting that the ceasefire agreement newly signed by Thailand and Cambodia marks a fresh start.

Resorting to force is never Thailand's choice when it comes to disputes with neighboring countries, Sihasak said, adding that Thailand is committed to achieving a sustainable ceasefire and pursuing genuine peace.

"We are willing to look forward and move ahead, strengthen communication with Cambodia through bilateral channels, and in a sincere manner, gradually resume exchanges, rebuild mutual trust, repair bilateral relations, and safeguard the peace and tranquility of the borders between the two countries and the region," the foreign minister said.

With regards to bilateral relations, Wang requested Sihasak to convey Chinese President Xi Jinping's sincere greetings and New Year's wishes to Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, stating that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand. The Thai king successfully paid his first historic state visit to China. Xi and the Thai king reached important consensus on promoting the building of a China-Thailand community with a shared future, which has drawn a blueprint for the development of bilateral relations.

Thailand has recently reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China principle and its opposition to "Taiwan independence," demonstrating strong support for China's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Wang, adding that China appreciates this stance.

China is willing to work with Thailand to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, jointly open up a new golden 50 years of China-Thailand friendship, Wang added.

Sihasak requested Wang to convey Thai king's sincere greetings to President Xi. He said that Thailand and China have shared a time-honored history of exchanges. In recent years, the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries has grown increasingly close, with mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation deepening across various fields, making significant contributions to safeguarding regional peace and stability.

Sihasak said Thailand will, as always, firmly adhere to the one-China policy.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

Editor: Xiong Jian
DALLAS, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- FIS Bright Portfolios Focused Equity ETF (NYSE: BRIF) ("BRIF") held a special meeting of shareholders earlier today (the "Special Meeting"). At the Special Meeting, the Fund's shareholders were asked to approve an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization pursuant to which BRIF will be reorganized into FIS Trust, as approved by BRIF's Board of Trustees. The Special Meeting for BRIF was adjourned to January 21, 2026 at 9 a.m. Mountain Standard Time to allow more time for shareholders to vote. The November 20, 2025 record date for shareholders entitled to vote at the adjourned Special Meeting remains unchanged. Information about the adjourned Special Meeting appears below.

Additionally, FIS Christian Stock Fund (NYSE: PRAY) ("PRAY") also held a special meeting of shareholders on the same date, where PRAY's shareholders approved the reorganization of PRAY into FIS Trust, as approved by PRAY's Board of Trustees. The PRAY reorganization is expected to close on December 31, 2025.

If, as of November 20, 2025, you were a Fund shareholder and have not yet voted, the Fund urges you to submit your vote in advance of the adjourned Special Meeting by one of the methods described in the Fund's proxy materials. The Fund's proxy statement is available online www.proxydocs.com/NEOSETF .

If, as of November 20, 2025, you were a holder of record of Fund shares (i.e., you held Fund shares in your own name directly with the Fund) and wish to participate in and vote at the adjourned Special Meeting, you can contact the Fund's proxy solicitor, Mediant, at 888-332-9934. You will then be provided with credentials to participate in the adjourned Special Meeting. You will be able to vote by entering the control number found on the proxy card you previously received. All requests to participate in and/or vote at the adjourned Special Meeting must be received by Mediant by no later than 9 a.m. Mountain Standard Time on January 21, 2026.

If, as of November 20, 2025, you held BRIF shares through an intermediary (such as a broker-dealer) and wish to participate in and vote at the adjourned Special Meeting, you will need to obtain a legal proxy from your intermediary reflecting BRIF's name, the number of Fund shares you held and your name and email address. You may forward an email from your intermediary containing the legal proxy or attach an image of the legal proxy to an email and send it to Mediant at [email protected] with "Legal Proxy" in the subject line. You will then be provided with credentials to participate in the adjourned Special Meeting, as well as a unique control number to vote your shares. If you would like to participate in, but NOT vote at, the adjourned Special Meeting, please contact Mediant at 888-332-9934 with proof of ownership of BRIF shares. A statement or letter from your intermediary will be sufficient proof of ownership. You will then be provided with credentials to participate in the adjourned Special Meeting. All requests to participate in and/or vote at the adjourned Special Meeting must be received by Mediant by no later than 9 a.m. Mountain Standard Time on January 21, 2026. If you hold shares of BRIF through an intermediary and plan to attend and vote at the meeting in person, you will be required to show a valid photo identification and your authority to vote your shares (referred to as a "legal proxy").

Please contact Mediant at 888-332-9934 with any questions regarding access to the adjourned Special Meeting, and a Mediant representative will contact you to answer your questions.

Additional Information about the Funds and the Reorganization

This press release is not intended to, and does not, constitute an offer to purchase or sell shares of BRIF or PRAY (the "Funds"); nor is this press release intended to solicit a proxy from any shareholder of the Funds. The solicitation of the purchase or sale of securities or proxies to effect the reorganization described herein will only be made by the final, effective registration statement, which includes the definitive proxy statement/prospectus declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC).

The Funds and their trustees and officers, Faith Investor Services LLC and its officers and employees, and other persons may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the reorganization described herein. Fund shareholders and other investors may obtain more detailed information regarding the direct and indirect interests of a Fund's trustees and officers, Faith Investor Services LLC and its officers and employees, and other persons by reading the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the reorganization.

Fund shareholders are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus and any other relevant documents because they contain important information about the proposed reorganization. Copies of the proxy statement/prospectus are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

The Funds' shares are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal invested. No fund is a complete investment program and you may lose money investing in a Fund. An investment in the Funds may not be appropriate for all investors. Additional information about the Funds, including performance and portfolio characteristic information, is available at www.faithinvestorservices.com.

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 that 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.

ABOUT FAITH INVESTOR SERVICES LLC

Faith Investor Services LLC, located in Dallas, Texas, serves as investment adviser to FIS Christian Stock Fund. As of July 31, 2025, the Adviser has approximately $232.4 million in assets under management.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of exchange traded funds (ETFs) before investing. To obtain the Fund's prospectus containing this and other important information, please call (833) 833-1311, or visit www.faithinvestorservices.com. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest.

Investor Contact: [email protected]

Fund shares are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

SOURCE Faith Investor Services, LLC
The beloved Italian dining destination invites guests to celebrate New Year's Eve with an elevated multi-course dining experience in the heart of San Diego.

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Allegro Restaurant, a longtime staple in San Diego's Little Italy dining scene, will welcome the arrival of 2026 with a special New Year's Eve prix fixe menu available on Tuesday, December 31, 2025.

Created exclusively for the holiday, the prix fixe menu highlights Allegro's signature Italian cuisine through a thoughtfully curated multi-course experience. Guests can look forward to an elegant progression of dishes, beginning with refined antipasti, followed by house-made pastas, elevated entrees, and indulgent desserts to end the evening on a celebratory note. The menu is designed to reflect both the warmth of traditional Italian cooking and the elevated feel of a once-a-year occasion.

Known for its inviting ambiance and neighborhood charm, Allegro offers an ideal setting for New Year's Eve celebrations, whether guests are enjoying an intimate dinner for two or gathering with friends and family before ringing in the new year. Located in the heart of Little Italy, the restaurant places diners just steps away from San Diego's most vibrant nightlife and midnight festivities.

"New Year's Eve is all about coming together, slowing down, and sharing an exceptional meal," said the Allegro team. "This prix fixe menu allows us to showcase our favorite flavors and techniques while giving guests a memorable way to close out the year and welcome the next."

The New Year's Eve prix fixe menu will be offered for dinner service only on December 31, 2025. Reservations are highly recommended, as availability is limited and demand is expected to be high.

Allegro Restaurant

Little Italy, San Diego

 1536 India St, San Diego, CA 92101

 New Year's Eve Prix Fixe Menu - December 31, 2025

Media Contact:

Vince DiNatale

Solid State Marketing

 [email protected]

 760-214-0984

SOURCE Allegro
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. ("Alexandria" or "the Company") (NYSE: ARE) for violations of the securities laws.

The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Alexandria reported its Q3 2025 financial results on October 27, 2025. The Company revealed quarterly earnings that failed to match analyst expectations, declining revenues, and a 7% decline in adjusted funds from operations. Based on this news, shares of Alexandria fell by almost 19.2% on the next day.

If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.

We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].

The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.

CONTACT:

The Schall Law Firm

Brian Schall, Esq.

310-301-3335

[email protected]

www.schallfirm.com

SOURCE The Schall Law Firm
Fans Can Start the New Year with Fresh Cream Puffs and a Faster Way to Earn Rewards

CERRITOS, Calif., Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Beard Papa's, the international bakery famous for its freshly baked Japanese cream puffs, is celebrating National Cream Puff Day on Friday, January 2, 2026, with a special app-based reward and the launch of its newly enhanced loyalty program.

To mark the occasion, guests who sign up for a new Beard Papa's loyalty account on Friday, January 2 - all day - will receive a $5 coupon toward any purchase, available exclusively through the Beard Papa's mobile app.

National Cream Puff Day highlights what makes Beard Papa's unique: light, airy shells baked fresh throughout the day and filled to order with rich, creamy custards. From the classic Original Vanilla to seasonal and specialty flavors, every cream puff is crafted for freshness and quality  never pre-filled, never mass-produced. This is why Beard Papa's claims its "The World's Best Cream Puff".

In addition to the one-day reward, Beard Papa's is introducing its new and improved Papa Loyalty Program, designed to help fans earn rewards faster than ever before.

"The new year felt like the perfect time to introduce a better loyalty experience," said Mark Nathan, Marketing Director at Beard Papa's. "National Cream Puff Day allows us to celebrate our fans with something extra  a fresh cream puff and a faster path to earning rewards."

Beard Papa's locations nationwide will be celebrating National Cream Puff Day with freshly made cream puffs available all day. Guests are encouraged to visit their local store or learn more at beardpapas.com/national-cream-puff-day

Whether you're discovering Beard Papa's for the first time or continuing a favorite tradition, National Cream Puff Day is the perfect way to start 2026 on a sweet note.

About Beard Papa's

Founded in Osaka, Japan, Beard Papa's is an international bakery specializing in freshly baked Japanese cream puffs. Each puff is baked fresh and filled to order with premium custard and cream fillings. With over 550 locations worldwide, Beard Papa's is known for its commitment to freshness, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavor.

Media Contact

Beard Papa's U.S. Marketing Team

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.beardpapas.com

Social: @beardpapas

SOURCE Beard Papa's
BELGRADE, Serbia, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Casino.online is the first officially confirmed nominee for the BWiGA 2026 in the Affiliate Branding of the Year category. The nomination was announced ahead of the confirmation of other candidates, placing Casino.online among the earliest entries in the current award cycle.

The early nomination reflects the increasing relevance of brand development within the iGaming affiliate sector. It also establishes an initial reference point for discussions around brand quality and strategic positioning at an early stage of the BWiGA 2026 process.

First official nomination confirmed for BWiGA 2026

Starting an award season as the first confirmed nominee can influence early attention. Casino.online is therefore named at an early stage, before the full field of participants has been announced. This nomination follows a longer-term development focused on consistency, clarity and recognisability over several years, which provides context for the early confirmation.

For Casino.online, the early confirmation results in visibility at the beginning of the BWiGA 2026 cycle. It also reflects that brand management is being assessed as a distinct category within the awards framework, rather than as a secondary consideration.

Within the affiliate industry, early nominations contribute to initial discussions around evaluation criteria and positioning. As additional nominees are announced, these early confirmations will form part of the broader comparison process.

Affiliate Branding of the Year  criteria of the category

The Affiliate Branding of the Year category follows a clear logic that deliberately sets itself apart from traditional performance awards. The focus is not on short-term metrics, but on long-term brand strength, consistent communication and a visual and content-based identity that transcends markets. For Casino.online, this approach has been a defining feature for years and is deeply rooted in its strategic orientation. This creates a brand image that does not depend on trends but focuses on consistency.

In this context, branding is not understood as a design issue but as a strategic framework that combines tonality, trust and recognition. This discipline is particularly challenging in the iGaming affiliate environment, as content must inform without being didactic and provide guidance without appearing promotional. The nomination shows that this form of brand work is now recognised as a quality in its own right. It also illustrates that brand management has become measurable even without traditional performance indicators.

Casino.online has positioned itself as a brand in the iGaming affiliate market

Casino.online has established itself over the years as an international platform for casino reviews and bonus comparisons, deliberately focusing on a clear brand line. Visual elements, language and structure intertwine to ensure that the brand remains instantly recognisable regardless of the market. This consistency is a central component of the brand strategy and contributes significantly to its recognisability. At the same time, it creates trust in an environment that is often characterised by rapid change.

Casino.online refrains from making exaggerated promises or seeking short-term attention. Instead, the focus is on reliability, complemented by a factual tone that creates trust. It is precisely this approach that has helped Casino.online to position itself as an established player in the international affiliate market and to gain long-term recognition. Brand perception is thus created not through isolated actions but through continuous presence.

The BWiGA Awards as a stage for innovation  brand strength in the Web3 and iGaming sector

The BWiGA Awards have established themselves as a fixture in the iGaming and Web3 industry calendar. The venue is Belgrade, a location that stands for international networking and technological openness. The awards recognise innovation, performance and strategic excellence among both operators and affiliates. This creates a framework that brings together different market participants and makes them comparable.

For Casino.online, the BWiGA nomination is particularly relevant as it explicitly focuses on brand strength. The Affiliate Branding of the Year category shows that sustainable positioning and consistent brand management are now recognised as key success factors. The award thus reflects a development that Casino.online has been actively shaping for years. At the same time, it strengthens the perception of branding as a strategic competitive advantage.

The BWiGA 2026 nomination is not an isolated event, but is one of a series of industry successes that Casino.online has recently achieved. The company has been shortlisted and awarded several times in various international award formats, both in Europe and Latin America. These recognitions come from different markets and underline the growing international visibility of the brand. They also show that the brand strategy works independently of regional characteristics.

Outlook for the rest of the award season and the role of Casino.online

With the confirmation as the first nominee, an important milestone has been reached, but the BWiGA 2026 is still in its infancy. Further candidates will follow, categories will fill up and the discussion about quality and brand management in the affiliate sector will intensify. Casino.online is entering this phase with a position that has become visible early on and is attracting a corresponding amount of attention. This starting position creates scope for further momentum within the industry.

Regardless of how the award season progresses, this nomination marks a moment that clearly reflects the development of Casino.online. It shows how consistent brand work creates trust, generates visibility and has a long-term impact. It is precisely this attitude that shapes Casino.online's path into 2026 and beyond. The early recognition serves as a visible interim result of ongoing development.

About Casino.online

Casino.online is an internationally oriented affiliate platform focusing on casino reviews, bonus comparisons and editorially prepared content relating to the iGaming market. The company pursues a brand-driven approach that emphasises consistency, transparency and long-term trust building, deliberately distancing itself from short-term performance models. With a clear visual identity, a factual tone and a steadily growing international presence, Casino.online has established itself as a major player in the global iGaming affiliate environment and is continuously expanding this position.

Image Source: https://unsplash.com/de/fotos/xrR-Kr2zppo

Contact

Elisabeth Muller

ImpulsQ

[email protected]

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852367/Casino_online_BWiGA_2026.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852366/Casino_online_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Casino.online
Rating affirms Oklahoma's premier workers' compensation provider's financial strength

OKLAHOMA CITY, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AM Best has affirmed CompSource Mutual Insurance Company's Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A (Excellent) with a Stable outlook. AM Best is the preeminent insurance credit rating service. CompSource Mutual is Oklahoma's premier workers' compensation provider.

These rating renewals reflect AM Best's continued confidence in CompSource Mutual's operating performance, business profile, enterprise risk management, and ability to meet its ongoing financial obligations.

Shown here: Headquarters for Oklahoma-based workers compensation insurance carrier, CompSource Mutual

Key factors of the ratings include:

Balance Sheet Strength: Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR) is in the strongest category and is expected to remain at the strongest level through the near term.

Operating Performance: Five-year return on revenue (RoR) and return on equity (RoE) compare favorably to the metrics of the workers' compensation composite.

Outlook: The company is expected to maintain its overall balance sheet strength assessment.

"For more than 90 years, CompSource Mutual has protected Oklahoma workers by maintaining high standards of financial performance," said Trey Ingram, CEO of CompSource Mutual Insurance Company. "These ratings reflect our longstanding commitment to financial stability, strength and security. We are proud to continue our tradition of being an AM Best A rated company."

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. A nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO), AM Best's Credit Ratings provide an independent, third-party opinion of an insurer's financial strength and ability to meet ongoing insurance obligations. For the latest AM Best Credit Rating, visit www.ambest.com.

About CompSource Mutual Insurance Company

For 90+ years, Oklahoma businesses have partnered with CompSource Mutual as a reliable source for workers' compensation insurance. CompSource Mutual is trusted for its financial stability, superior service, and innovative solutions. CompSource Mutual seeks to be the insurance carrier of choice within the business community by serving Oklahoma's most valuable asset, its people.

SOURCE CompSource Mutual Insurance Company
COLUMBUS, Ohio and CLEVELAND, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Express Wash Concepts (EWC) one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash operators, today announced the grand opening of its newly reimagined Clean Express Auto Wash at 6165 Royalton Road in North Royalton, Ohio.

The locationformerly Royalton Car Washhas officially reopened following significant investment in upgraded equipment, enhanced technology, and a refreshed customer experience designed to deliver faster, cleaner, and more convenient car care. The North Royalton site strengthens EWC's growing footprint in Northeast Ohio and reflects the company's continued commitment to thoughtful, community-driven expansion.

"With every new opening, our focus is on elevating the customer experience while making a positive impact in the communities we serve," said John Roush, Founder and CEO of Express Wash Concepts. "This Clean Express location in North Royalton represents more than an upgraded washit's an investment in local jobs, local neighborhoods, and long-term value for customers who count on convenience and quality."

Free Wash Celebration

To celebrate the grand opening, the Royalton Road location will offer free "Ceramic 4 Ultra" signature washes (a $24 value) from January 9-18, 2026. Guests can also join the Wash Smart Unlimited Club at 50% off for the first three months, top two wash packages. For every new membership purchased during the event, Clean Express will donate $10 to North Royalton High School to help cover unpaid school lunch balances, support student programs, and provide essential classroom resources.

Additional grand-opening promotions include a $50 Clean Express gift card available for only $25, with all proceeds benefiting North Royalton High School. Gift cards purchased at the Royalton Road location may be used at any Clean Express or EWC location.

Home grown and operated, Clean Express Auto Wash is part of the Express Wash Concepts family of brands, which now includes 129 express wash locations across six states, with more than 18 additional sites planned to open or break ground by early 2026. The Clean Express portfolio alone spans more than 50 locations across Greater Cleveland, Detroit, Pittsburgh, and Toledo, earning repeated recognition for high-quality service, strong workplace culture, and customer satisfactionincluding multiple Top Workplaces honors from Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer.

About Express Wash Concepts:

Express Wash Concepts (EWC) operates 132 award-winning, express car wash locations across six states under the following brands: Moo Moo Express Car Wash, Flying Ace Express Car Wash, Clean Express Auto Wash, Green Clean Express Auto Wash and Bee Clean Express Car Wash. EWC brands feature fast, high quality and environmentally friendly express tunnel wash experiences and free vacuums. The company's popular Wash Smart Unlimited Club offers members the convenience and value of truly unlimited washing at any location. For more information, please visit www.expresswashconcepts.com.

SOURCE Express Wash Concepts
Smart-home tech moves outdoors as FeatherSnap debuts AI-driven, solar bird feeders at CES

LAS VEGAS, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- FeatherSnap, the award-winning smart bird feeder brand that is redefining backyard technology, will attend CES 2026, including a showcase at CES Unveiled on Sunday, January 4th, alongside parent company, Tactacam, pioneers of smart camera outdoor technology. Together, they will bring FeatherSnap's AI-powered, solar-driven smart feeders to one of the world's most influential technology stages.

Designed to connect people with the beauty of nature up close, FeatherSnap's Smart Bird Feeders feature motion-activated, Wi-Fi cameras, real-time photo and video streaming, and AI-powered bird identification to transform everyday outdoor spaces into interactive, data-driven learning environments.

FeatherSnap's Smart Seed and Hummingbird feeders capture high-resolution photos and video of visiting birds, automatically identifying species through proprietary AI technology and delivering insights directly to the FeatherSnap app. Users can track visits, learn bird behaviors, store and share media, and explore species-level data, all powered by integrated solar panels designed for low-maintenance, energy-efficient performance.

FeatherSnap is also STEM.org Authenticated, earning the respected trustmark for its educational value and alignment with science, technology, engineering, and math learning. The brand was also ranked in the top 5 percent of all toys and games evaluated in STEM.org's "Best in STEM" list, positioning FeatherSnap as a standout example of how consumer tech can inspire curiosity, learning, and real-world engagement with nature.

"FeatherSnap is enhancing the birdwatching experience using smart technology to spark curiosity, learning, and connection," said Kelly Hover, FeatherSnap's Chief Marketing and Experience Officer. "CES provides the perfect platform to showcase how AI, Wi-Fi camera technology, and an engaging mobile app can turn a simple backyard moment into an immersive, educational experience."

Rooted in a 100% U.S.-based foundationfrom hardware and mobile app development to customer supportFeatherSnap is built by real people who share a love for the outdoors. Backed by Tactacam's industry-leading expertise in durable, high-performance camera technology, it delivers a smarter, more reliable birdwatching experience.

At CES Unveiled on January 4th, FeatherSnap will offer journalists and industry insiders an early look at the evolution of outdoor tech and its expansion into the smart bird feeder category. Journalists and CES attendees are invited to connect with the FeatherSnap team for product demos, interviews, and hands-on experience with the feeders.

Visit FeatherSnap at CES Unveiled at Mandalay Bay on Sunday, January 4th, Booth #60030, or find them throughout CES at Booth #51372 in the Venetian Expo, Halls AD (Smart Home).

About FeatherSnap

FeatherSnap, U.S.-based maker of award-winning smart bird feeders, is revolutionizing birdwatching by seamlessly connecting users to nature through Wi-Fi-enabled camera technology. As leaders in the camera industry, FeatherSnap delivers unrivaled quality and user-friendly experiences. Simplicity is at the core of its design philosophy, making smart feeders easy to use, maintain, and pair with no need for technical expertise. Engage effortlessly with smart bird feeders through the FeatherSnap mobile app, featuring unique storage and identification features like Bird Book and expert-trained AI models. FeatherSnap offers a blend of technology and nature, creating moments of joy, excitement, and endless fascination in the world of birdwatching. For more information, visit www.feathersnap.com .

SOURCE FeatherSnap
MINNEAPOLIS, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --

Court-Approved Notice.

If you are eligible, you must file a claim by June 30, 2026.

Who Is Included in the Settlement?

You are includedand may be eligible for a paymentif you are a person or entity who indirectly purchased any of the following beef products for personal consumption between August 1, 2014, and December 31, 2019:

Beef (fresh or frozen) made from chuck, loin, rib, or round primal cuts . More details regarding the different beef products included in the Settlements is available at www.OverchargedForBeef.com .

(fresh or frozen) made from . More details regarding the different beef products included in the Settlements is available at . Purchased in one of the following states/jurisdictions (known as "Repealer Jurisdictions" for this case): Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

"Indirectly purchased" means you did not buy the beef products directly from one of the Defendants. Instead, you bought it at a grocery store or supermarket.

What Beef Products Are NOT Included?

Any beef marketed as:

Premium: USDA Prime, organic, 100% grass-fed, Wagyu, "American-Style Kobe Beef."

USDA Prime, organic, 100% grass-fed, Wagyu, "American-Style Kobe Beef." Specialty: No Antibiotics Ever ("NAE"), antibiotic-free, kosher, halal, certified humane.

No Antibiotics Ever ("NAE"), antibiotic-free, kosher, halal, certified humane. Processed: Ground, marinated, seasoned, flavored, breaded, or cooked beef.

What is This Lawsuit About?

The lawsuit: This is an antitrust class action lawsuit that claims several beef processorsincluding JBS, Cargill, National Beef, and Tyson Foodsentered into a market allocation agreement and stopped competing against each other for market share. The alleged purpose and effect of this agreement was to increase their margins and increase the price consumers paid for beef.

Settlements: Two of the defendants, Tyson Foods and Cargill, have agreed to settlements totaling **$87.5 million** ($55 million from Tyson and $32.5 million from Cargill) to resolve the claims against them. They have also agreed to certain non-monetary relief.

Defendants' Position: The Court has not ruled that the Defendants did anything wrong, and the companies deny all allegations of wrongdoing.

Non-Settling Defendants: JBS USA Food Company, Swift Beef Company, JBS Packerland, Inc., and National Beef Packing Company have not settled.

What Do the Settlements Provide?

1. Cash Payment

If you are included in the Settlement Class, you can file a claim to receive a pro-rata (equal share) cash payment. This payment will be proportional to the amount of included beef you purchased during the class period.

2. How to Submit a Claim

To receive a payment, you must submit a Claim Form with all required information. Your Claim Form must be postmarked or submitted online by June 30, 2026. To submit a Claim Form online, please visit www.OverchargedForBeef.com.

What Are Your Legal Options?

1. Get a Cash Payment

You will receive a cash payment, and you give up your right to sue Cargill and Tyson over the legal claims in this lawsuit. Submit a Claim Form by June 30, 2026.

2. Opt-Out (Exclude Yourself)

You will not get a payment from these settlements, but you keep your right to sue Cargill and Tyson on your own for the legal claims in this lawsuit. Submit a written opt-out request by March 30, 2026.

3. Object to the Settlements

You will be bound by the Settlements, but you can tell the Court why you think the Settlements are unfair. Submit a written objection by March 30, 2026.

4. Do Nothing

Take no action. You will not receive a cash payment, and you will be legally bound by the Settlements, giving up your right to sue Cargill and Tyson later.

Fairness Hearing

The Court will hold a hearing on May 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. CDT, to decide whether to officially approve the Settlements, the amount of attorneys' fees, and any service awards. You or your lawyer may attend the hearing, but you are not required to do so.

This notice is a summary. For a detailed explanation of your rights, the full definition of the Settlement Class, and how to opt-out or object, please visit the Settlement Website at www.OverchargedForBeef.com or call the toll-free number at 1-877-283-8711.

URL: www.OverchargedForBeef.com

SOURCE The United States District Court for the District of Minnesota
The lawsuit alleges C4 Technical Services, LLC, violated the California Labor Code by failing to provide its employees with meal and rest periods.

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Los Angeles labor law attorneys at Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC, filed a class action complaint against C4 Technical Services, LLC, for allegedly failing to provide meal and rest breaks. The class action lawsuit, Case No. 25STCV34843, is currently pending in the Los Angeles County Superior Court of the State of California. A copy of the Complaint can be read here.

According to the lawsuit, C4 Technical Services, LLC, allegedly violated California Labor Code Sections  201, 202, 203, 204, 210, 226.7, 510, 512, 558, 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 1198, 1198.5 and 2802 by failing to: (1) pay minimum wages; (2) pay overtime wages; (3) provide required meal and rest periods; (4) provide accurate itemized wage statements; (5) provide wages when due; and (6) reimburse for required business expenses.

As a result of their rigorous work schedules, C4 Technical Services, LLC's employees were allegedly unable to take off duty meal breaks and were not fully relieved of duty for meal periods. Specifically, the lawsuit alleges employees were from time to time interrupted during their off-duty meal breaks to complete tasks for C4 Technical Services, LLC. Employees were allegedly required to perform work as ordered by C4 Technical Services, LLC, for more than five (5) hours during a shift without receiving an off-duty meal break. Further, the lawsuit alleges C4 Technical Services, LLC, failed to provide employees with a second off-duty meal period each workday in which these employees were required by C4 Technical Services, LLC, to work ten (10) hours of work. The policy of C4 Technical Services, LLC, allegedly caused employees to remain on-call and on duty during what was supposed to be their off-duty meal periods. Employees therefore allegedly forfeited meal breaks without additional compensation and in accordance with the strict corporate policy and practice of C4 Technical Services, LLC.

If you would like to know more about the C4 Technical Services, LLC lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047.

Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC are labor and employment law firms with offices located in California that dedicate their practices to fighting for employees who have been wronged by their employers due to unfair employment practices. Contact one of their attorneys today if you need help with workplace issues regarding wage and hour, wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination, and harassment.

-THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT (Rules Prof. Conduct, rule 7.2)-

SOURCE Zakay Law Group, APC
The commission for holding the first competition for the construction of generating capacity, which has been blocked since April 2025, plans to complete it at its meeting on December 30 and make a decision that will allow signing agreements with the winners, Acting Minister of Energy Artem Nekrasov has said.

"... but equipment for another 900 MW has been imported into the country. Some of them are private individuals who won the blocked auction. We unblocked it, and on Tuesday, December 30, we will sign agreements with the winners. This will allow us to connect an additional 440 MW to the system next year," he said in an interview with Forbes Ukraine.

In general, according to Nekrasov, as of the end of December 2025, the installed capacity of gas generation reaches approximately 1,100 MW, of which approximately 800 MW is connected to the networks, including 280 MW for our own needs. Nekrasov also drew attention to the unrealized potential in the utility sector: in previous years, donors have provided cities with approximately 600 MW of gas installations free of charge, but most of them have not yet been connected, because the cities do not have the approved budgets for this.

As reported, the commission for holding the first competition for the construction of generating capacity, which has been blocked since April 2025, announced its meeting for December 30. As the Energoreforma website learned, the Ministry of Energy appointed Acting Minister Artem Nekrasov as the chairman of the commission instead of the dismissed and detained Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Energy Yuriy Sheyk in a corruption case.

On December 24, the Cabinet of Ministers adopted amendments to the procedure for conducting a competition for new generating capacity, according to which its commission will make a decision on determining the winners without re-reviewing the participants' proposals.
Top LA PR Agency, Marketing Maven, Receives Recognition for Innovative Integrated Marketing Approach: The Marketing Maven Method with Marketing Research, Marketing Strategy and Implementation Campaigns Across Industries

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bicoastal, award-winning marketing and public relations firm Marketing Maven Public Relations (Marketing Maven) announced that it was recognized as a nominee for the Los Angeles Business Journal's 2025 Disruptors Awards, an honor celebrating organizations that are reshaping their industries through innovative thinking, strategic leadership, and community impact.

The Disruptor Awards celebrated trailblazers, visionaries, and innovators who are redefining the landscape of business. In a world where change is the only constant, these awards recognize those who embrace innovation, challenge the status quo, and drive meaningful transformation across industries. The Disruptors Awards honor teams and organizations that demonstrate unparalleled creativity, resilience, and ingenuity in the pursuit of excellence.

The Los Angeles Business Journal's annual Disruptors Awards spotlights "trailblazers, visionaries, and innovators who are redefining the landscape of business." Nominees represent standout companies across Southern California that are advancing new ideas, leveraging emerging technologies, and setting higher standards for performance and creativity.

"We are incredibly proud to have been nominated among such remarkable organizations," said Lindsey Carnett, Founder, CEO and President of Marketing Maven. "Innovation has been a core pillar of our agency from the very beginning, whether through data-driven strategy, multicultural marketing, influencer integration, or our commitment to advancing PR and digital communications through measurable results. The Marketing Maven Method makes us unique in the way we approach PR and marketing for clients, irrespective of the industry. Being recognized as a disruptor reinforces the passion and dedication our team brings to every client partnership. In today's fast-paced AI environment, it's critical for our clients that we are disruptors. This allows Marketing Maven to lead Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) efforts through high Domain Authority earned media coverage, allowing our clients to effectively control their brand message in the AI Overview section of Google searches and to index for the right terms and phrases via other commonly used AI platforms."

Marketing Maven has built a national reputation for excellence across public relations, integrated marketing, social media, digital advertising, analytics, reputation management, and content strategy. The agency's work spans industries including consumer products, beauty, health and wellness, sustainability, financial services, food and beverage, home services, and technology.

Known for merging creativity with accountability, Marketing Maven leads with a performance-driven approach backed by competitive analysis, market insights, and advanced measurement tools. The firm continues to invest in emerging platforms and strategic innovations that help clients scale visibility, strengthen brand trust, and drive sustainable growth.

The Los Angeles Business Journal hosted the 2025 Disruptors Awards in recognition of organizations making meaningful strides in innovation and shaping the future of business across the region.

To learn more about the Disruptors Awards, visit the Los Angeles Business Journal at https://labusinessjournal.com/events/disruptors2025/ .

About Marketing Maven Public Relations, Inc.

With offices in Los Angeles and New York, Marketing Maven is a full-service marketing and communications agency. With origins in direct-response public relations, Marketing Maven has grown into a premier voice in brand strategy, social media, influencer marketing, event marketing, tradeshow support, Hispanic marketing, and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The agency leads the industry in utilizing advanced metrics to measure clients' marketing reach and providing competitive analysis unparalleled in the space. For more information, visit http://www.MarketingMaven.com .

Media Contact:

Frank Tortorici

VP of Media Relations

Marketing Maven Public Relations, Inc.

[email protected]

Phone: (908) 875-8908

SOURCE Marketing Maven Public Relations, Inc.
An Education Cannot Wait-funded programme delivered by World Vision in Burundi is using community mentors  school Aunties and Uncles  to promote well-being.

CIBITOKE, Burundi, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In Cibitoke, one woman has made it her mission to ensure that girls stay in school. Meet Josephine, a school auntie in the Rugombo commune who embodies the Burundian tradition of guiding students through their teenage years by providing emotional and academic support, much like a trusted second parent.

School Auntie Josephine listens and advises girls on their journey through adolescence.  World Vision Burundi

With funding from Education Cannot Wait (ECW), the "Komezawige Programme" (Kirundi for "Keep Studying") is implemented by a range of partners led by World Vision Burundi, in coordination with the national government. The programme focuses on ensuring education continuity for crisis-affected children and youth. This Multi-Year Resilience Programme provides essential mental health, psychosocial, and holistic education support for girls and boys impacted by the ongoing crises in Burundi.

A key innovative feature of the programme is the role of mentors, known as Aunties and Uncles, who serve as trusted guides during turbulent times. School Auntie Josephine helps girls overcome menstrual stigma by holding discussions, offering support, and distributing dignity pads to ensure regular school attendance.

"Discussions have brought a positive impact; girls support each other through advice or come to me for support and sometimes I can ask permission to go home from the school principal on their behalf once they do not feel well," says Josephine.

School Auntie Josephine aims to break menstrual taboos. "In the past, when young girls got their period while they were at school, they did not have a school adult to whom they would turn for advice or support," she says.

Without support, girls felt embarrassed and were teased by boys. This led to emotional distress and some girls even dropped out because of the cultural stigma and lack of hygiene products available to them.

"In some discussions organized, boys are invited and we let them know it's not okay to make fun of girls when they realize that they are in their menstrual period," says Josephine. She has initiated open discussions, not only with girls but also with boys. Girls feel empowered to seek support, improving their emotional well-being and reducing absenteeism. Meanwhile, boys have gained a deeper understanding of their female peers' experiences. As a result, a culture of respect and inclusivity can be felt throughout the school.

"Whenever I have an uncertainty, I turn to Josephine, and I feel supported through her advice," says 14-year-old student Jeanine.

Many young Burundians are out of school.

The youth of Burundi make up half of the country's population, and often experience high rates of poverty with limited access to education. Early pregnancy and heavy family responsibilities add to the educational challenges faced by Burundi's adolescent girls, limiting their access to education. Traditional gender roles place heavy burdens on both genders; girls are responsible for household chores, while boys face pressure to support their families financially, often making education an afterthought.

Climate change, political unrest and poverty are additional challenges faced by Burundians. Limited resources make it difficult for children to return to school, increasing their risk of exploitation and negatively impacting their education.

In response to these challenges, ECW announced a catalytic grant in Burundi in late-2021. This programme includes supporting the recruitment and training of teachers, increasing school resilience by providing disaster risk reduction training to educators, rehabilitating and constructing classrooms and WASH facilities, and providing school meals.

Dignity pads are provided to all girls in need of them. Fourteen-year-old Jeanine's parents don't have the financial means to buy dignity pads. In the past, she recalls missing school on the days she was on her period. Through this new ECW-funded initiative, she can attend school without interruption. "I was given 5 reusable dignity pads. I feel supported and this encourages me to go far with learning," she says.

While the pads are important for managing menstrual hygiene, they also eliminate educational barriers by providing girls with the opportunity to focus on their learning.

In areas where the Aunties and Uncles programme operate, nearly 500 psychosocial assistant volunteers are active. Aunties support girls, while uncles focus on helping the boys, providing much-needed guidance on reproductive health education so girls and boys make well-informed decisions about their futures, particularly about how to prevent early pregnancies.

The holistic education supports are essential in addressing the needs of every student, especially those who lack support outside of school and view school as a safe haven. For girls like Jeanine, it's a chance to continue their education in safe and supportive learning environments.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852032/Education_Cannot_Wait_World_Vision_Burundi.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1656121/Education_Cannot_Wait_Logo.jpg
GENEVA and SANTIAGO, Chile, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercuria Energy Trading (Mercuria) today announced it has signed a landmark offtake agreement with El Espino SpA, a subsidiary of Sociedad Punta del Cobre S.A. (Pucobre), in connection with the El Espino copper-gold project in Chile. The agreement grants El Espino the right to sell up to 100% of copper and gold production during the first years of operations, scheduled to begin in 2027.

As part of the deal, Mercuria has also committed a financial facility of up to US$375 million, intended to refinance the existing project finance facility, reinforcing the project's financial strength and supporting its long-term growth.

"We are proud to support Pucobre and the El Espino project, which aligns perfectly with Mercuria's strategy to grow our metals business and deepen our footprint in Chile," said Kostas Bintas, Global Head of Metals and Minerals at Mercuria. "This agreement underscores our commitment to long-term partnerships and to providing innovative financial solutions that enable sustainable resource development."

El Espino, located in Chile's Coquimbo Region, is expected to produce approximately 100,000 tons of copper and gold concentrates annually (equivalent to 26,000 tons of copper and 13,000 ounces of gold annually) over a mine life of 18 years.

Pucobre's CEO Sebastian Rios welcomed the agreement:

"This agreement represents a significant milestone for El Espino and for Pucobre. Partnering with Mercuria as a reliable and long-term offtaker, together with the availability of a financing solution, allows El Espino to strengthen the project's positioning as it moves toward production and reinforces our long-term growth strategy in Chile."

About Mercuria

Mercuria is one of the world's largest independent energy and commodity groups, with a strong presence in global supply chains, energy transition assets, and strategic infrastructure. The group operates across oil, gas, power, and metals markets, with integrated trading, logistics, and investment capabilities. Mercuria is present in over 50 countries, with annual revenues exceeding USD 140 billion. The group has made significant investments in renewable power, energy storage, grid optimization and critical transition metals and minerals.

About El Espino

El Espino is owned by a joint venture between Pucobre (76.3%) and Resource Capital Funds (23.7%). The project involves the construction of a mid-sized open-pit copper-gold mine operation and associated facilities.

SOURCE Mercuria Energy Trading S.A.
Christmas 2025 Under Attack In Modi's India As Anti-Christian Violence Escalates

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Christmas 2025 was under attack in India under the Narendra Modi government, as Christian worship and community life faced intimidation, disruption, and targeted hostility. "In Modi's India, sharing the Bible is treated as a crime, and peaceful Christian faith is increasingly punished rather than protected," said Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, General Counsel of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ).

US Sikh Group Calls For Carving Out Trumpland For Christians In India Christmas 2025 was under attack in India under the Narendra Modi government, as Christian worship and community life faced intimidation, disruption, and targeted hostility. In Modis India, sharing the Bible is treated as a crime, and peaceful Christian faith is increasingly punished rather than protected, said Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, General Counsel of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). Speed Speed

Indian Christian organizations describe a sustained pattern of persecution. The United Christian Forum (UCF) documented 706 incidents in 2025, and the Evangelical Fellowship of India's Religious Liberty Commission (EFIRLC) recorded hundreds of additional violations: attacks on churches, disruption of worship services, intimidation of families, and arrests under anti-conversion laws. Christian organizations say these documented findings were formally conveyed to United Nations offices, including the UN Human Rights Council.

Church leadership in Manipur, including the Archbishop of Imphal, reported that approximately 249 churches were burned or destroyed within the first 36 hours of violence, with Christian bodies describing wider destruction of churches and places of worship beyond those initial hours. Christian organizations have also documented explicit incitement to violence, including calls to "play with the honor of daughters" and "kill all Christians," language amounting to incitement to sexual violence and murder.

"The burning of places of worship started during the 1984 Sikh Genocide, when thousands of Gurdwaras were burned. Today the same pattern continues with churchesfrom Manipur to other parts of India," Pannun said. He added that the persecution is ideologically driven by the RSS, the ideological arm of Modi's BJP, led by Mohan Bhagwat, who has repeatedly asserted that Hindustan is a Hindu nation, leaving no space for Christianity.

In response, SFJ reaffirmed its proposal for TRUMPLANDa protected Christian homeland corridor in Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, Assam, and Arunachal Pradeshto guarantee freedom of worship and safety for Christian families. "President Trumpwho just ordered action against ISIS in Nigeriamust come forward to save Christians facing violence under the Modi government," Pannun said.

Sikhs For Justice is a human rights organization also organizing a global Khalistan Referendum for the people of Punjab, who continue to face persecution based on religion and political opinion.

Issued by:

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun

Attorney at Law (NY)

General Counsel, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ)

X: @SFJGenCounsel @SFJ_US_Official

SOURCE Sikhs For Justice
AUSTIN, Texas and TOKYO, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to DataM Intelligence, the Quantum Computing in Financial Services Market reached USD 0.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to surge to USD 6.3 billion by 2032, expanding at an exceptional CAGR of 46.5% during the forecast period 20252032.

This explosive growth signals a fundamental inflection point in the financial sector. What began as theoretical research and proof-of-concept pilots is rapidly evolving into strategic, production-oriented use cases across risk modeling, portfolio optimization, fraud detection, and cryptography.

By 2030, quantum computing will no longer be viewed as a future technology within financial services. It will emerge as a competitive differentiator, separating institutions that can process complexity at unprecedented scale from those constrained by classical computing limits.

Request Executive Sample | Quantum Computing in Financial Services Market Intelligence: https://www.datamintelligence.com/download-sample/quantum-computing-in-financial-services-market

Why Quantum Computing Is Becoming Strategic for Financial Institutions

The adoption of quantum computing in financial services is being driven by three deep structural challenges that classical systems struggle to solve.

Financial complexity has outpaced classical computing capacity . Modern financial markets involve billions of variables-correlated assets, real-time risk exposure, high-frequency transactions, and regulatory stress scenarios. Classical supercomputers approximate solutions; quantum systems aim to solve them natively.

. Modern financial markets involve billions of variables-correlated assets, real-time risk exposure, high-frequency transactions, and regulatory stress scenarios. Classical supercomputers approximate solutions; quantum systems aim to solve them natively. Risk and cybersecurity have become board-level priorities . Financial institutions face escalating threats from sophisticated cyberattacks and cryptographic vulnerabilities. Quantum computing offers both a risk-through future decryption capability and a solution, via quantum-safe algorithms and advanced anomaly detection.

. Financial institutions face escalating threats from sophisticated cyberattacks and cryptographic vulnerabilities. Quantum computing offers both a risk-through future decryption capability and a solution, via quantum-safe algorithms and advanced anomaly detection. Competitive pressure is intensifying. Large banks, asset managers, and payment networks are under pressure to deliver faster pricing, better portfolio returns, and more resilient systems. Quantum computing enables optimization problems to be solved in minutes rather than days, directly impacting profitability and capital efficiency.

As a result, quantum computing is transitioning from R&D budgets into long-term digital transformation roadmaps.

Market Segmentation Analysis

By Offering

Software currently represents the largest share of the quantum computing in financial services market, accounting for approximately 44% of the total market value in 2024, equivalent to around USD 132 million.

This dominance reflects the strong demand for quantum algorithms, hybrid quantum-classical platforms, optimization libraries, and quantum development environments tailored for financial use cases.

Services account for approximately 36%, or USD 108 million.

Consulting, system integration, quantum algorithm design, and cloud-based access models are critical as most financial institutions lack in-house quantum expertise. Services act as the primary bridge between experimental capability and business value realization.

Hardware represents the remaining 20%, or around USD 60 million.

While most banks currently access quantum hardware via cloud platforms, direct investment in dedicated systems is expected to rise post-2028 as hardware matures and cost barriers decline.

According to DataM Intelligence analysis, software and services will continue to dominate through 2032, while hardware investment accelerates in later stages of adoption.

By Technology

Quantum annealing currently leads adoption, accounting for approximately 41% of market value, or USD 123 million in 2024.

Its strength lies in solving optimization problems-such as portfolio optimization, asset allocation, and trade execution-which align directly with financial services use cases.

Trapped ion technology represents approximately 34%, or USD 102 million.

Trapped ions are favored for their stability and accuracy, making them attractive for high-precision financial modeling, risk simulations, and cryptographic research.

Quantum dots account for the remaining 25%, or around USD 75 million, supported by advances in semiconductor-based quantum systems and long-term scalability potential.

According to DataM Intelligence research, quantum annealing will remain dominant in near-term financial deployments, while trapped ions and quantum dots will gain share as fault-tolerant systems emerge.

By Application

Risk management and cybersecurity represent the largest application segment, accounting for approximately 29% of total market value, or USD 87 million in 2024.

Financial institutions are prioritizing quantum-enhanced stress testing, fraud detection, and cryptographic resilience to manage systemic and operational risk.

Asset and wealth management follows with around 22%, or USD 66 million.

Quantum algorithms enable superior portfolio optimization, scenario analysis, and alpha generation across highly complex asset universes.

Investment banking contributes approximately 17%, or USD 51 million, driven by applications in derivatives pricing, capital allocation, and deal structuring.

Retail banking and payments together account for roughly 20%, or USD 60 million, focusing on fraud prevention, credit scoring, and transaction optimization.

Corporate banking and other applications make up the remaining 12%.

According to DataM Intelligence analysis, risk-centric applications will remain the primary adoption driver, while asset management will deliver the strongest long-term value creation.

Request Customized Intelligence Aligned to Your Business Strategy: https://www.datamintelligence.com/customize/quantum-computing-in-financial-services-market

Regional Overview

United States

The United States leads the global market, accounting for approximately 45% of total revenue, or around USD 135 million in 2024.

Key Drivers:

Strong quantum R&D ecosystems

Early adoption by large banks and hedge funds

Cloud-based quantum access at scale

Regulatory focus on cybersecurity and systemic risk

By 2032, the U.S. market alone is expected to exceed USD 2.8 billion, maintaining global leadership in quantum finance deployment.

Europe

Europe accounts for approximately 30% of market value, supported by strong public-private quantum initiatives and adoption by universal banks, particularly in risk analytics and regulatory compliance.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific represents the fastest-growing region, driven by national quantum programs and rapid digitization of financial services in China, Japan, and Singapore.

Competitive Landscape - Technology Leaders Shaping Quantum Finance

The major global players in the market include ABB, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Inc., Aricent, Inc., Atos, Cisco Systems, Inc., General Electric Company, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development, Honeywell International Inc., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., and IBM Corporation.

IBM Corporation

Quantum finance focus: Portfolio optimization, risk analysis, fraud detection, option pricing

Technology positioning: Superconducting qubits (IBM Quantum), Qiskit SDK

Competitive edge:

IBM is the most commercially embedded quantum player in financial services, working directly with global banks, exchanges, and insurers via IBM Quantum Network. Strong emphasis on hybrid quantum-classical workflows that financial institutions can deploy today.

Primary regions served: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific

Intel Corporation

Quantum finance focus: Long-term infrastructure for quantum acceleration in financial modeling

Technology positioning: Silicon-based spin qubits, cryogenic control chips

Competitive edge:

Intel's role is largely enabling hardware scalability, aligning quantum systems with existing semiconductor manufacturing-critical for future financial-grade quantum workloads.

Primary regions served: United States, Europe, Asia

IonQ Inc.

Quantum finance focus: Portfolio optimization, Monte Carlo simulations, risk analytics

Technology positioning: Trapped-ion quantum computers

Competitive edge:

IonQ emphasizes high-fidelity qubits and cloud accessibility, making it attractive for banks experimenting with quantum optimization without heavy infrastructure investment.

Primary regions served: United States, Europe, Asia (via cloud partners)

Silicon Quantum Computing

Quantum finance focus: Future-oriented cryptography and secure financial systems

Technology positioning: Silicon-atom qubits

Competitive edge:

SQC is a deep-tech, long-horizon player, positioning itself for fault-tolerant quantum computing, which will be critical for secure financial modeling and post-quantum finance systems.

Primary regions served: Australia, strategic global research partnerships

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd

Quantum finance focus: Financial risk modeling, optimization, encryption research

Technology positioning: Quantum computing research platforms integrated with cloud and AI

Competitive edge:

Huawei leverages strong state-backed R&D and enterprise IT integration, focusing on sovereign and large-scale financial infrastructure applications.

Primary regions served: China, Asia-Pacific

Alphabet Inc.

Quantum finance focus: Optimization problems, probabilistic modeling, financial AI research

Technology positioning: Superconducting qubits (Google Quantum AI)

Competitive edge:

Alphabet leads in quantum algorithm research, particularly in optimization and simulation-core problems in trading, asset pricing, and risk analysis.

Primary regions served: United States, Europe

From a competitive standpoint, partnerships between quantum vendors and global financial institutions are becoming the dominant go-to-market strategy.

Purchase Corporate License | Quantum Computing in Financial Services Market Intelligence: https://www.datamintelligence.com/buy-now-page?report=quantum-computing-in-financial-services-market

What Will Define the Market by 20312032

By 2031, the quantum computing in financial services market will approach USD 5.5 billion, driven by:

Transition from pilot projects to production workloads

Integration of quantum algorithms into risk engines

Growing urgency around post-quantum cryptography

Demonstrated financial ROI from optimization use cases

According to DataM Intelligence analysis:

Risk & cybersecurity will remain the leading application

Software and services will dominate spending

Quantum annealing will lead near-term deployments

The U.S. will continue to hold the largest market share

By 2032, quantum computing will be embedded into core financial decision-making processes, reshaping how capital, risk, and security are managed.

Related Report:

1. Quantum Computing Market to Grow from US$650 M in 2022 to Nearly US$8.8 B by 2031 - Massive Growth as Quantum Becomes Commercially Viable.

2. Edge Computing Market Projected to Reach US$156.2 B by 2030 as Distributed Processing Fuels Next-Gen Digital Growth.

3. Neuromorphic Computing Market Set to Skyrocket from US$48.3 M in 2022 to US$6.8 B by 2030 - AI-Driven Brain-Inspired Tech Fuels Massive Growth.

About DataM Intelligence

DataM Intelligence is a renowned provider of market research, delivering deep insights through pricing analysis, market share breakdowns, and competitive intelligence. The company specializes in strategic reports that guide businesses in high-growth sectors such as nutraceuticals and AI-driven health innovations.

To find out more, visit https://www.datamintelligence.com/ or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Contact:

Sai Kiran

DataM Intelligence 4market Research LLP

Ground floor, DSL Abacus IT Park, Industrial Development Area

Uppal, Hyderabad, Telangana 500039

USA: +1 877-441-4866

Email: [email protected]

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1858619/3573087/DataM_Intelligence_Logo.jpg

SOURCE DataM Intelligence 4 Market Research LLP
A Global Debut of Its Industry-First AI Smart Mattress System

LAS VEGAS and SHENZHEN, China, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Stareep, a China-based sleep technology company, will make its global debut at CES 2026 with the world's first AI-powered SmartSleep ecosystema fully integrated mattress and sleep system designed to actively adjust to the body in real time.

While most smart mattresses rely on passive tracking and post-sleep insights, Stareep's system is built to intervene during sleep, using artificial intelligence to continuously optimize support, posture, and comfort throughout the night. The company positions its technology as a new category in sleep techone that moves from monitoring sleep to actively improving it. Cementing their spot as a leader, it was recently announced that Stareep was nominated for the BIG Innovation Awards 2026 . Winners will be announced on January 15, 2026.

"Sleep technology has barely scratched the surface of what AI can do," said Allen Cai, Founder of Stareep. "We didn't want to build another mattress that just reports data. We built a system that understands the body and actively responds to it, night after night. CES 2026 is our first step in bringing that vision to a global audience."

At the core of the system is a dual-layer AI architecture, where both the mattress and the base independently learn user habits and respond to pressure, movement, and physiological signals. The top layer adapts to body contours, while the lower layer dynamically adjusts firmness and support, enabling real-time changes across the full before-sleep, during-sleep, and after-sleep cycle.

Stareep's SmartSleep ecosystem introduces several first-to-market capabilities, including:

AI-Driven, Real-Time Sleep Adjustment rather than passive data tracking

rather than passive data tracking Dual-Layer AI Adaptation (industry first)

Self-Adaptive Sleep Optimization that evolves with continued use

that evolves with continued use Multi-Sensory Sleep Assistance combining motion, sound, and environmental cues

combining motion, sound, and environmental cues MatchFit 2.0 , an AI system that recommends mattress firmness and pillow height based on body data

, an AI system that recommends mattress firmness and pillow height based on body data Wearable Integration with EEG devices and AI rings for deeper sleep and health insights

Stareep will showcase its SmartSleep ecosystem at CES, January 6-9 at the Venetian Expo, Halls AD, Level 2, Booth 52052 (Smart Home). Live demonstrations will highlight real-time pressure mapping, breathing-responsive support, AI-driven firmness changes, and intelligent wake-up features. Products on display will include AI mattresses, smart bases, intelligent sleep-monitoring systems, pillows, smart mattress pads, and connected wearable devices. To schedule a meeting with Allen or secure a demo spot, please contact Sara Spiegel at [email protected] .

About Stareep

Stareep is a Shenzhen-based smart home company committed to building a smart home ecosystem spanning the bedroom, the living room, and the entire household. With its brand positioning upgrade, the company declares itself the definer of intelligent sleep and the innovative leader in smart living. Its product line is centered on AI-powered sleep technologies and full-home data integration. For more information, visit: https://stareep.net/

Click here for more details about our booth at: https://ces26.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=001Pp00001NapmQIAR

SOURCE Stareep
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Philanthropist and entrepreneur Tom Golisano today announced a $100 million investment in two additional children's hospitals, Arkansas Children's in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Wellstar Children's Hospital of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia, each receiving $50 million. With these additions, both hospitals will join the Golisano Children's Alliance, bringing the total number of alliance members to 12 children's hospitals across the United States.

Tom Golisano at the announcement of the Golisano Children's Alliance in October 2025.

The Golisano Children's Alliance is a growing national network of children's hospitals united by a shared commitment to improving pediatric healthcare delivery, advancing innovation, and ensuring children and families have access to high-quality, compassionate care close to home.

The investments will support each hospital's strategic priorities, enabling them to strengthen clinical programs, expand access to care, and respond to the unique needs of children and families in their regions. Each hospital will become an active member of the Golisano Children's Alliance as well as incorporate Golisano into the organization's name. The Arkansas Children's campus in Little Rock will become the Arkansas Children's Golisano Campus, and Wellstar Children's Hospital of Georgia will become Wellstar Golisano Children's Hospital of Georgia.

"Children's hospitals are essential to the health and future of our communities, and each one serves families with unique needs and challenges," said Tom Golisano. "Arkansas Children's and Children's Hospital of Georgia have demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing pediatric care, expanding access, and investing in innovation. I'm proud to support their work and to welcome them into the Golisano Children's Alliance as we continue building a collaborative network focused on improving outcomes for children nationwide."

Mr. Golisano emphasized that these investments reflect his ongoing effort to better understand the evolving needs of children's hospitals nationwide.

Marcy Doderer, president and CEO of Arkansas Children's, is leading a 10-year system-wide expansion to meet the escalating child health needs of the next generation. "The demand for services continues to change and growand we are committed to providing the best care, research and outcomes for the patients we serve," said Doderer. "Mr. Golisano's extraordinary generosity is an investment in Arkansas Children's, ensuring access to the best answers medicine can offer. This gift elevates our work as a pediatric health center of excellence, expanding care close to home for the children of America's heartland."

Arkansas Children's is a nationally recognized, independent pediatric health system that serves Arkansas and the broader heartland region, providing comprehensive, high-quality pediatric care and research.

"We are deeply grateful to Mr. Golisano for his extraordinary gift to improve the health and well-being of children in Georgia and across the country. We are honored to be among the handful of hospitals nationwide that have earned his transformative support," said Ketul J. Patel, president and CEO of Wellstar Health System. "Thanks to the power of philanthropy, we can expand the lasting impact of compassionate, innovative care to more children and families across Georgia and far beyond, today and for generations to come."

The Wellstar Golisano Children's Hospital of Georgia serves as Wellstar's cornerstone for pediatric excellence, delivering advanced surgical specialties, intensive care units (NICU and PICU) and nationally recognized outcomes for high-acuity cases.

In 2025, Mr. Golisano significantly expanded his support of children's hospitals with a transformative philanthropic commitment totaling $403 million to elevate pediatric care. Announced in October, the Golisano Children's Alliance brings together a national network of 12 children's hospitals bearing the Golisano name, including nine hospitals supported through this year's philanthropic investments.

As part of this continued engagement, Mr. Golisano is actively building relationships with children's hospitals across the country, with a long-term goal of expanding the Golisano Children's Alliance to 40 hospitals over the next several years. Additional hospital partnerships are anticipated in 2026.

For more information on the Golisano Children's Alliance, visit golisanofoundation.org/alliance.

About Tom Golisano

Tom Golisano entrepreneur, philanthropist, and civic leaderis the founder of Paychex, Inc., the nation's largest human resource company for small to medium-sized businesses. Mr. Golisano's vision, perseverance, and action have left an indelible mark on a broad spectrum of issues that touch our lives in business, healthcare, education, animal welfare, voter policies, politics, and tax reform. His investments are advancing entrepreneurship and driving the success of numerous businesses and start-ups. His philanthropic contributions to education, hospitalsincluding multiple children's hospitals across the country that bear his name and numerous other organizations exceed $1 billion.

A fierce advocate for dignity and inclusion, in 1985 Tom Golisano applied his pioneering spirit to establish the Golisano Foundation to make the world a better place for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With more than $120 million in gross assets, it is one of the largest private foundations in the U.S. devoted to supporting programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities awarding grants to non-profit organizations in Western New York and Southwest Florida.

In 2025, Mr. Golisano launched the Golisano Children's Alliance, a national initiative that provides strategic funding and brings together children's hospitals across the United States to elevate pediatric care by expanding services, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring that children and families have access to the highest quality medical attention close to home. Together, Alliance members are building a nationally recognized network that exemplifies excellence, dignity, and innovation in pediatric health care.

Media Contact

Wendy Boyce, McDougall Communications

[email protected] or (585) 752-5805

SOURCE Golisano Foundation
ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Simon Joseph Scholarship for Finance has opened its application period, inviting undergraduate students studying finance, economics, and business to compete for academic recognition and financial support. The scholarship program, established by Simon Joseph, owner of Joseph Wealth, provides $1,000 to one qualifying student who demonstrates commitment to ethical leadership and innovative thinking in the financial sector.

The application process requires candidates to submit an original essay between 700 and 1,000 words addressing a specific prompt that examines how future finance professionals can balance innovation with ethical responsibility to create a more transparent and sustainable financial system. Essays are evaluated on analytical depth, clarity, structure, and the ability to connect real-world financial challenges with responsible solutions.

Simon Joseph brings over a decade of experience in wealth management and financial strategy to this scholarship initiative. Through Joseph Wealth, Simon Joseph has developed a practice centered on comprehensive wealth planning strategies tailored to meet individual client financial goals. His firm operates on principles of integrity, transparency, and careful asset management guided by sound economic principles.

"The financial landscape is changing rapidly, and the professionals who will lead tomorrow need both innovative skills and strong ethical foundations," said Simon Joseph. "This scholarship identifies students who understand that sustainable success in finance requires responsibility alongside creativity."

To qualify for the Simon Joseph Scholarship for Finance, applicants must be currently enrolled as undergraduate students at accredited institutions in the United States. Candidates must show a genuine passion for learning, leadership potential, and dedication to ethical decision-making within finance. The scholarship is available to students nationwide without restriction to specific states or regions.

The application deadline for the Simon Joseph Scholarship for Finance is August 15, 2026. The scholarship winner will be announced on September 15, 2026.

Students interested in applying can access detailed information about the scholarship program, including the full essay prompt and evaluation criteria, through the official website. The scholarship represents Simon Joseph 's investment in the next generation of finance professionals who will shape the industry with integrity and innovation.

For additional information about the Simon Joseph Scholarship for Finance, application procedures, and eligibility requirements, visit the scholarship website or contact the program directly.

Website: https://simonjosephscholarship.com/

SOURCE Simon Joseph Scholarship
About this content 

About Ian Lyall

Ian Lyall, a seasoned journalist and editor, brings over three decades of experience to his role as Managing Editor at Proactive. Overseeing Proactive's editorial and broadcast operations across six offices on three continents, Ian is responsible for quality control, editorial policy, and content production. He directs the creation of 50,000 pieces of real-time news, feature articles, and filmed interviews annually. Prior to Proactive, Ian helped lead the business output at the Daily... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/minenergoUkraine

In the three months of the fall of 2025, the Russian Federation damaged 8,000 MW of generation capacity, about half of which was restored as of December, but the attacks do not stop, said Acting Minister of Energy of Ukraine Artem Nekrasov in an interview with Forbes Ukraine.

"We planned to enter the heating season with 1,000 megawatts (MW) of reserve capacity. That should have been enough for a stable winter. However, in September, Russia began attacking the energy system on a massive scale. There have never been such intense and targeted attacks before," he said.

According to the minister, Russia is attacking not only power plants but also power grids, substations, and gas production infrastructure. As of December 26, there have been nine massive strikes every 10-15 days (another massive attack took place on the night of December 27).

"However, energy facilities in a semi-ring from Chernihiv to Odesa are being shelled daily. By the end of December, more than 2,000 strikes on energy grids and approximately 440 strikes on energy facilities had been recorded," Nekrasov noted. He added that the Russians knock out an average of 60 transformers per month.

The Minister of Energy said that Russia is trying to destroy not only the electricity supply but also the heat supply in cities. The main goal of the Russian Federation's campaign is to sow panic, break resistance, and divide society.

He added that the loss of the energy system's integrity could lead to a significant deterioration in the energy supply on the Left Bank and in certain regions of the Right Bank.

"This will allow them to promote narratives that will divide society. Therefore, a blackout is unlikely to be the goal, because we will repair, reconnect and get out of it," Nekrasov believes.

He also noted that if the Russian strikes stopped now, it would take two months to restore the power system.
About this content 

About Jonathan Jackson

Jonathan Jackson is an experienced writer and editor. Over the past 20 years, he has worked in print and digital media across several business and finance titles amd is currently the Australian news editor at Proactive Investors covering the latest news for ASX listed companies as well as current financial trends. He was previously managing editor with Business First magazine, Wealth Creator Magazine and StocksDigital. Jonathan has interviewed some of the world's top CEOs and covered... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
About this content 

About Fouad Haidar

Fouad is a trilingual broadcast journalist & content producer/presenter for Proactive. He has a Communication & Media degree from the University of Western Australia & a Graduate Diploma in Journalism from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. He's worked in Dubai for 7 years reporting on Hollywood A-listers & producing a daily morning show. Back in Australia, he's worked as a weather and lifestyle presenter for Sky News Australia before moving into business and... Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
About this content 

About Stephen Gunnion

Stephen Gunnion is a senior financial journalist and broadcaster at Proactive Investors. He has more than 25 years of experience in television, radio and print media, anchoring on a number of television channels including South Africa's Business Day TV, CNBC Africa and the South African Broadcasting Corporation, where he was the economics editor. He has also worked for Daily Maverick, Bloomberg, the Business Day newspaper and Investors' Chronicle. Read more

About the publisher

Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology

Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.
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
Washington, Dec 29 : US President Donald Trump said that peace negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine were "very close" following what he described as a "terrific meeting" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

Washington, Dec 29 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said that peace negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine were "very close" following what he described as a "terrific meeting" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

"We've done very well. We've had discussions on just about every subject," Trump told reporters after the meeting, adding that the two sides had "made a lot of progress on ending that war."

Trump said he and Zelensky had also spoken with several European leaders after their bilateral discussions, describing the outreach as appropriate given the stakes involved. He listed leaders from France, Finland, Poland, Norway, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Germany, as well as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

"We thought it was appropriate to speak with them," Trump said. "Our meeting was excellent."

The US president said negotiations had covered the overwhelming majority of issues required to bring the conflict to an end. "Somebody would say 95 per cent. I don't know what percent, but we have made a lot of progress," he said, adding that there were still "one or two very thorny issues, very tough issues."

Noting that they discussed all aspects of the peace framework, Zelensky thanked Trump and senior members of his team, including Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, for what he described as sustained engagement in the talks.

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework," Zelensky said, adding that there had been "great achievements" across several areas.

He said the two sides were close to an agreement on security guarantees, calling them essential to ending the conflict. "We agreed that security guarantees are a key milestone in achieving lasting peace," Zelensky said.

According to Zelensky, US-Ukraine security guarantees were "almost agreed," while military elements of the plan were "100% agreed," and a prosperity plan was being finalized.

Trump echoed the sense of momentum but cautioned that unresolved territorial issues remained complex. "The word agreed is too strong," he said when asked about arrangements concerning the Donbas region. "But we're getting closer to an agreement on that."

Trump said Russia's position on Donbas was well known. "That's what they've been asking for," he said, adding that it was an issue that would have to be "ironed out."

Zelensky said Ukraine's position remained grounded in law and public consent. "We have to respect our law and our people," he said, noting that any difficult provisions could require parliamentary approval or a referendum. "It's the land of our nation," he said.

Trump said the Ukrainian public overwhelmingly wanted an end to the war. "They had a poll that it's 91 per cent in favor of ending this war," he said. "They want to end it like everybody wants it ended."

The leaders said working groups would continue negotiations in the coming weeks. Trump said the US group would include senior officials and would also engage directly with Russia. "Because to work with ourselves doesn't really solve much of a problem," he said.

Zelensky said Trump had agreed to host a future meeting, possibly in Washington, that could include European leaders.

"If it went really well, maybe a few weeks," Trump said when asked about a timeline. "And if it went poorly longer. And if it went really poorly, it's not going to happen."

The Ukrainian war started in February 2022. Since then, it has become Europe's largest land conflict since World War II, resulting in massive civilian displacement and widespread destruction. The US and its European allies have provided extensive military, financial, and humanitarian support to Ukraine since the invasion.

All previous diplomatic efforts to end the war have repeatedly stalled over territorial disputes, security guarantees, and enforcement mechanisms, making the latest round of talks closely watched by governments and markets alike.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Supreme Court's crucial suo motu hearing on issues relating to the definition of the Aravalli Hills, scheduled for Monday, is expected to address concerns over the protection of the ecologically fragile range in light of the government's commitments.

As per the causelist published on the website of the apex court, a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, and Justices J.K. Maheshwari and A.G. Masih will hear the suo motu writ petition titled "In Re: Definition of Aravalli Hills and Ranges and Ancillary Issues" on December 29.

The Supreme Court has taken up the issue on its own motion amid growing concerns over the protection of the ecologically fragile Aravalli range and the government's repeated assurance to protect it.

In a decisive move to curb illegal mining and strengthen ecological protection, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has directed state governments to impose a "complete ban" on granting any new mining leases in the Aravallis.

The Ministry said the prohibition will apply uniformly across the Aravalli landscape, covering the mountain range from Delhi to Gujarat. It underscored that the objective is to "preserve the integrity of the range as a continuous geological ridge" and to put an end to unregulated mining activities.

Further tightening the conservation framework, the MoEFCC has instructed the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional areas and zones across the entire Aravalli range where mining must be prohibited, over and above the areas already restricted by the Centre.

In a related development, Congress leader and former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh on Sunday wrote to Union Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, raising serious concerns over the recent redefinition of the Aravalli Hills.

He claimed that the new definition restricts their classification to landforms with an elevation of 100 metres or more.

Sharing the letter on the social media platform X on Sunday, Ramesh said, "Here is my most recent letter to the Union Minister of Environment, Forests & Climate Change asking four-pointed questions on the disastrous redefinition of the Aravallis."

In the letter dated December 28, the Congress leader flagged what he described as widespread concerns over the new definition and sought clarity from the minister by posing four specific questions. Addressing Minister Yadav, he wrote: "There are understandably widespread concerns with the re-definition of the Aravalli Hills that restrict them to landforms having an elevation of 100 meters or more. In this connection, please permit me to raise four specific questions for your consideration."
Washington, Dec 29 : US President Donald Trump said that both Russia and Ukraine want the war between them to end, as negotiations aimed at reaching a peace agreement moved closer to completion following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

"Russia wants it ended, everybody wants it ended," Trump told reporters after the talks. "And we want it ended. I want it ended because I don't want to see so many people dying."

Trump said discussions with Zelensky covered nearly all major issues and were part of a broader diplomatic effort that included recent conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and European leaders.

"We've had discussions on just about every subject," Trump said. "We went into great detail today."

He described a phone call with Putin earlier in the day that lasted more than 2 hours and said the Russian leader was open to resolving the conflict. "He wants to see it happen," Trump said, adding that he believed Putin was serious about ending the war.

Zelensky said talks at Mar-a-Lago were built on months of negotiations held across several locations, including Geneva, Miami, and Berlin. "Our teams work not one day, not one week, more than one month," he said.

Security guarantees dominated the discussion, Zelensky said, calling them central to lasting peace. "We agreed that security guarantees is a key milestone in achieving lasting peace," he said.

Trump said Europe would play a major role in providing those guarantees, with US support. "We wanna work with Europe," he said. "They're right there."

Asked about unresolved issues, Trump pointed to territorial disputes. "Some of that land has been taken," he said. "Some of that land is maybe up for grabs."

Zelensky said Ukraine's position on territory was unchanged. "We respect the territory which we control," he said, stressing that any major decision would require democratic approval. "If the plan will be very difficult for our society, very difficult, of course our society has to choose."

Trump said a referendum or parliamentary approval would likely be necessary. "They'll probably have to get their plan approved by parliament or by referendum of the people," he said.

The leaders also discussed the status of Ukraine's nuclear power infrastructure. Trump said the largest nuclear plant in the region could restart quickly and that Russia had avoided targeting it. "He hasn't hit it with missiles," Trump said of Putin. "That's a big step."

Trump said Russia would also play a role in rebuilding Ukraine. "Russia's gonna be helping," he said. "Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed."

Asked about a possible ceasefire, Trump said one had not yet been agreed. "Not a ceasefire," he said. "That's one of the points that we're working on right now."

Zelensky said logistical challenges, including refugee participation, would complicate any referendum process. "It's not simple," he said, noting the need to build voting infrastructure across Europe.

Trump said he remained optimistic but realistic. "If it went really well, maybe in a few weeks," he said of a potential deal. "If it went really poorly, it's not gonna happen."

He warned that failure would mean continued bloodshed. "They keep fighting, and they keep dying," Trump said. "No good."

As the event concluded, Trump thanked reporters and joked about lunch at Mar-a-Lago. "I hope you enjoyed it," he said, as Zelensky smiled.

The conflict has killed tens of thousands and reshaped global geopolitics, drawing in NATO, Russia, and key regional actors. The United States has played a central diplomatic and military role throughout the conflict.

Efforts to broker peace have repeatedly faltered, making the latest talks a critical test of whether sustained diplomacy can finally halt Europe's most devastating war in decades.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Russia does not agree to ceasefire for referendum in Ukraine - Trump

The Russian side did not agree to a ceasefire to organize and hold a plebiscite in Ukraine on an agreement to end the Russian-Ukrainian war, US President Donald Trump said.

During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA), when asked whether Vladimir Putin would agree to a ceasefire for a referendum, the US president replied: "No, not a ceasefire."

"Putin does not want to be in a situation where he stops the fire and then, again, he starts the fire. I understand that, but I think we will find a way to resolve it," Trump added.
Seoul, Dec 29 : South Korean President Lee Jae Myung made his first commute to work at Cheong Wa Dae on Monday, following the formal relocation of the presidential office to the historic compound about seven months after he took office.

A motorcade escorting Lee's vehicle passed through the front gate of the main building at around 9:10 a.m. as dozens of his supporters waved the national flag and shouted his name near the entrance to the compound, Yonhap news agency reported.

At Cheong Wa Dae, Lee met with his aides over tea, including National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac and Kim Yong-beom, presidential chief for policy, and other senior officials.

He was also scheduled to visit the National Crisis Management Center inside the complex to review military readiness, his office said.

At midnight, a presidential flag bearing two phoenixes was raised, formally restoring the name Cheong Wa Dae.

Lee's main office will be in the Yeomin Building complex, about 500 meters from the main building that houses senior aides and staff, which is expected to help promote closer communication with officials.

The iconic main building with its blue roof will mainly be used for formal events, such as summits and credential ceremonies.

With the official residence still undergoing renovation to fix damage from when the complex was opened to the public under the previous administration, Lee will continue commuting from his current residence in Hannam-dong for the time being, according to his office.

Lee's predecessor, former ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, had moved the office to the defense ministry compound in Seoul's Yongsan district when he took office in 2022.

On Sunday, the Presidential Security Service said it had completed joint security inspections with 14 agencies, including the National Intelligence Service, the police and the military.

The checks covered key facilities at Cheong Wa Dae and nearby mountains, focusing on wiretapping risks and information and communications systems.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : A 3-judge Bench of the Supreme Court will on Monday hear the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) plea against the Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence and granted bail to expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case.

New Delhi, Dec 29 (IANS) A 3-judge Bench of the Supreme Court will on Monday hear the Central Bureau of Investigationas (CBI) plea against the Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence and granted bail to expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case.

As per the causelist published on the website of the apex court, a vacation bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, and Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih will take up the matter for hearing on Monday.

The CBI has moved the apex court against the December 23 order of the Delhi High Court allowing Sengaras application for suspension of sentence during the pendency of his appeal.

It was learnt earlier that the CBI and the victimas family had indicated their intention to challenge the Delhi High Courtas decision before the Supreme Court.

The family members of the survivor, along with womenas rights activists, have protested against the suspension of Sengaras sentence, saying the bail order had "shaken public faith" and sent a wrong message on crimes against women.

In the Delhi High Court, the CBI had strongly opposed Sengaras plea, highlighting the gravity of the offence and the potential risks involved.

In its order, a division bench of Justices Subramonium Prasad and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar had suspended Sengaras life sentence and granted him conditional bail during the pendency of his appeal, subject to strict conditions.

The Unnao rape case had triggered nationwide outrage. In December 2019, the trial court convicted Sengar of kidnapping and raping a minor girl and sentenced him to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life, along with a fine of Rs 25 lakh.

The Supreme Court had earlier transferred all cases related to the incident from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi and directed that the trial be conducted on a day-to-day basis.
New York, Dec 29 : Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said a peace plan to end the war was "90 per cent" ready, while US President Donald Trump asserted they were "getting a lot closer, maybe very close", after their meeting to find a path to ending the four-year conflict.

New York, Dec 29 (IANS) Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said a peace plan to end the war was "90 per cent" ready, while US President Donald Trump asserted they were "getting a lot closer, maybe very close", after their meeting to find a path to ending the four-year conflict.

Their meeting on Sunday was preceded by massive air strikes by Russia on Ukraine and by Kyiv on Moscow's oil refinery, showing how fragile Trump's peace initiative is.

Trump also introduced a note of caution about the prospects of peace that has eluded his diplomacy, telling reporters before their meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, "It's possible it doesn't happen (and) in a few weeks, we'll know one way or another".

The negotiation would continue, all sides agreed.

Zelensky wrote on X that the US-Ukraine teams would meet "as early as next week to finalise all discussed matters" and Trump will hold a meeting with Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington next month.

A Kremlin spokesperson, Yury Ushakov said that the US would continue its through two working groups -- one on security issues, and the other on economic matters  and their terms will be finalised "most likely in early January."

Zelensky, who came with a 20-point peace proposal, said on X after their meeting, "We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework and achieved significant results. We also discussed the sequence of further actions".

"We agreed that security guarantees are key on the path to achieving a lasting peace, and our teams will continue working on all aspects", he wrote.

During their meeting, Trump and Zelensky held a conference call with European leaders including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain.

Ukraine receives strong support from Western European countries and Canada that are allies of the US, applying pressure on Trump.

Von der Leyen wrote on social media Bluesky, "There was good progress, which we welcomed".

Echoing Zelensky, she emphasised that "paramount" to a peace deal is "ironclad security guarantees".

It would include Western European countries providing military support and Ukraine wants the US to underwrite it with a bilateral security agreement.

Undergirding the guarantee would be Ukraine's membership in the European Union.

Trump endorsed the idea of a guarantee, though not the specifics, saying, "There will be a security agreement. It will be a strong agreement. The European nations are very much involved in that".

Before the meeting with Zelensky, Trump spoke more than an hour with Russia's President Vladimir Putin, who had started the war.

"He wants to see it happen", Trump said about Putin's attitude to a peace deal, adding, "I believe him".

Ushakov, said that Putin told Trump "a bold and responsible political decision from Kiev" that aligns with Russia's position expressed in the discussions with the US.

He also said that Trump told Putin that "the Ukrainian crisis has been his most formidable foreign policy challenge".

During his election campaign last year, Trump repeatedly said that he would end the Ukraine War within 24 hours of taking office, but 11 months later, after a summit with Putin, several meetings with Zelensky, and months of diplomacy conducted through his son-in-law Jared Kushner and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, the war rages.

After hectoring Zelensky and appearing to tilt slightly to Russia, Trump hardened his stance on Moscow imposing sanctions directly on Russian oil companies, Kremlin's financial lifelines, after the failure of the highly promoted summit with Putin in Anchorage in August.

Besides security guarantees for Ukraine short of NATO membership, the future of Ukraine's Donbas region, partially occupied by Russia, is one of the roadblocks on the way to a deal.

Russia wants all of the region, including those it has not captured.

Trump had at one time giving all of it over to Russia, but Zelensky has countered it with an offer to make it a demiltarised zone.

Putin seemed steadfast in getting all of Donbas through military force.

Ushakov warned, "Given the evolving situation on the front lines, it would be in the Ukrainian regime's interest to make such a decision regarding Donbass without further delay".
Chennai, Dec 29 : Fishermen in Ramanathapuram district are set to launch an indefinite strike from Monday, protesting the arrest of three Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy and the continued seizure of Indian fishing boats.

The agitation, called by the Mandapam Fishermen Association, is expected to disrupt fishing activities across the region as anger mounts over repeated detentions and what fishermen describe as a failure to protect their livelihoods.

The latest incident occurred on Sunday when three fishermen -- Amostin A (24), Jonedass S (37), and Paraloga Jebastian Anrose A (25) -- were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on charges of crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

The trio had ventured into the sea from Mandapam North fishing harbour along with over 300 mechanised boats. They were fishing near Neduntheevu when Sri Lankan naval personnel intercepted their vessel, bearing registration number TN 11 MM 096, owned by Joseph of Mandapam.

The fishermen were taken to a Sri Lankan Navy camp for questioning and later handed over to the Jaffna Fisheries Department at the Mailady fishing harbour along with their seized boat.

The latest arrests have triggered strong reactions among the fishing community, especially as they come close on the heels of a similar incident on December 23, when the Sri Lankan Navy detained 12 fishermen from Rameswaram.

That incident led to a one-day strike and a series of protests demanding diplomatic intervention.

Condemning the arrests, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wrote to External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Sunday, urging the Centre to take immediate and decisive steps to secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats.

In his letter, the Chief Minister said the continued apprehension of Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities had caused severe hardship and anxiety among coastal communities.

"The repeated arrests of our fishermen and seizure of their boats continue unabated. At present, 61 fishermen and 248 fishing boats from Tamil Nadu remain in Sri Lankan custody," Stalin stated, urging urgent diplomatic engagement to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of Indian fishermen.

With tensions running high, fishing communities across Ramanathapuram district say they will not resume work until concrete action is taken to secure the release of their fellow fishermen and ensure long-term protection for those dependent on the sea for their livelihood.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Delhi woke up to another hazardous winter morning on Monday as a toxic mix of dense fog and severe air pollution engulfed the national capital, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) beyond 400and sharply reducing visibility.

The national capital was blanketed in thick smog on Monday morning, with the overall AQI recorded at 402 at 7 a.m., placing it firmly in the 'severe' category.

Pollution levels crossed 400 at more than half of Delhi's air quality monitoring stations, highlighting extremely hazardous conditions across large parts of the city.

Out of 40 monitoring stations, 25 reported AQI levels in the 'severe' range.

Vivek Vihar recorded an AQI of 458, making it the most polluted area, followed by Anand Vihar at 459, Wazirpur at 444 and Rohini at 445. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) remained the dominant pollutant.

Data from Lodhi Road and RK Puram stations was unavailable.

The pollution crisis was compounded by dense fog, which drastically reduced visibility across Delhi and the surrounding regions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'red alert' for very dense fog in most parts of the capital between 5:31 a.m. and 8:31 a.m., advising people to drive cautiously, use fog lights, avoid unnecessary travel and cover their faces while stepping outdoors.

Visibility began dropping sharply late Sunday night and remained poor through the early hours of Monday, slowing traffic and making travel risky. At Delhi airport, visibility fell to around 125 metres, with runway visibility ranging between 100 and 150 metres.

In a passenger advisory posted on X, Delhi Airport said, "Flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT III conditions due to dense fog, which may result in delays or cancellations."

Authorities warned that disruptions could continue and urged passengers to check flight status with their respective airlines. Ground staff were deployed across terminals to assist travellers.

Several airlines also issued advisories. IndiGo said that fog and cold winter conditions at Delhi and Hindon airports had led to fluctuating visibility and slower operations, while reiterating that passenger safety remained its top priority. The airline advised travellers to monitor flight updates and said rebooking and refund options were available.

Air India, in a late-night advisory, said, "Weather forecast for tomorrow morning indicates dense fog with low visibility in parts of northern India, including Delhi, which is likely to impact flight operations. We have taken proactive steps to minimise disruptions However, in the event of unexpected delays, diversions, or cancellations, please rest assured that our ground teams will extend all necessary assistance."

Rail services were also affected, with several trains, including the Rajdhani Express, Vande Bharat and Jan Shatabdi, running behind schedule.

With air quality remaining in the 'severe' category, health experts have advised residents to limit outdoor exposure as authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Mumbai, Dec 29 : Actress Saiee M Manjrekar is choosing a quiet, meaningful way to welcome the New Year as she returns to Matheran, a place she describes as her second home.

For the unversed, Matheran is a hill station, near Mumbai, Known for its mild climate and well-preserved colonial architecture, the picturesque location has banned motor vehicles and many visitors arrive by narrow-gauge railway on the 1907 NeralMatheran Toy Train.

Sharing her thoughts, Saiee said the hill town has been a constant in her life since childhood, and over the years, it has become deeply personal to her.

Saiee told IANS: 'This New Year, I find myself returning to Matheran with a few close friends, a place that has always felt like a second home. I've been coming here since childhood with my family and friends, and over time, it has quietly become a part of who I am."

"With no cars and no rush, Matheran moves at its own gentle pace."

Saiee also recalled horse rides along misty trails, shaded forests and quiet viewpoints, describing the experience as almost meditative.

"I still carry vivid memories of riding here with my parents and siblings, moments filled with laughter, togetherness, and a sense of freedom that only time and nature can give. Horse riding through misty trails, shaded forests, and quiet viewpoints feels almost meditative, allowing memories to surface naturally."

For the actress, it's the simple joys that define her time there. From vada pav at a vendor she has known for years to gola on warm afternoons and Maggi at a small tapri, Saiee said these moments help her reconnect with her roots.

"After long rides, the simplest pleasures feel the most rewarding vada pav from a vendor we've known for years, gola on warm afternoons, and Maggi at a small tapri. Away from five-star comforts, these moments reconnect me to my roots and remind me how little one truly needs to feel content."

The actress added: "Welcoming the New Year here feels deeply right a return to simplicity, authenticity, and the memories that continue to shape me."

The 23-year-old actress made her film debut with a brief appearance as Kushi Damle in the Marathi film Kaksparsh in 2012.

She did her first leading role as Khushi Chautala in the 2019 Hindi action-comedy Dabangg 3 opposite Salman Khan. In 2020, she appeared in the music video for the song "Manjha", alongside Aayush Sharma.

She next appeared in Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay opposite Guru Randhawa. Saiee was last seen in the Telugu action drama Arjun Son Of Vyjayanthi directed by Pradeep Chilukuri.The film stars Nandamuri Kalyan Ram and Vijayashanti, alongside Saiee Manjrekar, Sohail Khan, Babloo Prithiveeraj, Srikanth and R. Sarathkumar.It is a spiritual sequel of 1990 film Karthavyam with Vijayshanti reprised the same role in this movie as Kalyan Ram's mother.
Canberra, Dec 29 : Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday announced the terms for an independent review of the Bondi Beach terror attack, but he again resisted calls to launch a royal commission.

The review, led by former intelligence chief Dennis Richardson, will assess whether multiple agencies, including the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and the Australian Federal Police, operated as effectively as possible prior to the attack.

The review will also consider what judgements the agencies made and whether any additional measures could have prevented the attack.

The review is expected to be completed and published by April, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

The opposition and some families of Bondi Beach shooting victims have urged the prime minister to launch a royal commission -- the highest form of inquiry on matters of public importance in Australia.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said an independent review -- instead of a royal commission -- would allow the government to "deal squarely with the urgency of national security issues."

Sixteen people, including one alleged gunman, were killed in the mass shooting at Bondi Beach on December 14. The perpetrators have been identified as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his son, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier on December 24, Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had said he had asked the governor-general to institute a special honors list for first responders and other heroes from the Bondi fatal mass shooting.

Albanese had said that the recipients, who would be announced in 2026, would include police, medical staff, and members of the community who rushed to help in the wake of the terror attack.

The parliament of Australia's state of New South Wales (NSW) had passed tough new gun and protest laws in response to the fatal mass shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach, the ABC had reported.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, Dec 29 : The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is set to hold a massive women's conference on Monday at Palladam in Tiruppur district, marking a key political mobilisation exercise ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

The event, focused on women's empowerment and welfare, is expected to draw nearly 1.5 lakh participants from 39 Assembly constituencies across 13 party districts.

The conference will be held under the leadership of DMK Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin scheduled to deliver a special address.

The event forms part of the party's broader campaign strategy, following recent political programmes such as the general council meeting in Madurai, the three-day festival in Karur, and the northern regional youth conference held in Tiruvannamalai.

Extensive preparations have been made for the Palladam conference. Women participants have been issued colour-coded identity cards district-wise, and separate seating arrangements have been made for party administrators.

Though the event is being held in the western region, volunteers from across the state have been mobilised to manage logistics and coordination.

Special facilities have been arranged to ensure the comfort and safety of participants. These include over 350 mobile toilets, medical camps, fire safety units, breastfeeding rooms for nursing mothers, and an uninterrupted drinking water supply.

Food arrangements providing three meals a day have also been made. A massive parking area accommodating more than 4,000 vehicles has been set up across the 150-acre venue.

The programme will feature cultural performances such as parai drumming, silambam martial arts, and folk music.

A two-wheeler rally involving over 100 motorcycles is also planned to escort Chief Minister Stalin to the venue, adding to the event's visual appeal.

The venue is adorned with banners and visual displays highlighting key welfare initiatives of the DMK government, including free bus travel for women, the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai monthly assistance scheme, hostels for working women, and other social security measures. Exhibits also trace the history and ideological journey of the Dravidian movement.

In a message shared on social media, Chief Minister Stalin said the Palladam conference would not only showcase the achievements of the DMK government but also outline future responsibilities and commitments.

He indicated that new initiatives aimed at strengthening women's welfare could be announced during the event, reinforcing the party's focus on consolidating women's support ahead of the Assembly elections.
Seoul, Dec 29 : The antitrust regulator said on Monday it has decided to fine 48 furniture manufacturers and suppliers for allegedly colluding in bids for built-in furniture ordered by construction companies.

The companies will be fined a combined 25 billion won (US$17.4 million) for colluding to predetermine winning bidders or bid prices between September 2013 and May 2022, according to the Fair Trade Commission (FTC), reports Yonhap news agency.

The FTC said the collusion was widespread, occurring in 240 bidding processes ordered by 54 construction companies.

Enex Co. will face the largest penalty of 5.84 billion won, followed by Hanssem Co., which was fined 3.8 billion won, the FTC said.

Built-in furniture refers to fixtures, such as kitchen cabinets and built-in closets, that are installed inside apartments and offices during construction.

Meanwhile, Coupang, a leading e-commerce company in South Korea, has received the largest amount of fines from the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) among conglomerates over the past three years, a parliamentary report showed.

According to the report compiled by the FTC and submitted to Rep. Choo Kyung-ho of the main opposition People Power Party, Coupang was fined a total of 162.8 billion won (US$114.3 million) from the first half of 2022 to the first half of this year.

Last year, the FTC imposed the fine on the company for manipulating search algorithms to boost the "Coupang ranking" of its private-label and directly purchased products.

Top carmaker Hyundai Motor Group followed with cumulative fines of 119.4 billion won, trailed by poultry-processing company Harim Group with 101.6 billion won and SK Group with 64.5 billion won.

The top 10 conglomerates were fined a combined 744.6 billion won during the three-year period.

Hyundai Department Store Group recorded the highest number of violations, 38 in total, mostly due to multiple collusion cases involving its furniture affiliate Hyundai Livart Furniture.

Hanssem Co. came next with 33 violations, followed by SK Group with 31 and Enex Co. with 28. Altogether, the top 10 companies violated antitrust law 243 times over the cited period.

a"IANS

na/
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Flight operations across several parts of the country were severely affected after dense fog reduced visibility, leaving passengers stranded and distressed at multiple airports.

The aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has announced the period from December 10 to February 10, 2026, as the official fog window for this season.

At Delhi airport, visibility dropped sharply to around 125 metres, significantly impacting flight movements.

Sharing a passenger advisory on X, the Delhi Airport said that "flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT III conditions due to dense fog, which may result in delays or cancellations."

The airport authority also advised travellers to stay updated by checking their flight status with the respective airlines.

Several inbound flights to Delhi were diverted owing to poor visibility, air traffic congestion and cascading delays, further adding to passenger inconvenience.

Airlines also issued advisories, warning of possible cancellations and delays.

IndiGo posted an update on X stating, "Dense fog in Jammu continues to affect visibility, impacting flights operating to and from Jammu. As conditions evolve, some services may experience delays, and a few may need to be cancelled depending on clearance and operational feasibility."

SpiceJet issued its last update around midnight, informing passengers about disruptions in Kolkata.

"Due to bad weather (poor visibility) in Kolkata (CCU), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may be affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status," the airline said in a statement.

Air India also cautioned passengers that routes across North India, including its primary hub in Delhi, were likely to be impacted due to dense fog-induced low visibility.

The airline warned that this could have a cascading effect on flight schedules across its domestic network.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued a broader warning, highlighting possible disruptions and sharing helpline numbers of airlines for passenger assistance.

In a statement, AAI said, "Due to fog today on 29.12.2025, visibility levels in Northern India has reduced at select airports potentially impacting flight schedules, including delays. Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines through official communication channels for the latest flight updates and to plan their travel accordingly by allowing additional time for airport arrival and check-in procedures."

"AAI has activated passenger facilitation measures and deployed assistance teams at affected airports to support travellers on the ground. We remain committed to ensuring passenger safety, convenience, and smooth airport operations during adverse weather conditions," it added.

In one such incident, an Air India Express flight from Goa to Delhi was unable to land in the national capital early Monday morning due to dense fog.

The aircraft also failed to land in Jaipur because of similar conditions and was eventually diverted to Ahmedabad, where it landed safely.

However, passengers expressed anger and frustration at Ahmedabad airport over the prolonged diversion, delays and lack of clarity, as dense fog continued to disrupt air travel across northern and eastern parts of the country.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
European leaders have positively assessed the results of the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump and the subsequent telephone conversation with the participation of European leaders, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace and increase pressure on Russia.

After the closed part of the negotiations between the Ukrainian and American delegations at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA), Presidents Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump held a video conference with European leaders. The list of participants was announced by the President of Finland Alexander Stubb, noting that the conversation was joined by the Presidents of France Emmanuel Macron, Poland Karol Nawrocki, Prime Ministers of Great Britain Keir Starmer, Italy Giorgi Maloni, Norway Jonas Gahr Stre, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as well as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. "The call lasted more than an hour. We discussed specific steps to end the war. We are all working towards a just and lasting peace," Stubb wrote on the social network X.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki, according to the Office of the President, during the video conference emphasized the US President's firm commitment to the peace process and stressed that since the beginning of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation, the Rzeszow-Jasionka airport has served as a hub for over 90% of aid to Ukraine.

"Poland's position during the signing of the peace agreement will be crucial. Today's conversation demonstrates that all agreements on peace and security in the region must be reached between all interested parties. The determination of the American side and the unity of the position of European countries provide a real chance to end the war caused by the Russian Federation," the message says.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reported on the positive results of the conversation. "There has been good progress, which we welcome. Europe stands ready to continue working with Ukraine and our American partners to consolidate this progress. Ironclad security guarantees from day one are paramount to these efforts," she said.

Irish Prime Minister Michail Martin also welcomed the progress. "I welcome the progress in the peace talks in Ukraine that Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy discussed tonight in Florida. I strongly hope that this will be built on in the future to ensure a ceasefire," he wrote.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said that positive signals from the United States must be confirmed by actions from Russia. "Now Russia must show that they really want to stop this war and that they want to seriously negotiate a just and lasting peace. The Netherlands continues to support Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression," he on X following the meeting of the Ukrainian and American delegations in Mar-a-Lago.

The foreign ministers of European countries also confirmed their support for Ukraine. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, David van Wiel, reported on further steps at the peace talks in Miami and stressed the need to increase pressure on the Russian Federation.

"The Netherlands continues to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression and for a lasting peace. We must continue to increase pressure on Russia to end its war," he noted.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky called the results of the meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump optimistic. "Ukraine wants peace. Russia has been waging a war of aggression for over 1,400 days. We must force Putin to peace with the help of economic sanctions and the power of Ukrainian defense," he said.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : Actress Tara Sutaria gave fans a glimpse into a cosy night out as she shared pictures featuring her beau Veer Pahariya and B-Town's bestie Orry.

The actress took to Instagram, where she re-shared a candid selfie collage, clicked in an intimate party setting, originally posted by Orry. In the first selfie, Orry is seen posing with Veer. Another image featured the social media sensation posing with the actress.

Tara reposted the images on her Instagram Stories and added a sweet note, writing, "Aw my (red heart emoji)'s," expressing her affection for the people in the frame.

On the film front, Tara was last seen in Apurva. The film also stars Rajpal Yadav, Abhishek Banerjee and Dhairya Karwa. Set in Chambal, the film follows an ordinary woman who faces extraordinary circumstances and will do anything to survive.

She will next be seen in 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups', which is all set to hit the theatres on March 19.

The action-drama extravaganza 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups', is directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film has been shot simultaneously in English and Kannada, and will also release in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and more.

It also stars Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, Akshay Oberoi and Sudev Nair.

Jointly produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups is set to ignite the festive frame with a nationwide and global release.

Talking about Veer, he made his acting debut with the aerial actioner Sky Force in 2025.

Sky Force centred around India's first airstrike at the Sargodha airbase of Pakistan in the Indo-Pakistani air war of 1965. The film stars Akshay Kumar, Veer, Sara Ali Khan and Nimrat Kaur. It is directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Seoul, Dec 29 : E-commerce giant Coupang announced a compensation plan worth more than 1.68 trillion won ($1.17 billion) on Monday following a massive personal data breach.

The compensation plan comes a day after Coupang founder Kim Bom-suk issued his first public apology since the incident, which affected nearly two-thirds of South Korea's population, reports Yonhap news agency.

Under the plan, the U.S.-listed company will provide 50,000 won worth of discounts and coupons to each of 33.7 million customers, including paid Coupang Wow members, regular users and former customers who have closed their accounts, the company said in a press release.

Compensation payments will be made gradually starting Jan. 15, it added.

"Taking this incident as a turning point, Coupang will wholeheartedly embrace customer-centric principles and fulfill its responsibilities to the very end, transforming into a company that customers can trust," Coupang's interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Harold Rogers said in the release.

The per-person compensation consists of 5,000 won for Coupang's e-commerce platform, 5,000 won for food delivery service Coupang Eats, 20,000 won for Coupang's travel products and 20,000 won for R.LUX luxury beauty and fashion products.

Last week, Coupang said it had identified a former employee responsible for the data leak through forensic evidence, recovered the equipment used in the hacking and received a confession from the suspect.

The company claimed that data from only about 3,000 accounts was actually saved and later deleted by the suspect.

The government, however, has dismissed Coupang's findings as a "unilateral claim," noting that a joint public-private investigation into the incident has yet to release any conclusions.

On November 29, Coupang confirmed that the personal information of 33.7 million customer accounts had been exposed, far exceeding the 4,500 accounts initially reported to authorities on Nov. 20.

Given that active users of Coupang's product commerce division, including its delivery service, reached 24.7 million in the third quarter, the scale of the breach suggests that nearly the entire user base may have been affected.

The company said the compromised data included users' names, phone numbers, email addresses and delivery addresses.

a"IANS

na/
Tokyo, Dec 29 : A five-year-old boy died after his right arm was caught in a travelator at a ski resort in Japan's northern prefecture of Hokkaido, local authorities said.

The accident occurred at the Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort in Otaru on Sunday morning (local time), when the boy became trapped in a moving walkway connecting the parking area to the ski slope. His mother called emergency services to report the incident, reports Xinhua, quoting Kyodo News Agency.

The boy, a resident of Sapporo, was rescued but was unconscious when taken to the hospital, where his death was later confirmed, according to local police and firefighters.

Resort officials told Kyodo News that the walkway's emergency stop function failed to activate automatically when the child became trapped, prompting his mother to press the stop button.

The emergency function, designed to stop the travelator automatically if a foreign object is caught, had worked properly during a routine inspection earlier that day, officials said.

Police and other authorities are examining the exact cause of the accident and whether safety measures at the site were adequate.

Earlier on December 25, several people were injured after a fire broke out at an apartment building in Niigata City in central Japan, local media reported.

The fire occurred at around 6 p.m. local time in a 10-story apartment building in Chuo Ward, Niigata City, public broadcaster NHK reported.

Firefighters were dispatched to the scene and were still working to extinguish the blaze, the report said.

Local authorities said the incident resulted in multiple injuries, though further details were not immediately available.

The apartment building is located in a busy downtown area of Niigata City, surrounded by restaurants and other residential buildings.
Sanna, Dec 29 : Abdulmalik al-Houthi, leader of Yemen's Houthi group, warned that any Israeli presence in Somaliland would be treated as a "military target," describing Israel's recognition of the breakaway region as a threat to regional security.

In a speech broadcast by the Houthi-run Al-Masirah television channel, al-Houthi stated that his forces consider "any Israeli presence in the Somaliland region a military target," "aggression against Somalia and Yemen, and a threat to the security of the region."

He added that the group would take "all possible supportive measures to stand with the brotherly Somali people."

Al-Houthi, whose movement controls large parts of northern Yemen, indicated that Israel aims to "make Somaliland a foothold for hostile activities against Somalia, African countries, Yemen, and other Arab countries," a move he said would destabilise an already fragile region, reports Xinhua news agency.

He also called for a "firm and serious" Arab and Islamic stance in support of Somalia and its people, urging collective action to counter what he characterised as Israeli expansionism.

Meanwhile, several African and Middle Eastern countries collectively condemned Israel's recognition of Somaliland, the self-declared region of Somalia, as an independent state, and reaffirmed support for the eastern African country's unity and territorial integrity.

Somaliland is an integral, inseparable, and inalienable part of the sovereign territory of the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Somalian Prime Minister's Office said in a statement, rejecting Israel's recognition as unlawful.

Somalia makes clear that it will not permit the establishment of any foreign military bases or arrangements on its territory that would draw Somalia into proxy conflicts or import regional and international hostilities into this region.

Somalia calls on all states and international partners to respect international law, uphold the principles of non-interference and territorial integrity, and act responsibly in the interest of peace, stability and security in the Horn of Africa.

In a statement posted on X late Friday, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keceli said that Israel's move "constitutes a new example of (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu government's unlawful actions aimed at creating instability at both regional and global levels."

"This step by Israel, which continues its expansionist policies and spares no effort to prevent the recognition of the State of Palestine, constitutes an open interference in Somalia's internal affairs," Keceli said.

He said that decisions regarding the future of Somaliland must reflect the will of all Somalis.

In a post on X late Friday, TArkiye's Communications Director Burhanettin Duran described Israel's position as "one of the irresponsible acts" of the Netanyahu government, "which has a dark record of genocide and occupation," saying the move undermines ongoing efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.

Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates on Friday reaffirmed the kingdom's full support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

In a statement, the ministry slammed Israel's announcement as a "flagrant" violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, and an infringement on Somalia's sovereignty. Ministry spokesperson Fouad Majali stressed Jordan's absolute opposition to any attempts to establish parallel entities that could threaten Somalia's unity and territorial integrity.

Saudi Arabia rejects the announcement of mutual recognition between Israel and Somaliland, considering it a violation of international law, and fully supports Somalia's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia also reaffirms its support for the legitimate institutions of the Somali state, as well as its commitment to preserving the stability of Somalia and its brotherly people.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) reiterated that Somalia remains a sovereign IGAD member state whose unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity are fully recognised under international law.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the East African bloc said that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland runs contrary to the UN Charter, the Constitutive Act of the African Union, and the agreement establishing IGAD.

The IGAD reaffirmed its solidarity with the government and people of Somalia, and its commitment to inclusive political processes and regional cooperation in support of lasting peace, stability, and prosperity for Somalia and the wider IGAD region, according to the statement.

Israel's recognition of Somaliland is a provocative and unacceptable move, which may undermine regional stability, said Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States.

Gamal Roshdy, the secretary-general's spokesperson, stressed that any attempt to impose unilateral recognition constitutes an unacceptable interference in Somalia's internal affairs and sets a dangerous precedent that threatens regional and international security and stability.
Seoul, Dec 29 : South Korea must move fast to secure global competitiveness in artificial intelligence (AI) through aggressive investments in 2026, the country's leading business lobbies said on Monday, highlighting AI as a key growth sector for the nation.

"In order to secure global-level competitiveness in the AI and green transformation sectors, it is essential to build the capability to pursue major investment projects swiftly," Chey Tae-won, chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), said in a New Year's message.

Chey, who also heads SK Group, said such efforts are crucial as South Korea faces various challenges, including low growth and uncertainties in global geopolitics, reports Yonhap news agency.

The chairman has been calling on the government to revamp local fair trade laws to help chipmakers raise cash for major investment projects, including easing shareholding regulations when launching subsidiaries aimed at attracting outside investment.

"We need to improve the predictability of local policies so that businesses, which are the main drivers of growth, do not face hurdles when carrying out investments or pursuing innovation," the KCCI chief said, adding that companies should not face heavier regulations as they grow in size.

The head of the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI), another major business lobby, highlighted the need for strengthened public-private cooperation in the field of AI.

"The FKI will present a new growth path for the Korean economy, including institutional innovations to strengthen competitiveness in new growth sectors such as AI," Ryu Jin, chairman of the federation, said in a separate message.

Yoon Jin-sik, head of the Korea International Trade Association, meanwhile, projected global economic uncertainty to continue in 2026 and pledged to support South Korean companies' overseas expansion by advancing and developing various AI-based export support infrastructure, said the report.

a"IANS

na/
December 29 : Lucknow: Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, tourism activities are being developed in the Kukrail Forest Area located in Indiranagar, Lucknow. While the Forest and Tourism Departments are jointly developing the Kukrail Night Safari, the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Board is simultaneously developing various facilities for tourists in the surrounding areas of the night safari.

As part of this initiative, the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Board is developing several amenities including a childrens park, play stations, bamboo round huts, nature walk trails, an open gym, and a cafeteria. In addition, parking and toilet facilities are also being constructed to ensure greater convenience for visitors.

In line with the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to promote tourism activities in the state capital, the Kukrail Night Safari is being developed as a major attraction. Alongside this, the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Board is focusing on enhancing facilities for tourists visiting the crocodile, gharial, and turtle sanctuaries located within the Kukrail Forest Area.

Additional Director of the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Board, Pushp Kumar, informed, "the board is developing tourism facilities in the Kukrail Forest Area at a cost of 2 crore. These facilities will provide a pleasant and enriching experience for visitors to the sanctuaries and the night safari".

He further stated, under this initiative, a childrens park and play stations are being developed where adventure games, swings, and an open gym will also be installed for children.

Keeping environmental conservation as a priority, bamboo round huts are being constructed to allow tourists to enjoy nature in an eco-friendly manner.

Along with this, nature walk trails are also being developed, enabling visitors to experience the natural surroundings of the Kukrail River up close, including trees, plants, and birds.

To further enhance tourist convenience, a cafeteria, toilets, and parking facilities are also being constructed within the forest area.

The Additional Director stated, "construction work has already begun and will be completed soon. Tourists visiting the Kukrail Forest Area in the initial months of the new year will be able to benefit from these facilities".

These initiatives will not only promote eco tourism but will also contribute to an increase in revenue and generate employment opportunities for local residents.
Mexico City, Dec 29 : A passenger train carrying 241 passengers and nine crew members derailed on a bridge near Nizanda in southern Mexico on Sunday, leaving at least 13 people dead and 98 others injured, the Secretariat of the Navy said on social media.

The accident occurred on the Interoceanic Train, which links the Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast, as it rounded a bend near the town of Nizanda in Oaxaca. The train, consisting of two locomotives and four passenger cars, partially toppled off the tracks, with several carriages tilting down the side of a cliff.

Of the 98 injured, five were in serious condition. Most have been admitted to hospitals run by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in Matias Romero and Salina Cruz, while others were treated at IMSS-Wellbeing hospitals in Juchitan and Ixtepec.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo posted on X, "The Secretariat of the Navy has informed me that in the Interoceanic Train accident, unfortunately 13 people died; 98 are injured, five of them seriously. The injured are in IMSS hospitals in Matias Romero and Salina Cruz, as well as in IMSS-Wellbeing hospitals in Juchitan and Ixtepec."

" I have given instructions for the Secretary of the Navy and the Deputy Secretary of Human Rights of the Secretariat of the Interior to travel to the site and personally attend to the families; also the delegates of IMSS and IMSS-Wellbeing. The Secretary of the Interior will coordinate the efforts. I appreciate the support of the Governor of Oaxaca and his team. We will continue to provide updates," she added.

Rescue workers were seen helping passengers alight from the derailed train, while local and federal authorities coordinated relief and medical assistance. Governor Salomon Jara Cruz expressed "deep regret" over the accident and assured that state authorities were cooperating fully with federal teams to assist the affected families.

Mexico's Attorney General has launched an investigation into the cause of the derailment. The Interoceanic rail link, inaugurated two years ago under former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, was designed to strengthen regional connectivity, boost passenger and freight transport, and create a strategic trade corridor across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, focusing on the safety of passengers and providing urgent medical care to the injured. The accident underscores the need for rigorous safety measures on this vital rail corridor through Oaxaca's challenging terrain.
Seoul, Dec 29 : South Korea's annual exports surpassed US$700 billion for the first time on Monday, making the country the sixth in the world to reach the milestone, government data showed.

Outbound shipments tentatively exceeded the mark at 1:03 p.m., according to the data from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources and the Korea Customs Service, reports Yonhap news agency.

South Korea followed the United States, Germany, China, Japan and the Netherlands in surpassing the milestone, the ministry said.

While South Korea was the seventh country globally to reach $600 billion in annual exports in 2018, it became the sixth to hit the $700 billion mark, a sign of faster export growth compared with other major economies, the ministry said.

The ministry attributed the strong performance to robust shipments of semiconductors, along with key products such as automobiles, ships and bio-related goods.

By region, exports to the U.S. and China declined in terms of their share in total shipments, while the proportion of shipments to other Asian countries, the European Union and Central and South America increased, reflecting a trend toward market diversification.

Exports by small and medium-sized enterprises hit record highs in both value and number of companies through September, the ministry said.

"Despite a challenging trade environment marked by U.S. tariff measures and trade protectionism, South Korea turned a crisis into an opportunity, underscoring the resilience of our people and businesses," a ministry official said.

Earlier this year, exports had been expected to struggle amid tariff measures by the Donald Trump administration.

Although outbound shipments declined in the first half of the year, exports rebounded sharply from June as market confidence recovered following the launch of the Lee Jae Myung administration and uncertainties eased after a trade agreement with Washington.

The government said it will work to sustain momentum next year by strengthening the fundamental competitiveness of industries through manufacturing innovation, diversifying export markets and items, and expanding incentives to attract foreign investment to regional areas.

The government also aims to achieve exports of $700 billion and foreign direct investment of more than $35 billion for a second consecutive year.

a"IANS

na/
Mumbai, Dec 29 : The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) on Monday claimed that Maharashtra is witnessing an era of open "Gundaraj" (gangster rule), alleging that criminals have infiltrated the political parties led by Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar.

Mumbai, Dec 29 (IANS) The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) on Monday claimed that Maharashtra is witnessing an era of open "Gundaraj" (gangster rule), alleging that criminals have infiltrated the political parties led by Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar.

The state, Uddhav Sena alleged, is increasingly being reduced to a "nourisher of criminals," with rival gangs allegedly embedded within ruling parties and clashing across Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

In a scathing editorial published in the party mouthpiece 'Saamana', the Thackeray camp alleged that Maharashtra -- once known for its progressive and tolerant ethos -- is now being compared to regions historically associated with high crime rates, such as Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

According to the editorial, each district is turning into a hub of hooliganism as political leaders allegedly recruit "dangerous criminals" to strengthen their respective parties.

The editorial claimed that the law and order situation deteriorated to such an extent that citizens no longer feel safe. It pointed to a rise in daylight violence involving firearms, swords, and "koytas" (machetes). Across the state, political murders, mob rule, and hooliganism are said to have reached alarming levels. The Thackeray camp squarely blamed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio, accusing him of failing in his responsibility to maintain law and order.

The editorial cited a flashpoint in Khopoli, in Raigad district, where Mangesh Kalokhe, a young political activist, was brutally murdered in broad daylight. Kalokhe was the husband of Mansi Kalokhe, a newly elected corporator. The killing, which occurred soon after municipal election results were declared, was described as a consequence of alleged political rivalry.

According to 'Saamana', the political fallout from the Khopoli murder exposed deep fissures within the ruling alliance.

"Minister Bharat Gogawale alleged that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) was responsible for Kalokhe's murder, despite both parties being part of the ruling coalition. Gogawale himself is under scrutiny as his son, Vikas Gogawale, has been absconding for 26 days. Vikas is accused of instigating violence during the Mahad Municipal Council elections and attempting to murder a Congress worker. The Bombay High Court has rejected his interim bail plea," the editorial alleged.

The editorial criticised BJP MLA Ashish Deshmukh and Minister Nitesh Rane for allegedly using threatening language against political opponents. It claimed that Rane had asserted immunity from action, allegedly stating that his "boss" resides at the chief minister's official residence, Varsha.

Highlighting what it called an institutionalisation of crime and "mafia-style" functioning, the editorial referred to the discovery of a 'Mandrax' drug factory in Satara, allegedly linked to the brother of a deputy chief minister. Critics, the editorial said, alleged that the investigation was suppressed and the issue downplayed as political protection was extended.

The editorial also alleged that the Minister of State for Home Affairs bypassed the police reports to facilitate the issuance of a passport and a pistol licence to Nilesh Ghaywal. It further referred to a land mafia case allegedly involving Parth Pawar, son of Ajit Pawar, claiming that CM Fadnavis intervened to shield him.

"How can this be called the 'rule of law' when ministers, MLAs, and MPs openly issue murder threats?" the Thackeray camp asked.

It further alleged, "Fadnavis, Shinde, and Ajit Pawar are strengthening their parties by recruiting dangerous criminals. Like the city of 'Lyari' shown in the film Dhurandhar, which became infamous for gang rule, Maharashtra is heading in the same direction."

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
December 29 : Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday presided over the concluding day of the two-day state-level senior police officers' conference, Police Manthan', at the Police Headquarters. Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi lauded the achievements and reforms of the UP Police, stating that the state has undergone a remarkable transformation in its perception and law-and-order machinery over the last eight and a half years.

He emphasized that UP is now being viewed as a global role model, a shift validated by public experience rather than self-praise. Sharing his vision for 'Smart Policing', the CM highlighted decisive progress since 2017 in recruitment, training, infrastructure, cyber security, forensics, and the Police Commissionerate system. He noted that while training capacity was previously limited, over 60,000 constables are now being trained within the state. Institutional changes like cyber stations in all 75 districts, 12 FSL labs, and a Forensic University reflect the state's new proactive approach.

UP Police has established a sense of fear among criminals and respect among citizens, the CM Yogi said, adding that policing has shifted from being merely reactive to pro-active and predictive.

Earlier, Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Krishna thanked the CM for his guidance. He remarked that the CM's presence underscores the leadership's commitment to policing challenges. He traced the transformative journey since 2017, highlighting the Zero Tolerance policy and the goal of delivering responsive, citizen-first' services.

Highlights of Saturday's Sessions



Session 1: Beat Policing & 'Yaksh' App: Led by ADG (Crime) S.K. Bhagat, the session focused on solving grassroots policing issues. The CM launched the 'Yaksh App', an AI and Big Data-driven digital version of the traditional beat book. It provides a comprehensive data map of crimes, criminals, and sensitive areas for targeted action.

Session 2: Women and Child Safety: ADG Padmaja Chauhan presented on Mission Shakti Centres, community awareness, and the Family Dispute Resolution Clinic (FDRC). ADG (Gorakhpur Zone) Ashok Mutha Jain also presented on the 'Bahu-Beti Sammelan' initiative.

Session 3: Smart Station Management: DG (Lucknow Zone) Sujit Pandey introduced the 'Smart SHO Dashboard'. This integrated tool aims to reduce grievance redressal time, increase accountability, and improve traffic and crime monitoring at the police station level.

Session 4: Cyber Crime: DG (Cyber Crime) Binod Kumar Singh discussed capacity building with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and the role of Cyber Help Desks in tackling evolving digital threats.

Session 5: HRD and Welfare: DG (Training) Rajiv Sabharwal focused on behavioral improvement of personnel, health schemes for families, and the use of the i-GOT portal for online training. The role of 'Vamasarathi' in women empowerment was also highlighted.

Session 6: Prosecution and Prisons: DG (Prosecution) Dipesh Juneja discussed an e-reporting portal for monitoring mafias and 12 KPIs for prosecutors. DG (Prisons) Prem Chand Meena highlighted the digitization of jails, including AI-based CCTV surveillance, Health ATMs, and the use of video conferencing for over 50,000 court testimonies.

Session 7: CCTNS 2.0 & New Laws: ADG (Technical Services) Naveen Arora elaborated on making policing data-driven under the new criminal codes (Nyay Sanhita), focusing on e-FIR, Zero FIR, e-Summon, and e-Sakshya.

The first day of the conference concluded with a closing address by the DGP, marking a significant step toward a technologically advanced UP Police.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/giorgiameloni.paginaufficiale/

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has said that it is up to Russia to show responsibility and openness to talks on a cessation of hostilities, according to the results of a video conference that she and other European leaders held with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the evening.

The conversation took place after Zelenskyy and Trump met at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA).

During the phone call, the parties discussed the state of the peace process for Ukraine and further steps to achieve a just and lasting peace. "The call allowed us to take stock of the situation in the peace process for Ukraine and the next steps to achieve a just and lasting peace," the official website of the Italian government says.

Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy reported on the results of the ongoing negotiations, in particular on security guarantees, emphasizing that some issues remain open. Maloney stressed the importance of unity between partners and the need to maintain maximum coordination on issues that concern the vital interests of Ukraine and its European partners.

"It is up to Russia to show a sense of responsibility and openness to negotiations, demonstrating a real will to stop hostilities," the report says.
December 29 : Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the rule of law as Uttar Pradesh's greatest strength, stating that it has eliminated the sense of insecurity among the people and fostered an atmosphere of trust. The Chief Minister was addressing the closing ceremony of 'Police Manthan2025' held at the Police Headquarters on Sunday.

He said, Security and a strict rule of law have transformed the state into a dream destination for investors. The rule of law, he added, builds confidence and strengthens democracy. Commending the police force, the Chief Minister said that the UP model is now being discussed across the country.

He congratulated the Director General of Police and his team for the innovative initiative of Police Manthan, and honoured police officers and personnel during the medal presentation ceremony. The Chief Minister also reviewed and discussed all 11 key sessions of the conference.

Emphasizing that human intelligence is the most powerful resource, CM Yogi said, It must be used more effectively. Stressing the importance of dialogue, he directed station house officers, beat constables, circle officers, district police chiefs, and range and zone-level officers to regularly engage with different sections of society.

He noted that while peace committee meetings are held during festivals, such dialogue often stops thereafter. Public representatives, he said, are a vital link in the democratic system and should be met at least once a month. No public representative supports wrongdoing, he added, and officers should share the ground reality with them and respond to their calls.

Regular interaction with religious leaders, entrepreneurs, traders, and other social groups, he said, helps police understand ground realities, as policing cannot be done from headquarters alone.

The Chief Minister stressed the need for better coordination at the police station, circle, and police line levels. He pointed out that while station in-charges are usually held accountable after an incident, the role of the circle in coordination is often overlooked.

Strengthening coordination among all three levels, he said, would significantly reinforce the security system. He added that the police force's empathy and friendly conduct not only resolve public grievances but also improve the public's perception of the police.

CM Yogi said, Sustained efforts have been made to minimize political interference, allowing police officers the freedom to work effectively. He highlighted the stability now being provided in postings, noting that officers today generally serve at least two years in a district or range. In the past, frequent and abrupt transfers, sometimes within days or months, prevented officers from understanding local social and geographical conditions, leading to administrative disorder. Stability, he said, has brought efficiency and accountability.

Sharing his own public interactions, the Chief Minister said, People often recommend officers who perform well and express gratitude when corrupt officers are removed. He noted that while good officers may be missed when transferred, their abilities should benefit other regions as well. He urged officers to further strengthen public trust through their conduct and behaviour.

The Chief Minister said that achieving Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047 requires active participation from both the Centre and the states. He noted that Uttar Pradesh's image has undergone a fundamental change over the past eight and a half years.

Had the state continued to witness riots, lawlessness, and curfews, this transformation would not have been possible. The government, he said, ensured that everyone understood the limits of the law, leading to a visible shift in public confidence.

Highlighting infrastructure growth, CM Yogi said, Security is the foundation for development. Uttar Pradesh now accounts for 55 percent of the country's expressways, all built in the last nine years. The state has the largest air connectivity network in India, with the country's largest airport set to be inaugurated next month. Uttar Pradesh also has a 16,000-km rail network, the highest number of cities with operational metro systems, robust public transport, and is home to India's first rapid rail and inland waterway projects.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, At the DGPIG Conference held in Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister had articulated a clear vision of Smart Policing. He explained that this vision is guided by the mantra: Strict yet Sensitive, Modern and Mobile, Alert and Accountable, Reliable and Responsive, and Tech-savvy and Trained.

This framework, the Chief Minister said, equips the police to effectively meet future law-and-order challenges, and officers must internalize these principles in their professional lives.

Referring to the session on police station management, the Chief Minister described police stations as the foundation of the policing system. He said that courteous and sensitive behaviour towards citizens not only reflects empathy but also serves as a vital source of human intelligence.

He noted that much of the information he receives is validated through human intelligence, which is why he regularly conducts Janata Darshan. Beyond filing complaints, the emotions and distress reflected in applications provide valuable insight into ground realities.

Delivering a strong message, CM Yogi said, People often become victims of misfortune because they ignore early warning signs. He remarked that the police leadership has shown alertness by recognising such signs in 'Kaal', and added that when duty is performed with sincerity, even 'Mahakaal' blessings follow.

The Chief Minister said that law and order in Uttar Pradesh has moved beyond mere control and has become a symbol of public trust and security. He urged police officers to continuously update their skills in line with evolving challenges and to take timely, decisive action.

Highlighting legal reforms, CM Yogi said that the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, implemented since July last year, form the backbone of a justice-centric system. He stressed that every police officer must have a thorough understanding of these laws and ensure that awareness reaches all sections of society.

The Chief Minister said, Earlier, police personnel were compelled to live in dilapidated barracks, but today, modern high-rise police buildings have been constructed in several districts. Long-pending police lines have been completed, and resources have seen an unprecedented expansion.

Recalling earlier conditions, he said, There was a time when personnel lived under tiled and asbestos roofs, and in nearly 10 districts, police lines had not been built for two to three decades.

These gaps, he said, have now been addressed. Disbanded PAC companies were reorganised, women battalions were formed, and infrastructure was strengthened.

He noted that the share of women in the police force has increased from 13 percent to over 36 percent. Initiatives such as women battalions, Mission Shakti, the cyber headquarters, model police stations, and modern equipment have significantly empowered the force.

CM Yogi emphasised that the police brainstorming session was not merely a forum for discussion but a foundation for policy formulation and implementation. He stressed the importance of follow-up on every suggestion, strategy-building for every challenge, and evaluation of every decision. He said the conference should be institutionalised as an annual and permanent mechanism.

The Chief Minister said that future challenges will extend beyond law and order to include national security, cybercrime, and social stability. In this context, equal emphasis must be placed on time, technology, and strategy. He noted that a comprehensive roadmap was prepared over two days to achieve the goals of smart policing and to build a police force capable of supporting Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.

The insights shared by 55 speakers across 11 sessions, he said, will serve as a key reference document for future action plans. He also appreciated the promptness and preparedness of the Uttar Pradesh Police and discussed aspects of beat policing based on the presentations.

Referring to Mission Shakti, launched in 2020, the Chief Minister highlighted its sustained success, including the achievements of its fifth phase. He discussed sessions related to women and child safety, as well as challenges linked to human trafficking. He added that women beat officers associated with Mission Shakti should be provided with scooters to enhance their mobility and effectiveness.

Senior officials present on the occasion included Director General of Police Rajiv Krishna, Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad, SPG Director Alok Sharma, Director General (Prisons) P.C. Meena, and other senior officers.
Los Angeles, Dec 29 : Hollywood actor Michael J. Fox has expressed his gratitude to Crispin Glover. He called him a "brilliant actor" to work with on Back to the Future 40 years after the film's release.

The 64-year-old actor recently wrote a letter to Crispin, 61, commending his "phenomenal role" of George McFly, the dad of Michael's alter ego Marty McFly, because he did not have time to say it when they shot the 1985 sci-fi comedy, reports 'Female First UK'.

It comes as Michael gained a deeper appreciation for Crispin after he rewatched Back to the Future to write his memoir, Future Boy, Michael's account of making the movie.

As per 'Female First UK', Michael wrote in the book, "In the process of preparing for this book, I wrote Crispin a letter. 'Your performance is richer and deeper every time I see it. In fact, I skip over my bits to watch yours. Granted, we didn't talk much during production, so I never had the chance to say that you are a brilliant actor, and I was thrilled to work with you'".

In 1984, Michael and Crispin starred opposite each other on a season two episode of the sitcom Family Ties, titled Birthday Boy. Crispin played Doug, a pal of Alex P. Keaton (Michael), and his delivery of several lines bagged him "the biggest laughs" of that episode.

Michael said, "The interesting thing about Crispin as an actor is that he had no awareness of the audience. He wasn't trying to milk the laughs. He was just naturally funny, and he crushed it on every take. I feel the same about his work in Back to the Future".

When it came to Back to the Future, which starred seasoned actors, including Christopher Lloyd but most of the cast were rising stars, Michael could not prepare to work with him.Crispin did not return for the sequels Back to the Future II and Back to the Future III due to reported creative differences.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Seoul, Dec 29 : South Korea's Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back on Monday warned of a growing security instability surrounding the Korean Peninsula, citing a deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

"The security situation surrounding the Korean Peninsula has become more unstable than ever," Ahn said in a speech at a forum on an alliance with the United States.

"North Korea is advancing its nuclear and missile capabilities and modernizing its conventional forces through military cooperation with Russia," Ahn said in the speech, Yonhap News Agency reported.

Ahn called such cooperation between North Korea and Russia a "grave challenge," not only to the Korean Peninsula but also to the international community.

South Korea's intelligence agency has estimated that North Korea has deployed around 15,000 troops to Russia to support its war with Ukraine since October last year.

In return, North Korea was expected to gain access to Russia's cutting-edge military technologies.

Last week, North Korea's state media unveiled photos of leader Kim Jong-un inspecting a factory that built an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine.

"South Korea and the US should continue their shared efforts for the future, grounded in firm mutual trust and understanding, to jointly overcome the security challenges we face," Ahn said.

On December 22, South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said he would work to establish peace on the Korean Peninsula by seeking dialogue with North Korea and other relevant nations, reiterating the government's efforts to reengage with Pyongyang.

Cho made the remarks in a keynote speech at an event hosted by the South Korea-US Parliamentarians Union, saying it is time to "deeply reflect on what must be done" to ensure security and peace on the peninsula .

"The two summit meetings between South Korea and the United States this year would provide a foundation for those efforts," he said, stressing the importance of "swiftly and properly" negotiating the agreements reached in the joint fact sheet.

He added that South Korea should work to bolster deterrence while simultaneously seeking dialogue with North Korea and other relevant nations.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Supreme Court on Monday hinted that it may stay the Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence and granted bail to expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case.

"We are inclined to stay the (Delhi HC) order. Generally, the principle is that if a person has been released on bail, the court does not set aside the order ex parte. However, the situation here is peculiar, since he continues to be in custody in connection with another case," observed a three-judge Bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant.

The Bench, also comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih, is hearing the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) plea challenging the December 23 order of the Delhi High Court that suspended Sengar's sentence during the pendency of his appeal.

Appearing for the CBI, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta opened his arguments by placing on record the trial court's conviction order, highlighting that the victim was below 16 years of age -- approximately 15 years and 10 months -- at the time the offence of rape was committed on her.

SG Mehta contended that the Delhi High Court "erred" in concluding that a legislator would not fall within the category of a "public servant" for the purpose of sentencing.

The Centre's second-highest law officer added that Sengar could not walk out of jail as he is serving a separate 10-year sentence in cases linked to the death of the survivor's father in 2018.

"This convict was held guilty of murdering the father of the survivor. He is still in jail for that. I urge the conscience of this court to stay this order for the sake of the child who was a victim of this," the Solicitor General submitted.

Earlier, the CBI and the survivor's family had indicated their intention to challenge the Delhi High Court's decision before the apex court.

The bail order had also triggered protests by the survivor's family and women's rights activists, who said it had "shaken public faith" and sent a wrong message on crimes against women.

In December 2019, the trial court had convicted Sengar of kidnapping and raping a minor girl and sentenced him to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life, along with a fine of Rs 25 lakh.

The Supreme Court had earlier transferred all cases related to the incident from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi and directed a day-to-day trial.

In an order passed on December 23, a Division Bench of Justices Subramonium Prasad and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar of the Delhi High Court had suspended Sengar's life sentence and granted him conditional bail during the pendency of his appeal, subject to strict conditions.

--IANS

pds/vd
Kolkata, Dec 29 : A booth-level officer (BLO) in coastal Hingalganj of North 24 Parganas district has allegedly received life threats from close associates of suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan after a 'doubtful voter' was served a notice for a hearing during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

The incident pertains to booth number 190 at Pukuria village, where BLO Pralay Mandal detected serious discrepancies in an online enumeration form submitted by a voter identified as Khairul Karigar. According to official scrutiny, the voter allegedly falsely declared his mother as deceased and listed a neighbouring woman as his mother, despite his biological mother being alive.

Following the detection of the alleged forgery, Karigar was issued a notice for a hearing under the Election Commission of India's claims and objections process. Soon after, the BLO allegedly began receiving threats, purportedly from Karigar and his associates.

Mandal is reportedly living in fear following the incident. Local residents have expressed concern over the alleged intimidation and have extended support to the BLO.

Khairul Karigar, however, has denied both the allegation of threatening the BLO and claims of being closely associated with Sheikh Shahjahan. The district administration has said the matter will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken.

It has also emerged that Karigar's name figures in the 'unmapped' category of the draft electoral rolls published by the Election Commission of India.

Local sources alleged that Karigar migrated from Bangladesh several years ago and later settled in Pukuria village under the Sahebkhali area of Hingalganj. His mother, Rahima Bibi, is also stated to be residing with him.

It is alleged that within a year of settling in the area, Karigar developed close links with Sheikh Shahjahan, currently lodged in a correctional home, and through political connections obtained voter and Aadhaar cards. Both he and his mother are alleged to have voted regularly from booth number 190.

Residents further alleged that Karigar frequently intimidates locals by invoking the names of Trinamool Congress leaders and demanded that action be taken against him as per the law.

Speaking to local reporters, BLO Pralay Mandal said, "He threatens people by taking the names of political leaders. He keeps saying, 'I'll see to it.' I am worried because such people cannot be trusted. As far as I know, he is Bangladeshi and was not residing in this area earlier."

Local Trinamool Congress leader Jagabandhu Mistri also raised concerns, alleging misuse of voter data to obtain electoral documents. "His mother is still alive, yet he filled out an online form declaring her deceased. The administration should take action," he said.

Responding to the allegations, Khairul Karigar said he would prove his citizenship and innocence during the hearing. "Show me proof that I have links with Sheikh Shahjahan or any other leader. Whether I am Bangladeshi or not will be proven when I present my documents," he said.

Sheikh Shahjahan, a former executive member of the North 24 Parganas Zilla Parishad, was arrested on February 29, 2024, after remaining absconding for 55 days following an attack on an Enforcement Directorate team that had gone to Sandeshkhali on January 5 last year to probe alleged ration scam irregularities. The incident later triggered widespread protests in the area over allegations of land grabbing and sexual harassment by Shahjahan and his associates.
Hyderabad, Dec 29 : The Telangana Assembly on Monday witnessed a rare moment of bonhomie as Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy exchanged pleasantries with his predecessor and Leader of Opposition K. Chandrasekhar Rao.

Before the start of the proceedings on the first day of the winter session, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy personally went to K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) to greet him and shook his hand.

The Chief Minister enquired about the well-being of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chief.

This comes amid the recent bitter war of words between the two leaders over the issues related to irrigation projects and river water sharing.

Making a rare appearance in the Assembly, KCR arrived and took his seat even before all the other members.

As soon as Chief Minister Revanth Reddy entered the Assembly hall, he went to KCR and shook his hand.

After the Chief Minister, several ministers and MLAs also went to KCR and shook his hand.

Ministers Uttam Kumar Reddy, Sridhar Babu, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, Seethakka, Vakiti Srihari, Adluri Lakshman Kumar and others met KCR.

Newly elected MLA Naveen Yadav of the Congress also met KCR and sought his blessings.

The bonhomie came amid a bitter war of words between the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.

The main opposition. BRS has been accusing Revanth Reddy of using derogatory language against kCR and even wishing for his death.

While announcing his plans to launch a mass movement over the Palamuru-Rangareddy lift irrigation project on December 21, KCR had remarked that they would peel off the skin of the Congress government for betraying people.

Reacting strongly to this, CM Revanth Reddy warned KCR that his sarpanches would beat him up and hang him from a tree. He also vowed to never allow KCR or his family to return to power.

"KCR filed cases against me, had me jailed and harassed me when he was in power. God punished him; he fell and injured himself the very day I was sworn in. I donat even need to jail him; he has imprisoned himself in his farmhouse, surrounded by my police," Revanth Reddy said while addressing a public meeting in Narayanpet district on December 24.

KCRas son and BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) cautioned the Chief Minister that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.

Reacting strongly to repeated personal attacks on KCR, KTR said that as a son and as a party worker, it is impossible to remain silent. "Every day they make baseless statementsa"one day he talks about KCR's injury and prays for his death, another day they say he is unfit. Watching this language, anyone would feel angry. If not for democracy, I would have reacted differently. But out of respect for the constitutional chair, I restrain myself," he said.

He cautioned that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness. "I, too, know how to respond strongly. I grew up in Hyderabad, and I can speak forcefully in Telugu, Hindi, Urdu, and English. But I choose restraint out of respect for the office, not out of fear," KTR said.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the operation of the Delhi High Court order that had suspended the life sentence and granted bail to expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case.

"We are conscious of the fact that when a convict or an undertrial has been released, such orders are not ordinarily stayed by this court without hearing such persons. But in view of peculiar facts, where the convict is also convicted for a separate offence, we stay the operation of the Delhi High Court," ordered a three-judge Bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant.

The bench, also comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih, issued notice to Sengar in the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) plea and directed that a counter-affidavit be filed within four weeks.

The apex court clarified that Sengar will not be released pursuant to the impugned Delhi High Court's order.

The CJI-led Bench agreed to examine the submission of Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, who argued that the Delhi High Court's interpretation would mean a police constable could be treated as a "public servant" under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, while a member of the legislature would stand excluded.

Appearing for the CBI, SG Mehta said the Delhi High Court "erred" in concluding that a legislator would not fall within the category of a "public servant" for the award of sentence.

Placing on record the trial court's conviction order, the Centre's second-highest law officer highlighted that the victim was below 16 years of age -- approximately 15 years and 10 months -- at the time the offence of rape was committed on her.

The SG also added that Sengar could not walk out of jail as he is serving a separate 10-year sentence in cases linked to the death of the survivor's father in 2018. "This convict was held guilty of murdering the father of the survivor. He is still in jail for that. I urge the conscience of this court to stay this order for the sake of the child who was a victim of this," he submitted.

In its order, the Supreme Court clarified that the survivor may file a separate special leave petition (SLP) before the apex court, if required, and that the SC Legal Services Committee would provide legal aid.

Earlier on December 23, a Division Bench of Justices Subramonium Prasad and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar of the Delhi High Court had suspended Sengar's life sentence and granted him conditional bail during the pendency of his appeal, subject to strict conditions.

The bail order had triggered protests by the survivor's family and women's rights activists, who said it had "shaken public faith" and sent a wrong message on crimes against women

In December 2019, the trial court had convicted Sengar of kidnapping and raping a minor girl and sentenced him to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life, along with a fine of Rs 25 lakh. The Supreme Court had earlier transferred all cases related to the incident from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi and directed that the trial be conducted on a day-to-day basis.

--IANS

pds/vd
Mumbai, Dec 29 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday released its first list of 66 candidates for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. This announcement signals the party's formal launch into a high-stakes battle for Asia's richest civic body.

Mumbai, Dec 29 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday released its first list of 66 candidates for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. This announcement signals the party's formal launch into a high-stakes battle for Asiaas richest civic body.

Key names in the first list include Tejasvee Ghosalkar, Ganesh Khankar, Manisha Yadav, Milind Shinde, and Akash Purohit. Ghosalkar, who recently quit Shiv Sena UBT, had joined the BJP, while Akash Purohit is the son of former party minister Raj Purohit.

A major highlight of the list is the nomination of Ravi Raja, the former Leader of Opposition in the BMC, who recently defected from the Congress to join the BJP. Raja will contest from Ward No 185 in Dharavi, a move seen as a direct challenge to the Congress stronghold in that region.

Other notable candidates include Neil Somaiya (Ward 107), who is the son of former MP Kirit Somaiya, Makarand Narvekar (Ward 226), and Harshita Narvekar (Ward 227). Both are family members of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar and Tejinder Singh Tiwana (Ward 47).

BJPas move to release its first list comes when the party is still engaged in seat-sharing talks with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. Although both parties claim that they are allies in the MahaYuti, they are still unable to arrive at the seat sharing arrangement due to tough bargaining.

BJP insiders said that the party wants to contest 150 seats and is not prepared to meet the Shinde factionas demand for 100 seats. They may, however, close the seat-sharing deal with the BJP, fighting 140 seats, leaving 87 to the Shinde faction.

The 2026 elections present a transformed political map in Mumbai. For the first time in nearly 20 years, brothers Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray are expected to fight the municipal polls together, as they announced an alliance last week.

While the BJP and Eknath Shindeas Shiv Sena remain aligned, Ajit Pawaras NCP has decided to contest independently in Mumbai.

The BJP has notably refused to ally with Ajit Pawaras faction in Mumbai, specifically due to Nawab Malik. In response, the NCP has fielded three members of the Malik family, including Sana Malikas aunt, uncle, and sister-in-law.

The State Election Commission has announced that voting for the BMC and the other 28 municipal corporations across Maharashtra will take place on January 15, 2026. The results will be declared following the counting process on January 16, 2026.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Seoul, Dec 29 : The commander of American forces stationed in South Korea said Monday that Seoul "is not simply responding to threats" on the Korean Peninsula, as Washington has urged Seoul and other regional allies to contribute to safeguarding maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.

General Xavier Brunson, commander of US Forces Korea (USFK), made the remark at a forum on the alliance with the US, citing the new US National Security Strategy that emphasized the need for Seoul and Tokyo to build capabilities to defend the First Island Chain, a key perimeter for America's preeminence against China in the Pacific, while mentioning nothing about North Korea.

"The recently published US National Security Strategy reflects this reality by emphasizing the decisive importance of not only this region but of Korea herself and the vital role that capable, like-minded partners play in keeping the Indo-Pacific stable and predictable," Brunson said in a speech at the forum, Yonhap News Agency reported.

"And within that context, Korea is not simply responding to threats on the peninsula. Korea sits at the crossroads of broader regional dynamics that shape the balance of power across Northeast Asia," he added.

With regard to North Korea's military cooperation with Russia, particularly after the North's dispatch of its troops to support Moscow's war against Ukraine, Brunson said Pyongyang has made a "long-term strategic decision."

North Korea's "deepening military partnership with Russia, such as exchanging munitions for advanced technologies," has advanced the North's missile and nuclear programs "in dangerous ways," Brunson said.

"And you see a regime that has made a long-term strategic decision, not a temporary bargaining play."

On December 22, South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said he would work to establish peace on the Korean Peninsula by seeking dialogue with North Korea and other relevant nations, reiterating the government's efforts to reengage with Pyongyang.

Cho made the remarks in a keynote speech at an event hosted by the South Korea-US Parliamentarians Union, saying it is time to "deeply reflect on what must be done" to ensure security and peace on the peninsula.

"The two summit meetings between South Korea and the United States this year would provide a foundation for those efforts," he said, stressing the importance of "swiftly and properly" negotiating the agreements reached in the joint fact sheet.

He added that South Korea should work to bolster deterrence while simultaneously seeking dialogue with North Korea and other relevant nations.
Dehradun, Dec 29 : Amid growing outrage over the killing of a Tripura student in Dehradun in what the family has described as a racist attack, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday spoke to the victim's father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, expressed deep grief over the incident and assured him of strict action against all those involved.

The victim, 24-year-old Angel Chakma, a resident of Unakoti district in Tripura, had an argument along with his younger brother Michael with Suraj Khawas (22), a resident of Manipur currently living in Dehradun, and five of his friends at Selakui market on December 9.

The accused allegedly attacked Angel with knives and brass knuckles, following which he was rushed to the hospital. He later succumbed to his injuries on December 26.

Angel's father, Tarun Chakma, who is currently posted in Manipur with the Border Security Force (BSF), alleged that "racial slurs" were hurled at his son during the assault.

According to him, the attackers called Angel "Chinese" before attacking him.

Expressing sorrow over the killing, Chief Minister Dhami said that five accused have already been arrested in connection with the case. He added that another accused is suspected to have fled to Nepal, and efforts are underway to apprehend him.

A reward has also been announced for information leading to his arrest.

The Chief Minister told Tarun Chakma that he is personally saddened by the incident and understands the pain and grief of the family.

He assured him that the Uttarakhand government will ensure the culprits are given strict punishment, according to a statement issued by the Chief Minister's office.

CM Dhami said Uttarakhand has never witnessed such an atmosphere before, as students from across the country and even from abroad come to the state to pursue education.

He said the incident was painful for everyone and added that the government would take stringent action in such cases.

Dhami also said that he has spoken to Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh regarding the incident.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government stands firmly with the victim's family and said he would remain in touch with the Tripura Chief Minister to ensure all possible assistance is extended. He added that the Uttarakhand government would also provide every possible help to the family.

Meanwhile, police announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for the lone absconding accused, a resident of Nepal, and said a team has been sent to the neighbouring country. Five others, including two juveniles, have already been apprehended.

According to Tarun Chakma, the attackers used other racial slurs for Angel.

Police said that five of the six people allegedly involved in the December 9 incident have been arrested, while Yagyaraj Awasthi, a resident of Nepal's Kanchanpur district, remains at large.

According to the police, based on the complaint filed by Michael Chakma on December 12, a case was registered under sections 115(2), 118 and 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for causing bodily harm and criminal intimidation, and an investigation was initiated.

Later, based on Angel's medical report, Section 109 of the BNS, relating to attempt to murder, was added to the case, and five accused were arrested the same day, including two minors.

Following Angel's death, police said sections 103(1), relating to murder, and 3(5), relating to joint liability, of the BNS were added to the charges.

Apart from Suraj Khawas, the arrested accused have been identified as Avinash Negi (25) and Sumit (25).

Angel Chakma was a final-year MBA student at a university in Dehradun.
Ukraine neutralized 21 Russian drones out of 25, and said four UAVs hit at two locations, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported.

"According to preliminary data, as of 08:30, air defense shot down/suppressed 21 enemy UAVs of the Shahed, Gerber types and drones of other types in the north, south and east of the country," the message on the Telegram channel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reads.

In total, the enemy attacked with 25 strike UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera type and drones of other types from the directions: Orel, Millerovo - RF, Gvardiyske  temporarily occupied Crimea, Donetsk  temporarily occupied areas, about 15 of them were Shahed UAVs."

The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups of the Defense Forces of Ukraine.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi on Monday issued an apology to the Indian government, days after he referred to himself and liquor baron Vijay Mallya as the two "biggest fugitives" in a viral video, a comment that was widely perceived as a swipe at India.

In a post on X, Modi, however, did not clearly specify what exactly he was apologising for.

"I apologise if I have hurt anyone feelings especially the Indian Government who I have the highest respect and regard for. The statement was misconstrued and was never intended to be as played out. Once again my deepest apologies," he wrote.

The apology came after a video showing Modi at Mallya's lavish birthday party in London went viral last week. In the clip, Modi was heard saying, "We are the two fugitives, the biggest fugitives of India."

Modi had himself shared the video on Instagram, captioning it, "Let me do something to break the internet down again. Something for you folks. Wat your heart out with envy (sic)."

The post triggered sharp reactions online, with several users accusing Modi and Mallya of making a "mockery of the Indian government" and the country's legal system.

Following the backlash, Modi deleted the video from his social media account.

Reacting indirectly to the controversy sparked by Modi's remarks, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated India's position that those wanted by law would be brought back to face justice.

"We remain fully committed that people who are fugitives, who are wanted by law in India, they return to the country. For this particular return, we are in talks with several governments, and processes are on. In several of these cases, there are several layers of legalities involved. But we remain committed to bringing them back to the country so that they can face trial before the courts here," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

Both Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya, who are facing serious charges in India, have been residing in the United Kingdom for several years.

Lalit Modi left India in 2010 after allegations surfaced against him relating to tax evasion, money laundering and proxy ownership linked to the lucrative IPL.

The Enforcement Directorate has claimed that he manipulated the process of assigning IPL broadcast rights in 2009, allegedly in exchange for kickbacks exceeding Rs 125 crore.

Vijay Mallya, the former chairman of United Breweries and promoter of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, fled India in 2016 amid allegations of financial fraud.

He is accused of defaulting on multiple bank loans and is said to owe Indian banks around Rs 9,000 crore.

In 2019, Indian authorities declared Mallya a "fugitive economic offender", a designation that he has challenged in the High Court.

The two high-profile businessmen were last seen together in July at a lavish private gathering in London, where they were filmed singing Frank Sinatra's "My Way".

The karaoke evening was hosted by Lalit Modi as his "annual summer party" and was attended by more than 300 guests.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : Actress Sameera Reddy has shared another healthy yet yummy recipe for the banana stem & dal curry, which, according to her, is highly beneficial for gut health.

In order to make this curry, one needs the following ingredients - 1 banana stem (cleaned, finely chopped & soaked),  cup dal (toor or moong), Curry leaves, 1 tsp turmeric, Mustard seeds, Ghee (for tempering),  cup fresh grated coconut, 1 green chilli, 1 kashmiri chilli, 1 tsp whole jeera, and Salt to taste.

First of all, pressure cook the banana stem and dal together, along with some turmeric and salt. While it is advisable to wait for 6 whistles, it depends on the tenderness of the stem.

Next, grind some coconut, along with green chilli and jeera, and turn it into a smooth paste.

After that, heat the ghee, and add some spluttered mustard seeds, Kashmiri chilli, and curry leaves to it for tempering. Add the tadka to the cooked banana stem-dal mixture. Lastly, mix all this in the coconut paste and boil it for a few minutes until well combined.

The 'De Dana Dan' actress also spelled out the benefits of this curry in the caption that read, "Rich in fiber & iron  helps reduce fatigue

 Supports hormonal balance

 Excellent for gut health & detox

 Helps reduce bloating & water retention

 Aids weight management

 Supports menstrual health

 Helps regulate blood sugar

 Promotes calm mood & digestion (sic)".

Towards the end of her post, Sameera also informed that the fibrous strings from the banana stem that may remain after cooking must be removed and not be consumed, as they can be difficult to digest.

"Removing them helps keep the curry light, smooth, and gut-friendly, she added.
Quetta, Dec 29 : The Grand Alliance of Balochistan government employees on Monday announced a pen-down strike to hold a protest for their demands, including payment of a Disparity Reduction Allowance, local media reported.

In a statement, Balochistan Grand Alliance General Secretary Ali Asghar Bangulzai stated that the protest of the employees has entered the second phase due to the "government's apathy and incompetence," Pakistan's leading daily Dawn reported.

He stated that the government employees' organisations linked to Balochistan Grand Alliance will hold a pen-down strike on Monday, followed by a complete lockdown of all government institutions in the province on December 30 and 31.

He announced that the emergency services in the health department will remain operational during the protest.

Earlier in October, security personnel in Pakistan's Kalat recently held a protest against the Balochistan government's decision to integrate the Levies Force into the police department, local media reported.

Levies personnel held protests across Balochistan after the provincial government issued a notification announcing the merger. Members of the Levies Force held a rally in Kalat, which commenced at the Levies Headquarters and passed through Shahi Bazaar, Hospital Road, Harboi Road, Darbar Road, and other main areas before returning to the headquarters, The Balochistan Post reported.

Holding placards against the integration of the two forces, the protesters shouted slogans against the merger of the Levies Force into the police.

While addressing the protesters, Levies officers and personnel said the Levies force has a 142-year history and has played an important role in maintaining law and order in Balochistan, with many members losing their lives while performing their duty.

They said that a similar merger attempt in the past was unsuccessful and warned that repeating the same move would fail again.

The speakers requested the Balochistan government to implement the High Court's stay order on the merger and immediately withdraw the recently issued notification.

According to an official notification issued on October 16, the Balochistan government, after getting nod from the provincial cabinet, merged the provincial and federal levies forces with the police in six out of seven administrative divisions of the province, declaring these divisions as A-Areas, Dawn reported.

The six divisions where the merger of the Levies force and police has been approved include Quetta, Rakhshan, Kalat, Makran, Zhob and Nasirabad.

However, the levies force in Sibi division, which includes Sibi, Kohlu, Dera Bugti, Harnai and Ziarat districts, has not been integrated into the Balochistan police.
Tokyo, Dec 29 : A woman was stabbed on Monday in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward, and the suspect remained at large, local media reported.

The woman was conscious and able to respond to questions after the attack, and her condition was stable, TBS reported, citing the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.

The incident occurred about 200 meters southwest of JR Takadanobaba Station. The attacker was a slim man who fled the scene, police said, adding they are continuing the search for the suspect and are calling on the public for information, reports Xinhua news agency.

Earlier on December 26, as many as 15 people were injured after a stabbing spree at a factory in Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan, local media reported, quoting authorities.

According to them, an emergency call was received, reporting that five or six people had been stabbed at a Yokohama Rubber factory in Mishima, Japan's leading Kyodo News Agency reported.

Police have arrested Masaki Oyama (38) on suspicion of attempted murder. Police also received a call that someone was splashing an unspecified liquid around the factory, and are carrying out an investigation into the incident.

The factory makes car tyres and approximately 980 people work there as of 2024, according to its website.

On December 15, police arrested a 30-year-old man for his involvement in one of two stabbings in Japan's Fukuoka that caused non-life-threatening injuries to a woman and a man who was working at the event for the Japanese female idol group HKT48, local media reported.

The suspect, Naoya Yamaguchi, a resident of Fukuoka Prefecture's Itoshima, was accused of attempted murder for the attack on the man and has confessed to committing the crime.

He has also indicated his involvement in the attack on the woman, according to police, Kyodo News reported.

The attacks took place on December 14 at a stadium, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka, and a nearby amusement facility, Boss E.Zo Fukuoka, where HKT48 has its own theatre for performances.

HKT48 is one of the popular AKB48 family of all-girl pop groups and is based in Fukuoka's Hakata.

One of the victims, an event worker (44), was stabbed in his chest when he cautioned a man whom the police believe was Yamaguchi, while another victim is a 27-year-old woman, who was visiting for a live event at the stadium, and suffered an injury in her back.
Taipei, Dec 29 : Taiwan's Ministry of Defence on Monday strongly condemned China's deployment of air, navy and rocket troops to conduct joint military drills around the island, a move Beijing described as a stern warning against "Taiwan Independence" separatist forces and external interference.

The Ministry said that it has placed its forces on high alert and opposed the actions of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), warning that the drills undermine regional peace.

The development comes days after the United States approved a huge arms package worth more than $10 billion for Taiwan. Beijing retaliated by asking the US to "immediately cease its dangerous act of arming Taiwan", where China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that the move "severely undermines China's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity".

"We strongly condemn the PRC's irrational provocations and oppose the PLA's actions that undermine regional peace. Rapid Response Exercises are underway, with forces on high alert to defend the Republic of China and protect our people," Taiwan's Defence Ministry posted on X.

According to the Ministry of Defence, on Monday morning, two PLA aircraft sorties, nine PLA ships, and two government vessels were detected, continuing their activities around the Taiwan Strait.

It added that the Taiwanese armed forces are closely monitoring and responding using mission aircraft, ships, and shore-based missile systems.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry also criticized the Chinese military activity and reaffirmed its solidarity with its armed forces in response to the "provocations".

"We stand firm with the Ministry of National Defence & all front-line members of the armed forces responding to the PLA provocations around Taiwan. We condemn the CCP's threat to regional & global peace, stability & prosperity & will meet it with preparedness, alongside our democratic partners," the Taiwanese Foreign Ministry posted on X.

Earlier this month, the Taiwanese Foreign Ministry in a statement said, "China's unilateral military provocations and suppressive actions threaten Taiwan's democracy and freedom and the regional status quo of peace and stability. They also destabilise the overall situation in the Indo-Pacific."

Taiwan continues to face threats from China, which claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory under the "One China" principle and insists on its reunification with Beijing. Despite China's efforts, Taiwan, backed by strong public support, continues to assert its sovereignty and responds to China's incursions.
Mysuru : , Dec 29 (IANS) A staffer on Monday recounted the terrifying moments of a brazen daylight robbery in which an armed gang looted around 7 kg of gold and diamonds worth Rs 10 crore from a jewellery showroom in Hunsur town of Mysuru district.

As reported earlier, in a daring daylight robbery, a seven-member gang barged into the Sky Gold and Diamonds showroom, located behind the Hunsur bus stand, at around 2.30 p.m. on Sunday (December 28). Armed with guns, the masked assailants threatened staff and looted gold ornaments worth several crores of rupees before fleeing on two motorcycles. Of the seven accused, most were wearing masks, and one of them was wearing a helmet.

The entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras. Staff members attempted to chase the robbers but were unsuccessful. Preliminary information suggested that around 4 kg of gold ornaments were looted. However, the latest estimation stated that a total of 7 kg of ornaments have been looted.

Speaking to the media, staffer Raju shared that the incident occurred during lunchtime when a few employees had stepped out for lunch as part of their routine. "Four of us went first and returned. The manager and others went out afterwards. While they were away, the robbery took place," he said.

Raju said the manager received information about the robbery through a message and rushed back to the showroom. "He tried to lock the front door to prevent the robbers from escaping. All these movements were recorded on CCTV," he added.

However, the robbers kicked the door open and opened fire at the manager.

"After firing, they immediately stopped collecting jewellery and fled the spot. The manager narrowly escaped as he ran backwards," Raju said.

He stated that before the manager returned, the robbers were looting the jewellery without any hurry.

"They threatened us at gunpoint and carried out the robbery fearlessly. One of our staff members was forced to load the jewellery into bags after being threatened with a gun," he said.

According to Raju, the robbers were speaking in Hindi and ordered the staff to cooperate. "When they entered, they told us to sit down, repeatedly saying 'baith, baith' (sit, sit). I initially refused, and they tried to assault me and hit me with the gun. Since customers and children were present, we did not resist further," he said.

He added that customers inside the showroom were also terrified. "Many customers were wearing gold ornaments. They were scared both for their lives and for their jewellery," he said.

Raju said that had the manager not returned in time, the robbers would have looted the entire stock. He added that the management had noticed the incident on CCTV footage from a remote location and alerted the manager, Asgar, who rushed to the spot and locked the door from outside.

Meanwhile, Minister for Social Welfare and Mysuru District In-Charge Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, speaking in Bengaluru on Monday, said that no concrete clues had been gathered so far regarding the accused. "Police are working on collecting evidence. Based on one incident, it cannot be concluded that the crime rate is high," he said.

The minister added that the incident occurred on a main road and assured that steps would be taken to prevent such incidents in the future. "The Superintendent of Police has briefed me about the case, and appropriate action will be taken," he said.

Superintendent of Police N. Vishnuvardhana, Inspector General of Police M.B. Boralinagayya, and fingerprint experts visited the spot as part of the investigation. A case has been registered at the Hunsur police station.
Tiruchy : , Dec 29 (IANS) Farmers across the Cauvery delta districts have urged the Tamil Nadu government to extend the release of water from the Mettur dam until the end of February, citing widespread delays in Samba paddy cultivation caused by adverse weather conditions and crop damage earlier this season.

Traditionally, water from the Mettur reservoir is released on June 12 every year for Kuruvai and Samba cultivation and is mandatorily stopped by the end of January.

However, farmers say the current agricultural cycle has been severely disrupted, making the usual schedule unviable.

According to farmersa representatives, at least 1.75 TMC of water is required every day to sustain the standing Samba crop.

This year, the total Samba cultivation target stood at around 14 lakh acres. Of this, Tiruvarur district alone accounts for nearly 3.60 lakh acres, followed by Thanjavur with 3.26 lakh acres, Nagapattinam with 2.55 lakh acres, and Tiruchy with around 1.50 lakh acres.

In addition, nearly 3 lakh acres have been brought under Thaladi cultivation across the delta region.

However, the northeast monsoon and the impact of Cyclone Michaung caused extensive crop damage, forcing farmers to delay land preparation and transplantation. As a result, the sowing schedule was pushed back significantly, leading to a corresponding delay in the water requirement cycle.

"Due to the prolonged rains and delays in assessing crop damage, farmers could not begin cultivation on time. Naturally, the demand for water has also shifted," said P. Ramasamy, a farmer from Tiruvarur district.

He said that while water is normally released from Mettur on June 12 and stopped by January 28, this yearas situation is different.

"The samba crop is still in its critical stages. Harvesting, which usually begins in January, may extend till March. If the water supply is stopped now, tail-end regions will be the worst affected," he said.

Farmers have therefore appealed to the state government and the Water Resources Department to extend the water release at least until the end of February, stressing that such a move is essential to safeguard standing crops and prevent large-scale losses across the delta.

--IANS

aal/vd
December 29 : Lucknow: As 2025 draws to a close, the institutional, digital, and policy-driven reforms undertaken in Uttar Pradesh to promote investment, industry, and foreign.

capital remained a major point of discussion throughout the year.

Strengthening investment facilitation and investor handholding through Invest UP under the leadership of the Yogi government emerged as one of the state's most significant achievements.

In 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, placed investment promotion at the core of its administrative priorities, focusing on building a trustworthy ecosystem backed by transparent policies, efficient processes, and timely support, thereby positioning the state as a growing hub for industry and employment generation.

Invest UP, the state's dedicated investment promotion agency, extended end-to-end support to investors, from project conceptualization to on-ground execution. Its integrated framework for facilitation, coordination, and grievance resolution strengthened investor confidence and made Uttar Pradesh a preferred investment destination.

The Nivesh Sarathi portal played a key role in simplifying and bringing transparency to the investment process by integrating MoU signing, expression of interest, grievance redressal, and project monitoring on a single platform. Complementing this, Nivesh Mitra, the online incentive management system, fully digitised the application and tracking of incentives, ensuring efficiency and accountability.

The Chief Minister's Udyami Mitra scheme proved to be a strong pillar of investor support in 2025. Each investor was assigned a dedicated Udyami Mitra to facilitate inter-departmental coordination, provide policy guidance, and resolve local-level issues. With its presence across all districts and industrial authorities, the scheme ensured swift and responsive assistance.

Throughout the year, five sectoral desks, Textiles and Apparel, Automobile and E-Mobility, Chemicals, Electronics, and GCCs, remained active under Invest UP. These desks conducted roadshows, roundtables, and industry interactions, strengthening sector-specific investment strategies.

In parallel, six country desks, Russia, Germany, France, UAESingapore, Japan, South KoreaTaiwan, and the United Kingdom, were operational to attract foreign investment. These desks institutionalised engagement with global investors and multinational companies, enhancing Uttar Pradesh's international investment outreach.

In 2025, the Yogi government transformed investment promotion from a policy objective into a robust, outcome-driven system. Through Invest UP, comprehensive digital platforms, the Udyami Mitra programme, and sustained global engagement, Uttar Pradesh firmly established itself as a reliable, transparent, and opportunity-rich destination for investors.
Kolkata, Dec 29 : A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the mysterious death of a female home guard in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, while the accused police officer has been suspended from duty in connection with the case.

The police said on Monday that a murder case has been registered against Canning Police Station sub-inspector Sayan Bhattacharya after the family of the deceased home guard accused him of having a role in the death of the woman. The body of the home guard, identified as Reshmi Molla, was recovered from the police residential quarters in Canning on Saturday.

The body of Reshmi, also known as Guljan Parveen Molla, was found hanging from the ceiling inside a room of the police quarters. She was a resident of the Uttar Moukhali area under Jibantala Police Station in Canning Block II.

Following the incident, the accused sub-inspector has gone missing, and police have launched a manhunt to nab him.

"The police have launched an investigation against the officer based on a complaint of murder lodged by the family of the home guard. The police are searching for him relentlessly as he remains untraceable. A six-member SIT has been formed, and the Additional Superintendent of Police of Baruipur Police District, Rupantar Sengupta, has been appointed as the head of this Special Investigation Team," a police official said.

The police suspect that Sayan Bhattacharya went into hiding soon after news of Reshmi Molla's mysterious death surfaced.

The victim's family has alleged that Reshmi had an extramarital affair with the sub-inspector and that she was murdered after the relationship came to light. Based on the complaint, the Baruipur police registered a murder case against the cop and initiated an investigation.

According to police, Reshmi went to the quarters behind the Canning police station after completing her duty on Friday. However, her family members failed to contact her thereafter. Despite repeated phone calls, there was no response. Attempts to reach her continued throughout Saturday but proved unsuccessful.

The family subsequently went to Canning Police Station. Her sister, Ruksana Khatun, proceeded to the police quarters and, upon opening the door, found Reshmi's body hanging from the ceiling with a scarf tied around her neck. Hearing Ruksana's screams, others, including polie rushed to the spot.

The Canning police rushed her to Canning Sub-Divisional Hospital, where doctors declared her dead. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination.

Incidentally, Reshmi's father, Rashid Molla, was murdered in the Bhangar area of South 24 Parganas during the panchayat elections about two years ago. Following his death, the eldest daughter of the family was appointed as a home guard.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Supreme Court on Monday kept in abeyance its earlier directions prescribing a revised definition of the Aravalli Hills.

Observing that the expert committee's report as well as the top court's observations were being misconstrued, a three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant said that further clarification was required before the recommendations or judicial directions could be implemented.

The Bench, also comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and A.G. Masih, issued notice in the suo motu writ petition titled "Definition of Aravalli Hills and Ranges and Ancillary Issues," making it returnable on January 21.

"We deem it necessary that the committee recommendation and directions of this court be kept in abeyance. This stay shall remain in effect till the constitution of the (fresh) committee," the apex court ordered.

The CJI-headed Bench mulled constituting a fresh high-powered expert committee to holistically assess the recommendations of all earlier panels on the definition of the Aravalli range.

The proposed committee will examine whether regulated mining can be permitted in the 500-metre gaps between hills and, if so, what structural parameters would be required to ensure that ecological continuity is not compromised.

The apex court stressed that it must be assessed whether the 100metre elevation threshold is scientifically sound and if a detailed geological inquiry is needed.

During the hearing, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta informed the bench that directives have already been issued to the Aravalli states to halt all mining activity.

The Centre's second-highest law officer also clarified that directions are in place to ensure that no fresh mining licences are granted in the Aravalli region.

In its order, the Supreme Court also requested Attorney General R. Venkataramani and senior advocate P.S. Parmeswar to assist it, including on the composition of the proposed expert committee.

After the apex court, in an order passed on November 20, ruled that only landforms with an elevation of 100 metres or more would be classified as Aravalli hills, widespread concerns were triggered over the protection of the ecologically fragile range.

Following protests across several districts of Rajasthan, including Udaipur, Jodhpur, Sikar, and Alwar, against the approval of mining activities in the Aravalli mountain range, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change imposed a complete ban on the grant of new mining leases across the Aravalli landscape. It tasked the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) with identifying additional no-mining zones and preparing a comprehensive Management Plan for Sustainable Mining for the entire range.

--IANS

pds/vd
Valeriy Zaluzhny meets the President of Ukraine during his working visit to the UK, December 8, 2025. | Photo: The Presidential Office of Ukraine / www.president.gov.ua

Ukraines Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Kingdom, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2021-2024, Valeriy Zaluzhny, is preparing to leave his diplomatic post in London in early January, Radio NV was told by four sources in political and diplomatic circles.

According to sources close to the Office of the President, Zaluzhny expressed his desire to resign to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a few weeks ago during his stay in Kyiv.

"They and the president discussed various positions for Zaluzhny, from prime minister to head of the Office of the President, but he did not show interest at that time," the sources note.

According to the sources, other options were also considered, including returning to the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine or appointment as ambassador to the United States, but there is currently no final decision on this matter, and there are no plans to change the ambassador in Washington.

"Probably, Zaluzhny wants to return to Kyiv, he may announce this as early as January 4-5 next year, if nothing changes his mind," the interlocutors added.
Patna, Dec 29 : After assuming charge as the Bihar unit president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Sanjay Saraogi paid a courtesy visit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on Monday and sought his blessings.

During the meeting, the two leaders held an extensive and meaningful discussion on the development of Bihar.

On the occasion, Sanjay Saraogi presented the Prime Minister with a memento depicting Punoura Dham, the birthplace of Goddess Sita, along with a shawl adorned with a Madhubani painting.

The specially crafted metal memento features artistic images of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Goddess Sita, symbolising Bihar's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Sources said that the meeting included a detailed discussion on the farming of makhana (fox nut), a unique agricultural product of Bihar.

Prime Minister Modi spoke at length about the condition of makhana farmers, their welfare, employment potential, and value addition in the sector.

He reiterated the central government's commitment to improving the livelihoods of makhana producers and strengthening the supply chain to enhance farmers' income.

The leaders also exchanged views on the overall development of Mithila and Bihar, including welfare schemes and cultural promotion.

Special emphasis was laid on Madhubani painting, a globally renowned art form of the region, and ways to support artists and preserve Bihar's cultural identity.

Prime Minister Modi also discussed organisational issues with the Bihar BJP president and offered guidance on strengthening the party at the grassroots level.

He emphasised making the organisation more active, inclusive, and people-centric.

Speaking about the meeting, Sanjay Saraogi said, "During my meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, detailed discussions were held on organisational matters. The Prime Minister provided valuable guidance on strengthening the party organisation in Bihar and making it more active and people-oriented. This meeting was inspiring and important for the overall development of Bihar, the empowerment of farmers, and organisational strengthening."

It may be noted that during his Delhi visit, Sanjay Saraogi also met BJP President J.P. Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, holding discussions on organisational and political issues related to Bihar.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Seoul, Dec 29 : The total proceeds from initial public offerings (IPOs) in the South Korean stock market rose 14.9 per cent in 2025 from a year earlier, backed by increased liquidity, data showed on Monday.

The proceeds from IPOs stood at 4.57 trillion won (US$3.19 billion) this year, up from last year's 3.97 trillion won, according to the data from consulting service provider IR Kudos Corp, reports Yonhap news agency.

A total of 77 companies made their debuts on the main bourse KOSPI and the tech-heavy KOSDAQ markets in 2025, compared with 78 companies going public a year earlier.

LG CNS Co., an information technology affiliate of LG Electronics Inc., raised the largest amount of IPO funds at 1.19 trillion won, followed by DH Shipbuilding Co. with 500 billion won.

"Momentum for large IPOs is expected to remain strong next year amid abundant liquidity, though new regulations could remain a factor," the company said in a release.

Starting next year, more than 40 percent of IPO shares will be allocated to institutional investors that commit to holding the shares for a certain period, up from the current 20 percent.

The measure comes amid criticism that some institutional investors have reaped quick profits by selling IPO shares on the first day of trading.

Meanwhile, South Korea's bourse operator said it will introduce tighter rules for an initial public offering (IPO) and delisting as part of efforts to shore up market confidence.

The Korea Exchange (KRX), the sole operator of the country's stock market, is reviewing a set of enhanced regulations for newcomers and an exit of those who fail to maintain listing requirements.

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) said earlier that from 2026, over 40 per cent of IPO shares will be first allotted to institutional investors who guarantee the holdings of IPO shares for a certain period, usually three or six months.

Currently, about 20 percent of IPO shares are sold to such institutional investors to help with the smooth debut of a new company on the stock market.

The FSC has said it will also revamp delisting regulations to speed up the exit of companies that fail to meet a set of requirements.

a"IANS

na/
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Reacting to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's sharp remarks targeting the Congress and its leadership, JD(U) National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad on Monday said the party was heading towards "political irrelevance" if Rahul Gandhi continued to lead it in the same manner.

Prasad said growing dissatisfaction within the Congress was evident and warned that the party could face serious challenges in the near future unless it undertook deep introspection.

"If Rahul Gandhi continues to lead the Congress in the same manner, the day is not far when Congress could lose its relevance in India. Dissatisfaction within the party is growing steadily. Therefore, the party is likely to face difficulties in the near future, and it is crucial for them to carefully introspect and take corrective measures," Rajeev Ranjan Prasad said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar also backed Amit Shah's statement and launched a scathing attack on Rahul Gandhi. "What Amit Shah is saying is correct. The work he has done has been in the interest of the country. Rahul Gandhi has always spoken against the nation, whether he is abroad or in India," Rajbhar said.

Their remarks came a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a jibe at Rahul Gandhi and the Congress while addressing a gathering in a village near Ahmedabad city.

Shah said a political party cannot expect electoral success if it opposes everything that resonates with the people, adding that it was beyond his capacity to make Rahul Gandhi understand this "simple logic".

"During a recent debate in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi asked me a strange question: 'Why does only my party lose elections every time?' Instead of asking people, he asked me. Rahul baba, you will get the answer if you understand these two initiatives that I have launched here," Shah said.

The BJP leader further remarked that Rahul Gandhi should not be surprised by repeated electoral defeats, asserting that the Congress would also lose the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. "Gandhi should not get tired of losing because the Congress will definitely lose the upcoming Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal," Shah said.

Highlighting what he described as the BJP's ideological connect with the people, Shah said the party's success stemmed from aligning with public sentiment. "The reason behind our success is that people are connected with our principles. The Congress opposed the Ram Mandir, the surgical strike on terrorists, the removal of Article 370, the Uniform Civil Code, the Act against triple talaq and our campaign to drive out illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators," he noted.

Sharpening his attack further, Shah added, "Now tell me. If you oppose what people like, how will you get votes? But it is beyond my capacity to make Rahul baba understand such simple logic because even people from the Congress have failed to do so."
Bareilly, Dec 29 : All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ) President, Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, has again issued a fatwa urging Muslims in India not to celebrate the New Year, as this goes against the tenets of the Sharia.

Bareilly, Dec 29 (IANS) All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ) President, Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, has again issued a fatwa urging Muslims in India not to celebrate the New Year, as this goes against the tenets of the Sharia.

Sharia is the system of Islamic moral and legal guidance derived from the teachings of the Quran and the traditions of the Prophet, and it governs both religious obligations and aspects of daily life.

In the fatwa, Maulana Razvi stated that activities such as singing and dancing are completely haram in Islam, and therefore, New Year celebrations are also considered haram.

He said that such acts are deemed criminal under the Shariat and advised Muslim youth to stay away from these celebrations.

Speaking to IANS, Razvi said: "Celebrating the New Year is not permissible according to Sharia. On the night of December 31, New Year celebrations take place, which involve many inappropriate activities such as dancing, singing, shows, alcohol consumption, chaos, misbehaviour, and other immoral acts. Islam forbids all of these actions."

He further said that the New Year is essentially a festival associated with Christians and that it is strictly prohibited for Muslims to celebrate it.

The fatwa noted that the New Year begins in January, marking the start of the English calendar year, and therefore, it is considered a religious observance of Christians to celebrate the first day of their year.

"I would like to request all the young men and women not to celebrate the New Year, nor attend any such event. If they do, then they will be considered a culprit. This is European, not Islamic or Indian culture. For Muslims, the New Year is marked by Muharram, and for Hindus, it is marked by Chaitra. That is why I would like to urge everyone not to adopt European traditions," he added.

This is not the first time that the AIMJ chief has issued such a fatwa. Last year as well, Razvi had cautioned Muslim youth against participating in New Year celebrations.
December 29 : Gorakhpur: Taking cognisance of the biting cold and the prevailing severe cold wave conditions across Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered the closure of all schools up to Class 12, across all boards (ICSE, CBSE, and UP Board), till January 1. The Chief Minister clarified that the safety of children is paramount during the cold wave, and any negligence in this regard will not be tolerated.

Officers to take the field, ensure arrangements

The Chief Minister has directed top officials of the government and administration to remain mobile in the field to personally assess the ground reality. The CM stated that in view of the intense cold, adequate arrangements for blankets and bonfires (alav) must be ensured at public places in all districts.

No person should sleep in the open

The Chief Minister has issued special instructions to officials regarding the operation of night shelters (rain baseras). He stated that:
Guwahati, Dec 29 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday inaugurated the Rs 227-crore redeveloped Batadrava Than, the birthplace of Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva, in Assam's Nagaon district.

Guwahati, Dec 29 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday inaugurated the Rs 227-crore redeveloped Batadrava Than, the birthplace of Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva, in Assamas Nagaon district.

He said that the teachings of Vaishnava saint Srimanta Sankardeva continue to guide Indiaas cultural and spiritual unity.

Addressing a large public gathering at Batadrava Than, HM Shah said the great saintas ideals of harmony, inclusiveness and cultural renaissance remain deeply relevant even today. He praised the people of Assam for preserving their traditions and values despite historical challenges, and said Sankardevaas philosophy played a vital role in shaping Assamas civilisational identity.

The Home Minister, who arrived in Nagaon district earlier in the day, was accorded a warm and traditional welcome by local residents. After landing at Borduwa by helicopter from Guwahati, HM Shah was greeted with vibrant Assamese cultural performances showcasing the rich heritage of the state.

Traditional Gayan-Bayan and Diha Naam performances were presented during the reception, drawing visible appreciation from the Home Minister, who was seen clapping along in rhythm as the devotional music echoed across the historic site.

The newly redeveloped Batadrava Than complex has been designed to preserve and promote the spiritual and cultural legacy of Srimanta Sankardeva while significantly improving facilities for devotees and visitors.

Officials said the project aims to transform the site into a major spiritual and cultural centre, strengthening religious tourism and cultural awareness.

Following the inauguration, HM Shah is scheduled to return to Guwahati, where he will pay homage to the martyrs of the Assam Movement at the newly constructed Swahid Smarak Kshetra. The memorial commemorates those who laid down their lives during the historic Anti-Foreigner Agitation.

Later in the day, the Home Minister will inaugurate a series of major infrastructure projects in the state capital, including the Rs 111-crore new building of the Guwahati Police Commissionerate and the Rs 189-crore Integrated Command and Control System (ICCS), aimed at strengthening urban policing and public safety.

HM Shah will also inaugurate the Rs 291-crore Jyoti Bishnu Cultural Complex in Guwahati, a state-of-the-art auditorium with a seating capacity of 5,000, which is expected to become a major hub for cultural and public events in the Northeast.

The Home Ministeras visit underlined the Centreas focus on cultural heritage, security and infrastructure development in Assam.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 29 : The controversy surrounding the office of CPI-M's Vattiyoorkavu CPI-M MLA and former Mayor V.K. Prasanth in a Thiruvananthapuram Corporation-owned building at Sasthamangalam has escalated into a larger political and administrative issue, with the state capital civic body deciding to launch a comprehensive probe into alleged large-scale irregularities in the leasing of its buildings to private individuals.

The move comes amid a political row triggered by now Sasthamangalam ward councillor and former DGP R. Sreelakhaas demand that the MLA vacate his office, a development that the BJP is now seeking to leverage against the CPI-M, which previously controlled the Corporation.

The new BJP-led governing committee has alleged that widespread malpractice occurred under earlier CPI-M-led administrations in the leasing of Corporation properties.

According to preliminary findings, many Corporation-owned buildings and shop rooms have been transferred multiple times and are currently being used by individuals who are not the original tenants.

These transfers are said to have taken place for substantial sums, despite the official rents being nominal.

In some cases, shop rooms were leased out at rents as low as Rs 250 per month, while the occupants allegedly sublet them at market rates, earning lakhs of rupees.

The Corporation has decided to reclaim all unauthorised transfers and has resolved to conduct a detailed scrutiny of lease arrangements.

The decision to initiate a full-scale probe coincides with mounting political tension over the Sasthamangalam office dispute.

While Mayor V.V. Rajesh has sought to play down the political angle, stating that the issue need not be politicised, he has confirmed that all lease documents will be examined and that the Corporation will investigate whether public revenue, including rent and taxes, has been properly realised.

Joining the issue, former Congress legislator and now newly elected councilor K.S.Sabarinathan said it is now for the Corporation to decide further matters, including the rent amount, after examining the agreement between the Corporation and Prasanth.

"The offices of the majority of MLAs in Kerala function from rented buildings within their respective constituencies. When I was an MLA myself, I too functioned from a rented room at Aryanad, paying monthly rent. However, Prasanth enjoys a particular advantage, and two well-furnished rooms at the MLA Hostel have been allotted in his name. When the government is providing such a well-equipped MLA Hostel free of cost, why should he give that up and continue to occupy this room at Sasthamangalam? In my opinion, it would be better for him to shift to the MLA Hostel for the remainder of the current Assembly term," he said.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Monday accorded acceptance of necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the Army, Navy and Air Force, amounting to a total of about Rs 79,000 crore.

"AoN was approved for the procurement of Loiter Munition System for Artillery Regiments, Low Level Light Weight Radars, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MRLS), and Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II for the Indian Army," according to an official statement.

Loiter Munition will be used for precision strike of tactical targets, whereas Low Level Light Weight Radars will detect and track small-size, low flying Unmanned Aerial Systems.

Long Range Guided Rockets will enhance the range and accuracy of Pinaka MRLS for effective engagement of high value targets. Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk-II with enhanced range will protect the vital assets of the Indian Army in Tactical Battle Area and Hinterland.

For the Indian Navy, AoN was accorded for procurement of Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) Manpack and for leasing High Altitude Long Range (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS).

The induction of BP Tugs will assist Naval ships and submarines in berthing, unberthing, and maneuvering in confined waters/harbor. The HF SDR will enhance long range secured communication during boarding and landing operations, whereas HALE RPAS will ensure continuous Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance and credible Maritime Domain Awareness over the Indian Ocean Region.

For the Indian Air Force, AoN was approved for procurement of Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System, Astra Mk-II Missiles, Full Mission Simulator and SPICE-1000 Long Range Guidance Kits, etc.

The induction of the Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System will fill the gaps in the aerospace safety environment by providing high-definition all-weather automatic recording of landing and take-off. Astra Mk-II Missiles with enhanced range will increase the capability of the fighter aircraft to neutralise adversary aircraft from large standoff range.

Full Mission Simulator for Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will augment pilots' training in a cost effective and safe manner, while SPICE-1000 will enhance long-range precision strike capability of the Indian Air Force, the statement added.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : As the Congress leader Digvijaya Singh landed in controversy after praising the BJP and its ideological parent - Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said that the grand old party has "lost its mental balance".

New Delhi, Dec 29 (IANS) As the Congress leader Digvijaya Singh landed in controversy after praising the BJP and its ideological parent - Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said that the grand old party has "lost its mental balance".

The controversy erupted after Digvijaya Singh shared a black-and-white photograph on social media showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi seated on the ground while BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani sat on a chair in the background. Through the post, Singh acknowledged how the RSS shapes leadership within its organisation.

Speaking to IANS, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said, "The Congress party has lost its mental balance over Digvijaya Singh's statement. The kind of comments made by Manickam Tagore about the RSS clearly reflect the ideological emptiness of the Congress. Manickam Tagore should be reminded that in cases like Afzal Guru, Yakub Memon, Burhan Wani, Batla House encounter, or Naxalites, the Congress sees martyrs and innocents, but when it comes to nationalist organisations, they see terrorists."

Poonawalla further questioned the Congress leadership's past actions and statements.

"Did former President Pranab Mukherjee visit the headquarters of a terrorist organisation or a nationalist organisation? When Jawaharlal Nehru invited the RSS to participate in Republic Day celebrations, was it a terrorist organisation that he invited? Mahatma Gandhi had also praised the RSS. Is Manickam Tagore more intelligent than these leaders?" he told IANS.

He alleged that insulting nationalist institutions and traditions has become the identity of the Congress.

"This is the same party that referred to ISIS as 'Boko Haram,' Sanatan Dharma as a 'malaria disease,' and the Sena as 'sadak ka gunda.' Insulting the Sena, Sanatan, and nationalist forces has become the Congress' identity. Today, leaders like Manickam Tagore and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy oppose Digvijaya Singh's statement, while Salman Khurshid supports him. This clearly shows that the Congress is divided," Poonawalla said.

Commenting on the situation in Bangladesh, BJP spokesperson said it was unfortunate that attacks and killings had taken place not only against Hindus but also against Christians and members of the Scheduled Castes.

"The Indian government has clearly condemned these incidents and stated its position," he said.

He also slammed the secular lobby for maintaining silence on Bangladesh violence but becoming activists and strong proponents of justice in Israel-Gaza conflict.

"There are people who raise funds for Gaza but shut their eyes to Dhaka. Leaders like Digvijaya Singh, Rashid Alvi, Sam Pitroda, and Husain Dalwai compare India with Bangladesh, justify atrocities there, and claim such incidents occur because minorities are attacked in India. These are the same people who opposed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Their real face has now come to the fore," he said.
December 29 : Lucknow: Under the zero-tolerance policy of the CM Yogi government, stringent action has been taken against illegal narcotics over the past nearly nine years, breaking the backbone of drug traffickers.

In continuation of this effort, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) to launch a special drive to effectively control illegal stocking, purchase, sale, distribution, and diversion of codeine-based cough syrups and NDPS-category medicines. Acting on these instructions, the campaign was launched three months ago.

Before initiating the country's largest crackdown on illegal diversion of codeine-based cough syrup, the department carried out in-depth internal investigations. Probes were conducted in states such as Jharkhand, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, during which evidence of business relationships between super stockists and wholesalers linked to Uttar Pradesh was gathered.

Following this, a state-wide crackdown was launched, unravelling multiple layers of illegal diversion. Based on the FSDA report, action was initiated against those involved in the narcotics trade.

On the Chief Minister's directions, cases were registered under the NDPS Act and BNS against those misusing the syrup as an intoxicant. The Allahabad High Court upheld proceedings under the NDPS Act and dismissed writ petitions in 22 cases, also rejecting arrest-stay petitions filed by the accused.

In the last three months, FSDA inspected more than 332 wholesale drug establishments across 52 districts for illegal stocking, purchase, sale, distribution, and diversion of codeine-based cough syrup and NDPS-category medicines.

Based on documentary and physical evidence, FIRs were lodged against 161 firms/operators in 36 districts under relevant sections of the BNS and NDPS Act.

District Magistrates were also informed for initiating action under the Gangster Act to seize assets acquired through illegal narcotics. This action against those involved in the illegal diversion of codeine cough syrup is being termed the largest of its kind in the country.

To probe the matter thoroughly, the FSDA Commissioner constituted multiple district-level teams, with a monitoring team at headquarters. Teams visited various states to discreetly collect evidence.

Details of the quota and lifting of codeine phosphate were obtained from the Central Narcotics Bureau, Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). They also inspected cough syrup manufacturing units in Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Uttarakhand, collecting records related to production and distribution.

Further scrutiny of purchase and sale records was conducted in Ranchi, Delhi, and Lucknow. It was found that most wholesalers could not verify receipt of stock, nor were there sales bills to retail medical stores. Instead, a parallel distribution network of cough syrups and NDPS-category medicines was created through billing in the names of super stockists in Delhi and Ranchi and certain identified wholesalers linked to them.

After extensive verification, the entire chain was connected, exposing large-scale illegal diversion.

In several cases, firms failed to produce sales bills, while some showed transactions only on paper. Even the submitted sales details could not verify actual supply of codeine-based cough syrup to retail outlets, rendering the claimed supplies unsubstantiated. In 202425, the supply of codeine-based cough syrup in the state was found to be many times higher than actual medical requirements.

The investigation recorded supplies of over 2.23 crore bottles of Phensedyl manufactured by Abbott Healthcare, over 73 lakh bottles of Ascoff by Laborate Pharmaceuticals, and around 25 lakh bottles from other companiesnone of which could be validated for legitimate medical use.

Based on the FSDA report, 79 cases were registered. So far, 85 accused have been arrested, and action is ongoing. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted in the matter is also conducting a detailed probe and is expected to submit its report to the Chief Minister next month.

On the Chief Minister's directions, FSDA headquarters has sent a proposal to the government to make the wholesale drug licensing system more stringent and transparent.

The proposal includes geo-tagging of wholesale establishments, verification of storage capacity, and photographic documentation. It also proposes verification of experience certificates of technical personnel by Drug Inspectors.

Additionally, a proposal is being sent to the Government of India for issuing necessary notifications and guidelines for the manufacture, bulk supply, distribution, and monitoring of codeine-based cough syrups.
In temporarily occupied Melitopol on December 29, an explosion injured four Russian soldiers and damaged a military truck Ural, the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine (GUR) has reported.

"The explosion in Melitopol mowed down at least four Russian occupiers and damaged a Ural. On the morning of December 20, 2025, in the area of the industrial zone of temporarily occupied Melitopol, Zaporizhia region, Russian invaders were loading their military Ural," the GUR message on the Telegram channel on Monday said.

It is noted that the industrial zone of Melitopol is used by units of the Russian occupation forces as ammunition depots and a base for their military equipment. "At the moment of maximum concentration of Muscovites, an explosion sounded near the truck - at least four occupiers were seriously wounded, their "Ural" was damaged," military intelligence said.
Itanagar, Dec 29 : Nagaland Minister Temjen Imna Along on Monday strongly reacted to the alleged racial attack on a Tripura student in Dehradun, asserting that the North Eastern states are an inseparable and integral part of India.

The victim, 24-year-old Angel Chakma, a resident of Unakoti district in Tripura, had an argument along with his younger brother Michael with Suraj Khawas (22), a resident of Manipur currently living in Dehradun, and five of his friends at Selakui market on December 9.

The accused allegedly attacked Angel with knives and brass knuckles, following which he was rushed to the hospital. He later succumbed to his injuries on December 26.

Angel's father, Tarun Chakma, who is currently posted in Manipur with the Border Security Force (BSF), alleged that "racial slurs" were hurled at his son during the assault.

According to him, the attackers called Angel "Chinese" before attacking him.

Condemning the incident, Minister Temjen Imna Along told reporters in Itanagar, "First of all, we should think before speaking. I cannot condemn the entire community, but the people who did it are not intellectuals and don't know anything about the people of the North East. In any way, we don't consider ourselves Chinese, and in any form, we are not 'momo'. Momo is a dish; it's very good, and they should also eat it. But this attitude towards us is wrong."

He said that the North-Eastern states are an integral part of India and that such incidents reflect ignorance and prejudice.

"I have heard that the people who committed this crime are in jail. We want to bring them here, and we will show them how sweet the people of Arunachal, Nagaland or any other state are. They will get to know that we are not Chinese or 'ching pong ching', we are also Indians. Yes, our characters are different -- we are from Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura -- but we are an integral part of India," he added.

Meanwhile, police announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for the lone absconding accused, a resident of Nepal, and said a team has been sent to the neighbouring country. Five others, including two juveniles, have already been apprehended.

According to the victim's father, Tarun Chakma, the attackers used other racial slurs for Angel.

Police said that five of the six people allegedly involved in the December 9 incident have been arrested, while Yagyaraj Awasthi, a resident of Nepal's Kanchanpur district, remains at large.

According to the police, based on the complaint filed by Michael Chakma on December 12, a case was registered under sections 115(2), 118 and 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for causing bodily harm and criminal intimidation, and an investigation was initiated.

Later, based on Angel's medical report, Section 109 of the BNS, relating to attempt to murder, was added to the case, and five accused were arrested the same day, including two minors.

Following Angel's death, police said sections 103(1), relating to murder, and 3(5), relating to joint liability, of the BNS were added to the charges.

Apart from Suraj Khawas, the arrested accused have been identified as Avinash Negi (25) and Sumit (25).

Angel Chakma was a final-year MBA student at a university in Dehradun.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 29 : N. Vijayakumar, a former Travancore Devaswom Board member and a senior CPI(M) activist and former top office-bearer of the party-backed state organisation of government employees, was taken into custody in the Sabarimala gold theft case after detailed questioning at the Crime Branch office, here on Monday.

Vijayakumar was a member of the Devaswom Board when it was headed by former president A. Padmakumar. His arrest has marked a significant turn in the investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft case, with the probe now clearly expanding to examine the collective functioning of the Board during the period in question.

He appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) earlier in the day, citing what he described as unbearable pressure, while maintaining that he was innocent and had committed no wrongdoing.

Investigators, however, claim to have gathered evidence suggesting that Vijayakumar was aware of the gold plates being handed over to Unnikrishnan Potti, one of the prime accused in the case.

Vijayakumar had earlier withdrawn his anticipatory bail plea, a move that followed strong observations by the Kerala High Court on the course of the investigation. The court had underlined that all members of the Devaswom Board bore equal responsibility in the alleged misappropriation of temple assets.

The High Court had also sharply criticised the SIT for a "serious lapse" in not extending the probe to former Board members K.P. Shankardas and Vijayakumar, even after the arrest of Padmakumar. Following the court's censure and the growing likelihood of arrest, both Shankardas and Vijayakumar had approached the Kollam Vigilance Court seeking anticipatory bail.

Padmakumar, in his statements to investigators, has consistently stressed the principle of collective responsibility, maintaining that decisions related to Sabarimala were not taken unilaterally but in consultation with the Board and its administrative committee. He has also reportedly told investigators that several decisions were taken in line with government directives.

The SIT's arrest of Vijayakumar is now being viewed as lending weight to Padmakumar's claim that responsibility for the alleged lapses was shared by the entire Board.

Although the SIT had earlier issued a notice to Vijayakumar, he failed to appear for questioning. He was later taken into custody directly, after which his arrest was formally recorded. His counsel said that since Vijayakumar is innocent and wants to prove it, he decided to present himself before the SIT on Monday.

Meanwhile, the case has taken an added dimension with a non-resident businessman telling investigators that a transaction involving Sabarimala temple artefacts allegedly took place between accused Unnikrishnan Potti and D. Mani. The businessman has expressed suspicion that the artefacts may have been smuggled abroad.

He told the SIT that he was initially approached for the deal in Thiruvananthapuram but declined to participate, following which the transaction was allegedly diverted to others.

The SIT is now preparing to question D. Mani as part of efforts to establish the trail of the missing artefacts, including five-metal idols allegedly taken out of Sabarimala.

Investigators said the coming days would be crucial in determining the full extent of the alleged conspiracy and fixing accountability at the institutional level. With Vijayakumar's arrest, the total number of arrests in the case has risen to 10, with more expected in the coming days.
December 29 : Lucknow: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh government significantly advanced welfare initiatives for Backward Classes in 2025. The year witnessed sustained implementation and expansion of schemes focused on education, social security, and digital empowerment. Official data from the Backward Classes Welfare Department indicate that these policy interventions reached beneficiaries at the grassroots level, reinforcing the government's commitment to inclusive and outcome-oriented governance. The welfare framework extended beyond financial assistance, enabling empowerment through education, dignity, and skill development.

During 202526, the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme supported 690,349 students with financial assistance amounting to 147.75 crore. Under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, 585,954 students received 175.54 crore. In total, 1,276,303 students were provided direct assistance of 323.29 crore in 2025 alone.

Over the past nine years, the state government has extended scholarship support to 22,029,760 students, with total disbursement reaching 13,858.62 crore.

The Marriage Grant Scheme reflected the government's focus on social protection. During 202526 (up to December 23, 2025), financial assistance amounting to 144.59 crore was provided to 72,296 daughters from Backward Classes. In both 201920 and 202425, one lakh beneficiaries each received assistance totaling 200 crore per year.

Cumulatively, over nine years, 647,863 beneficiaries were supported under the scheme, with total expenditure of 1,295.72 crore. The scheme covers eligible families from urban and rural areas with an annual income ceiling of 1 lakh, subject to the minimum age requirement of 18 years for the bride and 21 years for the groom.

The Computer Training Scheme continued to play a key role in skill development. During 202526 (up to December 23, 2025), 22,392 youths including 18,159 males and 4,233 femalesreceived training at a cost of 19.18 crore.

Over nine years, a total of 162,046 youths were digitally trained at an expenditure of 154.56 crore. Among them, 101,139 trainees pursued O-Level certification, while 60,907 completed CCC certification.

All benefits under these schemes were disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring transparency, accountability, and minimisation of corruption.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray on Monday formally kickstarted the party's campaign for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections by announcing its first candidate.

Senior MNS leader and party spokesperson Yashwant Killedar has been handed the 'AB form' to contest from the Dadar (Shivaji Park) area, considered one of the party's key strongholds. The AB form certifies a candidate as the authorised nominee of a political party.

The announcement comes amid heightened political activity in Mumbai, with major parties in the process of finalising seat-sharing arrangements for the civic polls. By issuing the AB form, the MNS leadership has indicated that the party is preparing to intensify its ground-level mobilisation in traditional Marathi-dominated pockets of the city.

Raj Thackeray's decision follows the recent announcement of an alliance between the MNS and the Shiv Sena (UBT) for the BMC elections, a move aimed at consolidating Marathi votes in Mumbai. Killedar, a long-time MNS functionary, has been active in the Dadar-Mahim belt for several years and is considered a familiar face among local party workers.

Party sources said the early declaration of a candidate is intended to provide organisational clarity and allow workers to begin campaign activities well in advance. The Shivaji ParkDadar region is regarded as the ideological cradle of both the undivided Shiv Sena and the MNS, and the contest in the area is expected to be keenly fought.

The seat is likely to witness a multi-cornered contest involving the MNS, Shiv Sena (UBT) and candidates backed by the Mahayuti alliance.

Reacting to his nomination, Killedar expressed confidence and said the local electorate had consistently supported Raj Thackeray's vision. He said the focus would be on addressing civic infrastructure issues while safeguarding the cultural identity of the area.

With its first candidate announced, the MNS is expected to unveil its full list for the 227-member civic body in phases over the coming days. Political observers believe the party could play a decisive role in several wards by influencing vote shares, particularly in Marathi-speaking localities.

Meanwhile, senior MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar said the upcoming BMC elections were a battle for the "existence" of the Marathi community and alleged attempts to weaken Maharashtra's hold over Mumbai.

Speaking to reporters, Nandgaonkar said that while elections are a recurring democratic exercise, the BMC polls assume larger significance for the state and the Marathi people. He alleged that there was a conspiracy to detach Mumbai from Maharashtra, calling it a matter of grave concern.

He urged voters to foil what he described as such designs and asserted that Mumbai must remain under the leadership of the 'Marathi manoos'. He also pointed out that the MNS is contesting an alliance election after nearly two decades.

Calling for strict adherence to "alliance dharma", Nandgaonkar asked party workers to extend full cooperation to candidates of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP), including during the filing of nomination papers.

"Raj Thackeray has conveyed a clear message to the organisation to support every candidate of the alliance. All workers must participate actively to retain power in Mumbai," he said.

On the distribution of party tickets, Nandgaonkar said AB forms were being issued from Rajgad, the MNS headquarters. He declined to specify the number of seats the party would contest, saying clarity would emerge once the nomination process is completed.

Acknowledging the possibility of dissatisfaction among workers due to seat-sharing, he said such situations arise in every alliance. However, he appealed to party members to remain united, stating that the alliance led by Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray would continue to fight future political battles together.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : The Sharad Pawar-led NCP on Monday received a major blow after the party's Mumbai unit chief, Rakhi Jadhav, quit the party and joined the BJP. Her move has stunned the Sharad Pawar camp, as she herself was one of the key contestants for the BMC elections and was leading the party for the same.

Mumbai, Dec 29 (IANS) The Sharad Pawar-led NCP on Monday received a major blow after the partyas Mumbai unit chief, Rakhi Jadhav, quit the party and joined the BJP. Her move has stunned the Sharad Pawar camp, as she herself was one of the key contestants for the BMC elections and was leading the party for the same.

Jadhav joined the BJP in the presence of Mumbai BJP chief Amit Satam, the BJP in charge of BMC elections, and Information Technology Minister Ashish Shelar, Ghatkopar East legislator Parag Shah, among others.

Incidentally, former minister and prominent BJP leader Prakash Mehta, who had represented the Ghatkopar East constituency earlier, was conspicuous by his absence when Jadhav joined the BJP.

Jadhav is expected to get the BJP nomination from the N ward, from where she was elected earlier, and will be nominated this time, too. She chose to desert NCP(SP) and enter the BJP on the second last day of filing of nominations. The last date is December 30, while the polling is scheduled for January 15 and counting on January. 16.

Jadhav was reportedly unhappy with the seat-sharing arrangement within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance. She had expressed frustration over the NCP (SP) having to concede several wards in Mumbai to the Shiv Sena (UBT).

Jadhav is a prominent figure in Mumbai politics, having served as a three-time corporator from Ghatkopar and the leader of the NCP in the BMC house. She also contested the 2024 Assembly elections against Parag Shah in Ghatkopar East. Jadhav's exit follows other recent departures from the NCP (SP), including former Pune city chief Prashant Jagtap, who recently joined the Congress.

Jadhav's decision comes when NCP(SP) has yet to arrive at a seat-sharing arrangement with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). The veteran NCP(SP) legislator Jayant Patil held talks last week with the Shiv Sena(UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for an alliance, but they have yet to reach a consensus.

Earlier, the BJP released a first list of 66 candidates for the BMC elections, which includes a mix of Marathi-speaking as well as North Indians, and also veterans and youth. The party has nominated Tejaswini Ghosalkar, who recently quit the Shiv Sena (UBT) and joined the BJP; Neel Somaiya, son of former MP Kirit Somaiya; Navnath Ban, a state party media coordinator; and Ravi Raja, the former Leader of Opposition in the BMC who recently defected from the Congress to join the BJP.

Raja will contest from Ward No 185 in Dharavi, a move seen as a direct challenge to the Congress stronghold in that region. The list also includes Makarand Narvekar (Ward 226) and Harshita Narvekar (Ward 227) (both are family members of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar) and Tejinder Singh Tiwana (Ward 47).
Hyderabad, Dec 29 : Two female students from Telangana were killed in a road accident in the United States, as per information from their families here.

The students hailing from the Mahabubabad district of Telangana died when a car in which they were travelling plunged into a gorge in California.

The deceased have been identified as Pulakhandam Meghana Rani, 25, and Kadiyala Bhavana, 24.

They had gone to the US in 2023 to pursue a Masters in computers and were on a job hunt after completing their studies.

According to information from their families, the car met with an accident on Alabama Hills road at around 4 p.m. local time on Sunday while they were on a pleasure trip along with their friends. A group of eight friends had gone to California in two cars.

The car, in which Rani and Bhavana were travelling with two others, failed to navigate a curve, veered off the road and plunged into a valley. While Rani and Bhavana died on the spot, two others were injured.

Rani was from Garla village, while Bhavana was from Mulkanoor village in Mahabubabad. Ranias father, Nageshwara Rao, runs a Mee-Seva centre at Garla, while Bhavanaas father is the deputy sarpanch of Mulkanoor village.

The news of the deaths came as a huge shock to their families. The family members said they were waiting for them to settle down.

Both students had completed an MS from the University of Dayton, Ohio.

The families have urged the Centre, and also the state government, to help in bringing the mortal remains for the last rites.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for the repatriation of Meghana's remains, as her family is struggling to cover the expenses.

Meghana, fondly known as Chikki, had moved to the US with dreams and a heart full of love. To those who knew her, she was a kind, vibrant soul who always put others first, it said.

"Her sudden departure has left a void in our lives that can never be filled. She was an Indian national, unmarried, and belonged to a lower middle-class family from Garla village, Telangana, India," the page reads.

"Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us give my sister a dignified farewell and will mean more to us than words can express," it adds.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 : The Bengaluru Police Department on Monday issued detailed guidelines for New Year celebrations in the city, with special focus on the safety of women and young adults.

Addressing a press conference here, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh said the city police had put in place comprehensive security arrangements as Bengaluru prepares to welcome the New Year.

He said security measures have already been initiated in Central Business District (CBD) areas, including MG Road, Koramangala, Indiranagar, Electronic City and other mall zones, which are expected to witness heavy footfall during New Year's Eve celebrations.

The Police Commissioner stressed that public peace should not be disturbed under any circumstances and warned that strict legal action would be initiated against those attempting to create law and order problems. He said hotels, pubs, clubs and resorts would be allowed to operate only within prescribed time limits on New Year's Day. Permission for DJ music and the use of loudspeakers has been granted with specific time restrictions.

Singh further said traffic movement on MG Road would be restricted from 10 pm on December 31.

Warning against nuisance in an inebriated state, he said strict action would be taken against offenders and pubs could be closed if verbal duels or altercations are reported. AI-enabled cameras will be deployed at key locations to prevent untoward incidents, he added.

The Police Commissioner said that arrangements have been made to ensure safe travel for people after midnight. Additional BMTC bus services will operate across the city, and discussions have been held with operators of tempo travellers to address the expected shortage of cabs and auto-rickshaws during late hours.

He said sufficient buses would be deployed from locations witnessing large gatherings, noting that such an arrangement was being implemented for the first time.

He said around 20,000 personnel will be deployed on New Year's Day.

The deployment will include four police control rooms, 78 watch towers, 164 women help desks, 46 "umbrellas" or visual safe zones equipped to handle weather contingencies, 55 ambulances, 37 fire tenders, 10,122 civil police personnel, 2,436 traffic police personnel, 88 Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) platoons comprising 1,936 personnel, 21 platoons of City Armed Reserve (CAR) with 168 personnel, 3,341 home guards, 916 civil defence personnel, 400 traffic wardens, four C-SWAT teams, three Quick Response Teams, two water jets, 246 Hoysala patrolling vehicles and 249 Cobra patrolling teams.

Singh said traffic diversions would be in place from 9 pm onwards on MG Road and Queens Road, with commuters required to use alternate routes through the Halasuru area. He also said that vehicular entry on 50 flyovers would not be permitted after 10 pm on December 31.

He added that watch towers would be deployed at strategic locations for enhanced surveillance and women help desks would assist citizens and facilitate reporting of grievances.

Metro timings have been optimised to manage crowd flow and reduce congestion. He warned that nuisance at pubs would be dealt with immediately and operations could be halted at the concerned premises if required.

The Police Commissioner advised the public to use designated transit points if intoxicated and urged cooperation with security personnel during checks and inspections. He said exclusive meetings have been held with security personnel and bouncers to ensure smooth coordination.

Meanwhile, popular tourist destinations around Bengaluru, including Nandi Hills, will remain closed from December 31 till January 1. Tourist spots in the hilly Chikkamagaluru district have also been shut, with restrictions in force from 6 pm on December 31 till the morning of January 1.
Coimbatore, Dec 29 : Sadhguru, founder of the Isha Foundation, has described the Siliguri Corridor as a "78-year-old anomaly" created by India's Partition, saying it should have been corrected decades ago and that the time has now come to "nourish the chicken" and "allow it to evolve into an elephant".

He made the remarks while responding to an audience question on comments made by Bangladesh's interim government regarding the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the 'Chicken's Neck', during a satsang at Sadhguru Sannidhi in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Sharing a video of the interaction on X, Sadhguru said, "Siliguri Corridor is a 78-year-old anomaly created by Bharat's Partition, which should have been corrected in 1971. Now that there is an open threat to the nation's sovereignty, it is time to nourish the chicken and allow it to evolve into an elephant."

During the interaction, Sadhguru pointed to what he called missed opportunities in the aftermath of the 1971 Liberation War, stating that the issue should have been addressed at a time when India had the authority to do so.

"Maybe in 1946-47 we didn't have the authority to do that, but in '1972 we had the authority, we did not do that. Now, this Chicken's Neck, that people have started talking about, it's time we nourish this chickena so that it evolves quickly into an elephant," he said.

Calling for firm steps to strengthen India's territorial integrity, Sadhguru stressed that fragility cannot be the basis on which a nation is sustained.

"So nations cannot be made just by being chicken. It has to grow into an elephant. Maybe it needs nourishment. Maybe it needs some steroids. Whatever is needed, we must doa anything that we try to do has costs, has a price to pay always," he said.

Placing the issue in a wider global and civilisational perspective, Sadhguru observed that while a world without borders may be an ideal aspiration, it cannot be forced prematurely in the present circumstances.

"It would have been wonderful if there were no nations in the world, no borders in the worlda but we are still in that level of existence. Suddenly, we cannot imagine tomorrow we're going to embrace everybody and live wonderfully. That is a foolhardy thinking right now," he said.

Referring again to the Siliguri Corridor, Sadhguru concluded, "Anyway, this anomaly happened only 78 years ago. Some correction is needed. Correction must happen. I think we need to feed the chicken well and make it into an elephant. An elephant's neck would be easy to handle."

Sadhguru has, on several occasions in the past, spoken publicly about developments in Bangladesh, particularly voicing concern over repeated incidents of violence against Hindu minorities and the destruction of temples.

He has also questioned what he sees as prolonged silence over attacks on Hindus, damage to places of worship and demographic pressures forcing minorities to flee, arguing that such issues cannot be dismissed as internal matters when they arise from unresolved civilisational and geopolitical fault lines created during Partition.
Kabul, Dec 29 : Vegetable market in Afghanistan's Nangarhar remains unaffected even after Torkham crossing with Pakistan remaining shut for nearly three months, local media reported on Monday. Officials stated that there has been no major change in vegetable prices in the province and Nangarhar has become self-reliant in this sector.

"The closure of the Torkham crossing has had no impact on fruits and vegetables. Even if the road remains closed, there will be no problem. We are now self-sufficient in this area. Nangarhar has produced such a surplus of fruits and vegetables that we are now sending them to many other parts of the country. We had even loaded onions for export to Pakistan, but when the road closed, we redirected them to local markets," Afghan media outlet Tolo News quoted deputy head of the Nangarhar Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Union Stanagul Sherzad as saying.

Vegetable production in Nangarhar has increased and the vegetables are now distributed across other provinces of Afghanistan instead of exporting them to Pakistan. However, traders have demanded development of cold storage facilities to better protect their vegetables.

A trader in Nangarhar, Jamrud, said, "Previously, we relied on Pakistan, but now with the crossing closed, we are sending Nangarhar-grown vegetables to other provinces. We ask the government to help facilitate vegetable exports to other countries."

Mohammad Musa, another trader, said that their onions spoiled after the closure of Torkham crossing, however, they redirected them to other provinces. He urged the government to construct cold storage facilities so that they no longer rely on Pakistan.

Officials from Nangarharas Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock said that several cold storage units have already been build in cooperation with the private sector. They added that construction of more cold storage facilities will soon start on 1,000 acres of land under the orders issued by Taliban administration.

On December 4, the Taliban regime in Afghanistan said that the trade routes with Pakistan will reopen only after strong assurances are received from the government in Islamabad.

In a statement shared on X, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid accused Pakistan of "illegally blocking" trade and transit routes with Afghanistan as a means of political and economic pressure which led to people from both nations facing losses.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan once again reiterates its position regarding the opening of trade routes with Pakistan. As the trade and transit routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan had been illegally blocked by Pakistan as a means of political and economic pressure, which brought serious losses to the people of both sides," Mujahid posted on X.

"Since Afghanistan meets its needs from numerous other countries, the Islamic Emirate has decided that, in order to expand trade and transit, and also for the welfare and honorable trade between the two sides, trade routes with Pakistan will reopen when strong assurances are obtained from the Pakistani government; so that in the future these routes are not closed due to political pressure, illegal use, or pressure on the people, and the rights of traders and people of both countries are protected," he added.

Earlier in October, Pakistan shut all trade routes with Afghanistan after Pakistani forces conducted attacks near the Durand Line. In response to Pakistan's attacks, Afghan forces also carried out attacks. After the closure of trade route, Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund urged industrialists and traders to use alternative trade routes instead of Pakistan.
Kolkata, Dec 29 : Kolkata and several parts of West Bengal on Monday woke up to a blanket of fog, with temperatures dropping further and cold conditions intensifying towards the end of the year.

The minimum temperature in Kolkata settled at 13.5 degrees Celsius, 0.3 degrees below normal. On Sunday, the minimum temperature had stood at 14 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature also failed to rise beyond 21.4 degrees Celsius, around four degrees below normal, adding to the chill. Frequent temperature fluctuations, coupled with high levels of air pollution, are posing health risks, particularly for elderly people and children.

Speaking to IANS, environmentalist Somendra Mohan Ghosh said rapid variations in temperature along with dense smog have led to a spike in air pollution, adversely impacting public health.

"Kolkata is experiencing hazardous to severe air quality levels. With a thick layer of smog blanketing the city, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) is hovering between 335 and 350, which falls under the 'hazardous' or 'severe' category. The primary pollutants are PM2.5 and PM10, with levels more than nine times higher than World Health Organisation guidelines," Ghosh said.

He added that the combination of fog and pollution is creating a dense, smoky haze across the city. "Severe AQI levels have been reported from most areas, including Ballygunge, Bidhannagar, Jadavpur and the US Consulate area," he said.

In view of the prevailing conditions, Ghosh advised people to use masks, scarves and caps while stepping out, especially during morning hours. He also cautioned elderly people and children with respiratory ailments to remain indoors.

"Given the hazardous conditions, it is highly recommended to stay indoors and minimise exposure to polluted air. Masks should be worn if one must go outside. Early morning outdoor workouts or exercises should be avoided," he said.

He further noted that sensitive groups, including children, the elderly and those with respiratory problems, need to exercise extra caution. "Low wind speeds and misty conditions are trapping pollutants near the surface, worsening air quality," Ghosh added.

Elsewhere in the state, Bankura recorded a minimum temperature of 9.3 degrees Celsius on Monday, the lowest in south Bengal. Temperatures also dipped to 9.5 degrees in Asansol, 9.4 degrees in Burdwan, 10 degrees in Sriniketan and Berhampore, 10.8 degrees in Kalaikunda, 11.5 degrees in Midnapore, 11.2 degrees in Contai, 11.6 degrees in Panagarh, 11 degrees in Purulia, 11.8 degrees in Kalyani, 12.4 degrees in Barrackpore, 12 degrees in Digha, 12.6 degrees in Krishnanagar, 12.4 degrees in Uluberia, 13.8 degrees in Salt Lake and 13.5 degrees Celsius in Dum Dum.

In the northern hills, Darjeeling recorded a minimum temperature of 5.4 degrees Celsius, the lowest in the state. Alipurduar also reported a sharp drop, with the mercury touching 9 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, the weather department has issued a warning for light to moderate fog across West Bengal. Visibility is expected to reduce from 999 metres to around 200 metres in several areas. Dense fog is likely in Darjeeling, Cooch Behar and North Dinajpur districts on Monday and Tuesday, where visibility may drop to between 199 metres and 50 metres.
Photo: @zelenskyy.official Facebook

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has told reporters after a meeting with US President Donald Trump that the US security guarantees for Ukraine are indicated in the documents for 15 years with the possibility of extension.

"I told him (Trump - IF-U) that we are already at war and it has been going on for almost 15 years. Therefore, I would really like the guarantees to be longer. And I told him that we would really like to consider the possibility of 30-40-50 years. And this will then be a historic decision by President Trump. The President said that he would think about it," Zelenskyy said.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : Shares of Dixon Technologies continued to slide for the sixth consecutive session on Monday, falling another 4 per cent to Rs 11,821.

This marked the stockas lowest level since August 2024, as selling pressure remained strong.

At the closing bell, the shares were down by Rs 448 or 3.63 per cent to Rs 11,880 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

The stock has been in a sharp downtrend since late September and has lost around 35 per cent of its value from its peak of Rs 18,471.

The decline has largely been driven by concerns that the companyas earnings per share estimates for FY27 could be cut, which has weighed heavily on investor sentiment.

Although the stock showed brief signs of recovery in between, a bearish view from global brokerage firm Morgan Stanley further hurt sentiment.

Dixon Technologies has now emerged as one of the worst performers among Nifty 500 stocks this year, with year-to-date losses of about 33.5 per cent.

Last week, Morgan Stanley maintained its aUnderweighta rating on the stock and set a target price of Rs 11,563 per share.

The brokerage flagged uncertainty around growth prospects following the extension of IT hardware import norms, which it believes could limit opportunities for domestic manufacturers.

Morgan Stanley also pointed out that Dixon has maintained its cumulative IT hardware revenue guidance of Rs 48,000 crore up to FY31 over the past two years, while the brokerageas own estimate stands at Rs 43,000 crore.

It said achieving the companyas guidance may prove difficult in the coming years. The brokerage expects IT hardware to contribute around 7 per cent of Dixonas revenue by FY30 and warned that favourable import policies pose a downside risk even to this estimate.

In terms of share price performance, Dixon Technologies is on track to record its first annual decline in two years, with a fall of about 34 per cent so far in 2025.

This is a sharp reversal from the strong 173 per cent rally seen in 2024. While the near-term outlook remains weak, the stockas long-term performance continues to be strong, with gains of around 204 per cent over the past three years and about 340 per cent over the last five years.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday that with the offering of 50 new blocks to investors for exploration and production of oil and gas, India's energy sector has reached "a transformative milestone".

The minister further stated that while 25 of these blocks are being offered under the 10th round of the oil exploration and licensing policy (OALP-X), another 55 fields across 9 contract blocks are being offered under the fourth bidding round for discovered small fields (DSF-IV).

Besides, 16 blocks are being put on offer as part of Special CBM Bid Rounds 2025 and 2026. While 3 blocks are in the 2025 category, the other 13 blocks are for 2026.

"The quest to unlock the potential of India's sedimentary basins has gained a new thrust and momentum," the minister remarked in a post on X.

Puri said that India has now introduced a unified regulatory framework enabled by the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Act, 2025, which delinks petroleum operations from mining, and the PNG Rules 2025. The revenue-sharing contract model has been adopted to facilitate the ease of doing business.

He said that to make things easier for investors, a single license has been introduced for conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons. Exploration is allowed throughout the contract duration, while reduced royalty rates have been rolled out as an incentive. The norms also build in stabilisation for changes in law.

The 25 E &P blocks on offer span around 183,000 sq km, and are located onland, in shallow water and deepwater, while two blocks are in ultra-deepwater areas.

The order to make the E&P blocks attractive for investors, rights are retained throughout the contract duration, and the revenue share is fixed at LRP for the initial 5-7 years in Cat-I basins, and there is no revenue sharing in Cat-II/III until windfall gains. Besides, the terms provide for a graded reduced royalty for offshore. Exploration and swapping of the work programme is also allowed.

The bid Round-IV for discovered small fields (DSF) is also open, featuring 9 contract areas with 55 discoveries. The incentives provided under the scheme include a reduced royalty, which is 0 per cent for the first 7 years in the deepwater areas.

The freedom to market the oil and gas will be given to companies through the "arms-length sales principle". There is also a provision for extensions in work programs on a payment basis, making it easier to do business for the investors. Besides, there is a provision for swapping the minimum work programme across discoveries, and prior experience in oil and gas is not mandatory for investors.

Apart from these, the special coal bed methane (CBM) Bid Round-2025 is live, offering 3 onland blocks which include two in Raniganj Coalfield in West Bengal and one block in Gujaratas Cambay Basin, Puri said.

The government is "incentivising expedited production to fuel India's economic growth and self-reliance", the minister added.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 : Responding to the controversy surrounding the removal of unauthorised constructions in the Kogilu locality near Yelahanka in Bengaluru, the Karnataka BJP has chided the Congress-led government, questioning whether the state is being governed by Kannadigas or Keralites.

Meanwhile, a delegation from the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), along with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, is visiting the site.

The issue came into focus after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan alleged that the Karnataka government was adopting a 'bulldozer model', similar to Uttar Pradesh, to evict Muslims in parts of Bengaluru.

BJP State General Secretary and MLA V. Sunil Kumar said on Monday that, "While the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar are drowned and distracted in the confusion over the transfer of power, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan dictates how administration should be run in our state. Watching this, Congress National General Secretary, 'the Malayali' K.C. Venugopal, expresses sympathy."

Following this, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expresses regret over the clearance of an illegal layout formed by illegal migrants near Kogilu Cross and assures that alternative arrangements will be provided. This is nothing but an obsession with power and a desperation to secure minority votes in the Kerala elections, Sunil Kumar stated.

"Earlier, the Karnataka Congress-led government had given Rs 30 lakh compensation to those killed in elephant attacks in Kerala's Wayanad. Now, citing the Kerala elections, the government has dragged the very dignity of Karnataka onto the streets," Sunil Kumar slammed.

"Even if Karnataka's rock-solid government is flattened and rolled under the bulldozer of the Kerala Communist government, the Congress's so-called 'brave Kannadigas' silently tolerate it. One can only saybravo to them," he mocked.

Meanwhile, the delegation headed by State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) Chairman Sham Bhat and retired judges is visiting the spot for inspection and to address the grievances of the people. T. Narasimhamurthy, a human rights activist, had filed a complaint in this regard.

Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar, who, as Bengaluru Development Minister, defended the government action, is visiting the spot in the afternoon.

The residents have erected tents in the site and stated that they are not moving anywhere until a housing facility is provided to them.

Minister for Housing and Waqf Zameer Ahmad Khan, who visited the spot on December 28 (Sunday), had made an announcement that he will give good news to residents on Monday and assured them of housing facilities.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar are also holding a meeting regarding the issue.

Earlier, reacting strongly to Kerala CM Vijayan's remarks, Deputy CM Shivakumar asked the Kerala Chief Minister not to interfere in Karnataka's internal affairs and dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.

"Without knowing the facts, Mr Pinarayi should not interfere in our state's affairs. These are political gimmicks ahead of elections," Shivakumar said.

He said that those evicted who possess valid documents and are residents of Karnataka would be assisted. "Those who are eligible will certainly be rehabilitated," he said.

Explaining the government's action, Shivakumar said that huts had come up overnight at the site. "After discussions with local representatives and officials, an order was issued to vacate the land, and the area has now been cleared. We carried out the operation without troubling anyone," he claimed.

He said the encroachment had occurred at a quarry site notified nearly a decade ago for garbage dumping. "It is a dangerous area with serious health hazards, and illegal occupation cannot be allowed," he said.

"It's not a question of Muslims or anyone else. We know Bengaluru well and do not want the land mafia to create slums. We are protecting government land," he underlined.

After this, taking objection to the Congress-led Karnataka government's demolition drive against unauthorised constructions in Bengaluru, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Saturday raised serious concerns, stating that such actions should have been undertaken with greater caution and sensitivity.

AICC General Secretary and Congress Lok Sabha member, K.C. Venugopal, made the remarks after speaking to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Shivakumar.

Taking to social media platform X, Venugopal said: "I spoke to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar regarding the demolition of unauthorised constructions in Kogilu village, Bengaluru. I conveyed the AICC's serious concern that such actions should have been undertaken with far greater caution, sensitivity and compassion, keeping the human impact at the centre."
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Year 2025 was marked by several global disasters as cyclones, floods, wildfires and plane crashes shook the world. From wildfires in the US to earthquakes in Asia, a number of disasters impacted millions across the world. in 2025.

The year began with one of California's most destructive wildfire incidents. Thousands of people were evacuated after wildfires in California devastated large portions of Los Angeles. The Palisades Fire near the Topanga Canyon on January 7 turned everything into ash, including several lifelong hopes and dreams. The blaze spread rapidly into surrounding communities, burning more than 14,000 acres and destroying thousands of homes and other structures, forcing people to evacuate. As many as 19 people died while nine firefighters were injured due to wildfires in California, according to the official statement released by California Fire. A total of 1,074 structures were damaged, 9,414 structures destroyed due to wildfires in California.

Also in January, three people died and nearly 1000 others were impacted due to severe weather conditions caused by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi in Madagascar's Sava region. According to the report from the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management, Cyclone Dikeledi made landfall in Madagascar's Vohemar district.

In February, Botswana experienced severe flooding due to torrential rains. As many as nine people were killed while over 5,000 people, including children, were displaced due to torrential rains and severe flooding in the nation.

Over 2000 people died after a powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.7 struck near Myanmar's Mandalay on March 28, resulting in intense shaking that devastated the region and was felt as far away as Bangkok. As many as 52,000 homes were damaged or destroyed due to the earthquake, forcing families into unsafe and overcrowded shelters. More than 2,600 schools were damaged in Myanmar, disrupting learning for thousands of children who were already struggling with conflict-related displacement. A total of 789 hospitals were damaged, limiting people's access to critical healthcare services, according to the statement released by United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Acting as the first responder, India launched Operation Brahma to assist people in Myanmar affected by the earthquake. The Indian Army deployed a specialised medical task force to provide urgent humanitarian assistance. India also sent relief material to Myanmar, including tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators and essential medicines.

Heavy monsoon rains, which began in June, triggered flash floods across Pakistan. These heavy rains raised the water levels of Pakistanas major rivers, including the Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Jhelum and Chenab, making them breach their banks, leading to Pakistan's Punjab province experiencing its worst flooding in 40 years. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, rains and floods in Pakistan have claimed the lives of over 1,000 people this year, including 275 children. Pakistanas National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has confirmed that more than 229,700 houses, 790 bridges and 2,811 kilometres of roads were destroyed or damaged due to the floods in the country. Furthermore, an estimated 2.2 million hectares of crop land were destroyed while more than 22,800 heads of livestock were killed due to floods.

A Bangladesh Air Force's fighter jet crashed into the Milestone School and College building in Dhaka's Uttara shortly after it took off on July 21. Over 30 people, mostly children, were killed and several others injured in the tragic accident in the South Asian nation which experienced severe turmoil in 2025 under the interim government headed by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus.

Two deadly earthquakes occurred in two different parts of Afghanistan in August, claiming the lives of more than 2000 people. An earthquake of magnitude 6.0 struck Afghanistan's Kunar province while the second earthquake of magnitude 6.2 jolted Balkh province. Following a series of earthquakes that struck Afghanistan, India sent urgent humanitarian assistance to support relief efforts in the region. By September 1, India had already dispatched relief material to Afghanistan, with 1000 family tents sent to Kabul and 15 tonnes of food materials moved to Kunar from Kabul by the Indian Mission in Kabul.

Late November, Cyclone Ditwah unleashed days of relentless floods and landslides in Sri Lanka, the impact of which would last for several months to come. As of December 12, Sri Lanka's Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reported that 639 people have died while over 200 people remained missing in the island nation due to severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Thousands of houses were damaged and lakhs displaced following the cyclone.

In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which caused severe flooding, loss of life and widespread disruption across Sri Lanka, India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu on November 28 to provide urgent search, rescue and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support to the island nation. The Indian Government sent relief materials to Sri Lanka, which included tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, ready-to-eat food items, medicines and surgical equipment and two BHISHM cubes.
United Nations, Dec 29 : As the Security Council wallowed in veto-induced inertia in 2025, the UN's peace-making initiatives moved away towards the White House, which brokered an end to the seemingly intractable Gaza conflict and put others like that between Thailand and Cambodia in check.

Yet also, in a symbol of the UN's enduring global influence, US President Donald Trump, who had constantly denigrated the UN, had to get the Council's stamp of approval for potential partners to sign on to the Gaza peace deal.

Trump was able to end the Gaza War, douse the simmering Armenia-Azerbaijan, and Democratic Republic of Congo-Rwanda conflicts, and restrain the Thailand-Cambodia clashes by unilaterally using Washington's economic might.

That shows the weakness of the UN, where the standoffs between the veto-wielding West on one side and Russia and China prevent the Council from using the powerful tools given it by the UN Charter to enforce peace.

The UN has been powerless to end the Ukraine War, the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II, where a permanent member of the Council is the aggressor.

But neither has Trump who lacks the same level of clout with Russia as he has with others.

Elsewhere, hotspots burn with varying intensities.

In the deadliest hotspot in the world where genocide is real, civil war and chaos rage in Sudan and, so far, neither the UN nor the US have been able to end the conflagration.

The US itself is locked in a crisis with Venezuela, entrapping it in a blockade and seizing ships connected to it, while sinking boats accused of transporting drugs.

In the Indo-Pacific, China is intimidating its neighbours.

Against this scenario what UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "fears is this continuing fragmentation of the world, the continuing disregard for the Charter which too many member states are using as an a la carte menu, and this continuing disregard for international law.", his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said, conveying his disappointments this year.

The fragmentation of the world Guterres fears was stark not only in the Council, but also in the trade wars, the fraying of bonds and the search for new groupings.

Trump also looms darkly over the UN's other crisis, the financial crunch.

Till late this month, the Trump administration hadn't paid up the mandated US contribution to the UN budgets -- $820 million or 22 per cent of the budget for running the organisation, and for peacekeeping operations, $1.2 billion or about 26 per cent of the total  which Congress has approved.

Guterres has warned that the UN's finances are "fragile".

Forced into a financial crisis, the UN has been reducing the number of employees, moving operations to low-cost areas, scaling back security, dropping simultaneous translation, and, even, looking for small ways that could amount to a lot to cut expenses. (One of them was removing paper towels from bathrooms at the headquarters that it estimated could save $100,000 every year)

While at least this year's US funds may eventually flow because of Congress approval, Trump has proposed cutting next year's contribution to the UN's regular budget by $610 million, which could put the world body's finances in a tailspin.

Preparing for this, Guterres' budget proposal for 2026 slashes $577 million from this year's level -- a 15 per cent reduction  and the elimination of about 12,700 posts, or about 18 per cent of the current level.

The General Assembly launched the UN80 programme  named for the 80th anniversary of the organisation's founding this year  to streamline the UN and to make it more efficient an effective.

Terrorism is another area of weakness for the UN, continuing the trend of decades into this year.

When Pakistan-based terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam killing 26 in a religiously targetted massacre, all that the Council could do was issue a press statement condemning it.

Sanctioning The Resistance Front, an outgrowth of the Islamabad-sponsored Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, which claimed the attack, has not happened so far.

Neither has the UN made progress on a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism proposed by India because of bickering over defining terrorists and terrorism.

For the 16th year, Security Council reforms are also in the grip of inertia wrought by the procedural machinations of a small group to prevent even the adoption of a text to conduct negotiations.

Yet, the UN also has its successes in some areas against all odds.

Looking back at the year, Dujarric said, "The Secretary-General is extremely proud to have constantly, day in and day out, defended the ideals of this organisation, defended the Charter, defended international law, defended multilateralism, which is his job".

"He has, I think, squeezed every penny, every ounce of effort out of this organization to try to keep people alive on the humanitarian front, to try to make sure that people don't forget about development and to work on peace and security with determination", Dujarric said.

Peacekeeping, in which over 5,000 Indian personnel are among the about 60,000 serving in 20 missions, have worked against odds to keep the peace even when they are under attack.

The humanitarian arms of the UN provided aid to the victims of natural and man-made disasters, even when they are under attack and face a diminution of resources.
Kolkata, Dec 29 : The Election Commission of India (ECI), on Monday, had made it clear that the booth-level agents (BLAs) of any political party would be allowed to be present at the hearings on claims and objections regarding the draft voters' lists in West Bengal that started from late last week.

The order from the Commission had come amid a development earlier in the day where Trinamool Congress legislator Asit Mazumder forcefully stopped the hearing process at a centre in Hooghly district, demanding that his party BLAs should be allowed to be present at the hearing sessions.

Sources from the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Kumar Agarwal said that the Commission had made it clear that electoral registration officers (EROs) would be liable in case any BLA of a political party is present at the hearing session.

The Commission had also made the district magistrates, as well as the district electoral officers (DEOs), liable in case of any future incident of forcefully stopping the hearing process, as was done by Mazumder earlier on Monday in the Hooghly district.

The Commission had instructed the DEOs to personally reach the hearing venue in the future in case any such forceful stopping of the session is reported, as it happened earlier in the day.

On Sunday, Trinamool Congress General Secretary and Lok Sabha MP, Abhishek Banerjee, at a virtual meeting with his party leaders, workers, and BLAs, issued instructions for the mandatory presence of party BLAs at the hearing sessions.

He even said that the Trinamool Congress would take the legal route if the BLAs were not allowed to be present at the hearing session.

On Monday after stopping the hearing session in Hooghly district, Mazumder claimed that he had been following the instructions given by the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the party's General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

A CEO's office insider said that since this is the first case of forceful stopping of the hearing session, the Commission had issued a fresh reminder on no-entry for BLAs at the hearing sessions, which was notified before their beginning.

"In the future, if the same thing happens, the Commission might use its authority to impose stronger security measures for the hearing venues," a CEO's office source said.
Quetta, Dec 29 : At least 15 Pakistani soldiers have been killed in a series of coordinated attacks across Balochistan over the past few weeks as three Baloch armed groups - the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) and Baloch Republican Guards (BRG) - have claimed responsibility for strikes in several regions across the province, including Kech, Panjgur, Turbat, Surab and Naseerabad, local media reported on Monday.

Quetta, Dec 29 (IANS) At least 15 Pakistani soldiers have been killed in a series of coordinated attacks across Balochistan over the past few weeks as three Baloch armed groups  the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) and Baloch Republican Guards (BRG)  have claimed responsibility for strikes in several regions across the province, including Kech, Panjgur, Turbat, Surab and Naseerabad, local media reported on Monday.

In a statement, BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch said that the BLF fighters attacked a Pakistani Army post in the Tejaban area of Kech district on December 23, using automatic weapons and grenade-launcher rounds, killing two soldiers and destroying surveillance cameras inside the post.

The BLA said in a second attack on December 25, it targetted a military vehicle with a remote-controlled explosive device on the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) route in the Katgari area of Panjgur district, claiming the blast killed six Pakistani personnel and injured four others.

The spokesperson added that the group carried out another attack on Sunday by planting explosives, which destroyed a communication tower used by Pakistani forces in the Dank area of Turbat and damaged "active spy cameras" installed on the structure, The Balochistan Post reported.

Meanwhile, the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) said that it launched a roadblock operation on the RCD Highway at Bathgu Cross in Balochistan's Surab district on December 27.

According to the BLF spokesperson Major Gwahram Baloch, the group intercepted vehicles at the checkpoint when four Pakistani security vehicles escorting trucks linked to the Saindak mining project arrived, adding that the fighters "simultaneously targeted" the escort vehicles, killing five personnel and injuring several others. He further stated that the vehicles belonging to both the security convoy and the Saindak project sustained "heavy damage".

Separately, the Baloch Republican Guards (BRG) claimed that fighters exchanged fire with a Pakistani forces' convoy between Notal and Bakhtiarabad in Naseerabad district in the province on Saturday night.

BRG spokesperson Dostain Baloch said the clashes lasted for nearly an hour, resulting in the deaths of two Pakistani personnel and injured several others before fighters "withdrew safely to their hideouts". The group affirmed to continue such attacks "until the freedom of Balochistan".
Amaravati, Dec 29 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and his predecessor Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy have expressed grief over the demise of eminent Islamic scholar Maulana Mufti Abdul Wahab.

The Chief Minister took to X to pay his tributes to Mufti Abdul Wahab, who passed away on Sunday.

"I am deeply shocked to learn that the renowned Islamic scholar, Mufti (Islamic jurist), and esteemed guide to society, Hazrat Maulana Mufti Abdul Wahab Saheb Qasimi Rashadi from Nellore, has departed from us. He dedicated over 60 years of his life to Islamic education, teaching the Quraan and Hadith, and serving Jamia Noor-ul-Huda Madrasa," he posted.

He noted that for 50 years, Mufti Abdul Wahab served as the President of the Andhra Pradesh State Tabligh-e-Jamaat, and from 2008 onward, as the honorary President of the Andhra Pradesh State Jamiat-ul-Ulama. "He attained mastery in Arabic literature, Fiqh, Hadith, and other Islamic sciences. A jurist of complete understanding in numerous Islamic educational fields, he devoted himself to religious and social services. I pray to the Almighty that his soul finds eternal peace," he added.

Law and Minorities Welfare Minister N.M.D. Farooq also condoled the passing away of the prominent Islamic scholar, recalling Mufti Abdul Wahab's distinguished services in the fields of Islamic religion and education, and his valuable teachings that contributed to the development of society. He stated that the death of Abdul Wahab, who trained many people across the state with discipline and moral values, is an irreparable loss to the Muslim community.

Expressing his condolences, he said that he prayed to Allah to grant him a high place in heaven and to give strength to his family members.

YSRCP President and former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed deep grief over the passing away of eminent Islamic scholar and spiritual leader.

In a condolence message, he said the death of Maulana Abdul Wahab is an irreparable loss to the Muslim community and the field of Islamic spiritual service. He noted that the Maulana had been unwell for some time and breathed his last on Sunday evening in Nellore.

Maulana Abdul Wahab was a highly respected Islamic scholar and jurist who dedicated more than six decades to Islamic education and the teaching of the Quran and Hadith. He served for many years at Jamia Noorul Huda Madrasa and played a key role in shaping thousands of students, Jagan Mohan Reddy said.

He also pointed out that the Maulana served as the state president of Tablighi Jamaat for nearly 50 years and later as the honorary president of the State Jamiat-ul-Ulama from 2008. Remembering him as the first Mufti of Nellore district, he said his services to Islam and education will always be remembered.

He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, followers, and students and prayed for strength for them to bear the loss.
Kabul/New Delhi, Dec 29 : India has delivered a consignment of six ambulances to Afghanistan, amid growing healthcare cooperation between the two countries, according to a media report.

The ambulances are equipped with advanced medical equipment and can aid in transporting emergency patients and provide emergency health services, Sharafat Zaman Amarkhel, the Taliban spokesman for the ministry, was quoted as saying by Afghan media outlet AMU TV.

Indiaas assistance can improve health services, especially emergency responses in Afghanistan, Amarkhel added.

The consignment is part of a commitment made during high-level talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi in October.

During the meeting, Jaishankar described the gift as a20 ambulances, a gesture of goodwill".

"India will also provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunisation and cancer medicines. We have also supplied drug rehabilitation materials through UNODC and are open to doing more," the foreign minister had said.

Earlier this month, Afghanistanas Minister of Public Health, Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, held a meeting with Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda in the national capital and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in the healthcare sector.

"The talks focused on boosting health cooperation, sharing expertise between medical professionals, building the capacity of Afghan health workers, and ensuring the supply of quality medicines to Afghanistan. Cancer treatment, medical visas for Afghan patients, and support for health facilities were also discussed," Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health posted on social media platform X.

Jalali thanked India for its recent support in the health sector and outlined additional needs to improve Afghanistanas healthcare system.

During the meeting, Nadda reaffirmed New Delhi's commitment to supporting the Afghan people, including through the supply of medicines and vaccines.

He confirmed that a CT scan machine, along with medicines and vaccines, would soon be sent to a childrenas hospital in Kabul.

Nadda added that India would work to ease access to medical treatment for Afghan patients and stood ready to extend further assistance.

The Health Minister noted that India has supplied 327 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan over the past four years. Proposals from the Afghan side for a radiotherapy machine and additional medical supplies are also being processed.
Patna, Dec 29 : Bihar Education Minister Sunil Kumar, on Monday, outlined the state government's roadmap for strengthening the education sector and highlighting major achievements under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership.

He informed that more than Rs 70,000 crore has been allocated to the education sector in the 2025-26 budget, calling it a historic milestone for the state.

Praising the Chief Minister, Sunil Kumar said that Nitish Kumar has always governed Bihar with a strong commitment to justice, development, and inclusive growth, and has consistently taken concrete steps to reform the education system.

"The government remains firmly committed to providing quality education in the coming years. Special focus will now be placed on research, innovation, and skill development to better prepare students for future challenges," Kumar said.

Education has been given a key place in the cabinet-approved 'Seven Resolves3' initiative.

Under this plan, a model school will be established in every block of the state.

In addition, efforts are underway to modernise degree colleges and older educational institutions to improve academic standards and infrastructure.

Addressing the issue of teacher shortages, Sunil Kumar said that Bihar once faced an acute lack of educators, but the situation has significantly improved.

At present, the number of teachers and headmasters has crossed 2.27 lakh, following large-scale recruitments.

He added that further appointments will be made under TRE-4.

The minister also highlighted welfare initiatives, stating that funds have been transferred directly into the accounts of 4,663 students under various scholarship schemes.

As a result of sustained efforts, the school dropout rate has come down to just 1 per cent.

Special attention is being given to the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, under which the honorarium of cooks has been increased.

The government is also making targeted efforts to promote girls' education across the state.

"After the recruitment of a large number of teachers, emphasis is now being laid on capacity building and training," Kumar said.

Regular workshops and training programs are being conducted to improve teaching quality.

Modern educational tools are being introduced, including smart classrooms, tablets for teachers, and bilingual textbooks.

He further stated that the government is ensuring the timely distribution of books and school kits.

So far, textbooks have been distributed to 1.19 crore students.

In the coming phase, special focus will also be placed on higher education, where academic session delays in some universities have now been largely resolved.

Commenting on examinations, Sunil Kumar stated, "Matriculation and intermediate results have been satisfactory. Strict action is taken against teachers or staff found negligent in their duties."

Concluding the press conference, Sunil Kumar said the government is firmly moving towards building a progressive and developed Bihar, and assured that all objectives under 'Seven Resolves-3' will be successfully achieved in the coming years.
The United States is in solidarity with Ukraine regarding the need for a diplomatic end to the Russian-Ukrainian war by increasing pressure on the Russian Federation and will not refuse to help Ukraine if this fails, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

"There is no alternative to peace. We believe with the Americans, we have the same position here: that the war must be ended diplomatically, put pressure on Russia, otherwise the war will continue. Of course, if the war continues, the Americans will continue to help Ukraine together with the Europeans, because we are defending ourselves in this war, we are fighting, we are not aggressors," Zelenskyy said, answering questions from journalists on Monday after talks with US President Donald Trump on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA).
Kabul/New Delhi, Dec 29 : India has delivered a consignment of six ambulances to Afghanistan, amid growing healthcare cooperation between the two countries, according to a media report.

The ambulances are equipped with advanced medical equipment and can aid in transporting emergency patients and provide emergency health services, Sharafat Zaman Amarkhel, the Taliban spokesman for the Health ministry, was quoted as saying by Afghan media outlet AMU TV.

Indiaas assistance can improve health services, especially emergency responses in Afghanistan, Amarkhel added.

The consignment is part of a commitment made during high-level talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi in October.

During the meeting, Jaishankar described the gift as a20 ambulances, a gesture of goodwill".

"India will also provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunisation and cancer medicines. We have also supplied drug rehabilitation materials through UNODC and are open to doing more," the foreign minister had said.

Earlier this month, Afghanistanas Minister of Public Health, Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, held a meeting with Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda in the national capital and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in the healthcare sector.

"The talks focused on boosting health cooperation, sharing expertise between medical professionals, building the capacity of Afghan health workers, and ensuring the supply of quality medicines to Afghanistan. Cancer treatment, medical visas for Afghan patients, and support for health facilities were also discussed," Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health posted on social media platform X.

Jalali thanked India for its recent support in the health sector and outlined additional needs to improve Afghanistanas healthcare system.

During the meeting, Nadda reaffirmed New Delhi's commitment to supporting the Afghan people, including through the supply of medicines and vaccines.

He confirmed that a CT scan machine, along with medicines and vaccines, would soon be sent to a childrenas hospital in Kabul.

Nadda added that India would work to ease access to medical treatment for Afghan patients and stood ready to extend further assistance.

The Health Minister noted that India has supplied 327 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan over the past four years. Proposals from the Afghan side for a radiotherapy machine and additional medical supplies are also being processed.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 : The unauthorised construction row in Bengaluru took a new turn on Monday, with the Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claiming that it has information suggesting that the displaced residents are Rohingyas and opposing the state government's move to allot houses to them under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP state headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan, in Bengaluru, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy claimed that information available with the party indicated that those who lost their homes in the recent demolition drive were Rohingyas. He demanded that the matter be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

He reiterated that the BJP has information indicating that all those whose houses were demolished are Rohingyas and said that houses should not be allotted to them under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme.

Narayanaswamy warned that if houses were illegally provided to those who lost huts and residential structures in the Kogilu locality of Bengaluru, the government would be compelled to provide houses to all similarly displaced people across the state.

He questioned the plan to provide houses to what he described as Bangladeshi nationals and asked what would happen to local residents who had lost their homes. "Who are these people? Verify their identities," he demanded.

Mocking the government, Narayanaswamy remarked that after a tweet by AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, "even your (ruling Congress leaders') clothes have become wet."

He further alleged that around 200 huts near Hebbal Bridge were being used for ganja and drug trafficking and criticised the government for failing to act despite being informed. He claimed that those residing there possess voter ID cards and ration cards, and accused the Congress of creating slums purely for appeasement and vote-bank politics.

He also questioned the authority of AICC General Secretary and Congress MP K.C. Venugopal and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to interfere in the issue.

Referring to the demolition of residences built on government land at Kogilu Layout in Bengaluru, Narayanaswamy said the government had used bulldozers to clear encroachments. He pointed out that while the Kerala Chief Minister had spoken about a "bulldozer culture", Karnataka Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who had granted permission for the demolition, were now silent.

"What business does the Kerala Chief Minister have here? The people of Kerala know what kind of politics is being played there," he said, describing the Karnataka government as extremely weak.

Narayanaswamy warned that even if the government chose to act under the influence of K.C. Venugopal or Pinarayi Vijayan, it should not force the people of Karnataka to bow before outsiders. Questioning Venugopal's authority, he asked who he was to interfere in Karnataka's administration.

Referring to Minister for Housing and Waqf Zameer Ahmad's visit to the area and his reported statement, "Kal shaam tak aapko meethi khabar mil jaayegi" (by tomorrow evening, you will get good news), Narayanaswamy asked whether this did not point to a systematic conspiracy by the government.

Calling the administration a "scrap government", he questioned why one Wasim, who he alleged had accepted money from residents, had not been arrested, and termed the state administration a "government of servitude".

Meanwhile, taking objection to the Congress-led Karnataka government's demolition drive against unauthorised constructions in Bengaluru, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Saturday raised concerns, saying such actions should have been undertaken with greater caution and sensitivity.

AICC General Secretary and Congress Lok Sabha member K.C. Venugopal made the remarks after speaking to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

In a post on social media platform X, Venugopal said: "I spoke to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar regarding the demolition of unauthorised constructions in Kogilu village, Bengaluru. I conveyed the AICC's serious concern that such actions should have been undertaken with far greater caution, sensitivity and compassion, keeping the human impact at the centre."

The controversy escalated further after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan alleged that the Karnataka government was adopting a "bulldozer model", similar to Uttar Pradesh, to evict Muslims in parts of Bengaluru.

Reacting strongly, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asked the Kerala Chief Minister not to interfere in Karnataka's internal affairs and dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.

"Without knowing the facts, Mr Pinarayi should not interfere in our state's affairs. These are political gimmicks ahead of elections," Shivakumar said.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to visit the Kogilu locality later on Monday.
Islamabad, Dec 29 : The case of Sidrah Nosheen, the 34-year-old woman who has been sentenced to 21 years in prison in the United Kingdom for being a part of a gang that smuggled heroin from Pakistan, showcases how transboundary drug trafficking has evolved into a systemic threat, flourishing on gaps in immigration controls, allowing networks to function with a certain level of impunity.

Nosheen was part of an Organised Crime Group (OCG) that smuggled heroin from Pakistan to the UK sold it around the country. She played an important part in the OCG.

"Transboundary drug trafficking has evolved into a systemic threat, thriving on gaps in enforcement and porous immigration controls, letting networks operate with a certain level of impunity. It is an international enterprise, exploiting weaknesses on both ends of the supply chain while societies bear the human and reputational cost. Pakistan finds itself repeatedly implicated, not because its citizens are inherently culpable, but because local facilitators continue to operate unchecked, allowing global networks to flourish," reported The Express Tribune.

The Pakistani daily stated that the case of Nosheen in Bradford Crown Court lays bare the scale and sophistication of these networks.

"Her operation, involving A8.5 million worth of heroin, relied on Pakistani contacts to coordinate shipments while exploiting gaps in British oversight. Drugs were concealed in clothing, household items, and even tools, a chilling reminder that the trade adapts to ordinary life, using procedural blind spots to avoid detection. She is now sentenced to 21 years in prison. The problem is not only overseas. Pakistan's own enforcement apparatus, though active in seizures and arrests, remains reactive," it added.

Nosheen was due to stand trial at Bradford Crown Court. However, she changed her plea and admitted conspiracy to supply heroin and conspiracy to import heroin. She was sentenced in the court on December 23. In a statement, the National Crime Agency (NCA), "Heroin concealed in clothes such as leather jackets was delivered to Nosheen's home in Woodside Road, Wyke, Bradford, where she removed it and put it in 1kg deal bags."

When she was arrested at the property in June 2024, officers discovered her back bedroom had been converted into a heroin processing plant. Officers found 85kg of the Class A drug in various bags along with a wallpaper pasting table, scales, buckets, and tools.

The Express Tribune highlighted that leads traced from foreign investigations are often delayed or halted by bureaucracy in Pakistan. Cartels use these gaps by using methods faster than authorities can respond. Pakistan, it said, must strengthen intelligence-led operations and take action on decisively on leads found from abroad.

"Middlemen and facilitators must be dismantled before consignments leave the country. Coordination with destination countries should be proactive, not ad hoc. Simultaneously, nations like the UK must tighten customs and postal monitoring to block shipments at multiple points rather than relying on post-factum arrests. Pakistan must confront this issue not only for the sake of enforcement but to protect its people and its standing in the world," the report mentioned.
Dehradun, Dec 29 : Presenting fresh evidence, the ED filed a third chargesheet before a Special Court (PMLA), Dehradun, naming the wife of a member of an international drug trafficking organisation in a case related to illegal assets, an official said.

Amarpreet Kaur Chawla, wife of Banmeet Singh, was named in the fresh set of charges filed on December 24 in the Special Court (PMLA), the official said in a statement.

During the investigation, the ED detected that many of the immovable properties bought by the drug trafficking organisation with Proceeds of Crime (POC) were registered in Amanpreet Kaur's name.

"Based upon these findings, the ED has also issued a Provisional Attachment Order in this case for assets totalling Rs 9.68 crore on July 18, 2024, under the provisions of PMLA, 2002," said the ED statement.

The ED initiated an investigation based on the Mutual Legal Assistance request by the US authorities invoking a unique provision of section 2(ra) of PMLA, 2002, implying an offence of cross-border implications.

The scheduled offences correspond to the NDPS Act. Two brothers, Banmeet Singh and Parvinder Singh, along with others, were operating an international drug trafficking group named the Singh DTO (Drug Trafficking Organisation).

"They used vendor marketing sites on the dark web, numerous free advertisements on clear web websites, and a network of narcotics and controlled substance distributors and distribution cells to sell drugs in the US, the UK and other European countries," the ED said.

The Singh Organisation received the drug trafficking proceeds through sale on dark web markets, then laundered those proceeds through cryptocurrency transactions, the ED said.

Both brothers used monikers "Liston" on a variety of dark web markets, including Silk Road 1, Alpha Bay and Hansa, the ED said.

Till now, the ED in the earlier searches, seized 268.22 Bitcoins (approx.), equivalent to the value of Rs 130 crore, based on the information provided by Parvinder Singh, who is currently in judicial custody along with his brother.

Earlier, the ED filed Prosecution Complaints against the main accused Parvinder Singh and Banmeet Singh on June 24, 2024 and July 26, 2024, on which the Special Court (PMLA), Dehradun, has already taken cognisance on July 2, 2024 and July 27, 2024, respectively.

The Court has already framed the charges against Banmeet Singh through its order dated March 22, 2025.
Shimla, Dec 29 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu along with his Cabinet members, on Monday, held a protest near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Ridge here, opposing the Central government's decision to discontinue the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) scheme.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister termed the move deeply "anti-rural" and detrimental to the livelihood security of millions of rural families across the state.

He said that MNREGA, conceived and implemented by the Congress-led UPA government under the leadership of former Prime Minister late Manmohan Singh and senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, had been a cornerstone of rural employment and inclusive growth.

He added that under the earlier framework, works under MNREGA were planned and executed based on the resolutions of Gram Panchayats and Gram Sabhas, reflecting local priorities and ensuring grassroots participation.

"However, the new mechanism sidelines panchayats as the planning authority has been centralised and funds will now be allocated directly by the Centre, with projects notified for selected areas."

He said the Congress would intensify its opposition by organising protests at district and block levels across the state to expose the "anti-people nature" of the decision.

The Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh would be among the worst affected states across the country.

Earlier, the Central government met the entire wage liability under MNREGA, while the state provided an additional incentive of Rs 80 per day to workers.

Under the revised arrangement, the Centre will bear only 90 per cent of the wages, leaving the state to shoulder the remaining burden.

He asserted that MNREGA must continue in its original spirit, driven by panchayat demands and local development needs.

The Chief Minister said salaries of officers and employees posted in Zila Parishads under MNREGA have also been discontinued, which would adversely impact the effective implementation of the scheme.

Responding to another query, Chief Minister Sukhu said the state government is firmly opposed to the Central government's decision to reduce import duty on apples.

He cautioned that the move would severely impact the state's apple growers and assured that the matter would be strongly taken up with the Centre to protect the interests of orchardists.
Satna : , Dec 29 (IANS) A BJP Councillor's husband, who was accused of raping a woman at knifepoint, has been arrested, a senior police officer in Madhya Pradesh's Satna district said on Monday.

Satna (MP), Dec 29 (IANS) A BJP Councillor's husband, who was accused of raping a woman at knifepoint, has been arrested, a senior police officer in Madhya Pradeshas Satna district said on Monday.

Police said the accused, Ashok Singh, the husband of a BJP councillor in the Rampur Baghelan Nagar Parishad, was arrested late Sunday night, and he has been booked under various charges, including criminal intimidation and obscene acts.

"A video surfaced on social media in which a person was seen threatening the victim. The victim also filed a written complaint against the person. Following the investigation, we have arrested the accused and further investigation is underway," Satna rural ASP Premlal Kurve told IANS on Monday.

The accused Ashok Singh has been booked under sections 74, 75, 79, 296A, and 351(3) of the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita). "An investigation was initiated based on a complaint filed against him at Rampur Baghelan police station," ASP Kurve added.

The action in the case came after a video purportedly showing Ashok Singh abusing a police officer and threatening the survivor went viral on social media, prompting police to take prompt action in the matter.

In the viral clip, the accused is allegedly heard saying, "What will happen to me? Nothing will happen. Complain wherever you want, nothing will happen to me," while the woman can be heard crying in the background and talking about filing a complaint.

The alleged rape survivor had filed a written complaint, accusing Singh of raping her at knifepoint, making a video of the act, and later threatening her with it to force her into repeated sexual relations.

In her complaint submitted to Satna SP Hansraj Singh a week back, the survivor alleged that when she confronted him on camera, saying she would post the video of their interaction on social media, the man brazenly said nothing would happen to him.

As per the complaint, the alleged crime took place about six months ago, and she had remained silent due to threats to her life and family.

According to the survivor, Ashok Singh, a resident of Karhi, entered her house, raped her at knifepoint, recorded the act on his mobile phone, and threatened to kill her and her family members if she spoke about the incident.

The survivor said Singh regularly comes to her shop, abuses her verbally, and repeats his threats, creating an atmosphere of fear and harassment.
Chennai, Dec 29 : In a disturbing incident that has triggered widespread outrage, four 17-year-old boys were taken into custody on Monday for brutally attacking a man with a sickle near the Tiruttani railway station in Tiruvallur district a few days ago.

The accused, all juveniles, allegedly assaulted the victim while intoxicated and recorded the violent act on their mobile phones, later sharing the footage on social media platforms.

The victim, identified as Suraj (34), a native of Kolhapur district in Maharashtra, sustained serious injuries in the attack.

According to police, the incident occurred near the railway quarters close to the Tiruttani railway station.

Alerted by passers-by, police rushed to the spot and rescued Suraj, who had suffered deep cut injuries. He was initially taken to a nearby government hospital for emergency treatment and was later referred to the Tiruvallur Government Hospital for further medical care.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused youths, all residents of Nemili near Tiruttani, were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

Police said the juveniles first encountered the victim on a train bound for Tiruttani, where they allegedly threatened him by placing a knife on his neck. The act was filmed on a mobile phone.

After getting down from the train, the youths allegedly dragged Suraj to a secluded area near the railway quarters, where they attacked him with a sickle, causing grievous injuries.

Investigators said the assault appeared to have been carried out with "murderous intent". The assailants reportedly recorded the entire episode and later uploaded the video on social media platforms, including Instagram, apparently in an attempt to gain notoriety.

Following a swift investigation, police examined CCTV footage from the railway station and nearby areas, which helped in identifying the suspects.

All four juveniles were taken into custody and produced before the appropriate authorities under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.

The incident has sparked shock and condemnation among local residents, railway commuters and political leaders, who have demanded strict action against those involved. Police officials said further investigation is under way to ascertain whether others were involved and to establish the full sequence of events leading up to the attack.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : B-town has witnessed some of the biggest scandals and rows in 2025. Be it interpersonal dynamics between the members of the fraternity, security threats or trade wars, the industry has been through a dramatic year.

As the year draws to close, here are some of the biggest controversies that shook up B-town:

Saif Ali Khan stabbing: At the start of the year, Saif was attacked by an intruder with a knife at his Bandra residence. The intruder attempted a robbery at the actoras house when the two ended up in a scuffle in the wee hours. The actor was seriously injured, sparking widespread discussion about celebrity security and public concern.

aSardaar Ji 3a makers casting Pakistani talents: The Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film drew a lot of criticism over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir following Pahalgam attacks and Operation Sindoor. The controversy reflected broader tensions in cross-border casting choices. Diljit decided not to release the film in India.

Shilpa Shetty deepfake: The Bombay High Court ruled that manipulated AI videos of the actress must be deleted, highlighting rising concerns over AI misuse and personality rights online.

Deepika Padukoneas high-profile exit from aSpirita and aKalki 2898 ADa sequel: Deepika opted out of aSpirita and was shown the door by the makers of aKalki 2898 ADa sequel. This came amid reported disagreements over working conditions (like eight-hour shift demands) and contract terms, sparking industry debates on work-life balance and fairness.

aHera Pheri 3a casting: The behind-the-scenes conflicts among actors and producers created public friction around this eagerly awaited franchise.

aBhool Chuk Maafa release dispute: A clash between theatre chain PVR Inox and the filmmakers over releasing the movie directly on streaming led to courtroom drama about rights and exclusivity windows.

Ranveer Singh aKantaraa controversy: The actor found himself at the centre of a controversy when his playful reference to cultural elements in aKantara: Chapter 1a sparked online criticism and forced him to apologize for the perceived insensitivity.

Akshaye Khannaas exit from aDrishyam 3a: Akshaye Khanna, who impressed audiences with his recent roles, has unexpectedly opted out of aDrishyam 3a, igniting significant industry chatter and media coverage. Media reports suggest the split stemmed from disagreements over remuneration and creative aspects of his role. After a string of strong performances, the actor is said to have sought a substantial fee increase, with figures like INR 21 crore being mentioned, which the aDrishyam 3a makers were reportedly uncomfortable matching within their budget.

Recently, a clip from A. P. Dhillonas went viral allegedly showing A. P. Dhillon kissing Tara Sutaria. The next few shots in the clip show the actressa boyfriend Veer Pahariya feeling uncomfortable with the proximity between the actress and the Punjabi star. The Internet flared up as the clip went viral with netizens criticizing the actress for her conduct on stage, and expressing sympathy for Veer Pahariya. Social media quickly turned the clip into a talking point, with opinions split between those calling the gesture inappropriate and others dismissing it as harmless stage chemistry. The episode fueled relationship speculation and meme culture. The controversy is driven largely by online perception rather than confirmed conflict.
Chandigarh, Dec 29 : In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, Punjab has decided that if a child is found begging with an adult, a DNA test will be conducted to establish whether the accompanying person is the biological parent or not. As many as 807 children involved in begging have been rescued this year, and the government has initiated their rehabilitation.

State Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Baljit Kaur said child beggars are being rehabilitated under the Jeevanjyot campaign, which is not limited to rescue operations alone but also focuses on taking children off the streets and enrolling them in schools to ensure a secure future.

After rescue, priority is given to health check-ups, counselling, educational support and family rehabilitation to ensure that no child is pushed back into begging, she said.

Highlighting the government's resolve to eradicate child begging, the minister said the Jeevanjyot project has been launched under which special enforcement drives are conducted across all districts during the second week of every month.

Further strengthening the campaign, Project Jeevanjyot 2.0 has been implemented to curb child trafficking and identify those forcing children into begging.

Kaur said the government is also aiming to eliminate the social evil of child marriage. She said that 64 child marriages were prevented this year, on time, with the support of 2,076 notified Child Marriage Prohibition Officers across the state. Issuing a warning, the Cabinet Minister said any individual or gang found involved in child begging or child trafficking would face the strictest possible action under the law.

The state government has introduced DNA testing in suspicious cases where it is unclear whether the accompanying adult is the child's biological parent. "DNA tests will be conducted with the approval of the Deputy Commissioner, and during the 1520 day report period, the children will remain safely under government protection in Bal Ghar. If DNA reports confirm that the adults are not the biological parents, stringent legal action will be initiated, including charges under anti-trafficking and child protection laws," she said.

The minister said an FIR has already been registered in Bathinda, where 20 children were rescued from villages suspected of exploiting them for begging. More than 150 rescued children belonged to other states and were safely repatriated to their families, she said. She added that over 180 children were admitted to schools, while those below six years of age were enrolled in Anganwadi centres for early childhood care.

The government launched the mission in September 2024. Since then, rescue teams have formed district-level committees to identify and rescue children found begging across the state.

Despite these efforts, 57 children were found missing again from the schools or homes they were sent to, the minister said.

Project Jeevanjyot 2.0 brings together provisions of the Beggary Act, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, guidelines of the Supreme Court and High Court, and special operating procedures issued by the Punjab State Child Protection Commission.

Appealing to the public, the minister urged people to cooperate with the government in eliminating child begging and advised that if any child is seen begging, citizens should refrain from giving alms and immediately inform the Child Helpline number 1098 so that every child can be connected with education and lead a dignified life.
Puducherry, Dec 29 : Vice President and Chancellor of Pondicherry University C. P. Radhakrishnan on Monday exhorted graduating students to shoulder the responsibility of nation-building, describing them as the architects of Viksit Bharat@2047.

Addressing the 30th Convocation of Pondicherry University, Radhakrishnan drew from the ancient Tamil text Naladiyar and reminded students that while knowledge is limitless, the time available to acquire it is limited.

He urged graduates to discern and absorb what is valuable, ethical, and meaningful from the vast ocean of information.

The Vice-President also inaugurated the Mahakavi Subramania Bharati International Convention Centre on the University campus.

On Monday, Radhakrishnan began his two-day visit to Puducherry, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, said an official.

As part of his engagements in Puducherry, the Vice President inaugurated the Senior Secondary Block of Petit Seminaire CBSE School, a statement said.

The Vice President appreciated the schoolas commitment to holistic education and value-based teaching, built upon its 181-year legacy.

Highlighting education as the only imperishable wealth, the Vice President urged students to pursue knowledge with depth, integrity, and social responsibility.

He observed that Viksit Bharat@2047 will be realised through the integration of knowledge, character, and service.

Lt. Governor of Puducherry K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Radhakrishnan also unveiled the statue of Mahakavi Subramania Bharatiyar at the Bharatiyar Memorial in Puducherry.

He paid rich tribute to the legendary poet who awakened a nation with fearless words, revolutionary ideas, and boundless love for Tamil and Bharat.

Expressing deep pleasure, the Vice President said it was a matter of great pride to unveil the statue of Bharatiyar on the very soil where Mahakavi Subramania Bharati lived for nearly a decade with free thought and creative brilliance.

Recalling Bharatiyaras years in Puducherry, the Vice President noted that the poet immersed himself deeply in philosophical inquiry and the pursuit of wisdom, a period widely regarded as the golden age of modern Tamil literature.
Photo: @zelenskyy.official Facebook

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has not ruled out the participation of Russian representatives in the working group on the development of a draft agreement to end the war.

Answering a question from the Interfax-Ukraine agency about the creation of working groups following the results of the US-Russian negotiations, he said: "The Ukrainian-American working group already exists, it has already demonstrated results, relevant documents have been developed. Then, documents where we needed our European partners - we had a trilateral working group, its meeting was in Berlin."

"Now, if we are going, and I really hope that quickly, to a 20-point plan that four parties - Ukraine, Europe, America and Russia - must sign, then, of course, it is necessary that the technical group be quadrilateral. We understand this," the President of Ukraine added.

"I know that there are questions about our possibilities for a trilateral meeting between America, Ukraine, and Russia at the level of leaders, or relevant telephone conversations. I will emphasize once again: we are not hiding from anyone, we are open to any options, formats that can bring us closer to ending the war," Zelenskyy said.
Islamabad, Dec 29 : A research emerging from Pakistan has revealed that the intersectional nature of women's role in care work is difficult to ignore. The burden of care and low-paid labour in Pakistan falls heaviest on women positioned at the margins of social power, a report has stated.

Pakistan is projected to become the world's third most populous nation in 25 years, a figure highlighted at the Dawn Population Summit held earlier in December. As the population will increase, care needs across Pakistan will also rise, including direct personal care and indirect care activities in domestic, hospital, and community settings, research fellow at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Meherunissa Hamid, wrote in a report in Pakistan's leading daily Dawn. Despite being necessary, care work continues to be considered as a responsibility that naturally belongs to women, rather than as skilled labour that needs dignity, protection, or policy attention.

"Recently, to mark the International Day of Care and Support, the International Labour Organisation called for 'stronger recognition of care work and coordinated action to ensure decent work, social protection, and equality for all care workers' in Pakistan. However, a darker truth must be addressed. Not only is there a disproportionate burden of formal and informal care work on women, but it is also borne unequally among women, making care work a deeply intersectional issue," the Dawn report stated.

"Looking closely at the research emerging from Pakistan, the intersectional nature of womenas role in care work is difficult to ignore. The burden of care and low-paid labour falls heaviest on women positioned at the margins of social power. Research from Sargodha shows how women domestic workers stand at the intersections of gender, class, and minority identity. Poor, often migrant and sometimes religious minority women keep urban households running, yet remain invisible because home-based work, shaped by social and class hierarchies, makes exploitation easy to hide," it added.

Covid-19 research in Abbottabad showcases how these inequalities exist. Women conducted several times more unpaid care work than men, reinforcing a gender order where men's paid work relies on women's unrecognised labour. Research on nursing identity in hospitals reveal how gender, class, and professional hierarchy together devalue nurses, who are treated as servants stigmatised for night shifts and physical proximity to male patients and disrespected by doctors and patients. Lady health workers continue to face insecurity, harassment, and chronic struggles for recognition and regularisation.

"These layers of inequality do not compete; they compound. The women in the Pakistani care workforce, for instance, are not ajusta women, or ajusta poor, or ajusta Muslim, Christian or Hindu, or ajusta from the village; all these identities together shape where they can work, how they are spoken to, whether they are safe, and whether the law protects them. Being a woman, economically deprived, from a alowa or stigmatised group, and working in the formal or infAoArAAmal care system is not four separaAte proAblems. It is one deAAeply entangled coAAndition of vulne- rability," the report detailed.

"InterAsectionAaAlAiAAty simply asks us to be honest about our own hierarchies. Who chanAgAes the sheets in private homes and hospital wards? Who cleans our toilets? Who cleans our streets? Who walks from house to house with the vaccine carrier? Who cares for our parents as they grow older? Who cooks, washes, and cares without it ever being paid or even acknowledged? Pakistan cannot build a fairer future without recognising how paid and unpaid care work is organised through layers of inequalities," it added.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday interacted with a team constituted to organise the newly-announced 'Delhi Shabdotsav' cultural programme at National Stadium next month.

After the poster launch of the event, CM Gupta apprised Art and Culture Minister Kapil Mishra apprised her of the event's schedule and other related campaign activities.

CM Gupta wrote on X, "Following the launch of the poster for the 'Delhi Shabdotsav' program, the organisers' team met under the leadership of Cabinet colleague Shri @KapilMishra_IND ji."

"From January 2 to 4, esteemed thinkers, writers, and speakers from across the country will participate in 'Delhi Shabdotsav', organised by the Delhi Government and Suruchi Prakashan at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. During the programme, book releases, cultural presentations, and a poets' conclave will also be held," wrote the Chief Minister on X.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister's Cabinet colleague Ashish Sood, MLAs Abhay Verma and Rajkumar Bhatia, along with other distinguished guests, were present.

Earlier, Mishra told reporters that the Art and Culture Department of the Delhi government and a publishing house will jointly organise the country's largest literature and cultural festival.

"The Delhi Government is organising the country's largest cultural and literary festival on January 2, 3, and 4. From now on, it will be held annually under the Ministry of Culture and branded as the 'Delhi Shabdotsav'," Mishra told reporters.

The event will feature over 100 prominent speakers, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Sunil Ambekar, Manmohan Vaidya and Sachchidanand Joshi, along with more than 40 book releases, six cultural performances, and two poets' meets.

"Students from the nearly 40 universities from Delhi NCR will also participate in the cultural event," he said.

Mishra said the event will feature programmes like Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Bhajan Sandhya, Kavi Sammelan and Somnath Jyotirlinga Darshan.

He said the Delhi Chief Minister will inaugurate the festival, while Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma will also attend the event.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 : Even as the All India Congress Committee (AICC) took note of the demolition drive controversy and advised the Congress-led Karnataka government to handle the issue with caution, Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar on Monday maintained that the government cannot allow everyone to come and settle in Bengaluru.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Kogilu locality in Bengaluru, where the demolition drive was carried out, Shivakumar said: "Others cannot do politics here. There is no embarrassment over the manner in which the ruling Congress has handled the issue. Bengaluru must be kept clean. Law and order has to be maintained, and we cannot allow everyone who comes to settle here."

"For everything, documents are required. Will you (the media) allow someone to erect tents and build structures in front of your houses?" he asked.

Shivakumar said the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has a dedicated department for solid waste management and that a compound wall had already been constructed halfway to protect the area. "It needed to be completed. The authorities informed the people and carried out the demolition accordingly," he said.

Accusing Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of politicising the issue, Shivakumar said, "He is facing the prospect of losing elections in his state and is trying to play politics. We do not want politics. I request him to refrain from it. This is a local issue. We must safeguard the city and address health hazards. We cannot allow illegal occupants to encroach upon government property."

"That is why there is so much hue and cry. They want to create slums in the city. I do not want to comment on other cities," he added.

Shivakumar said that about a decade ago, the government had allotted the land for solid waste management. "This is a quarry pit where waste was dumped. Overnight, some people constructed structures. Some of them have voter ID addresses from neighbouring areas. No one is issued voter ID addresses for government land," he said.

He said the authorities had informed the occupants in advance that the structures would be demolished. "Some residents sought official communication. This is a routine exercise. The local MLA has also said the issue cannot be regularised as the structures were built on quarry pits, which are hazardous," Shivakumar said.

"The issue has now been politicised. From the Kerala Chief Minister to Communist leaders in Kerala who fear losing elections, everyone is trying to show sympathy. The minorities here are raising slogans in my favour. Had we committed any mistake or failed to assist them, they would have raised slogans against us," he said.

Shivakumar said some women had claimed they paid between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 2 lakh for the structures. "We are collecting documents in this regard. We cannot allow land grabbers to exploit Bengaluru. The poor need to be helped. We will verify the claims and take appropriate action," he said.

He added that voter lists and identity documents had been verified. "A few people earlier lived in neighbouring areas, but there is no official address for this location. Several leaders and party workers have shared information. We will ensure justice for those who have genuinely been wronged," Shivakumar said.

Earlier, taking objection to the Congress-led Karnataka government's demolition drive against unauthorised constructions in Bengaluru, the AICC on Saturday raised concerns, saying such actions should have been carried out with greater caution and sensitivity.

AICC General Secretary and Congress Lok Sabha member K.C. Venugopal made the remarks after speaking to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

In a post on social media platform X, Venugopal said: "I spoke to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar regarding the demolition of unauthorised constructions in Kogilu village, Bengaluru. I conveyed the AICC's serious concern that such actions should have been undertaken with far greater caution, sensitivity and compassion, keeping the human impact at the centre."

The issue gained further traction after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan alleged that the Karnataka government was adopting a "bulldozer model", similar to Uttar Pradesh, to evict Muslims in parts of Bengaluru.

Reacting strongly, Shivakumar asked the Kerala Chief Minister not to interfere in Karnataka's internal affairs and dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.

"Without knowing the facts, Mr Pinarayi should not interfere in our state's affairs. These are political gimmicks ahead of elections," Shivakumar said.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Sandeepa Virk in a money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), saying that the allegations date back to 2008-2013, while the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) was registered only in 2025.

New Delhi, Dec 29 (IANS) The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Sandeepa Virk in a money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), saying that the allegations date back to 2008a"2013, while the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) was registered only in 2025.

A single-judge Bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma allowed the bail plea in a case arising from an ECIR lodged by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), holding that there was no justification for keeping her in further judicial custody.

In its order, the Delhi High Court noted that Virk was neither charge-sheeted in the predicate offence registered in 2016 under Sections 406 and 420 of the IPC, nor was cognisance taken against her in a subsequent private complaint.

"The record reflects that the applicant was not found culpable at the stage of police investigation, nor was any prima facie case found against her by the Magistrate," Justice Sharma said.

Referring to Section 45 of the PMLA, the Delhi High Court held that the statutory embargo of the twin conditions would not apply to Virk, who is a woman.

"In the case of a woman accused, the embargo of the twin conditions under Section 45(1)(ii) of the PMLA can be relaxed, and the application for bail can be considered on general principles governing grant of bail," Justice Sharma added.

The Delhi High Court also noted that the main accused, Amit Gupta alias Nageshwar Gupta, declared a proclaimed offender in the predicate offence, remains unarrested.

"Despite the said declaration, and notwithstanding the fact that he is presently appearing through counsel before the Special Court in the PMLA proceedings, as is evident from the order- sheets placed on record, the ED has, till date, not taken any effective steps to arrest him," the order said.

Considering that Virk has been in custody since August 12, 2025, that the prosecution complaint has already been filed, and that the trial is likely to take time as 24 witnesses have been cited by the prosecution, the Delhi High Court held that her continued incarceration would not be justified.

"The fact that trial in the predicate offence is not proceeding since the only accused, i.e. Amit Gupta is absconding -- this Court finds no ground to further keep the applicant in judicial custody," it said.

Justice Sharma ordered Virk's release on bail on furnishing a personal bond of Rs 2 lakh with two sureties, subject to conditions including surrender of passport, cooperation with investigation, and regular appearance before the trial court.

The Delhi High Court clarified that nothing said in its bail order would amount to an expression of opinion on the merits of the case.
Jamshedpur, Dec 29 : President Droupadi Murmu on Monday urged students to make their technical knowledge a tool for human welfare and inclusive nation-building while addressing the 15th convocation ceremony of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur, as the chief guest.

She said a convocation ceremony is not merely a celebration of academic success but an occasion to take new resolutions in life.

"Success should not be measured by high positions or achievements alone, but by the positive impact one's actions have on the lives of others," the President said.

Highlighting the challenges facing the country, President Murmu noted that issues such as waste management, sustainability, and environmental protection demand not only technical expertise but also social and economic perspectives.

She appreciated the establishment of the Centre for Innovation and Incubation at NIT Jamshedpur, stating that such initiatives strengthen the startup ecosystem and inspire young minds towards innovation.

The President also emphasised that academic institutions should be evaluated not just on rankings and placements, but on their contribution to society.

The ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp by the President, along with Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar, Institute Director Prof Gautam Sutradhar, Board of Governors Chairperson Sunil Alagh, and other dignitaries. During the oath ceremony, Prof Sutradhar administered the oath to the graduating students.

Priyanshu Raj (B. Tech Electrical Engineering) and Krishnashtami Mandal (MSc Physics) were awarded gold medals at the convocation.

Welcoming the President, Governor Santosh Gangwar said Jamshedji Tata had envisioned empowerment through education alongside industrial development, a legacy that NIT Jamshedpur continues to uphold.

He urged students to actively contribute to nation-building. State Minister Deepak Birua congratulated those who received the degree.

Earlier in the day, President Murmu graced and addressed the closing ceremony of the 22nd Parsi Maha and the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script in Jamshedpur.

Speaking on the occasion, she said the Santhal community has a rich language, literature, and cultural heritage. However, due to the absence of a dedicated script, Santhali was earlier written in Roman, Devanagari, Odia, and Bengali scripts, often leading to incorrect pronunciation.

She recalled that in 1925, Pandit Raghunath Murmu created the Ol Chiki script, which has since emerged as a powerful symbol of Santhal identity. The President also noted that she had released the Constitution of India in Santhali, written in the Ol Chiki script, on December 25, the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Expressing confidence, she said the initiative would enable Santhali-speaking people to read and understand the Constitution in their mother tongue.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 : The Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday charged that the drug mafia is flourishing across the state and alleged that the Congress-led government is facilitating its activities, demanding the resignation of Home Minister G. Parameshwara.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP state headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan, in Bengaluru, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy demanded that the Home Minister step down if he is incapable of running the Home Department.

Narayanaswamy alleged that drug mafias have flourished across the state and accused the Congress government of actively facilitating their operations, claiming that the government itself had turned into a "drug government".

At the press conference, Narayanaswamy released a poster reading, "Minister who claims ignorance, resign and go."

He questioned how long the Home Minister would continue to "ruin the state" by offering excuses.

"You step down from power. If someone else has the capability, let them govern," he said.

Addressing Home Minister G. Parameshwara directly, Narayanaswamy asked whether the prevailing situation reflected the minister's helplessness or whether there was a conspiracy by others to malign him, and demanded clarity on the matter.

Reiterating his allegations, Narayanaswamy said drug mafias had flourished across Karnataka with the alleged backing of the Congress government, repeating his charge that the administration had turned into a "drug government".

He said reports were emerging about drug manufacturing units operating in different parts of the state.

Claiming that law and order in Karnataka had completely collapsed, Narayanaswamy said the BJP had been highlighting the issue from the beginning with what it described as evidence.

"Rape cases have occurred, many lives have been lost and murders have taken place, but this government has failed to prevent them," he alleged.

Making serious allegations, Narayanaswamy said there was growing suspicion that the government itself was involved in running the drug trade.

"Our government is not arresting drug peddlers. Maharashtra Police had to conduct raids on drug manufacturing units at three locations in Mysuru and Bengaluru," he said.

He questioned whether the state Home Department had become defunct and asked what the intelligence wing and police machinery were doing.

Narayanaswamy alleged that after Maharashtra Police exposed these cases, the Congress-led government in Karnataka attempted to claim credit, projecting the action as its own.

He further alleged that the government was patronising drug sale hubs.

"The land of sandalwood has turned into a ganja hub. Students are forced to think twice about whether they should even go to college," he said.

Stating that the functioning of the Anti-Naxal Force had almost come to a halt, Narayanaswamy demanded that it be converted into an Anti-Drugs Force to completely uproot the drug network. He accused the Congress government of thoroughly destroying the state and urged the Chief Minister to act immediately.

"Let the Chief Minister decide whether he or the Home Minister should resign," he said.

MLC Bharathi Shetty, state BJP spokesperson Prakash Shesharaghavachar and BJP leader R. Rudraiah were present at the press conference.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : In an open letter posted on social media platform X, Dr Ishita Sengar, daughter of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar - convicted in the 2017 Unnao rape case - expressed deep anguish, fear, and waning faith in the justice system.

New Delhi, Dec 29 (IANS) In an open letter posted on social media platform X, Dr Ishita Sengar, daughter of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar a" convicted in the 2017 Unnao rape case a" expressed deep anguish, fear, and waning faith in the justice system.

The letter, addressed to the "Honable Authorities of the Republic of India," comes hours after the Supreme Court stayed a Delhi High Court order that had suspended her father's life sentence and granted him conditional bail.

Sengar, expelled from the BJP, was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2019 for raping a minor girl who had approached him for a job in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. The case, which sparked national outrage in 2018, involved allegations of political influence, with the survivor's father dying in custody and relatives killed in a 2019 accident.

The Delhi High Court on December 23 suspended the sentence pending appeal, citing that an MLA did not qualify as a "public servant" under pre-2019 POCSO Act provisions, reducing the minimum penalty a" a ruling the CBI challenged.

A Supreme Court vacation bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant stayed the High Court order on Monday, noting substantial legal questions and concerns that excluding lawmakers from "public servant" status could exempt them from aggravated penalties.

Sengar remains in jail, also serving time for the custodial death case.

In her letter, Ishita described eight years of silent waiting, trusting institutions over "noise, hashtags, or public anger." She lamented being reduced to "the daughter of a BJP MLA," erasing her humanity, and facing daily death and rape threats on social media.

"We chose silence... believing truth does not need spectacle," she wrote, claiming the family has been dehumanised, financially drained, and ignored despite approaching every authority. Highlighting a "manufactured fear" silencing judges and citizens, Ishita appealed for evidence to be examined "without pressure", and truth upheld "even when unpopular."

"We are asking for justice because we are human," she emphasised, signing off as "a daughter still waiting for justice" who believes in the country but fears regretting that faith.

The survivor's side welcomed the Supreme Court stay, with her mother expressing renewed hope for justice. The case continues to underscore debates on due process, public outrage, and accountability for those in power.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Following the brutal assault and subsequent death of a Tripura student in Uttarakhand's Dehradun, a public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking urgent judicial intervention to address "continuing constitutional failure" in dealing with racially motivated violence against citizens from the North-Eastern states.

New Delhi, Dec 29 (IANS) Following the brutal assault and subsequent death of a Tripura student in Uttarakhand's Dehradun, a public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking urgent judicial intervention to address "continuing constitutional failure" in dealing with racially motivated violence against citizens from the North-Eastern states.

The PIL, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, referred to the death of Angel Chakma, who succumbed on December 26 to grievous injuries sustained in a brutal assault in Dehradun's Selaqui area earlier this month.

A final-year MBA student at a university in Uttarakhand, Chakma, was allegedly attacked in a racially motivated assault on December 9.

According to a complaint lodged by his brother, Michael Chakma, the two brothers were stopped by a group of youths, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, leading to an argument that escalated into violence.

The attackers allegedly hurled racial slurs before assaulting them with sharp objects. Angel sustained multiple stab injuries, including deep wounds to his neck and abdomen, and was admitted to the intensive care unit at Graphic Era Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Referring to the incident, the petition quoted Chakma's last recorded assertion during the confrontation: "We are not Chinese We are Indians. What certificate should we show to prove that?" The PIL stated that these words "tragically became his final assertion of constitutional belonging before the assault escalated into fatal violence."

The plea contended that despite the apparent hate-based and racial motivation, such offences continue to be treated as "ordinary crimes," resulting in the erasure of motive and dilution of constitutional gravity.

"There is no mechanism in the initial criminal justice response system to recognise racial offences as a distinct constitutional wrong," the petition stated, adding that this perpetuates a pattern of impunity.

Highlighting past incidents, including the 2014 death of Nido Taniam, the plea argued that the killing of Angel Chakma is "not an isolated incident but part of a long-standing pattern of racial violence" against citizens from the North-Eastern states, a phenomenon acknowledged by the Union government in parliamentary replies.

The petition further stated that even after the enactment of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, there is "no statutory recognition of hate or racial crimes, no mandatory recording of bias motivation at the FIR stage, and no specialised investigative or victim-protection mechanisms."

As a result, racially motivated violence continues to undermine Articles 14, 15, 19 and 21 of the Constitution and strike at the constitutional value of fraternity enshrined in the Preamble.

The PIL has sought the issuance of binding guidelines recognising racially motivated violence as a distinct constitutional wrong and ensuring effective protection of dignity, equality and fraternity for all citizens.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday spoke to the victim's father and expressed deep grief over the incident, assuring strict action against all those involved.

According to an official statement, five accused have already been arrested, while another accused is suspected to have fled to Nepal, for whom a reward has been announced.

CM Dhami said he is personally saddened by the incident and understands the pain of the family, assuring that the Uttarakhand government will ensure strict punishment for the culprits.

Dhami also said he has spoken to Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh regarding the incident.

Reiterating that the Uttarakhand government stands firmly with the victim's family, Dhami said he would remain in touch with the Tripura Chief Minister to ensure all possible assistance is extended to them.

--IANS

pds/dan
Jaipur, Dec 29 : Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said that the State Government is continuously working to strengthen Rajasthan's agricultural economy and enhance agricultural productivity.

Jaipur, Dec 29 (IANS) Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said that the State Government is continuously working to strengthen Rajasthanas agricultural economy and enhance agricultural productivity.

He stated that the governmentas goal is to enable farmers to adopt smart farming through modern technologies and position the state as a leader in agricultural exports. With this vision, the Global Rajasthan Agritech Meeta"2026 (GRAM) will be organised in the state next year.

The Chief Minister directed officials to complete all preparations to ensure the successful organisation of the meeting. Sharma was reviewing the preparations for the Global Rajasthan Agritech Meet-2026 at the Chief Ministeras Office on Monday.

He said that the objective of the event is to set new benchmarks in the agriculture sector through innovation and modern technology, while also promoting investment. He added that farmers of the state would benefit from the experiences and expertise of farmers and specialists arriving from India and abroad.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister instructed that all concerned departmentsa"including Agriculture, Horticulture, Dairy, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Cooperation, and Irrigationa"should work in close coordination for the effective implementation of the event.

A departmental cluster should be formed for this purpose, and the preparations should be reviewed at the Secretary level. He also directed that farmers who have performed exceptionally well in the agriculture sector should be honoured at the event.

Emphasising that farmersa needs must be given top priority in every activity, he said experts, scientists, and technical specialists using advanced practices in agriculture, water management, and crop diversification from India and abroad should be invited.

The Chief Minister said that the state-level event is proposed to be a three-day programme, with participation of more than 50,000 farmers. He said the meet would provide an international platform to showcase Rajasthanas agricultural potential. It would also promote research, innovation, entrepreneurship, agricultural processing, and marketing in the sector.

He directed officials to ensure wide publicity of the event so that farmers at the grassroots level are informed about the programme and related schemes.

It was informed in the meeting that the Agritech Meet will feature exhibitions related to agriculture and animal husbandry, B2G and B2B meetings, farmera"scientist interactions, buyera"seller meetings, along with various technical sessions and workshops.

Through these platforms, farmers and agri-entrepreneurs from India and abroad will share their experiences related to smart farming, marketing, and processing. Discussions will cover advanced agricultural technologies, drone technology, modern farm machinery, water management in agriculture, and agricultural exports.

The meeting also included discussions on the utilisation of 500-metric-ton capacity warehouses constructed under the worldas largest grain storage scheme in the cooperative sector. Senior officials from the concerned departments were present during the meeting.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 29 : The Odisha Congress on Monday staged a protest against 'illegal' collection of Additional Security Deposit (ASD) and demanded free electricity to farmers and households.

The Congress workers led by Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das, protested outside TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited's (TPCODL) Bhubaneswar office here.

The demonstrators also raised their voices against the installation of new electricity meters, alleging that the move is part of a larger plan to burden consumers with inflated power tariffs.

Das alleged that the state government are "harassing consumers" and questioned the BJP's promise of 300 units of free electricity. Congress demanded: stop additional security deposit, free power for farmers, 300 units free for households, and withdrawal of smart meters.

Das warned of statewide agitation, effigy burning on December 31, and gherao of the CM's residence and offices if demands aren't met.

Senior leaders, including Srikant Jena, Suresh Routray, Ananta Sethi, MLA Pabitrananda Sahu and Minakshi Bahinipati joined.

Senior Congress leader Srikant Jena strongly criticised the state government, stating that ordinary households, small businesses and farmers will suffer the most if the new meter system and revised billing slabs are fully implemented.

Addressing the protestors, Jena said that the revised meter and tariff policy would sharply increase electricity bills in the domestic and commercial sectors.

"Consumers will be forced to pay more. Domestic users, shopkeepers, and small industries will face heavy financial pressure. The government is favouring big industrial houses, while common citizens are being pushed towards hardship," he alleged.

He further questioned the transparency of the system, claiming that the new consumption slabs are designed in a way that even moderate usage will lead to higher billing.

"You pay Rs 2 now, soon it will become Rs 4.50 or more. What will happen to households and small traders? How will they survive? This policy is against the people," Jena warned.

Stating that the Congress will intensify its agitation, Jena urged people across rural and urban areas to join the movement.

"This is not a small issue. If this continues, electricity will become unaffordable for many families. We will take this protest to every district and village. The government must roll back the new meter system and tariff policy," he said.
The only issues left unsettled in the 20-point plan to end the Russian-Ukrainian war are the control over the territories and the operation of the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant in the occupied city of Energodar, Zaporizhia region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said following talks with US President Donald Trump on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA).

"Two issues remain: the plant, how it will function, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and the issue of territory. These are two issues that remained in the 20-point document," Zelenskyy told reporters on Monday.

"And thats why I said that this 20-point plan is 90% ready - because there is no agreement on two of the 20 points. As for security guarantees, I said: everything is 100% ready, as it is. So we will discuss a few more details regarding the term of these security guarantees," he said.
Kolkata, Dec 29 : A central team of the Election Commission of India (ECI), headed by Deputy Election Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti, will hold meetings with district magistrates, also designated as District Electoral Officers (DEOs), on Tuesday to discuss the implementation of the Commission's plan to set up polling booths within housing complexes having high-rise towers for the Assembly elections scheduled next year.

Bharti and his team are scheduled to arrive in Kolkata from Delhi on Tuesday morning.

Later in the afternoon, he will hold a meeting with the DEOs of the two Kolkata-adjacent districts of North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas to discuss modalities for implementing the proposal to establish polling booths inside private housing complexes with high-rise towers.

The meeting will be held at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal. The CEO, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, will also be present at the meeting, an official from the CEOas office confirmed.

Earlier this month, the ECI advised all DEOs to completely ignore suggestions from political parties regarding the selection of private housing complexes with multiple high-rise towers that may be considered suitable for setting up polling booths.

The Commission's advisory to the district magistrates and DEOs in this context came in the wake of divergent views expressed by different political parties over the proposal to establish polling booths within private housing complexes.

Earlier, the Commission had also expressed strong displeasure over not receiving even a single proposal from district magistrates and DEOs identifying private housing complexes with multiple high-rise towers suitable for setting up polling booths.

In the same communication issued earlier this month, the ECI directed that after the publication of the draft electoral roll on December 16, all DEOs should immediately conduct surveys of high-rise buildings, group housing societies, resident welfare association (RWA) colonies, slums and gated communities having at least 250 houses or 500 voters. The survey was to include details of rooms available at the ground-floor level and identify suitable accommodation for polling stations within the premises.

The Commission also instructed the CEO's office to ensure that the entire exercise is completed by December 31.
Ramanagara : , Dec 29 (IANS) Amid the leadership row within the Congress government in Karnataka, party MLA from Ramanagara Iqbal Hussain, on Monday, reiterated that Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar would become the Chief Minister of the state on January 6 or January 9 next year.

"He will surely become the Chief Minister -- 200 per cent," Hussain asserted.

Speaking to reporters in Ramanagara, Iqbal Hussain, a staunch supporter of Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, said, "I am not saying this on my own. This has been said by 'sharanaru' (sages). Believing them, I am making this statement. I stand by what I have said."

The Congress MLA also added, "I am not making this claim myself. There are sages who have the ability to foresee events. There are people who accurately predict rains and even tragedies. I have taken information from such people. I am only reiterating what they have told me. I am saying that Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar will take charge as Chief Minister either on January 6 or January 9 in 2026."

"Let us see what happens. I still have confidence. He will get power, 200 per cent. Shivakumar is our leader. He is under pressure and is saying that nothing is happening. We are not ready to remain silent. There is no question of backtracking. I stand by my words," Hussain said.

"Our (D.K. Shivakumar) leader has spoken about a 'pact'. If there was no such understanding, he would not have spoken about a pact between the Chief Minister, himself and the High Command," he added.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh, a close aide of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, said in Vijayanagar that if there is an honest Chief Minister anywhere in the country, it is Siddaramaiah.

"He (Chief Minister Siddaramaiah) has presented 16 budgets and has served as Chief Minister of Karnataka for two terms. Many are jealous of this success and are shedding tears out of jealousy. We must pardon those who are jealous, considering them as our own," Minister Suresh added.

"Siddaramaiah has been a Minister since 1984. Despite holding high positions, if there is a truly honest Chief Minister in the country, it is Siddaramaiah. After forgiving those who are jealous, we must live with them. That is the rule," the Minister said.

The statements are likely to stir a controversy in the state.

Sources said that the assertion from Deputy CM Shivakumar has come following Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's faction all set to hold "Ahinda Convention" in Mysuru city, demanding the Congress high command not to disturb Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The Ahinda leaders have also warned that any attempt to bring down Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would result in losing of the traditional Ahinda vote bank.
Jaipur, Dec 29 : In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, police in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh under 'Operation Chakravyuh' have busted an illegal MDMA manufacturing unit operating deep inside the forests and hills of Baglia.

The operation was carried out under the direction of Pratapgarh Superintendent of Police (SP) B. Aditya.

According to SP Aditya, on the night of December 29, Hathunia Police Station Station House Officer (SHO) Udayveer Singh was on routine patrol with his team when they noticed a fire burning atop a hill along the deserted Bagliaa"Takrawad road.

The unusual sight in the biting cold raised suspicion.

Acting swiftly, the police team quietly climbed the hill on foot, where they discovered a shocking scene -- an entire MDMA manufacturing setup operating inside a plastic hut hidden among dense trees.

During the raid, 21-year-old Karim Ajmeri, a resident of Baglia, attempted to flee but was apprehended by the alert police team.

A search led to the recovery of 28.54 grams of illegal MDMA from his possession.

During questioning, Karim confessed that he was guarding the factory on the instructions of Haroon Ajmeri.

Police also seized a motorcycle and various materials and equipment used for manufacturing the synthetic drug.

Police have identified Haroon Ajmeri as the mastermind behind the operation.

Haroon is a known drug trafficker with four serious cases registered against him under the NDPS Act across police stations in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Earlier, property acquired through his illegal activities had been frozen under Section 68(F) by Hathunia Police, yet he continued to operate fearlessly from remote forest areas.

The police have launched intensive raids at multiple locations to trace and arrest the absconding accused.

The operation was carried out by SHO Udayveer Singh along with Assistant Sub-Inspector Bholuram and Ramchandra, Head Constables Rajveer, Manoharsingh, and Suresh Kumar, and Constables Anop, Mukesh, Arun, Suresh, Girish Chand, Bhagwatilal, and driver Ganpat.

Further investigation into the matter is underway.
Islamabad, Dec 29 : Under army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's stewardship, Pakistan has pivoted sharply towards a theocratic and combative identity, promoting Islamist "resistance" abroad while failing to rein in radicals at home. The consequences of it are being felt in bloodshed, backlash and the new normal is that not just militants and sex offenders, even the Pakistani-origin social media propaganda is being considered as a security hazard in capitals around the world, a report has stated.

Islamabad, Dec 29 (IANS) Under army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's stewardship, Pakistan has pivoted sharply towards a theocratic and combative identity, promoting Islamist "resistance" abroad while failing to rein in radicals at home. The consequences of it are being felt in bloodshed, backlash and the new normal is that not just militants and sex offenders, even the Pakistani-origin social media propaganda is being considered as a security hazard in capitals around the world, a report has stated.

Anti-Pakistan sentiment is taking root in Western and Middle Eastern capitals, driven by alarm over Pakistan's export of radical Islamist ideology and its permissive attitude towards extremism and other criminal activities under the current military leadership.

"Since General Syed Asim Munir became Pakistan's army chief in late 2022, observers note a marked shift towards religious conservatism in Islamabad's posture. Pakistan's government and military have openly embraced hardline positions, with parliament praising 'armed resistance' against Israel and generals professing solidarity with Gaza-based terrorists. Under Munir, a Quran-memorizing General known to pepper speeches with scripture, Pakistan's military doctrine has been reengineered around religion. This state-enabled radicalization, targetting Israel, India, the West, and religious minorities, is fueling a backlash abroad," a report in Greek City Times detailed.

Several Pakistan-linked extremist incidents have been reported in Western nations in recent years. This year, Spanish police broke up a cell of 11 Pakistani nationals suspected of belonging to the Pakistani Taliban terrorist organisation, with the group accused of promoting violent jihadist actions, including murders and beheadings. In 2024, North American authorities foiled a similar plot as a 20-year-old Pakistani man living in Canada was arrested for orchestrating a mass shooting at synagogue in New York City, with a goal to "slaughter as many Jewish people as possible" on the anniversary of Hamas' October 7 attack.

Furthermore, the long running 'grooming gangs' scandal in the UK has led to Pakistan facing global backlash. A disproportionate number of convicted offenders were men of Pakistani origin, especially in towns like Oxford, Rotherham, Rochdale and Telford, who have targetted vulnerable white girls in the UK, according the report in Greek City Times. This issue is being seen as part of a broader debate about integration, imported patriarchal attitudes, and the influence of conservative religious and cultural norms from Pakistan. These examples showcase West's fear that violent extremism and other criminal activities incubated in Pakistan.

These concerns further increase due to anti-Western, antisemitic and sectarian propaganda traced to Pakistan's social media system. Many international analysts accuse Pakistan's military establishment and Islamist outfits of planning sophisticated online disinformation campaigns against the West and other faith communities.

Western observers have warned that Pakistan's digital disinformation campaigns are causing discord abroad, creating hatred against Hindus, Christians Jews and Americans, and impacting Pakistan's ties with other countries. Even Muslim-majority nations in the Middle East are concerned about Pakistan's trajectory. Recently, the United Arab Emirates has imposed stringent visa curbs on Pakistani nationals amid security and law-and-order worries.

The report in Greek City Times mentioned, "The world's patience with Pakistan's spiral into religious extremism is wearing thin. Under Munir's stewardship, Pakistan has pivoted sharply toward a more theocratic and combative identity  glorifying Islamist "resistance" abroad while failing to rein in radicals at home. From London to New York to Dubai, the consequences are being felt in bloodshed and backlash."

"The new normal is that Pakistani-origin militants, sex offenders, and social media propaganda are viewed as a security hazard in capitals worldwide. The mounting aversion to Pakistani travelers and the criticism voiced by international observers are symptoms of a broader realization: Pakistan's unchecked radicalization is no longer just its own problem, but a growing menace to global peace and multicultural harmony," it added.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : Actor Riteish Deshmukh, who recently celebrated the 60th birthday of superstar Salman Khan, has now shared the perfect frame from celebrations.

On Monday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared a picture featuring Salman, Ram Charan, himself, his wife Genelia Deshmukh, and Arpita Khan Sharma.

He wrote in the caption, "@beingsalmankhan Bhau's Birthday and all my favourites in one frame. @arpitakhansharma, @kanchikaul, @shabirahluwalia, @geneliad and especially dearest @alwaysramcharan, it was so wonderful catching up with you brother. Love to @upasanakaminenikonidela and regards to the family".

Earlier in the day, the actor's wife actress Genelia Deshmukh took to her Instagram, and shared a video in which Salman was seen mixing different street food ingredients to make the bhel.

She wrote in the caption, "There is no one like @beingsalmankhan, he absolutely goes out of his way to make you feel at home, to make you feel special. This time he serves the absolutely delicious 'Bhau chi bhel'. We love you".

Salman celebrated his 60th birthday on Saturday, and the entire industry showed up for the superstar. With over three decades into stardom, Salman remains one of Hindi cinema's most enduring and polarising icons. From redefining the romantic hero in the 1990s to becoming the undisputed mass-action superstar of the 2000s, his journey reflects the changing pulse of the industry itself. Films like 'Maine Pyar Kiya', 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun', 'Wanted', 'Dabangg' and 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' cemented his ability to connect across generations and social classes. At 60, Salman continues to command box-office openings, massive fan loyalty, and a larger-than-life public presence.

Beyond cinema, his television success with 'Bigg Boss' and his philanthropic work through Being Human have added layers to his public image. His career has also seen controversies and setbacks, yet his resilience and star power have remained intact, making him a rare phenomenon in Indian cinema. As he turns 60, Salman Khan stands as a symbol of longevity, reinvention and mass appeal. For fans, it's a celebration of memories, dialogues and songs, for Bollywood, it's a reminder that superstardom, when built on connection and consistency, can truly defy age.
Kabul, Dec 29 : The Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict exposes the limits of China's diplomatic ceiling -- effective in financing infrastructure, sustaining political partnerships, and providing strategic cover to allied governments, but constrained when conflict management requires confronting allies, engaging fragmented actors, or dealing with nationalist politics resistant to "transactional solutions", a report said on Monday.

Kabul, Dec 29 (IANS) The Afghanistana"Pakistan conflict exposes the limits of China's diplomatic ceiling -- effective in financing infrastructure, sustaining political partnerships, and providing strategic cover to allied governments, but constrained when conflict management requires confronting allies, engaging fragmented actors, or dealing with nationalist politics resistant to "transactional solutions", a report said on Monday.

It added that unless China reconsiders the assumptions guiding its regional diplomacy a" moving beyond quiet mediation and the belief that economic incentives alone can resolve political conflicts a" it may remain an influential regional actor, but unlikely to become a stabilising force as expected by many.

"Renewed violence along the Afghanistana"Pakistan border in recent months has underscored not only the fragility of relations between Kabul and Islamabad, but also the constraints facing China's role as a regional diplomatic actor. Exchanges of fire near major crossings, Pakistan's airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties inside Afghanistan, Kabul's retaliatory responses, and repeated border closures mark a departure from the sporadic incidents of previous years. What has emerged instead is a more entrenched cycle of escalation, with both sides attempting to assert red lines along the disputed Durand Line," a report in Afghanistan's leading news agency Khaama Press Agency detailed.

"At the core of this confrontation lies a structural impasse that has resisted external mediation. Pakistan continues to demand that the Taliban authorities take decisive action against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad says operates from Afghan territory. The Taliban, for their part, have either been unwilling or unable to meet the scale of enforcement Pakistan seeks. Any large-scale crackdown risks internal fragmentation within the Taliban, whose cohesion depends on a delicate balance among competing factions," it added.

According to the report, with economic and strategic interests, such as the Chinaa"Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and emerging mining and connectivity projects in Afghanistan, sustained instability along the border poses a direct concern for Beijing. While China has both access to key decision-makers and incentives to encourage de-escalation, in practice, Beijing's influence has remained largely limited.

"Beijing's response has largely followed a familiar pattern: calls for restraint, dialogue, and consultation among neighbouring states, coupled with expressions of readiness to play a 'constructive role' if requested. Yet China has not initiated or led a substantive trilateral mechanism capable of addressing the underlying drivers of the crisis. Its preference for quiet, behind-the-scenes diplomacy has not altered the strategic calculations of either Kabul or Islamabad. Violence has persisted, grievances have deepened, and Chinaas engagement has remained largely declaratory rather than transformative," the report noted.
Srinagar, Dec 29 : The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Monday wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking his intervention to stop the alleged harassment of Kashmiri shawl sellers in Himachal Pradesh.

The association said it had urged the Union Home Minister to take immediate steps in view of what it described as an "alarming and continued rise in incidents of intimidation, harassment and targeted violence against Kashmiri students and traditional shawl vendors" in Himachal Pradesh.

In its letter, the association pointed out that while incidents involving Kashmiri students and traders have been reported in several northern states over the past year, Himachal Pradesh has emerged as a matter of "particularly grave concern".

It said that despite repeated representations, assurances and interventions at multiple levels, such incidents continue to recur in the state with disturbing regularity, while effective action on the ground remains largely absent.

National Convenor of the association Nasir Khuehami said that at least 18 incidents of assault, intimidation and harassment of Kashmiri shawl sellers have been reported in Himachal Pradesh this year alone.

He expressed serious concern that in several cases there has been no prompt or effective registration of FIRs, no visible arrests and no deterrent action, creating an atmosphere of fear and impunity.

Khuehami said this reflected a failure to ensure the safety, dignity and livelihood of thousands of Kashmiri shawl sellers who earn their living through traditional and lawful means. He added that many Kashmiri students and traders are living under constant fear and severe psychological distress.

"Alarmingly, several have reportedly been forced to leave Himachal Pradesh, leading to disruption of education, loss of livelihood and erosion of dignity. This is not merely administrative negligence, but a serious lack of political will and moral responsibility to protect Kashmiri citizens," the association said in its letter to the Union Home Minister.

The association warned that such incidents have implications far beyond Himachal Pradesh.

It said people in the Kashmir Valley closely observe how Kashmiri citizens are treated in other parts of the country, and that repeated targeting of innocent Kashmiris, coupled with a lack of accountability, risks deepening alienation and undermining trust.

The association cautioned that this could harm long-term national interests and weaken emotional integration. Reiterating that Kashmiris are equal citizens and an integral part of India, Khuehami said targeting Kashmiri traders or forcing them out of cities only deepens mistrust and social division.

The JKSA convenor added that allowing such harassment to continue unchecked risks playing into the hands of hostile forces seeking to fracture Indiaas social cohesion.

The association stressed that acts of violence, intimidation and communal hatred must not be normalised and that the rule of law must prevail without fear or favour. Emphasising that Indiaas strength lies in its unity in diversity, it said any assault on that spirit is an assault on the nation itself.

Khuehami urged the Union Home Minister to seek a detailed report from Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on all reported incidents over the past year, including the status of FIRs, arrests, prosecutions and preventive measures taken.

The association also sought clear directions for immediate and time-bound action, fixing of accountability where lapses have occurred, and the implementation of credible security and monitoring mechanisms to protect Kashmiri students and traders across the state.

The JKSA expressed hope that timely and decisive intervention by the Union Home Ministry would help restore confidence among affected families, prevent further alienation, and reaffirm the Union governmentas commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights, dignity and safety of every citizen.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday categorically rejected Islamabad's remarks on violence against minorities in India, highlighting Pakistan's abysmal record of persecuting religious minorities.

"We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself. Pakistanas horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well established fact. No amount of finger pointing will obfuscate it," read a statement issued by the MEA on the remarks made by the spokesperson of the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Last month, India had slammed Pakistan over its statements on flag hoisting at Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, conveying strongly and clearly that Islamabad has no moral standing to lecture others, considering that the country holds a deeply stained record of bigotry, repression and systemic mistreatment of its minorities.

Addressing a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Pakistan should instead focus on its own abysmal human rights record.

When asked about Pakistan Foreign Ministry's statement on flag hoisting at Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, Jaiswal responded, "We have seen the reported remarks and reject them with the contempt they deserve. As a country with a deeply stained record of bigotry, repression, and systemic mistreatment of its minorities, Pakistan has no moral standing to lecture others. Rather than delivering hypocritical homilies, Pakistan would do better to turn its gaze inwards and focus on its own abysmal human rights record."

Earlier this month, a report in the New Delhi-based 'International Centre for Peace Studiesa highlighted that the persecution of minorities in Pakistan, especially the consistent framing of Hindus as the "other", the manipulation of Islam and anti-India sentiment for political gain, reveal the stark contradictions in the country's national identity.

Citing Lahore-based Centre for Social Justice, the report also said 344 blasphemy cases were documented in 2024, and between 2021a"2024 at least 421 minority women and girls a" mostly Hindus and Christians, with 71 per cent of them minors a" were subjected to forced conversion.
Ahmedabad, Dec 29 : A Special CBI Court in Ahmedabad on Monday sentenced a Central Excise and Service Tax official to five years' rigorous imprisonment (RI) with a fine of Rs 63 lakh in a case of possessing assets disproportionate to his source of income, an official said.

Ahmedabad, Dec 29 (IANS) A Special CBI Court in Ahmedabad on Monday sentenced a Central Excise and Service Tax official to five yearsa rigorous imprisonment (RI) with a fine of Rs 63 lakh in a case of possessing assets disproportionate to his source of income, an official said.

The Special Court convicted and sentenced Kaushik Anvantrai Karelia, the then Appraiser/Preventive Officer, Kandla Special Economic Zone (KASEZ), presently working as Inspector, Central Excise and Service tax, Bhavnagar, the official said in a statement.

His wife, Pooja Karelia, has been sentenced to one year imprisonment with a fine of Rs 50,000 for abetment of the offence, the CBI said.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered the instant case on September 30, 2013, on the allegations that the accused, during the period of September 1, 2008, to March 31, 2013, amassed assets disproportionate to their known source of income.

During the investigation, the check period was revised from April 1, 2004, to March 20, 2013. After the investigation, CBI filed a charge sheet on September 3, 2014, against the accused couple for amassing assets to the tune of Rs 57.60 lakh disproportionate to their known source of income, which was 183.57 per cent more than their known source of income.

In a separate case, a Madhya Pradesh postal assistant who embezzled Rs 13.85 lakh from government money was sentenced by a Special CBI court in Bhopal to five yearsa imprisonment, an official said.

Rajnish Tiwari, then a Postal Assistant in Gwalior, was also slapped a fine of Rs 14,000 in a fraud case which was registered by the CBI on April 20, 2022.

The misappropriation/diversion of funds was allegedly done by Tiwari by manipulating the electronic records and other details in respect of 17 Recurring Deposit accounts of various customers in the Finacle Internet Module of the Post Office, and thereafter, using internet banking.
Islamabad, Dec 29 : Pakistan's ties with Afghanistan has deteriorated and reached to a lowest point in years due to constant recriminations, recurrent border skirmishes and a growing sense of strategic frustration in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir recent warning to Taliban that Kabul must choose between its ties with Pakistan and its alleged support for the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) showcases Islamabad's failing Afghan policy, a report has stated.

"The statement, delivered at the National Ulema Conference in Islamabad with religious leaders of every persuasion in attendance, was remarkable not merely for its content but for what it revealed about Pakistanas failing Afghan policy. Rarely has a Pakistani military chief addressed the Taliban in Kabul with such open coercion," author and columnist Arun Anand wrote in a report in newspaper Blitz.

"The warning, which is essentially an ultimatum, signalled that Pakistanas long-standing strategy of influencing Kabul through ideological affinity, diplomatic engagement, occasional cross-border strikes and increased deportation of Afghan refugees has run aground. Having failed to secure compliance from Afghan Taliban through these measures, Pakistan appears to have now started resorting to threats afresh with concurrence of religious leadership which otherwise maintain ties with their counterparts in Afghanistan," he added.

Munir's warning to Taliban was framed as a matter of national security. He said that Pakistan could not tolerate the continued presence of TTP fighters in Afghanistan. His statement was a reiteration of Pakistan's recent messaging that Taliban's continued ties with the TTP would come at the cost of its goodwill. However, ultimatum rarely indicate strength in diplomacy and are often seen as admissions of failure, according to the report.

A report in Blitz said, "For more than three years since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul, Pakistan has attempted, through back-channel talks, intelligence coordination, religious mediation and cross-border military strikes to pressurise the Afghan leadership to curb TTPas activities across the Durand Line. These persuasive and coercive measures have produced little as the Afghan Taliban have recurrently rebuffed Pakistani claims of TTPas presence inside its borders. Instead, they have insisted that the issue is Pakistanas internal problem and hence be not dragged in this fight against those with whom they share ideological roots."

Asim Muniras warning to Taliban demonstrates that Pakistan no longer thinks it can influence Afghanistan through familiarity or patronage. Notably, Pakistan once considered Taliban's return in Afghanistan as a strategic triumph and Islamabad was among Talibanas most enthusiastic supporters during the 20 years of the US-led war in Afghanistan. After Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, many in Pakistanas military establishment saw vindication.

In a report in Blitz, Arun Anand wrote, "The expectation was straightforward: a friendly regime in Kabul would provide Pakistan with 'strategic depth,' limit Indiaas influence in Afghanistan and cooperate closely on security matters, including suppressing anti-Pakistan militant groups. But that assumption was deeply flawed. The Taliban of 2021 which returned triumphant to Kabul was not the Taliban of 1996."

"They returned to power not as an isolated militia but as rulers seeking international legitimacy, economic survival and regional balance. Far from acting as a Pakistani client, the new Taliban leadership set out to assert Afghanistanas autonomy by cultivating relations with China, Iran, Russia and even India, while refusing to subordinate its security decisions to Pakistani demands," he added.
Photo: The Presidential Office of Ukraine / www.president.gov.ua

The Ukrainian side is interested in receiving reparations from the Russian Federation, but the American side seeks to call the post-war financing of Ukraines reconstruction with Russian funds compensation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said following talks with US President Donald Trump on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA).

"First of all, we are interested in Russia giving us money and that it be reparations. The Americans do not call it reparations, but compensation, because I think they do not really like the word reparations, to be honest. But it is important for us to receive money to restore our state," Zelenskyy told reporters on Monday, commenting on Trumps statement that the Russian Federation is allegedly interested in a successful Ukraine and is ready to help with reconstruction, and answering the question of whether Russian reparations to Ukraine after the end of the war were discussed during the talks with the US president.

"And reparation loans we have already decided all this with the Europeans. Because most of the frozen assets are there. I am glad that they supported our position. We will receive the first 100 billion (probably, we mean $100 billion, which is approximately equivalent to EUR 90 billion - the size of the reparation loan approved by the EU Council, which will be provided to Ukraine during 2026-27 - IF-U) in the next two years in equal tranches," the President of Ukraine said.

"If there is no war - and God forbid that there is no war - we will spend this money on the restoration of our state. If we have to defend ourselves, then there is something to buy this defense for," Zelenskyy said.

As reported, on December 18, the EU leaders summit approved the provision of financial support to Ukraine in the amount of EUR90 billion in 2026-2027. Ukraine will receive an interest-free loan at the expense of a loan secured by the EU budget. That is, EU leaders have not been able to agree on the provision of a "reparation loan" using frozen Russian assets. The issuance of joint EU debt requires unanimous approval by all 27 member states. Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic have been exempted from obligations in order to avoid a veto.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever previously opposed the provision of a "reparation loan" to Ukraine. The Brussels-based depository Euroclear has stated its readiness to sue the EU if frozen Russian assets are transferred to Ukraine.

On December 19, Vladimir Putin called the initiative for a "reparation loan" for Ukraine "robbery" and threatened EU countries with legal action. He also claims that the use of frozen Russian assets could have serious consequences and promised to protect the interests of the aggressor country.
Patna, Dec 29 : Bharatiya Janata Party's National Working President, Nitin Nabin, will be on a three-day visit to Bihar starting Monday, during which he will participate in several organisational and local programs.

Patna, Dec 29 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Partyas National Working President, Nitin Nabin, will be on a three-day visit to Bihar starting Monday, during which he will participate in several organisational and local programs.

Nitin Nabin is scheduled to arrive in Patna late on Monday evening.

On Tuesday, beginning at 9:30 AM, he will attend various local programs and hold meetings with BJP workers and leaders.

A key highlight of his visit will be on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, when Nitin Nabin will pay tribute to his late father, Naveen Kishore Prasad Sinha, on his death anniversary.

Naveen Kishore Prasad Sinha was a former popular MLA from Patna West and is remembered as a dedicated soldier and strong pillar of the BJP organisation in Bihar.

At 9:00 AM on Wednesday, the BJP National Working President will visit Naveen Sinha Park in Rajvanshi Nagar, Patna, where he will offer heartfelt tributes to his revered father and honour his life, personality, and contributions to public service and the BJP.

Nabinas tour is being seen as significant for strengthening party organisation and worker morale in Bihar.

On December 14, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) appointed Nitin Nabin as the partyas National Working President. At the age of 45, Nabin is the youngest National Working President of the BJP.

Notably, this will be Nitin Nabinas second visit to Patna after being appointed as the National Working President of the BJP.

Earlier on December 23, Nitin Nabin arrived in Patna for the first time, receiving a grand welcome from party leaders and thousands of supporters.

Following his arrival, a massive roadshow was organised from Patna Airport to Miller High School Ground and the BJP state office.

Nitin Nabin is a five-time MLA from the Bakipur Assembly constituency in Patna.

He defeated RJD candidate Rekha Kumari in the Assembly election held last month.
Patna, Dec 29 : Vigilance operations are continuing across Bihar, with corrupt officials being caught on a regular basis despite repeated action by the vigilance department.

In yet another case, a peon of the Sales Tax Department in Saharsa was caught red-handed while accepting a bribe, triggering concern within government offices.

The arrested peon has been identified as Shankar Kumar, who was apprehended while accepting Rs 75,000 as bribe money.

The vigilance team carried out the operation near the State Tax Commissioner's office, close to the SP office under the Sadar police station area.

According to officials, the action followed a complaint lodged by a local businessman.

The complainant alleged that his bank account had been frozen by the department and that a bribe of Rs 1 lakh was demanded to resolve the issue.

After negotiations, the bribe amount was allegedly settled at Rs 75,000.

The Deputy Superintendent of Police of the Vigilance Department said the bribe was being demanded on behalf of a State Tax Officer, with the money being collected through peon Shankar Kumar.

Acting on the complaint, the vigilance team laid a trap and arrested the peon while he was accepting the bribe amount.

The seized cash has been recovered, and legal proceedings have been initiated.

Further investigation is under way to ascertain the role of other officials who may be involved in the case.

The incident once again highlights the persistence of corruption within government departments and the vigilance departmentas ongoing efforts to curb such practices in Bihar.

Earlier, on December 23, a sub-inspector posted in Siwan district was also arrested red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 40,000.

The arrested officer was identified as Kanhaiya Kumar Singh, who was posted at the Siswan police station.

The case was linked to a land dispute reported on December 18, during which a clash occurred between two parties.

A case was registered at Siswan police station as Case No. 309, and the investigation was assigned to SI Kanhaiya Kumar Singh.

According to the complaint, the investigating officer demanded a bribe of Rs 40,000 from Sunil Kumar in exchange for removing the name of Sunilas sister from the case diary.

Sunil subsequently approached the vigilance department, leading to the trap and arrest of the officer.
Kolkata, Dec 29 : Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Roll Observer (SRO) C. Murugan on Monday appeared undeterred by repeated attacks on his vehicle and vowed to complete the task entrusted to him by the poll panel.

Speaking to media persons after facing another round of protests in South 24 Parganas district, the Special Roll Observer said: "The Election Commission has entrusted me with a specific responsibility. I came here to work, and I will finish that work regardless of these actions."

The statement from the senior ECI officer came after his vehicle was attacked when an agitating crowd gheraoed him during his visit to a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing centre at Magrahat in South 24 Parganas district.

The protesters, mostly women, blocked the exit route of the SRO's vehicle and banged on the car bonnet and window panes, while police personnel attempted to clear the mob. During the protest, the door handle on the driver's side of the vehicle was damaged.

Murugan was first gheraoed when he reached Shirakol High School, the venue for the ongoing hearing, where protesters alleged improper planning in the implementation of the SIR exercise, claiming that sick, elderly and pregnant voters were being asked to appear in person for hearing sessions.

It was learnt that a group of local protesters, led by Trinamool Congress-run Zilla Parishad president Mujibar Rahaman Mollah, gheraoed the Special Roll Observer and demanded that the party's Booth Level Agents-2 (BLA-2) be allowed entry into the hearing sessions. Subsequently, Murugan faced further protests, during which his vehicle was damaged while he was attempting to leave the venue.

"I am here to do a job assigned to me by the Election Commission, and I will complete that task, no matter the attempted disruptions," the IAS officer said.

This was not the first time that the Special Roll Observer faced public anger while overseeing the ongoing SIR exercise. On two earlier occasions -- in Falta in South 24 Parganas district and at Haldarpara in Howrah district -- he encountered protests from local residents.

A senior official at the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) said a detailed report on Monday's incident would be sought from the SRO and forwarded to the Election Commission.
Islamabad, Dec 29 : The South Asian region is heading towards a volatile phase marked by deadly clashes, renewed refugee flows, and entrenched cycles of vengeance propelled by Pakistan's military establishment, a report said on Monday.

It added that the Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict has largely been shaped and sustained by a military-led diplomatic framework that avoids accountability and thrives in an environment of chaos.

According to a report in 'Asian News Post', Islamabad's military-led strategy has failed to secure Pakistan's borders, safeguard its citizens and generate goodwill abroad. Instead, it has fueled widespread suffering, humanitarian crises, and destabilised the wider region.

"The ongoing conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan is not simply a clash between two neighbours. It is the outcome of the Pakistan military-driven diplomacy, one built on crisis, force, and national-security posturing rather than honest dialogue. Four years after the Taliban took over in Kabul, the same Pakistani military and intelligence networks that once welcomed them are now blaming the Taliban for cross-border violence, forcing Afghan refugees from Pakistan, and launching airstrikes and shelling inside Afghanistan," it detailed.

This pattern of largely one-sided violence, the report said, underscored not only the failure of Pakistan's Afghanistan policy but also a deeper structural problem -- when the military controls the foreign policy, peace ceases to be the goal and instead becomes an obstacle.

"Back in August 2021, many analysts believed a Taliban-led Afghanistan would give Pakistan a strategic partner in the neighbourhood. The Pakistan military saw value in reduced border friction, regional leverage, and a friendly regime in Kabul. Some within Pakistan's security establishment openly celebrated the Taliban's return to power as a victory of the long-held "strategic depth" policy. Over time, however, the reality proved sharply different," it stated.

By the end of 2025, Pakistan accused the Taliban government of sheltering militants linked to suicide bombings and attacks inside Pakistan, including those by the TehrikeTaliban Pakistan (TTP). The accusations led to an escalation of violence and further eroded trust between the two sides.

The report highlighted that violence unfolded despite fresh peace talks in Saudi Arabia involving negotiators from both sides. The negotiations collapsed swiftly, unable to bridge the deep-seated distrust and mutual blame.

"This pattern reveals a stark truth that the Pakistan military-driven policy on Afghanistan has wholly failed to bring peace with the Taliban in the last four years. It appears Rawalpindi wants to project strength, orchestrating crises, and using conflict to justify its permanent influence in the country. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir recently warned the Taliban to choose between friendly ties with Islamabad or support for 'terrorist groups,' a thinly veiled threat that highlights how coercion overrides diplomacy in Pakistan," the report noted.
Dehradun, Dec 29 : Acting on the directions of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, immediate financial assistance was sanctioned on Monday to Tarun Prasad Chakma, the father of Tripura student Angel Chakma, who was brutally assaulted in Dehradun and later succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, officials said.

An official from the Chief Ministeras Office (CMO) said that an amount of Rs 4,12,500 has been released as the first instalment, and the cheque has already been dispatched to the victimas family.

The financial assistance has been sanctioned under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, the official added.

According to officials and family members, the 24-year-old final-year MBA student at a university in Uttarakhand, and son of a Border Security Force (BSF) constable, succumbed to his injuries on December 26 at a hospital in Dehradun.

The student, who belonged to the Chakma tribal community, had sustained grievous injuries after being attacked by a group of miscreants on December 9, during which racial slurs were allegedly used.

According to the CMO official, following Chief Minister Dhamias instructions, the case was forwarded through the Senior Superintendent of Police, Dehradun, to the District Social Welfare Officer, Dehradun, for immediate approval of relief to the victimas family.

Based on the joint inquiry report submitted by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Vikasnagar, and the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Vikasnagar, the district-level committee expedited the approval process and sanctioned the assistance. Subsequently, the cheque for the first instalment was sent to Angel Chakmaas father, Tarun Prasad Chakma.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Dhami on Monday spoke to Tarun Prasad Chakma over the phone and expressed deep sorrow over the killing of Angel Chakma.

The Chief Minister informed him that five accused have already been arrested, while efforts are under way to apprehend another accused, against whom a reward has been announced.

Assuring all possible support to the bereaved family, Dhami said he was personally saddened by the incident and fully understood the familyas grief. He further asserted that the Uttarakhand government would ensure strict punishment for the guilty.

Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday spoke with his Uttarakhand counterpart regarding the incident. Dhami informed Saha that five accused have been arrested and remanded to judicial custody, and that further investigation is in progress.
Ahmedabad, Dec 29 : The mega musical multimedia show 'Namotsav', inspired by the life, ideas and nation-building journey of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was witnessed by Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat in Ahmedabad on Monday.

The grand cultural presentation was organised with the objective of taking the Prime Minister's life philosophy, work ethic and unwavering commitment to the nation before the people.

Held at Sanskardham in Ghuma at Ahmedabad, the event showcased various phases of the Prime Minister's life a" from his childhood to his role in shaping modern India a" through an engaging blend of music, dance, theatre and contemporary multimedia technology.

The performance offered an immersive narrative of values such as patriotism, service, discipline, cultural roots and development.

Renowned artist Sairam Dave, along with a team of nearly 150 performers, delivered powerful and emotionally stirring performances that captivated the audience throughout the programme.

The artistic presentation highlighted the Prime Minister's journey as a source of inspiration for citizens to contribute meaningfully to national progress.

The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Gujarat BJP President Jagdish Vishwakarma, BJP Organisation General Secretary Ratnakarji, Ahmedabad city BJP President Prerak Shah, Chief Secretary M. K. Das, senior secretaries, Collector Sujit Kumar, District Development Officer Videh Khare, Sanskardham Chairman R. K. Shah, Vice Chairman Mahendra Bhatt, along with saints, social leaders and a large number of citizens.

Through 'Namotsav', the organisers effectively conveyed a message of drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Modi's life to strengthen the spirit of service, dedication and 'nation first' thinking among people, making the programme both culturally enriching and socially impactful.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, a small town in Gujarat's Mehsana district, into a modest family of the Ghanchi community.

He spent his early years helping his father sell tea at the local railway station, an experience that exposed him to people from diverse backgrounds and shaped his strong work ethic from a young age.

PM Modi completed his schooling in Vadnagar, where teachers recall him as a disciplined, sharp and inquisitive student with a keen interest in debates, theatre and reading.

Deeply influenced by Indian culture, spirituality and nationalist ideas during his formative years in Gujarat, he was drawn towards social service early in life.

As a teenager, he associated himself with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which played a significant role in shaping his organisational skills, discipline and ideological outlook, laying the foundation for his future public life.
New Delhi/Bhopal, Dec 29 : Amid the ongoing debate over former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh's recent social media post and photos praising the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Bharatiya Janata Party leader and State Urban and Housing Minister, Kailash Vijayvargiya, on Monday, called the veteran Congress Rajya Sabha MP as 'courageous'.

Vijayavargiya compared Digvijaya Singh's courage of "speaking truth" akin to former Union Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

However, the BJP leader also mentioned that Digvijaya Singh's statement would not have been received well by the Congress High Command.

"Its natural to have ideological differences in democracy, but one should also have the courage to speak the truth which everyone does not have the guts to do. Digvijaya Singh has demonstrated his courage by praising the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh," Vijayvargiya said on his official X account.

The Madhya Pradesh Minister's X post also said, "However, this may have certainly reduced his (Digvijaya Singh's) position in Delhi (Congress High Command) but Digvijaya Singh has followed the tradition of Congress leaders from 1950s, such as Sardar Patel and others, who had the courage to speak the truth. This is the beauty of democracy."

This is second stance within a month when Minister Vijayvargiya has praised the veteran Congress leader Digvijaya Singh.

Earlier, during a one-day special Assembly session, the BJP leader had said that Digvijaya Singh always stood to support the people, no matter which party they belong to.

Digvijaya Singh's advice to learn from the RSS-BJP relationship through a social media post he had shared a day before the foundation day of the Congress (on December 27) sparked a political controversy.

In his social media post, the former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister had praised the RSS-BJP alliance, citing an old photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani.

"I found this picture. It is very impressive. How a grassroots RSS volunteer and a Jan Sangh and BJP worker, sitting on the floor at the feet of leaders, became the Chief Minister of a state and the Prime Minister of the country. This is the power of organisation. Jai Siya Ram," Digvijaya Singh said.

However, the veteran Congress leader later clarified that he opposes the RSS and PM Modi's ideology and merely praised the Sangh.
Hyderabad, Dec 29 : The government of Telangana on Monday reorganised the existing three police commissionerates for Hyderabad and its suburbs and created a fourth commissionerate for the upcoming Future City.

Existing commissionerates of Hyderabad and Cyberabad will continue with the same names, while Rachakonda has been renamed as Malkajgiri.

Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, which was part of Rachakonda, has been excluded from the commissionerate jurisdiction

The decision has been taken as part of the reorganisation of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the development of Future City.

The government said that the decision to restructure the police system into four police commissionerates has been taken to ensure better public services, effective law and order maintenance, and improved crime control.

Key locations such as the Assembly, Secretariat, Begumpet, Shamshabad Airport, and the High Court coming up at Budvel have been brought under the Hyderabad Commissionerate.

Rapidly developing IT hubs, including Gachibowli, Financial District, Nanakramguda, Madhapur, and Raidurg, along with industrial areas like Patancheru, Genome Valley, RC Puram, and Ameenpur, will fall under the Cyberabad Commissionerate.

The Rachakonda Commissionerate has been reorganised and renamed as the Malkajgiri Commissionerate, covering areas such as Keesara, Shamirpet, Quthbullapur, and Kompally.

The Bhuvanagiri area, which was earlier under Rachakonda, has been excluded from the commissionerate system and will function as a separate police unit, with an SP to be appointed for Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district.

Considering the rapid development of Future City, a new commissionerate has been created covering areas such as Chevella, Moinabad, Shankarpally, Maheshwaram, and Ibrahimpatnam.

The government on Monday issued orders appointing Police Commissioners for the four commissionerates and Superintendent of Police for Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district.

Sudheer Babu, presently Commissioner of Police, Rachakonda, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner of Police, Future City.

Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty has been transferred and posted as Commissioner of Police, Malkajgiri.

M. Ramesh, Inspector General of Police, Provisioning and Logistics, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad

V. C. Sajjanar will continue as Police Commissioner of Hyderabad.

The state government, on December 9, released the Telangana Rising a" Vision 2047 document at the Telangana Rising Global Summit. With an aim to transform Telangana into a $3 trillion economy by 2047, the government has adopted a strategic approach by dividing the State into three zonesa"CURE, PURE, and RARE, each with a focused development plan.

As part of this strategy, legal amendments were made to merge 27 municipalities within the Outer Ring Road (ORR) into the GHMC, enabling planned and integrated urban development.

The GHMC area has been reorganised into 12 zones, 60 circles, and 300 wards. In line with this, the government decided to reorganise other departments, including the police.
Patna, Dec 29 : The investigation into the multi-crore theft at the famous Thave Durga Temple in Bihar's Gopalganj has taken a dramatic turn, leaving both police officials and the people stunned.

The Gopalganj police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) conducted a continuous 24-hour excavation guided by the beeping signals of metal detectors.

One after another, two priceless Ashtadhatu idols of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita were recovered from beneath the ground on Monday.

The major breakthrough came during a second consecutive raid at the house of absconding prime accused Sharif Alam, located in the Arar locality under the Town police station area.

Acting on specific intelligence that stolen items had been buried inside the premises, police cordoned off the entire area and launched an intensive search operation.

With the assistance of a technical team, metal detectors, and heavy police deployment, every corner of the house -- including rooms, the courtyard, cowshed, and even nearby premises -- was thoroughly searched.

When the ground was dug up, police were stunned to uncover highly valuable Ashtadhatu idols of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, along with several other suspicious items, including soap, a sewing machine, shoes, aluminum electrical wires, and jewellery.

According to police sources, the idols were stolen from a temple in Chhapra and had been buried underground, concealed beneath bricks and paving stones to destroy evidence.

In connection with the case, police have arrested four family members of the absconding accused -- his wife Shabba Khatun, mother Madina Khatun, and sisters Tabbu and Sabbu.

During questioning, all the four accused reportedly provided crucial inputs, significantly advancing the investigation.

The accused women were taken for medical examination at Sadar Hospital under the security of female police personnel, following which the process of producing them before the court and sending them to jail was initiated.

Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Awadhesh Dixit confirmed that the SIT's investigation is underway.

"Several suspicious items linked to the theft were recovered during the excavation on Monday, and it is suspected that the absconding accused still holds a substantial portion of the stolen temple ornaments," Dixit said.

Police sources said that large parts of Goddess Durga's gold crown, necklace, and umbrella are still missing.

Acting on fresh leads, a joint team of the Special Task Force and Gopalganj police have intensified search operations to recover the remaining valuables.

The sensational theft occurred on the night of December 17 and 18, when unidentified thieves broke into the sanctum sanctorum of the Thave Durga Temple and looted gold ornaments worth crores of rupees.

The theft came to light on the morning of December 19, triggering widespread outrage across Bihar and putting immense pressure on the police.

Now, all eyes are on whether accused Sharif Alam will be arrested soon and whether all of Goddess Durga's stolen ornaments will be recovered.

However, the Gopalganj police have expressed confidence that this high-profile temple theft case will be solved in the near future.
Mumbai, Dec 29 : After days of hard bargaining, the BJP and Shiv Sena on Monday finalised a seat-sharing formula for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. Of the total 227 seats, the BJP, which will play the role of the senior partner, will contest 137 seats, while Shiv Sena will field candidates in the remaining 90 seats.

Both parties will also allocate a few seats from their respective quotas to their allies. Candidates of the BJP and Shiv Sena will file their nomination papers on Tuesday, which is the last day for filing nominations.

Incidentally, the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is not part of the alliance and has decided to contest the BMC elections independently.

The seat-sharing arrangement was announced jointly by Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam and Shiv Sena former MP Rahul Shewale.

"Negotiations among the BJP, Shiv Sena and RPI over seat sharing were completed today. A consensus on 207 seats had been reached earlier, and the arrangement for the remaining seats has now been finalised. The BJP will contest 137 seats and Shiv Sena 90 seats, while allies of both parties will be accommodated within their respective quotas," Satam said.

He added that the two parties would conduct a joint campaign and seek to retain control of the BMC. "With the blessings of voters, the Mahayuti mayor, who will represent the people of Mumbai, will assume office after the elections," Satam said.

Satam reiterated that allies of the BJP and Shiv Sena would be accommodated within the quotas of the two parties and claimed that there was no resentment over ticket distribution, as decisions were taken after consultations. "We have arrived at a consensus after holding detailed discussions," he said.

The seat-sharing announcement comes amid the recent decision by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray to forge an alliance for the BMC elections in a bid to counter the BJP-led Mahayuti and project themselves as protectors of Marathi interests in Mumbai.

Both the BJP and Shiv Sena have downplayed the Thackeray cousins' tie-up, stating that it was driven by political compulsions, while the BJP-led Mahayuti remains committed to the development of Mumbai.

Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had said there were no hurdles in the alliance between the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena for the upcoming municipal corporation elections. He noted that seat-sharing discussions were progressing in a positive manner.

Responding to a query on the Mahayuti's seat-sharing formula, Fadnavis said, "Discussions regarding seat sharing are extremely positive. An alliance will definitely happen, and there will be no difficulties."

He added that BJP State President Ravindra Chavan is leading the negotiations, assisted by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, senior leader Ashish Shelar and key local leaders from municipal corporation areas.
Anka Feldhusen has been selected as Ukraines new Business Ombudsman following a competitive selection process announced in the summer. She served as Germanys ambassador to Ukraine from July 2019 to July 2023.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture, a draft Cabinet of Ministers resolution approving Feldhusens appointment has already been prepared, based on a decision by the Supervisory Board of the Business Ombudsman Council dated November 25 of this year.

"The Business Ombudsman Council is an institution that helps entrepreneurs protect their lawful rights and interests through non-judicial means in their interactions with public authorities. Ensuring the continuity of its work is critically important for maintaining business confidence in public institutions, reducing administrative barriers, and improving the quality of public services for entrepreneurs," the Ministry of Economy said regarding the appointment.

According to information on her LinkedIn page, after leaving her post as ambassador to Ukraine, Feldhusen became the Federal Commissioner for Stabilization and Civilian Crisis Prevention at Germanys Federal Foreign Office.

As previously reported by Oleksiy Dolhikh, managing partner of Boyden Ukraine, the executive search firm selected by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to conduct the selection of the new business ombudsman, no Ukrainian candidates applied for the position.

"Zero Ukrainian candidates for business ombudsman. They dont believe [in it]," Dolhikh said at the International Forum of Corporate Directors organized by the Corporate Governance Professional Association of (CGPA) in early December in Kyiv.

Dolhikh told Interfax-Ukraine that three strong candidates were shortlisted, from whom the Business Ombudsman Council made its final selection.

As previously reported, the current Business Ombudsman, former Canadian Ambassador to Ukraine Roman Waschuk, was appointed to the position by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on December 9, 2021, and his term expires this December. He replaced former Warsaw Mayor Marcin Swiecicki, who was appointed Business Ombudsman in 2019.

The Business Ombudsman Council (BOC) was established under a Memorandum of Understanding on the Ukrainian Anti-Corruption Initiative signed in 2014 by the Government of Ukraine, five business associations, the EBRD, and the OECD. Since 2015, the BOC has operated as an independent permanent advisory body to the Cabinet of Ministers, with a team of more than 30 specialists.

The mission of the Council is to promote a transparent business environment by reviewing complaints from companies regarding violations or corruption by public officials. Headed by the Business Ombudsman, the BOC serves as a neutral, out-of-court mechanism and facilitates constructive dialogue between business and government.

Funding for the BOC is provided through a Multi-Donor Account administered by the EBRD. Donors include Austria, Denmark, the EU, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Latvia, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Among the requirements for candidates in the selection process were at least 10 years of management experience, preferably in roles combining public accountability, institutional development, and reform; a high level of public visibility and communication skills; and mandatory fluency in English. Working knowledge of Ukrainian was listed as an advantage.

Candidates were also required to have no financial or investment interests in companies, institutions, or organizations conducting business activities in Ukraine.

Applications for the competition were accepted through August 31 of this year.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 : A 36-year-old man allegedly shot himself dead following a domestic dispute with his wife at Shivashakti Colony in Kalaburagi city of Karnataka on Monday, the police said.

The deceased has been identified as Khanduraj Davalaji. According to police, he allegedly took the extreme step after a heated argument with his wife, Priya, over suspicions regarding her character.

Police said Davalaji had been quarrelling frequently with his wife for the past one-and-a-half to two years, suspecting her of having an extramarital relationship. Elders in the family had earlier intervened and brokered a compromise, and police had also counselled the couple on previous occasions.

According to Priya's statement, her husband had been behaving aggressively and had allegedly threatened to assault and kill her. She claimed that he had planned to administer sleeping pills to her and then kill her.

"Fearing for our lives, we left the house on Sunday night. I came to know about the incident this morning," Priya told police.

She further alleged that Davalaji had given sleeping tablets to their children  powdering tablets for their daughter and forcing their son to consume tablets along with alcohol  rendering the boy unconscious. She also alleged that he assaulted her from the morning and threatened her with a knife.

Later, Davalaji allegedly shot himself in the head using an unlicensed country-made pistol. Priya said she came to know about his death only in the morning and then returned to the house.

Chowk police rushed to the spot after receiving information, and a Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) team also visited the location for inspection.

Police said Davalaji had earlier alleged that his wife had relationships with other men when he was working in Dubai and Qatar. An investigation is under way to ascertain how he procured the country-made pistol used in the incident.

A case has been registered, and further investigation is in progress, police added.

Earlier, on January 28, 2025, a 40-year-old man from Chamundeshwari Nagar in Hubballi died by suicide after leaving behind a note accusing his wife of harassment. The couple reportedly had frequent disputes, and the wife had filed for divorce and demanded substantial alimony, according to police and family statements.

In another case, Bengaluru-based tech professional Atul Subhash died by suicide in late 2024, leaving behind a detailed note and video alleging harassment and pressure from his estranged wife and her family. The Karnataka High Court later upheld the FIR against his wife and relatives on charges including abetment of suicide.
Kolkata, Dec 29 : Trinamool Congress All-India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Monday welcomed the Election Commission of India's decision to conduct Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearings at the residences of select categories of voters.

Using his X handle, Banerjee said his party had been relentlessly raising the issue before the poll panel and that the decision had finally yielded the desired result.

"Trinamool has consistently worked to address public concerns in a constructive manner. Our delegation raised this issue today before the CEO, West Bengal, and we are glad that steps were taken subsequently to provide relief," Banerjee said.

The Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha leader further urged the Election Commission to consider extending the same facility to senior citizens above the age of 60 who are suffering from comorbidities or medical conditions.

"We respectfully request the @ECISVEEP to consider the cases of senior citizens on compassionate grounds, particularly those above 60 years of age who are living with medical conditions or comorbidities. We hope such individuals may be spared from being called for hearings, so as to avoid any undue hardship. HUMANITY must always remain our guiding principle," Banerjee said.

Banerjee's reaction came after the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, announced the names of select categories of voters in whose cases hearings on claims and objections would be conducted at their residences.

For these categories of voters, Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) will visit the doorsteps of the voters concerned and conduct the hearings there.

However, at the same time, the Commission turned down the Trinamool Congress' plea to allow booth-level agents (BLAs) to be present during the hearing sessions. It clarified that, apart from the voters summoned for hearings, only Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) and Commission-appointed micro-observers would be permitted to remain present during the proceedings.
Gandhinagar, Dec 29 : A recent NITI Aayog report on the globalisation of higher education has praised the Gujarat government's pioneering initiative of establishing the Gujarat Biotechnology University (GBU) at GIFT City nearly five years ago, calling it a model that closely aligns with the national vision for internationalising higher education in India.

According to the report, Gujarat took a decisive step as early as 2020 by setting up GBU in Gandhinagar, positioning itself ahead of many states in attracting global academic collaboration and retaining Indian talent within the country.

The initiative, the report notes, effectively translates NITI Aayog's vision of developing GIFT City into a hub for international universities and foreign branch campuses.

Established in partnership with the University of Edinburgh (UoE) at Scotland, GBU has been positioned as the world's first dedicated biotechnology university.

Spread over nearly 23 acres at GIFT City, the university houses advanced research infrastructure worth more than Rs 80 crore, while an international campus being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 200 crore is steadily taking shape.

This integrated ecosystem, combining global academic legacy with world-class Indian infrastructure, has been highlighted by NITI Aayog as a benchmark for higher education reform.

The NITI Aayog report, rooted in the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, and the 'Viksit Bharat@2047' vision, flags a critical concern: for every foreign student who comes to India for higher education, as many as 28 Indian students go abroad.

This outward migration results in an estimated outflow of nearly two per cent of India's GDP.

Gujarat's decision to establish GBU was aimed precisely at addressing this challenge by offering international-standard education within the country.

GBU currently offers Master's programmes in plant biotechnology, animal biotechnology, medical biotechnology, industrial biotechnology and environmental biotechnology, designed and delivered in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh.

The academic structure includes synoptic examinations, challenge-based practical training, a nine-month research dissertation, and an innovative provision for the top 25 students each year to undertake 12a"14 weeks of research internship in Edinburgh.

Admissions to the university are conducted through the highly competitive Graduate Aptitude Testa"Biotechnology (GAT-B), ensuring merit-based selection at the national level.

In 2025, students from 17 Indian states secured admission across 100 seats, reinforcing NITI Aayog's emphasis on attracting top talent through quality and accessibility.

Senior faculty members from the University of Edinburgh dedicate more than 90 days annually to GBU, providing leadership, quality assurance and strategic guidance.

Each semester, around 12 visiting faculty teach advanced electives such as synthetic biology, vaccine design, protein engineering and microbial eco-physiology.

This academic and research ecosystem has translated into tangible outcomes.

As many as 37 student teams from GBU have secured more than Rs 2 crore in start-up and entrepreneurship grants under the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP).

Under the guidance of the Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the leadership of the Science and Technology Department, and with sustained mentoring from the University of Edinburgh, GBU has secured more than 70 extramural research grants worth more than Rs 40 crore, creating employment opportunities for more than 50 researchers.

The university has also admitted more than 40 PhD scholars through Central and state fellowships.

Of these, 20 scholars receive a monthly fellowship of Rs 20,000 from the Gujarat government, further strengthening the state's research ecosystem.

Highlighting the university's recent milestones, GBU Deputy Registrar and Head of Academics, Vimal Shah, said 2025 has marked a defining phase in the institution's global standing.

Professor Nisha Singh co-led a flagship Central government project on nanoparticle therapy for Alzheimer's disease, achieving an increase in neuronal cell survival from 40a"50 per cent to nearly 90 per cent in preclinical models.

The findings were published in Wiley's Small journal.

Meanwhile, a research team led by Rohini Nair secured Rs 1.3 crore in funding from a leading NGO for menstrual health diagnostics in remote regions.

At the university's second convocation held last November, degrees were conferred on 94 M.Sc. graduates from the second batch, with five students receiving gold medals.

Recently, Director General Professor Subir S. Majumdar was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at LASAICON-2025, underscoring the institution's leadership credentials.

GBU has also achieved rare national recognition by winning five grants in the first call of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).

In addition, the university secured three ARG and two Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) grants, demonstrating a strong capacity to attract competitive science funding.

Over the past two to three months alone, GBU has received Rs 8a"10 crore in fresh research funding -- an achievement being seen as a moment of pride for Gujarat's higher education sector.

By integrating the 440-year academic legacy of the University of Edinburgh with the cutting-edge infrastructure of GIFT City, Gujarat has created a replicable model for retaining intellectual capital within India.

The NITI Aayog report cites this approach as evidence of Gujarat's leadership in the internationalisation of higher education, positioning the state as a frontrunner in building India's global academic footprint.
Hampshires Watercress Line has taken a Class 150 Sprinter Unit into its running fleet, making it the first UK heritage railway to do so.

Class 150 Sprinters are a second-generation Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU). The Watercress Lines newest addition is numbered 150231 and was built in 1987.

Once built, the unit was delivered new to Newton Heath depot in Manchester in February 1987. From there, it operated across several regions, including journeys on Regional Railways Central, BR Anglia, Silverlink Trains and Arriva Trains Wales.

The Class 150 is part of the Sprinter family, which was a new generation of trains that British Rail introduced to replace its first-generation DMUs. The trains engines and passenger accommodation are contained within a single structure.

In September 1994, unit 150231 was named King Edmund at Bury St Edmunds station.

Number 150231 ran its final journey in passenger service on Wednesday 9 July 2025, when it operated the 18:35 Shrewsbury to Swansea service. It then moved to Derby to take part in The Greatest Gathering celebrations.

It is now the first unit of its class to enter preservation. Class 150s are still in use with Transport for Wales, Northern and First Great Western, but are being withdrawn as replacements enter service. While at The Greatest Gathering, the locomotive was restored to its original livery ahead of its move to Hampshire.

Rolling stock leasing company Porterbrook donated the unit to the heritage railway. The Watercress Lines sees its acquisition of Class 150 150231 as filling a long-standing operational gap, particularly for visitors who travel from Alton and the London end of the line. Watercress Line staff and volunteers will receive training and an operational induction and staff training before the 150231 enters public service.

The Watercress Line Heritage Railway Trust is launching a new supporters scheme in celebration of the arrival of 150231.

The 150 Club will help to fund the units ongoing restoration, maintenance and long-term care, which will ensure that 150231 remains part of the working heritage fleet into the future.

Class 150 in its original livery courtesy of Railway 200/The Greatest Gathering // Credit: Watercress Line
18 USC 929(R) is another of the many unconstitutional bullsh!t laws foisted on the American citizen by politicians who knew f@ck all about the subject they were pontificating upon, and cared less about the Second Amendment.

Under it, foreign-made semi- auto shotguns, which appear particularly scary-looking to the ignorant may not be imported. Mag holds more than five rounds? Scary. Folding or collapsible stock? Scary. Or in the words of the statute, not being particularly suitable  for sporting purposes. U.S.-made shotguns arent subject to this idiocy, so it seems that Remingtons lobbyists at the time this got passed were pretty effective.

As a result, the Benelli M4 in its original form could only be imported with a fixed, non-pistol grip stock and a neutered magazine. If you wanted to correct this aberration, then doing so opened you up to another aspect of the law, which stated It shall be unlawful for any person to assemble from imported parts any semiautomatic rifle or any shotgun which is identical to any rifle or shotgun prohibited from importation under section 925(d)(3) of this chapter as not being particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes.

The M4s mag tube is full-length steel and holds seven rounds. As God intended.

Which leads us to The List. If you read the preceding quote carefully, the from imported parts bit could be interpreted pretty broadly. Screws, pins, springs, and other small parts that U.S. manufacturers regularly brought in could conceivably fall under it, so The List was helpfully put together by the ATF to decide which parts were critical to the operation of the firearm. It was then decided that imported semiautomatic long-guns could consist of no more than 10 foreign parts that appeared on The List.

Why 10 and not, say, 9 or 11? Your guess is as good as ours.

If you wanted to avoid falling foul of unlawfully assembling a gun that was prohibited from importation, then in a lot of cases you are faced with the prospect of removing a perfectly good foreign-made part and replacing it with an identical American-made part. Its something of a testament to the law-abiding nature of most gun owners that a cottage industry sprung up to make replacement parts on these shores. Of course, a lot of gun owners recognized the idiocy of our supposed representatives and simply did not comply.

Mesa Tacticals side saddle shell holder provides a red-dot mount, as well as extra ammo.

Fortunately for fans of the M4, Benelli is now making their shotgun in the good ole USA, which means its no longer necessary to throw away Italian components. You can now get a civilian version of the shotgun toted by U.S. Marines in hot sandy places  and in this case, the one available to us filthy civvies is actually better than the issued model.

BENELLI M4 EXT SPECS

Caliber: 12-gauge

Capacity: 7 rounds

Barrel length: 18 inches

Overall Length: 39.5 inches (stock extended), 35 inches (stock collapsed)

Weight: 8.5 pounds

MSRP: $2400

Palmetto State Armory $2,300

At the M4s heart is its ARGO operating system. Unlike most semis, the M4 uses twin stainless steel pistons to actuate the bolt carrier. These bleed gas from ports located just ahead of the chamber, where pressure is highest and, for most loads, are self-regulating. Its been proven in both extensive testing and the rigors of combat deployments to be a reliable and largely trouble-free system, and paired with a chrome-lined barrel it requires very little cleaning or maintenance.

The bolt  also chrome plated  locks up by means of a single lug, which rotates into engagement with the barrel extension. Youd be forgiven for thinking the M4s bolt carrier group looks like it came out of one of Benellis inertia-operated models, as it has the same spring-loaded bolt and a rat-tail extension, which compresses the recoil spring located in the butt.

The recoil spring housing serves as a mounting point for the buttstock, in a similar fashion to that other M4. Press a button on the left side, and the stock can extend from a 9.5-inch length of pull, all the way out to 14 inches. Reversible sling cups and a slot near the toe allow sling attachment options, and our test model arrived with an IWC weapon light mount, which gave a further QD point up front.

Unlike the military version, this one has replaceable choke tubes. Its a matter of debate as to whether this additional failure point is worth the versatility it offers, but most users wont run it hard enough to worry about losing a tube, and in extremis, the gun can be shot without one present.

Steiner MPS works well in this application. Note the oversize bolt release, an improvement over the issued version.

The Benellis magazine holds seven rounds of 2 3/4-inch ammo and is a one piece component. As youd expect from a combat arm, its steel but if you want to lighten both the gun and your wallet, aftermarket titanium models exist.

Rounds Downrange

The M4 has a reputation for being one of the lightest-recoiling gas operated shotguns, and we can attest that its as smooth as anything in the safe. Whether this is a result of the ARGO system, or a by-product of its not inconsiderable heft is open to argument, but we were able to empty the mag onto a steel target in 1.6 seconds. .17-second splits from a 12-gauge is not too shabby, and were sure a better shooter could cut those even further.

A collapsible stock used to be a no-no. Now you can get it from the factory, rather than screw around adding it later.

Using the Steiner MPS red dot mounted on a Mesa Tactical sidesaddle mount, we were able to dump five slugs into the headbox of an IPSC target at 40 yards, courtesy of a tight barrel extension to receiver fit.

It would be nice if the receiver was relieved for faster reloads  quad loading was never part of the military manual of arms, but the world has moved on since 1998 and the M4s adoption. For civilian users, the ability to rapidly get more ammo into the gun while on the clock is important, and opening up the receiver to do this means old-style reloads from a pouch or web loop are quicker, too. Of course, this would deviate from the as-issued aesthetic.

Palmetto State Armory $2,300

If youve ever considered adding this iconic shotgun to your collection, now would be a good time to do it. Theres no need to replace parts to restore it from its previously neutered status, or work around idiotic legislation.

MORE ON THE M4
Three officials of the National Power Company (NPC) Ukrenergo have been charged with misappropriation of electricity without actual payment, which resulted in UAH 168 million in losses, the Prosecutor Generals Office (PGO) reports.

"The investigation established that officials of the industrial enterprise initiated the conclusion of an electricity supply agreement with a controlled supplier, while actually not intending to pay for the consumed volumes," the PGO said on Telegram on Monday.

At the same time, the electricity supplier, according to the investigation, did not purchase electricity in the prescribed manner, but received it at the expense of imbalances formed by the transmission system operator. Mandatory payments for imbalances were not made.

An official of Ukrenergo", holding a management position and having the authority to administer settlements in the electricity market, deliberately failed to take the response measures provided for by law.

"As a result, according to the investigation, more than 82,000 MWh of electricity were released without reason, the total cost of which is over UAH 168 million, which caused material damage to Ukrenergo and led to serious consequences," the message says.

The director of the commercial enterprise and the former director of the electricity supplier are charged with embezzlement of funds of Ukrenergo" (Part 5, Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

The responsible official Ukrenergo was charged with abuse of office for the purpose of obtaining unlawful benefit for another legal entity (Part 2 of Article 364 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). According to the investigation, the official intentionally did not apply the measures of response provided for by law to the electricity supplier. During searches at the suspects residence, draft records and documents of evidentiary value were seized.
There are vexing questions around the disconnect between Nifty returns and portfolio returns, between economic growth and earnings growth, and finally, between earnings growth and market returns, points out Debashis Basu.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

India's stock market wears an air of resilience.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic trough, the benchmark indices -- the Nifty 50 and the Sensex -- have repeatedly scaled new highs, buoyed up by domestic inflows, a swelling army of retail investors, and a compelling narrative of long-term growth.

Yet, as the indices recently edged past their records, a curious disquiet set in. Many investors found their portfolios stubbornly in the red. Social media buzzed with perplexity.

How could markets be at all-time highs while portfolios languished?

There are vexing questions around the disconnect between Nifty returns and portfolio returns, between economic growth and earnings growth, and finally, between earnings growth and market returns, and the divergence between them.

Nifty returns vs portfolio returns

The Nifty is a club of giants -- banks, financiers, software firms, pharmaceuticals, consumer staples, and commodity producers.

These are mature, relatively stable businesses. They were never the principal beneficiaries of the recent investment frenzy.

The great bull run of 2023 and 2024 was driven instead by small and mid-sized firms riding a wave of government capital expenditure (capex) -- railways, roads, urban transport, defence, water, power, and green energy.

Those companies soared, and retail portfolios rose with them.

Since early last year, however, this massive government spending has slowed. It was blamed first on the general elections, and then on the monsoon.

Later, geopolitical issues took centre stage -- from United States (US) President Donald Trump's tariffs to tensions with Pakistan -- before the monsoon was blamed again.

Hundreds of companies that had been flying high on government capex have since stagnated or fallen.

These are the stocks that dominate retail portfolios. The Nifty, by contrast, barely noticed this and was unaffected.

With the exception of Larsen & Toubro, few Nifty heavyweights are direct capex plays.

Having risen less during the boom, they corrected less during the slowdown. Comparing the Nifty with a retail portfolio, then, is to mistake apples for oranges.

Economy vs earnings

A second puzzle is the divergence between India's nominal GDP growth and Nifty earnings.

India's GDP has expanded at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 10 per cent since 2008.

The common belief is that Nifty companies should grow their sales and earnings faster than GDP because these firms are among the country's largest, benefiting from economies of scale and market dominance.

Yet, a recently released study by Motilal Oswal shows that Nifty earnings per share grew at a CAGR of just 8 per cent between 2008 and 2025.

Why the disconnect?

For starters, it was imported from the US, where around 70 per cent of GDP comes from consumption and most of that consumption flows into listed companies as sales.

In India, consumption accounts for roughly 62 per cent of GDP, and a much smaller share flows into listed consumer companies.

Capex further weakens the link. GDP is boosted by investment booms that barely touch Nifty firms. India has experienced this twice in the past two decades.

The first was in the period before and after the global financial crisis in 2008. Under two Congress-led regimes, there was a capex boom, but hardly any Nifty companies benefited.

Indeed, much of it involved large-scale plunder by crony capitalists and bankers.

The second boom was government-led capex between 2022 and 2024, which directly benefited smaller companies but not Nifty constituents, as I have noted earlier.

GDP growth and corporate earnings can diverge for other reasons as well. One is playing out in China, which has relied on ferocious competition to build immense manufacturing capacity.

This has benefited the country but not its companies, many of which operate on wafer-thin margins.

That is why China's stock market scarcely reflects its impressive economic growth.

Before China, other Asian economies -- South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan -- experienced periods of rapid growth in the latter half of the 20th century, yet earnings growth failed to keep pace.

Earnings vs market returns

The third belief is that higher growth in earnings will automatically translate into higher market returns.

This is the most fallacious of the three because it assumes that starting and ending valuations do not matter, only earnings do.

If starting valuations are low and exit valuations are high, returns will be strong, irrespective of modest earnings growth.

At the depth of a bear market in October 2008, the Nifty stood at around 2,500.

By early 2020, it had climbed to roughly 12,000 -- an annualised return of 15-16 per cent, excluding dividends -- despite earnings growth of just 7 per cent during that period.

The reverse is equally true.

Starting at high valuations and exiting at lower ones lead to wealth destruction.

Taiwan recorded GDP growth of over 5 per cent a year between 1990 and 2008.

Yet its stock market fell by almost 50 per cent over the same period, undone by valuation compression.

Japan's Nikkei delivered negative returns for 34 years from the 1989 peak.

The past three decades have been punctuated by recurring enthusiasm about structural change, new missions, policies, and grand projects.

For all the exuberance surrounding India's stock market and economy, the ultimate outcome for investors has been rather pedestrian.

The chief culprit is poor earnings growth -- a variable that no amount of storytelling can obscure.

Corporate profits, once expected to sprint on the back of reforms, consolidation, and formalisation, have instead only trudged ahead.

That leaves only one other lever to boost returns: Low valuations.

Yet even the bulls concede that valuations are not low today. The math is unforgiving.

Without stronger profits or cheaper prices, storytelling fails. Will investors update their beliefs?

Debashis Basu is editor of moneylife.in and a trustee of the Moneylife Foundation.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
As the government moves to revamp Indias securities legislation, unifying three different laws into the Securities Markets Code (SMC), regulatory experts and market insiders have raised concerns on potential funding challenges for the stock market regulator.

Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

While the new code simplifies several norms and sets timelines for investigations by the market regulator, it proposes the constitution of a reserve fund for the expenditure incurred by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) and the transfer of the residual corpus to the Consolidated Fund of India.

Twenty-five per cent of the annual surplus of the General Fund in any financial year shall be credited to such a reserve fund which shall not exceed the total of annual expenditure of the preceding two financial years, the proposed Bill states.

"The amount credited to the reserve fund will be utilised to meet Sebis expenses.

After crediting the portion of the annual surplus the remaining annual surplus of the General Fund for that financial year shall be credited to the Consolidated Fund of India, states the proposed Bill. Settlement amounts and penalties collected by Sebi are already deposited to the Consolidated Fund of India, and are not included in the regulators income since 2003-04.

The market regulator cannot withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of India so once the surplus is transferred, it is out of bounds.

"Unlike the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Sebi does not manage funds and has no income except for the fees it levies on market intermediaries, said an expert with regulatory experience, adding the 25 per cent cap may need to be enhanced.

According to sources, the surplus available to Sebi at this stage is between Rs 3,000-4,000 crore, a significant portion of which is to be utilised towards its expansion.

The proposed reserve fund could put constraints on Sebi, specifically when it is at a stage of expanding its pan-Indian reach with regional offices and will need more resources to expedite probes, said a market veteran, requesting anonymity.

The new code prescribes strict timelines for investigations, inspections, and interim orders. To meet such timelines, Sebi will be required to invest more in technology and other resources.

"Such investments may be affected with limitations on the surplus, said the person quoted above.

Sebi plans to set up local offices in cities like Chandigarh, Lucknow, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, among others, in its first phase of expansion.

Sebi cannot indefinitely retain or build large surpluses under the Bills architecture.

"Sebis operational funding stream remains intact: the Fund is still primarily fed by fees and charges that are its core recurring revenues, and the Code explicitly permits using it for capex under a Board-approved plan, said Abhimanyu Bhattacharya, Partner at Khaitan & Co.

A few experts also flagged the need for greater clarity on the remit of the Ombudsperson framework in Sebi to resolve grievances under the new code, as well as the reasoning for the different approach taken compared to other financial regulators.

For instance, the RBI has the Banking Ombudsman created through a scheme but not through the law, while the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) has an external ombudsman constituted through rules notified by the government.

The Securities Markets Code approach  putting an ombudsperson framework in the principal legislation  can be seen as a deliberate elevation to this framework, said Bhattacharya.

Sebi already has grievance redressal mechanisms such as the Sebi Complaints Redress System platform, better known as SCORES platform, and an Online Dispute Resolution mechanism, complaints on which are flagged to the exchanges for resolution through an electronically assigned arbitration-like process.

Vanya Singh, partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, noted that an Ombudsperson will step in only once the regular investor grievance redressal process has been pursued without success for 180 days with Sebi or the concerned securities market service provider or issuer or its agent.

Therefore, the idea does not appear to be to replace all other grievance redressal processes, but to fortify them with definite, time-bound outcomes for investors, she reckoned.

However, another securities lawyer is not as sanguine.

I am not clear how the Ombudsman plan will pan out. Under the new code, Sebi officers may only act as ombudspersons.

"The difference between RBI and Sebi is that all Sebi orders can be appealed in the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT).

"If the Ombudsperson orders also go to SAT, then it can burden the system that is already facing high pendencies, said a securities lawyer, requesting not to be identified.

Sebi, unlike the RBI and Irdai, deals with a large set of intermediaries with various types of contracts, so even if 0.00001 per cent of investors or market participants complain through the Ombudsman, the case load can be high, he pointed out.
This exercise allows investors to realign their portfolios with changing market conditions and evolving personal objectives.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

The end of the year presents investors with an opportunity to review their portfolios and assess whether they remain aligned with their financial goals.

While those working with financial advisors can rely on professional reviews, do-it-yourself investors should undertake this exercise themselves to prepare for the year ahead.

Why a review matters

A year-end review enables investors to assess how each asset class performed and whether their portfolio effectively captured those returns.

"It also allows investors to rebalance their portfolios in case any part of it has grown disproportionately or lagged, thereby altering its risk profile," says Niranjan Avasthi, senior vice president, Edelweiss Mutual Fund.

This exercise also allows investors to realign their portfolios with changing market conditions and evolving personal objectives.

Asset-class performance in 2025

Gold and silver delivered strong gains in 2025.

"Global economic uncertainty, along with a weaker US dollar, increased the demand for safe-haven assets. Silver also gained due to strong industrial demand and supply constraints," says Avasthi.

Within equities, international markets outperformed domestic ones, with the United States and China performing particularly well.

Among domestic equity funds, after five years of underperformance, large-cap funds beat mid-cap and small-cap funds, as elevated valuations in the latter limited further upside.

Heightened volatility also led investors to favour large, stable businesses.

Debt funds delivered modest returns, with limited duration-led gains. Low-duration, short-duration, banking and public sector undertaking, corporate bond, and medium-duration funds performed reasonably, supported mainly by accrual income.

Rebalancing discipline

Investors should follow a pre-defined review schedule.

"The financial plan and goals should be reviewed annually, while the investment portfolio should be checked quarterly or half-yearly," says Vishal Dhawan, founder and CEO, Plan Ahead Wealth Advisors.

Rebalancing may be required when allocations drift beyond acceptable limits. Archit Doshi, senior vice president-AMC, Prabhudas Lilladher Capital, recommends a two-tier approach.

"For material buckets (for example, equity versus debt), use relative drift limits of 15-20 per cent of the target allocation. So, a 50 per cent equity target implies a 7.5 to 10 percentage-point band. For smaller sub-buckets, apply absolute bands of 3 to 5 percentage points," he says.

Sachin Jain, managing partner, Scripbox, suggests rebalancing when allocations deviate by 5 percentage points.

Minor deviations can be corrected through fresh investments or adjustments to SIPs (systematic investment plans).

"This helps avoid both tax and exit loads," says Ankur Punj, managing director, business head, Equirus Wealth.

Larger deviations may require selling outperforming assets. When selling, investors should try to minimise the tax and exit-load implications.

"Prioritise units that have completed their exit-load periods and qualify as long-term holdings, so that you benefit from lower long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax rates and the annual exemption of Rs 1.25 lakh allowed on equity sales," says Punj.

Dhawan cautions that investors should understand the tiered exit-load structure of some funds, wherein charges reduce over time.

Sometimes, rebalancing should take precedence over tax considerations.

"One is when your goal has been achieved and the focus has shifted from growth to preservation. The other is when you want to exit a security that no longer meets your quality criteria," says Jain.

Align with life-stage changes

Doshi advises immediate rebalancing if a life event or goal change renders the existing asset allocation unsuitable. Income changes alter investment capacity.

"Higher income allows investors to increase their SIP contributions or invest larger lump sums," says Feroze Azeez, joint CEO, Anand Rathi Wealth.

However, higher income alone should not dictate risk-taking.

"Investors should go through a formal risk-profiling exercise before changing their asset allocation," says Abhishek Kumar, Securities and Exchange Board of India-registered investment adviser and founder, SahajMoney.com.

If income declined during the past year, Kumar suggests allocating more to liquid, low-risk assets and strengthening the emergency fund.

Investors must also factor in their reaction to volatility over the past year.

"Those who lost sleep or felt pressured to sell during market declines should move to a more conservative allocation, despite a long horizon," says Kumar.

Age influences asset allocation by affecting the investment time available.

"Younger and middle-aged investors with long-term goals, such as retirement 15 to 20 years away, can maintain an 80:20 equity-to-debt mix," says Azeez.

Investors who have moved into their late 40s and 50s have greater responsibilities and shorter horizons.

"Allocations should move towards a more balanced mix to protect accumulated wealth while allowing for moderate growth," says Azeez.

Risk appetite, shaped by individual experience, also plays a decisive role.

"The conventional '100 minus your age' rule should not be used as an asset-allocation strategy," says Kumar.

If a major goal is two to three years away, start reducing equity exposure.

"This helps lock in gains and protects the portfolio from short-term market corrections, while allowing time to plan exits and optimise tax outcomes," says Azeez.

Disclaimer: This article is meant for information purposes only. This article and information do not constitute a distribution, an endorsement, an investment advice, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities/schemes or any other financial products/investment products mentioned in this article to influence the opinion or behaviour of the investors/recipients.

Any use of the information/any investment and investment related decisions of the investors/recipients are at their sole discretion and risk. Any advice herein is made on a general basis and does not take into account the specific investment objectives of the specific person or group of persons. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Both Mr Modi and Amit Shah like Nabin because they know he will never answer back, points out Aditi Phadnis.

IMAGE: Bharatiya Janata Party national Working President Nitin Nabin during the felicitation ceremony at the Miller high school ground in Patna, December 23, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in the Chhattisgarh assembly election (2023) is considered a turning point in the political career of Nitin Nabin, declared national working president of the BJP last fortnight, the youngest ever to hold the position.

But the real boost to his career came in 2019, when he was put in charge of the party's campaign in the Sikkim assembly polls.

The BJP's performance in that election was not up to standard.

Although the P K Chamling-led Sikkim Democratic Front was thrown out, ending Mr Chamling's five-term tenure as chief minister, the gains were mopped up not by the BJP but Mr Chamling's deputy, P S Tamang, and his Sikkim Krantikari Morcha.

The BJP could not open its account in the state though it put up 31 candidates in the 32-member assembly.

For the top leadership, this was not unexpected. Typically, in states where regional parties are strong, the BJP finds the going tough, whether it is Jharkhand, West Bengal, or Tamil Nadu.

But his appointment did mean that Mr Nabin got the opportunity to interact with central leaders, elevating him above and beyond youth politics -- he started on the fringes of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), joined the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), was its national general secretary from 2010 to 2013, and rose to become its Bihar president from 2016-2019.

IMAGE: Nitin Nabin being felicitated with a traditional Assamese japi by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and state BJP President Dilip Saikia, at the Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra in Guwahati, December 26, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

In 2019, he was called to work in the polls to help with the R K Puram assembly segment of the New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency, and he established a rapport with BJP leaders in Delhi, especially Rekha Gupta, now chief minister.

Little wonder then that an elated Gupta was one of the first to congratulate him on his appointment.

In 2019, from strategising his own election (he had already become a member of the legislative assembly after his father's sudden death), he was tasked with the responsibility of the BJP's fortunes in the whole state.

His party seniors were watching how he would tackle Sikkim.

Apparently he showed promise, bringing in its wake another challenge. From 2021 to 2024, he was appointed co-in charge of Chhattisgarh ahead of the assembly polls.

His senior colleague was D Purandeswari, more conversant with south Indian politics, and she was succeeded by O P Mathur.

It fell to Mr Nabin to coordinate with BJP foot-soldiers, who were generally demoralised.

In fact, party leaders candidly admitted at the time that they expected the Congress, then the ruling party, to return to power.

So Mr Nabin set out to prove pollsters like Yashwant Deshmukh (BJP leader Nanaji Deshmukh's grandson but an independent psephologist) wrong.

The crucial issue, in Mr Nabin's assessment, was a gap of a 1 to 1.5 per cent vote share between the Congress and the BJP, which would spell the difference between victory and defeat.

It was this gap the BJP needed to bridge. Mr Deshmukh and others said the gap was almost 5 per cent.

IMAGE: Senior-most BJP leader Narendra Modi meets Nitin Nabin, December 19, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

The BJP's challenge in Chhattisgarh was not just numerical.

There was also a crisis of leadership with people like Raman Singh, former chief minister, disconnected from the cadres and it fell to Mr Nabin to tactfully correct this.

He worked very hard. After the success in the Assembly polls, he was given charge of the Lok Sabha elections.

The party swept the polls in the state. In July last year, he was named the "party in-charge" of the state.

This represented a significant elevation. The entire Chhattisgarh team travelled to Bihar to manage his campaign in the November elections.

IMAGE: Nitin Nabin inaugurates an exhibition commemorating the life and legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the late BJP leader's 101st birth anniversary at the party headquarters in New Delhi, December 25, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Little attention is paid to his tenure as minister in the Bihar administration, a job he carried out with characteristic thoroughness.

He held the road-construction portfolio 2021 onwards with urban development added to it for a year.

In an interview to Business Standard a few weeks ago, he said that while Bihar had now got an extensive road network, what it lacked was maintenance.

A few months before the assembly polls, Mr Nabin announced a road-maintenance policy, the first state in India to do so.

He identified this as a major requirement in the state, which now has roads of around 100,000 km, up from 8,000 km in 2005.

His strength lies in his affability and humility. He rarely raises his voice and is always accessible. Other leaders of his standing revel in flamboyance. Mr Nabin distrusts it.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been interacting with him regularly through Joint General Secretary Arun Kumar, the key interlocutor between the RSS and BJP.

The organisation is looking at the BJP leadership over the next 15 years, beyond Narendra Modi.

And both Mr Modi and Amit Shah like Nabin -- because they know he will never answer back.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff

Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff
The Nationalist Congress Party headed by Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar faction led by his uncle Sharad Pawar sealed an alliance for the upcoming elections to the Pune Municipal Corporation on Monday, a day before the deadline for filing nominations ends.

IMAGE: File image of NCP chief Ajit Pawar and NCP-SP supremo Sharad Pawar (right). Photograph: / Rediff.com

The fresh tie-up was announced a day after the NCP, a constituent of the ruling Mahayuti alliance, and NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar, a member of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, finalised an alliance for the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections in Pune district.

"After NCP (SP) Pune unit chief Prashant Jagtap's exit from the party, several workers approached the party working president Supriya Sule and requested the need for joining hands with NCP.

"A decision on the alliance has been taken considering the sentiments of local party workers," said NCP-SP MLA Rohit Pawar on Monday.

The alliances have been forged to ensure that the election battle becomes easier for both factions, he said, adding that for now, the parties will fight the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad civic polls together.

Elections to 29 civic bodies in Maharashtra will be held on January 15. The counting of votes will take place the next day. The last date for filing nominations is December 30.

Rohit Pawar clarified that NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar was not involved in the decision related to finalising the alliance.

"However, he believes that party workers are important and their views matter for the civic polls," said the NCP-SP general secretary.

A seat-sharing formula has also been decided, he said, without elaborating further.

The Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad municipal corporations are politically crucial for the Pawar clan, given that several IT and industrial units are located in the jurisdictions of the two civic bodies. The area has remained a bastion of the Pawars for decades.

With the rival NCP factions coming together in two municipal bodies after a bitter 2023 split that saw Ajit Pawar joining the BJP-led NDA government with loyalist MLAs, the battle lines are drawn tentatively between the BJP-Shiv Sena and the two NCP factions.

The BJP and Sena, headed by deputy CM Eknath Shinde, have not yet announced a formal decision to join hands in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad.

Party insiders said discussions are underway to sort out the differences over a few seats between the two saffron members.

Parleys are also underway between the Congress and its ally in MVA, the Shiv Sena-UBT. It is not yet clear whether the two parties will contest separately or as part of the opposition combine in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad.

A total of 165 corporator seats are up for grabs in Pune and 128 in Pimpri Chinchwad.

The BJP was in power in both civic bodies from 2017 to 2022. The civic polls had been run by administrators since 2022.

On Sunday, Ajit Pawar announced an alliance between the NCP factions for the Pimpri Chinchwad civic body.

"For the sake of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections, the 'clock' and the 'tutari' (trumpet) have united. The parivar has come together," he had said.

Taking potshots at Sharad Pawar, Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) chief Prakash Ambedkar said the alliance shows that whatever the veteran politician says, people should perceive it as the opposite.

"He had said that (NCP-SP) will not go with Ajit Pawar-led NCP. Now see, he went with Ajit Pawar, and now he will soon become BJP-wasi," he said.

Ambedkar claimed that NCP (SP) will fight on the 'clock' symbol, which shows they are inching towards a merger.

"No wonder, Supriya Sule will become a minister at the Centre. The secular people should not be shocked to see Sule as a Union minister," he added.
A man from Punjab's Goraya, who recently returned from Russia after visiting that country to search his missing brother, on Sunday claimed that 10 Indians, who were recruited into the Russian Army for an ongoing fight against Ukraine, have died.

Image used only for representational purposes. Photograph: Alexander Ermochenko/Reuters

Jagdeep Kumar, a resident of Goraya in Jalandhar, claimed that of these 10 Indians, three belonged to Punjab and seven were from Uttar Pradesh and Jammu.

There was no official confirmation over the claims.

Jagdeep said he gave certain documents, which confirm the deaths of these 10 men as per the Russian army, to Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal's office.

He further claimed that four Indians are also missing in Russia.

In September, India had demanded that Russia end its practice of recruiting Indian nationals as support staff in the Russian military.

New Delhi had also demanded the release of all the Indians currently serving in Russian armed forces following reports of fresh recruitment of Indians by the Russian military.

India had also cautioned its nationals to not take offers to join the Russian military in view of inherent 'risks and dangers' involved.

Meanwhile, Seechewal appealed to the Centre to use its influence to completely stop the recruitment of Indian youths in the Russian army.

Earlier, there have been incidents that several Indian youths were lured with attractive job offers in Russia but they were later 'forcibly' recruited into the Russian Army to fight against Ukraine.

Jagdeep said he first met Seechewal on June 29, 2024, during which he submitted a petition for the safe return of his brother Mandeep Kumar and other Indian youths trapped in the Russian army.

Following this, Seechewal met the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and wrote a letter requesting the safe return of the Indians from Russia.

Jagdeep said the Rajya Sabha MP has been helping the affected families from the very beginning. Thanks to his efforts, many Indian youths have safely returned to their families, he said.

He explained that when he could not find any information about his brother Mandeep, he decided to travel to Russia. Mandeep went missing in Russia where a travel agent made him join the Russian army. The family last spoke to him in March 2024.

Seechewal helped by arranging tickets for him and also provided him with a letter so that he wouldn't face any issues in Russia.

Jagdeep mentioned that he visited Russia twice.

During his first trip, he stayed there for 21 days, searching for the trapped Indians and especially Punjabi youths.

However, he faced many difficulties due to the language barrier. On his second trip, he stayed for two months and gathered substantial information.

Seechewal, while referring to his letter to the External Affairs minister, stated that he had requested that the bodies of the Indian youths who died in Russia be sent back to their families so they can perform the final rites.

He also urged strict action against the travel agents who deceive youths into joining the army.
The main leader of last year's violent uprising that toppled the then government in Bangladesh, Mahfuz Alam, on Sunday distanced himself from his disciples under the National Citizen Party (NCP) banner over their move to forge an electoral alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami.

Image used only for representational purposes. Photograph: Abdul Goni/Reuters

In a Facebook post, Alam declined to be a 'part of this NCP', as a rift in the party over the alliance issue yielded a memorandum signed by 30 of its senior leaders expressing their stance against the move and two ranking ones announcing their resignation.

The fierce 2024 violent street campaign, dubbed the July Uprising, was carried out under the banner of the Students against Discrimination (SAD), and a large offshoot of the platform in February this year emerged as the NCP with interim government chief Muhammad Yunus' blessings.

Alam served as the information and broadcast adviser, effectively a minister, and quit the portfolio just ahead of the Election Commission's December 11 announcement of the schedule for Bangladesh's 13th parliamentary polls amid speculation that he could be a heavyweight contender.

'Under the prevailing circumstances, my respect, affection and friendship for my July comrades will not be erased. But I am not becoming part of this NCP,' Alam wrote.

He said 'it is not true that I was given a proposal from the Jamaat-NCP alliance but keeping my long standing position is more important than becoming a Jamaat-NCP alliance (candidate) from any Dhaka constituency'.

Yunus last year introduced Alam to former United States president Bill Clinton in the US, explicitly calling him the 'brain behind the whole revolution' in July 2024 and describing the uprising as a 'meticulously-designed' upheaval.

The violent street protest toppled then prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League regime on August 5, 2024, while the interim government disbanded the party under an executive order earlier this year, debarring it from contesting the scheduled election on February 12, 2026.

Alam is widely regarded as an NCP 'guru', despite his obscure official relations with the party and largely esoteric political views.

His post came hours after NCP convenor Nahid Islam announced that they have joined the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance in pursuit of a broader political unity ahead of the polls.

Islam, however, said the move did not indicate any ideological alignment with the Jamaat.

NCP's joint member-secretary Mushfiq Us Saleheen, who was the first signatory to the memorandum titled 'Principled objections to a potential alliance in light of the accountability of the July Uprising and party values', told reporters on Saturday night that they have sent the memo to the party convenor.

The memorandum has expressed concerns over the NCP's proposed alliance with the Jamaat, stating that it conflicts with the party's declared ideology and stance on the July Uprising and democratic ethics.

It has pointed to the Jamaat's controversial political history, particularly its role against Bangladesh's independence and alleged collaboration in genocide and crimes during the 1971 Liberation War, describing these as fundamentally incompatible with Bangladesh's democratic spirit and the NCP's core values.

The memo has further alleged that the Jamaat's student wing, Chhatra Shibir, had in the recent past infiltrated and sabotaged other parties to blame the NCP for various incidents and spread misinformation and propaganda.

The memorandum was made public after NCP senior joint member-secretary Tasnim Jara, a doctor, resigned from her position on Saturday evening and announced that she would contest the upcoming parliamentary election as an independent candidate from a Dhaka constituency.

Hours later, NCP joint convenor Tajnuva Jabeen, also a doctor, announced her resignation in a Facebook post, describing the alliance formation as 'a political strategy carefully engineered and brought to this point'.

The Ittefaq newspaper reported on Saturday that most female NCP leaders were opposed to an alliance with the Jamaat or any religion-based party.

Bengali daily Prothom Alo earlier reported that a seat-sharing deal between the NCP and former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was discussed, but no understanding was reached.

'Since then, NCP talks with Jamaat have progressed positively,' the report said.

The BNP has emerged as the forerunner in the changed political landscape, with its former ally Jamaat -- its partner during the 2001-2006 tenure -- now appearing as its main rival amid the apparent absence of the disbanded Awami League.
Jadavpur University on Monday formed a three-member committee consisting of senior academics and the chancellor's nominee to look into the controversy surrounding a hijab-wearing student during a third-year English semester exam, and asked the panel to submit its report within a month.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo

Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharya said in a statement that the committee comprises Burdwan University history professor Syed Tanveer Nasreen, Subarna Kumar Das of JU's department of library and information science and liaison officer of the SC and ST Cell, and Padmashree Kazi Masum Akhtar, the chancellor's nominee to the university's Executive Council.

"JU has taken the matter relating to the issue of hijab-wearing examinee of the department of English with a serious note. Under the direction of the VC, a fact-finding committee has been formed," he said.

Deputy Registrar (Addl) Ujjwal Kumar Mondal has been asked to be the 'presenting officer' in this matter.

"The committee will submit its report within 30 days," the VC said.

Members of the arts faculty SFI unit told PTI after the convocation on December 24 that during an English semester exam on December 17, an invigilator asked a third-year undergraduate female student, wearing a headscarf, to help her classmate partially remove her hijab to ascertain if she was using any wireless headphone.

The check reportedly revealed nothing suspicious.

"We protest such conduct against our junior classmate which hurt her sentiments. We did not create a ruckus but thought such conduct is unthinkable in a place like JU known for its liberal and secular views. So, some of our students only held a poster "There is no place for Islamophobia at Jadavpur University" while receiving our citations and certificates from the vice-chancellor during the annual convocation.

Faculty members, however, rejected the allegations.

A senior English department professor earlier said, "We deny allegations of Islamophobia. Several students were caught attempting to cheat during the exam, following which vigilance was tightened. If anyone's conduct seemed suspicious, re-checking was carried out. At least four examinees were caught using headphones last week, none of whom belonged to the minority community."

The professor added, "On that day, a student wearing a hijab was caught using headphones by research scholars on invigilation duty. She was asked to cooperate by another third-year female student wearing a hoodie and taken to an adjacent room where no one else was present."

The professor also clarified, "Two other students wearing hijab, one of them differently abled, were not checked. JU will be the last place to be levelled with such charges as Islamophobia. If teachers are targeted in this manner, it would become impossible for them to carry out their duties.
A team from the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission on Monday visited the site where several "illegal houses" were demolished in Kogilu in the northern part of the city and said that, prima facie, it appears proper alternative arrangements were not made for the residents, a matter that will be verified.

IMAGE: SDPI activists and local residents hold protests condemning the eviction of houses in Yelahanka and demand immediate rehabilitation of the displaced people, in Bengaluru, December 27, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Karnataka State Human Rights Commission chairperson T Sham Bhatt said the case has been referred to the commission's investigation wing to examine allegations of human rights violations and to determine whether legal provisions were followed during the demolition. Based on the preliminary report, initial recommendations will be made to the government.

The demolition of houses at Kogilu's Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony on December 20 was carried out by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited to clear encroachments for a proposed solid waste processing unit, officials said.

They added that the houses were constructed without official permission and that most occupants were migrants from other states.

"Our officers will conduct inquiries, and affected people will need to submit relevant documents during the process. If it is government land, we will examine records and make recommendations to the government," Bhatt told reporters.

"Meanwhile, residents allege that no alternate arrangements were made before the demolitions, although media reports indicate temporary shelter centres were opened at a distance. We will look into all of this," he added.

Further, Bhatt said, "Considering all factors, we will make preliminary recommendations to the government for now. After a proper inquiry, a detailed report will be submitted subsequently."

Responding to questions, the chairperson said that prima facie, based on residents' accounts, there appears to be a human rights violation.

"However, we cannot conclude anything without verifying the documents. As it is said to be government land, we will serve notice to the government and seek a report on actions taken in accordance with the law. Based on this, we will decide and make recommendations," he said.

Bhatt stated that notices have been served to the deputy commissioner of the district and the Greater Bengaluru Authority, who are required to submit their responses within seven days.

"We have not examined any documents so far. We have only come here to assess the ground situation," he added.

Preliminary recommendations to the government will focus on providing temporary shelters and basic facilities, such as water, to families affected by the demolition.

The issue turned into a political row after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal criticised the demolition. Following this, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday said the government is considering rehabilitating genuine residents among those evicted.
United States President Donald Trump on Sunday said a peace agreement to end the Russia-Ukraine war is getting 'very close', after a high-level meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shake hands during a press conference after their lunch meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club, in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 28, 2025. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Trump said he believed significant progress had been made and described the discussions as productive and wide-ranging.

"We had a terrific meeting. We discussed a lot of things. As you know, I had an excellent phone call with President Putin. It lasted for over two hours. We discussed a lot of points. I do think we're getting a lot closer, maybe very close. The President and I just spoke to the European leaders... We have made a lot of progress on ending that war, which is probably the deadliest war since World War II..." Trump said.

Trump said he believes a peace agreement is 'close' but acknowledged that a few 'thorny' issues remain unresolved. He described one of them as particularly sensitive and linked it to territory in eastern Ukraine.

When asked about the 'thorniest issues' still unresolved, Trump said, "The land. Some of that land has been taken... You're better off making a deal now..."

He declined to give an exact figure on how much of the deal has been finalised but said discussions were nearing completion.

He also acknowledged that the fate of the eastern Donbas region, which Russia has demanded Ukraine surrender, remains a major issue.

"We're getting closer to an agreement on that. And that's a big issue," he said while appearing alongside Zelenskyy.

"Certainly, that's one of the big issues, and I think we're closer."

Trump said ending the war was a priority for him, stressing the human cost of the conflict.

"Everybody wants [the war] ended... I want it ended because I don't want to see so many people dying," he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the talks with Trump covered all major aspects of a possible peace settlement.

"...We had great discussions on all the topics, and we appreciate the progress that the American and Ukrainian teams made in these recent weeks... We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework..." Zelenskyy said.

He said there has already been major convergence between the two sides on several fronts.

"There has been 90 per cent agreement on the 20-point peace plan, 100 per cent agreement on US-Ukraine security guarantees, and US-Europe-Ukraine security guarantees are almost agreed. The military dimension is 100 per cent agreed. The Prosperity Plan is being finalised, and we also discussed the sequencing of the following actions," Zelenskyy said.

"We agreed that security guarantees are a key milestone in achieving lasting peace, and our teams will continue working on all aspects... Ukraine is ready for peace..." he added.

Trump said discussions with Russia, Ukraine and European leaders would continue in the coming days as negotiators work to resolve the remaining issues and move towards a final agreement.

Trump hosted a grand dinner for Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort, which was attended by officials from both the Ukrainian government and the Trump administration.

Both leaders also held talks with European Union leaders during the meeting.

The call lasted over an hour, and the leaders discussed 'concrete steps' to end the war, Finnish President Alexander Stubb wrote in a post on X.

Participants on the call included the leaders of Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Norway, as well as the NATO Secretary General and the President of the European Commission, Stubb wrote.

"We are all working towards a just and lasting peace," Stubb said.

'There was good progress, which we welcomed,' European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said later in a post on X.

'Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our US partners to consolidate this progress. Paramount to this effort is having ironclad security guarantees from day one.'

Zelenskyy arrived in Florida on Sunday with his 20-point peace plan to put an end to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

The visit also came on the heels of a massive Russian attack that killed two people.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

Three Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) aid stations are operating in Vyshhorod (Kyiv region), where there is no electricity supply after Russian air strikes.

"The settlements of Kyiv region have been without electricity for almost three days. Vyshhorod, in the north of the region, is holding on thanks to the support of URCS volunteers in difficult conditions... Three URCS aid stations are already operating in the city, two of which are open 24/7," the URCS said on Facebook on Monday.

At the aid stations, people can warm up, drink hot tea or coffee, and charge mobile phones and other devices. Visitors with medical needs, including inhalers, also come to the stations. If necessary, specialists provide citizens with first aid and psychological assistance.

The URCS aid stations in Vyshhorod will operate as long as people need them.
The Pakistan government has once again found itself embarrassed on the world stage, now acknowledging the impact of India's strategic and precision strikes on its military installation during the escalation in May, following Operation Sindoor, which came in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

IMAGE: A satellite image shows the Nur Khan air base in Islamabad, May 11, 2025, after it was targeted by an Indian missile attack. Photograph: 2025 Planet Labs PBC/Handout via Reuters

This time, the embarrassment came from Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who, during a year-end press briefing on Saturday, confirmed that India had targeted the Nur Khan air base in Rawalpindi's Chaklala area, damaging military installations as well as injuring personnel posted there.

Speaking at the briefing, Dar stated that India had sent multiple drones over Pakistani territory within 36 hours, and that one drone damaged a military installation, highlighting the scale and precision of the operation.

'They (India) sent drones towards Pakistan. In 36 hours, at least 80 drones were sent... We were able to intercept 79 drones out of 80, and only one drone damaged a military installation, and personnel were also injured in the attack,' the foreign minister stated.

Dar detailed the sequence of events, noting that Pakistan's civil and military leadership, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, held a meeting on the night of May 9 and 'authorised' certain decisions in response to the evolving situation.

The foreign minister further stated that India 'made the mistake"]' of attacking the Nur Khan air base in the early hours of May 10, further acknowledging the damage.

With this remark, Dar admitted to India's strategic actions carried out by its armed forces on Pakistan's military installations in May, which came after Operation Sindoor that targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The Nur Khan air force base suffered significant damage in India's precision strikes under Operation Sindoor in May.

The Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7 as a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Following India's operation, the conflict between India and Pakistan deepened, resulting in increased cross-border shelling from Pakistan and retaliatory action from the Indian armed forces.

A surprising sequence of events unfolded when Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) proposed a ceasefire to India's DGMO, which was accepted.

The contact from the Pakistan side was confirmed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who noted that the two sides agreed to halt all military operations -- on land, at sea, and in the air.

Satellite images captured by Maxar Technologies on May 13 revealed significant damage to multiple air bases in Pakistan, including the Nur Khan air base.

The images showed damage to four Pakistani air bases: Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, PAF base Mushaf in Sargodha, Bholari air base and PAF base Shahbaz in Jacobabad.

Satellite images taken on April 25, 2025 and May 10, 2025, showed damage to airbase facilities, confirming strikes on the Nur Khan air base.

This is not the first time a top Pakistani official has admitted to India's strikes on the Nur Khan air base.

In May, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif admitted that India's ballistic missiles hit the Nur Khan air base and other sites on May 10, a rare acknowledgement that contradicts Pakistan's usual stance of denial when it comes to Indian military action.

While addressing a ceremony held at the Pakistan monument on May 16, Sharif said, 'At around 2.30 am on May 10, General Syed Asim Munir called me on a secure line and informed me that India's ballistic missiles had hit Nur Khan air base and other areas. Our air force used homegrown technology to save our country, and they even used modern gadgets and technology on Chinese jets,' Geo News had then reported.
A court in Bengaluru on Monday discharged senior Janata Dal-Secular MLA and former minister HD Revanna from a sexual harassment case registered in 2024.

IMAGE: Janata Dal-Secular MLA and former minister HD Revanna. Photograph: ANI Photo

XLII additional chief judicial magistrate K N Shivakumar discharged H D Revanna from the case registered in Holenaraseepur town police station, Hassan district.

"This is not a fit case to condone the delay in lodging the complaint or initiation of prosecution in respect of the offence punishable under section 354A of IPC (sexual harassment ) alleged against accused No.1 U/Sec.473 Cr.PC. Accordingly, this court declines to take cognisance of said offence punishable under section 354A of IPC as against accused No.1," the court said.

"As such, the accused No.1 is discharged from the offence alleged against him in this case under section 354A of IPC," it further added.

Earlier, the Karnataka high court, after hearing Revanna's plea to quash the case against him, had referred it to the trial court to consider whether the four-year delay in lodging the complaint could be condoned.

Sexual harassment allegation against Revanna surfaced, as multiple rape and sexual abuse cases were registered against his son and former Hassan MP Prajawal Revanna.

One of the complainants in the Prajwal Revanna case had made sexual harassment charges against H D Revanna, who is the son of former PM H D Deve Gowda.

Prajwal Revanna has already been convicted in one of the four sexual abuse and rape cases against him.

Cases against Prajwal Revanna came to light after pen-drives containing explicit videos allegedly involving him were reportedly circulated in Hassan, ahead of Lok Sabha polls there on April 26, 2024.
The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Delhi high court order suspending the life sentence of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case and said he shall not be released from custody.

IMAGE: Women stage a protest demanding justice for the Unnao gang rape victim outside Delhi high court, in New Delhi. Photograph: Sumit/ANI Photo

A vacation bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices J K Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih, which was hearing the Central Bureau of Investigation's plea challenging the high court order, said that substantial questions of law have arisen in the matter that require consideration.

The apex court also issued notice to Sengar seeking his response within four weeks on the CBI's plea.

The bench said it was conscious of the fact that ordinarily when a convict or an under-trial was released on bail pursuant to an order passed by a trial court or the high court, such order shall not be stayed by it without hearing such person.

It noted that Sengar was also convicted and sentenced in a separate case and was still in custody in that matter.

"In the peculiar circumstances of the case, we stay the operation of the impugned order dated December 23, 2025, passed by the high court. Consequently, the respondent (Sengar) shall not be released from custody pursuant to the said order," the bench said.

The top court said various substantial questions of law have arisen for its consideration in the matter.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the CBI, urged the bench to stay the high court order, saying it was a 'horrific rape' of a minor child.

"This is an occasion where I would really urge your lordships' conscience to stay this order. We are answerable to the child who was (aged) 15 years and 10 months," the top law officer said.

He also referred to the aspect of 'public servant' and said Sengar was then a very powerful MLA of the area at the relevant time.

The Delhi high court had, in its December 23 order, said that Sengar has been convicted under Section 5 (C) (aggravated penetrative sexual assault by a public servant) of the POCSO Act but an elected representative does not fit the definition of a 'public servant' under Section 21 of the Indian Penal Code.

"Is it your argument that the concept of being a 'public servant' is completely alien and irrelevant when the victim is a minor?" the CJI asked.

Responding in the affirmative, Mehta said 'public servant' is not defined in the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

He also referred to Section 42A of the POCSO Act which says that provisions of this law shall be in addition to and not in derogation of the provisions of any other law for the time being in force and, in case of any inconsistency, the provisions of POCSO shall have overriding effect.

Senior advocate N Hariharan, along with other lawyers, appeared for Sengar and opposed the CBI's plea seeking a stay on the high court order.

"We are only saying that the matter requires consideration," the bench said, adding that arguments advanced by Sengar's lawyers also have weight and require in-depth consideration.

The top court observed it was only worried that a constable or a 'patwari' will be a 'public servant' for the purpose of committing such an offence but a member of parliament or an elected member of a state legislative assembly may be exempted if this interpretation was construed to be correct.

"Very frankly, these judges are one of the finest we have," the bench observed, adding, "There is very in-depth analytical analysis made... But at the same time, we are all prone to commit errors".

The bench said the victim has a statutory right to file a separate special leave petition (SLP) against the high court order.

Hariharan raised the issue of high court judges being targeted for the order, saying that people should refrain from making statements or allegations against the judges.

"They are doing that on national television," he said.

The bench said, "We understand it. We are not sitting in ivory towers. We understand that people are trying to take political advantage and there are people who are trying to take advantage."

Hariharan said there is a video circulating levelling allegations against the judges who had passed the order and this was a cause of concern.

The bench observed that such people are simply forgetting that Sengar was convicted by the judiciary only.

Later, asked about the issue of allegations being made against the judges, Mehta said both the high court judges are 'brilliant with unimpeachable integrity' and any attempt to malign them must be strongly condemned.

He said there are always some elements that attempt to browbeat honest judges and such devious forces must not be encouraged.

The high court had suspended the jail term of Sengar, who was serving life imprisonment in the Unnao rape case, till the pendency of his appeal, saying he had already served seven years and five months in prison.

The high court order has sparked criticism from a section and there have been protests by the victim, her family and activists.

Sengar had challenged a December 2019 trial court verdict in the case.

He had, however, remained in jail since he was also serving 10 years' imprisonment in the custodial death case of the victim's father and has not been granted bail in that case.

The rape case and other connected cases were transferred to Delhi from a trial court in Uttar Pradesh on the directions of the Supreme Court on August 1, 2019.

Sengar's appeal against his conviction in the case of the custodial death of the survivor's father is also pending, where he has sought suspension of sentence on the ground that he has already spent a substantial time in jail.

In its plea filed in the apex court, the CBI referred to its verdict in the L K Advani case in which it held that anyone who holds public office, like MPs or MLAs, would be deemed a 'public servant'.

It contended that the high court erred by declaring that Sengar, an MLA when the offence was committed, was not a 'public servant' to be prosecuted under POCSO and granted him bail.
A man-made forest created by Padma Shri awardee Jadav Payeng, known as 'Forest Man of India', was substantially damaged after miscreants set it on fire, officials said on Monday.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo

The fire destroyed thousands of plants and killed insects and other small animals, while no human casualty was reported. An investigation has been ordered.

A senior official of the Forest Department said Payeng's forest, popularly known as Molai Katoni, was set afire by unidentified miscreants on Sunday evening.

The blaze spread like wildfire through the second edition of the forest, 'Molai Kathoni 2.0', a site near the Baghmora eco-camp on the bank of river Brahmaputra in Jorhat-Majuli forest division, and a large area of green cover was damaged, he added.

"The fire destroyed an estimated more than 5,500 saplings that were planted in 2022 by Payeng and his daughter. However, no human casualty was reported," the official said.

The fire also killed insects, mice and rodents as no other wildlife was found dead during preliminary investigation, said the forest official.

"The fire was deliberately set by miscreants," said Munmuni Peyang, daughter of Jadav Payeng.

She rushed to the spot as soon as she received information and spearheaded rescue and firefighting efforts along with volunteers and students.

"We, 14 of us, went there by a mechanised boat. It took nearly 40 minutes to reach and witness a massive fire. We used shrubs and branches with our hands, and fought the fire for a long time before it could be brought under control," Munmuni said.

Jadav Payeng said he is deeply saddened at the loss of young saplings and overall biodiversity of the area in the fire.

The newly established plantation named Molai Kathoni 2.0, bigger than the original forest of Molai Kathoni, was under direct supervision of Munmuni to carry forward her legendary father's dream for a green earth and environment protection.

The Forest Department officials and Majuli Police are investigating the incident.

Responding to the incident, Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi condemned the arson at Molai Kathoni 2.0.

In a statement, he alleged that without government patronage, no miscreant would dare to destroy a forest area.

"The news that miscreants have set fire to and destroyed a part of the forest known as Molai Kathoni has shocked every conscious individual. This is an extremely hateful and condemnable act," Gogoi said.

He asked why miscreants would set fire to a forest like Molai Kathoni.

"Reports in various media have indicated the involvement of a sand mafia nexus in this incident. Allegations have surfaced that despite continuous opposition from Jadav Payeng, the Forest Department granted permission for sand mining in the riverine areas adjacent to Molai Kathoni.

"Considering the ecological sensitivity of the Molai Kathoni region, we demand that the government and administration immediately review the matter of sand mining in the area and cancel the licenses," the Deputy Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha said.

He demanded a proper investigation into the arson and immediate arrest of the culprits.

Leader of the Opposition in Assam Assembly, Debabrata Saikia, wrote to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and demanded a judicial enquiry into the arson at Molai Kathoni and "illegal sand mining" near Kokilamukh.

The Molai Kathoni Forest, spread over approximately 550 hectares, stands today as an exemplary model of grassroots ecological restoration and wildlife conservation, supporting diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, birds and other species, he added.

"Reports of a deliberate fire by miscreants destroyed an estimated five bighas of plantation, burnt more than 5,000 trees, and resulted in the loss of birds, nests, eggs, and small animals, have triggered widespread public grief and outrage," Saikia said in his letter.
Ruling allies Bharatiya Janata Party and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena will contest 137 and 90 seats, respectively, in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation polls.

IMAGE: File image of Maharashtra CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis (right)and deputy CM and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde. Photograph: ANI Photo

A seat-sharing pact was revealed by Mumbai BJP president Amit Satam on Monday, following hectic parleys a day before the deadline for filing nomination papers closes on December 30.

Both parties will allocate some seats from their respective quotas to alliance partners, Satam added.

Candidates of both parties will file their nomination papers on Tuesday.

Another constituent of Mahayuti, the NCP, headed by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is contesting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation polls separately.

The NCP has so far announced 64 candidates for the BMC polls.

Elections to 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra, including the high-stakes Mumbai, will be held on January 15, and votes will be counted the next day.

In the BMC elections held in 2017 for 227 seats, the BJP made giant strides in the Shiv Sena citadel of Mumbai, winning 82 seats, just two seats behind the estranged ally Shiv Sena (undivided).

The Congress was relegated to the third position with 31 seats, whereas the NCP (undivided) and Raj Thackeray's MNS were reduced to 9 and 7 seats, respectively.

AIMIM had won three seats on debut, Samajwadi Party six, Akhil Bhartiya Sena one, and Independents four.
A parliamentary panel on Monday discussed resettlement policies, healthcare facilities and avenues for ex-servicemen and sought to know details about post-retirement employment prospects of former soldiers.

IMAGE: LoP Rahul Gandhi. Photograph: ANI Photo

At the meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence headed by Radha Mohan Singh, the MPs were learnt to have raised the issue of recruitment of just 1.9 per cent of ex-servicemen in government jobs even though there is a provision to absorb 10-25 per cent of the former soldiers, sources said.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who is also a member of the committee, is learnt to have raised the issue of difficulties faced by ex-servicemen in getting treatment at military hospitals.

Gandhi conveyed that when ex-servicemen are referred to private hospitals, they face major problems in treatment and admission because many hospitals refuse treatment stating that the government has not cleared past dues, sources said.

Gandhi is also believed to have raised another issue: ex-servicemen are entitled to receive only Rs 75,000 for cancer and kidney treatment, which is grossly inadequate. Questioning how cancer or kidney treatment is possible with such a small amount, he suggested that this limit should be increased, sources said.

Some members also said that public sector undertakings should recruit ex-servicemen, as around 60,000 soldiers retire every year but their rehabilitation is not being ensured, they said.
A group of right-wing activists barged into a restaurant in Bareilly and gate-crashed a birthday party, alleging 'love jihad'.

Image used only for representational purposes. Photograph: ANI Photo

Police got involved and fined two Muslim youths, who were among the 10 attendees of the party, and a staffer of the establishment for 'disturbing the peace'.

The incident occurred on Saturday night when a first-year BSc Nursing student hosted her birthday party at the restaurant in the Prem Nagar area that was attended by nine friends -- five women and four men.

Of the four, two -- Shan and Waqif -- were Muslim.

According to police, the presence of Muslim youths with a Hindu woman led some members of a right-wing organisation to reach the restaurant, where they disrupted the party, raised slogans, and accused the youths of 'love jihad'.

On receiving information, officials from the Prem Nagar police station reached the spot and took the student and others to the police station for questioning.

Initially, one Muslim youth was taken into custody, while the other managed to flee.

Station House Officer Raj Bali said the student resides in a hostel in Prem Nagar and is pursuing BSc Nursing from a private college.

"She had organised a birthday party for her friends. On receiving information, we called her relatives, including her aunt who lives in Prem Nagar, and also informed the families of the others present," he said.

Police initially prepared a challan for breach of peace against Shan and cafe staffer Shailendra Gangwar. However, upon learning that another Muslim youth -- Waqif -- fled, Circle Officer First Ashutosh Shivam launched a search and traced him.

"All three -- two youths and the cafe staffer -- were challaned on Sunday for disturbing peace," the circle officer said, adding the situation was now under control.
Russia on Monday claimed that 91 long-range Ukrainian drones attempted to attack President Vladimir Putin's country residence in Novgorod region, north of Moscow.

IMAGE: Russian President Vladimir Putin. Photograph: ANI Photo

In a televised statement, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that the drone attack in the intervening night of Sunday and Monday failed to cause any damage as the drones were downed.

He, however, warned that Russia reserves the right to respond at an appropriate time.

Lavrov described the Ukrainian attacks as an attempt to derail peace talks by Kyiv and its allies.

He added that Moscow will change its stance on peace talks with Ukraine, but peace negotiations will continue with the team of US President Donald Trump.

Putin told Trump about the attack on the presidential residence in a phone call the two leaders had on Monday. President Trump was shocked, the Kremlin foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov was quoted as saying by Russian TV channels.

Responding to the Russian charges, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday rejected Russias claim that Kyiv had targeted President Vladimir Putins residence, calling the allegation a fabrication.

In a post on X, Zelenskyy said Moscow was using dangerous statements to undermine diplomatic efforts involving US President Donald Trumps team.

"Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump's team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged "residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russias own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war...," he alleged

Zelenskyy said Ukraine remained committed to working with partners to bring peace closer.

The Ukrainian leader added that the residence strike narrative was aimed at justifying further Russian attacks on Ukraine, including Kyiv, and masking Russias refusal to take steps to end the war. -- With ANI inputs
The father of Angel Chakma, a student from Tripura who died in Dehradun, said his son was 'brutally attacked' with knives and blunt objects when he tried to defend his brother who faced racial slurs and was called 'Chinese' by the attackers.

Tarun Chakma, a BSF jawan currently posted in Tangjeng in Manipur, alleged that police initially refused to register a report about the incident involving his sons in the Selakui area and only filed a first information report (FIR) two to three days later after pressure from the All India Chakma Students Union and senior officers.

The attackers called his sons 'Chinese momo' and other racial slurs, the father of the victim told PTI over the phone.

Angel told them that he 'was also Indian, not Chinese' but they attacked him with knives and blunt objects, the devastated father said.

Angel Chakma, an MBA student at a private university in Dehradun, died on Friday after fighting for his life for 17 days in the hospital.

Police said the 24-year-old youth had allegedly received blows to his head and back with a sharp object and a 'kadaa' (bracelet) following a quarrel with 5-6 people at a canteen on December 9.

Suraj Khwas (22), who was from Manipur, Avinash Negi (25), Sumit (25) and two juveniles have been apprehended for the incident, while another accused has likely fled to Nepal, his native country, they said.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the government would deal strictly with the culprits.

Police announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for the only absconding accused and said they have sent a team to Nepal.

Tarun said it was a brutal murder. "Angel's neck was broken in the attack, which led to his death."

He said those responsible for his son's untimely death should be punished. "I have lost my son and now he should get justice."

Angel's last rites were held in Machmara village in Unakoti district of Tripura.

He was a final-year MBA student and had also secured a good job, Tarun said.

According to Tarun, his sons, Angel and Michael, had gone to the market when a scooter and a motorcycle, carrying six people, stopped near them.

Tarun said Angel was sitting on his motorcycle, while Michael was standing nearby when the accused said something to Michael and suddenly pushed him to the ground.

Angel objected to this, after which they started hurling abuses at him, Tarun said.

When Angel confronted them, they started hurling abuses at him, calling him 'Chinese momo' and other slurs. "After that, they brutally attacked him with knives and blunt objects, severely injuring his neck and back," he said.

On Saturday, Dehradun SSP Ajai Singh told reporters that the accused group of six people was allegedly talking among themselves and arguing about something.

"It seemed as if someone was commenting on him (Angel)," he said.

A fight broke out in the confusion and the student was attacked with a sharp-edged weapon and a kadaa, the SSP said.

Police said Angel was seriously injured in the fight and was then taken to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries during treatment on Friday.

Police said the victim's side filed a complaint with the police on December 10, based on which, a case was registered and police started an investigation.

On December 14, police arrested three accused and detained two minors.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said he spoke to his Uttarakhand counterpart Dhami, who has assured him of action against the culprits.

Terming the incident as tragic and unexpected, he said, "The Delhi leadership, who are aware of the incident, has also passed necessary directions to the state (Uttarakhand) government to act on the case to ensure justice for the victim's family."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday stated that US President Donald Trump had informed him about a 20-point peace proposal for Ukraine that Trump had discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shake hands during a press conference after their lunch meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club, in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 28, 2025. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

Zelenskyy made the remarks after meeting Trump at the US President's Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday, December 28, where the two leaders discussed possible ways to bring the war to an end. The conflict began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and is nearing the completion of four years.

During the meeting, Zelenskyy said he pressed for long-term security guarantees extending over the next 50 years and clarified that any engagement with Russia would only be possible if President Trump and European leaders reached consensus on formalised documents.

Trump, meanwhile, said on Sunday that he had a "terrific" meeting and an "excellent" phone call with Putin that lasted more than two hours. The war is set to complete four years on February 24.

Zelenskyy had been invited by Trump to his private club as part of the US President's efforts to explore a negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia aimed at ending the fighting.

Outlining Kyiv's position on the proposed peace framework, Zelenskyy said Ukraine wants National Security Advisors from Ukraine, the United States and Europe to meet in the coming days. He added that Ukraine hopes security guarantees would be delivered at the moment the peace plan is formally signed.

He further said the peace plan should be signed by Ukraine, the United States, Russia and Europe, noting that a technical group may be required to carry out its implementation. Zelenskyy said Ukraine remains open to all formats of communication with Russia and proposed that the peace plan be put to a referendum in Ukraine.

To facilitate such a referendum, Zelenskyy said a ceasefire of at least 60 days would be necessary, adding that details of ceasefire monitoring would be outlined within the security guarantees. He also said discussions would take place on establishing a free economic zone in the Donbas region.

Addressing a late afternoon news conference after meeting Zelenskyy, Trump said, "President Putin was very generous in his way toward Ukraine succeeding, including supplying energy, electricity and other things at very low prices," and repeatedly referred to Zelenskyy as "brave".

When asked about the possibility of travelling to Ukraine, Trump said, "I have no problem doing it, don't anticipate it, would like to get a deal done and NOT have to go," RT News reported.

Emphasising that Putin wants the conflict to end, Trump said, "I saw a very interesting President Putin today, he wants to see it happen, He told me very strongly. I believe him."
The Ministry of Energy of Ukraine is cooperating with the Ministry of Internal Affairs to predict the next attacks of the Russian Federation on energy facilities and preparing the necessary countermeasures.

"We are cooperating with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which sees in real time what is flying and where. We also see where it was flying, but for various reasons the information did not reach us," said Acting Minister of Energy Artem Nekrasov in an interview with Forbes Ukraine.

According to him, this cooperation makes it possible to conduct an after-action review, as the military does, which allows us to predict the scenarios of the next attacks with a certain accuracy and prepare countermeasures.

"I can't voice everything, but as an example, this gives us the opportunity to transfer air defense from one energy facility to another, which is more likely to be attacked," noted the head of the ministry.

Also, according to him, the Ministry of Energy, together with the Ministry of Regional Development, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the State Emergency Service and the Ministry of Digital Development, have developed algorithms for overcoming the local blackout of each region of Ukraine. In particular, the experience of the blackout in the city of Shostka, which occurred in early October 2025, was taken as a basis.

"This was a demonstrative act of terror by the Russian Federation. Within several days, the Russians took out the local substation, the largest local central heating plant in the region and gas distribution stations. That is, the city lost its own generation, gas, electricity, and mobile communications in two days," Nekrasov explained.

According to him, the recently developed algorithm was used during the blackout in Odesa.

"All departments and local authorities immediately understood what they had to do. Those responsible for eliminating the consequences were also determined in advance. This allowed us to fully restore the city's functioning in two weeks," the head of the Ministry of Energy noted.

According to him, the Russian Federation attacks not only power plants, but also power grids, substations, and gas production infrastructure, and as of December 26, starting in September 2025, the enemy had carried out nine massive strikes, every 10-15 days (on the night of December 27, another massive attack took place).
After two hours of talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida on December 28, US President Donald Trump said they were getting a lot closer to agreement on a deal to end Russias war against Ukraine.

But he gave no details other than to warn that one or two very thorny issues remain, including the fate of territory in the Donbas region.

Heres what to watch for as the full-scale war heads toward the four-year mark and the US push for peace continues.

US Pressure On Kyiv

At times since he started his current term last January with peace in Ukraine as a prominent goal, Trump has set firm or implied deadlines for both Moscow and Kyiv. At one point in November, it seemed he was all but demanding Ukraine take or leave a 28-point peace proposal -- which many saw as skewed in Russias favor -- by Thanksgiving Day.

Trump later made clear there was no such ultimatum, saying the deadline for me is when its over, and he has repeated similar signals in recent weeks. Still, while he said after the talks with Zelenskyy that a deal may be closer than ever, he also said it would be clear in a few weeks whether negotiations will lead to peace: Its possible it doesnt happen.

So, one key question is whether the US will pivot back to public pressure on Zelenskyy and Ukraine to agree on a draft deal -- and what it would say about territory, particularly in the Donbas, where Russia occupies nearly all of the Luhansk region and about 77 percent of the Donetsk region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who spoke to Trump by phone hours before Trump welcomed Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, has consistently demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from the portion of the Donetsk region that they still hold. His spokesman repeated that demand on December 29.

Zelenskyy says handing Russia territory it has failed to capture in years of fighting that has killed many soldiers on both sides would reward Moscow for its aggression. He has said Ukraine could withdraw but that the area should be a demilitarized zone, possibly patrolled by Ukrainian police, and that Russian troops should also pull back a comparable distance.

Neither Trump nor Zelenskyy went into much detail about the Donbas in their public comments on their talks, which focused on key aspects of a 20-point draft peace plan that emerged after Kyiv and its European backers pushed back against the 28-point US proposal.

But Trump suggested that if Ukraine does not reach an agreement soon, it risks losing the rest of the region -- which Putin has vowed to capture by force if Russia does not receive it through diplomacy.

Some of that land has been taken, some of that land...may be taken over the next period of a number of months, and youre better off making a deal now, Trump said of Ukraine.

Also worth watching is whether Kyiv and Washington can bridge remaining gaps over two other key issues: security guarantees for Ukraine and control over the massive Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant, which Russia has controlled since shortly after the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Or On Moscow?

Trump has also threatened at times to step up pressure on Russia if he feels it is foot-dragging over a peace deal. Aside from the imposition of sanctions on oil giants Rosneft and LUKoil in October, the US has taken few steps in that direction during Trumps current term.

In comments after the call with Putin and the meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump did not signal that further pressure on Moscow is imminent. He said that he understood Putins opposition to a temporary cease-fire, which Zelenskyy suggests is needed if Ukraine is to hold a referendum on a proposed peace deal, and that Russia wants [the war] ended.

The Russia Factor

Many in Ukraine and Europe say theres little or no evidence that Moscow wants peace on anything other than its own terms. Russian officials have stated or signaled opposition to reported aspects of the 20-point draft and disappointment over points that are apparently absent from it, such as a binding bar on Ukraine ever joining NATO.

On the Donbas, there has been an almost daily drumbeat suggesting that Moscow will not relent on its demand for control over the entire region.

In addition to a 4 1/2-hour televised performance on December 19, Putin has donned camouflage for appearances at military-related events that he has used to project confidence that Russia has the upper hand on the battlefield -- amid slow, costly advances and occasional retreats -- and signal it feels no need to make substantial concessions.

Major air attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities have contained no suggestion of a desire for peace.

And beyond the Donbas, Russia has sent mixed signals about whether it is prepared to freeze the front lines in place in the Zaporizhzhya and Kherson regions, which it partially occupies, in the event of a peace deal -- as even the 28-point plan called for.

Putin has suggested several times recently that he has not have dropped a demand for full control over those two regions. On December 29, he reportedly ordered the Russian military to continue to seek control of the city of Zaporizhzhya, which remains in Ukraine's hands.

Any substantial softening of Russias messaging -- whether in tone or content -- could signal potential readiness for a deal that, at least for the time being, would leave Putin short of objectives ranging from territorial conquest to the subjugation of Ukraine and weakening of NATO and the West.

There has been no sign of any such change in recent days. On the contrary, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that Russia would "toughen [its] negotiating position" after what Moscow claims was a Ukrainian attempt to attack one of Putin's residences with dozens of drones. Zelenskyy dismissed the claim as a "lie."
DNIPRO, Ukraine -- Around 1:30 a.m. on December 6, an explosion woke me at my mother's apartment on a central street in my hometown, where I'd fallen asleep to the wail of an air-raid siren. The blast sounded close, and it was followed by waves of barrages. When I went to my mother's room to ask whether we should take shelter in the basement of the nine-story, Soviet-built apartment block, she shrugged off the idea. "Those are just Shahed [drones]. This is how they shoot them down," she said. "We can go to our apartment hallway...if you want. It has a load-bearing wall," added my mother, Tetyana, who is 50. She suggested I check the local Telegram channels that monitor Russian attacks to see where the drones were headed.

The air raid lasted through the night and, by morning, a missile had struck a neighboring part of the city. For the next two days, thick pillars of smoke hung over the area as helicopters were deployed to extinguish fires ignited by the attack. Warehouses storing gauze, bandages, and tires were hit, while debris from another missile was found scattered on a children's playground in a park a 10-minute walk from our home. 'No Shelter Would Save You' A major industrial center and a key hub for volunteers aiding defense efforts, Ukraine's fourth-largest city lies about 100-120 kilometers from the front lines further to the east and south. It has long been one of the most frequent targets of Russian air strikes. With Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in its fourth year, Dnipro residents have grown accustomed to the constant threat of death and become adept at gauging the danger, I observed during a three-week visit to the city as winter set in.

I hadn't been in Dnipro since the summer of 2022 -- a few months after the February 24 invasion -- and there were some noticeable differences, such as the above-ground concrete shelters that now stand on many streets. But it's rare for people to actually enter the structures, Danyyl, 21, who studied tourism at the local university, told me a day after the overnight attack. "You can't really protect yourself from missiles. No shelter would save you from a direct hit," he told me as we sat at a cafe full of people on the left bank of the river that gives Dnipro its name. The capital of a province that borders the Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya, and Kharkiv regions, all partially occupied by Russian forces, Dnipro is under daily threat from missiles and drones, even if their final destination is deeper inside Ukraine, Danyyl explained.

"If they launch something from the south or east, it's almost inevitable that we will have an air-raid siren. It's just impossible to react to it every time." In some cases, there's no time to react. On December 1, a missile struck the city at around 10 a.m., just minutes after the alert was announced. Four people were killed and 45 others injured. At the moment of impact, I was in a line of cars waiting at a red light. Nobody panicked, even though the immediate danger was not over. "It really is Russian roulette," I thought, reading on Telegram that a second strike could come at any moment.

When I walked into the building where my mother works shortly afterward, people were standing outside their offices showing each other images of the aftermath that were appearing on social media. Trying to piece together what had happened before the official statements, people were calling their families. A single question echoed through the corridors: "Are you OK?" Once the channels that monitor Russian attacks began to report that the danger level had slightly decreased, knots of people separated as everyone went back to work: Life returned to normal, or what passes as normal in Dnipro these days. Darkness At Noon Dnipro is not a frontline city, but every year of the full-scale war has brought Russian troops closer, and life looked different this December than it had in 2022. It sounded different, too. Soldiers coming from and going to the front; billboards promoting service in Ukraine's best-known military brigades; damaged buildings, boarded up with plywood -- all this signaled the presence of war.

Nevertheless, homes restored after strikes stood alongside newly built modern high-rise residential complexes, as well as parks and restaurants, which continue to appear across the city. Despite the frequent attacks, many residents were still going out in the evening until the final hours before curfew, which begins at midnight. Often, however, the lights over popular places were off, and city streets were filled with the buzz of generators installed outside most cafes and shops. Passing them, you can hardly hear the person next to you. Amid stepped-up Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Dnipro now follows a schedule of rolling outages to save electricity -- and occasionally experiences complete blackouts. Thousands of apartments are left cold and dark for more than 12 hours daily, with the schedule regularly adjusted on the fly. Unable to cook, take a shower with water that's anything but ice-cold, or perform other daily tasks, some residents turn to energy inverters, the cost of which usually starts at around $1,000 -- a price not everyone can afford.

"It saves part of the energy while we have it and reproduces it when we don't," Volodymyr, 23, a factory worker, told me while I was visiting his apartment. "My family gave me an inverter for the New Year a couple of years ago," he said. "It was a great gift, considering our reality. Even though it is one of the more expensive models, it can't handle all the needs, but at least we have light because of it." And the noise? "It's bearable," Volodymyr said. "It sounds like someone is drying their hair in the other room." 'Their Souls Are Still Out There' Since the start of Russia's military aggression over a decade ago in the nearby Donbas -- the Donetsk and Luhansk regions -- Dnipro has rallied to support Ukraine's outmanned and outgunned forces in an effort to resist further incursions. Now, as the full-scale invasion rages on, Ukraine's military has grown in numbers, weaponry, and experience, but the role of the city -- still mostly Russian-speaking -- has not changed.

Dnipro hosts thousands of refugees from further east and south, and hundreds of wounded soldiers at any given time. Local volunteer organizations work nonstop to support those displaced by the war and keep frontline brigades supplied. Serhiy Kramarenko, a 43-year-old volunteer, told me that visits to the front and round-the-clock phone calls from soldiers, relatives, and other civilians, which "are scary to answer," have become a constant part of his life. "This has become a cross that we bear every day," Kramarenko wrote in a message on Telegram. "We meet mothers who live from one phone call to the next. Soldiers who look right through you, because their souls are still out there, on the front lines." While medicine, clothes, and food are needed daily, hundreds of people who have fled war-torn regions for Dnipro need something else even more, Serhiy said: human closeness.

"The work has become quieter, tougher, and deeper. Because behind every request there is real human pain," he said. "People here live between a destroyed past and a fearful future." Beyond Dnipro, closer to the front lines, people ask for only one thing -- "to survive," he added. "There is no talk of comfort there. People just ask not to be forgotten, because forgetting kills faster than cold and hunger." 'Exhaustion Does Not Mean Indifference' Nearly four years into the full-scale war, fatigue has made it increasingly difficult to mobilize financial donations. High-level corruption scandals have not helped, either. "No one expected it would drag on for so long," a 45-year-old Dnipro entrepreneur who raises money for the Ukrainian military told me. But he said that hasn't put a stop to the donations he musters for military vehicles, drones, and electronic warfare systems. "People are tired -- this much is obvious," said the entrepreneur, who is also named Serhiy and did not want his last name published. "At the same time, exhaustion does not mean indifference."
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed Ukraine targeted one of President Vladimir Putin's residences and said Moscow will retaliate and review its stance in negotiations seeking an end to its ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the claim that Kyiv targeted the residence in the Novgorod region northwest of Moscow a "lie."

He asserted that Russia was seeking to undermine US-Ukraine talks on the war and "preparing the ground to carry out strikes -- most likely on the [Ukrainian] capital and on government buildings."

Asked about Moscow's allegations, US President Donald Trump said he learned about it from Putin himself and it made him "very angry." "It's a very delicate time," Trump said to journalists referring to Ukraine peace talks as he welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his private residence in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, on December 29.

Trump pointed out that he had refused to provide Ukraine with the Tomahawk missiles that Kyiv was asking for to hit Russian military targets and disable Russian armed forces' capacity for ground and air attacks. "It's one thing to be offensive, because they're offensive. It's another thing to attack his house. It's not the right time to do any of that," the US president added.

The Russian allegation came one day after Zelenskyy and Trump touted what they said was progress at a meeting in Florida, with the US president -- who spoke by phone to Putin hours before the meeting -- saying a peace deal to end the nearly four-year full-scale invasion could be "closer than ever."

Moscow has signaled it is not prepared to make substantial concessions.

Russia Claims Ukraine Carried Out 'Terrorist Attack'

In a statement posted on Telegram on December 29, Lavrov claimed that Ukraine used 91 drones in what he called a "terrorist attack," but that all of them were shot down and there were no reports of damage so far.

Lavrov said that Russia would not leave the attack unanswered and has selected "targets and timing" for retaliatory strikes.

He said that because Ukraine's government, which he called the "criminal Kyiv regime," had resorted to "a policy of state terrorism," Russia's "negotiating position will be reviewed." He did not elaborate.

Russian officials have used similar language to describe the Ukrainian government in the past, and Putin has repeatedly claimed that Zelenskyy is not a legitimate leader because an election was not held in 2024.

Elections in Ukraine are barred under martial law, which has been in effect since Russia launched the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Lavrov did not name the residence, but the location in the Novgorod region suggested that it is a well-protected compound at Valdai, a lakeside town whose forested location Putin has favored over other state residences since he launched the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, an investigation by Systema, RFE/RL's Russian investigative unit, found this year.

In a statement, Zelenskyy called Lavrov's claim "another lie by the Russian Federation," adding that "it is clear that for [Russia], if there is no scandal between us and the United States and instead there is progress, this is a failure for them. Because they do not want this war to end. They can only be forced to end it through pressure."

'Strong' Security Guarantees

Hours before Lavrov's post, Zelenskyy said the US has offered Ukraine "strong" security guarantees for 15 years as part of a peace deal to end the war with Russia, with Kyiv looking for a longer pledge from Washington to keep Moscow in check.

"I told him (Trump) that we already have a war going on and it has been going on for almost 15 years. And so I really wanted the guarantees to be longer," Zelenskyy told reporters in a WhatsApp chat a day after meeting Trump in Florida.

He was referring to Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea, which preceded Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.



"I told him that we really want to consider the possibility of 30, 40, 50 years. The president said he would think about it," Zelenskyy added.

"Without security guarantees, this war is not really over. We cannot admit that it is over. Because there may be a risk of renewed aggression from such a neighbor."

The two leaders met at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 28 for talks on a deal to end Europe's longest and deadliest conflict since World War II, with both calling the session "productive" and "substantive" even though no breakthrough was reached.

Zelenskyy said in his chat with reporters that some issues of the 20-point peace plan remain unresolved and he called for a meeting of national-security advisers from the two countries, as well as from Europe, in the "coming days."

Trump's meeting with Zelenskyy was the culmination of weeks of phone and shuttle diplomacy in efforts to end Russia's full-scale war on Ukraine -- which has killed or wounded more than 1.5 million soldiers on both sides in nearly four years.

The meeting also marked the latest instance in which participants touted "progress" and "results" but did not provide details and vowed additional talks.

Following two hours of talks, Trump asserted that peace discussions were "moving in the right direction." He did not mention the possibility of hosting leaders in Washington in January.

Trump and Zelenskyy also conducted a call with European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and NATO chief Mark Rutte.

Zelenskyy told reporters that any peace plan must be signed by Ukraine, Europe, the United States, and Russia, adding that Kyiv hoped to "move forward quickly" and was "open" to any format of meetings.

Kyiv has been adamant in receiving security guarantees -- particularly from the United States but also from Europe -- and has resisted the Kremlin's hard-line demands that include ceding Ukrainian territory to Russia.

One of the critical issues at the heart of negotiations over territory is the fate of the eastern Donbas region.

Most of that territory is under Russian control, and Moscow has demanded that Kyiv turn over the parts Russia does not hold. That includes two major cities -- Kramatorsk and Slovyansk -- which are linchpins for Ukrainian defenses in the area.

During the joint news conference, Trump said that territorial issues -- including the future of the Donbas region -- had not been settled and were proving to be "a very tough issue."

Amid the diplomacy and negotiations, Russia has shown little inclination for compromise, even refusing to consider a Christmas truce proposed by Zelenskyy.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists in Moscow on December 29 that he agreed with the assessment that the talks were in the final stage, but he also reiterated Putin's stance that Ukraine should withdraw its troops from Donbas to move the process forward.

Deadlock Frustrating President Trump

Trump, who said during his election campaign he could settle the war in one day, has been frustrated by his inability to use what he sees as his businessmans acumen to end the conflict.

He has dispatched his chief envoy, Steve Witkoff, to Moscow six times to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump himself met with the Russian leader in Alaska in August.

Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump son-in-law Jared Kusher, and defense chief Pete Hegseth joined the Trump meeting with Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian's third with the US president since January.

Shortly before the December 28 talks began, Trump and Putin spoke by phone, a surprise call that the Kremlin said lasted more than an hour and was done at Trump's request. In a post to social media, Trump described it as "good and very productive."

Peskov said the two leaders would hold another call "very soon."

Putin's chief foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, said Putin and Trump agreed to not support a push for a temporary cease-fire ahead of a settlement -- a call Zelenskyy reiterated in his December 29 session with journalists.

Zelenskyy said a 60-day cease-fire was needed to allow for a referendum to be held in Ukraine over any peace plan.

Russia isn't interested in any type of cease-fire, "for now," Zelenskyy added.

Last month, the White House proposed a 28-point plan that was seen as heavily favorable to Russia. Zelenskyy and his negotiators -- along with Kyivs European allies -- have sought to draft counterproposals.

Zelenskyys 20-point plan, released last week, paved the way for the Ukrainian leader to fly to the United States and meet with Trump.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/vzaluzhnyi/photos

Media advisor to Ukraine's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the UK, Valery Zaluzhny, Oksana Torop, has denied information that appeared earlier in the media about the diplomat's alleged plans to complete his mission and return to Ukraine.

"As always, unnamed sources know everything about Zaluzhny and his plans. But nothing has changed. He continues to defend Ukraine's interests as ambassador to the UK," Torop said in an exclusive comment to Interfax-Ukraine on Monday.

As previously reported, Radio NV, citing its own unnamed sources in political and diplomatic circles, reported that Zaluzhny was allegedly preparing to leave his diplomatic post in London in early January and had allegedly expressed such a desire during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It was also reported that his appointment to other positions was being discussed, but no concrete decisions have been made yet.
A judge has issued a stark warning to young people to stay away from drugs.

At a recent sitting of the district court in the county, a young man pleaded guilty to possession of 50 worth of ketamine. He had no previous convictions and was very concerned about losing his job as a result of the prosecution, the court was told.

Judge Deirdre Gearty told the young man he was putting his future in big jeopardy by taking drugs. She highlighted that a conviction for a drugs offence could prevent him from travelling abroad to Australia or the US.

I am not sure if people are aware of this, she said. She directed that the accused pay a 250 fine and the matter was struck out without a recorded conviction.
Retired Punjab and Haryana High Court judge and noted human rights advocate Justice Ranjit Singh has publicly appealed to the CBFC to certify Punjab '95 without any cuts. File Photo.

He emphasised that its content is backed by factual events and carries significant historical importance.

Retired High Court Judge Urges CBFC to Clear Diljit Dosanjhs Punjab 95 Without Cuts

The long-awaited historical film Punjab 95, based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, directed by Honey Trehan and starring Diljit Dosanjh, is still facing censorship hurdles nearly three years after completion. The film remains unreleased in India due to disputes with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

Advertisement

Retired Punjab and Haryana High Court judge and noted human rights advocate Justice Ranjit Singh has publicly appealed to the CBFC to certify Punjab 95 without any cuts. He emphasised that its content is backed by factual events and carries significant historical importance. He stressed that the films depiction of Khalras custodial killing and related incidents is supported by documented judicial findings and should be presented to audiences in full.

Justice Singhs intervention comes amid ongoing disagreements between the filmmakers and the censor board. Director Honey Trehan has criticised demands reportedly made by the board to remove the word Punjab from the title and to avoid references to the Punjab Police and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He has described these requests as unreasonable given the factual context of the story.

The story chronicles Khalras investigation into illegal cremations and enforced disappearances during Punjabs counter-insurgency period in the 1990s. Despite earlier announcements of release dates, including an international opening, the films India release has been repeatedly postponed.

Advertisement

Source: Times of India




Dr Gurpreet Kaur, District Health Officer of Patiala, said the practice constituted not only adulteration but also branding fraud that directly jeopardised public health. File Photo.

State food laboratory tests in Kharar declared the seized samples substandard and hazardous.

Fake Fortified Oil Triggers Vitamin D Poisoning in Punjab Homes



In Punjab, a serious public health concern has emerged after investigations traced cases of severe vitamin D poisoning to a fraudulent fortified cooking oil being sold in local markets. The revelation comes months after hospitals began treating patients with life-threatening symptoms linked to dangerously high levels of the nutrient.

Advertisement

The alarm was raised when six residents of Rajpura in Patiala district, including two children, were taken to the emergency ward at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI), Chandigarh. Patients exhibited persistent vomiting, extreme weakness and altered consciousness. Clinical tests revealed acute hypervitaminosis D, a condition where excessive vitamin D causes hypercalcemia (critically high blood calcium levels) and acute kidney distress. Doctors at PGI described the cases as unusual and severe, prompting deeper inquiry.

Punjabs health department, along with the state food safety wing, coordinated the investigation that ultimately revealed a deceptive supply chain stretching to Kolkata. According to authorities, raw edible oil from well-known brands was being tampered with in local mixing operations in Fatehgarh Sahib and Rajpura. Distributors infused the oil with excessive and toxic concentrations of vitamin D, far beyond safe nutritional levels, before repackaging it in loose bottles under a fake local brand name.

Officials confirmed the bottles carried fraudulent labels claiming FSSAI approval and touted the product as fortified for bone health to win consumer trust. Dr Gurpreet Kaur, District Health Officer of Patiala, said the practice constituted not only adulteration but also branding fraud that directly jeopardised public health.

Advertisement

State food laboratory tests in Kharar declared the seized samples substandard and hazardous. In earlier raids, authorities had already confiscated over 350 boxes and hundreds of bottles of the suspect oil. Legal action is underway against those involved, with a formal court case filed and public advisories issued across villages near Rajpura urging residents to stop using the product immediately.

The implicated retail shop has since been closed, and epidemiologists continue surveys in impact areas. Health officials are emphasising vigilance in food purchases and warning consumers about misleading fortified products in local markets.



Source: Times of India

Advertisement




Importantly, the court ordered that 60 per cent of the interest burden will be borne by the Chandigarh Administration and 40 per cent by the Municipal Corporation, easing financial pressure on the civic body. File Photo.

He stressed that retirees cannot be deprived of lawful entitlements due to official lapses.

Chandigarh MC Retirees Win 7.5% Interest on Delayed Pensions: High Court Delivers Big Relief

By directing payment of 7.5 per cent interest on delayed pension dues, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has delivered significant relief to retired employees of the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh (MC). This marks a big victory for pensioners waiting years for their rightful benefits.

Advertisement

In its Dec 29, 2025 ruling, the court clarified that interest will be calculated from two months after the date of retirement, recognising that pensions should not be kept pending indefinitely. The petitioners, including former MC employee PK Pushkarana and others, had initially received only 90 per cent of their provisional pensions upon retirement between 2014 and 2015, with the balance released much later in 2018.

Justice Jagmohan Bansal said that administrative communication gaps between the Chandigarh Administration and the Municipal Corporation caused these delays, but he stressed that retirees cannot be deprived of lawful entitlements due to official lapses.

Importantly, the court ordered that 60 per cent of the interest burden will be borne by the Chandigarh Administration and 40 per cent by the Municipal Corporation, easing financial pressure on the civic body.

Advertisement

The High Court also set a deadline: the MC must verify and pay the interest within three months, or else the rate automatically rises to 9 per cent, which is a strong incentive for swift compliance.

Legal experts said this judgement reinforces retirees rights and sets a precedent for timely pension disbursal with due compensation for delays.

Source: The Tribune
Air India air hostess dies after breathing issue at friend's flat in Gurugram

Another air hostess from Uttarakhand was also present at the party, and both were reportedly intoxicated at the time.

An Air India air hostess passed away in Gurugram, Haryana, following a breathing issue. The deceased has been identified as Simran Dadwal (25), originally from Mohali, Punjab. She had come to her friends rented flat in DLF Phase One, Gurugram, to attend a party on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.

According to sources, after a late-night party at the flat, she experienced difficulty breathing around 5 am and was rushed to a hospital, where she died during treatment, as per sources.

Advertisement

Another air hostess from Uttarakhand was also present at the party, and both were reportedly intoxicated at the time.

Simran Dadwal was residing in Delhi and had been working with Air India for the past two years. Prior to this, she had worked with Vistara Airlines.

The police were informed about the death by the hospital. Officials at the DLF Phase One police station stated that the exact cause of death will be ascertained after the post-mortem report.

Advertisement

The deceaseds family has reached Gurugram and has not filed any complaint so far. The matter is under investigation.

(For more news apart from Air India air hostess dies after breathing issue at friends flat in Gurugram," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
Statement on US participation in security guarantees is success, but talks still far from over - Tusk

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk believes that the peace talks in the Russian war against Ukraine are still far from being completed, but Russia cannot be allowed to dictate the terms of peace.

"After night talks with the leaders of European countries, one thing is certain: the West and Ukraine will lose this confrontation if Russia can divide us and dictate the terms of peace," he said on X on Monday.

However, in his opinion, the statement on the participation of the United States in security guarantees is a success. "But the negotiations are still far from being completed," Tusk added.

As reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, after a meeting with Donald Trump, said that the draft agreement on ending the Russian-Ukrainian war currently provides for security guarantees for Ukraine from the United States for 15 years with the possibility of extending this period, but US President Donald Trump promised to consider the possibility of providing such guarantees immediately for 30-50 years.

It was also previously reported that French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to hold a meeting of the "Coalition of the Determined" countries in Paris in early January, where they plan to finalize the specific contributions of each state to the system of security guarantees for Ukraine. As reported, Zelensky and Trump met in Florida for peace talks, with Trump immediately warning that he would call Putin after the conversation.
Aravalli Definition Suo Moto Case: Supreme Court put in abeyance its earlier decision

A bench led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Monday has also ordered the formation of a new expert committee

Aravalli Definition Suo Moto Case: The Supreme Court of India has put in abeyance its earlier decision (issued on November 20) to accept the Central Environment Ministrys definition of Aravalli Hills and Aravalli Range.

Acceptance of the said definition by the top court in November had exposed most of the Aravalli region to the possibility of being used for regulated mining activities.

Advertisement

A bench led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Monday has also ordered the formation of a new expert committee to examine issues that need to be examined in terms of the definition of Aravallis.

The Court has also issued notice to the Centre and the four Aravalli States - Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi and Haryana, seeking their response to its suo motu case on the issue, according to ANI.

The Supreme Court on November 20, 2025, accepted the definition of the Aravalli Hills proposed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), triggering widespread criticism and concern among environmentalists and citizens alike.

Advertisement

Under the proposal, hills are defined as landforms with an elevation of at least 100 metres above the local relief.

According to news reports, nearly 90 percent of the Aravalli range, one of Indias oldest mountain systems, would not qualify for protection under the definition accepted by the Supreme Court.

Critics argue that the revised definition could significantly weaken environmental safeguards for the Aravallis, which play a crucial role in preventing desertification, maintaining groundwater levels, and regulating the regional climate.

Advertisement

(For more news apart from Aravalli Definition Suo Moto Case: Supreme Court put in abeyance its earlier decision," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
He added that more than 13,000 complaints received through AirSewa, social media and call channels have already been resolved, with issues prioritised and expedited through close monitoring at the control room. File Photo.

Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha said the collaborative approach has led to a marked improvement in grievance redressal.

Indias 247 Aviation Helpdesk Now Resolving Passenger Complaints Faster

The Civil Aviation Ministry of India has operationalised a 247 Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) to promptly address grievances. The centre is located in New Delhis Udaan Bhawan and became functional in early December amid widespread operational disruptions in aviation, including disruptions at IndiGo and delays caused by adverse weather.

Advertisement

According to officials, staffed round-the-clock by representatives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airports Authority of India (AAI) and major airlines, the PACR monitors flight operations, responds to passenger calls and coordinates real-time assistance.

Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha said the collaborative approach has led to a marked improvement in grievance redressal and has received positive feedback from passengers and stakeholders. He added that more than 13,000 complaints received through AirSewa, social media and call channels have already been resolved, with issues prioritised and expedited through close monitoring at the control room.

The complaints include enquiries about flight cancellations, delays, ticket refund issues, lost or damaged baggage and onboard meal problems, with the centre focusing on resolving most cases within 72 hours, officials said.

Advertisement

Airline officials at the PACR, including from IndiGo, SpiceJet and Air India Express, noted that systematic coordination has smoothed workflows and improved customer response during flight disruptions.

Source: Economic Times




Under that definition, significant parts of the ecologically sensitive hills that lie below the 100-metre threshold could lose legal protection, raising concerns among environmentalists and opposition parties about possible exploitation for mining and development. File Photo.

The court has also proposed the constitution of a high-powered expert committee to examine unresolved issues.

Supreme Court Stays Aravalli Definition: BJP and Congress React Amid Ecological Debate

On Monday, December 29, 2025, the Supreme Court of India stayed its own November 20, 2025, judgement that had accepted a contentious definition of the Aravalli hills and range.The move that has triggered widespread debate and protests across multiple states. The stay effectively puts the earlier definition in abeyance and signals a reopening of the legal and ecological debate around how the Aravalli should be defined and protected. The court has also proposed the constitution of a high-powered expert committee to examine unresolved issues relating to the height-based definition, ecological continuity, and permissible mining, and will hear the matter again in January with detailed submissions from stakeholders, sources said.

Advertisement

According to legal experts, the November ruling had defined an Aravalli Hill as any landform rising at least 100 metres above the surrounding terrain and an Aravalli Range as two or more such hills within 500 metres of each other. Under that definition, significant parts of the ecologically sensitive hills that lie below the 100-metre threshold could lose legal protection, raising concerns among environmentalists and opposition parties about possible exploitation for mining and development.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav welcomed the stay and said on X that he welcomes the Supreme Court directions introducing a stay  and the formation of a new committee to study issues, reaffirming the governments commitment to protection and restoration of the Aravalli range. He also clarified that the ban on new mining leases or renewals remains in effect pending the committees work.

BJP leaders, including Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, described the issue as politically inflated by opposition forces, asserting that as soon as a clarification notice was issued, everything got cleared, according to party sources. Haryana Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana also welcomed the decision, emphasising the importance of the Aravallis for the ecosystem.

Advertisement

On the opposition side, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh welcomed the stay and urged Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav to step down, accusing him of defending a definition opposed by experts and environmentalists. Former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot said the stay was a positive development and expressed hope that the government would recognise public sentiment and strengthen protection for the hills.

Other critics, including Shiv Sena UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray, echoed concerns that the Aravalli range remains under threat from policies that could weaken ecological safeguards, stressing that it is important that we dont fall prey to the misinformation campaign  to say that the Aravalli Range is safe; it is NOT with the governments intent to redefine it.

Source: Hindustan Times
Unnao rape case: Supreme Court stays Delhi HC order suspending life sentence of Kuldeep Singh Sengar

Unnao rape case: Supreme Court stays Delhi HC order suspending life sentence of Kuldeep Singh Sengar

Unnao rape case: The Supreme Court of India has stayed Delhi High Courts order suspending the life sentence of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case of a minor girl, according to news agency PTI.

The Supreme Court has also issued notice to Sengar on an appeal of the CBI against the High Court's order.

Advertisement

Following the hearing, Hemant Kumar Maurya, an advocate from the victims' side, told the media that Sengar will not be released from jail under any circumstances, now.

"I would like to thank the Supreme Court today. The victim also wants to express her gratitude. The Supreme Court has issued a strong order to the lower courts stating that the accused will not be released from jail in any case, and the order granting relief has been stayed. The opposition has been given time to file a counter-affidavit, and until then, he will not be released from jail under any circumstances. This is the order of the Supreme Court, and there is a stay on the High Court's order," Hemant Kumar Maurya told the media.

Women activist Yogita Bhayana, who has been supporting the victim from day one after Delhi High court's recent order, speaking to the media said, "Satyamev Jayate. We were hoping for this order. We thank the Supreme Court and all the media for this. The Supreme Court has been sensitive towards this case. This was the very the basic of justice. It will send a message to the country's daughters that if they face injustice, they will get justice."

Advertisement

(For more news apart from Unnao rape case: Supreme Court stays Delhi HC order suspending life sentence of Kuldeep Singh Sengar," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
Punjab News: Sub-Tehsil Banur to be upgraded to Sub-Division/Tehsil in SAS Nagar district

The chief minister gave his approval for the upgrade earlier today in a cabinet meeting in Chandigarh.

Punjab News: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday said that Sub-Tehsil Banur in the SAS Nagar district will be upgraded and established as a Sub-Division/Tehsil Banur.

The chief minister gave his approval for the upgrade earlier today in a cabinet meeting in Chandigarh. The chief minister made the announcement in a post on his X.

Advertisement

The main objective, he said, was to provide better facilities to the general public and to ease their difficulties. More people-centric decisions aimed at the states development will be taken in the coming days.

(For more news apart from Punjab News: Sub-Tehsil Banur to be upgraded to Sub-Division/Tehsil in SAS Nagar district" stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
He cautioned that during seasonal flooding the pipeline could become submerged in contaminated water, which may increase the risk of contamination through its multiple joints and expose residents to severe water-borne diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea. File Photo.

He said the Executive Officer (EO) of the Municipal Council inspected the site but reportedly dismissed concerns.



Untreated Sewage in Punjab Rivulet Puts Drinking Water and Residents at Risk

Advertisement



In Kharar, Punjab, untreated sewage was allegedly being discharged into a seasonal rivulet, posing a threat to nearby residents and drinking water infrastructure, according to local complainant Arun Kumar. He is a resident of Randhawa Road and filed a formal complaint with the Punjab Chief Minister, the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), the Deputy Commissioner of Mohali and the State Human Rights Commission over the issue, which is a serious public health and environmental concern.

Kumar highlighted in his submission that the drain carrying sewage runs dangerously close to residential colonies, a marketplace, a government school, a municipal park and a hospital, and importantly, a drinking water pipeline runs through the middle of the rivulet. He cautioned that during seasonal flooding the pipeline could become submerged in contaminated water, which may increase the risk of contamination through its multiple joints and expose residents to severe water-borne diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea.

Kumar has accused the Kharar Municipal Council and pollution control authorities of negligence. He said the Executive Officer (EO) of the Municipal Council inspected the site but reportedly dismissed concerns, claiming the drinking water pipeline was intact.

Advertisement

According to the Commissions office, in response to the complaint, the State Human Rights Commission has summoned officials from the Municipal Council and PPCB to present a written reply and a remedial action plan by January 13, 2026.

Source: Times of India




Pakistan Condemns Attacks on Christians and Muslims in India; Matter of Deep Concern

Tahir Andrabi urged the international community to take note of these developments and to take appropriate steps.

News: Pakistan on Monday condemned incidents of vandalism during Christmas and violence against Muslims in India.

Responding to media queries on Monday, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tahir Andrabi, called the alleged persecution of minorities in India a matter of deep concern.

Advertisement

Recent condemnable incidents of vandalism during Christmas, as well as state-sponsored campaigns targeting Muslims  including the demolition of their homes and repeated lynchings, notably the case of Muhammad Akhlaq, in which the state worked to shield the perpetrators from accountability  have deepened fear and alienation among Muslims, the spokesperson said in the response.

The list of such victims is sadly long, he added.

Advertisement

Tahir Andrabi urged the international community to take note of these developments and to take appropriate steps to help protect the fundamental rights of vulnerable communities in India.

(For more news apart from Pakistan Condemns Attacks on Christians and Muslims in India; Urges World to Take note ," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
Women  The Enemy of the People

An exhibition that captures a different definition for the term `hero`.

Expozitia Dusmance ale poporului la Muzeul National de Istorie a Romaniei

Steliu Lambru, 29.12.2025, 14:00

The expression enemy of the people entered Romanian public life with the establishment of the communist regime imposed by the Soviet army. Hundreds of thousands of Romanians were imprisoned on a wide range of charges, from the mere expression of opinions opposed to the regime, to armed resistance fighters who took to the mountains. Communist justice and the communist media were the main instruments through which so-called enemies of the people were targeted by public disgrace. The term was not just a journalistic figure of speech; it was a formal charge and the basis for criminal conviction. The list of enemies of the people is so long that it would take entire libraries to contain it.

But there were also enemies of the people who were women.

Women (often relatives of those labeled enemies of the people), much like men, endured forms of physical and psychological abuse that are almost impossible to imagine. They were thrown into prisons, deprived of food, warmth, rest, light and clothing. They were tortured to death. They gave birth to children in prison cells. The Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance has compiled statistics on the women persecuted during the communist period. 5% of those imprisoned for political reasons in communist Romania were womenseveral thousand individuals. The reasons varied, from being deemed dangerous to the social order of the communist state to being jailed solely because they were relatives of male prisoners. Of these women, 1.25% did not survive detention.

In terms of social origin, 27% came from the bourgeoisie, 45% were peasants, 21% workers, and 1.5% wealthy landowners. In political terms, 89% were apolitical, 5% were democrats, and 6% socialists or communists. In terms of education, 28% had completed secondary school, 26% primary school, 15% basic elementary schooling, 13% higher education, 4% vocational training, and 9% were illiterate.

The destinies of these women were presented in the exhibition Women  The Enemy of the People at the National Museum of Romanian History, where the panels portray acts of genuine heroism. We are accustomed, from films and stories, to think of heroes and heroines as figures who distinguish themselves in battle, on the front line. But real life shows us that heroines are also those who face an unjust fate with dignity and honor. The poet Ana Blandiana said that, beyond the terrible times these brave women lived through and that put them to such cruel tests, they suffered for the noblest of human feelings.

This is, in fact, an exhibition about love. This exhibition, which brings together women who were imprisoned under communism, does not speak about their ideologyan ideology which, I believe, cannot even be defined as such. The many and complex reasons that led them to prison were only to a small extent political. At the foundation of their strength, of their ability to remain faithful to themselves, was love. Because in most cases, these women ended up giving their lives, because they refused to betray their fathers, their brothers, their beloved ones, their husbands. This is that defining trait, that feminine strength. Moreover, the writer in me cannot help draw attention to the fact that in Romanian literature, especially from Transylvania, portraits of women possess immense power. Women in Transylvanian novels are stronger than men, and this strength is visible in an extraordinary way in our exhibition.

Each of us has inner reserves of humanity we do not even suspect we possess. And the reserves of love of these severely tested women became the force that allowed them to resist and to fight for what is good and just, Ana Blandiana added.

What is political, what belongs to contemporary history, in the destinies of these women, is the fact that they belonged (through their upbringing, through their essence and their strength) to a world that refused to degrade itself. Let us remember that at the end of the Roman Empire, humanity was saved by the Good News, the Gospel. The Good News was: love thy neighbor as you love yourself. And twenty centuries later, love, although constantly trampled underfoot, still stood, at least in theory, at the foundation of humanitys moral architecture. In the 20th century Romania, where these women lived, love had been replaced by hatred: class hatred, and before that, racial hatred. But that hardly matters. What matters is that love no longer had a place in society, it had been replaced by hatred, and these women refused to accept that.

The women of the communist prisons suffered for lofty ideals, for other people, for their principles, for everything that makes us human. Ana Blandiana continued:

The love between men and women lies at the very foundation of our existence. I would like us to look at this exhibition beyond everything we know about communism, beyond all that was monstrous in that society, and to view it in a philosophical way. Because everything these women did (for whom prison was clearly even harder than it was for men), everything they did was something rooted in the very essence of humanity. And our exhibition is a tribute to the power of women to remain human.

The enemies of the people are today in a better world, and for us they are human legends. They were, indeed, enemies, but enemies of evil and of everything that is inhuman. (VP)
December 29, 2025 UPDATE

A roundup of domestic and international news

December 29, 2025 UPDATE

Newsroom, 29.12.2025, 19:51

CCR. On Monday, the Romanian Constitutional Court postponed again, due to lack of quorum, the debates on the referral from the High Court of Cassation and Justice regarding the new bill drawn up by the Bolojan Government on the reform of magistrates pensions. The decision in this case had already been postponed twice, most recently on Sunday, also due to lack of quorum, after some of the judges left the room during the session and did not return. The debates will resume on January 16. The new draft amendment to magistrates pensions adopted by the government provides for a phased increase in the retirement age to 65, and the amount of the pension cannot exceed 70% of the net allowance received in the last month of activity. However, the Supreme Court considers that this violates the independence of the judiciary and that magistrates would be discriminated against in relation to other beneficiaries of occupational pensions. Currently, magistrates can retire at 48, and their pension can be equal to their salary. The governments first attempt to eliminate this social inequality, which can no longer be sustained by the economy, as Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan said, was rejected in October by the Constitutional Court, also at the request of the High Court of Cassation and Justice. The reason at the time was that the government had not requested the advisory but mandatory opinion of the Superior Council of Magistracy within the time frame provided by law.

Ukraine. The United States has offered Ukraine solid security guarantees for a period of 15 years regarding the threat from Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday. The Kyiv leader added that on Sunday he asked president Trump to extend the guarantees for a much longer period, and Trump replied that he was considering such a possibility. The teams are getting closer, maybe very close to achieving a peace deal, President Donald Trump said Sunday at a press conference held after his meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky at his Florida residence. The leader in Kyiv also spoke of great progress, but reaffirmed that Ukraine would not agree to cede territory to Russia. This would only be possible if the people agreed in a referendum or if the parliament in Kyiv adopted such a decision, he said. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that in January, at a meeting in Paris, the contribution of each country in the Coalition of the Willing to help Ukraine will be determined.

Deficit. Romanias budget deficit reached 6.4% of the GDP after the first 11 months of this year, down from the deficit recorded in the same period last year, which was 7.15%. According to the Ministry of Finance, revenues totaled nearly 592 billion lei (about 118 billion euros), and expenditures exceeded 713 billion lei (over 142 billion euros). The budget deficit target for the whole year is 8.4% of the GDP, or 159.8 billion lei (about 32 billion euros). According to Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare, reducing the deficit means that the state spends more responsibly, borrows less, and has more financial stability. This means, the minister added, lower interest costs, greater investor confidence, and more money available for development. Romania is entering 2026 with better-balanced public finances, rising revenues, and a healthy foundation for a responsible and balanced budget next year, Alexandru Nazare said.

Emergencies. Over 8,000 emergencies were recorded nationwide between December 24 and 28, with approximately 80 percent of missions involving medical assistance. According to the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, firefighters in Romania responded to nearly 470 fires during those five days. They also handled 40 interventions to extricate victims involved in road accidents, and over 60 people in critical situations were rescued. The Inspectorate for Emergency Situations also announced that, compared to the same period last year, there was a slight decrease in the number of such situations.

Weather. In Romania, in the last 24 hours, strong winds have caused problems in almost 70 localities in 21 counties. According to the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, firefighters intervened to remove construction elements detached from 31 buildings and to clear over 100 trees and poles that had fallen due to strong winds. Several cars were damaged. Yellow warnings for strong winds remain in effect for several counties in the south, southwest, and center. (MI)
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/oleksandr.merezhko.2025/

US President Donald Trump's visit to Kyiv would be of great importance both for Ukraine and for him - it would be a step towards a deeper understanding of the situation, Oleksandr Merezhko (Servant of the People faction), chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Foreign Policy and Interparliamentary Cooperation, is confident.

"We would be very glad to see him. And the Speaker of the Parliament, Ruslan Stefanchuk, I think, would like to welcome Trump to parliament... Biden was in Kyiv at a very difficult time, when it was dangerous... It would be very right and logical if Trump, who is engaged in peacekeeping, who is thinking about stopping Russian aggression, came to Ukraine and simply saw with his own eyes what is happening here," Merezhko said in a comment to the Interfax-Ukraine agency on Monday.

According to Merezhko, if Trump had come to Ukraine and talked to people, with members of parliament, with members of the government, he would not have made such statements that Putin allegedly wants to see Ukraine successful.

"He would understand better what is happening. This is important not only for Ukraine, but also for him, to figure out what is really happening."

According to the MP, if Trump wants to become a great president, he should follow the example of such presidents as John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan.

"During the Cold War, its center was West Berlin, which was constantly under threat. And Kennedy came there and in his famous speech said: "I am a Berliner," that is, he emphasized the moral solidarity and support of the United States for the residents of West Berlin. And this had a very significant impact on the course of the Cold War and on the fact that democracy won in the end. Reagan also came to West Berlin in 1987 and, speaking in front of the Berlin Wall, said: "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall." And this also had an impact on subsequent events," Merezhko recalled.

He emphasized that Trump's visit to Kyiv and his speech in parliament could become a powerful signal to Russia that the United States stands on the side of democracy.

"If Trump came to Kyiv and said some words of support to the Ukrainian people, it would have a significant impact. It would be such a powerful signal to Putin, to Russia. And after that, Russia would understand that the United States is on the right side of history, on the side of democracy, and that one should not count on Trump taking a pro-Russian position," Merezhko emphasized. As reported, after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida, Trump declared his readiness to come to Ukraine and address the parliament if this would help conclude a peace agreement.
December 29, 2025

A roundup of local and world news

Newsflash

Newsroom, 29.12.2025, 13:55

JUDICIARY The Constitutional Court of Romania Monday failed to meet quorum requirements and once again deferred a ruling on the notification lodged by the High Court of Cassation and Justice against the Bolojan Cabinets new bill regulating the retirement of magistrates. The ruling had already been postponed twice, most recently on Sunday, also due to lack of quorum, as some of the judges left the room during the session and did not return. Talks will resume on January 16. The new bill on magistrates pensions passed by the Government provides for a phased increase in the retirement age to 65, and caps pensions at 70% of the net income made in the last month of work. The High Court of Cassation and Justice argues however that the new legislation violates the independence of the judiciary, and magistrates would be discriminated against. Currently, magistrates can retire at 48, and their pensions can be equal to the last salary. The governments first attempt to address this social injustice, which can no longer be sustained by the economy, as PM Ilie Bolojan said, was dismissed by the Constitutional Court in October, also at the request of the High Court of Cassation and Justice, on grounds that the government had not requested the opinion of the Higher Council of Magistrates within the time frame provided by the law.

UKRAINE The president of France Emmanuel Macron announced today that a meeting of Kyivs allies in the Coalition of the Willing will take place in Paris in early January, to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine as part of a peace agreement with Russia. The announcement comes after Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump met on Sunday at the US presidents residence in Florida. At the press conference that followed, Trump said that we are getting a lot closer, maybe very close to peace, although Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine does not agree with giving up territory to Russia. This would only be possible if the people agreed in a referendum or if the parliament in Kyiv adopted such a decision, he said. However, the Ukrainian president also spoke of great progress. He said 90% of the 20-point peace plan is approved, as are the security guarantees for Ukraine, and a prosperity plan is being finalised. Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our US partners to consolidate this progress. Paramount to this effort is to have ironclad security guarantees from day one, the European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen posted on X after a phone call with Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the US president Donald Trump, and European leaders.

GOVERNMENT The agenda of the last Cabinet meeting in 2025 includes a draft emergency order that would help people with disabilities integrate more easily into the community. The order concerns the introduction of a new type of social service, called From Assisted Living in the Community to Independent Living. The service includes sheltered housing, a Centre for Independent Living and other services that support the social integration of people with disabilities who leave the public system. The government should also make a decision on another draft emergency order, concerning the transfer of the Romanian Copyright Office to the Ministry of Culture. After being twice put on the agenda of government meetings this month, the draft order was withdrawn each time for review. The main goal is to ensure responsible allocation of expenditure and the efficient spending of available resources.

WEATHER In Romania, the wind has been blowing hard in the last 24 hours across the country. Yellow and red code warnings have been issued, especially in the mountains. Due to the blizzard and low visibility, traffic was closed on high-altitude roads, such as Transalpina. In fact, the wind has caused problems in several other parts of the country, where it damaged roofs, destroyed electrical wires and uprooted trees. The weather is expected to stay windy on Monday, with highs ranging between -4 and 7 degrees Celsius, and around 6 degrees Celsius in the capital city Bucharest. (AMP)
The Year in Review

Some of the highlights of the year on the international political scene in 2026.

The Week in Review

Bogdan Matei, 27.12.2025, 14:00

Donald Trump returns to the White House

The return to the White House of the Republican billionaire Donald Trump shook the entire world. With his unpredictability and the divisive way in which he approaches country and world affairs, Trump again generated either unconditional admiration or irrepressible disgust. Recently, for example, a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to withdraw the National Guard troops deployed despite an opinion to the contrary from the local Democratic authorities in Los Angeles, the USs second most populous city, in response to protests against the raids carried out by the immigration police. Internationally, Trump has caused tremors on all markets when he decided to raise import tariffs, being convinced that this move would reinvigorate domestic economy and create new jobs for Americans. Some commentators are convinced he is aspiring to the Nobel Peace Prize. His own team says he deserves it, not least for mediating, successfully, between sworn enemies: Armenia and Azerbaijan, India and Pakistan, Cambodia and Thailand. In Europe, Trump is not much liked, neither in Brussels, nor in the capitals of other states on the continent. The new security strategy published by the White House lists what the latter views as the insurmountable problems in Europe: economic decline, an excess of regulation from Brussels, stifling the identity and sovereignty of national states, which, together with illegal migration risks erasing European civilisation, as well as censorship of the freedom of speech, suppressing political opposition and unrealistic expectations with respect to Ukraine from European leaders who support Kyiv. US strategists claim that if current trends continue, Europe will be unrecognisable in 20 years or less.

The situation in Ukraine

We will support Ukraine until victory  remained in 2025 the position of many top politicians in Europe who have constantly supported Ukraine following its invasion by Russia four years ago. The Russian troops are advancing slowly, but constantly. About one fifth of Ukraines internationally recognised territory is under occupation, while the Russian army continues to bomb and kill indiscriminately, children, women and old people alike. Towards the end of the year Andriy Yermak resigned as the presidents Chief of Staff following the biggest corruption scandal during the term of Volodymyr Zelensky. In the view of a Romanian-Ukrainian, the incident marks a fissure in a power model built during the war years: a centralised system, dependent on personal loyalties and a small core formed around the president, of which Yermak had become an indispensable figure. It remains to be seen, the commentator adds, whether this is a real restructuring or just a symbolic move meant to dispel public anger and delay more difficult questions about the mechanics of power in Kyiv in times of war.

A fragile peace in the Middle East

The Gaza Strip is experiencing relative calm following a ceasefire. The unprecedented terrorist attack on October 7, 2023 carried out by the Islamist movement Hamas on Israeli territory resulted in over 1,200 deaths. The response of the Israeli army led to the death of almost 70,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to data provided by the Hamas-controlled administration in Gaza and considered credible by the United Nations. Journalists with sources in Gaza say 30,000 bodies are still under the piles of rubble caused by Israeli strikes.

Arrest warrants for two top officials

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza, and Russian President Vladimir Putin for similar atrocities in Ukraine. Both are currently in office and managing the current affairs of their countries. Netanyahu is 76 years old, Putin is 73.

Unstable governments

Almost two-thirds of French citizens surveyed in a poll said they wanted President Emmanuel Macron to resign. 56% of those polled also want Parliament to dissolve and for early legislative elections to be held. In just three years, the country has had no fewer than five different cabinets. And in Romanias neighbour Bulgaria, the coalition government led by Rosen Zeliazkov fell. Coming after seven rounds of parliamentary elections in fewer than four years, Zeliazkovs government, made up of four parties, was sworn in at the beginning of the year. Bulgaria, which is EUs poorest country, will join the eurozone on January 1, 2026.

The Nobel Prize Awards

The journey made by Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Venezuelan opposition leader Corina Machado to pick up her award in Oslo, Norway, is the staff of adventure movies. The 58-year-old Machado travelled in secret for 10 hours from the capital Caracas to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. She crossed the country in disguise and managed to pass through 10 checkpoints of the army controlled by the authoritarian leftist president Nicolas Maduro, who has been hunting her for a long time. Machado then took a fishing boat, amid a rough sea and strong wind, before being met, at sea, by a vessel operated by an American NGO specialising in the extraction of people. The American forces involved in an anti-drug operation near Venezuela were informed in advance about the operation to extract Corina Machado, so as not to hit the boat carrying the Nobel laureate. Some 13 hours later, she was being taken to her flight for Oslo.
Weather phenomena at the end of the year

During the Christmas mini-holiday, the Romanians had blizzards, fallen trees and power outages

photo: Hans /pixabay.com

Bogdan Matei, 29.12.2025, 14:00

At the end of last week, Romanias Meteorological Agency issued a series of successive yellow, orange and red alerts, for gale force winds and precipitations mainly snowfalls, glaze frost and blizzards, a cold wave which hit most of the country.

Reports sent in by Radio Romania correspondents confirmed the weather forecasts. Many fallen trees were reported in Valcea county, southern Romania. In Lupeni, south-western Romania, roofs on two blocks of flats have been damaged by the gale force wind. Firefighters intervened in due time and no victims were reported. 8 hundred people were left without electricity in Alba county, central Romania. Fallen trees were reported in Dambovita county, southern Romania and specialized teams had to intervene in the county of Botosani, eastern Romania, to remove a tree, which fell on the roof of the local hospital.

Damaged roofs, broken electricity lines and fallen trees were also reported in the southern area of the Brasov county, central Romania. Road traffic on Transalpina motorway was interrupted and authorities had cautioned the tourists in the area on the worsening weather conditions.

A ministerial committee for emergency situations was summoned by Environment Minister, Diana Buzoianu, in the context of the forecasts on worsening weather with gale force winds, blizzard and low temperatures. Authorities and travel operators had been advised to monitor weather reports and inform the tourists on holidays in the mountainous resorts.

In an interview to Radio Romania, the director general with the National Meteorology Administration, Elena Mateescu says that we had a genuine winter episode with blizzard, gale-force wind and snow not only in the mountains with temperatures dropping down to -17 degrees in some areas. According to Elena Mateescu, this type of weather is likely to continue in the next period including on New Years Eve.

(bill)
After an early upmove, Germany's equity benchmark DAX drifted lower Monday morning, weighed down by weakness in defense stocks amid signs of progress in Ukraine peace talks. With no economic data due for the day, and not any big news on the corporate front, the mood in the market remained subdued.

Also, with the market to close early on Tuesday and remain shut on Thursday and Friday for New Year holidays, traders appear reluctant to make big moves.

U.S. President Donald Trump said a Ukraine peace deal is "getting a lot closer" although territorial issues remain unsolved.

The DAX was down 63.74 points or 0.26% at 24,276.32 a little while ago. The index had advanced to 24,436.43 earlier in the session.

Rheinmetall declined 2.3%. Siemens Energy slid 1.4%, while MTU Aero Engines, Infineon Technologies and Scout24 lost 0.8 to 1.1%.

Among the gainers, BASF moved up nearly 2%. Mercedes-Benz, Adidas, Continental and Brenntag gained 1.3 to 1.7%.

BMW, Beiersdorf, Zalando, Merck, Heidelberg Materials, Vonovia, Deutsche Boerse, Siemens Healthineers and Volkswagen gained 0.4 to 0.8%.

Meanwhile, the yield on Germany's 10-year Bund edged down to 2.84% this morning, remaining just below last week's nine-month highs.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
French stocks showed weakness Monday morning in thin deals as traders continued to stay away on the sideline. A lack of significant data or stock specific news rendered the mood cautious.

Defense stocks dropped amid signs of progress in Ukraine peace deal. U.S. President Donald Trump said a Ukraine peace deal is "getting a lot closer" although territorial issues remain unsolved.

The market will have a short session on Wednesday and remain closed on Thursday for New Year's Day.

The CAC 40 was down 13.40 points or 0.17% at 8,090.18 a few minutes ago, coming off an early high of 8,128.10.

Thales drifted down by about 1.7%. Safran lost 1.6%, while AXA, Legrand, Airbus Group, Pernod Ricared, Renault and Kering shed 0.5 to 0.9%.

Eurofins Scientific, L'Oreal, Danone, Stellantis and Eifage were modestly lower a little while ago.

ArcelorMittal climbed about 1%. Saint Gobain, Michelin, Publicis Groupe, Sanofi, TotalEnergies, Societe Generale, Accor, STMicroElectronics and Veolia Environment gained 0.4 to 0.9%.

The yield on France's 10 year government bond dropped to 3.542% earlier this morning, but edged up to 3.557% subsequently.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
Adlai Nortye Ltd. (ANL) announced that it has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Aosaikang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (ASK Pharma) for the development and commercialization of its investigational pan-RAS (ON) inhibitor AN9025 in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao.

Under the terms of the agreement, ASK Pharma will obtain exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize AN9025 in the licensed territory, while Adlai Nortye retains global rights outside Greater China.

The company is eligible to receive up to RMB 1.6 billion (approximately USD 230 million), including an upfront payment and near-term milestones exceeding USD 20 million, along with tiered royalties ranging from high single-digit to mid-teens on net sales in the region.

RAS mutations are among the most common oncogenic drivers across solid tumors,yet remain one of the most challenging targets in oncology.



AN9025 is an oral small-molecule pan-RAS (ON) inhibitor designed to block a broad spectrum of RAS mutations. Preclinical studies have shown potent and durable antitumor activity across pancreatic, lung and colorectal adenocarcinomas, with efficacy comparable or superior to a benchmark agent in the same class.

Adlai Nortye expects to initiate a Phase I clinical trial of AN9025 in the first quarter of 2026.

ASK Pharma's General Manager Jingfei Ma said the partnership marks a "pivotal milestone" in the company's innovation strategy, enabling it to expand into high-barrier oncology drug development. "By leveraging our complementary strengths in R&D, clinical development, and commercialization, we aim to accelerate the development of the AN9025 project while reinforcing our existing pipeline", Ma said.

Adlai CEO Yang Lu described AN9025 as a differentiated, potentially best-in-class RAS-targeting therapy. "This collaboration represents a meaningful step forward in advancing the clinical and commercial potential of AN9025 and underscores the value of our RAS-targeted drug discovery platform," Lu said. He added that the partnership will help bring new treatment options to patients with RAS-mutated cancers, who continue to face significant unmet medical needs.

In addition to AN9025, its RAS portfolio includes AN4035, a CEACAM5-targeting antibody-drug conjugate designed to deliver a potent pan-RAS (ON) inhibitor directly to tumors. AN4035 remains in preclinical development, with the company previously highlighting strong antitumor activity in CEACAM5- positive, RAS-addicted cancer models.

ANL has traded between $0.87 and $2.99 over the past year. The stock is currently trading in the pre-market at $2.88, up 76%.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
SoftBank Group Corp. (SFTBY,9984.T), a major Japanese multinational investment holding company, on Monday announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire DigitalBridge Group, Inc. (DBRG), an alternative asset manager, for about $4 billion.

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026.

Under the terms of the agreement, the company will indirectly acquire all outstanding DigitalBridge shares for $16 per share in cash.

The offer represents a 15% premium to DigitalBridge's December 26 closing price and a 50% premium to the unaffected 52-week average closing price as of December 4.

The company said the acquisition will strengthen its ability to build, scale and finance critical infrastructure required for next-generation AI services, including data centers, connectivity and edge infrastructure, supporting its long-term vision around Artificial Super Intelligence.

DigitalBridge will continue to operate as a separately managed platform following the transaction, led by Chief Executive Officer Marc Ganzi.

SoftBank Group closed trading 0.79% higher at JPY 4,485 on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

In the pre-market trading, DigitalBridge Group is 10.12% higher at $15.34 on the New York Stock Exchange.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (INO) announced that its Biologics License Application for INO-3107, proposed for the treatment of adults with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, has been accepted for review by the FDA.

The U.S. regulatory agency has assigned a PDUFA date of October 30, 2026, and indicated that it does not currently plan to convene an advisory committee meeting for the application.

INO-3107 is being reviewed under the accelerated approval pathway, although the FDA noted in its acceptance letter that additional information may be needed to justify eligibility for accelerated approval.

INOVIO said it plans to request a meeting with the agency to discuss next steps and remains confident that INO-3107 offers a meaningful therapeutic benefit for patients with this rare disease.

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a debilitating condition caused primarily by HPV-6 and HPV-11, characterized by the growth of benign papillomas in the respiratory tract that can obstruct the airway and impair speech. Surgery is the current standard of care, but papillomas frequently recur, often requiring repeated procedures that carry risks to vocal cord function and quality of life.

The BLA submission is supported by results from a Phase 1/2 trial in adults with RRP who had undergone at least two surgeries in the prior year.

In the study, 72% of patients experienced a 50-100% reduction in the number of surgeries during the first year after treatment with INO-3107. A retrospective follow-up analysis showed that 86% of evaluable patients maintained clinical benefits in the second year without additional dosing, with half requiring no surgeries at all. The data were published in Nature Communications and The Laryngoscope.

INO-3107 is designed to generate an antigen-specific T-cell response against HPV-6 and HPV-11, targeting infected cells to potentially prevent or slow papilloma growth.

The therapy was well tolerated in clinical testing, with mostly low-grade adverse events such as injection-site pain and fatigue.

In the U.S., INO-3107 carries the Orphan Drug and Breakthrough Therapy designations.

The company ended September 30, 2025, with cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaling $50.8 million, which is expected to be sufficient to fund operations into the second quarter of 2026.

Despite the FDA's acceptance of the BLA, shares declined as investors focused on the agency's indication that additional information may be required to support accelerated approval, introducing uncertainty around the regulatory timeline.

INO has traded between $1.3 and $2.98 over the past year. The stock is currently trading in the pre-market at $1.85, down 19.21%.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Crude oil catapulted on Monday, reversing the previous session's losses, with the Russia-Ukraine attacks continuing despite U.S. efforts to end the war, the U.S.-Venezuela conflict escalating, and fresh conflicts brewing in the Middle East, all increasing supply concerns.

WTI Crude Oil for February delivery was last seen trading up by $1.25 (or 2.20%) at $57.99 per barrel.

In his ongoing efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, U.S. President Donald Trump had a lengthy phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and later called the talks as "productive."

Following the call, Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his residence in Florida to understand Ukraine's concerns in the new peace draft.

After the talks, Trump commented, "we are getting close," which raised the expectations of a ceasefire.

However, the optimism that surfaced due to the diplomatic efforts by Trump faded as Russia and Ukraine continued with their attacks on energy reserves.

In South America, the U.S. has ramped up its military intervention against Venezuela.

After accusing Nicolas Maduro's regime of promoting illegal narco-trade and human-trafficking, so far, the U.S. has struck around 30 boats in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Recently, Trump ordered a total "naval blockade" of sanctioned oil tankers arriving to and leaving from Venezuelan ports.

The U.S. military captured two big oil tankers linked to Venezuela and Trump announced that the U.S. may keep the oi for its strategic reserves or else sell in on the open market.

In an interview with WABC, Trump claimed that the U.S. had taken out a "big facility" in Venezuela and "knocked that out" without providing further details.

So far, China and Russia, the political allies of Venezuela, have not interfered aside from condemning the U.S.

In an emerging crisis in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia reportedly launched airstrikes in Yemen targeting the Southern Transitional Council (STC) militant group, which has the backing of the United Arab Emirates.

The STC moved to seize Hadhramaut and the eastern province of al-Mahra in Yemen. These two regions contain Yemen's largest oil fields.

The attempts by the STC separatists pushing for an independent state of Southern Yemen was not well-received by Saudi Arabia.

To support the official Yemeni government, Saudi Arabia conducted air strikes in the Wadi Nahb, Hadhramaut. Officially though, Saudi Arabia denied conducting any aerial attacks.

Ahead of Trump's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, outlining the effects of the actions of the U.S. and Israel on the Iranian , Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has announced that Iran has engaged in an unprecedented "all-out war" with the U.S. Europe, and Israel. The Trump administration has yet to officially respond to the threats.

On the inventory front, the International Energy Agency has forecast that in 2026, the world will produce an extra 3.84 million barrels per day (roughly 4% of global demand) than it consumes.

OPEC+ has boosted its output in 2025 and has paused the increases for early 2026. However, the alliance presented a different perspective, stating that supply and demand will be almost in sync over the next year.

China, the world's second-largest consumer of crude oil has been stockpiling its reserves in large-scale since April. Though no official data from China is available, it is estimated to be approximately 500,000 bpd.

According to Kpler numbers, seaborne crude oil inventory (stored in tankers or transported) has increased to the highest level since April 2020.

On the monetary front, investors are betting on a 16.1% chance of a quarter-point rate cut at the U.S. Federal Reserve's January 27-28 meeting, according to CME Group's FedWatch Tool.

The Fed's rate cut decision and its consequential effect on the U.S. dollar could impact oil prices as crude oil is a dollar-denominated commodity.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
Information about the enemy's complete control over Rodynske is false  East Group of Forces

The East group of troops denied information about the alleged full control of the city of Rodynske (Pokrovsk district of Donetsk region) by the Russians.

"The situation in Rodynske is difficult, fighting for the city is ongoing. The enemy tried to gain a foothold along the railway north of the city, as well as in the western districts. They were unsuccessful. Information about the enemy's full control of the city is not true," the report says.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine emphasize that Ukrainian units continue active operations in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration area, where the enemy is suffering significant losses.

On the Pokrovsk axis, the defenders stopped 52 assault actions of the aggressor in the areas of the settlements of Chervony Lyman, Myrnohrad, Novoekonomichne, Pokrovsk, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, Filiia and towards the settlements of Novopavlivka, Novye Shakhove, Rodynske, Serhiivka, Vilne. Yesterday, 146 invaders were neutralized in this direction, 100 of whom were irretrievably killed.

The Ukrainian military group of forces Vostok (East) emphasized that Ukrainian units continue to control the northern part of Pokrovsk. In the central part of the city, Ukrainian soldiers are blocking the enemy's advance.

"The invaders continue to operate actively in the west of Pokrovsk. The goal remains unchanged - to reach the Hryshyn district. But all enemy attacks are blocked by our forces. Search and assault operations are underway and the enemy is eliminated in the city buildings," the message says.

In Myrnohrad, Ukrainian units are holding defensive lines and eliminating the enemy on the approaches to the city. To deter the enemy, the city's defense has been replenished with additional forces and means.

"Logistics remains complicated. To strengthen our supply capabilities, measures are being taken to expand logistical corridors to Myrnohrad," the Armed Forces of Ukraine added.

In general, in the area of responsibility of the East military group, the enemy continues to suffer the greatest losses during the day - 429 occupiers over the past day.

Some 986 UAVs of various types and 74 units of other weapons and equipment were also destroyed.
Photo: @zelenskyy.official Facebook

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the absolute majority of Ukrainians are in favor of concluding a peace agreement, but not at any price - the same number are against the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Donbas as its conditions.

"People want peace. Today, President Trump said: I saw a poll that 85%, maybe 87%, he said, want peace, so they agree. I said: yes, you know, this is our life, 87% support peace, at the same time 85% are against the withdrawal of troops from the east, from Donbas. Everyone wants peace, but just peace," Zelenskyy said in an interview with the American TV channel Fox News following talks with US President Donald Trump on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach (Florida, USA).
Russians exaggerate, closest distance from the territory they control to Sumy is 25 km

The head of the communications department of the Joint Forces Group, Viktor Trehubov, denied hostile information that Russian troops were less than 20 kilometers away from the city of Sumy.

"The Russians are exaggerating a bit: the closest distance from the territory they control to the city of Sumy is 25 kilometers. As, in fact, it has been since 1991," Tregubov said in a comment to the Interfax-Ukraine agency on Monday.

Earlier, Russia said that its occupation troops were supposedly less than 20 kilometers away from the city of Sumy.
The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has attracted over $800 million in international support for the development and restoration of education in 2025.

"For Ukraine, developing education is a priority. That is why we are working systematically not only on its implementation at the policy level, but also on attracting the maximum amount of additional resources and investments. Over the past year, we have attracted over $800 million in education funding by collaborating with more than 35 governments and 90 international organizations that support education at all levels, from preschool to higher education and science. These funds are intended for child safety, infrastructure reconstruction, and reform support," the ministry said in a statement.

In particular, over $82 million was allocated for the reconstruction of educational institutions and the creation of shelters. This was made possible with the support of the European Union, Belgium, Sweden, Lithuania, Ireland, South Korea, France, the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and other partners. Additionally, Germany allocated over $20 million through UNICEF for infrastructure needs.

The Ministry of Education launched the First Steps Forward initiative with UNICEF, the Government of Finland, the EU, and over 20 partners. A strategy for transforming the sector was developed, and the initiative attracted the first $30 million in investments from the World Bank.

Additionally, the World Bank invested approximately UAH 420 million in the New Ukrainian School reform under the LEARN program, Finland and Switzerland provided over $40 million in support for the reform of senior specialized schools, and the UN WFP provided over UAH 360 million for free school meals in frontline communities.

"The Swiss government is supporting the comprehensive reform of vocational education within the DECIDE project and the EdUp project, which is implemented by Swisscontact with the participation of the governments of Belgium and Japan, Skills4Recovery, LuxDev, FCA, EIB, and BMZ. These partners are investing in the creation of modern workshops and equipment," according to the report.

The World Bank is also actively supporting the reform of higher education with a total amount of over $200 million.
London stocks ended an unsurprisingly lacklustre session flat on Monday, with little to move markets in the lull between Christmas and New Year.

The FTSE 100 closed steady at 9,866.53.

Corporate news was scarce, as expected, but International Personal Finance surged after saying it had accepted a takeover offer from BasePoint Capital in a deal worth 543m. IPF shareholders will get 235p a share in cash, a 31% premium to the closing price when talks between the two specialist lenders started in July.

Chair Stuart Sinclair said: "The IPF board has been considering its options to ensure that the market value better reflects the business's opportunities and prospects, having consistently traded at a substantial discount to comparable international businesses over the past ten years.

"Whilst the board continues to believe in the strategy and long-term prospects of IPF on a standalone basis, we recognise that the acquisition allows IPF shareholders to monetise their entire investment for cash at a fair price. We believe that the business will benefit from BasePoint's ownership and its commitment to fulfil IPF's purpose of building a better world through financial inclusion."

On the downside, defence firms Babcock and Rolls-Royce fell after US president Donald Trump said a deal to end the war in Ukraine was "closer than ever", although "thorny" questions remained. Following talks with Ukrainian President Zelensky in Florida, Trump said a draft agreement to end the war was nearly "95% done".

Elsewhere, Hargreaves Lansdown said three of its five "shares to watch in 2026" were Marks & Spencer, Novo Nordisk and Nvidia.

Darren Nathan, head of equity research at HL, said clothing and homeware retailer M&S goes into 2026 looking to rebuild after a tough year.

"A cyberattack hit online sales, mainly in Fashion, Home & Beauty, but bosses expect systems to be back to normal by spring," he noted. "The Food division keeps winning customers, and if spending on digital and margins pays off, profits could bounce back."

Nathan said Danish pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk had a rough 2025 as supply was tight, rivals pushed harder, and pricing came under pressure in diabetes and obesity care.

"Even so, demand is still huge," he said. "More factory capacity, stronger action against illegal copy drugs and the recent approval of its oral weightloss pill could lift confidence."

Finally, he said US tech giant Nvidia remains a key name in the AI buildout. "Competition is rising, and some big buyers want more than one supplier, but the firms fast pace of new chips and strong position in advanced computing keep it central to big tech spending."
European shares were flat at the open on Monday with defence stocks in focus as US President Donald Trump claimed a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia was closer than ever, although territorial issues remained unresolved.

The pan-regional Stoxx 600 index was up 0.02% at 0819 GMT with Germanys DAX down 0.19% and Frances CAC 40 unchanged.

After a two-hour meeting in Florida with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Trump said a draft agreement to end the war was nearly 95% done but was forced to concede that the future of the eastern Donbas region - occupied by Russia - was still a major sticking point.

Russia appeared to have no interest in stopping its aggression, continuing to bomb civilian targets in the capital Kyiv.

With a shortened trading week ahead of the new year break and no major economic announcements scheduled trade was expected to be thin.

In equities news, shares in arms makers were all lower, led by Leonardo, Hensoldt, Rheinmetall and Saab.

Fresnillo jumped on higher gold and silver prices.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

The statement of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov regarding the alleged attack by Ukrainian drones on Vladimir Putin's residence is not true and can be used as an excuse for the aggressor state's strikes on Kyiv, says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"Another lie from the Russian Federation. Yesterday, we had a meeting with Trump, and it's clear that, for the Russians, if we don't have a scandal with America and make progress, it's a failure for them. They do not want to end this war. They can only end it through pressure. I am sure they were looking for reasons," Zelenskyy told reporters on Monday evening.

The Ukrainian president noted that he expected some rhetoric from Russia on Sunday when he met with President Donald Trump.

He emphasized that this could justify strikes on Kyiv. "You see, they are going further. Now, with their statement that their constitution was attacked, they are preparing the ground for strikes, probably on the capital and state buildings. We had a similar situation in September when a missile struck the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. Therefore, everyone must be attentive nowabsolutely everyone. An attack on the capital could happen, especially since this personif you can call him thatsaid they would select appropriate targets. In other words, they are making threats," he said.

"In principle, I believe that President Trump, his team, and the Europeans need to get involved and work with those who said yesterday that they really wanted to end the war," Zelenskyy added.
London stocks had turned a smidgen higher by midday on Monday in quiet trade, with little to move markets in the lull between Christmas and New Year.

The FTSE 100 was up 0.1% at 9,884.31, flitting between tiny gains and losses.

On the macro front, there were no UK data points due, but in the US, pending home sales for November and the Dallas Fed manufacturing index for December will be released at 1500 GMT and 1530 GMT, respectively.

Corporate news was unsurprisingly scarce but heavily-weighted miners Glencore, Anglo American and Antofagasta were among the top performers as copper prices rose.

Precious metals miner Fresnillo shone as gold prices were on track for their biggest yearly gain since 1979.

International Personal Finance surged after saying it had accepted a takeover offer from BasePoint Capital in a deal worth 543m. IPF shareholders will get 235p a share in cash, a 31% premium to the closing price when talks between the two specialist lenders started in July.

Chair Stuart Sinclair said: "The IPF board has been considering its options to ensure that the market value better reflects the business's opportunities and prospects, having consistently traded at a substantial discount to comparable international businesses over the past ten years.

"Whilst the board continues to believe in the strategy and long-term prospects of IPF on a standalone basis, we recognise that the acquisition allows IPF shareholders to monetise their entire investment for cash at a fair price. We believe that the business will benefit from BasePoint's ownership and its commitment to fulfil IPF's purpose of building a better world through financial inclusion."

On the downside, defence firms Babcock, BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce all fell after US president Donald Trump said a deal to end the war in Ukraine was "closer than ever" but "thorny" questions remained. Following talks with Ukrainian President Zelensky in Florida, Trump said a draft agreement to end the war was nearly "95% done".

Elsewhere, Hargreaves Lansdown said three of its five "shares to watch in 2026" were Marks & Spencer, Novo Nordisk and Nvidia.

Darren Nathan, head of equity research at HL, said clothing and homeware retailer M&S goes into 2026 looking to rebuild after a tough year.

"A cyberattack hit online sales, mainly in Fashion, Home & Beauty, but bosses expect systems to be back to normal by spring," he noted. "The Food division keeps winning customers, and if spending on digital and margins pays off, profits could bounce back."

Nathan said Danish pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk had a rough 2025 as supply was tight, rivals pushed harder, and pricing came under pressure in diabetes and obesity care.

"Even so, demand is still huge," he said. "More factory capacity, stronger action against illegal copy drugs and the recent approval of its oral weightloss pill could lift confidence."

Finally, he said US tech giant Nvidia remains a key name in the AI buildout. "Competition is rising, and some big buyers want more than one supplier, but the firms fast pace of new chips and strong position in advanced computing keep it central to big tech spending."

Market Movers

FTSE 100 (UKX) 9,884.31 0.14%

FTSE 250 (MCX) 22,377.64 0.28%

techMARK (TASX) 7,845.64 0.38%

FTSE 100 - Risers

Convatec Group (CTEC) 243.20p 2.18%

Glencore (GLEN) 402.25p 2.02%

Fresnillo (FRES) 3,264.00p 2.00%

Anglo American (AAL) 3,067.00p 1.83%

CRH (CDI) (CRH) 9,508.00p 1.80%

Entain (ENT) 763.00p 1.65%

Mondi (MNDI) 903.80p 1.32%

Antofagasta (ANTO) 3,266.00p 1.30%

SEGRO (SGRO) 714.40p 1.25%

Barratt Redrow (BTRW) 377.70p 1.21%

FTSE 100 - Fallers

Babcock International Group (BAB) 1,229.00p -2.46%

Beazley (BEZ) 825.00p -1.61%

Hiscox Limited (DI) (HSX) 1,407.00p -1.47%

British American Tobacco (BATS) 4,155.00p -1.42%

BT Group (BT.A) 182.35p -1.33%

Halma (HLMA) 3,530.00p -1.07%

BAE Systems (BA.) 1,693.50p -1.05%

Rolls-Royce Holdings (RR.) 1,139.50p -0.87%

easyJet (EZJ) 505.20p -0.86%

International Consolidated Airlines Group SA (CDI) (IAG) 412.70p -0.79%

FTSE 250 - Risers

International Personal Finance (IPF) 233.00p 5.91%

THG (THG) 45.34p 3.14%

WH Smith (SMWH) 640.00p 2.73%

Schroder Asian Total Return Investment Company (ATR) 564.00p 2.55%

Hays (HAS) 55.50p 2.40%

Pagegroup (PAGE) 231.80p 2.29%

B&M European Value Retail S.A. (DI) (BME) 164.35p 2.18%

GCP Infrastructure Investments Ltd (GCP) 74.90p 2.04%

Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings (AML) 63.00p 2.02%

Victrex plc (VCT) 659.00p 2.01%

FTSE 250 - Fallers

Carnival (CCL) 2,241.00p -3.11%

Ceres Power Holdings (CWR) 219.20p -2.58%

Diversified Energy Company (DI) (DEC) 1,060.00p -1.85%

Kier Group (KIE) 220.00p -1.57%

Senior (SNR) 189.60p -1.56%

Balfour Beatty (BBY) 705.50p -1.54%

Pan African Resources (PAF) 120.60p -1.47%

JPMorgan Japanese Inv Trust (JFJ) 695.00p -1.42%

Chemring Group (CHG) 466.00p -1.27%

Ocado Group (OCDO) 238.80p -1.24%
London stocks nudged lower in early trade on Monday at the start of what was set to be a quiet few sessions in the usual lull between Christmas and New Year.

At 0830 GMT, the FTSE 100 was down 0.1% at 9,865.06.

The Ukraine conflict was in focus after US President Donald Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida over the weekend. Trump said progress was made but "thorny issues" remained.

On the macro front, there were no UK data points due, but in the US, pending home sales for November and the Dallas Fed manufacturing index for December will be released at 1500 GMT and 1530 GMT, respectively.

Corporate news was unsurprisingly scarce but precious metals miner Fresnillo shot to the top of the FTSE 100 as gold prices were on track for their biggest yearly gain since 1979. Gold miner Hochschild Mining also rose.

International Personal Finance surged after saying it had accepted a takeover offer from BasePoint Capital in a deal worth 543m. IPF shareholders will get 235p a share in cash, a 31% premium to the closing price when talks between the two specialist lenders started in July.

Chair Stuart Sinclair said: "The IPF board has been considering its options to ensure that the market value better reflects the business's opportunities and prospects, having consistently traded at a substantial discount to comparable international businesses over the past ten years.

"Whilst the board continues to believe in the strategy and long-term prospects of IPF on a standalone basis, we recognise that the acquisition allows IPF shareholders to monetise their entire investment for cash at a fair price. We believe that the business will benefit from BasePoint's ownership and its commitment to fulfil IPF's purpose of building a better world through financial inclusion."

Elsewhere, Hargreaves Lansdown said three of its five "shares to watch in 2026" were Marks & Spencer, Novo Nordisk and Nvidia.

Darren Nathan, head of equity research at HL, said clothing and homeware retailer M&S goes into 2026 looking to rebuild after a tough year.

"A cyberattack hit online sales, mainly in Fashion, Home & Beauty, but bosses expect systems to be back to normal by spring," he noted. "The Food division keeps winning customers, and if spending on digital and margins pays off, profits could bounce back."

Nathan said Danish pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk had a rough 2025 as supply was tight, rivals pushed harder, and pricing came under pressure in diabetes and obesity care.

"Even so, demand is still huge," he said. "More factory capacity, stronger action against illegal copy drugs and the recent approval of its oral weightloss pill could lift confidence."

Finally, he said US tech giant Nvidia remains a key name in the AI buildout. "Competition is rising, and some big buyers want more than one supplier, but the firms fast pace of new chips and strong position in advanced computing keep it central to big tech spending."

Market Movers

FTSE 100 (UKX) 9,865.06 -0.06%

FTSE 250 (MCX) 22,328.08 0.06%

techMARK (TASX) 7,797.57 -0.24%

FTSE 100 - Risers

Fresnillo (FRES) 3,300.00p 3.13%

CRH (CDI) (CRH) 9,514.00p 1.86%

Glencore (GLEN) 399.20p 1.24%

Convatec Group (CTEC) 240.20p 0.92%

Anglo American (AAL) 3,036.00p 0.80%

Antofagasta (ANTO) 3,249.00p 0.78%

GSK (GSK) 1,819.50p 0.78%

AstraZeneca (AZN) 13,776.00p 0.75%

Mondi (MNDI) 898.20p 0.70%

Metlen Energy & Metals (MTLN) 44.63p 0.62%

FTSE 100 - Fallers

BT Group (BT.A) 181.85p -1.60%

British American Tobacco (BATS) 4,159.00p -1.33%

BAE Systems (BA.) 1,694.50p -0.99%

Babcock International Group (BAB) 1,249.00p -0.87%

ICG (ICG) 2,026.00p -0.78%

Beazley (BEZ) 832.00p -0.78%

Rolls-Royce Holdings (RR.) 1,141.50p -0.70%

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) 10,440.00p -0.67%

Melrose Industries (MRO) 582.40p -0.61%

HSBC Holdings (HSBA) 1,168.80p -0.56%

FTSE 250 - Risers

International Personal Finance (IPF) 233.50p 6.14%

Dr. Martens (DOCS) 78.80p 4.72%

Senior (SNR) 199.60p 3.63%

Hilton Food Group (HFG) 515.00p 3.21%

AJ Bell (AJB) 453.00p 3.19%

Chrysalis Investments Limited NPV (CHRY) 119.60p 2.40%

RTW Biotech Opportunities Ltd (RTW) 2.21p 2.31%

Templeton Emerging Markets Inv Trust (TEM) 235.00p 2.17%

Pennon Group (PNN) 532.50p 2.01%

Wickes Group (WIX) 240.00p 1.91%

FTSE 250 - Fallers

Diversified Energy Company (DI) (DEC) 1,030.00p -4.63%

W.A.G Payment Solutions (EWG) 98.20p -3.73%

Carnival (CCL) 2,243.00p -3.03%

Hays (HAS) 53.10p -2.03%

Zigup (ZIG) 371.50p -1.85%

Clarkson (CKN) 3,720.00p -1.85%

RHI Magnesita N.V. (DI) (RHIM) 2,690.00p -1.65%

Frasers Group (FRAS) 659.50p -1.57%

Sirius Real Estate Ltd. (SRE) 93.05p -1.53%

VinaCapital Vietnam Opportunity Fund Ltd. (VOF) 463.00p -1.49%
London stocks were set to gain at the open on Monday at the start of what was likely to be a quiet few sessions in the lull between Christmas and New Year.

The FTSE 100 was called to open around 20 points higher.

On the macro front, there are no UK data points due, but in the US, pending home sales for November and the Dallas Fed manufacturing index for December will be released at 1500 GMT and 1530 GMT, respectively.

The Ukraine conflict was in focus after US President Donald Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida over the weekend. Trump said progress was made but "thorny issues" remained.

Both leaders said a deal is close to being reached, but there are still a few main sticking points, including how much territory Ukraine will hand over to Russia, and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, which is currently under Russian control.

In corporate news, International Personal Finance said it had accepted a takeover offer from BasePoint Capital in a deal worth 543m.

IPF shareholders will get 235p a share in cash, a 31% premium to the closing price when talks between the two specialist lenders started in July.

Elsewhere, cinema operator Everyman Media said chief executive Alex Scrimgeour has stepped down from the role with immediate effect.

Non-executive director Farah Golant will assume the role of CEO on an interim basis until a permanent replacement can be found.
Hargreaves Lansdown said on Monday that Marks & Spencer , Novo Nordisk and Nvidia were among its shares to watch in 2026, while Alliance Witan and Personal Assets Trust were among its investments trusts to watch next year.

Derren Nathan, head of equity research, said 2025 has been a year of two halves for equity investors.

"Overall, markets have held up well, but heading into 2026, global tensions and a mixed economic outlook mean there could be sharper share price swings next year," he said. "The good news? Uncertain times can suit longterm investors. Trying to call every shortterm turn rarely works. A better plan is to spread money across regions, sectors and asset types, rather than relying on one theme or one market."

For investors looking to diversify and strengthen their portfolios for the years ahead, he highlighted three of HLs five shares to watch for next year and beyond, "each with a unique thematic investment case".

Nathan said food, clothing and homeware retailer M&S goes into 2026 looking to rebuild after a tough year.

"A cyberattack hit online sales, mainly in Fashion, Home & Beauty, but bosses expect systems to be back to normal by spring," he noted. "The Food division keeps winning customers, and if spending on digital and margins pays off, profits could bounce back."

Nathan said Danish pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk had a rough 2025 as supply was tight, rivals pushed harder, and pricing came under pressure in diabetes and obesity care.

"Even so, demand is still huge," he said. "More factory capacity, stronger action against illegal copy drugs and the recent approval of its oral weightloss pill could lift confidence."

Shares in Novo Nordisk surged last Tuesday after the US Food and Drug Administration approved the pill form of its Wegovy weight loss drug. The Wegovy pill - the first oral glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist therapy approved for weight management - is expected to be launched in the US in early January.

Finally, Nathan said US tech giant Nvidia remains a key name in the AI buildout. "Competition is rising, and some big buyers want more than one supplier, but the firms fast pace of new chips and strong position in advanced computing keep it central to big tech spending."

As far as investment trusts are concerned, Hal Cook, senior investment analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said there was lots for investors to contend with as we move into 2026.

"In an uncertain environment, we think it makes sense for investors to diversify across asset classes, regions, sectors and styles to reduce the risk that any one event blows your whole portfolio off course," he said.

He highlighted Alliance Witan, JPM Emerging Markets Growth & Income and Personal Assets as three investment trusts that could be useful additions to an investment portfolio to add some diversification.

Cook pointed out that Alliance Witan aims to grow an investment and provide a rising income over the long term by investing in companies from around the globe.

"The trust adopts a multi-manager approach, which means portions of the trust are run by different fund managers which means there's plenty of diversification on offer," he said. "The trusts Investment Committee believes that the majority of stock pickers outperform with their highest conviction investments but hold back returns with their smaller holdings. Thats why they only let most of their underlying managers invest in their 20 best ideas.

"They have 11 different managers whom the Investment Committee blend together in the trust, ensuring there isn't too much risk at a company, sector, or geographical level as well as a portfolio balance in terms of investment style."

He also noted that it is an Association of Investment Companies "dividend hero", having increased its dividend for 58 years in a row.

"In an environment where we think it will pay to be diversified, we think the trust could be an interesting option. The trust could be used for income or to bring international diversification to a more UK focused portfolio," he said.

Cook said the JPM Emerging Markets Growth & Income trust aims to achieve long term growth in capital and income by investing in high quality businesses capable of delivering long-term growth.

"The trust is managed by emerging markets veterans, Austin Forey and John Citron," he said. "They benefit from a well-resourced team of over 100 investment professionals across nine countries, giving them eyes in most corners of the market. We think this is invaluable given the vast range of countries, cultures, and companies within their investable universe."

Finally, he said that in an environment where there are a lot of potential risks to consider, investing in something that actively tries to keep losses to a minimum can provide some ballast to an investment portfolio. "Personal Assets Trust is a great example of this type of investment trust," Cook said.

"It aims to grow investors' money steadily over the long run, while limiting losses when markets fall. We like the simple philosophy behind this trust, with the potential for long-term growth and a focus on preserving wealth in weaker markets."
BookCon, which is returning to the Javits Center in New York City on April 18 and 19, 2026, after a hiatus that began with the pandemic in 2020, has sold out and has attracted top publishers. Hachette, HarperCollins, Macmillan, Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Sourcebooks are bringing authors to the show to participate in signings and panels and will be exhibitors on the show floor. (Other companies offering a range of book-related merchandise include Blissfully Bookish, Book Beau, Cliche Teas, Kingdom of Threads, Pinstory, Reading Portal, Steamy Lit, and more.)

Jenny Martin, event director at ReedPop, which organizes BookCon, said, "We have seen a tremendous response from partners and fans alike who are just as excited about the upcoming return of BookCon in 2026 as we are. Publishers are a cornerstone of the book industry, and we are thrilled that they are supporting BookCon's return as we work to create an unmatched experience for attendees."

Leigh Marchant, senior v-p, chief marketing officer, Hachette Book Group, said, "We're thrilled for the return of BookCon--there's nothing like the energy of thousands of passionate readers meeting and interacting with the authors and stories that they love. Along with booksellers, influencers, and other publishers, HBG is very excited to be a part of the celebration that brings together the book community. We can't wait to bring our creativity and passion to the show floor."

Melissa Campion, senior director, author events, Macmillan, said, "BookCon is a great opportunity to connect our authors directly with the enthusiastic readers who champion their work. Much like our presence at New York Comic Con, we are thrilled to continue fostering that vital author-reader relationship and drive excitement for our upcoming books."

Lindsey Elias, director, brand events, Penguin Random House, said, "The return of BookCon is exciting news! It's great to be able to bring our books and authors to their biggest fans."

Dominique Raccah, publisher and CEO, Soucebooks, said, "The return of BookCon signals an exciting moment for our industry. Events like this remind us that the future is being shaped by passionate readers who see books as essential to our shared culture. We're energized to be part of BookCon 2026 and to help authors, readers, and booksellers define what's next for storytelling."

BookCon was founded in 2014 and was an immediate success, drawing 10,000 enthusiastic readers, particularly teenage girls, its first year, limited because of a cap on attendance. BookCon remained a vital event through 2019.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The year may be coming to an end, but students in New York City schools will continue the 2025-2026 school year when they return to class in January.

Winter recess ends when students return to campus on Monday, Jan. 5. Students in public schools could expect some changes as they enter 2026, with a new mayor, an ongoing cellphone ban, curricula expansions, and new school seats to meet class size caps.

Here are four key topics impacting students in the upcoming year.

New mayor could lead to changes

A new mayor will take the helm of New York City in the new year  Zohran Mamdani. This could lead to a plethora of changes for New York City public schools. Its currently unclear if Mamdani will keep Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos as the leader of public schools under his administration.

Mamdani also made headlines during the election season for his beliefs on education. He said he would keep the test requirement for specialized high schools, but would end the gifted and talented programs in public schools.

That could spell trouble for schools with gifted programs already in place. It could also impact the gifted and talented school planned at the educational complex under construction at the former St. John Villa campus in Arrochar. The K-8 standalone school is slated to open in 2029.

Cellphone ban

Students across New York state started the 2025-2026 school year with new cellphone bans in place, among other personal internet-enabled devices. Thats due to a new state law that prohibits personal device use on campus throughout the school day.

While there have been no other changes to this law, students can expect to continue to follow their individual schools policy on personal devices as they head into 2026.

Literacy and math programming

New York City continues to implement new literacy and math curricula into schools, expanding its NYC Reads and NYC Solves programs.

NYC Solves expanded across many middle schools, including in District 31, this school year.

Additionally this school year, NYC Reads was expanded for the first time to middle schools in eight school districts. That did not include Staten Islands District 31, which encompasses all general education schools in the borough. This means that Staten Island schools can prepare to possibly integrate NYC Reads into middle schools next fall or the year after.

According to the city, NYC Reads and NYC Solves will be fully implemented in middle schools across all school districts by the 2027-2028 school year.

New school seats and class sizes

Hundreds of new school seats became available on Staten Island at the start of the 2025-2026 school year  and more are on the way in coming years. There arent any new school seats expected to be added in 2026, but more are slated for 2027 and beyond.

The new seats are part of New York Citys initiative to reduce class sizes under state law. According to the latest data from November 2025, about 65% of classes in New York City public schools are at or below class size caps.

The city Department of Education will be expected to add another 20% of classrooms at or below caps each year until all are in compliance by 2028.

The law limits kindergarten through third-grade classes to 20 students; fourth- through eighth-grade classes to 23 students, and high school classes to 25 students. Physical education and performing groups (such as band, choir, musical theater, etc.) are limited to 40 students in one setting.
UPDATE, 12:40 p.m.  Our sister site, NJ.com, is reporting the second pilot involved in a mid-air helicopter collision over New Jersey over the weekend has died, officials said Monday. Kenneth L. Kirsch, 65, of Carneys Point, died from his injuries at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, Hammonton police said.

---

Two helicopter pilots ate breakfast together shortly before their aircraft hit each other in a deadly mid-air collision over New Jersey on Sunday, according to a local cafe owner.

One pilot was killed and the other was critically injured after the two helicopters crashed around 11:25 a.m. near the 100 block of Basin Road in Hammonton.

One aircraft was engulfed in flames when first responders arrived, Atlantic County authorities said.

Only the pilots were on board the two helicopters, an Enstrom F-28A and Enstrom 280C, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The pilots identities have not been released by authorities.

Sal Silipino, owner of the Apron Cafe at the Hammonton Municipal Airport, said the pilots were very pleasant regulars who had breakfast at his restaurant before their flights on Sunday morning.

Silipino said he watched the helicopters take off, and minutes later, saw them spiraling down.

It seemed like it wasnt for real, its like my eyes are playing a game on me, he recalled.

Silipino said the pilots often flew together on Sundays.

They would come in every week or two if the weather was nice, Silipino said. They were always together ... If we see one flying, the other one was always right behind them.

Police said the two helicopters were flying close together before they collided.

Reports were that they were flying in tandem, that they were flying close together, which is probably what caused the collision to occur, Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel told 6ABC.

Eyewitness video taken from the parking lot of a nearby Tractor Supply Company store showed black smoke billowing over the reported crash site. Another video from the scene showed a helicopter spinning out of control before crashing.

The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation. After the wreckage of both helicopters is documented, it will be moved to a secure facility for further evaluation, the NTSB said.

The agency expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov.

Silipino said he and others at the restaurant are thinking of the pilots relatives.

We just pray for the families, he said. Its devastating just to everyone here.

In a statement on X, U.S. Sen. Andy Kim said Sunday he was heartbroken to learn of the crash.

I know our community will rally behind the family of the individual who lost their life as we navigate this terrible tragedy, said Kim, D-N.J.

U.S. Sen. Cory Booker described the crash as horrifying and tragic in a social media statement, noting his office is in contact with the NTSB.

My heart is with those impacted and their families, said Booker, D-N.J.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  On Dec. 19, Zohran Mamdani made his first visit to Staten Island as the incoming mayor-elect.

Holding a press briefing in the morning at the site of future housing, Mamdani visited the renowned North Shore restaurant Shaw-naes House for lunch.

NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani visits the critically acclaimed restaurant Shaw-naes House in Stapleton on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. Jason Paderon

In the small space, owner Shaw-nae Dixona descendent of the original oystermen who founded Sandy Groundtalked to Mamdani about what the boroughs place in history and in the city means to her.

With her words still hanging in the air, Mamdani sat down with the Advance/SILive.com for a Q&A about his vision for governing Staten Island.

Below is a transcript of the Q&A, with questions and some areas excerpted or condensed for readability.

Q | Advance/SILive.com: On Staten Island about 23% of people voted for you in the general election. Why do you think the support for you was so low here and how do you hope to improve that?

A | Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani: Right now is an opportunity for me to introduce myself as I am, and the focus of what my administration will be.

Because its very much in line with what many Staten Islanders care deeply about  which is not only their ability to afford to live in New York City, but also build a life in New York City.

Those are two separate things. Because too often people are able to scrape by to survive, but when they decide they want to raise a family, where Staten Island used to be a place where they could buy a home and do so, now it feels increasingly out of reach.

(People) who wouldve lived in Staten Island are moving to New Jersey or Long Island. With our growing team, this is the moment to show Staten Islanders that their concerns will be front of mind in our administration and that were actually going to deliver on those concerns.

Q: Building more housing seems to conflict with the suburban lifestyle people move to Staten Island for. How do you hope to find common ground?

A: We havent even exhausted the opportunities in front of us of people who want more housing in their immediate neighborhoods...

Theres no doubt there will be difficult conversations to be had as we try and balance all the different things that are needed in our city. I think the the goal that we have, however, is that no New Yorker be priced out of living in this city because of a lack of that housing.

Q: You were asked about secession earlier today. The issue is taking its latest run through our elected officials locally. How do you hope to convince them that they dont need to leave the city? And if they do ultimately decide that is absolutely what they want, is that something you would support?

A: I think of Staten Island as a critical part of New York City. You cannot tell the story of five boroughs without the story of Staten Island.

And as Shaw-nae actually made clear to me just before we had this interview, this isnt a forgotten borough. Its a borough of many memories. There is so much history right here on this island.

And I understand why there are Staten Islanders who would feel that history hasnt been recognized. Because what weve seen time and time again through multiple administrations is that this borough becomes a footnote as opposed to a focus.

And what I hope to show through my administration is that we are going to take seriously the concerns of Staten Islanders and deliver on those concerns.

We recently held a 12-hour listening session in Astoria, Queens where a number of Staten Islanders came. When I asked them how long it took them, they told me it was two and a half hours.

One of them was telling me how transformative it was when we made the S46 free as part of our fare free bus pilot and how it allowed her to see her borough in a way that she hadnt, to connect with her friends in a way that she hadnt been able to.

Every Staten Islander deserves that for every single bus that they use. And if we want to talk about the difficulty of affording life in the city, we also have to talk about the difficulty of being able to get around this city because Staten Islanders face that difficulty at a level that many of us do not even understand.

And so delivering fast and free buses, delivering public transit that is excellent, that is efficient, that is going to be a focus for Staten Island as well.

Paul Liotta: At the state level, what do you hope to advocate for regarding transit specifically on Staten Island?

Zohran Mamdani: I think theres going to be a critical need to work with Albany to fund the fulfillment of making buses fast and free. A lot of the fast comes from infrastructure changes that we can make here in New York City ourselves, but the question of making it free is one that we will have to be working together on.

I also think just speaking about Albany in general, that one of our focuses will be property tax reform. The need to change a property tax system that has been unable to stand up in court because we know that it is unfair. There are many Staten Islanders who they may dream of owning a home. The issue might not even be the price of the home, but rather the price of keeping the home. And we have to ensure that were tackling both of these things together.

Paul Liotta: Where does the express bus system fit in your free bus idea?

Zohran Mamdani: You know, I think it is it is critically important, frankly, because express buses are something that Im also familiar with as someone who used to work in Bay Ridge and be commuting from Morningside Heights.

And I think that we have spoken about a vision for every bus to be fast and free. Thats what were going to be putting forward.

Paul Liotta: Apart from Shaw-naes house, what are some top restaurants youve found on Staten Island? What are you hoping to try?

Zohran Mamdani: Ive had some great Sri Lankan food on Staten Island when I visited a few years ago with friends.

And I think theres just so many more places that I can be going and Im excited to keep coming back to Staten Island because this truly is not an obligation, its an opportunity, and and Im looking forward to showing that.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Staten Island violence prevention organization was among 29 honored with keys to the city Monday.

True2Life, based out of Stapletons Central Family Life Center, received the key to the city from outgoing Mayor Eric Adams who praised their work as vital to helping achieve record lows for shootings through the first 11 months of the year.

Adams linked the record lows in violence to the 25,000 illegal guns city law enforcement has seized since the start of his administration in 2021.

In a world where just one gun can tear an entire community apart, removing 25,000 of them has saved untold number of lives and kept families whole, Adams said. We know we cannot do this work alone, which is why we are proud to give the Key to the City to the 29 nonprofit providers in the New York City Department of Youth and Community Developments Crises Management System program, who interrupt violence and keep communities safe every day. I hope their work will continue to grow and thrive so New Yorkers can continue to experience the safety and peace of mind they deserve.

New York City launched its Crises Management System in 2012 under former Mayor Michael Bloombergs administration, and has subsequently increased its investment in the non-profit organizations around the city.

The organizations include networks of community leaders who mediate local conflicts, while working to connect young people most at risk of gun violence to mentorship and risk reduction plans. They also mobilize the community to promote peace and shift norms around the use of violence.

True2Life, led by New Brighton resident Mike Perry, works to resolve potentially violent disputes, while educating youth about their economic surroundings, the history of their community and the potential to break the cycle of crime and poverty.

The record citywide numbers have also included a historically low number of shooting incidents and murders during 2025, according to CompStat, NYPDs crime-tracking system.

In the last week of the year, Staten Island is on pace to achieve its lowest murder rate since comprehensive records began in 1964.

Removing illegal guns from our streets is one of the most important ways we protect lives, and the NYPD has stayed relentlessly focused on that mission, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Since the start of the Adams administration, our officers have seized more than 25,000 illegal firearms  over 5,000 of them this year alone. That work has helped drive shooting incidents and shooting victims to their lowest levels ever, by far, in 2025. These results are not accidental; they reflect precision policing, smart deployment, and the commitment of officers who put themselves in harms way to keep communities safe. Im grateful to Mayor Adams for making public safety a top priority, and to every member of the NYPD whose work continues to make New York City safer.
Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/17068

Holding online elections using the Diia application is possible only after the necessary legislative changes are made, First Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov said on Monday.

"For this, it is necessary for parliament to vote on amendments to the laws and for the Central Election Commission [CEC] to decide if it is necessary and who will do it. Currently, aside from some online discussions, no work is being done in this area," he said in response to questions on the TikTok social network.

Fedorov also spoke out against creating a state-run messenger in Ukraine similar to the VK messenger launched in Russia. Starting September 1, 2025, it is mandatory in Russia to install the VK messenger on all mobile phones.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Digital Transformation supports the idea of creating a secure messenger by a Ukrainian non-state company.

On December 18, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that he had always supported online voting but does not yet have a consensus on this issue with the Verkhovna Rada.

"Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have supported legislative changes so that people can vote online. So far, we have not found a consensus with parliamentarians," he said.
Advertisement

BusinessCompaniesBusiness investment As Warren Buffett retires, uncertainty looms for Berkshire Hathaway December 29, 2025  3:00pm 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 A A

The first time he retired, in 1956, Warren Buffett was 25. Benjamin Graham, the famous stock-picker who employed him, had closed his fund. The oracle of Omaha, as Buffett would later become known, went home to Nebraska. His break from work was brief; he soon started an investment partnership of his own. But then in 1969, aged 38, Buffett retired for a second time, telling investors he was not attuned to this market environment so would shut down his fund. His attention shifted to Berkshire Hathaway, a struggling textile concern he controlled. It has since been among the greatest successes in the history of business. Berkshire Hathaways Warren Buffett, known as the Oracle of Omaha, has handed his role of chief executive to Greg Abel. AP On New Years Eve, Buffett, who is 95, will retire for a third  and presumably final  time. He will step down as chief executive of Americas ninth-most-valuable company, and its most unique. Berkshire is a financial colossus. It is Americas second-largest property and liability insurer, and holds tradeable stocks, bonds and cash worth nearly $US700 billion ($1.04 trillion). It is also an industrial conglomerate. Berkshire controls about 200 companies including BNSF, one of four class 1 railways in America; a collection of power utilities; and consumer brands from Brooks running shoes to Sees candy. And it is a capitalist religion. The 1934 edition of Security Analysis, a textbook by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd, is its bible. Sermons are delivered annually by Buffett at Berkshires shareholder conference. It is hard to imagine a more difficult act to follow. Sprawling, analogue and fraternal, Berkshire is a singular company that long revolved around its singular boss. It has been enormously successful: since Buffett took control of Berkshire in the 1960s, its shares have generated a far greater return than Americas S&P 500 index. The transition to Gregory Abel, his anointed successor, will therefore be closely watched. Can Buffetts creation continue to thrive after he steps aside? Americas most revered company is also one of its least well understood. Berkshire is known, first and foremost, as a vessel for Buffetts investing genius. He is a value investor insofar as he began his career scouring markets for companies worth less than the accounting value of their assets. But he has also owned plenty of growth stocks. His purchase of Apple shares between 2016 and 2018 was among the most profitable investments in Berkshires history.

Advertisement

Related Article Shares Info tech and energy firms lead Australian sharemarket lower Buffett dislikes both terms. But one piece of investment jargon he cant talk about enough is moatsa competitive advantage that allows a business to consistently earn a rate of return above its cost of capital. Buffetts knack for spotting them is one reason for Berkshires remarkable performance. Some moats are bestowed mainly by the tastes of consumers, as in the case of Apple (Berkshire owns stock worth $US65 billion) or Coca-Cola ($US28 billion). Others are conferred, at least in part, by regulation, as with Bank of America ($US32 billion) or Moodys ($US13 billion). Berkshire owns a sliver of both Visa ($US3 billion) and Mastercard ($US2 billion), Americas dominant credit-card providers, as well as a fifth of American Express ($US58 billion). Perhaps Buffetts greatest innovation, however, is not in allocating capital, but raising it. In 1967 Berkshire bought National Indemnity, a Nebraskan insurer. Together with GEICO, a car insurer, and a large reinsurance business, it provides much of Berkshires capital. The idea is simple. Policyholders pay premiums to insurers before insurers pay claims to policyholders. When an insurer is run profitably, collecting more in premiums than it pays in claims and costs, it can invest those premiums and pocket the returns. Most insurers park them in bonds. Private-equity-owned life insurers now experiment with buying higher-yielding private debt. But, unusually, half of the assets held by Berkshires insurance arm are invested in a concentrated portfolio of stocks. Underwriting profits from Berkshires insurance business make up a small and volatile part of its bottom line, but the premiums collected have funded some huge deals. BNSF was owned first by National Indemnity before it became a directly held subsidiary of Berkshire in 2023. The quarter of Occidental Petroleum Berkshire owns is also housed by the insurer. Another spigot of capital mastered by Buffett is retail investors. Berkshires annual meeting is a jamboree of adoring middle-class capitalists. It is the opposite of the gambling-adjacent retail trading which drives markets these days, but almost as fun. Berkshires meeting in 2015 began with a video of Buffett pretending to box Floyd Mayweather. There are also newspaper-tossing competitions (though Buffett tossed print publications out of his portfolio in 2020).

Advertisement

Related Article Investing Trump investors are among Wall Streets biggest losers Berkshire now has plenty of imitators. Bill Ackman, a brash hedge-fund manager, says he is building his own version at Howard Hughes, a real estate firm his fund owns half of. But what does the originals future look like without its legendary leader? Abel, Buffetts successor who currently runs Berkshires non-insurance activities, is not a stock picker. Instead, he came up through Berkshires energy business. That makes the defection in December of Todd Combs, one of Buffetts top investment lieutenants, to JPMorgan Chase, Americas biggest bank, a worry. Berkshires record as an operator of companies is patchier than its performance as an investor. Since being bought by Berkshire in 2010, BNSFs profit margins have disappointed. In 2013 Berkshire teamed up with 3G Capital, a private-equity firm, to buy Heinz, a soup-maker, which it subsequently merged with Kraft, a purveyor of processed cheeses. It has been a disaster, and in September Kraft-Heinz said it would split in two. Berkshire takes an uncontrolling approach to corporate control, not seeking synergies between its subsidiaries. Greg Abel (centre), chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, during a shareholders shopping day. Bloomberg Abels talents as an investor will soon be put to the test. As interest rates come down, the cost of not putting Berkshires $US380 billion cash pile to work rises. Berkshire could acquire another railway (though BNSF has vocally opposed the ongoing tie-up between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern). It could also make a bid for Chubb, another insurance business in which Berkshire already has an 8 per cent stake. More likely are new investments in utilities or Japanese trading houses, Abels areas of expertise.

Advertisement

Berkshires cash pile will also put it in good stead to snap up bargains if markets crash, as some fear they soon might. Even then, its powers would be diminished without Buffett. What youre going to lose is his Rolodex, says Brian Meredith of investment bank UBS. Would Berkshire still be called upon to stabilise failing banks the way it was in 2008? Abel could instead start returning cash to shareholders. By its own rules, Berkshires current lofty valuation should preclude share buybacks, and it has not paid a dividend since 1967. Doing so now would be another step towards becoming a more typical company. Berkshire recently appointed its first general counsel; more financial disclosure also seems likely under Abel. Buffetts annual letters were blunt about Berkshires performance, and capitalism in general, but light on numbers. Change will be slow, but certain. Loyal holders of Berkshires super-voting class A shares will give Abel time to settle in, reckons Lawrence Cunningham of George Washington University. Buffett will remain chairman of Berkshires board, which is stacked with his family and friends. But rising institutional ownership of Berkshires class B shares  and the prospect of Buffetts stake converting to B shares after his corporeal departure  make a transition to more ordinary governance inevitable. That would be a sensible end to an extraordinary career. The Economist The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.
Advertisement

Sponsored BusinessCompaniesBulls N' Bears West Wits secures key ground for South African gold mine expansion Brought to you by BULLS N BEARS Michael Busbridge December 29, 2025  5:40pm 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 A A

West Wits Mining has locked in a key new strategic tenement which should lay the groundwork for the long-term expansion of operations at its new Qala Shallows Kimberley Reefs underground gold mine near Johannesburg in South Africas famed Witwatersrand Basin. At Qala Shallows the company has commenced mining the upper reaches of the Kimberley Reefs ore body which hosts a mineral resource estimate (MRE) of 5.025-million-ounces grading a healthy 4.66 grams per tonne gold. West Wits Mining image illustrating underground drilling of the Kimberley Reef ore body, in the Qala Shallows mine. The granted Prospecting Right provides for expanded mining operations along the eastern depth extension to the Qala Shallows ore body at the Witwatersrand Basin Project which is expected to form part of the Stage four Qala deeps project. Future phases, including the companys planned Bird Reef Central expansion and will include other independent reefs within the projects area of tenure, will feed the companys long-term Project 200 ambition of attaining 200,000 ounces of annual gold production through a staged process.

Advertisement

The company has commissioned consultants to review and remodel the existing Kimberley Reefs MRE at a lower cut-off grade. The current 2.0 grams per tonne value was established in 2017 when the gold price was trading back near US$1200 per ounce, compared to the current price environment of around US$4500 per ounce. Key projected metrics for the mine include an initial 17-year mine life, based on steady-state production of 70,000 ounces of gold per year over a 12-year production sweet spot. The mine opened in mid-October after West Wits hauled its first underground ore to surface, kicking off stockpiling ahead of toll treatment at Sibanye-Stillwaters nearby Ezulwini plant. The commencement of mining marks a transformative step taken by West Wits transiting it from developer to producer at the same time laying the foundation for what could be multi-decade growth. Management expects to have 30,000 tonnes ready to roll by the time the processing circuit fires up next March, setting the scene for Qala Shallows to move from a development story into what is shaping to be a cash-flow generating machine. Between 2021 and 2023, West Wits stitched together a hefty 5.025-million-ounce resource across its entire footprint. But it was the Qala Shallows deposit that emerged as the standout starter mine, boasting 10.7 million tonnes at 2.98 grams per tonne for just over a million ounces of gold including 383,000 ounces of bankable reserves.

Advertisement

The company unveiled its money shot with a definitive feasibility study in July this year. It pointed to a net present value of US$500 million (A$755 million) and an internal rate of return of 81 per cent presenting the kind of financials that most junior miners dream of. Adding to its credentials, Qala Shallows already has the bones of a mine in place with an adit, a decline and a shaft ready to be used, giving West Wits a rare jump-start. The operation is forecast to pump out around 70,000 ounces of gold every year for 12 straight years, spinning off an enormous US$983 million (A$1.5 billion) in post-tax free cashflow based on a conservative US$2850-ounce gold price. The Witwatersrand Basin has minted mining legends for more than a century. The gold enriched basin is a world-class gold-mining province holding the worlds largest known gold reserves having produced over 1.5 billion ounces of gold since the early 1900s. West Wits now looks poised to script its own mining legend. If and when this project hits full stride, the forecasts suggest it will be one of the biggest positive stories the region has seen in decades  a genuine reinvigoration of the South African gold-mining story built on modern standards, local benefit and long-term vision. With funding, infrastructure and momentum now all in place, its long-life Witwatersrand dream is rapidly becoming a reality. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au
Trump has positive conversation with Putin about Ukraine  White House

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt reported that US President Donald Trump has completed a conversation with Vladimir Putin.

"President Trump has concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine," Leavitt wrote on the social network X.
Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A

In 1987, Brenden Abbott  aka the Postcard Bandit  stole $112,000 from a branch of the Commonwealth Bank in suburban Perth. It was a bold armed robbery  dropping through the ceiling, just as the branch was beginning to open  but it also wasnt uncommon. Armed bank robberies were almost an everyday occurrence in those days, as branches carried large amounts of cash and the security was rudimentary. Now, though, its a different story. Just ask George Mason, who plays Abbott in the new six-episode series Run. I was in Bellingen  where I live  and I thought, Im going to rob a bank, says Mason. Well, pretend to rob a bank. So I walk into a bank and my mates working there. So I went up to the front desk, and I was like, If I were to rob this bank, how would I do it?  probably blew my cover a little bit there  and I was looking at the cameras, and trying to get into that headspace. And [my mate] goes, You couldnt rob us. One, we dont have any money, really. And its all just computerised now, you need to actually put your card in, in order to get things out. Keiynan Lonsdale as Detective Porter in Run. He might have been foiled (very sensibly) at the first step, but for Mason the thrill of playing Abbott  at one stage Australias most wanted man  was very real. I can see why they get off on the adrenaline of it, he says. Even just shooting those [robbery] scenes, afterwards we were like, Lets f---ing go.

Advertisement

Between that first robbery in 1987 and his most recent capture in 1995, Abbott became a classic criminal folk hero. Not only did he commit about 50 robberies, he escaped jail twice (Fremantle Prison in 1989 and Brisbanes Sir David Longland Correctional Centre in 1997). He also built a reputation as a criminal mastermind for his talents with disguises and fake IDs, and an ability to evade the police. Editor's pick 

Review Spray tans and exploding crocs? New Aussie crime caper is the right side of zany This story was before there was social media and YouTube and all those things, says Mason, a Kiwi actor who has starred in Jane Campions The Power of the Dog and appeared in Netflixs Tasmanian murder mystery The Survivors. So most of the stories I know of Brenden Abbott are through people Ive met, people that know him, or were in prison with them, and then they all speak so highly of him. And thats the interesting thing about Brenden, hes this really eloquent, charismatic guy. And hes also a bit of a chameleon. He gets on with everyone. I think thats why he did so well on the run for so long, because he wasnt a drug user or anything like that. He definitely liked women, he spent a lot of time at brothels  [but] he didnt present as a criminal. He was an expert at everything he did, whether it was picking locks or breaking into banks or doing disguises or learning Japanese. This is not your everyday criminal dumbass. He knew what he was doing. The series tracks Abbott from that first robbery  Mason is electric, with his little 1980s baby mullet  and looks at what drove him. A difficult childhood, an awful mother (played brilliantly, as usual, with a great hard edge by Robyn Malcolm) and a desire to set up a new life away from the chaos with his girlfriend Jackie (Ashleigh Cummings). Robyn Malcolm as Brendens tough-as-nails-mum Thelma in Run.

Advertisement

This story is actually quite a common one, says Mason. Being a ward of the state from a young age, that [life of crime] happens to a lot of young men, and having that abandonment, and then being in and out of the system, it does bad things for people. Youre in that environment and you end up just doing more crime. Its not like youre rehabilitated in any way. You get out and you go, Oh, I cant get a normal job. So what am I going to do? Im gonna re-offend. Mason spoke to Abbott  who is still in jail in WA  during filming, when Abbotts son James Laycock visited the set. He chucked me the phone and goes, Its dad, recalls Mason. My heart was in my mouth. I was so excited to meet him, but at the same time, nervous. And obviously representing a real person whos still around, theres a bit of responsibility that goes with that. And I just said in this really nervous voice, like, Have you got any advice on playing you, Brenden? And he said to me, Dont forget the Fifth Amendment: Thou shall not get caught. [seemingly merging the American right to remain silent with the unofficial 11th commandment]. Keiynan Lonsdale and George Mason, stars of the new Binge series Run. Steven Siewert And he told me not to sweat it when the cops pulled me up, which I thought was really good advice. But he didnt miss a beat. Hes a very, very intelligent man, and an incredible storyteller. In the short chat we had, I think he told me about six stories about his time on the run and going, Oh no, it wasnt like that. It was like this. Mason is sitting with his co-star Keiynan Lonsdale, who plays the moustachioed Detective Gary Porter. And if Mason had the challenge of staying true to a real-life character, Lonsdale had the freedom of finding his own way with Porter, who is based not only on real-life detective Glen Potter, but on other detectives who worked the case as well. As plain as I can put it, an African-Australian dude playing a copper back then, there was a bit of freedom to go, Well, how do we honour this version of it? says Lonsdale, who broke out in Dance Academy and has since built a solid career in the US in everything from The Flash to The Divergent Series and the drama Love, Simon.

Advertisement

I didnt have the same pressure as George, I guess, to portray someone as close as possible. But I could pick and choose what I would grab from Glen. And Ben Young, one of our two directors, with Bonnie Moir, sent me 37 questions that I could fill in with answers for myself so that we could discover the other parts of the character. Editor's pick Streaming Think you know whats been on TV this year? Challenge yourself with our quiz It was even down to, Whats his full middle name? So one of the names I gave him was [African], which means God never sleeps. So what I put into my mind is that for Porter, he feels like hes not allowed to have any rest. That was something conditioned into him as a kid. So thats another reason why hes driven to get this guy; he doesnt think hes ever doing a good enough job, so hes got to be the best he can. Obsession is one of the driving threads through the series: Abbotts obsession with not getting caught and Porters obsessive hunt for this criminal mastermind. The other thread there, though, is Australias obsession with putting charismatic criminals on screen. From Ned Kelly through to Squizzy Taylor and Tilly Devine, to Melbournes colourful criminal identities and Sydneys very own corrupt copper Roger Rogerson, they have all lived large on the small screen. What do Mason and Lonsdale feel is the enduring appeal? In a way, it gives those guys a bit of a voice, says Mason. But also seeing someone beat the system, beat the coppers, to be on the run for so long, I think its like a bit of a [finger] to society. In a way, we all probably kind of dream about that. George Mason as Brenden Abbott in Run.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Eating outBest of The best things we ate in Melbourne in 2025 worth blowing the budget for Theres fancy lasagne thats like no other in town. A dessert that won over a dessert-hater. And a schnitzel with an oozy layer of cheese inside, by the Good Food team. Good Food team December 30, 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 A A A

One persons luxury is another persons small change but, numbers aside, these dishes all possess a common currency: they were special enough to rise above countless other restaurant meals the Good Food team in Victoria ate this year. Whether your idea of heaven is a decision-free tasting menu delivered by a bright young chef or a bowl of pasta, each piece delicately folded by hand, this list spans dining pleasures of all kinds. New Years resolutions start here. Catering from Ela, Melbourne, $49.50 per person If, like me, you find throwing any vaguely sizeable shindig equally joyful and panic-inducing, you may consider catering instead of cooking. And if you go with Ella Mittass outfit, Ela, you can even welcome your guests with the Greek phrase Ela! (come here) as they cross the threshold. On the table? Spanakopita enriched with goats milk feta, silverbeet and herbs, ensconced in puff pastry. Fermented chickpea flatbread (farinata) that ferries braised capsicum or eggplant. And cubes of potato-and-egg tortilla, capped with a prosciutto ribbon and baked with kefalograviera cheese, thyme and shallots. People remember good company and remarkable food; do yourself a favour and outsource. Note: these dishes are part of the option two menu. Sanka Amadoru ellamittas.com Many Littles beef and goats curd pan rolls. Katherine Jamison

Advertisement

Beef pan roll at Many Little, Red Hill, part of $130 set menu Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up You could happily call it a night after one round of these crunchy little snacks in Many Littles bar, and be just $15 lighter. But if youve made it to this hidden gem, youll want to settle in for an all-out feast, the flavours of Sri Lanka delivered in ultra high-def resolution. These savoury-to-the-max, deep-fried roll-ups are part of the countrys impressive collection of short eats that open the chefs menu. A saucy beef filling kicks with cardamom, clove and black pepper while an unorthodox cap of goats curd cleverly offsets the spicing. Youll want more pace yourself. Theres more where that came from. Emma Breheny 2-5/159 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South, manylittle.com.au Prosciutto and mortadella filled tortelloni at Trattoria Emilia. Prosciutto & mortadella tortelloni with parmesan sauce at Trattoria Emilia, city, $41

Advertisement

You know that look of eye-rolling rapture that descends upon Stanley Tucci any time he tastes a dish in his television series Searching for Italy? Thats the expression I made the moment I lifted a forkful of prosciutto and mortadella-filled tortelloni to my lips at mood-lit Melbourne stalwart Trattoria Emilia. Already rich, the pasta pillows are bathed in parmesan cream, then anointed with a few drops of syrupy aged balsamic vinegar to correct the balance. Like Tucci, I was unable to avoid blurting out: Oh my God. Roslyn Grundy l4/360 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, emiliamelbourne.com.au Katsuhons cheese katsu set with house-made mozzarella. Chege Mbuthi Cheese katsu set at Katsuhon, city, $36 Pork katsu is king at this cosy Japanese restaurant on Queen Street, but the cheesy option is a standout. Hot, gooey house-made mozzarella cosies up to pork loin inside a golden layer of panko crumbs. Its a DIY kind of situation: dip the katsu in truffle salt before adding wasabi-dijon mustard and a dollop of house katsu sauce, plus a sprinkle of sesame seeds ground tableside. In a teishoku set, you also get crisp cabbage salad, miso soup, koshihikari rice and Japanese pickles. Sets are on the pricier side but theyre perfect shared between two. Emily Holgate

Advertisement

Lower Shop 3, 200 Queen Street, Melbourne, instagram.com/katsuhon Related Article From $12 sandos to high-end omakase: Seven hot and new Japanese diners worth checking out Lagottos duck lasagne is placed on parmesan foam and showered in more Parmigiano Reggiano. Duck lasagne with parmesan foam at Lagotto, Fitzroy North, $45 For this off-piste lasagne, silken spinach-tinted pasta sheets and duck ragu are layered in a terrine mould then sliced. Each piece is pan-fried until crisp on both sides and served over a voluptuous parmesan foam thats heavier than a froth, but lighter than bechamel  the Sophia Loren of sauces, if you will. Its intense cheesiness had me immediately alerting the cheese fiends in my inner circle, and you too should sound the alarm. To paraphrase Loren: Id much rather eat pasta and drink wine at Lagotto than be a size zero. Annabel Smith

Advertisement

1 York Street, Fitzroy North, lagotto-fitzroynorth.com.au Brillat-Savarin French toast with truffled honey at the Lake House in Daylesford. Brillat-Savarin, French toast and truffled honey at Lake House, Daylesford, part of $245 prix-fixe menu Im-not-a-dessert-person people fall into two miserable categories: saccharophobes who reject lifes sweetness; and those whose cheese course was never lavished with truffled honey. I was both. I was blind but now I see. As per everything, Alla Wolf-Tasker knows best  thats why they gave her the AM. Our scene begins at the tail end of a dreamy set menu. On top of a heavy slab of French toast, a ripe wodge of Brillat-Savarin and that heavenly honey combine for something otherworldly. Sultanas and candied walnuts are scattered in celebration, and I am saved. Frank Sweet 4 King Street, Daylesford, lakehouse.com.au

Advertisement

Coral trout with mango and guajillo chilli at Yiaga. Coral trout and mango at Yiaga, East Melbourne, part of a $295 tasting menu Its not that fruit and seafood are an unknown pairing  youve no doubt squeezed a wedge of lemon over fish yourself. But the combination of grilled, butter-brushed coral trout with a sliver of mango (plus miso-mango sauce and a tickle of guajillo chilli) was one of many revelations at Hugh Allens Yiaga, a restaurant which has managed to meet every high expectation thrown its way. If the dish delighted, the wine match by sommelier Dorian Guillon seriously astonished: the pinot noir from Bandicoot Run in West Gippsland showed extraordinary purity and poise. Dani Valent Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne, yiaga.au Related Article Prawn toast to princess cake: The best things we ate in Victoria this year for under $20
Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime.

Remove items from your saved list to add more.

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

A 21-year-old man who allegedly left a unit block armed with weapons before leading police on a road pursuit in a stolen vehicle has been refused bail after his arrest inside a Sydney Westfield shopping centre.

Police responded to a report a man with weapons had left a unit block on Reliance Crescent in a red Hyundai hatchback at Willmot in Sydneys west about 1pm on Monday. A pursuit was initiated about 1.35pm in nearby Hebersham, but was called off shortly after due to safety concerns, while a police helicopter monitored the car until it reached the Mount Druitt Westfield about 2pm.

Police responded after reports a man had left a unit block with weapons. Nine News

Police allegedly seized a knife from Nicholas Taylor, 21, after he entered the shopping centre.

He was arrested and taken to Mount Druitt Police Station, where he was charged with driving without a licence, two counts of dangerous driving, failing to stop during a police pursuit, carrying a weapon, possessing a prohibited drug, and driving a vehicle without the consent of the owner.
Advertisement

NationalNSWHealthcare Instead of sending city doctors to rural hospitals, this uni is changing course Siena Fagan December 29, 2025  7:30pm 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 A A A

Coonabarabrans Liam Morrissey witnessed the gap between regional and metropolitan access to healthcare up close. It made him want to be a doctor. I have a sister with a fairly significant disability, so I saw that sort of second-hand, he said. Medicine graduate Liam Morrissey was inspired to become a doctor after his familys experience with rural health. Watching family drive hours for necessary doctors appointments in Brisbane and Sydney pointed him towards his career in medicine. But when he sat the high-pressure Undergraduate Medical Admission Test in 2009, he had a long road ahead of him to becoming a doctor. Missing out on that direct pathway into medicine, Morrissey instead studied exercise physiology and worked in occupational health.

Advertisement

Now 34, Morrissey is one of 24 newly minted doctors to have completed their medical training through the University of Sydneys regional medical school in Dubbo. Related Article University A decade after Katrina Dawsons death, Adele hopes to do justice to her name The Dubbo school was established in 2001 for one-year rural and regional placements for the universitys postgraduate medicine students. In 2022, the institution started offering students the opportunity to complete the four-year doctorate of medicine completely in Dubbo. The entire inaugural graduating class has come from a regional or rural background, said Associate Professor Paul Lunney, head of the universitys Clinical School for the School of Rural Health in Dubbo and Orange. I think certainly from this cohort of individuals who come from a rural background, theres a strong desire to practise medicine in regional, rural and remote areas, he said.

Advertisement

So really returning service to their communities, you know, is something that is at the forefront of mind. There are 73 full-time equivalent GPs for every 100,000 people in very remote areas, versus 114.6 per 100,000 in metropolitan areas, according to federal government data. Josie Cross is a graduate of the University of Sydneys Dubbo medicine stream. The National Rural Health Alliance reports that the expenditure gap in 2025 between urban and rural and regional Australians was $1090.47 per person per year. That divide is widening annually. Were part of the education pipeline to build the rural health workforce, Lunney said. The likelihood of them returning to work in rural health settings is much, much greater than students undertaking their degree in metropolitan settings.

Advertisement

In 2026, Morrissey will embark on an internship at Dubbo Base Hospital, one of more than half of his cohort to continue working in regional health. Editor's pick Exclusive

Bondi shooting Luca dreams of becoming a paramedic. He was one of the first on the scene after the Bondi attack He will be joined by classmate Josie Cross, who hails from Grafton and is passionate about providing services to underresourced communities. She encouraged prospective students to take the leap and apply for the Dubbo Stream. You build your own family while youre there, and the community are very welcoming, and you get to experience so many different things. It is definitely worth it, she said.

Advertisement

Applicants for the University of Sydney doctor of medicine can preference either the Camperdown or Dubbo Stream, and are accepted based on their GAMSAT result, undergraduate GPA, a personal statement and an interview. Priority recruitment is given to Indigenous and regional applicants. 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

NationalNSWSydney councils The nine Sydney councils where the CEOs are paid more than $500,000 Cindy Yin December 30, 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 A A A

Chief executives and general managers at Sydney councils took home on average more than $480,000 a year and more than four in five bosses were paid more than NSW Premier Chris Minns. Nine out of 34 Sydney councils paid their chief executives more than $500,000. Minns takes home $431,540 a year. Senior ministers are paid $344,729 and MPs are paid $178,616. Analysis of remuneration figures from councils 2024-25 annual reports reveals the median pay package for general managers was about $464,000, including base salary, superannuation, fringe benefits tax and non-cash benefits. Liverpool Council, which was entangled in an Office of Local Government public inquiry into its alleged dysfunction and maladministration, paid chief executive Jason Breton $591,533 in 2024-25, the highest remuneration of all Sydney councils.

Advertisement

Gail Connolly, Parramatta Councils recently sacked chief executive, was paid more than $540,000, and City of Sydney boss Monica Barone was paid just shy of $550,000. Chief executives at smaller councils such as Hunters Hill were paid $380,000, while pay packets at more populous councils such as Blacktown, Canterbury-Bankstown and Northern Beaches were higher, at $550,000, $571,000, and $578,000, respectively. Gail Connolly was chief executive of the City of Parramatta council before being sacked in October, and her total remuneration was more than $540,000. Sitthixay Ditthavong The local government sector employs more than 65,000 people across NSW, about 9 per cent of public sector jobs in the state. The states 128 councils managed a combined $246 billion in assets in the 2023-24 financial year. Chief executives have to negotiate their remuneration with councils, but this figure is also based on their skills and experience, the size and operational complexity of the specific council, market conditions and industry benchmarks, according to the Office of Local Government.

Advertisement

They are responsible for the councils day-to-day operations, implementing the councils strategic plans and objectives, the delivery of services and infrastructure, managing council staff and overseeing the financial management of the council. Editor's pick City life The small addition to the Opera House steps that has caused a big backlash Opinion polls have found about 80 per cent of Australians think corporate bosses are paid too much, and in 2021, the previous Coalition government triggered an Office of Local Government review into general manager and senior staff remuneration. For greater transparency and accountability, the review suggested amending the Local Government Act so independent bodies, instead of councils, could set remuneration levels. Other options include introducing pay caps and standardising chief executive remuneration across councils in line with how mayoral and councillor fees are set.

Advertisement

Separately, the NSW Greens previously pushed for a wage cap of $500,000 for senior executive roles in the public service. Local Government NSW was contacted for comment. Asked whether the government would set remuneration caps or standardise salaries, Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig said Labor had passed legislation requiring senior council staff  aside from the general manager  be moved off contracts and into permanent positions. The government recognises there is understandable community concern about the amounts being paid to some general managers based on market conditions. We are consulting on the right mechanism to ensure that communities can have confidence their council is paying their general manager an appropriate wage, he said. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Advertisement

NationalQueenslandFood A beloved banh mi spot closes, leaving a suburban bowls club fighting for survival Marissa Calligeros December 29, 2025  5:53pm 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 A A

Its devastating, said Belmont Bowls Club manager Shaynae Clark. She was serving drinks to customers at the bowls club on Monday as a steady stream of customers lined up for a crispy pork banh mi at the incredibly popular Mr Bills Vietnamese Canteen. But they will be among the last because, after just nine months, Mr Bill  real name Loc Nguyen  is leaving the bowls club. Mr Bill  real name Loc Nguyen  with one of his loyal customers, Brendan Field. Marissa Calligeros Nguyen  who named his canteen Mr Bills after the English name, William, that a lecturer gave him at university  wants to open his own, smaller restaurant again, in the hope of getting a better work-life balance for his young family.

Advertisement

Mr Bills has been closed only on Tuesdays, and Nguyen spent that time running errands for the restaurant, trying to squeeze in household duties and spending time with his 11-year-old son and four-year-old daughter. Related Article City life The enduring legacy of one of Brisbanes most beloved bowling clubs Really, Im working seven days a week, he said, adding his wife would drop their children at school before spending the day picking up fresh produce for the canteen and then doing the afternoon school run. Id like to have a better balance before my son starts high school. Yes, you can work longer and make more money. But for now, I need to find better balance. Manager Clark desperately tried to convince him to stay.

Advertisement

We did try to see if he wanted to lessen his hours because he didnt really like the nights either, but unfortunately, hes still leaving us, she said. The business, the space, doing the dining room, and our big function room, and delivering meals to the outside tables  it just got too much for him. The unpretentious Belmont Bowls Club. Marissa Calligeros Like many suburban Australian bowls clubs, the low-set, anachronistic venue on Brisbanes southside had been struggling for survival for years, with added competition from nearby Camp Hill Bowls Club, which has city views and in-house Pan Thai restaurant, and Carina Bowls Club, with its Panchos Pizza offering. That was until 35-year-old Nguyen arrived, bringing with him a cult following of customers dedicated to his authentic Vietnamese food from his previous restaurant in Wakerley.

Advertisement

He just gave the place life, really, Clark said. We were open, there were people everywhere, lots more barefoot bowls and families, and it just made it a really better atmosphere all around. Inside Belmont Bowls Club where Mr Bills brought hordes of banh mi devotees. Marissa Calligeros Despite its name, Belmont Bowls Club is located off Creek Road in Carina, next to the police station and opposite the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC). Police officers from the neighbouring station, as well as Holland Park and Wynnum stations, were among Mr Bills regular customers. The unpretentious elements of the club  blue, peacock-patterned carpet, formica tables adorned with tissue boxes for serviettes, plastic chairs, and cream-coloured bathrooms  remained, while new, young clientele queued out the door.

Advertisement

Customers could enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine and buy pints of beer at bowls club prices. Related Article Heartlands

Brisbane Is this Brisbanes most iconic banh mi shop? He definitely just helped us give new life to the place, and financially it helped us as well, Clark said. He also introduced an older generation of bowlers to Vietnamese cuisine. A lot of our bowlers had never tried it before, Clark said. Brendan Field was among many devotees getting a Mr Bills fix on Monday (Nguyen had sold out of banh mi by 1pm).

Advertisement

Field spent Christmas in Port Macquarie but travelled back to Brisbane early to ensure he didnt miss out. Ive known him for a long time  Im one of his best customers, Field said, while embracing Nguyen at the front counter. Loc Nguyen serving Brendan Field on Monday afternoon. Marissa Calligeros Its the freshness of the pork, he said. But its more than the food, Field added, pointing to Nguyen.

Advertisement

Hes just a character. Hes always happy to see you, and he remembers your name and your order. Ill follow him wherever he goes. Other customers, including police officers from the neighbouring station, shook Nguyens hand and hugged him as they bid him farewell. Some, including Cheryl Pierce, 76, Bianca Stubbs, 46, and Katrina Logan, 54, asked for photos. Stubbs and her mother, Pierce, agreed Nguyens food was better than what they had eaten while holidaying in Vietnam.

Advertisement

I would meet friends here every Monday. I would come from Wynnum, one from Thornlands and one from Camp Hill, Pierce said. Its his service and his personality and his food. Stubbs is such a fan she offered him a space at a shop she owns in Alexandra Hills. Sadly, Clark fears the bowls club will return to being very, very quiet without Mr Bills. Well only have limited days well be open again, mainly focusing on the bowls and our functions.

Advertisement

She hopes to mount a campaign to find a new food vendor for the club, but fears a replacement will not draw in the crowds like Mr Bills. Loc Nguyen is thanked by a customer on Monday afternoon. Marissa Calligeros Weve all gotten very close with all his customers, and we will miss them as well. Were asking them to still pop in for a drink and come back and see us, Clark said. Nguyen was already planning to take a months holiday in January. He will now use that time to rest, recharge, and start looking for a new location. I suspect it will take two to three months, he said.

Advertisement

He is on the hunt for a place with a large, well-appointed kitchen and plenty of parking. Mr Bills last day of trading will be Wednesday, New Years Eve. Many customers told him on Monday they would return for their last Mr Bills banh mi on the final day of the year. We love you, one woman said, as she waved goodbye. Thank you, Mr Bill, thank you. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime.

Save this article for later

Remove items from your saved list to add more.

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

A man has died in a freak bicycle crash in Brisbanes inner north-west.

The 35-year-old man was riding a bike on Royal Parade in Ashgrove about 8.30pm on Monday when he hit a car parked on the side of the road.

The man died at the scene.

The scene on Royal Parade, Ashgrove, where a man died after he rode a bicycle into a parked car. Nine News

On Tuesday afternoon, it was almost impossible to detect where the crash had occurred, bar a few remaining police markers on the road.
Advertisement

NationalQueenslandBiosecurity Kylies yard is usually full of magpies. Now theyre dying, and she wants answers Julius Dennis Updated December 29, 2025  4:32pm ,first published 3:39pm 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 A A

Kylie Conroys Inala backyard is normally full of magpies. Sometimes there can be up to 40 of them back here, she says, standing next to her Hills Hoist with her hands on her hips, as their chortling song rings across the neighbourhoods streets. But earlier this month the birds started dying, seemingly at random. Kylie Conroy has been moving the unwell birds into her backyard. Julius Dennis This is where I buried six of them, Conroy says, pointing at one patch of overturned earth in the garden, then another. I buried some more over there.

Advertisement

Since December 14, Conroy has counted 31 birds who died in her yard or were taken to the RSPCA wildlife hospital in Wacol, a 10-minute drive through Brisbanes outer south-west. When this masthead visited on Monday, two magpies lay crumpled on the ground as another pair hung nearby, occasionally trying to rouse their mates with song. The plastic bags are full of dead birds. Julius Dennis Two pink plastic bags sat at the edge of the lawn, the scent of rotting animal wafting on the breeze. Conroy said the unwell and dead birds had been found in her yard and two of her neighbours yards. Other neighbours have not reported issues with the birds at their places.

Advertisement

My mum has lived here for 54 years, and we have a beautiful backyard, very wildlife friendly. Weve had season after season of magpies, Conroy said. Since first reporting the dying birds, Conroy said her efforts to get someone to pick up their carcasses and figure out what has killed them had been stymied by bureaucracy. A healthy bird inspects another who is unable to fly. Julius Dennis Brisbane City Council sent someone from the roadkill clean-up unit on Christmas Eve, whom Conroy said she convinced to help bury the birds in the backyard. Eventually, she called the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline, which prompted the RSPCA to send an animal rescue vehicle to the house and take seven of the birds.

Advertisement

All of those birds, along with one that Conroy brought to the hospital earlier, were euthanised after their respiratory issues worsened. The bodies have been sent to a state biosecurity facility in Coopers Plains for testing. Conroys yard has become a grave for the neighbourhoods birds. Julius Dennis An RSPCA spokesperson said they were investigating the spate of deaths with other relevant authorities. The spokesperson urged members of the public not to touch birds they believe are unwell.

Advertisement

They said people should call the EAD Hotline on 1800 675 888 immediately if they observe unusual bird deaths or suspect highly pathogenic avian influenza. Related Article Updated

Bird flu The heartbreaking moment when scientists discovered bird flu signs in Australian territory H5N1, the highly contagious strain of bird flu, has spread across much of Asia, Europe, North and South America, Africa and Antarctica, killing hundreds of millions of birds and at least tens of thousands of mammals. The strain has not yet been detected in mainland Australia, although experts say it is only a matter of time before it reaches our shores. Queenslands Department of Primary Industries (DPI), which monitors whether bird flu has entered the country, said it was working with the RSPCA.

Advertisement

A spokesperson for the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation said it could investigate the cause of the birds deaths once a report was lodged. 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

Exclusive NationalVictoriaMelbourne childcare crisis Childcare watchdog had one inspector for every 66 Victorian services Sherryn Groch and Carla Jaeger December 30, 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 A A A

Sex offence reports against children in Victorian childcare centres tripled in the five years before accused paedophile Joshua Brown was charged with abusing children. Despite this, the childcare regulators internal strategy reveals concerns about slim resourcing  which in June this year left an average of one authorised officer for every 66 services across the state. Governments have been warned for years that predators exploit gaps in childcare regulation. The troubling picture of children left at risk is contained in police data compiled by the Crime Statistics Agency for The Age and documents tabled in the last parliamentary sitting days of the year. The crime data shows that victim reports of sexual offences against children under five years old at early education sites climbed from six incidents in the 2020-2021 financial year to at least 18 last financial year. Assaults reported against children in childcare were also up 73 per cent in that time.

Advertisement

That data does not include the more than 150 charges against childcare worker Brown who police arrested in May after the alleged discovery of a cache of child sex abuse material. The 26-year-old has since been charged with abusing babies and toddlers in at least four childcare centres across Melbourne between March 2019 and May this year. The states childcare regulator, the Department of Educations Quality Assessment and Regulation Division (QARD), is tasked with checking that services meet national minimum standards and can penalise those that dont. Melbourne childcare worker and accused paedophile Joshua Dale Brown. But this masthead has revealed how serious safety problems have continued for years at centres that the regulator has issued with sanctions, including at the two large childcare chains where Brown worked  G8 and Affinity  and, in at least one case, during the time when he is accused of abusing children at those centres. Since the Brown revelations, the Allan government has repeatedly failed to produce either data or detail on abuse reports in childcare across the state, despite similar information being handed over in New South Wales by order of parliament.

Advertisement

When the same request was made by the Victorian Greens, the government produced only partial documents outlining policy, not individual incidents. Related Article Exclusive

Investigation Victorias largest childcare chain repeatedly failed to protect children Those tabled documents reveal the childcare regulators internal strategy for the next three years, and the departments own concerns that understaffing in the sector is putting children at risk. Though bureaucrats told a recent parliamentary inquiry the regulator had a significant presence on site inspecting centres, the internal strategy speaks repeatedly of slim resources. On June 30, there was just one assessor for every 66 services in the state, on average.

Advertisement

These authorised officers are responsible for conducting ratings assessments, unannounced compliance visits and other investigations and inspections. The department said extra authorised officers had been employed since June, but it takes nine to 12 months to train them in the specialist skills needed for them to work at full capacity. In the case of family daycare, assessors are instructed to visit the provider head office and are only required to inspect a handful of actual centres, run out of individual educators homes, though hundreds might be on one providers books. As a rule of thumb, if the approved provider has 30 educators, it would be reasonable to visit at least 2-3 educators, the policy reads. That means most family daycare centres arent being inspected at all  despite a known problem with illegal operations.

Advertisement

The Brown case has sparked urgent national reforms, including the creation of a register to share information on childcare workers between states and departments and a new, independent regulator for Victoria with more powers. But Greens MP Anasina Gray-Barberio, who is chairing the childcare inquiry, said the Victorian government had failed to keep pace with the growing risks in the childcare sector. It was now more interested in secrecy and damage control than cleaning up the crisis in the industry, she said. Related Article Exclusive

Melbourne childcare crisis A little girl was repeatedly raped at family daycare. Her mother says regulators took no action The inquiry this month heard that warnings in 2022 from both the ombudsman and the children and young peoples commissioner that Victorias working with children check system needed an urgent overhaul were not acted on for more than three years. Brown had worked at 24 childcare centres across Melbourne and had been fired from at least three of them by the time of his arrest, this masthead revealed in July. But he attracted little notice from employers and regulators, who missed errors on his resume and chose not to review his working with children check.

Advertisement

It was a symptom of what providers called the black box of bureaucracy, where complaints about workers were often not shared with them, or even between departments. The ombudsman is now investigating the existing childcare regulator, which was excluded from the remit of the Allan governments rapid review into childcare after the Brown charges. Related Article Melbourne childcare crisis The red flags childcare regulators may have missed in the Joshua Brown case Only after sustained pressure and a parliamentary inquiry, have we forced a fraction of the information to be released, said Gray-Barberio of the Greens push to obtain detail on abuse reports. But Labor still refuses to give us the full picture of regulation and enforcement in the childcare sector despite other states releasing the same information. The state government did not answer questions or provide data on incidents or enforcement actions, but has previously confirmed that reports of abuse in childcare have climbed even higher since the Brown revelations emerged in July.

Advertisement

A government spokesman said the new beefed-up regulator would begin from January 1 and carry out more than double the frequency of compliance checks, because nothing is more important than the safety and wellbeing of our youngest Victorians. 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

NationalVictoriaEducation Unfathomable loss: University of Melbournes vice chancellor dies at 52 Nicole Precel Updated December 29, 2025  5:07pm ,first published 12:55pm 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 A A

The University of Melbournes first female vice chancellor spent the final months of her life working tirelessly to future-proof the institution and met with about 600 staff to discuss her resilience plan as recently as early December. Described as a visionary leader in science and research and an optimist to the end, 52-year-old Professor Emma Johnston has died from cancer less than 12 months after joining the university. The talented marine ecologist is survived by her husband and two children. Late University of Melbourne vice chancellor Emma Johnston was described as a visionary leader in science and research. Alex Ellinghausen Johnston was appointed to the position in February 2025, and was finalising her resilience strategy for the university, the first step in her 10-year plan, in the weeks before she died. The aim of the University Strategy 2030, she said during an all-staff forum with about 600 people which she attended remotely, was to build a more resilient institution amid challenging operating realities, anchored in the goal of benefiting society through education and research.

Advertisement

In a statement on Monday, Victorian Education Minister Ben Carroll, who is also acting premier, said, Emma made an immeasurable impact, bringing her experience and knowledge of higher education to leave an impressive mark in such a short space of time. In addition to her academic achievements, Johnston has been remembered for her enthusiasm, passion and energetic nature. Johnston enjoyed spending time with students. Peter Casamento/Casamento Photography A spokesperson for her family said they had been greatly comforted in their heartbreak by the outpouring of love and respect. We know she touched so many lives and her legacy will continue through the work of her many students, colleagues, and mentees.

Advertisement

Related Article Updated

Education University of Melbourne appoints first female vice chancellor Johnston completed her undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Melbourne before becoming pro vice-chancellor (research) and dean of science at the University of NSW, and deputy vice-chancellor (research) at the University of Sydney from 2022 to 2024. She was a director of the CSIRO and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, a governor of the Ian Potter Foundation, a chief author of the current State of the Environment Report, authored 185 peer-reviewed journal articles, and supervised more than 35 higher degree students. Johnston was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2018 for her services to higher education, particularly to marine ecology, eco-toxicology and research institutes. In 2022, she was elected a fellow of the Australian Academy of Science. Federal Education Minister Jason Clare called Johnston one of Australias biggest brains and nicest people and described the academic as a real reformer.

Advertisement

In a statement, Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering CEO Kylie Walker and UNSW Professor Rob Brooks said their friend was a visionary leader in science and research, a passionate champion of the environment, a brilliant and engaging communicator, and a caring mentor who wanted nothing less than to save the world. Emmas final months were marked by a fierce doubling-down on this mission  she understood that she was running out of time. Only 52 years old when she left us after a brief and brutal illness, she still wasnt done with parenting, with saving the oceans and the planet, with nurturing and uplifting the next generation, or with remaking the Australian research and higher education landscape into something magnificent ... An optimist to the end, Emma had so much hope for humanity, they said. For two decades, the marine ecologist documented the impact of humans on the natural environments of Antarctica, Sydney Harbour and the Great Barrier Reef. Dan White/UNSW University of Melbourne chancellor Jane Hansen said Johnston had an unwavering commitment to students, whether it be through tackling cost-of-living pressures, scholarships, teaching, or supporting their research. She did everything she could to ensure they were best equipped to achieve their goals. Most of all, she just liked spending time with them to hear their stories. They were her inspiration.

Advertisement

She also promoted the capacity of women and girls to study science, helping us to better understand and protect our marine communities and coastal waterways, Hansen said. Johnston replaced Duncan Maskell as vice chancellor. Maskell faced a turbulent period when he took on the role in 2018, one marred by COVID-19, pro-Palestine protests and debate over caps on international student intakes. Johnston was finalising her resilience strategy for the university just a few weeks before her death. Renee Nowytarger One University of Melbourne academic told this masthead Johnstons passing had shocked and saddened staff. She was so energetic and genuinely friendly and warm. It was clear that there was so much good she wanted to do at the university, and staff were really buoyed by her arrival.

Advertisement

University of Sydney vice chancellor Professor Mark Scott said those who had worked with Johnston over the years would be grieving her loss. Emmas career was marked by brilliant achievements, but her family was her greatest joy. Our hearts go out to her husband and children, Scott said. University of Sydney pro vice chancellor (research) Benjamin Eggleton said working for Johnston was a true privilege and one of his career highlights. Australia has lost someone who still had so much more to give. A very sad day. The Group of Eight universities said her death was an unfathomable loss for Australias higher education and research community.

Advertisement

Chief executive Vicki Thomson said they had lost a remarkable leader and friend. Emma was simply amazing  brilliant in her science, principled in her leadership, and unfailingly generous as a colleague and mentor. Our heartfelt grief is shared across the nations universities and beyond. Johnstons family announced her death on Monday but did disclose when she died. The University of Melbourne said it would commemorate her at the appropriate time in line with the familys wishes. Professor Michael Wesley will continue in the role of acting vice chancellor. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Photo: @V_Zelenskiy_official Telegram

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz.

"First and foremost, we discussed the outcomes of the meeting with President Trump and his team in Florida. I informed him about the main emphases and key issues raised. Thank you, Friedrich, for your advice and for the constant coordination. Of course, we also discussed todays Russian fake, which Moscow is using to try to undermine diplomacy and justify dragging out the war," Zelenskyy reported on Telegram.

He emphasized that Putin needs to get used to the idea that he must end the war, the strikes, and the bloodshed.

"Ukraine is doing everything to achieve peace. Russia must stop inventing ways to wage war and start thinking about how to restore security. Ukraine has put forward all the proposals," the president stressed.
Advertisement

NationalTrump diplomacy Opinion Why our US alliance is under threat in 2026  from Trump Bruce Wolpe Senior fellow at the US Studies Centre and former political staffer December 30, 2025  5:00am

December 30, 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 A A A

As the year draws to a close, this country is in anguished mourning, distress, fear and uncertainty about the governments ability to act on antisemitism and keep Australia safe. Australias social fabric is in the balance. But another huge issue is in the balance. US President Donald Trump is exercising his power in ways that pose an existential threat to the alliance of the past 75 years. It is time to understand this and face up to it. US President Donald Trump following his meeting with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club on Sunday. AP/Alex Brandon In looking back on 2025, the easy conclusion to reach is that Australias relationship with the United States under Trump has gone well. Catastrophes averted. Australia came through. A lot of credit can be taken by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his government. The PM was lambasted for months by the opposition and the media because no face-to-face meeting with Trump had occurred. Trump gazumped that in the White House driveway. We love Australia, he said. No golden gifts or gongs needed to seal this mateship.

Advertisement

For months, the Pentagons review of the AUKUS project was reported to be in mortal danger. Not so. Full steam ahead, Trump declared. AUSMIN was as solid as ever. Their joint statement, building on the leaders summit, pledged to advance the safety, security, and prosperity of our two countries and the broader Indo-Pacific region. So the year-end assessment from all this work is that the relationship is on track, and that it is business as usual. But its not. Trump has changed the world. The tectonic plates have shifted. We have not even begun to discuss what this means. All we are doing now is day-to-day management  tariffs, AUKUS, AUSMIN  as if nothing transformational is occurring.

Advertisement

Trump is intent  with his obsessions of anti-immigrant nativism, anti-trade protectionism and utter dominance via America First nationalism  on destroying the global architecture, from the United Nations to the World Health Organisation to the Paris Agreement on climate and many others. Australia is tied to all of them. Illustration by Jozsef Benke Trump is attacking on multiple fronts. Trump and Europe: His contempt and hostility towards Europe are vicious. In discussing Europes leaders with Politico, Trump said: I think theyre weak. But I also think that they want to be so politically correct. His National Security Strategy paper is a shocker. Europes economic decline is eclipsed by the real and more stark prospect of civilisational erasure  As such, it is far from obvious whether certain European countries will have economies and militaries strong enough to remain reliable allies.

Advertisement

After meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Sunday (Monday morning, AEDT), Trump claimed they were getting a lot closer, maybe very close to a peace deal. While Europes leaders welcomed this, they voiced urgent concern afterwards that security guarantees for Ukraine were not resolved and that they remained fearful that any deal with Russias Vladimir Putin was still weeks away at best. Related Article Updated

Russia-Ukraine war As Trump praised Putin, Zelensky tilted his head and smiled NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has warned: We are Russias next target. And we are already in harms way. Russia has brought war back to Europe, and we must be prepared for the scale of war our grandparents and great grandparents endured. Pope Leo, seeing danger here, has called on Trump not to break apart the transatlantic alliance. Trump is intent on annexing Greenland, which is part of Denmark, a US ally and a member of NATO. We need it for national security. We have to have it. Will Trump follow Putin and seize European territory? Trump and the Americas: Trump is asserting bullying power over the Western hemisphere. Without any authorisation by the US Congress, Trump has directed the military to kill drug traffickers and seize and blockade oil tankers. In moving to overthrow Venezuelas dictator, Nicolas (Please cry for me Venezuela) Maduro, Trump has revived the Monroe Doctrine, which ensures US primacy over the Americas. Trump also warned Colombias President Gustavo Petro: He better wise up or hell be next. And: Hes got to watch his ass.

Advertisement

Trump and the media: Without a free press, America would no longer be a democracy. CNN and Netflix are in play as media giants contest for assets. Ill be involved in that decision on who gets Netflix, Trump said. Trump, who hates CNN, said: The people that are running that company right now and running CNN, which is a very dishonest group of people, I dont think that should be allowed to continue. View post on X Trump continues to attack The New York Times on his Truth Social platform: Their Radical Left, Unhinged Behavior, writing FAKE Articles and Opinions ... must be dealt with and stopped. Australia is in alliance with the US because we are both democracies. How can the alliance endure if Trump exerts state control over Americas media? Trump and Australians: After injuring Australia with his tariffs, Trump now wants to insult Australians wanting to visit the US. To get a US visa, Australians will have to supply up to five years of their online profiles and metadata. Is this how you treat citizens of your trusted ally  as a national security threat?

Advertisement

Australias now-shredded free-trade relationship with the US, the decades of meetings under AUSMIN and the commitment to AUKUS were all born in a world that does not exist any more. This is why business as usual between Australia and America does not cut it any more. Related Article Trump's America Australians to be forced to provide their social media to enter the US As 2026 dawns, it is time Australia acknowledges this new reality  just as it is facing up to the reality of antisemitism. The main game is not the transactional issues, but the existential ones. Given what the US has become under Trump, and what Trump is inflicting on the world, what kind of relationship with the US do Australians want and what kind of alliance does the country need? In 2026, we need to start finding the answers. Bruce Wolpe is a senior fellow at the University of Sydneys United States Studies Centre. He has served on the Democratic staff in the US Congress and as chief of staff to former prime minister Julia Gillard. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter.
Advertisement

PoliticsNSWBondi shooting What is CSG, the Jewish security group the premier wants armed more heavily? Patrick Begley December 29, 2025  7:30pm 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 A A A

The Community Security Group has provided security services to the Jewish community for decades. After the Bondi shooting on a Hanukkah celebration killed 15 people, the government says it is considering giving the group more access to weapons. Heres what you need to know. Community Security Group personnel can carry weapons to guard schools and synagogues. Michael Howard What is the Community Security Group? CSG employees and volunteers monitor threats to the Jewish community and provide security services at schools, synagogues and public events. It issues security advice and offers training services.

Advertisement

CSG NSW was founded in 1979 and is run by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. Last year, it recorded 1044 antisemitic incidents. The group has, in previous years, sent members to security courses conducted in Israel. Who funds it? CSG is funded by the Council for Jewish Community Security, a not-for-profit operating in NSW, Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland. The council received $8.9 million in donations in 2023-24 and it spent $8.6 million on security in the same year. The council has also received state and federal grants to provide CCTV coverage and a security operations centre for CSG.

Advertisement

Flowers left in tribute at Bondi Pavilion. George Chan/Getty Images Does CSG hold a security licence? Yes. CSG holds the highest-level master licence, which allows it to provide more than 50 security personnel. The security licensing system is administered by NSW Police. Can personnel carry weapons at the moment? Yes. CSG personnel may carry pistols when performing security duties at schools and synagogues. However, the groups licence does not permit them to carry weapons at public events.

Advertisement

What had CSG asked for before the Bondi attack? Before the Chanukah by the Sea celebration at Bondi, CSG deemed the event high risk and requested police officers remain for the duration. Instead, two junior officers were tasked with monitoring it intermittently. Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, who registered the event with CSG, was killed in the shooting. Premier Chris Minns at the Bondi Community Hub on Monday. Sitthixay Ditthavong What has Premier Chris Minns said about further arming the group? Minns first raised the possibility of providing CSG with a greater ability to carry weapons on December 16, during a Sky News interview. On Sunday, he said he was still considering the idea and on Monday he described the move as a small price to pay.

Advertisement

We cannot have a situation where the solution to this horrible terrorism event is to have the Jewish community say, well, we can only exist and celebrate our faith behind big walls, Minns told reporters. Why cant police provide the extra security? The premier said CSG would continue to work with police. Operation Shelter [set up after the October 7 attacks] is one of the largest police operations the state has ever seen, Minns said. But I dont want, once the media goes and its not on the front page of the newspapers any more, and its not immediately front of mind for the majority of citizens in NSW, for this just to go and no longer be front and centre. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.

CORRECTION This story has been updated to say that CSG NSW was founded in 1979.
Advertisement

PoliticsVictoriaWater restrictions $840m desal expansion tipped as Melbourne faces AI water drain Daniella White and Kieran Rooney December 29, 2025  7:30pm 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 A A A

A drying climate and a boom in thirsty data centres could force an $840 million expansion of Victorias desalination plant to begin within five years, as the Allan government looks to secure the states water supply. A report this week by Oxford Economics Australia tipped that work to upgrade the states Wonthaggi facility would start by 2030 and finish by 2034, adding 50 gigalitres of production to Melbournes system. Victorias Wonthaggi desalination plant. Joe Armao The expansion is part of a forecast building boom of 11 desalination projects around the country, aimed at meeting growing demand for water that does not rely on rainfall. Although the Allan government has not committed to an upgrade of the facility, it is one of the options being considered by a water security taskforce which has been asked to find long-term supply solutions.

Advertisement

The taskforce will also consider building a second facility in the citys west. The government has warned that demand means the state could face water shortages even if the current desalination plant runs at full capacity every year. The Oxford Economics report notes that the construction of data centres presents a significant upside risk for urban water use and could rapidly increase demand in Sydney and Melbourne, partly driving renewed interest in desalination among water authorities. Data centres can require huge amounts of water to cool their servers. Getty Images Most data centres, driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and cloud computing, require massive volumes of water to cool their servers. That the biggest proportional increases in demand are taking place in cities, especially at risk of damaging water shortages, presents an additional challenge for water authorities in these cities: how to meet rapidly growing demand while minimising the risks posed by declining and sporadic rainfall, the report said.

Advertisement

In NSW, officials are already bracing for data centres to potentially consume as much as 25 per cent of water use by 2035. In July, Greater Western Water revealed it was assessing 19 applications for centres that would have used as much water a year as 330,000 Melburnians. The report argues that although the amount of water these data centres will ultimately use is uncertain  depending on how many are built and cooling technologies used  the strain of water shortages would likely be far more damaging than the risk posed by unnecessary supply upgrades. Even with the planned 50-gigalitre expansion at Wonthaggi, desalination is expected to cover only about 38 per cent of Melbournes total urban water demand by 2035, down from the 42 per cent coverage it could have provided when the plant was first completed. Oxford Economics estimated building an additional facility in south-east Queensland would cost about $5 billion, but did not say what a second Victorian plant would cost.

Advertisement

A Victorian government water security report released this year warned that a combination of population growth, dwindling rainfall and rising consumption was placing increasing pressure on Melbournes water supply. It said that by 2030, Melbourne and Geelong areas would need an extra 95 billion litres of water each year. Related Article Business investment Melbourne is turning rust-bucket suburbs into a thirsty, power-hungry billion-dollar data empire The report set out a number of options to secure the states water supply which included an expansion of the Wonthaggi desalination plant as well as building a new one. If a repeat of the Millennium Drought was to occur from 2025, even with full use of the existing desalination plant, storage would decline rapidly and could trigger severe water restrictions in less than four years, the report warned. In the report, Water Minister Gayle Tierney warned that a failure to deliver new water supplies  such as expanded desalination plants  would put the state at risk of extended and severe water restrictions.

Advertisement

To meet future demand, we must act now to investigate new water supplies that dont rely on rainfall, she said. Related Article Exclusive

Water Second desalination plant on the table as state responds to drought fears The Wonthaggi desalination plant was a political pain point for the Bracks and Brumby governments in the early 2000s, criticised for its cost and over concerns it would not be used as frequently as proposed. In April, the state made a 50-gigalitre order to boost Melbourne and Geelong storage levels, but it was the first significant order since March 2022. Last week, Melburnians were warned they could face water restrictions for the first time in a decade after Victoria experienced its lowest inflows on record between January and June.

Advertisement

A state government spokeswoman said on Monday that there were no current plans to expand the desalination plant. Our water security is supported through a combination of water efficiency programs, desalination, recycled water and stormwater harvesting to meet current and future needs, she said. Our focus is on securing the states water supply, while also supporting the tech and innovation industries to grow local jobs and our economy. 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

Updated WorldAsiaChina relations Nothing worries me: Trump waves off Chinas biggest war games near Taiwan Josh Xiao , Yian Lee and Nectar Gan Updated December 30, 2025  4:43pm ,first published December 29, 2025  5:12pm 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 A A

China fired rockets toward Taiwan on Tuesday and deployed new amphibious assault ships alongside bomber aircraft and warships to encircle the island on the second day of its most extensive war games aimed at rehearsing a blockade. But US President Donald Trump, who is preparing to visit Beijing in April after reaching a truce earlier this year in his trade war with China, said he was not concerned by the exercises, launched just 11 days after the United States approved its biggest arms deal with Taiwan on record. Chinese soldiers fire rockets as part of military drills on Pingtan island, the closest point to Taiwan. AFP I have a great relationship with [Chinese] President Xi [Jinping] and he hasnt told me anything about it, Trump said. I certainly have seen it, but he hasnt told me anything about it. Nothing worries me. Theyve been doing naval exercises for 20 years in that area.

Advertisement

Chinas defence ministry said 130 Chinese military aircraft and 22 navy and coastguard vessels had been operating around the island in the 24 hours up to 6am on Tuesday, numbers which aligned with those Taiwan said it had detected. Chinas Eastern Theatre Command said live firing would take place until 6pm on Tuesday in the sea and airspace of five locations surrounding Taiwan and off the Chinese coast, prompting warnings for commercial shipping and flights. A Taiwan fighter jet prepares to land at the Hsinchu Airbase on Monday. AP Naval and air force units also drilled strikes on maritime and aerial targets as well as anti-submarine operations to the democratically governed islands north and south. Named Justice Mission 2025, the drills began after the US announced a record $US11.1 billion ($16 billion) arms package to Taiwan and are Beijings largest exercises to date by total coverage and proximity to the island, following Chinas Maritime Safety Administration on Monday adding two additional live-fire zones.

Advertisement

The first major drills off Taiwan since April served as a stern warning against Taiwan Independence separatist forces and external interference, Chinas Senior Colonel Shi Yi said in a statement before the operation began. Taiwan sits alongside key commercial shipping and aviation routes, with some $US2.45 trillion in trade moving through the Taiwan Strait each year. Eleven of Taipeis 14 flight routes were affected by the drills, according to Taiwans Civil Aviation Authority, although disruption to international flights appears to be minimal. US President Donald Trump addresses the media at Mar-a-Lago on Monday. AP The authority said 76 domestic flights to Taiwans offshore islands had been cancelled, affecting about 6,000 passengers. Li Hanming, a US-based aviation analyst, said commercial carriers were making heavy use of two air corridors heading out to the islands north-east in the direction of Japan.

Advertisement

The drills underscore how sensitive the Taiwan question is to Beijing, even as it seeks to stabilise relations with Washington, Taipeis biggest backer. It reacted angrily to the US arms sales to Taiwan, saying they raised the chances of a clash between the superpowers, and on Friday, China unveiled largely symbolic sanctions against 20 US defence companies and 10 executives. View post on X But Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday China wanted a healthy and stable relationship with the US, even as he reiterated Beijings opposition to the recent US arms sales to Taiwan. He said China would remain engaged with the US on the basis of mutual respect but would not yield an inch on core interests, and repeated the ruling Communist Partys decades-long position that the reunification of Taiwan is a mission that must be achieved.

Advertisement

The exercises are unlikely to disrupt Chinas trade agreement with the US, according to Dylan Loh, associate professor of Nanyang Technological University, who said a more provocative action from Beijing was unlikely. In 2022, China sent missiles directly over the main island of Taiwan in response to then House speaker Nancy Pelosi visiting Taipei. They will want to hit the Goldilocks zone of inflicting pain and demonstrating resolve but not being seen as disproportionate, Loh said. A missile flying over the island would certainly fall under the [definition of] escalation that could invite tit-for-tat. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addresses the media in Tokyo on December 17. Bloomberg Footage issued by China showed machine guns on the deck of warships firing into the sea, military aircraft taking off and missiles getting into launch position for what a narrator described as simulated strikes. The areas the Chinese military marked for the exercises were bigger than in the past, according to William Yang, senior analyst for north-east Asia at the International Crisis Group.

Advertisement

The PLA is signalling its intent to enhance its troops anti-access and area-denial capabilities, which sends a direct signal to the US and its allies  especially Japan  about Beijings determination to block external interference in future contingency over Taiwan. Beijing and Tokyo have been at odds since early November, when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said her nations military could theoretically be deployed if China were to attack Taiwan. Beijing reacted fiercely to those remarks, including by placing limits on Chinese tourists travelling to Japan. China is holding live-fire exercises near Taiwan. AP The latest drills also come as Xis widening purge of the military has raised questions about its combat readiness. China is getting very, very good at conducting snap exercises to the point where one could happen very quickly, said Jaime Ocon, a research fellow at Taiwan Security Monitor. I think thats very dangerous for Taiwan.

Advertisement

Egregious in nature Chinas military is holding drills because collusion between the US and Taiwan has become frequent and egregious in nature, an expert told Yuyuan Tantian, a social media account linked to Chinas state media. Related Article China relations Japan accelerates military build-up amid tensions with China In a video posted by the account, Fu Zhengnan  an expert with Chinas Academy of Military Sciences  pointed to the size of the US arms package and what he called a shift from defensive to offensive weaponry. Fu was likely referring to the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS. Those weapons, which Ukraine has used effectively in its fight against Russia, can strike well beyond Chinas south-eastern coast. Taiwan first got them last year and started testing them in May 2025.

Advertisement

A spokesperson for Beijings Taiwan Affairs Office said the latest drills are intended to curb the collusion between Taiwan independence forces and external powers to stir up trouble in the Taiwan Strait. Related Article Analysis

World politics Midterms, Moscow and MAGAs main man: How 2026 will be shaped Beijing has stepped up military intimidation of the democracy of 23 million people since Taiwan President Lai Ching-te took office in May 2024. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be brought under its control, by force if necessary  a stance Taipei steadfastly rejects. In an interview, Lai told a television station that Taiwan must keep raising the difficulty for any attack by China. When we ask our service members to stand on the front lines to defend the country, we must ensure they are provided with weapons in sufficient quantity and of high quality, he vowed.

Advertisement

Bloomberg, Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
Advertisement

Updated WorldNorth AmericaRussia-Ukraine war Trump very angry after Putin accuses Ukraine of attack on presidential home Michael Koziol Updated December 30, 2025  1:02pm ,first published December 30, 2025  9:24am 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 A A

New York: Russia has accused Ukraine of targeting Vladimir Putins home with drones in an incendiary, unproven claim that has Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the defensive less than 24 hours after key peace talks with US President Donald Trump. Although Moscow provided no evidence of the alleged attack, and Zelensky vehemently denied it occurred, Trump said he was very angry after being told about it by Putin in a phone call  their second in two days. President Donald Trump said he was very angry about the alleged attack after hearing about it directly from Russian leader Vladimir Putin. AP I dont like it, its not good. I heard about it this morning. You know who told me about it? President Putin told me about it. Early in the morning, he said he was attacked, Trump said. Its a delicate period of time. Its one thing to be offensive  its another thing to attack his house. Its not the right time to do any of that  I was very angry about it.

Advertisement

The US president made the comments as he spoke to the media following wide-ranging talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Mar-a-Lago estate on Monday, Florida time. Asked by a reporter whether there was any evidence of Putins claims  including from US intelligence services  Trump gave the Russian leader the benefit of the doubt. Putins lavish and highly private lakeside estate, known as Valdai. Well find out. Youre saying maybe the attack didnt take place  thats possible too, I guess, but President Putin told me this morning it did, Trump said. The Kremlin issued a statement from Putins foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov, who said Putin had informed Trump that Ukraine used long-range drones to attack the presidents residence in the Novgorod region. The Russian statements did not name the residence, but one of Putins secretive hideouts  known as Valdai  is located in a forest there.

Advertisement

The Russian side clearly stated that such reckless terrorist acts will, of course, not go unanswered and will meet with the most serious response, Ushakov said. Trump was literally outraged by the information, he added. He [Trump] said that he could not even imagine such irrational actions, Ushakov said. This will undoubtedly affect the approaches of the United States in the context of working with Zelensky, to whom the current administration, as Donald Trump himself said, did not, thankfully, give Tomahawks. Putin maintains a residence in Roshchino, north of St Petersburg. While Ushakovss statement in English implied Putins residence was hit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russian air defences destroyed all 91 long-range drones, thwarting the attack. Ushakov said Russia would now revise its position on issues that it had previously agreed during talks with the US to end the war. The Americans should treat this with understanding, he said.

Advertisement

In a further incendiary statement, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, who posts propaganda for the Kremlin, called Zelensky the stinking Kiev bastard and accused him of derailing peace efforts. Related Article Updated

Russia-Ukraine war As Trump praised Putin, Zelensky tilted his head and smiled He wants war. Well, now at least hell have to stay in hiding for the rest of his worthless life, Medvedev said. Zelensky strongly denied any such attack took place, calling it a complete fabrication and typical Russian lies. Ukraine does not take steps that can undermine diplomacy. To the contrary, Russia always takes such steps, he said. This is one of many differences between us. It is critical that the world doesnt stay silent now. We cannot allow Russia to undermine the work on achieving a lasting peace.

Advertisement

US analysts generally saw the Kremlins claims as a ploy to disrupt progress made by Trump and Zelensky when they met at the US presidents Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Tuesday (AEDT). Putin at a meeting with senior military officers at the Kremlin on Monday. AP The two men said they had agreed upwards of 90 per cent of a proposed peace plan, including US and European security guarantees for Ukraine, although there was still disagreement about Ukraine ceding territory to Russia, particularly the Donbas region. Trump and Putin spoke ahead of the meeting, and again afterwards, in what is emerging as a pattern from the Kremlin to engage directly with the US president before his encounters with Zelensky. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks during a news conference with Trump on SUnday. AP

Advertisement

Pro-Ukraine Republican congressman Don Bacon warned Trump against believing Putins claims. President Trump and his team should get the facts first before assuming blame, he posted on X. Putin is a well-known boldface liar. Meanwhile, Trump also warned the US could support another major strike on Iran were it to resume rebuilding its ballistic missile or nuclear weapons programs. Loading After his meeting with Netanyahu, the US president suggested Tehran may be working to restore its weapons programs after a massive US strike in June. Ive been reading that theyre building up weapons and other things, and if they are, theyre not using the sites we obliterated, but possibly different sites, Trump told reporters during the press conference.

Advertisement

We know exactly where theyre going, what theyre doing, and I hope theyre not doing it because we dont want to waste fuel on a B-2, he added, referring to the bomber used in the earlier strike. Trump also discussed the fragile Gaza peace process with Netanyahu and said he wanted to move to the second phase of the ceasefire deal made in October between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Trump with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on Monday. AP Israel and Hamas accuse each other of major breaches of the deal and look no closer to accepting the much more difficult steps envisaged for the next phase. Hamas, which has refused to disarm, has been reasserting its control as Israeli troops remain entrenched in about half the territory. Israel has indicated that if Hamas is not disarmed peacefully, it will resume military action. On Monday, Trump heaped blame on Hamas for not disarming more promptly, arguing that Israel had lived up to its side of the deal.

Advertisement

He warned that Hamas was inviting grave consequences. There will be hell to pay, Trump said when asked what he would do if Hamas did not lay down its arms. Related Article US politics One of the most troubling things Ive seen: US lawmakers watch classified boat strike footage Trump also said the US had hit an area in Venezuela where boats were loaded with drugs, in what would be the first known time Washington has carried out land operations in that country since a pressure campaign began against President Nicolas Maduros government. There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs, Trump said. We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area... Its the implementation area. Thats where they implement, and that is no longer around. Asked if the Central Intelligence Agency had carried out the attack, Trump said: I dont want to say that. I know exactly who it was but I dont want to say who it was.

Advertisement

CNN, citing sources, reported that the CIA had carried out a drone strike earlier this month on a port facility on the coast of Venezuela. The strike targeted a remote dock that the US believed was being used by Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua to store drugs and move them onto boats for onward shipping, according to CNN. Trump has previously said that he has authorised the CIA to carry out covert operations in Venezuela. The Venezuelan government has not commented on the incident Trump described, and there have been no independent reports of it from Venezuela. With Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
PHILIPSBURG:--- As 2025 draws to a close, a comprehensive year-end evaluation of the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) reveals an institution in severe decline. Throughout the year, the Ministry has been plagued by persistent governance failures, weak leadership, and a total absence of corrective action. These issues raise grave concerns regarding the sustainability of the nation's infrastructure and the rapid erosion of public trust.

Damning Audit Findings Ignored

The General Audit Chambers report, published earlier in 2025, delivered a scathing assessment of the Ministry. It highlighted deep-rooted deficiencies in governance, internal controls, compliance, and leadership. Despite the severity of these findings, no meaningful reform program or corrective action plan was implemented between the report's publication and December 2025. This prolonged inaction, occurring under the administrative leadership of Secretary General Mr. Kenson Plaisimond, has entrenched systemic weaknesses and severely damaged the Ministry's credibility.

Parliamentary Oversight Undermined

The Ministry has consistently failed to address formal inquiries, significantly undermining parliamentary oversight.

MP Wescot-Williams: Questions regarding the General Audit Chambers findings remain unanswered.

MP Darryl York: Requests for clarification on the state of drainage infrastructure and the national road network have been met with silence.

This lack of substantive response highlights a troubling disregard for accountability under the political leadership of Minister Patrice Gumbs Jr.

Systemic Failure in Public Service

The handling of complaints submitted through the Bureau of the Ombudsman has fallen below acceptable standards. Citizens are frequently met with delays, incomplete responses, or total silence. This pattern suggests a systemic failure to treat grievances with the seriousness required by law, fueling the perception of maladministration.

Internally, the situation is equally dire. Reports describe extremely low staff morale and widespread dissatisfaction with senior management. Employees fear speaking openly due to concerns about retaliation or suspension. An internal article circulated by staff depicts a work environment characterized by pressure, intimidation, and threats of punitive actionallegedly linked to the management style of the Secretary General.

Infrastructure in Decay

The physical state of national infrastructure has visibly deteriorated throughout 2025:

Road Failures: Recently executed pothole repairs have failed, with holes reopening shortly after completion.

Safety Hazards: Guardrails island-wide are rusted, damaged, or missing.

Poor Signage: Road markings are faded or absent, and traffic signs are unclear or obscured.

These deficiencies compromise road safety, increase traffic congestion, and negatively impact the countrys image. Furthermore, despite the urgent need to modernize the outdated road network, the Road Fund remains inactive, stalling critical investments.

Controversial Procurement and Planning

The recent public bidding process for solid waste management contracts (20262029) has raised alarms. The three-year contract period is viewed as insufficient for new market entrants to justify the necessary capital investments, thereby favoring existing contractors and undermining fair competition.

Additionally, plans to establish a burial ground in Belvedere exposed serious flaws in the public consultation process. Residents were not adequately informed or engaged before decision-making, leading to public opposition that underscores a failure in participatory governance.

Leadership Crisis

Serious questions persist regarding the qualifications of Secretary General Mr. Kenson Plaisimond. Holding a Bachelors degree in ICT, he lacks a professional background in VROMI-related technical, policy, or infrastructure domains. Since assuming office in September 2024, the Ministrys performance has continued to decline, reinforcing perceptions of weak administrative leadership.

Conclusion

Taken together, these developments present a clear picture of a Ministry in free fall. Without urgent leadership changes, institutional reform, and a renewed commitment to transparency, VROMI risks further deterioration. The consequences will be borne not only by public servants and residents but also by the countrys tourism product, economic stability, and long-term development.
PHILIPSBURG:--- At approximately 3:00 PM on December 28, 2025, officers of the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) responded to an armed robbery in the Kimsha Beach area. According to initial reports, two suspects in a white vehicle, identified by a specific license plate, threatened a victim at gunpoint and violently stole his scooter.

Following the incident, KPSM launched an island-wide manhunt with the assistance of a specialized team and detective personnel. Investigative efforts revealed that the stolen scooter had been transported to the French side of the island, where the second suspect had fled with the vehicle.

Simultaneously, officers pursued leads that directed them to the Dutch Quarter area. There, they located and arrested the first suspect, who had been driving the white car. During the arrest, authorities also recovered a firearm in the suspects possession. The individual, identified by the initials J.A.B., is a known offender currently under court-ordered monitoring with an ankle bracelet due to prior offenses. Notably, J.A.B. was previously arrested as a minor for involvement in a serious crime in the Belvedere area several years ago. He is now in custody at the police station as the investigation continues.

The Sint Maarten Police Force has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on armed violence in the community. KPSM teams remain committed to pursuing criminals and will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute those involved in serious crimes that threaten public safety.

KPSM urges anyone with information about this incident or who may have witnessed the robbery to come forward. Contact the Sint Maarten Police Force at +1 (721) 554-2222 or use the anonymous tip line at 9300.
SAINT-MARTIN:--- The Gendarmerie of Saint-Barthelemy and Saint-Martin has issued an urgent call for witnesses following a violent incident that occurred late last week. Authorities are investigating an attempted homicide that took place on the evening of Saturday, December 27, 2025.

According to the official broadcast sheet released by law enforcement, the incident occurred around 8:00 PM in the parking lot of the Lotterie Farm, located in the Pic Paradis area. An individual was shot at the location, prompting an immediate investigation by local authorities.

The Gendarmerie is appealing to the public for any information that could assist in shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Investigators are specifically looking to speak with anyone who was in the vicinity of the Lotterie Farm or Pic Paradis on the evening of December 27.

The call for witnesses extends to anyone who may have seen an altercation, heard gunshots, or heard any noises that could be interpreted as gunshots around the time of the incident. Even minor details that may seem insignificant could prove vital to the ongoing investigation.

Public cooperation is often crucial in resolving cases of this nature, and the Gendarmerie emphasizes the importance of community assistance.

How to Provide Information

Anyone with information regarding the events of December 27 is urged to come forward immediately. You can contact the Gendarmerie directly by dialing 17.

For further inquiries or to provide information, at the Gendarmerie Saint-Barthelemy - Saint-Martin is based at 80A route de la Savane, 97150 St Martin, and can be reached via telephone at 05.90.52.33.88.
Photo: https://mod.gov.ua

Critical infrastructure operators from the energy and defense-industrial complex sectors have already purchased and installed electronic warfare equipment as part of an experiment by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

This equipment has already been transferred to the Armed Forces of Ukraine for free operation and protects the facilities of these enterprises, the press service of the Ministry of Defense reports.

"The first operators of critical infrastructure in the energy and defense industries have purchased and installed electronic warfare equipment to protect their facilities. The Ministry of Defense is implementing this initiative in accordance with the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Headquarters' decision. The equipment is currently protecting facilities. It's an example of how the state, businesses, and the Ukrainian army are working together to strengthen the country's defense," said Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal.

Specifically, an agreement was developed and approved to transfer electronic warfare equipment into free operation, an action plan was determined to expand the list of such equipment, and feedback was collected from critical infrastructure operators regarding existing and anticipated practical difficulties of participating in the experiment. The procedure for updating data on enemy air attack equipment characteristics was also determined to take new electronic warfare equipment into account in threat modeling immediately after their effectiveness is confirmed.

Enterprises interested in participating in the experiment must contact the Main Directorate of Radio Electronic and Cyber Warfare of the Armed Forces of Ukraine regarding the strengthening of air cover for their facilities. The Directorate carries out threat modeling and provides several options for equipment installation, which will enable radio electronic coverage of the facility.

After that, the enterprise has the right to purchase or import the necessary quantity of such equipment and install it. However, the enterprise cannot use powerful electronic warfare equipment independently because it can disable other military equipment. Therefore, the Directorate informs the enterprise about the military unit authorized to use electronic warfare means in the relevant area.

The enterprise then enters into a free operation contract with the authorized military unit. The military unit connects the equipment to the national air defense system and uses it to protect critical infrastructure.

The enterprise remains the owner of the equipment. Therefore, the equipment cannot be moved to another region or used to protect another facility.
North Korea test-fires long-range cruise missiles: state media



Seoul, Dec 28 (AFP) Dec 28, 2025



North Korea has test-fired two strategic long-range cruise missile into the sea, state media reported Monday.

The reclusive state's leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the drill, staged Sunday over the Yellow Sea, and urged "unlimited and sustained" development of his country's nuclear weapons forces, the KCNA news agency reported.

It was apparently the first such test since early November.

The South Korean military said it detected the launch of multiple missiles from the Sunan area near Pyongyang, the Yonhap news agency said.

The goal of the exercise was to review the "counter-offensive response posture and combat capability of long-range missile sub-units," KCNA said.

Kim stated that the government and ruling party of North Korea "would as ever devote all their efforts to the unlimited and sustained development of the state nuclear combat force," the news agency added.

North Korea staged a ballistic missile test on November 6, just over a week after US President Donald Trump -- on a tour of the region -- expressed interest in meeting with Kim.

Pyongyang did not respond to the offer.

At that time Trump had just approved South Korea's plan to build a nuclear-powered submarine.

Analysts have said Seoul's plan to construct one of these atomic-driven vessels would likely draw an aggressive response from Pyongyang.

North Korea has significantly increased missile testing in recent years. Analysts say this drive is aimed at improving precision strike capabilities, challenging the United States as well as South Korea, and testing weapons before potentially exporting them to Russia.

Since Kim's 2019 summit with Trump collapsed over the scope of denuclearisation and sanctions relief, Pyongyang has repeatedly declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear state.

Kim has since been emboldened by the war in Ukraine, securing critical support from Moscow after sending thousands of troops to fight alongside Russian forces.
CORRECTED: Taiwan's military says deployed 'forces' in response to China's drills



Taipei, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



Taiwan's military said Monday it has deployed "appropriate forces" in response to China's drills around the democratic island.

"A response centre has been established, and appropriate forces have been deployed," the military said, adding that its armed forces "have carried out a rapid response exercise".
CORRECTED: Taiwan condemns China's 'military intimidation' after Beijing announces drills



Taipei, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



Taiwan condemned on Monday China's use of "military intimidation" after Beijing announced major drills around the democratic island.

"In response to the Chinese authorities' disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries, Taiwan expresses its strong condemnation," Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said in a statement.
China announces 'major' military drills around Taiwan



Beijing, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



China announced "major" military exercises around Taiwan on Monday, saying it would conduct live-fire drills the following day across five zones in waters and airspace near the island.

Beijing claims self-governed Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory and has refused to rule out using military action to seize the island democracy.

The latest show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan's main security backer.

From Monday, China will send army, navy, air force and rocket force troops to conduct "major military drills" code-named "Justice Mission 2025", said Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesman for the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command.

The activities will focus on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain", Shi said.

A separate statement with a map showed five large zones surrounding the island where "live firing activities will be organised" from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (0000 to 1000 GMT) on Tuesday.

"For the sake of safety, any irrelevant vessel or aircraft is advised not to enter the afore-mentioned waters and airspace," the statement said.

Taiwan condemned China's "disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries", Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

Taiwan's military said it had established a response centre, deployed "appropriate forces" and "carried out a rapid response exercise".

The drills by China's ruling Communist Party "further confirm its nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace", Taipei's defence ministry said.



- 'Joint assaults' -



The drills are "a stern warning against 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity", Shi said.

Plans involve vessels "approaching the Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions", he said.

The "joint assaults" are intended to "test their joint operations capabilities", he added.

China's military last held large-scale drills involving live firing around Taiwan in April -- surprise manoeuvres condemned by Taipei.

The United States called them "intimidation tactics", and Britain warned they were "risking dangerous escalation".

China said this month it would take "resolute and forceful measures" to safeguard its territory after Taiwan said the United States had approved a major $11 billion arms sale.

Beijing announced fresh sanctions on 20 American defence companies last week, though they appeared to have little or no business in China.

Last month, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a backlash from Beijing when she said the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo.

China demanded that she retract her statement, summoned Tokyo's ambassador, and warned its citizens against travelling to Japan.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with President of Finland Alexander Stubb, during which the parties discussed, in particular, the ongoing peace talks that took place the day before in the United States, as well as the Kremlin's provocative statements regarding Ukraine's alleged strikes on Vladimir Putin's residence.

"I spoke with President of Finland Alexander Stubb. As always with Alex, we discussed the diplomatic situation, our opportunities and prospects, and the outcomes of the meetings with President Trump and his team. We are preparing new meetings in Europe, and it is important that everything be as substantive as possible and that we counter Russian attempts to derail diplomacy together. Although the Russians are spreading fakes to justify their strikes on Ukraine and the further prolongation of this war, the worlds key intelligence services must have the real information. Security guarantees, real recovery, and a lasting peace are needed by all of Europe. Thank you!" he wrote on Telegram following the conversation.
China launches military drills simulating blockade of Taiwan ports



Beijing, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



China launched live-fire drills around Taiwan on Monday that it said would simulate a blockade of the self-ruled island's key ports, prompting Taipei to condemn Beijing's "military intimidation".

Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory and has refused to rule out using military action to seize the island democracy.

The latest show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan's main security backer.

Beijing warned on Monday that "external forces" arming Taipei would "push the Taiwan Strait into a perilous situation of imminent war", but did not mention any countries by name.

Any attempts to stop China's unification with Taiwan were "doomed to fail", foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said.

China said earlier it was conducting "live-fire training on maritime targets to the north and southwest of Taiwan" in large-scale exercises involving destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers and drones.

A military spokesman said Beijing would send army, navy, air force and rocket force troops for "major military drills" code-named "Justice Mission 2025".

The activities will focus on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain", said Senior Colonel Shi Yi of the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command.

Chinese authorities also published a map of five large zones around Taiwan where further live-fire activities would take place from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (0000 to 1000 GMT) on Tuesday.

"For the sake of safety, any irrelevant vessel or aircraft is advised not to enter the afore-mentioned waters and airspace," the statement said.



- 'Rapid response' -



Taiwan condemned China's "disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries", Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

Taipei said Monday it had detected four Chinese coastguard ships sailing off its northern and eastern coasts.

Its coastguard said it "immediately deployed large vessels to pre-position responses in relevant areas" and "sent additional support units".

Taiwan's military said it had established a response centre, deployed "appropriate forces" and "carried out a rapid response exercise".

The drills by China's ruling Communist Party "further confirm its nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace", Taipei's defence ministry said.



- 'Stern warning' -



Shi, the Chinese military spokesman, said the drills were "a stern warning against 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity".

Beijing's military released a poster about the drills showing "arrows of justice" -- one engulfed in flames -- raining down on what appeared to be green worms on a geographical outline of Taiwan.

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that a core theme of the exercises was a "blockade" of key Taiwanese ports including Keelung in the north and Kaohsiung in the south.

China's military last held large-scale drills involving live firing around Taiwan in April -- surprise manoeuvres condemned by Taipei.

China said this month it would take "resolute and forceful measures" to safeguard its territory after Taiwan said the United States had approved a major $11 billion arms sale.

Beijing announced fresh sanctions on 20 American defence companies last week, though they appeared to have little or no business in China.

Last month, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a backlash from Beijing when she said the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo.

China demanded that she retract her statement, summoned Tokyo's ambassador, and warned its citizens against travelling to Japan.
China launches military drills simulating blockade of Taiwan ports



Beijing, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



China launched live-fire drills around Taiwan on Monday that it said would simulate a blockade of the self-ruled island's key ports, prompting Taipei to condemn Beijing's "military intimidation".

Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory and has refused to rule out using military action to seize the island democracy.

The latest show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan's main security backer.

Beijing warned on Monday that "external forces" arming Taipei would "push the Taiwan Strait into a perilous situation of imminent war", but did not mention any countries by name.

Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said any attempts to stop China's unification with Taiwan were "doomed to fail".

China said earlier it was conducting "live-fire training on maritime targets to the north and southwest of Taiwan" in large-scale exercises involving destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers and drones.

A military spokesman said Beijing would send army, navy, air force and rocket force troops for "major military drills" code-named "Justice Mission 2025".

The activities will focus on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain", said Senior Colonel Shi Yi of the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command.

Chinese authorities also published a map of five large zones around Taiwan where further live-fire activities would take place from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (0000 to 1000 GMT) on Tuesday.

"For the sake of safety, any irrelevant vessel or aircraft is advised not to enter the afore-mentioned waters and airspace," they said in a statement.

Taiwan said China's designated exercise zones, some of which are within 12 nautical miles of its coast, have affected international shipping and aviation routes.



- 'Rapid response' -



Taiwan condemned China's "disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries", Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

The island's defence ministry said it had detected 89 Chinese military aircraft near its shores on Monday -- the highest number in a single day since October 2024.

The ministry also said it had detected 28 warships and coastguard vessels.

Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration said China had declared a "Temporary Danger Area" for 10 hours on Tuesday, "which is expected to affect flight operations in the region".

It said it "is assessing alternative routes and traffic flow management measures in response".

Taiwan's coastguard said it "immediately deployed large vessels to pre-position responses in relevant areas" and "sent additional support units".

Taiwan's military said it had established a response centre, deployed "appropriate forces" and "carried out a rapid response exercise".

The drills by China's ruling Communist Party "further confirm its nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace", Taipei's defence ministry said.



- 'Stern warning' -



Chinese military spokesman Shi said the drills were "a stern warning against 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity".

Beijing's military released a poster about the drills showing "arrows of justice" -- one engulfed in flames -- raining down on a geographical outline of Taiwan.

And in an AI-generated video published by the force, eagles, sharks, wolves and bees transformed into Chinese military equipment, lashing Taiwan in an intense assault from the sea and air.

State broadcaster CCTV reported that a core theme of the exercises was a "blockade" of key Taiwanese ports, including Keelung in the north and Kaohsiung in the south.

China's military last held large-scale drills involving live firing around Taiwan in April -- surprise manoeuvres condemned by Taipei.

China said this month it would take "resolute and forceful measures" to safeguard its territory after Taiwan said the United States had approved a major $11 billion arms sale.

Beijing announced fresh sanctions on 20 American defence companies last week, although they appeared to have little or no business in China.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a backlash from Beijing last month when she said the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo.

China demanded that she retract her statement, summoned Tokyo's ambassador, and warned its citizens against travelling to Japan.
China holds military drills around Taiwan simulating ports blockade



Beijing, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



China launched live-fire drills around Taiwan on Monday that it said would simulate a blockade of the self-ruled island's key ports, prompting Taipei to condemn Beijing's "military intimidation".

Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory and has refused to rule out using military action to seize the island democracy.

The latest show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan's main security backer.

Beijing warned on Monday that "external forces" arming Taipei would "push the Taiwan Strait into a perilous situation of imminent war", but did not mention any countries by name.

Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said any attempts to stop China's unification with Taiwan were "doomed to fail".

AFP reporters in Pingtan -- a Chinese island that is the closest point to Taiwan's main island -- saw two fighter jets soaring across the sky and a Chinese military vessel in the distance.

Visitors said they had been unaware of the drills as they milled around snapping photos.

A tourist surnamed Guo, from Inner Mongolia, told AFP she thinks a unification will "definitely happen".

"It's just a matter of time," she said.



- 'Live-fire training' -



China said early on Monday it was conducting "live-fire training on maritime targets to the north and southwest of Taiwan" in large-scale exercises involving destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers and drones.

Military spokesman Shi Yi said Beijing would send army, navy, air force and rocket force troops for drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025".

He said the drills would focus on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain".

Chinese authorities published a map of five large zones around Taiwan where the war games would take place.

Taiwan said China's designated exercise zones, some of which are within 12 nautical miles of its coast, have affected international shipping and aviation routes.

The island's government condemned China's "disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries", Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

Its defence ministry said it had detected 89 Chinese military aircraft near its shores on Monday -- the highest number in a single day since October 2024.

It also said it had detected 28 warships and coastguard vessels.

Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration said China had declared a "Temporary Danger Area" for 10 hours on Tuesday.

It also said "more than 100,000 (air) passengers" on 857 domestic, international and transit flights would be affected by the drills on Tuesday.

Taiwan's military said it had established a response centre, deployed "appropriate forces" and "carried out a rapid response exercise", while its coastguard said it "immediately deployed large vessels".

The drills by China's ruling Communist Party "further confirm its nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace", Taipei's defence ministry said.



- 'Stern warning' -



Chinese military spokesman Shi said the drills were "a stern warning against 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity".

Beijing's military released a poster about the drills showing "arrows of justice" -- one engulfed in flames -- raining down on a geographical outline of Taiwan.

And in an AI-generated video published by the force, eagles, sharks, wolves and bees transformed into Chinese military equipment, lashing Taiwan from the sea and air.

Another Pingtan sightseer, surnamed Lin, said she hoped to see mainland China and Taiwan unify eventually.

"I hope things can keep getting better and develop, and our relationships can become closer and closer," said the 22-year-old from the southwestern province of Sichuan.

State broadcaster CCTV reported that a core theme of the exercises was a "blockade" of key Taiwanese ports, including Keelung in the north and Kaohsiung in the south.

China's military last held large-scale drills involving live firing around Taiwan in April -- surprise manoeuvres condemned by Taipei.

Beijing said this month it would take "resolute and forceful measures" to safeguard its territory after Taiwan said the United States had approved a major $11 billion arms sale.

It announced fresh sanctions on 20 American defence companies last week, although they appeared to have little or no business in China.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a backlash from Beijing last month when she said the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo.
German parachute unit rocked by misconduct, extremism claims



Berlin, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



Germany's defence ministry on Monday condemned "unacceptable" abuses in an elite parachute regiment amid ongoing investigations into alleged sexual misconduct and right-wing extremism.

The probe into the unit based in the southwestern town of Zweibruecken was launched after two women soldiers filed a complaint in June, according to German media reports.

The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung daily said Monday that several dozen soldiers were being investigated for abuses including sexual assault, "right-wing extremist and antisemitic incidents", violent rituals and using hard drugs.

Defence ministry spokesman Kenneth Harms said disciplinary action had been taken against several members of the regiment and there had been "initial dismissals", without offering details.

The commander of the regiment had also been replaced this year, he said.

"To be perfectly clear, right-wing extremism and inappropriate sexual behaviour are the offences in question," he said. "Neither is acceptable in the Bundeswehr, and it is therefore imperative to investigate the incidents thoroughly.

"Anyone who has committed misconduct or even criminal offences, or who, as a superior, has looked the other way or tolerated such behaviour, will be dealt with appropriately."

Prosecutors in Zweibruecken in November said they were looking into accusations against 19 soldiers as part of the probe.

A spokesman on Monday told AFP the status of the investigations "has remained largely unchanged since then", with no new complaints filed.

Germany has seen previous incidents of extremism in the armed forces.

An elite army commando force was dissolved in 2020 after revelations that some of its members harboured neo-Nazi sympathies.

Europe's largest economy is looking to revamp its armed forces and recently agreed on a new military service model to attract more recruits.
Thai army accuses Cambodia of violating truce with over 250 drones



Bangkok, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



Thailand's army accused Cambodia on Monday of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement, reached after weeks of deadly border clashes, by flying more than 250 drones over its territory.

The Southeast Asian neighbours agreed to the "immediate" ceasefire on Saturday, pledging to end renewed border clashes that killed dozens of people and displaced more than a million this month.

But the fresh allegation from Bangkok and its threat to reconsider releasing Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand left a sustained truce in doubt, even as their foreign ministers wrapped up two days of talks hosted by China.

The Thai army said on Monday "more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying from the Cambodian side, intruding into Thailand's sovereign territory" on Sunday night, according to a statement.

"Such actions constitute provocation and a violation of measures aimed at reducing tensions, which are inconsistent with the Joint Statement agreed" during a bilateral border committee meeting on Saturday, it said.

The reignited fighting this month spread to nearly every border province on both sides, shattering an earlier truce for which US President Donald Trump took credit.

Under the truce pact signed on Saturday, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to cease fire, freeze troop movements and cooperate on demining efforts and combatting cybercrime.

They also agreed to allow civilians living in border areas to return home as soon as possible, while Thailand was to return 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July within 72 hours, if the ceasefire held.



- 'Small issue' -



Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn described the drone incident as "a small issue related to flying drones seen by both sides along the border line".

He said on Cambodian state television on Monday that the two sides had discussed the issue and agreed to investigate and "resolve it immediately".

Phnom Penh's defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata later denied any drones had been flown by the Cambodian side because the ministry and provincial authorities on the border had banned such flights.

"We confirm that no such drone launches have occurred," she said in a statement.

Thai army spokesman Winthai Suvaree said in a statement the drone activity reflected "provocative actions" and a "hostile stance toward Thailand", which could affect the security of military personnel and civilians in border areas.

Thailand's army "may need to reconsider its decision regarding the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers, depending on the situation and the behaviour observed", it said.

Several family members of soldiers held by Thailand for six months had little faith they would be released, even before Bangkok raised fresh doubts.

Heng Socheat, the wife of a soldier, told AFP on Monday she worried the Thai military might renege on its pledge.

"Until my husband arrives home, then I will believe them," she said.



- Prayers for peace -



Five days of border clashes in July killed dozens of people before a truce was brokered by the United States, China and Malaysia, the chair of the ASEAN regional bloc.

Trump witnessed the signing of a follow-on declaration between Thailand and Cambodia in October but it was broken within weeks, with each side blaming the other for instigating the fresh fighting.

The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of the 800-kilometre (500-mile) Thai-Cambodian border, where both sides claim centuries-old temple ruins.

While the two nations agreed on Saturday to stop fighting, they still need to resolve the demarcation of their border.

Cambodia, Thailand and China issued a statement at the end of talks in China's Yunnan province on Monday, saying they had discussed "working step by step through mutual efforts to resume normal exchanges, rebuild political mutual trust, improve Cambodia-Thailand bilateral relations, and safeguard regional stability".

Cambodia also said on Monday it had called on Thailand to join another bilateral meeting in Cambodia in early January "to discuss and continue survey and demarcation work" at the border.

More than a hundred Buddhist monks and hundreds of others dressed in white shirts met at a war monument on the outskirts of the Cambodian capital on Monday evening to pray for peace with their neighbour.

Mok Sim, 73, said she joined the gathering to show the world that Cambodians wanted peace.

"We also pray that our soldiers will be released soon, but we don't know the mind of the Thai army," she said. "We hope they will be back home soon."
German paratrooper unit rocked by misconduct, extremism claims



Berlin, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



Germany's defence ministry on Monday condemned "unacceptable" abuses in an elite paratrooper regiment amid ongoing investigations into alleged sexual misconduct and right-wing extremism.

The probe into the unit based in the southwestern town of Zweibruecken was launched after two women soldiers filed a complaint in June, the army confirmed.

The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung daily said Monday that several dozen soldiers were being investigated for abuses including sexual assault, "right-wing extremist and antisemitic incidents", violent rituals and using hard drugs.

Defence ministry spokesman Kenneth Harms said disciplinary action had been taken against several members of the regiment, there had been "initial dismissals", and the commander had been replaced this year.

"To be perfectly clear, right-wing extremism and inappropriate sexual behaviour are the offences in question," he said. "Neither is acceptable in the Bundeswehr, and it is therefore imperative to investigate the incidents thoroughly.

"Anyone who has committed misconduct or even criminal offences, or who, as a superior, has looked the other way or tolerated such behaviour, will be dealt with appropriately."

An army spokeswoman later told AFP that investigations had been conducted against 55 suspects and dismissal proceedings initiated against 19, of whom three had already left the service.

"A total of 16 cases have been referred to the public prosecutor's office," she added. "Disciplinary measures have also been imposed in 16 cases, and the military disciplinary prosecutor's office has opened preliminary investigations in 20 cases."

State prosecutors in Zweibruecken said in November they were looking into accusations against 19 soldiers as part of the probe, and a spokesman on Monday told AFP the status of the investigations "has remained largely unchanged since then".

Germany has seen previous incidents of extremism in the armed forces.

An elite army commando force was dissolved in 2020 after revelations that some of its members harboured neo-Nazi sympathies.

Europe's largest economy is looking to revamp its armed forces and recently agreed on a new military service model to attract more recruits.
Trump says not concerned by Chinese drills around Taiwan



Palm Beach, United States, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



US President Donald Trump said Monday he was not concerned about China's live-fire military drills around Taiwan, appearing to brush aside the possibility of counterpart Xi Jinping ordering an invasion.

"I have a great relationship with President Xi. And he hasn't told me anything about it. I certainly have seen it," Trump told reporters when asked about the exercises.

"I don't believe he's going to be doing it," Trump said in apparent reference to an invasion. Asked if the drills worried him, he replied: "No, nothing worries me."

"They've been doing naval exercises for 20 years in that area. Now people take it a little bit differently."

China, which claims Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, on Monday launched drills that it said would simulate a blockade of the island's key ports.

The show of force comes after the Trump administration approved a major new arms package for Taiwan.

The United States has been committed for decades to ensuring Taiwan's self-defense, while staying ambiguous on whether the US military itself would intervene in an invasion.
Trump still eyes Turkey jet deal despite Israel objections



Palm Beach, United States, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



US President Donald Trump said Monday he was considering selling top-end F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, during a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who adamantly opposes the move.

"We're thinking about it very seriously," Trump said when asked about an F-35 deal for Turkey as he met Netanyahu at the US leader's Florida club.

The United States booted Turkey from development of the F-35, a top-of-the-line stealth plane, in 2019 after the NATO ally went ahead with purchases of missile defense from Russia.

Trump, however, has warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, despite the veteran Islamist-rooted leader's fiery denunciations of Israel's devastating offensive in Gaza.

Israeli policymakers argue that F-35s would benefit Turkey in a potential war. Israel and Turkey are at odds over war-ravaged Syria, which neighbors both countries.

Asked about the potential for conflict between Israel and Turkey, Trump called Erdogan "a very good friend."

"We're not going have a problem," Trump said of Israel and Turkey. "Nothing's going to happen."

Trump in his first term also agreed to sell F-35s to the United Arab Emirates after it recognized Israel.

He more recently voiced support for F-35 sales to Saudi Arabia, despite longstanding US policy that Israel must have a military edge over potential regional adversaries.
China holds military drills around Taiwan simulating ports blockade



Beijing, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



China launched live-fire drills around Taiwan on Monday that it said would simulate a blockade of the self-ruled island's key ports, prompting Taipei to condemn Beijing's "military intimidation".

Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory and has refused to rule out using military action to seize the island democracy.

The latest show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan's main security backer.

Beijing warned on Monday that "external forces" arming Taipei would "push the Taiwan Strait into a perilous situation of imminent war", but did not mention any countries by name.

Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said any attempts to stop China's unification with Taiwan were "doomed to fail".

AFP reporters in Pingtan -- a Chinese island that is the closest point to Taiwan's main island -- saw two fighter jets soaring across the sky and a Chinese military vessel in the distance.

Visitors said they had been unaware of the drills as they milled around snapping photos.

A tourist surnamed Guo, from Inner Mongolia, told AFP she thinks a unification will "definitely happen".

"It's just a matter of time," she said.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said he was not concerned about the Chinese drills around Taiwan, appearing to brush aside the possibility of counterpart Xi Jinping ordering an invasion.

"I have a great relationship with President Xi. And he hasn't told me anything about it. I certainly have seen it," Trump told reporters Monday when asked about the exercises.

"I don't believe he's going to be doing it," Trump added, in apparent reference to an invasion. Asked if the drills worried him, he replied: "No, nothing worries me."



- 'Live-fire training' -



China said early on Monday it was conducting "live-fire training on maritime targets to the north and southwest of Taiwan" in large-scale exercises involving destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers and drones.

Military spokesman Shi Yi said Beijing would send army, navy, air force and rocket force troops for drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025".

He said the drills would focus on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain".

Chinese authorities published a map of five large zones around Taiwan where the war games would take place.

Taiwan said China's designated exercise zones, some of which are within 12 nautical miles of its coast, have affected international shipping and aviation routes.

The island's government condemned China's "disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries", Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

Its defence ministry said it had detected 89 Chinese military aircraft near its shores on Monday -- the highest number in a single day since October 2024.

It also said it had detected 28 warships and coastguard vessels.

Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration said China had declared a "Temporary Danger Area" for 10 hours on Tuesday.

It also said "more than 100,000 (air) passengers" on 857 domestic, international and transit flights would be affected by the drills on Tuesday.

Taiwan's military said it had established a response centre, deployed "appropriate forces" and "carried out a rapid response exercise", while its coastguard said it "immediately deployed large vessels".

The drills by China's ruling Communist Party "further confirm its nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace", Taipei's defence ministry said.



- 'Stern warning' -



Chinese military spokesman Shi said the drills were "a stern warning against 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces, and...a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity".

Beijing's military released a poster about the drills showing "arrows of justice" -- one engulfed in flames -- raining down on a geographical outline of Taiwan.

State broadcaster CCTV reported that a core theme of the exercises was a "blockade" of key Taiwanese ports, including Keelung in the north and Kaohsiung in the south.

China's military last held large-scale drills involving live firing around Taiwan in April -- surprise manoeuvres condemned by Taipei.

Beijing said this month it would take "resolute and forceful measures" to safeguard its territory after Taiwan said the United States had approved a major $11 billion arms sale.

It announced fresh sanctions on 20 American defence companies last week, although they appeared to have little or no business in China.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a backlash from Beijing last month when she said the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo.
Denmark to buy US patrol planes despite Greenland rift



Washington, United States, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



The United States said Monday it had approved a $1.8-billion sale of patrol aircraft to Denmark, despite renewed tension after an envoy of President Donald Trump called again for seizing Greenland.

The State Department said it approved a request from Denmark to buy the P-8A patrol and reconnaissance system from Boeing, which will include up to three aircraft.

The sale will "support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe," the State Department said in a notification to Congress.

One week earlier, the State Department approved a separate sale of nearly $1 billion in air-to-air missiles to Denmark.

The United States has long pushed NATO allies to pay more on defense, with Trump seeking to reduce the US footprint in Europe despite Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

But Europeans have been shocked by Trump's tone on Greenland, which is an autonomous Danish territory.

Trump earlier this month appointed the governor of Louisiana state, Jeff Landry, as a special envoy to Greenland. Landry immediately vowed to work to make the Arctic island "a part of the US," leading Denmark to summon the US ambassador.

Trump has refused to rule out seizing Greenland by force, insisting that the United States needs the resource-rich island for its own security.

sct/aha
The number of the Ukrainian army of 800,000 people, determined by the draft peace plan proposed by the United States, is sufficient, said Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky.

"This figure guarantees us protection against renewed armed aggression. It also ensures a planned mobilization process. In other words, our mobilization capabilities are not limited. All of our mobilization indicators and capabilities are preserved. Initially, we were offered a reduction in the number of our servicemen to 600,000. But 800,000 satisfies us," Syrsky said in an interview with 24 Channel.

Regarding the possible withdrawal of troops, particularly from Donetsk region, Syrsky noted that work is still underway.

"We are military people; our main task is to defend the country. Therefore, of course, our military, primarily the Chief of the General Staff, are participating in these negotiations. The leadership of our state controls the course of these negotiations. I think all these issues will be raised and discussed repeatedly. Decisions will be made on a well-founded basis. This is just one of the options," said Syrsky.
Photo: Interfax-Ukraine/Oleksandr Zubko

At the end of 2025, 56.2% of Ukrainians believe that the country is moving exclusively or predominantly in the right direction, while 30.6% assess this movement as wrong, according to the results of a nationwide sociological survey by Active Group, presented at a press conference at Interfax-Ukraine on Monday.

According to the published data, among Ukraine's main achievements since the start of the full-scale invasion, respondents most often cited the attraction of international aid (61.4%). Respondents also noted the organization of the country's defense (43.1%), the unification of society around support for defenders (32.8%), and the development of the domestic defense industry (32.6%).

At the same time, Ukrainians consider corruption to be the key internal challenge, with 79.2% of respondents naming it as the country's main problem. Among other problems, respondents pointed to mobilization (39.7%), economic support (32.2%), and defense organization (33.7%). At the same time, 41.7% believe that the real fight against corruption has intensified, while 47.3% say it has weakened.

Ukrainians are approaching the end of the year with a combination of cautious optimism and a demand for justice, which is why corruption remains the main internal challenge for society, said Alexander Pozniy, director of the research company Active Group, commenting on the results of the study.

The survey also showed a high level of support for the idea of peace talks: 78.0% of Ukrainians view negotiations to end the war very or somewhat positively. At the same time, views on the terms of peace remain ambiguous. Thus, 46.5% admit the possibility of a temporary loss of certain territories during the truce, while 56.3% consider a freeze on the front line to be acceptable. The greatest resistance is caused by scenarios involving strategic concessions: 66.2% do not allow the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the controlled part of Donbas, and 57.6% do not agree to a complete refusal to return the occupied territories by military means. At the same time, 76.2% support the idea of deploying NATO troops in Ukraine as a security guarantee.

Regarding elections during wartime, a total of 53.7% of respondents expressed a negative attitude towards holding elections before the end of hostilities, while 33.8% viewed the idea positively.

In the simulation of the first round of the presidential election, Volodymyr Zelensky (17.8%) and Valery Zaluzhny (16.6%) received the most support, followed by Kirill Budanov (7.3%), Petro Poroshenko (6.5%), and Dmytro Razumkov (5.4%). At the same time, 18.4% of respondents were undecided, and another 15.2% said they intended not to vote or to spoil their ballot.

Modeling of the second round shows Valery Zaluzhny leading against Volodymyr Zelensky with 38.5% to 26.7%, and against Kirill Budanov with 34.6% to 28.7%. According to the survey results, the most competitive scenario for the second round appears to be between Volodymyr Zelensky and Kirill Budanov: 32.1% would support Budanov, while 29.8% would support Zelensky.

In hypothetical parliamentary elections, Valery Zaluzhny's party leads (14.2%), ahead of Volodymyr Zelensky's party (10.4%) and European Solidarity (9.0%). Potential party projects associated with Kirill Budanov (9.3%) also show noticeable results. The share of those who are undecided is 17.8%.

The survey was conducted by Active Group using the SunFlower Sociology online panel. The method involved self-completion of questionnaires by Ukrainian citizens aged 18+. The sample consisted of 2,000 questionnaires, representative in terms of age, gender, and region of Ukraine. The theoretical error at a confidence level of 0.95 does not exceed 2.2%. The data collection period was December 21-23, 2025.
The force asked people to consider attending local events rather than heading into central London, which will be awash with thousands of people ringing in the new year on Wednesday December 31. It also suggested to only go to organised events.
He said: I am shaken that, just as I am being reunited with my family for the first time in 12 years, several historic tweets of mine have been republished and used to question and attack my integrity and values, escalating to calls for the revocation of my citizenship.
In a letter to Emily Thornberry, chairwoman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Ms Cooper said: In the context of rising antisemitism, and recent horrific attacks against Jewish people in this country and around the world, I am deeply concerned that the unexpected emergence of these historical tweets - coming alongside the social media posts that I and other senior politicians sent on Boxing Day welcoming the conclusion of this long-running case and Mr El Fattah's reunion with his family - have added to the distress felt by Jewish communities in the UK, and I very much regret that.
Dr Matt Nicholl, from the School of Mathematics and Physics at Queens, said it is expected to compile more astronomical data than has been available up to now, meaning it is no longer possible for scientists to search it manually.
China's AI shift moves from screens to shop floors

Xinhua) 08:30, December 29, 2025

A humanoid robot demonstrates its skill of folding a cloth at the 2025 World Internet Conference (2025 WIC) Light of Internet Expo in Wuzhen, east China's Zhejiang Province, Nov. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

BEIJING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- In early 2025, the Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) start-up DeepSeek grabbed headlines abroad with models promising high performance at a fraction of the usual cost. Yet while international discussion focused on how the company trained models and managed computing resources, another story has been unfolding inside China.

Largely invisible to outside eyes, algorithms have been quietly moving off screens and onto factory floors across workshops in the world's manufacturing powerhouse.

With robots handling much of the work around the clock, factories are increasingly deploying sensors to track steps of the assembly line, feeding streams of data into algorithms that adjust workflows and coordinate production in real time.

Analysts say AI's deeper integration into China's real economy is beginning to reshape industrial value chains, allowing manufacturers to capture more value beyond low-margin assembly and compete in higher-margin segments long dominated by global peers.

CHANGE IN MOTION

At the Maextro super factory in east China's Hefei city, jointly built by carmaker JAC Group and tech giant Huawei, dual-tone painting robots move with quiet precision, coating car bodies in two colors at once.

Robots are evolving from simple mechanical arms into AI-enabled intelligent systems with enhanced perception and decision-making capabilities, reflecting a broader shift from experience-driven production, long reliant on tacit human expertise, toward precision manufacturing.

"It took six months of training and refining AI models to achieve this level of precise control," said plant manager Wei Dawei.

Further south in Guangzhou, at GAC Aion's manufacturing plant, robotic arms operate in near-continuous motion along assembly lines, turning out a vehicle roughly every 53 seconds. The facility has earned a reputation as a "dark factory," where lights are rarely needed.

Across the country, similar "dark factories" are operating with minimal human supervision. At Yongsheng Rubber Group in east China's Shandong Province, automated guided vehicles and robotic arms now manage material transport and tire production, with over 95 percent of core equipment under numerical control.

Such changes are unfolding nationwide. Data from the International Federation of Robotics shows that China accounted for more than half of the world's newly installed industrial robots in 2024, surpassing Japan, the United States, and the Republic of Korea.

BOTS AND BRAINS

Industry observers say China's AI development reflects a pragmatic approach, pairing global advances in foundational models with domestic strengths in engineering and cost optimization, underpinned by a large engineering talent pool and a highly integrated industrial system.

"Supported by a growing ecosystem of open-source models, large model technology, just like water and electricity and the Internet, is increasingly becoming a convenient and widely accessible basic capability in China," Shao Yu, chief economist at the Innovation Center of School of Management of Fudan University, told Xinhua in an interview.

The application of AI in smart manufacturing is creating new opportunities for China's manufacturing sector to upgrade toward greater intelligence and higher-value-added production, said Wei Hongxu, a researcher with the Anbound think tank.

Its significance extends beyond upgrading alone, Wei noted. "More critically, it is improving efficiency and quality in traditional industries by enabling digitalized, data-driven production, thereby optimizing existing manufacturing capacity."

As a major manufacturing country, China has the world's most comprehensive industrial categories, which provides a vast array of application scenarios for various products, and a broader stage for the deployment of large language models in industrial settings, according to Zhu Qigui, associate director of the China Academy of Financial Research at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Zhu pointed to the country's 15 flagship smart factories spanning multiple key industries. "These factories are emerging not only as technology application benchmarks, but also as key nodes in industrial ecosystems, supporting the diffusion of mature solutions to smaller firms along the industrial chain," Zhu added.

Beyond factories and technologies, human capital plays a decisive role. A large pool of engineers, embedded in fast-growing sectors such as biotech, humanoid robotics, and AI applications, is helping translate innovative technologies into deployable, scalable solutions.

A report from the Development Research Center of the State Council shows that the number of engineers in China surged from around 5.21 million in 2000 to over 17.65 million in 2020. Their innovation capacity has supported rapid iteration across manufacturing, from electric vehicles and drones to consumer electronics, Shao added, citing enterprises such as DJI, Huawei and a new generation of AI and robotics firms.

STEP BY STEP

Given the complexity of manufacturing sub-sectors and multiple stages of production, analysts say the AI-driven smart manufacturing is necessarily a gradual, step-by-step process.

"Despite rapid progress, smart manufacturing continues to face significant challenges and remains short of full commercial maturity, limiting its potential for large-scale deployment," Wei noted. "Progress generally unfolds sector by sector, stage by stage, rather than through a sweeping rollout."

"Each incremental advance, however, can yield significant efficiency gains, demanding patience and confidence in the long-term potential of intelligent production," he added.

The recent Central Economic Work Conference has emphasized deepening and expanding the nationwide "AI Plus" initiative, echoing the actions outlined in a recommendations document for the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

Under the guidance of clear national strategies, the country's manufacturing sector is moving toward higher-value segments of the global value chain via the deep integration of digital technologies, such as AI, with industries, and the reconstruction and upgrading of industrial chain ecosystem, Zhu said.

According to the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, the scale of the country's core AI industry is expected to exceed 1.2 trillion yuan (about 170 billion U.S. dollars) in 2025, while the broader digital economy, fueled by the new generation of smart devices and intelligent systems, is expected to exceed 70 trillion yuan by 2030.

As 2025 draws to a close, the manufacturing sector's AI-driven transformation continues, with the potential to drive upstream and downstream industrial chains. "It could generate spillover effects and broader economic benefits that may extend beyond the development of large AI models," Shao added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Nathalie Agnew, managing director of the Muckle Media Group, said: Rounding up the top Scots on TikTok has become an activity we look forward to every year at Spey, and how fitting that this year we crown a creator whose content is focused on showcasing the best of Scottish culture.
Mr Bruton added: While the two incidents at the Magnox plants may be of relatively little radiological significance, the number of incidents within a relatively short period in the UK gives rise to continued concerns about the safety of the UKs nuclear industry and the potential for a serious accident with trans-boundary effects for Ireland.
Richard Linklater, Zoey Deutch and Guillaume Marbeck attend the Austin premiere of "Nouvelle Vague" on Oct. 27, 2025. Provided by Austin Film Society / Lauren Slusher

The same month that Richard Linklater walked the red carpet in France for the world premiere of his Nouvelle Vague at the Cannes Film Festival, film lovers gathered at the AFS Cinema in Austin to watch and discuss movies together. Aspiring producers and directors learned to work technical equipment, filmmakers tapped grant resources to evolve their craft, and the Austin Studios lot hosted the production of the Kevin Bacon feature Family Movie while preparing for a busy summer of commercial filming.

The snapshot from May offered a striking symmetry: a world-class filmmaker soaring at the height of his powers with a film celebrating the French New Wave, and the Austin Film Society  the nonprofit film organization he founded inspired in part by the 1960s French movement  marking its 40th birthday while thriving across multiple platforms dedicated to empowering filmmakers and building community.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Austin Studios is responsible for creating 45,000 jobs and generating $2.8 billion since 2000. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Austin Film Society leaders, left to right, Holly Herrick, head of film and creative media, Rebecca Campbell, CEO, and Martin C. Jones, head of Austin Studios, at Austin Studios on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A soundstage at Austin Studios, operated by the Austin Film Society in partnership with the City of Austin, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A soundstage at Austin Studios, operated by the Austin Film Society in partnership with the City of Austin, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A soundstage at Austin Studios, operated by the Austin Film Society in partnership with the City of Austin, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Soundstages at Austin Studios, operated by the Austin Film Society in partnership with the City of Austin, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Austin Studios, operated by the Austin Film Society in partnership with the City of Austin, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Linklater, who also released the Golden Globe-nominated Blue Moon, starring frequent collaborator Ethan Hawke, in 2025, acknowledged in the fall the correlation between his group of film freaks in Austin in the 1980s and the writers, critics and thinkers of France in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

I was just around people who loved movies. That's who influenced me," Linklater told the American-Statesman. "I had these mentors  these adults in my life  who had dedicated their lives to cinema and were taking it very seriously: writers, critics, teachers, people in academia.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

It's interesting to meet a cinephile as a young person, like, Oh, that's a pretty good way to process the world, you know?" he said. "It's like, yeah, film can be everything. I can be your whole life. People who dedicate their lives to this, they're probably looking for a subculture to live in.

Linklater founded AFS in 1985 as a way to screen and honor independent and world cinema, creating a gravitational center for Austins film subculture. Forty years later, AFS sits at the heart of independent cinema culture not only in Texas, but nationally and internationally.

AFS has created an ecosystem of filmmaking and film production that makes it a multifaceted organization, meaning different things to different people. The nonprofit generated $9 million in revenue in 2025, with Austin Studios and contributed income, largely from grants and private giving, each accounting for about one-third of that total.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

We are at the absolute peak of productivity and excitement and accomplishment, AFS CEO Rebecca Campbell, who has been with the organization since 1998, told the Statesman recently at the AFS offices in Mueller.

Third Coast

An Austin Studios bar set from "Walker," starring Jared Padalecki. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

The organization partnered with the city of Austin in 2000 to build Austin Studios on the large lot that sits on the former Mueller Airport site. AFS leases the land for $100 a year and has been home to the production of more than 1,000 shows, movies and commercials, with the studios responsible for creating 45,000 jobs and generating $2.8 billion in economic impact since its creation.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Austin has always had a pool of talented, imaginative and out-of-the-box thinkers driving our citys creative economy. That creativeness keeps Austin, Austin  and it's the reason our local film ecosystem is so vibrant, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, who was serving his first term when the deal was struck with the city 25 years ago, told the Statesman via email. The infrastructure we built back then to support our creative people has put Austin in the national spotlight for culture and film and has created countless opportunities for Austinites to build a life here and cultivate their talents.

Empowering filmmakers

Austin Film Society leaders, left to right, Holly Herrick, head of film and creative media; Rebecca Campbell, CEO, and Martin C. Jones, head of Austin Studios, at Austin Studios on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

AFS hosts intensive workshops, works-in-progress screenings and peer mentorship, and in 1996 launched the AFS Grant to support artists who are underrepresented in the film industry and working outside major industry centers.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The funds empower filmmakers to develop their voices, finance their films, buy equipment and pay for travel to film festivals. Attend any major film festival in the United States and it is common to see the AFS logo attached to indie films in competition.

AFS created an Artist Intensive in 2022, a five-day retreat focused on script and production development, with established filmmakers  including Linklater  serving as mentors for emerging filmmakers.

Alex Chew, co-founder of the Black Auteur Film Festival and Sequence 8 Films, a production company focused on strong female leads, misfits and antiheroes, was one of three participants in the 2025 intensive.

It meant to me that they saw potential in the project and wanted to support me as an artist, which meant a lot, said Chew, who workshopped her forthcoming feature Bluegrass Radio at the retreat, which echoes the development work of the Sundance Institutes Lab.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Holly Herrick, AFS head of film and creative media, who joined AFS in 2012, said that in an era of streaming and media consolidation, finding ways to amplify smaller voices and stories relegated to the margins of traditional Hollywood is more critical than ever.

I think the profit margins in the industry have changed significantly. It takes power and effort to have those stories reach audiences, and I think that big companies aren't interested in that, Herrick told the Statesman. We're proud to be in Austin, and we're proud to be an organization doing this work in Texas, because there are so many stories here and there's such a sense of Texas pride. In spite of everything going on in the world, there are things that unify us as a state, and part of what we're doing by being a hub for filmmakers and by serving filmmakers statewide is contributing to this idea that Texans have a lot that we can share, including our stories.

Training reels

Soundstages at Austin Studios, operated by the Austin Film Society in partnership with the City of Austin, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

You dont need an impressive resume  or even prior camera experience  to begin a filmmaking career with AFS. The organization has held a contract for about a decade with the city of Austin that pays AFS $925,000 to operate Austin Public, an umbrella encompassing three public-access channels airing content-neutral programming.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Any resident of the Greater Austin area can apply to be a producer or director at Austin Public. The number of locals working in production through the program has grown from 150 to 700 since AFS won the contract. Austin Public trains those producers, who, for a nominal fee, gain access to state-of-the-art equipment, studio space and content distribution for their own work.

It started to be a hub for filmmakers and for young creatives who were trying to get their foot in the door, trying to make work, Herrick said. People get free use of the equipment and we started seeing that was leading to other jobs for them.

AFS also develops talents and encourages filmmaking as a profession through a three-track Creative Careers program.

The film nonprofit offers six-month internships for people ages 18 to 24, three months of stipend-paid immersive training for participants 18 and older, and free continuing education programming for professionals seeking to expand their skills. Nearly 200 people have completed the program in its five-year existence.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

It's not just for the industry to come here and make movies. It is for the stories that are from here to have a platform and to have support, Herrick said. It's always that idea: There are voices that are not being heard. There are stories, there are filmmakers everywhere.

In a romantic full-circle scenario, one day a filmmaker who received training or financial support from AFS might see their debut feature screen at the AFS Cinema. The complex at the Linc in North Austin has been the public-facing jewel of AFS since 2017, bringing filmmakers and audiences together in shared passion.

Take a bow

Guillaume Marbeck, Zoey Deutch and Richard Linklater attend the Austin premiere of "Nouvelle Vague" on Oct. 27, 2025. Provided by Austin Film Society / Lauren Slusher

Linklater and the stars of Nouvelle Vague raised the curtain on the Austin premiere of the black-and-white Golden Globe nominee at a packed AFS Cinema in October.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Anticipatory audiences filled the lobby before the screening and returned afterward to discuss the film following a Q&A with Linklater and the cast  a grander echo of gatherings at the Dobie Theater from years earlier.

Although Linklaters film was the focus, he seemed as energized by the collective love of cinema in the room as by the acclaim directed at him. The moment underscored the unifying, propulsive force that began with a handful of enthusiasts and grew into an institution of international renown.

I'm here at the American French Film Festival, and all these French people come up to me, Linklater said. To them, the Austin Film Society is internationally renowned. I can't tell you how much it means to them, what it represents in film.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad
Fireworks are released over the downtown skyline during Austin's New Year at Auditorium Shores, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. SARA DIGGINS/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Austin will ring in 2026 with a familiar mix: live music, fireworks over Lady Bird Lake, and a national TV audience watching us do it. This years Austins New Year celebration doubles as CNNs Central Time Zone headquarters, with anchors, musicians and a few celebrity cameos for the countdown.

Now, Austins New Year isnt trying to outdo Times Square  and thats kind of the point. The free, all-ages event takes place Dec. 31 at Auditorium Shores. Indie folk mainstays The Head and the Heart headline a lineup stacked with local talent, while CNN correspondents Sara Sidner and Cari Champion broadcast live from the park as part of New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. Translation: Austin gets its moment, and its being televised.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Who's performing  and who's popping up on TV

Flavor Flav attends the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 22, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. David Becker - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images

The nights music is Austin-forward, with performances by The Point, Tameca Jones and Chaparelle before a headlining set from The Head and the Heart. Just before midnight, the crowd gets a drone show followed by fireworks. On screen, CNNs coverage brings a bigger celebrity orbit. Sidner and Champion will anchor the Central Time Zone countdown live from Auditorium Shores, with interviews and appearances that include Flavor Flav and Ariana Madix.

Elsewhere on CNNs nationwide broadcast, Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen will be bouncing between performances and cameos from a truly chaotic lineup that includes Shakira, Florence + The Machine, Patti LaBelle, Hugh Jackman, Stephen Colbert and more.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

When and where

Downtown Austin fireworks closing out the 2016 and welcoming the New Year 2017 for the tens of thusands attending the festivities at Auditorium Shores on Saturday December 31, 2016. JOHN GUTIERREZ / FOR AMERICAN-STATESMAN JOHN GUTIERREZ, JOHN GUTIERREZ / FOR AMERICAN-ST

Gates open at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Schedule highlights include:

711:45 p.m.: Live music (The Point, Tameca Jones, Chaparelle, The Head and the Heart)

Live music (The Point, Tameca Jones, Chaparelle, The Head and the Heart) 11:4511:55 p.m.: Drone show

Drone show 11:30 p.m.midnight (TV): Fireworks and CNN broadcasts the Central Time Zone countdown live from Auditorium Shores

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

How to attend, what to know before you go

Blankets and chairs are allowed at Auditorium Shores, but pets are not, except for trained service animals. The event will feature entrances on the east and west ends of the park, and all bags will be subject to search. Outside alcohol, glass, fireworks and sparklers are prohibited. A range of food trucks and bars will be on site  including Amys Ice Cream, ChiLantro BBQ, Garbos Lobster and T-Locs Sonora Hot Dogs  with alcoholic beverages available for guests 21 and older.

Getting there is easiest without a car: CapMetro is offering free rides after 5 p.m. on Dec. 31, with rail service extended until 2:30 a.m., and the hike-and-bike trail will be open for those walking or biking in. Parking will be limited and congested, with garages available at the Palmer Events Center, City Hall and One Texas Center, and no parking allowed in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood.

Expect road closures on West Riverside Drive from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. and on South First Street between Cesar Chavez and Riverside from 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., while Lady Bird Lake will be closed to all watercraft from 10:30 p.m. until 1 a.m.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

How to watch from your couch

CNNs New Years Eve coverage airs across TV, digital and social platforms.
Several popular dishes are served at Le Calamar on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman

The best new restaurants (and food trailers) in Austin in 2025 tell a story of reinvention, creative entrepreneurship, risk-taking and nostalgic comfort during a time of unease.

These independent businesses deliver flavors from France and Cambodia, along with Louisiana and San Francisco. Together, they signal that the city and its dining scene are growing in exciting ways. The places on this list offer both nights for a big splurge and options for daily dishes with enough exit velocity to escape the mundanity of everyday life.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

(Restaurants must have opened by Oct. 31 to be included on this list. The roster does not include second locations or relocations of some of my favorites, such as Allday Pizza in Hyde Park or Dee Dee Thai at its new Leona Botanical Cafe and Bar in Sunset Valley. As always, the American-Statesman pays for all of my meals, which I arrive at unannounced. For my list of the Top 40 Restaurants in Austin, visit Statesman.com/restaurants and for a compendium of restaurants by genre and location, visit Statesman.com/best-restaurants.)

1. Le Calamar

Executive chef Casey Wall has helped make Le Calamar one of the top restaurants in Austin. Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman

No new restaurant made me feel more at home in 2025. Yes, it was the comforting richness of one of the best roast chickens and punchy steak au poivre dishes in town, but also the thoughtful beverage pairings, the friendly staff, cool soundtrack and Western-meets-French saloon style of it all.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The curries and sauces elevate the fried chicken at Kai Zabb to extraordinary heights. MATTHEW ODAM/AMERICAN-STATESMAN Pastas are the center of attention at Rocco's on Airport Boulevard. PROVIDED BY JUSTIN COOK

Owners Richard Hargreave and Claudia Lee pivoted from their short-lived Korean-inspired Underdog and turned to the right man to partner on their new path. Chef Casey Wall, a North Carolinian by way of Australia, cares about ingredients and their provenance, as evidenced by the tomatoes in a zippy summer salad and the sustainable Gulf fish that centers a Texan take on a brown-butter almondine stunner.

The reinvention landed Le Calamar in the Statesman's Top 10 restaurants of 2025. Thank goodness for second chances. 1600 S. First St. Suite 100, le-calamar.com.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

2. Parish Barbecue

The shells and cheese, pork ribs, and ham at Parish Barbecue are all standouts. MATTHEW ODAM/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

The best new barbecue offering of 2025 in Austin, pitmaster Holden Fulco's Parish Barbecue is not bound by the traditions of the Lone Star State. As the logo on the back of the maroon trailer behind Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches hints, Fulco is from Louisiana, and he brought some of the boot with him to Texas when he moved here about a decade ago.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The ham, cured with pink salt, brown sugar and fennel seed, and glazed with a mixture of Steens Pure Cane Syrup and vinegar, Creole mustard, orange juice, and pepper jelly honors the joints the Louisiana native visited in his youth. The Shreveport native is one of the few folks in the state serving duck, and that unique offering  confit, smoked, shredded from the bone and mixed with orange juice, orange zest and cane vinegar  makes for a great alternative to pulled pork. 3220 Manor Road. 512-596-1913, parishbarbecue.com.

3. Fish Shop

Rolls stuffed with shrimp and crab are two of the stars at Fish Shop's lunch service. MATTHEW ODAM/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Austinites often tell me how much they love seafood and wish we had more seafood spots. (I then send them my list of Top 10 Seafood Restaurants in Austin.) But I wonder what they mean by seafood restaurants.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

There are the Gulf places with fishing nets hanging from the ceiling, the Asian-flavored spots with voluminous menus, and jewel box oyster bars echoing New York or New Orleans, but I wonder if any of them ever imagined something like Fish Shop. Whether they did or not, they will likely be charmed by it.

A tight space colored with tiles and subtle nods to coastal life without approaching camp, the restaurant looks like it would be right at home in San Francisco or Portland, Maine, and a velvety crudo dish sheened with oil and dotted capers places one in the former while a creamy crab roll spilling from a toasted bun locates you in the latter.

The kitchen from chef-owner Justin Huffman still manages to remind diners theyre in Texas, with a sweet trio of grilled and flayed shrimp nestled on mole pipian and a pozole verde special studded with tender seafood. And, despite the elite provenance of some of the coastal catch, Fish Shop is willing to play the high-low game with a hulking golden fried fish sandwich and one of the citys best burgers tasting like the imagined McDonalds of your childhood. 1401 E. Sixth St. #201, fishshopatx.com.

4. Blue Apsara

Cambodian chicken curry at Blue Apsara. MATTHEW ODAM/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Stare into the ruddy chicken curry, glowing with turmeric, as wafts of lemongrass-scented vapors envelop your senses and three things will not rush to mind: computer systems, Covid or Michigan. But they all had something to do with the restorative dish from the Cambodian trailer on South Lamar Boulevard.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Kim Chhim and his wife, Rabou Kim, left their home of 40 years in Michigan and moved to Austin earlier this year and opened their first food business, serving the cuisine of their native Cambodia. It is a marked change for Kim Chhim, who worked as a chemist and computer networking professional for decades.

While working from home during the early years of the pandemic, the couple perfected dishes like a tender weeping tiger steak marinated in the umami embrace of oyster, fish and soy sauces and piqued with a tangy and sour sauce; as well as a well developed special of chicken rice soup packed with dark meat chicken and a tickle of ginger. 1904. S. Lamar Blvd. blueapsarakitchen.square.site.

5. Roccos

Pastas at Rocco's are as sauced as Dean Martin. PROVIDED BY ROCCO'S

If the Sopranos hadnt concluded in that New Jersey diner, Tony could have very easily died (or whatever happened to him!) at a place like Roccos. At least he would have gone with a smile on his face. And with almost no chance of Journey playing in the background.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

But I come here to praise Roccos, not to bury Tony.

With its dropped ceiling, chiaroscuro lighting, tight quarters, warm wood paneling, black-and-white family photos, neon signage and Italian wine list, Roccos looks like the Italian-American trattoria of your (and David Chases) fantasy.

But its the warmth of the place and its comforting dishes, not the vision board or design budget, that give the neighborhood haunt from chef Nicholas Ford and partner Wade McElroy its identity. You can catch glimpses of dishes coming out of the kitchen, as knowledgeable and friendly servers who seem as happy to be there as you move at frenetic pace, and pastas more sauced than Dean Martin start landing on your table.

Tender meatballs in a sweet tomato gravy that tastes like it was made by a nona who wouldnt know Instagram if it plucked a hairpin from her perm, an oversized Caesar showered in cheese, crackling arrancini, and rich casarecce alla Bolognese are a few of the dishes youll be passing around your packed table at the usually crowded walk-in-only spot that benefits from a built-in waiting space at the charming, airy and unaffiliated Flourish Plant Shop & Wine bar next door. 5001 Airport Blvd. roccosatx.com.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

6. Kai Zabb Thai

Kai Zabb. The Thai name translates to "delicious chicken in English, and that gets to the heart of it at this trailer near McNeil Drive and U.S. 183.

Woravit Insee and Nannaphat Pumtong worked at restaurants and trailers including Sip Saam Thai and Dang Hot before deciding to open this trailer centered around complex, homemade sauces and fried chicken.

Nannaphat Pumtong says the fried chicken is meant to be a relatable point of entry for the broad dining public, and the tenders  coated in a crackling coat and fried to a juicy finish  make great delivery systems for some of the best curries and sauces in Austin.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Dip the pieces in the pungent zabb sauce  which with its fish sauce, onions, rice powder, lime juice, mint and cilantro tastes like the essence of Thailand  or the creamy coconut-based panaeng curry brimming with lemongrass and carefully selected kaffir lime.

And, if you think you can't get warm hospitality from a trailer experience, get back to me after you visit Kai Zabb. 7221 McNeil Drive, 512-620-1501, kaizabb.com.

7. Smalls Pizza

Small's Pizza operates out of a walk-up window at Springdale General in East Austin. MATTHEW ODAM/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Connecticut native and longtime Austin restaurant veteran Kelsey Small found a space all to his own, moving his itinerant pop-up to the court at Springdale General.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Smalls turns out 16 pies fired in ovens lined with thick brick. While its not the coal-fired pies of the chefs home state, it does have deeply charred, bubbled edges and a firm crunch with hints of flintiness. The simple cheese gives you a great opportunity to taste the toasty dough, punchy tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella dusted with a bit of pecorino.

But if you want to go big, get the anchovy pizza. The tinned Sicilian fish lend plenty of saltiness to the shiny sauce perked with capers and prickly with garlic and chili flakes. A classic root beer float helps calm things down. Small intends to add a wine bar and dedicated dining room in 2026. 1023 Springdale Road, #1D. 203-903-1224, smalls.pizza.

8. The Kimberly

Beef Wellington at The Kimberly. PROVIDED BY RONNY GALDAMEZ

John Carver has done so well with the pasta and steaks at Red Ash and the beef and seafood at J. Carvers, that it only makes sense for the chef and restaurateur to blend those strengths and reframe them at his third downtown hit, one of the Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants in Austin.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The Kimberly, part Gatsby and part midcentury modern, looks like the kind of steakhouse youd expect to find in a four-star hotel in downtown Chicago. The menu carries that same old-school, big-city boldness, with roasted lobster tails sumptuous with bone marrow, duck confit, cappelletti with braised beef, and hand-cut, dry-aged steaks sourced from Fred Linz in, yep, Chicago. 200 W. Sixth St. Suite 100. 512-628-8258, thekimberly.com.
Gusto Italian Kitchen on Burnet Road is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Employees from three Austin restaurants operated by Flavor Hospitality Group are raising concerns about allegedly unpaid wages ahead of the holiday season, according to a GoFundMe posted Saturday morning. Staff from Gusto Italian Kitchen, Ginas on Congress and Gracia Mediterranean claim multiple payroll checks were returned unpaid before Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The GoFundMe organizer, beverage and operations manager Christian De La Fuente, wrote that Flavor Hospitality Group owner Cameron Lockley has not responded to calls and messages since the incident.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

This fundraiser exists for one reason: to help make workers whole, De La Fuente wrote in the GoFundMe. Every dollar raised will go directly toward paying the wages owed to the staff and contractors who were affected  who relied on this income and were blindsided at the worst possible time of year.

Gracia Mediterranean on Burnet Road is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Gina's employee Deven Mollinedo shared an internal message with the American-Statesman stating that Lockley would be stepping down from Flavor Hospitality Group following a sudden medical emergency and that all restaurants would be going through a "restructuring plan." The message said the restaurants would be closed Dec. 25 through Jan. 2.

Ginas on Congress is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Ginas on Congress is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Ginas on Congress is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

De La Fuente and Flavor operations director Amy Sherman spoke with investors in the three restaurants, all of which are under different LLCs, De La Fuente told the Statesman. Sherman said the passive investors from Ginas on Congress said they did not have any money to give and that they had lost money as well, since their investment was paid up front.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

According to De La Fuente, Lockley has since resurfaced saying he is willing to help and apologized to Sherman, saying that he "found himself in a hole." She added that employees from all three restaurants have filed $20,000 in lost-wage claims with the Texas Workforce Commission.

Gracia Mediterranean on Burnet Road is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

De la Fuente said Lockley repeatedly lied to staff by saying there were no issues. Lockley was the only person who controlled bookkeeping and payroll, he said. Sherman and Lockley are scheduled to speak through their lawyers Monday.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Currently conversations are being held to assess the status of the business and with full transparency  at this time it is unclear what the path forward is," Flavor Hospitality Group told the Statesman in a statesman Tuesday. "We currently are working with professionals to help gauge what the best next step is to honor our staff and community.

"We are committed to working towards a resolution to all issues at hand and to doing what is right. The goal is to have more information in the upcoming days.

Gusto Italian Kitchen on Burnet Road is closed Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

On Gusto Italian Kitchens social media post announcing the hiatus, one commenter criticized the lack of notice to patrons with existing reservations.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

We had a reservation for Saturday night 27. We never got a cancellation email or call. We arrived and no cars but the lights were on. We walked in and not one person in sight. No one there but the door was unlocked. We then saw the closed sign. I was about to call the police to make sure everything was ok.

As of Monday morning, the GoFundMe had had raised $160 toward its $25,000 goal.
Travelers wait in a security line that overflowed outside the terminal at AustinBergstrom International Airport on the day after the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Monday, Oct. 20, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

After briefly losing the position in January 2024 population estimates, Austin has returned to being the fourth-most-populous city in Texas.

Two years ago, Fort Worth overtook the state capital in population estimates by nearly 3,000 residents. Between 2020 and 2024, Fort Worth's population growth rate of 7.7% nearly tripled Austins 2.6% growth rate. However, July 2024 and January 2025 estimates show Austin reclaiming the No. 4 spot.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Population figures for Texas counties and places from July 1, 2024, and Jan. 1, 2025, were collected in the Texas Demographic Center's 2024 Population Estimates report. All five of the state's most populous cities saw larger percent increases from 2020 to 2025 than from 2020 to 2024.



As in 2024, Houston (3.4%) and Dallas (2.6%) again posted the lowest growth rates among the states five most populous cities in 2025, while Fort Worth (11.1%) once more recorded the largest increase.

Here's a look at the latest Texas population estimates for cities and counties.

5 most populous Texas cities in January 2025

No. 1: Houston

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

2020 census count: 2,304,580

July 2024 population estimate: 2,366,496

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 2,383,293

2020-2024 percent change: 2.7%

2020-2025 percent change: 3.4%

No. 2: San Antonio

2020 census count: 1,434,625

July 2024 population estimate: 1,535,884

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 1,554,626

2020-2024 percent change: 7.1%

2020-2025 percent change: 8.4%

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

No. 3: Dallas

2020 census count: 1,304,379

July 2024 population estimate: 1,331,014

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 1,338,750

2020-2024 percent change: 2.0%

2020-2025 percent change: 2.6%

No. 4: Austin

2020 census count: 961,855

July 2024 population estimate: 1,033,097

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 1,054,007

2020-2024 percent change: 7.4%

2020-2025 percent change: 9.6%

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

No. 5: Fort Worth

2020 census count: 918,915

July 2024 population estimate: 1,009,064

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 1,020,987

2020-2024 percent change: 9.8%

2020-2025 percent change: 11.1%

5 most populous Texas counties in January 2025

A graphic shows percent population changes across Texas counties, 2020-2024. Texas Demographic Center/Vintage 2024 Population Estimates

As on the city level, the top 10 most populous Texas counties also saw more growth between 2020 and 2025 than between 2020 and 2024. With the exception of Tarrant County, the five with the most residents are also home to the five most populous cities.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

No. 1: Harris

2020 census count: 4,731,145

July 2024 population estimate: 4,959,499

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 5,003,892

2020-2024 percent change: 4.8%

2020-2025 percent change: 5.8%

No. 2: Dallas

2020 census count: 2,613,539

July 2024 population estimate: 2,676,611

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 2,691,548

2020-2024 percent change: 2.4%

2020-2025 percent change: 3.0%

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

No. 3: Tarrant

2020 census count: 2,110,640

July 2024 population estimate: 2,230,708

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 2,245,229

2020-2024 percent change: 5.7%

2020-2025 percent change: 6.4%

No. 4: Bexar

2020 census count: 2,009,324

July 2024 population estimate: 2,145,871

Jan. 2025 population estimate: 2,167,567

2020-2024 percent change: 6.8%

2020-2025 percent change: 7.9%

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

No. 5: Travis
The Williamson County sheriff's office has charged a man with attempting to kidnap a teenage girl at a park outside Georgetown. Handout

A man has been charged with attempting to kidnap a teenage girl at Berry Springs Park outside of Georgetown after onlookers detained him, officials said.

Christopher Garza, 28, of Georgetown, was arrested Saturday, the Williamson County sheriff's office said in a social media post Monday. Garza also was charged with failure to identify.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The sheriff's office received a 911 call at 1:26 p.m. Saturday about the incident, the post said.

It said that when deputies arrived, they saw Garza being restrained by multiple witnesses in the park. The witnesses reported that they saw Garza trying to kidnap the teen, officials said. The deputies arrested Garza and took him to a hospital for treatment of injuries he received before law enforcement arrived, the sheriff's office said.

No details were released in the post about how Garza received the injuries.

The Williamson County sheriff's office said the attempted kidnapping was an isolated incident.

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

"I would like to commend and thank the citizens who intervened and acted swiftly to protect a child from harm," Sheriff Matt Lindemann said in the post. "While incidents like this are rare in Williamson County, it is truly a blessing that the citizens in the park responded quickly and decisively to ensure a childs safety.
James Murphey of Home Medical Equipment by Kerring Group talks to Charles David Wicks about his new scooter that was donated through the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman

Charles David Wicks was like a kid in a candy store Tuesday when Family Eldercare brought in Christmas gifts that Statesman readers had given him.

Wicks is part of the Statesman's Season for Caring program, which highlights the needs of 12 families or individuals every year and raises funds to help their nonprofit agencies support them and other clients throughout the year.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Wicks, 66, had been homeless for several years after he damaged his feet while working at the airport.

"There are a lot of people who care about you even though they have never met you," said Anna Madrigal of Family Eldercare as she began to stack all the gifts donated through Wicks' Amazon wish list.

Each present was carefully wrapped by Family Eldercare staff.

Charles David Wicks looks at all the presents donated by the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman

"I've never seen so many gifts," Wicks said. It had been probably two decades since someone had given him a wrapped gift for him to open, he said.

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

With each gift, he was joyful. "I've never seen so much. Now what is this? This is beautiful," he said about a shirt he received.

"I don't know what it is, but it is beautiful," he said of the non-slip bath mat.

"Boy, I needed that," he said of a box of three pairs of compression socks. "She put the last one I had on," he said of the nurse who comes weekly. His Medicaid only pays for a certain number of the socks, which is not enough.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Charles David Wicks tries on a polo shirt donated by the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman

When he opened a gray and black polo shirt, he said, "Thank you. Thank you. I love it. I love it. Love it, love it." Then he put it on over his clothing. "I'm ready to wear it, he said. "That matches everything."

He pulled out a wool coat. "This is beautiful. Merry Christmas. ... I can go to church with that," he said. "I'm ready for anything now!"

To the guests who had brought him the gifts, he again and again asked, can I get you something? There's some waters on the table for you. And he pulled out mandarin oranges from his bag, one for each person.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

"Charles is a great host," Madrigal said. "Every time, I leave with a little mandarin orange."

Charles David Wicks gets excited by the presents donated by the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman

But the biggest surprise was yet to come. James Murphey of Home Medical Equipment by Kerrington Group drove a blue Golden Buzzaround scooter up the impossibly high ramp and into his apartment,

"We've got a little something here for you," Murphey said.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

"Look at that! It is beautiful," Wicks said. "Look how nice it is. ... It's like a car. This is a big, beautiful gift."

He tested it out driving it around the living room and into the bedroom. Murphey went over how to charge it and the safety features.

"This fits wonderfully," Wicks said as he sat up tall in his scooter.

Charles David Wicks learns to drive his scooter in his living room on Tuesday. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman

Reader Laurie Drucker, who has been a longtime Season for Caring donor, purchased the scooter for him and had it delivered to his home. She wasn't able to be there on Tuesday, but Wicks wanted her to know: "Laurie really helped me. It's a blessing."

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Charles David Wicks opened presents donated by the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. It was the first time in about 20 years he had a wrapped gift to unwrap. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman James Murphey of Home Medical Equipment by Kerring Group shows Charles David Wicks how to work his new scooter on Tuesday. He'll be able to take around his apartment complex and on short trips to the store across the street. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman Charles David Wicks tests out his new scooter in his living room on Tuesday. He'll be able to take around his apartment complex and on short trips to the store across the street. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman Michael Edwards of Home Medical Equipment by Kerring Group gets ready to unload a scooter for Charles David Wicks, who is part of the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman Charles David Wicks shows one of the shirts he received as part of the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. Many of his clothing was damaged by a flood in his apartment. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman Charles David Wicks looks at a wool coat donated by the Statesman Season for Caring program on Tuesday. He said he'll be able to go to church wearing that coat. Nicole Villalpando/American-Statesman

And to all the donors: "This is just a wonderful rainbow of presents, and all the blessings I needed," he said. Once he gets a hip replacement he plans to do what he can to help others, he said.

For Madrigal, getting to witness the outpouring for Wicks has been memorable. "I can't express how grateful I am for the kindness and generosity I witness through Season for Caring," she said. "So many older neighbors like Charles are home alone for the holidays. This surprise is going to make him feel so special and cared for."

Having the scooter gets him one step closer to being able to get himself to the grocery store across from his apartment or to the mailbox. The next step is a more accessible apartment.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Madrigal is trying to work with Wicks' apartment complex to move him back into an accessible apartment that has wider doors and does not have the scary ramp that is not safe for Wicks to go up and down without help and is also not safe for him to use his walker or new scooter on. He was moved out of an accessible apartment when his upstairs neighbor had a leak that flooded his apartment.

He still has a couple of other things on his wish list including bedding, a microwave, an adjustable height shower head and an anti-slip rug. To give one of these items or to find out more, contact Family Eldercare 512-450-0844, familyeldercare.org.

Statesman Season for Caring logo American-Statesman

About Season for Caring

The Statesman is sharing the stories of all 12 Season for Caring families through Jan. 31. Find more stories at statesman.com/seasonforcaring.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

You can donate online or use the coupon on Page 2B and mail it to Austin Community Foundation, c/o Statesman Season for Caring, 4315 Guadalupe St., Suite 300, Austin, TX 78751. Make checks payable to Statesman Season for Caring.

Use the form below or click here:https://statesmansfc.kimbia.com/statesmanseasonforcaring
China will deliver humanitarian aid to Cambodia for displaced people along border: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 08:53, December 29, 2025

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

KUNMING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to provide humanitarian supplies to Cambodia for the settlement of displaced people in border areas, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Sunday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Following the signing of a joint statement agreeing to a ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are leading delegations to meet in Yunnan from Dec. 28 to 29 at the invitation of Wang.

China has been closely following the tense situation on the Cambodia-Thailand border and remained committed to facilitating peace through talks, Wang said, adding that China congratulates both sides on the ceasefire agreement.

The ceasefire marks the beginning of peacebuilding, Wang said, calling on the two sides to proceed in a phased and measured approach to promote a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire, restore normal interactions, rebuild mutual trust, achieve turnaround in bilateral relations, and uphold peace and stability in the region.

He said that both countries can make good use of this face-to-face opportunity for diplomatic and military representatives to engage in dialogue and communication in a flexible manner, enhance understanding, and establish mutual trust.

China supports ASEAN in playing its due role and stands ready to provide assistance to the ASEAN observation mission in monitoring the ceasefire, Wang said.

China also hopes Cambodia will continue to enhance protection of Chinese citizens and projects in the country, he added.

For his part, Sokhonn said that the Cambodian side highly appreciates the positive role played by China in mediating the conflict, including the meeting of the foreign ministers of Cambodia, China and Thailand, as well as shuttle mediation conducted by the Chinese special envoy.

Thanks to the joint efforts of China and other parties, Cambodia and Thailand convened a General Border Committee meeting, and the two militaries signed a ceasefire agreement, he said.

Sokhonn said that looking ahead, Cambodia is willing to work together with Thailand to fully implement the ceasefire agreement, make effective use of various dialogue mechanisms, and continuously enhance mutual trust between the two countries and their armed forces. Cambodia looks forward to the early arrival of the dawn of peace and hopes that this trilateral meeting will contribute to rebuilding lasting peace.

With regards to bilateral relations, the two sides agreed that under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, the building of an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era has made positive progress. The Cambodian side thanked China for its support and assistance to Cambodia's development, and said that China is the most reliable and most trustworthy partner, adding the Cambodian side will firmly adhere to the one-China principle, oppose "Taiwan independence," and support China's reunification.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Camila "Cami" Mendoza Olmos, 19, went missing from her San Antonio home early on Dec. 24, 2025. Authorities believe she is in imminent danger and may no longer be in the country. Bexar County Sheriff's Office/Facebook

The CLEAR Alert for a missing San Antonio woman has been discontinued after police discovered a body Tuesday afternoon.

In a Tuesday evening press conference, Sheriff Javier Salazar confirmed a joint team of Bexar County deputies and FBI agents found the body in a field near Mendoza Olmos' San Antonio home. He also said it was too early to identify the body as that of Camila Cami Mendoza Olmos, 19, who had went missing from home early on Christmas Eve.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

However, a source told the San Antonio Express-News that the human remains had been positively identified as belonging to Mendoza Olmos. The Bexar County Medical Examiner made a positive identification Tuesday evening, matching clothes found to those Mendoza Olmos was wearing when she went missing on Christmas Eve, according to Mandy Albritton with Texas EquuSearch. She said the teen's family has been notified of the positive ID.

"At this point, we don't suspect foul play," Salazar said.

Authorities had learned of "suicidal ideations on Camila's part" during the search, according to the sheriff, who previously told the media that she had struggled with depression and self-harm in the past.

Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source

-- Annasofia Scheve of The San Antonio Express-News contributed to this story.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Below is the original story.

A missing Texas teen is gaining national attention as authorities say she is believed to be in imminent danger and may be outside the U.S.

Camila Cami Mendoza Olmos, 19, went missing on Christmas Eve. She was last seen leaving her San Antonio home just before 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 24 and is now the subject of a Texas CLEAR Alert.

Officials described Mendoza Olmos as a Hispanic woman who stands at 5'4 and weighs 110 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen at the 11000 block of Caspian Spring in northwest Bexar County, wearing a baby blue pajama set with shorts, a black North Face hoodie with baby blue accents, and white shoes.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

According to the Bexar County Sheriffs Office, an individual believed to be Mendoza Olmos was captured on video footage searching inside her vehicle for an unknown item. Although the footage ends, police suspect she left the residence on foot because the vehicle stayed at the location. Mendoza Olmos was likely carrying only her car key and possibly her drivers license.

Camila "Cami" Mendoza Olmos, 19, went missing from her San Antonio home early on Dec. 24, 2025. Authorities believe she is in imminent danger and may no longer be in the country. Bexar County Sheriff's Office/Facebook

Mendoza Olmos' mother told authorities the teen usually goes on morning walks. When Mendoza Olmos didnt come back after a reasonable period of time, her mother became concerned.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The Bexar County Sheriffs Office is asking anyone with information regarding Mendoza Olmos' whereabouts to call them at (210) 335-6000. The BCSOs Missing Persons Unit can also be contacted at missingpersons@bexar.org.

If you see Mendoza Olmos, call 911 immediately

Police: Missing Texas teens in 'imminent danger' may be outside US

On Dec. 28, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar told ABC News sheriffs deputies and volunteers have been consistently searching for Mendoza Olmos. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is providing technical assistance, while the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) monitors border crossings and international travel.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

We definitely dont want to miss anything, Salazar said. The ground search is somewhat limited to a couple of square miles. Were also not ruling out that this case may take us outside the borders of the continental United States.

As of Dec. 28, officials had not ruled out any causes for Mendoza Olmos' disappearance, including kidnapping, human trafficking or her willingly leaving the area. Although shed had a romantic relationship end recently, Salazar said the breakup was mutual. Authorities said nothing nefarious is suspected to be involved regarding the breakup, and all the individuals close to Mendoza Olmos are cooperating.

Camila "Cami" Mendoza Olmos, 19, went missing from her San Antonio home early on Dec. 24, 2025. Authorities believe she is in imminent danger and may no longer be in the country. Bexar County Sheriff's Office/Facebook

Salazar also told ABC News he had confirmed the teen had not been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), even though Mendoza Olmos is a U.S. citizen.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

That was a personal concern, Salazar said. So, I had it checked to make sure that there were no stops, no detentions and that shes not somewhere in a federal detention facility. That is something we needed to check.

The sheriff also said it was out of character for Mendoza Olmos to leave her phone at home, adding she engages in an active lifestyle and her not returning is highly unusual.

Some details of the investigation were not disclosed; however, Salazar told ABC News that there is enough evidence to imply Mendoza Olmos is in imminent danger.

What is a CLEAR Alert?

A CLEAR Alert is used to help locate missing or kidnapped adults or those in life-or-death situations, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The acronym stands for "Coordinated Law Enforcement Adult Rescue." The following requirements are needed for a person to fall under the alert:

Advertisement Article continues below this ad
NW China's Tarim oilfield breaks record with annual solar power generation surpassing 2 billion kWh

09:02, December 29, 2025 By Li Yawei ( Global Times

This aerial photo taken on November 4, 2023 shows a major gas and oil processing station in the Fuman oilfield in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The Fuman oilfield, China's largest ultra-deep oilfield, located in the Tarim Basin, boasts more than 1 billion tonnes of oil and gas resources, which are mainly detected underground at 7,500 meters to 10,000 meters deep. Photo: Xinhua

China's largest ultra-deep oil and gas production base, the Tarim oilfield, which is also the main gas source for China's west-to-east gas transmission project, has achieved an annual photovoltaic power generation exceeding 2 billion kilowatt-hours, with daily peak generation surpassing 10 million kilowatt-hours, China Central Television (CCTV) News reported on Sunday, citing data from PetroChina.

It marks the formation of the coordinated energy development of oil, gas and clean renewable energy in the heart of the Taklimakan Desert in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where the Tarim oilfield is located. It is also another significant advancement in the country's expanding adoption of clean energy, analysts said.

Within the Tarim oilfield, five large-scale solar power stations have been built, with a cumulative installed generation capacity of 2.6 gigawatts.

Also, full-scale construction of a 100-megawatt photovoltaic project in Xinjiang's Luntai county, located on the northern edge of the Taklimakan Desert, has recently commenced. Upon completion, it will generate 158 million kilowatt-hours of green electricity annually. It is expected that by the end of 2026, the project's installed solar generating capacity will exceed 4 gigawatts.

A total of 8 percent of the green electricity generated in Taklimakan is used for oil and gas production, and 92 percent is sent outward through electricity transmission lines in Xinjiang, which reduces the energy consumption and carbon emission intensity there by more than 10 percent.

Photovoltaic power generation in the Tarim oilfield has achieved "three leaps in three years" - from 260 million kilowatt-hours in 2023 to 1.34 billion kilowatt-hours in 2024 and 2 billion kilowatt-hours this year, Liang Yulei, a manager at PetroChina's Tarim Oilfield, was quoted as saying in the news report.

Located in the heart of the Taklimakan Desert, the Tarim oilfield boasts 239 distributed solar projects at individual oil and gas wells and field stations. The completed photovoltaic projects cover 100,000 mu (6,667 hectares) of yellow sand, achieving the coordinated advancement of green energy development and ecological protection, the report said.

"By constructing solar panels on shifting sands, we not only generate electricity through these panels but also reduce wind speeds, create shaded areas, and lay drip irrigation belts underneath - all of which facilitate sand control efforts," Lei Ting, an executive director at PetroChina's Tarim Oilfield, said.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Wu Chaolan)
Blog Archive Apr 2010 (22) May 2010 (25) Jun 2010 (8) Jul 2010 (12) Aug 2010 (18) Sept 2010 (19) Oct 2010 (29) Nov 2010 (30) Dec 2010 (18) Jan 2011 (13) Feb 2011 (21) Mar 2011 (23) Apr 2011 (19) May 2011 (31) Jun 2011 (36) Jul 2011 (46) Aug 2011 (26) Sept 2011 (12) Oct 2011 (15) Nov 2011 (17) Dec 2011 (7) Jan 2012 (18) Feb 2012 (4) Mar 2012 (12) Apr 2012 (17) May 2012 (10) Jun 2012 (21) Jul 2012 (8) Aug 2012 (15) Sept 2012 (7) Oct 2012 (17) Nov 2012 (20) Dec 2012 (10) Jan 2013 (58) Feb 2013 (59) Mar 2013 (60) Apr 2013 (98) May 2013 (134) Jun 2013 (203) Jul 2013 (291) Aug 2013 (350) Sept 2013 (363) Oct 2013 (347) Nov 2013 (374) Dec 2013 (437) Jan 2014 (543) Feb 2014 (472) Mar 2014 (525) Apr 2014 (526) May 2014 (470) Jun 2014 (408) Jul 2014 (472) Aug 2014 (522) Sept 2014 (440) Oct 2014 (471) Nov 2014 (496) Dec 2014 (534) Jan 2015 (535) Feb 2015 (520) Mar 2015 (578) Apr 2015 (657) May 2015 (679) Jun 2015 (672) Jul 2015 (727) Aug 2015 (803) Sept 2015 (922) Oct 2015 (919) Nov 2015 (798) Dec 2015 (789) Jan 2016 (781) Feb 2016 (834) Mar 2016 (929) Apr 2016 (864) May 2016 (945) Jun 2016 (1042) Jul 2016 (879) Aug 2016 (1034) Sept 2016 (965) Oct 2016 (918) Nov 2016 (854) Dec 2016 (884) Jan 2017 (879) Feb 2017 (777) Mar 2017 (895) Apr 2017 (872) May 2017 (849) Jun 2017 (851) Jul 2017 (971) Aug 2017 (1040) Sept 2017 (999) Oct 2017 (1143) Nov 2017 (1045) Dec 2017 (838) Jan 2018 (873) Feb 2018 (769) Mar 2018 (885) Apr 2018 (808) May 2018 (827) Jun 2018 (820) Jul 2018 (840) Aug 2018 (854) Sept 2018 (844) Oct 2018 (851) Nov 2018 (870) Dec 2018 (912) Jan 2019 (919) Feb 2019 (827) Mar 2019 (956) Apr 2019 (913) May 2019 (1007) Jun 2019 (934) Jul 2019 (949) Aug 2019 (936) Sept 2019 (910) Oct 2019 (920) Nov 2019 (874) Dec 2019 (908) Jan 2020 (941) Feb 2020 (848) Mar 2020 (898) Apr 2020 (848) May 2020 (822) Jun 2020 (787) Jul 2020 (819) Aug 2020 (858) Sept 2020 (841) Oct 2020 (873) Nov 2020 (811) Dec 2020 (781) Jan 2021 (765) Feb 2021 (716) Mar 2021 (819) Apr 2021 (805) May 2021 (815) Jun 2021 (824) Jul 2021 (830) Aug 2021 (832) Sept 2021 (790) Oct 2021 (754) Nov 2021 (683) Dec 2021 (692) Jan 2022 (694) Feb 2022 (654) Mar 2022 (740) Apr 2022 (745) May 2022 (748) Jun 2022 (701) Jul 2022 (704) Aug 2022 (702) Sept 2022 (699) Oct 2022 (737) Nov 2022 (718) Dec 2022 (692) Jan 2023 (662) Feb 2023 (611) Mar 2023 (692) Apr 2023 (652) May 2023 (696) Jun 2023 (701) Jul 2023 (742) Aug 2023 (737) Sept 2023 (732) Oct 2023 (749) Nov 2023 (751) Dec 2023 (732) Jan 2024 (746) Feb 2024 (687) Mar 2024 (738) Apr 2024 (723) May 2024 (750) Jun 2024 (712) Jul 2024 (756) Aug 2024 (797) Sept 2024 (770) Oct 2024 (778) Nov 2024 (771) Dec 2024 (709) Jan 2025 (776) Feb 2025 (683) Mar 2025 (755) Apr 2025 (765) May 2025 (836) Jun 2025 (790) Jul 2025 (816) Aug 2025 (850) Sept 2025 (811) Oct 2025 (863) Nov 2025 (727) Dec 2025 (768) Jan 2026 (707) Feb 2026 (66)
Lt. Col. Chris Stoinoff, commander of 1st Battalion, 10th Aviation Regiment, right, hands a guidon to a junior officer during a ceremony at Fort Drum, N.Y., on Dec. 18, 2025, establishing a drone innovation unit known as Fox Company. The Army aims to equip every division with stronger air defense capabilities by 2026, the 10th Mountain Division said in a statement this month. (Mason Nichols/U.S. Army)



A new unit in the 10th Mountain Division dedicated to drone dominance marks the latest push by the Army to reorganize itself for future battlefields swarming with unmanned systems.

The establishment of Fox Company, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 10th Aviation Regiment, will pave the way for future drone formations across the force, the Fort Drum, N.Y.-based division said in a statement earlier this month.

The activation of the unit, described by the division as a first-of-its-kind unmanned tactical formation, adds a wider range of combat capabilities to the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade.

Fox Company soldiers are collaborating with a 10th Mountain Division innovation unit to produce their own drone components, the Dec. 22 statement said.

That partnership puts the unit at the forefront of the Armys efforts to integrate unmanned systems, ensuring the division is equipped with the advanced tools needed to ... outmaneuver any adversary on the battlefields of today and tomorrow, the division statement said.

Creation of the unit aligns with a broader Army strategy that calls for equipping every division by 2026 with more capabilities to penetrate and destroy enemy air defenses, according to the statement.

Current conflicts have proven that the modern battlefield is more lethal than ever before, primarily due to the potent combination of (drones) and long-range fires, regiment commander Lt. Col. Chris Stoinoff said in the statement.

Drawing on lessons from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the Army has been racing to catch up with the advances in drone warfare tactics borne out on Ukrainian battlefields.

In May, the Army announced an overhaul in the structure of combat aviation units, with a focus on fewer helicopters and more unmanned systems.

Across the service, units have been experimenting with different types of drones, sometimes even building them in-house under the tutelage of Ukrainian troops.

The establishment of Fox Company also shows how small unit formations are springing up to meet new battlefield demands.

Drones will be key to protecting forces and allowing soldiers to take the fight to our enemies, Stoinoff said.

These robots can be equipped for a multitude of missions: to conduct reconnaissance, to act as decoys, to jam enemy communications or to deliver lethal strikes, he said.
National Guard troops deployed on Aug. 14, 2025, at the National Mall in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



This year was unusually busy for Army and Air National Guard personnel, with deployments to support natural disaster response and recovery and crime prevention and federal protection missions.

The year began with wildfires in the Los Angeles area, prompting the call-up of more than 2,700 members of the Guard. Those fires claimed over 30 lives and destroyed more than 16,000 structures in one of the most expensive natural disasters in U.S. history.

Later that month, about 7,800 troops with the Guard were on duty in the Washington area for the inauguration of President Donald Trump. At his inauguration, the president vowed to send members of the Guard to the southern border, which he soon did.

In February, troops in Kentucky rescued nearly 300 people from one county in a single day from deadly floods that killed over a dozen people. Guard members in Indiana also contributed to the rescue efforts.

In April, over 800 Michigan National Guard personnel assisted recovery efforts after an ice storm left thousands without power.

In June, about 4,000 California National Guard troops were federalized and deployed to Los Angeles on what would be the first of a series of controversial deployments to protect federal personnel, property and deter crime.

In July, hundreds of Texas National Guard personnel helped rescue hundreds of people from flooding that killed dozens, including 27 children at a summer camp.

In August, about 800 D.C. National Guard troops were deployed throughout the nations capital to crack down on crime. Hundreds of troops from other states later joined the mission.

In October, about 400 Texas National Guard troops went to Illinois for a federal protection mission akin to the one in Los Angeles.

Also in October, the Alaska Air and Army National Guard evacuated over 1,500 people from remote communities struck by Typhoon Halong in what was likely the largest airlift in the states history.

Alaska Air National Guard aircrew flying a C-17 Globemaster III, assigned to the 176th Wing, arrive at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, with 62 evacuated residents from western Alaska, Oct. 17, 2025. (Alejandro Pena/Alaska National Guard)

Evacuees flown in by an Alaska Air National Guard aircrew piloting a C-17 Globemaster III, assigned to the 176th Wing, arrive at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Ala., Oct. 17, 2025. (Alejandro Pena/Alaska National Guard)



In November, two personnel with the West Virginia National Guard on patrol in Washington were shot in a targeted attack. Spc. Sarah Beckstrom died from her injuries, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was in critical condition. Wolfe has since been slowly recovering.

In December, up to 300 National Guard personnel in Washington state were mobilized to support rescue efforts in the wake of catastrophic flooding that ultimately caused at least one death and 400,000 people to lose power.

The unusually busy schedule of domestic deployments coincided with the regular overseas deployments of National Guard troops.

One of those recently included a tragedy.

This month, two soldiers with the Iowa Guard became the first U.S. casualties in Syria in a year, when a lone gunman attacked their patrol. One other American, a civilian contractor, was also killed. The soldiers remains returned home to Iowa last week.

Concerns about overstretching forces needed in the event of natural disasters and other emergencies were expressed by lawmakers with the initial deployment of troops to Los Angeles and Washington. Legislators also expressed concerns about cost.

But Mark Ditlevson, the Pentagon official overseeing the policies and plans related to the missions, testified before the Senate this month that the deployments are a modest burden on the Defense Department, and most of the incurred costs are reimbursable by the Department of Homeland Security.

The Guard in 2025 beat its recruiting goal for the second fiscal year in a row. In September, Air Force Gen. Steven Nordhaus, the National Guards top general, praised the Guards recruiting apparatus but also noted the Trump administrations use of the force for a variety of new missions has increased its visibility and likely contributed to a recruiting boost.

A man places large ribbon bars next to flowers and mementos, left near the Farragut West Metro station on Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Washington. A makeshift memorial has been created to honor U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who died of her wounds, and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who remains hospitalized. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



Stars and Stripes reporters Svetlana Shkolnikova and Corey Dickstein contributed to this report.
Japanese prosecutors on Dec. 24, 2025, charged a U.S. sailor with negligent driving resulting in death followingn a deadly collision in April 2025. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)



YOKOSUKA, Japan  Japanese prosecutors indicted a U.S. sailor last week on charges stemming from a deadly motorcycle collision earlier this year.

Mark Paul Paloay Callos, 32, was charged with negligent driving resulting in death, a spokesman for the Yokosuka Branch of the Yokohama District Public Prosecutors Office told Stars and Stripes by phone Thursday.

Police allege Callos made a right turn April 27 in Yokosukas Heisei neighborhood and collided with a Japanese motorcyclist, Shinji Takahashi, 47, in the intersection.

A spokesperson for Naval Forces Japan could not be reached Monday for further comment.

Takahashi was pronounced dead less than an hour later at a nearby hospital. Police on Dec. 9 recommended prosecutors charge the sailor, who is stationed at Yokosuka Naval Base, a Yokosuka city police spokesman said by phone Dec. 12.

Prosecutors, not police, decide formal charges under Japans criminal justice system.

If convicted, Callos could face up to seven years imprisonment and a maximum fine of about $6,000, according to the Japan Legal Support Center website. In addition, individuals at fault in such situations typically pay a large sum to the family as a measure of atonement.

Takahashis family filed a civil lawsuit against the sailor last week seeking roughly $772,000, according to their attorney, Masahiko Goto. The lawsuit lists Takahashis three sons, his mother, two brothers and his partner as plaintiffs.

Their suit alleges serious negligence and seeks compensation for the loss of a family member, according to a copy of the filing provided by Goto.
Shandong develops integrated commercial space industry anchored in offshore launches

13:46, December 29, 2025 By Li Rui ( People's Daily

Photo shows the command center of the Oriental Aerospace Port. (Photo from the official account of the publicity department of Haiyang, Yantai on WeChat)

How long does it take to transport a rocket from the factory floor to its launch site? At the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port in Haiyang, Yantai, east China's Shandong province, the process now takes just two hours. This remarkable efficiency is the result of a carefully planned industrial framework supporting commercial space development.

As the global commercial space industry becomes a new frontier of global technological competition and industrial transformation, Shandong province, traditionally a manufacturing stronghold, is positioning itself as a rising force. Through coordinated regional development and integrated capabilities, the province is building a comprehensive, full-chain commercial space ecosystem.

The province entered the spotlight in June 2019, when China completed its first-ever offshore rocket launch in the Yellow Sea, with Haiyang Port serving as the mission's support harbor. Seizing the opportunity, Yantai launched the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port to establish a dedicated offshore launch base.

"Haiyang Port combines favorable natural conditions with a strong industrial base, making it well-suited for regular offshore launches," said Wang Xiaoming, assistant general manager of the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port Group. Located on the Yellow Sea, the area benefits from stable meteorological conditions and flexible launch windows, enabling a wide range of orbital missions, including low-inclination and sun-synchronous orbits. More importantly, Yantai's strong marine engineering and equipment manufacturing capabilities provide essential industrial support for aerospace operations.

To address key challenges in the aerospace industry, such as long production cycles, limited launch capacity, and high costs, the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port adopted a focused industrial attraction strategy early in its development. Efforts have centered on building reliable offshore launch infrastructure, attracting leading research and manufacturing enterprises, and establishing a supporting industrial ecosystem that spans rocket production, satellite development, and data applications.

A Gravity-1 carrier rocket blasts off from waters off the coast of Haiyang, east China's Shandong province, Oct. 11, 2025. (Photo/Wang Yueguo)

"This 'point-to-area' approach has expanded our scope beyond launch services to encompass upstream R&D and manufacturing of rockets and satellites, as well as downstream aerospace information services," said Zhang Hua, deputy general manager of the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port Group. "Our ultimate objective is to establish a fully integrated commercial space ecosystem."

At the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port, a six-kilometer "Aerospace Avenue" stretches east to west, serving not only as a road but as the industrial backbone of the zone. It connects key facilities, including rocket assembly and testing centers, a satellite industrial park, a data application center, and the offshore launch wharf.

"Under an integrated model that co-locates port and manufacturing facilities, and combines production with launch operations, rockets can be transported from the final assembly building to a dedicated dock in just over ten minutes, where they are seamlessly loaded onto the launch vessel," said Teng Yao, chief engineer of the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port Group.

This model overturns the traditional approach, in which rockets are transported over long distances, disassembled and reassembled, significantly reducing both logistical risks and operational costs.

As China's first and currently only commercial offshore launch home port, the Haiyang Oriental Aerospace Port has completed more than 20 offshore launches, deploying over 130 satellites into orbit. This capability has helped catalyze the formation of a commercial space industry cluster centered on rocket manufacturing, satellite applications, and advanced supporting industries. To date, the port has attracted 30 aerospace-related projects with a combined investment exceeding 32 billion yuan ($4.55 billion).

In Jinan, the provincial capital, Shandong has established its first intelligent satellite manufacturing line at the Jinan satellite AIT (assembly, integration, and testing) industrial base. In this highly automated facility, guided vehicle transport satellite components to a six-axis robotic arm that assembles them with precision. Dubbed a "space embroiderer" for its accuracy, the system is capable of producing up to 100 satellites annually, each weighing 500 kilograms. The facility was developed by Jigang Group, which transitioned from steelmaking to high-end manufacturing after shutting down its steel operations eight years ago.

Jigang Group's transformation leverages its deep industrial manufacturing heritage. To overcome the shortage of specialized talent for satellite production, the local government worked closely with the company to implement targeted recruitment policies, providing a strong foundation for rapid development.

This transition exemplifies Shandong's coordinated approach to commercial space development. Anchored by offshore launch capabilities, the province is cultivating a differentiated yet industrial layout: Yantai focuses on offshore launches and rocket manufacturing; Jinan and Tai'an concentrate on liquid-fueled rocket development, testing, and satellite R&D and applications; while Qingdao specializes in measurement, tracking, and control systems, as well as marine remote sensing, supporting both national initiatives and commercial satellite constellations.

By 2027, Shandong is expected to have established a relatively complete commercial space industrial chain, with the capacity to produce 100 launch vehicles and 150 commercial satellites annually. The province's commercial space industry is projected to reach 50 billion yuan by then.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Hongyu)
(Jennifer H. Svan/Stars and Stripes)



Arabian Sea, Oct. 6, 2006: An F/A-18 Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, The Fighting Checkmates of Virginia Beach, Va., heads for a parking spot aboard the USS Enterprise. The aircraft carrier from Norfolk, Va., has been launching sorties in support of NATO and coalition troops in Afghanistan from the Arabian Sea since early September.
The U.S. Navys Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, led by its flagship aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, left, operates in the Caribbean region on Nov. 13, 2025. (Tajh Payne/U.S. Navy)



President Donald Trump said U.S. forces struck a large facility last week where Venezuelan narcotics smugglers load trafficking boats as a part of his months-long lethal campaign against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers.

We just knocked out  I dont know if you read or you saw  they have a big plant, or a big facility, where the ships come from, Trump said during an impromptu interview Friday with New Yorks WABC news. Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So, we hit them very hard.

Asked by reporters Monday about the Dec. 24 strike, Trump said it had targeted a dock area where drug boats are loaded along the shore, but he did not say exactly where the facility was located. He said the attack resulted in a major explosion.

We hit all the boats, and now we hit that area, Trump said before meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benajamin Netanyahu Monday at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Its the implementation area. Thats where they implement [drugs] and that is no longer around.

Trump has said for weeks that he was considering launching attacks inside Venezuela. The president on Monday declined to answer questions about whether other U.S. strikes had occurred inside Venezuela or if further attacks could be expected.

Trump also declined to say what organization was responsible for the attack last week. The Pentagon declined to comment on Monday and referred all questions to the White House. The White House did not respond to a request for further details.

Well, I dont want to say that, Trump said when asked if the CIA had conducted the attack. I know exactly who it was, but I dont want to say who it was.

Trump said in October he had authorized the CIA to conduct covert actions inside Venezuela.

The Venezuelan government had not publicly commented on a strike as of Monday.

Last week, Trump said he hoped to see Maduro step down and warned that if the Venezuelan president plays tough, itll be the last time hell ever be able to play tough.

The U.S. had steadily built a large force of Navy and special operations forces off Venezuelas coast. The force includes the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and strike group and the USS Iwo Jima amphibious assault ship and thousands of Marines.

U.S. military forces have killed at least 105 people in at least 29 lethal strikes against small boats Trumps administration has claimed were run by narcoterrorists ferrying drugs in the Pacific and Caribbean waters off Venezuelas coast. That campaign began Sept. 2.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has insisted the U.S. military knows via intelligence exactly who it has killed in the strikes, but he has declined to make any such evidence public. Some U.S. lawmakers  mostly Democrats  have criticized the boat bombing efforts as illegal and unauthorized by Congress.

Trump claimed in the Friday interview with WABC that the attacks on suspected drug boats had led to a 97.2% decrease in drug trafficking by sea and were saving lives.

Every time we knock out a boat were saving 25,000 American lives, Trump claimed. Its very simple.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversees short-range ballistic missile launches, in this photo issued by the state-run Korean Central News Agency on May 9, 2025. (KCNA)



SEOUL, South Korea  North Korea launched multiple cruise missiles over the weekend, another demonstration since Dec. 24 of the authoritarian regimes missile capabilities, according to the South Korean Ministry of National Defense on Monday.

The South Korean and U.S. militaries were closely monitoring signs of a North Korean missile launch at 8 a.m. Sunday from the Sunan area, according to a ministry text message to reporters the following day.

U.S. and South Korean intelligence agencies are analyzing the launch details, according to the ministry.

The official North Korean Central News Agency said long-range, strategic cruise missiles were launched into the West Sea or Yellow Sea as part of a readiness drill, according to a post on its website Monday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un oversaw the test, according to KCNA.

The launching drill was aimed at checking the counter-offensive response posture and combat capability of long-range missile sub-units, making missile soldiers well versed in maneuver and procedures of fulfilling firing missions and inspecting the reliability of the relevant strategic weapon system, the report stated.

The North Korean military previously launched what South Korean authorities believed to be surface-to-air missiles into the East Sea around 5 p.m. Dec. 24, according to a text message from a National Defense Ministry spokesman the following day.

Several missiles were launched from Sonduk, South Hamgyong province, according to the message.

The Dec. 24 missiles were not a North Korean version of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system employed by the United States, as some suggested, according to South Korean Joints Chiefs of Staff spokesman Col. Lee Sung-jun.

We assess the missiles to be surface-to-air missiles, Lee said at a Dec. 26 press briefing. THAAD is a system designed to intercept ballistic missiles, and we believe it does not meet that threshold yet.
A Patriot missile is launched during a live-fire exercise near Fort Bliss, Texas, on Aug. 23, 2025. Spain recently signed a contract to buy four Patriot systems for $1.7 billion. (JaDarius Duncan/U.S. Army)



NATO ally Spain will buy four Patriot air missile defense systems under a $1.7 billion contract recently signed with U.S. manufacturer Raytheon, according to the company.

Announced last week, the deal comes on the heels of American calls for Spain and other members of the 32-country bloc to increase their defense spending to deter Russian aggression.

Spain is among the blocs lowest spenders in that area, NATO figures show. Earlier this year, it was the only country to reject U.S. President Donald Trumps demand that allies increase their defense spending to 5% of their gross domestic product.

Trump has consistently singled out Spain, calling it a laggard on military spending and suggesting removal of the country from the alliance.

The new purchase marks the largest Patriot acquisition in Spains history and includes radars, launchers, command and control stations, and training equipment, a Raytheon statement Tuesday said.

Modernizing air and missile defense is vital to Spains security and sovereignty, Pete Bata, a top company executive, said in the statement. Raytheons work with the Spanish government and local industry will help ensure readiness against evolving threats.

The State Department approved the sale in October 2023, saying it would improve the security of a NATO ally and act as a stabilizing force in Europe.

The Patriot is the United States marquee ground-based missile defense system and has been deployed to countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

It has been a key weapon for Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia and recently were used to defend Al-Udeid Air Base from Iranian missiles.

In 2024, Spain was also part of a group of NATO allies that agreed to buy up to 1,000 Patriot missiles.

With the new purchase, Spain joins Germany, the Netherlands and Romania among member countries that have placed orders for additional Patriot systems this year.

Spain already operates three Patriot batteries, including one in Turkey, according to the Madrid-based outlet InfoDefensa. The new systems are due to arrive in 2030, according to the publication.
The actress did not hide from the world after leaving the film industry; her interviews and public statements were as frequent as they were impactful

Opinion articles written in the style of their author. These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. All opinion articles written by individuals from outside the staff of EL PAIS shall feature, along with the authors name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed

On October 1, Brigitte Bardot published Mon BBcedaire, a small white-covered book in the form of a notebook, reproduced in her own handwriting in blue ink. Amid crossed-out words, she pours out her thoughts in alphabetical form, from A for Abandonment to Z for Zoo. At 91 years old (she celebrated her birthday on September 28), the eternal muse of French cinema left a kind of final testament that summarizes her unfiltered personality. On the first page of the book are two unequivocal quotes from the BB philosophy: Freedom is being yourself, even when its uncomfortable and Animals are the angels of this earth. They deserve our respect more than our apologies.

While Greta Garbo retired from film and public scrutiny at 36, Bardot, who died Saturday, did the same at 39 after making The Edifying and Joyous Story of Colinot, a 1973 comedy about medieval love affairs. The actress literally left the set carrying a goat that was about to be slaughtered. Bardot saved the animal from the spit and never made another film. The myth was thus preserved while the woman continued on her own path.

Unlike Garbo, Bardot didnt hide from the world, and her interviews and public statements were as frequent as they were impactful. In the late 1970s, she starred in one of the most high-profile animal rights campaigns of the time. It was in Newfoundland, Canada, where she was seen embracing a beautiful baby harp seal with white fur. The actress confronted the hunters and achieved unprecedented media coverage for such a cause.

Bardot retired from film with a certain resentment she never concealed, feeling trapped by her fame for life. Her precious freedom consisted of being able to do almost nothing. She made Saint-Tropez  where there is a hideous sculpture in her honor  her stronghold. And she only broke her seclusion to campaign for animals or for her ultraconservative ideas.

The great female myth of French cinema cannot be understood without the power of a beauty that defied all. Bardot with Picasso, Bardot with Gainsbourg, Bardot dancing, always dancing, while men of all kinds admired her, speechless. The actress astutely cultivated her wild air. With her long blonde hair framing her face, her eternal little black dress, and her ballet flats or flat shoes, watching her walk on screen with her alluring determination remains something otherworldly.

But the wild animal lived in a cage. It was Jean-Luc Godards film Contempt (1963) that most radically exposed the sexual objectification in which the actress had become trapped. In the famous opening sequence, with George Delerues music and the screen tinted red and blue, Bardot lies completely naked on the bed while Michel Piccoli, fully clothed, responds to her, section by section, confirming that yes, from head to toe, she is beautiful. The strange discomfort provoked by the sequence and, in general, by her presence in the film, perfectly encapsulates the nature of her solitary throne. In Mon BBcedaire, under the entry for the word Eternity, BB wrote: Eternity has no beginning and no end. It is an infinite vertigo that cannot be explained.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Paco Grinan Malaga Monday, 29 December 2025, 12:03 Share

Fresh from her 1950s sex symbol debut in 'And God Created Woman', Brigitte Bardot once visited Malaga province, where she filmed one of her most memorable scenes. And it was during the filming she took a very unusual companion back to the hotel room where she was staying on the Costa del Sol: a donkey called Romeo.

It happened during the filming of 'Los Joyeros del Claro de Luna (The Night Heaven Fell) in El Chorro, a story of forbidden love with Stephen Boyd (the evil Messala in Ben-Hur). But behind the scenes, the actresss infatuation was in fact with the gentle little donkey that stole a few scenes in the film, and for which she showed that fondness and defence of animals she would champion years later.

Her platonic love for the animal was made clear when she named him Romeo. And it seems that the affection only grew, because when they finished filming their scenes together, she bought the animal and took him to the legendary Montemar Hotel in La Carihuela, one of the founders of tourism in Torremolinos and on the Costa del Sol. This is how the films director - and at the time the actresss partner - Roger Vadim, later recalled it: "As the hotel management wouldn't allow her to put it in the garage, she took it up to her room. One morning she sent for me. I found her in bed. The donkey was lying next to her, on top of the bedspread."

The French actress was not the only one who took a shine to donkeys on the Costa del Sol as Raquel Welch was also photographed in the streets of Mijas riding a donkey-taxis for tourists. The script for 'Guapa, Intrepida y Espia' (Beautiful, intrepid and a spy) made her a sort of 007 who stayed in a charming hotel-restaurant, the Mirlo-Blanco.

 Costa del Sol de Cine: discover its most emblematic locations

This is one of the 20 or so titles included in a 'Film Hotels' route, which is exclusively dedicated to Malaga province and which takes in 14 establishments made famous by their film roles. Visiting them allows you to relive Frank Sinatra himself in the bar that bears his name, Frankie's, in the Pez Espada Hotel, although they also lend themselves to spending a night (or more) in their star-studded rooms. Not to mention that reservations can no longer be made for four-legged Romeos.
Ignacio Lillo Malaga Monday, 29 December 2025, 16:00 Share

"Please be advised that longer queues are being recorded at passport control at Spanish airports due to the introduction of the EES (Entry/Exit System) for passengers travelling to destinations outside the Schengen area." Such is the opening line to the message that Ryanair emailed to Juan shortly before his flight from London to Malaga the weekend before Christmas.

In the email, the budget airline recommends that passengers arrive at the terminal with "extra time" before their flight and that they "go directly to security and passport control after dropping off their luggage to avoid any hold-ups".

Zoom

In its usual style, the Irish airline openly accuses whom it believes is to blame for causing the problem: "The Spanish National Police were not adequately prepared for the EES rollout and Ryanair has asked them to resolve the issue."

Fifty minutes to get through passport control

So, forewarned is forearmed, so they say. However, Juan and his partner, both residents of Malaga, could not avoid the delays. This all happened the weekend before last, with the airports across Spain packed with Spanish nationals returning from overseas to be home for Christmas plus many more flying off for a weekend getaway.

The latter was Juan's travel plan: a Christmas getaway to Dublin. On the outbound flight on the Thursday, he encountered "queues like I'd never seen before", although, on this leg of the journey, they were "relatively bearable". The return trip was another ball game - much worse: "On Sunday night, the flight arrived on time, but getting out of the airport was a nightmare."

According to this passenger, at the time there were only five police officers dealing with hundreds of passengers. "Although they were moving quite quickly, there were just so many people to get through. Furthermore, the self-service kiosks were only operating for non-EU passengers and therefore many of them were not in use."

In the end, he claimed that they had to endure a 50-minute queue to get through passport control and leave. He also complained about the general disorganisation and lack of information, as there were hardly any airport staff to help people.

The National Police response

Both the Spanish government's sub-delegation in Malaga and the National Police have responded to Ryanair's claim. A spokesperson for the police force stated: "The explanations the airline is providing to its passengers are incorrect."

"The National Police are more than prepared for the implementation of the EES, but queue management is not the responsibility of this force, but rather of Aena, the Spanish airports authority. The delays in accessing airports and, consequently, the terminals for boarding are not the result of some malfunction or shortage of our officers."

Meanwhile, central government representatives in Malaga stated that, since October, they have been "testing the new system for only a minimal time period throughout the day and results have been very satisfactory, except for a few isolated incidents".

"We will not be provoked by this airline, well-known for its abusive treatment of its customers, which is why it has been sanctioned by the Spanish government to protect our consumers. Neither will we tolerate or allow it to call into question the professionalism of the National Police," warned the spokesperson.
A resident of Dona Ana (Cartama) wades through the streets on Saturday night after the torrential rain at the weekend.

Isabel Mendez Malaga Monday, 29 December 2025, 09:42 Share

After a weekend marked by the storm which brought torrential rains, which claimed the life of at least one person in Alhaurin el Grande and left hundreds of incidents across the province, it seems that the rain will give Malaga a break this Monday (29 December).

Spain's state meteorological agency (Aemet) has almost ruled out rainfall in the capital of the Costa del Sol, and there is only a 5% chance of rain between 12 noon and 6pm. The percentage stands at 30% in Cartama and Alhaurin el Grande and rises to 55% in Coin, which is the area where it could rain the most on this last Monday of the year.

The forecast also points to a drop in minimum temperatures while maximum temperatures could rise. In Malaga city, for example, the thermometers will move between 9C and 17 degrees, and there will also be light winds.

There will only be one province in the Andalucia region with a weather warning for heavy rain today, in Almeria, where accumulations of up to 15mm in one hour are expected. For this reason, the yellow level alert has been activated from 8am to 6pm.

On Tuesday, according to early forecasts, the likelihood of rain in Malaga province is even lower and maximum temperatures could rise again slightly.
Webb, N.Y.  A Pennsylvania woman was injured early Sunday when her snowmobile hit a tree on a trail in the Adirondacks, State Police said.

Around 2:20 a.m., troopers responded to the crash on Trail No. 8 in the town of Webb in Herkimer County, according to Trooper Jennifer Jiron, a spokesperson for State Police.

Kristin R. Millington, 42, of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania, was operating a 2023 Ski-Doo snowmobile, heading west on the trail, when she hit a tree along the north shoulder.

Millington was ejected from the snowmobile and suffered non-life-threatening injuries, Jiron said. She was taken by Old Forge Ambulance to Wynn Hospital in Utica for treatment, she said.

Millington was issued a ticket for imprudent speed, returnable to the town of Webb Court, Jiron said. The cause of the crash was due to speed and lack of visibility, she said.
Hey you guys!

Two stars of The Goonies are coming to Upstate New York to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the classic movie. Kerri Green and Corey Feldman will host a screening at the Kodak Center in Rochester on Feb. 6, 2026, starting at 8 p.m.

According to an event description, Green and Feldman will share behind-the-scenes stories, hilarious moments and personal experiences from filming. Audience members will also be able to ask questions in a Q&A portion.

Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster starting at $50.25. A limited number of VIP meet-and-greet and photo opportunity deals are also available at checkout.

The Goonies, originally released in 1985, follows a group of misfits searching for the pirate One-Eyed Willys treasure in hopes of saving their homes. Richard Donner directed on a script from Chris Columbus and Steven Spielberg.

Full of booby traps, unforgettable characters, iconic moments, and 1980s nostalgia, The Goonies is more than a movie, an event description says. Its an adventure for all ages because Goonies Never Say Die.

Green played Andy, the love interest of Josh Brolins Brand, and Feldman played Mouth in a cast that also included Sean Astin (Mikey), Jeff Cohen (Chunk), Martha Plimpton (Stef) and Ke Huy Quan (Data). Other memorable characters included John Matuszak as Sloth, Mary Ellen Trainor as Mrs. Walsh, and Robert Davi, Anne Ramsey and Joe Pantoliano as the Fratellis.

Though the evening will focus on The Goonies, much of the cast is also known for other roles. Green also starred in Summer Rental (with John Candy) and Lucas (with Charlie Sheen and Corey Haim), while Feldmans credits include Stand By Me, The Lost Boys, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Burbs and Gremlins.

A sequel to The Goonies is also reportedly in the works. Warner Bros. announced the project earlier this year with Spielberg and Columbus returning as producers, and writer Potsy Ponciroli (Old Henry) said in August that he was about 95% done with a second draft of the script.

I know theres a lot of do we need a new Goonies, Ponciroli said at the Venice Film Festival. But Im the biggest fan of the original, its my favourite movie of all time. Id never redo The Goonies. To me it was a story that never ended so this is the movie I want to see as one of its biggest fans.

Its unclear if Green, Feldman or any other cast members will return for the new movie. A release date has not been announced.
Syracuse, N.Y.  No matter how full we swear we are, we still order dessert. Its science. And yes, its a weakness. Either way, the end of a good meal in Central New York usually comes with something sweet.

Over the past year, food writers Jared Paventi, Jacob Pucci, Danielle Benjamin and Charlie Miller made a habit of just looking at dessert menus before inevitably ordering. Sometimes it was a thoughtful, chef-driven finale. Other times it was pure comfort, the kind of dessert that knows exactly what it is and leans in hard.

These are the desserts that closed out our 2025 coverage on a high note. Every sweet here comes from a restaurant we actually visited and featured this year on syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. If your favorite didnt make the list, take heart: theres always room for one more bite next year.

The Suspiro Caliente dessert at Inka's in downtown Syracuse. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com) (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com)

Address: Inkas, 201 S. Salina St., Syracuse

From Jared Paventi: Our waiter insisted that we order this dessert to cap an otherwise exceptional dinner at Inkas. Its made to order, taking 15 minutes to come together, but the two-part dessert was well worth the wait. On one side was a moist dulce de leche cake, served warm, that was hollowed out and filled with caramel custard and topped with meringue. On the other, a chocolate shell filled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It was the sweet counterbalance to an evening filled with citrusy, smoky, and savory dishes.

From Charlie Miller: Jared and I landed here on different nights, months apart. And for good reason.

The Suspiro Caliente is baked to order and worth every minute of the wait. A warm vanilla cake arrives hollowed out and filled with caramel-like custard, capped with a cloud of meringue dusted in cinnamon. On the side: vanilla ice cream dressed up with hot fudge, strawberries and caramel, balancing cold and warm in the best possible way.

Its sweet without losing balance, serving as a true finale after a meal full of citrus, smoke and spice. This is a dessert that demands patience, rewards it generously and reminds you why some things are better made one plate at a time. Its best served with one of bartender Matt Sherlocks signature nightcaps.

The Turkish milk cake is so soaked that a halo of milk gathers around it on the plate at Zaman, a coffee house that opened last month, in Sweetheart Corner in North Syracuse. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com) (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com)

Address: Zaman Coffee House, 3911 Brewerton Road (Route 11), North Syracuse

From Charlie Miller: Some desserts dont need embellishing as long as theyre done right. Zamans Turkish milk cake does exactly that. Each slice arrives soaked in its own pool of sweet milk, the sponge soft and tender, almost floating.

Its simple and comforting in the best way, the kind of dessert that keeps you dragging your fork across the plate until theres nothing left but a clean dish. In a cafe built around slowing down and savoring the moment, it fits perfectly.

Thats part of why Zaman Coffee House, a brand-new spot at Sweetheart Corner, has caught on so quickly. Its so popular that a second location is already planned for Township 5. This is proof that some of the best sweets of the year dont come from a white-tablecloth dining room. Sometimes they come with a coffee cup and a little extra time to linger.

Pistachio cannoli cheesecake at Boom Boom Italiano, Camillus, N.Y. (jaredpaventi@gmail.com) Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com

Address: Boom Boom Italiano, 3263 Howlett Hill Road, Camillus

From Jared Paventi: We were delighted to find this unexpected first-rate dessert. Boom Boom tried something new last winter when it flipped to an Italian menu prepared assembly line style, similar to the summertime Mexican menu. Dessert was a layered cheesecake that started with a thick base of graham cracker topped with sweetened ricotta cannoli filling. A pistachio-flavored cheesecake layer topped it.

Butter cake with vanilla ice cream and maserated raspberries at Craftsman Wood Grille and Tap Room, Fayetteville, N.Y. (Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com) Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com

Address: Craftsman Wood Grille and Tap House, 7300 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville

From Jared Paventi: Butter makes most things in life better, dessert included. Here, it makes a yellow cake moist and rich. Vanilla may have been the dominant flavor, but butter was the lifeblood of this dessert. It was topped with macerated raspberries and served with vanilla ice cream, but we would have given all of that back for a bigger slice.

The almond butter cake with vanilla ice cream and raspberry drizzle at Daniella's Steakhouse, Syracuse, N.Y. (Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com) Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com

Address: Daniellas Steakhouse, 670 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse

From Jared Paventi: Did I mention my devotion to butter? Lets talk about my addiction to almond paste, the greatest of all the Italian cookies. Daniellas dense almond butter cake tasted like a combination of the two. Again, the vanilla ice cream and raspberry drizzle were fine but could have been left to the side because the cake was that good. The only thing missing was the regret that I didnt buy an extra pound of cookies.

Rice pudding at Dakshin Indian Cuisine. The restaurant will open this weekend in Armory Square. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com) (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com)

Address: Dakshin Indian Cuisine, 216 Walton St., in Syracuses Armory Square

From Charlie Miller: This dessert is quiet and comforting. Dakshins rice pudding is made with jasmine rice, milk, saffron and cardamom, and its intentionally less sweet than most versions. The flavors come through cleanly. The warm spice, gentle floral notes and a soft, creamy texture never feels heavy.

Owner/Chef Vimala Mohanraj isnt trying to dazzle with sugar here. Shes letting tradition do the work. This is the kind of dessert that closes a meal softly instead of loudly, and one that lingers in your memory long after the last spoonful.

Apple crisp with vanilla ice cream at Amber Inn, Marietta, N.Y. (Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com) Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com

Address: Amber Inn, 2424 Otisco Valley Rd., Marietta

From Jared Paventi: Dessert at a dive bar? DESSERT AT A DIVE BAR! Served warm, this apple crisp combined fresh apples with a ton of warming spices. It wasnt too sweet, as is often the case with this dessert, and was finished with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate panna cotta from Colucci, 510 Westcott St., Syracuse. Jacob Pucci

Address: Colucci, 510 Westcott St., Syracuse

From Jacob Pucci: I dont know if Ive had a panna cotta with as much chocolate flavor as the one served at Colucci. Compared to richer custards set with eggs, panna cotta is set with gelatin, resulting in a lighter dessert. Yet the chocolate flavor of Coluccis panna cotta rivaled what youd find in a chocolate ganache or another much heavier dessert. Its indulgent, yet light enough that youll have plenty of room for dessert, even after a hearty pasta dinner. At $5, its the best bargain on this list as well.

Creme brulee with wine poached pear from On the Fly diner in Lyncourt. Jacob Pucci

Address: On The Fly, 3600 Court St., Syracuse

From Jacob Pucci: Inside a small coffee cup served at a diner in Lyncourt is one of the best creme brulees in Central New York, a perfect summation of On The Flys blend of fine dining techniques and a casual diner setting. Aside from the red wine-poached pear served on the side, its just a classic creme brulee. But Ive eaten enough creme brulees with curdled or watery custards and gritty or burnt sugar tops to know that making this simple custard isnt as simple as it looks. On the Flys execution was flawless.

Chocolate bomb (left) and triple-berry tart desserts at Blue Water Grill in Skaneateles. Jacob Pucci

Address: Blue Water Grill, 11 W. Genesee St., Skaneateles

From Jacob Pucci: When it comes to dessert, it doesnt hurt when a restaurants sister business is a bakery. Both the fruit tart and the chocolate bomb desserts on the menu at Blue Water Grill are made at Patisserie. The tarts are like individual fruit pies, served warm with a side of vanilla ice cream. Both the tart and the chocolate bomb, which feature a dome of mousse dipped in chocolate ganache and served atop a rich, flourless chocolate cake, proved to be wonderful endings to the meal.

Flan with sea salt caramel from Touche in Syracuse. Jacob Pucci

Address: Touche, 309 W. Fayette St., Syracuse

From Jacob Pucci: After my turbulent first visit, Touche has more than corrected course and now produces some of the most creative and seasonally-inspired desserts anywhere in Central New York. Compared to some of their more elaborate offerings, flan patissier, a classic French egg custard tart, is pretty tame. In typical European style, the custard was less sweet than its usual American counterpart, though the wonderfully buttery fleur de sel caramel that topped the slice more than made up the difference.

Desserts at The York - a warm cookie skillet and blueberry cobbler cheesecake Danielle Benjamin

Address: The York, 247 W. Fayette St., Syracuse

From Danielle Benjamin: This dessert checked all the boxes on service, presentation, and flavors. My cookie came served in a warm skillet so it was gooey and the chocolate was melty. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and a drizzle of chocolate topped it off. Exactly the way a cookie skillet should be served.
Syracuse, N.Y. -- Manika Gautam had just given birth to her youngest child. But she needed immediate and intense treatment for thyroid cancer.

Her marriage had fallen apart and she needed someone to take care of her newborn. Nicole Watts did not hesitate.

She took tiny Ossum home when he was three days old. She fed him and rocked him. She saw the sun rise with him, paced in the middle of the night with him.

For the first month of his life, when his own mother was too sick to care for him, Watts was his mother.

It was one of the most beautiful adventures, Watts said.

Gautam is cancer-free and her son, now 7, calls Watts Mama Coley.

Watts, 43, has a life shaped by saying yes when many others would step back. Challenges are gifts, she says.

The newest one started in April. Watts was about to shut off her phone as she boarded a flight to California. She took one last call. It was a friend with the Onondaga County Working Families Party. Would Watts, a Democrat, consider running for Onondaga County Legislature, representing her neighborhood on Syracuses North Side. She would be a last-minute entry in a three-way race.

She slept on it for a night. And then she did what she does in the face of hard things: Watts said yes.

What followed was an unexpected rise to one of the most powerful positions in Onondaga County government. Watts rode a blue wave with other newcomers who won as Democrats swept the legislature.

Then Watts was chosen as the chair of the Onondaga County Legislature. The only other first-term legislator to become chair was current County Executive Ryan McMahon.

For the first time in 50 years, the Democrats are in power in the county legislature. Generations of Republicans rubber-stamping the will of Republican county executives will be replaced with pushback, challenge and negotiation. Watts, who has no political experience, will lead the charge.

Nicole Watts helped care for Manika Gautam's infant son, Ossum, for his first weeks of life while Gautam was in the hospital for treatment. Provided photo

It has to be about the people

We have to get back to being about the people when were making decisions, and not about party politics, Watts said. It has to be about the people.

Technically, Watts has no political experience. But she has more than a decade of experience in leadership and building consensus. She began and still runs Hopeprint, a nonprofit that serves refugees and Syracuses North Side neighborhood.

Watts chaired the Refugee Alliance of Syracuse for several years, and has worked with it and other groups to advocate for some of Syracuses most underserved people.

Watts came to Central New York when she graduated from college with a ministry degree. She had an internship in youth ministry at Eastern Hills Bible Church in Manlius, but ended up staying on for 11 years after her internship ended.

During that time, she made friends in the refugee community on Syracuses North Side. She found herself there more than she was in Manlius.

I was driving into the city to come to my friends homes for multiple times a week for dinner, Watts said. They would give me this beautiful gift of a sense of family and a home cooked meal.

Watts would help her friends, often refugees, with things that might seem simple to someone who is from here, but so hard when youre a newly settled refugee. This was during the years when the U.S. was resettling as many as 1,000 refugees a year in Syracuse.

Watts would help with reading the mail, childrens schoolwork, where to find necessities like furniture or underwear.

I didnt need a certain degree or background in social work to just show up and be a friend and a neighbor, she said. I saw the transformative difference that just relationship makes in in the lives of the families that that I got to be friends with.

Watts and some friends moved in together into a house on Lilac Street about 15 years ago. They began calling the house Hopeprint, based on the idea that everyone had unique hope, like a fingerprint, that they brought to the world. The house had one rule: If you met a new person, you had to invite them to dinner.

As the collective became a full-fledged nonprofit in 2010, family dinners happened every Tuesday. The door is open and theres never a shortage of food. At one point, Watts, who is barely over 5 feet tall, stood on a chair and counted the heads. There were more than 90 refugees and New Americans and 30 others who had come to help and learn.

This was family, too.

Its a community effort, through and through.

Watts is the oldest of four children. She lived in Northern Virginia until fourth grade and then moved to Colorado. She went to college in Chicago, where she graduated with a degree in youth ministry. Watts parents were both ministers.

Dustin Watts, Nicole Watts younger brother, remembers her always leading.

When they were little, Nicole would stage Christmas plays with her younger siblings.

Shed get us all costumed up, recalled Dustin Watts, who is seven years younger. His sister would choreograph dance moves. She never made her little brother dance, but even then, her power to get people to see things her way was clear.

She had this persuasive spirit where everyone just kind of falls in line, Dustin Watts said.

Nicole Watts with her younger brother, Dustin Watts. Provided photo

As he and his sister have grown up, shes become someone he confides in because she wont hold back when she doesnt agree.

She thinks seriously about things, Dustin Watts said. She doesnt shy away from, like, the tough stuff that makes a good person to confide in.

He works in computer security, but also has a tea company with his wife called Thereabouts. His sisters travels and experiences with the people of Syracuses Northside have helped shape the flavors they offer.

Dustin Watts and his family came to visit Nicole this fall during the campaign. They came to one of those dinners at her Northside home.

Nicoles day was packed, Dustin said, and dozens of people were going to show up in less than an hour. Nicoles response: Dont worry. I can do this in 15 minutes.

She began to cook and she knew that others would come with more. They arrived not to be served, but to be part of it. Some people cooked. Others served. And when it was all done, people cleaned up as if jobs had been silently assigned.

Its a community effort, through and through, Dustin Watts said.

A short, impactful year

Nicole Watts new job is another extension of how she takes care of her community. Her term is only a year, which means she has to move fast to make an impact. Shes been thinking about it since she said yes.

It starts with ensuring that those who have the least, like the majority of the people in the neighborhood where shes embedded for more than a decade, stay at the center of the governments work.

That means economic development should focus on helping those who are struggling. Watts has her eye on Plan Onondaga, a land-use plan the county adopted to focus development efforts during the expected Micron boom. The plan identified the citys Northside as a target for development, and Watts said she wants to make sure that the people who already live there dont end up getting pushed out. Instead, they should benefit the most.

Its a difficult, a very, very difficult line to walk, she said.

She also has lots of questions about what the county is doing to protect its immigrant and refugee communities as ICE crackdowns increase and target wider swaths of people.

The county has the ability to choose whether or not they are being helpful to ICE, Watts said. I want to make sure theyre choosing to protect our people whenever they can.

Watts said she plans to return transparency to the decisions that county legislators make. That will range from budget hearings to committee meetings about problems within county government. For instance, Watts said, she wants to better understand what happened when two children died while under the care of Onondaga County Social Services.

We have to have somebody whos being the voice for our community in these really important conversations, she said.

Watts said shes realistic about where the power is. though. Even though she and other Democrats oppose the aquarium project, its already under construction. They cant stop that.

One thing shes committed to is making sure departments present to the committees that oversee them at least once a year outside of budget season. That small change could dramatically improve transparency, she said.

Watts begins her term Jan. 2 and is eager to make one of the shortest legislative terms in county history one of the most influential.

Its one incredibly important year, she said.
Update: Syracuse fire officials reported Wednesday, Dec. 31 that the woman has died.

Original article

Syracuse, N.Y. - Police Officer John Canestrare found a woman lying on the ground outside a burning house Friday morning and started giving chest compressions.

The woman had burns, Canestrare told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard. He said one of her feet was severely broken, so it was almost detached from her leg.

It looked like she had jumped, Canestrare said.

Around 9:15 a.m., Rick Macheda saw smoke as he drove near 105 Fourth North St. in Syracuse.

Macheda, a firefighter and EMT in Cazenovia with 40 years of experience, pulled over. Flames were shooting up from the house.

The two men barely exchanged any words before Macheda grabbed his medical bag from his truck and began to help Canestrare. They quickly became a lifesaving team for the woman, who was non-responsive.

I checked for a pulse, Macheda said. There wasnt any.

The two were giving her CPR as the first firefighters arrived. Macheda asked them for a defibrillator. When he applied the electrode pads to the woman, he could not detect a heart rhythm, he said.

Canestrare continued to do compressions while Macheda secured an airway for the woman using medical equipment from his bag.

At one point, Canestrare got tired, so the two switched and Macheda began doing the compressions.

They kept going for about 10 minutes until EMTs arrived, Macheda said. They got her into an ambulance.

Canestrare, who has been on the Syracuse police force about four years, feared the worst. Initially, I was like, this is going to be a fatal fire, he said.

But soon after leaving, firefighters told them the EMTs had gotten a pulse back.

So once we heard that she had a pulse, we were pretty grateful, the officer said.

The two strangers, who had worked so hard to revive her, hugged.

We shook hands and embraced each other several times saying, holy cow, what just happened, Macheda said.

As of Monday afternoon, the woman was in critical condition at Upstate University Hospital, according to the Syracuse Fire Department. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

On Sunday, Macheda said hed heard from her daughter, who was driving up to Syracuse from Florida.

Thats what Ive been trained to do, Macheda told syracuse.com. For me, its just second nature to just dive in and start saving somebody, because thats what we do.
While Mexico was calling for a peaceful solution to the crisis between the United States and Venezuela at the United Nations, two oil tankers flying the Liberian flag were sailing near Cuba. Both vessels had departed from the port of Coatzacoalcos in the Mexican state of Veracruz, specifically from the Pajaritos terminal owned by the Mexican state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex), which is tasked with delivering barrels of oil to the island to help alleviate the energy crisis that Cuba has been facing for months. The United States quickly viewed the shipment as a sign of support for the Cuban regime, intensifying the already strained and complex relations between Mexico and the U.S.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has defended the shipment of crude to Cuba, arguing that it was sent for humanitarian reasons and that Mexico has historically supported the island in the face of the U.S. economic blockade. Regardless of political party, there has been a Mexico-Cuba relationship. This is nothing new, it is not a new situation. And everything is done within the law and also for humanitarian reasons for the people of Cuba, the president said last week during one of her morning press conferences. Sheinbaum listed the Mexican presidents who have provided assistance to Cuba at different points in history, as well as energy-related contributions dating back to the administration of Carlos Salinas de Gortari (19881994).

Shipments from the Mexican state oil company across the Gulf of Mexico to Cuba have been fairly common for years. The quantities vary, and various energy-monitoring firms noted in the middle of this year that the number of barrels sent from Mexico had decreased significantly. The latest shipment  80,000 barrels  was reported by the Energy Institute at the University of Texas. Information regarding the exact contents and costs of the shipments remains opaque, as Pemex has not fully clarified it. Sheinbaum has pledged to make the information public in the coming days. Everything is legal, she added. In 2024, Sheinbaum acknowledged sending 400,000 barrels after Hurricane Rafael passed over the island, and the company has reported its exports, including those to Cuba, to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The lack of transparency about what it means for Pemex  the worlds most indebted oil company  to allocate part of its production to Cuba has been seized upon by Mexican opposition parties. While 2026 begins with skyrocketing gasoline prices for Mexicans, the Morena government is giving away fuel to Cuba. How outrageous: they are using the money of Mexican citizens to fund a dictatorship that keeps its people oppressed and hungry, said a deputy from the National Action Party (PAN) after news of the latest shipment emerged. Over the past year, the Mexican government has been working to restructure Pemexs debt and has acknowledged that production is down to 1.3 million barrels per day, a drop that returns output to 2018 levels.

Mexicos offer to mediate in the crisis between Venezuela and the United States has put a spotlight on the countrys role in Latin America. After several years, Washington has returned its attention southward and is closely monitoring the Venezuelan regime of Nicolas Maduro, whom it has accused of colluding with drug trafficking. U.S. authorities have also targeted small vessels, accusing them of drug smuggling. The U.S. clampdown on Venezuela has affected the passage of oil tankers to Cuba, forcing some to return to Venezuelan waters under the threat of U.S. action.

Mexicos shipments of oil to Cuba to address the energy crisis have become a source of serious disagreement with Washington. I sent a clear message to President Claudia Sheinbaum: history is watching. Stop enabling dictators in Venezuela and Cuba, said Republican Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar of Florida during a U.S. congressional session.

Some lawmakers have highlighted an issue particularly sensitive for Mexico: the U.S.MexicoCanada Agreement (USMCA). In October, Congressman Carlos Gimenez sent a letter to the State Department suggesting that Mexicos economic cooperation with Cuba  through oil shipments  constitutes a violation of the USMCA. He argued that the 2026 review of the agreement would be a good opportunity to press the Mexican government to end its energy cooperation with Havana. The United States must not allow our closest trading partner to continue financing regimes that harbor, finance, and or enable transnational criminal terrorist organizations, he wrote. Mexico and the United States have multiple ongoing fronts on issues such as migration, security, and trade. Mexicos diplomatic role has also highlighted its position in Latin America and its disagreements with its main trading partner.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
New Yorks ban on disposable coolers made of polystyrene foam takes effect Jan. 1.

Starting then, no food service provider, manufacturer or store covered by the ban will be allowed to sell any foam coolers, ice chests or other containers designed for cold storage, according to the state Department of Environment Conservation.

The state is advising people to use more durable reusable coolers instead of those made of foam.

New York first banned single-use containers and packing peanuts made of polystyrene foam, more commonly known as Styrofoam, in 2022. Lawmakers originally passed the ban as part of the state budget two years before that.

Since the ban first went into effect, restaurants covered by the law have not been allowed to use foam food containers and manufacturers and retailers have been barred from using the material for packing.

Coolers are now joining the list of banned foam items.

The rule is meant to help cut down on waste.

Polystyrene foam is a top source of litter, according to the DEC. Items made using the foam break apart easily, dont biodegrade rapidly and can linger in the environment for a long time.

The foam wont disappear from coolers completely. It can still be used in constructing them as long as its contained inside a more durable layer.

So if you pull apart a reusable cooler even after Jan. 1, you still may find foam on the inside.

You can find more information on the foam ban on the DEC website.
An Arkansas couple has been sentenced after trying to sell their baby for $1,000 and a six-pack of beer.

KFSM reports Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers pleaded guilty last week, more than a year after they were accused of trying to sell their two-month old son to a stranger at a Benton County campsite. According to the New York Post, court records show the Benton County Sheriffs Office was notified in September 2024 that the couple signed a letter granting custody to a man they met at the Beaver Lake Hideaway Campground in Rogers, Ark.

I Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers are signing our rights over to Cody Nathaniel Martin of our baby boy [redacted] for $1,000 on 09/21/2024, said the letter, along with a disclaimer that after signing this there will be no changing yall twos minds and to never contact again.

An affidavit said a witness on the scene recorded cellphone video of Urban and Ehlers signing the letter.

The contract was reportedly written after another man, Ricky Crawford, overheard Ehler asking another couple for beer. The affidavit said Crawford offered to give the couple beer if he could keep their baby for the night, to which they agreed.

Crawford allegedly brought the baby to Martin, who lived in a different camper at the campsite. Court documents state the couple further considered the deal and approached Crawford and Martin to offer the child permanently in exchange for $1,000, though one person involved said no money was given for the adoption.

Urban, 22, struck a plea deal to spend 3 years in prison for attempted consideration for relinquishing minor for adoption, plus an additional 3-year suspended imposition of sentence. Urban, the childs father, was originally charged with first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor and accepting compensation for adoption.

According to KFSM, Urban was also sentenced to another 3 years in prison with a 3-year suspended imposition for violating probation in a separate case. In June 2024, he pleaded guilty to theft by receiving in Benton County and was sentenced to 3 years of probation at the time.

Ehlers, the 21 year-old mother of the infant, avoided prison in a separate plea deal. She will receive 6 years of probation after pleading guilty to first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor and attempted consideration for relinquishing minor for adoption.

Its unclear if the child remains in Ehlers custody.

KFSM reports the Benton County Sheriffs Office reported in September 2024 that a deputy responding to the scene was told the baby had a bad ammonia and fecal odor. While changing his diaper, they observed heavy rash, blisters, and swelling on the babys buttocks and genitals; the boy was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment at the time.
GENEVA (AP)  The United States on Monday announced a $2 billion pledge for U.N. humanitarian aid as President Donald Trumps administration continues to slash U.S. foreign assistance and warns United Nations agencies to adapt, shrink or die in a time of new financial realities.

The money is a small fraction of what the U.S. has contributed in the past but reflects what the administration believes is a generous amount that will maintain the United States status as the worlds largest humanitarian donor.

The pledge creates an umbrella fund from which money will be doled out to individual agencies and priorities, a key part of U.S. demands for drastic changes across the world body that have alarmed many humanitarian workers and led to severe reductions in programs and services.

The $2 billion is only a sliver of traditional U.S. humanitarian funding for U.N.-backed programs, which has run as high as $17 billion annually in recent years, according to U.N. data. U.S. officials say only $8-$10 billion of that has been in voluntary contributions. The United States also pays billions in annual dues related to its U.N. membership.

Critics say the Western aid cutbacks have been shortsighted, driven millions toward hunger, displacement or disease, and harmed U.S. soft power around the world.

A year of crisis in aid

The move caps a crisis year for many U.N. organizations like its refugee, migration and food aid agencies. The Trump administration has already cut billions in U.S. foreign aid, prompting them to slash spending, aid projects and thousands of jobs. Other traditional Western donors have reduced outlays, too.

The announced U.S. pledge for aid programs of the United Nations  the worlds top provider of humanitarian assistance and biggest recipient of U.S. humanitarian aid money  takes shape in a preliminary deal with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, run by Tom Fletcher, a former British diplomat and government official.

Even as the U.S. pulls back its aid, needs have ballooned across the world: Famine has been recorded this year in parts of conflict-ridden Sudan and Gaza, and floods, drought and natural disasters that many scientists attribute to climate change have taken many lives or driven thousands from their homes.

The cuts will have major implications for U.N. affiliates like the International Organization for Migration, the World Food Program and refugee agency UNHCR. They have already received billions less from the U.S. this year than under annual allocations from the previous Biden administration  or even during Trumps first term.

Now, the idea is that Fletchers office  which last year set in motion a humanitarian reset to improve efficiency, accountability and effectiveness of money spent  will become a funnel for U.S. and other aid money that can be then redirected to those agencies, rather than scattered U.S. contributions to a variety of individual appeals for aid.

US seeks aid consolidation

The United States wants to see more consolidated leadership authority in U.N. aid delivery systems, said a senior State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity to provide details before the announcement at the U.S. diplomatic mission in Geneva.

Under the plan, Fletcher and his coordination office are going to control the spigot on how money is distributed to agencies, the official said.

This humanitarian reset at the United Nations should deliver more aid with fewer tax dollars  providing more focused, results-driven assistance aligned with U.S foreign policy, said U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz.

U.S. officials say the $2 billion is just a first outlay to help fund OCHAs annual appeal for money, announced earlier this month. Fletcher, noting the upended aid landscape, already slashed the request this year. Other traditional U.N. donors like Britain, France, Germany and Japan have reduced aid allocations and sought reforms this year.

The agreement requires the U.N. to consolidate humanitarian functions to reduce bureaucratic overhead, unnecessary duplication, and ideological creep, the State Department said in a statement. Individual U.N. agencies will need to adapt, shrink, or die.

Nowhere is reform more important than the humanitarian agencies, which perform some of the U.N.s most critical work, the department added. Todays agreement is a critical step in those reform efforts, balancing President Trumps commitment to remaining the worlds most generous nation, with the imperative to bring reform to the way we fund, oversee, and integrate with U.N. humanitarian efforts.

At its core, the reform project will help establish pools of funding that can be directed either to specific crises or countries in need. A total of 17 countries will be targeted initially, including Bangladesh, Congo, Haiti, Syria and Ukraine.

One of the worlds most desperate countries, Afghanistan, is not included, nor are the Palestinian territories, which officials say will be covered by money stemming from Trumps as-yet-incomplete Gaza peace plan.

The project, months in the making, stems from Trumps longtime view that the world body has great promise, but has failed to live up to it, and has  in his eyes  drifted too far from its original mandate to save lives while undermining American interests, promoting radical ideologies and encouraging wasteful, unaccountable spending.

Fletcher praised the deal, saying in a statement, At a moment of immense global strain, the United States is demonstrating that it is a humanitarian superpower, offering hope to people who have lost everything.
Albany, N.Y.  New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Monday expanded her emergency declaration to include the entire state ahead of a lake effect storm that could drop as much as three feet of snow in some areas.

Hochuls order continues the existing state of emergency, which was issued during Fridays snowstorm, to now include all 62 counties in New York state.

The lake effect storm forecast to begin Monday night is expected to be intense, with high winds and blizzard-like conditions. Snow could fall at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour.

A winter storm warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Wednesday.

Hochuls emergency declaration allows her to, among other things, temporarily suspend state contracting rules and driving limits for commercial truck drivers.

Local officials have issued their own alerts to residents.

Madison County has asked residents to avoid unnecessary travel from 10 p.m. Monday until 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said he will issue a travel advisory later Monday.
Tesla Cybertrucks have become a popular symbol of police, as these vehicles are often used as barricades during protests. They are also used in emergency response scenarios. While Elon Musk claims that it's bulletproof, critics claim that it's not.

Cybertruck Armor: Fact vs. Fiction

Sheriff Kevin McMahill described the Cybertrucks as symbols of "innovation, sustainability, and our commitment to serve the community with the best tools available, safely and efficiently." The announcement emphasized their futuristic appeal and alleged bulletproof features, setting them apart from standard patrol cars.

As Boing Boing reported, the Las Vegas Police Department unveiled 10 customized Tesla Cybertrucks in October. They were donated by venture capitalist Ben Horowitz.

Despite claims of superior protection, the Las Vegas Cybertrucks remain at factory specifications. UP FIT, the company handling modifications, stated in a video that "the vehicle does not need added ballistic doors because the doors already have ballistic protection from the factory."

However, independent tests tell a different story. While Cybertruck panels can resist some small arms fire, rifles like the AR-15 can easily penetrate the doors. "Armor Glass" windows, tougher than typical auto glass, only withstand minor impacts, failing to stop bullets effectively.

Firearms expert Kay Leadfoot explained that AR-15 style rifles punch through the doors, all but the lightest handguns penetrate, and standard rifle ammo easily breaches the glass.

The History of Armored Vehicle Challenges

Creating truly bulletproof everyday vehicles is notoriously difficult. In the 1970s, "Magic" Alex Mardas attempted to bulletproof luxury cars for Middle Eastern royalty, but bullets easily penetrated during tests.

Experts often caution that "bulletproof" is more marketing than a guarantee. Even reinforced vehicles are frequently vulnerable to real-world ballistics, leaving occupants exposed.

Cybertruck Concerns Beyond Bulletproof

The challenges extend beyond armor. Cybertrucks have faced issues such as:
The Venezuelan governments announcement on Christmas Eve that it would release 99 political prisoners has not yet been fully finalized. Little by little, families and lawyers are compiling lists of names and confirming whether the prisoners have actually been able to leave jail.

Releasing political prisoners is a tactic the Venezuelan government often uses to ease internal pressures or to negotiate agreements with the United States. But this time, the move is noteworthy for who is not being released. More than 900 people (174 of them military personnel) are still imprisoned for political reasons in 90 prisons across Venezuela. Among them are human rights defenders, opposition figures, several cancer patients, and a minor. Since 2014, over 9,000 people remain subject to judicial restrictions, according to Venezuelan human rights organization Foro Penal.

The announcement by the administration of Nicolas Maduro largely applies to prisoners convicted of protesting after the 2024 presidential elections. It also includes people who were jailed for criticizing the government on social media, such as Dr. Marggie Orozco, sentenced to 30 years in prison for sending a WhatsApp audio message. The NGO Justicia, Encuentro y Perdon (Justice, Reconciliation, and Forgiveness), which assists the families of prisoners, noted that while there is solidarity and genuine shared joy for each release, the selectivity of these decisions is re-victimizing. Those who remain imprisoned, and their families, are subjected to an indefinite wait, with no clear criteria or guarantees, as if regaining freedom depended on chance rather than the recognition of a fundamental right.

Families of political prisoners had hoped for releases in the context of the canonizations of Jose Gregorio Hernandez and Carmen Rendiles, the first Venezuelan saints. They launched an intense campaign for the Church to advocate on their behalf. No releases were secured in October, when the ceremony took place at the Vatican. That month, in contrast, saw more than 50 new arrests. Months earlier, however, through a political negotiation announced by opposition leader Henrique Capriles Radonski, 13 political prisoners were released, including deputy Americo de Grazia and former Maracaibo mayor Rafael Ramirez, along with one of his associates, Pablo Guanipa.

Human rights defenders have reported that 91 of the roughly 1,000 political prisoners suffer from serious illnesses and face, according to Justicia, Encuentro y Perdon, progressive physical deterioration as a result of what they call a form of structural violence, referring to unsanitary prison conditions and the scarcity of food and medicine. Among them are at least eight patients with advanced cancer. Nonetheless, these prisoners were not necessarily included in the Christmas releases.

Mary Lopez cries for her imprisoned brother, journalist Luis Lopez, in Caracas, Venezuela, on Thursday, April 10. Ariana Cubillos (AP)

Given the discretionary way in which conditional release measures are granted, Amnesty International again demanded the full freedom of five human rights defenders: Javier Tarazona, Rocio San Miguel, Carlos Julio Rojas, Eduardo Torres and Kennedy Tejeda.

Tarazona is one of the activists who has spent the longest time in prison. Through his NGO, Fundaredes, he documented the presence of irregular armed groups along the Venezuelan border with Colombia and the alleged links of high-ranking government officials to the ELN guerrilla and FARC dissidents. His social media accounts were frozen on July 2, 2021  the day he was arrested while reporting to the Attorney Generals Office the harassment and persecution he was facing from Venezuelan intelligence agents. Four and a half years later, he remains in El Helicoide prison, and his legal proceedings have stalled.

More than 100 women imprisoned

With Rocio San Miguel, detained on February 12, 2024, a line was crossed. The 59-year-old lawyer and internationally recognized defense specialist was arrested while heading to a flight at Maiquetia Airport. She was held in an unknown location for several hours, prompting the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights to raise the alarm over her possible enforced disappearance.

The Maduro government responded by expelling the U.N. representatives who had been stationed in Caracas since 2019. Her former partner was also detained under an investigation into an alleged conspiracy against the government. A year ago, it was revealed that San Miguel had suffered a shoulder fracture after a fall in El Helicoide, and months later her family and lawyers were still demanding medical attention. With her case, the number of women imprisoned for political reasons has reached 120, according to Foro Penal.

A man with a photo of imprisoned activist Rocio San Miguel, in Caracas, Venezuela, on November 18. Ariana Cubillos (AP)

Carlos Julio Rojas is a journalist and community activist. He has been imprisoned since April 2024, also accused of conspiring. He had been detained three other times for participating in protests, and on one occasion he was sent to the Ramo Verde military prison.

Lawyer Eduardo Torres was arrested in May. He was held in an unknown location for a week and is currently in Yare II prison, on the outskirts of Caracas. He is a member of the NGO Provea, which has received precautionary protection measures from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). Seven months later, the preliminary hearing in his case has still not taken place.

Kennedy Tejeda, a lawyer with Foro Penal, was arrested while visiting a National Guard (GNB) command in Carabobo State, in the countrys central region, to inquire about protesters detained during the 2024 post-election protests.

Amnesty International also called for the release of political analyst and media director Nicmer Evans, of Punto de Corte, who was detained for the second time a few weeks ago; journalist Rory Branker; and the teenager Gabriel Rodriguez, the only minor still imprisoned for political reasons. He is 17 years old and was arrested during protests against Maduros inauguration on January 9 of this year, and sentenced to 10 years in prison for terrorism.

The organization also demanded the release of opposition figure Enrique Marquez, 62, a former 2024 presidential candidate who had called on the Supreme Court to require the National Electoral Council (CNE) to publish the official election results. He is a moderate opposition leader who has advocated for a negotiated transition. He served as a deputy and then as a member of the CNE between 2021 and 2023, as part of a political pact aimed at giving the electoral body greater balance. He was arrested in January of this year, and nine months later was finally allowed to see his wife. Enriques freedom, like that of so many men and women behind bars for their ideas or political commitment, should not be a bargaining chip, but a starting point for national reconciliation, wrote Sonia Lugo de Marquez on social media on December 24.

Other high-profile political prisoners include Freddy Superlano, detained before the 2024 elections. A leader of the Voluntad Popular (Popular Will) party, he had been actively involved in the campaign for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutias candidacy. He was subjected to isolation and communication restrictions in El Helicoide, and in August he was transferred to another prison where his family has also been unable to see him.

Juan Pablo Guanipa, who has held political positions as a deputy, councilman, and gubernatorial candidate for the Primero Justicia party, was a close ally of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. In December, he turned 61 in prison. Guanipa closely followed the 2024 election campaign and later went into hiding. On May 23, 2025, he was captured by security forces in the days leading up to the parliamentary elections in which much of the opposition abstained. His family reported weeks ago that he requires medical attention due to hypertension and insulin-related issues and that they do not know the conditions in which he is being held.

Venezuelans protest for the release of political prisoners in Bogota, Colombia, on October 11. Ivan Valencia (AP)

Vente Venezuela (Come Venezuela), Machados party, has the largest number of imprisoned leaders and members  around 140. Regarding the recent releases, the opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate warned on Saturday that they could not be considered true releases, since most remain subject to unjust judicial processes and continue to be coerced by the regime. In a statement, she called for an end to the so-called revolving door of political prisoners, in which new arrests continue despite releases. She urged the international community to increase pressure on Maduro and to set as a clear objective the removal of the regime and the complete dismantling of its repressive apparatus.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
One dead, two missing in southern Spain after flooding



Madrid, Dec 28 (AFP) Dec 28, 2025



One person was found dead and two were missing after torrential rains caused flooding in southern Spain, authorities and rescue services said Sunday, calling for extreme caution.

Spain has been exceptionally strongly affected by climate change in recent years, resulting in longer heatwaves and more frequent episodes of heavy rain.

Heavy flooding killed more than 230 people in October 2024, mostly in the Valencia region in the east of the country, with the government at the time coming under heavy criticism for its handling of the catastrophe.

On Sunday, videos posted on social media showed villages in southern Spain flooded overnight.

Emergency services were deployed for cleanup operations.

The body of the person who died was found in the Malaga region, where the Guardia Civil said it was still looking for one other person.

Another person was believed to have gone missing near Granada.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez urged the population to exercise "maximum vigilance" in a post on X.

The national weather service lowered its warning level from red to orange for the southern Andalusia region earlier Sunday.

But heavy downpours were still pounding the coast around Valencia, with authorities warning of flash floods.

The neighbouring region of Murcia was also still hit by heavy rain.

rbj/jh/jj
Europe wanted its carbon border tax to go global -- is it working?



Paris, France, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



The EU's carbon border tax was designed to do more than clean up its own economy: it hoped to encourage trading partners to put a price on pollution as well.

As the levy system becomes fully operational on January 1, countries exporting emissions-intensive goods to the European Union face a choice: pay at the border, or adopt their own carbon rules at home.

The policy is already helping reshape climate policies far beyond the European Union, experts told AFP, even as critics accuse Brussels of protectionism.



- What is the CBAM? -



The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) aims to ensure foreign producers pay a carbon cost similar to what European companies already pay under the bloc's internal emissions trading system.

Importers of carbon-heavy goods produced abroad like steel, aluminium and fertiliser must declare the CO2 emissions embedded in their products, and pay a levy if they exceed EU standards.

Some competitors say the policy restricts trade and favours European manufacturers. But the EU says it encourages greener practices because countries can avoid paying the levy by imposing an equivalent carbon price on domestic production.

"Pricing carbon is something that we need to pursue with as many as possible, as quickly as possible," the EU's climate commissioner, Wopke Hoekstra, said at the top-level UN climate negotiations in Brazil in November.



- Has it nudged others along? -



Aurora D'Aprile, who studied the global response to CBAM for the Swiss-based International Emissions Trading Association, told AFP there had been "a clear step change in the reaction" over the past 12 months.

"Several key trade partners of the European Union actively expanded their carbon-pricing schemes, for instance China, or launched ETS (emissions trading schemes) after being in the making for many years", such as Turkey, she said.

Others, such as Japan, specifically cited CBAM in their reasoning for advancing their own policies, said Nicolas Berghmans, a climate and energy researcher at the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations (IDDRI) in Paris.

Some countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada, are also considering setting up their own mechanisms along the European model.

The CBAM was not the only influencing factor but given the size of the European market it "sharpened" the urgency of the global policy response, said Marios Tokas, a trade lawyer at the Brussels-based law firm Cassidy Levy Kent.



- What about opponents? -



Russia has argued the CBAM breaches the rules of global trade and has referred its opposition to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

China and other emerging economies have also been highly critical of what they consider a "unilateral trade measure" and successfully pushed to get the matter on the agenda at the COP30 climate talks in November.

But criticism at a global level "doesn't mean that the action on the compliance or adaptation side" isn't also being undertaken, said D'Aprile, pointing in particular to China.

Beijing was keeping up diplomatic pressure over CBAM while also ensuring it was ready to adapt and comply to the changes, she said.



- Can the EU claim victory? -



Georg Zachmann, a specialist in European energy and climate policies at Bruegel, a Brussels-based think tank, said the CBAM could be called "a political success for the EU".

But he told AFP that a long-term gauge would be to see how many countries imposed their own carbon pricing schemes in response, and how effective those policies might be.

D'Aprile said she would be cautious about declaring victory before the EU has finalised and implemented the "complex" last steps of the levy scheme.

Berghmans said there remained "a big challenge" in terms of how differing carbon pricing schemes may interact in the years ahead.

"We will have to support progress with a significant diplomatic effort," he said.
Finland opens to wolf hunting in the new year



Helsinki, Dec 29 (AFP) Dec 29, 2025



Finland will allow limited hunting of wolves next year to manage their growing population, repealing year-round protections that had been in place since 1973.

Amendments to Finland's Hunting Act will allow wolf hunting during restricted periods based on regional quotas, set by Finland's ministry of agriculture and forestry.

The hunting period has been proposed to take place from 1 January to 10 February 2026, with the final decision on dates expected on Tuesday.

Previously, the killing of wolves has only been permitted when an individual posed a risk or caused severe damage.

The bill, which easily passed the country's parliament in December, could also relax strict rules on hunting lynx and bear, though a final decision will be taken later.

Under the law, at least 65 wolves could be killed in the coming winter season, the Finnish government has said.

According to the Natural Resources Institute Finland, the country had an estimated 430 wolves in March - a 46 percent increase from a year earlier, with most of them in the southwestern parts of the country.

Security concerns about encounters with wolves and the risk they pose to livestock were reasons for the changes, which come after the European Union earlier this year downgraded the wolf's protected status as its range and numbers spread throughout the continent.

Environmental organisations have criticised the bill, saying it threatens to breach EU's habitats directive.

Finland's Association for Nature Conservation has said a vital wolf population should consist of at least 525 individuals.

But the country's ministry of agriculture and forestry has put the reference number for ensuring the wolf's conservation status at 273 wolves.

According to a November survey commissioned by two animal rights organisations, 62 percent of Finns said wolf hunting should not be introduced under current circumstances.
Sergey Lavrov claims Moscow has identified the targets it will bomb following an alleged strike on a presidential residence in Novgorod

The Russian government is threatening to end peace negotiations after accusing Kyiv of carrying out an alleged attack on Vladimir Putins second home following a meeting Sunday between the leaders of the United States and Ukraine, Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Russias negotiating position will be reviewed given Kyivs definitive transition to a policy of state terrorism, said Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

According to the Kremlins version of events, Russia shot down 91 drones that Ukraine allegedly launched at the Russian leaders residence in the Novgorod region. The attack on the Russian presidential residence will not go unanswered, warned Lavrov, who assured that Russian retaliation will not be long in coming. After the Kremlin launched its accusations against Kyiv, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt announced on social media that Trump had a positive call with Putin about Ukraine.

The targets for retaliatory actions and the timing of their implementation by the Russian Armed Forces have been determined, Putins chief diplomat added a day after Moscow launched an intense 10-hour bombardment of the Ukrainian capital on the eve of the meeting between Zelenskiy and Trump at the Republicans Mar-a-Lago resort.

The Russian threat comes after another failed attempt by Trump to advance a possible peace agreement. Putin has not yet commented on his conversation with the U.S. president, but Russian authorities have emphasized that Moscow is starting from a 27-point program based on what was discussed at the summit between the two leaders in Alaska in August. According to Russian diplomats, the 20-point plan agreed between Kyiv and Washington is unacceptable.

Putin stated on Monday that the Russian military operation will continue as planned until its objectives are met, according to the Interfax news agency.

Zelenskiy denies attack

Zelenskiy issued a statement on social media describing the accusation of an attack on Putins residence as completely false: This is an excuse to continue the attacks on Ukraine, particularly on Kyiv, and also to refuse to take the necessary decisions to end the war.

The Ukrainian president believes that following Lavrovs words, Russia could be preparing a major attack on the capital and, more specifically, on state buildings. The Cabinet headquarters in Kyiv was hit by a missile last September.

On Sunday night, after his meeting with Trump, Zelenskiy reiterated to Ukrainian media that the key to bringing peace to his country is the security guarantees of his European and American allies.

Zelenskiy revealed that the White House has assured Kyiv that it will take appropriate measures, equivalent to Ukraine becoming a member of NATO, but only for a period of 15 years, with the option of an extension. The Ukrainian president explained that he had asked Trump to extend the period to at least 30 years and, ideally, to 50. I told President Trump that the war has been going on for almost 15 years, Zelenskiy said, referring to the war in Donbas, which broke out in 2014 with pro-Russian separatists, so security guarantees need to be longer.

The Ukrainian leader believes that the war will not formally end until Kyiv has these security measures in place. Martial law  even if a hypothetical peace agreement were signed  would remain in force until Ukraine is under the umbrella of Western defense, Zelenskiy stressed.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
State action and the fight against the faction loyal to El Mayo Zambada have resulted in high-profile arrests and murders that have dealt a blow to the sons of El Chapo Guzman

There is no publicly available data to quantify this, nor is there an official statement drawing definitive conclusions about whether the internal war within the Sinaloa Cartel is tilting the playing field in favor of either of the two factions, Los Chapitos or La Mayiza, which have been fighting for over a year following the arrest of Ismael El Mayo Zambada in the United States. However, these past few months have dealt clear blows to the cartels structures, which, according to data from the U.S. government and the few leads from Mexican authorities, have diminished the power of the group led by Joaquin El Chapo Guzmans sons. The latest victim  assassinated in the heart of Mexico City  was El Panu, a hitman boss and one of the few remaining strongmen still active.

A series of high-profile arrests, murders, and seizures, occurring not only in Sinaloa but also in Jalisco and Mexico City, have fueled the perception that the setbacks being inflicted on Los Chapitos are becoming more frequent and decisive. According to Cecilia Farfan, head of the North American Observatory of the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, this perception doesnt arise from nowhere, but neither can it be supported by hard data.

We dont know the profiles; we dont know how the government determines that someone belongs to one group or another, at least not publicly. So we cant have hard data and say: 80% belong to this group, she explains. However, she adds, there are elements that allow for a reasonable conjecture, such as the formal indictment filed by the U.S. government against Los Chapitos for trafficking and producing fentanyl, and the multimillion-dollar rewards offered for information leading to their whereabouts and possible capture. Added to this is the change in the security cooperation relationship between Mexico and Washington and the type of intelligence that this cooperation typically generates. Generally, what the United States contributes is intelligence, which is telling the Mexican government, So-and-so is in such-and-such place; if you want to arrest him, hes there. Its not hard to imagine that theres an emphasis on one faction over another, Farfan points out.

Behind this emphasis lies an operational logic, based on using limited resources against the groups perceived as being most lethal. If you direct your actions toward what the public perceives as the source of disorder and violence, that also gives you political leeway to say, Im doing something, Im responding, Farfan explains.

Los Chapitos losses

The security operations of Claudia Sheinbaums government have led to the arrest of several heavyweights within Los Chapitos, but they have also revealed that many others have been murdered in a sequence that  in the last 15 months  has affected doormen, administrators, operators, members of the same family, and the groups production structure.

On November 22, 2023, Nestor Isidro Perez Salas, alias El Nini, the operative who turned violence into a spectacle, was arrested. He was finally captured in November in Colinas de la Rivera, pulled down from a rooftop while trying to escape. From Culiacan, he was sent directly to New York on an extradition order.

In February of this year, Kevin Alonso Gil Acosta, alias El 200, an operative for Los Chapitos, was arrested and subsequently extradited to the United States. That same month, Jose Angel Canobbio Inzunza, alias El Guerito, was also arrested during a joint land and air operation by federal forces in Sinaloa. He was a high-priority target for the United States.

In May, Jorge Humberto Figueroa Benitez, alias La Perris, considered the head of security for Los Chapitos, was murdered. The crime occurred during a special operation led by the Mexican army in Navolato, Sinaloa.

The most recent events include the execution in a restaurant in the Zona Rosa district of Mexico City of Oscar Noe Medina Gonzalez, alias El Panu, the last remaining hitman boss, followed by the arrest of Carlos Gabriel Reynoso Garcia, the factions leading operator in Mazatlan. He is believed to be in charge of drug trafficking and sales, coordinating acts of violence, and vehicle theft. Two days later, authorities apprehended Mario Alfredo Lindoro Navidad, 44, and Mario Lindoro Elenes, 69, the brother-in-law and father-in-law of Archivaldo Ivan Guzman, respectively, as well as financial operators for group.

On December 23, Alan Gabriel Nunez Herrera, alias The Alchemist, was murdered at a gas station in the Tres Rios neighborhood. His name appeared in U.S. federal wanted records as a figure associated with conspiracies to import and traffic fentanyl into the United States, as well as with possession and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices, in addition to a money laundering conspiracy. A reward of $1 million had been offered for his capture.

Despite these actions, Miguel Calderon Quevedo, citizen coordinator of the Sinaloa State Public Security Council (CESP), agrees that more official information is needed to understand whether the operations have had a greater impact on one side than the other, and why. Its difficult to confirm because they dont give us information about the profiles. This data comes from investigation files that arent made public, he says. However, he adds, what is noticeable is a change in the criminal dynamics after 15 months of conflict. At the beginning, there was an imbalance due to territorial control, but this has progressed, and now we can see a reverse imbalance, he points out, while also acknowledging the strength Los Chapitos still possess to inflict harm. Despite the casualties and seizures, they carry on with impressive intensity. They have logistical, human resources, and supply capabilities that show the structure is still functioning.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
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

Claudia Winkleman has declared the upcoming series of the BBCs hit show The Traitors to be "truly extraordinary", promising viewers "something new" when it launches on New Years Day.

The highly anticipated fourth series follows swiftly after the hugely popular celebrity edition, which proved a cultural touchstone and ratings success for the broadcaster.

Comedian Alan Carr ultimately triumphed in the star-studded contest, beating faithfuls like historian David Olusoga and actor Nick Mohammed. Former rugby player Joe Marler also garnered significant fan attention, celebrated for his shrewd game analysis and friendships with comedian Joe Wilkinson and Mohammed.

With Winklemans intriguing tease, excitement is building for what is expected to be another gripping instalment of the psychological game.

Asked if she ever revealed any spoilers to her family, Winkleman said: Genuinely Id lose my job. Plus, theres no fun in knowing. When Alan won my husband and youngest son couldnt stop screaming and crying and shouting, but you knew.

Speaking about the upcoming series, Winkleman added: Theres something new and what happens in this series is truly extraordinary with moments that made me gasp.

I cant wait for people to see it. The producers have the greatest minds on Earth.

The Traitors series four will see 22 people from across the UK descend on a Scottish castle in the Highlands to take part in a game of deceit and betrayal that could see them win up to 120,000.

open image in gallery Claudia Winkleman will return on January 1 with a new series of The Traitors (Ian West/PA) ( PA Wire )

Winkleman said: The Scottish Highlands might be the most beautiful place on the planet. Its a privilege to spend so much time surrounded by the jaw-dropping landscape. Ive never been anywhere like it.

Theres something about the expanse of sky, the breathtaking lochs and the flora and fauna.

Winklemans role on the show is to oversee challenges and help pick the traitors, who secretly murder the larger group of faithfuls in a bid to take the prize pot for themselves.

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.

She said: Its nerve-racking but I dont choose them alone. I interview all the players and some are absolutely desperate to be faithful. Anyone who convinces me otherwise is in contention.

I then go into a small room with the bosses and an enormous tin of biscuits and we pick.

To win the prize money, players must survive until the end of the competition and avoid being murdered or banished.

The BBC has promised even more twists, turns, secrets, epic missions, deception, banishments and, of course, murders aplenty for the upcoming series.

The Traitors starts on January 1 at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

The Traitors: Uncloaked will start on BBC Two immediately after the main series on New Years Day at 9.05pm.
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

There is, its fair to say, nothing more important to the movies than actors.

The right performance can tip a film into the realm of greatness; a bad one can doom an otherwise promising project to mediocrity or ridicule.

What would There Will Be Blood be without Daniel Day-Lewis at its centre? Would The Godfather still sparkle without Al Pacino and Marlon Brando?

These are not questions anyone is keen to know the answer to. The best performances are irreplaceable; they are key to the very essence of cinema.

But what happens when one good performance isnt enough to save a film? When a terrific performance is wasted on a substandard story?

From Anthony Hopkins to Leonardo DiCaprio, many of the finest actors working today have lent their talents to inferior projects. Sometimes they simply phone it in, but other times, they manage to shine despite the material.

Heres The Independents list of 23 secretly brilliant performances in bad films...

Phillip Seymour Hoffman  Along Came Polly (2004)

The late, great Phillip Seymour Hoffman was that rarest of things; an actor who brought depth to even the flimsiest of roles, from The Hunger Games Plutarch Heavensby to Mission: Impossible IIIs villainous Owen Davian. The critically lambasted romcom Along Came Polly may be the best example of this, however, as Hoffman delivering a coruscating comic turn that stole not just a scene but the whole film from under Ben Stiller and Jennifer Anistons noses.

Margot Robbie  Suicide Squad (2016)

One of the worst blockbusters in living memory, David Ayers supervillain dirge Suicide Squad was met with unanimous damnation from the critical community. Reviews were also unanimous, however, in their praise for Margot Robbies performance, with the Australian star later reprising the role in two subsequent movies.

Tom Hanks  The Ladykillers (2004)

The Ladykillers is rightfully considered the nadir of the Coen brothers otherwise pretty miraculously consistent filmography. But thats not at all down to Tom Hanks, who compellingly reinvented a role so brilliantly inhabited by Alec Guinness in the classic Ealing original. Unctuous, erudite and deeply sinister, the felonious band leader is a far cry from any other character Hanks has tackled; he devours the Coens typically sardonic dialogue with a grin.

open image in gallery A not-so-serious man: Tom Hanks as Professor Goldthwaite Higginson Dorr in The Ladykillers' ( Buena Vista Pictures )

James McAvoy  Split (2016)

M Night Shyamalans pulpy multiple-personality horror Split had plenty of issues, but James McAvoys showstopper performance wasnt one of them. Playing, essentially, eight characters in one is a tough task to pull off, but McAvoy manages it with theatrical aplomb.

Kristen Stewart  American Ultra (2015)

Though Kristen Stewart has been in a few of the best films of the last 10 years, shes still had her fair share of misfires. The 2015 stoner-thriller American Ultra was inarguably a misfire, as she played the girlfriend and handler of Jesse Eisenbergs amnesiac government sleeper agent. Its a bad film that never lives up to its larger-than-life premise, but Stewart turns in some remarkably good work here.

Peter Dinklage  Pixels (2015)

Theres almost nothing good to say about this insipid Adam Sandler video game comedy from 2015. But what little there is exclusively concerns Game of Thrones Peter Dinklage, who turns in an incongruously funny performance as obnoxious video game champion Eddie "The Fireblaster" Plant.

open image in gallery Peter Dinklage in the insipid 2015 gamer comedy Pixels' ( Sony )

Thomas Hayden Church  Spider-Man 3 (2007)

Probably the worst Spider-Man film to ever grace cinemas, Sam Raimis trilogy capper was a torrid mess of plotlines, too many villains and bad haircuts. The films only sincere pathos comes from Thomas Hayden Church, who manages to somehow survive the carnage with his head held high, playing the tragically fated Flint Marko, AKA Sandman.

John C Reilly  Kong: Skull Island (2017)

On paper, Kong: Skull Island should have been a blast. It had a solid cast (including Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L Jackson, and John Goodman), an intriguing premise (King Kong during the Vietnam War) and the 104ft ape we all know and love. But the film was a major disappointment. The only saving grace was John C Reilly, whose brief appearance as a WWII pilot stranded on Skull Island after his plane was shot down felt like it was from another film entirely.

Uma Thurman  Batman & Robin (1997)

Uma Thurman knew how to pitch her performance better than anyone else in this despised 1997 superhero flick. In the role of fern fatale Poison Ivy, Thurman gives a performance of enjoyable camp extremity. To quote Janet Maslin in her contemporaneous review for the New York Times: As played by Uma Thurman, Poison Ivy is perfect, flaunting great looks, a mocking attitude and madly flamboyant disguises. Like Mae West, she mixes true femininity with the winking womanliness of a drag queen.

open image in gallery Uma Thurman as Dr Pamela Isley, AKA Poison Ivy, in Batman & Robin' ( Warner Bros )

Michelle Pfieffer  Grease 2 (1982)

The original Grease has not endured the ravages of time with a whole lot of grace, and its reviled 1982 sequel has fared even worse. Nevertheless, Grease 2 had one living, breathing redeeming quality: its 23-year-old newcomer star Michelle Pfieffer, whose charisma and talents survived the stink of the whole schlocky affair.

Alan Rickman  Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)

Kevin Costner may have failed to set Sherwood Forest alight with his role in the ropey Robin Hood adaptation Prince of Thieves, but the same cant be said for his co-star Alan Rickman. The Die Hard star gave an outstanding performance as the nefarious Sheriff of Nottingham. Was Rickman playing to type? Well, yes, but there was pretty much no one better at doing what he does here.

Martin Freeman  The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

Forged in the afterglow of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Peter Jacksons Hobbit prequels were doomed to live in the shadow of their predecessors. But not many people were ready for quite how bad they were. Look past the dodgy CGI and over-egged plotting, however, and Martin Freeman was an inspired choice as a young Bilbo Baggins: no-one plays a genial, put-upon everyman (or should that be everyhobbit?) quite like him.

open image in gallery Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' ( New Line Cinema )

Max von Sydow  Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (2011)

This skin-crawling 9/11 drama was criticised upon its release for being exploitative and trying to milk sentiment from real-life tragedy. Max Von Sydows performance was spared the knives, however, with the legendary Swedish actor giving a moving  and wordless  turn as an elderly renter. His efforts didnt go unacknowledged, and von Sydow was nominated for an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

Phil Hartman  Jingle All the Way (1996)

Barring a few notable exceptions (such as The Simpsons and NewsRadio), the late Phil Hartman pretty much made a career out of radically outshining his co-stars. During his eight-year stint on Saturday Night Live, a low period for the shows reputation, Hartman was known as the glue. He didnt manage to hold all the cracks in the wretched holiday comedy Jingle All the Way together, but he was nonetheless an enjoyable, consistently funny presence, playing Arnold Schwarzeneggers smarmy neighbour.

Leonardo DiCaprio  The Great Gatsby (2013)

Baz Luhrmann was always an odd choice to adapt F Scott Fitzgeralds literary classic; his brand of cinema is one of bombast and flash. While Tobey Maguire was a pretty drab Nick Carraway, and the usually brilliant Carey Mulligan underwhelming as Daisy Buchannan, DiCaprio was perfectly cast as Gatsby, striking the right balance of insecurity, bluster and poignancy.

open image in gallery Boats against the current: DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby' ( Warner Bros )

Anthony Hopkins  Transformers: The Last Knight (2017)

For an actor of the highest calibre, Anthony Hopkins has still been known to phone it in from time to time; when he receives a script, he reportedly marks certain pages with the letters NAR (No Acting Required). Hed have been forgiven for just dialling it in for this dismal Transformers sequel, but instead, hes unnecessarily compelling, playing a sagacious astronomer whos studied the history of Transformers.

Oscar Isaac  Sucker Punch (2011)

Even by director Zack Snyders own standards, Sucker Punch was something of a spiky, unpleasant misstep. The film, a fantasy about a woman who tries to escape a mental institution through a series of fantasy worlds, was savaged by critics. Oscar Isaac, not yet a name movie star, acquitted himself shockingly well, however, playing a despicable orderly at the facility.

Adam Driver  Star Wars: Episode IX  The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

Theres much to detest about the final film in the so-called Skywalker Saga, from the dialogue and the lazy fan pandering, to the way in which it all but abandoned story arcs previously given to characters like Finn (John Boyega) and Rose (Kelly Marie Tran). Though his masked villain, Kylo Ren, is rushed through a slipshod redemption-by-numbers story, Adam Driver doesnt stop turning in good work, however. The force was certainly weak with this one, but Driver emerged from the wreckage with his reputation utterly unscathed.

open image in gallery Adam Driver as Kylo Ren in The Rise of Skywalker' ( LucasFilm )

Ewan McGregor  Star Wars: Episode III  Revenge of the Sith (2005)

Driver wasnt the only actor who valiantly struggled to provide a good performance in a thoroughly bad Star Wars film. Ewan McGregors work as Obi-Wan Kenobi came under scrutiny throughout the first two of George Lucass maligned prequels, but by the third, he had well and truly found his footing.

Michael K Williams  Assassins Creed (2016)

Even by the metric of video game adaptations, Assassins Creed was capital-b Bad. Usually bankable actors like Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard were histrionic and laughable here; the plot and characterisation almost defy belief. But in the midst of this is The Wires Michael K Williams, delivering a typically classy turn as a Haitian Assassin called Moussa.

Florence Pugh  Black Widow (2021)

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has lured a number of elite actors to its shores, from veterans like Robert Redford and Michael Keaton to younger stars like Michael B Jordan and Zendaya. In terms of up-and-comers, there are few better than Florence Pugh, who appeared as Yelena in the otherwise dreary 2021 blockbuster Black Widow. Pugh makes the films lead, Scarlett Johansson, pale in comparison, but the materials simply not up to snuff.

Matthew Lillard  Scooby Doo (2002)

Say what you will about the puerile 2002 movie adaptation of the classic kids cartoon Scooby-Doo, but you cant really fault the casting. Linda Cardellini, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Freddie Prinze Jr are all well-suited to the roles of Velma, Daphne and Fred respectively, but theyre not a patch on Matthew Lillard (Scream; Twin Peaks: The Return), whose big, swing-for-the-fences performance as the feckless slacker Shaggy Rogers is a masterclass in understanding the assignment.

open image in gallery Matthew Lillard as Shaggy Rogers in Scooby-Doo: The Movie' ( Warner Bros )

Raul Julia  Street Fighter (1994)

The Addams Familys incomparable Raul Julia died tragically in 1994 at the age of 54, having suffered a stroke. While it may seem like a shame for his final major film to be as shoddy an effort as Street Fighter, Raul Julias performance in it is nothing short of a cult sensation. Playing the villainous M Bison, Julia is laugh-out-loud funny, a wonderful foil for a set of unworthy adversaries.
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

James Cameron has delivered his verdict on the divisive ending to his ex-wife Kathryn Bigelows Netflix movie A House of Dynamite.

The film, which follows the minutes after a nuclear missile has been launched at the United States, was generally praised by critics with The Independent awarding it four stars.

*Warning  Spoilers ahead for A House of Dynamite*

However some viewers found the ending underwhelming, as the movie concludes ambiguously. The audience never learns whether the president (played by Idris Elba) has decided to let the missile hit Chicago in order to avoid a full-scale war or has chosen to retaliate. The actual impact of the missile is never shown.

In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Cameron said he recently had dinner with Bigelow and told her he loved the ending.

James Cameron has delivered his verdict on the controversial ending to his ex-wife Kathryn Bigelow's divisive 'A House of Dynamite' ( Getty )

I said to her, I utterly defend that ending, recalled Cameron. Its really the only possible ending. You dont get to the end of The Lady or the Tiger? and know whats behind which door.

The Lady or the Tiger is an 1882 short story by Frank R. Stockton in which it is never revealed whether a princess decides to send the man she loves to be eaten by a tiger or to marry another woman.

Cameron went on to further explain: But thats not even really the point. The point is: From the moment the scenario began at minute zero when the missile was launched and detected, the outcome already sucked.

There was no good outcome, and the movie spent two hours showing you there is no good outcome. We cannot countenance these weapons existing at all.

And it all boils down to one guy in the American system, the president, who is the only person allowed to launch a nuclear strike, either offensively or defensively, and the lives of every person on the planet revolve around that one person. Thats the world we live in and we need to remember that when we vote next time.

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.

Cameron and Bigelow were married from 1989 to 1991, and worked together on films including 1991s Point Break and 1995s Strange Days.

Meanwhile, Cameron recently called out comedian Amy Poehler for making an ignorant joke about the former couple at the Golden Globes in 2013.

Amy Poehlers remark was an ignorant dig at an event which is supposed to be a celebration of cinema and filmmakers, not a roast, said Cameron.
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 sword-wielding man is offering his services to homeowners in Northern California who want help evicting squatters from empty properties.

On the official ASAP Squatter Removal website, owner James Jacobs claims he has a 95%+ success rate and leverages his combat training and mixed martial arts experience to remove squatters from vacant properties, according to a report in The Oaklandside.

We are the only squatter removal service that actively defends your property. While others rely solely on law enforcement relationships  often leading to delays and failed removals  we bring real-world combat training and experience to the table, Jacobs site reads.

Our team leader has over 20 years of mixed martial arts expertise, advance melee weapons training and four years of NRA AND USCCA certification, ensuring both strategic and physical preparedness for any situation.

In an interview with The Oaklandside, Jacobs said his experience with martial arts was unfamiliar to most squatters when it came to evictions.

James Jacobs says he helps kick squatters out with his sword ( ASAP Squatter Removal )

The average squatter has no melee experience, Jacobs told the online outlet, explaining that he views squatting as theft regardless of the housing crisis and homelessness in the East Bay area.

Id much rather make a squatter homeless than have a landlord lose property, Jacobs added.

Jacobs website further added that squatter removal in the area can be unpredictable. It claimed some groups operate as organized crime, which he said he was prepared for with professional-grade tactical gear.

The gear includes firearms, ballistic full-body armor, flash bangs and smoke grenades, tear gas, gas masks, and custom ammunition and tactical gear.

With ASAP Squatter Removal, youre not just hiring a service  youre securing your property, your investment, and your peace of mind with professionals who are ready for anything, according to his website.

The Oaklandside confirmed a recent eviction completed by Jacobs in Oakland earlier this year, but he declined to provide the outlet proof of other evictions, claiming hes signed non-disclosure agreements and that his attorney advised against providing further information concerning legal proceedings. Videos posted online by Jacobs in the past year show him working at several properties, including one titled Another Squatter Removed and Tour of a Squatter Property.

His services come as Californians face a pronounced housing crisis, which has seen rising rents and housing costs and a dearth of new construction price out many residents. Home values in the Golden State are among the steepest in the nation, and the state has among the highest rates of homelessness, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.

Housing prices in San Francisco are so high that a new housing company has rolled out stacked sleeping pods for $700 per month in an attempt to solve the citys affordability crisis, The Independent previously reported.

Under California law, squatters can acquire title to a building after five years, typically much faster than in other states.

In a statement to The Oaklandside, The Oakland Police Department said it handles calls about squatters by responding to all issues locals report.

Our officers will respond to investigate the nature of the call, they said in a statement.

If our officers determine this is a landlord-tenant issue, the case will be referred to the Alameda County Sheriffs Office for further investigation.
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 man was shot and killed after opening fire on two police officers during a child custody exchange in North Carolina over the weekend, police said.

Police in Mint Hill, a suburb of Charlotte, were called to the custody exchange at an Edible Arrangements store around 10:45 a.m. Friday.

The man, identified by authorities as 35-year-old Tjamel Ali Hamlin II, started shooting at the officers, who returned fire. Hamlin was killed at the scene.

Both of the officers, a 13-year veteran and another with six months of service, were struck by gunfire above the neck and were initially in critical condition. By Saturday, they had been treated and released from the hospital, the Mint Hill Police Department wrote on Facebook.

The shooting appeared to have happened inside the Edible Arrangement store.

open image in gallery A man was killed after opening fire on police officers during a child custody exchange in North Carolina on Friday ( Mint Hill Police Department )

Employees at the nearby Empire Pizza & Bar were on a smoke break and saw the two officers enter the store, and then later leaving with one having blood on their hands and face, manager Kevin Phayme told reporters at the scene.

Everything happened so quickly, just seeing an officer with blood on his hands and another one down, Phayme said, according to WBTV.

Our hearts go out to them because they come to Empire Pizza often and they frequent here so our prayers go out to them and their families.

Phayme was later encouraged to hear the officers were stable on Saturday.

Comforting, of course our prayers still go to them because nobody ever wants to receive that call, Phayme added.

In an update Saturday, authorities noted that Hamlins family had been notified of his death. The firearm used was also recovered at the scene.

Authorities have not provided any other details about the shooting.

With reporting by the Associated Press.
The clans eldest son is presenting himself as a moderate version of his father, while the traditional right is calling for a candidate who is not from the family

Nine out of ten Brazilians do not regret their vote in the last presidential election in 2022, according to a survey released last week. That figure suggests that the next presidential election, scheduled for October 2026, will be fiercely competitive, as there has never been a victory in Brazil as narrow as that one. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva won over former president Jair Bolsonaro by less than two points.

The biggest question this time is who will face Lula da Silva, 80, who is seeking reelection to round out his career with a fourth term. For now, the political right is centered around the Bolsonaro clan and its brand. The patriarch, Jair Messias Bolsonaro, 70, wants his eldest son on the ballot. From his prison cell, he has already put him forward as a pre-candidate. The Bolsonaro name remains an extremely valuable political asset for the family; for their less ideological allies on the right, however, it has become more of a burden.

Although the announcement has been welcomed by foreign far-right figures, such as Argentine President Javier Milei and Spanish Vox leader Santiago Abascal, the reaction in Brazil is far from enthusiastic, judging by signals from the center-right and polling data.

The chosen candidate is Flavio Bolsonaro, 44, known within the family as 01. A lawyer, he has spent half his life in politics and currently serves in the Senate. The early stages of the campaign are a whirlwind of negotiations, gestures, and statements that analysts are reading like tea leaves.

Bolsonaros movement suffered a painful defeat at the hands of its nemesis, the powerful judge Alexandre de Moraes, which is all the more humiliating because it was seen as influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump. Washington has lifted the sanctions against the judge and his wife  sanctions originally instigated by one of Bolsonaros sons.

The family has succeeded in shifting public focus to the fathers imprisonment, in exchange setting aside the push for amnesty. Brazils Chamber of Deputies has opened the door to reducing prison sentences for coup supporters, including the former president. The measure enjoys the backing of major newspapers, which have editorialized in favor of shortening what they consider to be excessive sentences.

A little over a month after entering prison, Bolsonaro left his private cell to undergo surgery. On Christmas morning, he had a double inguinal hernia operation at a private hospital in Brasilia. The procedure was authorized by Judge Alexandre de Moraes, who imposed several restrictions: Federal Police agents were to guard his room 24 hours a day, all cell phones and electronic devices were strictly prohibited, and visits were limited to his wife, Michelle Bolsonaro, and two of his children: councilor Carlos Bolsonaro and senator Flavio Bolsonaro.

Flavio took advantage of the operation to read, from the hospital doorway, a letter written by his father in which Jair Bolsonaro reiterates that he has chosen Flavio to succeed him in the 2026 presidential election. I am entrusting the most important thing in a fathers life: his own son, to rescue our Brazil. This is a conscious, legitimate decision, guided by the desire to preserve the representation of those who placed their trust in me, reads part of the message.

Now on the campaign trail, Flavio emphasizes that he carries the Bolsonaro name in his blood. But he also presents himself to voters as a more centrist, more moderate Bolsonaro compared to the patriarch. To prove it, he points out that he did get vaccinated against COVID-19  twice.

With this message, he is seeking to appeal to the traditional center-right electorate  and to the parties that act as kingmakers in Brazilian elections. But those parties, collectively known as the centrao (the big center), which have little or no ideological consistency, have another preferred candidate: also conservative, also liberal, but importantly, not a Bolsonaro. For this constellation of parties, if Jair Bolsonaro cannot run because he is behind bars for the foreseeable future, they would prefer someone outside the family rather than a weak copy. None of the four adult Bolsonaro children  all involved in politics  have inherited their fathers charisma.

The centraos preferred candidate is clearly Tarcisio de Freitas, 50, governor of Sao Paulo, or, failing that, other center-right governors, as Gilberto Kassab, one of Brazils most prominent political operators, has made clear. When Kassab steps out of the backstage to speak publicly, Brazils political class takes notice. Last Thursday, he made it clear that he is not betting on a Bolsonaro. I still believe that Tarcisio is the best candidate for Brazil [] I wish Flavio good luck. If Tarcisio is not a candidate, we will support one of the two [governors].

De Freitas, known to everyone by his first name, balances total loyalty to Bolsonaro  who appointed him minister and governor of the countrys wealthiest state  with an emphasis on his more technocratic and moderate profile. He knows his age is on his side and is in no hurry to run for president.

In the most recent Datafolha poll, Lula would defeat Flavio by 15 points in a runoff. Against De Freitas, the current president would lead by only five points. Positioned between the two in the simulation is another Bolsonaro: Michelle Bolsonaro, 43, the patriarchs third wife.

The family dynamic adds another layer to the contest. The former first lady is the most charismatic of the Bolsonaros after her husband. Her name is circulating as a potential vice-presidential candidate alongside the governor of Sao Paulo and as a possible senator.

Michelle Bolsonaro set aside her initial reluctance to embark on a political career that has taken on more momentum than many, including her husband, had predicted. As head of the womens wing of the Liberal Party (PL), where much of the family is active, she is a powerful draw for conservative female voters.

After a heated public clash with her stepchildren over a regional candidacy  a dispute the patriarch had to mediate  and the announcement that Bolsonaro wants Flavio as his successor, she fell ill. She has taken medical leave and suspended her political activity. The PL womens wing congress, scheduled for this past Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, has been postponed.

Bolsonaro's wife, Michelle, president of the women's area of the Liberal Party, at a Bolsonaro protest in 2024, in Rio de Janeiro. Bruna Prado (AP)

Back in the late 1980s, when the Brazilian army showed Jair Bolsonaro the door due to serious threats and insubordination, the reservist saw an opportunity to make a living in politics. He started as a councilor in Rio de Janeiro, advocating for soldiers pay demands. Election after election, he built what seemed like a modest political career. But with a strategic goal: not neglecting the future of his wives and children. One by one, he encouraged them to follow in his footsteps, giving rise to a sort of Bolsonaro Inc.  something not uncommon in a country of political dynasties.

His first wife, Rogeria Bolsonaro, mother of his three eldest children, was one of the first family members involved in politics until, taking advantage of his move to Congress in Brasilia, she decided to pursue her own opinions and positions as a councilor in Rio. The patriarch did not hesitate to deploy one of their sons, then 17 years old, against her, who made his public debut by taking the family seat from his mother.

A quarter of a century later, Bolsonaro Sr., known in the family as the captain and the main asset of the family brand, is imprisoned and barred from office for leading a coup attempt. Yet he has strategically placed his family members throughout the political landscape.

Carlos Bolsonaro, Jair Bolsonaro, Flavio Bolsonaro and Eduardo Bolsonaro in 2019.

Senator Flavio is trying to overcome significant obstacles in his bid for the presidency; councilor Carlos, 43, known as 02, has just announced that he will leave the Rio de Janeiro council seat he took from his mother to run for the Senate; 41-year-old deputy Eduardo, or 03, moved to the United States to gain support from Trump and the international far-right network to save his father and is now under investigation for coercion of the Supreme Court, with no signs of returning anytime soon; and 27-year-old Renan Jair, or 04, from Bolsonaros second marriage, won his first term as a councilor after being elected with the highest vote count in the city of Balneario Camboriu.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
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 Utah mother allegedly abducted her four children and brought them to Europe while leaving behind a delusional note and to-do list, authorities say.

In late November, Elleshia Anne Seymour, 35, allegedly took her four children to Salt Lake City International Airport and boarded a one-way flight bound for Amsterdam before continuing to Croatia.

Officers from the West Jordan Police Department have charged Seymour with four counts of custodial interference and removing a child from the state, third-degree felonies, ABC4 Utah reported.

The father of three of the four children, Kendall Seymour, has created a GoFundMe to help with the cost of flying to Europe to bring the children home.

Elle forged passport documents for the kids, left behind a note dictating a delusional message from God promising her she would be in Italy by Christmas, and a to-do list that mentioned shred paperwork, destroy identifying photos, throw away phone, purchase pre-paid phone," Kendall wrote.

I know someone who was dropped off in a foreign country at 8 yrs old where they didn't speak the language, and they strongly suggested that we personally go pick them up wherever they are found. This will minimize the trauma.

If we can be there to get them asap after mom is arrested, they will feel safer and will not suffer as much wondering what is going to happen to them, to their mom, and to their future.

Officers from the West Jordan Police Department conducted a welfare check at Elleshias home on December 2 and found the door unlocked and no one home.

open image in gallery Landon Hal Seymour, 10, Levi Parker Seymour, 8, Hazel Rae Seymour, 7 and Jacob Kurt Brady, 3, remain missing ( GoFundMe/Kendall Seymour )

Police also allege Elleshia was uncontactable since November 29 and further allege she discussed forging passports and leaving the country with her former boyfriend.

Airport footage showed Elleshia and four children boarding a flight, while allegedly leaving a voicemail to one of her ex-husbands saying she took the children because the end times were coming.

The Utah Department of Public Safety issued an endangered and missing advisory on December 10 for the four children.

open image in gallery Kendall Seymour with his three kids ( GoFundMe/Kendall Seymour )

Landon Hal Seymour, 10, Levi Parker Seymour, 8, Hazel Rae Seymour, 7, and Jacob Kurt Brady, 3, remain missing.

Kendall added that his ex-wife has not been found, but said the FBI was working hard to bring the children home as soon as possible.

Any funds received in excess of flight costs will go towards therapy needed because of this traumatic experience. My genuine hope is that the kids are found quickly, and we can pick them up while they still think they're on a vacation, Kendall added.
Advertisement

BusinessCompaniesInvesting Trump investors are among Wall Streets biggest losers Matthew A. Winkler December 29, 2025  11:00am 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 A A A

Investors who put their faith in Donald Trumps publicly traded media and technology company are among the biggest losers in a stock market that rallied from Amsterdam to Sydney this year, proving the peril of riding the coat tails of a huckster with a history of running businesses that go bust. Thirty-five years after his debt-laden Taj Mahal casino was placed in bankruptcy  the first of six such failures by the current president of the United States that included other Atlantic City properties, New Yorks Plaza Hotel and Trump Entertainment Resorts  Trumps latest washout is something called Trump Media & Technology Group Corp. Donald Trumps fortune continues to grow, but investors in his companies are having a different experience. smh To be sure, calling Trump Media a company is a bit of a stretch. For starters, the venture whose primary asset is the Truth Social platform and which goes by the ticker DJT has managed to generate just $US3.7 million ($5.5 million) in revenue over the 12 months ended September 30 while posting an operating loss of $US186.1 million. Losses are also piling up in the sharemarket. Shares in Trump Media tumbled 69 per cent in 2025 up to last Wednesday. Of the 20 internet media services companies in the Russell 1000 Index, it was the worst performer over three months, six months and one year, when a majority of the firms appreciated, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Adding insult to injury, Trump Media also brings up the rear among the 97 public internet media services companies worldwide with a market value of at least $US1 billion.

Advertisement

Related Article Updated

Mergers & acquisitions Huge conflict of interest: Trumps $600 million windfall after nuclear deal In a move that is hard to interpret as anything other than a desperate pivot after expanding into cryptocurrencies, financial products and sports wagering, Trump Media on Thursday said it agreed to merge with closely held fusion developer TAE Technologies in a play that will leave each with about a 50 per cent stake in the combined company. Trump Medias shares surged 33 per cent on the announcement but they are still down about 66 per cent for the year. The gains probably say more about the fact current Trump Media management will have a greatly diminished role in the combined entity. Each company will end up with about a 50 per cent stake, and Trump Media chairman and chief executive officer Devin Nunes  formerly a Republican member of Congress from California  will become co-CEO with TAE chief executive Michl Binderbauer. Also, TAE board member Michael Schwab will become chairman. The good news for Trump fans is that the sharemarket isnt the only way to bet on Trump. The bad news for Trump fans is those other ways are also big money losers. In January, just days before his inauguration, Trump launched his own memecoin to mark his return to the White House. A memecoin is essentially a type of cryptocurrency with no underlying assets to back its value and no practical purpose other than to use for pure speculation. The coins immediately soared, and the Trump family and their business partners were sitting on at least $US50 billion of them, according to Bloomberg News. Alas, the gains didnt last long. Within days, the memecoin started to crater and it hasnt stopped, meaning anyone who purchased at the highs in those first few hours following the launch and held on hoping for a rebound have suffered almost a complete loss.

Advertisement

At the same time, Trumps family businesses are pockmarked in litigation and regulatory investigations. A plan to combine World Liberty Financial, a crypto start-up run by the presidents two oldest sons, with Canadas Alt5 Sigma Corporation, a digital asset treasury company holding crypto tokens issued by World Liberty, has run into trouble. The tokens, $USWLFI, have lost about half their value and Alt5 Sigmas shares have plummeted 86 per cent since early August, when the deal with the Trumps was announced. At least one investor told Bloomberg News he felt betrayed. Such financial fiascos are exceptional in a year when all 84 equity indexes tracking various regions of the world compiled by Bloomberg show gains for the first time since 2019. Trump Medias shares peaked this year at a closing price of $US42.91 on January 13, just four days before the inauguration. They never came close to recapturing those heights, steadily falling to as low as $US10.29 in November before closing at $US14.86 on Thursday. The losses are even more painful for those investors who bought in at the beginning, when Trump Media went public in March 2024 through a merger with a special purpose acquisition vehicle called Digital World Acquisition Corp. At the time, the shares closed as high as $US66.22. Donald Trumps debt-laden Taj Mahal casino was one of many of his businesses that ended up in bankruptcy AP The results are a stark contrast to the confident outlook Trump Media shared with investors in a February 16, 2024, regulatory filing ahead of the merger, asserting the company has a broad potential user base with demonstrated brand awareness, established brand loyalty and eagerness to seek out change, while making choices of where to spend their media dollars and attention. Anyone wondering what professional stock analysts have to say will search in vain because Trump Media is the only company among its 20 domestic peers with no widely disseminated 12-month target share price, revenue estimates or earnings forecasts on the Bloomberg terminal. The spaces where such information is displayed are blank for Trump Media. Also, it is one of only seven companies in the Russell 1000 Index with no target share price.

Advertisement

Related Article Media & marketing Corporate deals, a family feud, court battles: The year in media In some ways, Trump was twice swept into office on the perception that government had become broken, unable to solve problems and improve the lives of everyday Americans. Trump pounced on those frustrations, declaring that only a businessman could fix what ails America. Even if true, why not a businessman with a proven history of success for all stakeholders rather than self-enrichment at the expense of others? For all the financial losses the Trump family has inflicted on investors while inequality expands and affordability is turning into a crisis, the presidents net worth has doubled over the last 24 months to about $US6 billion. Bloomberg The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.

Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Investing

Donald Trump

Wall Street
Advertisement

NationalScience A miracle child and an Aussie Nobel Prize winner. The five biggest science discoveries of 2025 Liam Mannix December 29, 2025  12:15pm 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 A A

Its hard to keep up with all the discoveries made around the world in science every year. Its harder still to work out which of those are hype and which really, really matter. Take this years Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, the University of Melbournes professor Richard Robson. Richard Robson at the Nobel Museum in Sweden. AP He invented a molecular super-sponge in 1989 that is only now starting to be applied to use, sucking carbon dioxide from our warming atmosphere. Thats 36 years after his discovery, proving that sometimes in science, we invent the solution before we encounter the problem.

Advertisement

This year, we asked a range of top scientists across disciplines a simple question: what discovery mattered most in your field in 2025? Weve picked out the best answers. Water World  Professor Alan Duffy, astronomer and pro-vice chancellor of flagship initiatives, Swinburne University K2-18b, a planet orbiting a dull red dwarf, was first spotted in 2015. But this year, a new paper using the James Webb Space Telescope suggested the planet is fully immersed in water  a Hycean or water world. Its shrouded in a thick hydrogen atmosphere and, tantalisingly, has a signature from something in that air which could be dimethyl sulphide, a simple chemical that, on Earth at least, is only produced by life. An artists rendering of K2-18b, orbiting its red dwarf. University College London Centre for Space Exochemistry Data

Advertisement

The signal of the chemical itself is relatively low, requiring some level of interpretation. But, even more importantly, just because we dont know a way to produce this chemical through, say, geological or atmospheric processes, doesnt mean it cant be done. This discovery is very controversial, but Duffy says it has got many people thinking about the conditions for alien life and how to be sure we are seeing something that is really caused by life rather than other, less sensational, causes. AI-crafted antibodies  Professor Merlin Crossley, molecular biologist and deputy vice chancellor of academic quality at the University of NSW In 2025, biotech companies massively ramped up their efforts to enlist AI models in science. It is uncertain whether all strategies will deliver, but the careful datasets in protein databases led to AlphaFold, says Crossley.

Advertisement

AlphaFold is an AI model built by Google and designed to solve a central, and very challenging, biological problem. Proteins are the building blocks of our bodies; their function depends on their complex shape. We can read the 20-letter amino acid code that makes them, but its very difficult to know their structure without expensive and arduous experiments. Antibodies, in red, binding to a virus in green. Dr Drew Berry/WEHI AlphaFold is transformationally good at predicting the structure from the code alone; the models designers won the 2024 Nobel Prize. This is not garbage in, garbage out, says Crossley. This is diamonds in, and diamonds out. It is now possible to not only predict how proteins fold, but also to begin designing them. Antibodies are proteins that rely on their unique shape to bind with and help destroy viruses and bacteria. This year, US-based biotech Absci dosed the first patients with an AI-designed antibody targeting inflammatory bowel disease.

Advertisement

It is still early days, but the promise of designer proteins is huge, says Crossley. This is not vague AI hype. Baby KJ, the miracle child Baby KJ was born with mutations disrupting the function of a key enzyme, which meant toxic products would gradually build up in his body. The babys prospects were grim, says Crossley. A liver transplant could cure the disease but instead, KJ, from Pennsylvania, was given genetic surgery, the first human to receive such a treatment.

Advertisement

Within six months of KJs birth, a team of scientists manufactured a custom gene editor and packaged it in lipid nanoparticles. The editor, known as CRISPR, was given instructions to crawl along KJs genome until it found the exact DNA that needed to be edited. It seems to have worked, says Crossley. In a study published in May, the US researchers behind the treatment said KJs condition appeared to be improving, and there had been no serious adverse effects. KJ was the first human to receive genetic surgery. AP Millions of people suffer from genetic diseases, and some people whose family members get their genomes sequenced are discovering they will inherit late-onset conditions. Universal cures are not yet available, but gene editing technology and RNA delivery strategies keep improving. Baby KJ is just the start. Quantum Encryption Breakdown  Professor Nalini Joshi, chair of applied mathematics at the University of Sydney

Advertisement

In May, Google Quantum researcher Craig Gidney uploaded a preprint paper with a title that is difficult to parse: How to factor 2048 bit RSA integers with less than a million noisy qubits. It sent a shockwave through the encryption field, says Joshi. RSA is the most commonly used encryption algorithm for everything from your smartphone to government secrets; it relies on 2048-bit-long prime numbers. At that size, its essentially impossible for conventional computers to crack. A trapped ion quantum computer in a lab at the University of Sydney. Dion Georgopoulos Quantum computers, in theory, can do it much faster. Gidneys original estimate in 2019 was that you might need 20 million qubits (the key measure of quantum computing power) to break encryption. In his 2025 paper, he cut that estimate to just one million. This paper shows that the looming threat of the breakdown of widely-used cybersecurity protocols by quantum computers is closer than we realised, says Joshi. Many have suggested that quantum computers capable of factoring currently used large numbers need to be so big that they may well be science-fiction fantasies, never likely to be built in our lifetimes. What Gidney has shown is that it requires only a million noisy qubits  building blocks that are being built now by many companies.

Advertisement

The rise of the dark metabolome  Oliver Jones, professor of chemistry at RMIT In the same way genomics is the study of all the genes in an organism, metabolomics looks at all the small biological molecules (metabolites) in our cells, tissues and organs. Related Article Science Smartwatches track plenty of health data. How much of it is actually useful? We try to measure as many metabolites as possible and then look at how this metabolic fingerprint changes in response to things like disease, Jones said. The idea is to find small changes in metabolism that might enable us to predict potential harm before it happens. But accurate predictions rely on identifying all the compounds that can be detected, and, as analytical methods get more complex, theres an increasing number of metabolites that cant be fully identified.

Advertisement

This is the dark metabolome, and by one estimate, about 85 per cent of all the metabolites in the human body remain uncharacterised with unknown function. What secrets do they hold? There is a lot of debate in the community about how extensive the dark metabolome is  and even how exactly we define it. Solving this issue could lead to advances in understanding our biology, and that of other species, as well as greater knowledge of how biological systems are affected by things like climate change and, my personal interest, the low concentrations of pollutants like microplastics and PFAS we find in the environment. I think its really exciting; Im really looking forward to seeing where it goes next.
Advertisement

Exclusive NationalVictoriaCrime Knives, daggers and batons seized in shopping centre crime crackdown Marta Pascual Juanola December 30, 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 A A A

Daggers, batons and knives have been seized and more than 100 people arrested during the first three weeks of a crackdown on violent crime and anti-social behaviour at shopping centres. Among those arrested by police and protective services officers were a 15-year-old boy with a hunting knife stashed in his waistband, two men who took swings at each other with a stolen hammer, and two thieves who had stolen more than $800 worth of clothes. PSOs and police have been deployed to prevent crime in shopping centres. Paul Rovere Officers also responded to several incidents of abuse towards retail workers, including a woman who became aggressive inside a computer store and a group that got into a disagreement with staff over taking photos with Santa. Victoria Police launched Operation Pulse earlier this month to provide a visible deterrent against anti-social and violent behaviour in public places in the lead-up to Christmas and over the summer months.

Advertisement

Advertisement

So far, the police and PSO teams have been deployed to four shopping centres  Northland, Highpoint in Maribyrnong, Eastland in Ringwood and Fountain Gate in Narre Warren. The centres were selected based on police intelligence and Crime Statistics Agency Victoria data which showed there were 799 reported offences at Northland shopping complex from July 2024 to June 2025; 477 at Highpoint; 501 at Fountain Gate; and 600 at Ringwood. In comparison, other major centres have much lower figures. Police at Northland shopping centre in Preston after an allegedly stolen car ploughed through the centre in June. Alex Coppel All four locations have been declared designated search areas, which allows officers equipped with detection wands to check people for dangerous weapons such as knives. Since the operation started on December 8, officers have made a total of 109 arrests and seized 30 weapons, including a baton, a dagger, a set of knuckle-dusters, and three knives in a single day.

Advertisement

They have also issued 41 cautions, handed out 38 penalties, directed 100 people to move on from the shopping centres, and recorded a total of 217 offences. A third of those were for theft and shoplifting. Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill said police would continue to deploy the teams in the coming months based on intelligence. As a police force, we simply will not stand for those who bring violence, aggression and weapons to places we should all feel safe, he said. Retail groups see the early results as confirmation that the operation should become a permanent feature, similar to dedicated retail crime taskforces in South Australia, New South Wales and the ACT. Fleur Brown, the chief industry affairs officer at the Australian Retailers Association, said crime data showed retail offences in Victoria had increased by 63 per cent since 2022, while theft had gone up by more than 90 per cent in that same period.

Advertisement

Repeat offenders are a significant part of the challenge, with 60 per cent of retail crime incidents caused by around 10 per cent of offenders, Brown said. Related Article Updated

Crime One incident every five minutes: Retail crisis laid bare as police vow to stymie unacceptable crime rate Shopping Centre Council of Australia chief executive Angus Nardi said it was clear a high police presence deterred violence, aggression and the use of dangerous weapons. He said the industry supported wand searches by police as knives, knuckle-dusters and daggers have absolutely no place in shopping centres. Operation Pulse is scheduled to run until the end of February. Officers can join the shopping centre patrols on a voluntary basis on planned rest days and get paid overtime wages for the shifts. The initiative is among a suit of measures announced by Victoria Police and the state government in November, which included removing permanent night PSO patrols at some train stations and the creation of a reservist force to free officers from desk jobs.

Advertisement

The changes, which are the most significant overhaul of the PSO force in a decade, also allow the security officers to travel on the public transport network and patrol the shopping areas immediately around those stations. 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

Analysis PoliticsFederalBondi shooting Labor has its reasons for denying a royal commission. But its latest doesnt land Natassia Chrysanthos December 29, 2025  6:18pm 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 A A

Royal commissions have become a symbolic way that Australia chooses to confront its ugliest problems, even if they do not solve them. At the beginning of last century, Commonwealth royal commissions looked at topics such as the butter industry and tobacco monopolies. These days theyre reserved for more seismic issues, including those that involve the most vulnerable members of our society: child sex abuse, Indigenous deaths in custody, and the abuse and neglect of people with disabilities. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the December 21 vigil at Bondi Beach. Edwina Pickles Now the Jewish community is asking for a royal commission to look antisemitism in the eye. Just as child abuse victims, Indigenous Australians and the disabled community volunteered to have their traumas interrogated so they wouldnt happen again, Jewish Australians are prepared to share their worst experiences in public to stop another event like this months Bondi massacre. The Albanese government is doing its best to turn down that request with sympathy and reason.

Advertisement

For just over a week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been building on his argument for why he wont call a royal commission. Last Monday, he said NSW would hold its own inquiry, while the feds would ask former ASIO boss Dennis Richardson to review the security ecosystem  a Commonwealth commission would only duplicate and delay, he said, and urgency was required. The next day, he went to historical examples: there was no royal commission after Port Arthur or the Lindt cafe siege. Related Article Bondi shooting Hes a coward: Niece of Bondi victim lashes PM over royal commission This Monday, the government gave two new arguments. First, on national security: that Richardson was better equipped than a retired judge to review such matters, which would not suit the public forum of a royal commission. Second, that a royal commission would become too divisive. The necessary outcome would be to re-platform and provide a public platform for some of the worst statements and worst voices, to effectively relive some of the worst examples of antisemitism over the last two years, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said.

Advertisement

No one can tell me that that is in the interest of unity, to re-platform some of the worst voices. But a royal commission by definition does that, and does that publicly. But the calls for a royal commission have not gone away  instead, theyve grown in number. The case was first pushed by the federal Coalition as it mounted a political attack over the governments response to Bondi. Then former treasurer Josh Frydenberg, judges, former governors, top silks and even two Labor backbenchers joined. Now the families of those killed on December 14 have added their voices in an open letter. This is a much more difficult request for the prime minister to reject. Of course the government wants to strive for unity at a time like this. It is looking for points of common ground, not division.

Advertisement

But Mondays argument does not land when it is Jewish Australians asking for a royal commission. Loading To suggest there is inherent danger in talking about the worst examples of antisemitism dismisses the wishes of people who want their experiences shared and reckoned with. It contradicts the philosophy behind truth commissions around the world: that there can be healing and justice in talking about painful issues head-on. There are also measures to mitigate a scenario in which bad faith voices are amplified: commissioners decide who they platform at public hearings, and can hold closed sessions where appropriate. Most importantly, the federal government can set the terms.

Advertisement

Albanese keeps pointing to the proposed terms of reference by the Coalition as if its the default starting point for an inquiry. But its him in the drivers seat, not Opposition Leader Sussan Ley. Albanese thinks the Coalitions terms  which would interrogate everyone from the Australian Human Rights Commission to the media  are unwieldy and unreasonable. He doesnt need to follow them. He doesnt even need to follow the wishes of family members who have suggested the commission investigate Labors recognition of a Palestinian state. Related Article Opinion

Bondi shooting Bondi shows us that politics is the very worst forum for us to try to stand together Waleed Aly Columnist, author and academic But his defensive posture on this issue reflects how political the past few weeks have been. Even if Albaneses argument for rejecting a royal commission is reasonable, his rebuttals start sounding like excuses. Meanwhile, the question of a royal commission morphs into another flashpoint in a polarised debate. It shouldnt be  its not a zero-sum issue.

Advertisement

A comb over past royal commissions reveals their shortcomings. The 1991 royal commission into Indigenous deaths in custody gave 339 recommendations, many of which remain unimplemented. This year, Indigenous deaths in custody reached their highest level since 1980. The disability royal commission  which took 4 years and released its final report in 2023  dealt with issues so complex not even the commissioners could agree on the future of segregated schools, group homes and disability workplaces. The government has not touched the question since. Related Article Bondi shooting You owe us answers: Families of Bondi victims demand PM launch federal royal commission Still, these giant reports have served as symbolic admissions of systemic problems, and they provide a yardstick to measure government inaction decades into the future. They are clear-eyed about Australias biggest social problems and can be one of the most thorough historical records of marginalised peoples experiences. A royal commission into antisemitism could meet a similar fate. Thats not to say it is not worth doing, but there are inevitable limitations to any reports capacity to solve deep and intractable social issues.

Advertisement

There are two paths of inquiry that must be interrogated after Bondi. The first follows the specific circumstances that meant a man once investigated by ASIO could become further radicalised, along with his father, who bought six guns legally. The second traces the circumstances that have enabled antisemitism to fester more broadly in Australia, evidenced again just days ago, when a rabbis car was firebombed at Christmas. The Richardson review will get to issues with the first. It does not grapple with the second. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Washington has declined to share details about the operation, which if confirmed would be the first US ground attack against the Latin American country

It was a confusing statement, the seriousness of which even the interviewer seemed to overlook. Supermarket billionaire John Catsimatidis, owner of the New York radio station WABC, spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump last Friday, but the audio didnt gain traction on social media until Sunday. Trump said the following: They have a big plant or a big facility where the ships come from. Two nights ago we knocked that out.

The Republican was talking about the U.S. operation against drug trafficking in the Caribbean, focused on Venezuela. And if he said what he seemed to mean, he was confirming an attack  the first strike on the ground  after months of threatening to do so, escalating the offensive against Nicolas Maduros government. Neither U.S. authorities nor those in Caracas have provided further details of the military operation, launched on Christmas Eve. Nor has Trump himself made any further comment.

Catsimatidis asked Trump about the military campaign the United States calls Operation Southern Spear, which since last September has taken the form of attacks against alleged drug-running boats, resulting in the extrajudicial killings of more than 100 crew members. Then came the interception of oil tankers  two to date  entering or leaving Venezuela. If an attack on the big facility Trump referred to is confirmed, the third phase would have begun on land.

The Republican did not disclose the exact location of the plant. Because of this, it was also unclear whether the attack was directed against Venezuela. U.S. authorities have declined to share details about the operation, including the targets location, how it unfolded, or the role of the destroyed plant in drug trafficking. Venezuela has a minimal involvement in the cocaine trade to the United States and does not supply fentanyl, the powerful opioid responsible for the worst overdose death crisis in U.S. history. The illegal production of fentanyl is primarily carried out by Mexico and China.

Several senior U.S. officials have backed Trumps statements and confirmed to The New York Times that the attacked facility was a drug trafficking operation, though they did not share further details. Both the CIA and the White House declined to comment on the matter.

What is striking in this murky affair is that Caracas has not denounced the attack, or that more information from the ground has not come to light.

Washingtons military operations against Venezuela, which the Pentagon has supported with an unprecedented naval deployment in the Caribbean, are aimed  and no one is attempting to hide it anymore  at putting pressure on Maduro to force a regime change.

The United States has also shown interest in the South American countrys oil in recent weeks. On December 10, its military intercepted the Skipper, a cargo ship sanctioned by the Department of Commerce, which was carrying 1.9 million barrels of crude oil. Trump asserted last week that the intention was to seize that cargo.

Threats of a second phase involving ground attacks began months ago. Trump has acknowledged to the press several times that he had already authorized the CIA to plan covert operations in Venezuela. During this time, it has remained unclear what form these operations might take. Adding to these uncertainties is the question of whether this new phase against the Chavista regime began on Christmas Eve with an attack on a facility in a location yet to be determined.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Advertisement

Key points The daughter of a man killed by the Bondi gunmen has demanded a federal antisemitism royal commission

Sheina Gutnick blamed the terrorist attack on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the federal government

But Albanese rejected calls for a royal commission saying it would give a platform for some of the worst hate speech

The niece of Bondi victim Boris Tetleroyd has labelled Anthony Albanese a coward after the prime minister again rejected calls for a federal royal commission into Australias worst domestic terror attack. The prime minister has claimed such a public inquiry would needlessly promote hate speech. Jenny Roytur, whose cousin Yaakov was also shot in the attack, said the Jewish community deserved to know why antisemitism had escalated so quickly and why authorities had ignored warnings. Her family was signatory to an open letter from 17 families demanding answers and accountability from the government, alongside a Commonwealth royal commission. Loading Albanese, who has faced fierce personal criticism from the Jewish community and his political opponents for his response to the attack which left 15 people dead on December 14, again ruled out holding a public inquiry into antisemitism in a press conference on Monday, after releasing the terms of reference for a review into law enforcement and intelligence agencies by former diplomat Dennis Richardson.

Advertisement

He said his approach would be swifter and safer than the alternatives being presented. Roytur said Albanese was ignoring the wishes of the victims families. Hes a coward with his own ideological viewpoints that he has carried through his whole time in parliament, and this is just proving it, she said. We were hunted like animals by extremists, and we now know that the radicals and extremists are spreading like cancer, and it has to be cut, and the truth has to come out, and they must do a Commonwealth royal commission. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Mondays press conference. Nine News Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke warned that a royal commission would provide a public platform for some of the worst statements and worst voices, and risked Jewish Australians reliving horrific examples of antisemitism during the past two years.

Advertisement

Burke said the government needed the sort of inquiry that keeps Australians safe and that does not provide a platform for the worst voices; the Richardson inquiry does exactly that. Sabina Kleitman, the daughter of murdered Alex Kleytman, said in a statement that many Australians were united in wanting to know why the horrific attacks took place and what circumstances and decisions led to it. Our government could not protect the 15 innocent souls who were taken from us and those that were injured, she said. They must now do everything in their power to protect Australians, and for now, this means initiating the royal inquiry. Its their duty to all Australians to provide safety and security to all. Sheina Gutnick, daughter of Bondi victim Reuven Morrison, at Bondi on Monday. Sitthixay Ditthavong Sheina Gutnick, one of the signatories to the open letter and the daughter of Reuven Morrison, who was shot and killed throwing bricks at one of the Bondi shooters, said in an interview before the prime ministers press conference that Albanese and the federal government were absolutely responsible for the attack.

Advertisement

Recognising  Palestine as an official state has been a massive gasoline to the fire whilst Hamas is in power. And I think the biggest proof is a thank-you letter from Hamas to the Albanese government for the recognition of the state, Gutnick said. We can have whatever views that we need to have as individuals on the current conflict of the Middle East, she said. But if the current government policies are adding fuel to the fire, they need to be held responsible. Asked directly on Monday about the plea from families, Albanese said: My heart breaks for the families of the victims of the Bondi terrorist atrocity, and my heart  goes out to them at what is an incredibly traumatic time. Related Article Bondi shooting You owe us answers: Families of Bondi victims demand PM launch federal royal commission He has repeatedly argued a federal royal commission would be too slow, similar commissions having taken years to hand down findings. While NSW Labor MPs Mike Freelander and Ed Husic have supported calls for a royal commission, several other caucus members, speaking on the condition of anonymity, are worried the PM has been too stubborn on the issue and has given in to the public service.

Advertisement

We know agencies and the public service hate any kind of accountability and they are telling him not to call a royal commission, said one MP. I think hes probably been hoodwinked by them in that sense. After a six-month delay, the government adopted several of the recommendations made by antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal, announced new hate speech laws to be introduced early next year, a review of law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and changes to gun laws including a national buyback program. A state-based royal commission has been established by NSW Premier Chris Minns, which will be able to work with federal agencies. But the Jewish community, legal experts and the federal opposition continue to step up demands for a Commonwealth royal commission capable of compelling the federal government and its agencies to testify. Related Article Bondi shooting He hasnt left a hole  its a crater: Melbourne grandfather who died charging at Bondi shooters remembered The attack occurred on the first night of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, and families who gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event near Archer Park were the target. Of the 15 victims, 13 were Jewish. Among those who have demanded a Commonwealth royal commission are former High Court chief justice Robert French, former intelligence chief Nick Warner, 135 prominent barristers, Jewish community organisations and the Coalition.

Advertisement

The Hindu Council of Australia on Monday joined the calls for a royal commission into antisemitism, saying it should investigate if individuals or groups contributed to the hate leading to the attack. The council is itself being investigated by the Australian Human Rights Council over complaints of Islamophobia. Former home affairs boss Mike Pezzullo said only a royal commission would be able to look comprehensively at the issue and critically access the actions or inaction of the government itself. For instance, if it is now thought appropriate in the wake of this heinous attack to move to list and sanction hate organisations, as is being proposed, why was this measure not considered before the attack? Or was it considered, and rejected? he said. A royal commission could be properly structured so as to get to the bottom of the questions, and in a sequenced fashion, such that findings and recommendations could be brought down on matters requiring urgent attention, while other packages of work could proceed at different paces.

Advertisement

Pezzullo rejected Albaneses claim that it was a binary choice between a retired judge or a former public official, saying it would be best dealt with by having both. That was the model employed by Mr [Paul] Keating when he established the royal commission into ASIS in March 1994, he said. The commission itself would have control of proceedings, as a judge does in a trial. Submissions do not have to be accepted, and witnesses do not have to be called. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the governments claim a royal commission would platform antisemitism was not protective, it is patronising. The Coalition has proposed its own wide-ranging terms of reference for a royal commission, which were criticised by Albanese as being far too broad and potentially requiring a years-long inquiry. Ley said she was willing to work with the government to discuss alternative terms. The families of victims want this Commonwealth royal commission. The Jewish community wants it. Eminent Australians want it. And I suspect millions of ordinary Australians want it too, Ley said.

Advertisement

Bondi Beach incident helplines: Bondi Beach Victim Services on 1800 411 822

Bondi Beach Public Information & Enquiry Centre on 1800 227 228

NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511  or Lifeline on 13 11 14

 or Lifeline on Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.au Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.
Advertisement

Travel newsVictoria The hip new Melbourne hotel vying to be among the worlds best Anthony Dennis December 30, 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 A A A

When the hyped (though still coveted) Worlds 50 Best Hotels list for 2025 was announced, there was only room (or, perhaps, suite) enough for a mere two Australian hotels  one of them The Calile Hotel, Brisbane. Once known for its chain of serviceable serviced-apartment hotels, TFE Hotels growing management portfolio of Australasian deluxe design properties includes The Calile, The Eve, in Sydneys Surry Hills, which opened last February, and Hotel Britomart in Auckland, New Zealand. The high-rise indoor swimming pool, overlooking Southbank, at Melbournes new Hannah St Hotel. Now TFE is hoping that its latest 188-room, Flack Studio-designed Hannah St Hotel in Melbourne, will emulate its Brisbane counterparts somewhat unlikely international success. Built in inner-city Southbank next to a bulky, unprepossessing traffic overpass that lends a certain gritty urban edge, the triangular-shaped, Fraser & Partners-designed hotel building is vaguely reminiscent of New Yorks celebrated Flatiron building.

Advertisement

Artists impression of the Flatiron-like Queensbridge development. Sign up for the Traveller newsletter The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now. The operators of the 10-storey hotel, with its faux Melbourne bluestone facade, opened just before Christmas, with an official launch set for February, just in time for the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix at nearby Albert Park. (Drivers, of taxis and Ubers that is, may find the hotels confected name, Hannah St, a tad confusing, as it is actually located in the rather more prosaically titled Walker Street, a mere poker-chip flick from the behemoth Crown casino complex.) Guests check-in at the imposingly gilded reception desk in the lobby of Hannah St Hotel. One of the Melbourne-based Flack Studios design-driven guest rooms at Hannah St Hotel.

Advertisement

Whatever the case, Hannah St Hotel, with rooms from $335 per night, is a key component of a more than $400 million development that encompasses 350 apartments over 65 storeys, 209 metres high, making it one of the citys tallest buildings. Residents of those apartments will have full access to the design hotel and its facilities, including the lavishly marble-floored Coupette Corner Bistro & Bar, with its Franco-Italian menu, something which its operators hope will add to the unmistakable Melbourne vibe of Hannah St. We want our guests to discover the city by living like a local, exploring hidden gems, experiencing art and music off the beaten track, says Peter Minatsis, general manager. Its hospitality with insider knowledge, curated to offer experiences that stay with you long after you leave. Mirror Shelia, a mixed-media sculpture, is an arresting feature of the lobby. Every hotel needs its own in-house podcast studio (well, actually, no, but Hannah St has one anyway) with the facility part of its operators ambition to establish it as a cultural hub, merging design, art and community-focused experiences.

Advertisement

Related Article Luxury holidays Two Australian hotels named in Worlds 50 Best list Unlike the W Sydney, which opened in 2023 and which also has a freeway flyover running directly below and beside it, Hannah St is far more subtle in its allusions to its adjacent road with the main nod to it being Mirror Sheila, at the entrance to the lobby. That nod is a 2.86-metre, mixed-media sculpture by Brisbane-based artist Justene Williams, made from fibreglass and convex safety and security mirrors. Mirror Sheila is a lot of fun, but no beauty, unlike the impressive Hannah St herself. See tfehotels.com
Bastar Pandum 2026 from January 10





Staff Reporter :

IN A bid to promote rich folk traditions, tribal culture, art and heritage of the Bastar region, Bastar Pandum 2026 will be held from January 10 to February 5. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai held a meeting with the officers to review the preparations for the Bastar Pandum-2026 at Chief Ministers House in the state capital. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal were present on the occasion. Bastar Pandum 2026 will be conducted in three phases.

The block-level events will be held from January 10 to 20. District-level programmes will be held from January 24 to 30. Divisional-level events will be conducted from February 1 to 5. This year, the number of cultural disciplines featured at the Bastar Pandum will be increased from seven to twelve. The disciplines include Bastar tribal dance, folk songs, theatre, traditional musical instruments, costumes and jewellery, worship rituals, handicrafts, painting, tribal beverages, traditional cuisine, regional literature and forest-based medicinal knowledge.

It was also informed that the logo, theme song and official website of Bastar Pandum 2026 will be unveiled by the Chief Minister at the temple premises with the blessings of Maa Danteshwari. The meeting also discussed inviting Indian ambassadors posted in various countries, with the aim of familiarising them with Bastars unique cultural heritage, traditions and tribal way of life.

It was also decided to invite senior officers originally from the Bastar division, officers selected through UPSC and CGPSC, doctors, engineers, senior public representatives, and tribal dance troupes from different states across the country. To ensure wider participation, it has been proposed that participant registration will be facilitated through both online and offline modes, enabling the inclusion of a larger number of artists and cultural groups.

The three-phase programme will be conducted across 1,885 gram panchayats, 32 janpad panchayats, eight municipalities, 12 nagar panchayats and one municipal corporation spread over the seven districts of the Bastar division. Secretary of Culture Department Rohit Yadav, Secretary to Chief Minister Rahul Bhagat, Director of Culture Department Vivek Acharya and other senior officials attended the meeting
"Institutions must equip students to face emerging technologies."





Staff Reporter :

MAHARASHTRAChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday urged educational institutions to prepare the younger generation for future challenges, stressing that merely taking pride in history would no longer be sufficient. The Maharashtra Chief Minister said institutions must equip students to face emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, which will have a profound impact on education and society in the coming decades. Fadnavis was addressing the centenary celebrations of the Maharashtra Shikshan Mandal at Manas Bhavan in Jabalpur.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav was also scheduled to attend the programme but, due to his busy official tour in Ratlam, addressed the gathering virtually and congratulated the organisers on the historic milestone. State PWD Minister Rakesh Singh and Transport and Education Minister Rao Uday Pratap Singh was the special guests of the programme. Advisory committee member Gyaneshwari Didi, Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singh, Dr Jitendra Jamdar, Dr Akhilesh Gumasta, Organising Committee President Prashant Pol and Maharashtra Shikshan Mandal Vice-President Uday Paranjpe were also present.

The event concluded with cultural performances by school students, while alumni from across the country and abroad shared their experiences and praised the institutions contribution to education during a former students meet. Addressing the gathering, CM Fadnavis made a major announcement, stating that if Maharashtra Shikshan Mandal initiates any new programme or course to teach the Marathi language in Jabalpur, the Maharashtra Government would provide the required financial assistance and full cooperation. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modis New Education Policy, he said the policy promotes education in the mother tongue, even in professional courses such as medical and engineering education.

The Chief Minister said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had given the guiding principles of Swarajya, Swadharma and Swabhasha. Citing the Battle of Panipat, he said the Marathas fought not merely for their own empire but for the protection of the entire nation. He added that the Marathi mindset had never been narrow, but always national and global in outlook. Referring to the Prime Ministers mantra of development with heritage, Fadnavis said only those societies progress which take pride in their cultural roots while embracing modern growth. During the programme, a commemorative publication of Maharashtra Shikshan Mandal was also released.

Speaking on the occasion, PWD Minister Rakesh Singh said Chief Minister Fadnavis had played a vital role in laying the foundation for Jabalpurs present development trajectory. Describing him as a visionary leader, Singh recalled an incident from the time when Fadnavis was an MLA. He said Fadnavis had visited densely populated areas such as Bada Fuhara and Chhota Fuhara late at night and said that with strong willpower, Jabalpur could progress rapidly. Transport and Education Minister Rao Uday Pratap Singh shared his personal association with the institution, saying he himself was an alumnus and had studied there for four months.

The ceremony was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Sumitra Balmik, MP Ashish Dubey, MLA Ajay Vishnoi, BJP State Treasurer Akhilesh Jain, City BJP President Ratnesh Sonkar along with officebearers of Maharashtra Shikshan Mandal, teachers and a large number of students.
Lockheed Martin plansproduction hub in India





MARIETTA :

AS INDIA prepares to procure up to 80 military transport planes, US aerospace major Lockheed Martin has pitched its C-130J SuperHercules as the best choice and said an additional fleet of the aircraft will provide it a stronger heft for tactical airlift among theQuad nations. If Lockheed Martin gets the opportunity, then it will set up a megahub in India to produce the iconic aircraft and it will be the firstsuch global facility outside of the US, top officials of the companytold PTI.

To date, Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 560 aircraft from the C-130J Super Hercules family, which have accumulated more than three million flight hours. The leading tactical airlift has been serving 28 operators in 23 nations. The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates 12 C-130Js. Alongside the standard transport variant, Lockheed Martin offersmultiple specialised configurations of the C-130J which enable theaircraft to perform intelligence, electronic warfare, special forcessupport, search and rescue and command roles.

Besides India, the three other Quad member nations -- the US, Australia and Japan -- have been operating C-130Js. The C-130J Super Hercules offers superior performance and capabilities for every theatre of operations. This aircraft will be thebest option for India, Patricia Trish Pagan, Vice President, AirMobility and Maritime Missions at Lockheed Martin, said. In 2022, the IAF issued a Request for Information (RFI) to purchase medium transport aircraft (MTA) to replace its ageing fleet of Soviet-era AN-32 and IL-76 planes.
Hundreds of motorcyclists sympathetic to Maduro reject the seizure of ships by the United States, in Caracas, Venezuela, on December 22, 2025.

Although far from the glory of the past, Venezuelan leaders are facing the current U.S. pressure with a single goal in mind: to guarantee their continuity in power, even in the event of a military scenario. At the Miraflores Palace, President Nicolas Maduro and his collaborators not only aim to emerge unscathed from the campaign launched by U.S. President Donald Trump, but they are also working urgently to realize a long-held dream: making the Bolivarian revolution irreversible by radicalizing its foundations.

This strategic objective follows a principle that has been in place since the time of Hugo Chavez, the former president of Venezuela who gave rise to the Chavista movement. Over the past 25 years, after each confrontation with the opposition, the Venezuelan regime tightens the screws and deepens its goals to consolidate its hold on power.

To achieve this goal, the ruling elite is cracking down on dissent, shrinking the space for public debate  arresting more opposition leaders  and working to consolidate a new governing structure. The governments latest release of political prisoners  99 in total  allows them to buy time and show goodwill, but it does not in any way contradict their decision to radicalize the revolution.

The ultimate purpose of all this effort is to complete the establishment of the Communal State  the end point, the ultimate goal of the Bolivarian revolutionary process. This is a legal framework that, in Maduros words, must transcend the old bourgeois model to make way for direct democracy, the popular model of self-management.

The revolutionary state now invests more time and money in restructuring and strengthening the communes, cellular organizations that theoretically plant Bolivarian militancy block by block, ensuring territorial control and economic development across the country. Maduro claims that there are 5,300 communes in Venezuela currently in the process of being consolidated.

Members of the Bolivarian militia during a military deployment in support of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in Caracas, Venezuela, September 23, 2025. GABY ORAA

The communes are being reinforced with a military presence through the Communal Integral Defense Units, one of the organizational structures of the civilian-military coalition in power charged with responding to the White Houses pressure campaign. The Venezuelan government seeks to ensure that both spheres, civilian and military, work together. The Ministry of Defense, fully aligned with this strategy, has already deployed its deadliest anti-aircraft weaponry across the country.

The ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) recently held an extraordinary plenary session, during which it agreed to move to an armed phase of the revolution, grounded in the Maoist principle of protracted peoples war, should any aggression against the country materialize. On national radio and television, Maduro personally instructed Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez to expedite the enlistment and operational readiness of public administration workers, ordering him to distribute weapons and prepare for national defense in every factory in the country.

Maduro  a far-left union leader in his youth  has also decreed the start of a union constituent assembly: the reorganization and new legal framework for all labor circles in the country, designed to enforce adequate levels of commitment to the revolutionary state and neutralize any sign of dissent through coercion

The government intends to go further: Maduro has asked all the civilian groups that support him (officially referred to as social movements) to meet in a plenary assembly in January to exchange proposals for a Constitutional Reform. The project was initially announced at the beginning of 2025 and is now back in the public spotlight. According to Maduro, this process will allow us to perfect our democracy with a participatory, inclusive model, not just a representative one.

Nicolas Maduro, during an event in Caracas, Venezuela, on December 10. MIGUEL GUTIERREZ (EFE)

Toward a revolutionary state

This reform could establish new regulations for the organization of elections; grant constitutional status to communal organization (which it currently lacks); undermine regional autonomy and political pluralism; and increase the role of the Armed Forces in advancing the current governments political objectives.

The reform would put the finishing touches on the so-called revolutionary state. It would introduce new provisions to strengthen what is known as Popular Power, the governing framework on which the communes are based. In theory, through Popular Power, the communes would receive revenues from the national treasury to take on the direct management and execution of local development projects, thereby strengthening  at least in principle  broader access to the countrys resources. Under this model, the role of the communes  entities controlled by the executive branch, which can steer the allocation of funds at its discretion  would carry equal or even greater weight than formal government institutions.

For nearly two years now, the Maduro government has been developing a system to consolidate communal projects through what it calls the National Popular Consultation. In this process, territorially organized residents are asked to submit projects to be self-managed  for example, schools, flood-control works, paving, commercial zones, medium-scale infrastructure  and to select them through voting. Four such votes have already been held.

Both Maduro and Diosdado Cabello, the regimes number two, have encouraged Chavista grassroots militants deployed in the streets  often referred to as patriotic collaborators  to report to authorities on what is happening in their surroundings, locate friends and enemies, and flag suspects through a government-created app called VenApp.

All of this coincides with mounting political and military pressure from the United States. The Chavista regime, now with little patience for criticism or challenges to its legitimacy, has intensified pressure on the media, imposed censorship, and passed legal measures that include prison sentences of up to 30 years for justifying, qualifying, or supporting any coercive action against the country.

Even indirectly echoing positions put forward by opposition leaders Maria Corina Machado or Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia can be punished. At the same time, the government continues to arrest political figures, including Melquiades Pulido Garcia of the Vente Venezuela (Come Venezuela) party; political analyst Nicmer Evans; and Jose Elias Torres and William Lizardo, two leaders of the opposition Confederation of Venezuelan Workers (CTV).

This organizational push by the Maduro government is not new. The ruling party has spent years attempting  so far with limited success  to consolidate Popular Power and the communal state as an irreversible feature in its grip on power. The Ministry of Communes has, in fact, existed for more than a decade.

These collectivist management models, which once inspired hope in the countrys impoverished areas and absorbed vast sums of money with few tangible results, are now viewed with suspicion and indifference by the vast majority of Venezuelans, according to several qualitative analyses of opinion surveys conducted in 2024 and 2025.

By controlling the state mechanisms that convene and regulate these participatory processes, the Chavista seeks to legitimize its actions, presenting them as a true popular consultation rather than a bourgeois one. The government has not given up hope of winning back the national majority once political conditions improve. And in the event of an armed conflict, a partial attack, or a military intervention it cannot neutralize, it wouldnt take many people to cause enormous damage on their own, as writer and political analyst Moises Naim has warned.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Organizations should be strengthened:Tharoor supports Digvijays views







NEW DELHI :

CONGRESS leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday came out in support of the views of his party colleague Digvijay Singh, saying the organisation should be strengthened. At the 140th Foundation Day event at the Congress Indira Bhawan headquarters, Tharoor was seated next to Digvijay Singh and exchanged notes. Ahead of the CWC meet on Saturday, Singh created a flutter by lauding the organisational power of RSS-BJP as he shared Narendra Modis old picture and said how a grassroots worker went on to become the Chief Minister and Prime Minister by sitting at the feet of their leaders.

He also raised the issue of strengthening the Congress organisation at the grassroots level, asserting it was much needed in the fight against the ruling BJP and to oust it from power. A day later, Digvijay Singh said he had already stated whatever he had to say. For 50 years I have been with the Congress party, and I have fought these communal forces, whether in the Assembly, Parliament or in the organisation, he noted. I have basic differences and am opposed to their ideology. I have and will continue to fight against such people, Singh claimed. When asked to comment on his Saturdays remarks, he said, Every organisation needs strengthening.

Tharoor, when asked to comment on the issue, said, The organisation should be strengthened, there is no doubt. On being seated next to Singh and whether the two exchanged views on the matter, Tharoor said, We keep talking with each other, we are friends and talk to each other. It is the 140th foundation day of the Congress. It is a very important event for the party. It is a day in which we look back on our very remarkable history and the contributions the party has made to the nation, he also told reporters.

In a post on X, the Thiruvananthapuram MP said, Today marks the 140th anniversary of the founding of the Indian National Congress, an organisation that played a pivotal role in leading Indias struggle for independence from British rule. Since its first session in 1885, the party has remained a cornerstone of the nations democratic journey and political evolution. The occasion was marked with solemnity and camaraderie at Indira Bhavan today, Tharoor said in his post.
PAK ADMITS: Intense fear gripped top leadership during Op Sindoor





ISLAMABAD :

INDIAS swift and precise retaliation against Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack not just rattled the country militarily but also instilled fear among its top leadership, with its President admitting he was advised to take shelter in a bunker during the May escalation. Speaking during an event on Saturday, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari revealed that during New Delhis retaliatory strikes in May, his Military Secretary urgently advised him to move to a bunker for safety, highlighting the intense fear gripping Pakistans top leadership amid the Indian operation. The escalation in May is referred to as Indias Operation Sindoor, which came in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians.

Indias Armed Forces carried out strategic precision strikes on Pakistani military installations in May, following operations that targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Despite a warning from Zardaris Military Secretary, the Pakistani President offered only rhetoric, stating that he had refused to enter the bunker. My MS (Military Secretary) was there. He came to me and said, Sir, the war has started. I had actually told him four days earlier that a war was going to happen. But he came to me and said, Sir, lets go to the bunkers. I said, If martyrdom is to come, it will come here.

Leaders dont die in bunkers. They die on the battlefield. They dont die sitting in bunkers, Zardari said. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7 as a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Following Indias operation, the conflict between India and Pakistan deepened, which resulted in increased cross-border shelling from Pakistan and retaliatory action from the Indian Armed Forces.

A surprising sequence of events unfolded as Pakistans Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) proposed a ceasefire to Indias DGMO, which was accepted. Pakistans DGMO called Indias DGMO to propose a ceasefire, which India accepted. The contact from the Pakistani side was also confirmed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who noted that the two sides agreed to halt all military operations - on land, at sea, and in the air.
Paks Foreign Minister confirms Indiasstrikes on Nur Khan Air Base in May





ISLAMABAD :

THE Pakistani Government has once again found itself embarrassed on the world stage, now acknowledging the impact of Indias strategic and precision strikes on their military installation during the escalation in May, following Operation Sindoor, which came in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. This time around, the embarrassment came from Pakistans Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who, during the year-end press briefing on Saturday, confirmed that India had targeted its Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindis Chakala, damaging their military installation as well as injuring personnel posted there.

Speaking at the briefing, Dar stated that India had sent multiple drones over Pakistani territory within 36 hours, and one drone damaged the military installation, highlighting the scale and precision of the operation.They (India) send drones towards Pakistan. In 36 hours, at least 80 drones were sent... We were able to intercept 79 drones out of 80, and only one drone damaged a military installation and personnel were also injured in the attack, the Foreign Minister claimed. He further detailed the sequence of events, noting that Pakistans civil and military leadership, led by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, held a meeting on the night of May 9 and authorised certain decisions in response to the evolving situation.

The Foreign Minister further stated that India made the mistake of attacking the Nur Khan Air Base in the early hours of May 10, further acknowledging the damage. Dar, with this remark, admitted to Indias strategic actions taken up by its Armed Forces on Pakistans military installations in May, which came after Operation Sindoor that targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan in Chaklala suffered significant damage in Indias precision strikes under Operation Sindoor in May.

The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7, as a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Satellite images captured by Maxar Technologies on May 13 revealed significant damage to multiple air bases in Pakistan, including Nur Khan Air Base. Images show damage to four Pakistani air bases: Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, PAF Base Mushaf in Sargodha, Bholari Air Base, and PAF Base Shahbaz in Jacobabad. Satellite images taken on April 25, 2025, and May 10, 2025, showed damage to airbase facilities, confirming strikes on Nur Khan Air Base.

This is not the first time that a top Pakistani official has admitted to Indias strikes on Nur Khan Air Base. In May, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif admitted that Indias ballistic missiles hit Nur Khan Airbase and other sites on May 10, a rare acknowledgement that contradicts Pakistans usual stance of denial when it comes to Indian military action. While addressing a ceremony held at the Pakistan Monument on May 16, Sharif said, At around 2:30 am on May 10, General Syed Asim Munir called me on a secure line and informed me that Indias ballistic missiles had hit Nur Khan Airbase and other areas. Our Air Force used homegrown technology to save our country, and they even used modern gadgets and technology on Chinese jets, Geo News reported.
US support for its ally has triggered a schism on the far right and a bitter debate around figures such as Tucker Carlson, the limits of free speech, and antisemitism

With its leader, Donald Trump, back in the White House and the Republican Party controlling Congress, this was destined to be the year of MAGAs expansion. And the assassination of one of its leading figures, Charlie Kirk, marked a turning point: the definitive moment of unity for the heterodox coalition that operates under the umbrella of the slogan Make America Great Again.

And yet, the movement is bidding farewell to 2025 more divided and conflicted than ever, thanks to the Pandoras box that Kirks death opened in September around U.S. support for Israel in its brutal war in Gaza and the limits of free speech when it collides with antisemitism.

The dispute dominated AmericaFest, the major festival of conservative ideas that Kirk used to organize every December in Phoenix, Arizona. Turning Point USA (TPUSA), the youth proselytizing organization he founded, continues without him and managed to bring together some 30,000 people in his memory. But it was not entirely a celebration: on stage, some of the biggest influencers of the U.S. far right became entangled in those quarrels to the point of outright insults.

They were not invited to the conference, but the shadow of two podcasters  the antisemite and Hitler admirer Nick Fuentes and the champion of conspiracy theories Candace Owens  hovered over the gathering. Owens has destabilized the old MAGA guard with her falsehoods. And the friendly interview that former Fox News host Tucker Carlson conducted with Fuentes last October revealed the split in the American rights long-standing consensus that the United States is Israels unbreakable ally  one of the few foreign-policy traditions of Washington that Trump has honored in his first 11 months back in power, and one that has defined the Republican Party for decades.

That conversation, and Carlsons attacks on Zionist Christians, sparked the ire of Ben Shapiro, the Orthodox Jewish founder of the MAGA media company The Daily Wire. On the opening day of AmericaFest, Shapiro went after Carlson (whose interview he described as an act of moral imbecility), Steve Bannon (whom he called Jeffrey Epsteins PR man, following revelations about the relationship between the two that have emerged from the papers of the convicted pedophile), and another former Fox News employee, Megyn Kelly, for her refusal to criticize Owens and Fuentes.

All of them returned the favors when it was their turn to take the microphone. If a movement is defined almost more by what it attacks than by what it defends, it became clear on that Phoenix stage that its adversaries (the Democrats, the so-called woke agenda, globalism) are no longer what they once were.

Tucker Carlson, during his speech at AmericaFest on December 18. Cheney Orr (REUTERS)

Shapiro also had words for Owens, who is notorious for using her show  which has 5.7 million subscribers on YouTube  to spread conspiracy theories. She has escalated the misinformation since Kirks death; he was her friend and employer at TPUSA (Shapiro also employed her). She claims that Brigitte Macron, the wife of Emmanuel Macron, is a man (a hoax that has earned her a lawsuit from the French president and first lady), and that Kirk  who was shot dead in front of thousands of people attending one of his public debate events at the University of Utah  was killed by a conspiracy hatched by the Israeli, French, and Egyptian intelligence services. She further claims that they, along with Tyler Robinson, the man whom the FBI says single-handedly planned the murder and pulled the trigger, had inside help from TPUSA employees.

According to that theory, the plot was intended to prevent what was about to happen: Kirks public expression of a change of heart on Palestine and the potential image crisis for Israel, given the activists sway over young conservatives, especially men. If Trump improved his approval ratings among that demographic last year, it was thanks to Kirks work both on his podcasts and on the campus tours in which he challenged the progressive ideas of the university students he debated.

To support that theory, Owens published messages from Kirk in a group chat in which he complained about the pressure he was receiving from an influential TPUSA donor for refusing to distance himself from Carlson, who has become one of the fiercest critics of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and who had already been accused of antisemitism and of being close to Qatar even before his interview with Fuentes. I cannot and will be bullied like this, Kirk wrote a couple of days before he was murdered. [They are] leaving me no choice but to leave the pro-Israel cause.

One of the members of that group was Pesach Wolicki, an Israeli rabbi extraordinarily well connected on the U.S. right, who explained in a videoconference conversation with EL PAIS that Kirk opened the chat months earlier and that it included nine people to discuss issues related to Israel. Among them was a TPUSA producer who, according to Wolicki, barely participated and who was the one who leaked the messages to Owens.

Attendees at AmericaFest pose in front of a photo of Charlie Kirk last Sunday in Phoenix, Arizona. Cheney Orr (REUTERS)

Charlie firmly believed that all voices should be heard, including those with whom, like Carlson, he disagreed, explains the rabbi, who hosted the Shabbat dinner at AmericaFest. What she didnt mention was what came next: a Zoom call with just three of us the night before the assassination. Kirk was looking for arguments to answer the questions about Israel that he would be asked on the tour he was about to begin. It was by far the topic that came up most often in his debates, because anti-Israel sentiment is very strong on American college campuses. I can guarantee that he wasnt about to change his mind, says Wolicki.

A devout evangelical Christian, Kirks first posthumous book is titled Stop, in the Name of God, and is a defense of the Sabbath as a radical act of resistance in a world of cell phones and constant noise. His widow, Erika Kirk, met with Owens last week for four and a half hours to ask her to stop spreading the rumor about her husbands death. She was unsuccessful.

A survey by the conservative think tank Manhattan Institute concluded earlier this month that 17% of the Republican Party falls into what the poll defines as anti-Jewish Republicans. Anti-Jewish Republicans are typically younger, disproportionately male, more likely to be college-educated, the studys authors explain.

Erika Kirk and Vice President JD Vance last Sunday on stage at AmericaFest. Jon Cherry (AP)

For Wolicki, this is proof that the shift in attitudes toward Israel in the MAGA world has to do with the isolationism promoted by the movements main ideological glue, America First. And this is where a figure like Marjorie Taylor Greene comes into play.

From 2021 onward, Greene was one of Trumps most loyal allies in the House of Representatives, until Trump turned against her over her insistence on the release of the Epstein files, prompting her to give up her seat, which she will no longer hold as of January 5. In July, Greene became the first Republican on Capitol Hill to describe Israels actions as genocide. She posted on X: Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel [2023, the day Hamas massacred some 1,200 people and kidnapped another 250] was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza.

In the cover story of the new issue of Harpers, Andrew Cockburn, the magazines Washington editor, also attributes that shift in thinking to new ways information circulates. Predictably, traditional media outlets such as the New York Times and CNN have offered sanitized reports on the slaughter [in Gaza]. But thanks to social media, it has become impossible to control the flow of information, he writes. According to an analysis by the Pew Research Center, one-fifth of Americans get their news from TikTok and other social platforms, where, Cockburn adds, a stream of powerful images from Gaza depicted what was really happening there. That figure rose to 43% among those under 30.

Several months before his death, Kirk wrote a letter to Netanyahu warning him that he was losing the information war with American youth, including conservatives. In the letter, Kirk listed the questions he was constantly asked, including: Why is America subsidizing Israels genocide against the Palestinian people?  and Why does Israel conduct ethnic cleansing?

This last question was posed in October to Vice President J.D. Vance by an attendee at a TPUSA event. The young man also wanted to know why the United States continues to fund its ally with several hundred billion dollars. Vance, aware that he was treading on thin ice, responded with a defense of Trump and a theological tirade about Jews and Christians. He didnt address the issue of ethnic cleansing.

Charlie Kirk and Candace Owens in 2018, at an event at the University of Colorado in Boulder. MediaNews Group/Boulder Daily Ca (MediaNews Group via Getty Images)

In his speech last Sunday at AmericaFest, Vance reminded the audience that President Trump did not build the greatest coalition in politics by running his supporters through endless, self-defeating purity tests. In an interview published that same day, he declared that antisemitism and all forms of ethnic hatred have no place in the conservative movement, but on the Phoenix festival stage he made it clear that he had no intention of canceling anyone over their ideas. Whats more, he avoided uttering the word everyone had on their minds: Israel.

It is unclear how long Vance will be able to maintain that neutrality. That day, he received public backing from Erika Kirk for his 2028 presidential ambitions. What is clear is that securing a truce in the latest MAGA civil war will fall to him  or to anyone else who hopes to carry on Trumps mission once his term is over. In the meantime, and as usual, Trump loyalists are reluctant to blame him for anything.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:MFUS  Get Free Report) was the target of a large drop in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 18,258 shares, a drop of 40.4% from the November 30th total of 30,653 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 7,025 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 2.6 days. Approximately 0.5% of the companys stock are short sold. Approximately 0.5% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 7,025 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 2.6 days.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of MFUS. Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its holdings in shares of PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF by 27.3% in the 2nd quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 28,545 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,526,000 after purchasing an additional 6,119 shares during the last quarter. Austin Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF by 2.4% during the 2nd quarter. Austin Wealth Management LLC now owns 580,913 shares of the companys stock worth $30,875,000 after buying an additional 13,769 shares during the last quarter. EQ Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF by 7.6% during the second quarter. EQ Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,188 shares of the companys stock worth $170,000 after buying an additional 226 shares during the period. Mid American Wealth Advisory Group Inc. lifted its stake in PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF by 73.0% in the second quarter. Mid American Wealth Advisory Group Inc. now owns 9,610 shares of the companys stock valued at $514,000 after buying an additional 4,055 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Entrewealth LLC lifted its stake in PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF by 4.2% in the second quarter. Entrewealth LLC now owns 114,060 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,097,000 after buying an additional 4,611 shares during the last quarter.

Get PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF alerts:

PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF Stock Down 0.0%

MFUS traded down $0.01 on Friday, reaching $57.46. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,655 shares, compared to its average volume of 9,886. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $56.20 and a two-hundred day moving average of $55.02. The company has a market capitalization of $213.75 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.69 and a beta of 0.89. PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF has a fifty-two week low of $43.62 and a fifty-two week high of $57.55.

PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF Company Profile

The PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF (MFUS) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. index. The fund tracks an index of US companies that are selected and weighted by a combination of fundamental and technical factors. MFUS was launched on Aug 31, 2017 and is managed by PIMCO.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor U.S. Equity ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (OTCMKTS:AIPUY  Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 72 shares, a growth of 71.4% from the November 30th total of 42 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 2,480 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.0 days. Based on an average trading volume of 2,480 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.0 days.

Airports of Thailand Public Price Performance

Shares of AIPUY opened at $16.49 on Monday. Airports of Thailand Public has a 52-week low of $8.55 and a 52-week high of $19.30. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $13.61 and a 200 day moving average price of $12.01.

Get Airports of Thailand Public alerts:

Airports of Thailand Public Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (OTCMKTS:AIPUY) is a state enterprise under the Thai Ministry of Transport, established in December 2002 when the countrys airport operations were corporatized from the former Department of Airports. Headquartered in Bangkok, the company is charged with the development, management and operation of major international airports in Thailand, combining infrastructure investment with commercial and service activities to support both domestic and international air travel.

The companys core business revolves around airport operations at seven facilities, including Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, Mae Fah LuangChiang Rai and U-Tapao RayongPattaya.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Airports of Thailand Public Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Airports of Thailand Public and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of AMN Healthcare Services Inc (NYSE:AMN  Get Free Report) have earned a consensus recommendation of Hold from the nine ratings firms that are covering the company, MarketBeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price objective among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $21.4167.

A number of analysts recently commented on the company. Citigroup reiterated a market outperform rating on shares of AMN Healthcare Services in a research report on Friday, December 19th. Zacks Research raised shares of AMN Healthcare Services from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 25th. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of AMN Healthcare Services from $18.00 to $20.50 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Bank of America cut their price objective on shares of AMN Healthcare Services from $20.00 to $18.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, September 10th. Finally, Truist Financial raised their price objective on shares of AMN Healthcare Services from $20.00 to $24.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th.

Get AMN Healthcare Services alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on AMN

AMN Healthcare Services Stock Performance

AMN stock opened at $16.13 on Friday. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $17.43 and a 200 day moving average price of $19.01. AMN Healthcare Services has a fifty-two week low of $14.86 and a fifty-two week high of $30.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.31, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 1.05. The stock has a market capitalization of $619.36 million, a PE ratio of -2.24 and a beta of 0.21.

AMN Healthcare Services (NYSE:AMN  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.39 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.19 by $0.20. The company had revenue of $634.50 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $618.08 million. AMN Healthcare Services had a positive return on equity of 10.89% and a negative net margin of 10.14%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 7.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.61 EPS. Analysts forecast that AMN Healthcare Services will post 1.33 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On AMN Healthcare Services

A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in AMN. American Century Companies Inc. increased its holdings in AMN Healthcare Services by 9.7% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 75,945 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,858,000 after purchasing an additional 6,699 shares during the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC acquired a new position in shares of AMN Healthcare Services during the 1st quarter worth about $381,000. Jump Financial LLC increased its stake in shares of AMN Healthcare Services by 97.2% in the 1st quarter. Jump Financial LLC now owns 49,300 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,206,000 after acquiring an additional 24,300 shares during the last quarter. Comerica Bank raised its position in shares of AMN Healthcare Services by 10.4% in the 1st quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 18,841 shares of the companys stock valued at $461,000 after acquiring an additional 1,770 shares during the period. Finally, Trexquant Investment LP acquired a new stake in shares of AMN Healthcare Services in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $3,248,000. 99.23% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About AMN Healthcare Services

(Get Free Report)

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc (NYSE: AMN) is a leading provider of healthcare workforce solutions in the United States. The company specializes in staffing and recruitment services for a broad range of clinical and allied health professionals, including travel nurses, permanent placement of nursing staff, locum tenens physicians, and allied health personnel. In addition to direct staffing, AMN Healthcare offers comprehensive workforce management solutions such as vendor management systems (VMS), recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and compliance and credentialing services through its technology platforms.

Founded in 1985 as American Mobile Nurses, the company rebranded to AMN Healthcare in 2010 to reflect its expanding portfolio of services.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for AMN Healthcare Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AMN Healthcare Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Several brokerages have updated their recommendations and price targets on shares of Tenet Healthcare (NYSE: THC) in the last few weeks:

12/27/2025  Tenet Healthcare was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating.

12/22/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

12/18/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its overweight rating reaffirmed by analysts at Morgan Stanley. They now have a $247.00 price target on the stock.

12/15/2025  Tenet Healthcare was downgraded by analysts at Weiss Ratings from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating.

12/8/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

12/2/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its price target raised by analysts at Guggenheim from $238.00 to $257.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

12/1/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/24/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/21/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its price target raised by analysts at Barclays PLC from $229.00 to $240.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

11/17/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/13/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its price target raised by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $200.00 to $230.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

11/13/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $238.00 to $252.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

11/11/2025  Tenet Healthcare was upgraded by analysts at Weiss Ratings from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating.

11/3/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its buy rating reaffirmed by analysts at Truist Financial Corporation. They now have a $240.00 price target on the stock, up previously from $225.00.

10/30/2025  Tenet Healthcare had its price target raised by analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from $230.00 to $252.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock.

Insider Activity at Tenet Healthcare

In related news, Director Tammy Romo sold 645 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $205.20, for a total transaction of $132,354.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 34,866 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,154,503.20. This represents a 1.82% 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. Also, Director Richard W. Fisher sold 2,500 shares of Tenet Healthcare stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $208.43, for a total transaction of $521,075.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 8,792 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,832,516.56. This trade represents a 22.14% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 45,500 shares of company stock valued at $9,247,071 over the last three months. Insiders own 0.81% of the companys stock.

Get Tenet Healthcare Corporation alerts:

Tenet Healthcare Corporation (NYSE: THC) is a diversified American healthcare services company that owns and operates acute care hospitals and a broad range of outpatient facilities. Its portfolio includes general acute-care hospitals, specialty hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, urgent care and diagnostic imaging centers, and other ancillary service locations. Tenets operations are oriented around delivering inpatient and outpatient clinical care across multiple medical specialties, with an emphasis on surgical services, emergency care, and advanced diagnostics.

In addition to facility-based care, Tenet provides integrated services designed to support clinical operations and improve patient access and care coordination.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Tenet Healthcare Corporation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tenet Healthcare Corporation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
AngloGold Ashanti PLC (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large drop in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 4,651,135 shares, a drop of 53.1% from the November 30th total of 9,927,463 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 2,965,358 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.6 days. Currently, 1.1% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Currently, 1.1% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 2,965,358 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.6 days.

AngloGold Ashanti Trading Up 1.5%

NYSE AU traded up $1.34 on Friday, hitting $91.25. The companys stock had a trading volume of 938,823 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,633,541. The firm has a market cap of $38.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.10 and a beta of 0.58. AngloGold Ashanti has a 52-week low of $22.45 and a 52-week high of $91.65. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $78.97 and its 200 day simple moving average is $64.76. The company has a current ratio of 2.58, a quick ratio of 1.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21.

Get AngloGold Ashanti alerts:

AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The mining company reported $1.32 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.34 by ($0.02). AngloGold Ashanti had a net margin of 26.25% and a return on equity of 24.01%. The business had revenue of $2.42 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.53 billion. Research analysts predict that AngloGold Ashanti will post 3.83 EPS for the current fiscal year.

AngloGold Ashanti Dividend Announcement

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 12th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 28th were given a dividend of $0.91 per share. This represents a $3.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, November 28th. AngloGold Ashantis payout ratio is presently 80.18%.

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in AU. State Street Corp boosted its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 1,175.7% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 4,967,173 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $226,354,000 after purchasing an additional 4,577,807 shares in the last quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its position in AngloGold Ashanti by 1,767.5% during the second quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 2,788,123 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $127,027,000 after buying an additional 2,638,823 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 274.6% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,137,721 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $142,986,000 after buying an additional 2,300,204 shares in the last quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp grew its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 10.0% in the 3rd quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 19,847,932 shares of the mining companys stock worth $1,395,905,000 after buying an additional 1,804,620 shares during the period. Finally, Norges Bank purchased a new stake in shares of AngloGold Ashanti in the 2nd quarter worth about $74,039,000. Institutional investors own 36.09% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently issued reports on AU shares. Roth Capital increased their price target on shares of AngloGold Ashanti from $84.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 15th. HSBC reiterated a reduce rating and issued a $55.00 target price on shares of AngloGold Ashanti in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. Wall Street Zen upgraded AngloGold Ashanti from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, December 13th. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of AngloGold Ashanti from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Citigroup boosted their price objective on shares of AngloGold Ashanti from $90.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 10th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $86.00.

View Our Latest Report on AngloGold Ashanti

AngloGold Ashanti Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

AngloGold Ashanti is a global gold mining company engaged in the exploration, development, production, processing and sale of gold. Headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, the companys core activities span the full mining value chain from greenfield exploration and mine development through to ore processing and rehabilitation. Gold is the primary commodity produced, with individual operations sometimes yielding other byproducts depending on local geology and processing methods.

The company was formed in 2004 through the merger of AngloGold and Ashanti Goldfields, creating a diversified international gold producer.

Recommended Stories

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.
Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:ACHR  Get Free Report) fell 2.5% during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $7.65 and last traded at $7.6920. 17,093,792 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 56% from the average session volume of 39,210,906 shares. The stock had previously closed at $7.89.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages have recently commented on ACHR. Canaccord Genuity Group upped their price objective on shares of Archer Aviation from $12.00 to $13.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, November 21st. Needham & Company LLC reduced their price objective on Archer Aviation from $13.00 to $10.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, November 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price objective on Archer Aviation from $10.00 to $8.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Friday, November 7th. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Archer Aviation in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Archer Aviation in a research report on Monday, November 24th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $12.14.

Get Archer Aviation alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on ACHR

Archer Aviation Stock Performance

The company has a current ratio of 18.19, a quick ratio of 18.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.01 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -6.10 and a beta of 3.10. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $8.77 and a 200-day moving average price of $9.74.

Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported ($0.20) earnings per share for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of ($0.20). As a group, analysts anticipate that Archer Aviation Inc. will post -1.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity

In other Archer Aviation news, insider Eric Lentell sold 41,490 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $7.49, for a total value of $310,760.10. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 83,733 shares in the company, valued at $627,160.17. The trade was a 33.13% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CTO Thomas Paul Muniz sold 90,648 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $7.49, for a total transaction of $678,953.52. Following the sale, the chief technology officer directly owned 1,397,129 shares in the company, valued at $10,464,496.21. This represents a 6.09% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 182,635 shares of company stock worth $1,367,936 in the last quarter. 7.65% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Raymond James Financial Inc. grew its position in Archer Aviation by 13.3% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 842,433 shares of the companys stock worth $5,990,000 after acquiring an additional 98,966 shares during the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp boosted its stake in Archer Aviation by 32.5% in the first quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 3,108,457 shares of the companys stock worth $22,101,000 after purchasing an additional 762,398 shares in the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC grew its holdings in shares of Archer Aviation by 29.8% during the first quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 50,016 shares of the companys stock worth $354,000 after purchasing an additional 11,491 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Archer Aviation by 32.7% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 188,830 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,343,000 after buying an additional 46,478 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Corebridge Financial Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Archer Aviation by 36.3% in the first quarter. Corebridge Financial Inc. now owns 158,214 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,125,000 after buying an additional 42,144 shares during the last quarter. 59.34% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Archer Aviation Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Archer Aviation, Inc (NYSE: ACHR) is a California-based aerospace company developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed to serve as sustainable urban air mobility solutions. Founded in 2018 by Adam Goldstein and Brett Adcock, Archer focuses on the design, development and certification of zero-emissions air taxis aimed at reducing traffic congestion in densely populated metropolitan areas. The companys flagship prototypes, Maker and Midnight, have been engineered to deliver quiet, efficient short-haul flights with ranges of up to 100 miles per charge.

Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Archer operates a manufacturing facility in nearby Santa Cruz County and maintains research partnerships with automotive and energy companies, including a collaboration with Stellantis to integrate advanced battery systems.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Archer Aviation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Archer Aviation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Bain Capital Specialty Finance, Inc. (NYSE:BCSF  Get Free Report) declared a special dividend on Monday, December 22nd. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.15 per share on Monday, January 26th. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st.

Bain Capital Specialty Finance has increased its dividend by an average of 0.0%annually over the last three years and has raised its dividend every year for the last 4 years. Bain Capital Specialty Finance has a payout ratio of 101.8% meaning the company cannot currently cover its dividend with earnings alone and is relying on its balance sheet to cover its dividend payments. Analysts expect Bain Capital Specialty Finance to earn $1.87 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $1.68 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 89.8%.

Get Bain Capital Specialty Finance alerts:

Bain Capital Specialty Finance Stock Up 0.8%

Shares of Bain Capital Specialty Finance stock opened at $13.93 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $903.31 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.67 and a beta of 0.61. The firms 50-day moving average is $14.08 and its two-hundred day moving average is $14.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.33, a current ratio of 1.78 and a quick ratio of 1.78. Bain Capital Specialty Finance has a 1 year low of $13.20 and a 1 year high of $19.21.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Bain Capital Specialty Finance

Bain Capital Specialty Finance ( NYSE:BCSF Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 10th. The company reported $0.45 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.45. The firm had revenue of $67.20 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $69.53 million. Bain Capital Specialty Finance had a return on equity of 11.03% and a net margin of 33.45%. As a group, research analysts expect that Bain Capital Specialty Finance will post 2.06 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC raised its position in shares of Bain Capital Specialty Finance by 38.8% in the second quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC now owns 2,682 shares of the companys stock worth $40,000 after acquiring an additional 750 shares during the period. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC increased its position in shares of Bain Capital Specialty Finance by 52.5% in the second quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 3,604 shares of the companys stock valued at $54,000 after buying an additional 1,241 shares in the last quarter. Stone House Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in Bain Capital Specialty Finance in the 3rd quarter worth $55,000. BNP Paribas Financial Markets raised its position in shares of Bain Capital Specialty Finance by 352.1% during the 3rd quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 4,069 shares of the companys stock worth $58,000 after purchasing an additional 3,169 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Security National Bank purchased a new position in shares of Bain Capital Specialty Finance in the third quarter valued at approximately $66,000.

About Bain Capital Specialty Finance

(Get Free Report)

Bain Capital Specialty Finance (NYSE: BCSF) is a closed-end interval fund organized as a specialty finance company. Since commencing operations in March 2017, the company has focused on originating and acquiring debt and equity investments in middle-market companies. It is structured to offer investors access to private credit and special situations strategies that are typically unavailable through traditional public debt markets.

The firms core business activities include direct lending to U.S.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Bain Capital Specialty Finance Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bain Capital Specialty Finance and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Banco Bradesco SA (NYSE:BBDO  Get Free Report) announced a special dividend on Friday, December 19th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.0637 per share by the bank on Friday, August 7th. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 31st.

Banco Bradesco has decreased its dividend by an average of 0.2%per year over the last three years.

Get Banco Bradesco alerts:

Banco Bradesco Stock Down 0.9%

Shares of Banco Bradesco stock opened at $2.92 on Monday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $3.03 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $2.79. The stock has a market capitalization of $31.12 billion, a PE ratio of 8.35 and a beta of 0.62. Banco Bradesco has a 52-week low of $1.74 and a 52-week high of $3.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 1.12 and a current ratio of 1.12.

Banco Bradesco Company Profile

Banco Bradesco SA is a major Brazilian commercial bank and financial services company headquartered in Osasco, Sao Paulo. Founded in 1943 by Amador Aguiar, Bradesco has grown into one of Brazils largest private-sector banks, serving individual, small-business and corporate clients through an extensive network of branches, correspondents and digital channels.

The banks operations span retail and commercial banking products including deposit accounts, payment services, lending (personal, mortgage and corporate), credit cards and cash management.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Banco Bradesco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Banco Bradesco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II, Inc. (NYSE:MQT  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant decline in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 14,675 shares, a decline of 42.7% from the November 30th total of 25,600 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 68,999 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 68,999 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II

A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Whipplewood Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II by 3.4% during the third quarter. Whipplewood Advisors LLC now owns 35,014 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $351,000 after purchasing an additional 1,147 shares during the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its position in BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II by 4.9% in the 3rd quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 33,825 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $339,000 after purchasing an additional 1,575 shares during the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II by 8.6% during the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 25,236 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $252,000 after buying an additional 2,000 shares in the last quarter. Horizon Kinetics Asset Management LLC boosted its position in BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II by 11.0% in the 2nd quarter. Horizon Kinetics Asset Management LLC now owns 43,950 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $424,000 after buying an additional 4,371 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Osaic Holdings Inc. boosted its position in BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II by 62.4% in the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 12,727 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $123,000 after buying an additional 4,891 shares during the last quarter. 30.75% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II alerts:

BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II Trading Down 0.4%

MQT traded down $0.04 during trading on Friday, hitting $9.91. The companys stock had a trading volume of 66,767 shares, compared to its average volume of 70,613. The firms 50 day moving average price is $10.01 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $9.82. BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II has a 12 month low of $9.05 and a 12 month high of $10.40.

BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II Dividend Announcement

About BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 22nd will be issued a dividend of $0.051 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 22nd. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.2%.

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II (NYSE: MQT) is a closed-end management investment company that seeks to provide shareholders with high current income exempt from federal income tax. The fund primarily invests in a diversified portfolio of investment-grade municipal obligations, including bonds, notes and other debt instruments issued by state and local governments across the United States. Its investment approach emphasizes high-credit-quality, tax-exempt securities aimed at preserving capital while delivering tax-advantaged income.

Managed by BlackRock Fund Advisors, a subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc, MQT leverages the firms experienced municipal bond team to conduct credit research, portfolio construction and risk management.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
British Land Company PLC Sponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:BTLCY  Get Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 5,996 shares, a decline of 43.4% from the November 30th total of 10,592 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 22,146 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the company are sold short. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the company are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 22,146 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days.

British Land Trading Down 1.2%

Shares of BTLCY stock opened at $5.35 on Monday. British Land has a 52-week low of $4.13 and a 52-week high of $5.62. The businesss fifty day moving average is $5.15 and its 200 day moving average is $4.91. The company has a current ratio of 0.25, a quick ratio of 0.25 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42.

Get British Land alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

BTLCY has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. UBS Group upgraded shares of British Land from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Panmure Gordon raised British Land to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, December 2nd. Finally, Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating on shares of British Land in a research note on Friday, December 5th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have assigned a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy.

About British Land

(Get Free Report)

British Land Company plc is a leading real estate investment trust primarily focused on the ownership, development and management of UK commercial property. The companys portfolio is centred on high-quality office and retail destinations in key urban locations, combining long-term holdings with active redevelopment projects. Its core business activities include leasing space to corporate and retail tenants, asset management, and undertaking new developments aimed at enhancing urban environments and driving sustainable value.

Founded in 1856 as the Land Mortgage and Agency Company, British Land adopted its current name in the 1970s as it expanded beyond mortgage lending into direct property investment.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for British Land Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for British Land and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Broadstone Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE:BNL  Get Free Report) has been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the eleven brokerages that are presently covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and eight have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price objective among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $20.10.

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on BNL shares. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Broadstone Net Lease in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Broadstone Net Lease from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, November 30th. Truist Financial increased their price target on Broadstone Net Lease from $18.00 to $20.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. Citizens Jmp reaffirmed a market outperform rating and set a $21.00 price target on shares of Broadstone Net Lease in a report on Tuesday, December 2nd. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Broadstone Net Lease in a research report on Thursday, December 4th.

Get Broadstone Net Lease alerts:

Read Our Latest Research Report on BNL

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Broadstone Net Lease

Broadstone Net Lease Trading Up 0.1%

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Evermay Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Broadstone Net Lease by 1.4% in the second quarter. Evermay Wealth Management LLC now owns 47,560 shares of the companys stock valued at $766,000 after purchasing an additional 656 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. increased its position in shares of Broadstone Net Lease by 0.9% in the second quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 77,865 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,250,000 after acquiring an additional 664 shares during the last quarter. Alps Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in Broadstone Net Lease by 4.7% during the third quarter. Alps Advisors Inc. now owns 16,574 shares of the companys stock worth $296,000 after acquiring an additional 737 shares in the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC boosted its position in Broadstone Net Lease by 0.9% during the second quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 89,265 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,432,000 after purchasing an additional 768 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Arizona State Retirement System grew its stake in Broadstone Net Lease by 1.4% in the third quarter. Arizona State Retirement System now owns 55,951 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,000,000 after purchasing an additional 779 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.07% of the companys stock.

Shares of BNL stock opened at $17.52 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $17.91 and a two-hundred day moving average of $17.47. The company has a market capitalization of $3.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.27 and a beta of 1.03. Broadstone Net Lease has a 12 month low of $13.96 and a 12 month high of $18.87.

Broadstone Net Lease (NYSE:BNL  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $0.14 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.37 by ($0.23). The business had revenue of $114.17 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $111.89 million. Broadstone Net Lease had a return on equity of 2.93% and a net margin of 20.04%.Broadstone Net Lease has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.490-1.500 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Broadstone Net Lease will post 1.43 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Broadstone Net Lease Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be issued a $0.29 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $1.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.6%. Broadstone Net Leases dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 246.81%.

Broadstone Net Lease Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Broadstone Net Lease, Inc (NYSE: BNL) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust focused on owning and operating single-tenant commercial properties under long-term net leases. The company specializes in acquiring properties that are leased to creditworthy tenants, allowing it to generate predictable, stable rental income while transferring most operating expenses and responsibilities to its lessees.

Broadstone Net Leases portfolio spans a variety of property types, including industrial facilities, distribution centers, manufacturing plants, life science and office buildings, and essential retail locations.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Broadstone Net Lease Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Broadstone Net Lease and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
First Horizon (NYSE:FHN  Get Free Report) and California Business Bank (OTCMKTS:CABB  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, risk, analyst recommendations, profitability, institutional ownership, earnings and valuation.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent ratings and price targets for First Horizon and California Business Bank, as provided by MarketBeat.

Get First Horizon alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score First Horizon 0 10 8 1 2.53 California Business Bank 0 0 0 0 0.00

First Horizon currently has a consensus price target of $25.29, indicating a potential upside of 3.30%. Given First Horizons stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities research analysts plainly believe First Horizon is more favorable than California Business Bank.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio First Horizon $5.03 billion 2.40 $775.00 million $1.65 14.84 California Business Bank N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

This table compares First Horizon and California Business Banks revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

First Horizon has higher revenue and earnings than California Business Bank.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

80.3% of First Horizon shares are held by institutional investors. 1.0% of First Horizon shares are held 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.

Risk & Volatility

First Horizon has a beta of 0.62, indicating that its share price is 38% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, California Business Bank has a beta of 0.23, indicating that its share price is 77% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares First Horizon and California Business Banks net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets First Horizon 18.08% 10.93% 1.16% California Business Bank N/A N/A N/A

Summary

First Horizon beats California Business Bank on 11 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks.

About First Horizon

(Get 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. The company also accepts deposits; provides underwriting services for bank-eligible securities and other fixed-income securities by financial subsidiaries; sells loans and derivatives; financial planning; and offers investment and financial advisory services. In addition, it offers mortgage banking; loan syndications; brokerage services; commercial and business banking for business enterprises, consumer banking, and private client and wealth management services; capital markets, professional commercial real estate, mortgage warehouse and asset-based lending, franchise and equipment finance, tax credit finance, energy and healthcare finance, asset management, and corporate and correspondent banking services. Further, the company provides transaction processing services including check clearing services and remittance processing, credit cards, investment, and sale of mutual fund and retail insurances, as well as trust, fiduciary, and agency services. First Horizon Corporation was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee.

About California Business Bank

(Get Free Report)

California Business Bank provides various financial products and services for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The company offers various personal and business deposit products; and business and commercial loans comprising SBA, commercial and industrial, and commercial real estate loans. It also provides online and mobile banking, mobile deposit, bill pay, and other services. The company was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Irvine, California.

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.
Celsius, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, and Canadian Solar are the three Canadian stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Canadian stocks are equity shares of companies headquartered in Canada or listed on Canadian exchanges such as the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and TSX Venture Exchange. For investors, they offer exposure to Canadas prominent sectors (energy, mining, financials, utilities), and carry country-specific considerations like Canadian regulatory rules, commodity sensitivity, and Canadian-dollar currency risk. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Canadian stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

Celsius (CELH)

Celsius Holdings, Inc. develops, processes, markets, distributes, and sells functional energy drinks and liquid supplements in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canadian, European, Middle Eastern, Asia-Pacific, and internationally. The company offers CELSIUS, a fitness drink or supplement designed to accelerate metabolism and burn body fat; various flavors and carbonated and non-carbonated functional energy drinks under the CELSIUS Originals and Vibe name, as well as functional energy drink under the CELSIUS Essentials and CELSIUS On-the-Go Powder names; and CELSIUS ready-to drink products.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CM)

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CM

Canadian Solar (CSIQ)

Canadian Solar Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides solar energy and battery energy storage products and solutions in in Asia, the Americas, Europe, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, CSI Solar and Recurrent Energy. The CSI Solar segment designs, develops, and manufactures solar ingots, wafers, cells, modules, and other solar power and battery storage products.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CSIQ

See Also
Cib Marine Bancshares, Inc. (OTCMKTS:CIBH  Get Free Report) saw a large decline in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 144 shares, a decline of 41.0% from the November 30th total of 244 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 1,293 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 1,293 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Cib Marine Bancshares Stock Performance

OTCMKTS:CIBH opened at $37.50 on Monday. Cib Marine Bancshares has a fifty-two week low of $25.60 and a fifty-two week high of $37.83. The firm has a market cap of $52.13 million, a PE ratio of 19.74 and a beta of 0.23. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $36.54 and a 200-day moving average price of $35.48.

Get Cib Marine Bancshares alerts:

Cib Marine Bancshares (OTCMKTS:CIBH  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 10th. The company reported $0.65 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $7.49 million during the quarter.

About Cib Marine Bancshares

CIB Marine Bancshares is a bank holding company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, CIBM Bank, the company offers a full suite of financial services designed to meet the needs of both individual and business clients. Its banking platform focuses on providing personalized commercial lending, real estate financing and treasury management solutions to small- and middle-market companies, as well as retail deposit and payment services for consumers.

In its commercial banking division, CIBM Bank specializes in corporate lending, commercial real estate mortgages and lines of credit tailored to growing businesses.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Cib Marine Bancshares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cib Marine Bancshares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
DigitalBridge Group, Inc. (NYSE:DBRG  Get Free Report)s share price gapped up before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $13.92, but opened at $15.28. DigitalBridge Group shares last traded at $15.2650, with a volume of 31,979,518 shares.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages have issued reports on DBRG. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d+) rating on shares of DigitalBridge Group in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Cowen upped their target price on shares of DigitalBridge Group from $19.00 to $20.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price target on shares of DigitalBridge Group from $11.00 to $12.50 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of DigitalBridge Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, September 13th. Finally, Zacks Research raised shares of DigitalBridge Group from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Two research 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 given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $17.69.

Get DigitalBridge Group alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Report on DigitalBridge Group

DigitalBridge Group Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of $2.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 254.63 and a beta of 1.77. The firms fifty day moving average is $11.77 and its 200-day moving average is $11.38.

DigitalBridge Group (NYSE:DBRG  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, March 21st. The company reported ($0.07) earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of $232.83 million for the quarter. DigitalBridge Group had a return on equity of 4.78% and a net margin of 18.57%. On average, sell-side analysts expect that DigitalBridge Group, Inc. will post 0.17 EPS for the current year.

DigitalBridge Group Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be issued a $0.01 dividend. This represents a $0.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 31st. DigitalBridge Groups payout ratio is currently 66.67%.

Institutional Trading of DigitalBridge Group

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of DBRG. State of Alaska Department of Revenue acquired a new position in shares of DigitalBridge Group in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $84,000. Captrust Financial Advisors acquired a new stake in shares of DigitalBridge Group during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $109,000. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. bought a new position in DigitalBridge Group during the second quarter worth $113,000. NEOS Investment Management LLC bought a new position in DigitalBridge Group during the third quarter worth $117,000. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. boosted its holdings in DigitalBridge Group by 239.4% in the second quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 11,373 shares of the companys stock worth $118,000 after purchasing an additional 8,022 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 92.69% of the companys stock.

About DigitalBridge Group

(Get Free Report)

DigitalBridge Group, Inc (NYSE: DBRG) is a specialized global investment firm focused exclusively on digital infrastructure. The company originates, acquires, and manages a diversified portfolio of businesses that support the digital economy, including data centers, cell towers, small cells, fiber networks, edge infrastructure and related services. DigitalBridge seeks to generate sustainable, long-term returns for its investors by deploying capital into high-growth sectors driven by increasing data consumption, 5G deployment and cloud adoption.

Through its dedicated investment platforms, DigitalBridge provides equity and debt financing solutions to operators and owners of digital infrastructure assets.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for DigitalBridge Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for DigitalBridge Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
DRDGOLD Limited (NYSE:DRD  Get Free Report) shares gapped down before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $33.33, but opened at $31.59. DRDGOLD shares last traded at $30.5750, with a volume of 165,338 shares traded.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts recently weighed in on DRD shares. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of DRDGOLD from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, December 20th. HC Wainwright increased their target price on shares of DRDGOLD to $36.25 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of DRDGOLD in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded DRDGOLD from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, November 24th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, DRDGOLD presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $36.25.

Get DRDGOLD alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on DRDGOLD

DRDGOLD Price Performance

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The stock has a 50-day moving average of $28.38 and a 200-day moving average of $22.22.

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake in DRDGOLD by 239.6% in the 3rd quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 989,089 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $27,299,000 after buying an additional 697,840 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. lifted its stake in DRDGOLD by 0.4% in the second quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 945,945 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $12,609,000 after acquiring an additional 4,030 shares during the last quarter. Amundi bought a new position in shares of DRDGOLD in the 3rd quarter valued at about $17,467,000. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. raised its holdings in shares of DRDGOLD by 1.2% in the 3rd quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 570,807 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $15,754,000 after purchasing an additional 6,740 shares during the period. Finally, Millennium Management LLC lifted its stake in DRDGOLD by 91.9% in the 3rd quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 397,000 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $10,957,000 after purchasing an additional 190,152 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 14.70% of the companys stock.

DRDGOLD Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

DRDGOLD (NYSE: DRD) is a South African gold producer focused on the retreatment of surface tailings from historic mining operations on the Witwatersrand Basin. The company recovers fine gold particles from lowgrade tailings using an integrated, carboninleach (CIL) processing circuit that is designed to maximize yield and minimize environmental impact. DRDGOLDs operations are centered on sustainable resource utilization, transforming previously discarded material into saleable gold dore bars.

The company operates two primary tailings retreatment facilities on the West Rand and East Rand of Gauteng Province.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for DRDGOLD Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for DRDGOLD and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $121.30 and last traded at $120.8360, with a volume of 3935793 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $119.11.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

XOM has been the topic of several analyst reports. Bank of America dropped their price objective on Exxon Mobil from $119.00 to $118.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, December 11th. Barclays cut their price target on shares of Exxon Mobil from $127.00 to $126.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a report on Monday, December 15th. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Cowen reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research report on Friday, December 12th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have given a Buy rating and thirteen have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $129.45.

Get Exxon Mobil alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Exxon Mobil

Exxon Mobil Stock Up 1.2%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a current ratio of 1.14 and a quick ratio of 0.79. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $116.65 and its 200-day simple moving average is $113.25. The stock has a market cap of $508.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.52, a PEG ratio of 7.49 and a beta of 0.38.

Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, June 17th. The oil and gas company reported $0.65 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $57.55 billion for the quarter. Exxon Mobil had a return on equity of 11.22% and a net margin of 8.99%. On average, research analysts anticipate that Exxon Mobil Corporation will post 7.43 earnings per share for the current year.

Exxon Mobil Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th were paid a $1.03 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, November 14th. This is a positive change from Exxon Mobils previous quarterly dividend of $0.99. This represents a $4.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.4%. Exxon Mobils dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 59.88%.

Insider Activity

In other news, VP Darrin L. Talley sold 3,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $117.19, for a total transaction of $351,570.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president owned 28,584 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,349,758.96. This represents a 9.50% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.03% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Ipsen Advisor Group LLC raised its stake in Exxon Mobil by 1.6% during the 3rd quarter. Ipsen Advisor Group LLC now owns 5,647 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $637,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the last quarter. Nexus Investment Management ULC raised its position in shares of Exxon Mobil by 1.6% during the third quarter. Nexus Investment Management ULC now owns 5,794 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $653,000 after buying an additional 89 shares during the last quarter. Axis Wealth Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of Exxon Mobil by 1.8% in the second quarter. Axis Wealth Partners LLC now owns 5,056 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $545,000 after buying an additional 90 shares during the period. Sagace Wealth Management LLC grew its position in Exxon Mobil by 2.7% during the third quarter. Sagace Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,445 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $388,000 after buying an additional 90 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Park Edge Advisors LLC grew its position in Exxon Mobil by 0.3% during the second quarter. Park Edge Advisors LLC now owns 32,031 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $3,453,000 after buying an additional 91 shares in the last quarter. 61.80% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Exxon Mobil

(Get Free Report)

Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE: XOM) is an integrated oil and gas company engaged in the exploration, production, refining, distribution and marketing of petroleum products and the manufacture and sale of petrochemicals. Its operations span the full energy value chain, including upstream exploration and development of crude oil and natural gas; midstream transportation and storage; and downstream refining, product distribution and retail. The company also produces a broad range of chemical products for industrial and consumer applications.

ExxonMobil markets fuels and lubricants under well-known brands such as Exxon, Mobil and Esso, and its Mobil 1 motor oil is a prominent consumer product.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Exxon Mobil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Exxon Mobil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Skeena Resources (NYSE:SKE  Get Free Report) and Lithium Americas (NYSE:LAC  Get Free Report) are both basic materials companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, valuation, profitability, risk, dividends and earnings.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Skeena Resources and Lithium Americass top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Get Skeena Resources alerts:

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Skeena Resources N/A N/A -$110.89 million ($0.73) -33.19 Lithium Americas N/A N/A -$42.53 million ($1.05) -4.33

Institutional and Insider Ownership

Skeena Resources is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Lithium Americas, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

45.2% of Skeena Resources shares are owned by institutional investors. 2.0% of Skeena Resources shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 1.1% of Lithium Americas shares are owned by company 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 Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and recommmendations for Skeena Resources and Lithium Americas, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Skeena Resources 1 0 4 1 2.83 Lithium Americas 1 11 3 0 2.13

Lithium Americas has a consensus target price of $5.33, suggesting a potential upside of 17.35%. Given Lithium Americas higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Lithium Americas is more favorable than Skeena Resources.

Risk & Volatility

Skeena Resources has a beta of 1.22, suggesting that its stock price is 22% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Lithium Americas has a beta of 1.39, suggesting that its stock price is 39% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Skeena Resources and Lithium Americas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Skeena Resources N/A -31.67% -7.82% Lithium Americas N/A -8.50% -4.12%

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. The company was formerly known as Prolific Resources Ltd. and changed its name to Skeena Resources Limited in June 1990. Skeena Resources Limited was incorporated in 1979 and is based in Vancouver, Canada.

About Lithium Americas

(Get Free Report)

Lithium Americas Corp. engages in the exploration and development of lithium properties in the United States and Canada. It holds a 100% interest in the Thacker Pass project located in northern Nevada, as well as investments in exploration properties in the United States and Canada. Lithium Americas Corp. was incorporated in 2023 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

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.
First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund (NYSEARCA:EMLP  Get Free Report) saw a large increase in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 233,692 shares, an increase of 42.8% from the November 30th total of 163,613 shares. Currently, 0.3% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 206,316 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 1.1 days. Based on an average trading volume of 206,316 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 1.1 days. Currently, 0.3% of the companys stock are sold short.

First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund Stock Performance

Shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund stock traded up $0.11 during trading on Monday, reaching $37.91. The company had a trading volume of 166,994 shares, compared to its average volume of 260,162. First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund has a fifty-two week low of $32.62 and a fifty-two week high of $39.29. The firms fifty day moving average is $38.16 and its 200-day moving average is $37.89. The company has a market cap of $3.34 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.59 and a beta of 0.65.

Get First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund alerts:

Hedge Funds Weigh In On First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Forefront Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund during the third quarter worth about $9,934,000. Bank of America Corp DE grew its position in First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund by 9.4% in the 2nd quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 1,906,011 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $71,494,000 after purchasing an additional 164,425 shares during the last quarter. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund in the second quarter valued at approximately $5,785,000. Raymond James Financial Inc. raised its holdings in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund by 22.9% during the second quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 764,018 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $28,658,000 after buying an additional 142,472 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted its position in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund by 10.6% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,453,402 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $54,487,000 after buying an additional 139,189 shares during the period.

First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund Company Profile

The First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund (EMLP) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Alerian MLP index. The fund is an actively managed fund that invests in North American energy infrastructure MLPs and LLCs. EMLP was launched on Jun 21, 2012 and is managed by First Trust.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
AMN Healthcare Services (NYSE:AMN  Get Free Report) and Ethema Health (OTCMKTS:GRST  Get Free Report) are both small-cap medical companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, risk, valuation, profitability, institutional ownership and dividends.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for AMN Healthcare Services and Ethema Health, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Get AMN Healthcare Services alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score AMN Healthcare Services 2 2 5 0 2.33 Ethema Health 0 0 0 0 0.00

AMN Healthcare Services currently has a consensus price target of $21.42, indicating a potential upside of 32.82%. Given AMN Healthcare Services stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities research analysts plainly believe AMN Healthcare Services is more favorable than Ethema Health.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

Profitability

99.2% of AMN Healthcare Services shares are held by institutional investors. 0.9% of AMN Healthcare Services shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 55.8% of Ethema Health shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

This table compares AMN Healthcare Services and Ethema Healths net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets AMN Healthcare Services -10.14% 10.89% 3.18% Ethema Health -9.35% N/A -5.77%

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares AMN Healthcare Services and Ethema Healths top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio AMN Healthcare Services $2.98 billion 0.21 -$146.98 million ($7.19) -2.24 Ethema Health $6.02 million 0.51 -$2.06 million N/A N/A

Ethema Health has lower revenue, but higher earnings than AMN Healthcare Services.

Volatility and Risk

AMN Healthcare Services has a beta of 0.21, suggesting that its stock price is 79% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Ethema Health has a beta of 1.56, suggesting that its stock price is 56% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

AMN Healthcare Services beats Ethema Health on 7 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks.

About AMN Healthcare Services

(Get Free Report)

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. provides healthcare workforce solutions and staffing services to healthcare facilities in the United States. It operates through three segments: Nurse and Allied Solutions, Physician and Leadership Solutions, and Technology and Workforce Solutions. The Nurse and Allied Solutions segment offers travel nurse staffing, labor disruption staffing, local staffing, international nurse and allied permanent placement, and allied staffing solutions. The Physician and Leadership Solutions segment provides locum tenens staffing, healthcare interim leadership staffing, executive search, and physician permanent placement solutions. The Technology and Workforce Solutions segment offers language services, vendor management systems, workforce optimization, and outsourced solutions. The company also provides allied health professionals, such as physical therapists, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, medical and radiology technologists, lab technicians, speech pathologists, rehabilitation assistants, and pharmacists. It offers its services under the brands, including AMN Healthcare, Nursefinders, HealthSource Global Staffing, O'Grady Peyton International, Connetics, Medical Search International, DRW Healthcare Staffing, and B.E. Smith. AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

About Ethema Health

(Get Free Report)

Ethema Health Corporation operates behavioral healthcare space specifically in the treatment of substance use disorders. It offers rehabilitation services. The company was formerly known as GreeneStone Healthcare Corporation and changed its name to Ethema Health Corporation in April 2017. Ethema Health Corporation is based in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Receive News & Ratings for AMN Healthcare Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AMN Healthcare Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
HM Payson & Co. increased its holdings in International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM  Free Report) by 12.2% during the third quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 86,788 shares of the technology companys stock after buying an additional 9,420 shares during the period. HM Payson & Co.s holdings in International Business Machines were worth $24,488,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. 1900 Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of International Business Machines during the 3rd quarter valued at about $219,000. Goldstone Financial Group LLC lifted its position in International Business Machines by 27.8% during the third quarter. Goldstone Financial Group LLC now owns 3,324 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $938,000 after purchasing an additional 724 shares during the last quarter. Norris Perne & French LLP MI grew its stake in International Business Machines by 14.7% in the 3rd quarter. Norris Perne & French LLP MI now owns 2,350 shares of the technology companys stock worth $663,000 after buying an additional 301 shares in the last quarter. Ullmann Wealth Partners Group LLC increased its holdings in shares of International Business Machines by 1.0% in the 3rd quarter. Ullmann Wealth Partners Group LLC now owns 6,069 shares of the technology companys stock worth $1,712,000 after buying an additional 60 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FLC Capital Advisors raised its position in shares of International Business Machines by 2.6% during the 3rd quarter. FLC Capital Advisors now owns 27,937 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $7,883,000 after buying an additional 718 shares in the last quarter. 58.96% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get International Business Machines alerts:

International Business Machines Price Performance

Shares of International Business Machines stock opened at $305.22 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.97, a current ratio of 0.93 and a quick ratio of 0.89. International Business Machines Corporation has a one year low of $214.50 and a one year high of $324.90. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $303.62 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $280.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $285.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.51, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.04 and a beta of 0.69.

International Business Machines Dividend Announcement

International Business Machines ( NYSE:IBM Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 22nd. The technology company reported $2.65 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.45 by $0.20. The firm had revenue of $16.33 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.10 billion. International Business Machines had a return on equity of 37.76% and a net margin of 12.09%.The businesss quarterly revenue was up 9.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.30 earnings per share. Analysts forecast that International Business Machines Corporation will post 10.78 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 10th were issued a dividend of $1.68 per share. This represents a $6.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 10th. International Business Machiness dividend payout ratio is currently 80.38%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts recently commented on IBM shares. Weiss Ratings raised International Business Machines from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b) rating in a research note on Saturday, October 25th. Bank of America increased their price objective on International Business Machines from $310.00 to $315.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. Jefferies Financial Group upped their target price on International Business Machines from $280.00 to $305.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Erste Group Bank raised shares of International Business Machines from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, December 5th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein restated a market perform rating on shares of International Business Machines in a report on Wednesday, December 10th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have given a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, International Business Machines presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $293.38.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on International Business Machines

About International Business Machines

(Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) is a global technology and consulting company headquartered in Armonk, New York. Founded in 1911 as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company (CTR) and renamed IBM in 1924, the company has evolved from early electromechanical machines to a diversified technology provider serving enterprises and governments worldwide. IBM is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol IBM.

IBMs principal businesses encompass cloud computing and software, infrastructure and systems, consulting and technology services, and research and development.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IBM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for International Business Machines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for International Business Machines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Holcim Ltd Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:HCMLY  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant decrease in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 73,533 shares, a decrease of 44.7% from the November 30th total of 133,038 shares. Approximately 0.0% of the companys shares are sold short. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 238,329 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 238,329 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days. Approximately 0.0% of the companys shares are sold short.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have recently issued reports on HCMLY. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on Holcim in a report on Thursday, September 4th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded Holcim from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, December 3rd. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating on shares of Holcim in a report on Monday, October 27th. BNP Paribas cut Holcim from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and set a $16.80 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Thursday, December 4th. Finally, UBS Group raised shares of Holcim from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Holcim presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $16.80.

Get Holcim alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on HCMLY

Holcim Stock Performance

About Holcim

Shares of HCMLY traded down $0.11 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $19.58. The stock had a trading volume of 25,820 shares, compared to its average volume of 119,071. Holcim has a fifty-two week low of $15.14 and a fifty-two week high of $30.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 1.49 and a quick ratio of 1.21. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $18.25 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $19.09.

(Get Free Report)

Holcim is a global building materials and solutions company headquartered in Switzerland that produces and supplies cement, aggregates, ready-mix concrete, asphalt and a range of prefabricated and construction-related products and services. Its offerings are aimed at construction and infrastructure markets, serving contractors, developers, municipalities and industrial customers with materials for residential, commercial and civil engineering projects.

The company traces its modern form to the 2015 combination of Swiss cement maker Holcim and Frances Lafarge, which created one of the worlds largest building-materials groups; the combined enterprise later simplified its name to Holcim.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Holcim Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Holcim and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Several brokerages have updated their recommendations and price targets on shares of Spire (NYSE: SR) in the last few weeks:

12/22/2025  Spire had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

12/17/2025  Spire had its price target raised by analysts at UBS Group AG from $95.00 to $100.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

12/15/2025  Spire had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

12/8/2025  Spire had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

12/1/2025  Spire had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/24/2025  Spire had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/20/2025  Spire was given a new $97.00 price target on by analysts at Morgan Stanley.

11/20/2025  Spire had its price target raised by analysts at Mizuho from $93.00 to $96.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock.

11/18/2025  Spire had its price target raised by analysts at Morgan Stanley from $91.00 to $99.00. They now have an equal weight rating on the stock.

11/17/2025  Spire was downgraded by analysts at Weiss Ratings from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating.

Spire Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 5th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 11th will be issued a $0.825 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 11th. This represents a $3.30 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.0%. This is an increase from Spires previous quarterly dividend of $0.79. Spires dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 75.00%.

Get Spire Inc alerts:

Spire Inc (NYSE: SR), formerly known as The Laclede Group, is a regulated natural gas distribution company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. Through its three operating divisionsSpire Missouri, Spire Alabama and Spire Mississippithe company delivers natural gas to more than 1.7 million residential, commercial and industrial customers. Spires service territory spans key markets in the central and southern United States, including metropolitan St. Louis, central Alabama and central Mississippi.

Founded in 1857 as the Laclede Gas Light Company, the business has grown through strategic acquisitions, notably Alabama Gas Corporation in 2013 and Mississippi Gas in 2016.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Spire Inc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Spire Inc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of iShares Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEV  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $69.00 and last traded at $68.7710, with a volume of 77244 shares. The stock had previously closed at $68.76.

iShares Europe ETF Price Performance

The firm has a market capitalization of $1.63 billion, a PE ratio of 16.48 and a beta of 0.91. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $66.88 and a 200-day simple moving average of $65.03.

Get iShares Europe ETF alerts:

Institutional Investors Weigh In On iShares Europe ETF

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Flow Traders U.S. LLC bought a new position in shares of iShares Europe ETF in the second quarter worth about $59,097,000. Barings LLC raised its position in shares of iShares Europe ETF by 6.0% during the second quarter. Barings LLC now owns 723,437 shares of the companys stock valued at $45,757,000 after buying an additional 41,244 shares during the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Europe ETF by 4.6% in the third quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 472,737 shares of the companys stock worth $30,955,000 after buying an additional 20,869 shares in the last quarter. Checchi Capital Advisers LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares Europe ETF by 30.6% during the second quarter. Checchi Capital Advisers LLC now owns 401,731 shares of the companys stock worth $25,409,000 after acquiring an additional 94,166 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Jane Street Group LLC grew its stake in iShares Europe ETF by 121.3% during the second quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 358,224 shares of the companys stock valued at $22,658,000 after acquiring an additional 196,368 shares in the last quarter.

iShares Europe ETF Company Profile

iShares Europe ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P Europe 350 Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P Europe 350 (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the stocks of companies in the countries, which includes Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for iShares Europe ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Europe ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (NYSEARCA:EWU  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $44.24 and last traded at $44.0460, with a volume of 1392586 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $44.08.

iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF Trading Down 0.6%

The company has a market cap of $2.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.42 and a beta of 0.71. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $42.95 and its 200 day moving average price is $41.62.

Get iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF alerts:

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Jones Financial Companies Lllp boosted its position in shares of iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 24.4% in the third quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 1,300 shares of the companys stock worth $54,000 after buying an additional 255 shares during the period. Signaturefd LLC grew its holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 1.6% during the 2nd quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 17,885 shares of the companys stock valued at $710,000 after purchasing an additional 284 shares in the last quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its stake in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 28.4% during the 3rd quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 1,400 shares of the companys stock worth $59,000 after buying an additional 310 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. boosted its holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 1.4% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 22,659 shares of the companys stock valued at $849,000 after purchasing an additional 312 shares during the last quarter. Finally, ABC Arbitrage SA grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 1.0% during the second quarter. ABC Arbitrage SA now owns 32,419 shares of the companys stock worth $1,288,000 after buying an additional 316 shares in the last quarter. 58.38% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF

The iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWU) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI United Kingdom index. The fund tracks a market cap-weighted index of British companies. It covers the top 85% of British companies by market cap. EWU was launched on Mar 12, 1996 and is managed by BlackRock.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Juniata Valley Financial Corp. (OTCMKTS:JUVF  Get Free Report) saw a significant drop in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 510 shares, a drop of 42.3% from the November 30th total of 884 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 3,643 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 3,643 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days.

Juniata Valley Financial Stock Performance

Shares of Juniata Valley Financial stock traded up $0.10 during trading on Friday, reaching $13.85. The companys stock had a trading volume of 750 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,811. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $14.08 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $13.82. Juniata Valley Financial has a one year low of $11.55 and a one year high of $14.98.

Get Juniata Valley Financial alerts:

Juniata Valley Financial Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Juniata Valley Financial, Inc (OTCMKTS: JUVF) is a bank holding company headquartered in Mifflintown, Pennsylvania. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Juniata Valley Bank, the company provides a full suite of commercial and retail banking services to individuals, businesses and agricultural clients. Its product offerings include checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, consumer and commercial loans, residential mortgages, and agricultural finance solutions tailored to the needs of local producers.

In addition to traditional banking services, Juniata Valley Financial delivers treasury management, online and mobile banking, and trust and wealth management services aimed at helping customers manage liquidity, process payments and plan for long-term financial goals.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Juniata Valley Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Juniata Valley Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
GAZA, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- As a powerful winter storm batters the Gaza Strip, Palestinians are scavenging iron bars from the ruins of their bombed-out homes to reinforce makeshift tents that have proven no match for the wind and rain.

In the al-Jalaa neighborhood of Gaza City, 55-year-old Ali al-Hajjar used a heavy hammer to pry metal reinforcement rods from the cracked concrete pillars of his former house.

"I am no longer searching the rubble for personal belongings, but for materials to protect my family from the winter," al-Hajjar told Xinhua.

Since an Oct. 10 ceasefire ended the latest round of fighting, al-Hajjar said his family of seven has received neither a tent nor alternative housing. After a recent storm collapsed their previous shelter -- a flimsy construction of wood and nylon -- the family spent the night in the open, their blankets and mattresses soaked.

The practice of "mining" ruins for structural steel has become a widespread survival tactic across Gaza, particularly in areas where destruction was most severe. Residents reshape the salvaged metal into arches to support tent roofs, allowing rainwater to run off rather than pool and collapse the structure.

"We are dismantling what remains of our homes to build simple shelters," al-Hajjar said.

The trend highlights a desperate adaptation to the shortage of construction materials. Israel continues to restrict the entry of building supplies into the enclave, and the high cost of cement on the local market has made formal repairs impossible for most.

In the Shati refugee camp, Mohammed al-Shanti, 47, and his family collected iron from their destroyed home to erect a cluster of reinforced tents. He said traditional tents have become unusable as floors turn to mud and water seeps inside.

"The iron and concrete being reused would be discarded if reconstruction began," al-Shanti said. "Its use now is a temporary measure dictated by necessity."

The humanitarian crisis is deepening as temperatures drop. The Hamas-run government media office recently warned that more than 288,000 families lack adequate shelter, estimating that 300,000 tents and mobile housing units are needed to meet the demand.

For residents like Abbas Saud, who also began extracting iron after seeing neighbors do the same, the risks of handling heavy debris are outweighed by the need for stability.

"Many families are now reusing iron due to the lack of housing alternatives and delays in the arrival of caravans," Saud said, noting that while the makeshift shelters do not meet safety standards, they provide a measure of resistance against the elements.

"These measures are not a preferred choice," Saud added. "It is an adaptation to conditions imposed by the war." 
Kingsway Financial Services, Inc. (NYSE:KFS  Get Free Report) (TSE:KFS) Director Joseph Stilwell sold 19,229 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, December 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.80, for a total transaction of $246,131.20. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 300,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,840,000. The trade was a 6.02% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink.

Joseph Stilwell also recently made the following trade(s):

Get Kingsway Financial Services alerts:

On Tuesday, December 16th, Joseph Stilwell sold 10,429 shares of Kingsway Financial Services stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $12.80, for a total transaction of $133,491.20.

On Monday, December 15th, Joseph Stilwell sold 34,269 shares of Kingsway Financial Services stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.80, for a total transaction of $438,643.20.

On Thursday, December 11th, Joseph Stilwell sold 67,500 shares of Kingsway Financial Services stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $12.80, for a total value of $864,000.00.

On Tuesday, December 9th, Joseph Stilwell sold 20,000 shares of Kingsway Financial Services stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.80, for a total value of $256,000.00.

On Monday, December 8th, Joseph Stilwell sold 35,000 shares of Kingsway Financial Services stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.82, for a total value of $448,700.00.

Kingsway Financial Services Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:KFS traded down $0.29 during trading on Monday, reaching $13.61. The stock had a trading volume of 68,861 shares, compared to its average volume of 64,211. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74, a quick ratio of 0.39 and a current ratio of 0.39. Kingsway Financial Services, Inc. has a 1-year low of $7.06 and a 1-year high of $16.80. The stock has a market cap of $394.15 million, a PE ratio of -37.81 and a beta of 0.32. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $13.33 and a 200-day moving average price of $13.99.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Kingsway Financial Services

Kingsway Financial Services ( NYSE:KFS Get Free Report ) (TSE:KFS) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The insurance provider reported ($0.10) earnings per share for the quarter. Kingsway Financial Services had a negative net margin of 8.55% and a negative return on equity of 76.94%.

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Ameritas Investment Partners Inc. boosted its holdings in Kingsway Financial Services by 110.6% in the 2nd quarter. Ameritas Investment Partners Inc. now owns 1,851 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 972 shares during the last quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC acquired a new position in Kingsway Financial Services in the second quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Legal & General Group Plc lifted its holdings in Kingsway Financial Services by 66.2% in the second quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 2,009 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $27,000 after acquiring an additional 800 shares during the last quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey purchased a new position in Kingsway Financial Services in the second quarter worth approximately $42,000. Finally, Tower Research Capital LLC TRC increased its stake in Kingsway Financial Services by 220.9% during the second quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 3,809 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $52,000 after acquiring an additional 2,622 shares during the last quarter. 72.38% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d-) rating on shares of Kingsway Financial Services in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Sell rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Sell.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on KFS

Kingsway Financial Services Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Kingsway Financial Services, Inc (NYSE: KFS) is a specialty finance company focused on the acquisition, origination and servicing of residential mortgage loans and related assets in the United States. Through strategic portfolio purchases and direct origination channels, Kingsway builds a diversified mix of mortgage assets, including prime, non-QM and other specialty loan products.

The companys principal activities include investing in and managing mortgage servicing rights (MSRs), holding mortgage loans for investment, and acquiring residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS).

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Kingsway Financial Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kingsway Financial Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Koninklijke Philips N.V. (NYSE:PHG  Get Free Report) saw a large growth in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 2,537,427 shares, a growth of 51.1% from the November 30th total of 1,679,430 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 743,575 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 3.4 days. Approximately 0.3% of the shares of the company are short sold. Approximately 0.3% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 743,575 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 3.4 days.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. First Affirmative Financial Network raised its stake in Koninklijke Philips by 5.1% during the 3rd quarter. First Affirmative Financial Network now owns 11,418 shares of the technology companys stock worth $311,000 after acquiring an additional 550 shares during the period. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Koninklijke Philips during the 3rd quarter valued at $401,000. Morningstar Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Koninklijke Philips during the 3rd quarter valued at $5,434,000. XTX Topco Ltd raised its holdings in Koninklijke Philips by 6.2% during the third quarter. XTX Topco Ltd now owns 31,246 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $852,000 after acquiring an additional 1,825 shares during the period. Finally, United Capital Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Koninklijke Philips in the third quarter valued at about $213,000. 13.67% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Koninklijke Philips alerts:

Koninklijke Philips Stock Performance

PHG stock traded up $0.13 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $27.24. 245,575 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 893,693. The company has a current ratio of 1.32, a quick ratio of 0.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68. Koninklijke Philips has a 52-week low of $21.48 and a 52-week high of $29.54. The stock has a market cap of $26.23 billion, a P/E ratio of 136.21, a PEG ratio of 0.72 and a beta of 0.79. The stocks 50-day moving average is $27.63 and its 200 day moving average is $26.76.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Koninklijke Philips ( NYSE:PHG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The technology company reported $0.37 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.37. Koninklijke Philips had a net margin of 1.07% and a return on equity of 12.14%. The firm had revenue of $5.05 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.30 billion. As a group, analysts anticipate that Koninklijke Philips will post 1.63 EPS for the current year.

Several research firms have issued reports on PHG. Royal Bank Of Canada assumed coverage on shares of Koninklijke Philips in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. They set a sector perform rating on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein upgraded shares of Koninklijke Philips to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 17th. Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of Koninklijke Philips from a hold (c-) rating to a sell (d+) rating in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Koninklijke Philips from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, December 20th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Koninklijke Philips

Koninklijke Philips Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Koninklijke Philips N.V. (NYSE: PHG), commonly known as Philips, is a Dutch multinational company focused on health technology. Founded in Eindhoven in 1891, the company evolved from a diversified electronics manufacturer into a specialist in healthcare products, systems and services. Philips is legally registered in the Netherlands and operates globally, supplying equipment and solutions to hospitals, clinics, healthcare providers and consumers across Europe, the Americas and Asia.

Philips principal activities center on medical technologies and personal health.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Koninklijke Philips Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Koninklijke Philips and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund Inc. (NYSE:NBXG  Get Free Report) saw a significant drop in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 62,848 shares, a drop of 47.0% from the November 30th total of 118,576 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 204,941 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Based on an average trading volume of 204,941 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days.

Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund Stock Up 0.7%

Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund stock traded up $0.10 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $14.57. 140,026 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 203,458. Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund has a 52-week low of $10.05 and a 52-week high of $15.65. The firms 50 day moving average price is $14.67 and its 200 day moving average price is $14.72.

Get Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund alerts:

Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a $0.12 dividend. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 9.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund Company Profile

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Kingswood Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund by 19.7% in the second quarter. Kingswood Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 45,434 shares of the companys stock worth $663,000 after purchasing an additional 7,488 shares during the period. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund by 28.8% during the 2nd quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 163,499 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,387,000 after buying an additional 36,520 shares in the last quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund by 17.8% during the 2nd quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 336,495 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,936,000 after buying an additional 50,829 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund by 4.4% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 751,302 shares of the companys stock worth $9,203,000 after acquiring an additional 31,550 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Polar Asset Management Partners Inc. purchased a new position in Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund during the 1st quarter valued at about $455,000.

(Get Free Report)

The Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund (NYSE:NBXG) is an actively managed, closed-end fund dedicated to investing in companies driving the evolution of global connectivity infrastructure. Launched in February 2024 by Neuberger Berman, NBXG seeks total return by building a diversified portfolio of equity and equity-related securities in firms involved in 5G networks, fiber-optic systems, satellite communications, data centers, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies that support faster and more reliable digital connections.

Under its investment strategy, NBXG allocates capital across hardware and software providers, telecommunications carriers, semiconductor manufacturers, and equipment suppliers that benefit from the rollout and expansion of next-generation networks.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Neuberger Berman Next Generation Connectivity Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO  Get Free Report) rose 4.6% on Monday . The stock traded as high as $5.38 and last traded at $5.3360. Approximately 68,254,717 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 18% from the average daily volume of 57,879,895 shares. The stock had previously closed at $5.10.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts have weighed in on NIO shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of NIO in a report on Monday, December 22nd. Wall Street Zen upgraded NIO from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 8th. Barclays raised their target price on NIO from $3.00 to $4.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, November 28th. Mizuho upped their price target on NIO from $6.00 to $7.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 23rd. Finally, UBS Group cut NIO from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 25th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have issued a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $6.73.

Get NIO alerts:

Get Our Latest Research Report on NIO

NIO Stock Performance

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.36. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $5.89 and a 200 day moving average price of $5.56. The firm has a market capitalization of $11.14 billion, a PE ratio of -3.68 and a beta of 1.04.

A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in NIO. Gladstone Institutional Advisory LLC raised its stake in shares of NIO by 12.8% in the third quarter. Gladstone Institutional Advisory LLC now owns 13,231 shares of the companys stock valued at $101,000 after acquiring an additional 1,500 shares in the last quarter. MGO One Seven LLC raised its position in NIO by 10.6% in the 3rd quarter. MGO One Seven LLC now owns 16,208 shares of the companys stock valued at $124,000 after purchasing an additional 1,560 shares in the last quarter. Insigneo Advisory Services LLC raised its position in NIO by 4.4% in the 3rd quarter. Insigneo Advisory Services LLC now owns 43,067 shares of the companys stock valued at $328,000 after purchasing an additional 1,806 shares in the last quarter. Tidal Investments LLC boosted its stake in shares of NIO by 0.9% in the 2nd quarter. Tidal Investments LLC now owns 287,140 shares of the companys stock valued at $985,000 after buying an additional 2,433 shares during the period. Finally, Farther Finance Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of NIO by 148.3% in the 3rd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 4,817 shares of the companys stock valued at $37,000 after buying an additional 2,877 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 48.55% of the companys stock.

About NIO

(Get Free Report)

NIO Inc is a pioneer in the premium electric vehicle (EV) segment, dedicated to the design, development and manufacture of smart, high-performance EVs. Established in November 2014 and headquartered in Shanghai, China, the company focuses on integrating cutting-edge electric propulsion, advanced connectivity and autonomous driving technologies into its automotive platforms. NIOs vision centers on creating a holistic user experience that extends beyond the vehicle itself, encompassing energy services and digital solutions.

The companys product lineup includes flagship SUVs and sedans such as the ES8, ES6, EC6, ET7 and ET5, each engineered to deliver strong performance, long range and a suite of intelligent driver-assistance features.

Recommended Stories

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.
Norris Perne & French LLP MI lessened its holdings in shares of Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE:CRL  Free Report) by 92.0% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 9,673 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 110,649 shares during the period. Norris Perne & French LLP MIs holdings in Charles River Laboratories International were worth $1,513,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Cromwell Holdings LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Charles River Laboratories International by 542.9% during the second quarter. Cromwell Holdings LLC now owns 180 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 152 shares during the last quarter. Neo Ivy Capital Management bought a new stake in shares of Charles River Laboratories International in the second quarter valued at about $29,000. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. grew its position in Charles River Laboratories International by 98.0% during the second quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 293 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $44,000 after buying an additional 145 shares in the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP grew its position in Charles River Laboratories International by 172.7% during the second quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 300 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $45,000 after buying an additional 190 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new position in Charles River Laboratories International during the second quarter valued at about $56,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 98.91% of the companys stock.

Get Charles River Laboratories International alerts:

Charles River Laboratories International Stock Performance

Charles River Laboratories International stock opened at $203.55 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.02 billion, a P/E ratio of -130.48, a P/E/G ratio of 6.39 and a beta of 1.63. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $182.85 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $167.67. Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. has a 52-week low of $91.86 and a 52-week high of $204.47. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 1.37 and a quick ratio of 1.10.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Charles River Laboratories International ( NYSE:CRL Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The medical research company reported $2.43 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.32 by $0.11. Charles River Laboratories International had a negative net margin of 2.07% and a positive return on equity of 15.78%. The company had revenue of $1 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $990.43 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $2.59 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was down .5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts anticipate that Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. will post 9.36 EPS for the current fiscal year.

CRL has been the topic of several recent research reports. Mizuho lifted their price objective on Charles River Laboratories International from $174.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, December 18th. Jefferies Financial Group raised Charles River Laboratories International from a hold rating to a buy rating and raised their target price for the stock from $142.00 to $195.00 in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. Baird R W raised shares of Charles River Laboratories International from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Evercore ISI increased their price objective on shares of Charles River Laboratories International from $190.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Morgan Stanley set a $185.00 price objective on shares of Charles River Laboratories International in a report on Monday, December 1st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $195.93.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Charles River Laboratories International

About Charles River Laboratories International

(Free Report)

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc is a leading provider of research models and preclinical and clinical support services for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries. The companys core offerings include discovery, safety assessment, toxicology, and pathology services, as well as supply of laboratory animals and related diagnostics. Services extend across in vivo and in vitro testing, biologics testing, and support for advanced therapies, helping clients accelerate drug development from early discovery through regulatory submission.

Founded in 1947 in Wilmington, Massachusetts, Charles River has grown through strategic investments and acquisitions to establish a broad portfolio of capabilities.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CRL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE:CRL  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Charles River Laboratories International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Charles River Laboratories International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Norris Perne & French LLP MI decreased its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 2.4% in the 3rd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 215,141 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 5,318 shares during the quarter. Abbott Laboratories accounts for 2.0% of Norris Perne & French LLP MIs portfolio, making the stock its 16th largest holding. Norris Perne & French LLP MIs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $28,816,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of ABT. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $3,026,180,000. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in Abbott Laboratories by 13,347.0% during the second quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 6,056,934 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $823,804,000 after purchasing an additional 6,011,891 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in Abbott Laboratories by 1.8% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 172,800,851 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $23,502,644,000 after purchasing an additional 2,977,715 shares during the last quarter. First Trust Advisors LP boosted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 180.7% in the 2nd quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 3,063,443 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $416,659,000 after purchasing an additional 1,972,097 shares in the last quarter. Finally, TD Asset Management Inc boosted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 98.6% in the 2nd quarter. TD Asset Management Inc now owns 3,467,896 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $471,669,000 after purchasing an additional 1,721,523 shares in the last quarter. 75.18% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Abbott Laboratories alerts:

Abbott Laboratories Stock Performance

Abbott Laboratories stock opened at $124.74 on Monday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $126.25 and a 200-day moving average of $129.90. The company has a market capitalization of $216.91 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.63, a P/E/G ratio of 2.28 and a beta of 0.71. Abbott Laboratories has a 1 year low of $110.86 and a 1 year high of $141.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 1.70 and a quick ratio of 1.24.

Abbott Laboratories Increases Dividend

Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.30 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $1.30. The firm had revenue of $11.37 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.40 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 31.88% and a return on equity of 17.60%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.21 EPS. Abbott Laboratories has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.120-5.180 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 13th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, January 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.63 per share. This represents a $2.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, January 15th. This is a boost from Abbott Laboratoriess previous quarterly dividend of $0.59. Abbott Laboratoriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.57%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently weighed in on the company. Sanford C. Bernstein upped 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. Evercore ISI lowered their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $144.00 to $142.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Mizuho raised their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $135.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $142.00 to $146.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Raymond James Financial increased their price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $141.00 to $146.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $147.00.

Get Our Latest Report on ABT

Abbott Laboratories Profile

(Free Report)

Abbott Laboratories is a global healthcare company headquartered in Abbott Park, Illinois, that develops, manufactures and markets a broad portfolio of medical products and services. Founded in 1888, Abbott operates through multiple business areas that focus on diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and established pharmaceuticals. The company supplies hospitals, clinics, laboratories, retailers and direct-to-consumer channels with products intended to diagnose, treat and manage a wide range of health conditions.

In diagnostics, Abbott provides laboratory and point-of-care testing platforms and assays used to detect infectious diseases, chronic conditions and biomarkers; its Alinity family of instruments and rapid-test solutions are examples of this capability.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ABT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report).

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.
Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Get Free Report) was down 1.9% during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $51.35 and last traded at $51.4030. Approximately 13,584,010 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 2% from the average daily volume of 13,353,102 shares. The stock had previously closed at $52.40.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on Novo Nordisk A/S in a report on Monday, October 27th. They issued an underperform rating for the company. BMO Capital Markets reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a report on Tuesday, December 23rd. Hsbc Global Res cut Novo Nordisk A/S from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, November 24th. Argus restated a hold rating on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research report on Monday, December 8th. Finally, Berenberg Bank raised shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, September 17th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, eleven have issued a Hold rating and four have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Novo Nordisk A/S has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $53.33.

Get Novo Nordisk A/S alerts:

View Our Latest Analysis on Novo Nordisk A/S

Novo Nordisk A/S Trading Down 1.9%

The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $49.35 and a 200 day simple moving average of $56.62. The company has a market capitalization of $229.51 billion, a PE ratio of 14.94 and a beta of 0.67. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 0.57 and a current ratio of 0.78.

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 for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.77 by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $11.79 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.98 billion. Novo Nordisk A/S had a net margin of 32.76% and a return on equity of 73.50%. Analysts anticipate that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 3.84 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Lockheed Martin Investment Management Co. lifted its stake in Novo Nordisk A/S by 179.4% during the 2nd quarter. Lockheed Martin Investment Management Co. now owns 43,450 shares of the companys stock worth $2,999,000 after acquiring an additional 27,900 shares in the last quarter. Martin Capital Partners LLC increased its stake in Novo Nordisk A/S by 53.8% during the third quarter. Martin Capital Partners LLC now owns 117,577 shares of the companys stock worth $6,524,000 after purchasing an additional 41,129 shares during the period. Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 15,919.9% during the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 1,044,658 shares of the companys stock worth $72,523,000 after purchasing an additional 1,038,137 shares in the last quarter. Unified Investment Management purchased a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the second quarter valued at approximately $692,000. Finally, Guild Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 20.7% in the second quarter. Guild Investment Management Inc. now owns 36,995 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,553,000 after purchasing an additional 6,345 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 11.54% of the companys stock.

About Novo Nordisk A/S

(Get Free Report)

Novo Nordisk A/S is a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Bagsvrd, Denmark, best known for its leadership in diabetes care and metabolic health. The company traces its roots to early Danish insulin production in the 1920s and was established in its current form through a 1989 merger of predecessor companies. Novo Nordisk develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products and devices that address chronic and serious diseases, with a strong emphasis on long-term treatment and patient support.

The companys core product portfolio centers on diabetes therapies, including a range of insulins and modern incretin-based treatments.

Recommended Stories

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.
Pebblebrook Hotel Trust (NYSE:PEB  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Monday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.01 per share by the real estate investment trust on Thursday, January 15th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 0.3%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st.

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust has decreased its dividend payment by an average of 0.5%annually over the last three years. Pebblebrook Hotel Trust has a payout ratio of -9.1% indicating that the company cannot currently cover its dividend with earnings alone and is relying on its balance sheet to cover its dividend payments. Equities analysts expect Pebblebrook Hotel Trust to earn $1.47 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.04 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 2.7%.

Get Pebblebrook Hotel Trust alerts:

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust Price Performance

Shares of PEB opened at $11.48 on Monday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $11.07 and its two-hundred day moving average is $10.77. The company has a market capitalization of $1.30 billion, a P/E ratio of -9.64 and a beta of 1.53. Pebblebrook Hotel Trust has a fifty-two week low of $7.41 and a fifty-two week high of $14.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a current ratio of 1.13.

About Pebblebrook Hotel Trust

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust ( NYSE:PEB Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.51 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.50 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $398.72 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $396.80 million. Pebblebrook Hotel Trust had a negative return on equity of 4.02% and a negative net margin of 7.45%.The companys revenue for the quarter was down 1.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.59 EPS. Pebblebrook Hotel Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.500-1.570 EPS and its Q4 2025 guidance at 0.180-0.260 EPS. Research analysts predict that Pebblebrook Hotel Trust will post 1.5 earnings per share for the current year.

(Get Free Report)

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust (NYSE:PEB) is a real estate investment trust specializing in premium, high-barrier-to-entry hotel properties in gateway markets across the United States. Established in 2009, PEB focuses on lifestyle-oriented lodging assets that cater to business and leisure travelers seeking elevated experiences. The companys investment strategy emphasizes select-service and full-service hotels with established brands and prime urban or resort locations.

PEBs portfolio comprises more than 30 properties in major metropolitan areas including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and San Francisco.

Featured Articles

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.
PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE:PNI  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant increase in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 10,976 shares, an increase of 48.8% from the November 30th total of 7,377 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 98,147 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.1 days. Based on an average daily volume of 98,147 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.1 days.

PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Stock Performance

Shares of PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II stock traded up $0.01 on Monday, hitting $6.89. 158,581 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 57,644. PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II has a 12-month low of $6.43 and a 12-month high of $7.47. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $6.94 and its 200 day simple moving average is $6.80.

Get PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II alerts:

PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 2nd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 11th will be given a dividend of $0.0295 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 11th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.1%.

Institutional Trading of PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II

PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Company Profile

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. grew its position in shares of PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II by 189.7% in the 3rd quarter. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. now owns 417,718 shares of the companys stock worth $2,903,000 after buying an additional 273,530 shares during the last quarter. Matisse Capital boosted its holdings in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II by 3.1% in the second quarter. Matisse Capital now owns 257,835 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,733,000 after acquiring an additional 7,835 shares in the last quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC increased its position in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II by 10.3% during the 2nd quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC now owns 246,809 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,659,000 after purchasing an additional 23,036 shares during the period. Riverbridge Partners LLC raised its holdings in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II by 20.1% in the 3rd quarter. Riverbridge Partners LLC now owns 134,993 shares of the companys stock worth $938,000 after purchasing an additional 22,622 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Beckerman Institutional LLC raised its holdings in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II by 47.7% in the 2nd quarter. Beckerman Institutional LLC now owns 57,744 shares of the companys stock worth $388,000 after purchasing an additional 18,640 shares in the last quarter.

(Get Free Report)

PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PNI) is a closed-end management investment company that seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from both federal and New York State income taxes. The fund is managed by Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (PIMCO), a global fixed income investment firm. PNI invests primarily in investment-grade municipal obligations issued by or on behalf of the state of New York, its municipalities and related public authorities.

The funds portfolio is constructed with a focus on New York state general obligation and revenue bonds, including transportation, education, healthcare and utility-backed securities.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Prestige Consumer Healthcare (NYSE:PBH  Get Free Report) and Metastat (OTCMKTS:MTST  Get Free Report) are both medical companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, institutional ownership, profitability, analyst recommendations, risk, valuation and dividends.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Prestige Consumer Healthcare and Metastats top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Get Prestige Consumer Healthcare alerts:

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Prestige Consumer Healthcare $1.14 billion 2.69 $214.60 million $4.03 15.80 Metastat N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Analyst Ratings

Prestige Consumer Healthcare has higher revenue and earnings than Metastat.

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Prestige Consumer Healthcare and Metastat, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Prestige Consumer Healthcare 0 4 4 0 2.50 Metastat 0 0 0 0 0.00

Prestige Consumer Healthcare presently has a consensus target price of $85.33, suggesting a potential upside of 34.03%. Given Prestige Consumer Healthcares stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe Prestige Consumer Healthcare is more favorable than Metastat.

Risk and Volatility

Prestige Consumer Healthcare has a beta of 0.39, suggesting that its stock price is 61% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Metastat has a beta of 282.06, suggesting that its stock price is 28,106% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Prestige Consumer Healthcare and Metastats net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Prestige Consumer Healthcare 18.09% 12.43% 6.67% Metastat N/A N/A N/A

Institutional and Insider Ownership

100.0% of Prestige Consumer Healthcare shares are held by institutional investors. 1.4% of Prestige Consumer Healthcare shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 8.5% of Metastat shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

Prestige Consumer Healthcare beats Metastat on 8 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Prestige Consumer Healthcare

(Get Free Report)

Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc., together with its subsidiaries, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells over-the-counter (OTC) health and personal care products in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, North American OTC Healthcare and International OTC Healthcare. It offers BC/Goody's analgesic powders, Boudreaux's Butt Paste baby ointments, Chloraseptic sore throat liquids and lozenges, Clear Eyes for eye redness relief, Compound W wart removals, DenTek for PEG oral care, Debrox ear wax removals, and Dramamine for motion sickness relief. The company also provides Fleet adult enemas/suppositories, Gaviscon upset stomach remedies, Luden's cough drops, Monistat vaginal anti-fungal, Nix lice/parasite treatments, Summer's Eve feminine hygiene, TheraTears dry eye relief, Fess nasal saline spray and washes, and Hydralyte for oral rehydration products. It sells its products through mass merchandisers; and drug, food, dollar, convenience, and club stores, as well as e-commerce channels. The company was formerly known as Prestige Brands Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc. in August 2018. Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc. was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Tarrytown, New York.

About Metastat

(Get Free Report)

MetaStat, Inc., a precision medicine company, focuses on discovering and developing therapeutic and diagnostic treatment solutions for cancer patients. The company is developing novel drug candidates and companion diagnostic tests that target the MENA pathway. Its product candidates include MENA diagnostic assay, a tissue-based quantitative immunofluorescence test that measures expression of the pro-metastatic MENA protein splice-variant; companion diagnostic to predict RTK inhibitor drug responses and anti-microtubule drug responses; liquid blood-based biopsy to enhance cancer diagnosis and optimize patient care; MetaSite Breast assay, an immunohistochemistry test that measures micro-anatomical intravasat at blood vessels within the tumor microenvironment ion sites; and prognostic diagnostic to predict risk of cancer metastasis. The companys therapeutic targets a critical metastatic pathway in solid tumors responsible for driving tumor resistance and the spread of aggressive cancer. MetaStat, Inc. is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

Receive News & Ratings for Prestige Consumer Healthcare Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prestige Consumer Healthcare and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The vehicle carrying South Korean President Lee Jae-myung arrives in Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul, South Korea, Dec. 29, 2025. At midnight Sunday local time, the "Phoenix Flag," a symbol of South Korea's presidency, was raised at Cheong Wa Dae, which is widely known as the Blue House, after a hiatus of three years and seven months. The raising of the "Phoenix Flag" at Cheong Wa Dae is widely interpreted as the basic completion of the relocation of the presidential office back to the historic complex, local media reported. (Xinhua/Yao Qilin)

SEOUL, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- At midnight Sunday local time, the "Phoenix Flag," a symbol of South Korea's presidency, was raised at Cheong Wa Dae, which is widely known as the Blue House, after a hiatus of three years and seven months.

The raising of the "Phoenix Flag" at Cheong Wa Dae is widely interpreted as the basic completion of the relocation of the presidential office back to the historic complex, local media reported.

The presidential office said earlier on Sunday that President Lee Jae Myung will make his first visit to the Blue House to begin working there on Monday.

Since 1948, Cheong Wa Dae has served as both the official residence and office for almost every South Korean president. However, after taking office in May 2022, former President Yoon Suk-yeol relocated the presidential office to a newly established compound at the former Ministry of National Defense building in Seoul's Yongsan district, opening the Blue House to the public.

In June this year, the incumbent President Lee announced plans to move the presidential office back to Cheong Wa Dae. 

The South Korean national flag and the "Phoenix Flag" are seen raised in front of the main building of Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul, South Korea, Dec. 29, 2025. At midnight Sunday local time, the "Phoenix Flag," a symbol of South Korea's presidency, was raised at Cheong Wa Dae, which is widely known as the Blue House, after a hiatus of three years and seven months.

The raising of the "Phoenix Flag" at Cheong Wa Dae is widely interpreted as the basic completion of the relocation of the presidential office back to the historic complex, local media reported. (Xinhua/Yao Qilin)

The vehicle carrying South Korean President Lee Jae-myung arrives in Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul, South Korea, Dec. 29, 2025. At midnight Sunday local time, the "Phoenix Flag," a symbol of South Korea's presidency, was raised at Cheong Wa Dae, which is widely known as the Blue House, after a hiatus of three years and seven months.

The raising of the "Phoenix Flag" at Cheong Wa Dae is widely interpreted as the basic completion of the relocation of the presidential office back to the historic complex, local media reported. (Xinhua/Yao Qilin)
Reaves Utility Income Fund (NYSEAMERICAN:UTG  Get Free Report) announced a monthly dividend on Tuesday, December 16th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be paid a dividend of 0.20 per share by the closed-end fund on Friday, January 16th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 31st.

Reaves Utility Income Fund Price Performance

NYSEAMERICAN UTG opened at $36.85 on Monday. Reaves Utility Income Fund has a 52-week low of $27.55 and a 52-week high of $41.94. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $37.39 and its 200 day moving average price is $37.64.

Get Reaves Utility Income Fund alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling at Reaves Utility Income Fund

In related news, insider Joseph Burns Rhame III bought 2,700 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 23rd. The shares were acquired at an average price of $37.80 per share, with a total value of $102,060.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider owned 13,559 shares in the company, valued at approximately $512,530.20. This trade represents a 24.86% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Reaves Utility Income Fund

Reaves Utility Income Fund Company Profile

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Quest 10 Wealth Builders Inc. acquired a new position in Reaves Utility Income Fund during the third quarter worth $27,000. Caldwell Trust Co purchased a new stake in shares of Reaves Utility Income Fund during the 2nd quarter worth $30,000. American National Bank & Trust acquired a new position in shares of Reaves Utility Income Fund during the 3rd quarter worth $34,000. CX Institutional purchased a new position in shares of Reaves Utility Income Fund in the 3rd quarter valued at about $36,000. Finally, AdvisorNet Financial Inc lifted its stake in shares of Reaves Utility Income Fund by 73.9% in the second quarter. AdvisorNet Financial Inc now owns 1,461 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $53,000 after purchasing an additional 621 shares during the period.

(Get Free Report)

Reaves Utility Income Fund (NYSE American: UTG) is a closed-end management investment company organized as a Delaware statutory trust. Since commencing operations in 1994, the funds primary objective has been to provide its shareholders with a high level of current income and the potential for capital appreciation. It does so by investing in a diversified portfolio of income-producing securities within the utilities sector.

The fund typically allocates its assets across common stocks, preferred stocks, corporate debt securities, convertible securities, rights, warrants and depositary receipts of regulated utility companies.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Reaves Utility Income Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Reaves Utility Income Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Rio Tinto Group (LON:RIO  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as GBX 6,025 and last traded at GBX 5,948, with a volume of 17122100 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 5,982.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on RIO. Royal Bank Of Canada reduced their price objective on Rio Tinto Group from GBX 5,000 to GBX 4,900 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, December 1st. Berenberg Bank reaffirmed a hold rating and issued a GBX 5,200 price target on shares of Rio Tinto Group in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Citigroup lifted their price objective on Rio Tinto Group from GBX 4,600 to GBX 5,700 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, November 17th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on shares of Rio Tinto Group from GBX 6,100 to GBX 6,950 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Rio Tinto Group currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of GBX 5,570.

Get Rio Tinto Group alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on RIO

Rio Tinto Group Stock Down 0.5%

Insider Buying and Selling at Rio Tinto Group

The firm has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 5,478.85 and a two-hundred day moving average price of GBX 4,898.25. The firm has a market cap of 96.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.64 and a beta of 0.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 25.28, a quick ratio of 1.34 and a current ratio of 1.70.

In other Rio Tinto Group news, insider Peter Cunningham sold 3,108 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 5,464, for a total value of 169,821.12. Corporate insiders own 0.10% of the companys stock.

Rio Tinto Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

We operate in 35 countries where our 60,000 employees are working to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs. Our portfolio includes iron ore, copper, aluminium and a range of other minerals and materials needed for people, communities and nations to grow and prosper, and for the world to cut carbon emissions to net zero. We continuously search for new projects that can support the energy transition, currently exploring for 7 commodities in 17 countries.

We have more than 150 years of mining and processing experience guiding our work.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Rio Tinto Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rio Tinto Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. (NYSE:CPAC  Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 41,312 shares, a growth of 89.4% from the November 30th total of 21,817 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 22,253 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.9 days. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 22,253 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.9 days.

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. Trading Down 0.5%

NYSE:CPAC traded down $0.05 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $10.53. 25,566 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 202,003. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 1.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66. Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. has a 52 week low of $5.10 and a 52 week high of $11.30. The stock has a market capitalization of $892.46 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.04 and a beta of 0.69. The firms 50 day moving average is $7.67 and its two-hundred day moving average is $6.88.

Get Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. alerts:

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. (NYSE:CPAC  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The construction company reported $0.24 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.19 by $0.05. Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. had a return on equity of 17.19% and a net margin of 10.68%.The business had revenue of $165.53 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $159.70 million. On average, equities research analysts predict that Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. will post 0.62 earnings per share for the current year.

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. Dividend Announcement

Institutional Trading of Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A.

The firm also recently disclosed a special dividend, which was paid on Thursday, December 18th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 21st were given a $0.6018 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, November 21st. Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A.s dividend payout ratio is 80.00%.

An institutional investor recently raised its position in Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. stock. BNP Paribas Financial Markets lifted its stake in Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. (NYSE:CPAC  Free Report) by 6.7% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 30,110 shares of the construction companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,900 shares during the period. BNP Paribas Financial Markets holdings in Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. were worth $179,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on CPAC. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. from $6.50 to $7.50 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Scotiabank raised their price objective on Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. from $6.40 to $12.80 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday, December 19th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $10.15.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A.

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Cementos Pacasmayo SAA. is a Perubased cement and construction materials company engaged in the production, distribution and sale of cement and related products. The companys core activities include manufacturing ordinary portland cement, hydrated lime and other industrial minerals. It serves the building and infrastructure sectors, offering tailored solutions for public works, residential and commercial construction projects.

Founded in 1949 in the coastal city of Pacasmayo, the company has grown into one of Perus leading cement producers.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
VolitionRX Limited (NYSEAMERICAN:VNRX  Get Free Report) saw a large decrease in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 543,884 shares, a decrease of 48.7% from the November 30th total of 1,060,995 shares. Approximately 0.5% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 1,476,646 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.4 days. Based on an average daily volume of 1,476,646 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.4 days. Approximately 0.5% of the shares of the stock are sold short.

VolitionRX Stock Down 0.8%

Shares of NYSEAMERICAN VNRX traded down $0.00 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $0.25. The stock had a trading volume of 695,210 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,963,337. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $0.34 and a 200-day simple moving average of $0.55. The company has a market capitalization of $30.70 million, a PE ratio of -1.09 and a beta of 1.26. VolitionRX has a 1 year low of $0.23 and a 1 year high of $0.94.

Get VolitionRX alerts:

About VolitionRX

(Get Free Report)

VolitionRX, traded as VNRX on the NYSE American exchange, is a pioneering life sciences company focused on the development and commercialization of minimally invasive diagnostic tests for the early detection of cancer and other diseases. Utilizing proprietary technology to analyze circulating nucleosomes in blood samples, the companys platform identifies disease-specific epigenetic and biochemical signatures. By offering blood-based screening solutions, VolitionRX aims to deliver alternatives to invasive, costly and time-consuming procedures, potentially improving patient outcomes through earlier diagnosis.

The companys flagship product suite, branded as Nu.Q, comprises assays designed to detect biomarkers associated with a range of malignancies, including colorectal, lung and pancreatic cancers, as well as other systemic conditions.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for VolitionRX Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for VolitionRX and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Soho House & Co Inc. (NYSE:SHCO  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $8.97 and last traded at $8.9650, with a volume of 294679 shares. The stock had previously closed at $8.96.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages recently issued reports on SHCO. Zacks Research downgraded shares of Soho House & Co Inc. from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Soho House & Co Inc. in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $9.00.

Get Soho House & Co Inc. alerts:

Read Our Latest Research Report on Soho House & Co Inc.

Soho House & Co Inc. Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of $1.75 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -22.41 and a beta of 0.69. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $8.88 and a 200 day moving average of $8.25.

Soho House & Co Inc. (NYSE:SHCO  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported ($0.10) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.02 by ($0.12). The business had revenue of $370.75 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $352.80 million. Soho House & Co Inc. had a negative net margin of 6.00% and a negative return on equity of 4.02%. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Soho House & Co Inc. will post -0.43 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in SHCO. Quarry LP bought a new position in Soho House & Co Inc. in the third quarter valued at approximately $29,000. CWM LLC increased its position in shares of Soho House & Co Inc. by 2,507.0% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 4,093 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 3,936 shares in the last quarter. AlphaQuest LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Soho House & Co Inc. during the first quarter worth $27,000. Bank of America Corp DE raised its holdings in shares of Soho House & Co Inc. by 551.8% during the second quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 6,766 shares of the companys stock worth $50,000 after acquiring an additional 5,728 shares during the period. Finally, Osaic Holdings Inc. lifted its position in Soho House & Co Inc. by 37.4% in the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 7,867 shares of the companys stock valued at $58,000 after acquiring an additional 2,143 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.35% of the companys stock.

Soho House & Co Inc. Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Soho House & Co Inc is a global hospitality and membership company that operates a network of private clubs, hotels, restaurants, workspaces and leisure facilities aimed primarily at creative professionals. Its core offering revolves around exclusive, members-only Houses that combine social spaces, dining venues, screening rooms, spas and event programming under one roof. The companys diversified portfolio extends to branded hotels and short-stay locations, as well as co-working facilities under the Soho Works banner.

The company was founded in 1995 by Nick Jones in London, with the inaugural House offering serving emerging artists, filmmakers and designers.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Soho House & Co Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Soho House & Co Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Stora Enso Oyj (OTCMKTS:SEOAY  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as $12.40 and last traded at $12.40, with a volume of 407 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $12.24.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, BNP Paribas raised Stora Enso Oyj from a strong sell rating to a hold rating and set a $10.80 price objective on the stock in a research report on Monday, September 29th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Stora Enso Oyj has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $10.80.

Get Stora Enso Oyj alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Stora Enso Oyj

Stora Enso Oyj Stock Performance

The business has a 50-day moving average of $11.67 and a 200 day moving average of $11.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 1.23 and a quick ratio of 0.80. The company has a market cap of $9.85 billion, a PE ratio of 1,249.75 and a beta of 0.74.

Stora Enso Oyj (OTCMKTS:SEOAY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The basic materials company reported $0.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.08 by $0.22. Stora Enso Oyj had a negative return on equity of 2.55% and a net margin of 0.14%.The business had revenue of $2.65 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.34 billion. Equities research analysts anticipate that Stora Enso Oyj will post 0.67 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Stora Enso Oyj

(Get Free Report)

Stora Enso Oyj is a Finlandbased provider of renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials, wooden construction and paper. The company draws on centuries of forest industry experience and leverages sustainable practices to produce a wide array of products, including paperboard for consumer goods, specialty papers for printing and publishing, and pulp for industrial applications. Its portfolio also encompasses wood products such as cross-laminated timber, sawn timber and building components, designed to meet growing demand for environmentally friendly construction materials.

Formed through the 1998 merger of Swedish mining and forestry giant Stora and Finnish paper maker Enso, Stora Enso combines deep heritage with ongoing investments in innovation.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Stora Enso Oyj Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Stora Enso Oyj and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) have received an average rating of Hold from the twenty brokerages that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have given a hold rating, six have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating on the company. The average 1-year price target among brokerages that have covered the stock in the last year is $294.25.

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on TRV shares. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Travelers Companies from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, October 19th. UBS Group boosted their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $284.00 to $287.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Piper Sandler increased their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $320.00 to $322.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of Travelers Companies from $285.00 to $295.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, November 17th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Travelers Companies in a report on Friday, October 17th.

Get Travelers Companies alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on TRV

Travelers Companies Stock Performance

Shares of TRV stock opened at $292.03 on Monday. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $282.99 and its 200 day moving average price is $273.54. The company has a quick ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 0.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29. The stock has a market capitalization of $65.14 billion, a PE ratio of 11.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.87 and a beta of 0.53. Travelers Companies has a 52-week low of $230.23 and a 52-week high of $296.85.

Travelers Companies (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The insurance provider reported $8.14 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.01 by $2.13. The company had revenue of $12.47 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.15 billion. Travelers Companies had a return on equity of 20.28% and a net margin of 12.14%.The companys revenue was up 4.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $5.24 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Travelers Companies will post 17.02 EPS for the current year.

Travelers Companies Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be issued a dividend of $1.10 per share. This represents a $4.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. Travelers Companiess dividend payout ratio is currently 17.30%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Travelers Companies news, Vice Chairman William H. Heyman sold 2,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $287.50, for a total transaction of $575,000.00. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 255,086 shares in the company, valued at approximately $73,337,225. The trade was a 0.78% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Michael Frederick Klein sold 8,572 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, October 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.73, for a total transaction of $2,320,697.56. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 33,638 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,106,815.74. This trade represents a 20.31% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 46,295 shares of company stock worth $13,011,918. 1.46% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Travelers Companies by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 22,047,005 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $5,898,456,000 after acquiring an additional 313,449 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its holdings in Travelers Companies by 1.6% during the third quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 7,746,231 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $2,162,917,000 after purchasing an additional 119,481 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Travelers Companies by 1.0% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 5,541,819 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,481,805,000 after purchasing an additional 54,363 shares in the last quarter. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Travelers Companies by 71,265.9% in the second quarter. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC now owns 3,616,826 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $967,646,000 after purchasing an additional 3,611,758 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Travelers Companies in the second quarter valued at $815,013,000. 82.45% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Travelers Companies Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc (NYSE: TRV) is a leading provider of property and casualty insurance products and services. The company underwrites a broad range of commercial and personal insurance lines, offering coverage designed to protect individuals, small and midsize businesses, and large corporate clients against property loss, liability, and other operational risks. Travelers is known for combining underwriting, claims management and risk control services to help clients prevent losses and recover when incidents occur.

On the commercial side, Travelers writes primary and specialty coverages including property, general liability, commercial auto, workers compensation, professional and management liability, surety and inland marine.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Travelers Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Travelers Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Toromont Industries Ltd. (OTCMKTS:TMTNF  Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as $122.47 and last traded at $122.47, with a volume of 105 shares. The stock had previously closed at $121.76.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on TMTNF shares. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating on shares of Toromont Industries in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Scotiabank restated a sector perform rating on shares of Toromont Industries in a research note on Friday, October 17th. BMO Capital Markets reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Toromont Industries in a research note on Friday, October 31st. CIBC reissued a neutral rating on shares of Toromont Industries in a research note on Monday, October 20th. Finally, National Bankshares reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Toromont Industries in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Toromont Industries alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Toromont Industries

Toromont Industries Stock Performance

Toromont Industries Company Profile

The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $116.31 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $106.69.

(Get Free Report)

Toromont Industries Ltd. is a Canadian diversified industrial equipment and services company. Through its Toromont CAT division, it serves as a major dealer for Caterpillar machinery, offering sales, rentals, parts and service support for a wide range of heavy-duty equipment. Products include earth-moving, paving and compaction machinery, material handling equipment and power generation systems tailored to the needs of construction, mining, forestry, marine and energy sectors.

The companys CIMCO Refrigeration business provides design-build, installation and maintenance of industrial and commercial refrigeration systems.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Toromont Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Toromont Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD  Get Free Report) (TSE:TD) shares hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as $94.98 and last traded at $94.5120, with a volume of 150002 shares. The stock had previously closed at $94.65.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have commented on the company. Natl Bk Canada upgraded Toronto Dominion Bank from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Toronto Dominion Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday. Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of Toronto Dominion Bank from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. Raymond James Financial upgraded shares of Toronto Dominion Bank to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, November 24th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada raised shares of Toronto Dominion Bank from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $93.00.

Get Toronto Dominion Bank alerts:

Read Our Latest Analysis on TD

Toronto Dominion Bank Stock Down 0.2%

The company has a market capitalization of $159.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.21, a P/E/G ratio of 1.32 and a beta of 0.69. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $85.19 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $78.75.

Toronto Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD  Get Free Report) (TSE:TD) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, December 4th. The bank reported $1.56 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.46 by $0.10. Toronto Dominion Bank had a return on equity of 13.90% and a net margin of 16.52%.The firm had revenue of $11.44 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.10 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.72 earnings per share. Toronto Dominion Banks revenue for the quarter was down .1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Toronto Dominion Bank will post 5.48 earnings per share for the current year.

Toronto Dominion Bank Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Saturday, January 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 9th will be given a $1.08 dividend. This represents a $4.32 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 9th. This is an increase from Toronto Dominion Banks previous quarterly dividend of $1.05. Toronto Dominion Banks payout ratio is presently 35.82%.

Institutional Trading of Toronto Dominion Bank

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of TD. Commons Capital LLC grew its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 0.7% in the 3rd quarter. Commons Capital LLC now owns 18,251 shares of the banks stock worth $1,459,000 after acquiring an additional 134 shares in the last quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC increased its stake in Toronto Dominion Bank by 4.8% during the third quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 2,912 shares of the banks stock valued at $233,000 after purchasing an additional 134 shares during the last quarter. Essex Financial Services Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 1.8% during the third quarter. Essex Financial Services Inc. now owns 7,834 shares of the banks stock worth $626,000 after purchasing an additional 139 shares during the period. HBK Sorce Advisory LLC lifted its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 5.0% in the 3rd quarter. HBK Sorce Advisory LLC now owns 2,953 shares of the banks stock worth $238,000 after buying an additional 141 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Journey Strategic Wealth LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 3.7% in the 3rd quarter. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC now owns 4,031 shares of the banks stock valued at $322,000 after buying an additional 145 shares during the period. 52.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Toronto Dominion Bank Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is a Canadian multinational banking and financial services company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario. Formed through the 1955 merger of the Bank of Toronto (founded 1855) and the Dominion Bank (founded 1869), TD is one of Canadas largest banks and offers a broad range of financial products and services to individual, small business, commercial and institutional clients.

TDs core businesses include Canadian and U.S. personal and commercial banking, wealth management, wholesale banking and insurance.

Featured Stories

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.
Weir Group (OTCMKTS:WEGRY  Get Free Report) has been assigned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the six analysts that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, one has issued a buy recommendation and two have issued a strong buy recommendation on the company.

Separately, The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded shares of Weir Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th.

Get Weir Group alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Weir Group

Weir Group Trading Up 0.2%

Weir Group Announces Dividend

WEGRY stock opened at $19.54 on Friday. Weir Group has a 52 week low of $12.45 and a 52 week high of $20.80. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $19.22 and a 200 day simple moving average of $18.12. The company has a quick ratio of 1.32, a current ratio of 2.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86.

The firm also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 7th. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 6th were paid a dividend of $0.1096 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. This represents a yield of 128.0%.

About Weir Group

(Get Free Report)

Weir Group PLC is a Glasgowbased engineering firm specializing in the design, manufacture and aftermarket servicing of equipment for the minerals, oil & gas and power industries. Founded in 1871, the company has built a reputation for delivering robust solutions that improve safety, efficiency and sustainability across challenging industrial environments. Its core focus lies in highperformance equipment that supports critical processes such as ore extraction, fluid handling and pressure management.

The companys Minerals division supplies a comprehensive range of products including slurry pumps, hydrocyclones, crushers and grinding mills, which are widely used in mining and quarrying operations.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Weir Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Weir Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
NANJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command is conducting live-fire training in the waters and airspace to the north and southwest of the Taiwan Island on Monday, according to the theater command.

Destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers and unmanned aerial vehicles are being employed in coordination with long-range rocket fires, it said.

The training focuses on subjects of hunting and neutralizing targets in waters and airspace, simulated strikes on ground targets, and live firing against targets in waters. The drills intend to test the troops' capabilities of integrated coordination and seizure of dominance, the theater command said. 
WH Group Limited (OTCMKTS:WHGLY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decline in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 57,893 shares, a decline of 35.4% from the November 30th total of 89,581 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 83,744 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.7 days. Based on an average daily volume of 83,744 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.7 days.

WH Group Stock Performance

WHGLY stock opened at $23.09 on Monday. WH Group has a one year low of $14.65 and a one year high of $23.25. The firms fifty day moving average is $21.17 and its 200 day moving average is $20.75.

Get WH Group alerts:

WH Group (OTCMKTS:WHGLY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $0.09 EPS for the quarter. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.08 earnings per share.

WH Group Company Profile

WH Group (OTCMKTS: WHGLY) is a global leader in pork production and processing, recognized as one of the worlds largest pork companies. The firm develops, produces and distributes a broad portfolio of fresh pork, packaged pork products and processed meats under a variety of brand names, including Smithfield in the United States and Shuanghui in China. With integrated operations spanning the value chainfrom hog breeding and feed production to meat processing and packagingthe company serves retail, foodservice and industrial customers worldwide.

The roots of WH Group trace back to a municipal meat processing plant in Luohe, China, which was founded in 1958.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for WH Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for WH Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Worth Asset Management LLC decreased its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust (NYSEARCA:IAU  Free Report) by 86.2% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 3,351 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 20,951 shares during the quarter. Worth Asset Management LLCs holdings in iShares Gold Trust were worth $244,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Citigroup Inc. raised its stake in iShares Gold Trust by 809.1% during the second quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 5,108,818 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $318,586,000 after buying an additional 4,546,835 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its holdings in iShares Gold Trust by 67.5% during the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 10,919,614 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $680,947,000 after acquiring an additional 4,398,605 shares during the period. Prudential Financial Inc. raised its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 2,152.7% in the 2nd quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 3,494,106 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $217,892,000 after acquiring an additional 3,339,000 shares in the last quarter. PFG Advisors lifted its stake in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 4,797.3% in the 2nd quarter. PFG Advisors now owns 1,432,369 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $89,323,000 after purchasing an additional 1,403,121 shares during the period. Finally, Mainstay Capital Management LLC ADV boosted its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 12,087.3% during the 2nd quarter. Mainstay Capital Management LLC ADV now owns 1,329,143 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $82,885,000 after purchasing an additional 1,318,237 shares in the last quarter. 59.67% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get iShares Gold Trust alerts:

iShares Gold Trust Stock Performance

Shares of IAU stock opened at $85.34 on Monday. iShares Gold Trust has a fifty-two week low of $49.00 and a fifty-two week high of $85.69. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $78.66 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $70.77. The company has a market cap of $70.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.53 and a beta of 0.09.

About iShares Gold Trust

iShares Gold Trust (the Trust) is to own gold transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust (Shares). Each Share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in the net assets of the Trust. The assets of the Trust consist of gold held by the Trusts custodian on behalf of the Trust. The sponsor of the Trust is iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC (the Sponsor), which is an indirect subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc The trustee of the Trust is The Bank of New York Mellon (the Trustee) and the custodian of the Trust is JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., London branch (the Custodian).

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IAU? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Gold Trust (NYSEARCA:IAU  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares Gold Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Gold Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Yorkton Equity Group Inc. (CVE:YEG  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$0.22 and last traded at C$0.22, with a volume of 2002 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at C$0.21.

Yorkton Equity Group Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of C$24.78 million, a P/E ratio of 4.40 and a beta of 0.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 384.03, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a current ratio of 0.37. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of C$0.17 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$0.19.

About Yorkton Equity Group

(Get Free Report)

Yorkton Equity Group Inc operates as a real estate investment company in Canada. It owns a portfolio of multi-family residential rental properties comprising residential units and commercial unit in Alberta and British Columbia. The company is based in Edmonton, Canada.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Yorkton Equity Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Yorkton Equity Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Yes  safety oversight must come before anything else

Regulation is needed, but delays and red tape are the real problem

No  enforcement already exists; regulation wont prevent accidents

Vote

View Results
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China strongly deplores the demolition of a monument to China's contributions to the Panama Canal by a local government in Panama and has lodged protests with the Panamanian side, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday.

China urges the Panamanian side to thoroughly investigate the matter, promptly correct the wrong acts of the relevant local government, and eliminate the adverse effects in a timely manner, Lin told a daily news briefing.

According to media reports, the monument was torn down over the weekend by order of local authorities who said it had structural damage that posed a risk.

Noting that the friendly exchanges between the people of China and Panama are time-honored, Lin said that the monument stood as a witness and memorial to the time-honored friendship between China and Panama, and to the tremendous contribution of Chinese workers who traveled across the oceans to Panama in the 19th century to help build the Twin Ocean Railway and the Panama Canal, some even paid the ultimate price during the construction.

Lin added that the monument is also a recognition of the integration of the Chinese into local communities, and the forced demolition is a seriously egregious move in nature.

"It gravely hurts the feelings of the extensive Chinese community in Panama, and goes against the overall momentum of China-Panama friendship," he said.

China has noted that the forced demolition has triggered indignation in Panama, Lin said, adding that Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino publicly condemned the move. "The presidential office has ordered the immediate reconstruction of the monument on the original site," he said.

Lin stressed that China has asked Panama to get to the bottom of this matter, rectify the local government's wrongdoing and undo the negative impact as quickly as possible. 
KUNMING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Foreign Ministers and senior military officials of China, Cambodia and Thailand held a meeting by the Fuxian Lake, Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province from Dec. 28 to 29. The three sides issued a press release after the meeting on Monday.

Following is the full text of the press release:

Press Release of China-Cambodia-Thailand Fuxian Meeting

On 28 and 29 December 2025, Foreign Ministers and senior military officials of China, Cambodia and Thailand held a meeting by the Fuxian Lake, Yunnan Province of China. China welcomed the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC) Meeting signed between Cambodia and Thailand on 27 December 2025. The three sides stressed that the Joint Statement serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the people of the two countries. It sends out a positive signal, and is conducive to peace and stability of the region. It fully demonstrates that dialogue and consultation is a practical and effective way to resolve complex disputes.

The three sides had in-depth exchanges on consolidating ceasefire and working step by step through mutual efforts to resume normal exchanges, rebuild political mutual trust, improve Cambodia-Thailand bilateral relations, and safeguard regional stability, with the key outcomes as follows:

1. The immediate priority is to consolidate the ceasefire, and ensure full and effective implementation of the Joint Statement. China supports the commitment of Cambodia and Thailand in this regard through mutual efforts with a view to ensuring that it is comprehensive and lasting, and laying the foundation for rebuilding peace. In this connection, the three sides support the Joint Boundary Commission in accordance with the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special GBC Meeting on 27 December 2025. China is ready to provide all necessary support to Cambodia and Thailand in advancing humanitarian de-mining through the Joint Coordinating Task Force and bilateral arrangements, and to provide substantive assistance for the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) to ensure its effective functioning. The Chinese military will maintain contact with the Cambodian and Thai militaries to provide support for the consolidation of ceasefire, when necessary and upon request by both Cambodia and Thailand.

2. The next key step is to work towards resuming normal exchanges. China welcomes the efforts of Cambodia and Thailand to endeavour to resume exchanges and communication in all areas and all levels, with a view to restoring exchanges and cooperation, and restoring livelihood of the displaced people in the border areas in accordance with the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special GBC Meeting on 27 December 2025. China is ready to provide humanitarian assistance immediately for livelihood needs of the displaced people in the affected border areas.

3. Cambodia and Thailand will work to rebuild political mutual trust. China welcomes the efforts of Cambodia and Thailand to rebuild engagement through diplomatic channels, and to promote contact between the two Foreign Ministers. Cambodia and Thailand agree to foster a sound atmosphere for the planned Fifth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Leaders' Meeting to be held in Thailand at appropriate time, and ensure its success.

4. The long-term goal is to improve Cambodia-Thailand bilateral relations. China encourages Cambodia and Thailand to create conditions for resuming normal diplomatic relations step by step. China is willing to provide platform, when necessary, for the two sides to conduct more comprehensive and effective communication.

5. The shared responsibility is to safeguard regional stability. Cambodia and Thailand express their commitment to settling disputes by peaceful means, and to making concerted efforts with regional countries to address common risks and challenges, in accordance with the United Nations Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia. The three countries agree to take more effective measures to combat transboundary crimes such as telecom and online scams, to protect the life and property of the people in the region.

Cambodia and Thailand appreciate China's strong support in promoting talks between the two countries, taking into account the comfort levels of both sides. In the spirit of the Anning Outcome, China will continue to play a constructive role in facilitating the rebuilding of trust and achieving lasting peace between Cambodia and Thailand in the Asian way, with the aim of building a community with a shared future with neighbouring countries. 
Islamic radicalisation of Bangladesh : A warning for NE India

|

Brigadier (Retired) L Ibotombi Singh

After ouster of the Sheikh Hasina regime in August 2024, Bangladesh faces a significant rise in Islamic radicalization and extremism fueled by political instability, security vacuums, and weakened counterterrorism infrastructure. The political violence and instability have worsened the situation, with extremist elements exploiting the security vacuum created by the regime change. Weakened law enforcement and intelligence agencies, along with the rise of armed groups and radical ideologies, pose a serious threat to the countrys stability. Indias close neighbour also risks long-term insecurity with broader regional implications without swift and decisive action. Unless the interim Government adopts a zero-tolerance policy and strengthens law enforcement and intelligence efforts, extremist groups may gain further ground, leading to long-term instability.

Following Hasinas fall from power in August 2024, the political upheaval that erupted created a security breakdown. The chaos amidst the mass protests has provided extremists with opportunities to gain ground. Arms and ammunition looted from police stations have made their way into the hands of criminals and extremists. Over 5,800 weapons and 3,00,000 rounds of ammunition were stolen, and while some have been recovered, many remain unaccounted for, adding to the volatility. Prison escapes in August 2024 further destabilised the situation. More than 2,200 prisoners escaped, including 70 militants from groups like Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). Although some have been recaptured, others remain at large. This, combined with unprecedented mass bailouts of militants and criminals, signals a collapse in law and order. The regime change in Dhaka has emboldened local radical groups, which are increasingly visible in the public sphere. There has been a marked rise in extremist rhetoric, including online propaganda, and violence against religious and sectarian minorities has escalated. In 2024, there were 205 reported incidents of minority persecution, including attacks on Hindus and Buddhists.

Some of the major radical groups in Bangladesh, who were under tight control during the Awami Regime, but now have become loose cannons post change of regime in 2024, having inclination to a hardline Islamic State; are Jamaat-e-Islami (BJI), Harkat-ul-Jihad in Bangladesh (HUJI-B), Jamaat-ul- Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). Hizb-ut-Tahrir in Bangladesh (HTB). Ansa-rullah Bangla Team (ABT) and Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh (HeI). The main aim of most of the groups is to turn Bangladesh into a hardline Islamic State from a moderate one with ideology to replace the existing Government with an Islamic caliphate by collaborating with the Pakistani Army employing various influences such as a) Indoctrination through the party and other front organisations b) Madarsa education and c) Targeting of women for radical activities. The HUJI group has links with Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohmmad. Another group which has developed a network among various universities and has growing base amongst the youngsters is HTB. The group also has reach among various ranks of the Bangladesh Border Guards and the Army. From the beginning, HTB focused on recruiting educated urban youth, particularly university students, as opposed to the uneducated masses. The ABT group, also recruits educated youth, often university students, and effectively uses online platforms to promote extremist ideology and messages to radicalize new members. It maintains links with other international terror organizations, most notably Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). HeI, is against secular bloggers and demanding stricter Islamic laws, using its control over madrasa students for massive street power, posi- tioning itself as a defender of religious conser- vatism against perceived secular threats. Major factors leading in spurt of Islamic Radicalization in Bangladesh are:-

(a) Security Vacuum and Weakened Law Enforcement : The political upheaval led to widespread chaos, including the looting of thousands of weapons and ammunition, besides prison escapes including militants The police force is demoralized, and counter-terrorism units are understaffed and face challenges, hindering effective responses to extremist threats. At least 44 police personnel were killed during the protests. More than 450 of the countrys 664 police stations were attacked, many of which were looted and burned. Additionally, at least 281 police vehicles were set on fire.

(b) Resurgence of Hardline Groups: Banned and radical groups, including Hizb ut-Tahrir (HuT), BJI and HeI, have re-emerged publicly and are actively expanding their influence. The interim Government lifted the ban on BJI and its student wing soon after taking office. HuT, despite still being officially banned, has held large rallies demanding a caliphate and is actively recruiting educated youth online and in educational institutions.

(c) Moral Policing and Persecution of Minorities : There has been a notable increase in incidents of moral policing harassment of women for their attire, and attacks on religious minorities (Hindus, Ahmadiyyas, Sufis) and secular voices.

(d) Online Radica-lization : Extremist groups are increasingly using online platforms like Facebook, X, YouTube, and Telegram to spread propaganda, recruit members, and coordinate activities. This cyber radicalization targets vulnerable, often educated, youth with emotionally charged narratives.

(e) Transnational Linkages : There are concerns about increased Pakistani influence (ISI) and collaboration between Bangladeshi militant groups (ABT, HuJI-B) and transnational terrorist outfits like Al-Qaeda and Tehreek-e-- Taliban Pakistan (TTP), with reports of Bangladeshi youths joining TTP in the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region.

(f) Normalisation of Extremist Narratives : Public displays of symbols associated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have become more visible in protests, risking the normalization of these ideologies within society.

The recent uprising in Bangladesh erupted in Nation-wide protests, rioting, violence and anti-India sloganeering after student-leader Sharif Osman Hadi was shot dead by three masked men on a motorbike while leaving a Mosque in Dhaka, and later declared dead in Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries. As a fallout of this unrest to show frustration against India, the manner in which Dipu Chandra Das was tied naked to a pole, beaten mercilessly, lynched and burnt alive in broad daylight in Bangladesh is more horrendous and heinous than ISIS shooting captives in back of the head. The same was resorted to during the violent coup for regime change last year that witnessed genocidal acts against Hindushangings, killings, burning and mass rapes. Reports of rapes and killings of Hindu women have been coming periodically even after the regime change in Bangladesh. The same was resorted to during the violent coup for regime change last year that witnessed genocidal acts against Hindus  hangings, killings, burning and mass rapes. Reports of rapes and killings of Hindu women have been coming periodically even after the regime change in Bangladesh. Sharif Osman Hadi, and his outfit Inquilab Mancha, had emerged as key figures in the July-August 2024 uprising in the country that had eventually led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.

The death of Hadi prompted burning of two leading media houses, The Prothom Alo and Daily Star, as well as houses of Awami League leaders houses in Uttara, Chatto-gram. Prothom Alos Exe- cutive Editor Sajjad Sharif condemned the incident as an attack on freedom of the press, expression, dissent and diversity of opinion. Radicals carrying sticks marched through Dhakas streets chanting slogans in native language that said  Agents of India beware. Catch Awami League members one by one and slaughter them. Raise your voice simultaneously from all Mosques across the country against Indian imperialism and the fascist league. Radicals in Dhaka surrounded the Indian Embassy, saying India has no right to have an embassy in Bangladesh, all Indian consulates must be closed immediately, including the border. In addition to the Indian Embassy in Dhaka, radicals also attempted to attack Indian Consulates in Rajshahi, Khulna, and Chittagong. Radicals are blaming India for the attack on Hadi and fueling unrest in Bangladesh. We are at war. It is now or never, said Sarjis Alam, Northern Region Chief Organiser of the National Citizen Party (NCP) urging the interim Government to act. The latest is that Muhammad Motaleb Shikder, another high-profile leader of student-led NCP has also been shot in the head in Khulna. The house of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Belal Hossain was locked from outside and set ablaze. Belals seven-year-old daughter, Ayesha Akter, was burnt to death in the arson attack.

The questions, however, remain as to why Hadi was shot, by whom, and who benefits now with the BNP and NCP also being targeted ? The answers to these should not be very difficult to arrive at, deciphering the machinations in Indias neighbourhood over the past few months. Hadi was probably shot because he had distanced himself from Yunus, wielded considerable influence among the youth and chose to contest the upcoming elections as an independent, scheduled on February 12, 2026. This was not to the liking of those who control the regional strings remotely. In Pakistan, it is the ISI who dont want to continue paying terrorists/terrorist leaders who have outlived their utility and hinder rise of the younger crop of radicals. However, in case of the killings of Hadi and other student-youth leaders in Bangladesh, it could be the ISI, as well as engineered by the US directly, the aim being to establish the most radical regime in Bangladesh in the coming elections. ISI with the help of Bangladeshi military and intelligence officials have been successful in turning Cox bazaar into a base for all its activities where they have established a nexus between them, terror organisations and smugglers. This has enabled them to generate funds through smuggling activities and create a black market for weapons where extremist groups can buy sophisticated weaponry. To think that these killings in Pakistan and Bangladesh by masked/unknown gunmen were by Indias external intelligence is naive.

The regime-change in Bangladesh to establish the Yunus regime was engineered by the CIA last year. But while the CIA functions as the covert arm of the USA for regime- change globally, these efforts are overtly augmented by USAID, National Endowment for Democracy (NED) and International Republican Institute (IRI). Leaked files have revealed that the US funded the Gen-Z shadow army of Nepalese youth in the run-up to the violent coup in Nepal, with NED spending hundreds of thousands of dollars prior to the mob violence that overthrew the Government of Nepal in September 2025. Then Washington also has its dancing girl in Pakistan  army chief Asim Munir hosted by the POTUS Donald Trump in the White House twice already. If Trump can get Munir to send his army to Gaza, where is the problem to ask the masked gunmen in Bangladesh. Of course, Dhakas courtesan Yusuf may well be in the picture of all this. With critically ill BNP chief Khaleda Zia being treated abroad, efforts appear on to install a Jamaat-e-Islami/BJI-headed Government in Dhaka.

A warning for North East India

Hadi was a hardcore proponent of Greater Bangladesh; for capturing Indias seven North Eastern States and merging them into Bangladesh. Addressing thousands at Hadis funeral Bangladeshs Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus vowed to follow the ideals of Sharif Osman Hadi. Stressing that the gathering was not a farewell, but a pledge, Yunus said, We have come to make a promise to you - that what you told us, we will fulfill. Not only us, but generation after generation of people of Bangladesh will fulfill this promise. Besides, Hadis ideals, other radical groups having close interest in Blkanisation of North East India are :- (a) JMB: The group has very close ties with Lashar-e-Taiba and time again, its cadres travel to Bangladesh for training and use JMBs resources to infiltrate into India using the Bangladesh route. The group is active in Bangladesh and has also been active beyond borders in West Bengal with many sleeper cells.

(b) HUJI : The main aim of HUJI-B was to turn Bangladesh into a hardline Islamic state from a moderate one. Since its existence, the group has been active not only in Bangladesh but also in India, and Nepal and recently has been fighting along the Rohingyas in Myanmar against the Burmese Army. (c) BJI/JeI. The JeI has been openly spearheading the radicalisation of youth in schools and colleges in Bangladesh, training potential suicide bombers, with Pakistans ISI providing support for cross-border terrorist activities. Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Sheikh Hasinas son has warned that Bangladeshs interim Government is pushing the country towards extremism, posing a serious threat to Indias North Eeastern States (the Seven Sisters). Wazed said in an interview that Yunus is giving free rein to radical organizations like the JeI, and that terrorist training camps are becoming active once again in Bangladesh.

The focus of the ISI is not only restricted to Islamist groups but also to insurgent groups such as the ULFA and NSCN-IM. There is a considerable amount of evidence which states that the top cadres of ULFA have been in contact with the Pakistani High Commission in Dhaka and has even travelled to Pakistan under fake names and Pakistani passports on several occasions. It attempted to establish a connection between these groups and groups like the Islamic Liberation Army of Assam, Muslim United Front of Assam (MULFA), and Muslim United Liberation Tigers of Assam (MULTA). These groups have established a considerable stronghold in the Barpeta, Nalbari, Dhubri and Goalpara districts of Assam. There have been occasions where terrorists linked to HUJI-B and Harkat- ul-Mujahideen (HUM) along with ISI agents have been arrested from Guwahati.

Another concern is, it has been revealed that the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF), an armed Christian group, is connected to Jamaatul Ansar Fil Hindal Sharqiya, a recently established Muslim militant organisation. Such associations also bring out the fact that though the groups might be following a hardline religious ideology but for mutual benefit, they will ally with another group that doesnt resonate with its ideologies. The fragile nature of such alliances is usually surrounded by a cloud of mistrust and suspicion. Thus, the chances of a conflict arising and it transpiring to the level of violence and killing along with turf war is quite high.

The evolving political situation in Bangladesh constitutes Indias biggest strategic challenge since 1971, citing the re-emergence of Islamist forces, a shifting domestic political landscape and the growing influence of China and Pakistan This should be viewed in backdrop of the anti-India interests of the US, China and Pakistan (and Turkey) converging in Bangladesh. India is in a Catch 22 situation. Unlike 1971, India cannot go in Bangladesh without a clear mandate and justifications. Should India entangled in the murkier situation of Bangladesh, we will be falling into the trap of Washington and Beijing, who wants India to get embroiled and bleed economically. The Government of India, both Center and the State Governments in particular States bordering Bangladesh, besides strict vigil along the border, need to emphasise on the economic development of the population living in the border regions. Bettering the overall living standards of the population will drastically reduce their susceptibility to getting indoctrinated and radicalised. Therefore, it is imperative to address the issues faced by the border populations, mitigate the hardships, and improve living standards through education and employment.
In the age of waiting for 11:11 to make a wish and eating grapes under the table for good luck, countries around the globe never stop surprising us with their unique traditions to welcome the new year, each having its own story.

The 12 grapes

A tradition that social media has largely popularised, las doce uvas de la suerte or the twelve lucky grapes, is a practice where one consumes 12 grapes at each stroke of midnight, welcoming the new year. Each grape represents each of the coming months. Dating back to 1895, the custom spread widely only by 1909, when Alicantese vine growers wanted to increase grape sales due to a surplus production that year. This Spanish tradition is said to bring luck and prosperity, while some variations from Peru (like sitting under a table while eating the grapes) are said to attract a soulmate. The 12 grapes tradition is linked to the Puerta del Sol clock, whose New Year chimes are broadcast nationwide.

Smashing plates

Every New Year, Denmark sees numerous utensils being smashed and broken. The tradition is said to bring good luck and love. Danes collect unwanted or chipped plates, cups and bowls throughout the year. These utensils are then smashed by throwing them on the doorsteps of friends and family on New Years Eve. It symbolises a new hope, breaking the past years troubles. The next morning, the pile of smashed plates is cleaned up, implying a fresh start. It is believed that the higher your pile is, the higher your well wishes. Ireland sees a similar custom where pots and pans are banged, whereas South Africa does something similar with used furniture.

Polka dots

In the Philippines, people are seen wearing polka dot prints for New Year. The tradition symbolises wealth and good fortune. The round dots resemble coins, a direct link to prosperity. This happens alongside other traditions such as having round fruits. It signifies a collective hope for good fortune.

Takanakuy festival

Imagine a festival where you could finish the disagreements you had in a year with people once and for all, by fighting it out. The Takanakuy festival is exactly that. Originating in Peru, Takanakuy is Quechua for "to hit each other". People dress up for a day filled with music, dance and fighting. The purpose of fighting on this day is to settle any conflicts with another person. Those who are fighting call out their opponents by their first and last name. Apart from settling conflicts, the custom is seen as a form of social catharsis.

Empty suitcase

A tradition to attract a year full of travel, adventure and trips, Colombian New Year witnesses people grabbing an empty suitcase and running around their house, neighborhood or block at midnight. The custom is also seen in regions of Ecuador and Panama. It is believed that the faster you run, the more travel you will have in the upcoming year. This is just one among Colombias new year rituals, with others being wearing yellow underwear inside-out for wealth, burning of a straw doll to leave bad memories of the past year and carrying raw lentils in your pocket for prosperity.

Burning Pappanji

Every New Year, a giant-sized effigy of an old man called Pappanji is set to fire in Kochi of Kerala. The event marks the culmination of the Cochin Carnival and the start of the New Year. It symbolises letting go of the past years negativity and embracing hope. The tradition is said to have Portuguese roots; from the time they ruled Kochi from 1503-1663. Others say that the custom originated from Jewish cultures. The effigy burning is accompanied by fireworks. From 2012, it has been an important aspect of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale.

First footing

First foot is the first person to enter a home on New Years Day. Theyre often seen as the bringer of good fortune, as seen in Scottish, Northern English and Manx folklore. While the origin is uncertain, it is possibly linked to the Viking Invasion of the British Isles (When fair-haired men were to be feared). The first foot was ideally a dark-haired man bearing gifts like coal, shortbread, whisky and salt, signifying warmth, prosperity and health.

Bear dance

Jocul Ursului or the Romanian bear dance marks yet another unique way to ring in the New Year. The dance represents the death and rebirth of the bear, marking the end of the old year and start of the new year. People and performers dress up in heavy bear costumes (what used to be bear skins centuries ago) and dance to rhythmic drums, said to celebrate the cycle of nature, ward off evil spirits and bring strength and renewal. Regions in Moldavia see the most vibrant celebrations.

Hanging onions

This Greek tradition sees people hanging onions on doors, highlighting resilience, where the onion sprouts even after uprooting it. It symbolises rebirth, fertility and growth for the household even in dire circumstances. On New Years Day, parents wake their children up by gently tapping the onion on their heads.

Predicting future with metal

Finnish New Year starts with traditions predicting the future. The ritual involves heating a small piece of metal until it melts, which is then quickly poured into a bucket of cold water, forming a unique shape that is believed to interpret the future. Common interpretations include a bubbly surface symbolising incoming wealth, a ship suggesting travel, a key representing career progress, a basket indicating abundance, a horse pointing to new transportation and broken or fragile shapes hinting at possible misfortune or a hectic year.
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Any despicable act of crossing the line or making provocations on the Taiwan question will surely be retaliated against resolutely by China, and any attempt to thwart China's endeavor for reunification is doomed to failure, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said Monday.

Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a daily press briefing, in response to a related query about the military drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025" around Taiwan Island organized by the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army starting from Monday. 
In a major move that is aimed at enhancing the capability of the Indian armed forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Monday, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the three Services worth 79,000 crore.

The procurement will include radars, radios, automatic take-off landing recording systems and other equipment for the Indian Army, Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. The councils decisions shows a focused push to modernise capabilities, enhance operational readiness, and counter the emerging security challenges across land, sea and air domains, with a focus on self-reliance in defence.

For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India

AoN was approved for the procurement of loitering munition systems for Artillery Regiments, Low-Level Light Weight Radars, Long-Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MRLS), and Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II for the Indian Army.

Loiter munitions will be used for precision strike of tactical targets, while Low-Level Light Weight Radars will detect and track small-sized, low-flying unmanned aerial systems. Long Range Guided Rockets will enhance the range and accuracy of Pinaka MRLS for effective engagement of high-value targets, the defence ministery said in a release.

"Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II with enhanced range will protect the vital assets of the Indian Army in Tactical Battle Area and Hinterland."

The council accorded AoN for procurement of Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) Manpack, and for leasing High Altitude Long Range (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) for the Indian Navy.

The induction of BP Tugs will assist the Indian Navy ships and submarines in berthing, unberthing, and maneuvering in confined waters/harbor, the defence ministry stated.

ALSO READ: OPINION | Challenges in modernising Indias military

The HF SDR will enhance long-range secured communication during boarding and landing operations, while HALE RPAS will ensure continuous Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and credible Maritime Domain Awareness over the Indian Ocean Region.

For the Indian Air Force, AoN was approved for the procurement of Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System, Astra Mk-II Missiles, Full Mission Simulator and SPICE-1000 Long Range Guidance Kits.

Induction of the Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System will fill the gaps in the aerospace safety environment by providing high-definition, all-weather automatic recording of landing and take-off.

Astra Mk-II Missiles with enhanced range will increase the capability of the fighter aircraft to neutralise adversary aircraft from a large standoff range. "Full Mission Simulator for Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will augment pilots training in a cost-effective and safe manner, while SPICE-1000 will enhance long-range precision strike capability of the Indian Air Force."
Undeterred by Chillai Kalan 



As harsh winter grips Jammu & Kashmir, the Indian Army has intensified counter-terror operations across Kishtwar and Doda. Operating in sub-zero temperatures and snowbound terrain, troops are pushing into higher reaches to deny terrorists any pic.twitter.com/1T9hdKqVQj  IndianArmy in Jammu & Kashmir (Fan Page) (@IndianArmyinJK) December 27, 2025

The Indian Army has intensified its counter-terrorism operations across the Kishtwar and Doda districts in Jammu and Kashmir to track down and neutralise Pakistani terrorists attempting to use the harsh winter for cover.

The Army has reportedly deployed specially trained winter warfare sub-units across several key sectors. Traditionally, the onset of the 40-day Chillai Kalanthe harshest phase of winter in the Kashmir Valley from 21 December to 31 Januaryreports a drop in terrorist activities, as communication routes close and mountains become isolated due to heavy snowfall. However, this winter has marked a decisive shift in the operational approach of the Army and other security forces, news agency PTI reported.

According to assessments by various intelligence agencies, 3035 Pakistani terrorists remain in the Jammu region. Braving the bone-chilling cold, the Indian Army has reportedly established temporary bases and surveillance posts deep within snow-capped areas to maintain pressure on possible terrorist hideouts, the report said. Usually, soldiers are asked to reduce their activities during this period.

Each operation by the security forces in the Union Territory is followed by sustained surveillance, ensuring that areas once cleared remain under watch, the PTI report said, quoting defence sources. This surveillance-sweep-surveillance cycle forms the cornerstone of the Army's new winter doctrine, balancing aggressive field operations with steady technological oversight.

Indian Armys winter warfare sub-units

The winter warfare units specialise in snow combat, high-altitude survival, snow navigation, and avalanche response, among other skills. They have been supported by drone-based reconnaissance, ground sensors, and surveillance radars. They are capable of detecting movement, tracking heat signatures, and pinpointing possible movement routes in the snowy mountains of Jammu.

For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India

These systems, integrated into the Army's overall information network, enable continuous monitoring and rapid decision-making even under adverse conditions.

The shift, according to experts, signifies an evolution in counter-terrorism tactics, underlining both the Army's adaptability and its resolve to maintain operational momentum, irrespective of the weather or terrain. Inputs gathered over the past few months suggest that these Pakistani terrorist groups, finding themselves cornered by successful counter-terror operations, have shifted deeper into the higher and middle-mountain reaches of the regionareas now devoid of habitation, they said.

These terrorists are believed to be seeking temporary winter hideouts to evade detection and avoid direct confrontation with the security forces. Reports indicate that these remnants of terror groups are attempting to coerce or threaten local villagers for shelter and food supplies, even though support among locals and overground workers has sharply declined.

Undeterred by Chillai Kalan 



As harsh winter grips Jammu & Kashmir, the Indian Army has intensified counter-terror operations across Kishtwar and Doda. Operating in sub-zero temperatures and snowbound terrain, troops are pushing into higher reaches to deny terrorists any pic.twitter.com/1T9hdKqVQj  IndianArmy in Jammu & Kashmir (Fan Page) (@IndianArmyinJK) December 27, 2025

The drying up of local support and continuous security vigilance in lower altitudes has forced them into isolation, further restricting their ability to regroup or plan coordinated attacks, the sources said.

According to sources, the Army has intensified its counter-terrorism operations across the Kishtwar and Doda districts. Undeterred by freezing temperatures, treacherous terrain, and heavy snowfall, Army units have expanded their operational reach into higher, snowbound areas to pursue and neutralise Pakistani terrorists attempting to exploit the harsh season for concealment, sources said.

A defining feature of this year's counter-terror strategy has been the integrated approach to operations. The Army is leading a synchronised effort involving multiple security and law enforcement agencies, including the civil administration, J&K Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Special Operations Group (SOG), forest guards, and Village Defence Guards (VDGs), another source said.

Modus operandi

This inter-agency cooperation ensures seamless sharing of intelligence, resource optimisation, and sharper operational execution, the source added. Intelligence from multiple agencies is carefully synthesised to draw precise situational pictures of terrorist movements and hideout patterns.

Once intelligence is verified, coordinated joint operations are planned and launched, minimising overlaps and ensuring maximum impact with tactical precision, defence sources said. The synergy among ground units and intelligence frameworks has enhanced response times, enabling security forces to act the moment actionable information surfaces, they added.

The principal focus of the Army and other forces this winter is twofold: to eliminate remaining terrorist pockets within known areas and to ensure that terrorists remain confined to the inhospitable higher reaches, a source said. This containment strategy not only prevents terrorists from infiltrating or regrouping in populated belts but also significantly disrupts their logistics and communication channels, reducing their operational capability, the source added.
Winters in Kashmir, and more so during the December 21 to January 31 period, locally referred to as Chillai Kalan, have traditionally been periods of lull both for the militants as well as the Indian Army, with heavy snow and biting cold curbing normal counter-insurgency operations.

But this time, the Army has gone in for a major tactical change in order to capitalise on the ongoing success and maintain the momentum against the Pakistan-trained operatives operating in the three defined geographies that determine the nature and character of Army operationsin the valley and the hinterland, the mid-altitude regions, and the snow-capped high ridges in Doda and Kistwar.

For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India

The central aspects of this winter offensive are to enhance intelligence gathering efforts through human, technical and electronic intelligence, develop the information, club the actionable ones separately before launching specialist soldiersexperts in high-altitude and mountain warfareto zero in for the kill.

No barracks for these soldiers this winter; on the contrary, they will be establishing temporary bases and surveillance posts deep within snow-covered areas to maintain relentless pressure on possible terrorist hideouts.

Ideated to eliminate and deny any sort of safe sanctuary to the terrorists by sweeping operations, the key feature of this strategy is to maintain surveillance. The approach has been labelled as a surveillance-sweep-surveillance operational doctrine.

A senior Indian Army source said on condition of anonymity, Each operation is followed by sustained surveillance, ensuring that areas once cleared remain under watch. This surveillance-sweep-surveillance cycle forms the cornerstone of the Armys new winter doctrine, balancing aggressive field operations with steady technological oversight.

The change has also been brought upon by an assessment that there are about 30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists currently in the Jammu region.

The source pointed out, These Pakistani terrorist groups, finding themselves cornered by successful counter-terror operations, have shifted deeper into higher and middle mountain reaches of the region; areas now devoid of habitation. These terrorists are believed to be seeking temporary winter hideouts to evade detection and avoid direct confrontation with security troops.

The winter offensive has a lot of promise also because of two aspectsuse of technology and an integrated approach by meticulously involving the other security forces, including the state police and the paramilitary.

The source said, From drone-based reconnaissance to ground sensors and surveillance radars, a wide array of tools is being leveraged to detect movement, track heat signatures, and pinpoint possible movement routes.

Thermal imaging devices and unmanned aerial systems have proved invaluable for night operations and in terrain where conventional scouting is hazardous. This infusion of technology, combined with the Armys deep familiarity with the geography, allows for quick adaptation to evolving ground realities and ensures that no zone remains unmonitored.

At the same time, the battle for the hearts and minds is set to continue with a well-planned human dimension positioned as a doubled-up effort to strengthen trust and reinforce the message that peace and stability remain shared goals across security forces and citizens alike.
Iran is developing biological and chemical warheads for the countrys long-range ballistic missiles, military sources said on Sunday.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force is working on the unconventional warheads as it transfers missile launchers to the eastern regions of Iran, the sources told Iran International.

The sources, who remained anonymous, reported that the activity has accelerated in recent months and is being pursued as Tehran is increasingly concerned about the possibility of another confrontation with Israel and the United States.

ALSO READ | Did Iran declare war on the US? Here is what Irans President said

The programs are reportedly optimising ballistic missiles to carry chemical and biological agents and are also upgrading the associated command and control systems.

The warheads are to serve as a complementary deterrent factor alongside the countrys missile program, one source said.

The Iranian leadership views potential Israeli and American attacks as a threat to its very existence and intends, in the event of a conflict, to significantly raise the cost for the opposing side.the source said when asked about the conradiction of developing chemical weapons when the country was victims of such warfare when Saddam Hussein launched a chemical attack on Sardasht in western Iran.

The use of unconventional weapons can be justified in situations of existential threat," the source added.

Israel has briefed the president of the United States recently during a meeting about the identification of Unusual activities by the IRGC Aerospace Force. Western intelligence agencies also reportedly increased monitoring and surveillance of the activities.

Analysts say that the reports, if confirmed, would trigger international reactions and alter the region's balance. The use of the weapons would also face widespread condemnation and intensify pressures on Tehran.
Zack Snyder may have gotten a bit self-indulgent with some of his recent work, but there's no denying the fact that he is an interesting filmmaker with a singular vision  Can we all agree Watchmen is his masterpiece?  even if it involves excessive slo-mo and extremely obvious CGI and green screen use. But one cannot help but agree with fans of Batman vs Superman and the 'Snyder Cut' Justice League because, despite its shortcomings, they feature some of Snyder's best work.

The filmmaker, who made his debut with the zombie horror thriller Dawn of the Dead, appears to be finally moving away from the horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and superhero genres to make something completely original, with a relatively smaller budget, unlike his most popular productions. In fact, he is already in the middle of filming it, and posting on-set photographs and scenes from the project titled The Last Photograph.

Starring Stuart Martin and Fra Free, among others, The Last Photograph has a script by Kurt Johnstad ("300", "Atomic Blonde") and is based on a story by Snyder. Johnstad also wrote both the Rebel Moon films directed by Snyder. The project has been described as a "passion project" of Snyder, who is stepping into an uncharted narrative territory with the film.

Interestingly, Snyder is also the cinematographer. Hans Zimmer is on board as the music composer.

The idea of taking the camera in hand and simply making a movie in an intimate way is very appealing to me. The Last Photograph is a meditation on life and death, embodying some of the trials that I have experienced in my own life and the exploration of those ideas through image making, Snyder said in an earlier interaction with Deadline.

As per the official logline, The Last Photograph follows "an ex-DEA operative who must return to the mountains of South America to find his missing niece and nephew, following the brutal murders of their diplomat parents. Enlisting the help of a washed-up junkie war photographer, the only person to have seen the face of the killers, he sets out, determined to find the children and the truth, but soon learns he must also face the ghosts of his past. Their journey into the unknown takes them farther and farther away from civilization, bringing into question everything they believe, while slowly eroding the distinction between real and surreal.

Filming locations include Iceland, Colombia, and Los Angeles.


The United States President Donald Trump's latest appearance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago residence sparked an online buzz with many pointing out his 'painted hands'.

The pictures taken ahead of the duo's meeting, to discuss a 20-point plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, revealed a discolouration on Trump's right hand. The US president's hand appeared heavily made up, drawing attention to it and sparking speculations about his health.

Earlier, Trump was seen with bandages covering up the bruises on his hand, sparking discussions. The White House dismissed the speculations, saying that the bruising was due to "constant" handshaking.

For your daily dose of medical news and updates, visit: HEALTH

Social media was rife with comments over Trump's hand, with many raising concerns about his health, while the rest joked about using mismatched concealer.

LOOK! Donald Trump's black hand is painted up today! 



(Joe Raedle/Getty) pic.twitter.com/GJZNqWHrlE  Lucas Sanders  (@LucasSa56947288) December 28, 2025

"He's a demogorgon; Trump must have easy access to the Upside Down. He escapes through that hole. You do know that the word Trump translates to Vecna?" said one user.

"Trump's black hand is painted up today," commented one X user.

"It looks like Donald Trump looked completely rough today -- note that both of his hands are discoloured!" said another user.

"You can clearly see the bruising on Trump's left hand here, as well as the makeup that covers the bruising on his right hand. Will the White House try to tell us that's from "shaking a lot of hands" too?" commented another user on X.

When questions were raised on his bruising, Dr Sean Barbabella, Trump's doctor, attributed it to "minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking," and further added that he remains in "excellent health".
A 25-year-old air hostess was found dead during a weekend party at her friend's rented apartment in DLF Phase I early on Sunday morning, police said.

The woman was identified as Simran Dadwal, and she reportedly worked with Air India for two years. She used to work for Vistara Airlines. Simran, who is originally a resident of Mohali in Punjab, has been living in Delhi for her work.

Police officials say that she arrived in Gurugram on Saturday to meet her friends. She reportedly developed breathing problems while partying and was rushed to a nearby private hospital. She died during the treatment.

A senior official at the DLF Phase-I police station said, "She was working with the airline for the past two years and was living in Delhi. She had come to Gurugram on Saturday to meet her friends. The deceased had troubled breathing at around 5am."

Police said they were informed by hospital authorities following her death. "A team was immediately dispatched to the spot to take the body to the local mortuary for an autopsy," said Inspector Rajesh Kumar, station house officer of DLF Phase-1. The womans parents arrived in Gurugram on Sunday and sought a post-mortem examination to rule out foul play. Police said that further action will be taken based on the autopsy report.

Police have not yet registered a criminal case. They recorded statements of friends present at the apartment to reconstruct the events leading up to the womans death.
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Meghalaya Police on Monday rejected the claims made by Bangladesh police that the two individuals accused in the killing of Inquilab Moncho leader Sharif Osman Hadi had crossed into the state.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police had stated that the two main suspects in the case entered Meghalaya through the Haluaghat border with the assistance of local associates.

The BSF called these claims "unfounded and misleading".

"There is no evidence to suggest that any individual crossed the international border from the Haluaghat sector into Meghalaya. The BSF has neither detected nor received any report of such an incident," said Inspector General O.P. Opadhyay.

The state police also stated that there was no intelligence to support the claim of the suspects' presence in the Garo Hills region. The Garo Hills region is part of Meghalaya's western sector, which borders Bangladesh and is guarded by the BSF.

Hadi, who was a prominent figure in the massive agitation that led to the ouster of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August last year, was shot in the head on December 13. He succumbed to his injuries at a Singapore hospital on December 18.

Hadis death sparked a fresh wave of protests and violence in Bangladesh, with reports of attacks on minority communities emerging from various cities. Two Hindu men, Amrit Mondal and Dipu Chandra Das, were allegedly lynched by a mob, which also led to widespread protests in India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially launch the BJPs Mission 2026its strategic plan for the upcoming Kerala Assembly electionsduring his visit to the state capital in January. The exact date of the prime ministers visit is yet to be announced. During the visit, Modi is also expected to unveil a master plan for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, where the BJP recently captured power, ending the Lefts 45-year rule.

Notably, the master plan will be projected as the BJPs political pitch not only for Thiruvananthapuramwhere the party has high hopes of winning assembly seatsbut also for voters across Kerala.

Speaking to THE WEEK, newly elected Thiruvananthapuram mayor and BJP leader V.V. Rajesh said the master plan would prioritise four issues that directly affect daily life: waste management, the stray dog menace, proper drainage, and drinking water supply.

These are short-term priorities; addressing these issues itself would bring significant change in the corporation, Rajesh said. Alongside them, there are long-term plans related to medical and spiritual tourism, IT development, and leveraging the potential of the Vizhinjam International Seaport.

Rajesh added that housing would be another key focus area. Housing and land-related projects often get stalled because the state government does not fulfil its financial share. If the state government is unable to contribute, then when the Centre and the corporation invest their shares, alternative funding options such as CSR funds will be explored, he said, adding that the corporation is working on submitting its proposals to the Prime Ministers Office.

In the recently concluded local body polls, Thiruvananthapuram was the only district where the BJP crossed the 20 per cent vote-share mark, securing 23.08 per cent. The party polled over 17 per cent of the votes in Kasaragod, Palakkad, Thrissur, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam. Party analysis suggests that the BJP performed decently in 34 assembly constituencies. In nine constituencies, it secured more than 40,000 votes, and in five of them, it crossed the 45,000-vote mark. In the Nemom and Vattiyoorkkavu constituencies in Thiruvananthapuram, the BJP emerged first in terms of vote share.

Notably, senior leaders were asked to focus on local body elections in constituencies where the party is eyeing victories in 2026. The leadership calculates that this targeted strategy yielded gains in the local body polls. State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has already announced that he will contest from the Nemom constituency in the 2026 assembly elections, indirectly kick-starting his campaign during the local body poll phase itself.

While the partys overall vote share in the local body polls was lower than in 2020, its concentrated performance in pockets where victory was considered realistic, stood out. The party believes a similar approach could prove decisive in the assembly elections as well.

Former BJP state president K. Surendran told THE WEEK that the party is following a clearly defined strategy aimed at winning. We first identify the places where victory is realistically possible and work more intensively there. At the same time, we also try to increase our vote share everywhere else, he said.

The party's major discussions related to the assembly elections would begin only in the first week of January. On January 3, senior party leaders are scheduled to meet to discuss the roadmap in detail.

He added that the BJP has now established itself as a party capable of winning elections in Kerala. We got a Lok Sabha MP earlier, and this time we won the Thiruvananthapuram mayors post. People have started voting to make us win. Until recently, there was a feeling that voting for the BJP was pointless. That has changed, Surendran said, adding that this shift would benefit the party significantly in the assembly elections.

The BJP leadership believes that in the current political climate, anti-incumbency votes will not flow entirely towards the UDF, and that a section of those votes is instead coming to the BJP in constituencies where it has a realistic chance of victory. The party is also attempting to attract maximum Hindu and Christian votes by alleging that the UDF practises Muslim minority appeasement.

Because of associations with groups like Jamaat-e-Islami, people in many areas are more inclined towards us than towards the LDF. So, we now have a greater chance of getting votes from both sides, Surendran said.

However, concerns remain over the BJPs inability to sustain some of the gains it made in the Lok Sabha elections during the local body pollsmost notably in Thrissur. Actor-turned-politician and Union Minister Suresh Gopi had opened the BJPs Lok Sabha account in Kerala from Thrissur. But, in the Thrissur Corporation elections, the party managed only a two-seat improvement compared to 2020, winning eight seats. The UDF secured power with 33 seats, ending a decade-long LDF rule.

Nevertheless, the party hopes to build early momentum, with Modi launching the campaign, and then, by concentrating on winnable seats, not only to reopen its account in the Kerala assembly but also emerge as a key player in deciding who ultimately rules the state.
India on Monday dismissed Pakistan's comments on alleged atrocities against minorities in India and accused the neighbouring country of "systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths."

Rejecting Pakistan's charge, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself."

Our response to media queries regarding remarks of the Spokesperson of the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on incidents in India 



 https://t.co/xMhlbQZYqc pic.twitter.com/WU09obKsbj  Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 29, 2025

Noting Pakistan's attack against minorities, Jaiswal said, "Pakistan's horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well-established fact. No amount of finger-pointing will obfuscate it.

India's remarks come after Pakistan's foreign ministry criticised New Delhi over recent attacks during Christmas celebrations. In a statement on Monday, Pakistan's foreign affairs ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the persecution of minorities in India "is a matter of deep concern".

"Recent condemnable incidents of vandalism during Christmas, as well as state-sponsored campaigns targeting Muslims including the demolition of their homes and repeated lynchings, notably the case of Muhammad Akhlaq, in which the state worked to shield the perpetrators from accountability, have deepened fear and alienation among Muslims," he said in a statement.

Saying the list of victims in India is long, Pakistan said global leaders should intervene. "The international community should take note of these developments and take appropriate steps to help protect the fundamental rights of vulnerable communities in India," he said.

Rightwing activists disrupted Christmas celebrations in various parts of the country this year. The Opposition targeted the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party over the attacks.
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Any despicable act of crossing the line or making provocations on the Taiwan question will surely be retaliated against resolutely by China, and any attempt to thwart China's endeavor for reunification is doomed to failure, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said Monday.

Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a daily press briefing, in response to a related query about the military drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025" around Taiwan Island organized by the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army starting from Monday.

The drills are a punitive and deterrent action against separatist forces who seek "Taiwan independence" through military buildup, and a necessary move to safeguard China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Lin said.

He stressed that to advance their separatist agenda, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities are turning Taiwan into a powder keg. Their massive and desperate arms purchase further reveal their true nature as provocateurs, saboteurs of peace and warmongers, he said.

"Anyone who tries to arm Taiwan to contain China will only embolden the separatists and push the Taiwan Strait closer to the peril of armed conflict," said Lin.

Noting the Taiwan question is at the very core of China's core interests, Lin said nothing will deter China from defending national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. 
Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal on Monday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the backdrop of rising attacks against Christians in the country.

The Congress leader claimed that this year's Christmas celebrations were marked by "terror and violence" in some BJP-ruled states.

The MP from Kerala said Modi's silence has emboldened those who are trying to spread hatred. Venugopal pointed out that there were attacks on Christians in Kerala, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

A children's carol group was attacked in Palakkad, Kerala, while women and children were verbally abused for wearing Santa Claus hats in Delhi's Lajpat Nagar, he said.

Venugopal said in Raipur, a group barged into Magneto Mall and vandalised Christmas trees and decorations while mob attacked two churches and Christian homes in Kanker, Chhattisgarh.

Prayer gatherings in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh were disrupted, including those attended by children with visual and hearing difficulties in Jabalpur, the Congress leader added.

"How can we preach 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', when the state abandons its citizens to mob rule," he asked.

Pointing out that attacks on Christian denominations are not an isolated incident, he said there is a deliberate attempt by right-wing outfits to spread hatred and humiliate minorities.

The silence of the Prime Minister and the administration has emboldened hate mongers, the letter said. He said it is an open invitation for the attackers to inflict violence on minorities. "This is unacceptable," he asserted.

With New Year's Day celebrations approaching, the government should take maximum precautions to prevent attacks, adds the letter. Pointing out that "moments of joy" have turned into "nights of terror", Venugopal called for immediate action to prevent recurrence of such attacks.

"Therefore, I demand an immediate and decisive action from the government to look into this matter on utmost priority and ensure that such incidents of violence do not occur, while ensuring that the people of the nation have the right to profess the religion of their choice without fear," he added.
The Unnao rape case survivor expressed satisfaction over the Supreme Court staying the Delhi High Court order suspending the life sentence of convict Kuldeep Sengar and expressed her full faith in the justice system.

The Supreme Court, on Monday, stayed the Delhi High Court order that had suspended Sengar's life sentence and granted him bail in the 2017 Unnao rape case. Hearing a plea filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which had challenged the high court's decision, the apex court also issued a notice to Sengar, directing him to file his response.

The survivor said she will continue her fight till Sengar is given a death sentence.

#WATCH | Delhi | On SC staying Delhi HC's decision allowing suspension of Kuldeep Sengar's life sentence in Unnao rape case, the victim says, "I am very happy. I had faith in the Supreme Court. I will ensure that he is given a death sentence..." pic.twitter.com/QAhm2xkWQj  ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2025

"I am very happy with this decision. I have got justice from the Supreme Court. I have been raising my voice for justice from the very beginning," the survivor told news agency PTI over the phone from Delhi.

"I do not make any allegations against any court. I have faith in all courts, but the Supreme Court has given me justice and will continue to do so," she said.

The survivor's mother also thanked the apex court, saying the SC had ensured justice. She further said her family and lawyers need security.

"My family needs security. Our advocates need security. I request that the government keep us all safe. I always used to say that I had faith in the Supreme Court. The two judges of the high court did us an injustice. They broke my faith in the high court," news agency ANI quoted her as saying.

Mehmood Pracha, advocate for the Unnao rape case survivor, however, said this should not be called a victory.

"I can assure the victims that we have got a small relief. This should not be called a victory, but we have got a little time to breathe. The CBI took a stand on a very limited point and did not raise our strongest grounds of argument. The CBI did not consult us at all," he said.

Pracha said there was so much evidence in favour of the victim that any court would have given a verdict in her favour, reported ANI.

"The court did not hear us on the main merits... The CBI did not make us a party in this case. We cannot treat this judgment as a victory for the victim."
The Supreme Court on Monday stepped in to halt what it described as a legally troubling turn in one of Indias most haunting criminal cases, staying the Delhi High Courts order granting bail to former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case.

The ruling ensured that Sengar, convicted of raping a minor and sentenced to life imprisonment, will not walk out of jail even for a day.

A peculiar case and a stayed release

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said the case raised substantial questions of law that warranted close scrutiny. While bail or suspension of sentence orders are ordinarily not stayed without hearing the accused, the court said the present matter involved peculiar facts.

Sengar, it noted, continues to remain in prison owing to his conviction and sentence in another criminal case linked to the same chain of events.

Behind the legal reasoning lies a case that shook the countrys conscience. In 2017, a minor girl from Uttar Pradeshs Unnao district accused the then-powerful legislator of raping her.

What followed was not swift justice but a harrowing ordeal marked by alleged police inaction, threats to her family, and a sense of abandonment by the system meant to protect her.

In April 2018, driven to desperation, the survivor attempted self-immolation outside the official residence of the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, accusing authorities of shielding the accused.

The image of a young girl standing outside the corridors of power, pleading to be heard, became emblematic of the deep imbalance between influence and vulnerability.

Public outrage forced the case out of the states hands, with the Supreme Court transferring the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation and later moving the trial from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi to ensure fairness.

In 2019, a Delhi court convicted Sengar under Section 376(2)(i) of the Indian Penal Code for rape and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

He was also found guilty in separate cases arising from the custodial death of the survivors father and attempts to intimidate witnesses, cases that underscored the extent to which power had allegedly been used to crush resistance.

It was against this grim backdrop that the Delhi High Courts recent order suspending Sengars sentence and granting him bail sparked disquiet.

On Monday, the Supreme Court made it clear that the High Courts reasoning could not be allowed to stand unexamined.

POCSO interpretation raises red flags

The Chief Justice expressed serious concern over whether the High Court had even examined Sengars conviction under Section 376(2)(i) IPC while granting relief. The Bench also flagged the interpretation adopted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, warning that it could lead to absurd consequences.

If accepted, the court observed, even a constable or a patwari could be treated as a public servant for the purpose of aggravated offences, while an elected MLA or MP could escape that classification and seek exemption.

Even the finest judges are prone to errors

Such an interpretation, the court suggested, runs counter to both legislative intent and common sense.

The Bench further clarified that amendments to POCSO were meant to enhance punishment for existing offences, not to create new categories of offences through interpretative shortcuts.

At the same time, the court struck a note of institutional humility. Even the finest judges are prone to errors, the Chief Justice observed, underlining that judicial scrutiny is an essential part of the legal system.

What it firmly rejected, however, was the tendency to publicly browbeat courts or take legal disagreements to the streets, a remark seen as a caution against trial by media and public pressure.

For the survivor, whose counsel sought permission to intervene during the hearing, the Bench clarified that she did not require the courts leave to challenge the High Court order.

She has a statutory right to file a separate special leave petition, the court said, adding that free legal aid would be provided through the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee if she chose to avail it.

Acting on a plea filed by the CBI, the Supreme Court issued notice to Sengar and stayed the operation of the High Courts bail order, making it unambiguous that he shall not be released from custody pursuant to that ruling.
As the victim's family and the Opposition welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to suspend bail granted to expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singar in the Unnao rape case, his daughters cried foul. Reacting to the development, Singar's daughters said they "still hope for justice.

Aishwarya Sengar, daughter of Kuldeep Singh Sengar, said they couldn't even argue the merits of their case in court on Monday. Aishwarya charged that the victim had changed her statements multiple times during the course of the case, "She has changed her statement several times, changed the timing thrice, starting from 2pm, 6pm and then finally 8pm. Theres a finding of the AIIMS medical board that she was more than 18," ANI reported.

The Supreme Court suspended the relief granted by the Delhi High Court to Kuldeep Sengar in the Unnao rape case on Monday. A vacation bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, and Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih also issued notice to Sengar seeking his response on the CBI's plea challenging the high court order.

Aishwarya said they have been fighting for justice for the past eight years, but "maybe the sorrows of me and my family mean nothing". She lamented that the family has been stripped of dignity, peace, and even the fundamental right to be heard. "Still hope for justice. I request that the media not spread any misinformation."

In an open letter, Kuldeep's daughter Ishita said they are "exhausted, frightened, and slowly losing faith, but still holding on to hope because there is nowhere else left to go."

Ishita said, "We trusted that justice in this country does not depend on noise, hashtags, or public anger. Today, I write because that faith is breaking." Ishita said she too faced inhuman death and rape threats on social media, and her identity has been reduced to a labelthe daughter of a BJP MLA.

"Over these years, I have been told countless times on social media that I should be raped, killed, or punished simply for existing. This hatred is not abstract. It is daily. It is relentless. And it breaks something inside you when you realise that so many people believe you do not even deserve to live," she said.

"We have been drained financially, emotionally, and physically running from one office to another, writing letters, making calls, begging to be heard. There is no door we did not knock on. No authority we did not approach. No media house we did not write to. And yet no one listened," Ishita lamented.

Ishita charged people did not listen to them because the "truth was inconvenient". "What scares me today is not just injustice, it is fear. A fear deliberately manufactured. A fear so loud that judges, journalists, institutions, and ordinary citizens are all pressured into silence. A fear designed to ensure that no one dares to stand with us, no one dares to listen to us, and no one dares to say, 'Let us look at the facts'.
The NCP factions led by Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar have decided to set their differences aside for the upcoming elections to the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations. It was Rohit Pawar, MLA, who on Monday confirmed his party's decision to align with the Ajit Pawar faction in their strongholds for the 15 January elections. On Sunday, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced the alliance between the two factions for the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections.

Rohit, who is the grandnephew of Sharad Pawar, reportedly said that the decision was influenced by the demands of party workers. After NCP (SP)s Prashant Jagtap quit the party, several workers approached executive president Supriya Sule and said that the two factions must come together. Keeping the sentiments of local party workers in mind, the decision to form an alliance was taken, Jansatta said in a report.

The move is also seen as a joint effort to put an end to the recent trend of local leaders defecting to the BJP. It will also improve their chances against the BJP in Pune and their other traditional strongholds. According to the Karjat-Jamkhed MLA, while Sharad Pawar was not directly involved in the decision, he agrees that party workers are important and that their views matter. The alliance was forged to make the electoral battle easier for both factions, he added.

Seat-sharing formula finalised

Rohit Pawar declared that despite the alliance, the candidates of the two sides will retain their respective poll symbols. A seat-sharing formula has also been finalised between the two NCP parties. The development raises questions about the future of the centrist party. What does the coming together of the two factions mean in the broader picture? Is the Pawar family heading towards a reunion? According to Jansatta, Rohit categorically denied that this was happening. Speaking to reporters on Monday, he said, This alliance is limited to just these two civic bodies.

Addressing a campaign rally in Pimpri-Chinchwad on Sunday, Ajit Pawar said, "While finalising the list of candidates for the Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections, the Nationalist Congress Party and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction decided to contest the polls together in Pimpri-Chinchwad. Because of this, the family will come together once again," ANI reported.

Calling it a decision taken in the interest of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar said the seat-sharing arrangement will be announced soon. "There were many questions in peoples minds about what would happen; many times, certain decisions have to be taken in the interest of Maharashtras development. I have discussed seat-sharing with leaders, and that too will be announced soon," he said.
The Saudi Water Authority has granted Chennai-based VA Tech Wabag a letter of award for a large repeat order to set up brackish water reverse osmosis plant in Aljouf, Saudi Arabia. The advanced technology plant will have a capacity of 50 million litre per day.

The company will be responsible for designing, supplying, constructing, and commissioning the plant over the next 14 months with state-of-the-art technology.

The raw water, which are collected by the plant from borewell fields, contains rare elements. Hence, the water needs pre-treatment using ceramic membrane technology, micron cartridge filtration and reverse osmosis. These advanced processes will help ensure long-term reliability and sustainable water supply for the region.

The project commencement date will be announced after the contract is signed by the two parties.

Phani Sathish Kadiyala, Country Manager & Branch GM, Saudi Arabia, said Wabag is honoured to receive this repeat order from the Saudi Water Authority and expressed gratitude for its continued confidence in the Chennai firm.

This award reflects the Kingdoms proactive adoption of next-generation water treatment technologies and further reinforces Wabags leadership in advanced technology solutions such as brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO), seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO), and recycle-and-reuse systems, he added.

We remain fully committed to delivering this state-of-the-art facility to the highest standards of quality, reliability, and performance, aligned with the Kingdoms Vision and its focus on sustainable, technology-driven water infrastructure, said Kadiyala.

In July, the pure-play water tech company signed a deal with Saudi Water Authority to operate a Mega Desalination Plant at Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, to treat 300 million litres per day using SWRO process.

In the past, Wabag developed two water infrastructure assetsan Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) and an SWRO desalination plantfor Saudi Aramco in Jazan Economic City. The ETP with 40 million litre daily (MLD) capacity reuses 32 MLD of industrial wastewater and eight MLD of municipal wastewater to support resource recovery and circularity.

The SWRO facility with 60 million litre daily capacity treats seawater from the Red Sea to supply high-quality potable water fro industrial consumption.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the country is facing a full-scale confrontation with the United States, Israel, and Europe in an official interview on Saturday.

The leader said that the countries did not want Iran to stand on its own feet, describing the pressure against Tehran.

In my view, we are in an all-out war with the United States, Israel, and Europe; they do not want our country to stand on its own feet, Pezeshkian said in an interview with state media.

For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East

He also said that the current war was more complex than the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s.

If one understands it properly, this war is far more complex and more difficult than that war, he said. In the war with Iraq, the situation was clear; they fired missiles, and it was clear where we would strike back. But here, they are now besieging us in every respect, putting us under pressure and in tight corners, creating problemseconomically, culturally, politically, and in terms of security, he added.

The comments were made ahead of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus meeting with the US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu had plans to brief the US president on options for future strikes against Iran amid concerns the country is building ballistic missile production facilities and repairing air defences, which were damaged during the June conflict, NBC reported.

Tehran has also been bolstering ties with Hamas as the country navigates the stalled nuclear talks and military setbacks.

Pezeshkian said that the country is currently stronger than during the 12-day war with Israel in terms of equipment and power. "If the enemy chooses confrontation, they will naturally face a more decisive response," he said.

ALSO READ | Iran is developing biological, chemical warheads as possibility of another war with US-Israel arises, sources say

Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has also made similar warnings against the US intervention and promised irreparable damage to aggressors.
Lethal sectarian violence erupted along Syrias coast on Sunday, marking a sharp escalation in the instability that has plagued the country since the fall of the Assad regime a year earlier. The unrest centred on Latakia and Tartus, where protests organised by the Alawite minority descended into chaotic clashes with counter-demonstrators and security forces. At least four people were killed, and dozens were injured, deepening the rift between the new Sunni-led government and the Alawite community that had been the backbone of Bashar al-Assads rule.

The immediate trigger was a deadly bombing two days earlier. During Friday prayers on December 26, explosive devices detonated inside an Alawite mosque in Homs, killing eight people and wounding 18. A little-known militant group called Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement on Telegram, the group said it had deliberately targeted Alawites, reflecting hardline Islamist views that regard the sect as apostate.

Government officials condemned the attack and promised accountability, saying preliminary investigations confirmed planted explosives. By the time protests began, however, no suspects had been publicly identified or arrested.

For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East

After funerals for the victims on December 27, calls went out for demonstrations. The appeal came from Ghazal Ghazal, an exiled Alawite sheikh who heads the Supreme Alawite Islamic Council in Syria and the Diaspora. Formerly close to the Assad family before fleeing after the regimes collapse, he urged Alawites to demand protection and political rights.

Thousands gathered in Latakia and Tartus and elsewhere. In Latakias Azhari Square, protesters called for a decentralised political system, the release of thousands of Alawite prisoners and an end to what they described as systemic marginalisation. The situation quickly turned violent.

Witnesses and journalists described a three-way confrontation between Alawite demonstrators, pro-government counter-protesters and state security forces. Security forces initially fired into the air to disperse the crowds. About two hours into the protest in Latakia, gunfire rang out from unidentified locations. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said security forces killed two people while attempting to disperse the gathering, though the government denied targeting peaceful civilians.

Health officials and journalists confirmed multiple deaths and widespread injuries. Three victims suffered fatal head wounds consistent with being struck by heavy stones, while a fourth died from a bullet wound to the chest. Injuries included stabbings, blunt force trauma from stones and gunshot wounds among civilians and security personnel.

State television reported attacks on security infrastructure, saying a hand grenade was thrown at a police station in the Tartus area, wounding two officers. Cars belonging to security forces were set alight in Latakia. The state news agency SANA reported that a member of the security forces was killed by gunfire and blamed armed remnants of the former regime.

The clashes underscore the fragility of Syrias transition after the end of the civil war. Assad, himself an Alawite, was ousted in a swift rebel offensive in December 2024, ending nearly 14 years of conflict and four decades of family rule. After he escaped to Moscow, a transitional government under President Ahmad Al Shara took over.

Alawites enjoyed preferential treatment when the Assad family was in power. Although they constituted about 10 per cent of the countrys population, they had disproportionate representation in the army and government jobs. The regimes collapse has left many feeling vulnerable. Since the transition, Alawites have complained of discrimination, including mass dismissals from public employment and the detention of young men without charge. Supporters of the new government, however, argue that loyalists of the old order orchestrated the unrest.

The clashes fit a wider pattern of sectarian violence since Assads fall. Earlier this year, Assad loyalists launched an attack against security forces, leading to an extended cycle of violence that killed hundreds of Alawites. The group feels it is being targeted by the new Sunni regime and has been demanding decentralisation of power, a call supported by other minorities, including Kurds and Druze, posing a challenge to Damascus.
At least 13 people died and 98 were injured after the Trans-Isthmus train in southern Mexico derailed on Sunday morning (local time).

Out of the 98 people injured, 36 were hospitalised with serious injuries of which nine were critically injured, the Mexican Navy said, as per an El Pais report.

The report added that the train had been travelling along Line Z of the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec project, which runs from Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, to Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz. This 2023 tourism project connects the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.

It was reportedly the "derailment of the main engine" that caused the traincomprising two locomotives and four passenger carsto almost completely veer off the tracks, as per the Mexican Navy. Some visuals even show parts of the train overturning into a ravine.

We felt the train coming in very fast; we dont know if the brakes failed, a passenger said in a now-viral video showing visuals from the wreckage.

He explained that his family was saved only because they had been in the last car, which was left nearly intact.

Vaya tragedia!



El descarrilamiento del Tren Interoceanico ha dejado, hasta ahora, 13 personas muertas



Esta misma noche alguien en el gobierno de la 4T debe salir a explicar



Y no se vale eso de reservar la investigacion por causas de seguridad nacional



Un testimonio  pic.twitter.com/y45I5PUcCn  Manuel Lopez San Martin (@MLopezSanMartin) December 29, 2025

"So many people are lying there ... We're okay, a little banged up, but okay," he added.

"Please help us get out. Please," another passenger could be heard saying amid sobs, in a video showing passengers stuck inside an almost-overturned rail car.

Tras el descarrilamiento del #TrenInteroceanico, en #Oaxaca, asi fue como pasajeros pidieron ayuda.



Hasta el momento, autoridades han confirmado la muerte de al menos 13 personas.https://t.co/mnkgKaMUbR pic.twitter.com/6E3YC3xOVU  Fuerza Informativa Azteca (@AztecaNoticias) December 29, 2025

Other videos showed passengers crying for help at the scene, with federal and state authorities contributing to the rescue efforts.

Specifically, 360 naval personnel, 20 vehicles, four land ambulances, three air ambulances, and a tactical drone were deployed in the rescue efforts, the Navy said.

"I have given instructions for the Secretary of the Navy and the Undersecretary of Human Rights of the Ministry of the Interior to go to the place and attend to the families personally; also the delegates of IMSS and IMSS-Bienestar," said Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, expressing sympathy for those who died in the tragic accident.

Me informa la Secretaria de Marina que en el accidente del Tren Interoceanico lamentablemente fallecieron 13 personas; 98 estan lesionadas, cinco de ellas de gravedad. Los heridos se encuentran en hospitales del IMSS en Matias Romero y Salina Cruz, asi como de IMSS-Bienestar en  Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo (@Claudiashein) December 29, 2025

The Attorney General's Office (FGR) has begun a probe to determine the cause of the derailment.

Notably, this comes after a December 20 accident on the Interoceanic Corridor in which a train travelling on Line FA (from Coatzacoalcos to Pakal-Na) collided with an oil tanker that had attempted to cross the tracks. No deaths were reported in this accident.
A popular alliance has been formed between the Rastriya Swatantra Party RSP and Kathmandu Metropolitan City mayor Balendra Shah, which has been approved after a committee meeting. The alliance is poised to challenge the older parties in Nepal, which have been in power for over three decades.

Balendra Shah, a rapper-turned-politician and mayor, joined hands with the RSP, which is led by former TV host-turned-politician Rabi Lamichhane, on Sunday, party officials said.

The parties came to a seven-point agreement on various issues ahead of the upcoming March 5 elections to the House of Representatives.

Under the agreement, the 35-year-old Balen Shah will become the prime minister if the RSP wins the elections, and Lamichhane will remain party chief.

The two have also agreed to address the the demands raised by the youth-led Gen Z protests that took place in September, during which 77 people were killed. The protests had also led to the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.

RSP leader Lamichhane is currently out on bail after being released on December 18 and has since then intensified work on politics, including several meetings with Shah. He was in prison for connection to a case where he was accused of alleged misuse of funds collected by cooperatives from small depositors. He had formed the party ahead of the 2022 elections and became popular for his anti-corruption campaign as a TV host.

In a Facebook post, Lamichhane shared, "Consensus should be what the country needs, not what the leader wants."

The agreement had also initially included Ujaayalo Nepal party leader Kulman Ghising, but he could not be convinced, according to party representatives
TOKYO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- A five-year-old boy died after his right arm was caught in a travelator at a ski resort in Japan's northern prefecture of Hokkaido on Sunday, local authorities said.

The accident occurred at the Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort in Otaru on Sunday morning, when the boy became trapped in a moving walkway connecting the parking area to the ski slope. His mother called emergency services to report the incident.

The boy, a resident of Sapporo, was rescued but was unconscious when taken to hospital, where his death was later confirmed, according to local police and firefighters.

Resort officials told Kyodo News that the walkway's emergency stop function failed to activate automatically when the child became trapped, prompting his mother to press the stop button.

The emergency function, designed to stop the travelator automatically if a foreign object is caught, had worked properly during a routine inspection earlier that day, officials said.

Police and other authorities are examining the exact cause of the accident and whether safety measures at the site were adequate. 
Suspending the work permits of Indians living in Bangladesh was one of the four demands in the Inquilab Mancha's new 24-day ultimatum to the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh.

The radical party has pressed the government to finish the trial of every single person involved in the murder of its leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, within 24 days.

The trial of the entire killing squadincluding the killer, the mastermind, the accomplices, those who aided their escape, and those who sheltered themmust be completed within the next 24 days, the party had said in a Facebook statement.

The 32-year-old party leader was shot by unidentified assailants on December 12 in Dhaka's Bijoy Nagar area, and was later transferred to Singapore for advanced treatment, but died on December 18.

The party's demands mention India because the Additional Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), S.N. Nazrul Islam, had recently alleged that Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir Sheikhtwo men accused in the Hadi murderhad crossed over the border and fled to Meghalaya.

He added that the DMP had also arrested Purti and Sami, two Indian nationals who allegedly helped them illegally cross the border, and escape.

However, New Delhi has rejected these claims.

"If India refuses to return all the murderers who have taken refuge inside its borders, a case should be filed against India in the International Court of Justice," reads another of the radical party's demands.

The party has also urged Dhaka's intelligence agencies to "identify, arrest and bring to justice the fascist culprits hiding within its ranks".

This ultimatum comes after party secretary Abdullah Al Jaber's 24-hour ultimatum issued at Hadi's funeral on December 20, demanding that the Yunus-led government make serious progress in the investigation.

The murder, which came just months ahead of the pollsspecifically, a day after Dhaka's Election Commission announced that the 13th parliamentary election would be held on February 12, 2026has sent shockwaves through Bangladesh.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday reiterated his claim that both Russia and Ukraine are 'closer than ever' to a peace deal as he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Florida resort.

He, however, acknowledged that the negotiations are complex and some of the thorniest details remain unresolved.

Trump and Zelenskyy met following a two-and-a-half-hour phone conversation between the U.S. president and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed," Trump said, describing his talks with Putin as "excellent."

I just had a good and very productive telephone call with President Putin of Russia prior to my meeting, at 1:00 P.M. today, with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine... - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/4biVoStksd  The White House (@WhiteHouse) December 28, 2025

The issues on which a consensus has not been reached yet include whether Russia can keep the Ukrainian territory it controls, as well as security guarantees for Ukraine to ensure it is not invaded again in the future.

While Moscow insists on getting all of the Donbas, Kyiv wants the map frozen at the current battle lines. The U.S. has proposed a free economic zone if Ukraine leaves the area.

Russia controls all of Crimea, which it annexed in 2014, and since its invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago has taken control of about 12 per cent of its territory, including about 90 per cent of the Donbas, 75 per cent of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, and slivers of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, according to Russian estimates.

After their discussion, Trump and Zelenskyy called several European leaders and agreed to host them again in Washington in January.

"Our attitude is very clear. That's why President Trump said this is a very tough question and, of course, we have different positions with Russia on it," Zelenskyy said, referring to the contentious issues.

Trump said he still believes Putin is "very serious" about ending the war, even as Russia launched another round of massive attacks on Kyiv as Zelenskyy travelled to the US.

I thank @POTUS Donald Trump for a great meeting. We had a substantive discussion on all issues, and we much appreciate the progress achieved by American and Ukrainian teams in recent weeks. Special thanks to Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for their engagement and full pic.twitter.com/cDAC2LFl6K  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) December 28, 2025

"In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump said. "We could have something where one item that you're not thinking about is big, breaks it up. Look, it's been a very difficult negotiation. Very detailed."
New Delhi, Dec 26 (PTI) The Committee of Creditors (CoC) cannot modify or alter a resolution plan for reallocation of funds of dissenting creditors, after it is approved, insolvency appellate tribunal NCLAT has said.

Dismissing an appeal by Bank of Baroda in the Reliance Communications Infrastructure Ltd (RCIL) matter, a two-member NCLAT bench said the assenting members of the committee cannot alter the financial layout once the bids have been approved.

"It is true that the CoC with commercial wisdom can take a decision regarding different aspects of the plan, including manner of distribution, but once the commercial wisdom has been exercised by approving the resolution plan in meeting, the modification of the said distribution mechanism, which is impermissible, cannot be saved in the name of commercial wisdom of the CoC," said NCLAT.

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) order came following an appeal by the Bank of Baroda in the insolvency proceedings related to Reliance Communications Infrastructure Ltd (RCIL).

The NCLT had approved the bid of Reliance Projects & Property Management Services Ltd (RPPMSL), a Jio subsidiary. This resolution plan was approved by 67.97 per cent vote share of the CoC on August 5, 2021.

Bank of Baroda was one of the members of the CoC who approved RPPMS's plan. However, IDBI Bank, State Bank of India, and some other financial institutions dissented.

The plan was sent for approval before the Mumbai bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

Meanwhile, Bank of Baroda, in its capacity as assenting financial creditor, filed an application before the NCLT, praying to direct the CoC to convene a meeting on the proposal to reallocate distribution of proceeds under the resolution plan concerning the loan to Reliance Bhutan.

Later, NCLT on October 17, 2023, directed the resolution professional of RCIL to convene a meeting of the CoC to consider the manner of reallocation of payments to be made to creditors.

RP convened a meeting of the CoC on October 27, 2023, where the resolution for reallocation and reassignment of Reliance Bhutan was passed with 67.55 per cent majority. However, IDBI Bank and State Bank of India objected.

Disposing of BoB's plea, NCLT on December 19, approved the resolution plan as proposed by RPPMS.

IDBI then moved to NCLT, challenging the reallocation of proceeds by the CoC on October 27, 2023. On this, NCLT held that the CoC in its decision cannot alter the financial layout with respect to the entitlement of financial creditors.

The Reliance Bhutan loan was to be assigned to the approving financial creditor. This resolution plan could not be modified by assigning the Reliance Bhutan Loan to the dissenting financial creditors, NCLT said on October 10, 2025.

The order was challenged by Bank of Baroda and it was dismissed.

"The Adjudicating Authority in the impugned order after considering all relevant clauses has rightly come to the conclusion that the decision of the CoC dated 27.10.2023 is contrary to the approved resolution plan and cannot bind the dissenting financial creditors," NCLAT said.

It was held that the dissenting financial creditors are entitled to receiving payment in the manner provided in the resolution plan and the CoC cannot alter the financial layout in respect of their entitlement under the plan.

"We are in full agreement with the view taken by the adjudicating authority as noted above. The adjudicating authority did not commit any error in allowing the plea filed by the IDBI Bank. We do not find any good ground to interfere with the decision of the adjudicating authority, NCLAT said, dismissing the appeal.
National Bank of Greece S.A. (OTCMKTS:NBGIF  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant decline in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 1,484,966 shares, a decline of 41.9% from the November 30th total of 2,555,746 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 5,235 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 283.7 days. Based on an average daily volume of 5,235 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 283.7 days.

National Bank of Greece Price Performance

Shares of National Bank of Greece stock traded down $0.25 during trading on Friday, hitting $15.45. 1,861 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,202. National Bank of Greece has a 52 week low of $7.50 and a 52 week high of $16.04. The firms fifty day moving average is $15.17 and its 200-day moving average is $14.48.

Get National Bank of Greece alerts:

National Bank of Greece Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

National Bank of Greece (OTCMKTS:NBGIF) is one of Greeces oldest and largest financial institutions, tracing its roots back to its establishment in 1841. Headquartered in Athens, the bank has played a pivotal role in the economic development of modern Greece and continues to serve as a cornerstone of the countrys banking sector. Over the years, National Bank of Greece has expanded its operations beyond its domestic market, reflecting its commitment to supporting trade and investment across the wider region.

The bank offers a comprehensive suite of financial products and services that span retail banking, corporate and investment banking, private banking, and asset management.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for National Bank of Greece Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for National Bank of Greece and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS INC. (NYSE:BHR  Get Free Report) saw a large growth in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 1,572,241 shares, a growth of 66.5% from the November 30th total of 944,465 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 889,721 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.8 days. Approximately 2.5% of the shares of the company are short sold. Approximately 2.5% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 889,721 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.8 days.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d+) rating on shares of BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Sell rating, According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Sell.

Get BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS alerts:

Get Our Latest Report on BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS

BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS Stock Performance

BHR traded up $0.06 on Friday, reaching $2.94. The stock had a trading volume of 468,571 shares, compared to its average volume of 725,244. BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS has a 12-month low of $1.80 and a 12-month high of $3.34. The company has a current ratio of 1.64, a quick ratio of 1.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.64. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $2.71 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $2.60. The company has a market cap of $200.22 million, a P/E ratio of -3.37 and a beta of 0.80.

BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS (NYSE:BHR  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported ($0.19) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.11) by ($0.08). BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS had a negative net margin of 1.04% and a negative return on equity of 3.27%. The business had revenue of $143.56 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $142.62 million. Sell-side analysts forecast that BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS will post 0.31 earnings per share for the current year.

BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a $0.05 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $0.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.8%. BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTSs payout ratio is -22.99%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS

A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. HighTower Advisors LLC purchased a new position in BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS during the first quarter valued at $25,000. Strs Ohio acquired a new position in shares of BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS during the 1st quarter worth about $32,000. BNP Paribas Financial Markets lifted its stake in BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS by 94.1% in the 3rd quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 12,506 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 6,062 shares in the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio acquired a new stake in BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS in the 3rd quarter worth about $38,000. Finally, Franklin Resources Inc. acquired a new stake in BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS in the 3rd quarter worth about $42,000. 64.79% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Braemar Hotels & Resorts, Inc (NYSE:BHR) is a publicly traded equity real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on acquiring, owning and operating upper-upscale and luxury hotels and resorts. The company invests in a combination of direct fee interests and equity stakes in well-known branded properties, structuring its investments through long-term leases, ground leases and joint ventures. Braemars business model generates stable cash flows through base rent, percentage rent tied to property revenues and reimbursements for property operating expenses and capital improvements.

The companys portfolio is strategically concentrated in primary urban and resort markets across the United States, including key destinations in California, Florida and the Northeast corridor.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
American Integrity Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:AII  Get Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 85,248 shares, a decline of 43.5% from the November 30th total of 150,957 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 178,491 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.5 days. Currently, 0.4% of the companys stock are sold short. Currently, 0.4% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 178,491 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.5 days.

Insider Activity at American Integrity Insurance Group

In related news, Director Steven E. Smathers sold 171,800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $19.00, for a total value of $3,264,200.00. Following the sale, the director owned 173,414 shares in the company, valued at $3,294,866. This represents a 49.77% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CEO Robert C. Ritchie sold 59,554 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $19.00, for a total transaction of $1,131,526.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 2,417,212 shares in the company, valued at approximately $45,927,028. The trade was a 2.40% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold 3,354,591 shares of company stock valued at $63,737,229 in the last three months.

Get American Integrity Insurance Group alerts:

Institutional Trading of American Integrity Insurance Group

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Wasatch Advisors LP lifted its stake in American Integrity Insurance Group by 3.8% in the 3rd quarter. Wasatch Advisors LP now owns 907,338 shares of the companys stock worth $20,243,000 after purchasing an additional 33,344 shares in the last quarter. Mink Brook Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of American Integrity Insurance Group by 12.2% in the third quarter. Mink Brook Asset Management LLC now owns 478,473 shares of the companys stock worth $10,675,000 after purchasing an additional 51,933 shares during the period. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of American Integrity Insurance Group in the third quarter worth $83,000. Lighthouse Investment Partners LLC bought a new stake in American Integrity Insurance Group during the third quarter valued at $1,267,000. Finally, Bank of America Corp DE grew its position in American Integrity Insurance Group by 411.0% during the third quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 152,267 shares of the companys stock worth $3,397,000 after buying an additional 122,469 shares in the last quarter.

American Integrity Insurance Group Price Performance

Shares of AII traded down $0.21 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $20.54. The companys stock had a trading volume of 110,510 shares, compared to its average volume of 162,029. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $22.00 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $20.23. American Integrity Insurance Group has a 52-week low of $15.77 and a 52-week high of $26.36. The company has a market cap of $402.01 million and a price-to-earnings ratio of 4.56.

American Integrity Insurance Group (NYSE:AII  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $0.71 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.61 by $0.10. American Integrity Insurance Group had a net margin of 31.63% and a return on equity of 37.99%. The company had revenue of $62.03 million during the quarter.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have commented on AII. Citizens Jmp lifted their target price on shares of American Integrity Insurance Group from $26.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock a market outperform rating in a research report on Monday, November 17th. JMP Securities lifted their price target on American Integrity Insurance Group from $23.00 to $26.00 and gave the stock a market outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (e+) rating on shares of American Integrity Insurance Group in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their target price on American Integrity Insurance Group from $26.00 to $29.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 18th. Finally, Raymond James Financial reiterated an outperform rating and set a $24.00 target price (up from $22.00) on shares of American Integrity Insurance Group in a research note on Monday, September 22nd. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $26.80.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on AII

American Integrity Insurance Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

American Integrity Insurance Group, Ltd. is a specialized provider of personal lines residential property insurance based in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. The company underwrites a variety of policies including homeowners multiple peril, condominium unitowners, dwelling fire, wind-only, personal umbrella and renters insurance. Its product suite is designed to protect against hurricane, windstorm, hail and other weather-related risks common to Floridas coastal and inland regions.

Founded in 2004, American Integrity operates primarily through a network of independent insurance agents across the state of Florida.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for American Integrity Insurance Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Integrity Insurance Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Pediatrix Medical Group (NYSE:MD  Get Free Report) and Amarantus Bioscience (OTCMKTS:AMBS  Get Free Report) are both medical companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, earnings, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, dividends, profitability and risk.

Volatility and Risk

Pediatrix Medical Group has a beta of 0.77, suggesting that its share price is 23% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Amarantus Bioscience has a beta of 1.41, suggesting that its share price is 41% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Get Pediatrix Medical Group alerts:

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Pediatrix Medical Group and Amarantus Biosciences top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Pediatrix Medical Group $2.01 billion 0.93 -$99.07 million $1.90 11.52 Amarantus Bioscience N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Amarantus Bioscience has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Pediatrix Medical Group.

Profitability

This table compares Pediatrix Medical Group and Amarantus Biosciences net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Pediatrix Medical Group 8.44% 20.45% 7.94% Amarantus Bioscience N/A N/A N/A

Insider and Institutional Ownership

97.7% of Pediatrix Medical Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.9% of Pediatrix Medical Group shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 10.3% of Amarantus Bioscience shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for Pediatrix Medical Group and Amarantus Bioscience, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Pediatrix Medical Group 0 4 1 1 2.50 Amarantus Bioscience 0 0 0 0 0.00

Pediatrix Medical Group currently has a consensus target price of $21.00, suggesting a potential downside of 4.07%. Given Amarantus Biosciences higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Amarantus Bioscience is more favorable than Pediatrix Medical Group.

Summary

Pediatrix Medical Group beats Amarantus Bioscience on 8 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Pediatrix Medical Group

(Get Free Report)

Pediatrix Medical Group, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides newborn, maternal-fetal, pediatric cardiology, and other pediatric subspecialty care services in the United States. It offers neonatal care services, such as clinical care to babies born prematurely or with complications within specific units at hospitals through neonatal physician subspecialists, neonatal nurse practitioners, and other pediatric clinicians. The company also provides maternal-fetal care services, including inpatient and office-based clinical care to expectant mothers and unborn babies through affiliated maternal-fetal medicine subspecialists, as well as obstetricians and other clinicians, including maternal-fetal nurse practitioners, certified nurse mid-wives, sonographers, and genetic counselors. In addition, it offers pediatric cardiology care services comprising inpatient and office-based pediatric cardiology care of the fetus, infant, child, and adolescent patient with congenital heart defects and acquired heart disease, as well as adults with congenital heart defects through affiliated pediatric cardiologist subspecialists and other related clinical professionals, including pediatric nurse practitioners, echocardiographers, other diagnostic technicians, and exercise physiologists; and specialized cardiac care to the fetus, neonatal and pediatric patients. Further, the company provides other pediatric subspecialty care services, such as pediatric intensivists, pediatric hospitalists, pediatric surgeons, and pediatric ophthalmologists, as well as pediatric ear, nose, and throat physicians, pediatric gastroenterologists; and support services in the areas of hospitals, primarily in the pediatric emergency rooms, labor and delivery areas, and nursery and pediatric departments. The company was formerly known as MEDNAX, Inc. and changed its name to Pediatrix Medical Group, Inc. in July 2022. Pediatrix Medical Group, Inc. was founded in 1979 and is based in Sunrise, Florida.

About Amarantus Bioscience

(Get Free Report)

Amarantus BioScience Holdings, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the development of diagnostic and therapeutic product candidates in the areas of neurology, psychiatry, ophthalmology, and regenerative medicine. The company's diagnostic products in development include the lymphocyte proliferation (LymPro) test, a diagnostic blood test for Alzheimer's disease; and MSPrecise, a proprietary DNA sequencing assay for the identification of patients with multiple sclerosis. Its therapeutic products in development comprise Eltoprazine, a small molecule drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease Levadopa-Induced Dyskinesia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders; and mesencephalic-astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor for the treatment of various animal models, including retinitis pigmentosa and retinal artery occlusion. It also develops NuroPro, a neurodegenerative disease diagnostic platform with application in Parkinson's disease; BC-SeraPro, an oncology diagnostic platform with application in breast cancer; and PhenoGuard platform for neurrotrophic factor discovery. In addition, the company develops Engineered Skin Substitute (ESS), a cell therapy-based autologous skin replacement product that is in mid-stage clinical development for the treatment of life-threatening severe burns. Amarantus BioScience Holdings, Inc. has a cooperative research and development agreement with the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research and Rutgers University. The company was formerly known as Amarantus Bioscience, Inc. and changed its name to Amarantus BioScience Holdings, Inc. in April 2013. Amarantus BioScience Holdings, Inc. was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in New York, New York.

Receive News & Ratings for Pediatrix Medical Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pediatrix Medical Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
MISUMI Group Inc. (OTCMKTS:MSSMY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 5,201 shares, a decrease of 53.7% from the November 30th total of 11,230 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 6,202 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.8 days. Based on an average trading volume of 6,202 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.8 days.

MISUMI Group Stock Down 3.6%

Shares of OTCMKTS MSSMY traded down $0.29 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $7.82. The company had a trading volume of 1,430 shares, compared to its average volume of 69,587. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $7.52 and its 200 day simple moving average is $7.38. MISUMI Group has a one year low of $6.20 and a one year high of $9.46.

Get MISUMI Group alerts:

MISUMI Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

MISUMI Group Inc is a Tokyo-based industrial supplier specializing in configurable components and automation solutions for the manufacturing sector. Through its proprietary e-catalog platform, the company offers a broad portfolio of mechanical parts, including linear motion systems, bearings, fasteners and workholding devices. Customers can select from a vast library of standard items or specify custom dimensions online, with real-time CAD downloads and instant pricing to support rapid design cycles.

In addition to off-the-shelf components, MISUMI Group provides precision press-die and plastic-mold parts under its Die Components business.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for MISUMI Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MISUMI Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
VOC Energy Trust (NYSE:VOC  Get Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 9,386 shares, a decrease of 60.6% from the November 30th total of 23,803 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 60,305 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Approximately 0.1% of the companys stock are sold short. Approximately 0.1% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 60,305 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d) rating on shares of VOC Energy Trust in a research note on Monday, December 22nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Sell rating, According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Sell.

Get VOC Energy Trust alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on VOC

Hedge Funds Weigh In On VOC Energy Trust

VOC Energy Trust Price Performance

A hedge fund recently raised its stake in VOC Energy Trust stock. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC raised its position in VOC Energy Trust ( NYSE:VOC Free Report ) by 152.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 42,733 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after purchasing an additional 25,792 shares during the period. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC owned about 0.25% of VOC Energy Trust worth $122,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Shares of VOC traded down $0.02 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $2.79. 91,034 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 55,029. The stock has a market capitalization of $47.43 million, a PE ratio of 5.47 and a beta of 0.32. VOC Energy Trust has a 52-week low of $2.44 and a 52-week high of $5.12. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $2.91 and its 200-day simple moving average is $2.89.

VOC Energy Trust (NYSE:VOC  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.11 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $2.16 million during the quarter. VOC Energy Trust had a net margin of 87.74% and a return on equity of 75.96%.

VOC Energy Trust Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 30th were given a dividend of $0.11 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, October 30th. This represents a $0.44 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 15.8%. VOC Energy Trusts dividend payout ratio is presently 86.27%.

About VOC Energy Trust

(Get Free Report)

VOC Energy Trust is a Canada-based unincorporated, open-ended royalty trust focused on upstream oil and gas interests. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, the trust holds non-operated royalty and net profit interests in conventional petroleum and natural gas properties. VOCs structure allows it to collect a percentage of production revenues without directly managing exploration or drilling activities.

The trusts asset portfolio is concentrated in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, with producing properties across Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for VOC Energy Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for VOC Energy Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE:OUT  Get Free Report) was the target of a large drop in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 4,660,003 shares, a drop of 49.8% from the November 30th total of 9,277,928 shares. Currently, 2.8% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 1,293,224 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 3.6 days. Based on an average daily volume of 1,293,224 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 3.6 days. Currently, 2.8% of the companys stock are sold short.

OUTFRONT Media Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:OUT traded up $0.05 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $24.11. The companys stock had a trading volume of 402,324 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,317,727. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $21.51 and its 200-day simple moving average is $19.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.75, a current ratio of 0.79 and a quick ratio of 0.79. OUTFRONT Media has a fifty-two week low of $12.95 and a fifty-two week high of $24.84. The company has a market capitalization of $4.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.45, a P/E/G ratio of 1.35 and a beta of 1.57.

Get OUTFRONT Media alerts:

OUTFRONT Media (NYSE:OUT  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The financial services provider reported $0.29 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.50 by ($0.21). The company had revenue of $467.50 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $458.32 million. OUTFRONT Media had a return on equity of 21.56% and a net margin of 6.86%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.19 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that OUTFRONT Media will post 1.59 EPS for the current fiscal year.

OUTFRONT Media Dividend Announcement

Analyst Ratings Changes

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be given a dividend of $0.30 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.0%. OUTFRONT Medias dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 176.47%.

A number of brokerages have weighed in on OUT. Cowen raised shares of OUTFRONT Media from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Wells Fargo & Company reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $27.00 price objective (up previously from $23.00) on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research report on Thursday, December 18th. Barrington Research reissued an outperform rating and set a $21.00 target price on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Citigroup restated a buy rating and set a $23.00 price target (up from $20.00) on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. Finally, Morgan Stanley upgraded OUTFRONT Media from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $20.00 to $28.00 in a research report on Tuesday, December 16th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $24.57.

Read Our Latest Research Report on OUT

Insider Buying and Selling at OUTFRONT Media

In other OUTFRONT Media news, Director Manuel A. Diaz sold 11,270 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $22.18, for a total transaction of $249,968.60. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 58,786 shares in the company, valued at $1,303,873.48. This trade represents a 16.09% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.47% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Advisors Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in OUTFRONT Media during the 1st quarter worth approximately $22,330,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. lifted its position in shares of OUTFRONT Media by 85.2% in the second quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 1,788,695 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $29,192,000 after purchasing an additional 822,845 shares in the last quarter. Lasalle Investment Management Securities LLC boosted its holdings in OUTFRONT Media by 24.0% during the second quarter. Lasalle Investment Management Securities LLC now owns 3,925,402 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $64,063,000 after purchasing an additional 758,952 shares during the last quarter. Woodline Partners LP acquired a new position in OUTFRONT Media during the third quarter worth $13,705,000. Finally, Boothbay Fund Management LLC bought a new position in OUTFRONT Media in the first quarter valued at $11,388,000.

About OUTFRONT Media

(Get Free Report)

OUTFRONT Media Inc is a leading out-of-home (OOH) advertising company offering a broad range of billboard, transit and digital display solutions across major urban markets in the United States and Canada. Its portfolio encompasses traditional static billboards, high-resolution digital signage, transit media on buses, trains and taxis, as well as street furniture placements such as bus shelters, kiosks and urban panels. The company partners with brand marketers to deliver high-impact campaigns that engage consumers outside the home environment.

Through an extensive network of assets in key metropolitan areas, OUTFRONT provides advertisers with premium visibility along highways, city streets and transit corridors.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for OUTFRONT Media Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for OUTFRONT Media and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
SEOUL, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's special counsel on Monday finalized investigations into corruption charges of former impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol and his wife.

The team of independent counsel Min Joong-ki said in a statement, unveiled after wrapping up the 180-day probe, that it filed charges against a total of 76 people, including 20 indicted under detention.

It noted that the allegations against Yoon and his wife, Kim Keon-hee, were wide-ranging, including: stock price manipulation, accepting luxury gifts, illegally interfering in the relocation of the presidential office and residence, and illegally receiving political funds.

The special counsel team said the allegations, which had emerged even before Yoon took office, were both extensive in scope and significant in nature.

It was confirmed that Kim had exploited her position as first lady both to readily receive luxury gifts and to extensively interfere in appointments and nominations. This conduct, which could be called a modern-day sale of public office, resulted in a significant breakdown of public systems, the team stressed.

The special counsel team demanded a 15-year prison term for Kim, who has been held at a detention center since August. The sentencing date was set for Jan. 28 next year.

Kim became the first wife of a former South Korean president to be tried under detention. 
Hannover Ruck SE (OTCMKTS:HVRRY  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant growth in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 21,166 shares, a growth of 92.6% from the November 30th total of 10,989 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 20,550 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.0 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 20,550 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.0 days.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

HVRRY has been the topic of several research reports. Royal Bank Of Canada downgraded shares of Hannover Ruck from a moderate buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Zacks Research lowered shares of Hannover Ruck from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Finally, UBS Group upgraded Hannover Ruck from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, September 12th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Hannover Ruck alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Hannover Ruck

Hannover Ruck Trading Up 1.4%

Hannover Ruck stock traded up $0.74 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $52.52. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,591 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,537. The stocks fifty day moving average is $49.79 and its two-hundred day moving average is $50.30. The company has a current ratio of 0.14, a quick ratio of 0.14 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. The firm has a market capitalization of $38.00 billion, a PE ratio of 13.82 and a beta of 0.33. Hannover Ruck has a 1 year low of $41.49 and a 1 year high of $55.40.

Hannover Ruck (OTCMKTS:HVRRY  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The financial services provider reported $1.05 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.07 by ($0.02). The business had revenue of $8.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.27 billion. Hannover Ruck had a net margin of 9.44% and a return on equity of 19.35%. On average, analysts anticipate that Hannover Ruck will post 3.42 EPS for the current year.

Hannover Ruck Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Hannover Ruck (OTCMKTS: HVRRY), commonly known as Hannover Re, is a global reinsurance group headquartered in Hannover, Germany. The company underwrites treaty and facultative reinsurance across a broad spectrum of risks, including property & casualty and life & health lines. Its product suite encompasses traditional proportional and non?proportional treaty contracts, facultative placements, structured reinsurance, retrocession, and capital marketlinked solutions such as insurance?linked securities, tailored to transfer and manage insurance risk for primary insurers and other reinsurers.

Founded in the 1960s, Hannover Re has developed into one of the major international reinsurers, building a presence across Europe, the Americas, Asia?Pacific and other global markets.

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.
BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (NYSEARCA:XTWO  Get Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 10,602 shares, a decline of 42.6% from the November 30th total of 18,476 shares. Currently, 0.3% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 41,990 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 41,990 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Currently, 0.3% of the companys stock are sold short.

BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Trading Up 0.1%

NYSEARCA:XTWO traded up $0.04 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $49.60. The stock had a trading volume of 5,586 shares, compared to its average volume of 21,573. The businesss 50 day moving average is $49.54 and its 200 day moving average is $49.48. BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF has a fifty-two week low of $48.94 and a fifty-two week high of $49.72.

Get BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF alerts:

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Holcombe Financial Inc. grew its position in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 10.1% in the third quarter. Holcombe Financial Inc. now owns 6,540 shares of the companys stock valued at $324,000 after purchasing an additional 602 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC boosted its stake in BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 7.4% during the 3rd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 9,405 shares of the companys stock valued at $466,000 after purchasing an additional 651 shares during the period. Pineridge Advisors LLC grew its holdings in BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 175.5% in the 3rd quarter. Pineridge Advisors LLC now owns 1,758 shares of the companys stock valued at $87,000 after buying an additional 1,120 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. bought a new position in BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $69,000. Finally, Focus Partners Wealth lifted its holdings in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 0.6% during the third quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 306,032 shares of the companys stock worth $15,168,000 after buying an additional 1,940 shares during the last quarter.

About BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF

The Bondbloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (XTWO) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund is passively managed to invest in a portfolio of US Treasury securities with a target duration of two years. XTWO was launched on Sep 13, 2022 and is managed by BondBloxx.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BondBloxx Bloomberg Two Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Invesco India ETF (NYSEARCA:PIN  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant drop in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 8,624 shares, a drop of 42.6% from the November 30th total of 15,025 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 33,723 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days. Approximately 0.1% of the companys stock are short sold. Approximately 0.1% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 33,723 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Invesco India ETF

A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco India ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $244,000. HighTower Advisors LLC raised its stake in Invesco India ETF by 7.4% during the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 19,061 shares of the companys stock valued at $477,000 after buying an additional 1,314 shares during the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Invesco India ETF by 24.0% in the second quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 15,424 shares of the companys stock worth $416,000 after acquiring an additional 2,985 shares in the last quarter. Washington Growth Strategies LLC boosted its holdings in Invesco India ETF by 44,552.0% in the second quarter. Washington Growth Strategies LLC now owns 11,163 shares of the companys stock worth $301,000 after acquiring an additional 11,138 shares in the last quarter. Finally, OLD Mission Capital LLC grew its stake in shares of Invesco India ETF by 409.0% in the first quarter. OLD Mission Capital LLC now owns 191,228 shares of the companys stock worth $4,783,000 after acquiring an additional 153,662 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 40.83% of the companys stock.

Get Invesco India ETF alerts:

Invesco India ETF Trading Down 0.2%

Shares of PIN stock traded down $0.06 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $24.24. 90,212 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 44,572. Invesco India ETF has a 1 year low of $23.07 and a 1 year high of $27.20. The firm has a market cap of $198.04 million, a PE ratio of 26.32 and a beta of 0.47. The companys 50 day moving average is $25.94 and its two-hundred day moving average is $25.94.

About Invesco India ETF

PowerShares India Portfolio (the Fund) is based on the Indus India Index (Index). The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its assets in a wholly-owned subsidiary located in the Republic of Mauritius (the Subsidiary), which in turn invests at least 90% of its total assets in securities of Indian companies that consists of the Index, as well as American depositary receipts(ADR) and global depositary receipts (GDR) based on the securities in the Index. The Index is designed to represent the segment of the Indian equity markets.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco India ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco India ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
iShares Latin America 40 ETF (NYSEARCA:ILF  Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 2,187,161 shares, a growth of 94.5% from the November 30th total of 1,124,586 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 3,273,447 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.7 days. Currently, 3.1% of the companys shares are sold short. Currently, 3.1% of the companys shares are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 3,273,447 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.7 days.

iShares Latin America 40 ETF Trading Up 0.5%

Shares of ILF traded up $0.15 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $30.93. The stock had a trading volume of 1,983,788 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,915,333. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $30.23 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $27.90. iShares Latin America 40 ETF has a fifty-two week low of $20.83 and a fifty-two week high of $32.04. The firm has a market cap of $2.17 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.28 and a beta of 0.90.

Get iShares Latin America 40 ETF alerts:

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ILF. Trexquant Investment LP increased its position in iShares Latin America 40 ETF by 2.9% in the 1st quarter. Trexquant Investment LP now owns 14,425 shares of the companys stock worth $340,000 after purchasing an additional 404 shares during the last quarter. EFG Asset Management Americas Corp. boosted its position in shares of iShares Latin America 40 ETF by 0.6% in the second quarter. EFG Asset Management Americas Corp. now owns 70,011 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,835,000 after acquiring an additional 430 shares during the period. Cottonwood Capital Advisors LLC grew its position in iShares Latin America 40 ETF by 4.6% in the 2nd quarter. Cottonwood Capital Advisors LLC now owns 9,796 shares of the companys stock worth $257,000 after purchasing an additional 431 shares during the last quarter. Family Firm Inc. lifted its stake in shares of iShares Latin America 40 ETF by 1.6% in the second quarter. Family Firm Inc. now owns 30,433 shares of the companys stock valued at $798,000 after buying an additional 471 shares during the period. Finally, Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. increased its stake in iShares Latin America 40 ETF by 4.8% during the second quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 11,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $288,000 after acquiring an additional 500 shares during the period. 45.01% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About iShares Latin America 40 ETF

iShares S & P Latin America 40 Index Fund, formerly iShares Latin America 40 ETF (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the S&P Latin America 40 (the Index). The Index consists of selected equities trading on the exchanges of five Latin American countries. The Index includes securities that Standard & Poors Financial Services LLC, a subsidiary of The McGraw-Hill Companies (S&P).

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for iShares Latin America 40 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Latin America 40 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF (NYSEARCA:IQLT  Get Free Report) saw a significant decrease in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 655,271 shares, a decrease of 48.1% from the November 30th total of 1,262,693 shares. Approximately 0.2% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 1,789,255 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.4 days. Based on an average daily volume of 1,789,255 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.4 days. Approximately 0.2% of the companys stock are sold short.

iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF Stock Up 0.2%

iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF stock traded up $0.08 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $45.80. 1,126,703 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,000,442. iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF has a 52-week low of $35.51 and a 52-week high of $45.81. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.86 and a beta of 0.89. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $44.83 and its 200-day moving average price is $43.83.

Get iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF alerts:

Hedge Funds Weigh In On iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF

Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of IQLT. Guerra Advisors Inc purchased a new position in iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF in the third quarter worth $27,000. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF by 244.0% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 829 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 588 shares during the period. Independence Bank of Kentucky purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $41,000. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $42,000. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. grew its position in iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF by 312.1% during the second quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 1,125 shares of the companys stock valued at $49,000 after buying an additional 852 shares during the period.

iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF (IQLT) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the World ex USA Sector Neutral Quality index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap stocks in developed countries, outside of the US. The index is selected and weighted for exposure to fundamental quality metrics. IQLT was launched on Jan 13, 2015 and is managed by BlackRock.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Brandywine Realty Trust (NYSE:BDN  Get Free Report) was upgraded by stock analysts at Wall Street Zen from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note issued to investors on Saturday.

A number of other equities analysts have also commented on BDN. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Brandywine Realty Trust in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reiterated an underweight rating on shares of Brandywine Realty Trust in a research report on Monday, November 24th. Truist Financial lowered shares of Brandywine Realty Trust from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from $5.00 to $4.00 in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. KeyCorp lowered shares of Brandywine Realty Trust from an overweight rating to a sector weight rating in a research report on Thursday, December 4th. Finally, Evercore ISI decreased their price target on shares of Brandywine Realty Trust from $5.00 to $4.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, November 14th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus price target of $4.00.

Get Brandywine Realty Trust alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on Brandywine Realty Trust

Brandywine Realty Trust Stock Performance

NYSE BDN opened at $2.88 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average is $3.30 and its two-hundred day moving average is $3.87. Brandywine Realty Trust has a 52-week low of $2.83 and a 52-week high of $5.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.68, a current ratio of 2.14 and a quick ratio of 2.14. The firm has a market capitalization of $499.39 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -2.69 and a beta of 1.30.

Brandywine Realty Trust (NYSE:BDN  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $0.16 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.17 by ($0.01). Brandywine Realty Trust had a negative net margin of 38.03% and a negative return on equity of 19.55%. The firm had revenue of $121.42 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $119.11 million. Equities research analysts forecast that Brandywine Realty Trust will post 0.66 EPS for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Brandywine Realty Trust news, CEO Gerard H. Sweeney bought 88,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, November 10th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $3.38 per share, with a total value of $299,130.00. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer owned 3,042,210 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $10,282,669.80. The trade was a 3.00% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director James C. Diggs sold 23,190 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, October 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $3.47, for a total transaction of $80,469.30. Following the sale, the director owned 128,672 shares of the companys stock, valued at $446,491.84. The trade was a 15.27% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders own 3.30% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Brandywine Realty Trust

A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in BDN. Advisory Services Network LLC bought a new stake in Brandywine Realty Trust in the third quarter valued at about $34,000. Ballentine Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of Brandywine Realty Trust during the 3rd quarter worth about $55,000. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Brandywine Realty Trust by 48.5% in the 2nd quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 14,042 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $60,000 after acquiring an additional 4,588 shares during the last quarter. Creative Planning raised its position in shares of Brandywine Realty Trust by 23.9% in the 2nd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 14,244 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $61,000 after acquiring an additional 2,749 shares during the period. Finally, Tower Research Capital LLC TRC boosted its stake in Brandywine Realty Trust by 146.6% during the 2nd quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 14,625 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $63,000 after acquiring an additional 8,694 shares during the last quarter. 87.27% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Brandywine Realty Trust

(Get Free Report)

Brandywine Realty Trust (NYSE: BDN) is an internally managed real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in the acquisition, development, and management of office and mixed-use properties. Headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, the company focuses on creating high?quality, transit?oriented workplaces that meet evolving tenant demands for sustainability, technological connectivity, and flexible design. Brandywines portfolio emphasizes Class A office space, often integrated with retail, residential or hospitality components to foster vibrant, live?work?play environments.

Since its founding in 1994, Brandywine has executed a strategy of disciplined property investment and targeted development.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Brandywine Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brandywine Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Free Report) was upgraded by research analysts at Wall Street Zen from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note issued to investors on Saturday.

A number of other research firms have also recently weighed in on F. Evercore ISI upped their target price on shares of Ford Motor from $12.00 to $14.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research note on Monday, December 22nd. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on Ford Motor from $11.00 to $12.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday, October 24th. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on Ford Motor from $11.00 to $12.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, September 29th. UBS Group boosted their price target on Ford Motor from $11.00 to $12.50 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Ford Motor from $13.00 to $14.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, twelve have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Ford Motor presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $12.18.

Get Ford Motor alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Ford Motor

Ford Motor Price Performance

Shares of F stock opened at $13.31 on Friday. Ford Motor has a 12 month low of $8.44 and a 12 month high of $13.99. The company has a market capitalization of $53.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.47 and a beta of 1.60. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $13.14 and a two-hundred day moving average of $12.05. The company has a current ratio of 1.12, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.20.

Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The auto manufacturer reported $0.45 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.38 by $0.07. Ford Motor had a return on equity of 11.94% and a net margin of 2.48%.The business had revenue of $50.53 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $43.08 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.49 earnings per share. Ford Motors revenue was up 9.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts expect that Ford Motor will post 1.47 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Ford Motor

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Ford Motor by 1.2% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 467,617,755 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $5,592,708,000 after purchasing an additional 5,371,758 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in Ford Motor by 3.7% in the 2nd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 145,172,134 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $1,575,118,000 after purchasing an additional 5,118,228 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Ford Motor by 17.9% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 103,784,031 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $1,122,434,000 after buying an additional 15,748,694 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in Ford Motor in the 2nd quarter valued at $405,328,000. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP increased its stake in shares of Ford Motor by 81.1% in the 3rd quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 35,438,722 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $423,847,000 after buying an additional 15,866,285 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 58.74% of the companys stock.

Ford Motor Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is an American multinational automaker headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. Founded by Henry Ford in 1903, the company became an early pioneer of mass-production techniques with the Model T and the adoption of the moving assembly line. Today, Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a broad range of vehicles and mobility solutions under the Ford and Lincoln brands, spanning passenger cars, SUVs, pickup trucks and commercial vehicles.

Fords business activities extend beyond vehicle production to include parts and aftermarket services, fleet and commercial sales, and automotive financing through Ford Motor Credit Company.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Ford Motor Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ford Motor and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Bank of Hawaii (NYSE:BOH  Get Free Report) was upgraded by equities researchers at Wall Street Zen from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note issued on Saturday.

A number of other analysts also recently weighed in on the company. DA Davidson restated a neutral rating and issued a $70.00 price objective on shares of Bank of Hawaii in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Bank of Hawaii in a research note on Monday, December 22nd. Finally, Barclays raised their price objective on Bank of Hawaii from $66.00 to $68.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $71.25.

Get Bank of Hawaii alerts:

Get Our Latest Research Report on BOH

Bank of Hawaii Stock Performance

Bank of Hawaii stock opened at $70.06 on Friday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $66.38 and a 200-day moving average of $66.29. The company has a market capitalization of $2.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.17, a P/E/G ratio of 0.74 and a beta of 0.75. Bank of Hawaii has a 1 year low of $57.44 and a 1 year high of $76.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.70 and a quick ratio of 0.70.

Bank of Hawaii (NYSE:BOH  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The bank reported $1.20 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.13 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $182.64 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $180.95 million. Bank of Hawaii had a net margin of 17.41% and a return on equity of 13.33%. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.93 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that Bank of Hawaii will post 3.97 earnings per share for the current year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Bank of Hawaii

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Bank of Hawaii by 150.0% in the 3rd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 450 shares of the banks stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 270 shares in the last quarter. Quarry LP grew its holdings in Bank of Hawaii by 1,497.2% in the third quarter. Quarry LP now owns 575 shares of the banks stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 539 shares during the period. Strs Ohio bought a new stake in Bank of Hawaii in the first quarter valued at $41,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of Bank of Hawaii by 461.3% during the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 623 shares of the banks stock valued at $42,000 after purchasing an additional 512 shares during the period. Finally, State of Wyoming boosted its position in shares of Bank of Hawaii by 8,220.0% during the 2nd quarter. State of Wyoming now owns 832 shares of the banks stock worth $56,000 after purchasing an additional 822 shares in the last quarter. 82.18% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Bank of Hawaii Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Bank of Hawaii (NYSE: BOH) is a regional commercial bank headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii, with roots tracing back to its founding in 1897 by Charles Montague Cooke and Peter Cushman Jones. As one of the oldest financial institutions in the U.S. West Coast region, the bank has built a reputation for stability and community focus. It operates as the principal subsidiary of Bank of Hawaii Corporation, a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange.

The bank offers a comprehensive suite of personal and business banking products and services.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Hawaii Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Hawaii and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Adecoagro S.A. (NYSE:AGRO  Get Free Report) have been given an average recommendation of Strong Sell by the five analysts that are covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. Four analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation and one has issued a hold recommendation on the company. The average 1-year price objective among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $8.8250.

Several brokerages have commented on AGRO. JPMorgan Chase & Co. initiated coverage on Adecoagro in a research note on Monday, December 1st. They set an underweight rating and a $7.00 target price for the company. UBS Group decreased their price target on shares of Adecoagro from $8.50 to $8.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, December 2nd. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d+) rating on shares of Adecoagro in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Adecoagro from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Sunday, November 23rd.

Get Adecoagro alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on AGRO

Adecoagro Stock Up 0.9%

NYSE AGRO opened at $8.01 on Friday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $7.90 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $8.42. The stock has a market capitalization of $801.92 million, a PE ratio of 34.84 and a beta of 0.44. Adecoagro has a fifty-two week low of $6.89 and a fifty-two week high of $11.78. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 2.80 and a quick ratio of 1.56.

Adecoagro (NYSE:AGRO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, December 1st. The company reported $0.00 EPS for the quarter. Adecoagro had a return on equity of 3.09% and a net margin of 1.67%.The company had revenue of $304.21 million during the quarter. Equities analysts expect that Adecoagro will post 1.24 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Adecoagro Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 19th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 3rd were given a $0.1749 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 3rd. This represents a yield of 444.0%. Adecoagros dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 152.17%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Jeppson Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in Adecoagro during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $124,000. State of Wyoming acquired a new position in shares of Adecoagro during the first quarter worth $133,000. R Squared Ltd grew its stake in shares of Adecoagro by 61.1% in the third quarter. R Squared Ltd now owns 22,302 shares of the companys stock worth $175,000 after purchasing an additional 8,462 shares during the last quarter. Vise Technologies Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Adecoagro in the second quarter worth $277,000. Finally, Magnetar Financial LLC increased its holdings in Adecoagro by 105.9% in the second quarter. Magnetar Financial LLC now owns 31,615 shares of the companys stock valued at $289,000 after purchasing an additional 16,260 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 45.25% of the companys stock.

Adecoagro Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Adecoagro (NYSE: AGRO) is a leading agricultural and renewable energy company with core operations in South America. Founded in 2002 by Argentine entrepreneur Alejandro Bulgheroni, the company has grown into a vertically integrated platform covering crop production, sugar and ethanol manufacturing, and dairy operations. Adecoagros business model spans the full value chain, from seed selection and planting through harvesting, processing and distribution of commodities.

The company manages over 700,000 hectares of farmland across Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Adecoagro Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Adecoagro and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Tempus AI, Hut 8, BigBear.ai, SoundHound AI, Upstart, Pagaya Technologies, and SentinelOne are the seven Artificial Intelligence stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Artificial intelligence stocks are shares of companies whose core products or services involve developing, producing, or commercially applying AI technologiessuch as AI software, machine-learning platforms, specialized semiconductors, cloud services, or firms that derive a meaningful portion of revenue from AI-driven solutions. Investors buy these stocks to gain exposure to potential growth from AI adoption, while recognizing they form a heterogeneous, often volatile group with varying business models, competitive risks, and regulatory or ethical considerations. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Artificial Intelligence stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

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.

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

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on BBAI

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

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

Pagaya Technologies (PGY)

Pagaya Technologies Ltd., a product-focused technology company, deploys data science and proprietary artificial intelligence-powered technology for financial institutions and investors in the United States, Israel, the Cayman Islands, and internationally. The company develops and implements proprietary artificial intelligence technology and related software solutions to assist partners to originate loans and other assets.

Read Our Latest Research Report on PGY

SentinelOne (S)

SentinelOne, Inc. operates as a cybersecurity provider in the United States and internationally. Its Singularity Platform delivers an artificial intelligence-powered autonomous threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities across an organization's endpoints, cloud workloads, and identify credentials, which enables seamless and autonomous protection against a spectrum of cyber threats.

Read Our Latest Research Report on S

Featured Stories
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The year 2025 has been pivotal, as China, standing at the threshold of a new five-year plan cycle, has seen high-standard opening up emerge as a core driver of Chinese modernization.

From the accelerated development of Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) to broader institutional reforms nationwide, China's opening up has scaled new heights in scope, depth and breadth, forging a two-way win-win trajectory that benefits both China and the world amid complex international headwinds.

Amid rising global challenges such as protectionism and unilateralism, expanding high-standard opening up, upholding multilateralism and free trade, and deepening cooperation across global industrial and supply chains not only help China gain strategic initiative in intensifying international competition, but also enable it to advance shared global opening up through its own efforts and promote more inclusive economic globalization, according to Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao.

China's commitment to open cooperation is evident in concrete actions. It has signed 24 free trade agreements with 31 countries and regions, granted zero-tariff treatment on all products across the entire tariff line for all least-developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations, and announced in September 2025 that, as a responsible major developing country, it will not seek new special and differential treatment in current or future World Trade Organization negotiations.

"In the past, China's opening up was about following others' footsteps, and now, it is about taking the lead," Wang said.

OPEN COOPERATION ON INDUSTRIAL CHAIN

As a linchpin in global industrial and supply chains, China has actively welcomed international enterprises to integrate into its market through deepened cooperation, generating fruitful outcomes and helping drive global economic recovery.

The year 2025 marks a milestone for German tech firm Heraeus Group, celebrating the 30th anniversary of its joint venture, Heraeus (Zhaoyuan) Precious Material Co., Ltd., established with a local state-owned enterprise in Zhaoyuan, Shandong Province. The partnership struck gold from the outset, combining Heraeus' technological expertise with Zhaoyuan's abundant gold reserves to produce bonding wires for the technology and home appliance sectors.

Over three decades, Heraeus has deepened its roots in China through supply chain and talent localization, noted Frank Stietz, Heraeus CEO. "China's opening-up policy is crucial; without it, our joint venture and growth would not have been possible. It has allowed Heraeus to integrate into the Chinese economy," Stietz said, adding that China's large population and strong demand from strategic sectors, including semiconductors, make the country a key market for Heraeus.

The World Bank noted that roughly one-third of the new foreign direct investment inflows into China have gone to high-tech sectors, reflecting foreign investors' growing interest in the country's advanced technology industries.

Data from the commerce ministry shows that in the first 11 months, a total of 61,207 new foreign-invested enterprises were established nationwide in China, a year-on-year increase of 16.9 percent. By industry, foreign capital inflows reached 221.26 billion yuan (about 31.45 billion U.S. dollars) in high-tech sectors, with e-commerce services, medical device and aerospace equipment manufacturing growing 127 percent, 46.5 percent and 41.9 percent year on year, respectively.

China is intensifying its opening-up efforts. The negative list for foreign investment was further trimmed, and access in service sectors such as telecom and healthcare was expanded. Last week, the 2025 Catalogue of Encouraged Industries for Foreign Investment was unveiled, laying out bold measures to boost China's attractiveness to foreign capital and steer more investment toward advanced manufacturing, high-tech sectors and beyond.

Multinationals are casting a vote of confidence with their feet in 2025. FAW-Volkswagen rolled off its 30 millionth vehicle in October, Tesla's Shanghai Megafactory -- the first outside the U.S. dedicated to energy-storage battery production -- kicked off operations in February.

British pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca in November announced an additional investment of 136 million U.S. dollars in its manufacturing base in Qingdao, just months after unveiling a plan of 2.5 billion U.S. dollars to establish a global strategic R&D center in China's capital, Beijing.

Reaffirming China's commitment, Vice Premier He Lifeng said at the 3rd China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in July that China will uphold division of labor, openness and inclusiveness, and promote win-win outcomes in global industrial and supply chains.

DOMESTIC PLAYERS MAKING GLOBAL STRIDES

China's growing role in global value chains is driving its exports and overseas investment to bring more technologies and expertise to the global stage, Elitza Mileva, the World Bank's lead economist for China, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

According to customs statistics, in the first three quarters of this year, China's exports have increasingly shifted toward new areas and higher-quality products. High-end equipment featuring new quality productive forces increased by 22.4 percent year on year, while the growth rates of green products such as wind turbine generators and parts reached double digits.

Against the backdrop of green and low-carbon development, many countries have a demand for China's new energy products, and the going global initiative of Chinese enterprises will help empower local green development, said Wang Yaohui, former counselor for the State Council, at a recent forum held by China News Services.

A 2025 report released at the forum noted steady growth in overseas expansion of Chinese brands, with manufacturing, tech and consumer sectors leading the charge. Brand value and cultural expression are becoming important pillars for Chinese enterprises to accelerate their globalization process, according to the report.

Notable examples in 2025 include Pop Mart's Labubu figurine, which gained global popularity and highlighted how Chinese enterprises are building their international image through innovation and IP globalization. The gaming industry also stood out: "Black Myth: Wukong" attracted players worldwide, while "Genshin Impact" and "Honkai: Star Rail" remained top downloads in more than 100 countries and regions.

Data from the Ministry of Commerce shows the country's steady overseas direct investment growth. In the first 11 months, China's outbound direct investment (ODI) hit 1.13 trillion yuan, up 7.5 percent year on year. Meanwhile, non-financial ODI grew by 3.2 percent to 944.64 billion yuan in more than 10,000 overseas firms across 153 countries and regions.

Policy support is increasing to bolster this global push. He Yadong, commerce ministry spokesperson, told a press conference that China will implement trade-stabilizing policies, improve services for enterprises exploring overseas markets, promote balanced import-export development, and support new trade forms such as cross-border e-commerce and overseas warehousing.

INSTITUTIONAL OPENING UP AS A STRATEGIC DRIVE

Taking opening up as a strategic driver for Chinese modernization, China has stepped up institutional innovation in 2025, unlocking growth opportunities for global trade and economic cooperation.

The island-wide special customs operations, officially launched in the Hainan FTP earlier this month, exemplify the world's highest standards of opening up. Through institutional innovation, alignment with high-level international economic and trade rules, and policy optimization, the initiative is building a business environment with international competitiveness, and attracting more and more domestic and international enterprises.

Official data shows that China's new frontier of institutional opening up is also emerging as a hotspot for regional cooperation. Since 2020, more than 9,600 foreign-invested enterprises have been newly established in Hainan, with investors from 176 countries and regions. In 2024, the total volume of Hainan's goods imports and exports reached 277.65 billion yuan, up 20 percent year on year and nearly 200 percent compared to 2020.

Beyond Hainan, China's other institutional opening-up "test fields" -- national pilot Free Trade Zones (FTZs) -- have deepened policy innovation under the national elevation strategy. In July, the Ministry of Commerce told a press conference that all 80 institutional opening-up reform measures in the Shanghai Pilot FTZ have been fully implemented, with 77 -- covering trade, digital economy and IP protection -- to be replicated nationwide or in other FTZs. Since their establishment, China's 22 pilot FTZs have contributed about one-fifth of the country's total foreign investment and import-export volume, according to official data.

Efforts to facilitate personnel exchanges are also paying off. Foreign nationals made 7.246 million visits to China in the third quarter of 2025 under visa-free policies, a 48.3 percent year-on-year increase, according to the National Immigration Administration. Visa-free entries accounted for 72.2 percent of all foreign entries during the period.

China has also advanced trade and investment liberalization and facilitation to safeguard an open, stable and predictable international trade environment. In May, China and 10 ASEAN countries fully concluded negotiations on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) Version 3.0, sending a strong signal in support of free trade and open cooperation, the commerce ministry said. Launched in 2010, CAFTA is the world's largest FTZ among developing countries.

Additionally, China announced in June that it would grant a zero-tariff treatment to 100 percent of tariff lines for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. China's trade with African countries surged by 18.7 percent year on year in the first 11 months of this year, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

Zhuang Rui, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics, said that by leveraging China's super-large market, aligning with its own development needs and proactively advancing opening up in a phased, scope and tier-defined manner will help China work hand in hand with all parties to achieve mutual success.

The importance of further opening up is outlined in the recommendations for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). Amid both strategic opportunities and risks, advancing reform and high-quality development through high-standard opening up is key to boosting the interaction of domestic and international markets and resources, and driving qualitative improvement and quantitative growth of the economy, Wang Wentao said.

During the period, China will actively expand opening up, promote innovative trade development, broaden two-way investment space and advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, he added. 
Shares of United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI  Get Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Hold from the eleven ratings firms that are currently covering the company, Marketbeat.com reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, seven have assigned a hold recommendation and three have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 1-year price target among brokerages that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $37.00.

UNFI has been the subject of several research analyst reports. UBS Group increased their target price on shares of United Natural Foods from $29.00 to $42.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Jefferies Financial Group increased their price objective on shares of United Natural Foods from $27.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Roth Capital reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $35.00 target price on shares of United Natural Foods in a report on Thursday, December 11th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their target price on United Natural Foods from $37.00 to $35.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, December 19th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price target on United Natural Foods from $29.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st.

Get United Natural Foods alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Report on UNFI

United Natural Foods Stock Down 1.2%

Shares of NYSE UNFI opened at $33.41 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $2.04 billion, a P/E ratio of -20.13 and a beta of 0.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25, a current ratio of 1.38 and a quick ratio of 0.50. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $36.18 and a 200-day simple moving average of $31.27. United Natural Foods has a 1 year low of $20.78 and a 1 year high of $43.29.

United Natural Foods (NYSE:UNFI  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, December 2nd. The company reported $0.56 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.39 by $0.17. The company had revenue of $7.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.91 billion. United Natural Foods had a positive return on equity of 4.35% and a negative net margin of 0.32%.The firms revenue for the quarter was down .4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.16 earnings per share. United Natural Foods has set its FY 2026 guidance at 1.500-2.300 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that United Natural Foods will post 0.76 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CAO Richard Eric Esper sold 4,261 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $33.08, for a total transaction of $140,953.88. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 37,369 shares in the company, valued at $1,236,166.52. This trade represents a 10.24% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, insider Danielle Benedict sold 11,655 shares of United Natural Foods stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $35.31, for a total transaction of $411,538.05. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 89,544 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,161,798.64. This trade represents a 11.52% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 25,355 shares of company stock valued at $879,742. Corporate insiders own 2.40% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of United Natural Foods

Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in UNFI. Quarry LP purchased a new position in United Natural Foods in the third quarter worth approximately $29,000. Larson Financial Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of United Natural Foods by 4,266.7% in the 3rd quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 786 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 768 shares in the last quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of United Natural Foods by 88.3% during the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,077 shares of the companys stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 505 shares during the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of United Natural Foods by 84.2% during the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,332 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 609 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Smartleaf Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in United Natural Foods by 32.0% in the third quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 1,563 shares of the companys stock valued at $59,000 after buying an additional 379 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.63% of the companys stock.

About United Natural Foods

(Get Free Report)

United Natural Foods, Inc (NYSE: UNFI) is a leading distributor of natural, organic and specialty foods in North America. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, the company has grown through strategic acquisitions and organic expansion to become one of the largest food distributors serving retail, foodservice and e-commerce customers.

UNFIs core business centers on the procurement, warehousing and distribution of a broad portfolio of products, including fresh produce, groceries, frozen foods, dairy, bakery items, beverages, supplements and household essentials.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for United Natural Foods Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for United Natural Foods and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Alfa Laval AB Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:ALFVY  Get Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 3,175 shares, an increase of 86.1% from the November 30th total of 1,706 shares. Approximately 0.0% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 54,325 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days. Based on an average daily volume of 54,325 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.0% of the companys stock are sold short.

Alfa Laval Price Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS ALFVY opened at $50.47 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $20.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.36, a PEG ratio of 2.62 and a beta of 1.24. Alfa Laval has a twelve month low of $36.86 and a twelve month high of $50.65. The company has a quick ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The company has a 50 day moving average of $48.12 and a 200 day moving average of $45.91.

Get Alfa Laval alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

ALFVY has been the topic of a number of research reports. Barclays restated an overweight rating on shares of Alfa Laval in a report on Wednesday, December 3rd. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating on shares of Alfa Laval in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating on shares of Alfa Laval in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating on shares of Alfa Laval in a report on Monday, December 15th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered Alfa Laval from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 26th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold.

Alfa Laval Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Alfa Laval is an industrial engineering company specializing in heat transfer, separation and fluid handling technologies. Its product portfolio includes plate and tubular heat exchangers, separators and decanter centrifuges, pumps, valves and complete process systems designed to control temperature, separate liquids and solids, and move fluids reliably through industrial processes. The company supplies both standardized components and engineered systems for integration into customer plants and vessels.

The company serves a broad set of end markets including energy and power, marine and offshore, food and beverage processing, water and wastewater treatment, chemical and pharmaceutical production, and pulp and paper.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Alfa Laval Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Alfa Laval and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
AMN Healthcare Services Inc (NYSE:AMN  Get Free Report) has received an average recommendation of Hold from the nine brokerages that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price target among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $21.4167.

A number of research firms have recently commented on AMN. Truist Financial raised their price objective on shares of AMN Healthcare Services from $20.00 to $24.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, October 13th. UBS Group raised their price target on shares of AMN Healthcare Services from $18.00 to $20.50 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. Bank of America reduced their price target on shares of AMN Healthcare Services from $20.00 to $18.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, September 10th. Wall Street Zen upgraded AMN Healthcare Services from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 15th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded AMN Healthcare Services from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th.

Get AMN Healthcare Services alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on AMN

AMN Healthcare Services Stock Performance

NYSE:AMN opened at $16.13 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average is $17.43 and its 200 day moving average is $19.01. The firm has a market cap of $619.36 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -2.24 and a beta of 0.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.31, a quick ratio of 1.05 and a current ratio of 1.05. AMN Healthcare Services has a 52-week low of $14.86 and a 52-week high of $30.49.

AMN Healthcare Services (NYSE:AMN  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.39 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.19 by $0.20. The business had revenue of $634.50 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $618.08 million. AMN Healthcare Services had a positive return on equity of 10.89% and a negative net margin of 10.14%.The firms revenue was down 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $0.61 EPS. Research analysts predict that AMN Healthcare Services will post 1.33 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. American Century Companies Inc. raised its stake in AMN Healthcare Services by 9.7% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 75,945 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,858,000 after purchasing an additional 6,699 shares in the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC bought a new position in shares of AMN Healthcare Services in the 1st quarter worth $381,000. Jump Financial LLC raised its position in shares of AMN Healthcare Services by 97.2% during the 1st quarter. Jump Financial LLC now owns 49,300 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,206,000 after buying an additional 24,300 shares in the last quarter. Comerica Bank raised its position in shares of AMN Healthcare Services by 10.4% during the 1st quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 18,841 shares of the companys stock valued at $461,000 after buying an additional 1,770 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Trexquant Investment LP bought a new stake in shares of AMN Healthcare Services during the 1st quarter worth $3,248,000. 99.23% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

AMN Healthcare Services Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc (NYSE: AMN) is a leading provider of healthcare workforce solutions in the United States. The company specializes in staffing and recruitment services for a broad range of clinical and allied health professionals, including travel nurses, permanent placement of nursing staff, locum tenens physicians, and allied health personnel. In addition to direct staffing, AMN Healthcare offers comprehensive workforce management solutions such as vendor management systems (VMS), recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and compliance and credentialing services through its technology platforms.

Founded in 1985 as American Mobile Nurses, the company rebranded to AMN Healthcare in 2010 to reflect its expanding portfolio of services.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for AMN Healthcare Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AMN Healthcare Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE:MTN  Get Free Report) have earned an average rating of Hold from the twelve research firms that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat.com reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating on the company. The average twelve-month target price among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $176.30.

MTN has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft set a $169.00 price objective on Vail Resorts in a report on Thursday, December 11th. Truist Financial cut their price target on shares of Vail Resorts from $244.00 to $237.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on shares of Vail Resorts from $153.00 to $151.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, December 23rd. Mizuho dropped their target price on shares of Vail Resorts from $216.00 to $195.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Vail Resorts in a report on Tuesday, December 23rd.

Get Vail Resorts alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on MTN

Vail Resorts Trading Up 0.4%

Vail Resorts stock opened at $140.27 on Friday. Vail Resorts has a 12-month low of $129.85 and a 12-month high of $191.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.52, a current ratio of 0.54 and a quick ratio of 0.46. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.02 billion, a PE ratio of 20.57, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 10.86 and a beta of 0.81. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $146.30 and a 200-day simple moving average of $152.03.

Vail Resorts (NYSE:MTN  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, December 10th. The company reported ($5.20) earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($5.23) by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $271.03 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $273.35 million. Vail Resorts had a return on equity of 32.51% and a net margin of 8.94%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted ($4.61) earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Vail Resorts will post 7.62 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Vail Resorts Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 12th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 30th will be given a dividend of $2.22 per share. This represents a $8.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.3%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 30th. Vail Resortss dividend payout ratio is 130.21%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Vail Resorts

In related news, CFO Angela A. Korch bought 210 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 7th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $155.00 per share, for a total transaction of $32,550.00. Following the acquisition, the chief financial officer directly owned 4,905 shares of the companys stock, valued at $760,275. The trade was a 4.47% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. 1.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Trading of Vail Resorts

Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. 111 Capital raised its position in Vail Resorts by 116.3% during the second quarter. 111 Capital now owns 6,172 shares of the companys stock valued at $970,000 after acquiring an additional 3,319 shares in the last quarter. Confluence Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Vail Resorts during the 3rd quarter worth $8,160,000. Landscape Capital Management L.L.C. bought a new position in shares of Vail Resorts during the 1st quarter valued at $376,000. Rice Hall James & Associates LLC raised its holdings in shares of Vail Resorts by 11.4% during the 3rd quarter. Rice Hall James & Associates LLC now owns 115,724 shares of the companys stock valued at $17,309,000 after purchasing an additional 11,809 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Eagle Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Vail Resorts in the 2nd quarter valued at $3,735,000. 94.90% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Vail Resorts

(Get Free Report)

Vail Resorts, Inc is a leading mountain resort company that owns and operates an integrated network of ski areas, hotels, restaurants and retail outlets. The companys signature Epic Pass program offers skiers and snowboarders season?long access to its portfolio of resorts, while ancillary services such as ski and snowboard schools, equipment rental and retail drive additional revenue.

Headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, Vail Resorts was formed in 1997, building on the legacy of Vail Associates, which opened the Vail ski area in 1962.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Vail Resorts Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vail Resorts and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Hong Kong & China Gas Co. (OTCMKTS:HOKCY  Get Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 3,498 shares, an increase of 130.7% from the November 30th total of 1,516 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 12,404 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 12,404 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days.

Institutional Trading of Hong Kong & China Gas

A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Hong Kong & China Gas stock. Rhumbline Advisers lifted 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 Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor 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 SEC filing.

Get Hong Kong & China Gas alerts:

Hong Kong & China Gas Stock Down 0.0%

OTCMKTS:HOKCY opened at $0.87 on Monday. Hong Kong & China Gas has a twelve month low of $0.68 and a twelve month high of $1.00. The company has a quick ratio of 0.61, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $0.89 and its 200 day simple moving average is $0.86.

About Hong Kong & China Gas

The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited, commonly known as Towngas, is a long-established utility and energy services company founded in 1862. It is principally engaged in the production, distribution and sale of town gas and related energy products, serving residential, commercial and industrial customers. Towngas operates through an integrated model that covers gas production facilities, transmission and distribution networks, customer metering and billing, and after-sales services.

Core products and services include piped town gas for household and commercial use, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution, gas appliances and fittings, and engineering, installation and maintenance services.

Featured 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.
Shares of The Bank of Nova Scotia (TSE:BNS  Get Free Report) (NYSE:BNS) have been assigned an average rating of Hold from the twelve ratings firms that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and four have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is C$93.85.

A number of equities analysts have commented on BNS shares. TD Securities lifted their target price on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$93.00 to C$99.00 in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Canaccord Genuity Group raised their price target on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$98.00 to C$100.00 in a report on Wednesday, December 3rd. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price objective on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$86.00 to C$96.00 in a research note on Tuesday, November 25th. Raymond James Financial set a C$108.00 target price on Bank of Nova Scotia and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$93.00 to C$98.00 in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th.

Get Bank of Nova Scotia alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on BNS

Bank of Nova Scotia Price Performance

BNS stock opened at C$101.31 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of C$126.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.87, a PEG ratio of 1.33 and a beta of 1.35. Bank of Nova Scotia has a 1-year low of C$62.57 and a 1-year high of C$101.73. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of C$95.82 and a two-hundred day moving average price of C$86.52.

Bank of Nova Scotia (TSE:BNS  Get Free Report) (NYSE:BNS) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, December 2nd. The bank reported C$1.93 EPS for the quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia had a net margin of 17.68% and a return on equity of 9.64%. The business had revenue of C$9.77 billion during the quarter. As a group, analysts expect that Bank of Nova Scotia will post 7.1286267 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Bank of Nova Scotia Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 29th. Investors of record on Wednesday, October 29th were given a $1.10 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, October 7th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.3%. Bank of Nova Scotias dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 76.19%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Bank of Nova Scotia news, insider Julie Walsh sold 3,716 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$100.62, for a total value of C$373,903.92. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 1,430 shares in the company, valued at approximately C$143,886.60. This represents a 72.21% decrease in their position. Company insiders own 0.03% of the companys stock.

Bank of Nova Scotia Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Bank of Nova Scotia is a global financial services provider. The bank has five business segments: Canadian banking, international banking, global wealth management, global banking and markets, and other. It offers a range of advice, products, and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. The banks international operations span numerous countries and are more concentrated in Central and South America.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF (NYSEARCA:VNAM  Get Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 76,053 shares, an increase of 126.8% from the November 30th total of 33,526 shares. Approximately 7.0% of the companys shares are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 14,735 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 5.2 days. Based on an average daily volume of 14,735 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 5.2 days. Approximately 7.0% of the companys shares are sold short.

Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF Stock Performance

Shares of VNAM opened at $24.38 on Monday. Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF has a 1 year low of $12.80 and a 1 year high of $25.56. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $23.43 and a 200-day simple moving average of $21.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $26.33 million, a PE ratio of 14.33 and a beta of 0.86.

Get Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF alerts:

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Osaic Holdings Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF by 7,400.0% in the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 7,500 shares of the companys stock worth $131,000 after acquiring an additional 7,400 shares during the period. Jane Street Group LLC boosted its holdings in Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF by 35.2% in the 2nd quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 36,512 shares of the companys stock valued at $640,000 after purchasing an additional 9,500 shares in the last quarter. Finally, OLD Mission Capital LLC increased its position in Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF by 18.6% during the 1st quarter. OLD Mission Capital LLC now owns 30,256 shares of the companys stock worth $485,000 after purchasing an additional 4,753 shares during the period.

About Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF

The Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF (VNAM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI Vietnam IMI Select 25\u002F50 index. The fund tracks a broad index of large- to small-cap equities from Vietnam, selected and weighted by their free-float market capitalization. VNAM was launched on Dec 7, 2021 and is managed by Global X.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Global X MSCI Vietnam ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund (NYSE:MPA  Get Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 24,397 shares, an increase of 124.9% from the November 30th total of 10,850 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 46,190 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.5 days. Approximately 0.2% of the companys stock are short sold. Approximately 0.2% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 46,190 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.5 days.

BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund Stock Down 0.3%

NYSE MPA opened at $11.05 on Monday. BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund has a 1 year low of $10.26 and a 1 year high of $12.08. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $11.29 and a 200 day simple moving average of $11.06.

Get BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund alerts:

BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund Cuts Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 22nd will be given a $0.0477 dividend. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 22nd.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund

About BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Yakira Capital Management Inc. acquired a new stake in BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund in the 3rd quarter worth $488,000. Ethos Financial Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $271,000. Breakwater Capital Group acquired a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $224,000. Osaic Holdings Inc. grew its holdings in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund by 50.4% during the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 57,496 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $620,000 after purchasing an additional 19,266 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Landscape Capital Management L.L.C. bought a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund during the first quarter valued at approximately $117,000. 24.70% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund (NYSE: MPA) is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company whose primary objective is to provide shareholders with current income exempt from regular U.S. federal and Pennsylvania personal income taxes, and to a lesser extent, capital appreciation. The fund pursues its objective by investing in municipal securities that are issued by or for the benefit of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and its political subdivisions.

In managing its portfolio, the fund typically allocates at least 80% of its assets to investment-grade municipal bonds issued within Pennsylvania.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Intercontinental Hotels Group (NYSE:IHG  Get Free Report) have earned an average rating of Hold from the seven ratings firms that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating on the company.

A number of analysts have commented on IHG shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded Intercontinental Hotels Group from a neutral rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, September 26th. Morgan Stanley upgraded Intercontinental Hotels Group from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Intercontinental Hotels Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Intercontinental Hotels Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of Intercontinental Hotels Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, December 12th.

Get Intercontinental Hotels Group alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Intercontinental Hotels Group

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Intercontinental Hotels Group

Intercontinental Hotels Group Trading Down 0.2%

Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. CIBC Bancorp USA Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Intercontinental Hotels Group in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $42,374,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its stake in Intercontinental Hotels Group by 125.7% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 451,823 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,113,000 after buying an additional 251,647 shares in the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC grew its position in Intercontinental Hotels Group by 170.5% in the first quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 305,177 shares of the companys stock valued at $33,444,000 after acquiring an additional 192,342 shares during the period. Lazard Asset Management LLC grew its position in Intercontinental Hotels Group by 98.4% in the second quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 355,863 shares of the companys stock valued at $41,044,000 after acquiring an additional 176,502 shares during the period. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP raised its stake in Intercontinental Hotels Group by 369.2% during the second quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 172,622 shares of the companys stock worth $19,910,000 after acquiring an additional 135,829 shares in the last quarter. 15.09% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

NYSE IHG opened at $143.19 on Friday. Intercontinental Hotels Group has a twelve month low of $94.78 and a twelve month high of $144.96. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $131.68 and a 200 day simple moving average of $123.63.

About Intercontinental Hotels Group

(Get Free Report)

Intercontinental Hotels Group plc (IHG) is a multinational hospitality company that develops, owns, manages and franchises a broad portfolio of hotels and resorts. The company operates across full-service luxury and upscale segments as well as midscale and extended-stay categories, providing lodging, food and beverage, meeting and event services, and related guest amenities. IHGs business model emphasizes brand franchising and management agreements, while retaining ownership or direct investments in a smaller portion of its global property portfolio.

IHGs brand portfolio spans global and regional names designed to serve different traveler needs and market segments.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Intercontinental Hotels Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Intercontinental Hotels Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of James Hardie Industries PLC. (NYSE:JHX  Get Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the sixteen analysts that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, eleven have issued a buy recommendation and one has assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price target among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $25.9278.

JHX has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Oppenheimer raised their price objective on shares of James Hardie Industries from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th. Robert W. Baird decreased their target price on James Hardie Industries from $28.00 to $26.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 19th. Citigroup upgraded James Hardie Industries from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Truist Financial increased their price objective on James Hardie Industries from $25.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Raymond James Financial set a $21.00 price objective on James Hardie Industries in a research report on Monday, December 8th.

Get James Hardie Industries alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on JHX

James Hardie Industries Trading Up 0.5%

Shares of JHX opened at $21.04 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $19.69 and its 200 day moving average price is $22.36. The company has a current ratio of 1.79, a quick ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80. The stock has a market capitalization of $9.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 43.83, a P/E/G ratio of 7.88 and a beta of 1.80. James Hardie Industries has a 1-year low of $16.46 and a 1-year high of $34.96.

James Hardie Industries (NYSE:JHX  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 17th. The construction company reported $0.26 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.25 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $1.29 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.30 billion. James Hardie Industries had a net margin of 4.67% and a return on equity of 18.40%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 34.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.36 earnings per share. Analysts expect that James Hardie Industries will post 1.39 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its stake in shares of James Hardie Industries by 259.7% during the 3rd quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 50,649,731 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $972,981,000 after buying an additional 36,567,726 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its holdings in shares of James Hardie Industries by 6.9% during the third quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 13,600,870 shares of the construction companys stock worth $261,273,000 after acquiring an additional 882,795 shares in the last quarter. Phoenix Financial Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of James Hardie Industries during the third quarter worth $105,839,000. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. boosted its position in James Hardie Industries by 100.9% during the third quarter. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. now owns 4,531,761 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $87,055,000 after purchasing an additional 2,275,762 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Capital World Investors purchased a new position in James Hardie Industries in the third quarter valued at about $86,121,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 7.96% of the companys stock.

James Hardie Industries Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

James Hardie Industries plc (NYSE: JHX) is a global manufacturer of high-performance fiber cement building products. The company specializes in exterior cladding, trim and soffit, as well as interior backerboard solutions designed for residential and commercial construction. By combining cement, sand and cellulose fibers, James Hardie produces durable, low-maintenance materials that resist moisture, fire and termite damage, catering to builders, contractors and homeowners through a network of distributors and retail channels.

The companys flagship products include Hardie Plank and Hardie Panel siding systems, Hardie BackerBoard for tile applications, and a range of architectural trim solutions.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for James Hardie Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for James Hardie Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Monday launched a series of drills code-named "Justice Mission 2025" around Taiwan Island, dispatching troops from its ground, air, naval and rocket forces to deter "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external interference.

This sends an unequivocal message that Beijing at all times stands ready to crush any secession plot aiming to split Taiwan from the motherland. Each escalation in provocation will be met with stronger countermeasures. The PLA is ready to fight at any moment, and is certain to prevail if and when it does fight.

For years, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in Taiwan have obstinately attempted to seek U.S. support for their separatist agenda, recklessly turning Taiwan into a "powder keg."

This only serves to expose their true colors as a troublemaker and warmonger. Such actions will only bring disasters to Taiwan.

By currying favor with the United States through obsequious loyalty gestures and promoting arms purchases, the DPP is binding the entire island of Taiwan to its catastrophic secessionist chariot, disregarding public opinion.

Recently, the United States announced a package of arms sales to Taiwan totaling 11 billion U.S. dollars. And the island's leader, Lai Ching-te, has planned to continue spending massively on purchases of U.S. arms in the coming eight years. These facts have exposed the collusion between the U.S. and the DPP to harm the interests of the people in Taiwan.

Mounting public fury is now translating into concrete action. A motion for Lai's impeachment has been approved by Taiwan's local legislature, and over eight million people have signed online petitions in support.

People in Taiwan want peace. They want exchange and cooperation with their fellow Chinese on the other side of the Strait. They are unwilling to act as a pawn for external powers attempting to contain China.

Since coming to power, the DPP has squandered the hard-earned money of Taiwan taxpayers on a futile endeavor, crowding out essential services such as education, health care and social welfare while lavishing resources on U.S. arms purchases.

From 2020 to 2022, Taiwan was the United States' largest weapons buyer. By 2024, Taiwan's military budget had nearly doubled from eight years earlier. Taiwan's military spending for 2026 is budgeted at 3.32 percent of its regional GDP, a record high since 2009.

By squandering the island's public wealth and colluding with external forces to drain its resources, the DPP authorities are imposing a long-term burden on people's livelihoods and jeopardizing the development prospects of Taiwan.

The DPP's fanciful attempts to pursue "Taiwan independence" by relying on U.S. support will only heighten tensions in the Taiwan Strait and push the island's residents toward the brink of conflicts.

U.S. arms sales to Taiwan offer no protective shield for the island; they serve merely as a cash machine for U.S. arms dealers.

The PLA's drills are a clear reminder for the DPP that the trend of national reunification is unstoppable, and that the will of the people cannot be defied. 
Dover Corporation (NYSE:DOV  Get Free Report) has been assigned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the twelve ratings firms that are presently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and six have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12 month price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $210.6364.

Several analysts have issued reports on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company reaffirmed a positive rating on shares of Dover in a report on Monday, December 15th. Barclays increased their target price on Dover from $190.00 to $195.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. UBS Group set a $200.00 price objective on Dover in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on Dover from $185.00 to $195.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, BNP Paribas started coverage on shares of Dover in a research note on Thursday, December 4th. They issued a neutral rating and a $195.00 target price for the company.

Get Dover alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on DOV

Dover Stock Performance

Shares of DOV stock opened at $200.21 on Wednesday. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $186.25 and a 200 day moving average price of $180.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a quick ratio of 1.44 and a current ratio of 2.04. The stock has a market cap of $27.46 billion, a PE ratio of 12.31, a P/E/G ratio of 1.54 and a beta of 1.31. Dover has a 1 year low of $143.04 and a 1 year high of $222.31.

Dover (NYSE:DOV  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, June 30th. The industrial products company reported $1.55 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Dover had a return on equity of 17.62% and a net margin of 28.37%.The business had revenue of $1.78 billion during the quarter. Sell-side analysts forecast that Dover will post 9.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Dover Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th were paid a dividend of $0.52 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, November 28th. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.0%. Dovers dividend payout ratio is presently 12.79%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Dover news, SVP Ivonne M. Cabrera sold 2,630 shares of Dover stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $190.80, for a total value of $501,804.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 72,968 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,922,294.40. The trade was a 3.48% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Christopher B. Woenker sold 1,627 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $186.04, for a total value of $302,687.08. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 2,553 shares of the companys stock, valued at $474,960.12. This trade represents a 38.92% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. 1.20% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Dover

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in DOV. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Dover by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 16,573,281 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $3,036,722,000 after acquiring an additional 231,146 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its holdings in Dover by 1.3% in the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 6,533,361 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,089,961,000 after purchasing an additional 86,212 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in Dover by 1.0% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,453,121 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $629,996,000 after purchasing an additional 33,539 shares during the last quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. raised its stake in Dover by 10.6% during the second quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. now owns 2,376,279 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $435,406,000 after purchasing an additional 227,653 shares during the period. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in shares of Dover by 16.1% in the 3rd quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,130,657 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $355,458,000 after purchasing an additional 294,856 shares during the last quarter. 84.46% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Dover Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Dover Corporation is a diversified global manufacturer of industrial products, components and specialty systems that serve a wide range of commercial and industrial end markets. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, the company has built a portfolio of operating businesses that design, manufacture and distribute engineered equipment, aftermarket parts and related services for customers around the world.

Dovers activities span several product and solution categories, including fluid-handling and pumping systems, material handling and processing equipment, refrigeration and foodservice technologies, product identification and printing systems, precision components and automation and sensing solutions.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Dover Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dover and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) have received a consensus rating of Hold from the twenty-one brokerages that are currently covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, fourteen have issued a hold recommendation and six have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price target among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $54.6154.

A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Guggenheim restated a buy rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Tuesday, December 23rd. Cantor Fitzgerald reissued a neutral rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Monday, November 24th. HSBC reaffirmed a hold rating and issued a $53.00 price objective on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Wednesday, December 10th. Morgan Stanley reissued an underweight rating and set a $37.00 target price (up from $36.00) on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Friday, December 12th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets restated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, November 17th.

Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on Bristol Myers Squibb

Institutional Trading of Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Performance

A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BMY. Norges Bank purchased a new position in Bristol Myers Squibb in the second quarter valued at about $1,554,154,000. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its stake in 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 valued at $3,277,456,000 after purchasing an additional 10,195,775 shares in the last quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership raised its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 428.5% during the second quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 11,311,281 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $523,599,000 after purchasing an additional 9,171,098 shares during the last quarter. Man Group plc boosted its position in Bristol Myers Squibb by 280.4% during the second quarter. Man Group plc now owns 7,465,845 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $345,594,000 after purchasing an additional 5,503,391 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Franklin Resources Inc. grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 142.8% in the second quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 8,436,811 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $390,541,000 after purchasing an additional 4,961,869 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock.

Shares of BMY stock opened at $54.65 on Wednesday. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $48.83 and its 200 day moving average price is $47.33. The company has a quick ratio of 1.17, a current ratio of 1.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.39. The stock has a market capitalization of $111.26 billion, a PE ratio of 18.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 8.36 and a beta of 0.29. Bristol Myers Squibb has a 52-week low of $42.52 and a 52-week high of $63.33.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.52 by $0.11. Bristol Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 76.53% and a net margin of 12.57%.The company had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.75 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.80 EPS. The companys revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Bristol Myers Squibb will post 6.74 EPS for the current year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, February 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 2nd will be paid a dividend of $0.63 per share. This is a boost from Bristol Myers Squibbs previous quarterly dividend of $0.62. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 2nd. This represents a $2.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.6%. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is currently 83.78%.

Bristol Myers Squibb Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, focused on discovering, developing and delivering medicines for serious diseases. The companys core activities include research and development, clinical development, manufacturing and commercialization of prescription pharmaceuticals across multiple therapeutic areas. BMS concentrates on advancing therapies in oncology, hematology, immunology, cardiovascular disease and specialty areas through both small molecules and biologics.

BMSs marketed portfolio and late?stage pipeline reflect a strong emphasis on cancer and immune?mediated conditions.

See Also

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.
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (NYSE:BIP  Get Free Report) and Rexford Industrial Realty (NYSE:REXR  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, valuation, institutional ownership, earnings, dividends and risk.

Profitability

This table compares Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and Rexford Industrial Realtys net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get Brookfield Infrastructure Partners alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Brookfield Infrastructure Partners 3.70% 2.74% 0.75% Rexford Industrial Realty 33.88% 3.81% 2.62%

Dividends

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners pays an annual dividend of $1.72 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.9%. Rexford Industrial Realty pays an annual dividend of $1.72 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.4%. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners pays out 256.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Rexford Industrial Realty pays out 121.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners has raised its dividend for 18 consecutive years and Rexford Industrial Realty has raised its dividend for 4 consecutive years. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Risk & Volatility

Institutional & Insider Ownership

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners has a beta of 1.09, suggesting that its share price is 9% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Rexford Industrial Realty has a beta of 1.22, suggesting that its share price is 22% more volatile than the S&P 500.

57.9% of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 99.5% of Rexford Industrial Realty shares are held by institutional investors. 1.2% of Rexford Industrial Realty shares are held 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.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent ratings and price targets for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and Rexford Industrial Realty, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Brookfield Infrastructure Partners 0 3 4 2 2.89 Rexford Industrial Realty 1 10 3 0 2.14

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners currently has a consensus price target of $41.25, indicating a potential upside of 17.42%. Rexford Industrial Realty has a consensus price target of $43.00, indicating a potential upside of 9.02%. Given Brookfield Infrastructure Partners stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, research analysts clearly believe Brookfield Infrastructure Partners is more favorable than Rexford Industrial Realty.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and Rexford Industrial Realtys gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Brookfield Infrastructure Partners $21.04 billion 0.77 $351.00 million $0.67 52.43 Rexford Industrial Realty $936.41 million 9.81 $273.80 million $1.42 27.78

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners has higher revenue and earnings than Rexford Industrial Realty. Rexford Industrial Realty is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

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. This segment also offers heating, cooling, and energy solutions; gas distribution; water heaters; and heating, ventilation, and air conditioner rental, as well as other home services. Its Transport segment offers transportation, storage, and handling services for merchandise goods, commodities, and passengers through a network of approximately 22,000 km of track; 5,500 km of track network; 9,800 km of rail; and 3,300 km of motorways. The company's Midstream segment offers natural gas transmission, gathering and processing, and storage services through approximately 15,000 km of natural gas transmission pipelines; 570 billion cubic feet of natural gas storage; 17 natural gas processing plants; and 10,600 km of gas gathering pipelines, as well as 525,000 tonnes polypropylene production capacity. Its Data segment operates approximately 228,000 operational telecom towers; approximately 54,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables; approximately 1 million fiber-to-the-premise connections; two semiconductor manufacturing facilities; and 70 distributed antenna systems, as well as 135 data centers and 750 megawatts of critical load capacity and an additional approximate 670 megawatts of contracted capacity. The company was incorporated in 2007 and is based in Hamilton, Bermuda. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. operates as a subsidiary of Brookfield Corporation.

About Rexford Industrial Realty

(Get Free Report)

Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust, which engages in owning and operating industrial properties in infill markets. The company was founded by Richard S. Ziman on January 18, 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA.

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.
Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores (NYSE:AVAL  Get Free Report) and Sound Point Meridian Capital (NYSE:SPMC  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their profitability, dividends, valuation, risk, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations and earnings.

Risk and Volatility

Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores has a beta of 0.69, meaning that its share price is 31% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Sound Point Meridian Capital has a beta of 0.26, meaning that its share price is 74% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Get Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores alerts:

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores and Sound Point Meridian Capitals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores $9.07 billion 0.55 $203.02 million $0.33 12.73 Sound Point Meridian Capital N/A N/A N/A $0.20 66.30

Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores has higher revenue and earnings than Sound Point Meridian Capital. Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Sound Point Meridian Capital, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

This table compares Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores and Sound Point Meridian Capitals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores 4.61% 5.95% 0.60% Sound Point Meridian Capital N/A N/A N/A

Dividends

Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores pays an annual dividend of $0.12 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.9%. Sound Point Meridian Capital pays an annual dividend of $3.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 22.6%. Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores pays out 36.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Sound Point Meridian Capital pays out 1,500.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

0.2% of Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores shares are held by institutional investors. 0.9% of Sound Point Meridian Capital shares are held 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.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores and Sound Point Meridian Capital, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores 0 1 1 0 2.50 Sound Point Meridian Capital 1 1 2 0 2.25

Sound Point Meridian Capital has a consensus price target of $18.90, suggesting a potential upside of 42.53%. Given Sound Point Meridian Capitals higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Sound Point Meridian Capital is more favorable than Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores.

Summary

Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores beats Sound Point Meridian Capital on 9 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores

(Get Free Report)

Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores S.A. provides a range of financial services and products to public and private sector customers in Colombia and Central America. It offers traditional deposit services and products, including checking accounts, savings accounts, time deposits, and other deposits. The company also provides commercial loans comprising general purpose loans, working capital loans, leases, loans funded by development banks, corporate credit cards, and overdraft loans; consumer loans, such as payroll loans, personal loans, automobile and other vehicle loans, credit cards, overdrafts, leases, and general purpose loans; and microcredit and mortgage loans. In addition, the company offers pension and severance fund management services; investment banking, including services relating to capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and project finance transactions; mobile and online banking services; and bancassurance, insurance, trust, bonded warehousing and brokerage transactions, real estate escrow services, merchandise and document storage and deposit, customs agency, cargo management, surety bond and merchandise distribution services, and payment and collection services. Further, it is involved in equity investments in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy and gas, agribusiness, and hospitality; and treasury operations. The company was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Bogota, Colombia. Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores S.A.

About Sound Point Meridian Capital

(Get Free Report)

Sound Point Meridian Capital Inc. is an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end management investment company. Its investment objective is to generate high current income, with a secondary objective to generate capital appreciation, by investing primarily in third-party collateralized loan obligation equity and mezzanine tranches. Sound Point Meridian Capital Inc. is based in NEW YORK.

Receive News & Ratings for Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
TD SYNNEX Corporation (NYSE:SNX  Get Free Report) has received a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the twelve ratings firms that are covering the firm, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and nine have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 12-month price objective among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $169.1818.

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on SNX shares. Bank of America raised their target price on shares of TD SYNNEX from $170.00 to $180.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, September 26th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on shares of TD SYNNEX from $181.00 to $177.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Zacks Research cut TD SYNNEX from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, December 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating on shares of TD SYNNEX in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Finally, Barclays raised their target price on TD SYNNEX from $140.00 to $164.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, September 26th.

Get TD SYNNEX alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on TD SYNNEX

Insider Buying and Selling at TD SYNNEX

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In other TD SYNNEX news, Director Richard T. Hume sold 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $152.11, for a total value of $760,550.00. Following the sale, the director owned 52,515 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,988,056.65. This represents a 8.69% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link . Also, insider Miriam Anne Murphy sold 1,673 shares of TD SYNNEX stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $156.49, for a total transaction of $261,807.77. Following the transaction, the insider owned 16,529 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,586,623.21. The trade was a 9.19% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing . Insiders sold 18,939 shares of company stock valued at $2,921,338 over the last 90 days. 1.00% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Ossiam grew its position in TD SYNNEX by 84.3% during the 3rd quarter. Ossiam now owns 164 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 75 shares during the last quarter. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of TD SYNNEX in the 3rd quarter worth $30,000. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. grew its holdings in shares of TD SYNNEX by 675.9% in the third quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 225 shares of the business services providers stock worth $37,000 after acquiring an additional 196 shares during the period. Root Financial Partners LLC purchased a new stake in TD SYNNEX during the third quarter valued at $42,000. Finally, Quarry LP bought a new position in TD SYNNEX in the first quarter valued at about $51,000. Institutional investors own 84.00% of the companys stock.

TD SYNNEX Trading Up 1.2%

NYSE SNX opened at $154.96 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $12.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.81, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.06 and a beta of 1.36. TD SYNNEX has a fifty-two week low of $92.23 and a fifty-two week high of $167.76. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $152.40 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $148.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a current ratio of 1.20.

TD SYNNEX (NYSE:SNX  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, September 25th. The business services provider reported $3.58 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.05 by $0.53. The company had revenue of $15.65 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.11 billion. TD SYNNEX had a return on equity of 12.13% and a net margin of 1.27%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 6.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.86 earnings per share. On average, analysts forecast that TD SYNNEX will post 11.88 earnings per share for the current year.

About TD SYNNEX

(Get Free Report)

TD SYNNEX (NYSE: SNX) is a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator for the information technology industry. Formed in September 2021 through the merger of Tech Data and SYNNEX Corporation, the company provides a comprehensive range of products, services and solutions that span hardware, software, cloud, mobility, security and data center technologies. TD SYNNEX partners with vendors, resellers and system integrators to design, deploy and support IT infrastructures across diverse market segments, including commercial enterprises, public sector organizations and retail operations.

The companys core business activities include the distribution of technology products from manufacturers such as servers, storage, networking equipment and peripherals, as well as the resale and provisioning of software licenses and cloud-based solutions.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for TD SYNNEX Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TD SYNNEX and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Atlas Copco AB (OTCMKTS:ATLKY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large growth in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 150,816 shares, a growth of 70.5% from the November 30th total of 88,447 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 341,203 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.4 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the company are short sold. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 341,203 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.4 days.

Atlas Copco Price Performance

OTCMKTS:ATLKY opened at $18.28 on Monday. Atlas Copco has a 52-week low of $13.41 and a 52-week high of $18.55. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $17.22 and a 200 day moving average of $16.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.27, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a current ratio of 1.52. The firm has a market capitalization of $89.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.64, a P/E/G ratio of 9.19 and a beta of 1.40.

Get Atlas Copco alerts:

Atlas Copco (OTCMKTS:ATLKY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The industrial products company reported $0.14 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.14. Atlas Copco had a return on equity of 25.42% and a net margin of 16.08%.The firm had revenue of $4.43 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.42 billion. On average, research analysts expect that Atlas Copco will post 0.55 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have commented on ATLKY. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Atlas Copco in a report on Monday, October 27th. UBS Group cut shares of Atlas Copco to a sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Atlas Copco in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Barclays upgraded Atlas Copco from a hold rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 3rd. Finally, BNP Paribas upgraded Atlas Copco from a hold rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, September 4th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold.

View Our Latest Analysis on Atlas Copco

About Atlas Copco

(Get Free Report)

Atlas Copco is a Sweden-based industrial group that develops, manufactures and services equipment and solutions for professional customers in a broad range of industries. The companys core activities center on compressed air and gas systems, vacuum solutions, construction and mining equipment, industrial tools and assembly systems, and power and flow equipment. Products and services span new-equipment sales, aftermarket parts, maintenance and technical support aimed at improving productivity, energy efficiency and safety for industrial operations.

Key product categories include stationary and portable air compressors, air treatment and gas generation systems, industrial vacuum pumps, generators and light towers, drilling rigs and rock excavation equipment for mining and construction, as well as electric and pneumatic tools and automated assembly systems for manufacturing.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Atlas Copco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Atlas Copco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. (NYSE:AMG  Get Free Report) has received a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the eight research firms that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating on the company. The average twelve-month price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $328.6667.

A number of research firms have issued reports on AMG. UBS Group set a $295.00 target price on Affiliated Managers Group in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Zacks Research cut shares of Affiliated Managers Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, December 15th. Cowen reissued a buy rating on shares of Affiliated Managers Group in a research note on Monday, December 15th. Barrington Research upped their target price on shares of Affiliated Managers Group from $285.00 to $295.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $282.00 price target on shares of Affiliated Managers Group in a report on Tuesday, November 4th.

Get Affiliated Managers Group alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Report on Affiliated Managers Group

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Affiliated Managers Group Stock Up 1.6%

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Northern Trust Corp raised its stake in shares of Affiliated Managers Group by 10.2% during the first quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 385,292 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $64,741,000 after purchasing an additional 35,681 shares in the last quarter. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S acquired a new position in Affiliated Managers Group during the 1st quarter valued at about $36,000. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD raised its position in shares of Affiliated Managers Group by 2.5% during the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 232,981 shares of the asset managers stock worth $39,149,000 after buying an additional 5,685 shares in the last quarter. CW Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Affiliated Managers Group by 10.2% in the 1st quarter. CW Advisors LLC now owns 1,440 shares of the asset managers stock worth $242,000 after acquiring an additional 133 shares during the period. Finally, Kestra Advisory Services LLC bought a new position in shares of Affiliated Managers Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $2,727,000. Institutional investors own 95.30% of the companys stock.

AMG stock opened at $295.88 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $8.32 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.62, a PEG ratio of 0.65 and a beta of 1.22. Affiliated Managers Group has a 1-year low of $139.22 and a 1-year high of $299.69. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $262.63 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $233.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 1.30 and a quick ratio of 1.30.

Affiliated Managers Group (NYSE:AMG  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The asset manager reported $6.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $5.88 by $0.22. Affiliated Managers Group had a net margin of 26.01% and a return on equity of 16.75%. The firm had revenue of $528.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $543.39 million. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $4.82 earnings per share. Affiliated Managers Groups revenue was up 2.2% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts predict that Affiliated Managers Group will post 22.86 EPS for the current year.

Affiliated Managers Group Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 13th were paid a dividend of $0.01 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, November 13th. This represents a $0.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.0%. Affiliated Managers Groups payout ratio is presently 0.24%.

Affiliated Managers Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Affiliated Managers Group, Inc (NYSE: AMG) is a global asset management holding company that partners with boutique investment firms. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, AMG invests in and collaborates with independent investment managers to foster growth while preserving their entrepreneurial culture. Through equity stakes and strategic support, the company aims to enhance its affiliates distribution capabilities, operational infrastructure and access to capital.

The companys core business activities include providing capital solutions, distribution services and operational support to affiliated investment firms.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Affiliated Managers Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Affiliated Managers Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Exchange Income Co. (TSE:EIF  Get Free Report) have received an average rating of Buy from the thirteen ratings firms that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold recommendation, eleven have issued a buy recommendation and one has assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price target among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is C$85.19.

EIF has been the topic of several recent research reports. National Bankshares upped their price target on shares of Exchange Income from C$84.00 to C$88.00 in a report on Monday, November 10th. Raymond James Financial upped their target price on Exchange Income from C$90.00 to C$92.00 in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Ventum Financial set a C$81.00 target price on Exchange Income and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. Scotiabank raised their price target on Exchange Income from C$80.00 to C$90.00 in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets boosted their price target on Exchange Income from C$69.50 to C$80.00 in a report on Monday, November 10th.

Get Exchange Income alerts:

Read Our Latest Analysis on EIF

Exchange Income Trading Down 0.5%

Shares of EIF stock opened at C$84.09 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of C$4.57 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.47, a P/E/G ratio of 1.42 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a quick ratio of 1.13, a current ratio of 1.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 173.72. Exchange Income has a fifty-two week low of C$45.00 and a fifty-two week high of C$85.15. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of C$79.33 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$72.52.

Exchange Income (TSE:EIF  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The company reported C$1.46 EPS for the quarter. Exchange Income had a net margin of 4.64% and a return on equity of 9.73%. The business had revenue of C$959.74 million for the quarter. On average, analysts forecast that Exchange Income will post 3.9962963 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Exchange Income

(Get Free Report)

Exchange Income Corp is a diversified acquisition-oriented corporation focused on opportunities in two sectors, aerospace, aviation services and equipment, and manufacturing. The business plan of the corporation is to invest in profitable, well-established companies with strong cash flows operating in niche markets. Its Aerospace and Aviation segment is a key revenue driver, recognizes revenue from the provision of flight, flight ancillary services, and the sale or lease of aircraft and aftermarket parts.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Exchange Income Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Exchange Income and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
CAE Inc (NYSE:CAE  Get Free Report) (TSE:CAE) has earned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the twelve research firms that are currently covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, five have assigned a hold recommendation, four have given a buy recommendation and two have given a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $34.3333.

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on CAE shares. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of CAE in a report on Monday, December 22nd. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their price objective on shares of CAE from $41.00 to $40.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded CAE from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th.

Get CAE alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on CAE

Institutional Investors Weigh In On CAE

CAE Price Performance

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of CAE. Neuberger Berman Group LLC raised its position in shares of CAE by 382.5% during the 2nd quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC now owns 51,521 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $1,507,000 after acquiring an additional 40,842 shares in the last quarter. Brandes Investment Partners LP boosted its holdings in CAE by 4.4% in the second quarter. Brandes Investment Partners LP now owns 14,803,106 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $433,287,000 after purchasing an additional 628,848 shares during the period. Phoenix Financial Ltd. bought a new stake in CAE during the second quarter valued at $10,309,000. Cooper Creek Partners Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of CAE during the second quarter worth $5,854,000. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership raised its holdings in shares of CAE by 356.8% during the second quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,135,546 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $33,267,000 after purchasing an additional 886,951 shares during the period. 67.36% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

CAE stock opened at $31.41 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $10.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.39, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.37 and a beta of 1.19. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a quick ratio of 0.59 and a current ratio of 0.83. CAE has a 1 year low of $20.36 and a 1 year high of $31.68. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $27.93 and a 200-day simple moving average of $27.96.

CAE (NYSE:CAE  Get Free Report) (TSE:CAE) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 11th. The aerospace company reported $0.17 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.14 by $0.03. CAE had a return on equity of 7.60% and a net margin of 8.98%.The firm had revenue of $897.99 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.13 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.24 EPS. CAEs quarterly revenue was up 8.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts predict that CAE will post 0.83 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About CAE

(Get Free Report)

CAE Inc is a global leader in training and simulation technologies, headquartered in Montreal, Canada. The company specializes in the design and manufacture of high-fidelity flight simulators and training systems for civil aviation, defense and security, and healthcare markets. Leveraging advanced software and hardware integration, CAE delivers comprehensive training solutions that address pilot proficiency, mission readiness and patient safety across a wide range of platforms.

In civil aviation, CAE partners with major airlines, aircraft manufacturers and flight schools to provide pilot training services, courseware development and crew scheduling solutions.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for CAE Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CAE and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Mattson Financial Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 11,474 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $962,000.

Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt lifted its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 2,735,254.3% during the 2nd quarter. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt now owns 949,769,723 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $76,095,550,000 after acquiring an additional 949,735,001 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Wells Fargo & Company in the 2nd quarter valued at $3,990,551,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its position in Wells Fargo & Company by 54.9% in the second quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 16,635,681 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,332,851,000 after purchasing an additional 5,894,747 shares during the period. Amundi lifted its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 18.2% during the second quarter. Amundi now owns 14,155,753 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,165,868,000 after purchasing an additional 2,180,693 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 8,010.7% during the second quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,973,730 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $158,135,000 after purchasing an additional 1,949,395 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.90% of the companys stock.

Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

WFC has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Weiss Ratings upgraded Wells Fargo & Company from a hold (c) rating to a buy (b) rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Evercore ISI increased their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $101.00 to $107.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, December 15th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $92.00 to $101.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, October 4th. Finally, Cfra Research raised shares of Wells Fargo & Company to a moderate buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Wells Fargo & Company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $92.04.

Wells Fargo & Company Stock Performance

Wells Fargo & Company stock opened at $95.26 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $299.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.67, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 1.11. The company has a current ratio of 0.84, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $87.92 and a 200-day moving average of $83.09. Wells Fargo & Company has a 52 week low of $58.42 and a 52 week high of $95.85.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.73 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.55 by $0.18. The business had revenue of $21.44 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $21.11 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 17.18% and a return on equity of 12.51%. The businesss revenue was up 5.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.42 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wells Fargo & Company Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, December 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 7th were paid a $0.45 dividend. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, November 7th. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio is 29.61%.

Wells Fargo & Company Profile

(Free Report)

Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified, U.S.-based financial services company headquartered in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1852 by Henry Wells and William G. Fargo, the firm has evolved from its origins in express delivery and pioneer-era banking into one of the largest full-service banks in the United States. The company provides a broad range of financial products and services to individual, small business, commercial, and institutional clients. Charles W. Scharf serves as chief executive officer.

Wells Fargo operates across several core business segments, including consumer banking and lending, commercial banking, corporate and investment banking, and wealth and investment management.

Featured Articles

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.
LISBON, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa signed on Sunday legislation creating High-Performance Centers in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CED-ObGin), within the scope of the National Health Service (SNS).

According to a statement published on the official Presidency website, these high-technology centers will function as "autonomous management structures based on an innovative model, aimed at strengthening professional attractiveness and retention."

The government announced the centers will begin operating experimentally in 2026 to guarantee "highly differentiated services, training, research" in the SNS.

The declared objective is twofold: enhancing highly differentiated care offerings and critically stopping Portugal's "brain drain," attracting the most qualified professionals, and making them "want to remain" in public service.

The idea is to create environments that retain newly trained specialists and perhaps serve as an attraction for those who already left, with "some possibly interested in returning," Portuguese Health Minister Ana Paula Martins said.

The presidential statement gives a green light to the experimental regime proposal, with the expectation that the solution now found "can be more than a short-term resource and open systematic and lasting perspectives."

Portugal faces challenges in retaining medical specialists, who often seek better compensation and working conditions abroad, particularly in other European Union countries. The high-performance centers represent an attempt to address healthcare workforce shortages affecting obstetrics and gynecology services across the country's public health system. 
Mattson Financial Services LLC reduced its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR  Free Report) by 18.6% in the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 17,391 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 3,979 shares during the period. Mattson Financial Services LLCs holdings in Extra Space Storage were worth $2,451,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of EXR. Jump Financial LLC purchased a new position in shares of Extra Space Storage during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $534,000. Walleye Trading LLC acquired a new stake in Extra Space Storage during the first quarter valued at $416,000. BNP Paribas Financial Markets increased its holdings in Extra Space Storage by 20.1% in the first quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 415,614 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $61,715,000 after buying an additional 69,512 shares in the last quarter. Magnetar Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of Extra Space Storage in the first quarter worth about $517,000. Finally, The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company boosted its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage by 2.9% during the 1st quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 137,057 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $20,352,000 after acquiring an additional 3,822 shares in the last quarter. 99.11% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Extra Space Storage alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts recently weighed in on EXR shares. Wall Street Zen lowered Extra Space Storage from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Evercore ISI reissued a cautious rating on shares of Extra Space Storage in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Morgan Stanley cut their price objective on Extra Space Storage from $155.00 to $152.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, December 5th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Extra Space Storage in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, UBS Group dropped their price target on shares of Extra Space Storage from $169.00 to $160.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eleven have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Extra Space Storage presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $147.00.

Extra Space Storage Stock Up 0.5%

NYSE EXR opened at $130.87 on Monday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $134.32 and a 200 day moving average price of $140.90. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89, a quick ratio of 0.24 and a current ratio of 0.24. The company has a market cap of $27.78 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.21, a P/E/G ratio of 2.47 and a beta of 1.26. Extra Space Storage Inc has a one year low of $121.03 and a one year high of $162.77.

Extra Space Storage (NYSE:EXR  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.08 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.06 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $858.46 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $736.26 million. Extra Space Storage had a net margin of 28.40% and a return on equity of 6.56%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.07 earnings per share. Extra Space Storage has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.120-8.20 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Extra Space Storage Inc will post 8.1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Extra Space Storage Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be issued a $1.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 15th. This represents a $6.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.0%. Extra Space Storages dividend payout ratio is presently 144.64%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Extra Space Storage news, CEO Joseph D. Margolis sold 7,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $141.41, for a total value of $1,060,575.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 19,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,794,261.60. This trade represents a 27.51% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. 1.36% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Extra Space Storage Profile

(Free Report)

Extra Space Storage (NYSE: EXR) is a real estate investment trust that specializes in the ownership, development and operation of self-storage properties. The company provides storage solutions for residential and commercial customers, offering a range of unit sizes, climate-controlled units and specialized options such as vehicle and boat storage. Extra Space Storage markets itself as a customer-focused operator, with online rentals, contactless move-in options and ancillary retail products like packing supplies and insurance to support tenant needs.

Its business model combines property ownership with third-party management and development activities.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EXR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Extra Space Storage Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Extra Space Storage and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Slocum Gordon & Co LLP cut its holdings in Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB  Free Report) by 36.1% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 39,417 shares of the pipeline companys stock after selling 22,310 shares during the quarter. Williams Companies comprises 2.0% of Slocum Gordon & Co LLPs portfolio, making the stock its 17th largest position. Slocum Gordon & Co LLPs holdings in Williams Companies were worth $2,497,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in WMB. Flaharty Asset Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Williams Companies in the 1st quarter worth $25,000. Saudi Central Bank acquired a new position in Williams Companies in the first quarter valued at about $29,000. Private Wealth Management Group LLC lifted its stake in Williams Companies by 104.8% in the second quarter. Private Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 469 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 240 shares during the period. Hartford Funds Management Co LLC bought a new position in Williams Companies during the second quarter worth about $29,000. Finally, Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp acquired a new position in shares of Williams Companies during the 2nd quarter worth about $32,000. Institutional investors own 86.44% of the companys stock.

Get Williams Companies alerts:

Insider Activity at Williams Companies

In other Williams Companies news, SVP Terrance Lane Wilson sold 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $60.53, for a total value of $242,120.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 302,645 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,319,101.85. This trade represents a 1.30% 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. Insiders own 0.44% of the companys stock.

Williams Companies Trading Up 0.1%

WMB opened at $59.53 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 0.42, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73. Williams Companies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $51.58 and a 12 month high of $65.55. The stock has a market capitalization of $72.70 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.68, a P/E/G ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 0.62. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $59.72 and its 200 day simple moving average is $59.63.

Williams Companies (NYSE:WMB  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 3rd. The pipeline company reported $0.49 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.51 by ($0.02). Williams Companies had a net margin of 20.61% and a return on equity of 16.74%. The company had revenue of $2.92 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.87 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $0.43 earnings per share. Williams Companiess revenue for the quarter was up 10.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Williams Companies has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.010-2.190 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Williams Companies, Inc. will post 2.08 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Williams Companies Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 29th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be issued a dividend of $0.50 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 12th. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.4%. Williams Companiess dividend payout ratio is 103.09%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on shares of Williams Companies from $59.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Citigroup increased their target price on shares of Williams Companies from $65.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Williams Companies from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, October 4th. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Williams Companies from $65.00 to $66.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered Williams Companies from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have issued a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Williams Companies has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $68.21.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Williams Companies

About Williams Companies

(Free Report)

Williams Companies, Inc (NYSE: WMB) is a U.S.-based energy infrastructure company focused on the midstream segment of the natural gas value chain. The company develops, owns and operates assets that gather, process, transport and store natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGLs). Its operations support the movement of gas from production areas to end users including utilities, power generators, industrial customers and export facilities.

Williamss product and service offering includes interstate and intrastate pipeline transmission, gas-gathering systems, processing facilities that remove impurities and separate NGLs, storage services and fractionation and transportation of NGL products.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WMB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Williams Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Williams Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Mattson Financial Services LLC increased its stake in Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE:PRU  Free Report) by 312.8% during the third quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 12,119 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 9,183 shares during the period. Mattson Financial Services LLCs holdings in Prudential Financial were worth $1,257,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Econ Financial Services Corp acquired a new stake in shares of Prudential Financial in the second quarter worth $1,662,000. Nordea Investment Management AB lifted its stake in Prudential Financial by 49.2% in the 2nd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,720,781 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $184,192,000 after acquiring an additional 567,571 shares in the last quarter. Asahi Life Asset Management CO. LTD. acquired a new stake in Prudential Financial during the 2nd quarter worth about $298,000. AE Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in Prudential Financial by 30.2% during the 2nd quarter. AE Wealth Management LLC now owns 213,795 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $22,970,000 after acquiring an additional 49,550 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Brookwood Investment Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Prudential Financial in the 2nd quarter valued at about $289,000. 56.83% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Prudential Financial alerts:

Insider Activity

In other news, Chairman Charles F. Lowrey sold 48,164 shares of Prudential Financial stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $107.39, for a total value of $5,172,331.96. Following the transaction, the chairman owned 165,564 shares of the companys stock, valued at $17,779,917.96. This trade represents a 22.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Timothy L. Schmidt sold 8,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $107.69, for a total transaction of $861,520.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 11,535 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,242,204.15. This represents a 40.95% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold a total of 62,719 shares of company stock valued at $6,796,067 over the last 90 days. 0.25% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Prudential Financial Trading Down 0.5%

Prudential Financial stock opened at $113.96 on Monday. Prudential Financial, Inc. has a one year low of $90.38 and a one year high of $123.88. The companys fifty day moving average price is $108.32 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $106.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58, a current ratio of 0.16 and a quick ratio of 0.16. The company has a market capitalization of $39.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.65, a PEG ratio of 0.93 and a beta of 0.97.

Prudential Financial (NYSE:PRU  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 15th. The financial services provider reported $3.58 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The company had revenue of $8.35 billion during the quarter. Prudential Financial had a return on equity of 16.60% and a net margin of 4.65%. On average, analysts forecast that Prudential Financial, Inc. will post 14.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Prudential Financial Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, December 11th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, November 18th were issued a dividend of $1.35 per share. This represents a $5.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.7%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, November 18th. Prudential Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 74.18%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms recently commented on PRU. Barclays decreased their price target on shares of Prudential Financial from $120.00 to $117.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on shares of Prudential Financial from $117.00 to $118.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Piper Sandler increased their price objective on Prudential Financial from $110.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, December 23rd. Mizuho assumed coverage on Prudential Financial in a research note on Tuesday, December 16th. They issued a neutral rating and a $125.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Evercore ISI upped their target price on Prudential Financial from $120.00 to $122.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Eleven research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus price target of $118.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Prudential Financial

About Prudential Financial

(Free Report)

Prudential Financial, Inc, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, is a diversified financial services company with roots dating to 1875. The firm provides a range of insurance, retirement and investment products aimed at helping individual and institutional clients manage risk, accumulate and protect wealth, and plan for retirement. Prudentials long history in life insurance and related financial services has positioned it as a major participant in the U.S. insurance market and a provider of services to a broad client base.

Prudentials core business activities include individual life insurance, annuities, retirement solutions and group insurance products for employers.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PRU? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE:PRU  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Prudential Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prudential Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Voya Investment Management LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Molson Coors Beverage Company (NYSE:TAP  Free Report) by 20.9% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 43,310 shares of the companys stock after selling 11,473 shares during the quarter. Voya Investment Management LLCs holdings in Molson Coors Beverage were worth $1,960,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. Clearstead Trust LLC increased its position in Molson Coors Beverage by 952.8% during the second quarter. Clearstead Trust LLC now owns 558 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 505 shares during the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 64.2% during the 2nd quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 565 shares of the companys stock valued at $27,000 after acquiring an additional 221 shares during the last quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 32.9% in the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 800 shares of the companys stock valued at $49,000 after acquiring an additional 198 shares in the last quarter. Cary Street Partners Financial LLC acquired a new stake in Molson Coors Beverage in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $61,000. Finally, WFA of San Diego LLC bought a new stake in Molson Coors Beverage during the second quarter worth approximately $64,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.46% of the companys stock.

Get Molson Coors Beverage alerts:

Molson Coors Beverage Stock Performance

NYSE:TAP opened at $46.44 on Monday. The firms 50-day moving average is $46.08 and its 200-day moving average is $47.87. The company has a market cap of $9.18 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -4.35 and a beta of 0.45. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a current ratio of 0.60. Molson Coors Beverage Company has a 52-week low of $42.94 and a 52-week high of $64.66.

Molson Coors Beverage Dividend Announcement

Molson Coors Beverage ( NYSE:TAP Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $1.67 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.72 by ($0.05). The firm had revenue of $2.97 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.02 billion. Molson Coors Beverage had a positive return on equity of 8.78% and a negative net margin of 15.89%.Molson Coors Beverage has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.360-5.360 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that Molson Coors Beverage Company will post 6.35 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 19th. Investors of record on Friday, December 5th were paid a $0.47 dividend. This represents a $1.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.0%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, December 5th. Molson Coors Beverages dividend payout ratio is presently -17.60%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms have recently commented on TAP. Evercore ISI dropped their price target on shares of Molson Coors Beverage from $53.00 to $50.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of Molson Coors Beverage from $49.00 to $47.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Sanford C. Bernstein cut their target price on shares of Molson Coors Beverage from $54.00 to $50.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price target on Molson Coors Beverage from $51.00 to $48.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Roth Capital reissued a buy rating and set a $65.00 price objective (down previously from $67.00) on shares of Molson Coors Beverage in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $53.59.

Get Our Latest Report on TAP

Insider Buying and Selling at Molson Coors Beverage

In other Molson Coors Beverage news, Director David S. Coors acquired 2,245 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was bought at an average price of $44.47 per share, for a total transaction of $99,835.15. Following the purchase, the director owned 30,586 shares in the company, valued at $1,360,159.42. This represents a 7.92% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, Director Andrew Thomas Molson acquired 7,500 shares of Molson Coors Beverage stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $46.79 per share, with a total value of $350,925.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director directly owned 22,654 shares in the company, valued at $1,059,980.66. This trade represents a 49.49% increase in their position. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. 2.71% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Molson Coors Beverage Profile

(Free Report)

Molson Coors Beverage Company is a leading multinational brewing and beverage enterprise formed through the 2005 merger of Canadas Molson and the United States Coors. The company develops, markets and distributes an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, focusing primarily on beer and ready-to-drink products. Its portfolio spans flagship brands such as Coors Light, Molson Canadian and Miller Lite, alongside craft-style offerings like Blue Moon and global imports including Carling and Staropramen.

In addition to its core beer business, Molson Coors has expanded into adjacent categories to capture evolving consumer tastes.

Read More

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.
M&G plc (LON:MNG  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as GBX 285.90 and last traded at GBX 285.68, with a volume of 2981488 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 283.90.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

MNG has been the subject of several recent research reports. Berenberg Bank upgraded shares of M&G to a buy rating and increased their target price for the stock from GBX 225 to GBX 342 in a report on Friday, October 10th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating and set a GBX 265 price target on shares of M&G in a research report on Monday, November 10th. UBS Group cut M&G to a neutral rating and raised their price objective for the company from GBX 275 to GBX 290 in a report on Wednesday, December 17th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on M&G from GBX 305 to GBX 315 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of GBX 282.83.

Get M&G alerts:

Read Our Latest Analysis on M&G

M&G Trading Up 0.6%

M&G Company Profile

The stock has a market cap of 6.78 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -114.27, a PEG ratio of -2.76 and a beta of 1.47. The company has a quick ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 218.70. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is GBX 270.74 and its 200 day simple moving average is GBX 262.64.

(Get Free Report)

M&G plc is a leading savings and investments business, managing investments for both individuals and for large institutional investors, such as pension funds, around the world.

We have a single corporate identity, M&G plc, and two customer-facing brands: Prudential and M&G Investments. Prudential offers savings and insurance for customers in the UK and Europe and for asset management in South Africa. M&G Investments manages assets for clients globally.

With roots stretching back more than 170 years, we have a long history of finding innovative solutions for our customers changing needs.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for M&G Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for M&G and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Westend Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA  Free Report) by 75,054.2% in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 124,756 shares of the specialty retailers stock after purchasing an additional 124,590 shares during the period. Alibaba Group makes up approximately 6.5% of Westend Capital Management LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 2nd largest position. Westend Capital Management LLCs holdings in Alibaba Group were worth $22,298,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BABA. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC lifted its stake in Alibaba Group by 1,349,768.3% during the second quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 49,013,718 shares of the specialty retailers stock worth $5,558,646,000 after purchasing an additional 49,010,087 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in shares of Alibaba Group in the 2nd quarter valued at $527,243,000. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC raised its holdings in shares of Alibaba Group by 85.6% in the 1st quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 8,557,495 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $1,131,558,000 after buying an additional 3,947,460 shares during the period. Axiom Investors LLC DE acquired a new position in Alibaba Group during the 1st quarter worth about $276,909,000. Finally, Assenagon Asset Management S.A. purchased a new position in Alibaba Group during the 2nd quarter valued at about $227,567,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 13.47% of the companys stock.

Get Alibaba Group alerts:

Alibaba Group Trading Up 1.5%

NYSE BABA opened at $152.28 on Monday. Alibaba Group Holding Limited has a 52 week low of $80.06 and a 52 week high of $192.67. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $160.37 and a two-hundred day moving average of $143.69. The company has a quick ratio of 1.46, a current ratio of 1.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $363.35 billion, a PE ratio of 21.03, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.33.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have issued reports on BABA shares. Macquarie reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Alibaba Group in a research note on Tuesday, November 25th. CLSA lifted their price objective on shares of Alibaba Group from $155.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Mizuho set a $195.00 target price on shares of Alibaba Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price target on shares of Alibaba Group from $240.00 to $230.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 26th. Finally, Erste Group Bank upgraded shares of Alibaba Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Seventeen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $194.00.

Get Our Latest Report on Alibaba Group

About Alibaba Group

(Free Report)

Alibaba Group Holding Limited is a Chinese multinational conglomerate founded in 1999 in Hangzhou, China, by Jack Ma and a group of co?founders. The company built its business around internet-based commerce and related services and has grown into one of the largest e-commerce and technology companies in the world. Alibaba completed a high?profile initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in 2014.

The company operates a portfolio of online marketplaces and platforms serving different customer segments: Alibaba.com for global and domestic B2B trade, Taobao for consumer-to-consumer shopping, and Tmall for brand and retailer storefronts targeted at Chinese consumers.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Alibaba Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Alibaba Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Nixon Peabody Trust Co. decreased its holdings in General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD  Free Report) by 46.0% in the third quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 30,224 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 25,734 shares during the quarter. Nixon Peabody Trust Co.s holdings in General Dynamics were worth $10,306,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors LLC bought a new stake in General Dynamics in the 3rd quarter worth about $26,000. Louisbourg Investments Inc. bought a new stake in shares of General Dynamics in the third quarter worth approximately $27,000. Quarry LP raised its holdings in shares of General Dynamics by 783.3% during the first quarter. Quarry LP now owns 106 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 94 shares during the last quarter. Vermillion & White Wealth Management Group LLC boosted its holdings in General Dynamics by 80.3% in the second quarter. Vermillion & White Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 110 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $32,000 after purchasing an additional 49 shares during the last quarter. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC raised its stake in General Dynamics by 64.7% during the 2nd quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 112 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $33,000 after buying an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. 86.14% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get General Dynamics alerts:

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other General Dynamics news, VP David Paddock sold 20,360 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $334.92, for a total transaction of $6,818,971.20. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president directly owned 36,644 shares of the companys stock, valued at $12,272,808.48. This trade represents a 35.72% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 1.50% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several analysts recently commented on the company. Seaport Res Ptn raised General Dynamics from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. Susquehanna boosted their price target on General Dynamics from $365.00 to $406.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Wolfe Research increased their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $360.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $369.00 to $381.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating and set a $400.00 target price on shares of General Dynamics in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have given a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $358.50.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on GD

General Dynamics Stock Performance

GD opened at $342.19 on Monday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $341.84 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $323.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 1.40 and a quick ratio of 0.87. The firm has a market cap of $92.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.18, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 0.40. General Dynamics Corporation has a 1-year low of $239.20 and a 1-year high of $360.50.

General Dynamics (NYSE:GD  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Friday, October 24th. The aerospace company reported $3.88 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.69 by $0.19. The company had revenue of $12.91 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.49 billion. General Dynamics had a net margin of 8.18% and a return on equity of 18.27%. General Dynamicss revenue for the quarter was up 10.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $3.35 EPS. General Dynamics has set its FY 2025 guidance at 15.300-15.35 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that General Dynamics Corporation will post 14.83 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

General Dynamics Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 6th. Investors of record on Friday, January 16th will be issued a $1.50 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 16th. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.8%. General Dynamicss payout ratio is currently 38.89%.

General Dynamics Company Profile

(Free Report)

General Dynamics is a major American aerospace and defense contractor that designs, manufactures and supports a broad range of products and services for government and commercial customers worldwide. Headquartered in the United States (Reston, Virginia), the company supplies platforms and systems used by armed forces, civil authorities and private operators across multiple domains including air, land, sea and cyber.

Its principal activities span several operating businesses: a business aviation unit that develops and supports Gulfstream business jets; land systems that produce armored combat vehicles and related logistics and sustainment services; marine systems that design and construct submarines and surface ships for navies; and mission systems and information technology operations that provide command-and-control, communications, cybersecurity and systems-integration services.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for General Dynamics Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for General Dynamics and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Carlsberg AS (OTCMKTS:CABGY  Get Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 12,192 shares, a decrease of 39.4% from the November 30th total of 20,123 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 87,602 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 87,602 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Carlsberg AS Stock Performance

OTCMKTS CABGY opened at $25.99 on Monday. Carlsberg AS has a twelve month low of $18.21 and a twelve month high of $30.22. The company has a current ratio of 0.70, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.41. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $24.88 and a 200 day simple moving average of $25.36.

Get Carlsberg AS alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, UBS Group raised shares of Carlsberg AS from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Carlsberg AS currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Carlsberg AS Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Carlsberg A/S is a Danish multinational brewer founded in 1847 and headquartered in Copenhagen. The company is primarily engaged in the brewing, marketing and distribution of beer, cider and related beverages. Its portfolio comprises global and regional beer brands, led by the Carlsberg and Tuborg names, alongside a range of local brands tailored to specific markets. Carlsberg also operates maltings and brewing facilities and provides packaging and logistics services that support its beverage operations.

Carlsberg sells products across Europe and Asia and maintains a presence in numerous other markets through wholly owned subsidiaries, joint ventures and export arrangements.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Carlsberg AS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Carlsberg AS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
China Construction Bank Corp. (OTCMKTS:CICHY  Get Free Report) saw a significant decrease in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totaling 27,838 shares, a decrease of 37.4% from the November 30th total of 44,500 shares. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 118,457 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days. Based on an average daily volume of 118,457 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the company are short sold.

China Construction Bank Stock Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS CICHY opened at $19.53 on Monday. China Construction Bank has a one year low of $14.75 and a one year high of $22.27. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $20.35 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $20.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 0.87 and a quick ratio of 0.87. The company has a market capitalization of $244.14 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.43 and a beta of 0.11.

Get China Construction Bank alerts:

China Construction Bank (OTCMKTS:CICHY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.98 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.94 by $0.04. China Construction Bank had a return on equity of 9.81% and a net margin of 25.63%.The firm had revenue of $24.56 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $24.44 billion.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Zacks Research upgraded China Construction Bank to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold.

Get Our Latest Report on China Construction Bank

About China Construction Bank

(Get Free Report)

China Construction Bank Corporation (OTCMKTS:CICHY) is one of the largest commercial banks in China, headquartered in Beijing. The bank provides a broad range of banking and financial services to corporate, institutional and individual customers. It is widely recognized as one of the major state-owned banks in China and has played a significant role in financing infrastructure, real estate and corporate development across the country.

CCBs core business activities include corporate banking, personal banking and treasury operations.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for China Construction Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for China Construction Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $31.67 and last traded at $31.3440, with a volume of 104322 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $31.33.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have commented on BSAC. UBS Group raised their price objective on Banco Santander Chile from $24.00 to $29.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Banco Santander Chile from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, December 22nd. Citigroup lowered shares of Banco Santander Chile from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, November 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on Banco Santander Chile from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Banco Santander Chile in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Banco Santander Chile presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average price target of $27.67.

Get Banco Santander Chile alerts:

View Our Latest Report on Banco Santander Chile

Banco Santander Chile Stock Down 1.2%

The stock has a market capitalization of $14.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.48, a PEG ratio of 0.79 and a beta of 0.58. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $29.68 and its 200 day simple moving average is $26.54. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.51, a quick ratio of 1.84 and a current ratio of 1.84.

Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, November 17th. The bank reported $0.99 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Banco Santander Chile had a return on equity of 22.18% and a net margin of 24.74%.The business had revenue of $740.10 million for the quarter. As a group, research analysts expect that Banco Santander Chile will post 2.07 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Trading of Banco Santander Chile

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. American Century Companies Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Banco Santander Chile by 31.6% during the 2nd quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 271,733 shares of the banks stock worth $6,853,000 after acquiring an additional 65,264 shares during the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Banco Santander Chile by 462,111.1% in the second quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 124,797 shares of the banks stock valued at $3,147,000 after purchasing an additional 124,770 shares during the last quarter. XTX Topco Ltd bought a new position in shares of Banco Santander Chile in the second quarter valued at about $983,000. Savant Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Banco Santander Chile during the 2nd quarter worth about $226,000. Finally, TT International Asset Management LTD bought a new stake in shares of Banco Santander Chile during the 3rd quarter worth about $24,685,000. 6.42% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Banco Santander Chile

(Get Free Report)

Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC) is one of the leading financial institutions in Chile and a key component of the global Santander Group. The bank offers a comprehensive range of banking and financial services, including retail and commercial lending, deposit accounts, credit cards, wealth management, insurance products and corporate banking solutions. Headquartered in Santiago, it operates an extensive network of branches, ATMs and digital platforms to serve individual customers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations across the country.

Originally founded as Banco de Santiago in the late 1970s, the institution became part of the Santander Group following the privatization wave in Chile during the late 1980s.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Banco Santander Chile Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Banco Santander Chile and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
ISTANBUL, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Nine people, including three police officers and six suspected Islamic State (IS) members, were killed and nine others wounded during an operation targeting IS members in the northwestern Turkish province of Yalova on Monday, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said.

Speaking at a press conference in Ankara, Yerlikaya said simultaneous operations were carried out at 108 separate addresses across 15 provinces as part of a nationwide crackdown against IS over the night.

Yerlikaya said the Yalova raid was launched at around 2 a.m. local time (2300 GMT on Sunday), when police targeted a residence believed to be used by IS suspects. The suspects opened fire on security forces, killing three police officers, while eight others and one night watchman were wounded, he added.

Noting that women and children were present in the house, Yerlikaya said the operation was conducted with "extreme caution." Five women and six children were safely evacuated from the residence.

"Six suspected IS militants, all of whom were Turkish nationals, were killed in the ensuing clash," he added.

The interior minister said the operation was concluded at 9:40 a.m. local time (0640 GMT).

Following the operation, an investigation was launched by the Yalova Chief Public Prosecutor's Office. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc said that five public prosecutors had been assigned to the case and that five suspects had been detained.

Turkiye has intensified operations against IS in recent weeks, as intelligence assessments have warned of heightened security threats during the New Year holiday period. 
iShares MSCI South Korea ETF (NYSEARCA:EWY  Get Free Report) shares gapped up before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $95.84, but opened at $97.95. iShares MSCI South Korea ETF shares last traded at $97.9830, with a volume of 1,046,125 shares traded.

iShares MSCI South Korea ETF Trading Up 2.2%

The firm has a market cap of $7.08 billion, a PE ratio of 10.35 and a beta of 1.22. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $92.95 and its 200 day moving average price is $81.37.

Get iShares MSCI South Korea ETF alerts:

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Banque Transatlantique SA acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI South Korea ETF in the first quarter valued at about $25,000. CWM LLC lifted its position in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF by 328.8% during the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 596 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $43,000 after acquiring an additional 457 shares in the last quarter. National Bank of Canada FI boosted its holdings in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF by 103.9% in the 3rd quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 579 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $46,000 after acquiring an additional 295 shares during the period. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $76,000. Finally, Private Wealth Management Group LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF by 83.3% in the second quarter. Private Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 1,320 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $95,000 after acquiring an additional 600 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 49.22% of the companys stock.

iShares MSCI South Korea ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI South Korea Capped ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI Korea 25/50 Index (the Index). The Index consists of stocks traded primarily on the Stock Market Division of the Korean Exchange. The Index is a free-float adjusted market capitalization weighted index with a capping methodology applied to issuer weights so that no issuer of a component exceeds 25% of the Index weight and all issuers with weight above 5% do not exceed 50% of the Index weight.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI South Korea ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI South Korea ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Titomic Limited (ASX:TTT  Get Free Report) insider Jim Simpson purchased 400,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 19th. The stock was purchased at an average price of A$0.25 per share, with a total value of A$100,000.00.

Titomic Price Performance

The company has a market cap of $357.96 million, a P/E ratio of -20.20 and a beta of 0.41. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 74.71, a quick ratio of 1.81 and a current ratio of 1.48.

Get Titomic alerts:

Titomic Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Read More

Titomic Limited provides manufacturing and technology solutions for high-performance metal additive manufacturing in Australia, the United States, and Europe. The company offers cold spray additive manufacturing machines and manufactured products. It also engages in the sales, marketing, and customer relationship activities. In addition, the company provides metal coating and repair services. It serves defense, aerospace, mining, energy, and transport industries. Titomic Limited was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in Mount Waverley, Australia.

Receive News & Ratings for Titomic Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Titomic and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Whitefield Industrials Limited (ASX:WHF  Get Free Report) insider Lance Jenkins purchased 3,577 shares of Whitefield Industrials stock in a transaction on Friday, December 19th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of A$5.39 per share, with a total value of A$19,280.03.

Whitefield Industrials Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.11, a quick ratio of 4.84 and a current ratio of 0.50. The firm has a market cap of $667.80 million, a PE ratio of 5.29 and a beta of 0.39.

Get Whitefield Industrials alerts:

Whitefield Industrials Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a Interim dividend, which was paid on Thursday, December 18th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 18th were paid a $0.105 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 190.0%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 3rd. Whitefield Industrialss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 123.53%.

About Whitefield Industrials

Whitefield Limited operates in the securities industry primarily in Australia. The company invests in shares and securities. The company was founded in 1923 and is based in Sydney, Australia.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Whitefield Industrials Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Whitefield Industrials and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF (NYSEARCA:GDXJ  Get Free Report) shares gapped down before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $121.60, but opened at $115.32. VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF shares last traded at $113.5860, with a volume of 982,450 shares traded.

VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF Stock Down 5.8%

The firm has a market capitalization of $9.78 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.09 and a beta of 0.74. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $103.17 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $87.69.

Get VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF alerts:

Institutional Investors Weigh In On VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in GDXJ. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. increased its position in VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF by 98.1% in the 3rd quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. now owns 321 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 159 shares during the period. MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust FSB purchased a new stake in shares of VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF during the third quarter worth approximately $33,000. Root Financial Partners LLC purchased a new position in VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at $34,000. Total Investment Management Inc. purchased a new position in VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at $27,000. Finally, Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its stake in VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF by 58.5% in the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 474 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $32,000 after buying an additional 175 shares during the period.

VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF Company Profile

Market Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF (the Fund) seeks to replicate as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the price and yield performance of the Market Vectors Junior Gold Miners Index (the Index). The Index provides exposure to a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the Companys revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM  Get Free Report) (TSE:AEM) dropped 7.1% on Monday . The stock traded as low as $170.91 and last traded at $170.2880. Approximately 661,928 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 77% from the average daily volume of 2,883,464 shares. The stock had previously closed at $183.21.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts recently commented on AEM shares. Zacks Research upgraded Agnico Eagle Mines from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, December 4th. TD Securities increased their target price on Agnico Eagle Mines from $154.00 to $195.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen lowered Agnico Eagle Mines from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Sunday, November 30th. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, CIBC increased their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $165.00 to $231.00 and gave the stock an outperformer rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have given a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $201.60.

Get Agnico Eagle Mines alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on Agnico Eagle Mines

Agnico Eagle Mines Stock Performance

The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $167.56 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $149.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $86.27 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.66 and a beta of 0.64. The company has a current ratio of 2.12, a quick ratio of 1.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.01.

Agnico Eagle Mines (NYSE:AEM  Get Free Report) (TSE:AEM) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The mining company reported $2.16 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.76 by $0.40. Agnico Eagle Mines had a net margin of 32.62% and a return on equity of 15.64%. The company had revenue of $3.07 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.93 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.14 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Agnico Eagle Mines Limited will post 4.63 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Trading of Agnico Eagle Mines

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in AEM. Addenda Capital Inc. raised its stake in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines by 2.3% during the third quarter. Addenda Capital Inc. now owns 724,231 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $122,076,000 after acquiring an additional 15,965 shares in the last quarter. Schroder Investment Management Group raised its position in Agnico Eagle Mines by 12.7% during the 2nd quarter. Schroder Investment Management Group now owns 438,080 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $52,101,000 after purchasing an additional 49,480 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines by 2.7% in the 2nd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,178,532 shares of the mining companys stock worth $140,135,000 after buying an additional 31,087 shares during the period. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines by 87.5% during the 2nd quarter. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. now owns 153,000 shares of the mining companys stock worth $18,196,000 after buying an additional 71,400 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Blueshift Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in the second quarter valued at about $769,000. 68.34% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Agnico Eagle Mines

(Get Free Report)

Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) is a Canadian-based senior gold producer headquartered in Toronto, Ontario. The company is principally engaged in the exploration, development, production and reclamation of gold-bearing properties. Agnico Eagle pursues both greenfield and brownfield exploration to expand its resource base and operates a portfolio of producing mines and development projects to generate long-life gold production.

Its core business activities span the full mining lifecycle: grassroots and advanced-stage exploration, prefeasibility and feasibility studies, mine construction, underground and open-pit mining, ore processing and metal recovery, and post-mining reclamation and closure.

Read More

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.
Shares of Galp Energia SGPS SA (OTCMKTS:GLPEY  Get Free Report) saw unusually-strong trading volume on Monday . Approximately 349,746 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 411% from the previous sessions volume of 68,383 shares.The stock last traded at $8.4250 and had previously closed at $8.30.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Citigroup lowered Galp Energia SGPS from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 9th. Santander cut Galp Energia SGPS from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Berenberg Bank lowered Galp Energia SGPS from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, December 11th. Finally, Barclays upgraded shares of Galp Energia SGPS from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 31st. 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 stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Galp Energia SGPS alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on Galp Energia SGPS

Galp Energia SGPS Stock Up 1.2%

The companys 50 day moving average is $9.58 and its 200 day moving average is $9.48. The company has a market cap of $11.68 billion, a PE ratio of 11.67 and a beta of 0.04. The company has a current ratio of 1.68, a quick ratio of 1.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60.

Galp Energia SGPS (OTCMKTS:GLPEY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The energy company reported $0.21 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.25 by ($0.04). The business had revenue of $5.81 billion during the quarter. Galp Energia SGPS had a return on equity of 18.21% and a net margin of 4.90%. As a group, analysts predict that Galp Energia SGPS SA will post 0.75 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Galp Energia SGPS

(Get Free Report)

Galp Energia SGPS is an integrated energy company headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal, with core operations spanning upstream exploration and production, midstream refining, and downstream distribution and marketing. In its upstream segment, the company explores and produces oil and natural gas in regions such as Brazils pre-salt basins, African offshore blocks in Angola and Mozambique, and domestic wells in Portugal. Its midstream activities include refining crude oil at the Sines facility and operating a network of pipelines, while downstream operations involve the distribution and retail sale of petroleum products through the Galp-branded service station network across the Iberian Peninsula.

In addition to its traditional oil and gas business, Galp has expanded into power generation and renewable energy.

Featured Articles

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.
PCCW Ltd. (OTCMKTS:PCWLF  Get Free Report)s share price gapped down prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $0.7581, but opened at $0.7103. PCCW shares last traded at $0.7103, with a volume of 502 shares traded.

PCCW Trading Down 3.4%

The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $0.74 and a 200-day moving average price of $0.70.

Get PCCW alerts:

About PCCW

(Get Free Report)

PCCW Limited (OTCMKTS: PCWLF) is a Hong Kongbased telecommunications and technology services provider with a diversified portfolio spanning fixed-line and mobile communications, broadband internet, and media content. Through its flagship subsidiary, HKT, PCCW operates Hong Kongs largest fixed-line network and one of the territorys leading broadband platforms. The company also offers mobile services under the CSL brand, serving both residential and enterprise customers across the region.

Beyond traditional telecom offerings, PCCW provides a range of information and communications technology (ICT) solutions, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, data centre services and IT consultancy.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for PCCW Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PCCW and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Pan African Resources PLC (LON:PAF  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as GBX 122.60 and last traded at GBX 120.01, with a volume of 7902094 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at GBX 122.40.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Berenberg Bank restated a buy rating and issued a GBX 112 price objective on shares of Pan African Resources in a report on Thursday, November 27th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat, Pan African Resources presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of GBX 112.

Get Pan African Resources alerts:

View Our Latest Analysis on Pan African Resources

Pan African Resources Trading Down 2.0%

Pan African Resources Company Profile

The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 35.80. The company has a market cap of 2.43 billion, a PE ratio of 16.76, a P/E/G ratio of 8.95 and a beta of 0.89. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 98.99 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 77.45.

(Get Free Report)

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Pan African Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pan African Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Ethernity Networks Ltd. (LON:ENET  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The company traded as low as GBX 0.01 and last traded at GBX 0.01, with a volume of 548491500 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.01.

Ethernity Networks Price Performance

The firm has a market cap of 50,000.00, a P/E ratio of -0.01 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a current ratio of 0.42, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 21.00. The business has a 50-day moving average of GBX 0.01 and a two-hundred day moving average of GBX 0.01.

Ethernity Networks Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Ethernity Networks Ltd. provides technology solutions for telecom, mobile, security, and data center markets in Asia, Europe, Israel, and the United States. The company develops and delivers data processing technology and solutions for carrier Ethernet switching. It provides ENET flow processors for telco/cloud network; ACE-NIC40 SmartNIC, an open flow enabled software acceleration NIC; ACE-NIC50 SmartNIC, which offers 10/25G Ethernet connectivity and field-programmable gate array (FPGA) acceleration; and ACE-NIC100 SmartNIC that provides flexible 10/25/40/100G Ethernet connectivity and programmable FPGA acceleration.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Ethernity Networks Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ethernity Networks and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Clontarf Energy plc (LON:CLON  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The company traded as low as GBX 0.02 and last traded at GBX 0.02, with a volume of 594736 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.02.

Clontarf Energy Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of 1.56 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -6.33 and a beta of -0.02. The companys 50 day simple moving average is GBX 0.02 and its 200-day simple moving average is GBX 0.03.

About Clontarf Energy

(Get Free Report)

Clontarf Energy plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas reserves and other related activities. It holds 60% interest in the Tano 2A Block covering an area of 1,532 square kilometers located in Ghana. The company also focuses on exploring and developing Bolivian salt-lakes. In addition, it focuses on liquefied natural gas reserves located in Western Australia. The company was incorporated in 2003 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Clontarf Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Clontarf Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
SEOUL, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's special counsel on Monday said that it indicted a total of 76 people, including former impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol and his wife, on corruption charges, after wrapping up its investigations. 
BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO) (TSE:ZWB  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$25.41 and last traded at C$25.41, with a volume of 99540 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at C$25.32.

BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO) Stock Up 0.4%

The companys 50 day simple moving average is C$24.06 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$22.50.

Get BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO) alerts:

BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO) Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a monthly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Investors of record on Tuesday, December 2nd were paid a dividend of $0.12 per share. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 5.7%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, November 26th.

About BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO)

The ETF seeks to provide exposure to the performance of a portfolio of Canadian banks to generate income and to provide long-term capital appreciation while mitigating downside risk through the use of covered call options. To achieve investment objective the ETF will primarily invest in and hold the securities of Canadian banks, ETFs, or a combination of these. Depending on market volatility and other factors, the ETF will write covered call options on these securities. Under such call options, the ETF will sell to the buyer of the option, for a premium, either a right to buy the security from the ETF at an exercise price or, if the option is cash settled, the right to a payment from the ETF equal to the difference between the value of the security and the exercise price.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO) Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BMO Covered Call Canadian Banks ETF (ZWB.TO) and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Xinyi Glass (OTCMKTS:XYIGF  Get Free Report)s share price gapped down before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $1.19, but opened at $1.0675. Xinyi Glass shares last traded at $1.0675, with a volume of 150 shares traded.

Xinyi Glass Stock Performance

The business has a 50 day moving average price of $1.14 and a 200-day moving average price of $1.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.07, a current ratio of 1.18 and a quick ratio of 0.82.

Get Xinyi Glass alerts:

Xinyi Glass Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited (OTCMKTS:XYIGF) is a leading manufacturer of glass products serving the architectural, automotive and industrial markets. The company produces a wide range of float glass, energy-efficient coated glass, laminated glass and insulated glass units that are used in commercial and residential buildings, as well as tempered and laminated safety glass for the automotive sector. By leveraging advanced production techniques and stringent quality controls, Xinyi Glass seeks to meet the performance and safety requirements of global building and auto manufacturers.

Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Hong Kong, Xinyi Glass has grown from a regional glass processor into one of the largest float glass producers in Mainland China.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Xinyi Glass Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Xinyi Glass and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
PIMCO Income Strategy Fund (NYSE:PFL  Get Free Report) and CSW Industrials (NYSE:CSW  Get Free Report) are both financial services companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their earnings, valuation, institutional ownership, risk, profitability, dividends and analyst recommendations.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

82.8% of CSW Industrials shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.3% of CSW Industrials shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Get PIMCO Income Strategy Fund alerts:

Profitability

This table compares PIMCO Income Strategy Fund and CSW Industrials net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets PIMCO Income Strategy Fund N/A N/A N/A CSW Industrials 14.88% 14.74% 11.10%

Valuation & Earnings

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio PIMCO Income Strategy Fund $47.36 million N/A N/A N/A N/A CSW Industrials $878.30 million 5.82 $136.65 million $8.52 35.98

This table compares PIMCO Income Strategy Fund and CSW Industrialss top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

CSW Industrials has higher revenue and earnings than PIMCO Income Strategy Fund.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings for PIMCO Income Strategy Fund and CSW Industrials, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score PIMCO Income Strategy Fund 0 0 0 0 0.00 CSW Industrials 0 6 1 1 2.38

CSW Industrials has a consensus price target of $314.83, suggesting a potential upside of 2.72%. Given CSW Industrials stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe CSW Industrials is more favorable than PIMCO Income Strategy Fund.

Dividends

PIMCO Income Strategy Fund pays an annual dividend of $1.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 12.8%. CSW Industrials pays an annual dividend of $1.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.4%. CSW Industrials pays out 12.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. CSW Industrials has increased its dividend for 6 consecutive years.

Summary

CSW Industrials beats PIMCO Income Strategy Fund on 11 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About PIMCO Income Strategy Fund

(Get Free Report)

PIMCO Income Strategy Fund is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by Allianz Global Investors Fund Management LLC. The fund is co-managed by Pacific Investment Management Company LLC. It invests in fixed income markets across the globe. The fund invests in a diversified portfolio of floating rate debt instruments with an average duration of around three years. It employs fundamental analysis with top-down approach to create its portfolio. The fund was formerly known as PIMCO Floating Rate Income Fund. PIMCO Income Strategy Fund was formed on June 19, 2003 and is domiciled in the United States.

About CSW Industrials

(Get Free Report)

CSW Industrials, Inc. operates as a diversified industrial company in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Contractor Solutions, Engineered Building Solutions, and Specialized Reliability Solutions. The Contractor Solutions segment provides condensate pads, pans, pumps, switches, and traps; cements, diffusers, grilles, registers, solvents, thread sealants, and vents; line set covers; refrigerant caps; wire pulling head tools; electrical protection, chemical maintenance, and installation supplies for HVAC; ductless mini-split systems installation support tools and accessories; and drain waste and vent system products for use in HVAC/R, plumbing, general industrial, architecturally specified building products. The Engineered Building Solutions segment offers architectural railings and associated services; fire and smoke protection solutions; and pre-engineered and custom architectural building components for use in architecturally specified building products. The Specialized Reliability Solutions segment provides compounds, lubricants, lubricant management products, and sealants; desiccant breather filtration products; and contamination control, industrial maintenance and repair, rail friction modifiers, sealants, and operations solutions for use in energy, general industrial, mining, and rail transportation. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Receive News & Ratings for PIMCO Income Strategy Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PIMCO Income Strategy Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Urban Edge Properties (NYSE:UE  Get Free Report) and American Assets Trust (NYSE:AAT  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, valuation, dividends, risk, profitability, analyst recommendations and institutional ownership.

Volatility & Risk

Urban Edge Properties has a beta of 1.04, meaning that its share price is 4% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, American Assets Trust has a beta of 0.98, meaning that its share price is 2% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Get Urban Edge Properties alerts:

Profitability

This table compares Urban Edge Properties and American Assets Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Urban Edge Properties 23.73% 8.10% 3.35% American Assets Trust 13.98% 5.43% 2.03%

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Urban Edge Properties $444.97 million 5.49 $72.56 million $0.89 21.83 American Assets Trust $457.86 million 2.55 $72.82 million $1.01 18.91

This table compares Urban Edge Properties and American Assets Trusts top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

American Assets Trust has higher revenue and earnings than Urban Edge Properties. American Assets Trust is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Urban Edge Properties, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent ratings and recommmendations for Urban Edge Properties and American Assets Trust, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Urban Edge Properties 0 5 1 0 2.17 American Assets Trust 0 3 0 0 2.00

Urban Edge Properties currently has a consensus price target of $22.00, indicating a potential upside of 13.26%. American Assets Trust has a consensus price target of $20.50, indicating a potential upside of 7.32%. Given Urban Edge Properties stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Urban Edge Properties is more favorable than American Assets Trust.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

94.9% of Urban Edge Properties shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 90.4% of American Assets Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. 2.4% of Urban Edge Properties shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 36.8% of American Assets Trust 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.

Dividends

Urban Edge Properties pays an annual dividend of $0.76 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.9%. American Assets Trust pays an annual dividend of $1.36 per share and has a dividend yield of 7.1%. Urban Edge Properties pays out 85.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. American Assets Trust pays out 134.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Urban Edge Properties has increased its dividend for 2 consecutive years and American Assets Trust has increased its dividend for 4 consecutive years. American Assets Trust is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Summary

Urban Edge Properties beats American Assets Trust on 11 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Urban Edge Properties

(Get Free Report)

Urban Edge Properties is a NYSE listed real estate investment trust focused on owning, managing, acquiring, developing, and redeveloping retail real estate in urban communities, primarily in the Washington, D.C. to Boston corridor. Urban Edge owns 76 properties totaling 17.1 million square feet of gross leasable area.

About American Assets Trust

(Get Free Report)

American Assets Trust, Inc. is a full service, vertically integrated and self-administered real estate investment trust ("REIT"), headquartered in San Diego, California. The company has over 55 years of experience in acquiring, improving, developing and managing premier office, retail, and residential properties throughout the United States in some of the nation's most dynamic, high-barrier-to-entry markets primarily in Southern California, Northern California, Washington, Oregon, Texas and Hawaii. The company's office portfolio comprises approximately 4.1 million rentable square feet, and its retail portfolio comprises approximately 3.1 million rentable square feet. In addition, the company owns one mixed-use property (including approximately 94,000 rentable square feet of retail space and a 369-room all-suite hotel) and 2,110 multifamily units. In 2011, the company was formed to succeed to the real estate business of American Assets, Inc., a privately held corporation founded in 1967 and, as such, has significant experience, long-standing relationships and extensive knowledge of its core markets, submarkets and asset classes.

Receive News & Ratings for Urban Edge Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Urban Edge Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
SouthState Bank (NYSE:SSB  Get Free Report) and Triumph Financial (NYSE:TFIN  Get Free Report) are both financial services companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, earnings, dividends, profitability, valuation and risk.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and price targets for SouthState Bank and Triumph Financial, as reported by MarketBeat.

Get SouthState Bank alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score SouthState Bank 0 3 11 2 2.94 Triumph Financial 1 0 0 0 1.00

SouthState Bank currently has a consensus price target of $115.07, indicating a potential upside of 20.81%. Given SouthState Banks stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe SouthState Bank is more favorable than Triumph Financial.

Risk & Volatility

Profitability

SouthState Bank has a beta of 0.76, meaning that its stock price is 24% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Triumph Financial has a beta of 1.5, meaning that its stock price is 50% more volatile than the S&P 500.

This table compares SouthState Bank and Triumph Financials net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets SouthState Bank 20.25% 10.70% 1.42% Triumph Financial 2.00% 1.76% 0.24%

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares SouthState Bank and Triumph Financials top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio SouthState Bank $2.44 billion 3.92 $534.78 million $7.27 13.10 Triumph Financial $487.93 million 3.10 $16.09 million $0.29 219.72

SouthState Bank has higher revenue and earnings than Triumph Financial. SouthState Bank is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Triumph Financial, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

89.8% of SouthState Bank shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 91.1% of Triumph Financial shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.7% of SouthState Bank shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 5.6% of Triumph Financial shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

SouthState Bank beats Triumph Financial on 11 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About SouthState Bank

(Get Free Report)

SouthState Corporation operates as the bank holding company for SouthState Bank, National Association that provides a range of banking services and products to individuals and companies. It accepts checking accounts, savings deposits, interest-bearing transaction accounts, certificates of deposits, money market accounts, and other time deposits. The company also offers commercial real estate loans, residential real estate loans, commercial, and industrial loans, as well as consumer loans, including auto, boat, and personal installment loans. In addition, it provides debit card, mobile and funds transfer products, and treasury management services comprising merchant, automated clearing house, lock-box, remote deposit capture, and other treasury services. Further, the company offers safe deposit boxes, bank money orders, wire transfer, brokerage services, and alternative investment products, including annuities, mutual funds, and trust and asset management services; and credit cards, letters of credit, and home equity lines of credit. As of December 31, 2021, it served customers through 281 branches in Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia. SouthState Corporation also serves its customers through online, mobile, and telephone banking platforms. The company was formerly known as First Financial Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to SouthState Corporation in July 2013. SouthState Corporation was founded in 1933 and is headquartered in Winter Haven, Florida.

About Triumph Financial

(Get Free Report)

Triumph Bancorp, Inc. operates as a financial holding company for TBK Bank, SSB that provides various banking and commercial finance products and services to retail customers and small-to-mid-sized businesses in the United States. The company operates through four segments: Banking, Factoring, Payments, and Corporate. It offers depository products, including checking, savings, and money market accounts, as well as certificates of deposit; and commercial and industrial loans, loans to purchase capital equipment, and business loans for working capital and operational purposes. The company also provides asset-based, and equipment and premium finance loans; real estate loans to finance commercial properties; to factoring services the transportation and non-transportation sectors; agriculture loans; commercial construction, land, and land development loans; mortgage warehouse loans; residential real estate loans; and consumer loans. In addition, it offers debit cards; electronic banking, trust, and treasury management services; and insurance brokerage services. As of December 31, 2021, the company operated through a network of 10 branches in the Quad Cities Metropolitan Area of Iowa and Illinois; 8 branches in northern and central Illinois; 7 branches in southern Colorado; 3 branches in New Mexico; 31 branches in central and eastern Colorado; and 2 branches in far western Kansas, as well as a branch office dedicated to deposit gathering activities in Dallas, Texas. Triumph Bancorp, Inc. was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Receive News & Ratings for SouthState Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SouthState Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (NYSE:EPD  Get Free Report) Director John Rutherford purchased 15,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, December 29th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $32.09 per share, with a total value of $481,350.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director owned 173,586 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,570,374.74. This trade represents a 9.46% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website.

Enterprise Products Partners Price Performance

Shares of Enterprise Products Partners stock traded up $0.05 during trading on Monday, hitting $31.92. The stock had a trading volume of 2,507,908 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,408,743. The company has a current ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 0.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04. Enterprise Products Partners L.P. has a 12 month low of $27.77 and a 12 month high of $34.53. The firm has a market cap of $69.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.04, a P/E/G ratio of 2.44 and a beta of 0.58. The businesss 50-day moving average is $31.76 and its 200 day moving average is $31.56.

Get Enterprise Products Partners alerts:

Enterprise Products Partners (NYSE:EPD  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.61 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.68 by ($0.07). Enterprise Products Partners had a net margin of 10.92% and a return on equity of 19.40%. The business had revenue of $12.02 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.83 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.65 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 12.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Enterprise Products Partners L.P. will post 2.9 earnings per share for the current year.

Enterprise Products Partners Dividend Announcement

Enterprise Products Partners announced that its board has authorized a share buyback plan on Thursday, October 30th that permits the company to buyback $5.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization permits the oil and gas producer to reacquire up to 7.4% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback plans are typically a sign that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 31st were issued a $0.545 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 31st. This represents a $2.18 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.8%. Enterprise Products Partnerss dividend payout ratio is presently 82.26%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on EPD shares. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $32.00 price objective on shares of Enterprise Products Partners in a report on Friday, December 19th. Citigroup restated a buy rating and set a $36.00 price target (up from $35.00) on shares of Enterprise Products Partners in a research report on Tuesday, December 16th. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on Enterprise Products Partners from $35.00 to $38.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. Scotiabank dropped their target price on Enterprise Products Partners from $35.00 to $34.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, UBS Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Enterprise Products Partners in a research note on Tuesday, December 16th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $35.64.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on EPD

Institutional Trading of Enterprise Products Partners

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Winnow Wealth LLC bought a new position in shares of Enterprise Products Partners in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Crowley Wealth Management Inc. bought a new position in Enterprise Products Partners in the second quarter worth $29,000. Traub Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Enterprise Products Partners during the 2nd quarter valued at $31,000. Palisade Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Enterprise Products Partners in the 3rd quarter worth about $31,000. Finally, Abich Financial Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Enterprise Products Partners in the 3rd quarter worth about $32,000. 26.07% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Enterprise Products Partners

(Get Free Report)

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (NYSE: EPD) is a Houston-based master limited partnership that provides midstream energy services across North America. The company owns and operates an extensive network of pipelines, storage facilities, processing plants and export terminals that transport and handle natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs), crude oil and refined and petrochemical products. Its core activities include gathering and transportation, fractionation of NGLs, natural gas processing, crude oil and condensate pipelines, and marine and terminal services that enable domestic distribution and exports.

Enterprise serves a diverse set of customers including producers, refiners, petrochemical companies, marketers and end users.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Enterprise Products Partners Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Enterprise Products Partners and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
UiPath, Inc. (NYSE:PATH  Get Free Report) CEO Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.90, for a total value of $760,500.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 28,613,585 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $483,569,586.50. This trade represents a 0.16% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink.

Daniel Dines also recently made the following trade(s):

Get UiPath alerts:

On Monday, December 29th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.44, for a total transaction of $739,800.00.

On Wednesday, December 24th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.91, for a total transaction of $760,950.00.

On Monday, December 22nd, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.49, for a total transaction of $742,050.00.

On Friday, December 19th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.07, for a total transaction of $723,150.00.

On Wednesday, December 17th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.11, for a total value of $724,950.00.

On Monday, December 15th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $17.30, for a total value of $778,500.00.

On Friday, December 12th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $17.91, for a total value of $805,950.00.

On Wednesday, December 10th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $18.61, for a total value of $837,450.00.

On Monday, December 8th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $19.21, for a total value of $864,450.00.

On Wednesday, November 5th, Daniel Dines sold 45,000 shares of UiPath stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.07, for a total value of $678,150.00.

UiPath Trading Down 0.1%

UiPath stock traded down $0.01 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $16.83. The companys stock had a trading volume of 33,671,716 shares, compared to its average volume of 15,787,343. UiPath, Inc. has a twelve month low of $9.38 and a twelve month high of $19.84. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $15.53 and a 200-day moving average price of $13.52. The firm has a market cap of $9.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 40.06, a PEG ratio of 5.09 and a beta of 1.10.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

UiPath ( NYSE:PATH Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, December 3rd. The company reported $0.16 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.14 by $0.02. UiPath had a net margin of 14.79% and a return on equity of 3.73%. The company had revenue of $411.11 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $392.46 million. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.11 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 15.9% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts expect that UiPath, Inc. will post -0.17 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Several analysts recently issued reports on the company. UBS Group reissued a neutral rating on shares of UiPath in a report on Thursday, December 4th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on UiPath from $12.00 to $14.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, December 4th. Canaccord Genuity Group boosted their price target on shares of UiPath from $15.00 to $19.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, December 4th. Cowen restated a hold rating on shares of UiPath in a research report on Thursday, December 4th. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded shares of UiPath from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, fifteen have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $16.00.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on PATH

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Hudson Bay Capital Management LP purchased a new stake in shares of UiPath during the second quarter valued at $102,559,000. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in UiPath during the 2nd quarter worth about $68,451,000. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in UiPath by 76.0% during the second quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 11,407,569 shares of the companys stock valued at $145,732,000 after buying an additional 4,926,341 shares in the last quarter. TFG Asset Management GP Ltd boosted its holdings in shares of UiPath by 53.3% in the second quarter. TFG Asset Management GP Ltd now owns 13,722,244 shares of the companys stock worth $175,645,000 after buying an additional 4,772,244 shares during the period. Finally, Nomura Holdings Inc. acquired a new position in shares of UiPath in the second quarter worth about $59,561,000. 62.50% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About UiPath

(Get Free Report)

UiPath Inc provides an end-to-end automation platform that offers a range of robotic process automation (RPA) solutions primarily in the United States, Romania, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and internationally. The company offers a suite of interrelated software to build, manage, run, engage, measure, and govern automation within the organization. Its platform's embedded AI, ML, and NLP capabilities improve decisioning and information processing; emulate human behavior allows organizations to address a myriad of use cases; emulate human behavior allows organizations to address a myriad of use cases; multi-tenant platform enterprise deployment with security and governance and Automation Cloud, which enables customers to begin automating without the need to provision infrastructure, install applications, or perform additional configurations; intuitive interface and low-code, drag-and-drop functionality; signed to enable people and automations to work together; and tracks, measures, and forecasts the performance of automations, enables customers to gain powerful insights and generate key performance indicators with actionable metric.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for UiPath Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UiPath and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
LUSAKA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Zambia has dispatched a consignment of essential medicines to Botswana, which is currently experiencing critical medicine shortages, said a statement released by the Ministry of Health late Sunday.

Georgia Chimombo, principal public relations officer at the ministry, said the ministry released a 20-ton consignment of essential medicines to support Botswana's immediate needs.

"Botswana's medicine shortages have arisen from a combination of economic and systemic factors. These challenges have led to stock-outs of medicines for conditions such as HIV, cancer, and diabetes, necessitating urgent intervention," she said in the statement.

She said the consignment consists of 12 tons from the Zambian government and eight tons from private sector companies, adding that the medicines have been handed over to Botswana's Central Medical Stores for distribution to health facilities.

Chimombo noted that the private sector consignment was mobilized and facilitated by the Zambian government and that Botswana is paying for the medicines.

She emphasized that the intervention has not compromised the availability of medicines in Zambia, following a careful assessment of national stock levels.

Zambia's ability to support a neighboring country in this manner reflects the strides the government has made in strengthening medicines procurement, supply chain management, and overall health system resilience, she said.

According to Chimombo, public health challenges extend beyond national borders, and Zambia's decision to support a neighboring country during a health emergency contributes to regional health security and protects the well-being of populations across the southern African region. 
The Irish government considered taking legal action against Sellafield in the mid-1990s, according to archive documents.

Then-taoiseach John Bruton raised the issue with British prime minister John Major after several safety incidents over a short period in the 1990s.

Documents published as part of the annual release of National Archives in Dublin showed that possible legal action over Sellafield and other nuclear incidents was explored at the time.

This was then reviewed by Irelands departments of both justice and energy, as well as the offices of the Attorney General and Taoiseach.

The Attorney-General has previously advised that any such legal action would have to be based on scientific evidence as to the injurious effects of operations at Sellafield-Thorp on Ireland, a briefing note dated November 29 1995 said.

The Attorney-General has retained a Senior Counsel who is appearing for the State in the Shortt/BNFL proceedings to review the material and advise him on the matters at issue.

The briefing document also mentioned that the opinion of the attorney general was sought in relation to an incident involving a Magnox reactor in Wylfa, North Wales, on July 31 1993.

Earlier that year, the Irish government had raised with the British government its concerns about the incident in Wylfa as well as another incident at Dungeness A power station in Kent, England.

The British government was told that the incidents were a cause of ongoing deep concern to the Irish government and the Irish public.

Mr Bruton also raised nuclear safety with Mr Major during an informal meeting of EU leaders in Majorca in 1995.

Mr Major wrote to Mr Bruton afterwards to say that he could understand how people in the Irish Republic may have been alarmed due to sensational reports of the incidents.

Moving to reassure Mr Bruton, he said that safety was the highest priority for his government  with the word highest underlined.

Mr Major added: Although some isolated safety incidents have occurred, overall the companies in the nuclear industry have an excellent safety record.

He also said that they would not permit any weakening in the current regulatory regime or of the safety standards currently in force.

I must emphasise that the HSE is satisfied that no-one was exposed to actual danger as a result of the Wylfa incident, Mr Major added.

Mr Bruton replied on December 6 to ask that experts from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland attend safety inspections of some of the installations involved.

He said: The precise details of this formal arrangement, if acceptable to you, would perhaps best be left to be agreed between our Department of Transport, Energy and Communication and your Department of Energy.

Mr Bruton added: While the two incidents at the Magnox plants may be of relatively little radiological significance, the number of incidents within a relatively short period in the UK gives rise to continued concerns about the safety of the UKs nuclear industry and the potential for a serious accident with trans-boundary effects for Ireland.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/541 in the National Archives of Ireland.
Follow-up on gunfire in an otherwise peaceful suburb and more deets regarding the Christmas week shooting that sparked chaos amongst patrons of a family-orientated facility.

Check-it . . .

"According to court records, 30-year-old SUSPECT of Kansas City, Missouri is being charged with unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon, unlawful use of a weapon/exhibiting and armed criminal action. Hes being held on a $200,000 cash bond.



"SUSPECT took himself to the hospital after the shooting and was arrested while there. LSPD said he was treated for four gunshot wounds and later released and placed in custody on Saturday."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Fox4: Charges filed, second arrest made in Lees Summit sports venue shooting

KSHB: Man charged in connection to incident Saturday night at TM Fieldhouse in Lees Summit

Developing . . .
Sky Vacations Partners with Madeira Promotion Bureau to Spotlight Madeira as a Year-Round Atlantic Escape



(TRAVPR.COM) USA - December 22nd, 2025 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New York - December 22, 2026: Sky Vacations, one of North Americas leading luxury tour operators, is proud to announce its partnership with Madeira Promotion Bureau, showcasing the Portuguese island of Madeira as one of Europes most compelling year-round destinations for North American travelers.

Often described as the Hawaii of Europe, Madeira is a destination where dramatic Atlantic cliffs, lush subtropical landscapes, and centuries-old traditions come together in spectacular fashion. Through this partnership, Sky Vacations will bring Madeiras natural beauty, rich culture, and distinctive experiences to the forefront for travelers seeking depth, authenticity, and unforgettable scenery.

Madeira is a destination that surprises travelers at every turn, said Richard Krieger, Director of Sky Vacations. From its breathtaking coastal views and UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forests to its vibrant food scene and welcoming spirit, Madeira offers something truly special. Our partnership with the Madeira Promotion Bureau allows us to introduce North American travelers to an island that feels both exotic and effortlessly accessible.

Renowned for its mild climate throughout the year, Madeira appeals to a wide range of travelersfrom nature lovers and hikers exploring the islands famous levada walks, to culinary enthusiasts savoring fresh seafood and world-famous Madeira wine, to couples and multigenerational families seeking a relaxed yet enriching escape. Beyond Funchal, the island reveals charming villages, dramatic viewpoints, black-sand beaches, and a slower pace of life that rewards exploration.

Through this collaboration, Sky Vacations will curate bespoke itineraries highlighting Madeiras diversity combining iconic sights with lesser known corners of the island such as guided walks along historic irrigation channels, visits to family-run wineries, whale and dolphin watching in the Atlantic, culinary encounters rooted in local traditions, and stays in carefully selected boutique and luxury hotels.

With Sky Vacations expertise in tailor made travel, this partnership aims to position Madeira as a must-visit destination not just for first-time visitors, but also for repeat travelers seeking a fresh perspective on Europe.

For more information on custom journeys to Madeira, visit https://www.skyvacations.net/madeira/ or call +1 877.666.3113.

About Sky Vacations

As one of North Americas leading tour operators, Sky Vacations curates unique travel experiences for individual travelers and groups worldwide. Sky Vacations is a proud Active Member of USTOA, IGLTA, and ATTA.

PRESS CONTACT:

Priya Chhabra

E: priya@skyvacations.net

D: +1 248 653 1618

###
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The Baku Network platform has released the latest episode of the analytical video project Dialogue with Tofig Abbasov, Trend reports.

The distinguished guest of the program was Irina Eldarova, an Honored Artist of Azerbaijan.

In her conversation with the programs host, Tofig Abbasov, Eldarova elaborated on the vital role of art in shaping national identity and influencing public consciousness.

She emphasized that art inherently bridges elitism with deep-rooted patriotism.

"Art carries an elitist nature, as the visionary ideas of artists and composers often transcend the contemporary moment. Yet, simultaneously, no force is as patriotic as art. While it resonates universally, every nation possesses the right to take pride in its creators," she remarked.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Eldarova recalled her move to Azerbaijan in 1986 and shared poignant memories of the 1990s.

"I vividly remember when my daughters attended the Second Lyceum. Each morning, regardless of the weather, they would line up at 8:00 a.m. to listen to the Azerbaijani national anthem. It was a profoundly moving experience. To me, the Azerbaijani anthem stands as one of the most powerful and flawless works dedicated to the homeland," she shared.

Delving into her professional career, Eldarova discussed her extensive collaboration with the National Art Museum of Azerbaijan, as well as her ongoing work on a comprehensive series of publications dedicated to the country's prominent artists.

"I have authored more than 38 books, and, at the outset, I believed I possessed a comprehensive understanding of Azerbaijani art. However, as I immersed myself further in this endeavor, my knowledge deepened significantly. The Azerbaijani school of art, I realized, is not only powerful and distinctive but also teems with exceptional and influential artists," she asserted.

The program also highlighted Azerbaijan's cultural presence on the global stage. Reflecting on her experience at the Venice Biennale, Eldarova recalled the Azerbaijani pavilion's remarkable success, ranking among the top ten most visited out of over 170 countries, according to specialized press surveys.

"Our pavilion generated substantial interest. Over the six months of the exhibition, we received numerous positive responses. Visitors from across the globe were introduced to Azerbaijan through the lens of art," she recalled.

In light of post-war realities, the artist underscored the pivotal role of cultural figures in fostering peace.

"Artists play a vital role in setting the tone for peaceful coexistence. By showcasing their work abroad, they not only promote their country's culture but also champion values of peace, kindness, and creativity," Eldarova emphasized.

Concluding her address, she shared a heartfelt humanistic message with the audience.

"I extend my wish for peace to all, to every individual, every family, and every nation. If humanity focused more on creating and less on conflict, the world would undoubtedly be a far different place," she concluded.

The program Dialogue with Tofig Abbasov continues to remain one of the leading expert platforms where issues of culture, identity, and social development are discussed in the context of Azerbaijans national interests.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. On December 28, an exhibition titled 10 Years Lived in Colors was held at the Turkic World Art Gallery located in the Eco-Park area of the Zira Cultural Center, Trend reports.

Organized to mark the 10th anniversary of the Zira Cultural Center, the exhibition showcased handcrafted works by student artists aged 6 to 30, as well as members of the teaching staff, created using a wide range of colorful artistic techniques.

Head of Baku Media Center Arzu Aliyeva and Alena Aliyeva attended the event.

They familiarized themselves with the activities of the center, viewed the exhibited works, and posed for photos.

The exhibition featured works by young artists, including paintings, sculptures, wood burning, quilling art, batik, ebru, alcohol ink, graphics, wood art, mixed media, and other decorative and applied arts, which drew great interest from visitors.

Addressing the event, Laman Aliyeva, representing the management of the center, briefed participants on the centers activities and the exhibition. Subsequently, Mazahir Rustamov, Director of the Art Studio, spoke about the studios 10-year development, achievements, and the successes of young artists.

Peoples Artist Omar Eldarov, an honorary guest of the exhibition, congratulated the participants, praised their creative work, and wished them success in their future endeavors.

The event continued with a fashion exhibition at the Eco-Parks fashion studio, featuring traditional Azerbaijani national clothing as well as modern garments adorned with paintings and other handcrafted designs.

The program also included an artistic performance titled White Flower.
NANJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command is employing fighters, bombers and unmanned aerial vehicles in coordination with long-range rocket fires to conduct drills in the waters and airspace in the middle areas of the Taiwan Strait on Monday, according to the theater command.

Focusing on striking mobile ground targets, the drills intend to test the troops' capabilities of precision strikes on key targets, the theater command said. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan discussed cooperation in urban planning and architecture, Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of Azerbaijan Anar Guliyev wrote on his page on X, Trend reports.

"Today we discussed issues related to expanding strategic partnership and cooperation in the fields of urban planning and architecture between our countries with Maksat Mamitkanov, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to Azerbaijan.

We particularly highly appreciate the brotherly support shown by Kyrgyzstan in the restoration and reconstruction of Karabakh and East Zangazur. The opening of a school building in the village of Khydyrly in the Aghdam district this year is one of the best examples of this support. We believe that our joint projects with brotherly Kyrgyzstan will continue to develop even more successfully in the future.

In conclusion, we invited the Kyrgyz side to actively participate in the 13th session of the WUF13 Azerbaijan, which will be held in Baku 2026, Anar Guliyev wrote.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. A ceremony was held at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in India to mark the occasion of the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day (December 31), the embassy told Trend.

The event was attended by embassy staff and their family members, as well as Azerbaijani compatriots living in New Delhi and visiting the capital.

Speaking at the event, Azerbaijans Ambassador to India, Elchin Huseynli, highlighted that this notable day, established on the initiative of National Leader Heydar Aliyev as part of his visionary policy, aims to unite and organize more than 50 million Azerbaijanis living in over 70 countries worldwide, fostering a spirit of national unity and solidarity.

The ambassador noted the symbolic significance of the holiday and emphasized that all compatriots, regardless of the country they live in, should actively participate in defending the interests of an independent, sovereign, and strong Azerbaijan under the leadership of President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, while promoting the countrys ancient traditions and rich culture.

The event also highlighted that 2025 was celebrated in Azerbaijan as the Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty, reviewing the countrys development path and key events leading to its glorious victory history.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The Republic of Azerbaijan reiterates its full support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia within its internationally recognized borders, the foreign ministry's statement said regarding recent events in Somalia, Trend reports.

"Recognition of the 'Somaliland' region of the Federal Republic of Somalia contradicts norms and principles of international law and the UN Charter.

Azerbaijan has gone through its own painful experience with foreign military occupation and separatism in its territories, in violation of international law.

Guided by these principles and its own experience, the Republic of Azerbaijan remains firmly committed to the preservation of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of all states, and calls on the international community to act responsibly and in full compliance with international law," the statement said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Tariffs for the export of Azerbaijani petroleum products to Armenia via Georgia have been discussed during a phone conversation between Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and his Georgia counterpart Maka Botchorishvili, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Trend.

The ministers also discussed the current state and prospects of friendly and strategic partnership relations between the two countries. The conversation emphasized that the existing political dialogue at the highest levels between Azerbaijan and Georgia and the intensive visits taking place have contributed to the further strengthening of the countries' relations. The importance of further expanding high-level political contacts in the coming year was stressed.

The parties additionally discussed trade and communication issues in the region and welcomed the efforts in this direction. Positively assessing the agreement reached on the tariff issue regarding the export of Azerbaijani petroleum products to Armenia via Georgia, the ministers emphasized the importance of continuing work in this direction. Bayramov expressed his gratitude to the Georgian leadership for resolving the issue promptly.

In addition, views were exchanged on other bilateral and regional issues. The ministers conveyed their sincere congratulations on the upcoming New Year holiday and expressed their confidence that relations between the two countries will further strengthen in 2026.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The upper limit of the government debt-to-GDP ratio for Azerbaijan by 2029 has been set, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

According to the decree, for the end of the medium-term period (2029), the target upper limit for the consolidated budget's non-oil primary deficit to non-oil GDP ratio is set at 13%, while the target upper limit for the government debt to GDP ratio is set at 30%.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan should address the matters arising from this decree.

Previously, the target upper limit for the government debt to GDP ratio for the medium-term period was 20%.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The activities of the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) of Azerbaijan are being improved, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

According to the decree, institutions financed from the state budget and capable of providing grants to legal entities and individuals, as well as municipalities, in accordance with their areas of activity, as well as the Azerbaijan Youth Fund, the Agency for the Development of Small and Medium-sized Businesses, and the Social Services Agency under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population, will implement all types of financing of NGOs, including competitive and non-competitive, state orders and subsidies, together with the Agency for State Support to NGOs, on the basis of the "single window" principle.

At the same time, the decree establishes the "State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations" information system. The functions of the owner and operator of the system will be performed by the Agency for State Support to NGOs.

The Cabinet of Ministers must prepare proposals for improving regulatory legal acts related to the activities of non-governmental organizations and a draft of the system's charter within six months and submit them to the President of Azerbaijan.
Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The budget of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan for 2026 has been approved, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

According to the decree, the revenues of the State Oil Fund for the 2026 budget must be approved at 13.03 billion manat ($7.67 billion), while the expenses are set to be 13.01 billion manat ($7.66 billion).
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. "National action plan on gender (men and women) equality in Azerbaijan for 2026-2028" has been approved, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

The State Committee for Family, Women and Children's Issues of Azerbaijan must:

coordinate the implementation of the measures provided for in the national action plan,

report once a year to the President of Azerbaijan on the implementation of the national action plan.

Monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the measures provided for in the national action plan must be carried out by the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication on the basis of the order of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children's Issues of Azerbaijan.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan is tasked with addressing the complexities and implications stemming from this decree.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. President of the State of Palestine, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, Mahmoud Abbas, sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports.

''Dear Mr. President.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the occasion of your birthday, and wish Your Excellency long life, happiness, and continued success.

I would also like to congratulate you on New Year 2026. I pray to Almighty Allah that the New Year and the upcoming years will bring happiness, abundance, peace, and success to you, your people, and all nations.

Please accept, Your Excellency, my fraternal greetings,'' the letter reads.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. On December 29, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said, Trend reports.

The parties exchanged views on various aspects of the fraternal, friendly, and allied relations between the two countries.

The ministers expressed confidence that, as in the current year, joint efforts would continue next year to further develop the existing multifaceted cooperation between the two countries on the basis of shared interests and values.

In addition, views were exchanged on other bilateral and regional issues.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday that he thinks "we're getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to a peace deal to end the Ukraine crisis after his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida.

The two presidents spoke with European leaders, including leaders of NATO and the European Union, during the course of their meeting, Trump told reporters at a joint press conference with Zelensky.

Trump said that about 95 percent of the terms of the peace plan have been agreed upon by parties involved, though "one or two very thorny issues" still remain.

Zelensky said the United States, Europe and Ukraine have almost 100 percent agreed on security guarantees for Ukraine.

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework," said Zelensky. 
Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Footage of President Ilham Aliyevs visit to Baku White City has been published on his social media accounts.

Trend presents the post:

"President Ilham Aliyev visit to Baku White City (29.12.2025)".
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of Azerbaijan, held a meeting with Vladanka Andreeva, the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, on the occasion of the conclusion of her diplomatic mission in the country, the committee told Trend.

According to the committee, the meeting focused on cooperation under the Framework Document for Sustainable Development Collaboration between the Azerbaijani government and the UN for 20262030. It was emphasized that this document provides an important foundation for future-oriented partnership in line with Azerbaijans National Priorities and makes a significant contribution to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goal on Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Guliyev expressed gratitude to Andreeva for her personal dedication and constructive partnership during her tenure as Resident Coordinator. The discussions highlighted the successful and meaningful dialogue carried out in the organization of the National Urban Planning Forums in Karabakh and East Zangazur, as well as preparations for the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) to be held in May 2026 in Baku.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Baku has served as the venue for the unveiling of the Virtual Western Azerbaijan encyclopedic compilation, Trend reports.

Prepared by the Strategic Communications Center, the collection is based on primary sources and provides a comprehensive resource on Western Azerbaijan, covering its natural geography, historical geography, archaeology, ethnography, and political, socio-economic, military, and cultural history from ancient times to the present.

The online resource consists of 8 main sections, 34 headings, and 55 subheadings, organized by location, including cities, districts, and villages, allowing users to easily access detailed information about each area. The research highlights Azerbaijani settlements, religious and historical monuments, and cultural heritage in what is now the territory of the Republic of Armenia. It also documents, based on scientific analysis, the forced resettlement of Armenians during the Russian Empire and Soviet periods, the ethnic cleansing, massacres, and deportations suffered by the local Azerbaijani population, and the deliberate changes of place names, supported by historical maps of the region.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. According to the latest investigations of law enforcement agencies and information disseminated in the media, cases of participation of some citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan in ongoing military actions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as in other armed conflicts, have been recorded, Trend reports, citing the Prosecutor General's Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The statement of the office emphasizes that some citizens participating in those military actions had died, severely injured, or were taken as hostages.

The Prosecutor General's Office also notes that the Republic of Azerbaijan, considers the life, security and protection of the rights and freedom of its citizens as the supreme goal and duty of the state, demonstrates a firm and uncompromising position based on the principle of inevitability of legal responsibility for every person who acts contrary to the legislation and violates the law.

Thus, participation in armed conflicts on the territory of foreign states is not just an individual choice, but a grave, and in some cases, a particularly grave crime in accordance with the requirements of national criminal law and international conventions.

According to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, being mercenary, that is, actions with the aim of receiving material compensation, committed by persons who are not citizens of the state participating in a military conflict or military operations, who do not live permanently on its territory, as well as not aimed at the performance of official duties, as well as participation in the activities of armed formations or groups, not provided for by the legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan, is considered a crime and is punishable by imprisonment for a certain period of time (from 8 to 20 years) or life imprisonment.

"We want to inform our citizens that participation in armed formations that are not provided for by the legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan, regardless of any ideological, material, personal or other interests, is considered a crime.

The relevant law enforcement agencies of the Republic of Azerbaijan have already initiated criminal cases against a number of our citizens involved in such activities. In some cases a preliminary investigation has been finished and the cases have been submitted to the appropriate courts for review, and those found guilty have been sentenced to long-term imprisonment. Currently, a preliminary investigation is being conducted on other criminal cases of this category.

Law enforcement agencies of our country take all necessary measures to prevent the mentioned illegal actions, identify and bring to justice persons who commit illegal actions.

We remind you that, according to the Constitution, the obligation of a citizen of Azerbaijan is to observe the laws of his state and protect his homeland. No material interests can be more important than your life, freedom and future. Refraining from illegal activities and protecting national interests is a moral and legal responsibility of each of us.

We urge our citizens to be vigilant, not follow illegal calls and respect the laws of our state," the statement emphasizes.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The creation of non-governmental organizations will be encouraged to increase the social and public activity of women, Trend reports.

This is reflected in the National Action Plan for Gender Equality (Men and Women) in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026-2028, approved by a corresponding decree of President Ilham Aliyev.

According to the document, it is planned to collect information on non-governmental organizations working in the field of gender equality, to hold events to promote the creation of non-governmental organizations in this area, and to establish new non-governmental organizations working in the field of promoting gender equality, including those headed by women.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Microeconomic and management training courses will be organized for women, and women will be provided with access to financial opportunities for small businesses, Trend reports.

This is reflected in the National Action Plan on Gender Equality (Men and Women) in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026-2028, approved by a corresponding decree of President Ilham Aliyev.

According to the document, it is planned to increase the number of women participating in the self-employment program, organize microeconomic and management training for women, and increase the number of women engaged in entrepreneurship.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Work related to the Rasht-Astara railway line within the framework of the International NorthSouth Transport Corridor (INSTC) remains under constant attention, Irans Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, told reporters, Trend reports.

According to her, the Rasht-Astara section is the only missing railway segment on Iranian territory within the INSTC. Sadegh noted that the process of government land acquisition along the planned route is ongoing, with ownership secured for 110 kilometers so far, and the process is expected to be completed by the end of the year. She added that Iran intends to complete construction of the railway within the next 3 years using a Russian credit facility.

The NorthSouth International Transport Corridor will extend from India to Bandar Abbas in southern Iran and from there, via the RashtAstara railway line, to Azerbaijan, Russia, and Finland. Considering its strategic and geographical position, neighboring countries are a natural choice for Iran to expand transport cooperation within the NorthSouth and EastWest corridors, Sadegh said.

The foundation of the International North-South Transport Corridor was established through an intergovernmental agreement signed by Russia, Iran, and India on September 12, 2000. To date, 13 countries, including Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Russia, and Turkey, have ratified the agreement. The primary goal of the corridor is to reduce the delivery time of cargo between India and Russia, as well as to Northern and Western Europe. Currently, the transport route takes over six weeks, but it is anticipated that this time will be significantly reduced to just three weeks once the corridor is operational.

The Qazvin-Rasht railroad (175 km) was put into operation on March 6, 2019, to connect Azerbaijan's railroads with Iran's railway network within the corridor. The Rasht-Astara railroad is to be built on Iranian territory.

The North-South Corridor has three directions within Iran. The eastern direction is Turkmenistan and Central Asian countries; the middle direction is Russia and other countries across the Caspian Sea; and the western direction is Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, and Eastern European countries.

Meanwhile, Russia and Iran signed an agreement on May 17, 2023, to build the Rasht-Astara railroad in Gilan province in northern Iran. Nine stations will be built on the Rasht-Astara railroad line, which is about 163 kilometers long. With the completion of this railroad, the North-South international corridor will be improved, and Iran's railroad network will be integrated with the Caucasus countries, Russia, and Northern European countries. According to the agreement, the Russian side is expected to spend 1.6 billion euros for the construction of this railroad. This railroad will be built and completed within 48 months.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The European Investment Bank (EIB) considers 2025 a breakthrough year for cooperation between the EU and Central Asia, marked by expanded financing and a stronger institutional presence in the region, EIB Head of Division for the region Edvardas Bumsteinas told Trend.

"The European Investment Bank (EIB), as the financial arm of the European Union, is owned by the 27 EU Member States and plays a pivotal role in advancing EU policy objectives, both within Europe and internationally," Bumsteinas remarked.

He further highlighted that the Bank has set an ambitious financing target of 100 billion euros by 2025, aimed at supporting key EU priorities such as climate action, clean energy, sustainable water management, innovation, connectivity, and securing access to critical raw materials.

In this context, Bumsteinas emphasized that "2025 will serve as a watershed moment for the EUs engagement in Central Asia, with the EIB at the forefront of implementing this vision." He pointed out that the Bank has significantly broadened its footprint in the region through new financing agreements totaling 365 million euros, which are expected to leverage up to 1 billion euros in investments across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. These efforts are strategically focused on sustainable transport, digital connectivity, water management, and enhancing climate resilience, with many projects benefiting from EU budgetary guarantees.

Bumsteinas also underscored the institutional strides made, stating, "We have made substantial progress in negotiating a framework agreement with Turkmenistan, which lays the groundwork for future EIB operations in the country." He added that the appointment of Olivier Kueny as Head of the EIBs Regional Representation for Central Asia, along with the announcement of the first regional office opening in Tashkent in 2026, signals the EU's steadfast and long-term commitment to the region.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Supplies of Russian natural gas to Uzbekistan increased by 20% in 2025, Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller said during a year-end meeting at the Lakhta Center in St. Petersburg, Trend reports via Gazprom.

Miller noted that the companys agenda currently focuses on the further expansion of gas supplies in this direction.

"Central Asia has its own resource base, but the high pace of economic development in the region requires increasingly larger volumes of energy," he said.

According to Miller, Gazprom clearly understands that in the medium term, Russian gas will be in very strong demand in Central Asia.

Meanwhile, in 2024, Gazprom delivered 5.64 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Uzbekistana 4.4-fold increase from 2023, when exports totaled just 1.28 billion cubic meters.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, December 29. Uzbekneftegaz and Azerbaijans SOCAR took a good hard look at the geological exploration progress at the Ustyurt investment blocks, all under the umbrella of a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Trend reports via the Uzbek company.



The issue was discussed during a working meeting between the Chairman of the Board of Uzbekneftegaz JSC, Abdugani Sanginov, and SOCAR Vice President Afag Javadova.

The stakeholders also engaged in dialogue regarding the subsequent phase of the initiative to optimize hydrocarbon extraction methodologies.



The leadership of both organizations conducted a thorough evaluation of the advancements realized within the collaborative initiative, which is being executed in accordance with strategic accords, highlighting the punctual completion of designated objectives.



Specifically, cutting-edge technologies are being deployed extensively for the inaugural implementation in the region as a component of seismic assessments. Certain implemented methodologies are distinctly tailored to the Ustyurt region's specific contextual parameters. This methodology enhances the velocity of geological reconnaissance, optimizes the fidelity and precision of geophysical datasets, and fosters the development of innovative technological competencies and elevated benchmarks within Uzbekistans hydrocarbon industry.



Subsequent to the convening, the stakeholders reached a consensus to synergize on the forthcoming stages of the initiative and guarantee the optimal execution of the outlined operational strategies.

Meanwhile, in August 2024, Uzbekneftegaz and SOCAR signed a cooperation agreement in the hydrocarbon sector, launching geological studies on the Ustyurt Plateau, including seismic exploration and preparations for hydrocarbon production.

Furthermore, on July 24, 2025, the parties signed a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), which provides for fully meeting Uzbekistans domestic oil needs for the next 25 years. The extracted gas will also be supplied to the domestic market, supporting the countrys industrial sector with affordable and high-quality petroleum products.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A drone photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows a Xixia imperial tomb at sunrise in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. China's Xixia Imperial Tombs were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 11, 2025 during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France. (Photo by Yuan Hongyan/Xinhua)

A drone photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows Xixia imperial tombs in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. China's Xixia Imperial Tombs were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 11, 2025 during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France. (Photo by Yuan Hongyan/Xinhua)

A drone photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows Xixia imperial tombs in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. China's Xixia Imperial Tombs were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 11, 2025 during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France. (Photo by Yuan Hongyan/Xinhua)
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, December 29. Afghanistan has completed the development of a roadmap for the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (TAP) power transmission line project and plans to submit it to the Turkmen side in the near future, Trend reports.

The statement was made by Abdul Bari Omar, Chief Executive Officer of Afghanistans national power utility, following talks with Turkmen representatives.

The stakeholders engaged in a comprehensive dialogue regarding the ongoing trajectory of the TAP initiative and delineated subsequent phases for its operational execution. Omar additionally briefed the Turkmen delegation regarding Afghanistan's strategic initiatives to harness electrical energy through the utilization of hydrocarbons delivered via the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas conduit project, underscoring the imperative to conclude negotiations on gas tariff structures.



Turkmen delegates reiterated their commitment to synergistic collaboration, emphasizing that both the TAP and the TAPI are pivotal for enhancing bilateral energy synergies and aligning the economic imperatives of the two nations.

Earlier, on October 20, 2025, Turkmenistan approved the next phase of work on the core section of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline to Afghanistans Herat province along the SerhetabatHerat route.

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, December 29. The law "On the state budget for 2026" has been approved, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

According to the law, the revenues of the state budget of Azerbaijan for 2026 will amount to 38.6 billion manat ($22.7 billion), and the expenditures will total 41.7 billion manat ($24.5 billion).

The law will come into effect on January 1, 2026.
Irans imports from Georgia plunge in 8M2025

Photo: National Statistics Committee

Irans imports from Georgia dropped sharply in the first eight months of the Iranian year, with both value and volume declining significantly compared to last year.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, December 29. Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan discussed key issues related to the further development of bilateral relations, Trend reports via the press service of the Uzbek President.

The issues were reviewed during a telephone conversation between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.

The sides expressed satisfaction with the active political dialogue at all levels, noting steady growth in bilateral trade turnover and freight transportation volumes. Cooperation is expanding across a number of areas, including energy, industry, agriculture, water management, and transport. Particular attention was drawn to the launch of the cross-border trade zone ShavatDashoguz, as well as the intensification of interregional, business, cultural, and humanitarian exchanges.

The leaders also exchanged views on key aspects of regional cooperation.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan reached $1.1 billion in JanuaryNovember 2025, reflecting a 3.2% increase year-on-year.
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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. To date, the West Azeri platform at the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) block offshore Azerbaijan, has delivered a total of 1 billion barrels of oil, Trend reports via bp.

bp as the operator of the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) oil field development is pleased to advise that tomorrow marks the 20th anniversary of first oil from the West Azeri platform  a key milestone in the development of the giant ACG field, Trend reports.

Production from West Azeri began on 30 December 2005, signaling the start-up of Phase 2 of the ACG full field development. Oil flowed from the first of three pre-drilled production wells and, transiting the subsea pipeline to shore, reached the Sangachal terminal on 4 January 2006.

Since then, West Azeri has been at the forefront of ACGs success, delivering over 1 billion barrels (142 million tonnes) of oil  ranking second among all ACG platforms after Central Azeri. The platform is also a significant contributor to the 4.5 billion barrels of total ACG production since the field started up in November 1997.

Currently, the platform continues to operate safely and reliably, with an average daily production of 76,000 barrels per day (end of the third quarter of 2025).

The West Azeri facilities include a 48-slot production, drilling and quarters platform and a 30-inch subsea oil pipeline connecting it to the Sangachal terminal.

Today, around 170 people work on the platform, the majority of whom are Azerbaijani nationals, including both installation managers.

Since start-up, more than 40 wells and multiple sidetracks have been drilled on West Azeri. Currently, 32 wells are active - 24 producers and eight water injectors.

We, as the West Azeri family, are proud to operate one of ACGs top-performing assets. Looking back, one of our earliest wells  C-06  which came online in 2005 with an initial production rate of 35,000 barrels per day, was one of the worldwide top producers. To date, it has delivered a total of 80 million barrels  an outstanding achievement for any oil well. I would like to congratulate the entire West Azeri team on this historic anniversary and reaffirm that West Azeri remains a world-class asset, continuing to make significant contributions to the success of the ACG field and Azerbaijans oil industry for decades to come, Emin Ibrahimov, West Azeri operations installation manager, said.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, December 29. Kazakhstans national oil and gas company, KazMunayGas (KMG), has signed a cooperation agreement with Chinas CITIC Construction regarding the construction of the Karachaganak Gas Processing Plant (GPP), Trend reports via KMG.

The agreement sets out the basic principles for collaboration on the Karachaganak GPP project, including cost estimation, equipment configuration, and the form of cooperation between the two parties.

The document delineates the subsequent phases for advancing towards the formulation of project documentation (FEED) and identifying the optimal technical and organizational methodologies for the execution of the project.

The Karachaganak field is one of the largest oil and gas condensate fields in the world, located in the northwest of Kazakhstan, near the city of Aksai, covering an area of over 280 square kilometers. The field was discovered in 1979, and the first production was achieved in November 1984 through a limited pilot industrial method developed by the Soviet Union.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, December 29. President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov has signed a decree stripping former president Almazbek Atambayev of his state awards, Trend reports via the press service of the Kyrgyz president.

The decision was executed pursuant to a judicial decree issued by the Pervomaisky District Court of Bishkek.



The ex-president was stripped of the designation Hero of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Order of Manas (Second Class), the Order of Danaker, and the Dank Medal.



Prior edicts conferring these distinctions upon Atambayev have been rescinded. Judicial enforcement personnel have been mandated to execute the confiscation of the accolades and facilitate their allocation to the State Awards Fund.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, December 29. Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Head of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan, Adylbek Kasymaliev reviewed the outcomes of the governments work for 2025 at a general meeting of the Presidential Administration staff, Trend reports via the press service of the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers.

Opening the meeting, Kasymaliev congratulated the team on the upcoming year of 2026 and noted that the outgoing year had been intense and challenging. However, all assigned tasks were fulfilled thanks to coordinated teamwork.

In his assessment, the annual outcomes yielded quantifiable results that garnered significant global acclaim.



He also highlighted that Kyrgyzstan's GDP expansion surpassed 10%, positioning the nation as a frontrunner in global economic growth metrics.



In the course of the meeting, the operational efficacy of the divisions tasked with regional engagement, industrial relations, international diplomacy, protocol facilitation, legal compliance, media strategy, oversight mechanisms, and documentation processes received significant accolades.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. The Chairman of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI), Mohammad Reza Farzin, has submitted his resignation letter to President Masoud Pezeshkian due to the daily depreciation of the Iranian currency against foreign currencies, Iranian Vice President Mehdi Tabatabaei told local media, Trend reports.

According to him, it is anticipated that the Iranian President will soon make a decision regarding the resignation of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) chairman, likely accepting it.

Tabatabaei further emphasized that replacing the CBI chairman alone will not resolve the issue of foreign currency fluctuations. Nevertheless, the government has been actively exploring potential solutions to address the ongoing crisis. He noted that a significant portion of the recent surge in foreign currency values against the rial can be attributed to the broader economic conditions prevailing within the country, while the remaining portion is driven by emotional reactions. He suggested that once these emotions subside, there is a possibility for stabilization in the currency market.

In a related development, traders in Tehran staged a protest today, voicing their dissatisfaction with the continuous depreciation of the rial. Hundreds of market participants gathered, demanding immediate measures to stabilize the currencys value.

Currently, the official exchange rate of the CBI places the value of $1 at 755,000 rials, while on the black market, it is being traded for as much as 1.4 million rials.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Following a ceremony to mark the relocation of a school inside its walls on Monday, Xiannongtan Temple -- one of the key cultural sites along Beijing's Central Axis -- has officially reconnected its inner and outer areas, in an important step in restoring its historical layout.

Located in the southwest of downtown Beijing, Xiannongtan Temple is China's largest existing ancient royal architectural complex dedicated to the worship of the god of agriculture. It depicts the traditional agriculture and ritual traditions of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Since the Beijing Central Axis was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2024, the city has devised outlines and made efforts for the preservation of the once disproportionately occupied temple, according to Zhang Lixin, director of the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau.

"Beijing will continue to restore the temple's historical layout, expand its open areas, and make more public spaces accessible," Zhang said.

The school's relocation means visitors no longer need to take a detour when they visit the temple's inner and altar areas. The new school campus was initially put into use in September.

Beijing has a history of over 3,000 years and has served as the Chinese capital for 870 years, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage.

Stretching 7.8 kilometers from Yongding Gate in the south to the Drum and Bell Towers in the north, the Beijing Central Axis was constructed based on ancient architectural philosophies to create an ideal layout for a capital city. The Central Axis can be traced back to the early Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), and its length was extended in the Ming and Qing dynasties. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Iran welcomes the support for the constructive efforts of regional countries aimed at reducing tensions in the region, said Esmaeil Bagaei, spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Trend reports.

Speaking at a press conference in Tehran regarding Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudanis plan to hold a meeting in Baghdad between Tehran and Washington to facilitate dialogue, Bagaei emphasized that, based on the experience of the past five to six months, Iraq and other regional countries understand the importance of adhering to discussion procedures to initiate a proper process. He noted that discussions cannot reflect reality if the issue is not kept at the center of attention.

The spokesman underscored that Iran has consistently upheld its dedication to diplomatic engagement, which functions as a strategic mechanism for safeguarding the nations sovereign interests.

If it is determined that this process is an effective means of safeguarding national interests, it will be immediately utilized, he said.

Meanwhile, on April 12, 19, and 26, and May 11 and 23, five rounds of indirect talks on Iran's nuclear program were held between Iran and the U.S. The indirect talks were organized through the mediation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, and were led by Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on the Iranian side and Steve Witkoff on the American side. The first, third, and fourth rounds of talks were held in Muscat, the capital of Oman, and the second and fifth rounds were held in Rome, the capital of Italy.

On the morning of June 13, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting Iran, resulting in the deaths of numerous high-ranking military officials, generals, nuclear scientists, and other senior figures.

That same evening, Iran retaliated with Operation True Promise III, a large-scale missile and drone assault on multiple targets, including Tel Aviv, which caused civilian casualties and extensive damage.

On June 22, the United States conducted airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, with reports indicating the destruction of these sites.

The following evening, June 23, Iran launched airstrikes on a U.S. military base in Qatar, further escalating tensions in the region.

On June 24, the Israeli Prime Ministers Office announced that Israel had agreed to a ceasefire with Iran, facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump. In response, Irans Supreme National Security Council issued a statement confirming the cessation of hostilities.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Iran has no intention of engaging in discussions on matters unrelated to its nuclear program, the country's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Bagaei said during a press conference in Tehran, Trend reports.

He noted that all discussions between Iran and the United States so far have been strictly focused on nuclear issues, as demands outside the nuclear program have no logical basis.

Bagaei added that the Swiss embassy protecting U.S. interests in Iran and the U.S. mission safeguarding Iranian interests in Washington serve as traditional communication channels, while direct contacts also exist between Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Aragchi and U.S. Special Representative for Middle East Affairs Steve Whitkoff. However, Iran currently sees no need for additional contacts.

Meanwhile, on April 12, 19, and 26, and May 11 and 23, five rounds of indirect talks on Iran's nuclear program were held between Iran and the U.S. The indirect talks were organized through the mediation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, and were led by Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on the Iranian side and Steve Witkoff on the American side. The first, third, and fourth rounds of talks were held in Muscat, the capital of Oman, and the second and fifth rounds were held in Rome, the capital of Italy.

On the morning of June 13, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting Iran, resulting in the deaths of numerous high-ranking military officials, generals, nuclear scientists, and other senior figures.

That same evening, Iran retaliated with Operation True Promise III, a large-scale missile and drone assault on multiple targets, including Tel Aviv, which caused civilian casualties and extensive damage.

On June 22, the United States conducted airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, with reports indicating the destruction of these sites.

The following evening, June 23, Iran launched airstrikes on a U.S. military base in Qatar, further escalating tensions in the region.

On June 24, the Israeli Prime Ministers Office announced that Israel had agreed to a ceasefire with Iran, facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump. In response, Irans Supreme National Security Council issued a statement confirming the cessation of hostilities.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. Irans demand to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its Director General, Rafael Grossi, remains in force, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmael Bagaei said at a press conference in Tehran, Trend reports.

He emphasized that the IAEA Director General must take decisive actions in fulfilling the agencys duties, including condemning the attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States, to prevent further escalations.

Bagaei noted that the Director General is expected to issue statements within his authority, as politically motivated comments only highlight the agencys inaction in response to these attacks.

On the morning of June 13, Israel carried out military air strikes against Iran, leading to the deaths of numerous high-ranking military officials, generals, nuclear scientists, and other senior personnel.

Meanwhile, on the same evening, Iran responded to Israel with Operation True Promise III: hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones were launched at several targets, including Tel Aviv, resulting in civilian casualties and widespread destruction.

On June 22, the US launched military airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. It was reported that the airstrikes destroyed Iranian nuclear facilities.

In addition, on the evening of June 23, Iran launched airstrikes on a US military base in Qatar.

On June 24, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office announced that the Israeli government had agreed to a ceasefire with Iran, brokered by US President Donald Trump.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council also issued a statement noting the cessation of attacks.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced significant progress on security guarantees following a video conference with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trend reports.

She shared the update on her social media page on X after the discussions.

We had a good hour-long conversation with President Trump and Zelenskyy. Several European leaders were present and discussed future peace talks. Significant progress has been made. Europe is ready to work with its partners to consolidate this progress, Ursula fon der Leyen said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 29. US President Donald Trump announced the creation of an American working group on Ukraine that will engage with Russia, Trend reports.

The announcement was made at a press conference following Trumps meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

The task force will be made up of Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, General Dan Kaine, Marco Rubio, and a few other people well include. I think Pete Hegseth should be on that group as well. He knows the area very well and is doing a great job. We might add one or two more people. Ukraine will also have some very good people who were at lunch today, Trump said.

Zelenskyy, in turn, stated that the Ukrainian working group on the settlement would include Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Andriy Gnatov, and First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Serhiy Kyslytsya.
Estonias Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna is convinced that the focus must be on putting pressure on Russia, as it is the only party not interested in peace.

This was reported on the website of Estonias Ministry of Foreign Affairs following talks between Tsahkna and his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha, as quoted by Ukrinform.

Yesterdays meeting in Florida showed that both Ukraine and the United States want to achieve peace and are working toward it. The only party that remains uninterested in peace is Russia, which has shown no willingness whatsoever to abandon the objectives that led it to launch its aggression  the destruction of Ukraines sovereignty and the reshaping of Europes security architecture. Just over the past weekend, we saw Russia devastate residential areas of Ukrainian cities and the countrys energy infrastructure through air strikes, Foreign Minister Tsahkna said.

He recalled that over the past weekend Russia attacked residential areas and Ukraines energy infrastructure, and stressed that until Russia demonstrates genuine readiness for a just and lasting peace, all efforts should be focused on applying even stronger pressure on the aggressor in order to force it to finally take negotiations seriously.

Ukraine must be provided with military assistance so that it can resist the aggressor on the battlefield and protect its cities from Russian drone and missile attacks, the Estonian Foreign Minister said.

He also called for continued work on strong security guarantees for Ukraine.

Estonia already announced in the spring its readiness to contribute, within a coalition of the willing, up to a company-sized unit, as well as training personnel and staff officers, he noted.

As previously reported by Ukrinform, Volodymyr Zelensky said that talks with Donald Trump in Florida resulted in significant achievements.
At present, there is no indication that Russia intends to attack any of the Baltic states or any NATO member country in general.

According to Ukrinform, this assessment was voiced by Kaupo Rosin, Director General of Estonias Foreign Intelligence Service, as reported by ERR.

Rosin said that Moscow has changed its behavior following various incidents in the region.

According to him, as a result of the responses by NATO member states, Russia has taken a number of measures to avoid dangerous incidents in the future.

If we look at the current situation, including what's visible to the public, the drone flight paths over Ukrainian territory or airspace have been adjusted to minimize risk. We're also seeing that Russian aircraft are now very carefully monitoring their flight paths over the Baltic Sea, strictly adhering to their trajectories to avoid triggering incidents, Rosin noted.

He added that since the launch of the relevant NATO mission [Baltic Sentry], there have been no further incidents involving undersea cables.

Read also: Poland intercepts Russian reconnaissance aircraft over Baltic Sea

As reported, on December 18 Estonias Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russias charge daffaires over a violation of the control line on the border along the Narva River. At the time, three men in uniform aboard a hovercraft crossed the control line from Russia into Estonia.

The Estonian government is considering a review of the threat level assessment and the possibility of closing the border with Russia.

Photo: Priit Murk / ERR
12/29/2025

By Irma Silva

The Kennedy College of Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, invites you to attend a Ph.D. Proposal Defense in Applied Biology by Brandon Reder entitled "Morphological and physiological analyses of avian ankle antagonist muscle function.



Candidate: Brandon Reder

Degree: Doctoral

Date: Thursday, Jan. 8

Time: 1  3:30 p.m.

Location: Olsen Hall 234 or Zoom Meeting ID: 727 220 4017

Title: Morphological and physiological analyses of avian ankle antagonist muscle function



Committee Members:

Nicolai Konow (Advisor), Associate Professor, Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Jeffery Moore (Committee Chair), Professor, Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Jonas Rubenson, Professor, Kinesiology, Penn State

Andrew Biewener, Professor Emeritus, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard



Brief Abstract:



Skeletal muscle is the machinery powering movement across terrain, which is critical for tasks like perturbation negotiation. Most skeletal joints are spanned by muscle pairs that actuate with opposing torques, a phenomenon known as antagonist action. One such well-recognized antagonist pair includes the gastrocnemii (gravity-resisting extensors) and tibialis anterior (a swing-initiating flexor), which actuate the ankle across tetrapods. Tetrapods have either four or two legs. In quadrupeds, the hind limbs primarily act as motors that propel forward movement, whereas the forelimbs act as shock absorbers and brakes. Obligate bipeds lack forelimb functionality in locomotion and are relatively uncommon among extant tetrapods, humans and ground birds being the most ubiquitous examples. Supporting the body on two legs, with each leg assuming roles otherwise subserved by forelimbs is inherently less stable, raising the question how humans and ground birds remain such highly capable locomotors? Ground birds provide a convenient model to understand the structural and architectural adaptations to antagonistic ankle actuators for ground-based locomotion without forelimbs. Antagonist co-activation is well documented in electromyography studies of human locomotion. However, fascicle strain and muscle force (which requires surgical instrumentation) cannot be measured concurrently with electromyography (EMG) in humans.

This ensemble of measurements is critical for understanding the timing and magnitude of muscle work and can be acquired from Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). Similarly, studies of preparatory muscle activity during falls have examined EMG from an antagonist pair or measured EMG, strain, and force from the gastrocnemii. Combined activation, strain, and force measurements from an antagonist pair stands to provide a detailed understanding of the adaptive function of antagonism. The type and arrangement of myofibers vary across muscles and is shaped by the myosin heavy chain isoform content, and by fiber architectural arrangement (physiological cross-sectional area). Muscles of the distal limb often have long tendons that are useful for the elastic storage and rapid release (elastic recoil) of energy. This thesis seeks to integrate effects of myofiber type, arrangement, and elastic recoil to understand the implications of muscle structure on their biomechanical function. Effects of body and muscle size presents challenges that may be met through modifications to muscle fiber types and architecture. The greater stride frequency of small animals necessitates faster contracting muscles. Faster myosin isoforms or muscle architecture with relatively longer muscle fibers, with more parallel arrangement may be key to achieving high stride frequencies. Understanding scaling effects on antagonist structure and function will be enabled by focusing on ankle and foot antagonists across ground birds spanning 0.1 - 100 kg in body size. Overall, I seek to investigate (Aim 1) myosin isoform composition, and (Aim 2) myofiber architecture, as they relate to (using Guinea fowl) mechanical function during (Aim 3) bipedal treadmill locomotion and (Aim 4) impact-preparation during falls.


SHENYANG, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Even as a frosty winter grips the capital city of northeast China's Liaoning Province, the BMW Brilliance powertrain plant remains warm. The source is not coal, but a clean energy heating project launched in late October within the China-Germany Equipment Manufacturing Industrial Park in Shenyang.

Utilizing renewable geothermal energy from 2,900 meters underground, this non-fossil fuel project ensures constant temperature control. The project, a collaboration between BMW Brilliance and local partners, helps support the China-Germany park's ambition to become a zero-carbon industrial park.

Zero-carbon industrial parks are designed to reduce carbon emissions from production and daily activities to near-zero levels through planning, technology and management, ultimately achieving net-zero conditions. As China strives to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060, such parks are emerging as new engines for the country's green transformation.

"The park's strategy aligns perfectly with BMW's sustainability philosophy," said Wang Jun, senior vice president of finance and chief financial officer of BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd.

A growing number of foreign companies are actively participating in the development of these parks through direct investment or technical partnerships, driving their own green initiatives while providing replicable decarbonization models for industries.

Pilot projects led by industry leaders like BMW are paving the way for broader zero-carbon targets. The China-Germany industrial park aims to meet China's national zero-carbon standards by 2027, targeting a carbon emission intensity of 0.18 tonnes per unit of energy consumption, positioning itself as a bridge for international green cooperation.

"Developing a zero-carbon park is an urgent need for companies in the China-Germany industrial park," said Zhang Yue, deputy head of the Tiexi District in Shenyang. With electricity accounting for 78 percent of the park's annual energy consumption, businesses require access to green power to enhance global competitiveness amid China's dual carbon goals and international green trade rules.

New entrants like Envision Energy Co., Ltd., which specializes in smart wind power and energy storage, have been designing renewable energy solutions for the park.

Xue Bin, general manager of Envision's Liaoning development office, said that while companies previously relied on green certificates to prove clean energy use, stricter international standards, particularly EU traceability requirements, have made this approach inadequate. "Zero-carbon parks offer traceable, low-cost green electricity, helping export-oriented firms comply with global rules," Xue said.

Envision has partnered with international certification organizations to provide green certifications, with plans to extend these services to small and medium-sized enterprises for easier entry into global green supply chains.

Beyond Shenyang, foreign participation in China's zero-carbon parks is growing. For instance, GLP has rebuilt a logistics facility in Shanghai into a smart zero-carbon flagship, which began operations in September.

In central China's Hubei Province, Schneider Electric is collaborating with a local partner to build multiple zero-carbon parks and retrofit existing ones. Panasonic has also established over 10 zero-carbon factories in east China's Jiangsu and south China's Guangdong, progressing toward its 2030 zero-emission target.

These efforts not only boost local green transitions but also open pathways for Chinese companies to expand overseas. Recently, the China-Germany industrial park invited global firms to partner in sectors including clean energy, smart management and carbon reduction.

"We will enhance alignment with German and EU standards on carbon data and green certificates, exploring internationally recognized zero-carbon frameworks to help companies 'go global,'" said Xue Qingbin, executive deputy director of the park's management committee. 
SINGAPORE, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Offenders convicted of scams or scam-related offenses in Singapore may face caning starting Tuesday, under the Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 2025, passed in November, the Singapore Police Force said Monday.

Under the law, scam mules may be caned up to 12 strokes, while scammers and members of syndicates may face mandatory caning of six to 24 strokes, the police said in a Facebook post.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said in a Dec. 19 statement that fighting scams remains "a top national priority," citing ongoing concerns over the number of scam cases and losses.

The police urged the public not to share sensitive personal information that could be exploited by criminals, including Singpass, Singapore's national digital identity system, as well as bank and payment accounts and SIM cards. 
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.
PHNOM PENH, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China remained a major locomotive of global economy and a key contributor to global peace, security and common development, said a Cambodian scholar on Monday.

"By the end of 2025, China remains a primary engine for the global economy, though the nature of its contribution is shifting from being just the world's factory to a leader in the advanced technology and green energy," Joseph Matthews, a senior professor at the BELTEI International University in Cambodia, told Xinhua.

He said China's most impressive development sectors included digital technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, green energy, electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and solar panels, among others.

"These sectors are impressive not just for their sizes but for their speed and technological global dominance," Matthews said.

"Apart from this, China remains a pillar of the United Nations peacekeeping mission abroad," he said.

China is the second largest financial contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget and provides more troops than any other permanent member of the UN Security Council, he said, adding that by the end of 2025, Chinese blue helmets remain active in overseas peacekeeping missions, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

Matthews said China's global initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), and the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), have provided tremendous benefits to Southeast Asia and the world at large.

"All these initiatives have completely changed the geoeconomic and geostrategic landscape around the globe," he said.

"The BRI projects have alleviated global poverty significantly, especially in Africa and Asia," Matthews said.

He added that Cambodia is a prime example of BRI cooperation, showcasing transformative infrastructure development such as industrial zones, expressways, airports, and ports.

"BRI's mega-infrastructure projects in Cambodia such as the Sihanoukville Special Economy Zone, the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway and the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport have become a key driving force for the kingdom's economic, trade and tourism growth," he said.

Looking into the future, China's role in regional and global economy and security will be even more important, Matthews said.

"China will remain a main innovation driver and key contributor to global growth, leveraging its scale in trade and industry, though facing challenges from global uncertainties," he said.

In terms of global security, China will still be a stabilizing force for global peace, security and common development, he added.

Matthews said the GSI will continue to serve as an important framework for addressing complex and intertwined security challenges with a win-win mindset, improving global security governance, and promoting durable peace and development in the region and the world at large. 
Amazon cites regulatory issues in decision to halt drone delivery plans, despite making good progress with aerospace regulators.

US online retail giant Amazon said on Sunday that it has dropped plans to roll out drone delivery of goods in Italy, citing business regulatory issues as an obstacle to the project.

Noting that it had made positive progress with Italian aerospace regulators, the company told Reuters that "the broader business regulatory framework in the country does not, at this time, support our longer-term objectives for this program".

Italian civil aviation ENAC said in a statement over the weekend that the "unexpected" move was motivated by company policy, linked to "recent financial events involving the Group".

In December 2024 Amazon announced that it had successfully tested its first drone delivery in Italy, amid plans to launch a drone delivery service in the country.

The test flight was conducted using a MK-30 drone near Amazon's San Salvo distribution complex in the central Abruzzo region.

Earlier this month Amazon reached a 723 million settlement with Italian tax authorities following a probe by Milan prosecutors into the company's logistics services unit amid allegations that it circumvented Italian labour and tax laws.

Photo credit: No-Mad / Shutterstock.com.
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Shi Chunfang, accused of kidnapping and murdering multiple Chinese nationals, was recently repatriated to China following close cooperation between law enforcement authorities in China and the Philippines.

In recent years, a criminal gang led by Shi had repeatedly targeted Chinese nationals in the Philippines, carrying out a series of heinous offences with severe consequences and a grave social impact, according to China's Ministry of Public Security (MPS).

The MPS dispatched a task force to the Philippines and worked with local authorities to successfully apprehend Shi. On Dec. 22, Philippine police handed Shi over to Chinese authorities, and Fujian provincial police officers escorted him back to China.

The MPS said that Chinese police will strengthen international cooperation to crack down on transnational crimes such as kidnapping, extortion, human trafficking, online gambling and fraud, in order to safeguard the personal safety and legal rights and interests of Chinese nationals abroad. 
By Cillian Sherlock, Press Association

Irish officials were concerned that opening Israels embassy in Ireland would promote a backlash from Arab countries, according to government documents.

The Israeli embassy in Dublin announced last year that it would close, with the countrys foreign minister accusing Ireland of crossing every red line in its relations with Israel.

Documents made public as part of the annual release from the National Archives in Dublin show the preparations that took place before the embassy was opened in 1996.

The Israeli flag was removed from outside the building in December last year. Photo: Cillian Sherlock/PA.

Among the considerations were the possible impact on trade from Arab countries and the cost of security.

One 1990 memo states: Irish trade with Arab countries is at a ratio of approximately 10 to 1 in our favour and is mainly sourced from indigenous industry. It is 20 or more times greater than our trade with Israel and likely to remain so in present circumstances.

Meanwhile, officials also factored in the security implications of expenditure and garda resources as a major consideration in the Governments decision-making process.

It was calculated in 1992 that security for an Israeli embassy in Dublin could amount to 700,000 per year and would also result in an immediate demand that Arab states be allowed to open embassies in Dublin.

Similar concerns were raised around an unrealised proposal for the President of Ireland to undertake a State visit to Israel.

One Government file states: It might be argued that the chances of our incurring the Arab worlds displeasure by having a State Visit to Israel are slimmer than in the past but is it worth taking the risk?

A State Visit is usually seen as a mark of a high degree of friendship between two countries and it would not go unnoticed in the Arab world.

I am however obliged to draw your attention to the territorial limits of your jurisdiction. Letter to Ireland's Honorary Consul in Israel

In 1993, Zvi Levy was told his work as Irelands honorary consul in Israel had been commendable and considerable.

However, after a Department of Foreign Affairs official was told Mr Levy had met with an Irish businessman in Gaza, he was reminded of the territorial limits of your jurisdiction.

The letter states: I understand that in the course of your recent discussions with officials in this Department you had mentioned that you were engaged in promoting Irish business interests in the Gaza Strip.

It adds: Your active involvement, particularly since the time of your appointment as Irelands Honorary Consul in Israel, is encouraging and promoting economic and trade links with Ireland, has been commendable.

The department was concerned that his activities in Gaza may give the impression he had an official role in the region.

The letter said: We are very conscious of the contribution you are making in that regard and are grateful for your considerable efforts. I am, however, obliged to draw your attention to the territorial limits of your jurisdiction as set out in your Letter of Commission.

Mr Levy was told: You will be aware that your area of activity is confined to the territory within Israels internationally recognised frontiers and accordingly does not extend to the territories occupied by Israel since 1967.

The letter added: On that basis, I would hope that any requests you receive for consular, commercial or other assistance that could involve you in the Gaza strip, or any other occupied territories, will be dealt with by directing the enquirer to the Embassy of Ireland in Cairo in the first instance.

 This article is based on documents in the file labelled 2025/124/345 at the National Archives of Ireland.
Reeling In the Showband Years has been a smash hit for the past 15 years, and returns once again to Theatre Royal Waterford on Bank Holiday Sunday, February 1, to celebrate its amazing 16th year.

RTES 'Mr. Music', Ronan Collins, wil sing his renowned tributes to the great Joe Dolan, Eurovision, Dickie Rock and much more.

Ronan has spent a lifetime in showbiz.

For many years he has been 'Mister Music' on RTE and continues to broadcast his music choices to the country.

Gina and The Champions will also appear.

The group who dominated the Showband era with multiple hit records and sold out shows right around the country for decades.

They were also voted Top Irish Pop Band in voters polls year after year over the period.

Brother and sister combo Keith and Lorraine McDonald, come from one of the oldest musical families in Ireland.

Their father, Frankie was trumpet player with Joe Dolan for many years.

Lorraine is one of the brightest talents to emerge from the late showband era and Keith is a star in his own right

Shaun O'Dowd will also be welcomed back for this year's show.

With his band Ding-A-ling, he was one of the biggest drawing acts in Ireland right through the 70s.

Tullamore man Dave Lawlor, has a magnificent voice that will capture you.

He had a massive hit with his record Showbands on Parade in the 70s.

Lastly, The Conquerors Showband, one of the greatest showbands of them all will appear.

The Galway boys sang Baby Blue and many more hits.

Tickets are available at theatreroyal.ie
Back in 2015, when I went swimming on Christmas day, there were maybe 100 other people on the beach doing the same thing. My family were sure Id be the only person on Tramore beach at 11 am on Christmas morning.

Ten years later, Ive managed to convince my mother to join me in my madness, and she has been completely converted. She even claims it's her favourite part of Christmas. Even thats a bit far for methe dinner will always be the best part of Christmas.

This year was the largest turn out for the swim that I can remember. Certainly, the blue sky and crystal calm water helped, but I think theres more to it than that. People cannot survive on bread (or Christmas dinners) alone. We need community, camaraderie. And let me tell you, theres no bond like the bond formed as you lock eyes with a stranger right before you both get battered by a freezing wave.

I asked the lunatics in their swimming togs on Christmas Day what it was about the tradition that they loved so much.

Ben Richards is from Tramore. His father passed away in November of this year. He decided to do a fundraiser for the Irish Heart Foundation. His close friends and cousins showed up to do the swim with him. He said he was a little bit nervous about the swim. He said: Id say it will be fairly fresh, but well do it anyway.

Dave Kenny was wearing reflective sunglasses, a large Santa hat and a dry robe. I had a feeling he was a veteran like myself. It was his 30th time doing the Christmas Day swim. But it never gets easier, according to David, he said he was absolutely terrifiedthank God theres a defibrillator nearby.

Paul, Eileen and Eoin. Its Eoin McGraths first time doing the swim in a few years, but hes not nervous at all. Eileen isnt either. For Paul, the best part of the Christmas day swim is getting out of the water afterwards and having a nice cup of tea".

Teresa and Luke Phelan. It was Lukes first time. Hes not nervous, more cold than anything. Teresa is from Kerry and now lives in Kilkenny. This is her first time doing the swim in Waterford. She said, Its packed here, I cant believe it! I love the atmosphere, I love the sea.

As I weave between bodies at various states of undress, dogs desperately confused as to why their otherwise reasonable owners have launched themselves into the sea and supportive but bewildered family members clutching cappuccinos, I spot a group of monks.

Brother John Cardiff, Brother Tom OSullivan, Brother Manus Campbell and Brother Mikey Kelly did the Christmas Day swim to cleanse their souls. Although Brother Manus assures me that he wont be making a habit of this, In all seriousness, the group of men have raised thousands for the Hospice, as well as having some craic while they did it.

Kate Quinn hadnt done the Christmas Day swim for a few years but seemed lighter than air when I chatted to her after her dip. She told me it was f****ing cold. Her favourite part of the Christmas Day swim is the atmosphere. Its brilliant, you see loads of people, friends and family. Everyones in such good form. Its a brilliant thing to do. We have the sea on our doorstep. After the swim, Kate is going to have a hot shower.

Me? I had a mulled wine from Moes and a nice long bath!
Tributes have been paid to a man who died in a road traffic accident in Waterford on Christmas Day.

Alan Walsh from St Johns Park died when the e-scooter he was travelling on collided with a car at the junction of Manor Hill (Bunkers Hill) and Hennessys Road.

His funeral mass will take place on Saturday, January 3, at the Sacred Heart Church, The Folly, at 2.30pm with burial afterwards in St. Otterans Cemetery

OSullivans Bar and Restaurant on the Mall, where Mr Walsh worked, paid tribute on social media to their late colleague.

In loving memory of our dear colleague Alan. Alan was a treasured and deeply loved member of our team, and one of our loved friends.

"His positive attitude impacted everyone in the best way possible.

Alan always had a smile on his face. We are all grateful for the time we shared and the memories we carry forward.

"We offer our sincerest condolences to his family, especially his son Sean and daughter Ava.

Alan left a positive mark on every single one of us here at OSullivans, wrote OSullivan's.

Mr Walsh was predeceased by his grandparents and his nephews Thomas and Jack.

He is missed by his son Sean, daughter Ava, his mother, Esther, father Tommy, brothers Thomas and Mark, sisters Lorraine, Karen and Sarah, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Tributes have been posted on social media and on RIP.ie.

One friend called the late Mr Walsh one of the kindest, funniest people they had ever met.

Others described him as an absolute gentleman, while hundreds of people expressed their condolences to Mr Walshs family.

GARDA APPEAL

An Garda Siochana are appealing for witnesses to the collision.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on Manor Hill (Bunkers Hill) and Hennessys Road between 10.45am and 11.15am are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Waterford Garda Station on (051) 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

The driver of the car, a male in his 80s, was taken to University Hospital Waterford for treatment of injuries, which were non-life-threatening.

Forensic Collision Investigators conducted a technical examination of the scene, and investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Waterford Garda Station on (051) 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
NANJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command is dispatching its naval and air forces to carry out combat readiness patrols around Taiwan Island, a military spokesperson said Monday.

The vessels and aircraft will approach Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions, said Shi Yi, spokesperson of the PLA Eastern Theater Command.

Shi stressed that the move aims to test the capabilities of the troops to conduct rapid maneuvers, form all-dimensional posture, and execute systemic blockade and control. 
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China called for upholding Yemen's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and hoped parties will put the Yemeni people's interests first and create conditions for restoring peace and tranquility in Yemen at an early date, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Monday.

It was reported that recently there have been changes in the situation in southern Yemen. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry issued a statement, asking the Southern Transitional Council to stop military escalation in light of the overall interests of the people of Yemen. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s Foreign Ministry released a statement welcoming Saudi Arabia's efforts to support security and stability in Yemen.

In response, the spokesperson said China is following the situation in southern Yemen, and hopes parties will respond to the peace efforts of regional countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and the international community, resolve differences and disputes through political dialogue in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the initiative of the Gulf Cooperation Council, find a solution that accommodates all parties' legitimate concerns, and create conditions for restoring peace and tranquility in Yemen at an early date.

China will continue to promote talks for peace in its own way and play a constructive role for the early realization of a political settlement of the Yemen issue, the spokesperson said. 
HANOI, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam is estimated to receive 21.5 million international arrivals in 2025, local daily Nhan Dan reported Monday, citing the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.

The Southeast Asian country is also expected to welcome 135.5 million domestic tourists this year, according to the report.

Total tourism revenue is estimated to exceed 1 quadrillion Vietnamese dong (about 39.8 billion U.S. dollars).

Vietnam targets 25 million international arrivals and 150 million domestic tourists in 2026, with tourism revenue projected to surpass 1.12 quadrillion Vietnamese dong (about 44.6 billion U.S. dollars). 
By Jonathan McCambridge, Press Association

Volunteers are being sought for an online challenge to help find stars being torn apart by black holes.

Astronomers at Queens University Belfast and the Leiden Observatory in the Netherlands are seeking help to shape how scientists detect massive black holes for the next decade.

A new project, the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), will capture the night sky over the next 10 years from the Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile.

Astronomers at Queens University Belfast have launched the online challenge (Liam McBurney/PA)

Dr Matt Nicholl, from the School of Mathematics and Physics at Queens, said it is expected to compile more astronomical data than has been available up to now, meaning it is no longer possible for scientists to search it manually.

He said: Having access to data from the 10-year LSST will revolutionise astronomy and it is very exciting to think that we could detect thousands of black holes consuming passing stars.

There will be a huge amount of data  an estimated 10 million alerts every night from the LSST alerts stream.

However, the sky is full of different kinds of sources that change in brightness, so finding what were looking for is like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Dr Matt Nicholl of Queens University Belfast (QUB/PA)

Astronomers at Queens have come up with simulations of what they believe the data could show.

Dr Nicholl said: Were calling for any tech-savvy armchair astronomers to use AI and machine learning to work through the simulated data and learn how to pinpoint stars that are getting torn apart and destroyed by black holes.

You dont need to be an expert in black holes  anyone with experience in machine learning could provide valuable insight.

Dylan Magill, a PhD student from Queens who created the simulations, said: Were particularly interested in objects called tidal disruption events.

This is when an unlucky star is ripped apart by the immense gravitational forces it experiences as it approaches too close to a supermassive black hole.

Were really hopeful that we can use AI and machine learning so that were in a position to unlock so many more mysteries of our universe Dylan Magill

The new data will give us a huge opportunity to find more of these but there is a huge amount of data to work through.

By creating simulations and enlisting the help of armchair astronomers, were really hopeful that we can use AI and machine learning so that were in a position to unlock so many more mysteries of our universe.

Dr Sjoert van Velzen from the Leiden Observatory, who co-founded the challenge, says: Tidal disruption events are a relatively recent astronomical discovery and to date we havent discovered many.

However, those that we have found have proven to be tremendously scientifically valuable, particularly for investigating the properties and feeding conditions of black holes that are very difficult to observe.

Information on the online project can be found at kaggle.com/competitions/mallorn-astronomical-classification-challenge/overview.

There is a top prize of 1,000 for the participant with the best score.
The Irish wake is a unique ritual held after a death and before a funeral, sometimes lasting a few days, where family and friends gather to mourn and celebrate the life of the deceased, and support the bereaved family.

I attended my first wake, or corpse house, as my father called it, when I was about five years of age. I was on the bar of my fathers bike on our way home from Sunday mass and we stopped off at the home of this local man who had passed away the previous day. The body was laid out on the mans own bed and while I found the situation strange, I somehow knew it was nothing to be afraid of. My father was at his ease in the situation and that reassured me. To this day, I can clearly see the hands of the corpse, firmly clasped across his chest, his rosary beads intertwined in his fingers.

Keeping vigil

Wakes were originally a type of vigil to ensure the person was truly dead and to protect the body. Every wake has common elements: shared stories, food, drink, and a sense togetherness that helps with the grieving process.

Historically, the body would be prepared by local women, washed, and dressed in a shroud at the family home. Candles would be lit, mirrors covered, and clocks stopped at the time of death. In the past, keening, a kind of performative crying, was a common and important part of the ritual. Visitors would bring supplies to wakes, with food and alcohol often served to support the immediate family and facilitate social interaction.

A 2017 book, My Fathers Wake, by Kevin Toolis, is a fascinating account of his fathers passing. Toolis, a writer and filmmaker, was of Achill Island stock; his father Sonny, was a native islander, who spent much of his working life in Scotland.

My Fathers Wake was described by Hugo Hamilton as "a profound book on the culture of grief and death, placing the personal alongside the political in a vivid exploration of our ancient ways of coming together around the dead".

Precious days

In his book, Kevin Toolis does two things; he laments the way some western societies have sanitised death and then contrasts this with the many benefits and blessings contained in an Irish wake. In one paragraph, he describes waiting, waiting not just for the death of his father but also waiting for the rituals that will surround it when it happens.

As Sonny lay dying, we had another kind of weather: humid, hazy days, the entire village consumed in sea mist. We were unable to see further than the garden gate: all land, sea and sky shrouded in a still blanket that made night and day one. We were becalmed. Waiting for his heart to stop, the wake, his funeral, the church, the grave. Waiting for the death of this very ordinary man. Waiting, I thought, to start again. Resume Life. As it turned out, nothing else I have ever done or will do was more important than those precious days.

Toolis describes the sanitisation of death in some countries as the Western Death Machine. He describes how bodies are removed from ritual in an effort to save families from grief, from having to deal with death.

Toolis grew up in a Scottish city where the bereaved had little or no say in what happened to their loved ones after death. Very often such families were disempowered while the bodies of their dearly departed were treated like products that had to be processed through a system.

Toolis lost a brother in the city and had to suffer not just the tragic death of his sibling but also the loss of any ritual surrounding his passing. Having spent much of his life searching for answers, he later found most of them at the time of his fathers death on Achill Island.

He cleverly contrasts his Western Death Machine against our Irish wake. In the following paragraphs he takes his city experience and, with a certain amount of humour, places it alongside the waking ritual we are familiar with here in Ireland.

And how ridiculous would it be if the men from No 28, 32, 36 and 44 said they would feel privileged to dig your mother's grave by hand themselves, and wouldn't take any money? What would you think if every uncle or brother you had, every male in your family, and failing that even the old men in your mothers golf club, came round and said it was their duty and fervent wish to carry your mothers coffin on their shoulders to the grave? And that it would be one of lifes greatest honours if you allowed them to do so?

Or if the whole neighbourhood, your colleagues from work, plus a few more strangers who you've never met, insisted on coming to her funeral? Uninvited. Just showed up. If they further insisted, each and every one of them, of lining up to shake your hand at the open grave. Would those repeated public expressions of concern - of grief and mourning - be the most terrible thing in the world?

Toolis even included the phenomenon of death notices being read out on local radio stations as a recent additional ritual around death in Ireland. Indeed, our own Midwest Radio was a pioneer in attaching this new feature to an old ritual.

In the city, I never heard dead strangers names read out on the radio. Or my neighbours say they were just popping over to a wake house for a few hours this afternoon to avoid the early evening rush of mourners. Or anyone offer to sit awake through the long hours of night on a hard chair to guard a souls safe passage to the afterlife. And return again another time in the dew of morning, as translucent spider webs glisten in the yellow flowering gorse, for the closing of a neighbours coffin.

The edge of the townland

Toolis work put me in mind of my own fathers wake. It was during the days of Christmas in 2008, days that were unusually mild for the time of year. His death was coming for a few days and when it finally arrived, it seemed to be perfectly timed. The day before he died was Christmas Day and most of my siblings had gathered, some of us spending Christmas together for the first time in many years.

That Christmas wasnt spoiled by my fathers death; it was one of the most memorable ever. My father had reached the age of 97 so there was no deep sense of loss, only a feeling that he had lived a fine long life and had got all his jobs done.

When I look back on those few days, my principal feeling is one of pride. Pride in my father and all the work he had done, pride in the ritual of his wake and all the friends who showed up to pay their respects, pride that he was laid out in his own house, and pride in the way a team of his grandsons carried his coffin to the edge of the townland before it was placed in the waiting hearse, to complete his final journey to his beloved chapel.

I know that not everyones experience of death is this wholesome. For most people, however, the healing power of friendship and the security of knowing people care, are central to our ritual of waking our dead. These are the sacred elements in a process that stops us in our tracks for a few days and then, through their healing powers, help us to restart and move on again.
JAKARTA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian military and national police have deployed a total of 48,669 personnel to Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra provinces to support reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts after floods and landslides killed 1,140 people and caused extensive damage, senior officials said here on Monday.

Indonesian National Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subiyanto said 37,910 military personnel had been dispatched to assist post-disaster recovery, carrying out a wide range of humanitarian tasks, including the provision of clean water, medical evacuation, logistics distribution, and trauma recovery services for affected communities.

"The involvement of military personnel will help with the installation of Bailey bridges, the construction of temporary and permanent housing, and the cleanup of mud in schools, Islamic boarding schools, roads, and other public facilities," he said at a press conference on post-disaster recovery and strategic planning in Jakarta.

To support the humanitarian mission, 89 units of defense equipment, including aircraft, helicopters, and warships, have been deployed, he added.

Logistical assistance is being delivered through multiple channels, including airdrops, air landings, sea routes, and land transportation, according to Subiyanto.

Meanwhile, Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo said 10,759 police personnel had been sent to disaster-hit areas on Sumatra Island to assist reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.

He said 5,668 police personnel were deployed in Aceh province, 3,017 in North Sumatra province, and 2,074 in West Sumatra province. 
Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, meets with delegates attending a national congress of the Buddhist Association of China in Beijing, capital of China. The 11th national congress of the Buddhist Association of China was held from Sunday to Monday in Beijing. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning has met with delegates attending a national congress of the Buddhist Association of China from Sunday to Monday in Beijing.

Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, stressed the importance of implementing the Party's basic policy on religious affairs and guiding Buddhist figures and believers to contribute to the country's modernization drive.

Wang urged the association to exercise full and rigorous governance over the religion, intensify efforts to raise awareness of the rule of law, and guide clerical personnel to abide by the law, uphold monastic rules and precepts, and maintain the right faith and conduct.

He encouraged the association to cultivate talent proficient in both the canonical teachings and fine traditional Chinese culture, and to expand exchanges with the wider world on Buddhism.

At its 11th national congress, the association adopted a revised charter and a set of religious rules and regulations, and elected a new leadership for the association. 

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, poses for a group photo with delegates attending a national congress of the Buddhist Association of China in Beijing, capital of China. The 11th national congress of the Buddhist Association of China was held from Sunday to Monday in Beijing. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)
25 years ago: A dozen immigrant farmworkers killed in Spanish train-van collision

In the early morning on January 3, 2001, 14 Ecuadorian immigrants being transported to the farm fields to pick vegetables in an 8-passenger van collided with a commuter train in the city of Lorca, Spain. 12 of the farm workers died8 men and 4 womenfrom their injuries. The remaining two immigrants were seriously injured but survived after being bulldozed over 650 feet. Some of the deceased involved several family generations: a mother and son, and a father and son. Several left behind large families and debts in Ecuador. The train passengers suffered only minor injuries from the deadly impact.

The system of immigrant exploitation from Ecuador to Spain, bankrolled from the corporate offices to the slums of the proletariat, provided the framework and sowed the conditions for the brutal train crash. Spanish-owned agribusiness conglomerates abetted the desperate plight of workers in Ecuador, a country with a population 65 percent unemployed or underemployed.

Map shows Lorca in southeastern Spain [Photo: OpenStreetMap]

In Lorca, alone around 12,000 Ecuadorians labored under oppressive conditions and poverty pay. In the surrounding region of Murcia, 20,000 lived and worked. After mortgaging their homes and financing their travels with debt, immigrants arrived undocumented, a fact that the corporations exploited. None of the immigrant workers had resident or work papers.

Instead of driving the direct route to the job, the driver, who made daily trips back and forth transporting farm hands to the field for a private company, took a longer, secondary route in order to avoid running into Civil Guard patrols looking for undocumented immigrants.

Avoiding the motorway meant using the railroad crossing where the collision occurred.

Early every morning, immigrants gathered by the hundreds in the Plaza del Ovalo in Lorca, waiting for the small agricultural managers and middlemen for the big agribusiness to select them for a day's work. They then huddled onto the vans that transport them to the fields, greenhouses and warehouses where broccoli and lettuce are reaped and processed, working up to 11 hours for around $3 an hour.

Alternatively, they were contracted on a piecework basis paid 10 pesetas (less than 1 US cent) for a kilo of broccoli. Often they were forced by the employers to work at night to avoid the labor inspectors and were continuously under threat of being reported to the authorities for working without permits if they protest.

The company implicated, Greensol S.L., had been declared provisionally insolvent yet continued operations; owners were reportedly absent after the crash. The trade unionsUGT and CC.OOresponded to the tragedy with calls for administrative probes but upheld the corporatist frameworks (tripartite accords) that have facilitated temporary contracts and precarious conditions of work.

50 years ago: Venezuela nationalizes oil industry

On January 1, 1976, Venezuelan President Carlos Andres Perez officially proclaimed the nationalization of the country's petroleum industry. The move established the state-owned Petroleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA) and transferred the assets and concessions of major international energy corporations to the Venezuelan state.

Perez framed the nationalization as a second independence for Venezuela and a triumph of national sovereignty. During the ceremony at the Mene Grande oilfield, he declared: This is a decision of the Venezuelan people. We are now the masters of our destiny and the owners of our own wealth. We are taking the path toward the recovery of our fundamental resources to put them at the service of our country's progress.

Carlos Andres Perez

The nationalization of Venezuelan oil was not a socialist reorganization of oil resources to meet social needs. Rather, it was a realignment by the Venezuelan ruling class to capture and centralize a larger share of massive oil rents, which had quadrupled following the 1973 oil crisis.

Prior to 1976, ownership of Venezuelan oil was held primarily by the US and European major oil companies including Exxon (Esso), Gulf, Mobil, Texaco, and Royal Dutch Shell. These monopolies controlled production through long-term concessions, or exclusive contracts, where the companies both managed the technical infrastructure and dominated global marketing chains, siphoning off the vast majority of profits. The 1976 decree converted these concessions into state property, making PDVSA the most important economic entity in Venezuela.

The nationalization did not represent a rupture with imperialist capital. Despite the populist rhetoric, the Venezuelan government paid approximately $1 billion in compensation to the expropriated firms. The transition was carefully managed to ensure the continued profitability of the international oil companies. Under technical service contracts and association agreements, permitted under Article 5 of the nationalization law, foreign companies continued to provide specialized technology, management, and marketing services in exchange for lucrative fees and guaranteed access to crude oil.

In many cases, the nationalized subsidiaries of firms like Exxon and Shell were simply renamed (e.g., Lagoven and Maraven) and allowed to function as semi-autonomous entities, often staffed by the same pro-Western elites. This layer of oil managers would come to form the social backbone of the political right-wing in Venezuela.

In Washington, the administration of President Gerald Ford maintained an outwardly neutral stance. While Ford expressed concern in private correspondence that Venezuelan control over its own oil would lead to potential oil price hikes, his administration's primary objective was to ensure a dependable supplier and safeguard US corporate interests.

The 1976 nationalization highlights the inherent limits of bourgeois nationalism. While the move redirected a larger share of the oil profits to the Venezuelan state, it did not transform the underlying class relations of production. The industry remained subordinated to the global capitalist market and the imperatives of imperialist finance.

75 years ago: North Korean and Chinese forces recapture Seoul

On December 31, 1950, China's New Year's Offensive of the Korean War began when the Chinese People's Volunteer Army (PVA) attacked South Korean forces along the 38th parallel. The offensive resulted, only a few days later, in the evacuation of Seoul by US forces.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, had been held since late September by the US-led forces. But they suffered severe setbacks in the war after China intervened to reinforce the North Korean campaign, which culminated in the military evacuation of US and South Korean forces from Pyongyang in December.

US-supplied tank of the Republic of Korea, near Masan

The New Year offensive continued China's southward advance, beginning on December 31 with a large-scale attack on Republic of Korea (ROK) divisions that were stationed along the 38th Parallel. Following several days of fighting and retreats by the ROK, US Army commanders ordered the military evacuation of Seoul on January 3, out of fear that the PVA would be able to continue their advance and encircle the US troops stationed there.

PVA troops, accompanied by a deployment of Korean People's Army (KPA) soldiers, arrived in Seoul on January 4, but by that time the entire city was evacuated. The following days saw the PVA/KPA troops capture the town of Gimpo and Incheon, but shortly afterwards the military campaign came to a halt, in part due to the exhaustion of the troops who had essentially fought continuously for over two months since the beginning of China's Second Phase Offensive.

Though Seoul would once again change hands in favour of the US two months later, the recapture of the South Korean capital marked the second time in less than six months that US and South Korean forces had lost the city. It further shattered claims made only weeks earlier that the war was nearing a successful conclusion. It occurred amidst proposals from high-ranking officials in the US to dramatically escalate the war, including with the use of nuclear weapons.

100 years: Massive funeral procession for poet Sergei Esenin in Moscow

On December 31, 1925, Moscow mourned the death of Sergei Esenin, one of the most popular poets in the Soviet Union. Esenin had committed suicide in the Hotel Angleterre in Leningrad and written a death poem in his own blood. Following his death, his body was transported to Moscow, where tens of thousands formed a living wall along the streets.

The procession was led by fellow writers and friends, including Vsevolod Meyerhold and Nikolai Aseev, who carried the coffin on their shoulders. A pivotal moment occurred at Tverskoy Boulevard: the pallbearers carried the casket around the Pushkin Monument three times. This handover from Russias greatest literary icon to the last poet of the village moved the crowd to tears. Mourners tossed flowers onto the snow-covered base of the statue.

Esenin in 1922

At the Press House of the Writers Union, a telegram from the former wife of the poet, the famed American dancer Isadora Duncan, was read: The news of Esenin's death has given me the greatest pain. He had youth, beauty, genius. Unwilling to settle for the ordinary, he destroyed his young life. His spirit lives on in his poems, which are forever in the heart of the Russian people.

Esenins poetry is a soulful lament for a disappearing rural Russia, blending raw, hooligan vulnerability with vivid imagery of the agrarian landscape. It captures the friction between the spirit of the peasant village and the encroaching reality of the industrial Soviet age. His death provoked a sustained debate in the communist press and in the literary journals. Poet Vladimir Mayakovsky wrote a poetic response to Esenins suicide and Nikolai Bukharin, the Bolshevik leader then serving as Stalins theoretical frontman in the struggle against the Left Opposition, wrote that Esenins poetry represented the worst elements of the Russian peasantrydrunkenness, nostalgia, and a defeatist melancholy.

One of the most sensitive and penetrating eulogies was written by Leon Trotsky in an essay that appeared in January. Also worth noting are the words of the great soviet literary critic, a member of the Left Opposition, Aleksander Voronsky: In his poems and verses, in the life, fate and demise of the poet, in his poetic and lifes image, there is commingled what is tender and brittle, subtle and moving, doomed and beloved.

In the coming years, as the Stalinist bureaucracy tightened its grip on Soviet culture, Esenins books would be removed from libraries and he would be written out of official histories. It became dangerous to display his photo. He was only readmitted to his place in Soviet literary history after the Khrushchev thaw of the 1950s.
The far-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is advancing a series of measures in the Knesset aimed at strengthening its powers as it continues its wars in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria and Yemen and prepares for another offensive against Iran.

With his coalition of hard-right and ultra-religious parties trailing in the polls, the raft of new bills and regulations is Netanyahus last opportunity to cement his rule before elections that must be held by the end of October 2026. These will take place amid highly febrile political tensions: five elections took place between 2019 and 2022 with voters split down the middle over support for Netanyahu.

President Donald Trump speaks upon departing a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in foreground, in the State Dining Room of the White House, September 29, 2025, in Washington. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

A new law aims to curb the powers of the Supreme Court by removing its authority to determine which justices will hear a case before the High Court of Justice. Another seeks to split the attorney generals role into two as part of a broader effort to weaken the power of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, long a thorn in Netanyahus side. Similar moves sparked mass protests across the country before the war on Gaza, with hundreds of thousands rallying against Netanyahus judicial coup.

Splitting the attorney generals powers would enable Netanyahu to appoint a loyalist to replace Baharav-Miara with the power to cancel his long-running and well-attested trial for corruption, bury the myriad investigations into the shady and corrupt dealings of his ministers and advisors, and purge prosecutors deemed troublemakers.

Netanyahu has formally requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog, following two requests for him to grant a pardon by US President Donald Trump. But, according to Israeli law, a pardon can only be considered after a conviction, a situation Netanyahu is determined to avoid.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has launched a five-year, $900 million project to reconfigure the West Bank, occupied illegally by Israel since the 1967 Arab-Israeli war.

The plan includes relocating Israeli army bases, constructing infrastructure for dozens of new settlement clusters and paving roads. It is part of the governments broader agenda of establishing the de facto annexation of the West Bank that has included granting legal status to 19 settlements, deemed illegal under Israeli law, and two vacated nearly 20 years ago under the disengagement plan led by former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

In the same vein, Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the right-wing opposition party Yisrael Beitenu, has called for sovereignty over the Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim, near Jerusalem, to establish its status as an inseparable part of the State of Israel. The Knesset has also advanced legislation repealing the 1953 Jordanian law that restricts the sale and leasing of land to foreigners, aka settlers.

Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has introduced legislation to execute Palestinian prisoners, imposing the death penalty on those convicted of terrorism and enabling the prosecution of Hamas fighters accused by Israel of carrying out the October 7 attacks. Palestinian prisoners rights groups have described this as an unprecedented act of savagery.

Ben-Gvir, who also has overall charge of the prison system and the police, has turned them into a protection force for racist vigilantes that go on the rampage against the Palestinians within Israel and the West Bank. He has imposed a criminal regime of abuse, including torture, starvation and sexual assault, on Palestinians imprisoned in Israeli detentions centres.

Legislation in the pipeline will ban the provision of electricity and water services to any property registered in UNRWAs name and enabling the state to take possession of land classified as Israeli land used by UNRWA.

Another key measure is the highly controversial, ultra-Orthodox conscription bill that the religious parties, on whom the Netanyahus coalition government depends, have demanded following the Supreme Courts ruling that their exemption from military service is unconstitutional. The new legislation would exempt ultra-Orthodox men pursuing full-time religious studiesthe ultra-Orthodox community forms some 14 percent of Israels populationfrom mandatory military service.

The religious parties have also demanded legislation aimed at increasing religious observance in the public sphere. A new bill will require public institutions to install mezuzot, small religious scrolls placed on doorframes, and oblige judges to pass exams in Jewish law, measures that the Knessets legal counsel has warned could undermine freedom of religion and democratic principles.

Other bills include the revocation of retirement benefits from retired officers over political remarks, the removal of the ban on politically affiliated appointees for board members of government companies, and new restrictions on Israeli non-profit and human rights organizations receipt of funding from a foreign political entity.

The High Court has nodded through yet another extension allowing the government additional time to answer journalists requests for information. The Foreign Press Association (FPA), which filed a petition, said the situation was beyond absurd as it has deprived the world of a fuller glimpse of conditions in Gaza. New legislation is also being discussed that would dismantle existing media regulators and replace them with a new authority whose members are appointed by the government.

Discussions are under way on a highly controversial bill to establish a politically appointed probe into the failures surrounding the October 7 attack, an approach widely seen as a government whitewash. Opposition parties and bereaved families have demanded instead a state commission of enquiry, the highest level of public enquiry, whose make-up would be determined by the judiciary, anathema to the Netanyahu government.

The bill states that if either the coalition or opposition does not cooperate in the process or cannot settle on a candidate, the Knesset speaker will choose instead, giving the coalition effective control since opposition figures have pledged to boycott the politicised inquiry. Attorney General Baharav-Miara denounced the legislation, describing it as tailor-made for the personal needs of the government.

Galia Baharav-Miara at the swearing-in ceremony of Judge Yitzchak Amit as President of the Supreme Court of Israel [Photo by Maayan Toaf/Spokesperson unit of the President of Israel -    / CC BY-SA 3.0

These authoritarian measures, like those replicated elsewhere as the ruling elites gear up for war, are part of a broader assault on the conditions of the Israeli working class that has seen its conditions wither under the cover of the war. They are implemented by a corrupt, far-right government that rules on behalf of Israels oligarchs and whose ministers feather their own nests and those of their support base.

While Israels National Insurance Institute has yet to publish its official poverty report for 2024, the latest by Latet, an Israeli anti-poverty advocacy group, released two weeks ago, reveals increasing poverty in a country with one of the highest rates of inequality in the OECD group of advanced economies. A record 39 Israelis featured in Forbes magazines 2025 Worlds Billionaires list, the highest number since the ranking began.

Household expenses have risen dramatically since the war; almost 27 percent of householdsmore than 2.8 million people, including 1.8 million childrensuffer from food insecurity, a rise of nearly 29 percent in 2025.

Poverty is not confined to the traditional disadvantaged population groups; about a quarter of aid recipients are now the new poor, pushed into hardship over the past two years, including the lower middle class and self-employed army reservists who have lost their businesses due to their lengthy service. Two months after the so-called ceasefire, most reservists have still not returned to civilian life. Many wont have jobs to return to as more than 46,000 businesses went bankrupt during the war.

The report says that many middle-class families are collapsing under the burden of the soaring cost of living, the plutocratic economy and the eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die attitude. The more prosperous, educated middle class in Israel is considering emigration, while tens of thousands of families have already emigrated.

It describes in startling terms a socioeconomic state of emergency with impoverished senior citizens unable to buy medications or afford other treatments and abandoned to their fate. Many have been forced to take out loans and buy on credit, not for luxury goods but basic necessities.

According to a new report by the Israel Tax Authority, there has been a real terms rise in the average Israelis tax burden of about 50 percent since 2014, while average income has risen only 38 percent in real terms, meaning that the government is collecting much more tax relative to wages.

Income is going down for almost everyone except reservists. While reserve duty was once seen as a service to the country, Israel now has a de facto mercenary force, many of whom follow their own rules and/or form vigilante groups with settlers who go on the rampage in the West Bank and Gaza.

The government secured resources for the warcalculated by The Marker at about $34,000 per householdby purchasing tens of billions of dollars worth of weapons on credit, to the extent that soon the government will have to take out loans to cover the interest payments on older loans. It has also channeled funds to the constituencies represented in the coalitionthe settlers and ultra-Orthodoxwhile public transport, public services and higher education budgets have declined dramatically.
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China firmly opposes Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an "independent sovereign state" and its agreement to "establish diplomatic relations" with it, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Monday.

Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing, stating that China firmly supports Somalia's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and opposes any moves that undermine Somali territorial integrity. 
Michelle Berkon

Michelle Berkon, a Jewish anti-Zionist and member of Jews Against the Occupation 48 in Sydney, was removed by police from Bondi Beach on December 15 for wearing a keffiyeh the day after the mass shooting during a Hanukkah celebration attended by approximately 1,000 people.

In this edited interview with the World Socialist Web Site, Berkon describes how a memorial vigil for an attack on Jews had been transformed by pro-Zionist elements into a pro-Israel event. She also speaks about the role of police and media, the doxxing and threats she later faced, and the wider campaign against anti-Zionist Jews and democratic rights in Australia.

Richard Phillips: Can you describe what happened at the Bondi memorial and why you went there?

Michelle Berkon: Why did we go to Bondi? Fifteen Jewish people were murdered and obviously targeted and that was a kick in the guts for all Jewish people. From a Jewish person, particularly of European Jewish background with its collective memory, any massacre of Jews is really tough.

We went because we were affected by a monstrous crime against our community. I would also say that if this had been a targeted attack against Muslims, Arabs, Christians, First Nations people, or the queer community, it would have felt just as devastating.

Even though we knew the Zionists would have a strong presence thereit would be disingenuous to pretend otherwisewe had seen online that there were Israeli flags everywhere and were concerned. We didnt want Zionists to claim this tragedy as they have claimed every other tragedy in Jewish history. But when we arrived, we realised it had become a total Zionist event. It had been completely co-opted. Later, people messaged us saying they would have liked to go but chose not to do so because Zionists had taken it over.

Nevertheless, once you take a moral stand, you cannot back down. Zionists came and stood around us; they were not doing anything unusual, just the usual insults: You should be ashamed, Take that keffiyeh off, Youre Nazis and so on. A police officer then came over and said something like, Take the item of clothing off or leave, youre distressing people and causing alarm.

He left, and about five minutes later an inspector and a detective inspector arrived and said force would be used if we did not comply. We said that we were not doing anything wrong or being aggressive. While this was happening, the crowd gathered, becoming more vocal and aggressive.

I told the police that they were the ones causing the problem by drawing attention to us because before that people were just looking at us as a curiosity, but as soon as they thought we were going to be removed, they were emboldened and became more aggressive. By then there was a cordon of police around us, and we had already agreed to leave.

We were about to leave when about 40 police arrived, including the riot squad, who surrounded us while the crowd shouted, Get her out! Get her out. I refused to walk with my back to the crowd because that felt like a defeat. I wanted to face them because I am not ashamed to be seen or filmed and had done nothing wrong.

Surrounded by police, we moved away from the beach, but media approached and began asking questions. The police closed in to try to stop me speaking to the press, so I raised my voice and did my best to get the message out about why a Jewish person was wearing the keffiyeh to the vigil.

The police banned me and Dominic Wy Kanak, a longserving Greens councillor for Bondi Ward, from being anywhere in Bondi for six hours, meaning we could not attend a vigil planned for the evening.

RP: I understand you were born and raised in Bondi.

MB: Until I was six, I lived in South Bondi and went to Emanuel Kindergarten. This was my community. This is a huge sadness for memost of the adults I grew up with had the blue tattoo on their arms and had lost children, parents, siblings and spouses in the Holocaust. This should be my community. Instead, many Jews like me have walked away because the descendants of these survivors have become, frankly, vile, racist, supremacist and ignorant people, which is heartbreaking.

RP: You were not arrested but were any other measures imposed on you?

MB: No, nothing else, but the only reason we agreed to leave was because they threatened to arrest me for wearing a keffiyeh, claiming it was inciting violence and could lead to charges of inciting fear and alarm. It was similar when Judith Treanor, Suzie Gold and I, as members of Jews Against the Occupation 48, protested [former Liberal Party] Peter Dutton speaking at Emanuel Synagogue just before the federal election. We were nearly arrested over a Germanlooking font on our placards.

RP: Can you talk about the doxxing and the death threats since your appearance at Bondi?

MB: I later found out that my address, phone number and full name had been doxxed, so I went to my local police station and reported it as a crime because doxxing is now an offence, but they did not take it seriously at all. Death threats had been sent to me and to Judith, another member, through her online business. When we attended the station together a couple of days later, we discovered there was not even a record that I had previously reported it to police.

Because of all this, and a very nasty anonymous phone call, I had to install CCTV at home. The fallout is exhausting and the police treat you as a criminal or potential criminal. Had they simply said at the outset, These people are here legitimately, leave them alone; you might not like what they are doing but this is a vigil for slain people, those Zionists would not have been emboldened to behave the way they did, and the situation would not have escalated.

There is a broader pattern in policing. After one rally, a man abused me with genuinely antisemitic slurs, saying all Jews are required by the Talmud to be paedophiles. He was spouting Holocaust denial and similar filth. This is particularly triggering given that around 80 percent of my family were murdered in the Holocaust, yet police standing a few metres away claimed they did not hear him. Even worse, the inspector in charge said that this was legitimate free speech and to be expected at an anti-Israel event.

RP: What other harassment is occurring against Jewish people?

MB: One of our older members, who still interacts with the Jewish community, is pretty much afraid to show her face anywhere near any of us.

For younger people, its even worse. I know several young people who have been kicked out of their homes. I know one young man who had to couch surf during his HSC year because his parents had disowned him. I know someone else who was at uni and had zero money; his father was helping him financially, then cut off that financial support and said to him, essentially: If you agree with me politically, Ill put you back on, Ill give you some more help. That is the level of blackmail.

There are quite a few academics who have been threatened with their jobs. It is not just happening in the Palestinian and Arab and Muslim communities that people are being doxxed and harassed. It is happening within the antiZionist Jewish community too, but it is very different for us because we are excluded from our own communities as well.

With Muslim and Arabic peopleagain, I am not wishing to swap places or to compare sufferingthese people are enduring genocidebut at least their own community embraces them. Whereas for us, the only community we have now is each other. Many do not have their extended families. Some do not even have their own nuclear families. They have lost their entire social circle. They have lost an enormous amount by standing up against genocide.

At Bondi, there were people yelling, We hope Hamas rapes you to death and cuts off your head. One of the worst, which Ive heard several times, but it never loses its impact, is: Its a pity any of your family survived the Holocaust.

When a Jew can say that to another Jew, you know there is something astonishingly wrong, something profoundly twisted has happened. That is a level of depravity that is very hard to fathom.

RP: What do you think about the government measures to further restrict the democratic right to protest?

MB: These measures are deeply reactionary and antidemocratic. Jillian Segal [the Albanese governments special antisemitism envoy], who presents herself as defending Jewish safety, has a history of leadership roles in Zionist organisations. Her husband is a major donor to the farright group Advance Australia, which should tell you something about her priorities.

Groups like Lions of Zion are holding an event to celebrate Israels war crimes framed as celebrating Jewish and Israeli ingenuity. Yet when NeoNazis were openly on the streets, Segal had nothing to say, other than backing laws that will be used against antiwar movements.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has warned that protesters are unleashing forces they will not be able to control, but in fact figures like Segal are empowering farright forces whose sophistication and power they do not understand. Once the far right has finished attacking leftwing protesters, they are not going to invite Jews to dinner; these laws are part of a broader authoritarian shift.

My public statement to Minns summed up our position: These laws are not about protecting Jews; they are about protecting weapons industries and crushing the struggle for Indigenous rights, workers rights, LGBTQIA rights, environmental protection and all the other issues crucial for an inclusive and sustainable future.

By hiding behind Jewish safety to impose repressive laws, the government is using Jewish people as human shields and endangering us, because we will bear the resentment of the wider community.

RP: What are the consequences if the new laws are allowed to stand?

MB: Most Australians have no idea of the pressure on Jewish people who stand up against Israel. If they understood the vileness of the insults, threats and intimidation we endure, then they might better grasp that we are taking a principled stand at significant personal cost.

We refuse to centre ourselves in this because were dealing with a genocide and Palestinians are the primary victims, but if people knew about the intensity of our commitment, they might better understand what is happening to Palestinians. Australians have been confused and lied to, not only by Israel but by our own governments and media and seeing the price antiZionist Jews are willing to pay might help them see through that.

Minns new laws are about criminalising dissentespecially antiwar and pro-environment, proPalestine dissenttheyre not about protecting Jewish life. By invoking Jewish safety to shield imperial and corporate interests, the government fuels resentment against Jews while enabling future war crimes.

We began as Jews Against the Occupation in 2003, focusing on Israels occupation of the West Bank, Gaza and the Golan Heights, but our politics have deepened, which is why we are now Jews Against the Occupation 48, opposing the entire Zionist project from 1948 onward.

All of Israel is illegally occupied Palestinian land; Israel is an illegitimate entity that never fulfilled even the requirements for UN membership, and the deeper you go into the history, the clearer that becomes.

RP: The WSWS is a Trotskyist publication. The Fourth International opposed the formation of the state of Israel from the outset in 1948.

MB: You were certainly right on that. Israel was an illegitimate project from the beginning. The whole situation is an outrage, and while Chris Minns is particularly egregious, this is not just about one premier but the Australian Labor Party which is a proimperialist party.

I had a massive argument with a friend and comrade in the proPalestine movement who is in the Labor Party. He called Labor the party of the working classes. I nearly collapsed. How does that work? No proimperialist war party can be on the side of the working classes.
On the Friday before Christmas, the German parliament gave its blessing to the budget proposed by the coalition of the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and Social Democrats (SPD). This marks the launch of a policy that cuts social spending, abolishes the citizens income (basic welfare) and expands precarious work in order to finance rearmament, war and the further enrichment of the wealthy.

Poverty in Germanya bottle collector in Berlin [Photo by Sascha Kohlmann / flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

This is the policy demanded by the far -right Alternative for Germany (AfD). In the Bundestag (parliament), Alice Weidel, co-chairwoman of the AfD, screeched: Mr. Chancellor, finally abolish this citizens income! Last week, an SPD minister complied with the AfD demand. On 17 December, Federal Labour Minister Barbel Bas (SPD) announced a cabinet decision according to which citizens income is to be abolished and replaced by New Basic Security. Parliament is expected to decide on this in January.

The New Basic Security will in future be accompanied by harsh sanctions, cuts and tightened rules regarding what is deemed acceptable work that an unemployed person must accept or lose benefits. If an appointment at the job centre is missed, benefits are to be cut by 30 percent for three months, amounting to around 150 less per month. (The current basic social security rate for single adults is 563 per month). In the event of further missed appointments, benefits will be reduced in stages. After the third violation, they can be reduced to zero.

The so-called grace period is also being abolished without replacement. Until now, this provided a one-year period of protection during which modest savings (up to 40,000) did not have to be entirely exhausted. The idea was to give those affected more breathing space to look for work without immediately forcing them to move to cheaper accommodation or take other drastic measures. This rule now no longer applies.

Around 5.5 million benefit recipients are affected by these measures. In the longer term, however, the attacks threaten many more workers. In the current situation of accelerated job destruction, particularly in the automotive and supplier industries, these decisions provide the government with the necessary instruments to effectively blackmail the unemployed. Under the Damocles sword of sanctions, those laid off will be forced as quickly as possible to accept poorly paid, precarious jobs.

This will lead to a longer-term deterioration in social conditions, because it will become more difficult to save for retirement under such circumstances. Pensions are already the next target in the governments sights. At present, pensions account for 20 percent of federal spending and are the largest single item in the budget. The government has now appointed a commission tasked with working out fundamental reforms by June 2026.

Essentially, the aim is to shift old-age provisions away from the pay-as-you-go pension system, where current contributors partially fund the existing retirees, towards self-funded pensions and private provisions. Shortly before Christmas, Finance Minister and Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil (SPD) presented a proposal for a new private pension system that the government intends to partially subsidise. Klingbeil claimed: We want a private pension for everyone: for all generations and all incomes. But the shift towards self-funded pensions will inevitably further widen the gap between rich and poor.

Cuts are also continuing in healthcare and social care. At the turn of the year, health insurance contributions are rising. At the same time, savings of 1.8 billion at hospitals are worsening care provision. Despite rising prices, the government is taking the axe to all social benefits and enforcing a freeze.

These attacks on working people can only be understood in connection with the pro-war policy and Germanys grasp for world power. To make Germany and Europe fit for war and geopolitically capable of actionabove all against Russia, and increasingly in the growing conflict with the United Statesthe government has created several special funds and is taking on debts running into the trillions. For military projects, it has suspended the debt brake to finance the most massive rearmament programme of the German army since Hitler. The defence budget will rise next year to 82.7 billion and, including the special funds, to 108 billion. The aim is to reach military spending of 3.5 percent of GDP (153 billion) by 2029. When investments in war-ready infrastructure are included, the figure rises to as much as 5 percent.

Yet there is supposedly no money for welfare and pensions. We can no longer afford the welfare state, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) declared half a year ago. At the same time, his budget favours the banks, shareholders, and super-rich, who will benefit from tax cuts and subsidies. Thus, the corporate tax rate, which applies to corporations, companies, and banks, is being systematically reduced from the current 15 percent to just 10 percent over five years. Shortly after the Second World War, this tax stood at 65 percent, and in the post-war period until 2008 it was set at 25 percent.

The war budget of Merz and Klingbeil means reduced purchasing power for many millions, increased insecurity, rising homelessness, and a shortage of healthcare and social services. Older people, single parents, those in need of care, low-paid workers, the long-term unemployed and very many young people are particularly affected. They are confronted with a political agenda that leads to social impoverishment, war and fascism.

The social divide continues to widen. At present, one in five children and one in four young adults in Germany is at risk of poverty. Food banks are registering a sharp rise in child poverty and have sounded the alarm: almost a third of food bank users is under 18 years of age. Old-age poverty is also increasing. Currently, one in five people over the age of 75 in Germany is affected by poverty.

At the same time, unimaginable wealth is accumulating at the top of society. According to the governments latest mandatory poverty report, published in early December, the richest 10 percent own more than half54 percentof total wealth, while the bottom half owns just 3 percent. Inequality is rising, and Germany has the highest density of billionaires in Europe.

This polarisation is generating explosive social resistance against both impoverishment and rearmament. As already seen in France, Italy, Greece, Belgium, and elsewhere, the working class will rise up against social devastation and war. Fierce class struggles lie ahead.

However, this resistance must be armed with a conscious understanding and a clear perspective. All the establishment partiesfrom the AfD to the Left Partystand behind the war agenda. Both the Greens and Die Linke (Left Party) supported special funds for the military in the decisive votes and provided cover for Merz. Wherever they exercise government responsibility in the federal states, these parties are implementing AfD-style policies, carrying out deportations and implementing social attacks. Anti-immigrant propaganda and right-wing policies are used to divide and weaken the working class. In workplaces, the trade union bureaucracy and pseudo-left organisations ensure that the anger and willingness to fight of workers are kept under control.

The answer lies in the independent and international organisation of the working class on a socialist basis. This requires independent, democratically controlled rank-and-file action committees in workplaces, neighbourhoods, schools, and other institutions, prepared to link the struggle against social cuts and war with the fight against militarism and fascism. It requires building the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party) and the Fourth International as the new revolutionary leadership of the working class.
Elevenlabs AudioNative Player

The year 2025 has seen an assault on immigrants without precedent in American history. With the complicity of the Democratic Party and the trade union bureaucracy, the Trump administration has launched a nationwide dragnet for mass detention and deportation. Every day, heavily armed and often masked federal agents fan out into neighborhoods, workplaces, schools and homes.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents arrive at a Home Depot parking lot in Kenner, Louisiana, on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. [AP Photo/Gerald Herbert]

On Sunday, the Washington Post reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is now carrying out roughly 2,600 at-large arrests per week. During Obamas first term, weekly arrests averaged 640. Under Trumps first term, they averaged 569. Even under Biden, who oversaw a major escalation, arrests averaged about 1,100 per week. Trump has more than doubled that figure in months and has declared his goal of deporting 1 million people this year.

The claim that the operation targets criminals is a lie. ICE has shifted away from jail-based arrests to mass workplace raids at car washes, construction sites and food processing plants. Immigrants are targeted whose only crime is seeking work.

Political opposition is also being criminalized. Yaakub Vijandre, a longtime Dallas resident and DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient, has been detained for nearly three months and faces deportation to a country he has not lived in since childhood. His crime is refusing to become an FBI informant and continuing to speak out against US imperialism and the genocide in Gaza. If this is grounds for detention, it is grounds for the persecution of anyone.

Those seized are routinely denied basic constitutional rights. The recent CBS 60 Minutes investigation, which was pulled from airing, documented the illegal rendition of nearly 300 immigrants to El Salvadors CECOT mega-prison under the Alien Enemies Act. They were held for months without lawyers under conditions amounting to torture. Similar conditions have been documented at detention facilities across Florida, Texas, Arizona, California, New Jersey and Louisiana.

What is being built is a nationwide deportation machine. ICE acting director Todd Lyons has openly stated that the goal of the Trump administration is to become the Amazon of deportations: Like Prime, but with human beings.

Overcrowding and neglect have already produced a surge in detainee deaths. At least 30 immigrants have died in ICE custody this year, several under highly suspicious circumstances. Earlier this month over a four-day span, four immigrants died in ICE for-profit prisons.

The campaign against immigrants is the spearhead of a broader drive toward dictatorship. The January 6 coup was not an aberration. It has continued in policy form under Trumps second administration. Immigration repression is the testing ground for the dismantling of constitutional rights, including birthright citizenship and due process.

Trumps deportation campaign serves three interconnected purposes.

First, the campaign against immigrants is aimed at dividing the working class. Immigrant workers are scapegoated for conditions created by the ruling class itselfstagnant wages, unemployment, crumbling infrastructure, and collapsing social services. By directing the anger of native-born workers against immigrants rather than against the corporations and billionaires responsible for decades of deindustrialization and austerity, the political establishment seeks to prevent the development of a unified working class movement. A divided working class cannot fight back.

Second, it serves as a diversion from political crisis and the criminality of the ruling class. New revelations tied to the Epstein network continue to implicate Trump, while the administration slashes social programs, carries out overseas military strikes and attacks workers at home.

Third, immigration repression provides the legal and political framework for expanding police state powers against the entire population. The same justifications used to deploy troops in cities and deport residents without due process will be used against striking workers and political opponents regardless of immigration status.

Perhaps the most significant political fact about this assault is the complicity of the Democratic Party. A Washington Post headline from December 8 captured it bluntly: Democrats, who once lambasted Trump on immigration, have grown quiet. The Democratic Party leadership, including Senator Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, has refused to call for the abolition of ICE because they agree with Trumps policies.

Bernie Sanders has gone further, praising Trumps border policies as an improvement over Biden and repeating the MAGA slogan that If you dont have any borders, then you dont have a country. Under conditions where long-time residents are being disappeared without due process, the self-styled democratic socialist has aligned himself with capitalist reaction.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who once called to abolish ICE, has remained silent in response to Trumps National Security Presidential Memorandum-7 branding anti-capitalism and anti-Americanism as domestic terrorism.

The Democrats paved the way for this assault. Obama pioneered mass deportations and child separation. Biden dismantled asylum. Trump is now expanding these policies into a nationwide system of detention, rendition and repression.



The union bureaucracy is also complicit. UAW President Shawn Fain supports Trumps tariffs and trade war policies. Teamsters President Sean OBrien has endorsed mass deportations and has refused to defend Teamsters workers harassed by masked federal agents in Chicago. Economic nationalism is the trade union bureaucracys common ground with Trump.



The assault on immigrants is not unique to the United States. Across Europe, governments of every political stripe are erecting walls, militarizing borders and criminalizing refugees fleeing wars created by the same imperialist powers. Securing the homeland is the domestic counterpart of preparing for war abroad.

The assault on immigrants is not merely an attack on one section of the population. It is the spearhead of the drive toward a police state directed against the entire working class. The armed masked agents and National Guard on city streets will not stop once the illegals are out of country. The same apparatus will be turned against all workers who resist dictatorship, inequality and war.

The defense of immigrants is inseparable from the defense of democratic rights as a whole. Workers and youth must form rank-and-file defense committees in neighborhoods and workplaces to protect all workers regardless of immigration status.

Workers must uphold the right of all people to live and work in the country of their own choosing. Against the nationalist poison promoted across the capitalist political spectrum, from Sanders to Trump, workers must declare, The workingmen have no country, and Workers of the world, unite!

There is significant opposition developing to the attack on immigrants. In Chicago and other cities, there have been spontaneous efforts by workers to protect immigrants in their neighborhoods when ICE agents appear. High school students have walked out of their schools in protest against the raids.

This growing opposition, however, must not be subordinated to the Democratic Party or the courts, which have proven themselves time and time again to be instruments of the rule of the financial oligarchy. It requires the independent political mobilization of the working class.

The working class must demand an immediate halt to deportations, the release of all detainees, an end to raids and rendition, and full legal rights for all immigrant workers. This requires the building of a mass movement in the working class against the entire police-border-intelligence apparatus and the nation-state system they defend.

The fight to defend immigrants is a central battle in the class struggle. The same ruling class that is building the deportation machine is destroying jobs, slashing social programs and preparing new wars. The defense of democratic rights can be carried forward only through the independent political mobilization of the working class against the capitalist system itself.
Telecommunications company Optus published a report on December 12 into its Triple Zero outage in September that resulted in at least two deaths after hundreds of people were unable to reach emergency services on the phone. The report was authored by Kerry Schott, an establishment figure long associated with big business and corporate boards.

While it partly reads like a forensic review into the technical and organisational problems that led to the disaster, the reports primary political function is to absolve the companys management of any responsibility for the events of September 18, when some 605 calls to Australias emergency services numbers (primarily 000, but also 112) failed to connect.

Technicians work on a mobile phone tower in Sherwood, Queensland, 2022 [Photo by Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

In particular, the report blames employees at Optus. Schott writes that the mistakes she identified can only be explained by a lack of care about a critical service and a lack of disciplined adherence to procedure.

This is fundamentally no different from the statement by Optus chief executive Stephen Rue in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. He claimed that human error was to blame for the breakdown. In other words, the so-called independent reviewcommissioned by Optus itselfreached the same conclusion.

Part of the report identifies the proximate trigger of the outage. A planned firewall/gateway upgrade at Optus Regency Park exchange left a key gateway locked on the night of September 18, with the final step of the upgrade scheduled for the following night.

The gateway in question was a network control point through which emergency call traffic was routed. Locking such a gateway places it into a restricted state, leaving the network exposed for an extended window without a traffic diversion and producing a significant drop in resilience.

The work to upgrade the firewall was split into two nights. Had the firewall upgrade been done over one night (as all other upgrades in the program had been), Schott writes, the gateway would have been locked for a maximum of 6 hours rather than the planned 24 hours or more.

The report states that the reason why the work was split into two parts and spread across two nights is not clear, but makes no attempt to investigate or probe this. Given that Optus has slashed 3,000 jobs over the past decade, reducing its workforce by a third, this decision may have been the result of cost-cutting, not a technical error. Reduced in-house staffing may have forced staggered execution.

The report admits that there appeared to be a focus on speed and getting the task done, rather than an emphasis on doing things properly. If that is indeed the case, the critical question is to ask why speed was prioritised over doing things properly.

Any objective investigation would lead to systemic issues such as job cuts, which place higher workloads on existing staff, as well as the underlying privatisation of essential services that prioritises corporate profits over basic safety measures.

The report partially reveals the role played by the effective shutdown of Australias 3G mobile network. Emergency calling systems are designed, in principle, to be highly redundant: if a call cannot be completed via a carriers primary network pathway, mobile devices are meant to persist and automatically attempt alternative routes, including connecting to another carrier or falling back to older technologies such as 3G.

During the Optus outage, many devices that failed to establish a 4G or 5G emergency call attempted to search for a 3G connection that no longer existed in practice. As a result, calls either failed entirely or were delayed by 40 to 60 seconds before connecting. Such delays are intolerable in life-and-death situations and many callers understandably did not wait.

This is a damning revelation. 3G towers were allowed to be almost universally shut down without ensuring that the necessary fallback measures were in place for older phones to be able to dial 000 in the event of an outage.

Schott recommends further investigation of this issue by industry and government. But throughout the 41-page report, the key issue is buried: that critical public infrastructure has been transformed over decades to serve the profit interests of the financial elite.

Moreover, the September 2025 breakdown of the Triple Zero service was far from an isolated occurrence. Previous incidents on a similar scale include a November 2023 Optus outage that lasted 16 hours and resulted in 2,500 people being unable to reach emergency services, and a March 2024 Telstra outage where over 120 callers could not effectively dial 000.

Numerous other incidents have collectively resulted in dozens more cases where emergency services could not be reached by people, including two failures by Optus and Telstra a little over a week after the September 18 outage.

The Albanese Labor government has helped cover up the systemic nature of these failures. Token fines of $12 million and $3 million were issued to Optus and Telstra respectively after the 2023 and 2024 outages. These figures pale in comparison to the revenue these companies extract every year.

A so-called Triple Zero Custodian proposed by the Labor government to monitor the emergency system is similarly cosmetic, with no real powers to regulate the companies operations.

To avoid any culpability, the Albanese government has sought to solely blame Optus, a subsidiary of the Singapore-based Singtel, for the September 18 breakdown. But it was the decision of the Hawke-Keating Labor government in the 1990s to privatise Optus and Telstra that paved the way for the cost-cutting that resulted in all these failures.

The life-and-death issues raised by a history of 000 failures are not merely technical malfunctions that can be corrected by new procedures. They require a political solution: public ownership, democratic workers control and adequate funding of essential services, including telecommunications. Rank and file committees of telecom workers, first responders, such as paramedics and firefighters, and medical professionals must be built to expose the truth about the breakdowns and fight for these demands.
In a vicious and desperate action, the Trump administration is threatening to sue jazz musician Chuck Redd for $1 million. Redd canceled his annual Christmas Eve jazz concert to protest the decision of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board of trustees to change the venues name to the Trump-Kennedy Center.

New signage, The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center For The Performing Arts, is unveiled on the Kennedy Center, Friday, December 19, 2025, in Washington. [AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin]

The threat against Redd is part of the Nazi-like effort to bring popular culture, education and art into line with the administrations agenda. The Kennedy Center has been transformed from a public arts institution into a weapon of intimidation against any artist who refuses to kowtow to far-right politics.

Redd, a vibraphonist and drummer, had hosted the Christmas Eve Jazz Jam at the venue for nearly two decades. The jams have included countless musicians and often feature seasonal jazz arrangements, including adaptations of Duke Ellingtons Nutcracker Suite.

In an email to the Associated Press, Redd said he pulled out of the concert in the wake of the additionillegal, in factof Trumps name. When I saw the name change on the Kennedy Center website and then hours later on the building, I chose to cancel our concert, Redd said.

Redds departure from the Trump Kennedy Center is yet another blow to the centers already fatally damaged prestige. Redd is a widely respected musician who gained international recognition playing with the Charlie Byrd Trio and Great Guitars, later performing with figures such as Dizzy Gillespie and Mel Torme, leading bands linked to the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and teaching at the University of Maryland School of Music.

By pulling out, Redd joins a literal stampede of artists and producers out the Kennedy Centers doors, refusing to be associated with Trumps takeover of the institute. Among them are Issa Rae, Shonda Rhimes, Hamiltonaffiliated personnel and other prominent figures, withdrawing or relocating projects rather than perform under a banner bearing the presidents name.

This growing group was joined last week by the American College Theatre Festival, which has collaborated with the Kennedy Center for 58 years. On Monday, the events organizers announced they would suspend the festivals affiliation, citing circumstances and decisions that do not align with our organizations values.

Chuck Redd [Photo: Kennedy Center]

In response, the fascistic administration is lashing out at its cultural and musical critics. Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell, one of Trumps extreme right-wing agents installed at the Center, sent a furious letter branding Redds cancellation a political stunt, accusing him of surrender to leftwing bullying and vowing to seek the million dollars in damages for alleged lost revenue and reputational harm. Grenell cynically argued that artists have a duty to perform for all audiences regardless of politics.

This of course is the world turned upside down. The administration has transformed the Kennedy Centersupposedly the nations cultural center, owned and operated by the federal governmentinto a hotbed of fascist reaction that it is seeking to normalize in American politics. The center has welcomed a slew of rightwing festivals, Christian fundamentalist summits, collaborations with the Museum of the Bible and patriotic pageants recasting the Kennedy Center as a ceremonial stage for the far right.

Grenells hypocrisy and cynicism are underscored by the fact that many of the forces welcomed into Trumps Kennedy Center, such as Turning Point USA, the Conservative Political Action Conference and others, have repeatedly demanded the deplatforming of leftwing speakers, student groups and artists, and have backed campaigns to purge schools and cultural institutions of unAmerican or antiChristian contentin other words, censorship in the realm of education, media and culture.

The Trump administration itself has been the ringleader of a historic attack on democratic rights. On December 18, the same day the Kennedy Centers name change was announced, Trumps Justice Department began receiving reports from intelligence agencies as part of the would-be dictators National Security Presidential Memorandum7 (NSPM7). The document, issued following the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, seeks to brand all leftwing opposition as a form of domestic terrorism.

The highly defensive tone of the Kennedy Center administrations response to Redd reveals deep nervousness over the growing backlash. The leadership recognizes that the renaming of the Center and the broader political agenda of the Trump administration are deeply unpopular. This was publicly visible when Trump appeared at a Kennedy Center performance of Les Miserables earlier this year and was met with boos and protests.

Membership and attendance at the Centers various events have fallen sharply in Trumps second term. This occurs as the economic picture for millions of working people has darkened substantially in the past year. In the Washington, D.C. regionground zero for Trumps assault on the federal workforcedata from the Federal Reserve show the area has lost between 20,000 and 40,000 federal jobs in 2025 alone, with one estimate projecting the federal workforce could shrink by about 300,000 nationwide by years end.

The renaming and the threat against Redd need to be seen as part of a systematic authoritarian reshaping of cultural life in the US. Following in the footsteps of the Nazis in 1930s Germany, Trumps attack on degenerate art, woke productions and drag performances allegedly corrupting youth is integrally connected to the social and political counterrevolution his administration represents. Whereas the Nazis claimed to be purifying the Volksgemeinschaft (peoples community) to create a healthy (and obedient) population, Trumps regime does so in the name of inaugurating a national-patriotic Golden Age in Arts and Culture, a code name for its own full-scale attempt to politically intimidate and terrorize.
LONDON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- A man involved in a two-vehicle collision on Sunday was shot dead by Norfolk police after he was believed to be holding a handgun, Norfolk Constabulary said in a statement on Monday.

Police were called to London Road in Thetford at around 8:25 p.m. on Sunday. Armed response officers attended the scene, and the suspect was subsequently shot by police a short distance away, said the statement. Despite efforts by emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

As is standard procedure in such circumstances, the force has notified the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which has launched an investigation, said the Norfolk Constabulary. 
The Gist

The Cambridge Lovers Knot Tiara has been seen on the heads of Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and Kate Middleton.

The tiara includes 19 intertwined lovers knot diamond arches capped with bows and decorated with lustrous drop-shaped swinging pearls.

The royal family is known for their stunning jewelry collection, and their tiaras are no exception. However, one stands out above all as it has been passed down for four generations, with some of the most famous royals spotted wearing the heirloom.

The Cambridge Lovers Knot Tiara has been seen on the heads of Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and Kate Middleton. (Hence why it is also called the Queen Mary Lover's Knot Tiara.) Created in 1914, it has a long and rich royal history that started with Queen Marys grandmother, Princess Augusta of Hesses.

Getty Images Kate Middleton on December 5, 2023. Kate Middleton on December 5, 2023.

According to Town & Country, the headpiece was crafted by royal jeweler House of Garrard, and was often a favorite of Princess Dianas, as she was spotted wearing it many times. After Princess Diana's death in 1997, the piece of jewelry disappeared from the public eye until 2015, when Kate was seen wearing it at a reception in Buckingham Palace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Here is everything we know about the infamous Lovers Knot Tiara and its deep meaning and history.

The Lovers Knot Tiara is a replica of an earlier tiara made for Princess Augusta of Hesse.

Alamy Queen Mary Queen Mary

Although this coronet has become wildly popular, it isnt the first of its kind. Queen Mary's grandmother, Princess Augusta, owned the original Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara, which is said to be held in a private collection. Having been inspired by her grandmother, Queen Mary took a headpiece from her own collection called the Ladies of England tiara to create a second iteration.



The crown was passed down to Queen Elizabeth II.

PA Images via Getty Images Queen Elizabeth at the Empire Theatre in 1958 Queen Elizabeth at the Empire Theatre in 1958

When Queen Mary died in 1953, the crown was passed down to her granddaughter, Queen Elizabeth. She wore the tiara several times in the 50s. It was a favorite for the monarch (alongside the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara) until her death in September 2022.

In 1981, the Queen loaned the Lover's Knot Tiara to Princess Diana as a wedding gift.

Getty Images Princess Diana on April 29, 1983. Princess Diana on April 29, 1983.

Prince Charles and his bride Princess Diana tied the knot in true royal fashion; however, during their big day, Lady Di opted to wear the Spencer Tiara, a family heirloom, instead of the Queens wedding gift. The Lovers Knot became a favorite for the Princess of Wales as she was spotted wearing it on many occasions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the crown being so heavy it hurt her head and often caused headaches, it became a closet staple. During some of her most iconic fashion moments, the tiara was seen on the royals head. She wore the crown at a state opening for Parliament and in Hong Kong in 1989, pairing it with a white beaded Catherine Walker gown that later became known as Lady Dis Elvis dress, according to Natural Diamonds.

Getty Images Prince Charles and Princess Diana on November 8, 1989. Prince Charles and Princess Diana on November 8, 1989.

After Diana and Charles divorced in August 1996, Diana was allowed to keep all of the jewelry she acquired during her time as princessbesides the lovers knot tiara. Since it was a loan from Queen Elizabeth, Diana returned the piece to the monarch.

Kate Middleton was the first to wear the Lovers Knot Tiara after Princess Diana.

Getty Images Kate Middleton on November 22, 2022. Kate Middleton on November 22, 2022.

Kate Middleton was first seen wearing the infamous diadem (that hadnt been seen in nearly two decades) at the 2015 Diplomatic Reception at Buckingham Palace. She chose it for the following four diplomatic receptions, which is an annual event. The future queen has now worn the headpiece 11 times, including at least six state banquets. Similar to Princess Diana, it has become her most worn headpiece.

The Princess of Wales wore the Lovers Knot during the first state visit hosted by the U.K. with King Charles III as monarch in 2022. She paired the hair accessory with a white caped Jenny Packham gown and Princess Dianas diamond and pearl drop earrings. This past July, she was seen wearing the coronet again during a State Banquet where France chose to attend for the first time in 17 years. More recently, in September 2025, the princess wore her go-to tiara for the State Banquet hosted by King Charles for President Trump.

The tiara is estimated to cost around $135 Million.

PHIL NOBLE/Getty Images

Maxwell Stone of U.K. jeweler Steven Stone estimated that the headpiece is worth about $135 million, or potentially more, considering the legacies of the remarkable women who have worn it, Stone said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Lovers Knot originally had an extra 19 pearls pointed upright from each diamond curvature, according to Claire Scott, Design and Development Director at Garrard, per Natural Diamonds. The pearls were taken from the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Since then, theyve been replaced with a row of standalone brilliant-cut diamonds.

Read the original article on InStyle
Police in northeast China used warm water to help out a curious visitor from the south after his tongue got stuck to a frigid metal pole- a classic cold-weather hazard that amused online audiences. #China
French actress Brigitte Bardot, who has died at the age of 91, leaves behind one child, son Nicolas-Jacques Charrier. They had a famously estranged relationship over the years.

She was married four times. Her son was her child with one of her ex-husbands, the French actor Jacques Charrier. He was born in 1960. Bardot, who was known for her animal rights activism later in life, did not speak highly of motherhood and, according to People, her relationship with her son was "estranged." Bardot, who was hospitalized recently but whose cause of death was not released, spoke out repeatedly about her distaste for motherhood over the years.

Today, Bardot's son lives in Norway with his model wife Anne-Line Bjerkan. Charrier was Bardot's second husband. Her fourthand final husband was Bernard d'Ormale. She was also married to director Roger Vadim and German millionaire Gunter Sachs. Her first three marriages ended in divorce.

Brigitte Bardot Once Said She Was 'Not Made to Be a Mother'

French actress Brigitte Bardot with her former husband, actor and artist Jacques Charrier, and their son Nicolas-Jacques (14), at La Madrague, her property in St.-Tropez. (Photo by James Andanson/Sygma via Getty Images) ((Photo by James Andanson/Sygma via Getty Images))

Bardot opened up about her attitudes toward motherhood in her memoir, Initiales B.B.

Advertisement Advertisement

"I'm not made to be a mother," she wrote, according to People."I'm not adult enough  I know it's horrible to have to admit that, but I'm not adult enough to take care of a child."

According to People, she gave birth to Nicolas-Jacques in a home birth at her apartment, but when she and his father divorced, the dad took custody of the boy. "I looked at my flat, slender belly in the mirror like a dear friend upon whom I was about to close a coffin lid, she wrote.

Her son lived mostly with his father's parents, People reported, quoting Bardot as saying, I didnt bring up Nicolas because I needed support, roots. I couldnt be Nicolas roots because I was completely uprooted, unbalanced, lost in that crazy world.

Related:

In later years, Bardot stopped talking about her son. I promised Nicolas I would never talk about him in my interviews, she told Le Point in 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to The Independent, Charrier and his father tried to censor Bardot's memoir after she called him the object of my misfortune. She wrote in her memoir that she wanted to have an abortion but couldn't get one because abortion was illegal in France at the time, The Independent added. She once said at a press conference that she would have rather given birth "to a little dog," The Independent reported.

Nicolas-Jacques Charrier wrote a book in response to Bardot's memoir. "By giving my version of the facts, I'm doing her a big favour," Charrier said, per The Telegraph. "In a way, I rehabilitate her. The reality of her love for Nicolas, confirmed by the letters I kept, is much more to her credit than the horrors she wrote."

Brigitte Bardot Is a Grandmother & Great-Grandmother

Brigitte Bardot with son Nicolas Jacques. 1960. (Photo by: Marka/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) ((Photo by: Marka/Universal Images Group via Getty Images))

Bardot also leaves behind two grandchildren, Thea and Anna Charrier, and three great-grandchildren, according to US Weekly.

Thea Charrier has been described as having a resemblance to Bardot.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Daily Mail.com, Bardot's son "now works as a systems engineer in Norway, and has two children Anna-Camilla and Thea-Josephine." According to Elle, "Born in 1985, Anna Charrier Bjerkan lives in the Norwegian capital. The 40-year-old works as a lawyer. His younger sister, Thea, was born in 1990."

Yes, I am a great-grandmother of three little Norwegians who do not speak French and that I rarely see, she told Le Point.

By 2018, Bardot was visiting her son at least yearly, The Independent reported, and she lived near him in Norway.

Related:

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Dec 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Im not made to be a mother, Brigitte Bardot wrote in her 1995 memoir Initiales B.B., adding that she was not adult enough to take care of a child. She had put it even more bluntly earlier in life: I am not a mother, nor do I want to be one. Those sentences  and the decades of fallout that followed  are at the center of the complicated relationship between the French icon, who died on Dec. 28, 2025 at age 91, and her only son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier.

Bardot gave birth to Nicolas at home in Paris on Jan. 11, 1960, with her then-husband, actor Jacques Charrier, with whom she had eloped. In Initiales B.B., she described her pregnancy in stark terms. I looked at my flat, slender belly in the mirror like a dear friend upon whom I was about to close a coffin lid, she wrote, explaining that abortion was illegal in France and that she had previously sought an abortion and even punched herself in the stomach in an attempt to end the pregnancy.

More from SheKnows

Advertisement Advertisement

Her language about motherhood did not soften after Nicolas was born. At a press conference, she reportedly said she would have preferred to give birth to a little dog when asked about him, per The Independent. In Initiales B.B., she also called Nicolas the object of my misfortune, and repeated, Im not made to be a mother Im not adult enough  I know its horrible to have to admit that, but Im not adult enough to take care of a child.

By the time the memoir was preparing for release in the mid-1990s, Nicolas and his father had already pushed back. They tried to have the 80 pages worth of passages about their family removed before Initiales B.B. went to print, per Irish Times, but the attempts at censorship failed and the most painful sections became the most quoted. In 1997, a Paris court ruled that Bardot and her publisher had invaded their privacy and ordered them to pay about $40,000 in damages  17,000 to Jacques Charrier and 11,000 to Nicolas  and to carry a notice in future editions flagging the offending pages.

Brigitte Bardot arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Nicolas had already been living largely outside his mothers world. After Bardot and Charrier divorced in 1962, he was raised primarily by his paternal grandparents. Bardot later said of that period, I didnt bring up Nicolas because I needed support, roots I couldnt be Nicolas roots because I was completely uprooted, unbalanced, lost in that crazy world. He eventually settled in Norway with his wife, model Anne-Line Bjerkan, and their children, while Bardot remained in France.

Charrier also answered Initiales B.B. in print. In 1997 he published his own book, My Response to Brigitte Bardot, saying that By giving my version of the facts, Im doing her a big favour In a way, I rehabilitate her. The reality of her love for Nicolas, confirmed by the letters I kept, is much more to her credit than the horrors she wrote, per Telegraph. Bardot, for her part, continued to say in interviews that she loved her son but had not been able to meet the demands of motherhood when she was at the height of her fame.

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the damage created by her own words, there was limited contact later in life. In 1992, Bardot married her fourth husband, businessman Bernard dOrmale, in Norway, near where Nicolas and his family lived. She later said they visited each other about once a year. In her final years, Bardot publicly acknowledged that talking about Nicolas had become part of the problem. I promised Nicolas I would never talk about him in my interviews, she told Paris Match in a 2024 special issue.

The memoir that caused so much pain arrived long after Bardot had already walked away from the film industry. She retired from acting in 1973 at 39, saying she wanted a way to get out elegantly, and spent the rest of her life focused on animal-rights work and, later, on far-right politics. But when it came to motherhood, she had already left a written record she could not take back  one her son spent much of his life trying to answer, limit or move beyond.

More on Brigitte Bardot:

Advertisement Advertisement

Before you go, click here to see all the best celebrity memoirs you can read right now.



Matthew McConaughey, Lauren Akins

Best of SheKnows

Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Chilling new details have emerged from behind the bars of the Idaho Maximum Security Institution, where Bryan Kohberger is serving a life sentence for the 2022 murders of four college students.

Investigative journalist Howard Blum told the Daily Mail December 26 that Kohberger is not responding well to the lack of control that comes with life in prison. The author of When the Night Comes Falling: A Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders also compared the 31-year-old to a budding Dr. Hannibal Lecterthe fictional cannibalistic serial killer who, in books and movies like The Silence of the Lambs, is consulted by the FBI for help unmasking other criminals and is known for his intelligence and manners. (In the 1991 film version, Lecter is played by Anthony Hopkins, who famously delivers the line, A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti.)

Blum said Kohberger has a self-important personality. His ego transcends everything else. He was training to be a professor and he has this imperious detachment about him. He always feels that hes right. Murder is about control. And prison is the ultimate situation where you have no control. Hes not responding well to that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Kohbergers unhappiness has manifested in his relentless written complaints to prison staff, retired homicide detective Chris McDonough told the outlet. His grievances range from the food to the location of his cell to his fellow inmatesan unwise move, according to McDonough.

Complaining about other inmates is not ever the right position to take in prison. You just want to shut your mouth and do your time. He doesnt talk to people: He talks down to people. He thinks hes all that. Hes patronizing.

All of this leads Blum to predict that Kohberger will eventually lean in to making contact with people outside the prison walls.

I think that will be the next shoe to drop. The question is, how soon does it occur? said Blum. I think he will try to give his view of things, and I think he would like to be seen as an authority. He thinks hes a professor in many ways. Hes going to be his vision of a Hannibal Lecter who can both be a serial killer and be above being a serial killer, being above the fray, commenting on it, and offering introspection and insight into the mind of a killer.

Read More From National Enquirer

This story Idaho Four Murderer Bryan Kohberger Becoming His Vision of a Hannibal Lecter in Prison first appeared on National Enquirer. Add National Enquirer as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Credit: Getty Images

Plans for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding are being kept largely under wraps, but Jason Kelce may have recently hinted at an unexpected detail about the upcoming nuptials.

During a recent interview on Good Morning America, the conversation turned to the highly-anticipated wedding when Jason was asked how prepared he felt to give a best man's speech and if he knew what he was going to say.

Advertisement Advertisement

The question didn't seem like one that would turn into a spoiler about Swift and Kelce's wedding plans, especially since many assume the Kansas City Chiefs tight end will tap his older brother to fill the best man role. When it came time to answer, though, Jason cast doubt on whether he'll be his brother's best manor if the wedding will feature a best man at all.

"Time will tell if there is one or anything like that," the former Philadelphia Eagles center said, seeming to hint that Swift and Kelce could break with tradition and forgo having a formal wedding party on their big day.

While he was completely noncommittal about specific wedding details or what his role in the ceremony might be, Jason made it clear that he's ready to step up and be involved in whatever capacity he's asked to be.

"I've been given no details on that front," he said. "But, you know, I think, however I'm involved, I'll be happy to be and I'm just happy for those two."

Advertisement Advertisement

This isn't the first time Jason's potential role as best man has come up. In September, during an appearance on the Bussin with the Boys podcast, he admitted that he was hoping" his brother would ask him to take on the honor.

"Hopefully Im the best man. Well see, Jason said at the time. Trav has a lot of friends, Im just hoping to get the opportunity.

Whatever role Jason plays, it will be one that Swift and Kelce decide on together. Earlier this month, a source close to the couple said they've been total equals when it comes to wedding planning.

When it comes to wedding planning, nothing feels rushed or one-sided, a source told People. Theyre both equally involved and excited, and this isnt something one or the other is carrying on their own.

The source said that planning the wedding has proven to be a bonding experience for Swift and Kelce, adding, Theyre approaching it as a partnership, talking things through together and enjoying the process in a way that feels natural to them."
A MAGA official has branded his critics snowflakes after marking this years holiday season by sharing his apparent fantasy of whaling on a defenseless Saint Nick on the steps of Indianas State Capitol building.

State Senator Chris Garten shared the AI-generated images on X on Christmas Day. One of the four pictures features the two-term Republican state senator, decked in a sleeveless suit a la WWE, kicking a bewildered Santa Claus squarely on the chin to send the beloved, age-old childrens folk character sailing backwards through the air.

A second shows the MAGA official launching himself forward with the apparent intention of following up with a flying punch to the jaw. A third shows him further brutalizing the trembling, mythic gift-giver as he writhes in agony on the floor.

X/Chris Garten

The fourth image shows Garten in sunglasses astride one of Santas reindeer. Supporters cheer his victory as the animal rears and the state senator raises a swollen, veined arm in the air, wearing what appears to be Kris Kringles iconic red and white suit, taken and de-sleeved as a trophy.

X/Chris Garten

It is unclear to what audience exactly Garten felt he was playing with his post. He shared the photos with a caption raging against Santas otherwise chronically underreported support for big government.

X/Chris Garten

When you find out the North Pole is trying to bring more bureaucratic overreach & unfunded mandates down the chimney disguised as Christmas cheer, he wrote. Not on my watch. We The People run Indiana, not the bureaucrats.

X/Chris Garten

Advertisement Advertisement

Take it back to the North Pole big guy, he added. Merry Christmas, Hoosiers.

Gartens bid at satire was decidedly lost on users in the comments section. What on earth would compel a person to post images of them beating up a universally beloved figure? one person wrote.

Pretty weird, another more succinctly put it.

The state senator has since been swift to insist the yuletide clobbering wasnt entirely his idea.

Lots of intolerance, swearing, and outrage on display over a few AI pics I had a blast designing with my kids, he wrote in a subsequent post. Some of you clowns are just insufferable. Hopefully your negativity stays in the comments and not directed at your families.

Merry Christmas, snowflakes, Garten added, accompanied by another AI-generated photo of himself in a Santa suit, pointing at an oversized snowflake.
Hollywood actor Miles Teller has gifted his wife, Keleigh Teller, a re-creation of her wedding dress after it was ruined when they lost their Pacific Palisades home in the California wildfires.

Teller, 38, pulled at fans' heart strings as he gifted his wife the very special present, which came after the fire destroyed their property and all of their belongingsalong with approximately 7,000 structures in the wealthy enclave inhabited by a host of celebrities, among them Tom Hanks, Ben Affleck, and Reese Witherspoon.

Keleigh was touched by the kind gift and took to TikTok to share her reaction to the replica.

Advertisement Advertisement

In the clip, which was shared on Dec. 26, Keleigh unwrapped a large present while donning a Santa hat and holiday-themed pajamas.

Teller was spotted donning a matching hat in the mirror while filming his wife pulling the gown out of a garment bag.

"Is this my wedding dress? she asked as Miles, who then replied, Yeah.

Hollywood actor Miles Teller has gifted his wife, Keleigh Teller, a re-creation of her wedding dress after it was ruined when they lost their Pacific Palisades home in the California wildfires. (TikTok)

Stunned, the model said, "Oh my god," and unzipped the garment bag to reveal the shimmering white dress.

Keleigh then burst into tears as soon as she spotted the dress.

The clip ended with Keleigh crying as she stared at her dress.

She captioned the video, Miles had my wedding dress that burned in the fire remade, so happy. Merry Christmas everyone!"

Advertisement Advertisement

Keleigh then branded her spouse the "sweetest husband" on her Instagram Story, noting that she "almost passed out" after unwrapping it and "had to sit."

The lovebirds tied the knot in Hawaii on Sept. 1, 2019, two years after the actor got down on one knee in 2017.

The duo met at a party in 2013 and have been inseparable ever since.

The couple purchased their home in 2023.

Teller, 38, pulled at fans' heart strings as he gifted his wife the very special present, which came after the fire destroyed their property and all of their belongingsalong with approximately 7,000 structures in the wealthy enclave inhabited by a host of celebrities, among them Tom Hanks, Ben Affleck, and Reese Witherspoon. (TikTok)

Keleigh was touched by the kind gift and took to TikTok to share her reaction to the replica. (TikTok)

Following the blaze that destroyed their home, Keleigh shared an image of the property on her Instagram along with the caption, "Snapped this driving out." (Instagram)

Following the blaze that destroyed their home, Keleigh shared an image of the property on her Instagram along with the caption, "Snapped this driving out

"To everyone reaching out I cant thank you enough, your kind hearts have meant the world, Ill never forget them. Community has come out stronger than I could imagine, pacific palisades I love you beyond measure you are a little slice of heaven, we will come back stronger than ever.

Advertisement Advertisement

"If youre in the LA area PLEASE get out if you can. I wish I grabbed my wedding dress .. wish I did a lot different but it doesnt matter, stay safe, get out. there are no words. THANK YOU to the first responders fighting."

Anna Faris, Candy Spelling, Paris Hilton, Heidi Montag Pratt and Spencer Pratt, Adam Brody and Leighton Meester, Ricki Lake, Cary Elwes, and Cameron Mathison also lost their homes in the devastating fires.
Originally appeared on E! Online

Amanda Nguyen is breaking her silence.

The civil rights activist revealed that she's been struggling with her mental health in the months since the Blue Origin space flight she was on in April alongside Katy Perry and Gayle King sparked global backlash .

"When Gayle called to check in on my in the aftermath of the spaceflight, I told her my depression might last for years," Amanda wrote in a statement posted to Instagram Dec. 28. "Another dream turned into a nightmare."

Advertisement Advertisement

"Everything I had worked for," she continued, "as a scientist, my women's health research, the years I had trained for this moment, the experiments I operated in space, the history that was being made as the first Vietnamese woman astronaut, on the 50th anniversary of the US-Vietnam war, as the child of boat refugees, the promise I kept to my survivor selfthat dreams are worth fighting for, especially when we've deferred them to fight for rightswere buried under an avalanche of misogyny."

The 34-year-old admitted she "felt like collateral damage" amid the "onslaught" of "hostile impressions" she received amid breathless media coverage about the space mission.

"I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed," she shared. "A month later, when a senior staff at Blue Origin called me, I had to hang up on him because I could not speak through my tears."

More from E! Online

Advertisement Advertisement

The 34-year-old admitted she "felt like collateral damage" amid the "onslaught" of "hostile impressions" she received amid breathless media coverage about the space mission.

"I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed," she shared. "A month later, when a senior staff at Blue Origin called me, I had to hang up on him because I could not speak through my tears."

John Nacion/Getty Images

The founder of Rise went on to outline the myriad of ways in which the Blue Origin flightwhich also included Lauren Sanchez Bezos, Aisha Bowe and Kerianne Flynnhad a positive impact on her work, including bringing attention to her breast cancer research.

"My goal of science as a tool for diplomacy was achieved," she explained. "There has been overwhelming good that has come out of this."

Advertisement Advertisement

She also noted that she's beginning to feel better eight months after the ordeal began.

"I'm glad that the fog of grief has started to lift," Amanda wrote. "When the days have been bad, I have held on to every kind of interaction you've shown me. When Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon, bombs rained down on Vietnam. This year, when my boat refugee family looked at the sky, instead of bombs they saw the first Vietnamese woman in space. We came on boats, and now we're on spaceships."

After crediting her "survivor self" with helping her through the dark times, Amanda included a picture from her journal dated Dec. 27 in which she simply wrote, "I'm happy to report the depression has lifted," before sharing an old photo of herself next to which it said, "For her..."

Keep reading for more on the Blue Origin flight...

Advertisement Advertisement

What Is Blue Origin?

Founded by Amazon's Jeff Bezos in 2000, Blue Origin is a private space company headquartered in Kent, Washington.



According to its website, the organization aims to leverage space's resources to benefit Earth as well as expand humanity's presence in space through increased transportation and the creation of living and working destinations in the low Earth orbit.



Blue Origin says it's working to achieve these goals by building reusable rockets and engines to reduce the cost of space travel, make space travel more accessible to civilians and drive sustainability.



"Our vision is millions of people living and working in space," Bezos said during a talk at the 2016 Pathfinder Awards. "We want to reduce the cost of getting into space dramatically by focusing on reusability."



So how much does it cost to book a seat on a Blue Origin flight? While the company doesn't list its prices on its website, it does note a $150,000 deposit is required.





What Is New Shepard?

Named after astronaut Alan Shepardwho made history when he became the first American to travel to space in 1961New Shepard is what Blue Origin describes as a "fully reusable, suborbital rocket system built for human flight."



Six people can sit in New Shepard's pressurized crew capsule. But don't look for a pilot seat. Because as Blue Origin's website notes, "The vehicle is fully autonomousthere are no pilots."



New Shepard first launched in 2015 as part of a flight test program that consisted of 16 successful tests, which were completed in 2021.



In July of that year, Bezos and his brother Mark took part in New Shepard's first human flight along with an auction winner that secured a seat for a whopping $28 million. William Shatner and Michael Strahan were also among the travelers to board the vehicle later that year (though they were on separate missions).



The upcoming voyage will mark New Shepard's 31st mission (hence the name NS-31) and its 11th human flight.





When and Where Is the Launch for New Shepard's NS-31 Mission?

New Shepard's NS-31 mission is aiming for liftoff from Blue Origin's Launch Site Onelocated among the Guadalupe Mountain range in the West Texas desertApril 14, with the company's website noting the launch window opens at 8:30 a.m. CDT.





What Will New Shepard's Journey for the NS-31 Mission Look Like and How Long Will it Take?

"New Shepard astronauts ascend toward space at more than three times the speed of sound," Blue Origin's website states. "They pass the Karman line, the internationally recognized boundary of space 62 miles (100 km) above Earth, before unbuckling to float weightless and gaze at our planet. The crew returns gently under parachutes."



In terms of timing, the company notes the entire trip should take about 11 minutes.

Advertisement Advertisement





Who Is Part of the Crew for Blue Origin's NS-31 Mission?

The crew for mission NS-31 consists of singer Katy Perry, CBS Mornings host Gayle King, film producer Kerianne Flynn, STEMBoard founder and former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, bioastronautics research scientist and activist Amanda Nguyen, and former TV anchor Lauren Sanchez (who is engaged to Bezos). In fact, this is the first all-female spaceflight crew since 1963, when the Soviet Union's Valentina Tereshkova went on a solo mission and became the first woman to travel to space.



Nguyen is making history as the first Vietnamese woman to travel to space, and Bowe is entering the history books as the first person of Bahamian heritage to go where few have gone before.





What Are Some of the NS-31 Crews Reasons for Going to Space?

Each member of the crew has her own reasons for being part of this mission.



In a recent cover story for ELLE, many of the women expressed their desire to inspire future generations. For Perry, this includes reminding Daisy, the daughter she shares with fiance Orlando Bloom, to "never have limits on her dreams and show her that any type of person can reach their dreamsno matter your background, your ethnicity, your economic situation, or your education level."



As for King, who has been honest about her nerves, she told the magazine she hopes to encourage people to step outside their comfort zones.



"Once I do it," she added, "then the doors will open for so many other people who thought, 'Okay, I was one of those reluctant people, but now Im here and I am really, really excited to go.'"



And Nguyen noted that, for her, it's getting the chance to fulfill a "dream deferred."



"I worked at NASA, I studied the starsastrophysics at Harvard and MITbut life got in the way," she told the publication. "Gender-based violence is a big reason why so many women in STEM dont continue on with their training, and I was one of those women. After I was sexually assaulted, I traded my telescope to fight for my rights as a sexual assault survivor. I drafted the Sexual Assault Survivors Bill of Rights, passed it in Congress and at the United Nations. And then, after 10 years, I was like, 'I want to honor the person that I was before I was hurt.'"





Does the Crew for the NS-31 Mission Go Through Any Training?

According to Good Morning America, all crew members will also head to the launch site days before the mission for training sessions, which will include getting fitted in their flight suits, becoming familiar with the capsule, learning how to communicate with ground control and going over safety protocols. However, some members of the crew did their own preparations ahead of the mission.



"Ive been training for this in some way or another for the last year, but recently I turned up the intensity," Bowe told ELLE weeks before the launch. "I just completed a NASTAR simulation, where I had the opportunity to actually experience what I can expect to encounter on the flight. For me, the physical preparation is really important. I want to have my body know what it feels like to go up. Weve got a fighter jet flight booked, and Im really excited about that."



Flynn also said she did "several zero-gravity simulation flights."



"They carve out a Boeing 747 and fly the plane in a parabolic pattern, so when the plane descends, everyone floats up," she added. "That was to get used to the feeling of weightlessness. So I think Im going to have some fun with that when were up. I also did the NASTAR training in Philadelphia and experienced up to five Gs of pressure."





Does the Crew Get to Bring Any Personal Belongings to Space?

Just a few things.



King told ELLE she's bringing some photos while Sanchez shared she's carrying a stuffed animal of the character Flynn from her children's book The Fly Who Flew to Space.



As for Bowe, she's packing a historic object.



"Nancy Conrad, who is the wife of Pete Conrad, the third man to walk on the moon, is a mentor and inspiration to me," she noted to the magazine. "She said, 'Your journey parallels Pete's in so many ways, and so I want you to carry this flag.' And thanks to the Museum of Flight in Seattle, I actually have the Apollo 12 flag, and thats going to fly with me."



Bowe added she's also bringing plant samples from Winston-Salem State University's Astrobotany Lab as well as conch chowder that's been dehydrated for the mission as a nod to The Bahamas.



Nguyen is packing personal items as well.



"My mothers shells from the island shes a refugee from," she told ELLE, "and then the other thing is a promise that I made to myself [after my assault]. After I left the hospital, I wrote down, 'Never ever give up,' and I taped it to my laptop. I looked at it every day when I was graduating and when I was fighting for my rightsand I will be looking at it for the flight."



According to her Instagram, Nguyen is also bringing the pen former president Barack Obama used to sign the Sexual Assault Survivors' Act, the Nguyen dynasty coin and Freetown cotton tree seeds.

Advertisement Advertisement





What Have Other Stars Said About Blue Origin's NS-31 Mission?

Some stars have sent uplifting words to the crewwith King getting a send-off video from CBS Mornings featuring Tom Hanks, Megan Rapinoe, Bill Nye, Drew Barrymore and more.



"Best of luck," the Charlie's Angels actress said, "and I can't wait to pick your brain as soon as you get home."



Others, like Olivia Munn, have expressed criticism.



"What are they doing? Like why?" she said on Today with Jenna & Friends April 3. "I know this is probably not the cool thing to say, but there are so many other things that are so important in the world right now."



The X-Men: Apocalypse actress then brought up the topic of cost.



"I know this is probably obnoxious," she continued, "but like its so much money to go to space, and theres a lot of people who cant even afford eggs."



And Olivia questioned what the mission was achieving.



"Whats the point?" she added. "Is it historic that you guys are going on a ride? I think its a bit gluttonous."



King also understands the criticism surrounding billionaire Bezos and the stance some have that this mission is just an ad for him and Blue Origin.



"Listen, it is troubling to me, too," she told CBS Mornings April 11. "There have been some questions and decisions that hes made that Ive actually gone, Huh? But I think in this particular case, this is so much bigger than one man and one company. Ive chosen to separate the two. Its not a zero-sum game. You can do this on one hand and this on the other hand, and both things can be true."




Viewers of Taylor Swift's Disney+ docuseries may remember the scene where she gives everyone on the Eras Tour bonuses. But it appears her generosity also extends to people she doesn't know that well  or at all.

An employee at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, revealed on a Taylor Swift fan Facebook group on Sunday that she encountered Swift, Travis Kelce and his mom, Donna Kelce, during her shift at the Chiefs' Christmas Day game, and was surprised when Swift handed her an extremely unexpected tip.

David Eulitt/Getty Images - PHOTO: Taylor Swift celebrates with Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs after winning the AFC Championship game at Arrowhead Stadium, January 26, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

The employee, Robyn Gentry, wrote of Swift, "She was running around telling everyone merry Christmas and came towards me, saying thank you so much for working on Christmas, please take this, Merry Christmas. My mind just froze. Of course I said Merry Christmas and thank you so much."

Advertisement Advertisement

Travis Kelce speaks out about engagement to Taylor Swift

"Travis and her were smiling so big and just kept saying merry Christmas, thank you for working Christmas," Gentry continued. "But then they were gone and I stopped to look at what was in my hand.... $600. My whole paycheck for two weeks. I had just dropped that much for Christmas for 8 kids. I immediately started crying."

Gentry goes on to say she couldn't bring herself to spend the money  not immediately, anyway  and posted a photo of a framed $100 bill.

"I framed one," she wrote. "Still haven't spent any, but I wanted to share the story with people who will appreciate it with me. Taylor and Travis are beautifully kind people."

Advertisement Advertisement

Couple who dressed up as Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce years before famous pair met react to engagement

Prior to Christmas, Swift also donated $1 million to the American Heart Association and another $1 million to Feeding America.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Christmas shift at Arrowhead Stadium turned into an unforgettable moment for one Kansas City worker after an unexpected encounter with Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.

Robyn Gentry, who was working during the Kansas City Chiefs Christmas Day game, said she was finishing up an end-of-season task list when stadium security began walking through the area. Moments later, she noticed Donna Kelce, followed by Kelce and Swift.

Download WDAF+ for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV

Advertisement Advertisement

Gentry said Swift was personally greeting staff members and thanking them for working on the holiday. When Swift reached her, she expressed her appreciation and handed her a gift, wishing her a Merry Christmas.

At first, my mind just froze, the worker wrote in a Facebook post. Of course, I said Merry Christmas and thank you so much.'

After Swift and Kelce walked out, she looked down at what she had been given. To her surprise she was given $600 in cash.

That was my entire two-week paycheck, Gentry said. I had just dropped that much for Christmas for eight kids.

View the latest headlines from Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas at fox4kc.com

Advertisement Advertisement

Gentry said she immediately began crying. She later decided she couldnt bring herself to spend the money and instead framed one of the bills as a keepsake. She said she still hasnt used any of the cash.

Framed $100 bill from Taylor Swift

Taylor and Travis are beautifully kind people, the worker wrote. Its very true, incredible and very kind people.

For the Arrowhead employee, the moment was more than just a generous tip; it was a meaningful reminder during the holiday season.

Copyright 2026 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 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
President Donald Trump slathered a fresh coat of makeup on his right hand for another round of peace talks with Ukraine on Sundaybut it was his other hand that drew attention.

Trump, 79, welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to his Mar-a-Lago estate as he continues to chase down an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, which he promised to end on his first day back in office.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined President Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago on Sunday. / Joe Raedle / Getty Images

The mismatched concealer on Trumps hand was once again evident as he took questions from reporters. When reached for comment by the Daily Beast, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reverted to a statement she has been reusing since February.

Advertisement Advertisement

President Trump is a man of the people and he meets more Americans and shakes their hands on a daily basis than any other President in history. His commitment is unwavering and he proves that every single day, she said.

Trump's hands were once again visibly covered in makeup. / Getty Images

Leavitt previously attributed the persistent bruising to minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, which is taken as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen.

But the handshake defense became a head-scratcher for many social media users after Trumps left hand began showing discoloration as well.

The president's right hand was also bruised on Christmas Eve, while his left appeared discolored. / ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP via Getty Images

Just days ago, on Christmas Eve, the now-familiar makeup on Trumps right hand was coupled with bluish discoloration on his left, which appeared to persist into Sunday afternoon.

Advertisement Advertisement

The bruising on Trumps left hand also stood out earlier this month when he slung the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize medal around his own neck.

Trump's left hand showed some discoloration when he accepted the FIFA Peace Prize on Dec. 5. / PA Images via Getty Images

Trump normally uses his right hand to shake hands and sign documents, casting doubt on Leavitts explanation.

The White House did not immediately respond to an inquiry about the presidents left hand.

The Daily Beast has closely catalogued the bruising on Trumps hand, which he has been nursing for months. The makeup smears, together with Trumps swollen ankles, mysterious MRI, mental flubs, and twice-in-a-year annual medical checkups, have raised concerns about the health of the oldest person to be inaugurated president.

Advertisement Advertisement

The White House has consistently maintained that Trump is in excellent health.

The president was joined by several of his officials in Mar-a-Lago as he sat down for another meeting with Zelensky, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner.

A day before the meeting, Russia struck Kyiv with ballistic missiles and drones, killing at least one person and injuring 27 others.

Despite the attack, Trump said he still believed Russian President Vladimir Putin was very serious about finding common ground with Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

I do believe that we have the makings of a deal thats good for Ukraine, thats good for everybody. Theres nothing more important, he told reporters. Ive settled eight wars and this is the most difficult one. I thought it would be in the middle of the pack. This is the most difficult one, but were gonna get it done.

The president stopped short of laying out a timeline for the end of peace talks.

I dont have deadlines, he said. You know what my deadline is? Getting the war ended.
BERLIN, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The number of recorded violent attacks against police officers in Germany rose to a record high in 2024, increasing by 0.3 percent year-on-year to 46,367 cases, according to figures released on Monday by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA).

Official data show that around 87 percent of the incidents involved resistance to law enforcement or direct physical assaults. Acts classified as violence also include threats, coercion and intentional injury.

Nationwide, 106,875 police officers were victims of violent acts last year, representing a 67.2 percent increase compared with 2015. The data also show that 83.1 percent of identified suspects were male, while 34.9 percent did not hold German citizenship.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said violence against police, firefighters and emergency responders had become part of daily operational reality. He announced that, together with Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig, the government would introduce legislation aimed at toughening penalties, expediting judicial procedures and improving protection for emergency personnel.

Germany last tightened criminal laws protecting police and emergency services in 2017, allowing prison sentences of up to five years for physical attacks. However, official figures indicate that such offenses have continued to rise. The governing coalition has pledged further reforms, with detailed proposals expected soon. 
For part of 2024 and the end of 2025, there was a specific glaring hole in the Disney+ library. While many of the company's high-profile franchises remained intact, one series was notably absent. The Indiana Jones franchise, starring Harrison Ford, had spent the most recent stretch on Paramount due to pre-existing licensing agreements. However, some big news came to light when Disney+ revealed they're officially bringing the beloved franchise back home, which will prove to be a significant win for subscribers. While Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023 release) has been on Disney+, the company is set to have all five films together.

The 'Paramount' Problem: Why Indiana Jones Left in the First Place

Harrison Ford attends the 'Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny' UK Premiere at Cineworld Leicester Square. Tristan Fewings/Getty Images (Tristan Fewings/Getty Images)

To any casual subscriber, searching for "Indiana Jones" and finding only the most recent film was likely a bit baffling. Why would Disney, which owns Lucasfilm, remove its own movie? Well, it all comes down to the licensing agreements that are common across streaming platforms. This is what's led to the Indiana Jones franchise being removed from Disney+ not once, but twice.

While the four films, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, were initially added to the streaming service on May 31, 2023, they were later removed in October 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

After a return to Disney+ on January 1, 2025, all four movies left the service in October 2025. However, with stints at Paramount now wrapped up (twice), fans of the beloved franchise received good news that all five Indiana Jones films will be on Disney+, as The Directreported.

A Complete Collection: What This Means for 2026

When the calendar officially turns to 2026, and viewers turn on Disney+, they'll be welcomed by the whole Indiana Jones franchise starring Ford. This means that whatever your binge-watching preferences are, if you're seeking a good run of action films, you can get comfy on the couch after ringing in the New Year with five straight Indiana Jonesmovies.

On January 1, 2026, these five Indiana Jones films will officially be available on Disney+:

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)

Advertisement Advertisement

While Indiana Jones fans can rejoice, it remains unknown how long the deal will keep all five films together. Licensing agreements have made it tough to gauge what the future holds for many popular franchises, including several Marvel movies released in recent years.

As The Direct highlighted, while Disney+ currently has the original Spider-Man trilogy with Tobey Maguire and. both of The Amazing Spider-Man films starring Andrew Garfield, the same can't be said of the most recent Tom Holland-led movie. Spider-Man: No Way Home is still absent from Disney+, and is currently streaming on Starz thanks to Sony Pictures' deals with Starz and Netflix.

Related: Theaters Ignored It, but Sydney Sweeney's Box Office Bomb Is Suddenly Surging on Netflix

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Dec 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
NewJeans fans are still processing the shocking news: Danielle is officially out of the group after ADOR terminated her exclusive contract on December 29  an explosive end to a nearly two-year long battle that divided the group, their label and the K-pop industry at large. Heres how everything unraveled behind the scenes and why Danielle became the only member removed.

Where It All Began

Everything changed for NewJeans  one of the most successful K-pop groups since BTS  when HYBE suddenly launched an audit into ADOR on April 22, 2024, accusing CEO Min Hee-jin of secretly trying to take control of the label and pull NewJeans away to go independent. According to HYBE, Min had attempted to secure full ownership of the group  a claim that sent shockwaves through the K-pop industry and immediately put NewJeans future under a microscope.

Min pushed back just as hard. She denied any takeover plot and fired back that HYBE was retaliating because shed called out BELIFT LAB  another HYBE subsidiary  for allegedly allowing their new girl group ILLIT to copy signature NewJeans elements, from styling and visuals to choreography and overall concept.

Advertisement Advertisement

That clash set the tone:

HYBE said Min was trying to steal NewJeans.

Min said HYBE was trying to silence her.

From there, the lawsuits began  and NewJeans became stuck in the middle, unable to move forward as the adults in the room went to war.

Attempts at Reconciliation

The Seoul Central District Court issued its ruling in ADOR's contract validity lawsuit, handing the agency a complete victory on October 30, 2025. The following month, ADOR says it spent weeks in extensive discussions with Minji, Hanni and Danielle  alongside their families  to clear up distorted and biased information and mend the relationship.

Those talks paid off for some. On December 29, ADOR revealed Hanni had returned after reflecting on past events and choosing to respect the courts ruling.

Minji, meanwhile, is still in discussions with no timeline set.

Advertisement Advertisement

But for Danielle? Things went in a very different direction.

Danielles Contract Terminated

On December 29, ADOR confirmed Danielles exclusive contract had been terminated, stating:

In Danielle's case, we determined that it would be difficult to continue together as a NewJeans member and an ADOR artist, and today we notified her of the termination of her exclusive contract.

ADOR also announced plans for legal action against both a member of Danielles family and Min Hee-jin, claiming they bear significant responsibility for causing this dispute and for NewJeans departure and delayed return.

SPOTV News reports the company filed a lawsuit against Danielle that same day, seeking financial penalties and damages for alleged breach of contract.

Advertisement Advertisement

While ADOR has not given full details, several factors appear key as to why ADOR went after Danielle, specifically:

Her strong loyalty to Min Hee-jin, which fans saw play out publicly

Her familys alleged opposition to ADOR, unlike other members families

Reported violations of her ADOR contract, including outside activities without approval

Ultimately, ADOR may have decided continuing together would only prolong the conflict  and Danielle became the line they chose not to cross.

Whats Next for NewJeans?

As of now:

Haerin , Hyein and Hanni have returned

Minji is still in talks

Danielle is out  and facing legal action

Whether NewJeans moves forward as four or three remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Danielles removal is the most dramatic outcome yet in the dispute that shook the K-pop world  and a stark reminder of the power agencies hold over idols, even years after debut.
An Atlanta woman has what she describes as a fatal attraction to an Alabama inmate on the upcoming season of We TVs Love During Lockup show.

Love During Lockup, which We TV describes as a groundbreaking docuseries that follows relationships where one half of the couple is behind bars, returns on Jan. 16, 2026, with new episodes.

The woman in love writes about her upcoming TV star turn in a social media post on an account run by Alabama Prison Advocacy.

Advertisement Advertisement

I am on this upcoming season of Love During Lockup, so I need as much information as I can gather about Alabama, writes Ayesha Daniels, on a social media page for Alabama Prison Advocacy. I plan to join (in the future) to advocate because Alabama has unfair slave-like practices and lowest percentage of releases/parole. Something needs to change.

In We TVs promotional description of the show, Ayesha says shes obsessed with her man in a Fatal Attraction type of way.

While searching for love online, Ayesha never expected to fall for big, burly, farmer Mikhael, the episode description on We TV says. But because he told her his release was just around the corner, Ayesha went all in. Having never met in person, Ayesha and her best friend go on a road trip which leads them down a mysterious path that slowly uncovers the truth about Mikhaels family, his land, and his sentence. Will her determination pay off and win her man a chance at freedom, or will their relationship crumble under the weight?

Streaming options are available on We TV, Peacock and AMC Plus. Watch the preview below.

Most Popular Stories by Greg Garrison

Alabama flu outbreak leaves boy fighting for his life at Christmas: Hueytown praying for a miracle

Alabama megachurch pastors 7 Christmas hot takes: Is decorating before Thanksgiving a sin?

How a Hueytown grocery store manager became a social media star this Christmas

Womens rehabilitation center in Birmingham acquires 56-unit housing complex

Homeless Alabama man allegedly stabs woman to death in Florida bookstore

Read the original article on al.com.
Traveling is about adventure, but some missteps turn an exciting trip into an awkward or disastrous situation. Every country has customs, unspoken rules, and quirks that leave visitors accidentally offending locals or, worse, facing serious trouble. To help dodge these situations, this guide breaks down some things you should absolutely avoid while traveling.

Taking Photos Without Permission

Credit: freepik

Religious sites, government buildings, and military areas often have strict rules about photography. In certain cultures, taking a picture of someone without asking is considered invasive and disrespectful. If you're in a market, a village, or even a public square, it's always polite to ask first.

Eating or Drinking While Walking

Credit: freepik

Advertisement Advertisement

In places like Japan and parts of the Middle East, eating on the go is seen as messy and inconsiderate. In some cultures, food is meant to be enjoyed while sitting. In Tokyo, for example, locals will stand near vending machines or food stalls to finish their meals before moving on.

Public Displays of Affection

Credit: freepik

In certain countries, a kiss on the cheek, a lingering hug, or even holding hands can land you in trouble. In conservative cultures, public displays of affection are seen as inappropriateor even illegal. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, tourists have been fined for public displays of affection like a kiss.

Discussing Sensitive Topics

Credit: freepik

Advertisement Advertisement

Bringing up politics, religion, or historical conflicts can turn a friendly conversation into an awkwardor even dangeroussituation. Even if a local initiates the conversation, staying neutral or steering the discussion elsewhere is best. When in doubt, listen more than you speak. Curiosity is great, but controversial discussions are best saved for when you're back home.

Tipping Where It's Not Customary

Credit: freepik

Japan and South Korea see good service as part of the job, not something that requires extra cash. Leaving a tip can make a server uncomfortable or even offend them. On the flip side, in parts of Europe, gratuities are included in the bill, but rounding up is still appreciated.

Ignoring Dress Codes

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Advertisement Advertisement

Covering some body parts like knees and shoulders is expected when visiting religious sites. Some places, like the Vatican or temples in Thailand, won't even let you enter if you're not appropriately dressed. Pack a lightweight scarf or a pair of longer pants to avoid any issues for occasions that call for modesty.

Table Manners

Credit: freepik

Manners at the dinner table can change depending on where you are. In some cultures, leaving food on your plate is rude; in others, finishing everything signals you're still hungry. In China, slurping noodles is a sign of appreciation, while in the U.S., it's considered bad manners. Chopstick etiquette varies toonever stick them upright in rice, as it resembles funeral offerings.

Using Your Left Hand

Credit: Canva

Advertisement Advertisement

In many parts of South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, the left hand is traditionally used for personal hygiene. In countries like India and Indonesia, offering something with your left hand can be seen as impolite. While many locals understand that foreigners aren't familiar with this custom, it's always good to be mindful.

Assuming Everyone Speaks English

Credit: freepik

English may be widely spoken, but it's far from universal. Learning common phrases in the local language can make interactions smoother. Plus, it shows respect. Even if your pronunciation is terrible, locals will appreciate the effort. When things get desperate, a smile, hand gestures, or a translation app can help get your message across.

Giving Certain Gifts

Credit: pexels

Advertisement Advertisement

Gifts are usually lovely, but specific presents may carry unwanted meanings. In China, giving clocks symbolizes running out of time. In Japan, gifts in four sets are avoided because the word for four sounds like the word for death. If you're bringing a gift to a host abroad, a little research helps.

Pouring Your Own Drink

Credit: freepik

In South Korea, it's expected that someone else pours for you, and you do the same for them. It's a sign of respect, particularly when dining with elders. If you're at a social gathering and your glass is empty, wait for someone to refill it. And if someone else's glass is low, take the initiativeit's a small act that speaks volumes.

Pointing with Your Feet

Credit: freepik

Advertisement Advertisement

In many Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, the feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Pointing at someone or something with your foot is seen as highly disrespectful. In Thailand, you must avoid pointing your feet at people and places. Keeping them flat on the ground is the safest bet for avoiding accidental offense.

Using Red Ink for Names

Credit: pixabay

Writing a person's name in red ink is associated with death in Korea and China. Traditionally, red ink was used to write the names of the deceased on gravestones or official death records. So, writing with it could be interpreted as wishing them harm or even signaling their demise. While younger generations may not take it as seriously, older individuals might be deeply offended.

Entering Homes with Shoes On

Credit: freepik

Advertisement Advertisement

For some, walking into someone's home with shoes on is like slapping a big muddy footprint on their hospitality. Japan, Thailand, and parts of the Middle East have a strict no-shoes-inside policy. Some cultures believe shoes carry lousy energy, while others don't want street dirt tracked inside.

Touching People's Heads

Credit: freepik

In Western countries, ruffling a kid's hair might be playful, but in places like Thailand, Laos, and parts of Indonesia, touching someone's head is a big no-no. The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in many Buddhist cultures, and casually patting someoneespecially an eldercan be deeply offensive.

Making the Thumbs-Up Gesture

Credit: pexels

Advertisement Advertisement

The thumbs-up sign feels relatively harmless, but it can cause serious offense in parts of the Middle East, West Africa, and South America. In these regions, the gesture is considered rude or obscene. What means approval at home may come across as an insult abroad.

Beckoning with One Finger

Credit: Getty Images

Calling someone over with one finger is normal in the United States, but it is disrespectful in many Asian countries. In places like Japan, the Philippines, and South Korea, this motion is used for animals. Using it on people can be seen as demeaning or aggressive.
Europe has long been a popular destination for American expats looking to spend their retirement somewhere new. Whether it's the climate, quality of life, or the appeal of a new adventure, many Americans have moved across the pond to live out their golden years. There are over 460,000 American retirees living abroad as of 2024, according to Social Security Administration (SSA) data, with many more considering a move.

Recent data shows a significant portion of baby boomers  all of whom are nearing or have reached retirement age  have reported kicking around the idea of moving abroad. According to a 2025 Harris Poll, more than 26% of the population surveyed are considering moving abroad, with 6% seriously contemplating it. Europe has been a hot spot for many retirees making the leap, with nearly 38% choosing to settle there, per the SSA. For some retirees who have already moved, however, the experience may not have been what it was cracked up to be. High costs of living, frequent trips to the states, complicated taxes, changes to their financial plans, and limited job opportunities are just some of the reasons that retirees living abroad in Europe may wind up regretting the decision.

Read more: 12 Items Retirees Will Instantly Regret Buying

Cost of living

Sign with gas prices in France - Pierre Laborde/Shutterstock

The high cost of living in the U.S. is a primary reason many retirees consider making a European move. While it's true that, overall, the cost of living in Europe is typically less expensive than in many parts of the U.S., expats may not be getting the financial reprieve they were expecting. Much of the difference in living costs has to do with where in Europe they go. For instance, those settling in Portugal  considered a European country that is a great (and cheap) place to retire - are likely to benefit from lower expenses than they incurred in the U.S.: According to crowdsourced data from Expatistan, the cost of living in Portugal is almost 40% lower than in the States.

Advertisement Advertisement

In some major European cities, such as London, Zurich, Amsterdam, and Paris, living expenses rival those of top U.S. cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. In fact, prices across Europe have been rising faster than in the U.S. in some areas. Energy costs are especially notable, having surged in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in the Ukraine. Expatistan reports the cost of a monthly public transportation ticket in the U.K. is 64% higher than in the U.S., and gas costs as much as 104%. Housing and rent prices across the European Union have also been on the rise, which has led to higher living expenses.

Travel expenses to visit loved ones

Sad elderly woman clutching photo - PeopleImages/Shutterstock

Moving to Europe often means leaving behind a support system of family, friends, and colleagues with whom retirees may have forged deep and meaningful bonds throughout their lives. Not having the same contact with the people they've become accustomed to seeing, especially children or grandchildren, could lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. According to research from AXA Global Healthcare, as of June 2024, 87% of expats reported feeling isolated after leaving the country, with almost half saying the main reason was missing their family and friends. For many retirees, that may translate into more frequent trips back to the U.S. to visit loved ones. Even if they find ways to book relatively cheap flights in Europe, the cost of transatlantic travel can add up  especially for those making multiple trips a year.

Depending on where retirees are traveling to and from, the least expensive round-trip fares typically range from $800 to almost $1,000. According to NerdWallet, which analyzed data from Dollar Flight Club on the cheapest average routes between the U.S. and Europe in 2025, flights between Atlanta and London were among the least expensive at $840. Meanwhile round-trip tickets between New York and Lisbon ran closer to $950. In addition to airfare, there may be other travel-related costs as well: Rental cars often cost from $400 to $600 a week, and hotels can be even pricier. On average, a one-week stay at a hotel in the U.S. costs around $1,200, according to Budget Your Trip, though prices can be higher for top-rated hotels or when traveling during peak seasons or holidays.

Higher, more complicated taxes

Woman filing tax forms using calculator - Alfexe/Getty Images

For most seniors, having a strategy to minimize tax liability in retirement is essential. And while tax rules vary widely across Europe, some retirees may be surprised to find they're actually paying more than they did in the U.S. Portugal, for example, is one country in which retirees may very well end up paying more in taxes. According to data from Global Citizen Solutions, when it comes to capital gains taxes, the rate in Portugal is typically 28%, considerably higher than the 20% cap generally applied in the U.S. Pension income in Portugal, meanwhile, can incur taxes up to 48%, while the highest federal tax rate in the U.S. is only 37%. While there are ways to avoid incurring double taxes when living in Europe, it's also worth nothing that U.S. tax obligations don't necessarily go away when you move to Europe, either.

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition to filing taxes in their new country of residence, the U.S. requires expats to continue filing federally and to pay taxes on income  including retirement income such as 401(k) and IRA withdrawals. Certain states may also continue to impose taxes until residency is fully established elsewhere. If retirees have savings or investment accounts in the country where they live, or if their assets exceed a certain amount, additional reports may also need to be filed.

Saying farewell to a financial advisor

Senior couple working with a financial advisor - Peopleimages/Getty Images

Over years of planning and discussing their evolving monetary goals, many retirees form deep, long-standing relationships with their financial advisors. For many retirees, advisors become trusted members of their inner circle, offering not only financial assistance but also reassurance and guidance during major life transitions. Moving abroad, however, can disrupt that bond in ways retirees may not expect.

In some cases, continuing the relationship with an advisor in the U.S. simply isn't possible. Many American expats are losing access to or control over their U.S.-based bank and brokerage accounts due to the country's shifting financial relationship with other nations. Even if accounts remain open, U.S. advisors may be limited in the type of advice or services they can provide for clients living abroad. In some instances, the financial complexities may also be more than they can handle. For these reasons, it may serve retirees better to choose a financial advisor based in their new country  someone who can adjust their investment strategy and estate plans to their current circumstances and help them navigate two tax systems. Doing so, however, may mean ending a long-term, meaningful relationship with an advisor, which can take an emotional toll.

Difficulty pursing work or encore careers

Woman standing outside lavender shop in Europe - Maica/Getty Images

Despite being officially retired, many retirees look to pursue encore careers during their golden years to socialize, earn extra cash, or simply keep busy. Doing so can yield substantial benefits, from increased happiness to better physical and mental health. However, it may be tough trying to secure work after relocating to Europe. One reason is that foreigners often need a work visa or residence permit to work in a new country. These can be difficult to obtain, and can be confusing as the rules and requirements vary by country.

Advertisement Advertisement

There may be other challenges to face as well: Retired expats are also likely to face a competitive job market  one in which businesses often prioritize locals over foreigners. They may also need to adjust their resume to fit European formatting expectations. Not only is the paper size slightly different, but the desired layouts can vary, and some countries also require a photo to be included. The bottom line is that, while there are some areas in Europe that are among the best countries to retire to outside the U.S., retirees who don't account for the many financial, emotional, and logistical aspects involved in making such a move could end up regretting the decision.

Unlock your financial potential. Add Money Digest to your preferred sources for smart money insights!

Read the original article on Money Digest.
If youre already making travel plans for next year, these emerging trends might provide some inspiration.

Heres what is going to be hot in 2026.

1. Astro-tourism

Forget views of great landscapes or mountains, the latest travel trend is a view of the night sky. As we build up to the total solar eclipse on August 12 2026, the increased interest might also be fuelled by recent aurora and lunar eclipse sightings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of the best places to experience dark skies around the world are Chiles Atacama Desert, New Zealands Aoraki Mackenzie Reserve and Arizona, but Utah is home to the largest concentration of certified International Dark Sky Parks, with 26 in total.

Intrepid says its Solar Eclipse Tours in partnership with New Scientist for Spain 2026 are sold out, and capacity has been doubled for Egypt tours in 2027 due to demand. Bookings are mostly coming from midlife travellers, as well as multi-generational families.

Astro-tourism allows people to connect with nature at a time when the world feels more online than ever, says Joanna Reeve, UK director at Intrepid.

Many find it peaceful to view how small we are in connection to the rest of the universe. It also allows travellers to get off the beaten path  skies are darker and less polluted in remote destinations  which, in turn, brings tourism and positive benefits to remote communities.

2. Nostalgic travel

We all love an experience that brings us back to childhood, and now travellers are seeking the same, trying to recreate childhood memories as adults. Think historic local towns and adventures that remind you of what it is to be small again.

Advertisement Advertisement

James Turner, Founder of 360 Private Travel, says: Were finding that our clients are increasingly drawn to trips that spark that same sense of wonder they remember from childhood  whether its sleeping in a treehouse under the stars or having a cowboy adventure on horseback.

Theyre craving experiences that genuinely make them laugh, take their breath away and remind them of what it feels like when anything seems possible. Nostalgia is something that I think will continue to be a big influence on peoples travel plans in the coming years as well, as its connected to deep emotion and the simpler things in life.

3. Community experiences

Travellers are looking to trade tourist traps and traditional sightseeing for more authentic experiences that avoid overcrowded hotspots. Bookings for 2026 trips focusing on cultural and community experiences have already doubled compared to 2025, for tour operator Timbuktu Travel (timbuktutravel.com).

Advertisement Advertisement

Co-Founder Johnny Prince says: Culturally immersive travel is going to be one of the most influential trends going forward because people are no longer content with just ticking off landmarks or viewpoints that theyve seen a hundred times online.

Were finding that people are looking for travel experiences that feel genuinely meaningful, something that will stay with them forever because theyve really connected with the place and the people who live there.

Recently, weve facilitated travellers to learn a weaving technique guarded by Andean communities for more than 5,000 years and sleep out in the Kalahari with families who have passed down survival skills across countless generations.

These encounters give people a deeper sense of place, because youre not just observing a culture from the outside. Youre welcomed into it, even if only for a short time. And in a world where travel can sometimes feel rushed or surface-level, this sense of connection and grounding is exactly what people are craving.

4. More solo travel than ever before

Whether its because more people are choosing to stay single or deciding they dont want to wait for friends or partners to be free to travel with, solo holidays are on the rise.

Advertisement Advertisement

True Traveller (truetraveller.com) have seen a steady increase in purchases for individual travel insurance across all age groups, whether for weekend breaks or gap years. Travellers are increasingly confident going it alone, MD Tim Riley says.

Destinations that are slightly off the beaten track but where the infrastructure is good, such as Bali, Thailand and Japan, are leading the charge amongst solo travellers.

The company is also seeing an increase in solos heading to Albania.

Meanwhile cruising is no longer seen as a just a couples holiday. Will Sarson, product director at Riviera Travel, says: Demand for solo river cruises has surged, with solo travellers now accounting for almost 13% of all our bookings. Of those journeying independently, 64% opt for an itinerary designed exclusively for solo guests, showing that more people are seeking the independence of solo travel within the comfort and camaraderie of a group of like-minded explorers.

Advertisement Advertisement

The travel company is even launching a ship created solely for solo travellers in 2027.

5. Considering the impact of over-tourism

Research by Intrepid has found that for nearly half (44%) of travellers in the UK, over-tourism was a factor in choosing where to go  almost double the number who said the same in 2022.

Were seeing a shift in the way people want to travel, Reeve says. Theres a growing sense of awareness of how we, as travellers, impact the local communities in the places we visit. People want to discover lesser-known spots away from the crowds and the typical overcrowded selfie spots you see on social media.

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve seen that shift reflected in our bookings. Bookings to Southern Europe in July and August have softened by 15%, while weve seen an increase in bookings in the quieter shoulder season of May and October.

The company is responding by expanding shoulder-season options in Southern Europe and introducing new trips to emerging destinations such as Bosnia, Romania and Albania.

As the Earth becomes more populous and more people like in expanding cities, stargazing has become a global industry in recent years. Sandra Demmelhuber/dpa

A community travel experience in Botswana. Travellers are looking to trade tourist traps and traditional sightseeing for more authentic experiences that avoid overcrowded hotspots Natural Selection/Press Association/dpa
A giant in Sacramentos upscale dining scene, Buu Billy Ngo is best known for Japanese cuisine. With this years opening of Chu Mai  one of his most personal and complex projects to date  he draws inspiration from the food he grew up with.

Im mainly known for sushi because of Kru Restaurant. But Im ethnically not Japanese, Ngo said.

The first job I ever had was at a Japanese restaurant, and I fell in love with the cuisine. Thats how it started. But this restaurant is actually going back to my roots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ngo grew up the child of ethnic Chinese immigrants from Vietnam. He delves into where those culinary worlds collide and commingle. But, he wants the dishes not to be too literal.

Chef Billy Ngo at Chu Mai in Sacramento on Dec. 19. Ngo, best known for his acclaimed Japanese restaurant Kru, opened Chu Mai as a tribute to his late mother and a personal exploration of his Vietnamese-Chinese heritage. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

I want the flavors to be authentic, but not the dishes, he said.

For people like me that were first or second generation, I want the flavor to remind them of what they had at home or from mom or grandma, but done in a completely different way.

Certainly, the presentations at Chu Mai are far from home-style. The dishes are artful, visually stunning and playful.

Egg salad at Chu Mai in Sacramento on Dec. 19. Served as a savory custard and topped with three types of egg, the dish reflects Ngos goal of evoking familiar flavors in unexpected, modern presentations. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

One example is the egg salad ($19), which comes as a bowl of a chawanmushi-like egg custard topped with a jumble of quail tea egg, century egg, and trout roe  egg on egg on egg. Pickled fennel and chili crisp add brightness and textural pop.

Advertisement Advertisement

The lobster & shrimp cheung fun ($24) deconstructs a dim sum classic. Cool rice noodle sheets are laid with hunks of the seafood, pickled shiitake, garlic butter sauce and nuoc cham, cut into pieces with scissors at the table. The acidity of the shiitake delivers bursts of brightness.

Lobster & Shrimp "Cheung Fun" at Chu Mai in Sacramento earlier this month. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

Phoenix Breath cocktail at Chu Mai in Sacramento earlier this month. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

The staff at Chu Mai prepare for customers behind the bar filled colorful bottles at the midtown Sacramento restaurant in February.

One recent highlight was a grilled lemongrass pork steak ($48) on a generically named green sauce. But the sauce was anything but plain  intensely herbal with cilantro and anchored by the kick of fish sauce.

The bar program is equally creative, with beverage director Jose Carrasco at the helm.

He has full control. Hes super talented. Were doing different things, like jujubee. Were incorporating fish sauce into a cocktail. Thats a savory element. Were incorporating MSG, stuff like that, Ngo said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The dinner menu changes frequently, based on seasonality and Ngos whims.

Its completely different from when we first opened as a new restaurant, he said.

Macanese Egg Tarts at Chu Mai in Sacramento earlier this month. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

We have to change it to keep it fresh, because the kitchen is very small, what you see is what you get.

The small, open kitchen is also why the restaurant opts out of lunch service, even with a small menu.

We dont have a whole walk-in area thats where prep gets done, and its used for the line during service. During lunchtime, theyre just all prepping for dinner service.

The kitchen may be diminutive, but the dining room is expansive, with high ceilings and kaleidoscopically colorful artwork.

Advertisement Advertisement

I really dont think I chose the space. I think the space chose me, Ngo said.

Crispy Rice Bites with Beef Tartare and Pork Pate at Chu Mai in Sacramento earlier this month. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

He wasnt really looking to open a new restaurant when the opportunity arose. His restaurants  Kru, Kodaiko and Fish Face  had all weathered the affects of COVID and were running well. It should have been time for him to take it easy.

His friend Ali Reza Youseffi, a prominent local developer, was working on the development of what would become the mixed-use ARY Place, and asked Ngo if he was interested in taking over the space.

Absolutely not, Ngo said.

Youseffi convinced Ngo to take a look at the build-out in its raw state.

Advertisement Advertisement

No walls were up. You could see into the garage, Ngo said.

The restaurant Chu Mai is inspired by Bill Ngos late mother, and art of her at different ages hangs in the dining area in February.

Youseffi tragically died in 2018, after a battle with stomach cancer. He was 35. Two years later, Ngos mother also succumbed to cancer. Thats when Ngo decided to act on the new project, to honor them.

The development bears Youseffis initials, and the restaurant is an inversion of his mothers maiden name, Mai Chu.

Ngo says Chu Mai was a comparatively smooth opening, but its never easy.

Every opening is always the hardest the six months before and first year after. Its hard because things change. I think were finally in the groove of things, he said.

Ryme, a 2023 vermentino, at Chu Mai in Sacramento earlier this month. (JOSE LUIS VILLEGAS/jvillegas@sacbee.com)

Chu Mai

Address: 1829 17th St., midtowns Richmond Grove

Advertisement Advertisement

Hours: 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday and Sundays; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays

Phone: 916-553-7096

Website: chumaisacramento.com

Vegetarian options: Vegetarian options are peppered throughout the menu

Noise level: Somewhat loud
The Arabian Peninsula has shattered every preconception about Middle Eastern travel safety, with five of the world's ten safest countries located in this unexpected desert region, according to Gallup's comprehensive 2025 Global Safety Report that surveyed 145,000 adults across 144 countries.

Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates have earned spots among the globe's safest destinations, with safety ratings exceeding 90% - meaning nine out of ten residents feel secure walking alone at night in their neighborhoods. These results challenge widespread misconceptions shaped by limited media coverage and reveal a region that prioritizes security, modern infrastructure, and visitor safety above nearly anywhere else on Earth.

The Numbers That Prove Everything You Thought Was Wrong

Gallup's Global Safety Report, which measures how safe people feel walking alone at night in their local areas, reveals stunning statistics from the Arabian Peninsula:

Advertisement Advertisement

Oman : 94% of residents feel safe walking alone at night

Saudi Arabia : 93% report feeling secure in their local areas

Kuwait : 91% feel safe, with the country scoring an impressive 98 out of 100 on the Law and Order index

Bahrain : 90% of residents feel secure

UAE: 90% report feeling safe, with the country also topping Numbeo's 2025 Safety Index as the world's safest nation

To put this in perspective, these Middle Eastern countries outperform traditional "safe" destinations and match Nordic countries like Norway (91%) in safety perceptions. Only Singapore (98%), Tajikistan (95%), and China (94%) rank higher globally.

What Makes the Arabian Peninsula So Remarkably Safe?

The exceptional safety ratings across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries stem from several interconnected factors that create an environment of security rarely matched worldwide:

Economic Prosperity and Stability: The region's oil wealth has funded comprehensive infrastructure development, education systems, and social services that reduce the conditions typically associated with crime and unrest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Strong Rule of Law: Strict legal systems and visible law enforcement create deterrents to criminal activity. Kuwait, for example, reports that only 4% of surveyed adults experienced assault and just 1% experienced theft in recent surveys.

Advanced Security Infrastructure: Modern surveillance systems, professional police forces, and rapid emergency response capabilities ensure quick intervention when issues arise.

Cultural Values: Deep-rooted traditions of hospitality and community respect create social environments where safety is prioritized and visitors are protected.

Modern Urban Planning: Cities like Dubai, Doha, and Muscat feature well-lit streets, excellent public transportation, and designed spaces that enhance natural surveillance and safety.

Saudi Arabia: The Transformation Everyone Missed

Image Credit: Depositphotos

Perhaps the most dramatic safety success story comes from Saudi Arabia, which has undergone a comprehensive tourism transformation while maintaining exceptional security standards. The Kingdom, which historically limited tourism to religious pilgrimage, now welcomes international visitors to explore ancient cities, desert landscapes, and ultra-luxury experiences.

Advertisement Advertisement

Recent infrastructure investments have created world-class facilities while strict governance maintains the security that earned the country its 93% safety rating. Visitors can now experience everything from the ancient Nabataean ruins at AlUla to the futuristic NEOM development, all within one of the world's safest travel environments.

The country's Vision 2030 initiative has modernized tourism infrastructure while preserving the security systems that make locals and visitors feel safe walking alone at any hour.

UAE: Where Ultra-Luxury Meets Ultra-Safety

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The United Arab Emirates combines its reputation for luxury travel with genuine security, earning recognition as both a premier destination and the world's safest country in multiple rankings. Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer high-end travel experiences backed by exceptionally low crime rates.

According to Numbeo's Crime Index, the UAE scored just 14.8 - the lowest crime rate globally. Abu Dhabi was declared the world's safest city with a crime index of 11.2, followed by other Emirati cities: Ajman (14.5), Dubai (16.1), Ras Al Khaimah (16.2), and Sharjah (16.3).

Advertisement Advertisement

This safety extends beyond major cities to encompass desert excursions, mountain adventures, and coastal activities throughout the seven emirates.

Oman: The Perfect Introduction to Middle Eastern Travel

Image Credit: Depositphotos

For travelers new to the region, Oman offers perhaps the most accessible introduction to Arabian Peninsula culture within an exceptionally safe environment. The sultanate's 94% safety rating reflects its stable governance, visible Royal Oman Police presence, and strong community cohesion.

Visitors can explore Muscat's historic forts and covered souqs, venture into towering desert dunes, discover ancient villages carved into mountain rock faces, or relax along pristine coastlines - all within a country where crime is virtually non-existent and hospitality is embedded in local culture.

Kuwait and Bahrain: Hidden Gems of Arabian Safety

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Kuwait and Bahrain represent the region's best-kept secrets, offering authentic Arabian experiences without the crowds of more famous destinations. Kuwait's impressive 91% safety rating and 98/100 Law and Order score make it ideal for travelers seeking traditional markets, Islamic architecture, and cultural immersion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Bahrain, with its 90% safety rating, provides access to ancient Dilmun empire sites, modern Manama attractions, and established expat communities, all within a secure island environment that most travelers have never considered.

Beyond the Stereotypes: What Travelers Actually Experience

The disparity between perception and reality in Arabian Peninsula travel safety is stark. While global media coverage often focuses on conflicts in other parts of the Middle East, these Gulf countries have created some of the world's most secure travel environments.

Visitors report experiences that contradict every stereotype:

Walking alone at night without concern

Leaving valuable items unattended without theft

Receiving help from locals and authorities when needed

Navigating cities and remote areas without safety concerns

Experiencing hospitality that prioritizes guest security and comfort

The Infrastructure That Enables Safety

The region's safety achievements aren't accidental - they result from massive investments in systems that support security:

Advertisement Advertisement

Transportation Networks: World-class airports, efficient public transportation, and well-maintained highways reduce risks associated with travel logistics.

Healthcare Systems: Advanced medical facilities and emergency services ensure rapid response to any health or safety concerns.

Communication Infrastructure: Comprehensive mobile and internet coverage enables easy access to help and navigation assistance.

Tourism Support: Dedicated tourist police, multilingual services, and specialized support for international visitors enhance safety for travelers unfamiliar with local customs.

Breaking Down Regional Misconceptions

The Arabian Peninsula's safety success challenges fundamental assumptions about Middle Eastern travel. While regions like Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan face genuine security challenges, the Gulf countries operate in completely different political, economic, and social contexts.

Advertisement Advertisement

These nations have:

Stable governments with no recent internal conflicts

Prosperous economies that reduce inequality and social tensions

Strong international relationships that provide security cooperation

Cultural traditions that prioritize guest protection and hospitality

Modern legal systems that effectively deter and prosecute criminal activity

The Broader Travel Industry Impact

The Arabian Peninsula's safety achievements are reshaping global travel patterns. Tourism boards across the region report increasing visitor numbers as word spreads about the security and quality of experiences available.

Major international hotel chains, airlines, and tour operators are expanding their Arabian Peninsula operations, confident in the security environment that protects both their investments and their guests.

Advertisement Advertisement

These developments suggest a fundamental shift in Middle Eastern tourism, where the Gulf countries are emerging as preferred alternatives to traditional but increasingly crowded or expensive destinations in Europe and Asia.

Looking Forward: Sustained Safety Leadership

The region's commitment to maintaining and improving safety appears sustainable, supported by:

Continued economic investment in security infrastructure

Government policies that prioritize tourism and international business

Cultural values that support community safety and hospitality

International cooperation that enhances regional stability

For travelers seeking new destinations that combine cultural richness, modern amenities, and exceptional safety, the Arabian Peninsula offers experiences that would have been unimaginable just a decade ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

The statistics don't lie: this desert region has quietly become one of the world's safest travel destinations, offering everything from luxury resorts to authentic cultural experiences within security frameworks that surpass most traditional "safe" destinations.

The only question remaining is how long it will take the rest of the travel world to catch up with this remarkable transformation.
Indonesia has officially been crowned the world's best destination for affordable island hopping, beating out popular competitors like Greece, Thailand, and the Philippines in a comprehensive new study that analyzed everything from ferry prices to cultural diversity across the globe's top island destinations.

The Southeast Asian archipelago claimed the top spot thanks to an unbeatable combination of rock-bottom transportation costs, incredible diversity, and a massive transportation infrastructure overhaul that's making island hopping easier and more affordable than ever before.

The Numbers That Secured Indonesia's Victory

According to research by international touring agency Island Hopping, highlighted by Travel + Leisure, Indonesia earned its number one ranking through a perfect storm of affordability and variety. The study found that ferry rides between Indonesia's 6,000+ inhabited islands average just $9.90  making it the most affordable island-hopping destination in the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

But the bargains don't stop at transportation. Dining costs are equally impressive, with meals for two people averaging around $16.38. When you factor in over 45,000 attractions and things to do across the archipelago, plus a tropical climate with average peak summer temperatures of 31C (88F), Indonesia offers an unmatched value proposition for travelers.

The country welcomes 13.9 million visitors annually, testament to its growing appeal as the ultimate island-hopping destination where budget travelers and luxury seekers alike can find their perfect adventure.

Infrastructure Revolution Makes Island Hopping Accessible

Getting around Indonesia used to be a time-intensive venture, but a massive infrastructure modernization program is changing everything. New high-speed trains, modern catamaran ferries, and cheap domestic flights from budget airlines like AirAsia, Lion Air, and Citilink have revolutionized inter-island travel.

On Java island alone, train travel represents incredible value  a four-hour journey from Yogyakarta to Surabaya costs around $45 for 200 miles, while the high-speed train between Jakarta and Yogyakarta takes just over six hours for about $20 when booked in advance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ferry services have been completely modernized through government-run ASDP Indonesia Ferry and several private operators. The national shipping line Pelni provides passenger service to ports throughout the country, offering the least expensive way to cover long distances between islands. For shorter crossings, frequent ferry services operate 24 hours a day between nearby islands, especially in the chain stretching from Sumatra through Java to the Lesser Sunda Islands.

Cultural Diversity Unlike Anywhere Else

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

What sets Indonesia apart from typical island-hopping destinations isn't just affordability  it's the incredible cultural richness. The archipelago is home to over 1,300 recognized ethnic groups, each with distinct culinary practices and traditional customs. This means every island offers not just different scenery, but completely different cultural experiences.

From the ancient temples of Java (home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Borobudur) to the pristine beaches of Raja Ampat, from the Komodo dragons of Flores to the orangutans of Sumatra, Indonesia offers experiences that range far beyond the typical beach-hopping vacation.

How Indonesia Stacks Up Against the Competition

Image Credit:Shutterstock.

The study ranked destinations based on factors including number of islands, safety, climate, attraction availability, ferry prices, dining costs, and overall living expenses. Here's how the top contenders compared:

Advertisement Advertisement

Philippines (2nd place, score: 49) - Offers 2,000 islands with $14 ferry rides, but higher overall costs pushed it to second place.

Thailand (3rd place) - Recently named Travel + Leisure's Destination of the Year for 2025, Thailand offers 33,000+ tours and attractions but ferry prices average $45, nearly five times Indonesia's cost.

Croatia (6th place, Europe's best) - With 48 islands and excellent safety ratings, Croatia offers ferry fares averaging $14, but dining costs around $64 for two people  nearly four times Indonesia's prices.

The Secret Islands You've Never Heard Of

Beyond famous destinations like Bali (which the study notes is "severely overcrowded with tourists and expats"), Indonesia offers countless hidden gems:

Advertisement Advertisement

Belitung Island features granite boulders and turquoise waters perfect for island-hopping boat tours, with white sand beaches that rival anything in the Caribbean.

The Togian Islands offer pristine reefs, WWII wreck diving, and authentic encounters with the Bajo "sea gypsies"  one of Southeast Asia's last nomadic sea tribes.

Labengki and Sombori Islands in Sulawesi represent Indonesia's best-kept secrets, with lagoons and jungle-covered beaches so pristine they've earned the nickname "the Raja Ampat of Sulawesi."

The Moluccas (Spice Islands) offer powdery white sand beaches and impressive volcanoes with virtually no crowds  a stark contrast to overcrowded destinations elsewhere.

Transportation Options for Every Budget

Indonesia's comprehensive transportation network accommodates every travel style:

Advertisement Advertisement

Budget Option: Government-run Pelni ferries offer beds in shared cabins and connect virtually every inhabited island, with journeys ranging from overnight hops to week-long adventures.

Mid-Range: Modern catamaran ferries provide comfortable day trips between nearby islands, while budget airlines offer flights as low as $30 for shorter routes.

Luxury: Private sailing charters and upscale resorts provide high-end island-hopping experiences, particularly around remote archipelagos like Raja Ampat and the Banda Sea.

The Jakarta Factor: World's New Largest City

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Adding to Indonesia's appeal, Jakarta recently surpassed Tokyo as the world's largest city, making it a major international gateway. Combined with Denpasar in Bali, these transportation hubs provide excellent international connectivity, with Jakarta serving as an ideal starting point for Java exploration before island-hopping eastward.

Advertisement Advertisement

The capital offers world-class food scenes and art galleries, providing urban sophistication before travelers venture into more remote island territories.

Practical Planning Tips

Best Time to Visit: Indonesia's dry season (May to September) offers the most reliable weather for island hopping, though the tropical climate makes year-round travel possible.

Getting Started: Most island-hoppers begin in either Jakarta for cultural immersion or Bali for immediate beach access, then work their way through the archipelago.

Booking Strategy: Purchase Pelni ferry tickets in advance for popular routes, while domestic flights can often be booked last-minute for better prices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Budget Planning: With ferry rides under $10 and meals under $17 for two people, a comprehensive island-hopping adventure becomes accessible to almost any budget.

The Bottom Line

Indonesia's victory in this global ranking isn't just about low prices  it's about offering the world's most diverse island-hopping experience at prices that don't require a trust fund. While Greece offers history and Thailand provides luxury, Indonesia delivers an unmatched combination of affordability, cultural diversity, and natural beauty across thousands of islands.

For travelers who've been priced out of European island hopping or seeking more than just beach resorts, Indonesia represents a paradigm shift: world-class island hopping that's genuinely affordable and authentically diverse.

The infrastructure improvements mean there's never been a better time to explore this incredible archipelago, whether you have two weeks or two months to spare.
From making resolutions and eating black eyed peas, to hanging onions outside and eating grapes, people all across the world are preparing their personal rituals to ring in the New Year at midnight on Thursday, Jan. 1.

This story was originally published in December 2024, and has been reposted with a few updates. Want a lucky 2026? Try these 9 international traditions to call in some cosmic favors.

Eat 12 grapes  in under a minute

In countries all across Latin America and in the Caribbean, folks rush eat 12 green grapes, one for each month of the year, at the stroke of midnight for good luck. If you can finish all 12 grapes within the first minute, you'll have a lucky new year.

Advertisement Advertisement

The tradition is said to have started in Spain in the 1800s, based on the French tradition of eating grapes and drinking champagne during the new year, according to NPR.

Over time, after Spanish settlers colonized parts of Latin America, the tradition took on twists and turns. The grapes only work in some Caribbean countries if you eat them under a table. Other countries believe eating them while wearing corresponding colored underwear for your New Year's wishes will give your luck an extra boost.

Memory lane: From 1930s to now, see New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square

Wear colored underwear for luck in 2026

Wearing different colored underwear according to your wishes for the New Year is common in many different countries, including Spain, Latin America and Italy, where the tradition is said to have originated.

Advertisement Advertisement

In Spain and Italy, red underwear is the way to go for a lucky new year, NPR reports. However, in some other countries, people believe that the color of your underwear on New Year's Eve will bring you something different.

If you're looking for luck in love, keep the red undies or wear pink. According to media reports, those hoping for happiness and success should wear yellow, and those hoping for financial luck in the new year should wear green underwear.

Eat soup joumou to celebrate Haitian Independence Day Jan. 1

In Haiti, New Year's Day also happens to be Haitian Independence Day, a day of great pride for the nation's people and the Haitian diaspora in the United States.

When Haiti was colonized by the French in the 1700s, the indigenous slaves were forced to cultivate squash or pumpkins and make it into soup. However, only the white slaveowners were allowed to have such a delicacy and the slaves who made it were denied a taste.

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1801, the Haitian people reclaimed their country  and their soup  when Haiti became the first independent Black nation on Jan. 1. The soup was first served as an Independence Day dish in 1804. Now, Haitian families all over the world make the soup together and serve it as breakfast for the first meal of the new year.

Deep cleaning your house on Jan. 1 could affect your luck

Depending on which culture you're from, deep cleaning your house can either be very good or very bad luck.

In Costa Rica and other Latin American countries, sweeping old dust and dirt out of your house symbolizes sweeping "old energy" and evil spirits out, allowing new blessings to come into your home.

However, some Chinese people believe sweeping or doing laundry on New Year's Day could sweep all of your good luck for the year away, so you may want to wait until Jan. 2 to do all your cleaning.

Collard greens are part of a Southern New Year tradition meal, symbolizing green money, along with black eye peas for coin change, and pork for being humble for the new year.

Eat black-eyed peas, collard greens to bring in luck and wealth in 2026

Black-eyed peas and collard greens are traditional lucky foods in the southern United States for New Year's Day.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to food historians, collard greens were believed to look like folded paper money when they were cooked with pork and eating them is believed to bring financial success. Black-eyed peas, traditionally used in a dish called "Hoppin' John," are said to bring good luck and good health.

The tradition is a fusion of European and African cultures. In Italy and some Latin American countries, eating lentils, which look like little coins, symbolize good luck and financial prosperity.

Lentils and black-eyed peas are similar in shape, but in some West African cultures, black-eyed peas are grown to honor specific deities. Collard greens also originated in Europe and were brought to the United States during the slave trade, becoming a popular food in the American South.

Hang onions outside for fertility in 2026

In Greece, it is tradition to hang a bunch of onions on doors on New Year's Eve.

Advertisement Advertisement

In Ancient Greece, onions were said to be a symbol of growth and rebirth, so Greek families hang the bulbs on their doors to attract fertility in the new year. On New Year's Day, parents will wake their children up by tapping the onion on their heads.

Sunrise in Larchmont in 2017. Watching the first sunrise of the year dates back to a Japanese Shinto tradition thought to bring blessings for the new year.

Watch the first sunrise of the year and honor Amaterasu

In Japan, many people observe "hatsuhinode," or the first sunrise of the year. The tradition began as part of the Shinto religion to honor the sun goddess Amaterasu.

Japanese people believe that other New Year gods, called "toshigami," appear at the first sunrise to bring blessings of good health, good fortune and prosperity to those who are watching. Many will flock to the highest mountains or hills on the easternmost part of the country to catch the best views of the sunrise.

Smash a plate to let go of the past, keep evil spirits at bay

It's not the best day to be a plate in Denmark on New Year's Eve. Some Scandinavian countries will smash unused plates on the doors of friends and family on the last day of the year as a way to show the people in their lives they love them and wish them good luck in the coming year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Plate smashing is also seen as a way to let go of the past and leave negative energy behind, as well as keep away evil spirits. Danish people will stock up on old plates given away by friends and neighbors and smash away on New Year's Eve before the clock strikes midnight.

If you and your family wake up with porcelain shards on your doorstep, consider yourself blessed in 2026.

Make a list of New Year's resolutions

Last but not least, the concept of making New Year's resolutions and setting goals for the coming year is an age-old tradition all across the world, but especially in the United States and other English-speaking countries.

According to the History Channel, Ancient Babylonians were believed to be the first people to set resolutions over 4,000 years ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

They were also believed to be the first culture to celebrate the new year in a festival called Akitu, which signified the beginning of crop-planting season in March. Babylonians promised specific actions, such as paying their debts and returning borrowed items to their gods for hopes of good fortune in the next harvest cycle.

Have a unique New Year's tradition you want to share? Send it to us by emailing arivera@lohud.com.

(This story was updated to add a video.)

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Have a lucky 2026 with these global New Year's traditions
This photo taken with a mobile phone shows policemen collecting data beside the bodies of victims killed in a nursing home fire, in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, Indonesia, Dec. 28, 2025. (Manado Police Station/Handout via Xinhua)

JAKARTA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian police are conducting identification procedures for 16 people killed in a fire that broke out at a nursing home in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, local authorities said on Monday.

The victims' bodies are being identified at Bhayangkara Hospital of the North Sulawesi Regional Police (Polda Sulut), according to Alamsyah P. Hasibuan, head of public relations of Polda Sulut. He said the identification process is aimed at establishing the victims' full identities before further coordination with their families.

According to him, the fire occurred at around 8:36 p.m. local time on Sunday at the Panti Werdha Damai nursing home, located in Ranomuut Sub-district, Paal Dua District, Manado. The blaze was extinguished at about 9:30 p.m. after three fire engines dispatched by the Manado city government arrived at the scene.

Following reports of the fire, police officers moved quickly to secure the area and assist with rescue operations. Survivors were evacuated to Manado City Regional Hospital and Permata Bunda Hospital, while the deceased were transferred for further handling.

Police forensic teams have launched an investigation, including a crime scene examination and witness interviews, to determine the sequence of events and the preliminary cause of the fire, Hasibuan said. 

This photo taken with a mobile phone shows a view of a nursing home after a fire, in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, Indonesia, Dec. 29, 2025.

Indonesian police are conducting identification procedures for 16 people killed in a fire that broke out at a nursing home in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, local authorities said on Monday. (Photo by Swingly Manderes/Xinhua)
The dream vacation for most families is a trip to Disney, but vacationing at the most magical place on earth can cost a pretty penny. Not only do you need to factor in the price of airline tickets and hotel stays, but also the cost of park tickets, meals and souvenirs. All these expenses can add up quickly.

Before you put on your Mickey ears, you might want to calculate how much money you really need for a Disney vacation in 2026. Heres a quick breakdown of what it could cost a family of a four to have a four-day trip visiting all the parks at Disney World.

Travel Costs: Driving vs. Flying

If you live in Florida or the Southeastern part of the United States, there is a chance you can drive the whole family to Disney World on one or two tanks of gas. Flying is a different story, however.

Advertisement Advertisement

Though airline ticket prices will vary greatly, the current average cost of domestic flights within the U.S. is about $386. This means for a family of four, you could pay $1,544 in airfare alone. For perspective, the average cost of gas is about $3.08 per gallon.

Check Out: 3 Reasons Disney World Has Become Unaffordable for the Middle Class

Read Next: 6 Safe Accounts Proven To Grow Your Money Up To 13x Faster

Lodging and Hotel Costs

To save money for the fun yet to come, research if your family can find a hotel or motel where you can all share one room. For example, the price per night at the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace in the Disney Springs area can range from $139 to $342. This means your family trip for four would be $556 to $1,368 for a four-day stay.

Disney Park Ticket Prices

To get the most out of your Disney World experience, families should dedicate at least one day to each of the theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom.

Advertisement Advertisement

A four-day Disney park ticket for an adult can range from approximately $480 for a ticket to one park to over $885 for a Park Hopper ticket (which gives you access to more than one Disney Park). Prices vary widely depending on what time of year you go, but still, this means access to one park or multiple locations for four days will run you anywhere from $1,920 to $3,540 for your whole family.

Meals and Food Costs

Your family is bound to get hungry while at Disney, so you need to make sure to account for how many meals youll need per person and the cost of each one. Though you can save a little money by bringing your own snacks and opting for quick-service options over more expensive restaurants, you can still expect to spend about $60 a person per day.

Final Take To GO: The Total Cost

A dream trip to Disney doesnt come cheap. Just based on the estimates for flights, hotel stay, Disney Park tickets and food could run upwards of $6,500 for a family of four. And that doesnt even include the Disney-patented souvenirs, which tend to be marked up quite a bit. If youre considering a trip to Disney in 2026, plan early and plan smart to get the most for your money.

J. Arky contributed to the reporting for this article.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How Much Money You Really Need for a Disney Vacation in 2026
Cruise ship stops at Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in The Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, just became much more of a sure thing. For the first time in the islands long history as a cruise line-owned destination, visitors walked directly off a cruise ship and onto the island on Dec. 28.

For many years, the only way that passengers could get to Great Stirrup Cay was via a tender boat that shuttled them to shore. The tendering process is highly dependent on weather and sea conditions, which caused cruises to frequently miss the port.

Now, with the opening of the islands long-awaited cruise ship pier, passengers sailing on 2026 cruises to Great Stirrup Cay can look forward to easier island access, along with other new amenities like a recently opened resort-style pool and more enhancements coming soon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Although not yet fully complete, the new pier is now open for one ship to dock, putting the private island one step closer to leaving the unreliable tendering process fully in the past.

Want the latest cruise news and deals? Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter.

Great Stirrup Cay's new pier will eliminate the need for tendering to the island.Image source: Dennis Post / Postcard Travel (Image source: Dennis Post / Postcard Travel)

Norwegian opens new cruise ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay

On Sunday, Dec. 28, Norwegian Cruise Line officially opened its new cruise ship pier as Norwegian Getaway became the first cruise ship to dock at Great Stirrup Cay in the islands history.

Today marks a historic moment for Norwegian Getaway and in the history of Norwegian Cruise Line to be the first ship to dock at Great Stirrup Cay with the opening of our brand-new pier, the cruise line wrote in its Freestyle Daily bulletin provided to Norwegian Getaway passengers. Each and every one of our guests this cruise will be making history alongside us in this significant moment for being the first cruise passengers to walk off a Norwegian Cruise Line ship onto the island of Great Stirrup Cay.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line unveils new premium cruise package

With the pier not yet fully complete, a second ship visiting the island on Dec. 28 was still required to tender. Once construction is finished, the pier will be able to welcome two ships simultaneously. In 2026, ships from other Norwegian cruise brands will even begin to use the pier.

Advertisement Advertisement

In the future, all ships within Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings including Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will be able to benefit from this multi-ship pier, the Freestyle Daily note continued. As a company, we have made a transformational investment in Great Stirrup Cay to provide an enhanced experience; this now includes guests no longer being required to tender from ship to shore; instead, guests will have direct access to the island upon arrival.

Want insider cruise tips? Subscribe to Come Cruise With Mes YouTube channel.

Great Stirrup Cay will add more amenities, new water park in 2026

Great Stirrup Cays new pier and the recently opened Great Life Lagoon, a 28,000-square-foot heated pool, are the first in a series of major enhancements coming to the island that vacationers can enjoy on 2026 cruises to the Bahamas port.

The cruise line is also adding a new welcome plaza and tram service, and new spaces like Horizon Park, a gathering area with lawn games and a pickleball court, and Hammock Bay featuring more than 50 beachside hammocks. Vibe Shore Club, a premium adults-only retreat similar to Norwegians popular onboard Vibe Beach Club, is also coming soon to Great Stirrup Cay.

Advertisement Advertisement

In summer 2026, the cruise line will make another big splash with the opening of Great Tides Waterpark featuring 19 waterslides, cliff jumps, a dynamic river, a kids splash zone, a glowing grotto bar, and more.

Related: 3 things you MUST pack for your cruise (don't forget these!)

(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 Dec 29, 2025, where it first appeared in the Come Cruise With Me section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Key Takeaways

Moving to Mediterranean regions like Bari or Alanya can cut your daily expenses by 30% to 50% compared with the U.S.

Greece just claimed the No. 1 spot in International Living's 2026 Global Retirement Index, while Spain and Italy hold the top spots in rankings for health.

The math of American retirement keeps getting harder. In coastal locales around the Mediterranean, an American retiree's budget often buys a dramatically different life, while offering stunning natural beauty and profound historical backdrops.

Below are seven Mediterranean areas where the math can work in your favorplus a quick guide to what makes them worthwhile as retirement destinations.



Valletta, Malta

Dado Daniela / Getty Images Boats dot the harbor at Senglea, one of Malta's "Three Cities" just a quick ferry ride from Valletta's historic center. Boats dot the harbor at Senglea, one of Malta's "Three Cities" just a quick ferry ride from Valletta's historic center.

The entire city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with honey-colored Baroque buildings, an opera house, and a harbor that has drawn sailors since the Knights of St. John fortified it in the 1500s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Time spent here means ferry rides to the quieter island of Gozo, 300 days of annual sunshine, and evening passeggiata (a traditional post-dinner stroll) along the harbor walls. As a former British colony, English is an official language, removing the biggest hurdle to retiring abroad.

The cost of living for a single person in Valletta runs about $1,770 per month, including rent, about 30% less than the U.S. average. The health care system ranks among Europe's bestthe World Health Organization rated it 5th globallyand public buses are free for residents over 60.

Malta recruits retirees through its Global Residence Programme, which offers a special tax status.

Alicante, Spain

Sergio Formoso / Getty Images The view from Alicante's hilltop castle: Costa Blanca beaches, a working marina, and 300 days of sunshine annually. The view from Alicante's hilltop castle: Costa Blanca beaches, a working marina, and 300 days of sunshine annually.

Alicante sits on the Costa Blanca, but it's a working Spanish citynot a resort townwith a hilltop castle, a palm-lined promenade, and a daily central market where you can shop for fish, olives, and produce.

Advertisement Advertisement

Bloomberg's Global Health Index has ranked Spain the healthiest country in the world, with a score of 92.75 out of 100, citing its strong public health care system, access to preventive care, and Mediterranean lifestyle. The average cost of living for a single person in Alicante runs about $1,461 per monthabout 42% less than the U.S. average.

The Non-Lucrative Visa is the standard route here, and soon enough, you'll be able to gather with locals for tardeoafternoon socializing with tapas and drinks.

Chania, Crete (Greece)

Maximilian Muller / Getty Images Chania's Venetian harbor with Crete's snow-capped White Mountains in the distance. Chania's Venetian harbor with Crete's snow-capped White Mountains in the distance.

International Living just named Greece the world's best retirement destination for 2026. Chania is one of the best places to see why.



Crete is Greece's largest island, big enough to function year-roundunlike smaller tourist islands that shut down in winter. Chania's Venetian harbor dates to the 14th century and is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with Ottoman and Venetian architecture, with the often snowcapped White Mountains visible from the waterfront.

Advertisement Advertisement

Daily life here means inexpensive, fresh produce at the Agora market, weekend trips to pink-sand beaches like Elafonissi, and a pace that encourages you to slow down.

The average cost of living for a single person in Chania runs about $1,245 per monthabout half the U.S. average. Greece offers a Financially Independent Person visa for non-EU citizens with a monthly income of at least 3,500 (about $4,100).

Split, Croatia

Armand Tamboly / Getty Images A quiet corner inside Diocletian's PalaceSplit's old town is built directly into 1,700-year-old Roman ruins. A quiet corner inside Diocletian's PalaceSplit's old town is built directly into 1,700-year-old Roman ruins.

Split isn't built near ancient ruinsit's inside them. The city's old town is situated within the walls of Diocletian's Palace, a 1,700-year-old Roman emperor's retirement home that locals have continued to use.

You can also make this your retirement spot. You'll find apartments carved into ancient stone, cafes tucked into Roman basements, and a cathedral that was once the emperor's mausoleum. You can join locals who spend hours sipping coffee on the Riva promenade or hop on to a ferry to Hvar or Brac that takes less than an hour.

Advertisement Advertisement

The average cost of living for a single person in Split runs about $1,623 per monthabout 35% less than the U.S. average of $2,516. U.S. citizens can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, often by prepaying rent or buying property. Croatia is part of the EU and adopted the Euro in 2023, providing access to the Schengen zone for easy European travel.

Bari, Italy

Peter Adams / Getty Images A quiet harbor in Puglia where fresh seafood and unhurried mornings are on offer for retirees. A quiet harbor in Puglia where fresh seafood and unhurried mornings are on offer for retirees.

Bari offers an authentic Italian experience without the prices of Tuscany or Rome. It's the capital of Pugliathe sun-bleached heel of Italy's bootand a working port city with an opera house, a massive seafront promenade called the Lungomare, and a tangled old town where workers still roll orecchiette pasta on tables in the street.

If you're out dining and dip some fresh bread in olive oil or enjoy a glass of vino, it's likely localPuglia produces more wine than any other Italian region and about 40% of the country's olive oil. Daily life here means picking up fresh burrata at the market, having an aperitivo on the harbor at sunset, and getting easy train access to whitewashed hill towns like Ostuni and Alberobello.

The average cost of living for a single person in Bari runs about $1,588 per monthabout 37% less than the U.S. average. Nevertheless, the old town of Bari, once so crime-ridden that even locals avoided it, has become a major draw for tourists, pushing up rents in the city center as landlords convert apartments to short-term rentals. Retirees may find better value in outlying areas or nearby towns like Molfetta or Trani, where the cost of living is even lower.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Elective Residence Visa allows you to live in Italy if you can show you have enough passive income (about 32,000/year for individuals). For 2,000 a year (about $2,350), the visa allows you to access Italy's national health care system.

Neos Air launched the first direct route between New York's JFK airport and Bari in June 2025, a boon for American retirees who won't have to endure the lengthy connections through Rome or Milan.



Alanya, Turkey

tunart / Getty Images Alanya's old town climbs the hillside above Turkey's aptly named Turquoise Coast. Alanya's old town climbs the hillside above Turkey's aptly named Turquoise Coast.

This resort city on Turkey's Turquoise Coast offers the lowest cost of living of any destination here$734 per month for a single person, far less than the U.S. average. Cleopatra Beachnamed for the Egyptian queen who, legend has it, received the city as a gift from Mark Antonystretches two kilometers beneath a 13th-century Seljuk castle skirted by six kilometers of walls.

A cable car (the teleferik) connects the beach to the fortress above, the Kzlkule (Red Tower), located near the Alayna Shipyard, which is Turkey's only surviving Seljuk-era shipyard, and was once a significant Mediterranean naval base. This is a unique historical heritage site dating back to 1228.

Advertisement Advertisement

Turkey doesn't offer a dedicated retirement visa; however, you can apply for a short-term residence permit after renting or buying property, which is valid for up to two years and is renewable. English-speaking doctors are available in private clinics, and you will need to obtain health insurance for your residence application.

Warning

Alanya is a destination perhaps meant for more adventurous retirees: Turkey isn't in the EU, and the Turkish lira's volatility means your dollar's purchasing power can swing. Outside tourist zones, English is less common, while summer temperatures can be brutal, with the heat often pushing into the mid-30s Celsius.

Kotor, Montenegro

tunart / Getty Images The Church of Our Lady of Remedy overlooks Kotor, Montenegro, a UNESCO-protected old town where the Adriatic meets the Alps. The Church of Our Lady of Remedy overlooks Kotor, Montenegro, a UNESCO-protected old town where the Adriatic meets the Alps.

If you want a dramatic bay where mountains plunge straight into the Adriatic, a medieval walled town, and a potential backdoor for trips to the rest of Europe, Kotor delivers.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a maze of cobblestone streets that wind past Romanesque churches, Venetian palaces, and the 12th-century Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, all enclosed by 4.5 kilometers of fortifications that climb up the mountainside to a fortress 1,350 steps above.

Advertisement Advertisement

The cost of living for a single person is approximately $1,261 per monthnearly half the U.S. average. Montenegro is part of the euro zone, making currency conversions easier. The government raised the real estate value required for residency to 200,000 in late 2025; therefore, please check the latest rules.



Read the original article on Investopedia
Traveling through Europe by train has a certain romanticism to it. Couples kissing goodbye on the platform before departure time, families running to embrace each other after reuniting, or solo travelers looking to experience beauty via rail, one scenic station at a time. When travel legend Rick Steves recommends a place to go, or an experience to be had, it's got to be worth seeing. This "super-scenic" train in Norway is no different, as it boasts views that are sure to stun during an epic Scandinavian adventure.

There are many mistakes that people make while traveling by train, such as assuming that just booking on a whim can guarantee you a seat. Steves fondly speaks about his favorite Norwegian tour, called "Norway in a Nutshell," which coordinates bus, train, and ferry rides. A journey on the Flamsbana train along the Flam Railway is a standout for Steves. As Steves wrote in a blog post, "This is simply the most spectacular train ride in northern Europe." The rail line was started in 1923 and was completed in 1940. It is noted as one of Norway's greatest feats of engineering.

Five hours from departure in Oslo, you'll reach the mountain train stop of Myrdal, which sits at 2,844 feet above sea level, and board the green Flamsbana train that will slowly make its way to the tiny village of Flam. Myrdal station can alternatively be reached from Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, along the Bergensbanen, and takes approximately two hours to arrive at the starting point for the Flam-bound train. The village is nestled within the majestic Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, which rises out of the water and demands your attention as soon as you exit the train.

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: 50 Of The Most Mesmerizing Places On Earth

From mountain landscapes to a sky-high waterfall: The journey to Flam has it all

A train curving around a bend in a rocky landscape - Tosh Bene / Static Media

During my solo trip through Norway more than a decade ago, I had the opportunity to book a journey to Flam and ride the famous Flamsbana train. This region of Norway boasts some of the nation's most beautiful landscapes, and while I thought the first leg of the train ride was breathtaking, the one-hour ride from Myrdal to Flam had me glued to the window nonstop.

The train moves slowly at 25 miles per hour through ever-changing landscapes as its wheels squeak and creak. One minute you're traveling through forested areas, then you'll disappear into one of 20 tunnels strategically carved by hand through the mountainous terrain. As the train emerges from the tunnel, you'll be in awe of the scenery greeting you on the other side. Quaint villages dot vast green valleys, waterfalls flow from high above, and tourists open the panoramic windows to get the best photo. Tickets for the Flamsbana train can be purchased directly on the official website. Booking in advance is recommended.

As you make your way roughly 14 miles from Myrdal station towards Flam, it's easy to understand why Lonely Planet named this Flamsbana route as the world's best train journey back in 2014, and National Geographic included it on its list of Top 10 European Train Trips. Those interested in Norse mythology are in for a treat. The train stops at Kjosfossen, a waterfall that cascades from 738 feet. Here, you'll witness music, folk dancing, and a portrayal of Huldra, a mythical forest spirit wearing a red dress, who attempts to lure and seduce men into the woods.

What to do when you reach the village of Flam

Red cabin on a fjord with a yellow boat in the water - Tosh Bene / Static Media

Once you disembark the train at the village of Flam, you'll quickly realize just how small it is, nestled beside the massive, towering fjord. During my visit, I found that the most beautiful angles of the fjords could be seen by hitting the paved walking trail along the Sognefjord. The trail goes for miles and has some of the most picturesque views I've ever seen. Little red cabins sit on the water's edge as colorful boats bob nearby, making for some great photo opportunities.

Advertisement Advertisement

If you're hungry, make a stop at the Flam Marina Hotel and Restaurant. Not only does it have gorgeous views from the hotel rooms, but the salmon lunch I enjoyed was fresh and delicious. In the mood for a sweet treat? Head to Flam Bakeri for a selection of cinnamon buns, cakes, and other delectable pastries. Beer lovers will enjoy the unique Norse-inspired design of the microbrewery gir BrewPub. Grab a flight, then stop and admire the view from the Flam beach.

Those looking to learn more about the Flamsbana and the construction behind it can visit the Flam Railway Museum (with free admission) before embarking on a dramatic Fjord Safari Tour on a speedboat. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Try the Flam zipline that starts at the Vatnahalsen station (just before Myrdal) and whisks thrill seekers 1,000 feet down to Kardalstlen in the Flamsdalen valley at speeds reaching 62 miles per hour. Flam may be small, but it offers a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, no matter what you're in the mood for.

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.
This holiday season, Wichitan Kelley Donners interactive outdoor childrens storybook If Mice Pulled The Sleigh by Bill Barnsley is being shared everywhere from snowy paths in Newfoundland to a warm beach in Hawaii.

It amazes me, Donner said of how popular her permanent reading displays have become.

Theyre also at places like a horse stable where children with disabilities visit and on a military base.

Advertisement Advertisement

Donner had been a childrens author and illustrator for years but then found a way to grow her business and bring joy and education to a lot of children through outdoor storybooks that are placed along paths.

She and her brother, tech entrepreneur and mentor Mark Janzen, formed the Storybook Co. in summer 2024 to capitalize on the trend of sharing childrens books on outdoor panels along paths, one or two pages at a time, at various locales.

The concept really started to take off during the pandemic, Donner said.

It was through her book School Is More Than A Building that she learned that school librarians were taking apart two or three copies of the book to create one story along a path.

Childrens author Kelley Donner, right, and her brother, Mark Janzen, left, started Storybook Co. to use books to connect to kids through outdoor reading displays.

Frames staked in the ground hold a laminated page or two that a child can read before continuing on to the next page down the path.

Advertisement Advertisement

I thought, wow, its unfortunate they have to take apart two to three books to do this, Donner said.

The concept was new to her at the time, and she decided to make do-it-yourself versions for schools.

That proved to be really successful.

Despite positive feedback from librarians, Donner said eventually they said, Cant you just sell us the already laminated finished edition?

So she began doing that. Her market has expanded to more than 30 states and Canada.

Its been growing a lot.

Donner sells primarily to schools, libraries and parks.

Along with the framed pages of stories, she includes interactive features.

Advertisement Advertisement

Children might be encouraged to answer funny questions, give each other high-fives or take part in an imaginary sword fight like the characters in the book. Sometimes, kids might be encouraged to run from one panel back to another for some physical activity, too.

You can learn more at StorybookWalk.com.

In January, Donner is starting a podcast called Storybook Detour in which shell interview authors and illustrators whose work she features on the reading displays.

Shell add QR codes to the displays to link to the podcast and additional resources.

Wichitan Kelley Donners Storybook Co. has permanent reading displays in more than 30 states, including this one in Missouri, and Canada.

January also is when her next catalog of books is published.

Advertisement Advertisement

Donner has three sons, two of whom  Max, 11, and Lukas, 14  have helped illustrate just a bit. They created the picture for the book An Elf Erased My Picture.

Max, Lukas and their older brother, Jonas, 16, are an important part of Donners work, she said.

They give me lots of inspiration for stories.
Update: FDA Approves Wegovy Pill, First Oral GLP-1 Approved Specifically for Weight Management

Just before the end of 2025, the idea of taking GLP-1 pills instead of injections moved much closer to reality. On December 22, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an oral version of Wegovy (semaglutide), a weight management medication that is currently only available as an injection.

More from Flow Space

Advertisement Advertisement

The Wegovy pill contains 25 mg of semgalutide and is meant to be taken once per day. Novo Nordisk, the drugs manufacturer, announced in a news release that the Wegovy pill will be available starting in January 2026.

As the first oral GLP-1 treatment for people living with overweight or obesity, the Wegovy pill provides patients with a new, convenient treatment option that can help patients start or continue their weight loss journey, Mike Doustdar, president and CEO of Novo Nordisk, said in a news release about the approval. The company also submitted the Wegovy pill to European regulatory authorities for possible approval.

The Wegovy pill is the second GLP-1 pill approved by the federal agency, but the first approved specifically for weight management. In 2019, the FDA approved Rybelsus, another oral GLP-1 manufactured by Novo Nordisk, to treat Type 2 diabetes (this fall, the agency also approved Rybelsus to reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues for people with Type 2 diabetes).

The approval comes after results from a clinical trial funded by Novo Nordisk, the drugs manufacturer, showed that the daily pills are about as effective as the injectable version of Wegovy in terms of weight loss. According to trial data, after 71 weeks, people who took the Wegovy pill lost about 13.6% of their total body weight compared to people who took a placebo and lost about 2% of their total body weight. Many of the people who took the Wegovy pill during the trial experienced similar side effects as those who inject GLP-1s, such as gastrointestinal issues like nausea.

Advertisement Advertisement

More oral GLP-1s are likely on the way: Eli Lilly, the company that manufactures Zepbound and Mounjaro, recently submitted its own semaglutide pill called orforglipron for FDA approval.

Curious about what all this means? Read on for everything you need to know about oral GLP-1s.

Update by Helen Carefoot

Are There Other Oral Formulations of GLP-1s?

Currently, there are two oral versions of a GLP-1 on the market: Rybelsus and the Wegovy pill. The FDA approved the drug in 2019 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, though its also prescribed off-label for weight loss.

Additionally, in April, Eli Lilly announced that their oral formulation of a GLP-1, orforglipron, has performed well in clinical trials for both type 2 diabetes and weight management. The drug manufacturer submitted orforglipron for weight management to global regulatory agencies this month. It also plans to submit it for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition to chronic weight management in adults living with obesity, oral Wegovy has also been shown in clinical trials to help people who are overweight with one or more comorbid conditions and to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with obesity and established cardiovascular disease.

Why Might Some People Opt to Take an Oral Version of Wegovy Instead of Injections?

There are multiple reasons why someone might decide to take the oral formulation of a GLP-1 like Wegovy, but first and foremost is the fact that a lot of people strongly dislike needles.

Up to 25% of patients report injection-related anxiety or hesitation, said Dr. Michael Snyder, a physician, obesity specialist and medical advisor at FuturHealth. An oral version eliminates that friction, making it easier for patients to start and stick with treatment.

Plus, for people managing chronic conditions, a pill feels more familiar and less medicalizedsomething that could also significantly improve adherence to the drug and lead to better results over time, he points out. By removing barriers like needle aversion, oral GLP-1s have the potential to bring this powerful therapy to a broader population and help them sustain success with the right lifestyle support, Synder said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Cost is also a major selling point for oral GLP-1s, said Dr. Wiljon Beltre, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and founder of Beltre Bariatrics. The cost of oral meds tends to be less compared to the injections that require needles and syringes to administer, he said.

Additionally, for patients who are typically sensitive to new medicationsespecially those who experience gastrointestinal issuesan oral daily option could provide more control, said Dr. Rebecca Emch, vice president of pharmacy and medical operations at Eden. With an oral formulation, its easier for your doctor to adjust the amount youre taking daily to help manage side effects. The half-life of oral GLP-1s is conventionally shorter than the half-life of injectables meaning it will clear from your system faster which could allow for tighter control if you experience side effects, Emch explained.

Would an Oral Version of Wegovy Work as Well as the Injections?

Possibly. Results from the Oral Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity (OASIS) 1 trial discussed in an editorial published in August 2025 in JAMA Internal Medicine found that people who took oral GLP-1 for obesity only, not diabetes, experienced clinically meaningful weight loss. These results add to the idea that oral pills could be an effective way to harness the benefits of these medicines sans injections.

But according to Dr. Jennifer Brown, a physician board-certified in obesity medicine and family medicine, more information is needed. A 2024 trial of oral Wegovy at a 25 mg daily dose showed a mean weight loss of 13.6%, while, in a different trial, injectable Wegovy showed a mean weight loss of around 15%, Brown noted. While a higher dose of oral Wegovy (50 mg) is as effective as injectable Wegovy, the side effects were significantly worse when compared to the 25 mg oral dose. There are no direct comparison studies between oral Wegovy and injectable Wegovy yet, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Its also important to note that oral medications and injectables enter the body in different ways. Injected GLP-1s bypass the gut and go straight into the bloodstream, which is part of what makes them so effective, Snyder said. Oral versions must survive the digestive process and still trigger comparable appetite-regulating and metabolic effects.

What Would Having an Oral Wegovy Option Mean for Women in Midlife?

Having an oral version of Wegovy could help midlife women deal with the extra weight management challenges they face. For women in midlife, particularly those navigating perimenopause and menopause, weight gain isnt just about lifestyle choices, Snyder explained. Its tied to hormonal shifts, insulin resistance, chronic inflammation and a natural decline in metabolic rate. This leads to women feeling stuck, even when theyre doing everything right to stay healthy.

Additionally, an oral formulation of Wegovy would expand weight management options for midlife women. Oral Wegovy offers a more convenient way for women in midlife to lose weight as compared to the injectionno needles, no refrigeration, no weekly phone alarms and more control, Brown said.
Hawaii is notorious as the state that has the most expensive groceries. So it's no wonder that Costco is a staple destination for locals trying to stay on a budget. In fact, travelers reportedly account for one-third of all Costco purchases in Hawaii. If you stop into the Costco in Kahului, Maui, you'll quickly understand why.

As one of the hands-down best Costco locations in the U.S., according to shoppers, this warehouse is an amazing place to find everything from travel essentials to Hawaiian foods at prices that aren't sky-high. The big-box store is conveniently located near the airport, meaning travelers can get off the plane and stop by to stock up on snacks, sundries, and souvenirs that aren't marked up before heading to their accommodations. Not to mention, this store is across the street from a food truck park, making it a great destination for foodies to grab a bite to eat. Visitors recommend that you skip local gift shops and head to this Costco instead. Fans of the Kahului Costco share on Reddit that the selection of aloha shirts and sarongs at a reasonable price can't be beat. It's also one of the best places to pick up any practical items you forgot to pack, like sunscreen and beach gear, as these types of items are likely to be priced significantly lower at Costco than at tourist traps or hotel gift shops.

Read more: The Best And Worst Hot Dogs To Buy At The Grocery Store

Local foods you'll find only at Costco in Hawaii

Poke bowl - Trevor Srednick/Getty Images

What's really unique about this Costco location is the food you can buy that you simply can't get at any other warehouse in other states. For starters, Hawaii is known for poke bowls, and you'll find an outstanding selection of fresh locally sourced poke bowls as well as sashimi at this warehouse. You can pick up other local favorites like Portuguese sausage, a beloved breakfast meat, and lau lau, a Hawaiian dish made by wrapping pork and salted butter fish in lu'ua leaves. Spam musubi is a popular snack in Hawaii, and Hawaiian Costcos sell Spam and Portuguese musubi-shaped slices so you can make it yourself. The snack aisles feature popular Hawaiian treats that can be hard to find on the mainland, like Hawaiian Hurricane popcorn, Li Hing gummies, and locally made chocolate-covered macadamia nuts. And you can't miss the fresh Hawaiian pineapple.

Advertisement Advertisement

You also can't leave the store without a visit to the coffee aisle, where you can pick up 100% Kona coffee that's priced lower than most souvenir shops. And head to the liquor section to grab Hawaiian-made Koloa Rum, which Redditors say is often a better deal here than other stores. Grab a snack on the way out at the Costco food court, where the pricing and menu are the same as other Costco locations, but you can eat outside in the fresh air. It's just one of the many things that puts this Costco location on another level.

Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Chowhound.
Around 20 miles southwest of Rome, on a quiet stretch of Mediterranean coastline, lies the pretty provincial town of Isola Sacra. Stretches of long sandy beaches, dotted with traditional palafitte stilt houses, line this coastal town. which sits at the mouth of the Tiber River. Rome-Fiumicino "Leonardo da Vinci" International Airport, the busiest airport in Italy, is just minutes away, making it an ideal destination for tourists with their sights set on Rome.

Around 15,000 inhabitants are happy to call Isola Sacra home, but tensions are rising with the planned construction of a new mega port known as Fiumicino Waterfront, a joint venture between Royal Caribbean and Icon Infrastructure. Although building hasn't yet begun, it's been given the green light, with local authorities claiming it'll boost tourism and create 7,000 jobs. The mayor of Isola Sacra is also optimistic about the project, stating that it'll change the city for the better.

But, the project is currently stalled due to environmental assessments, community legal challenges, and opposition from residents and environmental groups. Many have protested against the proposed port since 2010, giving compelling reasons for visitors to reconsider traveling here. Not least the irreparable damage it would cause to the nearby special conservation area and the rich biodiversity and historical remains that lie within it. Isola Sacra has also been placed on Fodor's No List 2026, a yearly list that highlights destinations around the world where rising visitor numbers are overwhelming the land and local communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: 50 Of The Most Mesmerizing Places On Earth

Reasons to avoid travelling to Isola Sacra, Italy

Two large ocean liners sitting in the port of Civitavechia - as-artmedia/Shutterstock

While local authorities are promoting the proposed Fiumicino Waterfront to attract more tourists, the question is, does the area actually need more tourists? While Isola Sacra has some notable historical structures of its own, like the 2,000-year-old Necropolis of Portus, the proximity to the ancient ruins in Rome is the main attraction. Yet Rome is already struggling with the weight of 35 million visitors in 2025, does it have the infrastructure to deal with any more? More tourists mean more traffic, an increase in air pollution, and a risk to the residents' quality of life.

Protesters also point out that the building process, which includes sand dredging and coastal modifications needed to accommodate the 230-foot-high mega-liners carrying up to 6,000 passengers, will devastate the delicate ecosystem. They fear it'll cause lasting damage to marine habitats, erasing historical structures, cementing over the beaches, and changing the coastline forever  arguably more than enough reason to never take a cruise.

They also highlight that there's already a nearby port at Civitavechia, just 47 miles north of Rome. As one of the busiest ports in Europe, several cruise lines already use it to dock their mega-liners. Residents also worry that if the dock project goes ahead as planned, it'll set a precedent for other companies to develop freely along the coast.

Choose sustainable travel in Italy

Waves lapping against a sandy beach with historic buildings of Sperlonga perched on the hillside in the background - Photo Beto/Getty Images

If you're now reconsidering your planned trip to the Italian coast, there are ways you can travel responsibly while still enjoying your dream coastal holiday near Rome. Make sure you're not contributing to over-tourism by choosing less crowded destinations and prioritizing more sustainable tourism that supports local communities and protects the environment. Traveling off the well-worn tourist trail is a rewarding experience, and you'll discover somewhere new without having to stand three hours in line to see it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Beaches with the Blue Flag certification are a great place to start. From 2025, having a Blue Flag means there's a solid sustainability action plan in motion, on top of being recognized for clean water, waste management, and accessibility services. In the Lazio region around Rome, 11 beaches are now Blue Flag certified.

Head to the stunning seaside town of Sperlonga, with archaeological ruins and whitewashed walls in its old town. Or there's Anzio, known for its large beaches and clear, shallow water. Both are about an hour away from Rome, and easily reached by train or bus. You can further travel more sustainably outside peak season, and support locally-owned hotels and independent restaurants instead of big chains. And while you're there, slow down, stay a while, and get involved in projects that benefit the local community rather than adding unnecessary strain.

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.
Whole Foods' reputation as an expensive grocery store has earned it the nickname "Whole Paycheck," and its milk prices aren't exactly changing that any time soon. Rising grocery prices are changing the way people shop; consumers are price-checking just about everything. I've joined in on the price-checking and compared the cost of Whole Foods' 365-branded whole milk to other retailers. Keep in mind, these prices reflect my Oregon location. A gallon of Whole Foods' 365 whole milk rings up at $4.39 here. When compared to other private store labels like Walmart's Great Value at $3.46 for a gallon of whole milk, Whole Foods looks considerably pricy.

Other stores like Safeway sell their Lucerne whole milk for $3.79 a gallon, while the same milk from Good and Gather has a price tag of $4.19, proving that it's not a grocery item you should be buying at Target either. To label Whole Foods as expensive and leave it at that, though, isn't exactly fair. The grocery chain's higher prices are likely because Whole Foods only sources its milk from farms that are within close proximity to the communities it serves. As a certified organic grocer, the farms that provide dairy to Whole Foods are organic family farmers who specialize in pasture-raised dairy. Whole Foods' focus on quality products and serving the community in more ways than just selling goods can come at a higher cost. But while the health food store focuses on quality, other chains are focused on efficiency.

Read more: 15 Walmart Great Value Groceries To Avoid At All Costs, According To Customers

How other grocery chains keep milk costs low

Grocery store receipt - Hispanolistic/Getty Images

Grocery chains are bottling their own milk, and it's creating a moral dilemma among many consumers. Stores like Walmart and Safeway have managed to keep milk prices somewhat low, at least in comparison to Whole Foods. Though, Whole Foods' high prices make sense from a community support perspective. Meanwhile, companies like Walmart and Safeway own and operate their own milk processing plants to cut costs and eliminate any middlemen. Rather than partnering with the brand Lucerne, Safeway owns the company. This allows the grocery chain to mitigate production costs and keep in-store prices low.

Advertisement Advertisement

Similarly (though, on a grander scale), Walmart began opening its own milk processing plants in several states. This allows Walmart to maintain control over processing, packing, and distribution rather than hiring outside companies. While this is a way for the companies to save money and increase profit, it can be harmful to milk producers who were already in the area and can no longer compete with the low prices of a large grocery chain. While most people want to help their communities thrive and would rather see local businesses and farms do well, the cost of milk at grocery chains like Whole Foods is still difficult to justify when so many Americans are already cutting corners wherever they can to save money.

For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter and add us as a preferred search source. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more!

Read the original article on The Takeout.
A man was charged after a 13-year-old Kentucky girl, who was missing for two months, was found in Silver Spring, Maryland, according to a news release from the Montgomery County Police Department.

Christian Delgado, 37, of Silver Spring, Maryland, was charged with kidnapping by the Rockcastle County Sheriffs Office in Kentucky. He is currently being held at the Montgomery County Detention Center, where he is awaiting extradition to the commonwealth, officials said.

Montgomery County police officers responded to a tip that the Kentucky girl might be in the area around 5:52 p.m. Dec. 26. Officers and U.S. Marshals deputies found Delgado and the girl inside a home in the 12000 block of Dalewood Drive in Silver Spring.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the Rockcastle County Sheriffs Office, the girl was last seen around 6:15 p.m. Oct. 14. In a Nov. 14 Facebook post, investigators said they were working with the Kentucky State Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation London, Kentucky Field Office and the U.S. Marshals.

Investigators conducted numerous interviews and multiple land and drone searches in the area where she was reported missing. Surveillance footage was also reviewed.

Delgado is next scheduled to appear in court in Maryland Dec. 29.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Missing Rockcastle Co., Kentucky girl found in Maryland
CANBERRA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday announced the terms for an independent review of the Bondi Beach terror attack, but he again resisted calls to launch a royal commission.

The review, led by former intelligence chief Dennis Richardson, will assess whether multiple agencies, including the Australian Security Intelligence Organization and the Australian Federal Police, operated as effectively as possible prior to the attack.

The review will also consider what judgements the agencies made and whether any additional measures could have prevented the attack.

The review is expected to be completed and published by April, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

The opposition and some families of Bondi Beach shooting victims have urged the prime minister to launch a royal commission -- the highest form of inquiry on matters of public importance in Australia.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said an independent review -- instead of a royal commission -- would allow the government to "deal squarely with the urgency of national security issues."

Sixteen people, including one alleged gunman, were killed in the mass shooting at Bondi Beach on Dec. 14. The perpetrators have been identified as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his son, 24-year-old Naveed Akram. 
Snow has returned to Wisconsin after an unseasonably mild Christmas week.

While areas of northern Wisconsin received over a foot of snowfall overnight Dec. 28-29, southern Wisconsin received around 1 inch. Still, high winds causing blowing and drifting snow caused the National Weather Service to issue a winter weather advisory even for areas with low accumulation, like Milwaukee.

Cameron Miller, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, said the wind has made snow accumulation difficult to measure in some areas, but the most snow fell in north-central Wisconsin, and the least fell south of I-94.

Southern Wisconsin reports lowest snow totals

The following are snowfall totals for areas across the southeastern part of the state:

Advertisement Advertisement

Milwaukee: 0.7-0.8 inches

Kenosha: 0.5 inches

Ripon: 1.1 inches

Sheboygan: 1.8 inches

Despite the low totals, these areas are under a winter weather advisory through 6 p.m. Dec. 29 due to the high winds.

Most of the snow fell in far north-central Wisconsin

The bulk of the snow fall in Wisconsin Dec. 28 into Dec. 29 fell in far north-central parts of the state, Miller said. Some areas received over a foot.

Saxon: 17 inches

Land O' Lakes: 14 inches

Eagle River: 13 inches

Minocqua: 12 inches

Tomahawk: 10.2 inches

Ashland: 7.8 inches

Parts of northeastern and central Wisconsin received several inches of snow

A range of a couple inches to nearly 8 inches fell across northeastern and central Wisconsin.

Marshfield: 7.8 inches

Egg Harbor: 7.5 inches

Wisconsin Rapids: 6.5 inches

Wausau: 5 inches

Wild Rose: 4.5 inches

Oshkosh: 4 inches

Pulaski: 4 inches

Green Bay: 3 inches

Mishicot: 3 inches

Appleton: 1.9 inches

Western Wisconsin ranged from around 2 to 7 inches

The following are snowfall totals in western areas of the state:

Advertisement Advertisement

Altoona: 7.3 inches

Menomonie: 7.2 inches

Viroqua: 5 inches

Prairie du Chien: 2.8 inches

La Crosse: 2.5 inches

Contact Kelli Arseneau at (920) 213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on X at @ArseneauKelli.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: How much did it snow overnight Dec. 28-29 across Wisconsin?
The North Dakota Supreme Court hears arguments March 15, 2025, over a challenge to the state's abortion ban. (Pool photo by Tanner Ecker/Bismarck Tribune)

North Dakota courts this year sided with the state in two civil rights lawsuits challenging sweeping restrictions on abortion and transgender medical care adopted by the Legislature in 2023.

Meanwhile, a district court judge sided with landowners in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a law that affects underground carbon storage. Other ongoing cases include a lawsuit from two tribes against the states redistricting map, which could get review from the U.S. Supreme Court, and a free speech challenge against a North Dakota law regulating campaign advertisements.

Abortion ruling

North Dakotas near-total abortion ban survived its review before the North Dakota Supreme Court after the justices failed to reach the supermajority vote required to declare it unconstitutional.

Advertisement Advertisement

Three of five justices in a November opinion found the law unconstitutionally vague, but a vote of four is needed to strike it down.

The law makes abortion illegal in all cases except rape or incest if the mother has been pregnant less than six weeks, or when the pregnancy would be considered a serious physical health threat under reasonable medical judgment. It was signed by former Gov. Doug Burgum in April 2023 just weeks after the Supreme Court struck down a previous abortion ban.

The decision reversed a fall 2024 district court decision that declared the ban unconstitutionally vague and found that women have a right to seek abortions until the point of fetal viability.

The three justices that found the law unconstitutional were Daniel Crothers, Lisa Fair McEvers and Daniel Narum, a district court judge who sat on the case in place of Douglas Bahr, who recused. Chief Justice Jon Jensen and Justice Jerod Tufte found the law constitutional.

Advertisement Advertisement

Citing testimony from doctors, Crothers wrote in the majority opinion that the law is too vague for medical professionals to understand how it works. He said this also means the state will not be able to enforce it fairly.

Tufte in his dissenting opinion wrote that the ban is not unconstitutionally vague. He said that plaintiffs argued their case based on hypotheticals could not point to any situations where the law had harmed North Dakotans because of vagueness.

Tufte also noted that when North Dakota adopted its constitution in 1889, abortion was illegal except when necessary to save the life of the mother. He said if North Dakotans want broader protections to abortion access, they need to amend the constitution.

Ban on gender-affirming care for minors

A North Dakota judge this fall found the states ban on gender-affirming care for minors is constitutional. He found that the state had an interest in passing the law because the science behind gender-affirming care is unsettled and adolescents may not be able to understand the risks.

Advertisement Advertisement

The law makes it a crime to prescribe puberty blockers and hormone therapy to adolescents to treat gender dysphoria.

A group of families with transgender kids and a pediatric endocrinologist filed suit over the ban in 2023, arguing that it infringes on personal autonomy and discriminates on the basis of sex.

Before the case went to trial in January, Lofgren dismissed the transgender teens and their families from the case, finding that they dont have standing to participate in the suit. That left pediatric endocrinologist Luis Casas as the sole plaintiff.

Some of the kids and their parents still testified during the trial about how gender-affirming care had changed their lives for the better. Casas and other medical experts also testified against the ban.

Advertisement Advertisement

Expert witnesses for the state, some of which had their credibility disputed in other lawsuits, said that gender-affirming medication has not been proven safe for minors.

The plaintiffs have not said whether they will appeal the ruling to the North Dakota Supreme Court.

Landowner lawsuit

A district court judge earlier this month sided with a landowner group and ruled that a law related to the underground storage of carbon dioxide is unconstitutional.

The Northwest Landowners Association in 2023 filed a lawsuit against the state of North Dakota and the Industrial Commission, the state agency charged with permitting carbon dioxide storage projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

The law enabled the Industrial Commission to force landowners to allow carbon dioxide to be stored under their property, without their consent, as long as a company secured permission from the owners of at least 60% of the affected land area.

Northeast Judicial District Judge Anthony Swain Benson wrote in his opinion that the law is unconstitutional because it enables a government-authorized taking of property without just compensation determined by a jury. In this case, the property is pore space  cavities in underground rock formations where emissions can be trapped.

The decision could have implications for multiple existing and planned carbon dioxide storage projects in the state, including Summit Carbon Solutions proposed interstate pipeline. Summits project would transport emissions from ethanol plants in five states to North Dakota to be injected into the ground at the intersection of Mercer, Morton and Oliver counties.

North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley said on Dec. 17 the state is considering whether to appeal the ruling to the state Supreme Court. The state and companies that intervened in the case, including Summit, will have 60 days from the date of the judges order to decide whether to appeal. The order has not been issued yet.

Other challenges to state laws

Also in 2025, an appeals court overturned a North Dakota federal courts decision related to redistricting. A federal judge had previously found that the states 2021 redistricting plan unlawfully diluted the power of Native American voters.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, Spirit Lake Nation, and three tribal citizens filed suit over the map in 2022, arguing that the new district lines had caused them to lose representation in the state Legislature.

The tribes officially petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the case in September. The court has not made a decision whether to review the lawsuit.

The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals not only overturned U.S. District Court Judge Peter Weltes decision that sided with the tribes, but it also found that private groups do not have the right to challenge state or local governments over allegedly discriminatory voting practices. The appellate court said only the U.S. Department of Justice can bring such cases.

The tribes say that if the ruling is allowed to stand, it would not only limit their representation in the North Dakota Legislature but be a detriment to racial equality across all seven states in the 8th Circuit.

Advertisement Advertisement

The state of North Dakota says its 2021 map is not discriminatory and supports the 8th Circuits decision. It has argued that allowing private plaintiffs to bring such lawsuits destabilizes state district maps.

In a separate case, a former North Dakota lawmaker recently sued the state in federal court over a law that makes it a crime to lie or make intentionally misleading statements in political ads, arguing it violates the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Brandon Prichard, a former state representative who is partly known for his attacks on incumbent Republican lawmakers, claims in the lawsuit that he and his wife have been subject to multiple unfair investigations under the law. The lawsuit names Attorney General Drew Wrigley, Burleigh County States Attorney Julie Lawyer as well as the North Dakota Ethics Commission and its executive director, Rebecca Binstock, as defendants. The case is still in its early stages. Some of the defendants have filed motions asking the judge to dismiss the suit.

North Dakota Monitor reporter Mary Steurer can be reached at msteurer@northdakotamonitor.com.

North Dakota Monitor reporter Jacob Orledge can be reached at jorledge@northdakotamonitor.com.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The early care and education field has experienced an eventful  sometimes tumultuous  year, placing it repeatedly in the spotlight. While some states such as New Mexico forged bold solutions to child cares rising unaffordability, others responded to federal budget pressures by cutting or freezing their child care programs, or walking back the very regulations meant to keep kids safe. When Head Starts federal grant disbursements were slowed or frozen, the 60-year-old early education program for low-income families suffered a severe, existential threat. Meanwhile, as the sector continues to reel from the staffing shortages and high turnover rates that have haunted child care since the pandemic, heightened immigration enforcement activity is sending chills through the fields workforce, which is nearly 20% foreign born. Through these challenges, some child care providers have found themselves becoming involved with advocacy efforts to bring about change, with some even running for office.

Amid these developments  some amazing research and resources have emerged for the field. As the year comes to a close, zero2eight asked early care and education experts to share what they consider to be the sectors must-read research of 2025. What emerged from their responses were a collection of reports, studies and data tools relevant to a number of urgent themes. These include the sectors ability to respond to current events, new ways of thinking about preschool gains and economic analysis of some of the ongoing challenges facing the early care and education workforce.

Here are some of the themes, studies and resources identified by the fields insiders as essential to moving the sector forward.

1. Timely Research and Resources for Challenging Times

Steeply rising costs, dwindling federal child care funds, and an aggressive federal immigration crackdown have all contributed to a challenging, fast-changing landscape for families and early educators, many of whom are immigrants and reliant on public benefits. The following new research and tools offer timely insights into how such pressures are reshaping families lives and the early care and education sector, with some offering inspiration for how to respond.

Working Paper: Recent Immigration Raids Increased Student Absences

Authors: Thomas S. Dee, economist and the Barnett Family Professor at Stanford Universitys Graduate School of Education

Advertisement Advertisement

Key Takeaway: Immigration raids coincided with a 22% increase in daily student absences, with especially large increases among the youngest students.

This study highlights the fields ability to innovate and be nimble to understand impacts of policy and policy enforcement, said nominator Cristi Carman, director of the RAPID Survey Project at Stanford Center on Early Childhood who studies family well-being. It examines the collateral damage of unexpected immigration raids in Californias Central Valley, documenting a clear pattern in childrens school attendance, said second nominator Philip Fisher, director of the Stanford Center on Early Childhood, adding that ICE raids are associated with increased school absenteeism. According to the working paper, young children are expected to be the most likely to miss school, with students in kindergarten through fifth grade estimated to be far more likely to miss school as a result of immigration raids than high school students.

Report: State Strategies for Sustained Investment in Kids: A Landscape of Dedicated Funding

Authors: Childrens Funding Project staff, including Bruno Showers, state policy manager; Lisa Christensen Gee, director of tax policy; Olivia Allen, vice president of strategy and advocacy; Josh Weinstock, policy analyst (former); and Marina Mendoza, senior manager of early childhood impact

Advertisement Advertisement

Key Takeaway: Facing dwindling federal funds, several states have innovated ways to provide dedicated funding for early care and education and youth programs.

With pandemic-era relief funds running out, states are in desperate need of models for how to continue supporting early care and education, said Erica Phillips, executive director of the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), who nominated this recent report. The report  from Childrens Funding Project, a nonprofit that helps secure sustainable public funding for childrens services  offers exactly that by providing a crucial, very comprehensive overview of how some states are building long-term, dedicated revenue streams for child care, early education and youth programs as federal money runs dry. As the reports authors explain, stable, dedicated funding is critical to thriving programs, letting states and providers to budget more than one year at a time, allowing them to make longer-term investments in quality improvement, facilities, staff education, and other key elements of evidence-based programs and services.

Data Tools: Mapping Diaper Need in the U.S. and The American Affordability Tracker

Authors: The diaper need mapping tool was published as part of a research collaboration between the Urban Institute and the National Diaper Bank Network. The affordability tracker was published by the Urban Institute.

Advertisement Advertisement

Key takeaway: Families are facing mounting economic insecurity

The Urban Institute recently released two innovative data tools for policymakers, advocates and researchers that illuminate the increasing economic precariousness facing too many families, said Carman of the RAPID Survey Project. The interactive tool Mapping Diaper Need in the U.S., produced in partnership with the National Diaper Bank Initiative, shows how many diapers each county across the nation needs to address diaper shortages facing homes with young children that are below 300% of the federal poverty level. The American Affordability Tracker illustrates the rising cost pressures facing families across various indicators, including how the price of groceries has changed in counties and congressional districts in recent years. Being able to see and understand scale and drivers of economic insecurity nationally is very powerful, wrote Carman.

2. New Research Reveals Preschools Overlooked Impacts

The body of early education research about how preschool affects children often measures child outcomes such as kindergarten readiness, standardized test scores or later graduation rates. While those are all important, Christina Weiland, professor at the Marsal School of Education at the University of Michigan and the Ford School of Public Policy, wrote in an email, weve long suspected they arent the full picture of preschools effects. Weiland nominated the following working paper as part of what she considers to be a new wave of research that explores a broader set of outcomes than the field has typically examined, such as parent earnings, accelerated coursework and subsequent schooling environments. Together, these studies suggest benefits of preschool programs that have been largely overlooked, but that are key to fully understanding the potential benefits of early learning investments for children and families, noted Weiland.

Working Paper: Parents Earnings and the Returns to Universal Pre-Kindergarten

Advertisement Advertisement

Authors: John Eric Humphries, faculty research fellow at Yale Universitys Department of Economics; Christopher Neilson, research associate at Yale University; Xiaoyang Ye, Brown University; and Seth D. Zimmerman, research associate at Yale School of Management

Key Takeaway: New Havens universal pre-K (UPK) program raised parents earnings by nearly 22% during pre-kindergarten, with gains persisting for at least six years.

Weiland said that this notable study, published in 2024 and updated in 2025, expands the preschool picture by looking at how UPK might impact parents earnings, and uses that to estimate the programs returns on investment. It found that New Havens UPK program raised parents earnings by nearly 22% during pre-kindergarten, with gains persisting for at least six years, concluding that the returns to UPK investment are high. As one of the first studies looking at earnings data in modern-day pre-K studies, noted Weiland, it offers more evidence that the field is likely underestimating the return on investment early education programs have.

Related

2024 Research Roundup: 3 Must-Read Studies About Early Care and Education

3. Spotlight on the Early Child Care Workforce

Back in the spring, child care economist Chris Herbst spoke with zero2eight about how the COVID pandemic demonstrated how the child care workforce is like a leaf blowing in the wind  sensitive to all kinds of changes in the policy and economic environment because it is is inextricably linked to the larger labor market. Because of this, a new surge of recent research by economists has focused on the workforce, with researchers seeking to understand how early care providers respond to policy and market changes. Nominators pointed toward two such studies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Working Paper: The Effect of the Minimum Wage on Childcare Establishments

Authors: Katharine C. Sadowski, assistant professor at Stanfords Graduate School of Education

Key Takeaway: An increase in minimum wage changes who provides child care

Combining rich data with sensible research designs, this study examines how an increase in the minimum wage could impact child care quality and access, noted nominator Aaron Sojourner, senior economist at W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research.

Author Katharine C. Sadowskis findings suggest that an increase to the minimum wage doesnt lead to a decrease in the number of child care programs or the number of people working in the sector. However, minimum wage policies can influence who provides child care: larger enterprises, such as child care centers, are more likely to open and remain in operation, while smaller, self-employed providers, such as home-based child care programs, are less likely to open or remain in business. Among the smaller establishments that do stay open, the owners are less likely to have advanced degrees, the study found, potentially impacting the quality of child care provided, according to the author. Unfortunately, minimum wage policy is binding and too important for a lot of child care employers and employees due to chronic underinvestment in the sector, wrote Sojourner, adding that this is the first paper hes seen to leverage restricted-use data available through the U.S. Census Research Data Center system to generate insights on the sector.

Study: The Declining Relative Quality of the Child Care Workforce

Advertisement Advertisement

Authors: Chris M. Herbst, foundation professor in Arizona State Universitys School of Public Affairs

Key Takeaway: The education of the early education workforce has dropped over time, possibly due to the sectors low wages

This study found that the education levels and cognitive test scores of the early education workforce have been declining over time, suggesting lower teacher quality, which could have implications for childrens development. The study links this dip in teacher skills to the proliferation of early education programs which might divert future child care workers away from four-year colleges. It also looks at how low wages  which have remained low even as wages for other jobs for similarly-skilled workers have increased  might lead highly qualified individuals to choose other occupations.

This is analogous to what previous research has found in the K-12 workforce, wrote Jessica Brown, assistant professor of economics at University of South Carolina, who nominated the study. It underscores the importance of the discussion of compensation in early childhood education. Brown notes that its a difficult topic for the field to discuss, because no one wants to imply that the current workforce is not high quality. But the reality is that compensation challenges mean that child care is not a very attractive job, and that has implications for the quality of the workforce.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A 27-year-old man is facing two counts of open murder after police said he killed his parents late Saturday night in the east Las Vegas valley.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers were called around 11:30 p.m. after a man called 911 claiming he had just killed someone and wanted to harm himself. Police traced the call to a residence in the 6400 block of New Brunswick Avenue near East Washington Avenue.

The man called again shortly afterward, this time from the area of East Stewart Avenue and North Fogg Street. Officers responded to that location and took 27-year-old Adrian Bailey into custody, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

When officers arrived at the New Brunswick Avenue home, they found an unresponsive man and woman in the living room, both suffering from apparent blunt force trauma, LVMPD said. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was taken to a nearby hospital, where she later died.

Through the course of investigation, it was determined Bailey had struck both victims, identified as his mother and father, with an unknown object before leaving the residence, police said.

It affected me so bad, because you know, Ive known them forever, neighbor Virginia Zimmermen told 8 News Now. I was stunned too. It makes me, you know, want to cry. They told us a long time ago that they were having issues with him.

I couldnt even sleep last night when I heard that, neighbor Javonte Smurfy said. We just experienced a lot of cop cars flying down the street when we came down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Bailey was booked into the Clark County Detention Center on two counts of open murder with a deadly weapon, court records show.

Bailey appeared in court on Monday, where no bail was set for him. He is set to appear in court again on Wednesday.

The identities of the victims, along with the cause and manner of death, will be released by the Clark County coroners office.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at 702-828-3521. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
AAR Aircraft Services, the largest heavy airline maintenance provider in the country, will close its Indianapolis facility at the Indianapolis International Airport, laying off more than 300 workers in the process.

AAR plans to close its facility at 2825 West Perimeter Road by February 2027, and will lay off about 329 employees in phases throughout 2026 and 2027, according to a WARN notice filed by the company to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development on Dec. 22.

The Illinois company headquartered near O'Hare International Airport provides maintenance, supply chain and engineering services to commercial airline and government clients. AAR operates a 367,000-square-foot facility with 10 hangar bays to the west of the commercial terminals at the Indianapolis airport that can fit up to 15 aircraft at a time.

Advertisement Advertisement

One of four repair plants in the United States, the Indianapolis location is the company's largest airframe facility in the country. AAR has leased space at the airport since 2004 and is currently the largest tenant in the Indianapolis Maintenance Center operated by the Indianapolis Airport Authority. The two entities signed a two-year lease extension in February 2025.

AAR plans to begin layoffs on Feb. 15, 2026, and will continue separations through Feb. 28, 2027. All employees will be given 60 days notice prior to their separation date.

Under the Workers Adjustment and Retraining Act, employers must provide at least 60 days notice when closing a facility or undertaking mass layoffs. Companies are not required to give a reason for layoffs in the disclosure.

AAR Aircraft Services did not immediately respond to an IndyStar request for more information on Dec. 29.

Advertisement Advertisement

In November, AAR acquired HAECO Americas, the second largest heavy maintenance provider in North America, for $78 million, expanding the company's dominance in the industry. With the acquisition, AAR took over two maintenance facilities, one in North Carolina and one in Florida.

The Indianapolis plant closure is expected to be permanent, AAR said.

Alysa Guffey writes business, health and development stories for IndyStar. Have a story tip? Contact her at amguffey@usatodayco.com or on X: @AlysaGuffeyNews.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: AAR closes facility at Indianapolis International Airport lays off 300
An urgent search is underway for a woman who Philadelphia police say has gone missing.

Donna Moonah, 49, was last seen on Christmas Eve getting off a train on SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line at 60th and Market streets.

Police are calling her an endangered missing person.

Moonah was wearing a black jacket, blue jeans, black shoes, and a black hat the day she disappeared.

Her family is offering a $5,000 reward for her safe return.

Police are urging anyone who might know where she is to give them a call.


An Afghan man is to be remanded in custody after he was arrested in Denmark earlier this year on suspicion of plotting attacks on Jews in Germany, the German Federal Court of Justice ruled on Monday.

The suspect was detained on November 5 in the Danish city of Aarhus at the request of German prosecutors and transferred to Germany on Sunday, the country's top prosecutor said in a statement.

He is suspected of being an accomplice of a Danish national with Afghan roots, who is accused of spying on Jewish individuals and institutions in Germany on behalf of Iranian intelligence.

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect is believed to have promised the Danish man to provide a weapon to an unknown third party and to ask them to carry out an attack on Jewish targets in Germany.

The Danish national was arrested in Aarhus in June on suspicion of spying on Jewish individuals and institutions in Berlin on behalf of Iranian intelligence, potentially to help carry out attacks.

The then 53-year-old man was later extradited to Germany where he is also being held in pre-trial detention.

He is believed to have been working for the Quds Force, the foreign operations unit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which is tasked with covert missions abroad.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has said the suspected spy had been trying to hire others to carry out arson attacks.

Iran has rejected the accusations.
Aflac has confirmed that a data breach disclosed in June 2025 impacted the personal information of approximately 22.65 million individuals, including Social Security numbers, insurance claims, and health information.

The insurance company said in a press release, that it detected suspicious activity on its network in June, prompting an immediate response that involved notifying federal law enforcement and securing systems.

Aflac reported that the security incident was contained within hours and no ransomware affected its operations. Additionally, the company has stated it is not aware of any fraudulent use of the personal information obtained during the breach.

Advertisement Advertisement

As part of its response, Aflac has begun notifying all individuals whose personal information may have been affected. This includes customers, beneficiaries, employees, agents and other related individuals.

To support those impacted, Aflac is offering free credit monitoring, identity theft protection and Medical Shield services for 24 months.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
China's military is conducting massive war games all around Taiwan.

The exercise includes current capabilities like drones, fighter jets, warships, and long-range fires.

China also offered an AI-made glimpse at the future warfare weapons it wants.

Beijing is calling its massive war games around Taiwan this week a stern warning; however, they are also practice, offering insight into how China is thinking about a war for the island.

The big military exercise, "Justice Mission-2025," that kicked off Monday is the latest large-scale Chinese drill aimed at preparing the People's Liberation Army for action such as bringing combined arms to bear against Taiwan, seizing control of the skies, isolating and assaulting the island, and combating foreign interference.

Advertisement Advertisement

China mobilized its army, navy, air, and rocket forces for drills around Taiwan with a focus on combat readiness in the sea and air, blocking off key ports and areas, and what it said was "all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain."

A Chinese J-16 fighter jet flying as part of the exercise. Taiwan's Ministry of Defense/Anadolu via Getty Images

On the southeast side of the island, China's military has been using bombers and anti-ship missiles against mock maritime targets, clearing the way for the navy's amphibious assault ships. The exercises, China's Eastern Theater Command said, are testing how well air and naval forces operate together. There was also an emphasis on eliminating targets at "maximum range," key to cutting risk and keeping hostile forces at arm's length.

To the north and southwest of Taiwan, the Chinese military's destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers, and drones, together with the long-range rocket forces, have been practicing coordinated seizure and dominance, pursuing training targets on land, at sea, and in the air, the way it might in a real fight.

In recent years, China has put greater emphasis on more realistic training.

An Eastern Theater Command poster showing arrows raining down around Taiwan. It reads "Arrow of Justice. Internal control, external denial." Chinese military

In the air, Chinese fighters, airborne early warning aircraft, and electronic warfare planes have been training to effectively secure air superiority, while action at sea has been focused on defeating both surface ships and submarines.

Advertisement Advertisement

"With vessels and aircraft approaching Taiwan island in close proximity from different directions," a command spokesperson said, "troops of multiple services engage in joint assaults to test their joint operations capabilities."

Video shared by the Eastern Theater Command showed preparations for the drills, including trucks carrying missiles, fighter jets and other aircraft, and warship activity.

  China holds large-scale combat exercises east of Taiwan



The drills held by the People's Liberation Armys Eastern Theater Command were aimed at testing joint seaair coordination, precise target detection, and rapid neutralization capabilities. pic.twitter.com/2veIz926ZJ  Sputnik (@SputnikInt) December 29, 2025

The training isn't entirely simulated and includes live-fire activities against mock targets. The live-fire exercises will take place in five maritime and airspace zones around Taiwan.

China's coast guard is also on patrol in the waters surrounding Taiwan. The island's defense ministry said on Monday afternoon that it had detected 14 Chinese navy warships and 14 coast guard vessels around Taiwan and outlying islands. Additionally, 89 aircraft, including J-10 and J-16 fighters, JH-7 fighter-bombers, and KJ-500 early warning and control planes, had been detected around Taiwan as well. None of the ships or planes violated Taiwan's territorial airspace or waters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Taiwan's defense ministry said that the island has been conducting its own rapid response drills amid the Chinese exercise.

The drills show how China's military plans to use its current forces in a coordinated attack, but in official releases, there were also indications about its future ambitions. On Monday, China released an artificial intelligence-made short video on a Taiwan fight.

The video showed various animals, like eagles and bees, transforming into uncrewed aerial vehicles, sea creatures becoming warships, and wolves turning into uncrewed ground robots. The AI-generated video, titled "Joint Operations to Thwart 'Taiwan Independence' Attempts," also featured a pack of humanoid drones carrying rifles and walking through a war-torn city.

 PLA Eastern Theater Command releases AI propaganda video (Joint Operations to Thwart Taiwan Independence Attempts) https://t.co/gKUa2CanWJ pic.twitter.com/l0fUHtVVVp  Byron Wan (@Byron_Wan) December 29, 2025

The propaganda video, despite its artistic styling and the featuring of some technology not currently known to exist, suggests China is aiming for an integrated approach using a range of uncrewed systems and advanced capabilities, like submarines and warships and aircraft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Combining assets has been an important part of the latest military drills. Effectively integrating wide-ranging combat capabilities for combined arms warfare is a challenging feat though.

Read the original article on Business Insider
KHARTOUM, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's Ministry of Minerals said on Sunday the country's gold production for 2025 reached 70 tons, 13 percent higher than the target.

The Sudanese Mineral Resources Company, an affiliate of the ministry, said in a statement the mining sector brought about 1.087 trillion Sudanese pounds (about 1.8 billion U.S. dollars) in public revenues this year.

Minister of Minerals Nour Al-Daem Taha called for doubled efforts in 2026 and directed that new national projects be included in the mining sector's development plan.

Sudan relies primarily on gold exports to obtain foreign currency. Its gold production had peaked between 2017 and 2022. In 2022, gold was the country's top non-oil export, accounting for 46.3 percent of total non-oil exports, with a value of 2.02 billion dollars out of total exports of 4.357 billion dollars, according to statistics from the Central Bank of Sudan. Yet the gold production declined to only two tons after five months of war in 2023, followed by a surge to 64 tons in 2024.

Sudan has been engulfed in a deadly conflict since mid-April 2023 when fighting broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, leaving tens of thousands dead and millions displaced within the country and across its borders. 
By Abhirup Roy

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec 27 (Reuters) - A widespread power outage in San Francisco that led to Waymo robotaxis stalling and snarling traffic earlier this month has raised concerns about the readiness of autonomous vehicle operators to tackle major emergencies like earthquakes and floods.

Driverless taxis from Alphabet unit Waymo, a ubiquitous feature on the city's streets, were stuck at intersections with their hazard lights turned on as traffic lights stopped working following a fire at a PG&E substation that knocked out power to roughly one-third of the city on December 20, videos posted on social media showed. Waymo halted operations, resuming a day later.

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident has renewed calls for stricter regulation of the nascent but fast-growing industry as other companies including Tesla and Amazon's Zoox race to expand robotaxi services in several cities.

"If you get a response to a blackout wrong, regulators are derelict if they do not respond to that by requiring some sort of proof that the earthquake scenario will be handled properly," said Philip Koopman, a Carnegie Mellon University computer-engineering professor and autonomous-technology expert.

In a statement on Tuesday, Waymo said that while its robotaxis are designed to handle non-operational traffic signals as four-way stops, they occasionally request a confirmation check. Though the vehicles successfully traversed more than 7,000 darkened signals on Saturday, "the outage created a concentrated spike" in confirmation requests that "led to response delays contributing to congestion on already-overwhelmed streets," Waymo said.

Robotaxi operators around the globe use remote access by humans - known in the industry as "teleoperation" - in varying degrees to monitor and control vehicles. Waymo, for example, has a team of human "fleet response" agents who respond to questions from the Waymo Driver, its bot, when it encounters a particular situation.

Advertisement Advertisement

But such remote assistance has its limitations, and the Waymo outage highlights the need to regulate how robotaxi operators use the technology, said Missy Cummings, director of the George Mason University Autonomy and Robotics Center and former adviser to the U.S. road safety regulator.

"The whole point of having remote operations is for humans to be there when the system is not responsive in the way it should be," she said. "The federal government needs to regulate remote operations," Cummings said. "They need to make sure that there's backup remote operations when there's some kind of catastrophic failure."

California's Department of Motor Vehicles and the California Public Utilities Commission, which regulate and issue permits for the testing and commercial deployment of robotaxis, have said they are looking into the incident.

The DMV said it was talking to Waymo and other autonomous vehicle makers about actions related to emergency response. It also said it was formulating regulations to ensure remote drivers "meet high standards for safety, accountability and responsiveness."

Advertisement Advertisement

'A SHOT ACROSS THE BOW'

Deploying and commercializing fully autonomous vehicles have been harder than expected with high investments to ensure the technology is safe and public outcry after collisions forcing many to shut shop.

Following a high-profile accident in 2023 when a robotaxi from General Motors' Cruise dragged a pedestrian, regulators revoked its permit, eventually leading the company to cease operations.

But robotaxis have returned to the spotlight with Tesla rolling out its service in Austin, Texas earlier this year and CEO Elon Musk promising rapid expansion. Waymo, which has grown slowly and steadily over the years since its launch as Google's self-driving project in 2009, has also accelerated expansion.

Advertisement Advertisement

With a fleet of more than 2,500 vehicles, Waymo operates in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Metro Phoenix, Austin and Atlanta.

The company said the confirmation processes its vehicles follow were established during early deployment and that it was now refining them to match its current scale. Waymo is implementing fleet-wide updates that provide vehicles with "specific power outage context, allowing it to navigate more decisively."

Both Cummings and Koopman said robotaxi operators should face additional permitting requirements once their fleets grow beyond a certain size to ensure that they have adequate capabilities to deal with large-scale failures.

"If this had been an earthquake, it would have been a problem," Koopman said. "This is just a shot across the bow."

(Reporting by Abhirup Roy in San Francisco; Editing by Sayantani Ghosh and Alistair Bell)
A multimillion-dollar beach renourishment project in North Naples has gone on break for the holidays.

The project, started in late November, is adding tons of sand to the Vanderbilt and Pelican Bay beaches.

While it's nearly complete, work has temporarily stopped for the Christmas and New Years holidays. It will restart on Jan. 5.

The project is replacing the sand washed away by recent hurricanes (Milton, Helene and Debby).

Advertisement Advertisement

On Vanderbilt Beach, work from Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park to Vanderbilt Beach Road, is complete, as is the work on Pelican Bay Beach from the north pavilion to the Brighton condominium development.

When work resumes, crews will finish adding sand on Vanderbilt Beach from the Brighton to Vanderbilt Beach Road. That work is expected to be completed by late January.

So far, the county reports 168,000 tons of sand has been sourced from Stewart Materials in Immokalee, delivered by the truckload and spread across the eroded beaches.

The last part of the project will require another 48 tons of sand.

Advertisement Advertisement

The cost to renourish both beaches is about $7.5 million.

Clean up crews work to clear sand and debris around Vanderbilt Beach and Gulf Shore Drive in Naples after Hurricane Milton on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024.

Since Vanderbilt Beach is a public beach, the county has tapped $5.5 million in Tourist Development Tax funding for its renourishment. A percentage of Collier County's 5% tourist tax, charged on hotel and other short-term stays, is set aside for the purpose of rebuilding the county's public beaches, especially after major hurricanes.

Pelican Bay Beach is not a public beach, so its renourishment is being funded by the Pelican Bay Services Division. The division provides municipal services exclusively to the Pelican Bay community, operating as a department of the county, funded by special assessments on its residents' annual property tax bills.

While the project is on a break, the beach turnaround at the end of Vanderbilt Beach Road will remain closed to traffic until all of the work is completed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Fencing around the heavy equipment and other construction-related equipment and supplies will remain up through the duration of the project.

This beachy Christmas tree is decorated with sand dollars that Mary Carey says she gathered over the years while vacationing at Vanderbilt Beach. Also hanging from the tree are starfish, many handcrafted and painted shells from craft shows and gold ornaments "for accent."

When the work resumes, operations will run six days a week, Monday through Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Dickerson Infrastructure Inc., based in Fort Pierce on Florida's east coast, won the contract to haul sand and place it on both the Vanderbilt and Pelican Bay beaches.

Laura Layden is a business and government reporter. Reach her by email at laura.layden@naplesnews.com.

Please support local community journalism and stay informed about Southwest Florida news by subscribing to The News-Press and Naples Daily News; download the free News-Press or Naples Daily News app, and sign up for daily briefing email newsletter, food & dining and growth & development newsletters here and here.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Beach renourishment nearing completion in North Naples
San Jose police spent Saturday canvassing outside of a well-known neighborhood bakery, searching for the suspect in a recent assault.

Peter's Bakery, located in the city's Alum Rock neighborhood, recently released surveillance video from the incident that happened about 10 days ago.

According to the owner, a man walked in, attempted to sell wipes, then became aggressive and damaged equipment inside the shop.

Advertisement Advertisement

The video also shows a customer, who was recording the encounter, being shoved to the ground.

MORE: Knife-wielding thieves target beloved SJ bakery; surveillance footage details attack

"That's scary, definitely. I won't feel comfortable, particularly my employees, my customers. We like to feel comfortable coming here, working here and shopping here. It's very scary," said Srikandh Nandamuri, owner of neighboring business City Care Pharmacy.

The suspect has not been found. Peter's Bakery is asking anyone with information to contact the San Jose Police Department.

The bakery said it has accrued over $2,000 in damages.

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live
On Friday, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt) praised New Mexico's move to offer universal free child care, calling it a high-impact investment and urging other states to replicate the model.

Sanders Highlights New Mexico As A National Model

Sanders said the U.S. can learn from New Mexico, which last month became the first state to guarantee free child care to all residents, regardless of income.

In a post on X, Sanders described the state's approach as a blueprint for fixing what he called the nation's "broken" child care system.

Don't Miss:

Advertisement Advertisement

"There is no better rate of return than investing in our children," Sanders wrote, arguing that expanding access to child care strengthens families, improves education outcomes, and boosts long-term economic growth.

He added that other states should follow New Mexico's lead.

Our broken child care system can learn a lot from New Mexico  the state that is leading the way in guaranteeing free child care for all.



There is no better rate of return than investing in our children.



The rest of the country should follow New Mexico's lead. pic.twitter.com/u6kuJ59lRx  Sen. Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) December 26, 2025

Trending: Americans With a Financial Plan Can 4X Their Wealth  Get Your Personalized Plan from a CFP Pro

How New Mexico's Free Child Care Program Works

New Mexico officially launched the program in November, according to an NBC News report shared by Sanders.

Under the initiative, families can receive state-funded vouchers that fully cover child care costs at participating public and private providers, with no income cap.

Advertisement Advertisement

The program builds on years of policy efforts after the state created the Early Childhood Education and Care Department in 2019.

Nearly 18% of New Mexico residents live below the poverty line, according to U.S. Census data, making it one of the poorest states in the country.

See Also: Buffett's Secret to Wealth? Private Real EstateGet Institutional Access Yourself

Other States Explore Similar Child Care Reforms

New Mexico's move comes as other Democratic-led states and cities consider expanding child care access.

Connecticut recently passed legislation making child care free for families earning under $100,000 annually, while capping costs at 7% of income for higher earners.

Advertisement Advertisement

In New York City, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has proposed a no-cost universal child care program.

Read Next: Wall Street's $12B Real Estate Manager Is Opening Its Doors to Individual Investors  Without the Crowdfunding Middlemen

Image via Shutterstock

Up Next: Transform your trading with Benzinga Edge's one-of-a-kind market trade ideas and tools. Click now to access unique insights that can set you ahead in today's competitive market.

Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga:

This article Bernie Sanders Touts New Mexico's Child Care Program As Blueprint for Fixing America's 'Broken' System: 'No Better Rate Of Return' originally appeared on Benzinga.com
Some aircraft rewrite history with every takeoff. From World War II dogfights over Europe to modern stealth missions, these legendary warbirds altered combat tactics and influenced diplomatic outcomes. If you built model kits in your bedroom as a kid or cheered at classic airshow performances, you know the lasting magic of these flying icons. Their names still echo through museum hangars and movie soundtracks decades later.

This list pays tribute to machines that changed the rules of engagement and helped steer the course of history. Buckle up, grab your aviator shades, and prepare for a nostalgia-filled flight through aviation milestones. Well revisit the planes that soared into legend and never left our imaginations.

North American P-51 Mustang

Image Credit: AFHRA - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Introduced in 1942, the P-51 Mustang redefined long-range fighter escort with its impressive speed and agility. Allied bomber crews felt safer knowing these sleek fighters flew deep into enemy territory. Bomber crews affectionately nicknamed their escort fighters Little Friends after seeing Mustangs swoop in for protection, and that nickname stuck, as Mustang units claimed roughly 4,950 enemy aircraft destroyed during World War II.

Advertisement Advertisement

Test pilot Chuck Yeager later flew a Mustang before breaking the sound barrier, proving this plane knew how to grab the headlines.

Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress

Image Credit: Julian Herzog, CC BY 4.0/WikiCommons.

From 1938 onward, the B-17 Flying Fortress became one of the primary bombers used in Americas daylight bombing raids over Europe, alongside the B-24 Liberator. Rugged construction and multiple gun turrets gave crews confidence they could absorb heavy flak and still bring their bomber home. Hollywood immortalized its bravery in films like Memphis Belle, turning every engine roar into a symbol of resilience.

If you ever visited an air museum as a kid and craned your neck to see its tapered wings, you understand why the B-17 inspires awe even now.

Boeing B-29 Superfortress

Image Credit: USAF - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Entering service in 1944, the B-29 Superfortress introduced pressurized cabins and remote-controlled gun turrets that seemed straight out of a science fiction novel. Its most infamous mission came in August 1945, when two of these bombers changed the world with atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Beyond its power, the B-29s sleek fuselage and advanced high-altitude design sparked childhood dreams of piloting high-altitude giants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Modern pilots and historians alike still marvel at how this plane combined innovation with raw impact.

Messerschmitt Me 262

Image Credit: Noop1958 - Own work/Wiki Commons.

Introduced by Germany in 1944, the Me 262 became the planets first operational jet fighter and looked like something from a futuristic comic book. According to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, top speeds exceeding 500 miles per hour allowed it to outrun piston-engined adversaries in a blink. Fragile engines and risky takeoff routines gave Allied pilots targets at the runway, turning the jets strengths into weaknesses.

Despite a short combat career, the Me 262 accelerated the jet age design and inspired postwar aeronautical breakthroughs.

Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15

Image Credit: slezo - CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

Debuting in 1949, the MiG-15 shocked the West during dramatic dogfights over MiG Alley in Korea. Its swept-wing design and heavy cannon armamenttypically two 23 mm cannons and a 37 mm cannon, packed a punch that made Western pilots rethink aerial tactics. Posters of shark-tooth-painted MiGs showed up in teenage rooms and Cold War novels, turning them into an emblem of Soviet air power.

Advertisement Advertisement

Epic clashes between the F-86 Sabre and its opponents became legendary showdowns that still fuel model-kit rivalries today.

North American F-86 Sabre

Image Credit: U.S. Air Force - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Entering U.S. Air Force service in 1949, the F-86 Sabre introduced radar-ranging gunsights on later production variants that helped U.S. pilots hunt down MiGs with newfound precision. Its graceful lines and swept wings turned it into an icon of the jet age, inspiring countless model kits still prized by collectors. Veterans often recall the thrill of pushing the Sabre into the transonic and supersonic range, often during high-speed dives.

The jets legacy lives on at air shows, where every graceful loop prompts cheers from crowds who remember the eras exhilaration.

McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II

Image Credit: USAF - holloman.af.mil, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Entering service in 1961, the F-4 Phantom II became the all-purpose jet for Navy, Air Force, and Marine pilots alike. Capable of exceeding Mach 2 and hauling a massive weapons load, it earned its stripes over Vietnam and later conflicts.

Advertisement Advertisement

In pop culture, the Phantom pops up in Top Gun novels and flight-sim games, reminding fans that versatility can outshine speed alone. Pilots often boast that flying a Phantom felt like taming a steel thunderbolt.

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird

Image Credit: NASA - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Introduced in 1966, the SR-71 Blackbird redefined reconnaissance by flying above 85,000 feet at speeds over Mach 3. Outrunning surface-to-air missiles became routine, earning it the nickname Habu among its crews. The Blackbirds sleek, futuristic shape makes it one of the most photographed planes in history and a frequent star of documentaries and car commercials

. Even today, aviation enthusiasts dream about what it would be like to peer through its tiny cockpit windows as clouds rush by.

Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II

Image Credit: Khoshhat, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

First flying in 1972, the A-10 Thunderbolt II earned its "Warthog" nickname thanks to a blunt nose, straight-wing design, and sturdy landing gear that shrug off battle damage. It carries the massive GAU-8 Avenger cannon, a 30 mm rotary beast whose thunderous crack troops describe as freedom on full throttle. Pilots say the cockpit feels more like a tank turret in the sky, complete with armor plating for extra protection.

Advertisement Advertisement

Its ongoing service record reflects a fan club of ground forces who trust the A-10 for close air support.

Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk

Image Credit: Aaron Allmon II - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

First flown in 1981, the F-117 Nighthawk introduced stealth tactics that left radar operators scratching their heads. During Desert Storm missions, it delivered precision strikes while flying under the radar, earning a reputation as a ghost in the night sky.

Even after retirement in 2008, Nighthawk appearances at air shows feel like secret handshakes among aviation fans. Its faceted shape paved the way for every stealth jet that followed.

Boeing B-52 Stratofortress

Image Credit: Tech. Sgt. Robert J. Horstman - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Taking flight in 1952, the B-52 Stratofortress has outlasted every subsequent generation of bombers. Its massive wingspan and eight jet engines create an unmistakable silhouette still seen buzzing bases worldwide.

Advertisement Advertisement

This bomber carried conventional and nuclear ordnance from Vietnam to Afghanistan, earning its place as a symbol of long-range power. When it rumbles overhead, crowds remember the stories their parents told about that unforgettable sky-shaking roar.

Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II

Image Credit: MSgt John Nimmo Sr. - Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Debuting in 2006, the F-35 Lightning II introduced sensor fusion that puts a cockpit full of data at pilots fingertips. Stealth capabilities, combined with supersonic speeds, enable the aircraft to handle air combat, ground strikes, and intelligence gathering all in one.

Critics debate cost overruns, but few dispute its futuristic systems that rival anything in sci-fi novels. Veterans joke that if the Avengers need an extra ride, the F-35 is ready on the tarmac.

From Dogfights to Diplomacy

Image Credit: Airwolfhound - CC BY-SA 2.0/Wiki Commons.

These aircraft soared beyond combat roles and shaped the world down below. From piston-engine legends of World War II to modern stealth marvels, each plane influenced battle plans and peace negotiations. Museum volunteers still call out their names at the gates, and model builders continue perfecting every wingtip and rivet.

Whether you recall the thunder of P-51 Mustangs or the near-silent glide of the F-117, these warbirds connect us across generations. In every engine roar and display day lineup, there lies a story of courage, innovation, and nostalgia. Perhaps the best aircraft is the one that first made you look skyward and inspired your dreams.
Shoppers in Germany rushed stores that opened at midnight to buy their supplies of fireworks for New Year's Eve, which can make some German cities sound like a war zone during turn-of-the-year celebrations.

In Meppen in Lower Saxony's Emsland region, not far from the Dutch border, a long queue formed in front of a shop that opened early Monday. People with shopping trolleys could be seen waiting in the cold for the doors to open.

In the port city of Bremerhaven, many people waited overnight in front of a fireworks manufacturer that started selling on Monday morning. Many came in groups and passed the time with games and music.

Advertisement Advertisement

There was also a rush in Hamburg, as more than 100 people queued to get their supplied.

"At 5:30 am [0430 GMT] we had a queue of 100 to 130 people, and it's not getting any shorter, but rather getting longer," fireworks dealer and pyrotechnist Oliver Graetzer told dpa. Graetzer has around 250 items on offer.

German law allows pyrotechnics for New Year's Eve to be sold nationwide starting at midnight on Sunday. Online shops are also allowed to deliver pre-ordered fireworks to customers' doorsteps on the last three working days of the year.

The Association of the Pyrotechnic Industry (VPI) expects 10% to 15% more goods to be sold than last year. According to its own figures, the industry recorded sales of 197 million ($232 million) in 2024, compared to 180 million in 2023.

Discussions about a fireworks ban

In Meppen, a young man sitting outside a shop early Monday morning said his budget for fireworks was 500 to 600. He expects many customers to come from the Netherlands, where a ban on fireworks for private individuals will come into force on January 1 after an increase in violence in recent years.

Advertisement Advertisement

There are also discussions in Germany about a ban, and the Berlin fire brigade has called for restrictions on the sale of fireworks.

"We welcome any kind of regulation," fire brigade spokesman Vinzenz Kasch told public broadcaster RBB's Inforadio. He recommended that restrictions start with limiting sales "because the problem is the irresponsible use of New Year's Eve fireworks."
Fathers and adopting parents working in Oklahoma's public schools may soon qualify for benefits reserved for mothers on paid maternity leave.

Through the Oklahoma State Legislature, Rep. Emily Gise and Sen. Mark Mann are working to pass a series of three bills that would expand paid parental leave for full-time public school employees from six to 12 weeks and ensure fathers and adopting parents are covered by that benefit.

"We need to make sure we're retaining our top talent because good teachers matter in our classrooms," Gise, a Republican from Oklahoma City, told The Oklahoman. "I think that maternity leave, paternity leave and leave for adoption are absolutely crucial."

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Democrats are sweeping key races. What does that mean in deep-red Oklahoma?

Gise and Mann, a Democrat from Oklahoma City, are also working to pass a bill that would require school districts to grant employees paid bereavement leave following the death of a spouse or child, including after a miscarriage.

The bipartisan push to expand paid leave reflects that supporting families and teachers is not a partisan issue, Gise said. Children, civility and dignity are values that cross party lines, she added. Gise and Mann have found success in the past on the issue and successfully carried a bill last session that allows teachers to extend their maternity leave by using annual accrued leave.

The state Legislature will reconvene to consider legislation Feb. 2.

'Building a family looks different': Law would expand maternity leave to adopting parents

Senate Bills 1201 and 1203 would double the amount of paid maternity leave for full-time public school district employees and expand those benefits to adopting parents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Gise said she believes adoption deserves the same support as birth, adding, "Building a family looks different these days."

Rep. Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City, co-authored legislation that would extend benefits reserved for mothers on paid maternity leave to fathers and adopting parents working in Oklahoma's public schools.

In Oklahoma, there's no shortage of kids waiting for a home. In 2023, 2,784 children in the state were waiting to be adopted, ranking 8th in the nation, according to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. That's more than the number of children in bordering states like Texas, Kansas, Missouri and Colorado.

More: Study finds big gaps in OKC mental health care and rising youth distress

"If someone has the heart to adopt, we certainly want to support them," Gise said. "Adoptive parents, I mean, they face real transitions and they need time to work through that. It might mean trauma-informed care. It might mean extra time to bond with with their new child, and I I think our policy should reflect that."

'Dads matter': Law seeks to create paternity leave for school employees

In tandem with SB 1201 and 1203, SB 1202 would create paid paternity leave following the birth of a public school employee's child. The measure would rename the Public School Paid Maternity Leave Revolving Fund to the Public School Paid Maternity, Paternity and Adoption Leave Revolving Fund.

Advertisement Advertisement

Gise said the bill recognizes that dads matter and active fatherhood in the home increases success for children. She said the bill would also create more support for mothers.

"This is about shared responsibility and stronger homes," Gise said. "We've seen the impact that fathers in the home has. Paternity leave and the time to bond with their baby certainly matters."

Bill would create bereavement leave for school employees after miscarriage

Senate Bill 1204 would grant a teacher or support personnel employee three days of paid bereavement leave following the death of a spouse or child. The bill states that bereavement leave following a miscarriage is to be in addition to and not in lieu of sick leave.

As a pro-life and pro-family lawmaker, Gise said bereavement leave is important to her, adding that she believes someone who loses a child should be cared for.

Advertisement Advertisement

"When someone's going through a grieving situation and we're requiring them to come in and teach and not take the time that they need, I don't think that's really showing that we're pro-life or family," Gise said.

Gov. Kevin Stitt to consider family-focused bills in final session

If the bills authored by Gise and Mann pass the House and Senate floor, Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt will consider their legislation during his final session as the state's top elected official before his term expires.

Sen. Mark Mann, D-Oklahoma City, co-authored legislation that would extend benefits reserved for mothers on paid maternity leave to fathers and adopting parents working in Oklahoma's public schools may soon qualify for benefits reserved for mothers on paid maternity leave.

Stitt has called for more emphasis on Oklahoma families, specifically on making sure fathers are in their children's lives.

"The health of our nation comes directly from having strong fathers in the home," Stitt said during his seventh State of the State speech in February. "Thats why I have put such an emphasis on fatherhood programs in my time in office. But this isnt a policy idea or a funding request. Its a request for each for us in this room to take the responsibility to lead our families well."

Advertisement Advertisement

Gise said she hopes she and Mann are able to move the needle forward and get their bills to the governor's desk.

In May, Stitt signed another bill from Gise and Mann that allows teachers who have a baby to extend their maternity leave by using annual accrued leave.

House Bill 1601 allows teachers to use up to six weeks of accrued sick leave after exhausting their six-week maternity leave without permission from a school district.

"It baffles me that I even had to run a bill on that," Gise said. "I consider sick leave part of your earned compensation package."

She said expanding support for teachers is a desire among not only her constituents, but also her family. She said she has two sisters who are teachers, and she often hears what their everyday life is like for educators.

Advertisement Advertisement

"Oklahoma's at a really critical point right now, and it's a very tough job," Gise said. "It's something that's really commendable. That's why I don't even call it a job. I call it a calling."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Bipartisan push in Oklahoma could expand parental leave for teachers
Family members have confirmed that the body recovered on the north side of Monterey Bay, California, is that of a 55-year-old triathlete, Erica Fox.

Foxs body was pulled from the ocean just south of Davenport Beach around 2 pm on Saturday, according to KRON.

Her father also confirmed that it was her body in an interview with NBC San Francisco.

In a report, The San Jose Mercury News confirmed that Fox was the victim of a shark attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

On Sunday, Fox was reported missing. She was last seen at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove near the bay's south side. There are approximately 30 miles between Lovers Point and Davenport, where the body was recovered on Saturday.

Authorities in Santa Cruz found a body in the water near Monterey Bay a week after a swimmer went missing in a suspected shark attack off a nearby beach (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Due to the close proximity to the recent shark attack victim in Monterey County, our agency is working closely with the Monterey County Sheriffs Office and the Pacific Grove Police Department regarding the recovery, the sheriff's office said. The investigation remains ongoing.

Fox, in a 2022 interview with The Independent said she felt comfortable in the water, but also understood its dangers.

Fox said at the time that shark encounters reported in Pacific Grove hadnt stopped her or her fellow swimmers from spending time in the water. She said shed never encountered a shark herself, but understood and respected that the ocean was foreign territory for humans.

Advertisement Advertisement

As soon as you dive in the water, youre immediately in a foreign land. We are the ocean ecologys humbled guests, she told The Independent.

She added that she felt more vulnerable riding my bike than being in the water.

Two Monterey beaches were closed on Sunday "as a precautionary measure due to unconfirmed shark incident at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove," according to a City of Monterey social media post.

A pair of witnesses reportedly told authorities that they believe that Fox may have encountered a shark on the day she disappeared, according to the San Luis Obispo Tribune.

It has not been confirmed that Fox was involved in a shark attack, nor has it been confirmed that the body found in the water is connected to a shark attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Chris Lowe, the director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach, told the Santa Cruz Sentinel that the coastline near Lovers Point attracts sea lions and seals, which are primary prey animals for white sharks.

Sharks migrate from the more bottomless ocean to the coast in October to feed and typically remain in the area until January.

They will hunt and they will patrol off these areas where these animals congregate, Lowe told the outlet.

Despite their presence, shark bites remain extremely rare.

Since 1950, there have been 16 people killed by sharks in California, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. All cases were confirmed as white sharks, except for one incident in which the species was not confirmed.

Advertisement Advertisement

In the Monterey area, there have been 13 shark bite incidents since 1950. Most of the victims were divers or surfers. Only two swimmers have been attacked by sharks since 1950.

Rescue workers launched an 84-square-nautical-mile search of the area where Fox disappeared. Still, that search was suspended after 15 hours, according to a joint statement from the Monterey Fire Department, Pacific Grove Police Department, Monterey County Sheriff's Office, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
California firefighters have found the body of a California triathlete on a beach north-west of Santa Cruz, almost a week after she went missing amid speculation that she was killed by a shark.

The remains of Erica Fox were found on Saturday, her father and husband confirmed to local news outlets. Fox, 55, was part of a group of more than a dozen swimmers who left from Lovers Point near Monterey, California, on 21 December, but she never returned to shore. A witness driving by the area reported to authorities that they saw a shark with what appeared to be a human body in its mouth emerge from the water, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

The disappearance and reports of the shark drew widespread public attention and efforts from authorities to locate Fox. On Sunday, Foxs husband, Jean-Francois Vanreusel, and other members of her swim club held a memorial walk along the Lovers Point coastline. Foxs father, who confirmed the death to NBC Bay Area, described his daughter as an empathetic and kind person who loved to swim, and who had taken part in numerous triathlons including the annual Escape From Alcatraz challenge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities last week launched a large-scale search and rescue operation involving multiple US Coast Guard boat crews along with responders from local fire and police departments to look for Fox. The Coast Guard suspended its search last Monday for Fox after a 15-hour operation covering about 84 nautical miles.

California firefighters announced on Saturday that they had recovered a body on Davenport beach, just north of Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz county sheriffs office issued a statement the same day, citing an ongoing investigation into the death.

Today, at approximately 2:00 pm, a body was recovered from the ocean south of Davenport Beach. Due to the close proximity to the recent shark attack victim in Monterey County, our agency is working closely with the Monterey County Sheriffs Office and the Pacific Grove Police Department regarding the recovery, the Santa Cruz county sheriffs office said.

Editor and fellow swimmer Sara Rubin, writing in Monterey County Weekly, described Fox as a friend and passionate athlete who found peace in the Pacific Ocean.

Advertisement Advertisement

Twenty years ago, Erica Fox and a friend started swimming every Sunday at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove. Since then, multiple books have been written about the science of swimming and what it does for our brains. But Erica never needed a book to tell her what she knew through experience: Swimming in the ocean is a balm for body and mind, an adventure as much as a meditation. Rubin wrote. She developed a deeply intimate relationship with the Pacific Ocean not by studying it or by looking at it, but by getting into itagain and again and again, on choppy days and gloriously calm days, logging what I can only guess are thousands of miles.

Rubin said that Fox understood the risk of swimming in an ocean with a population of great white sharks, and would object to framing this as an attack, and she would urge us to instead call it an incidentan animals behavior is just that.

Although many species of sharks live off the California coast, violent incidents with humans are extremely rare. Prior to Foxs death, there have been 16 shark-related fatalities in California in the past 75 years.

 This article was amended on 30 December 2025. Davenport beach is north of Santa Cruz, not south as an earlier version stated.
UPDATE @ 12:00 A.M.

A Wind Advisory is in effect for the entire region until 6 p.m. on Monday.

Photo from: Nick Dunn/Staff

Good morning, Miami Valley! Meteorologist Nick Dunn here to break down a very busy forecast today into Monday!

The line of showers and storms continues to move east of I-75 and we then await the big temperature drop.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Storm Center 7 Weather app for alerts as news breaks]

Winds will be on the increase as well as this line exits our area.

Advertisement Advertisement

We have a Wind Advisory in effect from 8 PM tonight to 6 PM Monday for the entire Miami Valley.

[WATCH Storm Center 7 Weather on the following devices]

By Monday morning, we are sharply colder, windy, and we may find a few snowflakes flying around! Gusts of 40-50 MPH are likely all day long. A few power outages and minor tree damage are also possible with gusts of that magnitude. Overall, slick spots should be limited to any spots where wind does not dry out the surfaces before we fall below freezing.

This will hurt a bit as well! Wind chills near zero are likely by mid-morning on Monday! This is pretty common for these intense systems to bring drastic swings in weather that make you swap wardrobes. Stay tuned throughout the day for more updates on air and online!
SANAA, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- Abdulmalik al-Houthi, leader of Yemen's Houthi group, warned on Sunday that any Israeli presence in Somaliland would be treated as a "military target," describing Israel's recognition of the breakaway region as a threat to regional security.

In a speech broadcast by the Houthi-run Al-Masirah television channel, al-Houthi stated that his forces consider "any Israeli presence in the Somaliland region a military target," "aggression against Somalia and Yemen, and a threat to the security of the region."

He added that the group would take "all possible supportive measures to stand with the brotherly Somali people."

Al-Houthi, whose movement controls large parts of northern Yemen, indicated that Israel aims to "make Somaliland a foothold for hostile activities against Somalia, African countries, Yemen, and other Arab countries," a move he said would destabilize an already fragile region.

He also called for a "firm and serious" Arab and Islamic stance in support of Somalia and its people, urging collective action to counter what he characterized as Israeli expansionism.

Meanwhile, several Arab and Muslim countries issued a joint statement on Saturday condemning Israel's recognition of Somaliland, and reaffirmed their support for Somalia's unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
The man who heroically disarmed one of the gunmen during the savage terror attack on Australias Bondi Beach recounted the moment he chose to put his own life at risk to save others.

Ahmed al Ahmed, a tobacco shop owner from Sydney, told CBS News that he didnt worry about anything except saving those around him.

My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human beings life and not killing innocent people, he said. I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ahmeds stunning heroism gained widespread attention after dash cam footage showed him jumping from behind a parked car onto one of the gunmens backs, eventually wrenching the gun from the assailants hands.

I jumped on his back, hit him. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him, drop your gun, stop doing what youre doing, and its come all in fast, al Ahmed said.

He continued:

And emotionally, Im doing something, which is I feel something, a power in my body, my brain  I dont want to see people killed in front of me, I dont want to hear his gun, I dont want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help, and thats my soul asking me to do that. Everything in my heart, in my brain, everything, its worked just to manage to save the peoples life.

Al Ahmeds act of bravery was praised by many, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who lauded his act of service in a visit to the hospital in which al Ahmed was being treated for injuries he sustained during the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Your heart is strong, your courage is inspiring, Albanese said. He was trying to get a cup of coffee, simple as that, and found himself at a moment where people were being shot in front of him. He decided to take action, and his bravery is an inspiration for all Australians. He is a very humble man.

The father and son behind the horrific attack, identified as Sajid and Naveed Akram, killed 15 people at the Hanukkah celebration taking place on the beach. The men also threw homemade bombs into the crowd, police said, although none of the devices detonated.

Among those killed in the attack were a 10-year-old child and an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor who was shot dead while trying to protect his wife.

Watch video above, via CBS.

The post Bondi Beach Hero Recounts the Stunning Moment He Grabbed Shooters Gun first appeared on Mediaite.
Ahmed al Ahmed, the hero of the Bondi Beach shooting earlier this month, is speaking out for the first time since he took down the active shooter in Australia.

I didnt worry about anything, al Ahmed told CBS News in an interview airing Monday, December 29. My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human beings life and not killing innocent people.

I couldnt handle it to hear kids and the woman and oldest and man screaming and asking for help and no one help, he added.

Fifteen people were killed when Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed Akram, opened fire on a group during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, on December 14. Sajid, 50, was killed by officers on the scene. The 24-year-old suspect has been charged with 59 offenses, including committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder and 40 counts of causing wounding/grievous bodily harm to a person with intent to murder.

Advertisement Advertisement

In surveillance footage released from the scene, al Ahmed was seen emerging from behind a parked car to tackle one of the attackers to the ground. He was able to wrestle the weapon from the gunman before being shot five times.

I jumped on his back, hit him. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word  to warn him  drop your gun, stop doing what youre doing. And it all came fast, he recalled. My soul and everything in my organ and my brain asked me to go on defense and to save innocent life.

Emotionally, Im doing something. I feel something  a power in my body, my brain. I dont want to see people killed in front of me, al Ahmed continued. I dont want to hear his gun. I dont want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help.

Ahmed  who has since been released from the hospital  was hailed a hero, and is credited with saving countless lives. More than $2.6 million has been raised via GoFundMe to support him.

This story Bondi Beach Hero Speaks Out for 1st Time Following Tragic Incident: I Didnt Worry About Anything first appeared on National Enquirer. Add National Enquirer as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
NEED TO KNOW

Ahmed al Ahmed disarmed one of two gunmen during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, saving lives despite being shot five times

The attack, which targeted Sydneys Jewish community, left 15 dead and 40 injured, according to officials

Speaking to CBS News, Al Ahmed says his actions were instinctive and driven by a desire to protect others

Ahmed al Ahmed, the man hailed as a hero for tackling one of the gunmen behind an antisemitic attack at Australias Bondi Beach earlier this month, is speaking publicly for the first time about the moment that changed his life.

In an exclusive interview with CBS News airing Monday on CBS Mornings, al Ahmed said he acted without hesitation as shots rang out during a Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 14.

Advertisement Advertisement

"I didnt worry about anything," he said. "My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human beings life and not killing innocent people."

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.

Asked what was going through his mind, al Ahmed told CBS News' Foreign Correspondent Anna Coren that he "couldn't handle it to hear kids and women and [the elderly] and men screaming and asking for help" and seeing "no one help."

"My soul and everything in my organ and my brain asked me to go on defense and to save innocent life," he said, noting there were "hundreds and hundreds of people all on the ground" around him. "I didn't think about it."

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the decision to intervene felt instinctive. "Emotionally, Im doing something," he said. "I feel something  a power in my body, my brain. I dont want to see people killed in front of me. I dont want to hear his gun. I dont want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help."

"Thats my soul asking me to do that," he added. "That's my soul asking me to do that and everything in my heart and my brain, everything. It worked to manage and to save the people's [lives]."

CBS Ahmed al Ahmed recounts his story to 'CBS Mornings' Ahmed al Ahmed recounts his story to 'CBS Mornings'

Fifteen people were killed in the Dec. 14 shooting, and another 41 were hospitalized with injuries, according to officials.

Police identified the attackers as Sajid Akram, 50, who was killed by officers at the scene, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, who has since been charged with 59 offenses, including committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder and 40 counts of causing wounding/grievous bodily harm to a person with intent to murder.

Advertisement Advertisement

In the attacks, Al Ahmed  a Syrian-Australian Muslim shop owner  was shot five times, and was only just released from the hospital on Sunday, Dec. 28. He still has two bullets lodged in his shoulder and has nerve damage to his hand that doctors say may never fully recover. Over $2.6 million has since been raised for him on GoFundMe.

Beyond the money, Al Ahmed has received international praise for disarming one of two gunmen accused of carrying out the mass shooting, which authorities say deliberately targeted Sydneys Jewish community.

Surveillance footage from the beachfront showed al Ahmed emerging from behind a parked car and wrestling one of the attackers to the ground, managing to take away his weapon before he himself was wounded.

"I jumped on his back, hit him," al Ahmed recalled of the struggle. "I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word  to warn him  drop your gun, stop doing what youre doing. And it all came fast."

Advertisement Advertisement

Did he think about shooting the gunman? "I take the gun from him, of course. But I didn't think to shoot," he said. "I didn't want to put my hand in blood. I don't think I can take life of people."

He also wasn't thinking about the second gunman on the bridge. "My target was just to take the gun from him and to stop him from killing a human being's life," al Ahmed said.

Al Ahmed added that while he believes his actions saved lives, the loss still weighs on him. "I know I saved lots of people's life, but I feel sorry for the lost," he said.

"I risked my life for innocent human beings," he said. "I can't call them strangers because they are human being like me, like you."

CBS Mornings airs weekdays (beginning at 7 a.m. ET) on CBS.

Read the original article on People
(Photo: Jeniffer Solis/Nevada Current)

Food delivery apps will no longer be able to list restaurants on their platforms without first verifying those restaurants have business licenses and health permits, thanks to a new law that goes into effect on Jan. 1.

Its a change restaurants told lawmakers was needed because of an abundance of fake listings, wherein people impersonate restaurants on a third-party delivery app and sell their own food, often at lower quality and higher prices. Such imposter kitchens  sometimes called ghost kitchens  can damage the reputations of restaurants and potentially put peoples health at risk, the restaurants argued.

Advertisement Advertisement

The new law, passed as Assembly Bill 116 during this years regular session, requires food delivery apps to verify that the restaurants they are listing have proper permits with their local health authority.

Unlicensed food establishments caught listing themselves on food delivery apps will be subject to a fine, as will any food delivery apps which dont remove such listings once they are found to be in violation of the law.

The ghost kitchen crackdown stems from one of the dozens of bills going into effect Thursday.

Another new law going into effect will support and expand the number of rare diseases that newborns in Nevada are screened for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Nevada is not currently in alignment with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services accepted national standard for newborn screening. To help get the state there, Senate Bill 348 proposed increasing the fee that hospitals pay the Nevada State Public Health Lab for the screenings. The previous rate had remained unchanged since 2014.

Other health care-related bills going into effect include: Senate Bill 138, which is expected to streamline the process of hospitals enrolling eligible women and babies into Medicaid upon delivery; Assembly Bill 163, which enters Nevada into an interstate compact that allows licensed professional counselors from other states to work here without applying for a separate license; and the Right to Contraception Act, which strengthens protections against a state or local government burdening access to contraceptive measures.

Also going into effect:
In just a couple of months, University College London (UCL) will celebrate its 200th anniversary. Its controversial launch in February 1826 as a university outside Oxford and Cambridge, which would admit people of all religions, attracted fury from the likes of esteemed educator Thomas Arnold, who called it a godless institution in Gower Street.

Founded by a diverse group, it has always claimed to value inclusion, and was the second British university to award degrees to women. One of its most contentious and pioneering concepts was not only to admit Jews but also to teach Hebrew and Jewish studies from the start.

Now it is the second-largest university in the country, and Jewish students from the UK and around the world (55 per cent of the student body are not British) make up about 1 per cent of UCLs student body (around 25 per cent of the students come from China and Hong Kong).

Advertisement Advertisement

The 200th anniversary should go down as a success story by almost every measure; UCL is now recognised as one of the worlds leading universities. But when it comes to Jews or anyone else concerned about extremism, the question on the lips of both students and academics is: Just how much worse can things get?

Pro-Palestine protests are a regular occurrence at UCL - Zuma Press/Alamy

While many British universities  in particular the elite Russell Group to which UCL belongs  saw an existing undercurrent of anti-Zionism explode after the Hamas massacre of October 7 2023, the problem at UCL remains frighteningly acute even as the war in Gaza has ended with an (albeit shaky) ceasefire.

In November, Dr Samar Maqusi, a former UCL researcher lecturing at the university on the origins of Zionism, held a lecture repeating the anti-Jewish conspiracy that Jews had murdered a monk and used his blood to bake holy bread  a blood libel.

Another, professor of ophthalmology Michel Michaelides, reposted tweets about cult Zions controlling the BBC, and a third, James Smith, a lecturer in humanitarian policy and practice, joined Greta Thunberg on a flotilla to break the blockade of Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Not forgetting, either, that the UCL branch of the University and College Union passed a motion shortly after the Hamas attacks calling for intifada until victory and this year has been attacking the university for normalising relations with Israel. UCLs obsession with Israel appears well embedded.

Yet there is more  two former students have been charged with Palestine Action terrorist offences. Qesser Zuhrah, 20, who was studying social sciences at UCL before being arrested over alleged offences linked to the activities of Palestine Action, one of six members of the Filton 24, ended her hunger strike on Wednesday after refusing food for 48 days.

Zahra Farooque, a former student who graduated with a degree in history in 2021, is also remanded in custody after being arrested by counter-terrorism police and charged with aggravated burglary, criminal damage and violent disorder for damaging property at Israel-based Elbit Systems weapons factory in Filton, Gloucestershire, in August 2024.

Palestine Action supporter Qesser Zuhrah ended her hunger strike after refusing food for 48 days - Guy Smallman

Separately, earlier this month, UCL neuroscience student Mohammed Nasser was arrested after allegedly assaulting a pro-Israel demonstrator in Brighton.

Advertisement Advertisement

And another deeply concerning fact: the universitys director of equality, inclusion and culture, Addeel Khan, is a trustee of the Save One Life UK charity, which is being investigated by counter-terror police and the Charity Commission over links to Hamas.

Almost every week, there are protests within the university campus and academics railing against Israel. Last month, Ralph Wilde, the universitys professor of international law, claimed there was no legal right for Israel to exist at the universitys Kennedy Lecture Theatre, and seemed to say that it had no right to defend itself against Hamas, insisting: A justification for a new phase in an ongoing illegal use of force cannot be constructed solely out of the consequences of violent resistance to illegal use of force.

Prof Ralph Wilde of UCL has stated there is no legal right for Israel to exist

On December 12, the universitys Centre for the Study of Racism and Racialisation held commemorative events for alumnus Refaat Alareer, a Palestinian poet who was killed in Gaza. Before he died, he described the October 7 Hamas attack as legitimate and moral. He wrote in 2021: Zios [an abbreviation denoting Zionists] are the enemy of the free and decent people around the world and Zios are the dirtiest little snitches.

The Centre, which ostensibly studies racism, offered a space to remember, reflect and continue learning from his teaching.

Advertisement Advertisement

The persistent drumbeat of anti-Zionism turns quickly into overt Jew-hate on campus, say some students. In this hostile climate, many Jewish people only go on to university campus for their lectures, says Dov Forman, a third-year student who is also an activist against anti-Semitism.

I have Jewish friends who, even in this term, have left their student accommodation and gone back to live at home if theyre from London, because of how kind of scared they feel. Theres an Islamist and hard-Left student bloc who are trying to terrorise Jewish students every single day.

Third-year student Dov Forman says that Jewish people only go on to campus for their lectures - Jonathan Brady

Forman continues: Because Zionists are seen as inherently evil, Jews are too. Any Jewish student is fair game for these people. And if someone screams Baby killer at you, or From the river to the sea, the other students will stay silent. And I dont know if that is because they are scared or because they think its fair game.

The atmosphere of hostility permeates among some academics too. Jews are on the front line of a fight against Western values, says Joseph Mintz, a professor of inclusive education at UCL. There is this strain of progressive thinking which aligns with Islamism in its anti-Western positioning, and that sets a scene which makes anti-Semitism acceptable, he says.

Advertisement Advertisement

In a way, universities are traducing the societies within which theyre positioned. Anti-Semitism is one significant expression of that. We see this in UCL, but we see it across academia as a whole.

A second Jewish professor, who asks not to be named, says: I know that a lot of my colleagues dont agree with these extremist positions, but its something they will only tell you in secret. There is literally no one who will come out publicly and say this is wrong.

There are frequent pro-Palestine demonstrations on the campus

In 2022, amid rising anti-Semitism on UCLs campus following the 2021 conflict in Gaza, the university commissioned a report by the academic board, holding meetings with Jewish staff and students.

It found there had been threats of physical violence and death against both Jewish students and staff. It added: The reporting of anti-Semitic incidents is often inhibited by concerns about a perception of bad faith in the sense that the peers of academic staff will perceive an ulterior motive for the complaint and that the complainant will be disadvantaged and/or disbelieved as a result.

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the consequences of this report was the hiring a few months later of an anti-Semitism programme manager  the nations first  to try to educate both staff and students about anti-Semitism. Many saw this as a box-ticking exercise, particularly as the anti-Semitism programme manager reports into Addeel Khan, who  aside from the investigations into his charitys links to Hamas  has a history of pro-Palestine activism.

In a now removed video from a Gaza appeal in 2021, he is seen wearing a T-shirt with a fist in Palestinian colours and the words Gaza Unity Appeal.

Addeel Khan, UCLs director of equality, inclusion and culture, is a trustee of a charity which is being investigated by counter-terror police and the Charity Commission over links to Hamas

In 2022 he took part in a boat race raising money for Gaza as part of Team River 2 the Sea  a tweet about it is still up on his X account.

Questions over whether anti-Semitism is systemic arent helped by the fact that the university itself cannot decide on a definition of anti-Semitism. The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition is the one most frequently used across governments. But critics say the examples it gives of anti-Semitism  such as claiming the existence of the state of Israel is a racist endeavour  shut down free speech.

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2021, UCL commissioned a report concluding that the university should use four different definitions, but none should be used in disciplinary procedures. Instead, they are only there to illuminate debate and discussion of what constitutes anti-Semitism.

After the events of October 7 2023, complaints about anti-Semitism and celebrations of terrorism at UCL had become so numerous that by November 2023, 500 alumni, including Nadhim Zahawi, the former education secretary, called for action as university societies were continuing to brazenly harass Jewish students.

The university has, to a certain degree, attempted to get a handle on things, but many say it has not done nearly enough. While it took legal action to take down the pro-Palestine encampment at its main site, after it had been in place for 100 days, and the president and provost Dr Michael Spences response to the blood libel speech of Maqusi  who was reported to the police and banned from the campus  was firm, the fact is that more than a month after the public furore surrounding that lecture, the extremist rhetoric around Palestine continues. All term, pro-Palestine demonstrations continued on campus.

Dr Michael Spence, above, is the president and provost of UCL

Evelyn, a Jewish student in her second year who wishes to use only her first name, says that she chose to attend UCL partly because of its long history of fostering Jewish students. But, she says, she found herself at a university that seemed to welcome anti-Semitism more than Jewish students.

Advertisement Advertisement

In the past month alone, Ive been accused of supporting genocide, blocked from walking through campus and harassed simply for being Jewish, all while UCL security looked on, she adds.

The untrammelled anti-Semitism is a sign of a bigger problem, one that affects all of us  namely, a radicalisation of British society. It is high time that UCL confronts the rampant extremism rather than continuing to create an environment that fosters it, says Evelyn.

In response to the matters raised in this article, Spence told The Telegraph he is horrified by ongoing reports that some of our Jewish students continue to experience harassment and abuse, and added that all forms of anti-Semitism are utterly abhorrent, have absolutely no place at UCL, and we are committed to banishing this from our campus.

Regrettably, like many UK universities, we continue to confront incidents of anti-Semitism, but we are determined to eradicate them. Freedom of speech and academic freedom are fundamental to university life, but they can never be misused as a shield for hatred.

Advertisement Advertisement

Spence states that the university has taken and will continue to take swift and decisive action for any incidents reported to them, including banning individuals from campus and reporting matters to the police where appropriate, and that they work quickly to ensure the removal of offensive social media posts, online content, and any anti-Semitic materials found on campus.

He continues: We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring our campus is a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for everyone.

Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays.
British soldiers endured immersion in the ice and minus 28 degree Celsius temperatures during winterization training with new NATO partner Finland.

C Company of the Edinburgh-based 3 Rifles spent six weeks in northern and central Finland, learning survival techniques and putting their cold-weather kit through its paces.

Rifleman James Whittingham, 30, from Shrewsbury, Shropshire, said: Its challenging but its good fun.

Advertisement Advertisement

The main thing is to make sure you dont get wet.

Weve got enough stuff to keep us warm but if we get wet its going to be endex (end of the exercise) for you.

Rifleman Whittingham praised the Finns for their Fighting in Woods and Forests skills, known in the army as FIWAF, and said the British soldiers had practised their firing positions while on skis.

We did a lot of survival stuff, they showed us how they basha up (shelter) in these conditions.

They use fires while we try not to use that, but obviously your survival in minus 28 comes before anything else.

So theres a lot of things we picked up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Corporal Reece Wilkinson-Wilson, 25, from Nottingham, said: The temperatures and the environment definitely are out to get you out here.

Theres no way of just cruising through the environment.

Speaking of the Finnish soldiers, he said: They train only for this, where we train for many different environments, so theyre very well-adapted to the cold.

Theyre quite serious in some aspects but they are good lads and they all want to be here.

Theyre conscripts and they want to be here.

They are training entirely with Russia in mind, theres no other adversary and theyre training to defend their homeland.

Advertisement Advertisement

Corporal Chris Rowland, 35, from Seaham, County Durham, said the deployment was about learning to survive in the conditions of the newest NATO partner.

Were getting to know them and learn to survive and operate in a cold weather environment, he said.

Asked how the 3 Rifles were adapting to the environment, he said: Being a northerner, Id like to think Ive done a lot better than other people.

Corporal Rowland was impressed with the scale of Operation Northern Ax, the joint training exercise with the Finns which lasted five days and involved two opposing forces in a simulated forest battle.

He said: The amount of infrastructure and capabilities that they have on this exercise, I havent seen it from any exercise Ive been on in the last 15 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rifleman Aaron Hunter, 21, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, said his unit had learned to operate in the cold by layering up their kit.

He said: Up north, it was a different cold that I have never experienced myself.

It was a case of making sure youre keeping thick gloves on all the time and keeping moving because frostbite could hit within 10 minutes.

He described the Finnish conscripts and reservists that have been working alongside the 3 Rifles as very impressive, adding: For the time they have served, their performance is fantastic.

The locals were experts in surviving the cold, he said, adding: We did an ice dip while we were up north and one of the Finns remained in there for five minutes, talking to us about how it was and then all the rest of us spent 30 seconds in there.

Advertisement Advertisement

We were in a different state weve never been in before.

Everyone was pretty bad at it and theyre fantastic.

Asked about the Finns perception of the possibility of Russian invasion, he said: The threat from their neighbours is a big one, its mainly why we are out here also.

Its a big talking point for the Finns and they think its a very high level threat that could be around the corner  who knows?

Major Henry Wootton, based in Edinburgh, said his men needed to consume 5,000 calories a day just to stay warm in the Arctic conditions.

He said: The usual ration pack is around 3,000, so theres a lot more calories in there because your metabolism is going at full gas the whole time just to generate warmth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Just by being outside, youre burning a lot of calories so making your way through all that mashed potato is absolutely essential.

He said the Finnish conscripts and reservists were super professional,, adding: They are outdoorsmen and women, largely, and we are learning a lot from their ability to survive in this environment.

Finnish soldiers at Vuosanka near Kajaani as British soldiers train during a major exercise on NATO's border with Russia. A company of 3 Rifles, based in Edinburgh, has spent six weeks training in the north of Finland, during where they honed their survival skills in temperatures as low as minus 28 degrees Celsius. Owen Humphreys/PA Wire/dpa
Buddhist monks have been walking hundreds of miles for peace, and Monday, they will be making it into Clayton County on their way east.

The walk started in Fort Worth, Texas, and its destined to end in Washington, D.C., a 120-day, 2,300-mile journey. They are joined by loyal dog, Aloka to raise awareness of peace, loving kindness, and compassion across America and the world.

Sunday, Channel 2s Tom Jones was there at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Sunday when one of the walking monks returned to Georgia. Monk Phra Ajarnh Maha Dam Phommasan was welcomed back to his temple in Georgia Sunday after being critically hurt during the walk in Texas when he was hit by a vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Monday, the monks will continue their journey through Georgia, from Sharpsburg through Peachtree City to Fayetteville and Morrow in the Atlanta area.

We are grateful for the continued support and warm welcome we receive along the way, the monks said on their Facebook Page.

Peachtree City noted on their Facebook page the monks are expected there Monday morning. As you head out for your morning commute, we ask for patience, mindfulness, and safe driving.

The monks will also walk through Trilith studio and Trilith Live, spending time there before continuing on their journey, according to a spokesperson for the Trilith Foundation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Their arrival offers a meaningful moment of stillness and reflection at Trilith, the largest movie studio complex in North America, home to world-class soundstages and creative infrastructure, the spokesperson said.

The Clayton County Police Dept. said they plan to be present in full force to ensure their safety and well-being as they pass through our community Monday.

Itinerary for Day 65:

Lunch stop: Trilith Live, 175 Trilith Pkwy, Fayetteville (visiting hours: 10:30 a.m. 1 p.m.)

Overnight rest: Morrow Center, 1180 Southlake Cir., Suite 100, Morrow (visiting hours: 6 p.m.  9 p.m.)

They said they warmly welcome everyone to visit during the visiting hours.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Members of the Maine House of Representatives during the first session of 2024 in the State House in Augusta. (Photo by Jim Neuger/ Maine Morning Star)

Decembers semi-annual revenue forecast for Maines general fund reported higher-than-expected revenues for the near future, predicting $250 million more over the next two years than the previous forecast. While this is generally welcome news for the states finances, a series of budget pressures on the horizon will strain Maines ability to support the most vulnerable Mainers and ensure long-term economic success.

Economic uncertainty is growing

While Decembers forecast continues a multi-year trend of upward revisions to state revenue, the larger economic picture includes a lot of uncertainty, mainly driven by federal policies.

Advertisement Advertisement

President Trumps sweeping tariffs are likely to reduce demand for goods, cutting into sales tax revenue. Mass deportations reduce the labor force and consumer demand. Meanwhile, major federal spending cuts triggered by the Department of Government Efficiency and the Republican megabill passed by Congress in July (HR 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) will take resources away from rural states like Maine.

Making all this worse is the chaotic nature of many of these federal policies, which makes businesses reluctant to invest.

Some economic indicators already point to trouble  nationally, job growth has slowed and the unemployment rate has crept up. In Maine, the unemployment rate remains low, but payroll employment has shrunk for four of the last five months.

Federal policy changes hit Maines budget directly

Beyond broader economic risks, HR 1 creates immediate and long-term budget problems for Maine. The law shifts tens of millions of dollars of costs onto Maines general fund through cost-shifts and unfair penalties. Some of these costs will hit the state in two to four years, but lawmakers must prepare now to avoid a severe budget crunch in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Legislators will decide whether Maine will conform to federal tax changes in HR 1. In most cases, they should not do so. These conformity measures could cause the state to lose up to $300 million a year in revenue that is vitally needed for other purposes (see my colleague Maura Pillsburys part 1 and part 2 tax conformity blogs).

Washington is pulling the rug out from under Mainers

HR 1 also takes away food assistance and health care from tens of thousands of Mainers, leaving people who already have precarious finances vulnerable to rising prices and a weakening job market. Maine doesnt have to stand by and watch this happen. State lawmakers can take actions to fill the gaps opened by the federal government. To do so, they will need to be prepared to raise additional progressive revenue.

Mainers were already struggling with unmet needs

Even before the recent federal changes, the state budget was failing to fully meet the needs of struggling Mainers. Junes biennial budget failed to fully fund cost-of-living adjustments for care workers, did not commit to continuing the free community college program beyond the high school class of 2026, and underfunded family planning services. Whats more, there are still 176 bills on the Special Appropriations Table, looking for hundreds of millions of dollars annually in additional funding.

Revenue bills provide a way to make real investments in the economy and quality of life for Mainers

Fortunately, lawmakers have already taken steps toward creating additional sustainable and progressive sources of revenue to address the harms coming from Washington and support struggling Mainers. The following bills offer opportunities to tax wealthy corporations and individuals, making our tax code fairer while putting that money to good use:

Advertisement Advertisement

LD 1089 places a 2% income tax surcharge on incomes over $1 million. Raises $143 million in the next biennium. Passed the Senate, currently in the House.

LD 1879 increases Maines top corporate tax rate on profits over $3.5 million from 8.93% to 10%. Raises $100 million over the biennium, of which the general fund would retain $40 million. Passed in the House and Senate.

LD 229 restructures Maines income tax brackets to ask more of higher-earning individuals and give a tax cut to Mainers in the middle class. The current version of the bill would raise $176 million in the next biennium. This version passed the House and the Senate but has been referred back to the taxation committee for revision.

Legislators have a choice in the upcoming legislative session  they can allow President Trumps policies to harm Mainers and Maines economy while billionaires get giant tax breaks, or they can reclaim some of that revenue and put it to work for more financially secure families and a stronger economy. Relying on the projected surplus alone is insufficient and short-sighted.
California has ended a lawsuit challenging the termination of $4 billion in federal grants for its controversial high-speed rail project, ceding its claim to federal funding that the Trump administration has repeatedly tried to withdraw.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a motion last week to dismiss the complaint his office filed in July , after the Federal Railroad Administration nixed $4 billion in Obama- and Biden-era grants.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority said in a statement that the agency has decided to cut ties with the Trump administration, which has also threatened other pots of federal funding tied to the planned rail line connecting Los Angeles to the Bay Area.

Advertisement Advertisement

This action reflects the states assessment that the federal government is not a reliable, constructive, or trustworthy partner in advancing high-speed rail in California, the statement said.

The move represents a major win for President Donald Trump, who has long criticized high-speed rail and issued athreat in February to investigate and kneecap the project.

Under @POTUSs leadership, we are protecting billions of American taxpayers' dollars from funding Californias ridiculous train to nowhere, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a Saturday post on X . A great way to ring in the New Year.

The administration attempted to revoke $1 billion in federal high-speed rail funding during his first term in office, but the Biden administration restored those funds in 2021 before the courts could reach a decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

The decision also reflects changing priorities under HSRA CEO Ian Choudri, who has focused on securing state funding and private investment since assuming the role in August 2024.

The move to drop the case comes just weeks after a federal judge rejected a Trump administration motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

U.S. District Judge Dale Drozd, of the Eastern District of California, had pushed back on the administrations argument that the grant cancellation was a contract dispute that should instead be handled in federal claims court.

FRAs decision to terminate the grants came after the agency issued a scathing report claiming that the project has no viable path forward after missed deadlines, budget shortfalls and overrepresentation of projected ridership.

Advertisement Advertisement

The project is now estimated to cost up to $128 billion, nearly four times its original $33 billion price tag.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democratic state lawmakers have doubled down on their support for the project, passing a bill this legislative session that guarantees it $1 billion in annual funding from revenues generated through the states greenhouse gas trading program.

HSRA also opened a solicitation for private investors earlier this month, with the hope of finalizing partnerships by next summer. Choudri told POLITICO in an October interview that the agency has received interest from dozens of potential investors, including six or seven of the large financiers.

Choudri said he anticipates selecting a private investor by May or June.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA  Starting January 1, 2026, a landmark state law will begin reshaping how big rigs move through parts of California as communities and the transportation industry brace for change. The legislation, known formally as Assembly Bill 98, is being hailed by many neighborhood advocates as a hard-won victory for residential safety and cleaner streets and criticized by some drivers and logistics stakeholders as an added regulatory burden on an already strained supply chain.

The core of AB 98 is simple in concept and wide in reach: large trucks serving freight and logistics hubs, especially in the Inland Empire and other warehouse concentration regions, must stick to designated truck routes that avoid residential or other sensitive areas such as schools, parks and homes.

Municipalities are required to revise their official truck route maps to comply with the states new standards by January 1, 2026, and to fully update local plans by January 1, 2028. Failure to meet these deadlines could trigger fines as high as $50,000 every six months.

Redirecting Trucks to Protect Neighborhoods

Proponents of the legislation point to decades of community concern about heavy vehicles cutting through side streets, shaking foundations, disrupting school zones and spewing diesel exhaust into neighborhoods. In parts of Southern Californias Inland Empire, where logistics warehouses have proliferated alongside sprawling residential areas, families have described a constant procession of 18-wheelers passing outside their windows.

Image Credit: Sony 1992 - Own work, CC0, Wikimedia.

That experience helped drive support for the states new mandate and for public engagement on local truck route planning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Across a series of community workshops in cities such as Redlands, planners and residents have begun mapping out how those changes might look on the ground. In Redlands, for example, officials have proposed removing long-established truck rights-of-way through quiet neighborhoods and rerouting that traffic to major arterials or newly designated commercial corridors.

The rationale is to concentrate truck movements on infrastructure designed to handle heavy loads and through-traffic, reducing wear on residential pavement and the risk of collisions with pedestrians and cyclists.

Challenges and Concerns Over New Truck Routes

The process, however, has not been without controversy. Truck drivers and some industry voices argue that the new route restrictions add complexity to already tight delivery schedules. Many truckers say local roads, even those not classified as major thoroughfares, are familiar and efficient connectors that they rely on, especially when remote warehouses and distribution centers are not located near highways.

There is also concern about the adequacy of amenities such as parking, rest stops and dining along the new designated networks. Questions loom about enforcement as well: state and local law enforcement agencies will need new tools and resources to monitor compliance, a task that truckers and planners worry could strain departments already stretched thin across Californias vast road network.

Advertisement Advertisement

For some within the industry, the law reflects a broader pattern of regulatory tightening in Californias transport sector. State officials have pursued a suite of measures aimed at reducing pollution and improving safety on roadways, from ambitious zero-emission targets for heavy trucks to updated liability and safety standards that require higher insurance coverage and stricter vehicle rules. Those broader efforts, while distinct from truck routing, set a backdrop for debates about the cumulative cost of compliance facing truckers and freight companies.

Balancing Commerce and Community

Image Credit: Sony 1992 - Own work, CC0, Wikimedia.

Despite those headwinds, local officials emphasize that the routing legislation is rooted in a strategy to balance economic activity with quality of life. Designating truck routes does not mean cutting off commerce, one city planner explained during a community hearing. It means guiding that commerce in ways that keep our neighborhoods safe and our roads intact.

Municipalities are also required to involve citizens, tribes and community organizations in updating their circulation and truck route plans, ensuring that a wide range of voices shape how the rules apply locally.

As the January 1 start date approaches, California communities are moving from draft proposals toward codified routes, with public hearings, council votes and GIS-based maps helping to finalize where big trucks will and will not be allowed. For residents long frustrated by diesel fumes and constant rumble of freight traffic, the promise of quieter streets is real.

For truckers accustomed to flexibility in choosing paths between warehouses and freeways, the new legal landscape represents a shift that will require adjustments in planning, technology and daily practice. In the months ahead, enforcement will be the true test of whether California can achieve the goals of its new truck route law: smoother delivery traffic that still respects the livability of the places through which it passes.
NANJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command is dispatching its naval and air forces to carry out combat readiness patrols around Taiwan Island, a military spokesperson said Monday. 
New Year's celebrations and plans are approaching, and one of the biggest decisions is transportation. Dont risk drinking and driving this holiday after bringing in 2026 at the bar or a party.

Injury attorney Thomas E. Schimmerling will be offering a 26th year of free taxis in the Binghamton area as part of the Safe Night Program on New Year's Eve. The Safe Night initiative is described as an effort to keep our community safe and ensure that party goers make it home responsibly, according to an announcement.

From 12 a.m. to 4 a.m., party-goers will be able to claim a single-use ride home simply by calling 607-779-1000.

Advertisement Advertisement

More: What's new in Binghamton's restaurant scene, and what's coming in 2026

Local bars and restaurants have informational flyers hanging up to keep the public informed about transportation options.

Schimmerling Injury Law has offices located in Binghamton, Endicott, Owego and Delhi, handling legal cases like vehicle accidents, personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice and elder abuse.

Kalyn Grant reports on public service issues for the Press & Sun-Bulletin, focusing on schools and community impact. Have a story to share? Follow her on Instagram @KalynCarmen and on Facebook under Kalyn Kearney. Get in touch at KCGrant@usatodayco.com

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Binghamton program offering free New Year's Eve taxi rides. Just call this number
PINE BLUFF, Ark.  Officials with the Pine Bluff Police Department confirmed on Sunday that charges have been formally filed against a man in connection with missing 43-year-old woman Joynell Brandon.

According to a release, 31-year-old Tony Thompson Jr. is facing charges of first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse with a $1,000,000 bond set.

Family searching for answers six months after Pine Bluff mothers disappearance

Advertisement Advertisement

According to police, Brandon was last heard from on May 13, when she sent a text message to her family asking them to leave the door open because she would be on her way home later that night. But she never returned, and both her family and police said phone calls and text messages from her stopped completely.

Brandons body has not been located, but the investigation remains active and detectives continue to work with the victims family.

Pine Bluff police ask for publics help in finding missing woman

Anyone with information about Brandon or her whereabouts are asked to call the Pine Bluff Police Department Detectives Office at 870-730-2090 or submit a tip on the departments website at PBPD.org/Crime-Tips.

Advertisement Advertisement

Copyright 2026 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 KARK.
Dec. 29 (UPI) -- China began holding live-fire military drills around Taiwan on Monday, creating a simulation of a blockade of the island's major ports as a warning to "separatist forces."

The army, navy, air force and rocket force are participating in the drills, China said. The Chinese military calls the drills "Justice Mission 2025."

Taiwan is a self-governing nation that China claims as its own. On Friday, China sanctioned U.S. companies and their leadership after the United States announced an $11.1 billion arms deal with Taiwan on Dec. 18.

Advertisement Advertisement

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his party are urging Taiwan to accept "peaceful reunification," but the majority of Taiwanese people don't want Chinese rule.

On Monday, Taiwan's defense ministry said it had seen 28 ships, two of which had entered Taiwan's contiguous zone. It detected at least 89 warplanes and four amphibious assault ships.

The drills are "a stern warning against 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces and external interference forces," Col. Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Chinese People's Liberation Army's eastern command, told The Guardian.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said that "external parties" are pushing the region closer to war.

Advertisement Advertisement

"Any sinister schemes to obstruct China's reunification are doomed to fail," Lin said.

A Chinese analyst said the drills are justified.

"Despite repeated warnings from China, the U.S. and Taiwan engaged in serious collusion and provocation. The PLA's decisive action was a reasonable, legal and forced response," Fu Zhengnan, researcher at the PLA's Academy of Military Science, told Chinese media.

Taiwan's transportation ministry has said flights will be diverted away from dangerous areas as the drills continue.
The Chinese flag is seen during sunset on Pingtan island, the closest point to Taiwan, in eastern China's Fujian province on December 29, 2025. Credit - Adek BerryAFP/Getty Images

China launched extensive military drills near Taiwan on Monday in what it called a stern warning against separatist and external interference forces after the Trump Administration announced an $11.1 billion arms sale to the island earlier this month.

The Chinese militarys Justice Mission 2025 exercisesthe first major drills it has held around the island since Aprilare to include combat-readiness and port-blockade drills, complete with live fire and simulated land and sea strikes, along seven zones across the island, in part to deter outside intervention, Chinas Eastern Theater Command announced.

Advertisement Advertisement

Taiwan has been self-governed since 1949, after Nationalist forces fled to the island following their defeat by Chinese Communist powers. But China has maintained that it has sovereignty over Taiwan and long called for a reunification between the smaller territory and the Peoples Republic of China.

Senior Col. Shi Yi, spokesperson of the Eastern Theater Command, said the drills were a stern warning against Taiwan independence separatist forces and external interference forces and described the military action as a necessary move to protect Chinas "sovereignty and national unity.

Taiwans Defense Ministry, meanwhile, said the exercises further confirm the Chinese Communist Partys nature as an aggressor and the biggest destroyer of peace.

In the drills, China is operating dozens of aircraft and drones around the Taiwan Strait, according to the deputy chief of the general staff for intelligence for the Taiwanese Defense Ministry, Hsieh Jih-sheng. More than 100,000 travelers on international flights were set to be affected by the Chinese militarys actions, per the islands Transport Ministry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Military drills are expected to continue through Tuesday, Taiwans Civil Aviation Administration said.

Read more: How Trump Can Avoid a War Over Taiwan

The exercises come as China has expressed ire over the recent $11.1 billion U.S. arms sale to Taiwan, which includes high mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS) and harpoon missile repair related equipment. The U.S. previously approved more than $1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan in November.

Last week, the Chinese foreign ministry enacted sanctions against 20 U.S. defense firms in the wake of the sales, barring companies such as Boeing from doing business with the global superpower. Ten executives for those companies were also barred from entering China or doing business in the country under the sanctions.

Advertisement Advertisement

The State Department notified Congress that it had approved the large-scale sale to Taiwan less than two weeks ago, saying that the potential deal serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability."

The proposed sale[s] will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance and economic progress in the region, the departments statement continued.

Taiwans presidential office stated at the time that it was sincerely grateful for the announced sale, while China quickly condemned it, asserting that it undermined Chinese sovereignty and security and disrupted peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) cited the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II to make his case for putting a pause on immigration in the United States.

Roy appeared on Fox News on Monday to discuss the controversy surrounding Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and her wealth. According to public records, the representatives wealth has shot up 3,500% over the last few years. Although the increase is largely tied to her marriage to Tim Mynett  owner of the firm Lake Rose Capital  critics have roped it into the Republican Partys ongoing crusade against alleged immigration fraud in Minnesota.

In response to the controversy, Roy made the case for an immigration pause by using the Second World War as an example:

Weve got to stop all of this flow of dollars that is corrupting our system, empower the American people to do what they do best, and weve got to pause immigration. I introduced a bill to pause immigration because weve got to stop this massive abuse of our system using H-1Bs, using diversity visas. President Trump is exactly right to have frozen the diversity visas, to have stopped that, to freeze the flow from countries of concern. Remember that in 1920, when we had a high percentage of people who were foreign born? We froze immigration for 40 years, and our country vanquished the Nazis in Germany, freed the world. We did great things in those 40 years. We can do it again. Thats why I introduced legislation to pause immigration. The presidents right to do that, and Im supporting him in that effort.

Watch above via Fox News

The post Chip Roy Touts Defeat of Nazis While Calling for Total Immigration Shutdown on Fox News: We Can Do It Again! first appeared on Mediaite.
Several shelters and warming centers across Central Florida are welcoming guests this week, offering safe and warm refuges for those in need.

Orange County

Orange County collaborates with HSN and other non-profits to provide temporary warming centers and increase capacity at existing shelters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Warming centers at Barnett Park Gym and Goldenrod Recreation Center will operate overnight from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. to protect the cold and aid the Homeless Services Network.

The Barnett Park Recreation Center, located at 4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando and the Goldenrod Recreation Center, situated at 4863 N Goldenrod Rd, Winter Park, will remain open for two nights during the cold snap, providing crucial support for the homeless and those seeking shelter.

Both warming centers are pet-friendly. Pets are welcome if secured, but owners must use carriers for cats and keep dogs on a leash inside.

Orange County collaborates with LYNX to offer bus services, enabling Bithlo residents to reach the warming center during extreme cold weather.

Advertisement Advertisement

LYNX Pickup Times: December 30 and December 31, 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Pickup Location: Transformation Village  Bithlo18415 11th Avenue, Orlando

Osceola County

Osceola County collaborates with local churches to offer shelter, and free LYNX transportation is also available.

First United Methodist Church, St. Cloud: 1000 Ohio Ave, St. Cloud, FL

Iglesia del Nazareno Casa de Vida: 2367 Fortune Rd, Kissimmee, FL

Poinciana Christian Church: 3181 Pleasant Hill Rd, Kissimmee, FL

Seminole County

The Rescue Outreach Mission, located at 1701 Historic Goldsboro Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771, is the sole emergency shelter serving individuals and families in Seminole County, and it increases its capacity during cold weather.

Volusia County

Cold weather shelters will be available in Volusia County on Dec. 30 and 31 to assist residents without adequate heating or housing.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bridge at 421 S. Palmetto Ave., operated by the Neighborhood Center in DeLand, opens for cold-weather sheltering at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 30 and 31. Guests can stay until about 8 a.m. with breakfast before closing.

Halifax Urban Ministries will coordinate cold-weather sheltering on Volusia Countys east side. While HUM doesnt run its own shelter, it works with local churches to help people access shelter. Residents can call 386-317-5886 for help.

Brevard County

Brevard County Emergency Management activates multiple locations when temperatures fall below a certain level.

Lifepointe Ministries Titusville Church: 4220 S Hopkins Ave, Titusville, FL(Opens at 9 p.m., serves dinner & breakfast)

Central Brevard Sharing Center: 113 Aurora St, Cocoa, FL(Opens at 6 p.m., serves dinner & breakfast)

Daily Bread At Melbourne First Church Of The Nazarene:2745 S Babcock St, Melbourne, FL (Opens at 5 p.m., serves dinner & breakfast)

Matthews Hope Brevard County: 825 Forrest Ave. Cocoa 32922

Lake County

Lake County will activate a cold-weather shelter at LifePointe Church on Dec. 30 and 31, opening at 5:00 p.m. and closing at 7:00 a.m. the following day.

Advertisement Advertisement

The shelter at 3551 E. Orange Ave. in Eustis offers refuge from the cold. The county will decide whether it remains open beyond these dates based on the weather and will inform the public accordingly.

Lake County Transit will provide free transportation to the cold-weather shelter via LakeXpress, Lake County Connection, and a dedicated shuttle.

Flagler County

The Sheltering Tree will open a cold weather shelter tonight, Dec. 30, through Jan. 1, as temperatures drop below 40 degrees. Its located at 2200 N. State Street in Bunnell.

Transportation to the shelter has two routes.

On the east side, buses stop at

Dollar General (Publix Town Center) at 3:30 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

McDonalds on Old Kings Road South at 4 p.m.

Dollar Tree behind Carrabbas at 4:30 p.m.

Palm Coast Main Branch Library at 4:45 p.m.

On the west side, pick-ups are at

Dollar General on County Road 305 at 4 p.m.

Bunnell Free Clinic at 4:30 p.m.

Bridges United Methodist Church at 4:30 p.m.

Transport options on Jan. 1 include:

McDonalds on Old Kings Road South at 4 p.m.

Circle K at Kingswood and Old Kings Road at 4:40 p.m.

Dollar Tree behind Carrabbas and Palm Coast Main Library shortly after 4:50 p.m.

First United Methodist Church in Bunnell at 5 p.m.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Critics branded President Donald Trump an embarrassment for declaring that Vladimir Putin wanted to see Ukraine succeed, even as Russian troops continued to unleash on Kiev.

After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for a much-hyped peace summit at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday, Trump said no deal had been reached, but theyre very close.

Trump also claimed that Russia will help with reconstruction after peace is finally achieved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, Trump told reporters. It sounds a little strange but I was explaining to the president, President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding. Including supplying energy, electricity, and other things at very low prices.

Not everyone was buying Trumps claim, though.

What a complete embarrassment, wrote political commentator @ArmandoNDK.

Sauron wants to see Frodo succeed, posted analyst @OAlexanderDK in a nod to the bad guy/good guy trope in JRR Tolkeins The Lord of The Rings.

Author Michael Weiss wrote of Zelensky, He cant believe hes up there deciding the fate of millions with a hebephrenic pit boss. And not for the first or last time.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bulwarks Sarah Longwell wrote, Whenever I truly want my neighbor to succeed, I break into his house, brutalize his family, steal his children, and burn his house to the ground while screaming, bro, Im just trying to help!

Longwell added, Our president is an international calamity.

Ukrainian commentator @BohuslavskaKate wrote, About the press conference: Trump is absolutely detached from reality. He doesnt understand how to end this war or what he is doing. But he visibly enjoys bragging about his relationship with Putin and their sweet phone calls in front of [Zelensky]. To him, its a kind of power flex, but in reality he is simply admiring a war criminal in front of the president of the victim nation. It doesnt looks powerful, it looks sadistic and dumb.

Donald Trump: "Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed [] President Putin has been very generous in his feelings towards Ukraine succeeding." pic.twitter.com/aVJ8ugylVj  Daractenus (@Daractenus) December 28, 2025

This is an absolutely unhinged thing to say about a country that was invaded, bombed, and terrorized by Russia. Calling Putin generous while Ukraine is fighting for its survival tells you everything about where Trumps loyalties actually lie. https://t.co/XemLIWoB8Q  Adam Parkhomenko (@AdamParkhomenko) December 28, 2025

Trump is an absolute puppet of Putin    Trump: "Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed. It sounds a little strange but President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding pic.twitter.com/GvTaAY1zsy  Mario (@PawlowskiMario) December 28, 2025

 This press conference is honestly so unserious. Its painful to see President Zelenskyy have to listen to this nonsense.

Trump is literally just yapping about his 2hour conversation with Putin, pushing pure russian talking points, even managing to say;

 Look, russia wants pic.twitter.com/sUTrgeMYZo  ne Back versen (@IneBackIversen) December 28, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Watch above via Fox News.

The post A Complete Embarrassment: Critics Skewer Trump For Declaring Russia Wants To See Ukraine Succeed first appeared on Mediaite.
Escambia Countys Development Review Committee (DRC) meets, nearly, every Wednesday throughout the year and has issued its stamp of approval on dozens of commercial projects throughout 2025.

Some of the additions are coming through plaza construction efforts, such as the ongoing Blue Angel Station development in southwest Pensacola. Others, like Chipotle, Culvers and First Watch, are simply building their own locations inside of a developing plaza.

Here are which commercial projects were approved by Escambia County's DRC throughout 2025, and which businesses are opening new locations.

Costco, 225 E. Nine Mile Road

Pensacola residents have awaited the entrance of Costco, one of the countrys top retailers, for years and theyll finally get their wish sometime next year.

Advertisement Advertisement

The retailer is building a 172,580-square-foot store at 225 E. Nine Mile Road that will include a liquor store, tire center and a gas station after their plans were approved by the DRC in August.

Costco is a membership warehouse club with a cult following that has hundreds of locations worldwide and offers a wide selection of merchandise ranging from groceries, furniture and electronics to pet insurance, bottled water delivery and travel packages.

It takes 110 days to build a Costco store, according to their 30-year partner MG2, so the retailer could open its first local store in 2026.

Costco officially set its eyes on the Pensacola region in June of 2024 when they filed its first development proposal. They went through five submissions before finally getting the go-ahead from the DRC to plant its roots in the Pensacola area.

Chick-fil-A, 4735 Mobile Highway

Chick-fil-A is opening a new restaurant on Mobile Highway after receiving a stamp of approval from the DRC earlier in the year.

Advertisement Advertisement

The new Chick-fil-A will be a 5,566-square-foot restaurant with two drive-through lanes, 74 interior seats, 12 exterior seats as well as 69 parking spots, located on the corner of Mobile Highway and Tonawanda Drive.

The Chick-fil-A project was initially filed with Escambia County in August 2024 and it was approved by the DRC during its July 23 meeting.

New Chick-fil-A plans: Chick-fil-A planning move into old Dodge's building. What we know.

Omega Hotel, 20 Via Deluna Drive

A new hotel is coming to Pensacola Beach following a development approval in the first half of the year.

Developers were approved to build an 11-story hotel with 215 rooms at 20 Via De Luna Drive. Theyre also set to build a pool deck, including a spa and lazy river, and dune walkovers for the incoming hotel.

Advertisement Advertisement

The hotel will be built on an approximately 4.31-acre site sitting in between the Beach Club Resort & Spa and the Emerald Isle condominium resort. The DRC approved the Omega Hotel project during its May 28 meeting.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, 3200 Michigan Ave.

Bellview's first Chipotle is coming to the northwest intersection of Denver Avenue and West Michigan Avenue after DRC approved the restaurant chains plans in early April.

The incoming restaurant will be a 2,350-square-foot building with a single drive-thru lane and 32 parking spots upon completion.

Developers filed their plans for this Chipotle with the county last March and submitted updated plans in late December. On April 3, they provided another set of updated plans.

Advertisement Advertisement

DRC officials approved the latest set of plans during their April 9 meeting, and the location will be one of two new Chipotle restaurants opening in Escambia County soon.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, 8870 Boesch Lane

The other new Chipotle coming to Escambia County will open inside Ransley Station, a developing plaza in Northwest Pensacola.

The incoming Chipotle will be a 2,325-square-foot restaurant with one drive-through lane and 36 parking spots located on Boesch Lane. DRC officials approved this project during their July 9 meeting.

A Chipotle Mexican Grill representative told the News Journal theyre expecting to open their Ransley Station store in early 2026. The location will be the fourth Chipotle in Escambia County.

Whataburger, 9510 N. Highway 98

Whataburger is opening a new Pensacola location off Highway 98.

Advertisement Advertisement

The new Whataburger will be constructed off of North Blue Angel Parkway and West U.S. Highway 98 inside the same plaza as Escambias newest Publix store.

Whataburger has planned to build this restaurant for three years. Its initial proposal was filed with Escambia County on Feb. 22, 2022, and theyve submitted updated plans twice since then. Whataburgers local store count will rise to 10 locations with the new restaurant.

DRC officials approved this project during their April 30 meeting.

First Watch Ransley Station, 8860 Boesch Lane

Florida restaurant chain First Watch is expanding its local presence by opening a new location in Northwest Pensacola.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Sarasota-based chain will open a 3,900-square-foot restaurant at 8860 Boesch Lane, neighboring a future Chipotle inside Ransley Station. This location will be their third restaurant in the Pensacola area.

DRC officials approved this project during their Aug. 6 meeting. First Watch told the News Journal the new location at 8860 Boesch Lane is slated to open in the middle of 2026.

Culver's, 8880 Boesch Lane

Northwest Pensacola will soon be home to another fast-food restaurant option located at Ransley Station.

Culvers is building a 4,985-square-foot restaurant with 124 seats100 interior and 24 exterioras well as 65 parking spaces on a 1.49-acre parcel inside the developing plaza after the DRC approved their plans during its Aug. 20 meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Brandon Cherry, owner of the Pace and Pensacola Culvers locations, said they're breaking ground on the 4,985-square-foot Ransley Station restaurant in early November and expect to open in either late April or early May. This location will mark the third Culvers in the area.

Foosackly's, 2605 W. Nine Mile Road

Northwest Pensacola is getting a new spot to grab chicken fingers, house-made sauces and Southern-style fast food after Foosacklys was approved to build its third Florida restaurant by the DRC earlier in the year.

The new, 4,400-square-foot restaurant will open on the corner of North Eight Mile Creek Road and West Nine Mile Road upon completion. The DRC approved this project during its Sept. 24 meeting.

The beloved chicken chain is based in Mobile, Alabama, and has 16 restaurants: 14 restaurants across Alabama and two locations in Florida, both located in Escambia County.

Waffle House, 6034 W. Nine Mile Road

Beulah residents are getting a new spot for a hot meal during any time of the day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Escambia County approved plans to build a new Waffle House restaurant off of West Nine Mile Road in late March.

Escambia County property records show that Waffle House bought the land for $474,000 in 2024 from its neighbor Anytime Storage. The DRC approved this project during its March 26 meeting.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Costco, Chiptole, new hotel among Escambias top 2025 additions
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China called for upholding Yemen's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and hoped parties will put the Yemeni people's interests first and create conditions for restoring peace and tranquility in Yemen at an early date, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Monday. 
SEOUL, Dec 29 (Reuters) - South Korean e-commerce company Coupang announced on Monday a compensation deal worth 1.69 trillion won ($1.18 billion) to holders of 33.7 million accounts for a massive data leak that triggered a backlash from users and lawmakers.

Coupang said customers will get company vouchers of 50,000 won each.

The plan comes a day after Coupang founder Kim Bom issued his first public apology for last month's data breach and pledged to expedite compensation measures. However, Kim has declined to attend parliamentary hearings scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, citing prior commitments.

Advertisement Advertisement

However, criticism has mounted over Coupang's decision to provide compensation in the form of vouchers that can only be used on its own services and platforms.

Choi Min-hee, a lawmaker of the ruling Democratic Party and chair of the National Assembly's Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communication committee, said in a Facebook post that Coupang was "bundling coupons for services no one uses," criticising the company for offering vouchers tied to its less popular services.

She added that Coupang appeared to be trying to turn the crisis into a business opportunity.

Consumer advocacy group Korea National Council of Consumer Organizations said Coupang's plan made a mockery of consumers and downplayed the severity of the data breach, describing it as a marketing tool designed to encourage additional purchases rather than as a sign of restitution.

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked about public criticism of its compensation plan, Coupang said it had no further comment.

South Korea's parliament plans to hold two days of hearings on Coupang starting on Tuesday.

($1 = 1,434.6000 won)

(Reporting by Jack Kim, Hyunjoo Jin and Heekyong Yang; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Jacqueline Wong and Kate Mayberry)
The verdict resonated far beyond the courtroom where it was decided  a jury in New Mexico has ordered the French tire maker Michelin to pay a drool-inducing $220 million in damages after a catastrophic tire failure on a Ford Excursion SUV resulted in the deaths of three family members. This case, centered on allegations of defective tire design and inadequate warnings, has drawn intense scrutiny across the automotive industry and the legal world.

The tragedy dates back to July 12, 2021, when Laura Marin Zamarippa was driving with her mother, Rosalva Marin, and her 14-year-old sister, Alexis Zamarippa, along a highway in Gaines County, Texas. According to court documents, their Excursion SUVs left front tire, a Michelin LTX M/S2 tire manufactured in 2014, suddenly failed. As the tire gave way, the SUV lost control, crossed into oncoming traffic, and collided head-on with a Chevrolet 2500 pickup. All three occupants of the Ford died at the scene.

Jury Holds Michelin Fully Accountable for Defective Tire and Massive Damages

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The lawsuit that followed was filed by the widower of Rosalva Marin and consolidated with claims from the Zamarippa family. Plaintiffs argued that the LTX M/S2 tire was inherently defective at the point of sale because of its internal construction. Specifically, the complaint centered on a flawed skim stock adhesive layera bond between steel belts within the tire that plaintiffs said was improperly applied.

Advertisement Advertisement

That defect, they claimed, made the tire prone to tread separation and catastrophic failure, especially as the tire aged. The suit also alleged an inferior belt system and inadequate curing during manufacturing that made the tire defective from the start.

In addition to charging that the tire itself was unsafe, the lawsuit accused both Michelin and the retailer Discount Tire of failing to give clear warnings about how tire performance can degrade over time. Plaintiffs contended that consumers were not adequately informed about the risks of driving on older tires and how age could contribute to sudden breakdowns.

After hearing evidence, a jury found Michelin completely responsible for the crash. Jurors assigned 100 percent of the blame to the tire maker and rejected assertions that the tires age, mileage, or external factors should bear any of the responsibility.

The company now faces a steep financial burden, with the $220 million verdict including both compensatory and punitive elements. Part of the award is earmarked for mental anguish and loss of companionship for surviving family members, with individual amounts ranging from $5 million to $6.25 million per claimant.

Michelin Appeals as Case Raises Questions About Tire Lifespan and Liability

Image Credit: Hrach Hovhannisyan/Shutterstock.

Michelin has stated that it strongly disagrees with the verdict and plans to pursue an appeal. The company notes that the tire in question had traveled around 70,000 miles and was seven years old at the time of the crash, indicating it had seen extensive service. Still, Michelin insists it stands by the quality and safety of its products and intends to use all available legal mechanisms to seek relief from the judgment.

Advertisement Advertisement

This case is significant for several reasons. It highlights the complex questions around product lifecycle and safety warnings for automotive components that might degrade over time. Tires are one of the most critical safety elements on any vehicle, yet there is no universally accepted expiration date for them in the United States.

Without clear guidance or labeling requirements on how long a tire can be expected to perform safely, manufacturers and sellers are increasingly vulnerable to lawsuits when failures occur.

The verdict also arrives in the context of growing legal pressure on automakers and their suppliers. In recent years, major companies including Ford itself have faced other large verdicts and multi-million-dollar lawsuits over alleged design defects and safety failures in their vehicles and components.

These include cases involving fatal rollover accidents and structural issues in trucks, and they have prompted debate over corporate accountability and how juries assign blame in complex technical matters.

For Michelin and the automotive supply chain more broadly, the Excursion case may force a closer look at how manufacturing standards, age-related degradation, and consumer warnings are handled. It is a legal moment that could ripple into manufacturing practices, legal strategies, and even regulatory discussions about how to protect drivers when critical equipment ages.
The man suspected of placing pipe bombs near the headquarters of the Democratic and Republican parties in 2021 felt extreme acts of violence were justified because they were in charge, federal prosecutors said Sunday.

In a request filed Sunday to keep him behind bars while he awaits trial, the Justice Department unveiled new allegations about the potential motive and actions of defendant Brian Cole, accused of planting the bombs on Jan. 5, 2021.

Cole, 30, who lives with his mother and other family members in Virginia about 25 miles southwest of Capitol Hill, was arrested Dec. 4 and charged with transporting an explosive device and attempted malicious destruction by means of explosive materials, according to charging documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Cole has yet to enter pleas. His lead defense counsel did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday night.

Sunday's court filing alleges Cole had animosity for both political parties at a time when, he told investigators, he was "watching everything, just everything getting worse."

The filing said he made the statements to FBI agents who interviewed him at the bureau's Washington field office after his arrest. The request filed Sunday was written by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Jones.

NBC News, citing three sources familiar with the matter, previously reported that Cole confessed to having planted the pipe bombs in an interview with FBI agents. Two sources familiar with the matter also previously told NBC News that Cole believed in conspiracy theories about the 2020 election.

Advertisement Advertisement

In Sunday's filing, prosecutors alleged that Cole told agents that if people thought "something as important as voting in the federal election is being tampered with ... then, like, someone needs to speak up, right? Someone up top."

The "people up top" included public figures "on both sides" who should not ignore people's grievances or call them conspiracy theorists, bad people, Nazis or fascists," according to the filing.

"If people feel that their votes are like just being thrown away, then ... at the very least someone should address it," Cole was quoted as saying.

Jones wrote that Cole said he did not like either party and that "something just snapped" after he had watched "everything getting worse." He directed his ire at the Democratic and Republican parties because "they were in charge," Cole told agents, according to the filing.

Advertisement Advertisement

The filing said that although the pipe bombs were planted on the eve of the Jan. 6 attack at the U.S. Capitol, during which supporters of President Donald Trump sought to thwart certification of President Joe Biden's 2020 victory, the events were not related.

"The defendant denied that his actions were directed toward Congress or related to the proceedings scheduled to take place on January 6," Jones wrote.

Prosecutors said Cole had purchased some of the items needed for the pipe bombs from 2018 to 2020. He was alleged to have been inspired to use pipe bombs by his interest in The Troubles in Northern Ireland, according to the filing, in which sectarian violence erupted for three decades and included bomb attacks.

"According to the defendant, he was not really thinking about how people would react when the bombs detonated, although he hoped there would be news about it," the filing said. "The defendant stated that he had not tested the devices before planting them."

Advertisement Advertisement

Cole drove to D.C. from his home and kept the bombs, which he assembled just hours before and wiped off with disinfectant wipes, in a shoe box, prosecutors alleged in the filing. He set the devices to detonate in one hour, prosecutors said, but they did not for reasons not made clear.

Sundays filing said Cole was pretty relieved when he learned the bombs did not go off because he did not want to kill people.

Prosecutors said Cole discarded all bomb-making materials at a dump after he saw himself on the news. Components for the bombs, prosecutors wrote, included a pipe nipple, end caps, wires, a 9-volt battery and homemade black powder, among other items.

Cole said he did not tell anyone about the pipe bombs in the years since, the filing said. Agents searching his home this month found pipe nipples, iron end caps, wire and wire strippers. Agents also were said to have found a receipt for hand sanitizer and pipe nipples in Coles car, as well as a shopping bag containing end caps and a 9-volt battery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ultimately, it was luck, not lack of effort, that the defendant failed to detonate one or both of his devices and that no one was killed or maimed due to his actions, Jones wrote in the filing. Indeed, the defendant admitted that he set both devices to detonate 60 minutes after he placed them."

In the filing, Jones noted that first responders, party leaders and "the Vice President-elect and Speaker of the House" drove by the pipe bombs before they were discovered.

"His failure to accomplish his objectives does not mitigate the profoundly dangerous nature of his crimes," Jones wrote.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
 Welcome to 5 Things PM! In 1998, Americans were asked what they thought life would be like in 2025. Some of their predictions didnt pan out, but others were right on target.

Heres what else you might have missed during your busy day.

5 things

A theater in New York City's Times Square. - Zamek/VIEWpress/Corbis News/Getty Images

1 Singing the blues

Broadway has always been at the heart of New York City culture  and perhaps more importantly, its economy. But musicals are struggling to make a profit, and producers blame the rising cost of rent, fees and labor.

2 Dad foils kidnapping

A 15-year-old girl was walking her dog on Christmas Day when she was abducted at knifepoint near Houston. Her father used the parental controls on his daughters cellphone to find her  and the suspect.

3 Buyer beware

A company recalled all of its baby formula products in November during an infant botulism outbreak, but some stores continued selling them. Its the latest example of how dangerous products can linger on shelves.

4 Direct donations

When you give to charity, youre probably wondering how much of that money actually goes to people in need. These groups tell you exactly who youre helping and how youre changing their lives for the better.

5 A complicated legacy

Brigitte Bardots effortless sense of style inspired French girl chic and made her a global star, but her right-wing views and racial remarks sparked plenty of controversy.

Watch this

 Skiers caught in blizzard: It wasnt the best weekend to ski in northern Japan after some regions were hit with powerful winds and more than 6 feet of snow. Click here to watch.

Top headlines

Check this out

Richard Jacyno/iStock Editorial/Getty Images

 All aboard: From overnight services to hyper-luxury land cruises, the quality of rail travel continues to expand worldwide. See the most exciting new trains coming in 2026.

Quiz time

Chicago & Midwest Storm Chasers

 A powerful winter storm is impacting post-holiday travel across the central and eastern US. About how many people are expected to drive for end-of-year trips across the US?

A. 15 million

B. 32 million

C. 68 million

D. 100 million

 Scroll down for the answer.

For CNN subscribers

Advertisement Advertisement

EDITORS NOTE: Interested in exclusive stories like these? Choose a plan

Thanks for reading

 Most popular in last Wednesdays newsletter: Most Americans dont think Trump or Democratic leaders are listening. Heres what they wish they could tell Washington

 Quiz answer: D. More than 100 million Americans are expected to hit the roads during the year-end holiday travel period.

 Well see you tomorrow.

 Check out all of CNNs newsletters.

Todays edition of 5 Things PM was edited and produced by CNNs Tricia Escobedo.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The man suspected of planting pipe bombs in Washington, DC, in 2021 confessed after his arrest that "something just snapped" and he wanted to target the Democratic and Republican parties because "they were in charge," federal prosecutors said in court documents released Dec. 28.

Brian Cole Jr., 30, was arrested earlier in December and charged with transporting and planting two pipe bombs. Prosecutors accused Cole of placing two pipe bombs near the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees on the night before the riot at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

The devices, which were discovered on the day of the riot, did not detonate, and no one was hurt, federal authorities had said. After a nearly five-year investigation, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Dec. 4 that Cole had been taken into custody.

Advertisement Advertisement

He made his first court appearance in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Dec. 5 and was ordered to remain jailed without bond. In a memo filed Dec. 28, the Justice Department requested that Cole stay behind bars while he awaits trial. A detention hearing is scheduled for Dec. 30.

The memo also provides a detailed account of statements, including a confession, Cole made after his arrest, authorities said. Prosecutors argued Cole poses an "intolerable risk of danger" to the community and must remain detained pending trial.

"The defendants choice of targets risked the lives not only of innocent pedestrians and office workers but also of law enforcement, first responders, and national political leaders who were inside of the respective party headquarters or drove by them on January 6, 2021, including the Vice President-elect and Speaker of the House," prosecutors wrote.

Conspiracy theories surrounding case: Top Trump FBI officials claimed pipe bombs were an FBI 'inside job'

'I really don't like either party at this point'

Cole was arrested on the morning of Dec. 4 at his home in Woodbridge, Virginia, a city about 25 miles from Washington, authorities said. The memo says that after his arrest, Cole was interviewed for hours and initially denied manufacturing, transporting and planting the pipe bombs.

Advertisement Advertisement

When investigators asked about his whereabouts on Jan. 5, 2021, Cole said he drove to Washington by himself to attend a protest related to the 2020 election, the memo adds.

"I didnt agree with what people were doing, like just telling half the country that they  that their  that they just need to ignore it. I didnt think that was a good idea, so I went to the protest," the memo says, quoting Cole.

But as the interview continued, prosecutors said, Cole confessed to traveling to Washington to place the two pipe bombs outside the RNC and DNC headquarters. He also told investigators that if people feel "something as important as voting in the federal election is being tampered with ... then, like, someone needs to speak up, right? Someone up top," according to the memo.

"The defendant felt that 'the people up top,' including 'people on both sides, public figures,' should not 'ignore[e] peoples grievances' or call them 'conspiracy theorists,' 'bad people,' 'Nazis,' or 'fascists,'" the memo continues.

Advertisement Advertisement

After investigators questioned Cole's motive, he said "something just snapped" after "watching everything, just everything getting worse," and that he wanted to do something "to the parties" because "they were in charge," according to the memo.

Prosecutors added that when Cole was asked why he placed the devices at the RNC and DNC buildings, he responded: "I really dont like either party at this point."

Suspect told investigators he was 'pretty relieved' bombs did not go off

According to the memo, Cole also detailed his construction, transportation and planting of the pipe bombs to investigators during the interview. He told investigators he made black powder using charcoal, sulfur dust and potassium nitrate he bought from Lowe's.

Cole said he learned how to make the black powder from a video game and by watching science-related videos on YouTube, the memo says. Prosecutors say he then assembled the pipe bombs "in the hours" before he drove to Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

"The defendant placed one of the devices in his backpack, exited his car, and walked toward the DNC. He set the timer on the first device to the maximum duration (60 minutes) and planted the device near the DNC," according to the memo. "The defendant then returned to his car, retrieved the second device and placed it in his backpack, and walked to the RNC, where he set the timer for 60 minutes and planted the device."

Later in the interview, the memo says, Cole said he had not tested the pipe bombs before planting them. The memo adds that when Cole learned the pipe bombs did not detonate, "he was 'pretty relieved' and asserted he placed the devices at night because he did not want to kill people."

Contributing: Natalie Neysa Alund and Aysha Bagchi

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: DC pipe bomb suspect confessed to planting explosives: Court docs
A Delta flight to Jacksonville, Florida, returned to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport shortly after takeoff on Sunday.

Delta flight DL2627 returned to the airport after an issue with the engine was detected.

The Boeing 757 aircraft had 191 passengers and six crew on board.

According to FlightAware, the flight took off at 4:22 p.m. and returned to Atlanta at 5:25 p.m.

The flight will continue to Jacksonville International Airport later Sunday evening on a different aircraft.

Delta issued a statement about flight:

As the safety of our customers and our people is of the utmost importance, the flight crew of Delta flight DL2627 followed procedures to return to Atlanta after they observed an issue with one of the aircrafts engines. The flight landed safely in Atlanta, and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the delay in their travels. Delta Air Lines

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

TRENDING STORIES:

STORY 1

STORY 2

STORY 3

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
When Zohran Mamdanis lead media strategist slipped out of town and flew west to cut an ad for a little-known progressive in the heart of Californias Central Valley, he was opening a new front in the Democratic Partys civil war.

Democrats at the time were on their way to gerrymandering the states congressional districts to flip five seats  a nationally watched effort central to winning back control of the House.

But in making a slate of districts more competitive for Democrats, the party is also intensifying a longstanding battle between moderates and progressives about what kind of Democrats should carry the banner. And in the district that Mamdanis media strategist visited  the battleground seat held by Republican Rep. David Valadao  progressives are going for the jugular.

Advertisement Advertisement

The risk to the Democratic Party is when we run candidates who take corporate money, refuse to criticize the people rigging the economy and ruining the lives of working class people, said Morris Katz, Mamdanis consultant, and undercut the credibility argument that we're making as a larger party.

In the early months of the campaign, Katzs client, Randy Villegas, has pilloried his more moderate opponent, state lawmaker Jasmeet Bains, for taking money from corporations and voting against placing the gerrymander on the ballot, while Bains has swiped at Villegas residency just outside the district.

Villegas brought Katz out to cut an ad, over footage of Bains and Valadao, in which he tore into his opponents Democrat and Republican alike for taking money from the same corporations that are ripping us off. The Working Families Party pushed out a complimentary analysis showing overlap in Bains and Valadaos donors.

This is a fight for the soul of the Democratic Party, Villegas, a school board trustee and auto shop owner, said in an interview. We have to ask ourselves: Are we going to be a party for the billionaires, or are we going to be a party for the working class?

Advertisement Advertisement

Bains, posting on social media, asked what gave a man the permission to resort to spreading lies just because his campaign is going nowhere.

To Democrats watching, it is the kind of infighting that they often worry about weakening a candidate before a run-off election  which, in this case, is likely to be against Valadao next fall. But it is especially troublesome to them given the rare opportunity they have. The districts Democratic registration advantage grew by more than 4 percentage points after the gerrymander. And while Democratic powerbrokers sank months and millions of dollars into passing redistricting at the ballot, theyve done far less to settle party infighting in the aftermath.

The candidates have split congressional endorsements and raised similar amounts  but less than Valadao, combined. Republicans in California widely view the race as winnable despite the gerrymander, given Valadaos wins in districts with Democratic voter registration advantages. A dairy farmer, he has survived by maintaining strong relationships with the regions agriculture and oil industries, while voting to impeach Donald Trump in early 2021 and otherwise building a moderate profile. Trump won his new district by 1.8 points in 2024, and Valadao outperformed him.

Villegas mounted what he describes as an economic populist challenge to Valadao in April, supporting Medicare for All in a district that had slid toward Trump the prior fall. But his associations with the Working Families Party and other progressive groups left open a lane for a more moderate Democrat, and California Democratic and labor operatives started recruiting.

Advertisement Advertisement

SEIU California, the states largest  and typically progressive  labor union, encouraged Bains to take a run at Valadao. Shes a pariah among many progressive lawmakers in Sacramento, after splitting with her party on everything from GOP-backed sex trafficking legislation to oil, a dominant industry in her region. But her independent streak is seen as an electoral asset by moderate Democrats.

Leaders of SEIU, which is composed largely of health care workers, argued Bains background as a physician positioned her well to knock off Valadao following his July vote for health care cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill.

Jasmeet Bains, in our members opinion, is the strongest champion, especially in this moment, to fight back against a Congress, a Senate and an administration who's attacking health care every chance that they get, said SEIU California Executive Director Tia Orr, who was involved in the recruitment effort. She is our best and only chance at beating David Valadao come November of 2026.

Before announcing a run in July, Bains appeared in an ad hitting Valadao over health care cuts and met with Reps. Marilyn Strickland and Grace Meng as part of their roles with the Congressional AAPI Caucus and its financial arm. Soon after, the caucus ASPIRE PAC began to make the case for Bains. It endorsed her and circulated polling that it had commissioned suggesting shed be more competitive in a run-off against Valadao than Villegas would be.

Advertisement Advertisement

We heard early on that she was interested in running, so our members were able to get connected with her, said ASPIRE PAC Executive Director Nic Jordan, and we've been happy to support her from the beginning.

It wasnt enough to knock Villegas out.

He brought on Rosa Mendoza, the chief analytics officer for Kamala Harris 2024 campaign, and Luis Alcauter, who worked on Sen. Bernie Sanders 2020 campaign, as consultants. During the third quarter of the year, he raised slightly less than Bains but has still outraised her by about $150,000 overall since beginning his campaign. He rolled out endorsements from Sanders and the congressional progressive and Hispanic caucuses.

When Villegas ran the ad by Katz, Bains posted on social media within hours, seemingly alluding to it.

Advertisement Advertisement

As political violence increases in America, I myself have experienced a heightened level of it, Bains wrote on Facebook, before asking the rhetorical question: What gave a man the permission to resort to spreading lies just because his campaign is going nowhere.

Asked if she was referring to Villegas, Bains demurred in an interview, before describing instances in which she said her house was vandalized and she was hit with hate speech and threats over her Sikh identity.

I was referring to the threats against me and my community by people waging a transnational repression campaign to label all Sikhs as terrorists and the people supporting the xenophobic messages of these organizations, Bains said.

Bains campaign has taken next to no explicit jabs at Villegas. But, after Villegas campaign criticized Bains for her vote against placing Democrats redistricting measure on the ballot, her campaign noted she was the only candidate in the race living in the new Bakersfield-area district. Villegas grew up in Bakersfield, but lives outside the district in the nearby town of Visalia where hes on the school board and teaches political science.

Advertisement Advertisement

Villegas supporters argue the melee with Bains wont hurt their partys chances of taking the seat. They blame past Democratic losses on voter apathy caused by weak candidates.

I think primaries make for a stronger party and stronger candidates, Katz said.

Bains dismissed the risk of an intraparty fight damaging her partys chances, too. Inter-Democrat fighting has existed since the first day I ran for office, she said.

But Democrats have failed to beat Valdao every cycle since 2020 despite repeatedly targeting him, and Bains is well aware of the ideological conflict her party faces.

We need to embrace candidates that reflect their districts, she said, not partisan purity.
The president of Iran has stirred significant concern with recent comments about the countrys relationship with the United States, which he describes as a state of war. The remarks come as President Donald Trump meets with Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, who has taken an aggressive stance against Iran as well. These developments raise fears of a return to conflict after the countries fought this summer.

The Iranian president says the country is at war with the U.S. and its allies

Though Iran has not formally issued a declaration of war against the United States, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday, In my opinion, we are in a full-fledged war with America, Israel and Europe. They do not want our country to stand on its feet.

Pezeshkian made these remarks during an interview with Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameneis website. The remarks come six months after Iran and Israel fought a 12-day war in which Israel struck against Irans nuclear program and military facilities, among other targets. The Trump administration briefly intervened as well, bombing three Iranian nuclear facilities. Pezeshkians inclusion of Europe comes after Britain, France and Germany resumed sanctions against Iran in September due to Irans nuclear program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Pezeshkian described the conflict with Israel and these Western nations as more threatening than the devastating Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s. This war is worse than Iraqs war against us. If one understands it well, this war is far more complex and difficult than that war, Pezeshkian said. His talk of war doesnt immediately indicate that large-scale military actions by Iran are imminent. Such a decision would have to be approved by the countrys supreme leader. But the remarks are indicative of the decline in U.S. relations with Iran as well as the ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel. Pezeshkian declared that Irans military has rebuilt its strength since the June war, indicating that if the United States and Iran attacked again, they will naturally face a more decisive response.

Possibilities for escalating conflict or renewed negotiations with Iran

Pezeshkians comments came days before Netanyahu was scheduled to arrive in the United States to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Monday, a day after Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Florida resort. While Trump and Zelenskyy have had a rocky relationship and disagreed sharply over Russias invasion of Ukraine, Netanyahu and Trump have been close allies. Netanyahu is expected to push Trump toward more joint military operations against Iran, this time targeting the countrys ballistic missile program.

It is unclear how Trump may respond to such requests. In the past, Trump and Netanyahu have shared a hardline stance against Iran. During his first term, Trump canceled a deal that the Obama administration had negotiated with Iran to halt the countrys nuclear weapons programs in exchange for certain concessions and easing of sanctions. Although Trump has pursued an aggressive foreign policy against Iran in the past, he is currently pushing the notion of himself as a peacemaker in the Middle East and elsewhere, and Trumps Republican base is divided on the idea of additional military action against Iran or other Middle Eastern nations. The stalled peace process over the war in Gaza is another source of contention between Trump and Netanyahu, with Israel continuing to launch strikes in Gaza despite the ceasefire.

All these circumstances create a great deal of uncertainty for the Middle East and for the United States. With Trump being pulled in multiple directions, it is unclear how he will choose to engage with Iran going forward. For the time being, however, Irans president sees the relationship with the United States as already being one of conflict, and a continuing war between the countries could create a dangerous situation for all nations involved and for the Middle East as a whole.







The post Did Iran Declare War On The U.S.? Heres Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Blavity.
Chad Ollinger, who appeared on Discovery Channel's "Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch", is facing a murder charge after his cellmate was found dead inside a Las Vegas jail ... TMZ has learned.

According to the Las Vegas Metro Police, corrections officers conducting routine checks at Clark County Detention Center Friday discovered a male inmate "lying motionless inside a cell." Officers entered and observed the inmate had apparent blunt force injuries.

The inmate was pronounced dead at the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Police say Ollinger, who was the victim's cellmate, was taken into custody. Detectives determined a physical altercation occurred between Ollinger and the victim inside the cell before the inmate's death.

TMZ

The reality TV star now faces a charge of open murder, a Clark County Detention Center spokesperson tells TMZ.

Ollinger had already been behind bars since October after being arrested as a fugitive from another state, which he's facing a contempt of court charge.
Serial domestic abusers in Scotland were sentenced to a total of almost 230 years in prison this year in a major crackdown by the police.

The force reported that 32 offenders accumulated total sentences of more than 228 years in 2025, with one person given 17 years in jail.

They were convicted of 240 offences following proactive investigations by Police Scotlands domestic abuse task force.

The crimes involved 110 victims, all women and children, with offences including rape, sexual assault, stalking, permanent disfigurement, danger to life, threats against pets and more under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act.

Domestic abuse crimes have increased by 10 per cent in Scotland over the last year, figures reveal (PA Archive)

Domestic abuse crimes have increased by 10 per cent in Scotland over the last year, while detection rates have only increased by nearly 8 per cent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Police Scotland officers respond to a domestic abuse call every eight minutes, per the latest figures. More than 66,000 incidents were reported between October 2024 and September this year, of which 40.3 per cent resulted in a crime being recorded.

Assistant chief constable Steve Johnson, executive lead for major crime, public protection, and local crime, said that the force remained relentless in tackling domestic abuse.

He said: Our officers are determined to ensure women and girls live free from violence and abuse. We are relentless in our focus on tackling domestic abuse. It will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable.

We tackle violence against women and girls every day of the year, preventing harm and bringing offenders to justice. We dont do this alone but work with partners to identify and address the societal issues at the root of gender-based violence, so that we can stop abusive behaviour before it begins.

Advertisement Advertisement

No one should have to experience abuse. We are committed to supporting all victim-survivors, protecting them, and investigating every report of domestic abuse so they can come forward with confidence. Help is available, and you dont have to face this alone.

As we look ahead to 2026, our message to offenders remains the same. If you continue to abuse and exhibit abusive behaviour, you will be caught and anyone who continues to abuse will face the full force of the law.

Between 25 November and 10 December, the force took part in an annual initiative focused on eliminating gender-based violence called 16 Days of Activism, in which they arrested 500 perpetrators of domestic abuse and charged more than 380.

The national domestic abuse helpline offers support for women on 0808 2000 247, or you can visit the Refuge website. There is a dedicated men's advice line on 0808 8010 327. Those in the US can call the domestic violence hotline on 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Other international helplines can be found via www.befrienders.org.
Staff members welcome a family from India who are recognized the 2,333,797th international traveler to Sri Lanka in 2025 at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, Sri Lanka, Dec. 29, 2025. (Photo by Gayan Sameera/Xinhua)

COLOMBO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka on Monday surpassed its previous tourist arrivals record, welcoming the highest number of international visitors since 2018, tourism authorities said.

According to official data, total tourist arrivals in 2025 reached 2,333,797, exceeding the previous record of 2,333,796 set in 2018.

Tourism officials described the achievement as a strong signal of the sector's recovery and renewed growth after years of disruption, noting that arrivals during the year consistently outperformed expectations.

Sri Lanka's tourism sector is a key foreign exchange earner and a major source of employment, and officials said the new record underscores growing international confidence in the island as a travel destination. 
Pierce County prosecutors charged a man with vehicular homicide for allegedly driving drunk last month when he fatally struck a womans vehicle while she was backing into her driveway.

Luis Antonio Alarcon-Lara, 27, was charged in Superior Court on Wednesday for the Nov. 30 incident in the Midland area. Prosecutors also accused him of reckless driving.

Alarcon-Lara was summoned to appear for arraignment Jan. 14 to enter a plea to those felony charges. A defense attorney for the man was not yet listed in court records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Toxicology testing showed the defendants blood-alcohol level was 0.26 when his blood was drawn after the wreck, according to charging documents. Thats more than triple the legal limit in Washington, 0.08.

The 69-year-old woman killed in the incident has not been publicly identified by the Medical Examiners Office. Deputies said she was coming home from work when she was T-boned.

Surveillance video from a nearby business allegedly showed Alarcon-Lara driving erratically before the collision. A police report from the Sheriffs Office included in charging documents said a camera captured his Honda CRV run a stop sign at 85th Street and Golden Given Road East while traveling south, less than a half-mile from where the incident occurred.

Alarcon-Lara continued driving south on Golden Given Road, and the video allegedly showed him drift into the oncoming traffic lane, then jerk back into his lane before he went out of camera view. The video captured the sound of the collision, and a deputy said it sounded like the defendant was accelerating the entire time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies determined that the victim was backing into her driveway in a Honda Accord when Alarcon-Lara drove onto the west shoulder and hit the drivers side of the vehicle, according to a police report.

The speed limit in the area is 35 mph. Deputies wrote in the report that Alarcon-Lara appeared to be driving significantly faster than the limit based on scene observations, vehicle damage, the dry roadway and visible skid marks.

Luis Antonio Alarcon-Lara, 27, was charged in Pierce County Superior Court with DUI vehicular homicide and reckless driving for fatally striking a womans vehicle while she was backing into her driveway in Midland on Nov. 30, 2025. Body-camera video from the Sheriffs Office shows Alarcon-Laras Honda CRV at the scene of the wreck. Pierce County Sheriffs Office (Pierce County Sheriffs Office)

The victim was removed from her vehicle, and police reports state a citizen performed CPR before Fire Department personnel took over, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Alarcon-Lara was trapped in his car underneath the steering wheel and suffered serious injuries. According to a police report, large items behind the drivers seat prevented the seat from being moved backward, and while Fire Department personnel were clearing away the items, a deputy noticed a large bottle of an intoxicating beverage with a broken seal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Treatment records from Central Pierce Fire & Rescue allegedly said that Fire Department personnel smelled ethyl alcohol or ethanol on Alarcon-Laras breath when he was moved from the car to a gurney.

Charging documents said Alarcon-Lara was arrested in 2017 on suspicion of unlawful possession of a controlled substance and reckless driving. Its unclear where Alarcon-Lara was arrested. Pierce County court records dont show that he has any prior felony convictions.
An attorney representing Elwood Jones entered a plea of not guilty Dec. 29, on behalf of Jones, who was accused of driving drunk on Christmas Eve.

Jones, 73, is charged with Operating a Vehicle Impaired, commonly called OVI, failure to control a motor vehicle and fleeing the scene of a crash. Instead of appearing in court on Dec. 29, his lawyer filed a written plea of not guilty, court officials confirmed.

Jones was driving on East McMillan Road around 5 p.m. on Dec. 24, according to Cincinnati police.

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators said he drove up onto a sidewalk, struck a light pole and then left the crash scene on foot.

He returned 30 minutes later, according the crash report, and refused an alcohol test.

Jones spent nearly three decades on death row, but the conviction was overturned in 2022, and on Dec. 12, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich said she would not try him again.

Jones' case received widespread attention after The Enquirer's Accused podcast reexamined it and the evidence against him.

Pillich, a Democrat, has faced criticism for her decision. Her predecessor and current Ohio Supreme Court Justice Joe Deters, a Republican, publicly defended Jones' conviction and said Pillich's decision was wrong. Jones has maintained his innocence for decades.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Elwood Jones pleads not guilty in Christmas Eve OVI case
CBD and other cannabis derivatives are a bust when it comes to pain relief, a new evidence review has concluded.

Products containing mainly or only cannabidiol demonstrated almost no ability to manage a person's pain, a review of recent clinical trials found.

"This may be surprising to people," said lead researcher Dr. Roger Chou, senior adviser for the Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.

Advertisement Advertisement

"Conventional wisdom was that CBD was promising because it doesn't have euphoric effects like THC and it was thought to have medicinal properties," Chou said in a news release. "But, at least in our analysis, it didn't have an effect on pain."

Weed products carrying relatively high levels of THC -- the compound that causes intoxication -- showed some potential to provide short-term improvements in pain and function, the review found.

But they also come with an increased risk of side effects like dizziness, sleepiness and nausea, researchers concluded in their Dec. 23 paper in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Both THC and CBD act on a system of neurotransmitters within the body that play a role in modulating a person's pain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Because of that, many people have turned to cannabis to treat conditions like pain, anxiety and sleep, researchers said in background notes.

Weed is legal for medical use in 40 states and the District of Columbia and for recreational use in 24 states and the District of Columbia.

On Dec. 18, President Donald Trump signed an executive order calling for marijuana to be reclassified from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, on par with substances like ketamine, testosterone and anabolic steroids.

For the new evidence review, researchers analyzed data from 25 clinical trials testing cannabis products' ability to treat chronic pain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Researchers looked at the trials based on the THC-to-CBD ratio of the products being tested.

Results showed some evidence of pain relief for two U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved products, dronabinol and nabilone, which are made of 100% THC. Those drugs are approved for treatment of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.

However, the pain relief was relatively small. Compared to placebo, it was on the order of a half-point to a point on a 10-point scale, researchers noted.

Those slight benefits were accompanied by moderate-to-large increases in dizziness, sedation and nausea, the trial results showed.

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's complicated because cannabis products are complicated," Chou said.

"It's not like taking a standardized dose of ibuprofen, for example," he said. "Cannabis is derived from a plant and has multiple chemicals in addition to THC and CBD that may have additional properties depending on where it's grown, how it's cultivated and ultimately prepared for sale."

Researchers noted that the medical profession is divided on the potential medical benefits of cannabis.

The American College of Physicians recently declined to recommend smoking weed to treat chronic pain, but previously experts have issued a soft recommendation for people with chronic pain when standard treatments fail.

Advertisement Advertisement

The results regarding CBD are particularly discouraging, researchers said.

"CBD-based products are widely available in dispensaries. Many people use these products and they think it helps," Chou said. "Our goal is to provide some scientific basis to help people make their decisions."

More information

The Cleveland Clinic has more on medical marijuana.

Copyright  2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
U.S. President Donald Trump continues to claim he has ended eight wars this year, but that is exaggerated. His meeting this week with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlights that far more work remains before any declaration of an end to the war in Gaza.

Meanwhile, fresh fighting broke out in recent weeks between Thailand and Cambodia, and between Congolese forces and Rwanda-backed rebels. And one conflict that Trump has claimed to end has never been a war at all.

Heres a closer look:

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel and Hamas

The current ceasefire and hostage deal is a major achievement, but Israel has said it wont move into the truces more difficult second phase until the remains of the last hostage are released from Gaza. And Hamas has threatened to halt the agreement because it says Israel isn't allowing enough aid into Gaza and continues deadly strikes on Palestinians there.

The path to a permanent end to the war, let alone a two-state solution for the Palestinians, is long and complicated. Issues ahead include disarming Hamas, creating and deploying an international security force, determining Gazas future governance and further withdrawing Israeli forces from the devastated territory.

With the Trump-Netanyahu meeting, Washington wants to create fresh momentum for next steps in the U.S.-brokered truce that took effect on Oct. 10 and is largely holding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel and Iran

Trump is credited with ending the 12-day war. In June, Israel launched attacks on Irans nuclear program and military leadership, saying it wanted to stop Tehran from building a nuclear weapon. Iran has denied it was trying to do that.

Trump negotiated a ceasefire after directing U.S. warplanes to strike Irans Fordo, Isfahan and Natanz nuclear sites.

Evelyn Farkas, executive director of Arizona State Universitys McCain Institute, has said that Trump should get credit for ending the war, adding that it didnt have any real end in sight before President Trump got involved and gave them an ultimatum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawrence Haas, a senior fellow for U.S. foreign policy at the American Foreign Policy Council, agreed the U.S. was instrumental but characterized the ceasefire as a temporary respite from the ongoing day-to-day cold war."

Egypt and Ethiopia

Mediation efforts, which do not directly involve the United States, have stalled in what is best described as heightened tensions, not war.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Blue Nile has caused friction between Ethiopia and Egypt and Sudan since the project was announced more than a decade ago. The dam was inaugurated in September.

Egypt and Sudan oppose the dam. Egyptian agriculture relies on the river almost entirely. Sudan fears flooding and wants to protect its own dams.

Advertisement Advertisement

During his first term, Trump tried to broker a deal between Ethiopia and Egypt. He could not get the countries to agree.

India and Pakistan

The April killing of tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir pushed India and Pakistan closer to war than they had been in years, but a ceasefire was reached.

Trump has claimed that the U.S. brokered the ceasefire, which he said came about in part because he offered trade concessions. Pakistan thanked Trump. India denied Trumps claims, saying there was no conversation between the U.S. and India on trade in regards to the ceasefire.

Haas and Farkas have said they believe the U.S. deserves some credit for helping stop the fighting. Again, Im not sure whether you would define that as a full-blown war, Farkas added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Serbia and Kosovo

The White House lists the conflict between Serbia and Kosovo as one that Trump resolved. But there has been no threat of a war between the neighbors during Trumps second term or any significant contribution from him this year to improve relations.

Kosovo is a former Serbian province that declared independence in 2008. Tensions have persisted but never to the point of war, mostly because NATO-led peacekeepers have been deployed in Kosovo, which has been recognized by more than 100 countries.

During his first term, Trump negotiated a wide-ranging deal between the countries, but much of what was agreed on was never carried out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rwanda and Congo

Trump has played a key role in peace efforts between the African neighbors, but he is not alone and the conflict is far from over.

Eastern Congo, rich in minerals, this year saw the return of the M23 rebel group. It is backed by Rwanda, which claims it is protecting territorial interests and that some of those who participated in the 1994 Rwandan genocide are working with the Congolese army.

In June, the Congolese and Rwandan foreign ministers signed a peace deal at the White House. And in early December, the countries' presidents signed a peace deal as Trump looked on. But the M23 has said it would not abide by an agreement that did not directly involve it. Days after the latest signing, the rebels seized another eastern Congo city before claiming to withdraw.

Advertisement Advertisement

There is also a separate Qatar-facilitated deal between Congo and M23, but the parties have accused each other of violating the ceasefire.

Armenia and Azerbaijan

In August, Trump hosted the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan at the White House, where they signed a deal aimed at ending a decades-long conflict. The countries signed agreements intended to reopen key transportation routes and reaffirm their commitment to signing a peace treaty. The text of the treaty was initialed by foreign ministers, which indicates preliminary approval. But the leaders have yet to sign the treaty and parliaments have yet to ratify it.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought over territory since the early 1990s, when ethnic Armenian forces took control of the Karabakh province, known internationally as Nagorno-Karabakh, and nearby territories. In 2020, Azerbaijans military recaptured broad swaths of territory. Russia brokered a truce, but in September 2023, Azerbaijani forces launched a lightning blitz to retake remaining portions.

Advertisement Advertisement

The two countries have worked toward normalizing ties ever since.

Cambodia and Thailand

Officials from Thailand and Cambodia credit Trump with pushing the Asian neighbors to agree to a ceasefire in this summers brief border conflict. But fighting flared again in recent weeks.

Cambodia and Thailand have clashed over their shared border. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim pressed for an unconditional ceasefire, but there was little headway until Trump intervened. Trump said he warned the Thai and Cambodian leaders that the U.S. would not move forward with trade agreements if hostilities continued.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ken Lohatepanont, a political analyst and University of Michigan doctoral candidate, has said that Trumps decision to "condition a successful conclusion to these talks on a ceasefire likely played a significant role in ensuring that both sides came to the negotiating table when they did.

A more detailed October agreement followed, also under Trump's pressure. But heavy fighting broke out in early December. A new ceasefire agreement was signed on Dec. 27.

___

Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Carolyn Danny Siplin, a woman reported missing from Rochester, has been found deceased.

News 8 was informed of Siplins death by family on Sunday evening. The announcement comes nearly a week after the 33-year-old was last seen on Portage Street in Rochester on Monday, Dec. 23. Siplins disappearance prompted search efforts from the community and police.

On Dec. 26, during a welfare check investigation on the east side of the Genesee River Gorge and near the 600 block of St. Paul Street, a body was found by police. The individual was later identified by the Monroe County Medical Examiners Office as Siplin.

Advertisement Advertisement

I miss her very much: Family pleads for help in search for missing Rochester person

At this time, the Rochester Police Department says, there does not appear to be any criminal intent involved with Siplins death. RPD is continuing to investigate the circumstances and asks anyone with information to contact 911.

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 RochesterFirst.
The exterior of Monument Health's hospital in Rapid City, pictured on Dec. 16, 2022. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)

South Dakota received about $4 million less than what it requested from a new federal rural health fund, and the amount is smaller than the awards for surrounding states.

These resources will help us modernize rural health care, support the workforce that delivers it, and ensure that all South Dakotans have access to quality care  no matter where they live, South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden said in a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid announced Monday that all 50 states received funding from the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program. Congress included it in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, in response to concerns that the bills Medicaid cuts will hurt rural health providers. Medicaid is a federal-state program that provides health insurance for people with disabilities or low incomes.

Half of the new programs funding is predicated on the number of rural residents and rural health facilities in a state, as well as the states spending plans and policies, among other factors. The federal agency announced award amounts for 2026. Award amounts can change each year.

South Dakota requested $1 billion over five years, including $193.3 million for the first year. The state received about $189 million for 2026.

Some states, including Nebraska, Montana and Iowa, received more funding than requested.

According to the health policy research group KFF, federal Medicaid spending in rural areas in South Dakota over the next decade will decrease by a projected $487 million, due largely to new work requirements in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that will cause some people to lose coverage.

A key component of South Dakotas application to the rural health fund was a $500 million health infrastructure modernization proposal, which would include creation of a South Dakota Health Data Atlas. It would allow health care systems throughout the state to access health data in one single, accessible platform. The atlas would address telecommunications needs, equipment, emergency preparedness and cybersecurity concerns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Other proposals ranged from $3.5 million to support the growth of community health workers in the state to $125 million to fund sustainability grants for South Dakota health care providers.

Josie Harms, spokeswoman for Gov. Rhoden, did not address South Dakota Searchlight questions about the gap between funding requested and awarded, or what impact that will have on programming.

Harms said the award is a major win for rural health care in the state, despite it being less than requested.
A federal judge has dismissed an indictment against a TikTok streamer shot by a federal agent in October in South Los Angeles.

The judge says Carlitos Ricardo Parias, who goes by Richard LA online, was denied access to his lawyers while being held in detention.

He also cites the government's failure to meet discovery deadlines, including the timely release of body camera footage of the shooting.

ORIGINAL REPORT: TikToker shot by federal agents, deputy US marshal hit by ricochet bullet during South LA operation

A TikToker was shot by federal agents during an immigration operation in South Los Angeles. A deputy U.S. marshal was injured by a ricochet bullet.

Advertisement Advertisement

The shooting happened in the 400 block of East 20th Street near Trinity Street around 8:52 a.m. Federal officials said it began as a targeted enforcement traffic stop on an undocumented immigrant who had previously avoided capture.

Agents accused Parias of ramming his car into their vehicles after they boxed him in, but video from the scene raises questions about their claims.

In a statement back in October, Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), said Parias "weaponized his vehicle and began ramming the law enforcement vehicle in an attempt to flee. Fearing for the safety of the public and law enforcement, our officers followed their training and fired defensive shots."

Parias was accused of ramming his Toyota Camry into law enforcement vehicles in front of and behind him after they boxed him in. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said Parias spun the car's tires, spewing smoke and debris into the air and causing the car to fishtail, "causing agents to worry for their safety."

Advertisement Advertisement

Essayli said an agent broke into his side window, but it wasn't enough to subdue Parias. That's when an agent opened fire.

Parias was shot once in the elbow, and a deputy U.S. marshal was shot in the hand by a ricochet bullet, according to DHS.

His trial was supposed to start on Tuesday. He was charged with assault on a federal officer.

The judge dismissed the indictment with prejudice, preventing prosecutors from refiling the same charges.

But, Parias could remain in detention as his immigration case moves forward.
A federal judge in Pittsburgh has stopped the federal government from forcing UPMC to hand over records regarding gender-affirming care.

In July, the Department of Justice subpoenaed more than 20 doctors and providers, including UPMC, who it says were involved in performing transgender medical procedures on children.

But on Tuesday, Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon granted a motion to quash the DOJs subpoena.

Advertisement Advertisement

RELATED COVERAGE >>> Protesters gather at UPMC headquarters to demand gender-affirming care be reinstated to all patients

In her order, Bissoon cited a similar case filed in Philadelphia, where a federal judge also struck down the governments arguments.

(The judges) ruling is not an outlier, Bissoon writes. To the undersigneds knowledge, no reported federal decision has ruled in the governments favor.

Bissoon did allow further briefing on potential anonymized records, which the government had said it would accept in a court filing on Dec. 16.

The deadline for the parties to file a brief is Jan. 16.

Advertisement Advertisement

The motion to quash was filed by patients and former patients who received gender-affirming care from UPMC while minors, as well as their parents, Bissoon writes.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
BAGHDAD, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi Interior Ministry said on Monday that one security member was killed and several others were wounded during an operation to arrest suspected drug traffickers in the northern Kirkuk province.

Upon arrival at the scene, the force came under fire and engaged in an armed clash with the suspects, which resulted in injuries to a number of security personnel, who were subsequently transferred to hospitals and are now in stable condition, the ministry said in a statement.

One suspect was killed in the clash and another arrested, it added.

In a separate statement on Monday, the ministry said that following a series of intelligence-led operations, security forces arrested two international traffickers and seized 3 kg of narcotics in the eastern Diyala province, and found 48 kg of narcotics in the southern Basra province.

Years of chaos and conflict following the 2003 U.S.-led invasion have hindered Iraq's efforts to combat narcotics. The Iraqi government has stated that drug trafficking remains a significant source of funding for terrorism, while the circulation of drugs thrives in the shadows of terrorism.

The Iraqi Interior Ministry said in November that the country had dismantled 1,201 drug trafficking and distribution networks over the past three years, including 171 international rings, and had seized more than 14 tonnes of narcotics. 
We always assumed that the Aldi name was a German word the chain didn't bother to translate when it arrived in the U.S.  turns out, we were wrong. The German discount grocery chain's moniker is a shortened version of Albrecht Discount (or Albrecht Diskont, in German). That was the store's original name when it was opened by Anna Albrecht in Essen, Germany, in 1913. Grab your bags and your quarter (don't worry, you don't actually have to pay for a cart), and let's take a look at everything you need to know about how Aldi got started.

The Albrecht family truly built the store from the ground up, initially opening in a low-income neighborhood in Germany in 1913. While the shop served local, budget-conscious shoppers from the start, Aldi's modern discount identity truly took shape after World War II. Anna Albrecht's sons Karl (born in 1920) and Theo (born in 1922) fully took over the store in 1948. They added three new stores, and in 1954, the brothers created the first self-service grocery store in Germany. But after a disagreement over whether to sell cigarettes in 1960, Karl and Theo split the chain: Theo ran Aldi Nord (which would eventually become Trader Joe's) in northern Germany and other European markets, while Karl ran Aldi Sud in southern Germany and the U.S. Even as separate businesses, they agreed to continue operating under the same name. Then in 1962, the brothers officially shortened the name to Aldi, and by the late 1960s, the chain had grown to over 200 locations.

Read more: The Definitive Ranking Of Grocery Store Butter Brands

How Aldi grew into the global discount grocery giant it is today

Woman shopping inside an Aldi store in Italy - columbo.photog/Shutterstock

Today, Aldi employs more than 200,000 people and operates more than 12,000 discount grocery stores around the world. To focus on its customers, Aldi runs on a fairly simple business model: It skips big advertising budgets and fancy displays, and pays close attention to what sells, stocking only the items it knows will be hits. While Aldi stores today sell perishable items and fresh produce, the chain's early stores run by Theo and Karl sold only nonperishables  a move that helped cut waste, maximize profits, and lay the groundwork for the simple, efficient business model Aldi still follows today.

Advertisement Advertisement

If you're outside of the U.S., you're in luck  you can shop Aldi's aisle of dreams (or shame, depending on who you ask) in ten different countries. Thanks to its focus on efficiency and stocking only what sells, the chain grew quickly across Germany and beyond. It went international in 1967, opening a chain in Austria, followed by an expansion into the Netherlands six years later. Aldi arrived in the United States in 1976, opening its first store in Iowa. Today, Aldi is the second-largest supermarket chain in the United States, with more than 2,500 stores, and has announced big plans for further expansion in the coming years.

Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Chowhound.
The Lockheed-Martin F-35 Lightning II is widely thought to be one of the most advanced fighter jets currently in existence. Across its three main variants  the F-35A, the F-35B, and the F-35C (U.S Navy)  the U.S. military alone operates more than 600 F-35 fighters. Thanks to its capabilities, the F-35 has found takers from several U.S. allies, with an estimated 19 countries either operating the aircraft or preparing to acquire it.

One of the countries that signed up for the F-35A variant of the aircraft was Finland. The nation signed the deal for the acquisition of 64 F-35A planes in 2022 after Lockheed Martin won the competition for what was then termed the HX Fighter program. Nearly three years after Lockheed Martin snatched the deal, the first of the F-35A aircraft intended for the Finnish Air Force has rolled out from the company's F-35 production facility in Fort Worth, Texas.

The acquisition of the F-35 marks a significant advancement in terms of the capabilities of the Finnish Air Force. The importance of this development can be judged from the fact that the roll-out ceremony was attended by top military and ministerial personnel from Finland. Once all of the 64 F-35s are delivered to Finland in the coming years, the country will possess the largest fleet of F-35s in all of Europe.

Advertisement Advertisement

While the first of these Finland-bound F-35s has rolled out of the production facilities, it will be a while before the Finnish Air Force gets to deploy them. In fact, even this first aircraft is expected to be delivered to the Finnish Air Force early next year. This aircraft will also spend considerable time at Ebbing Air Force Base in Arkansas, where Finnish Air Force pilots will undergo training for operating the F-35A.

Read more: 11 Of The Most Iconic Ground Attack Military Planes In History

A powerful addition to the Finnish Air Force

A closeup shot of the F-35A and its belly - Lockheed Martin

Finland's acquisition of the F-35A Lightning II is an important development for Europe, given that the country is a NATO member and shares a long border with Russia. The country already operates a fleet of 53 American-made F/A-18 fighter jets, which remain the only other fighter jets in the country's arsenal. The new F-35s are currently being touted by the Finnish Air Force as replacements for the F/A-18s. Finland expects the F-35s to offer improved capabilities compared to its F/A-18s, primarily in areas of situational awareness, thanks to the F-35s' improved ability to collect and analyze data and present them to pilots in real time.

Even though the first of the Finland-bound F-35s has just rolled out of Lockheed Martin's factory, it will be some time before Finland formally inducts the F-35 into its Air Force fleet. Finland expects to reach initial operational capability by 2028, followed by another 3 years to achieve full operational capability. As part of the F-35 deal, Finland is also set to receive advanced weaponry, including the F-35 package, which provides access to AMRAAM and Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, JDAM guidance kits, SDB I and II guided glide bombs, and JSM and JASSM-ER missiles.

Advertisement Advertisement

While there is no denying that the induction of the F-35 will ensure that Finland has a fearsome jet in its arsenal, it remains to be seen whether Lockheed Martin is able to fulfill its delivery commitments to the Finnish Air Force, given the troubled (and controversial) history of the F-35. That being said, the F-35 program is in a far more mature place than it was a decade ago, with the U.S. Government Accountability Office confirming that the aircraft has entered full-rate production.

Want the latest in tech and auto trends? Subscribe to our free newsletter for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on SlashGear.
Flags will return to full-staff on at sunset on Monday, Dec. 29, following the final funeral for two Iowa National Guard soldiers killed in action.

When will flags return to full-staff in Iowa?

Flags will return to full-staff on the State Capitol Building and on flag displays in the Capitol Complex starting at sunset on Monday, Dec. 29. Flags will also be raised to full-staff on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state.

Flags were first lowered on Dec. 15, following the death of the soldiers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions should also return their flags to full-staff at sunset.

Who were the Iowa National Guard soldiers killed in Syria?

The remains of Iowa National Guard members Staff Sgt. Edgar Brown Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines and Staff Sgt. William Nathaniel "Nate" Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, arrived in Des Moines on Wednesday, Dec. 24, 11 days after they were killed while on duty in Syria.

Both Torres-Tovar and Howard were sergeants at the time of their deaths and were posthumously promoted to the rank of staff sergeant in recognition of their service and sacrifice.

Howard's funeral was held on Dec. 27 and Torres-Tovar's funeral was on Dec. 29.

What's the difference between half-mast and half-staff for flags?

Half-mast is used when the flag is flown from a flagpole, typically referring to a ship mast or similar structures, according to Federal Flags. Half-mast means the flag is flown two-thirds up between the top and bottom of the flagstaff.

Advertisement Advertisement

Half-staff is the term used for flags on land, particularly in the United States. Half-staff describes a flag that is raised halfway, between the top and bottom of the flagpole.

When the American flag is flown at half-staff, it conveys a message of respect and mourning. Federal Flags says this custom is most often observed following the death of a government official, military personnel or in response to a national tragedy.

Des Moines Register reporters Kevin Baskins and Kate Kealey contributed to this article.

Lucia Cheng is a service and trending reporter at the Des Moines Register. Contact her at lcheng@gannett.com or 515-284-8132.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa flags return to full-staff after funerals for killed soldiers
The year 2025 was not a good one for former Sen. Bob Menendez. It was the year he would report to prison after being found guilty of bribery and corruption alongside three co-conspirators.

It was also the year his wife would be found guilty of her own bribery and corruption charges, and the year the star witness in the case was finally sentenced after two years of cooperating with authorities.

The year was full of court appearances, appeals and prison, with promises of more to come in 2026.

Story continues below photo gallery.

The year in review for ex-Sen. Robert Menendez

Menendez began his 11-year prison sentence in June. He was found guilty on 16 felony counts in a federal corruption trial the previous July.

Advertisement Advertisement

Menendez, his wife and three New Jersey businessmen  Wael Hana, Fred Daibes and Jose Uribe  were charged with orchestrating a bribery scheme. Menendez and his wife received, among other things, cash, gold bars and a luxury car in exchange for the use of his political influence.

Fred Daibes arrives at the federal courthouse in New York, Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, to face corruption charges brought by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

The federal indictment against the group was first unsealed in September 2023 and was updated with superseding indictments three times  in October 2023, January 2024 and March 2024.

The guilty verdicts were issued for bribery, extortion and obstruction of justice in a multilevel scheme that traded envelopes of cash, gold bars and a new Mercedes for official acts that benefited Qatar and Egypt.

Menendez, his wife, Nadine Arslanian Menendez, Daibes and Hana were found guilty.

Advertisement Advertisement

The former senator was sentenced to 11 years in prison, Hana more than eight years and Daibes seven years. Daibes was fined $1.75 million; Hana was fined $1.3 million. All three are appealing their cases. All three are in prison serving their sentences and filed appeals in February.

Businessman Wael Hana arrives at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Court House on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025.

Menendez was permanently disqualified from seeking or holding public office in New Jersey, a judge in Mercer County ruled early in December 2025.

The disqualification order was obtained by Deputy Attorney General Adam Klein, special assistant to the executive director of the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, under the supervision of Corruption Bureau Director Jeffrey J. Manis and OPIA Executive Director Eric L. Gibson.

What's happening with the Menendez appeals?

Brief documents were filed by attorneys for Menendez, Daibes and Hana in October. Since then, there has been little movement made public on the cases.

United States Senator, Bob Menendez walks towards the Daniel Patrick Moynihan U.S. Courthouse where he will be on trial for bribery and corruption charges. The jury selection for the trial is expected to start today, Monday, May 13, 2024.

The government submitted a letter in November with dates available for oral arguments that included dates in January, February, April and June 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Nadine Arslanian Menendez was ordered to file a brief for her appeal by Jan. 6, 2026.

When will Nadine Arslanian Menendez report to prison?

Arslanian Menendez is scheduled to report to prison in the summer of 2026 after continuing medical treatment for breast cancer.

She was sentenced in September to 54 months in federal prison for her part in the bribery and corruption scandal.

Manhattan, NY  October 18, 2023  Nadine Menendez, involved in the bribery case involving Sen. Robert Menendez, exits the federal courthouse in lower Manhattan.

She will surrender to federal authorities on July 10, 2026, after she has completed medical procedures. Her sentence will be followed by three years of supervised release, and she will pay a forfeiture of $922,188.

During Menendez's trial, it was revealed that his wife was being treated for breast cancer. During her sentencing, a doctor said he recommended that she undergo multiple medically necessary procedures, including sequential surgeries to fix multiple complex issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

One surgery is estimated to last 12 hours and requires hospitalization and several months of recovery, including physical therapy.

The patient will require at least one revision procedure to create an acceptable outcome, the doctor wrote. Each of these surgeries comes with multiple potential complications, including bleeding, tissue death, open wounds and blood clots, as well as potential risk of death.

What happened to the Menendez star witness?

The star witness in Bob Menendez's federal corruption and bribery trial, Uribe, was sentenced on Oct. 9 to no prison time after cooperating with the federal prosecutors and pleading guilty to federal charges last year.

Uribe, one of the three New Jersey businessmen indicted alongside the former Democratic senator, initially entered a plea of not guilty to seven charges but later changed his plea to guilty and agreed to cooperate with federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York. He spent several days during Menendez's summer 2024 trial testifying against the then-senator and admitting to bribing him.

Jose Uribe leaves the United States District Court in Manhattan on Sept. 27, 2023. Uribe was charged with bribery in a federal indictment.

Instead of prison, Uribe was sentenced to home detention for six months and three years of supervised release, which will run concurrently. He was also ordered to pay restitution of $866,947 and forfeit $292,000. The restitution will be paid in monthly installments of 15% of his monthly income. Other conditions include location monitoring and no new credit, and he must file his tax returns from 2022, 2023 and 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

The failed insurance broker told jurors that he bribed Menendez and his wife in exchange for the senator's blocking the prosecution of a friend and as a way to stop a criminal investigation that threatened his own company.

Uribe admitted to making concealed payments on a new Mercedes for Arslanian Menendez after she totaled her own Mercedes in a 2018 Bogota crash.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bob Menendez of NJ didn't have good year. 2026 won't be better
Temperatures across the Upstate are expected to drop sharply late on Dec. 29, prompting warming centers to open doors to help people escape potentially dangerous cold conditions.

According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are expected to plummet from around 60 during the day to the mid-20s in the evening. Winds moving in with the cold front are expected to drop temperatures even further.

The HOPE Missions of the Upstate shelter in Anderson also serves as a warming center. The shelter opens up anytime the weather drops below 38 degrees for three or more hours.

Advertisement Advertisement

Miracle Hill in Greenville and Spartanburg Rescue Mission also will be open.

HOPE Missions' hours

According to David Phillips, HOPE Missions' chief executive officer, warming center staff will begin handing out cots at 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 29 for overnight stays that end at 6:30 a.m. on Dec. 30. The shelter is located at 213 South Towers Street, in Anderson.

At 7:15 a.m., normal breakfast operations begin and continue until 10 a.m., when the shelter will close for the day.

The warming center reopens at 8 p.m. on Dec. 30.

How to volunteer

Phillips said the organization runs just on volunteer help.

He said ideally, the shelter looks to have two men and two women volunteering at a time during the overnight shift.

Advertisement Advertisement

Currently, the shelter is looking for volunteers for the Dec. 29 overnight shift. Phillips said those looking to volunteer should email him at dave@hopeupstate.org.

How many people are expected?

Phillips said the center expects to serve about 50 people overnight, which he said is typical when temperatures drop in the mid-20s.

He said the center will have cots, blankets and mats along with warm beverages for those who will be sleeping in overnight.

Some of the rules at HOPE Missions are that there's no alcohol, marijuana, or drugs of any kind anywhere on the property, no weapons, men and women sleep in separate accommodations regardless of marital or personal relationships, no food in the sleeping area and the sleeping areas must be kept clean.

Keeping people out of the cold

Colder temperatures, especially in the evenings, are likely to linger into the start of 2026, according to the National Weather Service.

Advertisement Advertisement

The cold front moving through Upstate South Carolina and the Piedmont and Western North Carolina is expected to bring dry conditions with wind gusts reaching upwards of 30 mph in lower elevations and 40 mph in higher elevations through New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, before dying down on Jan. 1.

"You don't have to freeze to death," Phillips said. "Come in and get out of the cold. We'll have somewhere warm for you to relax and sleep if need be. If you see someone freezing tonight, bring them by here."

Phillips said the shelter is opened for anyone who is in need.

"Our number one rule is to be kind, so if you're kind, we'll always have a place for you," Phillip said.

Greenville County shelters

Miracle Hill opens its shelters for those looking to escape the cold. They open their warming center when the temperature reaches below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Shepherd's Gate Women-Only Shelter is at 11 Regency Hill Drive, Greenville. It shelters women and mothers with young children. The shelter operates 24-hours, but intake hours are from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The shelter can accommodate up to 63 women.

The organization's Rescue Mission is located at 575 West Washington Street and only takes in men. They also operate and shelter individuals all 24 hours, but intake hours are from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Spartanburg County shelter

Spartanburg Rescue Mission, located at 189 N. Forest St., serves men, women and families with children.

Operates 24 hours, but intake hours are from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Spartanburg shelter has 94 beds in dormitory-style rooms.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: When Anderson, Spartanburg, Greenville warming centers are open
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump acknowledged the Hamas militant group would have to lay down its weapons for his Gaza peace plan to advance to the next phase  but said, as he met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave may be able to begin sooner.

The talks were meant to jump-start progress on the second phase of the war-ending deal his administration secured three months ago, as movement on the agreement that dictates Hamas' disarmament stalled.

"There has to be a disarmament," Trump told reporters on Dec. 29 from his Palm Beach, Florida, estate. "There has to be a disarming of Hamas, otherwise very quickly," Trump said of the phase two implementation.

Advertisement Advertisement

The president added later during a press conference after meeting with Netanyahu that Hamas would be given a short time frame to lay down its arms and there would be "hell to pay" if it doesn't comply.

US Coast Guard patrols the Intracoastal Waterway near Mar-a-Lago as members of the media report nearby ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plane is seen at Palm Beach International Airport in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on Monday. Two men, one wrapped in an Israeli flag, are seen near Mar-a-Lago ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. President Donald Trump greets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu upon arrival at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec.29, 2025. President Donald Trump welcomes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 29, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. The two leaders are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting to discuss regional security in the Middle East as well as the U.S.-Israel partnership. President Donald Trump (R) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu walk inside after Netanyahu arrived at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. Steve Witkoff, U.S. special envoy to the Middle East and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, attend a luncheon hosted by the president for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 29, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump and Netanyahu are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting to discuss regional security in the Middle East as well as the U.S.-Israel partnership. US President Donald Trump meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a bilateral meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla., on Dec. 29, 2025. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands as they arrive to speak to journalists during a joint press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on December 29 for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would "knock them down." US President Donald Trump speaks during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (off frame) at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on December 29 for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would "knock them down." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looks on as US President Donald Trump speaks during a joint press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on December 29 for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would "knock them down." Trump, Netanyahu meet at Mar-a-Lago to talk Iran, Gaza 1 of 11 US Coast Guard patrols the Intracoastal Waterway near Mar-a-Lago as members of the media report nearby ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025.

A U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas went into effect in October, with the first phase including a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, an increase in humanitarian aid and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

All of the living Israeli hostages have been returned, along with the remains of all but one, Ran Gvili, who's believed to be deceased. Netanyahu met with Gvili's parents in Florida ahead of his meeting with Trump.

Advancing to the next phase of the 20-point plan has proven difficult, though, with both sides accusing the other of violating the deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump praised Netanyahu after their meeting and offered support for Israel, saying hes not concerned about the countrys progress on the ceasefire.

Im not concerned about anything that Israel is doing, he said, adding: Israels lived up to the plan 100%.

The plan calls for the eventual withdrawal of all Israeli forces from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas and new leadership for the Gaza Strip. The United States hoped that the November endorsement of the plan by the United Nations Security Council would pave the way for the creation of an International Stabilization Force to provide security in Gaza and a Board of Peace to supervise a transitional government, yet the composition of both remains under discussion.

Trump said earlier this month that he's aiming to announce which world leaders will serve on the board in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

In Florida, he predicted that reconstruction would "begin pretty soon" and said work on sanitation was beginning.

The stalemate over other aspects of the agreement threatens to weaken Trumps biggest foreign policy achievement since returning to office, one he celebrated with an October trip to the Middle East, where he spoke to the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, and held a signing ceremony in Egypt.

The ceasefire eased fighting in a two-year conflict  which began with the surprise Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas  that has ebbed and flowed, with Israel carrying out additional strikes that have killed hundreds of Palestinians, Gaza health officials say, since the peace deal was reached. The death of two Israeli soldiers, who the government said were killed by Hamas militants, also threatened to collapse the agreement.

Trump is ending 2025 with a pair of high-profile diplomatic moves aimed at addressing the two biggest conflicts during his second term. The day before he met with Netanyahu, Trump welcomed Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Mar-a-Lago to work on a peace plan for Ukraine, and spoke with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on the phone.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump says Gaza peace plan can only move forward if Hamas disarms
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a $50 billion rural healthcare funding initiative for all 50 states.

According to the department, the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will provide billions to states to fund projects that improve access to healthcare in rural areas.

Georgia will get more than $218 million of that funding in the first year of the program, according to HHS.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said in a statement. This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities healthcare. Thanks to President Trumps leadership, rural Americans will now have affordable healthcare close to home, free from bureaucratic obstacles.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

The funding program is called the Rural Health Transformation Program, which HHS said was established by President Donald Trumps Working Families Tax Cuts legislation and is meant to strengthen and modernize health care options in rural communities.

Starting next year, states will receive awards from CMS between $147 million to $281 million per state, averaging about $200 million.

Calling the investment unprecedented, federal officials said the funds will help states both expand access to healthcare for rural communities while strengthening the health workforce in those areas and modernizing medical facilities and technology.

Today marks an extraordinary milestone for rural health in America, said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running. CMS is proud to partner with every state to turn their ideas into lasting improvements for rural families.

HHS said the $50 billion will be allocated to states over five years, with $10 billion available each year starting in 2026.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Police are searching for a group of suspects wanted for armed robbery in Georgia. One of them was found hiding in a dumpster near a police station.

The Centre Police Department and Cherokee County Sheriffs Office in Alabama arrested Jeffrey Lemar Smith, 23, on Sunday. Smith and two other accomplices are connected to an armed robbery that occurred in Floyd County.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Officials said they found Smith hiding in a dumpster on West Main Street near Watson Drive. That intersection is right by the Centre Police Department headquarters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies and officers spent several hours searching the area for the other two suspects, who investigators believe left the area.

Smith has been charged with attempt to elude and faces other charges in Floyd County. Channel 2 Action News has reached out to Floyd County police for his charges and the names of the other two suspects who remain on the run.

TRENDING STORIES:

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
German Environment Minister Carsten Schneider favours banning disposable e-cigarettes in the country.

"That is my very clear preference," the SPD politician told dpa. "I am very much in favour of it."

Single-use e-cigarettes, commonly known as vapes, have become increasingly popular among young people and teenagers in recent years, with Chinese brands such as Elf Bar and major tobacco companies such as Philip Morris holding strong positions in the market.

Advertisement Advertisement

The products are already prohibited in Belgium, France and the United Kingdom.

Germany's Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, called on the government to consider banning the products in November. The Bundesrat, or upper house, has already signalled its support for a ban, but the government has expressed legal concerns.

Schneider said his position was based on health, environmental and safety concerns.

"These things are dangerous. If they end up in a waste disposal facility, they can explode, and they do explode," the minister said. "And there is a fire in a waste disposal facility every day."

Advertisement Advertisement

This not only endangers employees, but is also harmful to the environment, he said.

According to an estimate by the industry association BfTG, German residents will spend 2.4 billion ($2.8 billion) on e-cigarettes this year.

Around 10% of the figure is spent on disposable products, down from 40% in 2022.
KUNMING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- China will continue to make efforts to rebuild peace between Thailand and Cambodia and is willing to offer humanitarian assistance to people in need in both countries, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Sunday. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow. Following the signing of a joint statement agreeing to a ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are leading delegations to meet in Yunnan from Dec. 28 to 29 at the invitation of Wang. Wang said as a friendly neighbor of both countries, China wants least to see Thailand and Cambodia come to war and hopes most to see the two countries restore their friendship. It is believed that as long as Thailand and Cambodia communicate on an equal footing and move forward together, there will be no insurmountable obstacles. China will continue to support ASEAN in playing its due role, is willing to provide assistance to the ASEAN observation mission in monitoring the ceasefire. Sihasak spoke highly of China's active efforts in mediating the Thailand-Cambodia conflict in an Asian way, noting that the ceasefire agreement newly signed by Thailand and Cambodia marks a fresh start. Resorting to force is never Thailand's choice when it comes to disputes with neighboring countries, Sihasak said, adding that Thailand is committed to achieving a sustainable ceasefire and pursuing genuine peace. "We are willing to look forward and move ahead, strengthen communication with Cambodia through bilateral channels, and in a sincere manner, gradually resume exchanges, rebuild mutual trust, repair bilateral relations, and safeguard the peace and tranquility of the borders between the two countries and the region," the foreign minister said. With regards to bilateral relations, Wang requested Sihasak to convey Chinese President Xi Jinping's sincere greetings and New Year's wishes to Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, stating that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand. The Thai king successfully paid his first historic state visit to China. Xi and the Thai king reached important consensus on promoting the building of a China-Thailand community with a shared future, which has drawn a blueprint for the development of bilateral relations. Thailand has recently reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China principle and its opposition to "Taiwan independence," demonstrating strong support for China's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Wang, adding that China appreciates this stance. China is willing to work with Thailand to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, jointly open up a new golden 50 years of China-Thailand friendship, Wang added. Sihasak requested Wang to convey Thai king's sincere greetings to President Xi. He said that Thailand and China have shared a time-honored history of exchanges. In recent years, the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries has grown increasingly close, with mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation deepening across various fields, making significant contributions to safeguarding regional peace and stability. Sihasak said Thailand will, as always, firmly adhere to the one-China policy.


PHNOM PENH, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia has sent a diplomatic note to Thailand, proposing to hold the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary for the first week of January 2026 in Cambodia's Siem Reap province, according to a Monday press release from the State Secretariat of Border Affairs.

The proposed meeting aims to discuss how to resume joint survey and demarcation work along the shared border to achieve lasting border peace.

As of now, Thailand has not yet commented on this matter. 
Shoppers in Germany rushed stores that opened at midnight to buy their supplies of fireworks for New Year's Eve, which can make some German cities sound like a war zone during turn-of-the-year celebrations.

In Meppen in Lower Saxony's Emsland region, not far from the Dutch border, a long queue formed in front of a shop that opened early Monday. People with shopping trolleys could be seen waiting in the cold for the doors to open.

In the port city of Bremerhaven, many people waited overnight in front of a fireworks manufacturer that started selling on Monday morning. Many came in groups and passed the time with games and music.

Advertisement Advertisement

There was also a rush in Hamburg, as more than 100 people queued to get their supplies.

"At 5:30 am [0430 GMT] we had a queue of 100 to 130 people, and it's not getting any shorter, but rather getting longer," fireworks dealer and pyrotechnist Oliver Graetzer told dpa. Graetzer has around 250 items on offer.

In the town of Kehl, which sits right across the border from Strasbourg, police officers were pelted by an unknown perpetrator with fireworks as they were monitoring a major rush on two low-cost stores.

The new year traditionally kicks off with a bang across Germany, with millions of residents lighting firecrackers and rockets in private settings alongside massive shows in major cities.

Advertisement Advertisement

German law allows pyrotechnics to be sold nationwide on the three working days leading up to New Year's Eve starting at midnight. Online shops are also allowed to deliver pre-ordered fireworks to customers' doorsteps during that period.

Setting off pyrotechnics is only allowed on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, though further restrictions apply in many cities, where using fireworks is only permitted between 6 pm and 7 am.

Setting off fireworks near churches, hospitals, children's homes, retirement homes and buildings that are particularly susceptible to fire is illegal.

Revellers regularly suffer serious injuries, sometimes even fatal ones, while handling pyrotechnics, with homemade explosive devices and powerful illegal fireworks known as "ball bombs" seen as particularly dangerous.

Advertisement Advertisement

Carelessness with fireworks cost five men their lives on New Year's Eve in Germany last year.

According to an analysis by the AOK health insurance company, the number of hospital admissions due to fireworks injuries on New Year's Eve over the past 10 years averaged around 530 cases, which is about 2.6 times higher than on normal weekdays and even about 4.4 times higher than on average weekends.

Every year, medical experts, police officers as well as environmental and animal rights activists call for a ban on the sale of fireworks, echoed by the Berlin fire brigade on Monday.

"We welcome any kind of regulation," fire brigade spokesman Vinzenz Kasch told public broadcaster RBB's Inforadio. He recommended that restrictions start with limiting sales "because the problem is the irresponsible use of New Year's Eve fireworks."

Advertisement Advertisement

The Association of the Pyrotechnic Industry (VPI) expects 10% to 15% more goods to be sold than last year. According to its own figures, the industry recorded sales of 197 million ($232 million) in 2024, compared to 180 million in 2023.

In Meppen, a young man sitting outside a shop early Monday morning said his budget for fireworks was 500 to 600. He expects many customers to come from the Netherlands, where a ban on fireworks for private individuals will come into force on January 1 after an increase in violence in recent years.

According to a new survey for the TUV association, around one in five German residents (22%) plan to set off private fireworks at New Year, while three-quarters (74%) will not.

"It is a minority who set off private fireworks, rockets or other pyrotechnic items on New Year's Eve," said TUV director Joachim Buhler.

Advertisement Advertisement

The survey, carried out by opinion research institute Civey, found clear differences between age groups, with 43% of 18- to 29-year-olds and 39% of 30- to 39-year-olds saying they want to use pyrotechnics during New Year's celebrations.

In contrast, 29% of 40 to 49-year-olds set off fireworks, dropping down to 10% for over-65s.

The first customers check out during a special sale of fireworks, firecrackers and rockets in the clubhouse of a shooting club in Hamburg-Harburg. The sale of New Year's Eve fireworks begins today in Germany. Christian Charisius/dpa
A Minnesota Republican state senator is urging her fellow conservatives to stop peddling unhinged conspiracy theories that connect the assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman to the fraud scandal currently rocking the state.

I am a Minnesota Republican legislator. I never agreed with Melissa. Not once. But Im begging people to stop sharing this conspiracy theory, State Sen. Julia Coleman tweeted in response to actor, producer and socialite Sara Foster, who declared Hortmans death was connected to the controversy. Foster, the daughter of media mogul David Foster, recently served as the co-head of creative of Bumble and co-produced the Netflix hit Nobody Wants This with her sister Erin Foster.

In recent days, MAGA world has gone wild over the sprawling case in Minnesota alleging that roughly $9 billion in federal funds that supported over a dozen state-run childcare and Medicaid programs may have been stolen.

Advertisement Advertisement

The fraud is not small. It isn't isolated. The magnitude cannot be overstated, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson Thompson said earlier this month. What we see in Minnesota is not a handful of bad actors committing crimes. It's a staggering, industrial-scale fraud.

The probe has become politically and culturally fraught as 82 of the 92 defendants who have been charged are Somali Americans, prompting Donald Trump and other prominent Republicans to claim that Somali immigrants have ripped off that state while calling Minnesota a hub of fraudulent money laundering activity.

Months after Melissa Hortman was killed in what law enforcement called a politically motivated shooting, conspiracists are now linking her murder to the Minnesota fraud case (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Trump has also used the scandal as a way to demonize and denigrate Somalians as a whole, calling them garbage and claiming they contribute nothing, sparking cries of racism and xenophobia from Democrats and liberals. The president, meanwhile, has doubled down on his bigoted rants while calling for Somali-born Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) to be thrown out of the country.

Right-wing media and the Trump administration got a boost in focusing on the fraud case this past week after MAGA YouTuber Nick Shirley  who spoke during the White Houses Antifa violence roundtable this fall  published a video of himself visiting daycare facilities in Minnesota.

Advertisement Advertisement

At one point in the video, Shirely visits a Somali-owned education center with a misspelled sign that has allegedly received $4 million in funds, asking the owners about the money theyve received and where are the children that are supposedly enrolled at the facility. That interaction went viral on social media and was touted by Vice President JD Vance and FBI Director Kash Patel, who said that this is just the tip of a very large iceberg.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who has faced withering criticism from the GOP and White House over the fraud case as he seeks a third term, responded this week by noting that hes worked for years to crack down on fraud and ask the state legislature for more authority to take aggressive action.

His office also added that Walz hired an outside firm to audit payments to high-risk programs, shut down the Housing Stabilization Services program entirely, announced a new statewide program integrity director, and supported criminal prosecutions.

Sara Foster tossed out an unvetted conspiracy theory that Hortmans assassination was tied to an alleged fraud scheme in Minnesota

Amid the laser-focused attention that the fraud probe has received in the right-wing media ecosystem, Foster  who hosts a podcast with her sister jumped into the social media fray over the weekend to wildly speculate that Hortmans murder was tied to the alleged fraud scheme in the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Foster has increasingly grown critical of the far left in recent years, calling them the ultimate bullies and blaming liberal politicians for the San Francisco Cash App founder stabbing, as well as tribal leaders for the wildfires in Southern California.

So are we just planning on pretending like her murder isnt connected to the multi billion fraud scandal just uncovered? Mmmmkay, she posted to X on Saturday, sharing a June tweet from far-right influencer Nick Sortor, who had suggested his own conspiracy theory at the time.

HOLY CRAP! Rep. Melissa Hortman sounded absolutely TERRIFIED while speaking to the media after she voted NO on healthcare for illegals, Sortor wrote at the time. She was just ass*ssinated this morning. She knew shed end up as a target in one form or another.

In the days after Hortman and her husband were killed at their home, allegedly by anti-abortion evangelical Vance Boelter, prominent conservatives  such as Elon Musk and Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT )  falsely claimed that a Marxist had killed Hortman because the far left is murderously violent. At the same time, some even suggested that Walz was responsible for the assassination, wondering if the governor had her executed to send a message.

Advertisement Advertisement

Fosters tweet has been viewed 1.8 million times and racked up over 50,000 likes and 13,000 reposts, with other celebrities endorsing her groundless theory. Alison Lohman, the star of films Drag Me to Hell and Matchstick Men, reacted with several bullseye emojis, although she later appeared to have deleted the reaction.

We need justice for Rep. Melissa Hortman, conservative State Rep. Heather Scott (R-ID) reacted to Fosters tweet, while other pro-Trump accounts shared photos of Walz that labeled him The Fraudfather while stating: You go against the family, you pay the price.

Republican lawmaker Julia Coleman called out Foster this past weekend for suggesting that Hortmans murder was connected to the Minnesota fraud case

Telling Foster and others to stop peddling the conspiracy theory about Hortmans death, Coleman explained why the now-deceased Democratic leader was emotional in the clip that Sortor shared months earlier.

She is not terrified in this video. Shes crying because she had to take this vote to keep the government open, and it was incredibly hard for her, Coleman wrote. Thats who she was as a leader. Even though I didnt agree with her, I could tell her heart was absolutely in it, and the weight of her decisions were worn on her sleeve sometimes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Coleman added that there were people on the hit list that did not take that same vote, referencing a note that Boelter left in his vehicle that included roughly 70 other targets  including Walz, Omar and Sens. Tammy Baldwin, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith.

Tim Walz had nothing to do with the assassinations. The fraud had nothing to do with the assassinations, the Republican lawmaker continued. The assassin was deranged. Completely and utterly deranged. And Minnesota lost a good woman because of it.

Coleman concluded her lengthy social media rebuttal with one final message to Foster and others peddling these claims. Please, unless you have evidence, stop trying to get social media clout off the death of a good person that you know nothing about, she proclaimed.

The Independent has reached out to representatives of Foster for comment.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) in a newly published interview argues Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is 100 percent following orders from President Trump, and as a result relinquishing the power of Congress.

The remarks from Greene, who will resign from Congress effective Jan. 5, come amid complaints from members of the House that it is giving up too much sway to the White House.

I want you to know that Johnson is not our Speaker. He is not our leader, Greene told The New York Times in December, according to a profile of her published Monday. And in the legislative branch  a totally separate body of government  he is literally 100 percent under direct orders from the White House. And many, many Republicans are so furious about that, but theyre cowards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Greene has fallen out with Trump over the last year, and said she was resigning from Congress rather than putting her district through a messy primary in which the president would back a GOP opponent. She has also repeatedly offered criticism of Johnson.

The Times interview is the latest in a series of public comments in which Greene has offered her side of the falling-out with the president.

Davis Ingle, a spokesperson for the White House, told The Hill in a statement that President Trump remains the undisputed leader of the greatest and fastest growing political movement in American history  the MAGA movement.

On the other hand, Congresswoman Greene is quitting on her constituents in the middle of her term and abandoning the consequential fight were in  we dont have time for her petty bitterness, Ingle said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Greene has broken with Trump and Johnson in recent months over a myriad of issues. She blasted Johnsons decision to refuse to bring the House back in session when the government was shut down, calling it an embarrassment.

She was also one of four Republicans to endorse a discharge petition aimed at forcing a vote on a bipartisan bill requiring the Department of Justice to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Johnson said the Epstein case was the Democrats entire game plan, while Trump called it a hoax. The president made a last-minute flip and urged Congress to support the bill, leading to it passing nearly unanimously, including a vote from Johnson.

And Greene called the Speaker out at the end of October for not providing any plans on a GOP alternative to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies set to expire at the end of the year.

Advertisement Advertisement

The bitter feud between Greene and Trump has seen the president unendorse the Georgia lawmaker and call her a traitor. In a statement announcing her retirement decision, Greene predicted a hurtful and hateful primary against me by the President we all fought for if she ran for reelection, and said she refused to be a battered wife.

Johnson said in an op-ed published by The Wall Street Journal over the weekend that House Republicans had a great year, touting a GOP health care bill that was passed by the lower chamber earlier this month. The bill does not address the expiring subsidies.

He also argued 2025 has been one of the most productive first years of any Congress in our lifetimes.

House Republicans passed 441 bills. We voted to codify 70 of President Trumps America First executive orders, clawed back billions in wasteful spending through rescissions, and repealed 23 harmful Biden-era regulations with the Congressional Review Act, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Greene has criticized Johnson for following Trumps lead too assiduously.

At the end of November, she said she and other House Republicans came courageously roaring into 2025 with legislation that matched the 2024 electoral mandate only to be totally sidelined by Johnson under full obedience of the WH.

Now that House members are switching gears into campaign mode and will be fighting for their lives, our legislative majority has been mostly wasted. Our best shot was the first 6-9 months. And when Republicans likely lose the midterms it will become total and complete political war and gridlock once again, she wrote on social media at the time.

The Hill reached out to Johnsons office for comment.

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.
Palestinian extremist group Hamas on Monday officially confirmed the death of five high-ranking members during Israeli attacks in Gaza, including the brother of Yehya al-Sinwar who is widely seen as the mastermind behind the October 7 attacks.

Besides Mohammed al-Sinwar, those mentioned include Abu Obeida, former spokesman of the al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas' military wing, as well as senior commander Raed Saad.

Israel announced Saad's killing on December 13, while the military reported back in June that it had found the remains of al-Sinwar in an underground tunnel in Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Saad is said to have been the chief planner of the October 7, 2023 attacks on southern Israel, in which around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others were abducted to the Gaza Strip.

As part of its military campaign that followed, Israel has killed a number of Hamas leaders in Gaza, including Yehya al-Sinwar and senior commander Mohammed Deif. The group's political chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a strike in Tehran last year.

The Israeli military continues to target Hamas leadership in Gaza despite the ceasefire that took effect on October 10.

Khalil al-Haya, the highest-ranking Hamas official abroad, spends most of his time in Qatar. He continues to head the Hamas delegation in indirect negotiations with Israel, after surviving an Israeli attack on a group of Hamas officials in Doha in December.
Ukraine's naval drones are now targeting Russia in waters other than the open ocean.

It recently unveiled drones designed for use on rivers, including the Barracuda drone.

The unit that operates the Barracuda said it was able to destroy a Russian base and boat.

The naval drones that Ukraine has used to hammer Russia's Black Sea Fleet are now targeting Russia in new waterways.

The 40th Coastal Defense Brigade of Ukraine's 30th Marine Corps said last week that an uncrewed "Barrauda" drone was able to penetrate Russian positions, leave mines, and strike Russian targets, damaging a Russian logistical base and a boat equipped with a machine gun.

Advertisement Advertisement

The strike comes as Ukraine fields more naval drones designed to hunt Russian targets in smaller bodies of water.

The brigade shared combat footage that appears to have been filmed by a camera on the drone. The uncrewed vessel can be seen navigating a wide body of water before moving into a much narrower, brown-water channel.

The newly released video shows a camouflaged boat at a base, and then aerial footage shows a large explosion followed by images of a destroyed building along the water.

The footage indicates the attack did not take place on the open ocean, as many of Ukraines naval drone strikes have, but in a confined inland waterway; Ukrainian outlet Militarnyi reported that the strike occurred on the Dnipro River.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ukraine has used drones across land, air, and sea to gather information on the enemy and strike Russian targets, and its naval drones have helped to weaken Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Ukraine doesn't have a proper navy with powerful ships, but the much cheaper drones have helped damage Russia's expensive warships, even forcing Russia to relocate many vessels further away.

However, using drones in river environments or smaller bodies of water is a relatively new development for Ukraine, opening up a new range of targets for newly developed technology.

Dedicated drones for those areas, such as the Barracuda or others like the Ursula or Black Widow 2, are newer technology compared to systems like the Sea Baby or Magura drones for open ocean. Ukraine is constantly upgrading its naval drones and creating new ones.

The Barracuda drone was first showcased by the 40th Separate Coastal Defence Brigade in September.

Advertisement Advertisement

The 40th Separate Coastal Defence Brigade showcased the Barracuda in September, saying the drone is designed to "perform tasks that humans cannot," including evacuating people from coastal areas and delivering ammunition to dangerous areas.

It said a month earlier that the drone is modular, making it easy to swap in different types of weapons, from mines to grenade launchers. It also shared that it uses artificial intelligence, though details on that are limited.

A special unit with the same name designed and launched the Barracuda and is the only one in the Ukrainian military operating the drone right now.

In recent months, Ukraine has said the Barracuda has destroyed a Russian logistics vessel and its crew and used naval mines to block channels between islands.

Advertisement Advertisement

Drones are being used more in this war than in any other conflict in history, with Ukraine heavily relying on them as it faces regular shortages of weapons, ammo, and manpower.

Drones give Ukraine a key advantage because they can be produced domestically and at a fraction of the cost of many traditional weapons, creating an asymmetric threat to expensive assets such as Black Sea Fleet warships or T-90 tanks on the battlefield. Ukraines defense minister said last week that the armed forces expect to receive nearly 3 million FPV drones by the end of the year, most of them made at home  though Russia is also rapidly developing and fielding similar technology.

Worried about the potential for a future conflict with Russia, much of the West is closely watching Ukraine's tactics and new war tech. Naval drones are one of the innovations Ukraine has said it is willing to export to partner nations.

NATO allies and defense companies are working on the technology, particularly in the Baltic Sea, which is shared by a host of NATO members and Russia. The US military is also exploring the potential of these weapon systems.

Advertisement Advertisement

US Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, NATO's supreme allied commander in Europe, called the way that Ukraine was able to move Russia's navy with drones an "arbiter of things in the future." He said that "there seems to be a big role for unmanned maritime systems into the future."

Read the original article on Business Insider
You can use the database to search by county or by restaurant name.

Florida\'s restaurant owners are not required to post restaurant inspection results where guests can see them. So every week, we provide that information for you.

For a complete list of local restaurant inspections, including violations not requiring warnings or administrative action, visit our Palm Beach County restaurant inspections site.

Advertisement Advertisement

Here\'s the breakdown for recent health inspections in Palm Beach County, Florida, for the week of Dec. 15-21, 2025. Please note that some more recent, follow-up inspections may not be included here.

Disclaimer: The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation describes an inspection report as a 'snapshot' of conditions present at the time of the inspection. On any given day, an establishment may have fewer or more violations than noted in their most recent inspection. An inspection conducted on any given day may not be representative of the overall, long-term conditions at the establishment.

For full restaurant inspection details, visit our Palm Beach County restaurant inspection site.

Last week: Health inspections: 26 PBC restaurants get perfect scores; two closed

Which Palm Beach County restaurants got perfect scores on their health inspections?

These restaurants met all standards during their Dec. 15-21 inspections and no violations were found.

Advertisement Advertisement

** Restaurants that failed an inspection and aced a follow-up inspection in the same week

Which Palm Beach County restaurants were temporarily closed by inspectors?

These restaurants failed their Dec. 15-21 inspections and were temporarily closed. Follow-upinspections are required.

1626 South Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach

Advertisement Advertisement

Complaint Inspection on Dec. 18

Facility Temporarily Closed: Operations ordered stopped until violations are corrected. They have since made the necessary corrections and have reopened.

12 total violations, with 8 high-priority violations

High Priority - Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 70 degrees Fahrenheit within 2 hours. Cook stated Sausage and home fries hot held until 10:30 for breakfast (98F - Cooling 1:00pm) left on grill to cool, grill was turned off, more than 2.5 hours ago. See stop sale **Warning**

High Priority - Employee touched bare body part her mouth while eating and then started handling utensils on the grill without washing hands. Employee went to wash her hands. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

High Priority - Live, small flying insects found 1 small flying insect sitting on Dutch apple pie. See stop sale 1 small flying insect on the wall at triple sink. 2 small flying insects on speed rack with dirty dishes next to cook line **Warning**

High Priority - Non-food grade paper towel used as liner for mint leaves on cook line. Operator removed towel. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Expired 12.1.25 **Warning**

High Priority - Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. 1 small flying insect sitting on Dutch apple pie . See stop sale. **Warning**

High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 70 degrees Fahrenheit within 2 hours. Cook stated Sausage and home fries hot held until 10:30 for breakfast (98F - Cooling 1:00pm) left on grill to cool grill was turned off, more than 2.5 hours ago. **Warning**

High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Portioned Butter 77F on prep table at cook line. Cook stated for two hours. Not prepped or portioned today. Cook placed butter in refrigerator. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**

8240 S Sr 7 Suit 260, Boynton Beach

Advertisement Advertisement

Routine Inspection on Dec. 17

Facility Temporarily Closed: Operations ordered stopped until violations are corrected. They have since made the necessary corrections and have reopened.

2 total violations, with 2 high-priority violations

High Priority - Live, small flying insects found Approximately 2 live flying insects on wall hand at hand washing sink next to oven. Approximately 2 live flying insects landing on trash can. Approximately 1 live flying insect on pan of cookies. Approximately 1 live flying insect on seasoning shaker. Approximately 5 live flying insects on pizza boxes Approximately 36 live flying insects on seats and wall in dinning room Approximately 7 live flying insects on door to flip top cooler Approximately 5 live flying insects in hallway to back door and mop sink . Approximately 6 on box of stainless steel scrubbers in kitchen at dish area. Approximately 7 live flying insects on dish storage rack. Discussed with operator to eliminate flying insects and clean and sanitize areas. **Warning**

High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Establishment open and operating actively preparing and selling food on expired DBPR license, discussed with operator to renew. **Warning**

4663 Lake Worth Rd, Green Acres

Advertisement Advertisement

Routine Inspection on Dec. 15

Facility Temporarily Closed: Operations ordered stopped until violations are corrected. The restaurant later re-opened and subsequently received a perfect score.

4 total violations, with 3 high-priority violations

High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. In kitchen approximately 3 live roaches in bucket next to ice machine in front of food prep table, discussed with operator who discarded bucket and cleaned and sanitized area. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**

High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In flip top cooler diced tomatoes (49F - Cold Holding); cut lettuce (50F - Cold Holding); cheese (53F - Cold Holding); raw beef (48F - Cold Holding); raw chicken (49F - Cold Holding); cooked beans (51F - Cold Holding) per operator products not portioned or prepared today and held in unit for more than 6 hours, see stop sale. In walk in cooler raw chicken (47F - Cold Holding); cheese (47F - Cold Holding); cut cabbage (47F - Cold Holding); milk (47F - Cold Holding); raw steak (47F - Cold Holding); raw fish (48F - Cold Holding) per operator products not portioned or prepared today and held in unit over night operator unable to determine how long products out of temperature see stop sale. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**

High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In flip top cooler diced tomatoes (49F - Cold Holding); cut lettuce (50F - Cold Holding); cheese (53F - Cold Holding); raw beef (48F - Cold Holding); raw chicken (49F - Cold Holding); cooked beans (51F - Cold Holding) per operator products not portioned or prepared today and held in unit for more than 6 hours, see stop sale. In walk in cooler raw chicken (47F - Cold Holding); cheese (47F - Cold Holding); cut cabbage (47F - Cold Holding); milk (47F - Cold Holding); raw steak (47F - Cold Holding); raw fish (48F - Cold Holding) per operator products not portioned or prepared today and held in unit over night operator unable to determine how long products out of temperature see stop sale. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**

What agency inspects restaurants in Florida?

Routine regulation and inspection of restaurants is conducted by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The Department of Health is responsible for investigation and control of food-borne illness outbreaks associated with all food establishments.

How do I report a dirty restaurant in Florida?

If you see abuses of state standards, report them and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation will send inspectors. Call the Florida DBPR at 850-487-1395 or report a restaurant for health violations online.

Advertisement Advertisement

Get the whole story at our restaurant inspection database.

What does all that terminology in Florida restaurant inspections mean?

Basic violations are those considered against best practices.

A warning is issued after an inspector documents violations that must be corrected by a certain date or within a specified number of days from receipt of the inspection report.

An administrative complaint is a form of legal action taken by the division. Insufficient compliance after a warning, a pattern of repeat violations or existence of serious conditions that warrant immediate action may result in the division initiating an administrative complaint against the establishment. Says the division website: "Correcting the violations is important, but penalties may still result from violations corrected after the warning time was over."

Advertisement Advertisement

An emergency order - when a restaurant is closed by the inspector - is based on an immediate threat to the public. Here, the Division of Hotels and Restaurants director has determined that the establishment must stop doing business and any division license is suspended to protect health, safety or welfare of the public.

A 24-hour call-back inspection will be performed after an emergency closure or suspension of license.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: West Palm Beach area restaurant inspections Dec. 15-21-three-closed-32-perfect
The petitions were filed by the Military Defense Counsel and the NGO the Movement for Quality Government in Israel. The panel consisted of Justices Daphne Barak-Erez, David Mintz, and Alex Stein.

The High Court of Justice on Monday heard petitions seeking to halt or significantly curtail State Comptroller Matanyahu Englmans probes into the failures surrounding the October 7 Hamas-led attack, amid warnings that the audit exceeds the comptrollers authority and risks compromising the work of a future state commission of inquiry.

The petitions were filed by the Military Defense Counsel and the NGO Movement for Quality Government in Israel (MQG). The panel consisted of Justices Daphne Barak-Erez, David Mintz and Alex Stein.

Advertisement Advertisement

At the outset of the hearing, Barak-Erez said the dispute concerned only part of the comptrollers review, noting that the petitioners argue Englman is acting beyond his authority, that the audit could disrupt the work of a future commission of inquiry, and that the manner in which it is being conducted harms the procedural rights of those under review.

The position of the Attorney-Generals Office, she added, aligns with the petitioners. Englman, by contrast, maintains that all of his actions are lawful and consistent with prior understandings with government and security officials.

Attorney Avigdor Klagsbald, representing the Military Defense Counsel, argued that the comptrollers review of what he termed the core issues of the October 7 failure suffers from three fundamental flaws: lack of authority, disruption of a future commission of inquiry, and infringement of the procedural rights of those being examined.

The principal concern, he said, is that testimony given to the comptroller would contaminate future testimony before a theoretical state commission of inquiry, exposing witnesses to information beyond their personal knowledge - including the versions and accounts of other witnesses - thereby undermining the integrity of later evidence. Klagsbald added that the process could prejudice officers before the only body empowered to determine personal responsibility.

KNESSET AUDIENCE members hold up signs criticizing the government, Jerusalem, December 24, 2025 (credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM)

Government probe opposed by families and critics

Last week, the Knesset approved in a preliminary reading a controversial bill to establish a politically appointed investigative commission into the October 7 failures - backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition and opposed by bereaved families and critics who say it circumvents an independent state commission under existing law - with the measure passing by a narrow margin of 53-48.

Advertisement Advertisement

Stein noted the comptrollers argument that, in the absence and possible non-establishment of a state commission of inquiry, his office needed to examine the events. Klagsbald responded: There is such a claim - that if no one investigates, he will. But need does not replace authority.

Stein countered that in a prior High Court ruling regarding a commission of inquiry, the court had stressed the importance of establishing a neutral, state body to investigate - a reference to an October ruling in which the justices said there was no real dispute over the need for an independent state commission to examine the October 7 failures and required the government to explain its continued failure to establish one.

Mintz added that the court had previously been told that every day without an investigation causes harm. Klagsbald replied that more than two years after the events, the delay already exists, and that the appropriate mechanism remains a state commission of inquiry.

The justices also discussed whether more than one body could examine the same events at the same time. Stein pointed to an earlier ruling in which the court said there is no automatic ban on different authorities reviewing the same facts from different angles. Klagsbald countered that later rulings have limited that approach, warning against parallel or closely timed investigations into the same issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Barak-Erez sought to clarify whether the petitioners focus was on the simultaneity of proceedings - or also on successive inquiries conducted in close proximity. Klagsbald replied that both were problematic.

Attorney Tomer Naor, representing MQG, said the petition does not dispute the comptrollers general authority to conduct audits, but argued that such authority is limited. He contended that the current review suffers from serious defects in its factual foundation and that the right of response afforded to senior officials, past and present, has been impaired.

Stein questioned the internal logic of the NGOs position, noting that recognizing the comptrollers authority also entails recognizing the tools available to him. Barak-Erez added that requiring the comptroller to operate at every stage under the full procedural framework of a state commission of inquiry could render the audit impossible.

During the hearing, former IDF chief of staff Lt.-Gen. (res.) Herzi Halevi, through his attorney Eyal Rozovsky, said Englman intends to impose personal responsibility on him in a draft war report - while refusing to grant him the right to be heard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rozovsky said a draft report alleges Halevi failed to implement a directive by former defense minister Yoav Gallant regarding the evacuation of fallen soldiers, and that the comptrollers office has denied him the right to respond. He also said officials in the comptrollers office publicly criticized Halevi while he remains under review.

Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara likewise supported accepting the petitions, arguing that Englman has expanded the scope of the audit into areas appropriate only for a state commission of inquiry and is effectively conducting an investigation without the requisite authority or tools.

According to the attorney-general, the comptroller lacks the mandate to examine core issues such as intelligence failures, cabinet-level decision-making, and what she described as the economic warfare against terrorism - including the policy of arrangements with Hamas - and should suspend his work in those areas. She also said the manner in which the audit is being conducted infringes the right of response of those under review.

Englman, through his attorney Eliya Zunz, argued that he is acting in accordance with understandings reached with the IDF that were granted the force of a High Court judgment, and that not all the issues raised by the petitioners are therefore before the court. Barak-Erez said there is a clear difference between a case that is thrown out without a decision and one in which the court decides the issue itself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Stein and Barak-Erez also questioned whether those understandings bind the Military Defense Counsel, which was not a party to them. Stein noted that the earlier ruling made no determination on the scope of the comptrollers authority. Once you cross the line from reviewing institutions to reviewing individuals, you cannot complain if they petition separately, Barak-Erez said, a view echoed by Mintz.

Stein further expressed skepticism regarding the breadth of the comptrollers claimed authority under the Basic Law: The State Comptroller, remarking that an event as vast as October 7 cannot reasonably be subsumed under a residual clause intended for marginal matters. Thats not how laws are written, he said.

The hearing was briefly disrupted when Otzma Yehudit MK Almog Cohen interrupted the proceedings and was ordered removed from the courtroom by Barak-Erez after repeated warnings.

The dispute unfolds against a broader political and legal backdrop, as debate continues over how responsibility for the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust will ultimately be determined - and whether survivors and families of victims will feel that justice has been served.

Shir Perets contributed to this report.
While road refreeze isnt a concern after rain moved through the Miami Valley last night, high winds could cause some issues this morning.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As reported on News Center 7 Daybreak, a Wind Advisory is in effect for the entire Miami Valley until 6 p.m. and for Randolph County, Indiana, until 5 p.m.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Wind gusts up to 40-50 mph are possible throughout the morning and daytime hours.

The winds are damaging power lines and causing some trees to fall over.

The damage has caused power outages for people across the Miami Valley, with hundreds of people impacted throughout the night.

AES Ohio told News Center 7 that high winds can cause problems.

Theyre predicting it could be over 40 miles an hour. Thats when you are highly likely to see damage to our power lines, whether its from branches falling on the lines, or the lines falling due to the whipping of the wind.

The high winds could also impact people driving. One Huber Heights resident told News Center 7 that the weather has him concerned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Its usually cold around this time of year for it to be unusually warm the way it is; it makes me think that something could be brewing up, Anthony Bolden of Huber Heights said. Makes me a little paranoid.

News Center 7 will continue following this story.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Hundreds of Detroit home demolition sites were potentially backfilled with toxic construction debris from a demolished shopping mall and other sources, creating an unfolding public health threat in the citys neighborhoods.

Detroit, the nations lowest income big city, is in the US industrial heartland. It was left with tens of thousands of empty structures as industrial plants closed and people left the city in past decades  Detroits population dropped from nearly 2 million people around 1950 to fewer than 700,000 today. The citys demolition program is widely considered the largest ever in the US.

Despite repeated requests from the Guardian, Mayor Mike Duggans administration and state regulators have so far not disclosed which toxins have been detected. Independent environmental health experts and a former regulator say lead, mercury, cadmium, PAHs, and asbestos  chemicals that are toxic at very low exposure levels  are likely in the type of slag used to backfill the neighborhood sites.

Advertisement Advertisement

The problem could have been avoided, some demolition experts say. Duggans demolition program brought down tens of thousands of homes at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars over his 12 years in office. Contaminated sites were found three times previously, and in 2018 drew federal scrutiny.

The latest round of contaminated sites  potentially 424 so far  is on pace to be the widest scale, and comes as Duggan leaves office this week to campaign full-time for governor as a pro-business independent. He has touted his blight elimination program as a top achievement.

Steve Hoin, a former state regulator who worked on previous Detroit demolition site remediations, questioned whether the administration followed advisory protocols developed in 2018 with state and federal regulators. The protocols were designed to avoid a repeat of the same problems.

The 2018 protocols also may not have been rigorous enough because they did not require the city or contractors to test all dirt. Testing is the best way to ensure dirt is safe, but it would have slowed the demolitions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Regardless, its mismanagement because clearly they had knowledge in 2017, and before that, that contaminated fill was coming in, and they havent fixed the problem, said Hoin, a former geologist with the Michigan department of environment, Great Lakes and energy (EGLE). Im not sure if it was competence, or we dont care about the protocol because we want to get the demos done in time.

Duggans replacement, Detroit city council mayor pro tem Mary Sheffield, will inherit the problem, which Duggan estimated could cost about $18,000 per property to remedy, though some experts said it could be higher.

In a statement, Duggan administration spokesperson John Roach said contaminated backfill dirt is a problem around the country, and the suggestion that the issues in Detroit reflect bad city management is false.

The only reason this has come to light is because of the City of Detroits investigation and testing, Roach said. Its not possible to prevent all unscrupulous contractors from using bad soil, but no one has been more effective than the City of Detroit at holding them accountable when they do. Roach said the test results will be publicly released.

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for EGLE said the agency will continue working with the City to determine appropriate actions, including possible remediation or enforcement if contamination is confirmed.

The current problems came to light earlier this year when a Detroit office of inspector general investigation found a contractor hired by the city had used dirt contaminated with construction debris from the demolition of the Northland Shopping Mall. Testing reported in early November found 42 of 47 sites exceeded pollution thresholds, and much of that was unsafe for direct human contact.

At a 22 December press conference, Duggan announced that 424 sites had been identified as potentially contaminated, but did not name the contaminants.

Duggan said 32% of 50 sites tested so far were above regional background levels. The regional background levels are important because an exceedance triggers a mandatory environmental cleanup and indicates a risk to the public.

Advertisement Advertisement

In effect, the city may now have small toxic waste dumps scattered throughout its neighborhoods, which is a gargantuan problem, said Allen Burton, an ecosystems management researcher with the University of Michigan.

There might be a bag of really toxic stuff there, Burton said.

The 2018 protocols were developed after debris from a freeway demolition was used to fill neighborhood demolition sites. The protocols increased scrutiny of dirt sources and required testing of dirt sourced from commercial land.

However, it opened an opportunity for contractors to lie and claim their dirt came from residential areas to avoid testing, said RJ Koscielniak, an Eastern Michigan University geology professor and urban decline scholar. He did his doctoral dissertation on Detroit demolitions and has reviewed hundreds of thousands of program documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Koscielniak said the city never put in place legitimate controls in part because regulations were opposed by contractors, and because the administration did not want to slow the demolition program.

Theres an insistence that [the demolitions] get done with a velocity that compromises any regulations, he said.

The contaminants likely in the shopping mall debris are linked to health issues like cancer and reduced cognitive ability in children. Those living around the sites face a health risk from dust that blows off the property, Hoin said. Children playing on the sites, or others who come into contact with the dirt, may face more immediate health impacts.

Hoin and Burton added that chemicals like lead are so toxic that even those below background levels can still be a danger. The background threshold for lead in Detroit is higher than in other cities, and does not necessarily convey safety, Burton said.

Advertisement Advertisement

During his 22 December press conference, Duggan downplayed the health threat, stating that there would only be a risk if you were to dig through the foot of topsoil and spend a lot of time digging in the dirt.

Burton said hazardous waste sites are capped with specialized liners or several feet of clay, which Detroit has not put in place. Burton added: I dont buy what the mayor said.

Anything that is near the surface is going to be a hazard to the neighborhood, Burton said. I think the mayor is just trying to get people off his back.
LILONGWE, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Malawian government on Sunday appealed for financial support of over 3 million U.S. dollars for the implementation of the country's cholera control plan.

At a press briefing held in Lilongwe, the country's capital, Minister of Health Madalitso Baloyi said the country has registered 11 confirmed cholera cases in five districts, including Lilongwe.

According to a statement from the ministry, the budget for the Cholera Preparedness and Control Plan is pegged at 3.37 million U. S. dollars, but the government of Malawi has only managed to source nearly 357,000 U. S. dollars, leaving a deficit of over 3 million U. S. dollars.

Meanwhile, the government of Malawi has intensified cross-border collaboration and joint cross-border investigation of suspected cases in two border districts of Mwanza and Moatize in Mozambique, it said.

Furthermore, the country's National Public Health Emergency Operations Center has been activated, and a national incident management team has been put in place to coordinate the response. 
Hyatt Hotels has opened the Hyatt Regency Nha Trang, its first branded hotel on Vietnams south-central coast.

The Hyatt Regency Nha Trang hotel opening introduces a beachfront property situated on Tran Phu Street, an area noted for its mix of architectural styles and cultural significance.

Its location places guests within reach of art galleries, restaurants, and shops. The property is a five-minute drive from Nha Trang Train Station and about 40 minutes from Cam Ranh International Airport, making it accessible for both leisure and business travellers.

Advertisement Advertisement

The structure, designed by EDC INTERNATIONAL, takes cues from the regions fishing villages and the surrounding ocean.

The hotel features 434 guestrooms and suites, each offering natural light, ocean views, and interiors with handcrafted details. Rooms are equipped with in-room technology, bedding, and rainfall showers.

It includes 783m2 of event and meeting space, comprising a pillarless Regency Ballroom and nine breakout rooms. Local elements are incorporated into the design to provide a sense of place for conferences, meetings, and celebrations.

Dining venues include Market Cafe, which blends Vietnamese and Italian cuisine with open kitchen concepts. The Lounge, located near the lobby on the fifth floor, serves cakes and afternoon tea.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pool Bar on 30th offers views of the bay, cocktails, and light snacks. The Regency Club lounge on the 31st floor provides services such as refreshments, breakfast, check-in, and evening drinks with views over Nha Trang Bay.

Hyatt Regency Nha Trang general manager Sean Yoon said: At Hyatt Regency Nha Trang, we believe true hospitality begins with authenticity. This property was designed not as a retreat from the destination, but as an immersive gateway into its stories, flavours, and spirit.

In December 2025, Hyatt Hotels opened three new properties under two of its brands in the Lingang business district of Shanghai, China.

"Hyatt opens beachfront hotel on Vietnams south-central coast" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




A new IDF review will examine multiple Gaza war phases since October 7, including why Hamas regrouped after invasions and how commands performed across the campaign.

The IDF has started a process for probing several post-October 7 massacre stages of the war, including the question of why Hamas managed to survive the many invasions of Gaza.

At a conference this week, the IDF started to split up different themes for the probe, with the goal of learning lessons from after October 7 that can improve the military going forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

This means each separate command, directorate, and corps within the military  including intelligence, ground forces, the IAF, and the navy  will all be probed regarding their macro-performance during the war.

Separately, commanders at all the different levels will undertake more micro-level investigations to determine how their divisions or battalions performed, compared with their specific mission parameters and battles.

Finally, the probe will include a section focused on how the connection between IDF General Staff and commanders in the field operated over the course of the war.

Destroyed buildings in the northern Gaza Strip, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, on January 4, 2025. (credit: ERIK MARMOR/FLASH90)

Timeline covered in the probe

The time frame of the probe will essentially start with the invasion of northern Gaza in October 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

It will then move on to the invasion of Khan Yunis in late 2023 to early 2024.

Next, it will check the invasion of Rafah in Spring-Summer 2024.

Furthermore, the probe will then review the second major invasion of Jabalya in late 2024 and of northern Gaza more broadly in late 2024.

Part of this analysis will probe why and how Hamas made a comeback in these areas after they had been defined as operationally clear from Hamas several months earlier.

In addition, the probe will include the two rounds of re-invading Gaza in Spring-Summer 2025. Gideons Chariots I was viewed as not having been effective, and Gideons Chariots II was viewed as having been stopped mid-operation by diplomatic processes that eventually ended the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Separately, the IDF will probe the invasion of Lebanon in Fall 2024, the invasion of Syria in December 2024, and the various actions, both offensive and defensive, that the IDF has undertaken in those areas since then.

Another section of the probe will review the IDF operation to take over portions of Jenin and Tulkarm in January 2025, including maintaining soldiers there on an indefinite basis until now and for the foreseeable future.

The IDF has already probed the 12-day war with Iran, given that it was shorter and fewer units were involved than in these other major chapters of the war.

Part of the conclusions for the probe will help frame how the IDF will use its mandatory service soldiers versus reservist soldiers going forward, including their length of service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Furthermore, the IDF has said it is currently still on war footing, but with three months having passed since major fighting and the diplomatic process seeming to be advancing, the military will also be exploring how downgrading from being at war to being in a state of emergency less than all-out war would impact its operations, deployment schedules, budgets, and training plans.

This process is moving forward as part of a clear belief by IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir that the focus should move past the October 7 massacre to later events and to preparing the military for the future, rather than keeping the army prisoner to the many failures that led to Hamass invasion, which it has already probed in three separate rounds.
In New Mexico, ICE arrested about 240 detainees in New Mexico in 2024. In just the first 10 months of 2025, the agency reported arrests of more than 1,800 (Courtesy Department of Homeland Security)

A newly militarized border zone. Crackdowns on cities immigrant-friendly policies. Heightened arrests and, with them, heightened fear. These were just a few of the ways President Donald Trumps mass deportation push in 2025 played out in New Mexico, a majority-minority border state with the nations highest percentage of Hispanics.

New Mexico also pushed back in several ways, joining litigation against Trumps executive orders revoking longstanding protections such as birth-right citizenship and cracking down on so-called sanctuary city laws. The states jails that hold immigrants also continue to face heightened criticism.

Nonetheless, by years end, ICE had arrested at least 1,800 people in New Mexico, creating an emptiness that Zoe Bowman, managing attorney at the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center, feels across the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Theyre clients who are stressed about their wife and children being homeless because theyve been in detention for several months, and theres no income for the family anymore, she said about the immigrants shes represented all year long. Thats just a totally different reality.

See how that new reality played out below in Source New Mexicos coverage of the most important immigration stories of the year.

A crackdown at the border

From left to right: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks and United States Attorney for New Mexico Ryan Ellison stand along the National Defense Area along the New Mexico-Mexico border to tout recent arrests on May 1, 2025. (Photo courtesy USAO)

Acting U.S. Attorney for New Mexico Ryan Ellison stood alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in mid-April near the Mexican border. As part of Trumps push to close the border, a land swap converted former federal public lands into a military base with a constant Army presence, and Ellison announced a new criminal charge to arrest people found within the new National Defense Zone.

Within days, the US Attorneys Office announced dozens of charges against people whom prosecutors suspected of crossing the border illegally, though many were later dropped. The rollout of the new zone also came with widespread confusion. Prosecutors were forced to drop several charges because of uncertainty about the new zones borders, and ranchers grappled with how to manage grazing leases that turned overnight into an extended military base.

Advertisement Advertisement

The new zone remains in effect, along with the new criminal charges, and federal officials have since extended it into Texas.

In New Mexico, Ellisons office continued to release regular updates on arrests in the national defense area, even as fewer migrants arrive at the southern border. The latest release from the U.S. Attorneys Office shows 54 people were arrested in the zone between Dec. 4 and Dec. 19.

DHS tries to make a deadly border wall deadlier

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem paints a section of the border barrier in Santa Teresa on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025. Noem announced the administration would paint barriers between the U.S. and Mexico black in order to prevent rust and make them hotter to prevent climbing. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

Three months after Hegseths visit, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem made her own trip to the border, this time posing for photos with a roller covered in black paint.

Noem on Aug. 19 announced that Border Patrol officials would be tasked with painting the border wall black for two reasons: First, to prevent rust, and second, to burn the skin of anyone trying to climb over during the hot summer months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams office quickly decried the effort as inhumane and emblematic of Trumps cruel approach to immigrant enforcement.

That section of New Mexicos shared border with Mexico has already seen a sharp spike in immigrant deaths, particularly after the city of El Paso joined Operation Lone Star, Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts signature border mission.

Between 2022 and 2024, the number of migrant deaths in the New Mexico desert increased exponentially, Source New Mexico and the Texas Tribune reported, peaking at 176 in 2024, a figure that includes deaths due to falls from the wall that DHS began painting black in August.

A DHS spokesperson did not immediately respond to Sources request in December for an update on the agencys progress painting the wall black.

ICE detention increases, along with scrutiny

A memorial including the photos of Johana Medina Leon (left) and Roxsana Hernandez Rodriguez (right) transgender women who died while in custody at New Mexico detention centers in 2018, was part of the demonstration against immigrant detention outside of the Roundhouse on Oct. 1, 2025. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

As of Nov. 30, 65,735 immigrants were held in ICE custody, the highest number in history. In many states across the country, ICE relies on local jails, including three in New Mexico, to house them.

Advertisement Advertisement

The states ICE detention facilities in Torrance, Cibola and Otero counties faced growing scrutiny across 2025, especially as the population of ICE detainees held in them steadily increased.

Despite public pressure, the Legislature did not pass the Immigrant Safety Act, which would have prohibited public entities from contracting with ICE for detention. Sen. Joe Cervantes (D-Las Cruces), chair of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee, later suggested he didnt bring the bill up for a hearing in the sessions final days because it was not yet ripe.

Without a law in place, state lawmakers publicly and privately argued about whether housing ICE detainees in New Mexico is better than housing them elsewhere, and they grappled with the potential loss in jobs and tax revenue for struggling rural communities.

While the debate is still ongoing in December, Cervantes recently said his mind may be changing on the matter, and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has urged lawmakers to consider the bill again in the 2026 legislative session.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advocates are expecting her to put the measure on the list of legislation to be considered in the 30-day session, though Michael Coleman, the governors communications director, told Source on Dec. 17 that the governor is still determining exactly what will and wont be on the session call.

ICE arrests  and fear of arrest  skyrocket

ICE Police at Immigration Detention Center. ICE arrested more than 1,800 people in New Mexico in the first 10 months of 2025, according to new data. (Douglas Rissing/Getty Images)

In 45 states, ICE immigration arrests more than doubled in the first 10 months of 2025 compared with the same period last year during President Joe Bidens administration. The percentage of people ICE arrested who had never been charged with a crime also sharply increased this year.

In New Mexico, ICE arrested about 240 detainees in New Mexico in 2024, according to the Deportation Data Project, a team of researchers and academics that analyzes ICE data. In just the first 10 months of 2025, the agency reported arrests of more than 1,800, a figure that is likely an undercount, according to a project spokesperson.

Among the arrestees here were 48 people disappeared in March raids across the state. Then there were the dairy workers at a Lovington dairy farm; probationers who arrived at scheduled check-ins; and two Venezuelan delivery drivers whose families told Source they were left reeling from the violence of the arrests and their loved ones sudden disappearances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Fear of arrests was also widespread, even among those who have lived in the United States since time immemorial. Three days after Trumps inauguration, the Mescalero Apache president alerted the tribe that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent questioned one of their members. By that point, reports were swirling across Indigenous communities about ICE questioning tribal members, prompting more public warnings from tribal leaders.

States, cities and communities respond

Sanctuary city concept and illegal immigration law government enforcement policies as a highway sign directing to welcoming immigrants with no legal status as a 3D illustration. (Getty Images)

States, cities and community organizations used the courts and their local authority throughout the year to slow or halt Trumps mass deportation agenda.

In the Roundhouse, as well as churches, hospitals and city halls, New Mexicans mobilized to protect immigrants and fund programs they relied on.

New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez signed onto multiple multi-state lawsuits against Trumps immigration policies, including seeking to unmask ICE agents, preserve birthright citizenship and ensure the states immigrant-friendly policies dont deprive it of federal funding for crime victims or road repairs.

Advertisement Advertisement

The New Mexico Legislature passed laws that allow immigrants to become police officers and to prohibit state employees from providing immigration information to federal authorities. It also convened in October to replace federal funds cut in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including $12 million in food assistance funds for lawfully permanent residents.

Despite Trumps threats, cities including Las Cruces, Santa Fe and Albuquerque re-affirmed or maintained their immigrant-friendly policies in a state thats already one of the safest places for undocumented immigrants, according to a University of New Mexico professor who studies the issue.

And immigrant legal advocates and community organizations rallied behind individual New Mexico immigrants caught up in the new ICE dragnet with protests or lawsuits filed on their behalf.

Community members also showed up in force for Antonio Chairez Rios, a 20-year Albuquerque resident, who walked out of a local ICE facility in June to cheers from protesters whod been demanding his release for hours.

I would like to have a chance, he told the crowd gathered. Because all my family is from here, my daughters, my grandchildren.

He got that chance a few months later.
The Indiana Court of Appeals on Dec. 29 said the city of Gary's longstanding lawsuit against some of the world's largest gun manufacturers must be dismissed, overruling a lower court judge who previously blocked a 2024 state law that aims to kill the lawsuit.

The city's 1999 lawsuit accuses firearms manufacturers and retailers of irresponsible business practices that allowed criminals to get hold of guns. Although dozens of cities filed similar lawsuits in the 1990s, only Gary's has survived legal pushback and lobbying efforts intended to shield the gun industry from liability.

But on Monday the Court of Appeals sided with the gun manufacturers trying to dismiss the lawsuit, which include household names like Smith & Wesson, Colt's, Glock and Beretta. The appellate court ruled that the 2024 state law, which also bars other Indiana municipalities from suing gun companies moving forward, can retroactively void the Gary lawsuit.

Advertisement Advertisement

"Unfair as it may appear, the legislature can legally do exactly what it did in this case," the Dec. 29 ruling reads, "and we cannot second-guess its public policy determinations in this regard."

The decision sends the case back to the Lake County Superior Court with an order to dismiss Gary's 1999 lawsuit. The city of Gary did not immediately answer IndyStar's inquiry about whether it plans to appeal the ruling before the Indiana Supreme Court.

The appellate court's decision overrules a lower court judge who refused to dismiss Gary's lawsuit last year, leading gun manufacturers to appeal. Lake County Superior Court Judge John Sedia said in an August 2024 ruling that retroactively applying the new state law to Gary's case would "violate years of vested rights and constitutional guarantees."

"To avoid manifest injustice," Sedia wrote at the time, "the substance of this lawsuit must be taken to its conclusion."

Advertisement Advertisement

Republican legislators made no secret that the 2024 law targeted the Gary case. The law applies retroactively to Aug. 27, 1999  three days before Gary filed its lawsuit.

Such facts led Gary Mayor Eddie Melton, a Democrat, to deride the measure as "morally bankrupt" and a "legislative power grab." Even some Republicans worried the measure would prompt special interest groups to simply lobby the General Assembly to get rid of legal challenges.

But Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita praised the Court of Appeals' Dec. 29 decision.

More: How dozens of Indiana laws increasingly block liberal policies in cities

Advertisement Advertisement

Under the new law, only the state attorney general has the power to sue the gun industry. Republicans say that's necessary to avoid piecemeal legislation that could restrict access to guns in certain Indiana cities and counties.

"This result helps to ensure that firearms remain available to law-abiding citizens, preventing a single city or handful of cities from using lawsuits to force changes to the way they are sold," Rokita said in a statement.

Email Indianapolis City Hall Reporter Jordan Smith at JTSmith@usatodayco.com. Follow him on X @jordantsmith09 and Bluesky @jordanaccidentally.bsky.social.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana Court of Appeals upholds Indiana law to kill Gary's gun lawsuit
PALOLO, Hawaii (KHON2)  An injured hiker was rescued Sunday, Dec. 28, from the mountain summit above Kaau Crater Trail in Palolo.

Honolulu Fire Department responded to an injured hiker on the mountain summit above the trail at around 4:27 p.m.

HFD rescues injured hiker on Koko Head on Christmas morning

The incident occurred when a male in his 20s was hiking with two others for about five hours, became weak and was unable to move on his own.

Advertisement Advertisement

At around 5:07 p.m., HFD provided basic life support and the injured hiker was transferred to the EMS at 5:31 p.m.

Officials warn hikers to be cautious on trails based on their experience level and the trail description itself.

Copyright 2026 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 KHON2.
The Takings Clause of the 5th Amendment "was designed to bar Government from forcing some people alone to bear public burdens," the Supreme Court said in Armstrong v. United States, "which, in all fairness and justice, should be borne by the public as a whole." That was just over 65 years ago.

It is, unfortunately, not living up to that promise.

For the latest example, we can look to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, which ruled last month that an innocent man whose business was destroyed by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers in pursuit of a fugitive is not entitled to compensation for damages under the Takings Clause. This is despite the law's pledge that the government provide "just compensation" when it usurps private property for a public use.

Advertisement Advertisement

In August of 2022, an armed fugitive threw Carlos Pena out of his North Hollywood printing shop and barricaded himself inside it. Over the course of 13 hours, a SWAT team with the LAPD launched more than 30 rounds of tear gas canisters through the walls, door, roof, and windows. After the standoff, police discovered the suspect had managed to escape. But Pena was left with a husk of what his store once was, the inside ravaged and equipment ruined, saddling him with over $60,000 in damages, according to his lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles.

It's a suit Pena did not want to file, having repeatedly reached out to the government to recoup his losses before going to court. The city ignored him. Pena, meanwhile, was hemorrhaging income, resigned to working out of his garage at a much-reduced capacity with a single printer he purchased after the raid.

The recent ruling on Pena's claim joins a burgeoning pile of case law wading through this exact scenario. Each decision ultimately grapples with a version of a core question: Does the Takings Clause cease to apply in some sense when property is destroyed via "police power"?

Different circuits have come to varying conclusions. The 9th Circuit, for its part, declined to answer if a categorical exception exists. But the court did conclude that there is no taking "when law enforcement officers destroy private property while acting reasonably in the necessary defense of public safety" (emphasis mine). The judges said that doomed Pena's claim.

Advertisement Advertisement

Their decision references a ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, which in 2023 considered a similar case: Police mutilated a woman's Texas house in pursuit of a fugitive who had locked himself inside her attic. Because law enforcement destroyed Vicki Baker's home "by necessity during an active emergency," the court ruled, it did not constitute a taking under the U.S. Constitution.

But the 5th Circuit did throw Baker a small bone. Writing for the majority, Judge Stephen A. Higginson concluded by citing Armstrong, that 1960s Supreme Court Takings Clause case whose spirit would seem to apply directly to this sort of situation. Baker "is faultless but must 'alone' bear the burdens of a misfortune that might have befallen anyone," Higginson conceded. "As a lower court, however, it is not for us to decide that fairness and justice trump historical precedent.Such a decision would be for the Supreme Court alone."

The Supreme Court declined to hear Baker's case late last year. "Whether any such exception exists (and how the Takings Clause applies when the government destroys property pursuant to its police power)," wrote Justice Sonia Sotomayor in a statement, joined by Justice Neil Gorsuch, "is an important and complex question that would benefit from further percolation in the lower courts prior to this Court's intervention."

The percolating has continued apace. About a month before the November decision in Pena's case, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit ruled that Indiana woman Amy Hadley was not entitled to compensation under the Takings Clause after police wrecked her home looking for a suspect as a result of a faulty investigation. Why? "The Fifth Amendment does not require the state to compensate for property damage resulting from police executing a lawful search warrant," wrote Judge Joshua Kolar. In other words, the court found that a categorical police power exception does exist, departing from the narrower conclusions of the 5th and 9th Circuits.

Advertisement Advertisement

As Higginson alluded to, only the Supreme Court can resolve such disputes. The high court is also the only body that can resolve the tension between these rulings and Armstrong, if the justices wish to ensure that individuals are not left alone to shoulder public burdens "which, in all fairness and justice, should be borne by the public as a whole."

The post Innocent Man Sues for Over $60,000 After Police Blew Up His Business. A Court Says He's Entitled to Nothing. appeared first on Reason.com.
Reza Pahlavi backed protests spreading across Iran, calling on all segments of society and security forces to join demonstrators as strikes and rallies grow amid a deepening economic crisis.

Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi backed the protests erupting throughout Iran on Monday with a message to his followers on social media.

I send my greetings to you, the bazaar merchants, and the people who have taken the streets into their own hands, the prince stated in a video message.

Advertisement Advertisement

As long as this regime remains in power, the countrys economic situation will continue to deteriorate.

Today is a time for greater solidarity.

I call on all segments of society to join your fellow citizens in the streets and raise your voices demanding the downfall of this system.

Protestors chanted 'Pahlavi will return'

Protests began on Sunday when the bazaari (merchant class) closed their shops and took to the streets after Irans economic crisis deepened, with $1 reaching 1.4 million rials market value (42,000 rials official value).

The economic situation in the country has been declining for months, and reached a peak on Sunday. Monday saw protests spread as the bazaari held a strike in several districts in Tehran, before protestors took to the streets in other cities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Further protests have been recorded in Ahvaz, Hamadan, Qeshm, and Mashhad, among others.

Videos of protests shared from within Iran show the crowds chanting support for Pahlavi, with cries such as Pahlavi will return.

There have also been calls for the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and disgust for his policy of supporting Iranian proxies with billions of dollars, while the Iranian economy suffers.

No to Gaza, No to Lebanon. I give my life for Iran, was among the chants heard

As reports also emerged of security forces firing tear gas on protesters, Pahlavi reserved part of his message for that element of the regime.

Advertisement Advertisement

My special message to the security and law enforcement forces: this regime is collapsing. Do not stand against the people. Join the people.

We will prevail because justice is on our side, and because we are united and speaking with one voice.
Iraqs decision to introduce the Jafari law in January means that girls can be married based on perceived maturity and physical capacity.

Baghdads bridal industry has seen a massive boom since Iraq legalized child marriage, and human rights organizations have warned that young girls are being auctioned off in black market sales to older men, a Sunday Times investigation revealed on Saturday.

The relatives of Amani, a 12-year-oldgirl set to be married off to a 17-year-old she has never met, told the Sunday Times that the ceremony would go ahead without the need for her permission.

Advertisement Advertisement

A local cleric confirmed that Amani could be married, as she had started puberty.

Iraqs decision to introduce the Jafari law in January means that girls can be married based on perceived maturity and physical capacity.

One of Amanis relatives admitted that, after the amendment passed, four of her younger cousins were quickly married off to older men for financial reasons.

A girl holds a placard as activists demonstrate against female child marriages, in Tahrir Square in central Baghdad on July 28, 2024, amid parliamentary discussion over a proposed amendment to the Iraqi Personal Status Law. Rights advocates are alarmed by a bill introduced to Iraq's parliament that, (credit: Ahmad al-Rubaye/AFP via Getty Images)

An activist told the paper that under the new law, parents can exchange daughters for money or status, and the legislation amounted to legalizing child rape.

Even before the law passed, 28% of girls in Iraq were married before the age of 18, and a further 22% of unregistered marriages involve girls under 14, the United Nations reported in 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ghezi, who oversees shelters for runaway girls of forced marriage under The Organization of Womens Freedom Iraq (OWFI) in Baghdad, confirmed to the paper, We have seen a growing black market in Iraq where fathers are selling their daughters, pulling them out of education, mostly because of poverty  but they have been encouraged by some [clerics] who may benefit.

Ghezi added, These are children who are not aware that their husbands can use the Jafari law to strip their rights  they can divorce them, marry a second wife, and take their children without dispute.

Who is profiting from child marriages in Iraq?

Clerics often take a fee for blessing marriages, religious officials in Kadhimiya confirmed. One official admitted to talking a 15-year-old out of divorcing her husband, adding he would only discuss the subject with her fathers permission.

Dozens of businesses confirmed to the British outlet that since the Jafari law passed, they had increased sales.

Advertisement Advertisement

Baraa Macer, an influencer and bridal makeup artist, admitted that many of her clients are now under 10.

A video allegedly displaying an 11-year-old girl cloaked in white shared on Macers page gained more than 250,000 views. Macer declined to confirm whether the content was monetized.

Another Iraqi makeup artist, Zainab Saleem, also known as Makera Dobaa, claimed she disagreed with child marriage but shared her underage clients videos because younger brides get more views and people ask for ages in the comments.

Saleem said her youngest client this year was 14, though confirmed that her clients this year had been younger than in previous.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ruweida, a bridal make-up artist in Sadr City, also said her clients this year were almost entirely children.

Ruweida described a 10-year-old girl who cried throughout her hair and makeup, and still her family was proud to say she was marrying an older man. She was trying to resist, but I could see she had bruises all over her head  this is very common.
Iraqs top leadership is divided along sectarian lines, with the president being Kurdish and the prime minister usually a Shiite. The lower-level speaker of parliament's role goes to Sunnis.

Reports in regional media indicate that Iraqi Sunnis are divided on whether to elect a speaker for the countrys parliament.

Iraqs top leadership is divided along sectarian lines, with the president being Kurdish and the prime minister usually a Shiite. The lower-level speaker of parliament's role goes to Sunnis. In general, what this means is that the Shiites are the strongest player in Iraqi politics, sidelining the other groups.

Advertisement Advertisement

After the November elections, there are questions about who will fill the offices of prime minister and speaker of parliament. Al-Ain media in the UAE notes that Sunni divisions complicate the process of electing the Speaker of Parliament in Iraq.

The report says that developments are accelerating on the Iraqi political scene as the parliamentary session to elect the Speaker of Parliament and his two deputies approaches, amid growing differences within the Sunni blocs that have reshuffled the cards of the existing political understandings.

Kurdish media Rudaw says the same thing. Sunni blocs in Iraq may enter parliament with two competing candidates for speaker as the legislature prepares to convene the first session of its sixth term on Monday, Sunni politicians said on Sunday.

IRAQI PRIME Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani votes at a polling station in the Green Zone during the parliamentary election, in Baghdad, Iraq, November 11, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/AHMED SAAD/FILE PHOTO)

The report goes on to note that Sunni parties met on Sunday to decide whether to rally behind a single nominee or proceed with rival bids split between the Taqaddum Party, which backs its leader and former speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, and the Azm Alliance, which insists on its leader, Muthanna al-Samarrai.

Advertisement Advertisement

Prior to the election, Azm candidate Safaa Al-Mashhadani was assassinated.

The report at Rudaw noted that this week there will be a swearing-in ceremony for the 329 newly elected members, and a vote for speaker is expected. Mohammed Daham, an Azm Alliance leader and designated spokesperson for Sunni parties, told Rudaw on Sunday before the meeting that it will be decisive in every sense.

It appears that the Taqaddum Party prefers former speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi.

The process for the Speaker's post is heading toward having two candidates in any case, and it is impossible to reach a consensus on a single candidate, a source told Rudaw. The Azm Alliance is firm on its candidate, Muthanna al-Samarrai, and there is no change in that decision.

Sunni alliances form National Political Council

The Rudaw report noted that in November, leaders of the Sunnis' four main alliances and political forces announced the formation of a National Political Council, aimed at unifying Sunni positions during negotiations over the next government. The Shiite parties operate similarly, with a coordination framework that unites many of their groups.

Advertisement Advertisement

Al-Ain noted that these moves are intertwined with broader consultations among the main political forces, where the coordinating framework and the Kurdish forces play a prominent role in tipping the scales in favor of any of the candidates, amid efforts to avoid a parliamentary paralysis scenario.

It appears that some figures have withdrawn from the Sunni race. Khamis al-Khanjar, whose Sovereignty alliance party has 14 seats, isnt running. MPs Salem Matar Al-Issawi and Ziad Al-Janabi have officially announced their withdrawal from the Sovereignty Alliance, in protest against the decision-making mechanism within the alliance, particularly regarding the nomination of MP Hebat Al-Halbousi for the position of Speaker of Parliament, the report added.

Al-Ain went on to note that the Azm Alliance reiterated its position rejecting any retreat from nominating its leader, Muthanna al-Samarrai, for the position of Speaker of Parliament, stressing that he is the alliances only candidate.

The report went on to note that amid this escalating division, Saud al-Janabi, a member of the media office of the Al-Azm Alliance, told Al-Ain News that Muthanna al-Samarrai is preparing to hold an important press conference in the next few hours to clarify the official and final position of the Al-Azm Alliance regarding the session to elect the Speaker of Parliament.

What matters here is that Iraq is still struggling to find new leadership after the elections. The relative chaos and weakness among the Sunni Arab parties is a reflection of their continued diminished status in Iraq over the last two decades following the fall of Saddam.
BAGHDAD, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Iraq's University of Baghdad on Sunday inaugurated the Chinese Language Department within its College of Languages.

Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Iraq Cui Wei said that Chinese is one of the world's most widely spoken languages and a cultural window for the world to understand China.

He noted that the establishment of the Chinese Department will greatly contribute to enhancing mutual understanding and further deepening the friendship between the Chinese and Iraqi peoples.

Ali Adnan Mashwash, dean of the College of Languages, said that the creation of the department reflects the university's recognition of the growing global importance of the Chinese language.

He also expressed hope that the program will help boost scientific and cultural relations between Iraq and China.

In August, the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research officially approved the establishment of the Chinese Department at University of Baghdad, with an initial enrollment of 20 students.

Iraq has witnessed a surge in Chinese language fever in recent years. In 2019, Salahaddin University in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region became the first Iraqi university to offer an academic degree in the Chinese language. 
Until now, visits have taken place almost exclusively at night, coordinated by the Israeli military and conducted under heavy security escort.

Israel is set to allow Jewish pilgrims to spend early daylight hours at Josephs Tomb in Shechem (Nablus), ending a restriction that has limited visits to nighttime only for more than two decades, officials confirmed on Monday.

The change follows an agreement between Defense Minister Israel Katz and senior Israel Defense Forces commanders, and marks the first time in about 25 years that Jewish worshippers will be permitted to remain at the site after sunrise.

Advertisement Advertisement

Israeli authorities stressed that the decision does not involve a change in security arrangements or an increased military presence.

Katz said the guidelines allow greater freedom of worship while preserving the security framework that has been in place for years.

Under the updated guidelines, pilgrims will be allowed to stay at the tomb compound until 8 a.m., enabling them to hold the traditional morning prayer service at the site. Additional groups will be permitted to enter beginning at 6 a.m. and remain for up to two hours.

Israel Katz points at a map showing Israel and the Gaza Strip, April 5, 2017 (credit: MIRIAM ALSTER/FLASH90)

Josephs tomb: A holy site under military guard

Until now, visits have taken place almost exclusively at night, coordinated by the Israeli military and conducted under heavy security escort.

Advertisement Advertisement

The tomb is the burial site of Joseph, the son of the biblical patriarch Jacob.

Shechem is located in Area A under the administrative and security jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority. However, under the Oslo Accords, Israeli forces were allowed to remain at the holy site.

In 2000, Israel abandoned the grave after a Palestinian mob stormed the compound. A Border Police officer who was shot bled to death when security forces were unable to rescue him. Rioters burned down the site again in 2015. The tomb has been desecrated and refurbished several times, most recently in 2022.
Iron Beams entry into service marks a shift in Israels air defense doctrine, offering low-cost interceptions that could alter the military balance and Israels position in global arms markets.

The Defense Ministry announced on Sunday the delivery of the first Iron Beam (Or Eitan) system to the IDF, Israels revolutionary laser air-defense platform.

What is immediately clear is that Iron Beam could significantly alter the battlefield  at least in the short term  in Israels favor. What is less obvious, but potentially more consequential, is that it could also alter Israels geopolitical position, again to Israels advantage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Iron Beam is not just a military development; it is a geopolitical one.

It has the potential to reshape Israels relations with allies, reorder parts of the global arms market, blunt efforts to isolate the country, and force Israels enemies to rethink not only the mechanics of attacking Israel  the how  but the economics of those attacks.

The Iron Beam is designed to defend against short-range threats such as rockets, mortars, and drones. Instead of firing expensive interceptor missiles, it uses a powerful, precisely aimed laser beam to heat a target until it is damaged or destroyed, often within seconds of launch and while it is still over enemy territory.

Iron beam system (credit: DEFENSE MINISTRY)

Iron Beam 'adds a layer' to current defense systems

The system runs on electricity, which means each interception is far cheaper than missile-based defenses such as the Arrow or Iron Dome. It is not meant to replace those systems, but rather to add a layer to them and deal with smaller, more numerous threats so that the missile-based systems can focus on the larger, more complex ones.

Advertisement Advertisement

The only drawback is that its effectiveness is reduced in poor visibility, such as heavy cloud cover or bad weather.

The most significant geopolitical ramification of Iron Beams deployment is its potential to sharply reduce Israels military dependence on its allies, including the United States. That goal has already become a strategic priority for Israel, one of the key lessons learned during the Israel-Hamas War, when arms transfers were at times slowed or restricted by the US and other allies, such as Germany and the UK.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated this goal last week, saying Israel would spend some NIS 350 billion over the next decade to expand its domestic arms industry and reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers. The Iron Beam can play a significant role in advancing that independence.

A significant portion of the $4b. the US has allocated for missile defense since the October 7 massacre was spent replenishing Tamir interceptors used in Iron Dome to intercept rockets and drones. These interceptors cost about $50,000 each.

Advertisement Advertisement

By contrast, the cost of the Iron Beam is just a few dollars in electricity for each interception. Iron Beam deployment could reduce Israels annual requirement for US-supplied or -funded interceptor stocks by billions of dollars, meaning that Israel can field world-class defensive systems without reliance on US supplies.

While America will remain the primary supplier of platforms such as the F-35s and certain precision munitions that Israel does not manufacture, the Iron Beam will signal that the traditional security dependence model is shifting  a strong signal to send at a time when more and more questions are being asked in the US about arms sales to Israel.

Iron Beam also does something else. Since, at the moment, it is the only such system in the world (the US and other countries are sure to catch up), it shows clearly how Israel is not only a consumer of American security assistance but also offers state-of-the-art solutions to problems the US military is grappling with.

The implications of Iron Beams deployment extend far beyond the bilateral US-Israel relationship.

Advertisement Advertisement

This system arrives at a moment when the global arms market is surging and when the need for these types of systems has never been greater. The proliferation of the use of drones, used during the Ukraine war, the limits of traditional methods of air defense when faced with swarms of drones, and Israels battle-tested experience are creating a sellers market for the Jewish state.

European militaries that once focused on expeditionary forces  designed for overseas deployments to places such as Iraq and Afghanistan, or for peacekeeping missions  are now scrambling to protect critical infrastructure and population centers. For many of them, such as Germany, Finland, Romania, and Greece, Israel has become the go-to address for systems that actually work.

And that was before the deployment of Iron Beam, which is sure to accelerate this trend.

This is where Iron Beam becomes awkward for Israels critics. Governments that speak harshly about Israeli policy  some of which flirted with and even imposed arms embargoes or symbolic sanctions  are also among the ones that will need to find solutions to drone threats to their own countries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Laser air defense is fast becoming a strategic necessity, and at the moment, Israel sits at the front of that field. Many Israelis are yearning to see a day when countries such as the Netherlands and Spain, which embargoed arms to Israel, inquire about procuring Iron Beam  something that is in no way a fantastical scenario.

Israeli defense exports to Europe surged over the past year, even as diplomatic rhetoric became much more critical. Iron Beam is likely to deepen that paradox.

And not only in Europe. What is true there is also true in the Mideast. Elbit recently signed a contract with a foreign country valued at $2.3b. that centers on a technological system, Calcalist reported last week.

The French intelligence news site Intelligence Online identified that country as the UAE. That shouldnt come as a great surprise, since according to Defense Ministry numbers, 12% of the record $14.8b. in arms exports in 2024 went to Abraham Accords countries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Other Gulf states, such as Saudi Arabia, have expressed interest in procuring laser defense systems to counter Iranian and Houthi threats. Political realities make open procurement from Israel difficult, but the interest is unmistakable and raises all kinds of possibilities.

For Israels enemies, Iron Beam is not a game changer in that it will not render rockets or drones obsolete. Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis understand that the system has limitations, and that it struggles in bad weather and can only engage so many targets at one time. This means that using swarming drones to saturate a target still remains an option.

Moreover, they will eventually adapt, as they always do. Iron Beam does not provide a hermetically sealed umbrella, and Israel does not claim that it does.

What Iron Beam does is dramatically change the costs. A drone that costs tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars to produce can now be destroyed for a negligible sum. Over time, that matters. It does not stop attacks, but it does change their economics.

Advertisement Advertisement

If each interception costs just $2-$3 in electricity, while a Hezbollah suicide drone costs anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000, the imbalance is obvious. Over time, the enemy will be paying a much higher price.

Iran  the sponsor and financier of these proxy forces  is already under acute economic pressure, as reflected in economically driven protests that have erupted since Sunday. Israels ability to cheaply neutralize drones and rockets raises the price of confrontation, narrowing Tehrans margin for prolonged or repeated escalation.

Ultimately, Iron Beams geopolitical significance lies not only in what it intercepts but also in what it communicates.

It tells allies that Israel remains a technological leader worth investing in, even if they dislike Jerusalems policies. It tells enemies that the cost-benefit balance of attrition warfare is shifting, even if it is not disappearing.

Advertisement Advertisement

And it tells critics that isolating Israel in the defense arena is becoming harder, not easier, precisely because the threats Israel faces are the same threats they are beginning to face themselves, and they would like to tap into Israels experience and expertise to combat them.

No single system can resolve Israels strategic dilemmas. Iron Beam will not end rocket fire, neutralize Irans ambitions, or shield Israel from diplomatic pressure. What it does is more modest but highly significant: It gives Israel real leverage.
The Northern District Commander, Meir Eliyahu, signed a 30-day closure order for the terrorist's place of employment in Kibbutz Mesilot in the Spring Valley on Saturday.

Israel Police have shut down the workplace of the terrorist Ahmed Abu al-Rov, who was responsible for the terror attack on Friday in which two people were killed, the police announced on Monday.

Abu al-Rov had been working in Israel for some time before committing the attack, and reportedly used his employer's car to ram a 68-year-old man, killing him, and to wound several others.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the police, the Northern District Commander, Meir Eliyahu, signed a 30-day closure order for the terrorist's place of employment in Kibbutz Mesilot in the Spring Valley on Sunday.

Israel Police sign order to close business employing terrorist, December 28, 2025. (CREDIT: ISRAEL POLICE)

Israel Police determined to combat illegal immigration

"Israel Police is fighting any group that assists the arrival and stay of illegal immigrants in the territory of the State of Israel and will use all means at its disposal to bring the perpetrators to justice," the police stated.

A resident of Arraba, also in Israel's north, was arrested for employing the terrorist, Israel Police said, adding that the two were staying together in Kibbutz Mesilot.

It was also revealed that the terrorist had been arrested nearly 10 years ago due to his participation in riots against the IDF and was imprisoned for several months, Army Radio reported.
A late-night fight at a Jacksonville bar turned violent early Sunday morning, leaving three people injured and a man in his early twenties in police custody. Investigators said the shooting happened inside Tipsys Bar and Grill, a popular nightlife spot, prompting renewed concerns about safety in the area.

Jacksonville Sheriffs Office officers were called to the bar around 3:30 a.m. Police say when they arrived, they found three people suffering from gunshot wounds. Investigators say a woman was shot in the ankle, a man was shot in the lower back, and a security guard was shot in the rear. All three victims are expected to survive.

Detectives said the shooting began after a fight broke out inside the bar. During the chaos, police say a security guard tackled the suspect and held him until officers arrived.

Advertisement Advertisement

A nearby resident, Quran Kenny, praised the security guards actions.

I feel like the security guy did his job. He tried his best, and because of that, theyre still alive. Theyre in the hospital, but theyre not dead, Kenny said.

While police continue investigating what led up to the shooting, nearby business owners say this is not an isolated incident.

Early Sunday morning, flashing red and blue lights could be seen through the fog at Tipsys Bar and Grill, but for nearby business owners, scenes like this are becoming all too familiar.

Across the street, Malik, the owner of Fragrance Body Oilz, said violence tied to the bar has become a regular concern.

Advertisement Advertisement

This is kind of a frequent thing, Malik said.

Malik says many of his employees are young students, and repeated shootings in the area have forced him to change how he operates his business. He says he no longer keeps his store open late out of concern for the safety of his workers and customers.

 We cant stay open late with this kind of thing happening in the neighborhood, so just on my conscience, I cant keep these young people here in for myself, just the safety of our employees, Malik said.

He says improving safety will take more than just police response.

More JSO presence, but there has to be a accountability on the owners of the business owners of the building so we can keep this community safe and clean, Malik said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Malik also says the impact of late-night activity stretches beyond violence, pointing to the mess left behind after busy nights.

So every morning we have to come out and clean ourselves, he said.

He adds that some of the behavior goes even further.

 Two or 3 oclock in the morning, people are urinating on my business and the businesses next-door to our house, Malik said.

In addition to Sundays shooting, Malik says another shooting occurred at the bar in October, when two men were shot following another fight.

As of Sunday night, people were still gathered at the bar, despite a sign posted on the building stating that weapons are not allowed. Police say the investigation into the shooting is ongoing.

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.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer announced Monday the appointment of Jason Revoldt as the 22nd Fire Chief of the Orlando Fire Department.

Revoldt, who has served nearly 25 years with the department, was appointed Interim Fire Chief in October and will be officially sworn in at a later date.

Revoldt expressed gratitude for his appointment, stating, Im truly humbled by the trust placed in me by Mayor Dyer, the residents of Orlando, andmost importantlymy fire family.

Advertisement Advertisement

He emphasized his commitment to the department, saying, For nearly a quarter of a century, Ive been fortunate to serve this department and I promise to never take that trust for granted.

As Fire Chief, Revoldt will oversee the Orlando Fire Departments operations and serve as chief counsel to the mayor on public safety matters.

Revoldt has a diverse background with the Orlando Fire Department, having held multiple leadership and operational roles, including Arson/Bomb Commander, Deputy Chief of the Life Safety Bureau and Fire Marshal.

He will be the first Fire Chief in Orlando to also be a sworn law enforcement officer, which highlights a unique perspective he brings to the position.

Advertisement Advertisement

As an arson investigator, he and his late K-9 arson partner, Nessie, significantly contributed to solving arson cases across Florida.

He also developed the Youth Fire Setters Program, which diverts children aged 6 to 16 away from the juvenile justice system by educating them on the dangers of fire-setting.

In his role as Deputy Chief of the Life Safety Bureau, Revoldt was instrumental in the construction of various fire stations, including Fire Station 6 and the design of Fire Station 18.

His focus has been on strategically placing fire stations to serve Orlandos growing communities efficiently and he will continue to prioritize first responder health and safety as Fire Chief, including leading the development of a new Fire Training Center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Revoldt has received significant recognition for his service, including a Class IV Meritorious Award for saving a near-drowning victim. This prestigious recognition is awarded to personnel who demonstrate exceptional judgment, showcasing his commitment to saving lives and serving the community effectively.

Looking ahead, Revoldts vision for the Orlando Fire Department focuses on continuing to progress alongside the citys growth and enhancing emergency service needs.

He aims to maintain a family-oriented culture within the department while upholding OFDs 140-year tradition of professional development and high-quality service for residents.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Rep. LaMonica McIver wants another shot at throwing away the criminal charges levied against her from the Trump administration, she announced Monday.

The New Jersey Democrat filed an appeal to a federal judges ruling last month in the criminal case, which claims she assaulted federal agents during a chaotic scrum outside an immigration detention facility.

McIver previously asked U.S. District Judge Jamel Semper, a Biden appointee, to dismiss the charges on the grounds of selective prosecution and legislative immunity. Semper, however, partially denied McIvers request in November. Now, she's taking that ruling to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Advertisement Advertisement

This appeal is for everyone who is standing up to this administration as they try to operate without oversight, silence the people who oppose them, and shut down those who protect the vulnerable, McIver said in a statement. They want to make an example out of me, but I will not let them.

The criminal charges against McIver stem from a conflict at Delaney Hall, a recently reopened, 1,000-bed immigrant detention facility in Newark. The facility  located just miles from New York City  plays a key role in the Trump administrations deportation efforts in the region.

In May, McIver tried to visit the facility with other members of Congress and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka. McIver was caught up in a chaotic rush in front of the facilitys gates, while Baraka was being arrested. Thats when federal prosecutors say McIver slammed her arm into a federal agent in the crowded scrum (the charges against Baraka were later dropped).

McIver has said she is not guilty and continues her work as a member of Congress. She recently performed an oversight visit at Delaney Hall with other congressional Democrats. She said it was traumatic to revisit the facility that led to her indictment and called for Delaney Halls closure.

Advertisement Advertisement

During President Donald Trumps second term, his administration has promised to go after his perceived political opponents.

McIver assumed office in September 2024, taking over for the late Rep. Don Payne Jr. (D-N.J.)
Dec. 29A Rock Falls man will stand trial on home invasion, sex assault, and battery charges after a Whiteside County judge on Friday denied a motion to dismiss the case.

Whiteside County Circuit Court Judge James Heuerman ruled Friday that Daniel J. Yanes's right to a speedy trial has not been violated, meaning Yanes will stand trial Jan. 13 in a 2022 case accusing him of home invasion, criminal sexual assault, aggravated battery, and aggravated domestic battery.

At issue on Friday was whether too many days had passed since Yanes had made a demand for a speedy trial. Yanes's attorney, James Mertes, said that had happened and the case should be dismissed.

Advertisement Advertisement

"The law in the state of Illinois is very clear," Mertes said.

Yanes, 48, was taken into custody on April 11, 2022, on charges of home invasion and criminal sexual assault in connection with an Illinois State Police investigation into an Oct. 1, 2021, incident in Whiteside County.

Since that time, the charges have been amended twice, once on Oct. 28 when the aggravated battery charge was added, and then again on Oct. 30, when the aggravated domestic battery charge was added. A plea hearing was set for Dec. 11; Heuerman turned down the agreement, and a pretrial conference was set for Dec. 15. Mertes filed the motion to dismiss a couple of hours prior to that scheduled pretrial conference.

According to Mertes's motion to dismiss, under Illinois law, every person on pretrial release or recognizance is to be tried within 160 days from the date a defendant demands trial, unless "the delay is occasioned by the defendant."

Advertisement Advertisement

Mertes's motion to dismiss, filed Dec. 15, claimed Yanes's right to a speedy trial had been violated by six days and included a breakdown of dates and the number of days that had elapsed since April 12, 2022  the date that Yanes demanded the speedy trial. The list covered the dates in which Yanes did not cause the delays, according to the motion, and includes the four days that passed from Dec. 11, when Heuerman turned down the plea agreement, through Dec. 15. Over Mertes's objection, Heuerman on Dec. 15 set a hearing for 1:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26, to address the motion to dismiss.

At that hearing, Whiteside County State's Attorney Colleen Buckwalter went through the timeline of the case, disagreeing with Mertes's evaluation of when the state's actions caused the trial to be delayed. There are no court transcripts for some of the hearings that were part of the record, she noted.

Heuerman said he also did not agree with Mertes's computation, which Mertes said was sitting at 177 days on Dec. 26  saying that in his own review of the case, Heuerman had determined the case had not crossed the speedy trial deadline and was instead sitting at 156 days.

Heuerman pointed to an earlier court date that included action in regard to another case Yanes was involved in, as well as action at the Oct. 30 court date, in which an open-ended continuance was set and did not include a jury trial date, as the reasons his day count came in lower than Mertes's.

Advertisement Advertisement

Heuerman denied the motion to dismiss and reiterated that Yanes's trial will begin Jan. 13.

Home invasion carries a sentence of 6 to 30 years in prison. Criminal sexual assault carries a 4- to 15-year prison sentence.
The man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk appeared remotely in court Monday, as District Court Judge Tony Graf issued a delayed ruling on media access in the case.

Tyler Robinson, 22, was formally charged on Sept. 16 with aggravated murder, five other felonies and a Class A misdemeanor, less than a week after Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

Monday, Graf ordered that the two-hour closed hearing conducted on Oct. 24 will be filed for public review by the end of the day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Eighty pages of the 83-page transcript will be released verbatim  except specific information that includes specific security measures taken for Robinson as he travels to and from Utah County Jail to Utahs 4th District Court.

The defense had also requested that information regarding a non-party witness be redacted, which Graf denied, saying it offers the same information found in the charging documents.

Graf denies the press third-party access to the case

Attorneys on behalf of the Deseret News and another media outlet sought limited party status, which Graf denied. He maintained that only the state and the defense will be recognized parties, and a court rule already protects the medias right to pursue public court records.

For this reason, the court denies both requests to intervene, Graf said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The judge added that if members of the media want to object to a court-filed closure motion and request a closure hearing, they must file within seven days of receiving notice.

Present in the web hearing were Jeff Hunt and David Reyman on the behalf of the Deseret News and KSL, and Michael Judd on the behalf of the Salt Lake Tribune.

Graf previously issued several media restrictions, prohibiting any filming or photography of Robinsons shackles. He also granted the defenses request to allow Robinson to wear civilian clothing in the courtroom, to be dressed as one presumed innocent, Graf said.

On Dec. 11, Robinson made his first in-person appearance for a hearing open to the public, wearing a blue collared shirt and tie. His parents and a brother were also in attendance.

When will Tyler Robinson next appear in court?

Robinson is expected to appear in person for all future hearings, beginning on Jan. 16. All hearings are slated to take place in Utahs 4th District Court in Provo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Jan. 16 at 1 p.m. MST. Robinson is expected to attend in person.

Feb. 3 at 1 p.m. MST. Robinson is expected to attend in person.

Potential preliminary hearing scheduled for May 18 to 21.

Should Robinson be convicted following his trial, state prosecutors said they will pursue the death penalty. Robinson faces the following seven charges:

Count 1: Aggravated murder, a capital felony, that the defendant intentionally or knowingly caused the death of Charlie Kirk.

Count 2: Discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony. The defendant targeted Charlie Kirk because of political motives, knowing children would be present.

Count 3: Obstruction of justice, a second-degree felony, for moving firearm used in a crime.

Count 4: Obstruction of justice, a second-degree felony, for disposing clothing he wore during the shooting.

Count 5: Witness tampering, a third-degree felony, directing his roommate to delete his texts.

Count 6: Witness tampering, a third-degree felony, for directing his roommate to stay silent.

Count 7: Violent offense in the presence of a child, a class A misdemeanor.

Kirk was shot and killed during a Prove Me Wrong outdoor debate at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. According to charging documents, Robinson allegedly shot Kirk from the roof of the Losee Center, a campus building next to the schools grassy amphitheater where Kirk was interacting with 3,000 students and visitors.

Robinson was apprehended on Sept. 12 after his parents, along with a retired detective close to the family, convinced him to surrender to authorities.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  A Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk must be shackled during court proceedings.

State District Judge Tony Graf said public transparency was foundational to the judicial system before ordering the release of details from the Oct. 24 closed hearing. Attorneys for media outlets including The Associated Press had argued for access because they said it was also the first time defense attorneys suggested a ban on cameras in the courtroom.

Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of the conservative activist on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem. They plan to seek the death penalty. Robinson has not yet entered a plea.

Advertisement Advertisement

In a 97-page transcript released later Monday, attorneys for Robinson argued that widespread videos and photos of him shackled and in jail clothing could create bias against him among potential jurors. Defense attorney Richard Novak said prohibiting cameras would be very easy for the court to enforce and could help curb visual prejudice.

We're not litigating this case in the press, Novak said during the Oct. 24 hearing.

The transcript contained limited redactions to remove discussions of security protocols in the closely watched case. Graf also ordered the release of an audio recording of the hearing, again with redactions.

Robinson was not present in court Monday and appeared via audio feed from the Utah County Jail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Graf has not ruled on the defenses suggestion to ban cameras, but he has implemented other limitations.

Days after the closed-door hearing, Graf ruled that Robinson could wear civilian clothes in pretrial hearings but must also wear restraints to ensure the safety of court staff and Robinson himself. Utah court rules require defendants who are in custody to be restrained or supervised at all times unless otherwise ordered.

Graf also prohibited media outlets from publishing photos, videos and live broadcasts that show Robinson's restraints to help protect his presumption of innocence before a trial.

The judge briefly stopped a media livestream of a hearing earlier this month and ordered the camera be moved after Robinsons attorneys said the stream showed the defendants shackles. Graf said he would terminate future broadcasts if there were further violations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawyers for the media wrote in recent filings that an open court safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which the attorneys argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters.

In a separate ruling Monday, Graf denied a request from attorneys for the media who sought to intervene in the case. The judge said members of the press do not need to be formal parties in the proceedings to access court records.

Still, Graf said the involved publications must be notified of future requests to close hearings or restrict access to court filings.

Prosecutors are expected to lay out their case against Robinson at a preliminary hearing scheduled to begin May 18. ___

Brown reported from Billings, Montana.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday that the two sides are "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to a peace deal to end the Ukraine crisis after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

However, there is little sign that any major breakthrough is emerging, though Trump described the talks as "excellent" with "a lot of progresses" made.

"This is not a one-day process deal. This is very complicated stuff," Trump said at a joint press conference with Zelensky after the meeting, where the two leaders also spoke to European leaders.

"In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump said. "It's been a very difficult negotiation."

It is widely thought that thorny issues include a potential timetable for a ceasefire, the establishment of a proposed demilitarised zone, the management of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and control of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework," Zelensky said of his meeting with Trump at the press conference, noting that the 20-point peace plan now was "90 percent" complete -- the same figure he mentioned earlier this month.

As for the security guarantees for Ukraine, Zelensky said the United States, Ukraine and Europe have almost 100 percent agreed on security guarantees for Ukraine.

Trump said that he does not like to say percentages, but "thinks it could be close to 95 percent" on the security issue.

"We could be very close. There are one or two very thorny issues, very tough issues, but I think we're doing very well," Trump said. Both Trump and Zelensky failed to specify the issues.

The two leaders spoke to European leaders, including chiefs of NATO and European Union, during the course of their meeting. Zelensky said Trump may meet him and European leaders in Washington in January as he and Trump "agreed that our teams will meet in upcoming weeks to finalize all discussed matters".

Just ahead of his meeting with Zelensky, Trump said he "had a good and very productive telephone call" with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Sunday morning.

Yuri Ushakov, Putin's top foreign policy aide, said in Moscow that during the lengthy phone call, Putin and Trump agreed that a long-term peace settlement was better than the temporary ceasefire pushed forward by the Ukrainians and the Europeans.

Putin has agreed to a U.S. offer to create two working groups for the peace deal, one on security issues, another on economic issues, Ushakov was quoted by a New York Times report as saying.

When welcoming Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago, Trump refused to say whether he expects a peace deal over the Russia-Ukraine conflict to be reached by the end of this year. 
The man charged with planting pipe bombs in Washington, D.C. the night before the January 6 Capitol riot waived his Miranda rights after his arrest and gave authorities a detailed confession explaining his motives.

In just released court documents on Sunday, Brian J. Cole, Jr. of Woodbridge, VA, recounted how he allegedly constructed and planted two improvised explosive devices outside the offices of the Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee headquarters, after first denying involvement.

He said he planted the bombs because he felt someone needs to speak up for those who believed the 2020 election was rigged. He also said he was upset people were being labeled fascists and Nazis for questioning the election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Cole told agents in the FBIs Washington Field Office that he drove to D.C. on Jan. 5, 2021, to attend a protest over Donald Trumps loss in the 2020 election.

The defendant explained: I didnt agree with what people were doing, like just telling half the country that they  that their  that they just need to ignore it. I didnt think that was a good idea, so I went to the protest,' the court record said.

The report continued:

The defendant has never really been an openly political person and does not discuss politics often with his family to avoid conflict. According to the defendant, no one knows his political views, including his family. The defendant stated that he does not align politically with his family members and did not tell them

that he was going to a protest in support of [then President] Trump. Later in the interview, the defendant explained that after the 2020 election, when it first seemed like something was wrong and stuff started happening, he began following the issue closely on YouTube and Reddit and felt bewildered. In the defendants view, if people feel that, you know, something as important as voting in the federal election is being tampered with, is being, you know, being  you know, relegated null and void, then, like, someone needs to speak up, right? Someone up top. You know, just to, just to at the very least calm things down. The defendant felt that the people up top, including people on both sides, public figures, should not ignore[e] peoples grievances or call them conspiracy theorists, bad people, Nazis, or fascists. Instead, if people feel that their votes are like just being thrown away, then . . . at the very least someone should address it.

Cole was arrested Dec. 4 and charged with transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce with the intent to kill, injure, or intimidate any individualor property. He is also charged with attempted malicious destruction by means of fire and explosive materials.

Advertisement Advertisement

His detention hearing is scheduled for December 30.

Watch MS NOWs report above.

The post Suspected January 6 Bomber Confesses  Felt Compelled to Speak Up for 2020 Election Deniers first appeared on Mediaite.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, which is headquartered in Topeka, reached a contract with the University of Kansas St. Francis campus so the health system will be in network for patients. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  Patients with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas health insurance will be covered in network when they receive care from the St. Francis campus in Topeka after the two organizations reached agreement last week.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is pleased to announce that the University of Kansas Health System St. Francis will remain in the Blue Cross network for 2026, ensuring continued access to local care for our members, according to a BCBS statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

The University of Kansas St. Francis campus said in a Monday statement that their patients with BCBS of Kansas plans wont experience care disruptions and do not need to take any action.

The two organizations had been unable to reach agreement for the St. Francis system to be in network, which concerned insurance customers who didnt want to lose their health providers if a contract wasnt in place by the end of the year.

This agreement reflects our commitment to ensuring patients across the region have uninterrupted access to care, St. Francis said in a statement.

The St. Francis campus in Topeka is owned by Ardent Health, which manages operations, and the University of Kansas Health System. Ardent is based in Brentwood, Tennessee.
As salmon return to the headwaters of the Klamath River for the first time in more than a century, the newly formed Klamath Indigenous Land Trust and PacifiCorp announced the purchase of 10,000 acres in and around the rivers former reservoir reach. The deal is one of the largest private land purchases by an Indigenous-led land trust in U.S. history.

Dam removal allowed the salmon to return home. Returning these lands to Indigenous care ensures that home will be a place where they can flourish and recover, said Molli Myers (Karuk), president of the Klamath Indigenous Land Trust board of directors. Our communities spent generations fighting for this moment and we honor our ancestors who carried this vision forward. The healing thats underway is real, and this acquisition reflects the future were building together as People of the Klamath Basin.

Please support our year-end campaign. CLICK HERE TO DONATE.

Advertisement Advertisement

Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning.

PacifiCorp, the former landowner, partnered with the land trust to complete the sale following a decadeslong, Indigenous-led effort to remove four dams on the Klamath River, a project completed last year. The purchase includes lands upstream of and adjacent to the former hydropower project that are considered critical to the rivers long-term health and its fisheries. The transfer places stewardship of the land under Indigenous values and ecological restoration goals for the first time in more than a century.

PacifiCorp is gratified to see these lands transition to a stewardship model that honors their cultural and ecological significance, said Ryan Flynn, president of Pacific Power, the PacifiCorp division serving customers in California, Oregon and Washington. We recognize the leadership of the Klamath Basin Tribes and KILT in shaping a restoration vision that will benefit the entire region.

The Klamath Indigenous Land Trust was not formed by a coalition of tribal governments; it is a nonprofit organization created by local Native American activists and is not affiliated with any tribal government.

Advertisement Advertisement

We are from different Tribes and we each have our own cultural traditions, but it was through working together and by bringing Tribal People from all over the Basin together that created this moment, said Wendy Ferris-George (Hupa/Karuk), vice president of the KILT board.

With the acquisition complete, the land trust plans to develop comprehensive land management plans with input from area Tribes. The plans will focus on habitat recovery, protection of cultural resources, fire management and public access.

This is the next chapter in the Klamath Rivers renewal, said board member Jeff Mitchell (Klamath/Modoc). Its proof that Indigenous leadership and community partnerships can achieve transformational change at a landscape scale.

Funding for the purchase was provided by the Catena Foundation, the Community Foundation of New Jersey and an anonymous donor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Editor's Note: Please note that these lands are distinct from the ones held by the Klamath River Renewal Corporation for the purpose of dam removal and restoration, often referred to as the Parcel B lands.

About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. "

Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net
Kroger, parent company of Pick n' Save and Metro Market, announced it will offer 20% off produce for customers participating in government assistance programs.

Eligible shoppers can receive 20% off all fruit and vegetable purchases at Kroger stores through Jan. 31, 2026, the company said Dec. 29.

To receive the discount, customers must be enrolled in the company's verified savings program. It's open to residents receiving government assistance through Medicare, the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (or SNAP) or other programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

More information about the how to qualify for the discount is available on Kroger's website.

"Making fresh food more affordable and equipping more customers with free grocery delivery is an incredible step in expanding food access," Kroger Group Vice President of Fresh Marketing Carlo Baldan said in a statement Dec. 29.

The announcement comes after Kroger said it plans to close 60 locations across the U.S. through the end of 2026, including five Milwaukee-area Pick n' Save stores:

1735 W. Silver Spring Drive, Glendale

3701 S. 27th St., Milwaukee

2355 N. 35th St., Milwaukee

2931 S. Chicago Ave., South Milwaukee

2320 W. Ryan Road, Oak Creek

Advertisement Advertisement

The company said earlier this year the closures will help maintain its long-term health, but Milwaukee residents say they harm neighborhoods already underserved by retailers.

Francesca Pica can be reached at fpica@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Kroger offers Wisconsin shoppers using food assistance 20% off produce
Southern Californians are facing gusty winds that have reached 60 miles per hour and greater in some areas as a Santa Ana wind event continues Monday, Dec. 29.

It comes as a brief EF0 tornado occurred in Los Angeles County on Christmas Day, according to the National Weather Service Los Angeles. An EF0 is the lowest rating a tornado can be assigned, and its based on estimated wind speeds and related damage, according to the NWS.

The tornado, with an estimated wind peak of 80 miles per hour, caused damage to both residential and commercial buildings in the Boyle Heights area of Los Angeles on the morning of Christmas Day, according to the NWS Los Angeles. It was the wettest Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for downtown Los Angeles in the past 54 years, with record rainfall recorded across the region for the two-day holiday period, the NWS Los Angeles said.

From a short-lived tornado warning to flooding, Southern Californians' Christmas Eve is being shaped by the weather amid an atmospheric river that officials have warned about for days.



People sit on the roof of a building while they are stranded during floods partially submerging the surrounding area in the aftermath of torrential rains, in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab obtained from a social media video. A vehicle stands across flood waters flowing on a road after torrential rains in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab from a handout video. Flood waters flow as houses ad trees remain partially submerged after torrential rains in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab from a handout video. A helicopter flies over a flooded area after evacuating people stranded on the roof of a building in the aftermath of torrential rains, in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab obtained from a social media video. Flood waters flow as houses remain partially submerged after torrential rains in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab from a handout video. People get into a helicopter after they were stranded on the roof of a building as floods partially submerged the surrounding area in the aftermath of torrential rains, in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab obtained from a social media video. Cars drive through a large puddle at Cortez Street in El Rio as a major storm moved across Ventura County, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. A tree limb was left dangling on some wires on Orange Drive and Balboa Street in El Rio as a major storm moved across Ventura County, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. Cars drive through a large puddle at the intersection of Cortez Street and Ventura Boulevard in El Rio as a major storm moved across Ventura County, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. Steve Cruz, a Camarillo city worker, moves large chunks of a fallen tree off Santa Rosa Road after a major storm moved across Ventura County, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. A car drives through a flooded road on La Cienega Boulevard on Dec. 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. A major winter storm rolled into California on December 23, forcing hundreds of evacuations in burn areas while threatening flooding and travel delays through Christmas for much of the state, officials said. A "strong atmospheric river brings heavy rain, snow, and wind to California through Friday," the National Weather Service said in a statement on December 23, warning anyone in northern, central and southern parts of the state to "exercise extreme caution." Heavy rain is seen from Kenneth Hahn Park blocking the view of the city skyline on Dec.24, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. A major winter storm rolled into California on December 23, forcing hundreds of evacuations in burn areas while threatening flooding and travel delays through Christmas for much of the state, officials said. A "strong atmospheric river brings heavy rain, snow, and wind to California through Friday," the National Weather Service said in a statement on December 23, warning anyone in northern, central and southern parts of the state to "exercise extreme caution." (Photo by Apu GOMES / AFP via Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 776435280 ORIG FILE ID: 2252763571 Workers cut and move a tree which fell at the Westfield Topanga shopping centre in the Canoga Park area of Los Angeles, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. Shoppers walk through a parking lot on a rainy Christmas Eve morning at the Westfield Topanga shopping centre in the Canoga Park area of Los Angeles, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. A man checks the damage caused by driving through a flooded road on La Cienega Boulevard on Dec. 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. A major winter storm rolled into California on December 23, forcing hundreds of evacuations in burn areas while threatening flooding and travel delays through Christmas for much of the state, officials said. A "strong atmospheric river brings heavy rain, snow, and wind to California through Friday," the National Weather Service said in a statement on December 23, warning anyone in northern, central and southern parts of the state to "exercise extreme caution." A car drives through a flooded road on La Cienega Boulevard on Dec. 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. A major winter storm rolled into California on December 23, forcing hundreds of evacuations in burn areas while threatening flooding and travel delays through Christmas for much of the state, officials said. A "strong atmospheric river brings heavy rain, snow, and wind to California through Friday," the National Weather Service said in a statement on December 23, warning anyone in northern, central and southern parts of the state to "exercise extreme caution." Cars drive through puddles as heavy rain falls due to an atmospheric river, in an intersection in the Woodland Hills area of Los Angeles, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. Cars drive through puddles as heavy rain falls due to an atmospheric river, in an intersection in the Woodland Hills area of Los Angeles, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. City workers try to remove a tree that felt on a wall next to the Hollywood Water Reserve on Dec.24, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. A major winter storm rolled into California on December 23, forcing hundreds of evacuations in burn areas while threatening flooding and travel delays through Christmas for much of the state, officials said. A "strong atmospheric river brings heavy rain, snow, and wind to California through Friday," the National Weather Service said in a statement on December 23, warning anyone in northern, central and southern parts of the state to "exercise extreme caution." Leticia Serafin (R) cooks tamales with her husband Paul Fonseca, center, and friend Pedro Jimenez, who holds up his phone light, ahead of the atmospheric river storm on Dec. 23, 2025 in Altadena, Calif. The couple lost their home of 25 years in the Eaton Fire and are residing in a donated travel trailer on their property as they make plans to rebuild. They make tamales every year to distribute to family and friends on Christmas Eve, and continued the tradition this year. A flood watch will be in effect for much of the region through Christmas Eve, with evacuation warnings in place for residents near recent burn areas. Meteorologists are calling for five straight days of precipitation, with the highest rainfall totals predicted for Christmas Eve, along with heavy snow in higher elevation mountain regions. Strong atmospheric river brings floods, snow, high winds to California 1 of 20 From a short-lived tornado warning to flooding, Southern Californians' Christmas Eve is being shaped by the weather amid an atmospheric river that officials have warned about for days.



People sit on the roof of a building while they are stranded during floods partially submerging the surrounding area in the aftermath of torrential rains, in San Bernardino County, California, U.S. December 24, 2025 in this screengrab obtained from a social media video.

While the threat that comes with this Santa Ana wind event isnt fires  the recent atmospheric river that drenched the region has left soils saturated enough that fire weather behavior isnt a concern  are residents in for another tornado?

Advertisement Advertisement

Its highly unlikely and highly improbable that tornadic activity is produced under Santa Ana wind conditions, according to Philip Gonsalves, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service San Diego.

Tornadic activity is associated with thunderstorm activity, Gonsalves said to the USA TODAY Network.

For thunderstorm activity, you need moisture and an unstable atmosphere, according to Gonsalves. Meanwhile, what produces Santa Ana winds, which are dry and warm, are high-pressure systems typically in the Great Basin, and winds blow from the Great Basin toward the coast, Gonsalves said.

What can occur with this Santa Ana wind event are downed trees because of how saturated the soils are, leading to power outages, according to the NWS Los Angeles.

Advertisement Advertisement

Already, wind gusts of 60 miles per hour and higher have been recorded in the Santa Susana Mountains and the southeastern Ventura County valleys, according to NWS data from early Monday.

A portion of Southern California is under wind advisories and high wind warnings Monday.

How windy is it going to be today? See where in SoCal is under an advisory

A stretch of the region, including into Ventura County, the Santa Clarita Valley, the San Fernando Valley and the eastern San Gabriel Mountains, is under a high wind advisory until 3 p.m. Dec. 29, in which wind gusts could reach up to 50 miles per hour, according to the NWS Los Angeles. Other areas under wind advisories and warnings are:

Interstate 5 corridor, Santa Susana Mountains, Western San Gabriel Mountains and Highway 14 corridor and the Western Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area: Gusts up to 60 miles per hour with northeast winds 25 to 40 miles per hour. High wind warning remains in effect until 3 p.m. Dec. 29.

San Bernardino County mountains, the Inland Empire, San Gorgonio Pass near Banning and the Santa Ana mountains and foothills: Northeast winds of 15 to 30 miles per hour with gusts up to 45 miles per hour. Wind advisory in effect until 1 p.m. Dec. 30.

San Diego County mountains and valleys: Northeast to east winds of 15 to 25 miles per hour with gusts up to 45 miles per hour expected. Wind advisory in effect until 1 p.m. Dec. 30.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Santa Ana winds are forecasted to continue into Tuesday, Dec. 30, according to the NWS Los Angeles.

Paris Barraza is a reporter covering Los Angeles and Southern California for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at pbarraza@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Will there be another tornado? Santa Ana winds continue in SoCal
Federal funding for the 988 mental health help line will run out this budget year, meaning state lawmakers will need to decide how to fund the program this upcoming session. (Screenshot of the Oklahoma 988 website)

OKLAHOMA CITY  With funding for the Oklahoma mental health crisis hot line set to run out at the end of the budget year, lawmakers will have to determine how to fund 988 this session.

The program is primarily funded by the state, but federal assistance from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration will dry up at the end of the budget year in September, which means Oklahoma will have to fund the full $5.7 million annually to keep the program running.

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services said the agency requested funding in its appropriation request, but lawmakers could also weigh other options to fund 988 long term.

Editors note: This story is part of Oklahoma Voices end-of-year series that provides updates to some stories that captured the interest of Oklahomans in 2025.

Between Jan. 1 and Nov. 26, there were nearly 57,000 calls and almost 11,000 texts answered in Oklahoma.

988 is a valuable resource for all Oklahomans, which is why the ODMHSAS includes 988 as part of its core and essential services, the agency spokesperson said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City, previously proposed creating a telecommunications fee, at a cost of 60 cents per phone line per year, to fund 988, but his bill didnt make it out of a committee.

At the time, House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow said the need was not urgent because funding had not yet dried up. He declined to comment on avenues to fund the program this session and said it was an issue his caucus would be discussing.

While Alonso-Sandoval said he doesnt see the telecommunications fee bill moving forward, he said he hopes funding 988 will be a priority for the Legislature. He said that hell push for his bill if no other lawmakers are moving legislation forward.

We do need to consider having a long term funding mechanism, he said. Whether thats ingraining it within the funds we send to the Department of Mental Health or directing it specifically for 988, I think thats something thats good. If were willing to do that year by year, Ill support it every time but I think eventually we want to make sure its just baseline funding that goes to this service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, chair of the Health and Human Services Oversight Committee, said another option to fund the help line could be creating a revolving fund. A revolving fund is created by lawmakers in state statute to collect funding for a specific purpose, as outlined in the law.

Pae said an interim study earlier this year provided information about how much 988 has helped Oklahomans, especially in these tough economic conditions.

I think the justification is there for the program to continue, and the question now is, how do you fund it in a sustainable way, he said.

Funding 988 is an investment, Pae said, that is cheaper on the front end than paying for emergency care and other resources later on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Im open to whatever the final path looks like, he said. Im hopeful that well have broad, bipartisan support on the endeavor.

Pae said freshman lawmaker Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso, will be taking the lead on a bill to move funding for 988 forward.

Norwood declined to comment.

The Legislature reconvenes Feb. 2.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A new pilot program dedicated to agrivoltaics will soon take place on New Jersey farmland.

The Dual-Use Solar Energy Pilot Program will lead the process of installing solar panels on qualified farms to test it as a new revenue stream for farmers, according to an SNJ Today report. The initiative was approved by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.

The government considered public input while developing this program, and it will start accepting applications in the new year. The data collected will be used to build a more permanent program.

Advertisement Advertisement

"The pilot program demonstrates our whole-of-government approach to our clean energy goals, pairing the success of solar installation with economic growth for local farmers  working collaboratively with key feedback from the communities where this will be implemented," said New Jersey governor Phil Murphy, per SNJ Today.

Agrivoltaics combines agriculture with solar by installing panels on existing farmland. This doubles the use of the land and creates additional income for farmers. It's growing in popularity through programs just like this one to produce affordable, cleaner energy.

"This partnership will allow us to continue rapidly expanding clean energy sources while allowing farmers to reap the benefits," Governor Murphy said.

New Jersey has shown that it is dedicated to expanding access to affordable energy. Nearly a quarter of a million homes and businesses in the state have some solar installation, more than doubling its capacity in the last seven years.

Advertisement Advertisement

"This program will help shape the future of New Jersey's energy landscape by allowing our farmers to undertake full-scale projects demonstrating how agriculture and energy production can work together on the same land," said Ed Wengryn, the New Jersey secretary of agriculture, per SNJ Today.

Bringing solar into farming helps to clean up the food and agriculture industries and make them more eco-friendly. It also conserves resources, curbs pollution, and gets us one step closer to a cleaner-energy future.

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.
A dozen new laws will take effect on Jan. 1.

They address an array of issues, from wind energy to lodging tax, but a quarter of the 12 laws starting in 2026 pertain to the state's felony offense classification.

Passed in May 2024, the Oklahoma Sentencing Modernization Act of 2024, or House Bill 1792, aims to make penalties more consistent across Oklahoma.

The measure organizes over 2,000 felony offenses into 14 classes based on severity, and requires that the minimum time served be included in jury instructions throughout the state during jury trials.

Advertisement Advertisement

HB 1792 was written to take effect Jan. 1, 2026, so policymakers would have enough time to analyze data and make adjustments before the new system goes live, according to a news release from the Oklahoma House of Representatives at the time.

While the law will start Jan. 1, all rulings made prior will not retroactively be applied.

Subsequent bills passed since the HB 1792 ruling, HB 2104 and 2105, further classified felony offenses, designated some classifications for certain crimes, updated wording and other similar textual changes.

While the three bills will have the largest effect on Oklahoma's law and order landscape, several other bills set to take effect will also change how people interact with first responders and how Oklahoma's residents store private information.

SB 1067: Ambulance providers, local government submit rates to Oklahoma Insurance Department

Senate Bill 1067 will authorize local government entities or ambulance service providers to submit ambulance service rates to the Oklahoma Insurance Department and create a public database. The law also cuts the minimum reimbursement amount for network ambulance providers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Author Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, said the new law could increase the cost of Oklahomans' health plans by $3 to $5 per month. Nonetheless, he said the law does not prevent local governments from setting ambulance service rates and only affects those out-of-network providers.

Instead, Rosino said the law will drop reimbursement rates by 50%, now going to 275% of the Medicare or Medicaid rate, which will help alleviate strains on health care plan costs.

SB 626: Security Breach Notification Act

The Security Breach Notification Act got an update that expands what the government considers "personal information" to include unique biometric data like retina/iris scans and fingerprints, as well as any data that would otherwise require routing codes in combination with required security codes.

To further protect individuals, the act introduces "reasonable safeguards" that will ensure that all personal information is secure. To ensure privacy, organizations will have to conduct risk assessments, implement technical and physical defenses and provide employee training on handling personal information.

Advertisement Advertisement

The act will also require that the Attorney General will need to be made aware within 60 days of the breach; however, if a single incident results in fewer than 500 residents suffering a breach of information or if fewer than 1,000 residents experience a credit breach, then there will not need to be a notice to the AG's office.

What laws are going into effect on Jan. 1?

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: New Oklahoma laws go into effect Jan. 1, 2026
Is it legal to launch fireworks on New Year's Eve?

Yes, New Year's Eve is among the dates Michigan law allows fireworks. Fireworks may be used from after 11 a.m. Dec. 31 until 1 a.m. Jan. 1.

Here are the other dates when it is legal to use fireworks in Michigan.

The Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Memorial Day, after 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. on each of those days.

June 29 to July 4 after 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. on each of those days.

July 5, if that date is a Friday or Saturday, after 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m.

The Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Labor Day after 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. on each of those days.

Advertisement Advertisement

Local governments can designate more days when residents may use fireworks, but they may not ban fireworks on the days the Michigan Legislature has designated.

What kind of fireworks are legal in Michigan?

Michigan law allows for consumer-grade fireworks to be set off on personal property on certain dates noted above. Consumer-grade fireworks are the pyrotechnics available for purchase at a store, like sparklers, smoke bombs, Roman candles and aerials, which launch up into the air to explode. It's illegal to sell fireworks to a minor in Michigan.

It's against state law to set fireworks off on public property, including schools and sidewalks, as well as churches and another person's private property without their permission. Violating this is punishable by up to a $500 fine.

Aerial fireworks, including Roman candles, cannot be used at Michigan state parks, trails and harbors. However, smaller fireworks like sparklers and fountains are permitted, per the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Tips for firework safety

The DNR shares a handful of tips for having safe fun with fireworks:

Do:

Supervise kids with fireworks and sparklers. Keep fireworks away from your face.

Use fireworks only on a flat paved or gravel surface. Spray down the area with water before you start and when you're done.

Toss used fireworks and sparklers into a bucket of water.

Keep a water source ready to spray embers from fireworks.

Don't:

Don't try to reignite dud fireworks that dont go off. Wait 15 minutes, then place them in a bucket of water.

Don't launch fireworks into forests or fields where dry grass or leaves could ignite.

Is it Legal?

"Is it Legal" is a recurring feature in the Detroit Free Press and freep.com. Do you have a question about Michigan's laws? E-mail it to isitlegal@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Is it legal in Michigan to use fireworks on New Year's Eve?
LEOMINSTER  A Union Street man who was the subject of an hourslong standoff has been charged in the death of his wife.

James E. Marsh, 64, was holed up in his house for nearly five hours on Friday, Dec. 26, with a large contingent of Leominster and state police officers surrounding the perimeter of the property.

After Marsh surrendered, officers who entered the house found the body of a woman.

Ann C. Marsh, 62, the wife of James, had been shot to death, according to a prosecutor in Leominster District Court, where James Marsh was arraigned Monday.

Advertisement Advertisement

He faces charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, causing bodily injury. A not-guilty plea was entered and he was ordered held without bail until a dangerousness hearing on Friday, Jan. 2.

A motive for the killing was not revealed during the short court proceeding.

Members of the Marsh family were in the courtroom.

The scene unfolded about 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26. Leominster officers responded to an emergency call from 209 Union St., with it soon determined that a man inside posed a threat to officers. He refused to come out of the residence.

A large contingent of law enforcement officers was on scene Friday.

More: Standoff comes to close in Leominster

Advertisement Advertisement

A state police tactical unit was summoned. A standoff of about five hours followed, with police blocking access to the section of Union Street near Tisdale Street.

According to court records, Leominster officers were dispatched to 209 Union St. after an emergency call from the address. At the scene, Officers Tiffany Beaupre and Kyle Abazorius attempted to contact the individual who made the call.

209 Union St., Leominster

Court records, which include a police report, give the following account:

Beaupre heard a moaning sound inside. As the officer made her way through the residence, James Marsh, who was sitting on a couch, was holding a firearm in her direction, Beaupre believed.

Advertisement Advertisement

It appeared a second individual was on the couch, covered in a blanket and not moving.

Beaupre exited the residence and took a defensive position outside, securing the area while awaiting the arrival of additional officers.

Marsh barricaded himself inside the residence. Hours later, he gave himself up.

A subsequent sweep of the residence was conducted by the State Police Special Tactical Operations Unit. Troopers found a deceased woman on the couch in the living room.

Return to telegram.com for more on this case.

Defense Attorney Blake Rubin address the judge as James E. Marsh is arraigned at Leominster District Court. At right is Assistant District Attorney Brett Dillon.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: After lengthy standoff, body of woman found in Leominster house
Libya held official ceremonies on Saturday to receive the bodies of its late army chief of staff Mohammed al-Haddad and his companions, who were killed in a plane crash in Turkiye on Dec. 23.
Monday was a big day, not just for Liberation Station, but also for the owner, who hopes that when folks walk into this children's bookstore, young people are able to feel safe and seen.

Victoria Scott Miller called it a homecoming. This is her second location since relocating from her first location in downtown Raleigh after receiving racial and death threats.

"I'm excited that when I reemerge from, you know, my rest and reflection, that they were ready with open arms and excited to be able to bring the bookstore back to life," she explained.

Advertisement Advertisement

She said her determination to reopen is rooted in her children.

"My children's home was a culturally affirming learning environment, but their peers did not have this right. And so while my children might have had the expectation for this to exist, I wanted to make sure that, you know, we could have a collective conversation about what it looks like to have representation at our fingertips," she said.

It's a children's bookstore, but the healing inside is generational.

"It's the 25-year-olds, the 30-year-olds, the 40-year-olds that have to ask themselves, I wonder what my life would have been like had I had this," she explained.

Advertisement Advertisement

Like Damon Walker, who couldn't hide the emotion watching the doors open again.

"As a dad of little ones, I'm just deeply aware of those missing voices, of those missing models. With little things, with watching TV, with each other. I wanted to know what it feels like to not be otherize And so as the kids spoke to us about the because we do," said Damon Walker.

Inside, the shelves are packed with Black authors, Black stories, and the kind of representation Victoria says her community has had to search too hard to find.

We are 100% community funded.

"But like, there are a lot of stories where we've been the first that are often undiscovered. So my hope is that people come with a level of curiosity and an excitement to learn about our stories," she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

And the timing of this reopening was intentional.

"Today is important is because of Ujamaa, which is the fourth day of Kwanzaa. And what that means is cooperative economics. And I thought that since we are 100% community funded, what better way to show this and action than to open our doors on a day where collective collective action has taken place, " Victoria explained.

Because this comeback was carried by neighbors. The community helped raise more than $70,000 to bring Liberation Station back.

"It means they get the they get it, too. You know, we all see just how important, how foundational, fundamental," said Damon Walker.

Advertisement Advertisement

SEE ALSO | New report: North Carolina ranked 3rd best state for Black-owned businesses

And when families walk in and find a book that makes them feel seen, or learn something they were never taught, Victoria says that's what liberation looks like.

"To every ancestor who dreamed of freedom made possible by this moment, thank you. Y'all didn't just show up to a bookstore opening, y'all showed up to tell our children that you are worth this, you're worth everything. Welcome Home," Victoria said.
Opinion.Today marks the 135th anniversary of the Massacre of Wounded Knee, which occurred during the wintry week between Christmas and New Years in 1890.

Nine days before the massacre that left hundreds of Sioux men, women and children dead, an obscure weekly newspaper in South Dakota published an editorial following the death of Hunkpapa Lakota leader Sitting Bull. In the opinion piece, L. Frank Baum, publisher of the Saturday Pioneer, wrote:

The Whites, by law of conquest, by justice of civilization, are masters of the American continent, and the best safety of the frontier settlements will be secured by the total annihilation of the few remaining Indians. Why not annihilation? Their glory has fled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning.

Early on the morning of Dec. 29, 1890, at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota, Sioux people who had been captured the previous afternoon by members of the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment were surrendering their weapons. A shot was fired. The cavalry then opened fire on unarmed Sioux elders, women and children. While an exact account will never be known, historians believe between 250 and 300 Sioux were killed that day.

Snow fell heavily that December week. The Sioux ancestors who were killed were left on the frozen plains of the reservation until a burial party arrived days later to place them in a mass grave.

After the killings, Baum again took to his newspapers editorial page. This time, he wrote:

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pioneer has before declared that our only safety depends upon the total extirmination [sic] of the Indians. Having wronged them for centuries we had better, in order to protect our civilization, follow it up by one more wrong and wipe these untamed and untamable creatures from the face of the earth. In this lies future safety for our settlers and the soldiers who are under incompetent commands. Otherwise, we may expect future years to be as full of trouble with the redskins as those have been in the past.

Ten years later, Baum published a childrens book titled The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which was later adapted into one of the most famous films of all time. As a child, my siblings and I would make popcorn and watch the movie during its annual television broadcasts. As an adult, after learning of Baums virulent racism and calls for the extermination of Native people, I stopped watching it. Baums family later apologized for his racist editorials.

Baum did not single-handedly cause the genocide of Native Americans, but his words contributed to it. His editorials helped normalize violence and extermination as acceptable policy. History matters. If you know your history, you know your place in this world.

Unfortunately, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth doesnt appear to understand history.

Advertisement Advertisement

On September 25, 2025, Hegseth announced that he would not rescind the Medals of Honor awarded to approximately 20 members of the U.S. 7th Cavalry for their actions at the 1890 Wounded Knee massacre. He wasnt preserving history. He was protecting a lie.

That lie  that what happened at Wounded Knee was a battle deserving of the nations highest military recognition  has been told for over 130 years. But Native Americans know the truth. It wasnt a battle. It was a massacre of women, children and elders. And it remains one of the most painful, unresolved wounds in American history.

The soldiers of the 7th Cavalry were not heroes that day.

In defending his decision, Hegseth has framed the debate around what he calls woke politics and vowed to put an end to what he called historical revisionism. But this is not revisionism. This is accountability. This is truth.

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1990, on the 100th anniversary of the massacre, Congress passed a resolution expressing deep regret to the descendants of those killed at Wounded Knee. Tribal leaders, historians and descendants of survivors have spent decades calling for the revocation of the medals  not as an erasure of history, but as a correction of it.

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) released a statement following Hegseths announcement that said such despicable violence should not have been lauded in the first place.

Honoring those involved in the Wounded Knee Massacre with the United States highest military award is incompatible with the values the Medal of Honor is meant to represent, NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr. said. Celebrating war crimes is not patriotic. This decision undermines truth-telling, reconciliation, and the healing that Indian Country and the United States still need.

Earlier this month, Congress passed the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act that was signed into law that protects 40 acres of the Wounded Knee massacre site.

Advertisement Advertisement

The law places the land in restricted-fee status, meaning it cannot be sold, taxed, gifted or leased without approval from Congress and the Oglala Sioux and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes, which jointly purchased the land three years ago.

Ironically, U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), who sponsored the Senate version of the legislation, has never supported the Remove the Stain Act, legislation that calls for revoking the medals given to the 7th Calvary members who massacred innocent Sioux people 135 years ago, Even though the Removed the Stain Act has been introduced in the Senate numerous times, it has never made ii to the Senate floor for a vote. Sen. Rounds needs to support this legislation.

As we have learned many times in recent years  from boarding school acknowledgments to MMIP awareness campaigns  remembering a tragedy is not the same as reckoning with it.

Thayek gde nwendemen - We are all related.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
An iconic Connecticut diner has closed its doors for good after nearly eight decades serving the local town and beyond.

The Sycamore Drive-In announced recently on social media that the Bethel restaurants lease was not renewed, and the diner closed for good on Dec. 24.

We are proud to have been a part of Bethels history and the longest owners of the famous Sycamore for the past 28, Sycamore owners Chris, Patrick and Kathleen Austin posted on Facebook. We are grateful to all our loyal customers and many friends we have made along the way.

Advertisement Advertisement

Your continued support, especially during COVID, is deeply appreciated. It has been a pleasure meeting so many wonderful people, young and old alike. We have shared milestones with generations of families, watched children grow up, leave the area, and then come back with families of their own, the post continued.

The Sycamore Drive-In owners added that the restaurant was a destination for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, engagements and even weddings. Posting such news on social media is a common way for businesses to let customers know what is occurring and often drives dozens or even hundreds of reactions.

The Austins also thanked their many employees over the years, including several that have been in the fold for more than 20 years. They also acknowledged the many servers over the years that joined while in high school and stayed through college and beyond.

The diner also hosted Elvis nights, birthday bashes and Christmas sing-alongs as well as hosting Saturday night car shows every week from April to November. The owner added that celebrities have also visited the diner over the years

Advertisement Advertisement

The Sycamore has been unique with its special burgers, homemade root beer, shakes, 50s decor, car hop services and famous Cruise Nights, the Austins said. Its been copied but never duplicated and was one of the last remaining original drive-ins in the country.

Its been a very special place for our family, and we have so many memories of all the great people we have met over the last 28 years. So many interesting and sometimes unusual things have happened here, and we had that special saying, Only at the Sycamore. An era has come to an end. Thank you for being our customers, the owners concluded in the post.

There has been a massive outpouring of support from the post; more than 600 people have commented.

Please know how much me and my late mother loved you. I was having boy trouble? I was feeling down? The Sycamore it was, and shed go soup to nuts, right down to my root beer float. God bless, you guys. You will always be an integral part of Bethel, one post said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Sycamore IS Bethel. Its the most iconic thing in the entire town. My thanks to the Austins for keeping it going and keeping it authentic, a living memory through my entire life, from enjoying curbside milkshakes as a toddler to an old man still enjoying milkshakes when i would be passing through town, another post said.

Im shocked and deeply saddened. The Sycamore has been a staple in my life since I was a little kid. Its where I had my very first job, working for the Melvins. A place where I met many lifelong friends. A place where there was always a friendly smile and a familiar hello when you walked through the door, another post said. My heart is truly aching right now. To some, it was a place to get a fantastic burger. To me, its a part of my childhood, my childrens childhood, and a place we went often for an easy, comforting meal. Everything about it will be missed beyond measure.

In a separate post, Danbury mayor Roberto Alves commented about the diner closing.

After more than 75 years of serving the Greater Danbury community, the beloved Sycamore Drive-In Restaurant has closed its doors. Though located in Bethel, the Sycamore has always been a true Greater Danbury institution, woven into the lives and traditions of families across our region, Alves said.

The Austin family poured their hearts into this iconic diner, beginning with the late Gene Austin, the proud patriarch who helped build its lasting legacy, along with Kathleen, Chris, and Patrick Austin, who continued the tradition of warm hospitality, great food, genuine community spirit, and the best root beer around.
The MAGA movement has captured nearly every lever of power that matters in American life. Conservatives control the Supreme Court and dominate most red-state legislatures, while Donald Trump commands a compliant Republican Congress and maintains a suffocating grip on the GOPs internal machinery. And yet, as 2025 winds down, the MAGA base is restless. Loyalists are complaining, right-wing influencers are sniping at Cabinet officials and now top Trump appointees are snapping back in public, often with visible contempt for the very people who put them there.

MAGA promised domination. While Trumps second term has dismantled diversity, equity and inclusion programs with surgical precision and rolled out never-ending culture wars, the president is facing a rebellion of unmet expectations. A coalition that once prided itself on lockstep loyalty is fracturing into factions: the true believers who demand mass arrests and deportations yesterday, the GOP careerists urging patience and process, and the right-wing influencers who gin up rage for profit.

To be clear, there is no ideological disagreement in any meaningful sense. Instead there is a sense of rage that right-wing grievance doesnt automatically deliver results. But with a president far more interested in monetizing power and trimming his abode in gold, there is a dawning realization amongst the MAGA faithful that Trumpism prioritizes spectacle over substance  and they are now speaking up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Vice President JD Vance found himself on the receiving end of this fury over the weekend when he tried to inflame outrage over the ongoing Minnesota public assistance fraud scandal, which, according to federal prosecutors, involved the theft of more than $1 billion in taxpayers money, by tying it to his favorite scapegoat: immigration. But the base was unimpressed. Influencers and commenters piled on, asking why, if the situation was so dire, no one had been arrested, deported or denaturalized. They mocked Vances post to X as something a podcaster might say, not the vice president of the United States.

It brings shame to the FBI / DOJ that nobody thought to do this, far-right figure Mike Cernovich replied to Vance. Do people want to be podcasters or to do their official jobs? Another popular (and anonymous) MAGA account, followed by Vance, responded to the vice president: When you talk about stuff like this in this kind of helpless way its demoralizing. Dont talk about how bad it sucks, talk about whats going to be done about it.

But Vance wasnt the only Trump official to be tripped up over the Minnesota scandal. Harmeet Dhillon, a longtime Trump loyalist who now serves as assistant attorney general for civil rights, similarly tried to agitate the right-wing rage for online engagement, only to be met with jeers and boos from her own followers. Dhillon, who previously worked on Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election through the so-called Lawyers for Trump coalition, shared a post about Minnesota elections and called it corrupt. In response, MAGA activists demanded to know why, if the corruption was so obvious, nothing was being done about it.

Reagan-era conservative alum Hal Furman sniped that it was a shame Dhillon wasnt in a position to act, so she made a big show of blocking him. She then proceeded to unload on MAGA influencers, accusing them of spreading misinformation for money and insulting them in crude, demeaning terms like h**s and re***ds. On her official government account, Dhillon dutifully defended her boss, Attorney General Pam Bondi. On her personal account, she melted down, complaining about having to put down her knitting to deal with critics and lashing out at the very base she is supposed to serve.

Want more sharp takes on politics? Sign up for our free newsletter, Standing Room Only, written by Amanda Marcotte, now also a weekly show on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

Dhillons response is revealing, not only about herself but also about the Trump administration. The very people who screamed that Democrats should be jailed for alleged crimes are suddenly quite sensitive about timelines, statutes of limitations and the complexities of federal law when those same demands are directed at them. That is why criticism from the base cuts to the heart of the MAGA contradiction. The movement demands maximalist outcomes  sweeping arrests, immediate purges and dramatic displays of force  but it has no patience for the legal and administrative realities that make such results difficult. It despises expertise, yet expects flawless execution.

Advertisement Advertisement

MAGA was promised a reckoning. As we approach the five-year anniversary of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, MAGA influencers are telling their audiences that time is running out to punish members of the Jan. 6 House select committee for treason, a point Dhillon attempted to refute. She insisted that no looming deadline would prevent the Justice Department from pursuing those who weaponized Jan. 6. But Pam Bondis department has been hollowed out by firings and resignations. For MAGA, thats proving infuriating because the machine they thought would deliver mass prosecutions is sputtering.

Trumps advisers have reportedly tried to wave the bases unrest off as cyclical criticism, venting steam. But whats happening isnt routine griping. Its the sound of a movement realizing that raw power doesnt automatically translate into results, especially when the people in charge are more interested in loyalty tests and culture-war symbolism than in competent administration.

Yet its hard to feign sympathy for MAGA supporters who are now disappointed and disillusioned. They werent tricked; they were complicit. They chose cruelty over competence, so it should come as no surprise that their grievances have not resulted in good governance. Trumps supporters should have known: A movement built to worship a man rather than serve a country will eventually turn on itself.

The post MAGAs circular firing squad intensifies appeared first on Salon.com.
Editors Note: This story has been edited to reflect the NYPD believes the injury was self-inflicted.

MIDTOWN, Manhattan (PIX11)  A 27-year-old man was critically injured in Midtown Manhattan, police said.

The man was found around 10:18 p.m. near West 57th Street and Sixth Avenue. The 27-year-old was in the intersection with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.

More Local News

He was rushed to the hospital in critical but stable condition, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. It is a free, 24/7 service that offers support, information, and local resources. You can also click here for additional hotlines in your area.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Cobb County Police said they arrested a man for impersonating a police officer, and they said the suspect actually identified himself to police as an officer.

Channel 2s Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell said police told her he wasnt wearing a uniform. He didnt have badge or anything that would indicate he was an officer.

But police say he gave them a graduation certificate from a Florida citizens police academy and a security clearance card that stated he was a security officer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a problem Channel 2 has reported on numerous times in the past few years, men and women impersonating police officers.

Theyll buy all the equipment, the pants, the belt, everything that a real police officer would wear, and then go out there and try to act like the police. When somebody does that, that is the most concerning, Officer Aaron Wilson said.

Investigators say the man identified himself to police as Officer Charles Clare when they responded to an incident between Clare and a hotel clerk last Friday.

When the hotel clerk ask him to leave, he identified himself: Hey, Im a law enforcement officer. I dont have to leave, Wilson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the warrant, police say when they arrived, Clare showed them a certificate with the Lauderhill Police Department and said he was retired from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. But police say the certificate was far from the real thing.

He was under the belief that being a graduate of the citizens police academy somehow gave him police responsibilities, which is not the case, Wilson said.

Clare is charged with impersonating a police officer.

Cobb County Police Sgt. David Reid with the Cobb PD Citizens Police Academy says its important for people to know the real purpose of a citizens police academy.

Advertisement Advertisement

We do emphasize they are aware they are not by any means given any special title or privileges because they have attended citizens academy. It gives them a better view of what public safety is doing for them and how do we use the resources for their taxes to better serve them as a community. We do emphasize they are aware they are not by any means given any special title or privileges because they have attended citizens academy, he said.

The Cobb County police department offers a 16-week Citizens Public Safety Academy, residents attend classes once a week. The departments actual police academy is 27 weeks, recruits participate in courses Monday through Friday.

Police are encouraging residents to learn more about public safety departments in the county and all it has to offer through their citizens academy.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

TRENDING STORIES:

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Philadelphia police are investigating a deadly shooting inside a home in the city's Logan neighborhood.

Officers were called to the 1300 block of Rockland Street just after 9 p.m. Sunday.

That's where they found a 27-year-old man in a third-floor bedroom.

He had been shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said they are working to determine whether the man lived at the home or was visiting.

The investigation is ongoing.


The U.S. Attorneys Office says that a 24-year-old man pleaded guilty to committing a hate crime after attacking a bus passenger on a King County Metro bus.

Court records show that Adan C. Hernandez-Mayoral made racist comments about Black people on a Metro bus on March 7, 2024.

When a passenger, a Black woman, looked toward him to see who was making the comments, he began verbally attacking her.

After the victim walked to the front of the bus to call the police, Hernandez-Mayoral pushed her off the bus.

Advertisement Advertisement

He then pulled out a knife and stabbed her several times in the stomach.

The knife did not penetrate her skin due to the heavy coat she was wearing, but she still sustained injuries.

Police searched for Hernandez-Mayoral and eventually found him hiding under a car not far from where the assault occurred.

Prosecutors requested that he be sentenced to just under five years in prison, with credit for time served.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 17, 2026.
With days left before the end of the year, over 140 people have been murdered in Milwaukee this year, a rise from two years of declining homicides.

The increase comes as violent crime and nonfatal shootings dropped significantly throughout the year. But homicides are a statistic that will cloud whatever perceived progress the city has made since staggering violence occurred during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic era.

In its wake, the violence leaves behind family members, friends and other loved ones who are left only with grief, including 23-year-old Zyshanek Hood. She lost her grandfather Stanley Smith in 2017 to a homicide. Eight years later, on May 5, her uncle Stanley Smith Jr. was killed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Hood remembers her uncle as the "cool" one, who took the family on trips. On holidays, he helped bring them together. Now, the family is trying to find ways to continue those traditions, but it's difficult without him.

"I'm trying just to find ways to process and heal through it," she said.

Hood was among those gathered on Sunday, Dec. 28, at the annual Milwaukee Homicide Candlelight Vigil at the Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church. A candle for her uncle was among the 160 candles lit in remembrance of not only the 141 homicide victims killed so far this year but those killed in self-defense and justified police shootings.

Uptick in homicides comes as crime dropped overall in Milwaukee

Homicides in Milwaukee still outpace pre-COVID-19 pandemic numbers, when there were 99 homicides in 2019. But during that pandemic, the city underwent an explosive and troubling increase in violence. A record 215 homicides occurred in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

In the years since, homicides have trickled down from that record high. In 2024, there were 138 homicides by year's end and officials found promise in those figures. That's due in part to neighborhoods where violence is historically concentrated seeing some of the highest declines.

In 2025, however, homicides inched up again from last year. Police data shows 141 homicides have occurred so far this year, with two days remaining before it ends.

Homicide needs to be looked at with overall shootings to get a more accurate picture of the city's crime, said Nicole Waldner, assistant chief of the Milwaukee Police Department. Non-fatal shootings are currently at 512, which is down nearly 20% from last year and nearly 40% from two years ago.

Milwaukee Assistant Chief Nicole Waldner speaks at the Milwaukee 2025 Forever In Our Hearts Homicide Candlelight Vigil on Dec. 28 at Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church, 2412 N. 6th St. in Milwaukee.

This year's rise belies easy explanation and goes against national trends, where many major cities in America saw declines in homicides and, like Milwaukee, other violent crime. City officials have pushed against comparison and point to crime in Milwaukee being down significantly across most other categories.

Advertisement Advertisement

The police are still investigating what has led to the rise in homicides, said Waldner, who oversees homicide detectives.

The department is looking at several possible factors, from the probation or parole status of suspects to a possible increase in victims being self-transported to medical care after an incident.

In some cases, like that of a 4-year-old boy allegedly shot by his father in July, it's difficult to find ways for police intervention to occur in moments that escalate inside the home, she said.

Those decreases, which span property crimes and other violent crimes like aggravated assault, are not often pointed to as a measure of a city's safety. In part, that's because homicides  committed overwhelmingly with guns  have the most damning outcome: the loss of life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Waldner, who attended and spoke at the vigil, knows that regardless of an overall decline, people will continue to point to homicides as the indicator of the city's crime.

"People won't feel safe," she said.

Anger, forgiveness and absence described by those at vigil

Violence continued to kill residents of Milwaukee in the week leading up to the vigil, as at least three homicides, each involving guns, occurred.

In one, a dispute following a car accident in November occurred before the shooting that injured and later killed Bobby Smith, 35. He died on Dec. 22 in the hospital from his injuries.

Disputes like this are the leading factor behind homicides in the city, with nearly a third of all homicides since 2020 involving an argument or a fight, according to police data.

Advertisement Advertisement

Homicides this year occurred for a range of other reasons.

In September, 11-year-old Deon Sargent was killed in what authorities have described as a robbery over a gun. Known as "Mister," family and friends described his smile and fun personality at a vigil in the days afterwards. A 13-year-old was arrested in his death.

In June, Milwaukee police officer Kendall Corder was shot and killed in the line of duty. He was known as a gentle giant and the sixth police officer to die since 2018.

And, in May, a mother was accidentally shot and killed when her son attempted to stop his stepfather during an assault, according to prosecutors. The stepfather accused of domestic violence, Ziare Dalton, 26, was charged on May 5 with felony murder in the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Complicating almost all the situations, officials say, are firearms that are far too accessible. During the vigil, faith leaders, elected officials and others directly addressed Milwaukee's gun problem.

The violence demonstrates the need for gun control policy to be passed at the state level, said Mayor Cavalier Johnson. Too little has been done by politicians, he said.

"You're showing those folks that their lives mattered," Johnson said to the families attending the vigil. "And we've got to do all that's within our power to make sure we're protecting them."

At the vigil, the families laid bare what the violence to their loved ones has done to them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Among them were mothers grieving lost sons. A son grieving a father they had recently reconnected with, only for violence to take him away.

Others spoke of the need to forgive, while others spoke of anger they now feel. One urged those in attendance to go to therapy. Another spoke of how they don't share their sadness with others. Many spoke of a desire for justice.

Nearly all spoke of the grief they now feel in the absence of a loved one.

"The pain, I don't wish it on nobody," said Carolynn Mallett, whose son Kendrick Williams was killed in March. Her brother Patrick Riley Jr. is charged in Williams' death.

Advertisement Advertisement

She described how life has changed since his death and how she spent the holidays in grief.

Mallett's angry now, but, like many who spoke, Mallett has leaned on her faith to persevere.

"I know God got him and I know he got me too," she said.

Editor's note: The 2025 homicide data could fluctuate as police continue to investigate deaths.

David Clarey is a public safety reporter at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He can be reached at dclarey@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: As Milwaukee homicides rise in 2025, victim families mourn at annual vigil
BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China strongly deplores the demolition of a Chinese monument by a local government in Panama and has lodged protests with the Panamanian side, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday.

China urges the Panamanian side to thoroughly investigate the matter, promptly correct the wrong acts of the relevant local government, and eliminate the adverse effects in a timely manner, Lin told a daily news briefing. 
Andino Scarfone, son of Tammy Scarfone and the late Dominick Scarfone, has been named Lawrence County Community Foundations 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar.

Andino currently is a senior at Mitchell High School. He plans to major in mechanical engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

Andino Scarfone has been named Lawrence County Community Foundations 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar. He is a senior at Mitchell High School.

My mother went to the mailbox and called me to open the letter immediately. I was shocked, excited, and grateful," Andino said in a news release. "Receiving this scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies, obtain my degree, and ease the burden from my mom. With this scholarship, I can achieve my dreams and attend Rose-Hulman. Thank you so much!"

Advertisement Advertisement

Tyson Chase, a lead mentor for the Lawrence County 4-H Superior STEAM, a youth development club, said, Andino has consistently impressed me with his dedication, strong work ethic, and passionate, thriving leadership. Even while maintaining a demanding academic schedule, Andino has shown an unwavering commitment to every project he has taken on.

"He is zealous about teaching the next generation of club members. He is deeply driven by a heartfelt mission to make the world a better place  one kid at a time.

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship pays full tuition, required fees and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of full-time undergraduate study at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university.

Andino also will have the opportunity to join the Lilly Scholars Network, which connects current Lilly Scholars and alumni with resources and opportunities to be active leaders on their campuses and in their communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Lilly Endowment created the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program for the 1997-98 school year. Since then, grant funding over $505 million has supported more than 5,400 Indiana students who have received the Lilly Endowment Scholarship since the programs inception.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Mail: Mitchell High School senior Lilly Endowment scholar Lawrence County
On Sunday, at approximately 12:29 a.m., a Mooresville Police Department officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a speeding vehicle on I-77 that was racing with two others. The vehicle failed to stop and fled the scene, leading to a police pursuit that ended in Salisbury.

ALSO READ: Mooresville emerges as one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the US

During the pursuit, the vehicle exited the interstate at Exit 49A in Statesville and continued eastbound on U.S. Highway 70. The chase concluded when the vehicle stopped on Lash Drive, where law enforcement officers arrested the driver.

Advertisement Advertisement

The driver, Anthony Josue Velasquez Alonzo, 20, of Statesville, was charged with felony fleeing to elude arrest and additional traffic violations. The passenger in the vehicle was released at the scene following the arrest.

Alonzo was issued a $50,000 secure bond. The police also seized the 2018 Toyota GT86 coupe that Alonzo was driving at the time of the incident.

VIDEO: Mooresville police slams court for no charges against teen after shooting
As protests grow across Iran, the Mossad posted an unusual Farsi message urging demonstrators to act, saying it is with them in the streets, amid rising economic pressure and public unrest.

On Monday, the Mossad used its Twitter account in Farsi to encourage Iranians to protest against the Iranian regime, telling them that it will join them during the demonstrations.

Go out together into the streets. The time has come, the Mossad wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

It continued, We are with you. Not only from a distance and verbally. We are with you in the field.

The statement was a rare open acknowledgment from the Mossad regarding ongoing operations in Iran.

In June, the Mossad had hundreds of agents involved in Israels 12-day war, which set back Irans nuclear program, ballistic missiles program, air defense systems, and killed dozens of its top military and intelligence officials.

Following the war, Mossad Director David Barnea released a rare statement foreshadowing the spy agencys activities in Tehran, telling the general public that Israel will [continue to] be there, like we have been there.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Twitter statements were issued as Iran protests spiked over the collapse of Irans Rial currency and a rise in fuel prices, as well as recent crises regarding the supply of water nationwide.

It was unclear if the Mossad was revealing more of its hand because it truly believed that it could help the current protests topple the regime, or if the statements are part of a broader and longer-term psychological warfare.
Slate senior legal reporter Mark Joseph Stern warned MS NOW on Sunday that Republicans could gain up to 19 seats in the House of Representatives by the 2028 election, if they are able to neutralize the Voting Rights Act next year.

Stern told The Weekend: Primetime he is worried the 1965 law could be gutted by the Supreme Court when it rules on Louisiana v. Calais. That case deals with racial gerrymandering and redistricting in the state of Louisiana following the 2020 U.S. Census.

This gives the Supreme Court an opportunity to neutralize what remains of the voting rights act and to allow states to really gerrymander racial minorities into oblivion, to deny them fair representation, Stern said.

Advertisement Advertisement

He continued, saying, it stands to give Republicans 15 to 19 more seats in the House of Representatives in the 2028 cycle. That is a bombshell. It is huge, and I feel like its not really getting enough attention in proportion to the impact that it may well have.

Sterns answer came after co-anchor Elise Jordan asked what SCOTUS ruling he thought would be the most consequential going into 2026 regarding presidential power.

Stern also cited the Trump V. Slaughter case, in which the Supreme Court is poised to allow President Trump, and, theoretically, every future president, to fire virtually any executive official that they want, especially high-ranking executive officials.

He continued, This decision stands to fundamentally restructure our government. As Justice [Sonia] Sotomayor pointed out during oral arguments, this will abolish independent agencies. It will put almost all of the executive branch under direct presidential control, in direct violation of Congresss wishes, and it will allow Trump to really just consolidate an unfathomable amount of authority in the White House, taking that power away from Congress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Amy Howe with SCOTUSBlog explained Trumps argument:

The president and his supporters are proponents of a doctrine known as the unitary executive theory  the idea that the president should have complete control over the executive branch. Under this theory, the president should be able to fire any member of the executive branch, and laws  like the one at the center of this case  that restrict his ability to do so violate the constitutional separation of powers between the three branches of government.

Watch above.

The post MS NOW Expert Warns Republicans Could Gerrymander Racial Minorities Into Oblivion  And Gain 19 House Seats first appeared on Mediaite.
Marjorie Taylor Greene has spent her entire career profusely defending President Trump and his MAGA agenda. But their last conversation reportedly left her stunned, as he said he attacked both her and the survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Greene fought for the release of the Epstein files for months, eventually teaming up with Representatives Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, who were able to successfully force the administration to begin to release some heavily redacted files with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

When Greene implored Trump to invite some of Epsteins female victims to the Oval Office in a show of support in September, she told the New York Times Magazine, he berated her, telling her that they didnt deserve the honor. That was the last in-person conversation they had.

Advertisement Advertisement

How did all of this end up to a point where it was about releasing files about women who were raped, and not the serious things that I think truly matter about helping to get our economy stabilized again? she said. Help reduce the cost of living, fix the housing market, fix health insurancefor the love of God, what the [expletive] is the matter with these people?

Her last text exchange with Trump occurred two months later, in which she told the president about the fears she held for the safety of her family, given a death threat against her son shed received that morning, following Trump publicly rebuking her as a traitor. He responded with a long message that completely ignored her fears and attacked her personally once again.

The administration responded with complete disdain.

President Trump remains the undisputed leader of the greatest and fastest growing political movement in American historythe MAGA movement, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle told the Times. On the other hand, Congresswoman Greene is quitting on her constituents in the middle of her term and abandoning the consequential fight were inwe dont have time for her petty bitterness.
The head of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) has defended a decision to allow lawmakers from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to attend the high-profile security policy forum in 2026, after the party was excluded from recent editions.

The MSC is a forum for dialogue which "traditionally aims to present as broad a spectrum of opinions as possible, including opposing views," Wolfgang Ischinger told Germany's Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper in comments published Monday.

The AfD, which is Germany's biggest opposition party, has mobilized voters with a hardline anti-immigration platform, while many of its members are seen as sympathetic to Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

In May, the populist party was decreed as "confirmed right-wing extremist" by Germany's domestic intelligence service, a designation that inflamed debate about whether the party should be banned. The classification has since been put on hold pending a legal challenge.

On Sunday, a spokesman for the MSC told dpa that invitations for the next MSC in February 2026 were recently sent to politicians from all parties represented in the German parliament, with the selection focussing on lawmakers serving on committees relevant to foreign and security policy.

Ischinger, currently acting as chairman of the conference again until the role is taken up by former NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg, rejected accusations that the MSC was "tearing down firewalls" by inviting the AfD, referring to a refusal by Germany's established parties to cooperate with the far-right party to keep it from power.

The conference was not about government participation, Ischinger said, adding that it was up to the political parties to ensure that the AfD no longer sits in parliament.
New Jersey's 21 county prosecutors are in solidarity in their efforts to derail a parole reform bill they say will jeopardize public safety and erode victim's rights by its provisions to reduce sending parolees back to prison.

The state's public defender is countering that opposition, saying the bill does nothing to reduce the power of prosecutors to file new criminal charges when warranted against parolees, while it would allow parole officers to focus their efforts on parolees who pose the highest risks.

With just weeks left to the legislative session, Assembly bill A-6206 was introduced on Dec. 8, and its companion Senate bill S-5000 was introduced a week later.

Advertisement Advertisement

The legislation seeks to reform the state's parole system by, among other things, reducing the types of violations a parolee can be sent back to prison for, and increasing credits parolees receive toward reducing their parole terms for complying with supervision conditions.

The bill drew unanimous opposition from the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey, which issued a statement against it on Dec. 12.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, president of the County Prosecutors Association, summarized the group's opposition to the bill.

"It undermines public safety, it certainly reduces accountability for parolees, it doesn't take into account victim's rights and it limits the ability of parole officers to intervene in high-risk situations,'' Billhimer said.

Advertisement Advertisement

New Jersey's public defender, Jennifer Sellitti, said the criticism is misplaced.

By reducing unnecessary re-incarceration for non-criminal technical violations committed by parolees, the bill would allow parole officers to focus on individuals who present the greatest risk, Sellitti said.

"This is smart public safety policy and a responsible use of taxpayers dollars,'' Sellitti said.

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey is among criminal legal reform advocate groups supporting the bill for its attempt to ensure technical parole violations do not automatically lead to parole revocation and re-incarceration.

Advertisement Advertisement

The ACLU says people incarcerated for technical parole violations account for 10 percent of New Jersey's prison population, but the violations are not the result of new offenses.

"Instead, they represent the very real challenges that people face upon reentry: transportation issues, unstable housing, changes in work schedules and/or difficulty accessing treatment,'' the ACLU of New Jersey said in a news release.

"Re-incarcerating people for technical parole violations does not make our communities safer. It undermines the progress New Jersey has made at reducing its prison population and penalizes those who are working to rebuild their lives while facing the real challenges of reentry,'' said Jim Sullivan, the agency's deputy policy director.

"New Jersey must save incarceration for people who pose a real threat to the public and give second chances to those who are working to succeed after release,'' Sullivan said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The county prosecutors association, however, said New Jersey's parole system is not in need of reform.

"First, New Jersey's parole system is recognized as one of the most effective in the nation, which begs the question why reforms are needed at all,'' the association said in its statement, which was issued by Billhimer.

It said New Jersey has a parole revocation rate of 6 percent, which is below the national average of 10 percent.

Of those cases where parole has been revoked, the vast majority involve offenses that fall under the state's No Early Release Act, which applies to the most violent of offenses, such as homicides, aggravated assaults, sex offenses and robbery, the prosecutor's association said.

Advertisement Advertisement

"These offenders would be the primary beneficiaries of this lenient legislation,'' the prosecutors association said.

Billhimer was asked what would be the possible worst-case scenario if the bill were to become law.

"The worst case scenario is that someone gets released on a NERA (No Early Release Act) offense, and we're not able to track them,'' he responded.

The No Early Release Act requires defendants convicted of the most serious, violent offenses to serve 85 percent of their prison terms before they can be considered for release on parole, and it imposes mandatory periods of parole supervision following release from prison.

Advertisement Advertisement

Currently, those convicted of NERA offenses are not entitled to compliance credits that would shorten their parole supervision period. The proposed bill, however, would grant those defendants one day of credit for every six days they have complied with their conditions.

For those not convicted of NERA offenses, it would increase compliance credits of one day for every six days of compliance to one day for every two days of compliance.

"The accumulation of credits could substantially shorten parole terms, even when the underlying offense was a serious NERA offense,'' the prosecutors association said.

"Finally, these bills do not include meaningful provisions to ensure that victims remain informed, protected, and heard throughout the parole process,'' the prosecutors association said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposed legislation "would limit the circumstances under which violators can be swiftly returned to custody, including those with a history of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault or intimidation of witnesses,'' the prosecutors said.

Sellitti, the public defender, said nothing in the legislation would limit prosecutors from filing new criminal charges against offenders who violate conditions of parole supervision for life, which is often imposed on sex offenders.

Those violations are not technical violations "and remain fully prosecutable and subject o incarceration,'' Sellitti said.

Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago "fully supports'' the county prosecutors association's stance on the legislation, according to a statement issued by his office.

Advertisement Advertisement

"It is critical that conditions placed on an individual's release are followed,'' the statement said. "These conditions not only protect the community, they also reinforce accountability by requiring defendants to comply with society's laws and expectations or face additional consequences. Restrictions such as prohibiting association with known gang members, avoiding drugs or alcohol, or staying away from minors in cases involving sexual offenses are not minor technicalities. They are carefully designed safeguards intended to reduce the risk of reoffending.

"Releasing dangerous violent or sexual offenders without meaningful conditions to ensure lawful behavior increases the likelihood of future victims,'' the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office said. "While that outcome is surely not the intent, the bill as currently written would create precisely that risk.''

Santiago said he looks forward to discussing his concerns with the bills' sponsors and proponents "to work toward crafting language that protects all residents of New Jersey.''

Billhimer said he is planning to meet during the week of Dec. 29 with Assemblywoman Shanique Speight, the Assembly bill's sponsor, to discuss the prosecutors' concerns with the legislation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Speight, a Democrat representing Belleville and parts of Newark in Essex County, did not immediately respond to telephone and email requests for comment.

Kathleen Hopkins, a reporter in New Jersey since 1985, covers crime, court cases, legal issues and just about every major murder trial to hit Monmouth and Ocean counties. Contact her at khopkins@app.com.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer speaks during an April 24, 2025 news conference at the Wells Mills County Park in Waretown.

Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago listens during the Board of Commissioners Reorganization meeting in Freehold Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: NJ prosecutors oppose parole bill as proponents defend it
Members of the Rural Health Transformation Committee meet in the Senate chamber on Oct. 15, 2025. The committee considered how to spend federal rural health care funding that was pending. The state will receive $199 million. (Photo by Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

The federal government has awarded $199 million to North Dakota for the first year of a five-year grant program centered on improving rural health care across the nation.

The allocation of the funds, which has to be formally approved by the Legislature in a special session scheduled to begin on Jan. 21, will focus on four areas: Workforce, preventive care and healthy eating, bringing high-quality health care closer to North Dakotans and connecting technology and data with medical providers.

Advertisement Advertisement

We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rethink and reshape how health care is delivered to our rural communities, Gov. Kelly Armstrong said in a news release.

The Legislature will have limited opportunity to make any changes to how the funds will be used. North Dakota Health and Human Services submitted an application earlier this fall for the states share of the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program, with legislative input, and the state is expected to adhere to the funding plan laid out in the application.

Were getting a lot more than I thought we would get, said Tim Blasl, president of the North Dakota Hospital Association. I think a lot of great things can be done here in the state of North Dakota in the next five years.

Health and Human Services is working to establish a framework for the distribution, prioritization and compliance monitoring of the grant funding in the lead up to the special session. The department expects to announce the first grant opportunities using the funds in the first three months of 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Being awarded this grant funding is an important milestone, Sarah Aker, medical services executive director for Health and Human Services, said in a news release. Now, our focus shifts to implementation so the resources can start making an impact in rural communities.

The $199 million award from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is for fiscal year 2026. Additional funding will be announced on an annual basis for the remaining four years of the program. Each state is eligible for a minimum of $500 million, but could receive up to $1 billion over the five years.

This funding allows North Dakota to build on existing partnerships and invest in long-term solutions to move toward making our state the healthiest in the nation, Pat Traynor, commissioner for North Dakota Health and Human Services, said in a news release.

North Dakota received a similar amount to its neighbors: Minnesota was awarded $193 million, $189 million went to South Dakota and Montana received $233 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

New Jersey received the smallest award, at $147 million, while Texas was awarded the highest amount, $281 million.

The money was included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as a way to offset cuts to Medicaid.

Rural hospitals are essential to the health and economic stability of their communities, said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, R-ND. The creation of this fund reflects a clear commitment by the Trump administration to prioritize rural healthcare and protect access to care where it is needed most.

Goal is systemic change

North Dakota lawmakers and industry representatives are ecstatic after learning the state will receive $199 million this fiscal year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Jon Nelson, R-Rugby, said he was hoping the state would receive more than the minimum $100 million in funding this year but is shocked the final award was nearly twice the figure.

Thats phenomenal news, Nelson said. Now its time that we find projects that we can put into place very quickly.

Nelson and other legislators said this funding could play a transformative role in addressing health care challenges in rural North Dakota such as travel barriers to care, hiring and retaining skilled workers, expanding access to behavioral health services and improving emergency medical services.

A big part of this rural health care transformation plan is to help them with some additional resources for both hiring and retaining existing staff, said Sen. David Hogue, R-Minot, and majority leader. Thats just always been a significant challenge thats hard to overcome in places like rural North Dakota where skilled workers have a choice, and they dont always choose rural areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Blasl said the federal funding opens up different doors on solving the states workforce challenges in health care.

We need to recruit and retain more bodies here in North Dakota, Blasl said. Whether thats growing our own, looking outside the state, or even looking outside the country, to bring bodies to North Dakota to provide health care to the people that need it here.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Sen. Tim Mathern, D-Fargo, said he hopes these dollars will result in meaningful long-term benefits.

The goal is to make systemic change, not just surface change, Mathern said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Nelson has seen the problem first hand. He said Rugby, like many rural areas in North Dakota, is a behavioral health desert and the travel required to obtain those services can be a significant barrier.

And theres many areas in North Dakota that are similar to my area, Nelson said. So I think the main component is bringing programs into our communities so its easier to access services.

North Dakota Monitor reporter Jacob Orledge can be reached at jorledge@northdakotamonitor.com.

This story was updated with comments about the rural health care funding announcement.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
SAO PAULO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The metropolitan region of Sao Paulo, the most populated urban area in Brazil, is facing an emergency in its drinking water supply, authorities said Monday.

According to authorities, the current water crisis is the result of an intense heat wave, a sharp rise in consumption, and a persistent drought that has left reservoirs at critically low levels in the South American area with around 20 million inhabitants.

The crisis came amid structural changes in the sanitation sector. In 2024, the Sao Paulo state government privatized the Basic Sanitation Company of Sao Paulo State (Sabesp), formerly the largest publicly owned sanitation company in Latin America, which since August has applied overnight cuts to drinking water service.

According to a Sao Paulo state government release, data from Sabesp show that water consumption in metropolitan Sao Paulo rose as much as 60 percent last week, even though nearly 30 percent of the population is outside the region for the holiday period.

In response, state authorities reinforced guidelines for conscious water use and the adoption of "urgent measures to reduce waste."

Rationing implemented since August has saved an estimated 57 billion liters of water, authorities said.

Despite those measures, the combination of higher consumption and lack of rainfall continues to affect reservoir levels of water in the Integrated Metropolitan System, which is currently operating at only 26.42 percent of total capacity. 
Fox News Marie Harf and Kaylee McGhee White brawled over President Donald Trumps continued efforts to deport illegal immigrants on Mondays edition of Outnumbered.

After playing a clip of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) decrying the fact that many new Border Patrol recruits are Hispanic, host Tomi Lahren prompted Harf, a former Obama administration spokeswoman.

Alright Marie, Im coming to you on this. I thought you were looking right at me. I want your take, because when I saw this, the way I translated it was LA Mayor Karen Bass is saying that if youre Hispanic and you join Border Patrol or ICE, that maybe you hate yourself or maybe youre just broke. And I dont think either is a real compliment to the Hispanic community, but I gotta get your take on this one, said Lahren.

Advertisement Advertisement

I would certainly not have worded it like she did. I was reading some interesting stories this morning about all the Hispanic Americans who voted for Trump, which we know a lot, you know, had voted for Democrats before, particularly in places like Texas, voted for Donald Trump. And there are a number of stories where they are saying they are horrified at seeing who ICE is going after, right? replied Harf. We know 700, or excuse me, 75,000 as of October, people that have been rounded up by ICE have not been accused or charged with a crime. But I remember before the election when everyone said, Hes going to go after the worst of the worst. Murderers, rapists. Thats not whats happening. Theyre going into a lot of primarily Hispanic communities, rounding up people, elderly people, young kids whove been here, you know, elderly people whove been here for decades, and Hispanic supporters of Trump are like, wait a second, this isnt what we bargained for. And so I think, you know, 170 American citizens have been rounded up mistakenly during these raids. So I think there is something to be said. Im looking to Hispanic voters who supported Trump who say, Wait a second, this isnt what we were told ICE was going to do, and theyre now having some buyers remorse. I think thats interesting.

Which part of Mass deportations now! were Hispanic voters not aware of when they voted for Donald Trump? He was pretty explicit on the campaign trail, chimed in White.

He did say though, Kaylee, and he did say were going to focus on the worst of the worst. Murderers, rapists, people charged with crimes-, shot back Harf before White interjected.

Which is what hes doing, but you want to keep them here, too, countered the conservative commentator.

Advertisement Advertisement

Seventy-five thousand people who have been rounded up by ICE have not been charged with any crime. Thats not the worst of the worst, asserted Harf.

No, no. Theyre here illegally, theyre still criminals, replied White.

Thats not murderers, rapists  thats not what he said! protested Harf.

Watch above via Fox News.

The post Thats Not What He Said! Fox News Panel BRAWLS Over Trumps Mass Deportations first appeared on Mediaite.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  More changes are coming to Ohios marijuana industry. On Dec. 19, Governor Mike DeWine signed Ohio Senate Bill 56 into law that will wipe intoxicating hemp products off store shelves and change the rules for marijuana users across the state.

This is going to put a lot of people out of business and hurt a lot of people, Hedz Up Head Shop Owner Melissa Fleming said.

For customers and small business like Hedz Up Head Shop in Columbus, they said its creating fear and uncertainty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Were going to have to probably lay people off, Fleming said. Hours are probably going to be shortened because I cant pay somebody to be here if were not making any money. I hope we can keep our doors open.

Columbus approves $5.5 million renovation of historic Franklinton fire station

Inside Hedz Up Head Shop, intoxicating hemp products line the shelves. Owner Melissa Fleming said customers use them for things like pain, anxiety and sleep. She said these products account for about 40% of the stores sales.

We have to now get rid of thousands of dollars, probably tens of thousands of dollars, worth of inventory in three months, Fleming said. Were going to take a huge loss there.

Advertisement Advertisement

In less than 90 days, all intoxicating hemp products will be illegal to sell out of general retail shops. Instead, those products will be restricted to licensed marijuana dispensaries.

You have to be 21 to purchase these things, Fleming said. Were doing what were supposed to. Why is it getting taken out of our hands? And the customers feel the same way. Theyre like, how is somebody going to tell me what I can and cannot do? Its unfair because what we voted for, this is not it. This is not what we said we wanted.

Governor DeWine said the ban is primarily motivated by public safety concerns and the need to prevent access to children. But Fleming said her family-owned store already follows strict rules. Now, she said theyre trying to sell what they can while preparing for the worst.

When it gets closer to crunch time, well be doing buy one get one free, half off, Fleming said. Because whats the point of it getting destroyed or it sitting on my shelves when I cant do anything with it. Id rather it go to people who it can help. So if we have to take a loss on it, we will.

Advertisement Advertisement

164th Weather Flight at Rickenbacker tracks conditions for Army, Air Force

Those at Hedz Up Head Shop said theyre worried the impact of Governor DeWines new law wont stop with them.

I wish he would understand what he is doing to families and doing to businesses, because its not just affecting us as small businesses, Hedz Up Head Shop Employee Victoria Fleming said. All the people, all these brands, theyre screwed. Every single one of these brands, theyre going out of business. Theyre bigger businesses. Then the businesses that supply them are going to go out of business. So, it goes down the line of everybodys getting screwed, not just us.

For many at the store, its their only source of income, so they said the thought of being laid off or closing down is scary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Its heartbreaking because this is how our bills get paid, Victoria Fleming said. This is a lot more than just oh lets get rid of this.

For consumers, once the new law goes into effect, it also brings about other changes including banning the sale of THC-infused beverages, criminalizing bringing legal marijuana from another state back to Ohio, and lower THC levels. The bill also allows police to have probable cause during traffic stops if someone is a known user of marijuana.

Copyright 2026 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Police say an Oklahoma woman who died on Christmas Day while spending time with family had been shot and killed by a man who was allegedly shooting target practice half a mile away.

According to court records, Sandra Phelps, of Comanche, Oklahoma, was sitting with family members around 3:30 p.m., holding a child, on a covered porch in the community about 90 minutes south of Oklahoma City on Dec. 25.

When the group heard someone shooting a gun to the north of the residence, Phelps commented that someone must've gotten a new gun for Christmas, and then shortly after that said "ouch" and collapsed, records show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Emergency personnel responded and found Phelps had suffered a single gunshot wound in her right upper arm and the bullet had gone into her chest cavity below her armpit. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

When investigators began looking at homes near where Phelps lived, one resident mentioned a neighbor had gotten a new handgun for Christmas and neighbors had heard him shooting, records show. Investigators went to the reported address and spoke with Cody Wayne Adams, 33, of Comanche, Oklahoma.

Investigators learned that all homes in the area except Adams' had substantial backstops for shooting, court documents state.

Adams was arrested the evening of Dec. 25 and charged with firstdegree manslaughter in connection with the shooting, according to court records. Adams was released Dec. 26 on $100,000 bond, records show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Adams told officers he had been shooting a .45 caliber Glock handgun he had bought for himself for Christmas and showed where he had been shooting in his backyard, which was a couple of roads over from a home where a woman had been shot, the Stephens County Sheriff's Office said in a post on Facebook.

At the sheriff's office, Adams informed investigators that he was shooting the gun south of his residence, and no one else was present at the time.

At the scene, a sheriff's office investigator found a Red Bull can and a small piece of ceramic tile that appeared to have been hit by bullets and could account for the shooting angle. When told that his target practice may have resulted in the death of Phelps, Adams "became visibly upset and began to cry," records show.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 25. USA TODAY has reached out to Adams' attorney for comment.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma man charged with manslaughter after Christmas target shooting death
KARACHI, Pakistan (AP)  Police in Pakistan detained a teenage girl who was radicalized and recruited online by an outlawed separatist group to carry out a major suicide attack, authorities said Monday.

No criminal charges will be filed and she will be placed under state protection as a victim rather than a suspect, Sindh provincial Home Minister Ziaul Hassan said at a news conference.

The girl was detained during a routine police check on buses as she traveled to Karachi, the Sindh province capital, from southwestern Balochistan province to meet a handler, Hassan said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The girl was targeted online by the Baloch Liberation Army, which was designated as a terrorist group by the United States earlier year. The group convinced the girl that carrying out an attack would bring her honor and recognition within the Baloch community, similar to other women who have carried out suicide bombings against security forces, Hassan said.

The girl appeared confused when police officers asked her routine questions, said Hassan, who added that she was taken to a police facility and disclosed months of contact with militants through social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.

The girl appeared with her mother at a news conference but her face was covered and her name and age were withheld. Police showed a video statement she made with details about her contacts with BLA and how she agreed to carry out a suicide attack.

Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemned BLA and other separatist groups for luring people toward violence and said detaining the girl prevented a potential large loss of life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Baloch separatists have waged an insurgency since the early 2000s seeking greater autonomy and in some cases independence from Pakistan while demanding a larger share of natural resources.

Authorities said the group has attempted to increase its use of female attackers in recent years. A female suicide bomber affiliated with BLA killed three Chinese teachers in 2022 near a university campus in Karachi.
(AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Attorney General Pam Bondi has confirmed that the Department of Justice is investigating lawfare under former presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden that she believes amounts to an ongoing criminal conspiracy.

In an interview with conservative outlet Just The News, Bondi said she asked prosecutors to probe what she termed the ongoing election-meddling conspiracy that she claimed was used to persecute President Donald Trump and his supporters, while protecting Democrats.

Advertisement Advertisement

FBI Director Kash Patel has long pushed the theory that the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election was a hoax, and predicted earlier this year that the DOJ would get to the bottom of the Democrats weaponization of law enforcement, according to the report.

Editor-in-chief John Solomon wrote that charging defendants with criminal conspiracy nullifies the statute of limitations because the cases are ongoing, much like with organized crime cases.

At my direction, our U.S. Attorneys and federal agents are actively investigating instances of government weaponization nationwide, Bondi said. This is a ten-year stain on the country committed by high-ranking officials against the American people.

Bondi praised the DOJ and FBI for releasing an unprecedented number of documents to Congress about government weaponization, which Bondi claimed laid the predicate for a conspiracy case.

Advertisement Advertisement

This evidence illustrates that the FBI shielded political figures like Hunter Biden and Hillary Clinton while pursuing conservatives for their beliefs, using legal process and operations that were excessive, instead of protecting Americans from public safety threats posed by an open border and violent crime, Bondi said. They went so far as to serve search warrants that their own Department and law enforcement officials believed were excessive.

Bondi continued, This Department of Justice takes government weaponization seriously. That means protecting civil liberties, preventing election interference, and holding bad actors accountable. No one is above the law, even if they think they are.

According to the report, a large part of the the probe is being done in Florida, where President Trumps home was raided in 2022.

The post Pam Bondi Confirms DOJ Prosecutors Are Probing Obama-Biden Lawfare as Criminal Conspiracy first appeared on Mediaite.
By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Boeing was given an $8.6 billion contract for the F-15 Israel Program, the Pentagon said on Monday, after U.S. President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida.

"This contract provides for the design, integration, instrumentation, test, production, and delivery of 25 new F-15IA aircraft for the Israeli Air Force with an option for an additional 25 F-15IA aircraft," the Pentagon said.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pentagon said the contract involved foreign military sales to Israel. The U.S. has long been by far the largest arms supplier to its closest Middle East ally.

Pro-Palestinian and anti-war protesters around the U.S. had demanded an end to Washington's military support for Israel due to its devastating assault on Gaza but those demands have not been met in the administrations of President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden.

Contract work will be performed in St. Louis, and was expected to be complete by Dec. 31, 2035, the Pentagon said in a statement.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by David Gregorio and Nick Zieminski)
A woman was stabbed to death in what police say was a dispute among neighbors in the Bronx

Officers responded to a 911 call on Ogden Avenue and found 30-year-old Shashamanie Thompson unresponsive inside her building.

Thompson had wounds to her face and abdomen.

Two people are in custody.

Neighbors say they heard an argument before the killing.

There is no word from police on what the argument was about.

Advertisement Advertisement

----------

* More Bronx news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

* Follow us on YouTube



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.
Police have identified a suspect accused of trying to steal a pickup truck in Mercer County who was found dead in Grand Lake a few days later.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The man, identified as 47-year-old Alvin Lee Stabler from Hoover, Alabama, was recovered from the lake on Dec. 27.

Celina police initially responded to reports of an alarm at a used car lot on South Main Street around 7 p.m. on Christmas Day.

Advertisement Advertisement

One officer saw a person inside a pickup truck on the dealership lot when they arrived.

The suspect ran away when they got closer, the spokesperson said.

TRENDING STORIES:

The suspect, identified by police as Stabler, ran across U.S. Route 127 toward West Bank Road and continued through nearby residential properties.

Authorities searched the area, but couldnt find him.

Police said he was trying to steal the pickup truck from the dealership.

Advertisement Advertisement

On Dec. 26, a nearby resident looked at their personal security footage and saw the police activity.

Officers watched the video, which showed a man believed to be Stabler ducking behind a retaining wall to hide from police and eventually jumping into Grand Lake.

Stabler wasnt seen exiting the water.

Officers searched the area again, but it was too dark to determine if anyone was still in the water.

Just after 9 a.m. on Saturday, authorities resumed searching and located Stablers body.

Burglary tools were also recovered, including a device believed to be used to reprogram a vehicles security and ignition system, a police spokesperson said.

We will continue to follow this story.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
MOSCOW/KIEV, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Monday that Kiev launched an overnight drone attack targeting the presidential residence in Russia's northwestern region of Novgorod.

"On the night of December 28-29, the Kiev regime launched a terrorist attack using 91 long-range strike drones on the state residence of the President of the Russian Federation," Lavrov said.

He added that all incoming drones were shot down by air defense systems of the Russian Armed Forces, and no reports of casualties or damage caused by drone debris were received.

Lavrov emphasized that the attack was carried out amid intensive Russia-U.S. negotiations aimed at resolving the Ukraine crisis.

He warned that such reckless actions would not go unanswered, confirming that the Russian Armed Forces had already identified the targets for retaliatory strikes and set the timing for their execution.

Lavrov also noted that Moscow had no intention of withdrawing from the negotiation process with the United States.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday denied the accusation of the attack, calling it "another lie from the Russian Federation."

He said such claims are intended to justify Russian attacks on Ukraine, including strikes on the capital, as well as Russia's own refusal to take necessary steps to end the crisis.

"They're simply preparing the ground to carry out strikes, probably on the capital and probably on government buildings," he said.

"This alleged 'residence strike' story is a complete fabrication," Zelensky said.

He stressed that Ukraine does not take steps that can undermine diplomatic efforts, but Russia "always takes such steps." 
Some of the highest CD rates are above 4% APY. Not sure where to find them? Learn more about where to get the best CD rates right now.
A Lake City man is facing multiple charges after police said he robbed a store Dec. 23 in the 800 block of NW Main Boulevard. Kobe Latrey Watkins, 25, is facing charges of robbery with a weapon, exposure of sexual organs, grand theft, and criminal mischief.

Police were called to BJs Meat Market, 837 NW Main Blvd. at about 8:50 p.m. in response to a robbery. Employees told the responding officers the suspect was nude except for a covering over his face, a Lake City police news release states.

A description of the suspect and direction of travel were disseminated to responding units, and officers established a perimeter in an attempt to locate the suspect, the news release states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said Watkins was quickly located and detained. He was taken to the hospital for a medical evaluation and booked into the Columbia County jail, the news release states.

>>> 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.
New York City police may decide to charge a man who was found shot in the chest on Sunday night.

The shooting happened just after 10 p.m. Sunday on 57th Street and Sixth Avenue.

Detectives believe the man shot himself and then falsely reported that someone wearing all black shot him.

The 27-year-old man was found with a gunshot wound before officers rushed him to Mount Sinai West for treatment.

He is listed in critical condition but is expected to survive.

Advertisement Advertisement

The man will likely be charged with criminal possession of a weapon and falsely reporting an incident, officials said.

----------

* Get Eyewitness News Delivered

* More Manhattan news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

* Follow us on YouTube



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.
A 36-year-old man was shot and killed on afternoon in downtown Toledo outside of St. Pauls Community Center.

A Toledo police sergeant said video evidence from the scene showed an intoxicated person with a firearm, who allegedly shot the victim after an argument, according to our CBS news affiliate, WTOL.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

The Toledo Police Department responded to a call just after 3 p.m. on Dec. 26 near 13th Street and Madison Avenue and found Andrew Shively suffering from a gunshot wound.

The accused shooter and another person were standing outside the community center when Shively approached.

An argument happened, and the shooter allegedly pulled a gun from his waistband and shot at Shively.

Police said there was a little bit of a struggle before the shooter ran.

Four shell casings were visible at the scene.

Shively was taken to an area hospital, where he died from his injuries.

A suspect is not in custody.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
POLICE ARREST suspect thought to have allowed illegal immigrants through border, November 30, 2025. (photo credit: Police Spokesperson )

According to the police, hundreds of illegal immigrants were allowed into the State of Israel by five security guards working for an independent security company at a road barrier in Givat Ze'ev.

Israel Police have completed their investigation into an organized network working to bring illegal immigrants into Israel, the police announced on Monday.

According to the police, hundreds of illegal immigrants were allowed into the State of Israel by five security guards working for an independent security company at a road barrier in Givat Ze'ev, sidestepping all inspection and security protocols.

Advertisement Advertisement

On November 30, seven suspects (consisting of the five security guards and two residents of the territories) were brought in for interrogation by Israel Police detectives in cooperation with Border Police officers.

Police arrest security guards suspected of allowing illegal residents into Israel, November 30, 2025. (CREDIT: ISRAEL POLICE)

Security guards allow 'free passage' for illegal residents

During the interrogation, it was revealed that Palestinians had come in contact with the security guards, and they had collaborated to allow "free passage" for the illegal immigrants, completely bypassing the security checkpoint. It is thought that the suspects accepted tens of thousands of shekels in bribes in exchange for their collaboration.

On Monday, the police officially completed the interrogation process, and the Attorney-General's Office issued indictments against all seven of the suspects.

"Aid towards illegal immigrants, especially by those who are entrusted with the public's security, poses a direct, severe danger to the safety of Israeli citizens," the police stated. "These are acts that may allow criminal elements to infiltrate the country, harm the public's sense of security, and endanger human lives, all for the sake of money."
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing demands for a British-Egyptian human rights activist to be deported and his UK citizenship to be revoked after social media posts emerged in which he called for Zionists to be killed, prompting criticism of successive British governments that campaigned for his release from prison in Egypt.

Starmer said Friday that he was delighted that Alaa Abd El-Fattah, 44, had arrived in London after the Egyptian government lifted a travel ban that it had imposed on him following his September release from jail in the country, where he spent more than a decade as a political prisoner.

I want to pay tribute to Alaas family, and to all those that have worked and campaigned for this moment, Starmer said, adding that Abd El-Fattahs case had been a top priority for his Labour government since it came to office in the summer of 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

But swiftly after Abd El-Fattahs arrival in London, posts from around 2010 began to circulate in which he said the killing of Zionists is heroic, referred to British people as dogs and monkeys, called White people a blight on the earth, and said the police are not human and should be killed.

Abd El-Fattah has apologized for his shocking and hurtful tweets, which he said were mostly expressions of a young mans anger and frustrations in a time of regional crises and sometimes part of regretful online insult battles. The activist said that in the real world, he had consistently fought for equality and democracy and been stripped of his freedom as a result.

I am shaken that, just as I am being reunited with my family for the first time in 12 years, several historic tweets of mine have been republished and used to question and attack my integrity and values, escalating to calls for the revocation of my citizenship, he said in a statement, adding that some of his posts had been completely misunderstood, seemingly in bad faith.

Opposition parties, the Conservatives and Reform UK, have both called on the government to revoke Abd El-Fattahs British citizenship, which was granted to him in 2021 by the previous Conservative government.

Advertisement Advertisement

It should go without saying that anyone who possesses racist and anti-British views such as those of (Abd El-Fattah) should not be allowed into the UK, Nigel Farage, the leader of right-wing Reform UK, said Sunday in a letter to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.

Although it is understood that Starmer was unaware of Abd El-Fattahs messages when he championed his arrival in the UK, questions have been raised about how they could have gone unnoticed by the right-of-center Conservative government that granted him citizenship and the Labour government that pushed for his release by Egypt.

The government has since suggested the prime minister was unaware of those comments. Unfortunately, such an admission only compounds his ineptitude, said Farage.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, pictured in Liverpool in September, has been criticized for lauding Abd El-Fattah's arrival in the UK. - Ian Forsyth/Getty Images

Alicia Kearns, a Conservative Member of Parliament and the shadow minister for home affairs, also said she was not aware of Abd El-Fattahs grotesque posts. I trusted the process to give Alaa citizenship, and then supported the campaign for his release. I feel deeply let down, and frankly betrayed, having lent my support to his cause which I now regret, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Luke Tryl, director of More in Common, a polling firm, said that, absent a strong explanation from Labour, Abd El-Fattahs case could become a defining moment in public opinion, crystallizing in the minds of some that the government lacks competence and has the wrong priorities.

Although Farage has leapt on Starmers perceived blunder, some have accused the Reform UK leader of hypocrisy, since he has long criticized Labour for what he has described as heavy-handed policing of social media posts.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Strong winds and falling snow led to dangerous driving conditions Monday morning, with crashes and slide-offs reported across West Michigan.

Windy winter storm hits West Michigan Monday

A number of the mornings crashes were reported in Allegan County. In Saugatuck Township, a semi-truck was heading north on I-196 when it crashed through the railing and went onto Old Allegan Road, Fire Chief Greg Janik told News 8. The crash shut down the northbound lanes of the highway and they were expected to remain closed overnight because state road inspectors had to assess whether the bridge sustained structural damage.

The scene of a crash on I-196 in Allegan County. (Dec. 29, 2025)

Traffic conditions

Advertisement Advertisement

Closer to Holland, a jackknifed semi-truck shut down southbound I-196 west of 60th Street, Allegan County Emergency Management said around 9:30 a.m.

In Allendale, a News 8 crew saw a rollover crash on 68th Avenue between Lincoln and Warner streets. The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office was on scene around 9:40 a.m. The driver said the wreck happened after he hit a patch of ice and lost control. Neither the driver nor passenger in the car were injured.

The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025. The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025. The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025. The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025. The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025. The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025. The scene of a crash on 68th Avenue in Allendale on Dec. 29, 2025.

Roads are very slick. Very poor visibility, Allendale Fire/Rescue Department Lt. Scott Harkes said, saying the department had responded to a number of slide-offs and property damage crashes  though none had resulted in injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Stay home if you can. Take it slow, give yourself extra time, Harkes said.

Crews respond to power outages across West Michigan

In Kalamazoo County, snow on the I-96 Business Loop toward the city of Kalamazoo also made for a traction challenge, and downtown roads were snowy, too.

Alvan Allison was heading from Jackson to Grand Rapids with friends to cheer on the Michigan State University hockey team. He said some spots were touch and go in the morning, though conditions were clearer by the early afternoon.

Kind of clear coming into here for the last 3 or 4 miles, but before that, it was pretty intense, Allison said. With the wind, its kind of tough to gauge because youll be driving along and the next thing, youre going this way or this way and youre not sure if its the wind or the roads  but a little bit of both, I think.

Advertisement Advertisement

At Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport, the air traffic control tower was hardly visible Monday morning through the snow and wind. A few flights were delayed, with a Chicago-bound flight canceled ahead of the evening.

Snow obscures the view of the control tower at Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport on Dec. 29, 2025.

Farther north, the Kent County Road Commission says it was working to clear the roads, focusing first on state and county primary roads, as snow continues to fall throughout the day. The road commission warned that high winds can reduce visibility, bring down trees and cause snow to quickly recover the roads.

Steve Roon, director of maintenance and local road construction for KCRC, told News 8 that while crews are making progress clearing the roads, it is important that drivers watch for quickly changing conditions.

(The roads) have improved greatly from earlier this morning to what were seeing now. Our crews efforts are really starting to make a difference, Roon said. We still want to caution motorists that we still have these heavy winds, so you can be driving on some bare pavement for a long stretch and then come across an area thats drifted across and might make for a short distance of some slippery roads.

Muskegon County road crews said the biggest obstacle for plow drivers was the blowing snow.

Advertisement Advertisement

A lot of drifted areas, especially up north and out east, so thats been a little complicated to deal with, Muskegon County Road Commission maintenance superintendent Drew Nichols said.

Sign up for the Storm Team 8 daily forecast newsletter

He said the night crew would be on the lookout for refreezing and drifts  though with snow and winds lessening toward the evening, drifting was not as bad as earlier in the day. He said with more snow and cold temperatures in the forecast for the next few days, crews may rely on more on sand rather than simply salt to treat the roads.

The snow we can deal with. Its the ice that gets a little interesting, Nichols said.

Advertisement Advertisement

News 8s Susan Samples, Josh Sanchez, Rachel Van Gilder and Katherine Wilkison contributed to this report.

Copyright 2026 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 WOODTV.com.
Russian forces are preparing to capture the capital of Zaporizhzhya, a southern Ukrainian region illegally annexed by Moscow and largely under Russian control, President Vladimir Putin said on Monday.

Russian troops are already 15 kilometres south of the border of the regional capital, which is also called Zaporizhzhya, military officials reported at a meeting with Putin.

Putin said the Dnepr and Vostok units are to jointly capture the city.

Advertisement Advertisement

Following its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia occupied most of the southern Ukrainian regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhya as well as the eastern Luhansk and Donetsk regions. Despite illegally annexing them, it does not fully control any of the four regions.

Defence Minister Andrei Belousov described the situation on the battlefield as "very dynamic," saying that the Russian military was currently achieving more than planned.

Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin that forces would now target the contested city of Sloviansk in the Donetsk region.

Operations to fully seize the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhya were going according to plan, he said, adding that Russian forces were advancing deep into the defensive positions of the Ukrainian armed forces.

It is not possible to independently verify the claims. The Ukrainian military recently rejected alleged Russian advances reported by Putin as fabricated.
Vladimir Putin made an impression in both phone calls, but the second was much more ominous than the first.

Before hosting Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Donald Trump had drawn a startling conclusion after listening attentively to the Russian leader for two-and-a-half hours: the Kremlin was desperate for Ukraine to flourish and eager to help make it happen.

But when, following the conclusion of the Mar-a-Lago talks, Putin called back on Monday, his mood had soured.

Advertisement Advertisement

While Mr Zelensky had been busy talking peace, he thundered, the Ukrainians had tried to kill him, purportedly firing drones at one of his residences in northern Russia.

Despite some astonishing language from Mr Trump in Putins defence, the Florida meeting had gone about as well as the Ukrainian president could have hoped. But the drone claim now threatens to derail the process for two reasons. It provides the Kremlin with a pretext to reject the peace deal Mr Trump is attempting to broker, and it gives Moscow an opportunity to persuade a US president often receptive to Russian narratives that Mr Zelensky is the villain.

Indeed, a very angry Mr Trump appeared to support the Kremlin narrative in comments outside Mar-a-Lago on Monday, saying: Its one thing to be offensive because theyre offensive. Its another thing to attack his house. Its not the right time to do any of that.

Credir: Reuters

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kremlin, which said it intercepted all the drones, provided no evidence for the alleged attack, which Mr Zelensky swiftly denounced as a lie. That did not stop Moscow from announcing a sharp shift.

Given the final degeneration of the criminal Kyiv regime, which has switched to a policy of state terrorism, Russias negotiating position will be revised, Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said in a statement, signalling possible retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian government buildings.

How the US president responds to what Kyiv sees as a transparent attempt to sabotage the peace process remains unclear. Even now, after a year of repeatedly being blindsided by the Russian leader, Mr Trump resolutely refuses to think badly of Putin.

If there has been a way to put a positive spin on Putins actions, the US president has invariably found it. He outdid himself after his talks with Mr Zelensky, telling his astonished guest that Putins overriding message was simple: Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed.

Credit: WhiteHouse/Reuters

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Zelensky, who has mastered the art of the poker face in his dealings with Mr Trump, briefly struggled to contain himself as an instinctive  if hollow  laugh escaped his lips.

Mr Trump and his aides have echoed Russian talking points before, but rarely so starkly. In effect, the US president was portraying Russia as having invaded Ukraine more in sorrow than in anger  a regrettable necessity to correct the course of a misguided child.

Mr Zelensky recovered quickly, thanking his host profusely both in person and later online. For all that Mr Trumps instincts again lay exposed, Ukraine and its European allies have made progress in nudging Washington on to a less destructive path. Whether that alignment can now be sustained is in doubt.

Mr Trumps attempts to force through a Ukraine-Russia peace deal follow a familiar pattern. First comes the opener, in which Russian and US positions are almost indistinguishable, accompanied by pressure on Kyiv to accept a humiliating capitulation. Then follows a frantic European scramble to soften the plan, producing a compromise proposal that Moscow duly rejects.

Vladimir Putin raised the claimed drone attack on his official residence with Donald Trump in a call - MIKHAIL METZEL/SPUTNIK/KREMLIN/POOL/EPA/Shutterstock

In the present iteration, the process has reached Act Three. European leaders were sounding upbeat. Mr Trump said a deal was getting a lot closer. Mr Zelensky judged it 90 per cent ready. With its drone claim, however, Putin appears intent on propelling events straight into Act Four: collapse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, not all is lost. Agreement has apparently been reached on providing Ukraine with the Western security guarantees it needs to prevent Russia using a ceasefire to regroup and strike again.

Details remain scant, but the plan envisages a robust, 800,000-strong Ukrainian army, backed by European forces deployed inside and a legally binding, congressionally-approved US security guarantee. How long that guarantee would last remains contested. Mr Trump has suggested 15 years; Mr Zelensky wants up to 50.

The unresolved 10 per cent, however, is the hardest. Mr Zelensky has identified two obstacles. The first is the fate of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, seized by Russia in March 2022.

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in south-eastern Ukraine remains occupied by Russian forces - Alexander Ermochenko/REUTERS

Mr Trumps revised plan proposes joint ownership between Ukraine, the US and Russia. For Mr Zelensky, collaboration with Moscow at Europes largest power station is unworkable. He has instead proposed joint US-Ukrainian control, with Washington free to decide how to use its share of the output. Diplomats believe a compromise remains possible.

Advertisement Advertisement

Far more intractable is the Donbas, where Russia is demanding territory it has failed to seize militarily since first invading Ukraine in 2014.

For Kyiv, surrendering its fortress belt would mean yielding the high ground to Russia and exposing the lowlands to the west. Mr Zelensky has signalled a willingness to demilitarise Ukrainian-held territory  subject to a referendum  but only if Russia withdraws by a similar distance to create a substantial, internationally monitored buffer zone.

Despite optimistic rhetoric, the talks were effectively stalled even before Putins interjection. Any deal that gives Ukraine a credible chance of survival through firm security guarantees and a tolerable settlement in the Donbas is likely to be rejected by the Kremlin, which demands full control of the region and the absence of any Western troops from Ukrainian territory.

The Russian-held nuclear plant is on the front line of the conflict

So long as Mr Trump remains even loosely aligned with Ukraine, Mr Zelensky may have tolerated stalemate. But he knows better than most how mercurial the US president can be  and where his true sympathies lie.

Putin, after all, was welcomed to the United States in August with full ceremony, Mr Trump waiting for him at the end of a red carpet in Alaska. When Mr Zelensky arrived in Florida this weekend, there was no red carpet and no welcome at all. That disparity  and the fragility of the US-Ukrainian relationship it symbolises  will not have been lost on either the Ukrainian or Russian leaders.
Residents in Florida should anticipate new laws coming into effect on January 1, 2026, primarily centered on healthcare, insurance and animal welfare.

These laws provide for fully covered diagnostic breast exams under state health insurance, patient refunds for overcharges, and shorter timelines for insurance claim reimbursements. They also ensure fertility preservation services are covered for state employees diagnosed with cancer.

Healthcare and Insurance

Diagnostic Breast Exams Coverage : State health insurance plans for employees will be banned from requiring additional costs (co-pays or deductibles) for diagnostic and supplemental breast exams, such as MRIs and ultrasounds. These exams will be fully covered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Patient Refunds : Healthcare providers and facilities that overcharge a patient must refund the extra money within 30 days or face potential disciplinary action and fines of up to $500.

Insurance Claim Timelines : The timeframe for health insurance companies and HMOs to require licensed psychologists to repay overpaid claims will be shortened from 30 months to 12 months, aligning with other medical providers.

Fertility Preservation : The state group health insurance program will be required to cover standard fertility preservation services for state employees diagnosed with cancer when treatment might cause infertility.

Animal Welfare

Animal Cruelty Database : The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will launch a publicly accessible, searchable website with the names of individuals convicted of animal cruelty (Dexters Law). This aims to help adoption services screen applicants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Pet Insurance Regulation : Pet insurance is now officially classified as a form of property insurance. Companies must clearly explain how they determine claim payments and disclose rules concerning required medical exams. Consumers have a specific period to review and cancel policies if they wish to do so.

Other Updates

Condominium Association Records : Deadlines will take effect regarding the posting of minutes and video recordings of condominium and cooperative association meetings.

Local Government Impact Fees : Restrictions will be in place that require unanimous approval for ordinances increasing impact fees under certain conditions.

Advertisement Advertisement

For further information and to review the new laws coming into effect in the upcoming year for Florida residents, please visit here.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
AMMAN, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF) on Monday evacuated the 19th group of sick children from the Gaza Strip under the Jordanian Medical Corridor initiative, according to its statement.

Twenty child patients have been evacuated for treatment at Jordanian hospitals, along with 46 companions, in a move coordinated with the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization, the JAF said, as part of Jordan's ongoing humanitarian support for Palestinians.

The same operation also evacuated 30 child patients and 66 companions to the King Hussein Cancer Center for specialized treatment, in coordination with Saudi Arabia, the statement said.

In February, King Abdullah II announced that Jordan is ready to receive up to 2,000 Palestinian children from Gaza for treatment. 
Italy is set to continue to provide military aid to Ukraine next year, after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government signed off on a decree on Monday authorizing continued delivery of weapons and military equipment to Kiev.

Italy is considered one of Ukraine's most reliable partners within NATO. However, the decision on continuing military aid in 2026 originally scheduled for early December had to be postponed following objections from one of the coalition partners.

The right-wing populist League party led by Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called for changes to the text to put greater focus on civilian aid and for arms deliveries to be explicitly labelled as serving defence purposes.

Advertisement Advertisement

The three-party government later agreed on small linguistic changes without significantly amending the contents of the decree, which also provides for the extension of residence permits for some Ukrainians in Italy.

Salvini has grown increasingly critical of military aid for Ukraine. In November, he said sending weapons would not solve the conflict.
MOSCOW/KYIV  Russia accused Ukraine on Monday of trying to attack President Vladimir Putin's residence in northern Russia, although it provided no evidence to back up an assertion that Kyiv dismissed as baseless and designed to undermine peace negotiations.

The angry exchanges  including a statement by Russia that it was reviewing its stance in negotiations in response to the attack  dealt a new blow to prospects for peace in Ukraine.

On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida and said they were "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to an agreement to end the war, although "thorny" territorial issues remained.

Staff and security agents wait for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's arrival to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. A machine-gun mounted U.S. Coast Guard boat turns away recreational boaters in the water near U.S. President Donald TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky checks his cell phone as he arrives to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump invited Zelensky to his private club to work on a U.S.-proposed peace plan to end the war in Ukraine as the conflict approaches four years since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022. President Donald Trump greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy upon his arrival for meetings at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 28: U.S. Donald Trump greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump invited Zelensky to his private club to work on the U.S.-proposed peace plan to end the war in Ukraine, as the conflict approaches four years since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy take questions from the media upon Zelenskiy's arrival for meetings at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. President Donald Trump welcomes Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. News reporters work near U.S. President Donald TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. President Donald Trump, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine and White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, meets with a Ukrainian delegation led by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. President Donald Trump speaks during the meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec.28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump invited Zelensky to his private club to work on the U.S.-proposed peace plan to end the war in Ukraine as the conflict approaches four years since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022. Turkey vultures gather on the sand across the water from U.S. President Donald TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. Trump and Zelenskyy work on Ukraine peace plan at Mar-a-Lago 1 of 11 Staff and security agents wait for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's arrival to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025.

Putin also struck a defiant tone on Monday, telling his army to press on with a campaign to take full control of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, and the Kremlin repeated demands for Kyiv to pull its forces out of the last part of the Donbas area that they still hold in eastern Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Putin told Trump by phone that Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022, was reviewing its stance following the reported drone attack, an aide said.

Lavrov accuses Ukraine, Zelenskyy issues denial

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Ukraine had tried to attack Putin's residence in the Novgorod region west of Moscow on December 28-29 with 91 long-range drones which were all destroyed by Russian air defences. No one was injured and there was no damage, he said in comments reported by Russian media.

"Such reckless actions will not go unanswered," the veteran foreign minister said, describing the attack as "state terrorism" and adding that targets had already been selected for retaliatory strikes by Russia's armed forces.

Lavrov appeared in televised remarks not to have offered any evidence for his assertions. It was not clear where Putin was at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Lavrov noted that the attack took place during negotiations about a possible peace deal, and said Russia would review its negotiating stance but not quit the negotiations.

Denying Ukraine had planned such an attack, Zelenskyy accused Moscow of preparing the ground to strike government buildings in Kyiv, saying Russia wanted to undermine progress at U.S.-Ukrainian talks on ending the war.

"Another round of lies from the Russian Federation," Zelenskyy told reporters via WhatsApp.

"It is clear that we had a meeting with Trump yesterday, and it is clear that for the Russians, if there is no scandal between us and America, and we are making progress  for them it is a failure, because they do not want to end this war."

Advertisement Advertisement

He added: "I am sure they are simply preparing the ground for strikes, probably on the capital, probably on government buildings."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on X the attack was a fabrication intended to create a pretext for more Russian attacks on Ukraine and to undermine the peace process. He urged world leaders to condemn Russia over its accusations.

Territorial issues unresolved

Zelenskyy said a bilateral agreement had been outlined with Trump on security guarantees for Kyiv on Sunday, although the U.S. president said they were only 95% ready and Zelenskyy said on Monday that he had sought a 50-year security deal.

Trump also said he expected European countries to "take over a big part" of security efforts with U.S. backing. Agreement on such moves would be complicated, as Russia has said any foreign troop deployment in Ukraine would be unacceptable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Zelenskyy said on Monday two main issues in a 20-point peace proposal remained to be resolved  control of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, which is in Russian hands, and the fate of the Donbas area.

Russia controls about a fifth of Ukraine, including the Crimean peninsula, which it annexed in 2014.

It claims Donbas  comprising the Donetsk and Luhansk regions  as well as the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, although they are all internationally recognised as Ukraine's sovereign territory.

Russia wants Kyiv to withdraw troops from parts of the Donetsk region it has failed to occupy. Kyiv wants fighting halted along current front lines, and Washington has proposed a free economic zone if Ukraine pulls troops back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Underlining Russia's intention of standing firm on its territorial ambitions, Putin said on Monday his generals should push on with efforts to secure all of Zaporizhzhia region  of which Moscow already controls around 75%.

Colonel-General Mikhail Teplinsky, commander of Russia's Dnieper military grouping, told Putin Russian forces were 9.3 miles from its biggest city, also called Zaporizhzhia.

"In the near future, it is necessary to continue the offensive, together with the East grouping to liberate Zaporizhzhia," Putin responded.

Reporting by Yuliia Dysa, Dan Peleschuk, Olena Harmash, Yurii Kovalenko and Andrii Pryimachenko in Kyiv, and by Moscow newsroom, Writing by Timothy Heritage, Editing by Alexandra Hudson, William Maclean

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Russia says Ukraine tried to attack Putin's residence, Kyiv denies
Russia has repeated claims that Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Monday targeting one of Russian President Vladimir Putins residences, with the military offering new comments on the alleged attack.

The Russian defense ministry also published video of a soldier standing over some drone wreckage.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected the alleged drone attack as a complete fabrication by Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi similarly told Reuters that the footage released by Moscow was laughable and that Kyiv was absolutely confident that no such attack took place.

US President Donald Trump said Putin told him of the alleged attack in a phone call early Monday. Trump indicated that he took Putin at his word before acknowledging that the attack may not have occurred.

On Wednesday, Trump reposted on Truth Social a piece from the New York Post editorial board with the headline: Putin attack bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace. CNN has reached out to the White House.

Others have also cast doubt on the Russian claim.

Advertisement Advertisement

The European Unions foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on Wednesday that it was a deliberate distraction.

Moscow aims to derail real progress towards peace by Ukraine and its Western partners, she wrote on X.

The defense ministry in Moscow said Wednesday that 91 drones had been launched from northern Ukraine against Putins residence near Valdai in the Novgorod region of northwestern Russia.

More than half had been intercepted several hundred kilometers away, the ministry said, without specifying how it knew they were destined for Valdai. The rest had been intercepted over Novgorod between 3 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. local time on Monday, according to the ministry.

Advertisement Advertisement

The ministry published a map purporting to show the path of the drones and where they had been brought down.

It also released a video of a masked soldier standing in the dark next to the wreckage of a drone, saying its high-explosive warhead was filled with a large number of striking elements and was designed to attack civilian targets.

The date and location of the video could not be independently verified.

Another video published by the ministry featured a man described as living close to the presidential residence who said he was woken by the noise.

It was the first time in my life I had heard the sound of missiles, said Igor Bolshakov . I heard it coming from the direction of (Lake Valdai).

Advertisement Advertisement

The heavily fortified Valdai presidential residence is situated on the shores of Lake Valdai.

No social media video has been posted of the drones being intercepted, which is unusual when a substantial attack is carried out far from Russias border with Ukraine.

On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the attack was aimed at sabotaging President Trumps efforts to facilitate a peaceful settlement of the Ukrainian conflict.

Trump has been trying to advance peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, but there are still wide differences between the two sides.

Some Western governments and independent analysts have cast doubt on the claim.

Advertisement Advertisement

Almost a day passed and Russia still hasnt provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraines alleged attack on Putins residence, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Tuesday.

And they wont. Because theres none. No such attack happened, Sybiha posted on X.

Asked Tuesday if Ukraine had spoken with the Trump administration following Russias claims, Zelensky told CNN in a news briefing: Our negotiating team got in touch with the American team. They talked through the details, and we understand that its fake. And, of course, our partners can always use their tech to check that it was fake.

Zelensky indicated Tuesday that talks were continuing on other aspects of a potential agreement, including future security guarantees. He said Ukraine had discussed the possibility of an American troop deployment with Trump and with representatives of the Coalition of the Willing. He stressed that any decision to deploy American troops to Ukraine rests with the US president.

Others cast doubt on Russian claims

The US ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, cast doubt on Russias claims of a drone attack in an interview with Fox Business on Tuesday. Its unclear whether it actually happened, he said. Were going to get to the bottom of the intelligence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier Tuesday, a source close to French President Emmanuel Macron said that there is no solid evidence to corroborate the serious accusations made by the Russian authorities, even after cross-checking information with our partners.

Lithuania, a NATO member bordering northwestern Russia, called Moscows claim a false flag operation aimed at justifying possible strikes on Ukraine.

The circumstances of this alleged strike do not conform to the pattern of observed evidence when Ukrainian forces conduct strikes into Russia, commented the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW), noting the absence of video of air defense operations or statements from local and regional Russian authorities.

The independent Russian media outlet Agentstvo noted Tuesday that the head of the Valdai district had held a live broadcast at 5 p.m. local time Monday, when he did not mention any attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Agentstvo said it was also unable to find reports of any drone attacks in the public social media channels of the 14,000-strong town of Valdai, located 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the residence.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attends a meeting in Moscow on December 24. - Russian Foreign Ministry/Anadolu/Getty Images

On a media call Tuesday, Peskov was asked whether there was any physical evidence of the attack.

I dont think there needs to be any kind of evidence here, given that such a massive drone raid took place and that, thanks to the wellcoordinated work of our air defenses, they were shot down and neutralized, Peskov said.

Zelensky himself is trying to deny it, and many Western media outlets, playing along with the Kyiv regime, are starting to push the line that this supposedly never happened. But these are insane, insane assertions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Putin informed Trump about the alleged drone attack in a call between the two leaders on Monday, and he told the US president that Russia was reviewing its position on peace negotiations as a result, according to Russian state radio, citing a call with Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov.

Asked about the alleged Ukrainian attack ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump told reporters Monday, I dont like it. Its not good.

Trump said that when Putin told him about the alleged attack, I was very angry about it.

In response to a reporters question, Trump added: Youre saying maybe the attack didnt take place. Its possible, too, I guess. But President Putin told me this morning it did.

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked if US intelligence agencies had evidence of such an attack, Trump said: Well find out.

Talks continue

Amid the traded accusations, officials from the US, Ukraine, and Europe discussed plans to advance the peace process in Ukraine in a phone call on Wednesday.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner participated from the US side in the discussion with Ukrainian National Security Secretary Rustem Umerov and national security advisers from the United Kingdom, Germany, and France.

Witkoff said that the call focused on moving the negotiations forward in a practical way, which would include strengthening security guarantees and developing effective deconfliction mechanisms to help end the war and ensure it does not restart.

They also discussed a prosperity package to help Ukraine succeed in a post-war context, Witkoff said.

Ukraine will continue working on solutions that are expected to deliver tangible results in the new year, Umerov said.

In a New Years Eve address, Zelensky said that the peace agreement is 90 percent ready, following a series of discussions with US and European partners.

Still, the remaining 10 percent will determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe, Zelensky said.

He reiterated that Russia will not end its invasion without increased global pressure and that anyone who thinks Ukraine is ready to surrender is deeply mistaken.

Zelensky also argued that signing a weak agreement for the sake of peace would only end up prolonging the war.

Signatures under weak agreements only fuel war. My signature will be under a strong agreement. And that is exactly what every meeting, every call, every decision is about right now, he said.

Ukraines allies will make concrete commitments to protect the country during a meeting of the so-called Coalition of the Willing on January 6, French President Emmanuel Macron said in a New Years Eve address on Wednesday.

The talks would aim to protect Ukraine and ensure a just and lasting peace on our European continent, he added.

The Coalition of the Willing is a group of more than 30 nations, led by France and Britain, that are key Ukrainian allies.

Zelensky previously said that a coalition meeting would take place at the leaders level in France on January 6, following a meeting of European national security advisers on January 3 in Ukraine.

This story has been updated with additional developments.

CNNs Billy Stockwell, Victoria Butenko, Pierre Bairin and Lauren Kent contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The Southern Transition Council (STC) is seen as being backed by the UAE. Although the UAE and Saudi Arabia share many regional interests, they do not always agree on Yemen.

Since Saudi Arabia led an intervention in Yemen against the Houthis in 2015, it has preferred the status quo remain intact, as it has patched things up with Iran and doesnt want more instability. The challenge for Riyadh now is that the Southern Transition Council (STC), which controls areas in Aden and southern Yemen, has been making gains on the ground.

The STC is seen as being backed by the UAE. Although the UAE and Saudi Arabia share many regional interests, they do not always agree on Yemen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Now Riyadh appears increasingly angry at what is happening in Yemen. Saudi Arabia backs Yemen's government, urges separatists to withdraw from seized provinces, France 24 noted on December 28. Saudi Arabia on Saturday said it would back Sanaa's government in any military confrontation with separatist forces in a statement that came a day after reported Saudi air strikes in Yemen's Hadramawt province. The Southern Transition Council (STC) separatists backed by the United Arab Emirates have recently made territorial gains, embarrassing regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia.

Arab News in Saudi Arabia published several articles that illustrate the growing concern in Riyadh.

One analysis says that concern is mounting that Yemen is sliding toward a de facto partition, with rival authorities consolidating control over separate regions.

A DRONE view shows people attending a rally organised by Yemen's main separatist group, the Southern Transitional Council (STC), in Aden, Yemen December 21, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Fawaz Salman)

It goes on to say that In the south, the Southern Transitional Council has expanded its footprint, while Iran-backed Houthi forces remain firmly entrenched in the north. Those fears have intensified in recent weeks, driven by the STCs latest military operation and the widening Red Sea conflict. Together, they raise a central question: Will Yemens decade-long war end in reconciliation, or fracture into competing statelets?

Advertisement Advertisement

Furthermore, it says, on Dec. 23, Rashad Al-Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, the executive body of Yemens internationally recognized government, warned that unilateral actions by the STC were pushing the country toward a dangerous tipping point.

Saudia Arabia responds to tensions in Yemen

Saudi Arabian officials are speaking up. Arab News added that Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman called on the Southern Transitional Council (STC) to respond to Saudi-Emirati mediation efforts and de-escalate tensions in eastern Yemen, urging the group to withdraw its forces from camps in Hadramout and Al-Mahra and hand them over peacefully to local authorities.

Prince Khalid said on X that Saudi Arabias intervention came at the request of Yemens internationally recognized government and aimed to restore state authority across the country through the Decisive Storm and Restoring Hope operations. He said the Kingdom has consistently treated the southern issue as a just political cause that must be resolved through dialogue and consensus, citing the Riyadh Conference and Riyadh Agreement as frameworks that ensured southern participation in governance and rejected the use of force, Arab News added.

This comes as Riyadh also appears concerned about Israels recognition of Somaliland. Somaliland is near Yemen, just across the Gulf of Aden. As such, Riyadh sees both the changes in Yemen on the ground and the recognition as shifting the status quo. Riyadh is conservative and prefers that things not change radically.

Advertisement Advertisement

A third article at Arab News reflects Riyadhs thinking on Somaliland. While several nations, including the UK, Ethiopia, Turkiye, and the UAE, have maintained liaison offices in the capital of Hargeisa, none had been willing to cross the Rubicon of formal state recognition.

The report adds that it perhaps comes as no surprise to seasoned regional observers that Israel has become the first and only UN member state to formally recognize the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign nation.

The report goes on to assert that Israels decision to break this decades-long international consensus is a deliberate departure from the status quo. By taking this step, Israel has positioned itself as the primary benefactor of a state that has long sought a seat at the international table. As Dya-Eddine Said Bamakhrama, the ambassador of Djibouti to Saudi Arabia, told Arab News, such a move is deeply disruptive.
Nearly 12 years after the worlds most baffling aviation riddle began with the disappearance of an airliner and its passengers, seabed explorers are to resume their search for MH370.

State-of-the-art underwater robots will in the coming days begin mapping the abyss of the Indian Ocean, hunting a lost Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 and all 239 people on board.

The expedition by a private company called Ocean Infinity is the latest chapter in an on-off search that has already become the most expensive hunt in aviation history, but after more than a decade, has little to show for it.

Advertisement Advertisement

While previous investigations have been conducted in a blaze of publicity, the latest developments have been comparatively low key, with few disclosures about new information or search areas.

With the support of the Malaysian government, we are resuming the search for the missing aircraft MH370, said a spokesman for the Ocean Infinity.

Due to the important and sensitive nature of this search, formal communications will come through the Malaysian government.

b'

'

Malaysia has added little more, with its transport ministry only saying that there will be an intermittent search lasting a total of 55 days carried out in a targeted area assessed to have the highest probability of locating the aircraft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Family groups and underwater search enthusiasts have in recent days been tracking the movements of a 285ft-long, multi-purpose offshore vessel called Armada 86 05, which is reported to be leading the search.

The Singapore-flagged vessel, which was only completed earlier this year, has been sailing west from Australia into the Indian Ocean.

Ocean Infinity, a UK and US-based marine robotics and survey company, has signed up for the search on a 56m no find, no fee basis.

Ocean Infinity will use Hugin 6000 autonomous underwater vehicles to map the ocean floor in 3D - Kongsberg

While the company will only get paid if wreckage is found, the prestige of solving the mystery may prove even more valuable for an underwater search firm.

Advertisement Advertisement

The company was previously best known for helping locate Ernest Shackletons lost ship Endurance in 2022.

It has already unsuccessfully tried to find the airliner in 2018, spending three months searching without success over 30,000 sq miles of ocean.

The company then began again earlier this year, at a new 5,800 sq mile site, before calling off that operation because of bad weather in April after 22 days.

This weeks resumption, due to begin on Dec 30, will see the company attempt to complete that search.

Ocean Infinity will use Hugin 6000 autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), which can map the ocean floor in 3D at depths of up to 6,000m using sonar, laser, optic and echo sound technology.

Advertisement Advertisement

The orange robots, which resemble large torpedoes, will bounce sound pulses and use laser scans to draw a 3D map of their surroundings.

The Hugin 6000 autonomous underwater vehicle can operate at depths of 6,000m and uses sonar, laser, optic and echo sound technology - Kongsberg

The vehicles are reportedly able to operate at depths of nearly four miles and can keep going for up to 72 hours before they need to be retrieved. Each one can cover up to 42 sq miles a day.

More than a decade of searching has so far turned up almost nothing, except a few small fragments washed ashore along the coast of Africa and on islands in the Indian Ocean.

Officials recover a piece of debris from a Boeing 777 wing at Reunion Island in 2015. Flight MH370 is the only 777 known to be missing in the area - Lucas Marie/Ap

No bodies or large pieces of wreckage have ever been recovered.

Most passengers were Chinese, but there were also citizens from the United States, Indonesia, France, Russia and elsewhere.

Advertisement Advertisement

Those lost include two young Iranians travelling on stolen passports, a group of Chinese calligraphy artists, 20 employees of US tech firm Freescale Semiconductor, a stunt double for actor Jet Li and several families with young children.

I hope the truth will come out soon  the wait has been such a torment for the families, Jiang Hui, whose mother was a passenger on the aircraft, said on social media ahead of the search.

We hope the search on reward can be changed into an open and long-term one, with no fixed end date. The families would be willing to participate in such a reward search.

Malaysian officials inspect a wing flap found at Pemba Island, Tanzania, in 2019 which was identified as part of MH370 - Anadolu

The mystery hangs over not only relatives, but the industry as a whole.

Advertisement Advertisement

Willie Walsh, the former British Airways boss who now leads the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said earlier this month it was essential that we make whatever effort we can to discover the aircraft and to understand what actually happened.

He said: Everybody wants to see that aircraft found and everybody wants to be able to understand what actually happened.

I am sure all of the families involved will welcome the resumption of the search for the aircraft, as everybody in the industry will, because we all want to know what happened.

The plane disappeared from air-traffic radar 39 minutes after departing Kuala Lumpur for Beijing on March 8 2014.

Advertisement Advertisement

The pilots last radio call to Kuala Lumpur  Good night, Malaysian Three Seven Zero  was the last communication before the aircraft crossed into Vietnamese airspace and failed to check in with controllers there.

Minutes later, the planes transponder, which broadcasts its location, shut down. Military radar showed the jet turn back over the Andaman Sea, and satellite data suggested it continued flying for hours, possibly until it ran out of fuel, before crashing into a remote section of the southern Indian Ocean.

Messages to passengers are written on a banner at Kuala Lumpur International Airport to mark the first anniversary of MH370s disappearance - Mak Remissa/EPA

The lack of information and facts has spawned theories ranging from a hijacking to cabin depressurisation or power failure.

There was no distress call, ransom demand, evidence of technical failure or severe weather.

Advertisement Advertisement

Malaysian investigators in 2018 cleared the passengers and crew, but did not rule out unlawful interference. Authorities have said someone deliberately severed communications and diverted the plane.

Australia led a multinational search in the Indian Ocean that ended in January 2017 - Lsis Bradley Darvill/AFP via Getty Images

Australia led a multinational effort, along with Malaysia and China, that ended in January 2017. Australian investigators later said the mystery could not be solved until the aircraft was found and the failure to find it was almost inconceivable and certainly societally unacceptable.

The latest search team will have to deal with not only the lack of clarity about where the aircraft went down, but also the rugged ocean floor.

The ocean floor is a very complicated environment to navigate around, Simon Maskell, professor of autonomous systems at Liverpool University and a former scientific adviser to Ocean Infinity told the Guardian.

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not just flat. Youve got huge mountains, ridges and chasms  and youve got to look everywhere.

You can have the greatest technology in the world, but if you look in the wrong place, its not going to help you.

Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays.
Six ISIL (ISIS) fighters have been killed in a shootout in northwest Turkiye that also left three police officers dead, the Turkish Interior Ministry has said.

In a speech on Monday, Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya said that security forces carried out 108 separate overnight raids on alleged ISIL hideouts across 13 provinces.

One of the raids took place at 2am on Monday (23:00 GMT on Sunday) at a home in Yalova provinces Elmalik village, located south of Istanbul in a residential neighbourhood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Fire was exchanged when officers raided the home, Yerlikaya said, resulting in the deaths of the three officers and the six alleged ISIL fighters. Yerlikaya said that the fighters killed in the attack were all Turkish citizens. Eight policemen and one night watchman were also wounded.

Five women and six children were safely evacuated from the house during the raid, the minister said.

Special forces from nearby Bursa province joined the operation to provide support, including enacting ongoing security measures in the area.

Residents and vehicles were not allowed into the area surrounding the targeted home, broadcaster TRT Haber reported earlier, while the Yalova governorate also suspended classes at five nearby schools.

Increasing focus on alleged ISIL strongholds

Throughout the holiday period, Turkish security forces have intensified their operations targeting the sleeping cells of ISIL across Turkiye, Al Jazeeras Sinem Koseoglu reported from Istanbul.

Advertisement Advertisement

On Thursday, Turkish authorities said they had conducted raids on 124 locations and apprehended 115 ISIL suspects.

Police had received intelligence that operatives were planning attacks in Turkiye against non-Muslims in particular during the holiday period, the Istanbul chief prosecutors office said.

The United States military also carried out extensive strikes against ISIL in neighbouring central and northeastern Syria earlier this month, hitting more than 70 targets. The strikes came a week after two American soldiers and an interpreter were killed in an attack in the Syrian city of Palmyra.

Turkiye, which shares a border with Syria, has expanded its efforts against ISIL in recent years. Turkish authorities say some ISIL operatives relocated to the country in 2019 after the group was vanquished in the parts of Iraq and Syria it then controlled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Previous raids in March had led to the capture of nearly 300 suspected ISIL members across 47 provinces over two weeks.

Between 2013 and 2023, authorities arrested more than 19,000 people for suspected affiliations with the group, according to the Turkish presidency.
More than one million bags of cheese sold at popular stores like Walmart, Target and Aldi have been recalled for possibly containing metal pieces, according to a recently updated Food and Drug Administration (FDA) report.

Ohio-based Great Lakes Cheese Co. initiated the ongoing recall on Oct. 3, stating the affected cheese may be contaminated with metal fragments, which could cause injury if consumed.

The FDA reclassified the recall to a "Class II" on Dec. 1, according to an enforcement report, meaning the food "may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

Advertisement Advertisement

The recalled cheese products were different mixes sold in 31 states under an array of brand names, including store brands such as Good & Gather, Great Value, Publix, Sprouts and Happy Farms.

"All recalled products have been removed from markets and replaced with new products. Further, the products currently on retail shelves are safe to consume and not associated with the October recall," Great Lakes Cheese said in a statement on Dec. 3. "While the status of the recall is marked as ongoing in the enforcement report, our records show all product has been fully removed from store shelves."

Here's what to know about the recall.

Which cheese products were recalled?

The FDA report lists low-moisture part-skim mozzarella shredded cheese, individually packaged in plastic bags, under the following names:

Advertisement Advertisement

Always Save  Shredded, 5 lb., UPC 7003865782

Borden  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 5300007162, 6 or 12/case Thick Cut, 8 oz., UPC 5300007170, 6/case

Brookshire's  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 9282510119 Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 9282510120, 12/case Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 9282510130, 6/case Thick Cut, 8 oz., UPC 9282592197, 12/case

Cache Valley Creamery  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 7495802553

Chestnut Hill  Fancy Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 3225116742

Coburn Farms  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 5193331657 Shredded, 12 oz., UPC 5193321820 Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 5193334257

Econo  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 893800294

Food Club  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 3680045573, 12/case

Food Lion  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 3582609008

Gold Rush Creamery  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 1401401014 Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 1401401030

Good & Gather  Fine Cut, 8 oz., UPC 8523903860 Classic, 8 oz., UPC 8523903849 Classic, 32 oz., UPC 8523903852

Great Lakes Cheese  Shredded, 5 lb., UPC 3651415034

Great Value  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 7874237425

Happy Farms by Aldi  Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 4061463330864 Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 4061463369413, 8/case

H-E-B  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 4122022272 Thick, 8 oz., UPC 4122061295, 12/case Shredded/Fancy Finamente Rallado, 8 oz., UPC 4122006759 (Mexico only)

Hill Country Fare  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 4122018977 Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 4122016234 Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 4122042334 Shredded, 5 lb., UPC 4122082998 Shredded/Rallado, 8 oz., UPC 4122024512 (Mexico only)

Know & Love  Fine Cut, 8 oz., UPC 788030650 Fine Cut, 16 oz., UPC 788030657, 12/case Classic Cut, 8 oz., UPC 788030659, 12/case Classic Cut, 32 oz., UPC 788030658, 6/case Thick Cut, 8 oz., UPC 788030678, 12/case

Laura Lynn  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 8685401031 Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 8685400824 Shredded, 12 oz., UPC 8685400815 Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 8685406528 Thick Cut Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 8685407109

Lucerne Dairy Farms  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 2113004867 Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 2113004259 Shredded Family Size, 32 oz., UPC 2113004741 Rustic Cut, 8 oz., UPC 2113004944 Rustic Cut Family Size, 32 oz., UPC 2113004949

Nu Farm  Fancy Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 3104100151

Publix  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 4141511665 Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 4141523365

Schnuck's  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 4131858010

Simply Go  Classic Cut Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 1015983021 Classic Cut Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 1015983020 Rustic Cut Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 1015983040

Sprouts Farmers Market  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 4667052284 Shredded Value Pack, 32 oz., UPC 4667052279

Stater Bros. Markets  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 7417546413 Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 7417546402 Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 7417546435

Sunnyside Farms  Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 1754450204

Italian-style shredded cheese blend (low-moisture part-skim mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, romano, fontina, and asiago cheese), individually packaged in a plastic bag under the following names:

Happy Farms by Aldi Italian Style shredded cheese blend (low-moisture part-skim mozzarella, not-smoked provolone, romano, asiago & parmesan finely shredded cheeses) 12 oz., individually packaged in a plastic bag, UPC 4061463330949

Brookshire's Italian 6-Cheese  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 9282510174

Cache Valley Creamery Six Cheese Italian  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 7495800257

Coburn Farms Italian Style  Finely Shredded, 12 oz., UPC 5193365638

Great Value Italian Style  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 7874201566 Finely Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 7874203979

Know & Love Italian Style  Fine Cut, 8 oz., UPC 788030645

Laura Lynn Italian Blend  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 8685405157

Publix Italian Six Cheese Blend  Fancy Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 4141518065

Simply Go Italian Style Six Cheese Blend  Fine Cut Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 1015983015

Pizza-style shredded cheese blend (containing low-moisture part-skim mozzarella and mild cheddar cheeses), individually packaged in a plastic bag, sold under the following names:

Advertisement Advertisement

Food Club Finely Shredded Pizza Style Four Cheese Blend (low-moisture part-skim mozzarella, not-smoked provolone, parmesan & romano cheeses) 8 oz., packaged individually in a plastic bag, UPC 3680017231

Econo Pizza  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 893800297

Food Club Pizza Style Two Cheese Blend  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 3680012422 Shredded, 32 oz., square-style bag, UPC 3680044487 Shredded, 32 oz., tube-style bag, UPC 3680048197

Gold Rush Creamery Pizza Blend  Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 1401401030

Great Value Pizza Blend  Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 538818789

Laura Lynn Pizza Blend  Finely Shredded, 8 oz., UPC 8685402132

Simply Go Pizza Blend Two Cheese Mix  Classic Cut Shredded, 32 oz., UPC 1015983022

Mozzarella and provolone shredded cheese blend (containing low-moisture part-skim mozzarella and not-smoked provolone cheeses), individually packaged in a plastic bag, sold under the following names:

Freedom's Choice Pizza Blend  Fine-Cut, 32 oz., UPC 4279810410

Good & Gather Mozzarella & Provolone  Classic, 8 oz., UPC 8523903871

Great Lakes Cheese Mozzarella & Provolone  Shredded, 5 lb., UPC 3651415115

Great Value Provolone & Mozzarella Blend  Shredded, 16 oz., UPC 7874226743

Mozzarella & Parmesan shredded cheese blend, individually packaged in a plastic bag, sold under the following names:

Advertisement Advertisement

Good & Gather Mozzarella & Parmesan shredded cheese blend  Fine Cut, 8 oz., UPC 8523903856

Where were the recalled cheeses sold?

According to the FDA, the cheese was distributed in the following U.S. states and Puerto Rico:

Alabama

Arkansas

Arizona

California

Colorado

Florida

Georgia

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Minnesota

Missouri

Mississippi

North Carolina

Nebraska

New Mexico

Nevada

New York

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

South Carolina

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington

Wisconsin

What to do with recalled cheeses?

Any households with any of the affected items from October in their refrigerators or freezers should discard the product or return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund, Great Lake Cheese said.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Cheese sold at Walmart, Target, Aldi recalled. See bad food list
St. Francis police need the public's help to locate a possibly armed and missing military veteran.

Authorities issued a "green alert" for Matthew D. Zens, 40, after he went missing around 12:45 p.m. on Dec. 28. Green alerts are issued for missing veterans who have a service-related health condition.

Zens was last seen at a home on the 3100 block E Koenig Avenue in St. Francis.

Police say he is currently going through a breakup of a 2 1/2 year relationship and was not it handling well.

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Milwaukee man previously convicted in a fatal crash dies after being shot following another crash

A Glock G43X also was missing from the residence, and Zens did not show up for work at his job in Germantown on Dec. 29, according to a statement from St. Francis police.

More: Shooter gets 50-year prison term in death of Milwaukee security guard

Zens' family told St. Francis police he likes to drive around to de-stress.

His vehicle, a silver 2018 Toyota Camry, was last seen on Flock, a system of automated license plate reader cameras, on Dec. 28 at 7:32 p.m. at West Good Hope Road and North Teutonia Avenue in Milwaukee.

Matthew Zens is the subject of a Dec. 29, 2025, "green alert," which is issued when a missing veteran is at risk.

His Wisconsin license plate number is AAR-5179.

Advertisement Advertisement

If you have any information about this alert, contact St. Francis police at 414-481-2232.

Chris Ramirez covers courts for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He can be reached at caramirez@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: St. Francis police need help finding distraught missing veteran
Getty Images

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has taken a strong stance against many of the Trump administrations policies since President Donald Trumps inauguration in January  ranging from food assistance to birthright citizenship to data access across federal departments.

According to the Department of the Attorney General website, there are 40 lawsuits that Nessel has been a part of in 2025  not including amicus briefs  that are suing the federal government in some capacity. Heres where they all stand.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel speaks at a press conference on her lawsuit, alongside 25 other state attorneys general and governors, for a restraining order on the pause for SNAP benefits on Nov. 1. Oct. 29. | Photo by Katherine Dailey/Michigan Advance.

Court order in favor of states/Permanent injunction

Agency dismantling: Rhode Island, et al. v. Trump, IMLS, et al.

This lawsuit was filed to challenge the dismantling of multiple federal agencies  the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness.

Advertisement Advertisement

A preliminary injunction was granted to the states in May, and in November, the district court granted the states summary judgment and permanently halted the dismantling of these particular agencies. The U.S. Department of Justice had filed an appeal to the preliminary injunction, but voluntarily dismissed that appeal four days after the court order in favor of the states.

Wind energy: New York, et al. v. Trump, USA, Dept. of Interior, et al.

This lawsuit challenged policies by the U.S. Department of the Interior that would halt projects intended to develop wind energy around the U.S., including federal approvals for those projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

The states won their case on Dec. 8, after a judge vacated the orders that had been issued by the federal government that were halting the approvals, allowing those approvals to begin again.

Department of Transportation grant stipulations: California, et al. v. U.S. DOT, Duffy, et al.

This case challenged new stipulations added to funding from the Department of Transportation that would impose immigration enforcement actions on grants that otherwise had nothing to do with immigration.

A preliminary injunction was issued in June, and the issue was closed in November after the U.S. Department of Transportation was permanently enjoined from conditioning federal transportation funding on acceptance of immigration enforcement terms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program: Washington, et al. v. FEMA, et al.

This lawsuit challenged the decision to shut down the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) bipartisan Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program (BRIC), which was designed to preemptively assist communities in preparing for natural disasters.

The court issued a preliminary injunction in August, and in December, the court ruled in favor of the states and stopped FEMA from ending the BRIC program.

Department of Energy funding support: New York, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Energy, Wright, et al.

Advertisement Advertisement

This case sued the U.S. Department of Energy for a policy shift that would eliminate funding supports for states to cover administrative costs and staffing, which had historically been covered by funding programs.

The court ruled in November to permanently enjoin the government from implementing those funding rules, and vacated the policy that had sent them in place.

Mental health programs in schools: Washington, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Education, McMahon, et al.

This lawsuit challenged the decision by the U.S. Department of Education to cut congressionally approved funding for mental health programs in K-12 schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

The court issued a preliminary injunction in October, and the Department of Education filed an appeal of that injunction in November. On Dec. 22, U.S. District Court Judge Kymberly Evanson of the Western District of Washington granted the states summary judgment motion and ordered the two sides to meet and agree on a timeline for the Department to make lawful continuation decisions.

Preliminary injunction/Temporary restraining order

Public health grants: Colorado, et al. v. HHS, RFK Jr., et al.

This lawsuit was filed to challenge over $11 billion in cuts by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including over $379 million that would go to Michigan.

Advertisement Advertisement

A temporary restraining order was issued by a judge in April, and a preliminary injunction was issued in May, halting the federal governments action. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services filed an appeal in July, but voluntarily rescinded that appeal shortly after.

Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund: New York, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Education, McMahon, et al.

This lawsuit was filed to prevent the U.S. Department of Education from rescinding an extended deadline for states to access money from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, which was created during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Preliminary injunctions were granted to the states in May and again in June, after the department again tried to move the deadline back. The Department of Education filed for a stay on those injunctions, which was denied, and the departments appeal was voluntarily dismissed in August.

AmeriCorps: Maryland, et al. v. AmeriCorps, et al

This case challenged the layoffs and cancellations of the majority of AmeriCorps staff and positions, including all of the AmeriCorps positions in Michigan.

A preliminary injunction in favor of the states was issued in June, which reinstated many of the programs. However, the Office of Management and Budget withheld funding until the OMB was added as an additional defendant in the case. After the states filed for a second injunction against the OMB, the office agreed to fully release previously withheld funds, and states withdrew their second injunction request.

Advertisement Advertisement

Immigration requirements for safety net: New York, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Justice, et al.

This lawsuit challenged new requirements within the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, which would require verification of citizenship or immigration status for individuals before they can access dozens of state safety net programs.

A preliminary injunction was granted in the case in September  the government appealed that decision, but withdrew the appeal later. Briefings for the courts final ruling will happen throughout spring 2026.

SNAP data sharing: California, et al. v. USDA, et al.

Advertisement Advertisement

This case involves proposed data sharing requirements from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, giving data to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, looking for information on SNAP recipients for purposes of immigration enforcement.

The court granted a preliminary injunction that blocked the Department of Agricultures demand from states from sharing data on SNAP with DHS and ICE and prevented the department from withholding funding from states that did not comply.

Sexual health education funding: Washington, et al. v. HHS, RFK Jr., et al.

This lawsuit challenged the attempt by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to remove funding from states for teen reproductive and sexual health education programs unless the states removed language that was inclusive of gender identity from the curriculum.

A preliminary injunction was granted in October, and briefings for the final decision will be scheduled throughout spring 2026.

SNAP funding: Massachusetts, et al. v. USDA

This case challenged the U.S. Department of Agricultures decision not to use contingency funding and other funding sources to continue providing SNAP benefits for the month of November to recipients during the 2025 government shutdown, which stretched from October to mid-November.

On Nov. 12, the court issued a temporary restraining order and prevented the USDA from taking action against states that had provided full SNAP benefits to recipients in November. Shortly after this, the shutdown ended and SNAP benefits were released.

HUD Continuum of Care: Washington, et al. v. HUD

This case challenged changes to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developments Continuum of Care grant program, which reduced funding for permanent housing options and imposed ideological barriers on grant recipients, such as barring recipients from acknowledging gender identity.

A preliminary injunction was granted on Dec. 19, after HUD rescinded the Notice of Funding Opportunity that the states were challenging.

SNAP eligibility: New York, et al. v. USDA

This case sought to overturn a policy from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that would essentially eliminate access to SNAP food assistance benefits for all non-citizens, even certain legal residents who had previously been eligible, such as those with refugee status.

The court granted a preliminary injunction to the states on Dec. 15, halting the policy.

Preliminary injunction, under appeal

Federal funding to states: New York, et al. v. Donald J. Trump, et al.

This case was filed to stop a directive from the Office of Management and Budget that sought to halt all disbursement of federal funding to states  which included money for programs like Medicaid as well as public schools and law enforcement. A preliminary injunction was issued on March 6, but a month later, it was ruled that the federal government had not been complying with that injunction specifically in terms of FEMA disaster relief funding.

The decision on FEMA funding has been appealed, and a decision is forthcoming in the First Circuit Court of Appeals.

Medical research funding: Massachusetts, et al. v. NIH

This lawsuit was filed to challenge the decision to halt billions of dollars in medical research funding at the National Institutes of Health. This included research being conducted at the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and Wayne State University.

A preliminary injunction was issued in March, and in April the federal government appealed that decision. Oral arguments have been held in the First Circuit Court of Appeals.

Election executive action: California, et al. v. Trump, Bondi, et al.

This lawsuit challenged an executive order issued by Trump that would institute sweeping voting restrictions, including proof of citizenship measures and new requirements on ballot counting.

A preliminary injunction was granted by federal district court in June, and the U.S. Department of Justice filed an appeal in July. A motion to dismiss by the federal government was denied by the court in September, and the case is still ongoing.

Dismantling the Department of Health and Human Services: New York, et al. v. RFK Jr., HHS, et al.

The lawsuit challenged the decision by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to fire around 10,000 federal employees and consolidate agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services.

The states were granted a preliminary injunction in July. The Department of Health and Human Services first attempted to vacate the injunction in district court and then appealed the injunction in the First Circuit Court of Appeals, but after the appellate court denied a stay, they withdrew their appeal. However, the departments motion to dismiss is still open in district court.

FEMA grant stipulations: Illinois, et al. v. FEMA, Homeland Security, et al.

This case challenged new stipulations added to funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency that would impose immigration enforcement actions on grants that otherwise had nothing to do with immigration.

The district court issued a permanent injunction in September, barring the federal government from enforcing the immigration enforcement term in the agencies grants. FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security filed an appeal of that decision in November, which is pending.

Medicaid data transfer: California, et al. v. HHS, RFK Jr., et al.

This case involves proposed data transfer from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, specifically the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. DHS and ICE sought records of Medicaid beneficiaries for purposes of immigration enforcement.

A preliminary injunction was granted in August. However, HHS and DHS announced in November that they intended to attempt again to transfer this data, and the states moved for a second injunction against that action. The court extended the first injunction through Jan. 5, 2026, to allow for consideration of that new motion.

Planned Parenthood funding: California, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, et al.

This lawsuit challenged the Defund Provision of Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill that passed this summer, which would block Medicaid reimbursements for services such as cancer screenings, birth control and STI testing at Planned Parenthood health centers.

A preliminary injunction was granted to the states on Dec. 2, but the government filed a motion to stay the injunction pending appeal six days later, which was immediately granted by the First Circuit Court of Appeals, which will rule on the motion further.

Appealed

Birthright citizenship: New Jersey, et al. v. Donald J. Trump, et al.

First filed the day after Trumps inauguration, this lawsuit is challenging an executive order that sought to overturn birthright citizenship. The case alleges a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment, which guarantees birthright citizenship.

While a preliminary injunction was initially granted, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in June that federal district courts were limited in their ability to issue a nationwide injunction. The injunction is under appeal, but those proceedings are paused as the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a related case on birthright citizenship, Barbara v. Trump, sometime in 2026.

Filed

Consumer protection: New York, et al. v. Russell T. Vought, et al.

This case seeks to stop the complete defunding of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, whose current acting director, Russel Vought, is refusing to request any funding from the Federal Reserve, which plaintiffs argue will virtually guarantee the agency runs out of money in January 2026.

The case was filed Dec. 22, 2025 in U.S. District Court in Eugene, Oregon.

Title VI: New York, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Education, McMahon, et al.

This case is challenging the Trump administrations interpretation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, specifically in regards to its interpretation of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

The case was filed in April, and briefings are scheduled through spring 2026 with a hearing set on June 4, 2026.

Energy emergency: Washington, et al. v. Trump, et al.

This lawsuit is challenging the Trump administrations declaration of an energy emergency, which has dictated energy policy and prioritized the use of energy sources like coal, oil and gas as opposed to wind, solar and batteries.

The case was filed in May and remains open.

Agency priorities: New Jersey, et al. v. OMB, et al

This case called into question the legality of the Office of Management and Budget, along with other federal agencies, cancelling grants to states based on shifts in agency priorities.

The case is still in court, and briefings were completed on Dec. 5.

Affordable Care Act marketplace: California, et al. v. RFK Jr., et al.

This lawsuit alleged that a new rule established by the Department of Health and Human Services regarding the enrollment for the Affordable Care Act truncates and eliminates enrollment periods, makes enrollment more difficult, [and] adds eligibility verification requirements, and as such is against the law.

The states filed for a preliminary injunction, which was denied in October. Briefings for the final ruling on the case will go through spring 2026.

Transgender youth health care: Massachusetts, et al. v. Trump, et al.

This case sued the Trump administration for attempting to restrict access to necessary health care for transgender, intersex, and nonbinary youth, including through threats of criminal prosecution for parents and doctors.

The case was filed in August.

Electric vehicle infrastructure: Washington, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Transportation, et al.

This lawsuit challenged the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration policy to suspend the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, which provided federal funding to states to develop their electric vehicle infrastructure.

Michigan joined the case on Aug. 1, and oral arguments are expected Jan. 13, 2026.

Solar for All program: Maryland Clean Energy Center v. USA; Arizona, et al. v. EPA

These two lawsuits, one in the Court of Federal Claims and one in U.S. District Court, challenged the cancellation of the Solar For All program, which was intended to provide solar energy to more than 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

Both cases were filed in October, and in district court, a hearing for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2026.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness program: Massachusetts, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Education

This lawsuit challenged new restrictions on eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which forgives student loans for government and nonprofit employees after ten years of service. The restrictions would eliminate eligibility for any nonprofit organization that the government deemed to have a substantial illegal purpose.

The case was filed in November, and briefings are expected through spring 2026.

FEMA grants: Michigan, et al. v. Noem

This lawsuit challenged new funding terms for the Emergency Management Performance Grant and the Homeland Security Grant Program, both intended to be used for disaster response and preparedness, to limit direct access to funding by state and local police and emergency personnel  who are the people usually using the money from FEMA.

The lawsuit was filed in November, and a hearing was held on Dec. 17 on a motion for summary judgment.

H-1B Visas: California, et al. v. Kristi Noem, et al.

This lawsuit argued that a new policy imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions is illegal, which are visas for highly specialized workers such as doctors and researchers.

The lawsuit was filed in December.

Dismissed

DOGE: New Mexico, et al. v. Elon Musk, et al.

This case challenged Elon Musks authority, in his role heading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to stop federal funding for various programs and eliminate the actions of a number of government agencies. Specifically, the case challenged it on grounds of the constitutional powers of Congress to appropriate money.

The states voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit on Dec. 15. Though there is not an official reason in the court filings, Bloomberg reported that it was because Musk had left the agency and its work had essentially stopped.

Federal employee layoffs: Maryland, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, et al.

This lawsuit was brought after the decision to institute Reduction in Force, or RIF, layoffs in a number of federal agencies that laid off thousands of government employees. The lawsuit stated that, because this would increase unemployment, states would now be required to pay out significantly higher amounts of unemployment benefits and Medicaid.

The case was dismissed after the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the states did not have standing and did not prove a significant enough harm.

Education Department reduction: New York, et al. v. Linda McMahon, et al.

This lawsuit was filed to challenge what the states alleged to be an attempt to dismantle and eliminate the Department of Education by the Trump administration under Education Secretary Linda McMahon.

The case was initially granted a preliminary injunction in May, but in July, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled, in a brief and unsigned order, to overturn that injunction, which eventually led to dismissal of the states appeal of that decision and the injunction being vacated in October.

Machine gun conversion devices: New Jersey, et al. v. Bondi, ATF, et al.

This case called into question the policy of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives that included plans to distribute thousands of machine gun conversion devices, which turn semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic weapons.

The states withdrew their motions after the ATF expressly confirmed to a judge that it would not follow through on that policy.

Education funding freeze: California, et al. v. Linda McMahon, et al.

The lawsuit challenged the Trump administrations decision to freeze funding to six longstanding programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education, which totalled over $6 billion to go to states for education programs.

Weeks after the case was filed, the administration released the frozen funding. Both sides of the case filed to dismiss the case, after an agreement that the remaining funding for the fiscal year would be released on time, which the court agreed to.

Victims of Crime Act funds: New Jersey, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Justice, Bondi, et al.

This case challenged new stipulations added to funding intended to be used for the Victims of Crime Act that would impose immigration enforcement actions on grants that otherwise had nothing to do with immigration.

After this case was filed, the Department of Justice dropped these plans to enact such policies.

Victims of Crime Act grants: New York, et al. v. U.S. Dept. of Justice, Bondi, et al.

This lawsuit challenged new policies on funding from the Victims of Crime Act and the Violence Against Women Act that would restrict the use of grant funds to provide some legal services for certain immigrants.

The case was dismissed after the Department of Justice said that it would not impose the restrictions on grants in question.
BEIRUT, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Egypt will help Lebanon ease its chronic electricity shortages through cooperation in natural gas, visiting Egyptian Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Karim Badawi said Monday.

"Egypt attaches great importance to the energy file in Lebanon," Badawi said after meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, according to a statement released by the Lebanese Presidency.

Egypt is ready to "provide all possible support to Lebanon through its expertise" in gas exploration, production and supply for power generation, among others, Badawi said, adding that joint working groups have been formed between ministries of the two countries in this regard.

For his part, Aoun welcomed the move, describing a recently-signed bilateral memorandum on natural gas for electricity as a practical and essential step to help Lebanon increase power production and reduce nationwide rationing, read the statement.

Lebanon has long suffered severe electricity shortages, relying heavily on private generators. The cooperation with Egypt is seen as key to stabilizing the country's energy sector. 
Stephen Millers rant about a self-loathing America was swamped by online backlash as critics lined up to credit immigrants with Americas biggest leaps.

Miller, 40, Donald Trumps deputy chief of staff for policy and hardliner immigration czar, fired off a late-night X post on Sunday, complaining that the modern world does not match what our ancestors imagined because America and the West supposedly spent generations in a vast, consuming project of self-loathing, self-denigration and the redistribution of our national resources.

It followed an earlier post from the previous evening, where Miller wrote: Someone should write an alternate historical novel where Americans are the first to master the automobile, the first in flight, the first to harness the atom, the first to land on the moonbut just keep going and never open our borders to the entire third world for sixty years."

Advertisement Advertisement

Suggesting that technological advances had faded away due to immigration, hed added: For those who dont know, the U.S. had negative migration for the half century between the first nonstop transatlantic flight and the moon landing.

One of Stephen Miller's posts that drew criticism for his reading of history. / X

But Millers reading of history was derided for being myopic, misleading, and hypocritical, since Miller himself is a descendant of Jewish immigrants who fled persecution abroad and built a successful life for themselves.

Jon Favreau, Barack Obamas former speechwriter and a host of Pod Save America, led the pile-on. Youre only here because America decided to welcome your family when they were refugees fleeing poverty and violence, he replied, before skewering Miller as a rich kid from California who rose through elite schools into an administration run by insanely rich elites whove made themselves even richer through open corruption.

Maybe, since youre in charge of it, you can take some responsibility for the modern world not looking like what your ethnic minority refugee ancestors might have imagined, he wrote.

Pod Save America host Jon Favreau pointed out the hypocrisy in Miller's rant. / X

Journalist Mehdi Hasan, who runs media outlet Zeteo, urged Miller to learn to use Google, which he noted would have easily shown that an Egyptian-American Muslim scientist named Dr. Farouk El-Baz helped pick Apollo landing sites and train astronauts for NASAs moon-landing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Others also rebutted Miller on his technological timeline. Several X users rattled off a list of immigrant innovators behind iconic breakthroughs, from German engineer Karl Benzs car to Italian-born physicist Enrico Fermis work on the atom, reminding Miller that Neil Armstrong was also the descendant of European immigrants.

They noted that without immigrant scientists and engineers, America would not have reached the moon, developed color TV, or built much of its modern economy.

Some users argued that postwar foreign aid was not self-denigration, but an assertion of strength aimed at helping weaker nations adapt American values. Another pointed out that Millers redistribution of resources to the undeveloped world argument collapses under basic arithmetic, noting that foreign aid is roughly 1 percent of federal spending.

Journalist Mehdi Hassan used Google to undermine Miller's point. / X

Millers posts also revived a long-running charge of hypocrisy against him.

Advertisement Advertisement

As Trumps immigration policy lead, and the driving force behind the administrations 3,000 daily deportations target, Miller has pushed for mass arrests, drastic cuts to refugee admissions, and the rollback of protections for more than a million peoplepolicies critics say would have barred families like his from ever arriving.

Miller has a reading of history that fits his agenda. / Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images

Millers own cousin, Alisa Kasmer, condemned his anti-immigration crusade earlier this month, saying their Jewish great-grandparents had fled persecution and successfully rebuilt their lives in the United States. Kasmer accused him of trying to take away the exact thing that his own family benefited from.

The Daily Beast has contacted Miller for comment.
(The Center Square)  The suspect in the Jan. 6 pipe bombs left outside the Republican National Committee and Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, D.C., has confessed, according to officials.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced Monday that her office has filed court documents indicating that the accused, Brian Cole Jr., admitted that he was responsible for the devices and gave a detailed confession to the charged offenses.

Pirro added that Cole told law enforcement officials that he was frustrated with both political parties, leading up to the planting of the devices on the evening of Jan. 5, 2021, the night before the Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Cole was arrested earlier this month at his home in Woodbridge, Va., approximately 20 miles south of the nations capital, after a nearly five-year investigation.

The suspect was arrested for transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce, as well as the attempted malicious destruction by means of explosive materials, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said during a U.S. Department of Justice news conference Thursday following the arrest.

A criminal complaint noted that the FBI had examined Coles credit card purchases, searching for components allegedly used to make the two bombs.

At the time of the arrest, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said investigators hadnt discovered any new information that led to Coles arrest, but instead combed through existing data, tips and evidence leading to the latest development.

Advertisement Advertisement

The undetonated pipe bombs were planted on the eve of the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riots, according to video footage. The RNC and DNC headquarters, located in Southwest D.C., are within blocks of each other, just south of the Capitol.

Investigators indicated the explosive devices were homemade, which included black powder and a kitchen timer. Surveillance footage from the scenes appeared to show an individual wearing sweats, Nike shoes, a hoodie and a mask. In addition, the footage appeared to show the explosives were placed between 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 5, 2021.

Earlier this year, the FBI offered a $500,000 reward for fresh information leading to the arrest of the person suspected of planting the bombs in hopes of a breakthrough as the investigation appeared stalled.

During a news conference following the arrest, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino was credited for spearheading the investigation by FBI Director Kash Patel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre not going to walk into our capital city, put down two explosive devices and walk off in the sunset. Not going to happen," Bongino said. "We were going to track this person to the end of the earth. We didnt have to track him to the end of the earth. It wound up in Woodbridge, Virginia.

Darren Cox, assistant director in charge of the FBI's Washington Field Office, said investigators evaluated three million lines of data during the investigation. Bongino told reporters that forensic data eventually led to the breakthrough.
In the days after Christmas Eve, a Texas family clung to desperate hope they would be reunited with their missing teenager  even as they waited in grueling uncertainty while investigators worked around the clock searching for her.

That hope gave way to grief on Wednesday as the intensive, weeklong search came to a tragic end when authorities confirmed 19-year-old Camila Mendoza Olmos, who went missing near San Antonio, was found dead near her home.

The manner of death was ruled to be suicide, the Bexar County Sheriffs Office said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Her family never stopped asking for prayers that this holiday season would end in joy, pleading for the teens safe return.

I thought I would find her like other times, walking, and we would come home together, her mother, Rosario Olmos, said in Spanish to CNN affiliate KENS the day after Mendoza Olmos went missing.

The teenager had a family that loves her and a life to live, said her mother.

I miss her. Daddys waiting for her at home, her father, Alfonso Mendoza, had told CNN affiliate KSAT.

Friends, too, had to endure an agonizing week as they searched for the missing teen.

Weve gone day and night, scraping our legs, not eating, just helping, Camila Estrella, one of Mendoza Olmos best friends, told CNN affiliate WOAI.

Advertisement Advertisement

The family is now requesting the public to respect our pain and continue to pray for them during this incredibly difficult time, Nancy Olmos, who said shes the cousin of the 19-year-olds mother, wrote in a Facebook post Wednesday.

How the weeklong search unfolded

Members of Mendoza Olmos community had lined up with maps and a drone to try to solve the mysterious disappearance. Dozens of volunteers helped to search for her over the holiday as Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the teenager could be in imminent danger.

Authorities continued urging residents to share any available video that could help aid in their search.

Mendoza Olmos was last seen on a neighbors surveillance camera just before 7 a.m. on Christmas Eve outside her house. After she was seen looking inside her vehicle, the footage ends, according to the sheriffs office, and there is no clear sign of where she went after that.

Advertisement Advertisement

As a Ring camera, it stops when it stops detecting motion, Estrella told WOAI. Thats all we saw of her, just opening the back of her car door.  We have nothing to trace her with.

Family members and investigators say theyre not sure why she was looking inside the car. Since the vehicle was left behind, they believe she left the neighborhood on foot.

The sheriffs office released a second video Monday showing what investigators believe is the last confirmed sighting of the teen. Dash-cam footage shared by a driver on their way to work around 7 a.m. on Christmas Eve shows a pedestrian believed to be Mendoza Olmos walking northbound on Wildhorse Parkway, between Shetland Wind and Caspian Spring.

The notice of Mendoza Olmos disappearance was issued as a CLEAR Alert. In Texas, that requires investigators to believe that the missing person is in imminent danger of bodily injury or death or the disappearance is involuntary such as an abduction or kidnapping, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Advertisement Advertisement

Salazar had told CNN on Monday they cant rule anything out at this point in the investigation.

Camila Mendoza Olmos appears to have had her car keys with her when she disappeared, but didn't take the vehicle or her cellphone, authorities say. - Bexar County Sheriff's Office

A heartbreaking ending

As the news of Mendoza Olmos disappearance spread across the community, the search efforts grew intense.

Authorities in Nuevo Leon, Mexico  where Mendoza Olmos has some family  had even put out a missing persons flyer about the teen, according to a post on the missing persons division of the Nuevo Leon Attorney Generals office Facebook page and her aunt, Celia Nora Olmos Sanchez, who lives locally.

Her mother told CNN affiliate KWEX she doesnt think her daughter would voluntarily leave with a stranger. Camis not like that, Olmos said. Cami is very careful.

Advertisement Advertisement

A confusing trail of information was left for investigators to follow. Mendoza Olmos appears to have had her car keys with her when she disappeared, even though she didnt take the car.

The teen left behind her cellphone and an iPad, according to authorities. Without a cellphone to monitor her movements, local and federal investigators had been looking for other evidence of where Mendoza Olmos may have gone, such as outbound flights and border crossings, Salazar told CNN.

A major development in the case came on Tuesday as a joint force team of Bexar County Sheriffs Office deputies and FBI agents were conducting an open field search of an area they had checked once before. About 10 minutes into their search, they found a body, located a few hundred yards from the teens home, the sheriff said.

Due to high brush, we made a conscious decision to head back out there and check again, he explained. Officials were preparing to announce that another missing teen had been found safe when a call about the body came in, Salazar said.

Advertisement Advertisement

It wasnt until the following day that a devastating reality became clear: Mendoza Olmos had been found dead after her body was identified by the medical examiner, the sheriff said.

The body was found on property belonging to a local landscape materials company, which said it is deeply saddened by the discovery and asked for privacy and compassion for all involved as this matter is handled, it wrote on Facebook Tuesday evening. The company said it is cooperating with law enforcement throughout the investigation.

Officials had been aware of and looking for a firearm belonging to one of Mendoza Olmos relatives that was missing, Salazar said. A firearm was recovered near the teenagers body on Tuesday, the sheriff previously said, but officials had not processed it at that point.

CNN has contacted the sheriffs office about the status of the firearm.

Advertisement Advertisement

The investigation so far has revealed that Mendoza Olmos was going through a very tough time before she went missing, the sheriff said.

Its heartbreaking, he continued.

This story has been updated with additional information.

EDITORS NOTE: Help is available if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters. In the US: Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Globally: The International Association for Suicide Prevention and Befrienders Worldwide have contact information for crisis centers around the world.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Whether you're curled up at home or spending a night on the town, everyone should be able to have a safe New Year's Eve.

If you have questions about what you can and can't do during the evening, we've got answers.

Can I take my alcoholic drink with me while I'm walking around downtown Springfield?

No, you'll have to stay in the place where you were served the drink while you're consuming it.

Springfield city code says people can't take an open alcoholic beverage out of the place it was purchased and onto on a public street or city parking lot.

Advertisement Advertisement

During special events that have a permit, attendees can have open alcoholic beverages within certain areas, but according to Springfield's calendar of permitted events, there are none happening in downtown Springfield on New Year's Eve.

Can I shoot off fireworks at my home?

It depends on where your home is.

If you live within Springfield city limits, no, you cannot set off fireworks for New Year's Eve unless you have a permit for an organized public fireworks display, according to the Springfield Fire Department.

If you live in unincorporated Greene County, it is legal to set off fireworks. However, setting off fireworks may be considered "peace disturbance," since the loud noise could "unreasonably and knowingly disturb or alarm another person." For the first offense, peace disturbance is considered a class B misdemeanor. The second offense bumps it up to a class A misdemeanor. Upon the third offense, if you're convicted, you'll have to pay a fine between $1,000 and $5,000.

Can I fire a gun in the air to celebrate the New Year?

No celebratory gunfire is allowed in Springfield. In addition to local ordinances, there is a state law against it. In 2024, then-Gov. Mike Parson signed Blair's Law  named for a Kansas City girl who was killed by a stray bullet during 2011 Fourth of July celebrations  which prohibits celebratory gunfire within or into the limits of any municipality. A first offense is considered a class A misdemeanor, according to reporting from KCUR, while further offenses carry felony charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Outside of Springfield, you could fire a gun with live ammunition to ring in the New Year if you're sober, shooting into the air and more than 100 yards away from an occupied schoolhouse, courthouse or church building. However, remember that what goes up, must come down.

A 1995 study by Dr. Gary J. Ordog, then of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the King/Drew-UCLA Medical Center, found that falling bullets still had enough velocity to fracture bone and penetrate the brain. Even if a bullet doesn't hit someone, it could still cause property damage.

More: Holiday things to do in Springfield include skating trail, pop-up bars

Can I drive home if I've been drinking?

If you have been drinking, do not drive. Get home safely with the help of a sober friend, a cab or a rideshare service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Drinking and driving isn't just illegal, it can be fatal. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than one in three fatalities (34%) during the 2023 New Year's Day holiday period involved a driver impaired by alcohol.

Breakthru Beverage Group, a beverage wholesaler, is offering 500 free Lyft rides home to Missourians in St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia and Springfield. You can access a free ride home from Lyft, up to $30 value, from 2 p.m. Dec. 31 through 2 a.m. Jan. 1 with the ride code BBGMONYE25. The code can be claimed beginning at 9 a.m. Dec. 31.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: What's legal on New Year's Eve in the Ozarks? What you should know
A Titusville policeman who was hired this summer is facing drug charges in Erie County after communications with an Edinboro man allegedly revealed he sought cocaine in June.

James Carlson, 27, of Meadville, has subsequently been charged with two misdemeanors for possession of an unregulated substance and a third-degree felony for criminal use of communication.

Titusvilles City Manager Tim Russell and Police Chief Dustin LeGoullon did not respond to The Meadville Tribunes request for identity confirmation, comment or questions about drug test procedures in the department, if allegations were known at the time Carlson was hired, and if he is on paid leave or has been removed from the department.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Tribune has filed a Right-to-Know request to get more information.

According to a criminal complaint, between June 15 and 26 this year, Carlson used Snapchat under the username carlsonusmc to communicate with Charles Tim Ross to possess or attempt to possess a controlled substance, namely cocaine.

On June 27, the affidavit of probably cause states that Edinboro Police Department officers, as well as narcotic officers with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, served a search warrant at 103 Ontario St., Edinboro, and found 60 grams of cocaine, cutting agents and three cellphones belonging to Ross.

On Aug. 27, an Edinboro officer applied for a search warrant of the three phones and on Sept. 25, the officer received that data, according to the affidavit, and saw communications between Ross and Carlson.

Advertisement Advertisement

It wasnt until November that the officer applied specifically for a warrant of Carlson and Rosss conversations on Snapchat and that data, reviewed at the beginning of December, showed the transactions for drugs between the two.

In a Facebook post on Sept. 12, Titusville Police said, James Carlson has joined the TPD team!! James was able to welcome students back from summer vacation on the first day of school while spending time with our School Resource Officer, Max Fuller. Carlson is becoming familiar with our city as he progresses through our training program.

James is a welcome addition and we look forward to seeing his career develop throughout the years to come.

Carlson is originally from Albion and attended Northwestern Senior High School, graduating in 2017, before going into the U.S. Marine Corps. On his LinkedIn profile, he states that he was honorably discharged from his position as an engineer in 2020.

Charges against Carlson were filed on Dec. 19 with a summons issued last Tuesday. Carlsons preliminary hearing is set for Jan. 27 in front of Magisterial District Judge Denise Stuck-Lewis.
Stuffed animals that talk back. Chessboards with pieces that move on their own. And a chatty holographic fairy in a crystal ball.

Your next toy purchase might be powered by artificial intelligence and able to converse with your kids.

Chatbots and AI-powered assistants that can quickly answer questions and generate texts have become more common after the rise of OpenAI's ChatGPT. As AI becomes more intertwined in our work and personal lives, it's also shaking up playtime.

Advertisement Advertisement

Startups have already unleashed AI toys in time for the holidays. More are set to hit the shelves for both kids and adults in the new year.

Some parents are excited to test the toys, hoping that the chatty bot interactions will educate and entertain their children. Others don't want the seemingly sentient tech near their loved ones until it has more guardrails and undergoes further testing.

Researchers at the US PIRG Education Fund say they have already found problems with some of the toys they tested. Among the issues: an AI teddy bear that could be prompted into discussing sexual fetishes and kink, according to the group.

Toy makers say AI can make play more interactive, and they take safety and privacy seriously. Some have placed more limits around how chatty some of these products can be. They say they are taking their time figuring out how to use AI safely with children.

Advertisement Advertisement

El Segundo-based Mattel, the maker of Barbie and Hot Wheels, announced earlier this year that it had teamed up with OpenAI to create more AI-powered toys. The initial plan was to unveil their first joint product this year, but that announcement has been pushed into 2026.

Here's what you need to know about AI toys:

What's an AI toy?

Toys have featured the latest technology for decades.

Introduced in the 1980s, Teddy Ruxpin told stories aloud when a tape cassette was inserted into the animatronic bear's back. Furbys  fuzzy creatures that blinked their large eyes and talked  came along in the '90s, when digital pets, Tamagotchi, also were all the rage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Mattel released a Barbie in 2015 that could talk and tell jokes. The toy maker also marketed a dream house in 2016 that responded to voice commands.

As technology has advanced, toys have also gotten smarter. Now, toy makers are using large language models trained to understand and generate language that powers products such as OpenAI's ChatGPT. Mattel sells a game called Pictionary vs. AI, in which players draw pictures and AI guesses what they are.

Equipped with microphones and connected to WiFi, AI toys are pricier than traditional ones, are marketed as companions or educational products and can cost $100 or even double that.

Why are people worried about them?

Advertisement Advertisement

From inappropriate content to privacy concerns, worries about AI toys grew this holiday season.

U.S. PIRG Education Fund researchers tested several toys. One that failed was Kumma, an AI-powered talking teddy bear that told researchers where to find dangerous objects such as knives and pills and conversed about sexually explicit content. The bear was running on OpenAI's software.

Some toys also use tactics to keep kids engaged, which makes parents concerned that the interactions could become addictive. There are also privacy concerns about data collected from children. Some worry about how these toys will impact kids' developing brains.

"What does it mean for young kids to have AI companions? We just really don't know how that will impact their development," said Rory Erlich, one of the toy testers and authors of PIRG's AI toys report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Child advocacy group Fairplay has warned parents not to buy AI toys for children, calling them "unsafe."

The group outlined several reasons, including that AI toys are powered by the same technology that's already harmed children. Parents who have lost their children to suicide have sued companies such as OpenAI and Character.AI, alleging they didn't put in enough guardrails to protect the mental health of young people.

Rachel Franz, director of Fairplay's Young Children Thrive Offline program, said these toys are marketed as a way to educate and entertain kids  online to millions of people.

"Young children don't actually have the brain or social-emotional capacity to ward against the potential harms of these AI toys," she said. "But the marketing is really powerful."

Advertisement Advertisement

How have toy makers and AI companies responded to these concerns?

Larry Wang, founder and chief executive of FoloToy, the Singapore startup behind Kumma, said in an email the company is aware of the issues researchers found with the toy.

"The behaviors referenced were identified and addressed through updates to our model selection and child-safety systems, along with additional testing and monitoring," he said. "From the outset, our approach has been guided by the principle that AI systems should be designed with age-appropriate protections by default."

The company welcomes scrutiny and ongoing dialogue about safety, transparency and appropriate design, he said, noting it's "an opportunity for the entire industry to mature."

Advertisement Advertisement

OpenAI said it suspended FoloToy for violating its policies.

"Minors deserve strong protections and we have strict policies that developers are required to uphold. We take enforcement action against developers when we determine that they have violated our policies, which prohibit any use of our services to exploit, endanger, or sexualize anyone under 18 years old," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

What AI toys have California startups created?

Curio, a Redwood City startup, sells stuffed animals, including a talking rocket plushie called Grok that's voiced by artist Grimes, who has children with billionaire Elon Musk. Bondu, a San Francisco AI toy maker, made a talking stuffed dinosaur that can converse with kids, answering questions and role-playing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Skyrocket, a Los Angeles-based toy maker, sells Poe, the AI story bear. The bear, powered by OpenAI's LLM, comes with an app where users pick characters like a princess or a robot for a story. The bright-eyed bear, named after writer Edgar Allan Poe, generates stories based on that selection and recites them aloud.

But kids can't have a back-and-forth conversation with the teddy bear like with other AI toys.

"It just comes with a lot of responsibility, because it greatly increases the sophistication and level of safeguards you have to have and how you have to control the content because the possibilities are so much greater," said Nelo Lucich, co-founder and chief executive of Skyrocket.

Some companies, such as Olli in Huntington Beach, have created a platform used by AI toy makers, including the creators of the Imagix Crystal Ball. The toy projects an AI hologram companion that resembles a dragon or fairy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Hai Ta, the founder and chief executive of Olli, said he views AI toys as different from screen time and talking to virtual assistants because the product is structured around a certain focus such as storytelling.

"There's an element of gameplay there," he said. "It's not just infinite, open-ended chatting."

What is Mattel developing with OpenAI?

Mattel hasn't revealed what products it is releasing with OpenAI, but a company spokesperson said that they will be focused on families and older customers, not children.

The company also said it views AI as a way to complement rather than replace traditional play and is emphasizing safety, privacy, creativity and responsible innovation when building new products.
Iredell County deputies arrested two suspects on Saturday after discovering illegal substances and a handgun during a traffic stop on Salisbury Highway. The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 22 grams of methamphetamine and 26 grams of fentanyl.

ALSO READ: Iredell County sees crime drop nearly 60% as population grows

Sheriff Darren Campbell of the Iredell County Sheriffs Office reported that deputies from the Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team received a tip from the McDowell County Sheriffs Office regarding a vehicle potentially involved in illegal activities. The vehicle was located and a traffic stop was conducted, leading to the discovery of significant amounts of illegal drugs and cash.

Advertisement Advertisement

During the search of the vehicle, deputies found approximately 22 grams of methamphetamine and about 26 grams of fentanyl, in addition to a large amount of cash and a handgun, the sheriff said. All evidence was collected and secured for further investigation.

John Harry Mueller, 39 and Megan Grace Stackable, 26, both residents of Nebo, North Carolina, were taken into custody and subsequently transported to the Iredell County Detention Center.

The two were charged with multiple felonies including trafficking fentanyl by possession and transport, possession with intent to sell or deliver methamphetamine and maintaining a vehicle for a controlled substance.

A magistrate issued no bond for the suspects.

VIDEO: Teen accused of intentionally setting mobile home on fire in Iredell County
Researchers have found wolves engaging in rudimentary tool use, according to PetaPixel.

Trail camera footage has captured wolves pulling crab traps out of the water to eat the bait inside. Members of the Heiltsuk First Nation have been attempting to capture invasive European green crabs near Bella Bella, British Columbia. Their traps were being routinely found ripped open, so researchers set up cameras.

There's some debate as to whether this counts as actual tool use since the wolves didn't put out the traps themselves. But it is still a remarkable sign of wildlife intelligence.

Advertisement Advertisement

"Even if we don't want to call it tool use, the fact that the trap was completely underwater and out of sight makes it hard to argue that she didn't understand the connection between all these steps," said report author Kyle Artelle, per The New York Times. "This wasn't just random tinkering."

While interesting, this situation shows how humans introducing food incentives to areas can warp natural feeding habits. The erosion of habitat can diminish feeding opportunities for wildlife, forcing it to scour farther afield to survive. This can lead to animals roaming areas populated by people.

Wolves are vital parts of Canada's ecosystems. As apex predators, they help keep prey species populations in check, which ensures that plant species aren't overgrazed. Wolf populations have been in decline in some areas of the Pacific Northwest despite management efforts.

That said, wolf interference with attempts to remove European green crabs may further harm local ecosystems. When invasive species take over, they monopolize vital resources like food, water, and space, causing a local decline in biodiversity.

Advertisement Advertisement

European green crabs pose a threat to salmon, clams, and other crab species that fishery industries rely upon. Some jurisdictions have had to make concerted removal efforts. These include initiatives to eat more of the invasive species.

Trail cameras have proven vital in detecting emerging behaviors from elusive and remote wildlife like wolves in this situation. Armed with new information, conservation efforts can be appropriately adjusted. That said, researchers remain stumped as to why or how the wolves figured out how to exploit crab traps for food.

"We ultimately don't know, but [one of the] most likely explanations in our minds  would be that the wolves started doing this with traps that were exposed at a low tide because that's really easy," Artelle said to the CBC.

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.
BEIJING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's rise in manufacturing has rarely been associated with drug discovery. That, quietly, is starting to change -- giving "Made in China" a new chemistry. Earlier this week, Chinese biotech innovator Jacobio Pharma reached an agreement to license an experimental cancer drug targeting a notoriously difficult genetic mutation to pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca. The potential 2 billion U.S. dollar partnership underscored a banner year for Chinese drugmakers. In the first ten months of 2025, Chinese pharmaceutical companies signed more than 100 overseas licensing deals, with a combined value exceeding 100 billion U.S. dollars, nearly double the total recorded in 2024. Many in the industry believe China's innovative pharmaceutical sector has reached its "DeepSeek moment," the point at which years of sustained investment in research, infrastructure and regulatory capacity are beginning to deliver tangible breakthroughs. Today, China ranks second only to the United States in the number of new drugs under development, with its pipeline accounting for more than one-fifth of the global total. Since 2021, over 110 homegrown innovative drugs have received market approval in China, representing more than half of all new drug approvals during that period. According to Pharmcube, a pharmaceutical consultancy, China surpassed the United States in the number of original drugs developed between 2015 and 2024, cementing its place among the world's leading innovators in pharmaceuticals. Over that decade, the cumulative value of overseas licensing deals involving Chinese innovative drugs exceeded 1.2 trillion U.S. dollars. Eighteen China-developed original medicines were approved abroad, with several outperforming foreign-origin drugs in head-to-head clinical trials. These results highlight the transformation of China's pharmaceutical sector, which was once dominated by imitative medicines, commonly referred to in the industry as "me-too" or "me-better" drugs. Bill Anderson, chief executive of Bayer, the German multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, has observed this transformation firsthand. China, he told Xinhua, is evolving from a "follower" into a "source" of original biopharmaceutical innovation. CHINA SPEED Describing it as "China speed," Anderson is impressed by the country's efforts to better align technological know-how with industrial innovation to accelerate. A key plank of that effort is a policy document released in November, which promotes pilot-scale platforms to bridge laboratory research and industrial-scale production. Biopharmaceuticals are highlighted among several priority sectors. In addition to sustained policy support, Anderson also pointed to China's strength in possessing a highly dynamic research and development ecosystem and a strong healthcare market demand that helps translate innovation into practical use. In 2023, Chinese researchers ranked second globally -- after the United States -- in the number of papers published in Cell, Nature and Science in the biopharmaceutical sector. In July, China proposed using its national health insurance data platform to analyze disease patterns and clinical drug demand, aiming to guide innovative drug development. "This helps companies, research institutes and hospitals set priorities, plan pipelines, and pursue differentiated innovation," said Wang Guodong, an official with the National Healthcare Security Administration. Technology is also accelerating discovery. At a drug research facility of SSY Group Limited in Shijiazhuang -- known as the "medicine hub of China" -- an AI-powered virtual screening system runs around the clock, scanning a molecular database. "With intelligent screening, we can identify more than 100 new compounds from a library of 300 million in just over a month. Previously, this would have taken two to three years," said Sun Lijie of the company. FULL-SPECTRUM SUPPORT To foster high-quality innovation, China has been strengthening regulatory support to propel its pharmaceutical industry beyond imitation and toward original discovery. China's drug regulatory reform, launched in earnest in 2015, has introduced fast-track pathways for breakthrough therapies, conditional approvals, and priority reviews, compressing timelines across the drug-development cycle. The country joined the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) in 2017 to align its drug-approval standards with international norms. Average review times for innovative-drug clinical trials have been slashed by over half, to 50 days in 2024 from 108 in 2018. Last year, the review of China's innovative-drug applications took an average of 225 days, or just 162 days under priority review. Since 2018, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved 265 innovative drugs, including 68 by November 2025, more than six times the total approved in all of 2018. Outlining NMPA's plans for the next five years, its head Li Li said regulators will concentrate on first-in-class, globally novel therapies and domestically developed solutions to critical technological bottlenecks, providing early engagement and tailored guidance throughout the review process. Chen Kaixian, an academician specialized in medicine at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, noted that China now has a full-fledged biopharmaceutical innovation system. "It spans drug design and screening, preclinical studies, safety evaluation, clinical trials, and regulatory review, all aligned with international standards," he said. Despite strong momentum, some warn that China's drug industry still needs greater capacity to pursue new targets and attract talent and capital. Facing the funding squeeze common to biotech firms, Wang Yongqiang, founder of a company developing innovative vaccines and drugs, called for broader financial support. He and other industry leaders hope for more diversified funding channels, particularly greater risk tolerance in government-backed funds, as well as sustained investment in basic research and industrialization to attract private capital and ensure stable, long-term funding for drug innovation. GLOBAL REACH In 2025, Chinese-developed therapies have won global attention with headline deals. In May, Shenyang-based 3SBio announced a licensing agreement with a potential total value of 6 billion U.S. dollars to grant Pfizer worldwide rights, outside the Chinese mainland, to develop, manufacture and sell its cancer drug. Two months later, Hengrui Pharma, based in east China's Lianyungang City, inked a deal with GlaxoSmithKline covering multiple innovative drugs, potentially worth 12.5 billion U.S. dollars. Industry observers point to a strategic shift among global drugmakers behind the surge in overseas licensing. They note that under pressure to innovate and facing soaring in-house R&D costs, multinational pharmaceutical companies are increasingly turning to China in search of high-quality, cost-effective innovative assets. Beyond traditional licensing, the primary route for Chinese drugmakers to go global, new approaches are beginning to emerge. Some firms are setting up overseas ventures, granting them the rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize core innovative drugs. Others are independently pursuing overseas clinical trials, regulatory approvals and product launches. In early December, China introduced a key measure to support the global expansion of its drugmakers, a drug price registration system that provides online and offline registration and inquiry services for international pharmaceutical companies. Observers note that it addresses a long-standing challenge for Chinese new medicines entering foreign markets, namely the absence of domestic reference prices. "While benefiting patients at home, we have been pursuing an international strategy to strengthen our global competitiveness," said Yang Dajun of Suzhou-based Ascentage Pharma.
DAR ES SALAAM, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Passengers using Tanzania's standard gauge railway (SGR) electric train services were stranded for several hours on Sunday at Magufuli station in the port city of Dar es Salaam after services were suspended due to technical challenges caused by heavy rainfall.

Machibya Masanja, director general of the Tanzania Railways Corporation, said persistent rains had triggered technical faults within the railway system, prompting engineers to temporarily halt operations to allow for safety inspections and repairs.

"Due to the ongoing rains, technical challenges have emerged, and our engineers are working to resolve them. Trips will resume shortly. This situation is beyond our control, as the rains have affected our systems," he told journalists at the station.

Masanja urged passengers to remain patient, emphasizing that safety remains the top priority for railway operations.

"Our goal is to provide reliable, safe and high-quality transport. Once inspections are completed, SGR services will continue as usual," he said.

Parallel efforts were underway to restore operations on sections of the meter gauge railway damaged by heavy rains, as authorities continue to monitor weather conditions across the country, Masanja said.

The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) on Sunday issued an alert over heavy rainfall affecting large parts of the country, warning of continued adverse weather conditions and associated impacts on infrastructure and transport.

In addition to disruptions to passenger and cargo railway services, the TMA said, there were also reports of mudslides and rockfalls along the Morogoro-Iringa highway, near the Mama-Marashi area in Mikumi, disrupting road transport. 
A train carrying 250 people has derailed partially in southern Mexico, killing at least 13 people and injuring 98, according to officials.

The Mexican Navy said that the Interoceanic Train linking the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz went off the rails on Sunday as it passed a curve near the town of Nizanda.

It said that 98 people were injured and that, unfortunately, 13 people lost their lives.

The train was carrying nine crew members and 241 passengers at the time of the accident. Of those on board, 139 were reported to be out of danger, while 36 of the 98 injured were still receiving medical assistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement posted on X, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said that at least five of those injured were in serious condition.

Sheinbaum said she has directed the secretary of the navy and other senior personnel to travel to the area and assist the families of those affected. She added that the Ministry of Interior is coordinating the response to the incident.

Mexicos Attorney Generals Office said it was opening an investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

Uno Noticias Television, a Mexican channel, reported that emergency units were near the site of the accident but faced difficulty in accessing the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Images circulating on social media and posted by Mexican news outlets showed one of the carriages of the train on its side, while another was completely separated from the train tracks.

Se descarrilo el tren de pasajeros

Interoceanico en el Istmo. Este domingo se descarrilo el tren de pasajeros Interoceanico, a 5 kilometros al sur de Nizanda, perteneciente a Asuncion Ixtaltepec, Oaxaca. Se reportan heridos, el tren habia partido de Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, y pic.twitter.com/BQ0p65TkVQ  Uno TV (@UnoNoticias) December 28, 2025

Translation: Passenger train derailed. Interoceanic in the Isthmus. This Sunday, the Interoceanic passenger train derailed, 5 kilometres south of Nizanda, belonging to Asuncion Ixtaltepec, Oaxaca. Injuries have been reported; the train had departed from Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, and was heading to Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz. Emergency units are near the area, but the difficult access to the site is complicating rescue efforts.

Video clips posted online also showed some of the passengers trapped in the derailed carriages.

A passenger was quoted by Mexicos La Razon newspaper as saying that before the derailment, the train was coming very fast.

Advertisement Advertisement

We dont know if it lost its brakes, the passenger told La Razon.

In a statement posted on X, Oaxaca Governor Salomon Jara Cruz expressed his governments heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident.

The train runs between the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, and carries both passengers and freight.

On December 20, a train on the same route collided with a cargo truck attempting to cross the tracks, although the incident did not result in any deaths.

The line was inaugurated in 2023 as a major infrastructure project under then-President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to develop southeast Mexico.

Advertisement Advertisement

The initiative was designed to modernise the rail link across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a land bridge connecting Mexicos Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast.

The Mexican government has sought to develop the Isthmus into a strategic trade corridor, expanding ports, railways and industrial infrastructure with the goal of creating a route that could compete with the Panama Canal.
The trial of a Manchester woman accused of distributing animal crush videos of baby and adult monkeys being purposely tortured, mutilated and sexually abused has been delayed until March at the request of the defense. The trial had been scheduled to begin in early January.

Lynn Seymour, 51, of Manchester, was indicted in September on one count of distribution of animal crush videos and one count of conspiracy. Seymour appeared in U.S. District Court in Concord and was released pending further court proceedings.

Seymour, represented by her court-appointed counsel Behzad Mirhashem, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnstone. Seymour waived the reading of the indictment and pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the charging documents, Seymour is alleged to have participated in, and served as an administrator for, private online groups that included hundreds of members who allegedly exchanged and distributed animal crush videos depicting the torture, killing, sexually sadistic mutilation and sexual abuse of animals, specifically baby and adult monkeys.

Seymour was released on conditions, with a trial date originally scheduled for Nov. 4.

Those conditions bar her from using alcohol, possessing any animals and having animals at her home, other than the hamster currently at the residence.

Seymour must also refrain from using any internet-capable media devices, and the devices must be password-protected.

Advertisement Advertisement

In October, Judge Johnstone granted a request by Mirshahem to amend those conditions after a probation officer noticed a fish tank with approximately five or six fish inside during a recent home visit.

In a court filing, Seymour said she didnt realize the prohibition on animals extended to fish in the fish tank, since during the execution of a search warrant several months ago agents took her rabbits but did not do anything about the fish tank, which she says she has had for several years.

Judge Johnstone amended the conditions of her release to allow the fish to remain in the home.

Seymours trial had been scheduled to begin Jan. 6 after her attorney requested a continuance, and has now been delayed a second time at Mirshahems request.

Advertisement Advertisement

The parties had been working on the government providing forensic discovery with respect to the contents of Ms. Seymours computer and external hard drive, Seymour said. For various technical reasons, the defense did not receive an adequate forensic production until November 24, 2025. The defense has been working diligently on reviewing this production but there are numerous challenges relating to the volume and nature of the evidence, and the defense needs additional time to properly review this disclosure.

The defense also asked for a continuance because this case presents significant constitutional issues.

A previous version of the statute under which Ms. Seymour is being prosecuted was found to be unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, the defense argues. In bringing the current case, the government is relying on an out-of-circuit decision. The defense has spent significant time researching the relevant issues. However, particularly since this is the first case in which undersigned counsel has dealt with these issues  and apparently the first case in this district in which a violation of the animal crush video provisions has been alleged  defense counsel needs additional time for research and drafting of the relevant motions.

Federal prosecutors did not object. Judge Joseph N. Laplante granted the motion to continue, with a final pretrial conference rescheduled to Feb. 20 at 10:30 a.m. The two-week trial period is continued to March 3 at 9:30 a.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

According to charging documents, on or about Feb. 13, in New Hampshire and elsewhere, Seymour did knowingly sell, market, advertise, exchange, and distribute, and cause to be sold, marketed, advertised, exchanged, and distributed an animal crush video which depicts two monkeys where one was tied up and forced to watch the other being tortured.

The charge of distribution of animal crush videos provides a sentence of up to seven years in prison, and the conspiracy charges provides a sentence of up to five years. Both charges can carry terms of supervised release of up to three years and fines of up to $250,000.

pfeely@unionleader.com
A New Jersey trucker has been sentenced to nearly two years in prison after illegally dumping thousands of gallons of gasoline in Pennsylvania.

The case is a reminder of how reckless decisions can create massive, lasting environmental harm.

The spill, which occurred in Brookhaven in 2021, contaminated nearby soil and waterways, killed wildlife, and even forced the local Coebourn Elementary School to close for the rest of the school year, according to Patch.

According to Delaware County officials, 41-year-old George Smith had filled his tanker with 8,500 gallons of gasoline that day.

Advertisement Advertisement

While a Brookhaven station was meant to be his fourth stop, he went there first in a hurry. But the station's underground tanks could only hold so much, and a safety measure on the fuel truck prevents drivers from refilling with any remaining gas in the fuel compartments.

Instead of doing a partial delivery at another location to offload the remainder, Smith decided to dump the fuel down an embankment  to the tune of 4,000 gallons.

Surveillance footage and functioning warning alarms all confirmed what went down, and prosecutors said Smith was "motivated by a desire to speed up his route."

However, Smith's hurry caused damage that will likely last for years and require massive taxpayer funding to clean up.

Advertisement Advertisement

The spill caused immediate ecological damage. Emergency crews and environmental agencies found dead fish, eels, and a fox in the contaminated area.

Cleanup required removing large volumes of gasoline-soaked soil  a process that can take months or years before a site is considered stable again.

The transportation of dirty fuels carries significant risk when oversight fails or shortcuts are taken. Similar pollution events, from pipeline leaks to industrial runoff, negatively impact nearby communities and ecosystems.

However, the public can hold companies accountable by taking local action and staying informed about critical climate issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Online, people were angry at the driver's recklessness.

One YouTube commenter wrote, "That's just irresponsible as a human being."

Another said, "Disgusting, simply disgusting."

A third summed it up, describing Smith's actions as, "Unbelievable."

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 president had yet another strange mark on his hands over Christmas, once again raising concerns that his health is not what he has claimed it to be.

Donald Trumpthe oldest person to ever be elected presidentwas photographed with what appeared to be another bruise on Christmas Eve, this time marring his left hand.

Screenshot of a tweet (Screenshot)

The 79-year-old has repeatedly claimed that he is in pristine condition, brushing off public alarm over his deteriorating body.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps health has been a topic of concern since he was on the campaign trail, when reports circulated that he couldnt remember the contents of cognitive exams he claimed to ace. Since then, the president has regularly been spotted with odd discolorations on his right hand.

He also routinely appears discombobulated and lethargic during critical meetings with world leaders. Over the course of the last year, Trump has fallen asleep roughly a dozen times during critical public appearances. Its happened during Cabinet meetings, in the middle of bombastic military parades, while meeting leaders of critical allies, and even during the Popes funeral.

Concern only continued to grow when Trump appeared for 9/11 ceremonies in September with a sagging mouth and drooping expression, which some onlookers suggested could be a result of a stroke.

The following month, the president received MRI scans at Walter Reed Medical Center. Those tests are used by doctors to assess tumors, joint injuries, or heart conditions. At least one former White House physician questioned the timeline of Trumps appointment, pointing out that his four-hour visit to the hospital was far longer than would be required by an MRI test. Nonetheless, Trump said the tests came back perfect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Virtually no other topicbesides the Epstein filesirks Trump more, according to his advisers. Earlier this month, Minnesota Governor Tim Walzs public appeal for the release of Trumps medical records incited a wave of fury from the president. After Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that it was OK with me to release the MRI results, he took to Truth Social to accuse the one-time vice presidential candidate of being incompetent.

The MRI results, according to the White House physician, allegedly illustrated that Trump is perfectly normal.
President Donald Trump struggled to offer much sympathy for the families of about 100 Americansmany of them U.S. military veteranswho have died fighting in Ukraine.

An estimated several thousand Americans have volunteered to fight for Ukraine since Russian dictator Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion in 2022, with at least 92 Americans killed as of September, The New York Times reported.

Following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday to discuss a peace deal to end the war, Trump was asked about his message to the families of the fallen Americans.

Advertisement Advertisement

The message is so obvious, he replied. What a shame. They died in a foreign country. And some are celebrated people, theyre very celebrated. But its so sad that a thing like that would happen.

President Trump offered few condolences for the families of Americans who died fighting for Ukraine. / Joe Raedle / Getty Images

He then immediately moved on to the next question.

Social media users quickly noted that the president hadnt thanked the fallen for their sacrifice, praised their commitment to freedom and democracy, or even offered his personal condolences.

Many of the Americans who have died in Ukraine were U.S. military veterans.

Mike Meoli, 71, was a retired Navy Seal and firefighter who traveled to Ukraine to train medics on the front lines. He was killed in November 2024, ABC 10 News San Diego reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Nicholas Maimer, 45, was an Army Special Forces veteran and Idaho native who helped train Ukrainian officers. He was killed in May 2023 in an artillery barrage, according to Military.com.

Ian Frank Tortorici, 32, was a retired corporal with the U.S. Marines who fought on the front lines. He died in July 2023 after a Russian missile hit a restaurant where he was eating while on leave, Task and Purpose reported.

Both sides said that progress was made during Sunday's talks, but neither suggested a peace deal was imminent. / Joe Raedle/Getty Images

The U.S. government has declined to provide aid to American fighters to avoid any suggestion of a direct clash with Russia, which is a nuclear power, the Times reported in September.

But some social media users argued that Trumps barely-there compassion for their families wasnt measured diplomacyit was reminiscent of the presidents previous comments about Americans who died in combat being suckers and losers.

Advertisement Advertisement

During a trip to France in 2018, the president said American soldiers who died on French soil during World War I were losers, and that U.S. Marines who helped halt the 1918 German advance toward Paris were suckers for dying at the hands of the enemy.

The White House denied reports of the comments, which were revealed by The Atlantic magazine in 2020, but theyre just one example of the president disparaging military veterans and their families.

He has mocked the late Sen. John McCains war injuries, publicly insulted the parents of a 27-year-old soldier who died in a car bombing in Iraq, and privately raged about the funeral costs for a female soldier who was murdered by a male soldier at Fort Hood.

President Trump said Sunday he was on the side of peace, but heaped praise on the man who started the warRussia's Vladimir Putin. / Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Although he failed to offer much comfort Sunday to the families of Americans who have died fighting Russia, Trump did manage to heap praise on the man who started the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, Trump said, prompting Zelensky to raise an eyebrow. I was explaining to the president [Zelensky], President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding.

He also said he understands Putins refusal to agree to a ceasefire while a longer-term agreement is being hashed out.

He feels that look, you know, theyre fighting and to stop, and if they have to start again, which is a possibility, he doesnt want to be in that positionI understand that position, Trump said.

Putin bombarded Ukraine with over 100 drones on Christmas Eve and early Christmas Day, killing at least seven civilians.

Advertisement Advertisement

Sundays talks were intended to address security guarantees and possible territorial concessions, and while both sides said progress had been made, neither gave any indication that a deal was within reach.

The Daily Beast has reached out to the White House for comment.
Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The Trump administration on Monday announced it will distribute $50 billion dollars to expand access to rural healthcare across all 50 states with investments in growing the workforce, modernizing facilities and introducing new models of care delivery.

States are set to receive first-year awards next year of roughly $200 million under the Rural Health Transformation Program, which Congress authorized earlier this year as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts bill, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said in a press release.

"More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care," said Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.

Advertisement Advertisement

"This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics and health workers in control of their communities' health care," Kennedy said.

Today, @CMSGov announced that all 50 states will receive awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established under the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation to strengthen and modernize health care in rural communities across the country.... pic.twitter.com/btt5fuCTn7 DrOzCMS (@DrOzCMS) December 29, 2025

The CMS is set to distribute the $50 billion dollars over the next five years, from 2026 through 2030, as part of the program established by the bill, which is more commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Each year, $5 billion will be distributed equally to each of the 50 states, while another $5 billion will be allocated based on the proportion of rural health facilities, situations at specific facilities in the state and other factors, the agency said on the program website.

The CMS announced each state's 2026 allocation -- Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories are not eligible for the funds -- in the release, with the awards ranging from New Jersey's $147 million to Texas' $281 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

The funds are meant to accomplish a range of goals to "make rural America healthy again," including:

expanding access to preventive, primary, maternal and behavioral health services;

strengthening, growing and sustaining the clinical work force in rural areas;

modernizing health infrastructure and technology;

driving structural efficiency through streamlining operations and working to make more services available locally;

and testing new primary care and value-based care models of delivery and payment.

The announcement comes after the American Hospital Association estimated earlier this year that rural hospitals could lose $50.4 billion in revenue from federal Medicaid funds over the next 10 years.

The reason is based on a Congressional Budget Office estimate earlier this year that the $1 trillion that was cut from Medicaid in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could result in more than 7.8 million more people across the country becoming uninsured.

Advertisement Advertisement

This loss of Medicaid coverage for patients affects revenue for healthcare providers, and the effects will be felt most acutely in rural areas.

These areas of the country currently include an estimated 16.1 million people with Medicaid coverage. Sparsely populated states such as Montana, Wyoming and Alaska have more than 50% of Medicaid recipients living in rural areas, the American Hospital Association says.

For many rural health facilities, a mixture of Medicare and Medicaid patients help them stay open, Sarah Hohman, director of government affairs for the National Association of Rural Health Clinics, told UPI in July.

"If the coverage losses pan out as they are estimated, that would mean that they are treating fewer patients that are covered by insurance," Hohman said. "The more you have uncompensated care and individuals not able to pay, your balance gets concerning pretty quickly. That really threatens the financial viability in these areas."
U.S. President Donald Trump added new details on Monday to his claim that the U.S. carried out an attack last week inside Venezuela; however he did not provide any proof. If true, such a strike would mark a significant escalation of a months-long pressure campaign on Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and the cartels. Until now, the U.S. publicly acknowledged kinetic actions have been limited to attacks on alleged drug-running boats, even as Washingtons military presence in the region continues to grow.

You can catch up with our most recent coverage of Operation Southern Spear here.

We hit all the boats and now we hit the area, its the implementation area. Thats where they implement, the president said while at Mar-a-Lago, standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. And that is no longer around.

 BREAKING: TRUMP CONFIRMS FIRST U.S. LAND STRIKE ON VENEZUELA DRUG DOCK  THIS IS A GAME-CHANGER! 



Meeting with Netanyahu, Trump just revealed: U.S. forces obliterated a key Venezuelan dock used for loading drug boats  FIRST LAND ATTACK after months of sea ops.



This pic.twitter.com/qIJHgLzsez  Javier Fernandez (@itshabeeair) December 29, 2025

Trump declined to say whether it was the U.S. military or the CIA that carried out the attack.

Asked by @Kevinliptakcnn if strike was carried out by US military or CIA, Trump says:



"I dont want to say that. I know exactly who it was, but I don't want to say who it was. But you know, it was along the shore. https://t.co/hF5Vd3fvoa  Zachary Cohen (@ZcohenCNN) December 29, 2025

Trump first made the claim of the attack inside Venezuela last week during a phone call with WABC radio in New York.

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont know if you read or you saw, they have a big plant, or a big facility where they send the, you know, where the ships come from, Trump told John Catsimatidis, the billionaire Trump supporter who owns the radio station. Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So we have hit them very hard, but drugs are down over 97%. Can you believe it?

president trump: united states has just knocked out a big facility where the ships come from in a strike on venezuelan territory (at 3:10 in call)



dont understand why this isnt being reported widely. https://t.co/1mvWgNDdxL  ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) December 28, 2025

Trump has yet to offer proof of any attacks inside Venezuela. During their conversation, Catsimatidis didnt press him on the matter. Anonymous American officials told The New York Times that the president was referring to a drug facility in Venezuela and that it was eliminated, but provided no details.

The White House has not responded to requests from The War Zone and many other news organizations for corroboration of an attack inside Venezuela. U.S. Southern Command, which oversees Southern Spear, declined to comment to us. The Pentagon referred us to the White House. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), which Trump previously authorized to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela, did not immediately respond to questions about whether it was involved in this claimed attack.

There have been no official comments from Venezuelan authorities about this alleged attack and no independent confirmation from people near the facility. However, videos emerged online suggesting that an explosion and fire at a Primazol chemical plant near Lake Maracaibo may have been the target of a U.S. attack.

Me pregunto si esta explosion a las ~2am del 24 de Diciembre en galpones de la empresa Primazol, compania dedicada a produccion de productos quimicos localizada en Zona Industrial del municipio San Francisco, estado Zulia, es el ataque al que se refirio Trump en el programa de https://t.co/d9g5YxvR14 pic.twitter.com/T2elsWI219   (@Arr3ch0) December 28, 2025

While the incident at the chemical plant lines up with the strike timeline proffered by Trump, the company pushed back against suggestions it was attacked.

Advertisement Advertisement

We categorically reject the versions circulating on social media that seek to damage the reputation of our founder and the organization, Primazol explained in a statement. We responsibly clarify that these claims have no relation whatsoever to the incident and are neither official nor verified.

The War Zone cannot independently verify any connection, and we reached out to Primazol for more information.

 | Compania Primazol, cuya sede en Zulia estallo en la madrugada del 24 de diciembre, rechaza la version de que su edificio fue victima de un ataque de EEUU.



Sin embargo, no deja claro cual es la razon de la explosion del edificio. En un primer comunicado dice que fue un pic.twitter.com/GvXuhhT4sg  Orlando Avendano (@OrlvndoA) December 29, 2025

In a post on X, Jhorman Cruz, a local journalist, cautioned against making a connection between Trumps claim and the fire.

Residents DID NOT see anything unusual, nor drones, nor cars, nor the presence of foreigners, he stated. Be careful with strange hypotheses.

El 24Dic reportamos el incendio de la empresa Primazol en la zona industrial de San Francisco, Zulia. Es prudente decir que aun no sabemos que inicio el fuego.



Pobladores NO vieron nada extrano, ni drones, ni carros, ni presencia de extranjeros. Cuidado con raras hipotesis. pic.twitter.com/2zy2yZKVKy  Jhorman Cruz (@Jhormancruz1) December 29, 2025

Trumps radio interview followed his Christmas Eve phone call to sailors aboard the USS Gerald Ford, the worlds largest aircraft carrier, which is now deployed to the Caribbean. Trump called the region an interesting place to be, and said once again that the U.S. would be going after the land. He offered no further explanations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps claim about the facility strike inside Venezuela was prefaced by a short discussion with the radio station owner about the destruction of alleged drug smuggling vessels. Trump repeated his claim that each drug boat attack saves 25,000 lives in the U.S. To date, SOUTHCOM has hit more than two dozen of these vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, killing more than 100. The strikes have generated a great deal of controversy, with claims they violate the rules of armed conflict and have been carried out without Congressional or judicial approval. The White House and Pentagon have pushed back on those claims. Earlier this month, Congress closed out investigations into the first of these attacks, on Sept. 2, which were called after it was revealed that survivors of the first strike were killed in a follow-on attack.

On Dec. 22, at the direction of @SecWar Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a low-profile vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed the low-profile vessel was transiting pic.twitter.com/LGzEaQSTiR  U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) December 23, 2025

Regardless of Trumps attack claim, the U.S. continues to grow its military presence in the Caribbean and especially its special operations forces (SOF). Over the weekend, aircraft spotters said they saw at least 10 MC-130J Commando II multi-mission combat transport planes at Rafael Hernandez International Airport (RHIA) in Puerto Rico. Thats double the amount seen at the airport last week.

At least five of the MC-130Js appear to be outfitted with the full Capability Release 2 (CR-2) set of modifications, which includes Raytheons new AN/APQ-187 Silent Knight terrain-following/terrain avoidance radars, a satellite communications system, and other equipment.

Recent images from Reuters show that at least five of the ten MC-130Js deployed to Puerto Rico are in full CR-2 configuration.



Capability Release 2 (CR-2) includes:

 AN/APQ-187 Silent Knight Radar

 Honeywell JetWave SATCOM

 AN/ALQ-251 Radio Frequency Countermeasures (RFCM) https://t.co/puF2NxdDRK pic.twitter.com/QkJEVSX6Ns  LatAmMilMovements (@LatAmMilMVMTs) December 29, 2025

In addition, satellite imagery, which you can also see below, now shows at least 11 Air Force Special Operations Command CV-22B Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft there as well. We previously reported the presence of nine or 10 Ospreys at RHIA. U.S. Special Operations Command declined comment and Air Force Special Operations Command has not returned a request for comment. You can read more about the significance of these aircraft and the growing SOF presence in the Caribbean for Southern Spear in our story here.

Advertisement Advertisement

As we previously noted, the airport also plays host to MQ-9 Reaper drones, images of which first began appearing online in September. MQ-9s have been used in boat attacks as well.

  Reapers in the Caribbean

Unclassified satellite imagery reveals two MQ-9 Reaper drones at Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen in Puerto Rico (Aguadilla).



With a long endurance and advanced sensors, these assets are critical for counter-narcotics and maritime surveillance, pic.twitter.com/MUq70nhxNC  MT Anderson (@MT_Anderson) September 11, 2025

In an apparent effort to keep its assets out of the public eye, personnel have been seen obstructing the fence through which photographers have been capturing images of aircraft gathered at RHIA.

 Rafael Hernandez Airport, #UnitedStates (  )



Personnel have begun emplacing covers on fences blocking spotters from viewing SOCOM movements at Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla. pic.twitter.com/5JuMS6TPPU  SA Defensa (@SA_Defensa) December 29, 2025

As we previously noted, a compendium of satellite imagery dating back to early October shows a large-scale construction project at the airport.

(PHOTO  2025 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION)

Satellite imagery also shows increasing expansion at the Jose Aponte de la Torre Airport in Puerto Rico. The former Roosevelt Roads Navy base has become a key staging ground for U.S. aircraft and troops deployed for Southern Spear.

 Jose Aponte de la Torre Airport, #UnitedStates (  )



Comparison of the before (Dec 2nd) and after (Dec 27th) of the clearing of vegetation in and around the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Station. https://t.co/LQlcq3R7QVpic.twitter.com/MLlbFV9TsC  SA Defensa (@SA_Defensa) December 27, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

As of Saturday, an E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node, or BACN was tracked by aircraft spotters to Luis Munoz Marine International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Ricos largest.

BACN07 (22-9047) the U.S. Air Force E-11A (Battlefield Airborne Communications Node) is still located at at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan.



It was tracked on the ground today at 12:35(EST)/17:35(UTC). pic.twitter.com/Rr3xIjp4sv  FrozenFrequency (@FrozenFrequency) December 27, 2025

Meanwhile, as the Trump administration increases military pressure on Maduro, it is also continuing to take aim at Venezuelan oil shipments in an effort to squeeze him economically as well. As one of the worlds largest oil producers, Venezuela relies heavily on it. Since Trump enacted a blockade on sanctioned ships entering or leaving Venezuela, the U.S. has seized two and has pursued a third.

The United States hasnt given up its pursuit of the massive, rusted oil tanker it chased into international waters near Venezuela last weekend, and officials are now contemplating moving additional resources into the area to forcibly board the ship, CNN reported on Friday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Last known visual we have of BELLA 1 (9230880) is from five days ago, when it was spotted in satellite imagery. Here's older footage from the bridge. pic.twitter.com/l7ml2gOyu9  Christiaan Triebert (@trbrtc) December 24, 2025

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova denounced the blockade and seizures on Sunday.

Advertisement Advertisement

In principle, we reject attempts to exert pressure on sovereign countries in general, including in the energy sector, she said. We understand that behind such a policy there is only a neo-colonial desire to achieve economic advantages through non-competitive political methods.

We trust that the Administration of U.S. President Donald Trump will refrain from sliding further into a large-scale armed conflict, which threatens to have unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere, she added.

Russian Foreign Affairs Ministrys Spokesperson Maria Zakharova denounced U.S. actions in the Caribbean. (Photo by Contributor/Getty Images) Contributor#8523328

Satellite images captured on Dec. 24 show elements of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) in close proximity to the M/V Ocean Trader, a special operations mothership. It should be noted that most of the ARGs aviation combat element (ACE) was moved to Roosevelt Roads several weeks ago and remains there. The presence of these ships so close together, and the aircraft, landing equipment and troops embarked on board, is another indication that the U.S. is poised for action beyond hitting suspected drug boats.

Most, if not all, of the aviation combat element (ACE) assigned to the 22nd MEU aboard the Iwo Jima ARG was moved to the former NAS Roosevelt Roads, PR several weeks ago, and remain there.



2/https://t.co/FUGtfOW5qZ  TheIntelFrog (@TheIntelFrog) December 24, 2025

Much about Trumps claim that the U.S. attacked inside Venezuela remains unknown. Regardless, the large U.S. military presence in the Caribbean seems to be coalescing toward additional kinetic action.

Update: 9:14 PM Eastern 

CNN is reporting that the CIA carried out a drone attack on a target inside Venezuela, a strike that Trump has been talking about since last week.

Advertisement Advertisement

The drone strike, the details of which have not been previously reported, targeted a remote dock on the Venezuelan coast that the US government believed was being used by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua to store drugs and move them onto boats for onward shipping, the cable network stated, citing sources familiar. No one was present at the facility at the time it was struck, so there were no casualties, according to the sources. US Special Operations Forces provided intelligence support to the operation, sources said, underscoring their continued involvement in the region.

The War Zone could not independently verify the story.

Exclusive: The CIA carried out a drone strike earlier this month on a port facility on the coast of Venezuela, sources familiar with the matter told CNN, marking the first known US attack on a target inside that country.https://t.co/qaDLcMhXSn  Natasha Bertrand (@NatashaBertrand) December 30, 2025

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP)  President Donald Trump has indicated that the U.S. has hit a dock facility along a shore as he wages a pressure campaign on Venezuela, but the U.S. offered few details.

Trump initially seemed to confirm a strike in what appeared to be an impromptu radio interview Friday, and when questioned Monday by reporters about an explosion in Venezuela, he said the U.S. struck a facility where boats accused of carrying drugs load up."

There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs," Trump said as he met in Florida with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "They load the boats up with drugs, so we hit all the boats and now we hit the area. Its the implementation area. Theres where they implement. And that is no longer around.

Advertisement Advertisement

It is part of an escalating effort to target what the Trump administration says are boats smuggling drugs bound for the United States. It moves closer to shore strikes that so far have been carried out by the military in international waters in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.

The U.S. military said it conducted another strike on Monday against a boat accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing two people. The attacks have killed at least 107 people in 30 strikes since early September, according to numbers announced by the Trump administration.

Trump declined to say if the U.S. military or the CIA carried out the strike on the dock or where it occurred. He did not confirm it happened in Venezuela.

I know exactly who it was, but I dont want to say who it was. But you know it was along the shore," Trump said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump first referenced the strike on Friday, when he called radio host John Catsimatidis during a program on WABC radio and discussed the U.S. strikes on alleged drug-carrying boats.

I dont know if you read or saw, they have a big plant or a big facility where they send the, you know, where the ships come from," Trump said. "Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So, we hit them very hard.

Trump did not offer any additional details in the interview.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth or one of the U.S. military's social media accounts has in the past typically announced every boat strike in a post on X, but there has been no post of any strike on a facility.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pentagon on Monday referred questions to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a message seeking more details. The press office of Venezuelas government did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trumps statement.

Trump for months has suggested he may conduct land strikes in South America, in Venezuela or possibly another country, and in recent weeks has been saying the U.S. would move beyond striking boats and would strike on land soon.

In October, Trump confirmed he had authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. The agency did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment Monday.

Along with the strikes, the U.S. has sent warships, built up military forces in the region, seized two oil tankers and pursued a third.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration has said it is in armed conflict with drug cartels and seeking to stop the flow of narcotics into the United States.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has insisted the real purpose of the U.S. military operations is to force him from power.

White House chief of staff Susie Wiles said in an interview with Vanity Fair published this month that Trump wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle.

___

Price reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin in Washington and Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela, contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump issued new warnings against Iran and Hamas after a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday to try to advance the ceasefire deal that Trump brokered in Gaza.

Trump threatened Iran with unspecified consequences, saying Iran "may be behaving badly" and suggesting it was trying to rebuild nuclear sites after the U.S. struck three of them this year.

If its confirmed, look, there will be consequences," he said. "Consequences will be very powerful, maybe more powerful than last time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Iran swiftly responded to Trump's remarks.

President Masoud Pezeshkian said Monday in a post on X that his countrys response to any aggresive action would be harsh and regrettable.

A similar warning was issued by Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Irans supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, who was quoted by the state-run Nour News agency as saying that Irans response would go beyond what the attacker expects.

Trump also said Hamas would have hell to pay if it didnt disarm to advance the U.S.-brokered peace plan, as he seeks to move into its second phase. He said Hamas, which didnt agree to the demilitarization of Gaza that Trump laid out as a key point in his peace plan, will be given a "very short period of time" to disarm.

Advertisement Advertisement

If it doesn't, Trump said, the consequences will be "horrible." He suggested that other countries  not necessarily the U.S. or Israel  would take action against the perpetrators of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, in which 1,200 people were killed and about 250 were abducted.

"If they say theyre not going to disarm, those same countries will go and wipe them out," Trump said.

Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed more than 70,000 people since the war started, the Palestinian Health Ministry said in late November. The death toll has continued to rise despite the ongoing ceasefire.

Trump was overwhelmingly supportive Monday of Israel's efforts to advance the peace plan. He said that Israel had "lived up to the plan 100%" and that he wasnt concerned "about anything that Israel is doing."

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked moments later whether he was concerned that Israeli settler violence could undermine the peace plan, Trump said he and Netanyahu werent on the same page about the West Bank.

"We have had a discussion, big discussion, for a long time on the West Bank. And I wouldn't say we agree on the West Bank 100%. But we will come to a conclusion on the West Bank," he said.

Trump didnt elaborate on what the leaders' differences were, but he said he believes Netanyahu will "do the right thing."

Ahead of their closed-door meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump told reporters that they would discuss the need for Hamas to disarm, Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programs, and Syria's new government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Standing alongside him at the top of the meeting, Netanyahu praised Trump.

"I'll say it again and again and again, weve never had a friend like President Trump in the White House. Its not even close," he said. "And I think you can judge that by not merely by the frequency of our meetings, but by the content and the intensity."

Trump responded: "Well, I just want to say that its very important who the prime minister and president of Israel is. We have a great relationship.

"He can be very difficult on occasion, but you need a strong man," Trump added. "If you had a weak man, you wouldnt have Israel right now. Israel would have been, you know, Israel, with most other leaders, would not exist today."

Advertisement Advertisement

Netanyahu reiterated his praise of Trump after their meeting, announcing that Israel would award him the Israel Prize, the country's highest honor. Netanyahu said it would be the first time the prize has been awarded to a non-Israeli.

Monday's meeting comes one day after Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago as part of the U.S. bid to negotiate a peace deal with Russia.

While Trump has been working for an end to the war in Europe, progress in the Middle East has stalled.

The Israel-Hamas truce went into effect in October, ending the two-year conflict in Gaza that followed the Oct. 7 Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel.

Advertisement Advertisement

But there has been little movement on the more complex second phase of the peace process, raising concerns that both sides are failing to take action to carry out the next phase.

More than 400 people have been killed in the Palestinian enclave since that agreement, local officials say, while Israel has accused Hamas of ceasefire violations, including the delayed return of hostage remains  with one body still to be handed over.

The U.N. Security Council gave its approval to Phase 2 of Trumps 20-point peace plan last month, under which Israeli forces would withdraw from Gaza and Hamas would give up its weapons.

But few details have been publicly confirmed about the Board of Peace headed by Trump, which would help oversee the territory's governance, or the International Stabilization Force that would be deployed to Gaza.

Trump's plan envisions rebuilding Gaza after much of the Palestinian territory was destroyed in Israel's campaign. (Majdi Fath / NurPhoto via Getty Images) (Majdi Fath)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said this month that Washington was aiming to get the new governance bodies in place very soon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Rubio met with Netanyahu ahead of Netanyahu's sit-down with the president.

Going into the meeting with Trump, Netanyahu was expected to make the case that Irans expansion of its ballistic missile program poses a threat that could necessitate swift action, NBC News reported this month.

Israeli officials have grown increasingly concerned that Tehran was expanding production of its ballistic missile program, which Israeli military strikes damaged this year, and are preparing to brief Trump about options to attack it again, according to a person with direct knowledge of the plans and four former U.S. officials briefed on the plans.

Netanyahu was expected to present Trump with options for the U.S. to join or assist in any new military operations, the sources said.

Monday's meeting was Netanyahu's sixth with Trump this year. (Alex Wong / Getty Images file) (Alex Wong)

Asked by a reporter whether he would support an Israeli attack on Iran if it took steps toward advancing ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons, Trump appeared to suggest that any movement on the nuclear front would trigger an immediate response from the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

"If they will continue with the missiles, yes. The nuclear, fast," Trump said. "One will be yes, absolutely. The other was we'll do it immediately."

Still, Trump indicated that diplomacy was still on the table, as well.

Even though the U.S. conducted strikes on Irans major nuclear enrichment facilities in a joint operation with Israel in June, Trump has hinted recently he might be open to returning to talks with Tehran.

He was more firm on that front Monday, telling reporters that he was open to having those talks.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Donald Trump on Friday cast himself as the ultimate arbiter of any peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, in an exclusive conversation with POLITICO.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Trump in Florida on Sunday and told reporters hes bringing with him a new 20-point plan for peace. The framework includes a proposed demilitarized zone and the meeting is expected to focus on U.S. security guarantees.

But in an interview, Trump appeared lukewarm to Zelenskyys latest overture and in no rush to endorse the Ukrainian presidents proposal.

Advertisement Advertisement

He doesnt have anything until I approve it, Trump said. So well see what hes got.

The presidents comments underscore the degree to which Ukraines fate rests on convincing Trump that it is conceding enough to satisfy a president who, at times, has appeared inclined to lean toward Russia if it means an end to the war. Russia has moved very little from its maximalist position and has not reacted to the latest proposal. The U.S., meanwhile, has pushed Zelenskyy to move off his original demands and Trump has often seemed to lose patience with the haggling.

Still, Trump believed he could have a productive meeting this weekend.

I think its going to go good with him. I think its going to go good with [Vladimir] Putin, Trump said, adding that he expects to speak with the Russian leader soon, as much as I want.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps comments came the day after Zelenskyy spoke with special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the presidents son-in-law. Zelenskyy called that a good conversation.

They also come the day after the United States launched airstrikes against ISIS in Nigeria, a move that the president said on social media was in retaliation for the militant groups killing of Christians at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries!

Trump told POLITICO that the strike was originally to take place on Wednesday but the president ordered it delayed one day  for symbolic reasons.

They were going to do it earlier, Trump said. And I said, nope, let's give a Christmas present.  They didnt think that was coming, but we hit them hard. Every camp got decimated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump also confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would visit him this weekend.

I have Zelenskyy and I have Bibi coming. Theyre all coming. They all come, Trump said. They respect our country again.

Netanyahu, according to a report from NBC, will brief Trump on the growing threat from Iran.

Zelenskyys meeting, in addition to security guarantees, will focus on management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and territorial control of Donbas, the eastern territories claimed by Moscow.

Zelenskyys plan, which Ukrainian officials have described as an attempt to show flexibility without conceding territory, has received little public reaction from Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Zelenskyys offer of a demilitarized zone came with a key condition: Russia would have to withdraw its forces from a corresponding stretch of land in Donetsk.

Russia has given no indication that it is willing to accept anything short of full control over the region, underscoring the gulf that remains between the two sides.

But Trump noted that Russias economy is under severe strain. Their economy is in tough shape, very tough shape, he said.
JOHANNESBURG, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- South Africa on Monday voiced concerns over Israel's recent announcement recognizing Somaliland as an independent state.

In a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the South African government said the recognition constitutes a violation of Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity and a direct threat to peace in the Horn of Africa.

"We uphold the African Union's principle of uti possidetis, the sanctity of inherited borders as the continent's essential safeguard against conflict," the statement said. "We distinguish unequivocally between decolonization and secession. The former restores sovereignty; the latter dismantles it. Israel's action validates fragmentation and risks a domino effect of instability."

In the statement, South Africa urged the international community to reject this external interference and support a united, stable Somalia. 
President Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter for asking a dumb question ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday.

The pair met up at Trumps Palm Beach, Florida, resort for the next round of talks to end Russias ongoing war against Ukraine.

Politics: Trump, In Interview, Defends His Energy And Health, Offers New Details On Screening He Underwent

After a reporter questioned Trump over whether he is prepared to sign a security agreement today for Ukraines protection, the right-wing leader chastised him over his inquiry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Well, it depends on what the security agreements Trump began before pausing mid-sentence to slam the reporter. What a stupid question. Nobody even knows what the security agreement is going to say.

The president continued, But there will be a security agreement, itll be a strong agreement, and the European nations are very much involved in that. Theyll be very much involved in protection, etc.

Trump went on to say that the European nations have been really great and are very much in line with this meeting.

He added, They all want to get it done, and theyve been very supportive, I think.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump speaking with reporters outside of Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort on Dec. 28, 2025. X

Another reporter then asked Trump for his reaction to those who say that Russias attacks on Ukraine in the past couple of days show that Russian President Vladimir Putin isnt serious about [reaching a] peace [agreement].

Advertisement Advertisement

Multiple Russian strikes against Ukraine on Saturday left at least one person dead and several others injured.

Politics: Gavin Newsom Unleashes Hell On 'Total Loser' Trump In Scathing New Year's Message

Trump responded that Ukraine has launched some very strong attacks against Russia of its own before noting that he was not saying that negatively.

There have been some explosions in various parts of Russia, and it looks to me like, I dont know, I dont think it came from the Congo, Trump continued. I dont think it came from the United States of America. It possibly came from Ukraine, but I havent asked that question  maybe I wont bother asking.

Advertisement Advertisement

He added, Theyre fighting a war, and well see what happens we have two willing parties, and we have two willing countries that want to see it end.

In a Sunday Truth Social post, Trump said he just had a good and very productive telephone call with Putin moments before his meeting with Zelenskyy.

Politics: 'Something's Wrong There': Nancy Pelosi Sounds Alarm On Trump's 'Mental Incapacity'

Trump said his message to Putin during their phone call was that they have got to make a deal. He noted that he believes we have the makings of a deal.

Following his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump said the two leaders had covered 95% of the issues needed to put an end to the conflict.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
PALM BEACH, Florida  President Donald Trump said Monday that he would back an Israeli attack on Iran if it rebuilds its nuclear capabilities, vowing that we will knock the hell out of them.

Ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Palm Beach estate, Trump said he heard Iran is trying to grow its ballistic missiles program.

"Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again. And if they are, were going to have to knock them down, he said alongside Netanyahu. We'll knock the hell out of them, but hopefully that's not happening.

Advertisement Advertisement

The president added that he heard Iran wants to make a deal, but said he supports an Israeli attack if either ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons programs continue.

If they will continue with the missiles, yes. The nuclear, fast, Trump said.

Trump ordered a U.S. military strike on Iranian nuclear sites in June, after which he said the countrys capabilities were totally obliterated.

The Israeli prime minister met with Trump on Monday to discuss the growing threat from Iran, as well as the ceasefire in Gaza.

Ahead of his sit-down with Netanyahu, he also endorsed the idea of a pardon for the prime minister from Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think he will, how do you not? He's a wartime prime minister who's a hero, Trump said. I spoke to the president, he told me it's on the way.

Netanyahu is in the middle of a corruption trial and has requested that Herzog grant him a preemptive pardon before any conviction.

Netanyahu is the second foreign leader to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago in a weeks time he hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday, where he expressed optimism that they were on the precipice of a deal to end the war with Russia.
President Donald Trump threatened to "knock the hell" out of Iran, saying he's worried the country is "building up weapons and other things" following Israeli and U.S. strikes on Tehran's nuclear and missile programs during the summer.

Trump ordered U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June, but has since sought to restart diplomatic negotiations over limiting the country's nuclear program. Israel fought a 12-day war with Iran last year that targeted the country's military infrastructure, including ballistic missile sites.

Trump's warning came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the president's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida Dec. 29. Iran said last week it had conducted a second round of missile exercises this month, and Netanyahu was expected to present Trump intelligence on Iran building up its arms, according to Reuters.

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Will the Gaza peace plan move forward? Trump says Hamas must disarm

"Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again," Trump said during an appearance with Netanyahu before their meeting. "And if they are we're going to have to knock them down."

"We'll knock the hell out of them," Trump added. "But hopefully that's not happening."

Trump said later during a joint press conference with Netanyahu that Iran "may be behaving badly." Asked to clarify if he was referring to the country's nuclear program, the president said "not nuclear yet, but maybe nuclear too. The sites were obliterated but they're looking at other sites."

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump said Iran has been greatly weakened and would be a destabilizing force in the Middle East if it was allowed to "build up again," tying the country's diminished status to the success of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal in Gaza.

Asked if he would support Israel attacking Iran if the country continues with ballistic missiles and it's nuclear program, Trump said: "If they will continue with the missiles - yes. The nuclear, fast, OK?"

More: US offered Ukraine a 15-year security guarantee, Zelenskyy says

US Coast Guard patrols the Intracoastal Waterway near Mar-a-Lago as members of the media report nearby ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plane is seen at Palm Beach International Airport in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on Monday. Two men, one wrapped in an Israeli flag, are seen near Mar-a-Lago ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. President Donald Trump greets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu upon arrival at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec.29, 2025. President Donald Trump welcomes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 29, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. The two leaders are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting to discuss regional security in the Middle East as well as the U.S.-Israel partnership. President Donald Trump (R) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu walk inside after Netanyahu arrived at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. Steve Witkoff, U.S. special envoy to the Middle East and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, attend a luncheon hosted by the president for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 29, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump and Netanyahu are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting to discuss regional security in the Middle East as well as the U.S.-Israel partnership. US President Donald Trump meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a bilateral meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla., on Dec. 29, 2025. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands as they arrive to speak to journalists during a joint press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on December 29 for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would "knock them down." US President Donald Trump speaks during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (off frame) at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on December 29 for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would "knock them down." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looks on as US President Donald Trump speaks during a joint press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025. US President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on December 29 for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would "knock them down." Trump, Netanyahu meet at Mar-a-Lago to talk Iran, Gaza 1 of 11 US Coast Guard patrols the Intracoastal Waterway near Mar-a-Lago as members of the media report nearby ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 29, 2025.

"One will be yes, absolutely," Trump added. "The other was, we'll do it immediately."

During his first term, Trump abandoned the Iran nuclear deal negotiated by former President Barack Obama that included strict U.N. inspections and reinstated U.S. sanctions in an attempt to put maximum pressure on the country. Upon taking office a second time, the president signed an executive order calling for more aggressive measures against Iran.

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Trump says US 'knocked out' facility. Was there a Venezuela strike?

Trump's decision to bomb Iran was a defining moment of his first year back in office. Standing next to Netanyahu Dec. 29, Trump said the U.S. and Israel "worked together and were extremely victorious, to put it mildly."

Contributing: Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump sends threat to Iran while meeting with Netanyahu
Richard Grenell, the out Kennedy Center president, is demanding a jazz musician pay up for canceling an annual free Christmas Eve performance after Donald Trump added his name to the center.

Your decision to withdraw at the last moment  explicitly in response to the Centers recent renaming, which honors President Trumps extraordinary efforts to save this national treasure  is classic intolerance and very costly to a non-profit Arts institution, Grenell, a MAGA Republican and Trump devotee, wrote in a letter to Chuck Redd, according to the Associated Press.

CNN notes that in a Trump Kennedy Center logo appeared on the letterhead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Grenell also told Redd he would seek $1 million in damages, calling Redd's actions a "political stunt."

Related: Lin-Manuel Miranda: 'Easy decision' to cancel Hamilton at Kennedy Center

Redd, who plays vibraphone and other percussion, has hosted the holiday jazz concert for about 20 years.

When I saw the name change on the Kennedy Center website and then hours later on the building, I chose to cancel our concert, Redd told the AP.

Ive been performing at the Kennedy Center since the beginning of my career and I was saddened to see this name change, he told CNN.

Earlier this month, the John F. Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts' board of trustees  who were selected by Trump  voted to add Trump's name to the center. It was added shortly after. The move has been met with criticism. U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty of Ohio, a Democrat who is an ex officio member of the Kennedy Center board, has already brought a legal challenge to the renaming since the original name was established through a law passed by Congress. That law bars the board from making the center a memorial to someone else and it also prohibits adding another person's name on the building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Several Kennedy family members have expressed outrage over Trump's move.

Since Trump took over the center earlier this year, artists have shunned the once-celebrated institution.

This article originally appeared on Advocate: Trump's gay Kennedy Center president demands $1M from performer who canceled Christmas Eve show
A charity said it will pay off the mortgage for the family of fallen Delaware State Police trooper Cpl. Matthew "Ty" Snook.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation made that announcement on Monday.

The foundation says it plans to have the mortgage paid off by New Year's Day.

The Snook family will be the first of 343 mortgage-free homes the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will deliver in 2026.

This is in tribute to the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

Corporal Grade One Matthew T. "Ty" Snook Delaware State Police

Snook was shot and killed last Tuesday while on duty at the DMV on Hessler Boulevard in Minquadale.

Advertisement Advertisement

The gunman, 44-year-old Rahman Rose, shot Snook for an unknown reason.

Police say Snook pushed a DMV worker out of harm's way before Rose shot him again.

Rose was then killed by a responding New Castle County police officer.

A candlelight vigil for Snook will be held at 7 p.m. Monday at the PAL Center in Hockessin, Delaware.

A celebration of life will be held Monday, Jan. 5, at the University of Delaware Bob Carpenter Center in Newark.


ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey and Armenia have agreed to simplify visa procedures as part of efforts to normalize ties, Turkey's Foreign Ministry announced Monday, making it easier for their citizens to travel between the two countries.

Relations between Turkey and Armenia have long been strained by historic grievances and Turkeys alliance with Azerbaijan. The two neighboring countries have no formal diplomatic ties and their joint border has remained closed since the 1990s.

The two countries however, agreed to work toward normalization in 2021, appointing special envoys to explore steps toward reconciliation and reopening the frontier. Those talks have progressed in parallel with efforts to ease tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Turkey supported Azerbaijan during its 2020 conflict with Armenia for control of the Karabakh region, known internationally as Nagorno-Karabakh, a territorial dispute that had lasted nearly four decades.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement posted on social platform X that Ankara and Yerevan agreed that holders of diplomatic, special and service passports from both countries would be able to obtain electronic visas free of charge as of Jan. 1.

On this occasion, Turkey and Armenia reaffirm once again their commitment to continue the normalization process between the two countries with the goal of achieving full normalization without any preconditions, the ministry said.

Turkey and Armenia also have a more than century-old dispute over the deaths of an estimated 1.5 million Armenians in massacres, deportations and forced marches that began in 1915 in Ottoman Turkey. Historians widely view the event as genocide.

Turkey denies the deaths constituted genocide, saying the toll has been inflated and those killed were victims of civil war and unrest. It has lobbied to prevent countries from officially recognizing the massacres as genocide.
Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Three Turkish police officers were killed in a raid on an alleged Islamic State safe house Monday, Turkey's interior minister said.

Six of the militants were also killed after gunfire broke out, and nine police officers were injured. All of the militants killed were Turkish.

"We will continue our fight against the killers with bloody hands who threaten the peace of our nation and the security of our state within our borders and beyond," President Recep Tayyip Erdogan wrote on X.

Advertisement Advertisement

The early morning raid was in Elmalik in the Yalova province in northwestern Turkey. It was part of a crackdown on militants around the country, said Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.

Turkey has been ramping up its efforts against ISIS in the past month.

Last week, Police in Turkey detained 115 people suspected of planning terror attacks at Christmas and New Year's Day celebrations throughout the country.

The Istanbul Provincial Police Department carried out 124 raids targeting 137 suspected members of ISIS, officials said in a press release.

Yerlikaya said the deadly raid was one of more than 100 operations against ISIS on Monday in 15 provinces. Elmalik is about 62 miles south of Istanbul.

Advertisement Advertisement

When police approached the house, the militants opened fire, Yerlikaya said. Security forces evacuated five women and six children from the house and blocked off the area. They cut off supplies of natural gas and electricity to the town.

Neighbors told Turkish broadcaster NTV that the home appeared to house a large family with women and children.

Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc wrote on X that prosecutors were investigating the case and that five suspects were captured.
Dec. 28A head-on collision Saturday afternoon on state Route 290 north of Liberty Lake resulted in the deaths of two people, according to a Washington State Patrol news release.

About 3 p.m. Saturday a 2004 blue Volkswagen was being driven westbound by a 20-year-old Clayton, Washington, man on SR 290 near Harvard Road when it crossed the center line, striking a 2004 red Dodge operated by 61-year-old Thomas L. Nafe Jr., of Athol.

Both drivers died at the crash site. The 20-year-old, who WSP did not identify in the Sunday news release, was not wearing a seat belt.
KAMPALA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Uganda on Monday rejected Israel's recognition of Somaliland, the self-declared region of Somalia, as an independent state, saying the territory is a product of prolonged insecurity in Somalia.

Henry Oryem Okello, Uganda's minister of state for foreign affairs in charge of international affairs, told Xinhua by phone that Uganda aligns itself with the African Union (AU)'s position, opposing Israel's recognition of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state.

Uganda upholds the principle established in the 1960s that borders and countries as they existed at the time of independence should be maintained, said the minister.

He noted that such boundaries cannot be changed or altered in any form except through constitutional processes or the will of the people, expressed through a referendum.

"As such, Somaliland is a pseudo product of the insecure situation in Somalia," the minister said.

"Since the AU only recognized countries that emerged at the time of independence in the 1960s and 1970s, with their boundaries and sovereignty, hence, we cannot support the position that Israel has taken recently," Oryem added.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced on Friday that an agreement was signed "on mutual recognition and the establishment of full diplomatic relations" with Somaliland.

In response, several Arab and Muslim countries issued a joint statement on Saturday condemning Israel's recognition of Somaliland, and reaffirmed their support for Somalia's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. 
The UK Government has announced that hospitals across England are increasingly adopting AI demand forecasting tool in National Health Service (NHS) hospitals to predict busy periods in accident and emergency (A&E) departments.

The tool is available to all NHS Trusts and is currently used by 50 NHS organisations. It assists hospitals in planning for the number of people likely to need emergency care each day.

For staff, this supports better shift and bed space planning, minimising last-minute pressures through improved forecasts that identify potential bottlenecks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Patients are expected to benefit from shorter waiting times during busy periods, ensuring they receive care more promptly.

The AI tool, which is continually trained on seasonal health data, is designed to detect surges in demand before they occur, allowing hospitals to deploy staff where most needed.

It incorporates a range of data, including Met Office temperature forecasts, hospital admissions, and patterns in busier days of the week, to produce short- and medium-term forecasts. Hospitals can use these projections to better manage resources for upcoming days and weeks.

This initiative is part of the Prime Ministers AI Exemplars programme, which seeks to use AI to enhance public services and modernise existing systems.

Advertisement Advertisement

UK Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: AI is already improving healthcare by speeding up diagnosis and unlocking new treatments. Now we are going a step further.

By helping to predict demand, this AI forecasting tool is getting patients the care they need faster while supporting our incredible NHS staff. That means easing pressure by ensuring the NHS is at the forefront of the latest technology during the busiest time of year.

In August 2025, the UK Government announced the development of an AI-assisted tool at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Trust to accelerate the hospital discharge process.

"UK Government supports hospitals across England with AI tool" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand.




KYIV, Ukraine  A maximum of 800,000. Thats how many soldiers Ukraines military would be authorized to have under the current 20-point peace framework  a 20% cut from the roughly one million currently under arms, but a significant increase over the 600,000 originally proposed.

That higher number was a concession Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy won after weeks of pushing back. But its still a ceiling on a force built over almost four years of war with Western weapons, Western training and Western intelligence.

Russia faces no equivalent limit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Almost four years ago, Moscow expected Kyiv to fall in three days. Instead, Ukraine buried its dead in mass graves from Bucha to Izium, watched Mariupols defenders disappear into Russian filtration camps, counted the tens of thousands of children, according to Yales Humanitarian Research Lab, who were taken across the border  and kept fighting.

Zelenskyy said more than 45,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed and 390,000 wounded in a February interview with Piers Morgan  roughly 1 in 20 fighting-age men in the country, according to The Economist.

The army that paid for every kilometer in bodies is now being asked to shrink, to cede ground its still holding and to accept guarantees that even its allies cant explain.

Its one of many sticking points that have hounded negotiators since November  dismissed as a nonstarter by Ukrainians and treated as a baseline demand by Moscow. The 800,000 figure is supposed to be the compromise.

Police work on IDing civilians following killings in Bucha, before sending the bodies to the morgue, April 6, 2022. (Rodrigo Abd/AP)

But the current frameworks offer little when it comes to stifling Russian hostilities, retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, former commander of U.S. Army Europe and one of NATOs most experienced voices on the alliances Eastern flank, told Military Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Who benefits from that? he told Military Times. Russia.

The framework, delivered to Moscow on Dec. 24, proposes a demilitarized zone along a line Russia hasnt captured on the battlefield, according to The Washington Post. It offers Article 5-like security guarantees, Hodges noted, that even U.S. officials have struggled to explain.

It also requires Ukraine to hold the line against an adversary whose answer to current peace talks, according to Zelenskyy, came in the form of nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles over Kyiv last weekend, an attack that killed two and left a third of the capital without heat, according to Reuters. The wartime leader arrived in Mar-a-Lago the next day.

Russian representatives engage in lengthy talks, Zelenskyy posted Saturday, but in reality, Kinzhals and Shaheds [drones] speak for them.

Advertisement Advertisement

The pattern continued on Monday, when Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed Ukraine attacked Putins residence in Novgorod with 91 drones overnight  an accusation Zelenskyy called a lie and an attempt to undermine peace talks, according to Reuters.

In response, Lavrov said Moscow would review its negotiating position and that targets for retaliatory strikes had already been selected.

The security architecture remains in flux, too. U.S. President Donald Trump offered Ukraine a 15-year security guarantee as part of a revised plan earlier the same day  a commitment Zelenskyy quickly called strong but pushed to extend to 30 or 50 years, citing the wars near-15-year span since Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea.

But the offer requires U.S. congressional ratification and European parliamentary approval, according to NPR  a procedural hurdle that could still leave the guarantees undefined in practice.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky listens as U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference following their meeting at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 28, 2025. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

The military Russia failed to break

The army Moscow expected to collapse in 72 hours is now one of the most combat-tested forces in the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Nearly one million Ukrainians are currently under arms, trained on NATO weapons systems, integrated into Western intelligence-sharing networks and hardened by almost four years of high-intensity conventional warfare.

Theyve absorbed more battlefield lessons in drone tactics, electronic countermeasures and decentralized command than any NATO military has learned in decades  and theyve done it under fire. This is the force the 20-point framework would cap at 20% smaller than its current size.

Hodges, who spent years planning for a potential Russian conflict from his headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany, sees the limit as an operational straitjacket.

What Ukraine is being asked to do is politically and morally unacceptable, he told Military Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

The force limits arent just about headcount, he explained. They constrain rotation cycles, training throughput and the mobilization surge capacity Ukraine would need if the ceasefire breaks.

An army locked at 800,000 cant regenerate the way a wartime force needs to  not while holding a 600-mile front and defending cities from nightly drone barrages while Russia builds toward a 2026 recruitment target of 409,000 soldiers, military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said in a year-end interview with Suspilne.

How a US-led peace plan in Ukraine is reshaping global alliances

Ukraines booming drone industry is part of the equation, already outpacing the alliance its defending. Kyiv now claims a production capacity of four million first-person-view drones annually  more than all NATO countries combined, according to Bloomberg  with 96% built domestically, according to Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.

Advertisement Advertisement

The asymmetry was on display in September, when at least 19 Russian drones crossed into NATO airspace over Poland. Dutch F35s and Polish F16s were scrambled  backed by an Italian airborne earlywarning aircraft, a Belgian tanker and German Patriot batteries  to successfully shoot down just four of the 19, per Air & Space Forces Magazine.

Ian Kelly, a former U.S. ambassador to Georgia and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, sees the pattern clearly.

You cant accidentally send 20 missiles into Poland, he told Military Times. And that was not the first time.

The incident prompted Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to declare that Europe is already enmeshed in a new type of war, according to The Guardian.

Advertisement Advertisement

While the revised 20-point version raised the troop cap, it didnt change the architecture. The army that has more experience fighting modern-day Russia than any military in NATO would still be locked into a force structure designed by Moscow  while the North Atlantic alliance watches its most capable forward buffer get gutted by the enemy it was built to stop.

A pause that favors Moscow

A DMZ without enforcement looks just like a new front, according to Hodges. And the security guarantees now being floated dont explain who fires back when Russia tests it  which is why many Ukrainian and NATO planners like him see current proposals as a freeze, not an end.

Retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, pictured here in 2017 as the U.S. Army commander in Europe, discussed the proposed peace plan in Ukraine with Military Times. (Alik Keplicz/AP)

The retired lieutenant general pointed to Dayton. That deal froze the lines in Bosnia, with American and NATO troops on the ground authorized to enforce the peace with lethal action. Twenty-five years later, that framework still holds.

But the current proposals for peace in Ukraine offer no equivalent.

Advertisement Advertisement

We had Minsk-1 and Minsk-2, Hodges said. You had ceasefires, you had observers and the Russians just blew past all that. Never lived up to it.

If theres going to be any sort of demilitarized area or a zone of separation like we had after the Dayton Peace Accords, there will have to be Europeans and Canadians in there with real capability  that have the authority to shoot back immediately when Russia violates it.

Who, Hodges posed, will then fly reconnaissance over the buffer zone? Who responds when Russia probes the line  under what authority and on what timeline? And with the contact line shifting daily even now, which days positions get frozen?

Unless you have somebody there thats a credible deterrent, the Russians are not going to respect that, he added. And I dont think any serious people believe they will.

Advertisement Advertisement

Even if the skies go quiet, the mission doesnt  temporarily stopping the war doesnt mean Ukraine can stand down. The front still has to be manned; air defense still has to cover cities and forward positions; ammunition has to keep flowing; medevac chains kept operational; rotation cycles maintained.

One senior European diplomat, granted anonymity by Military Times to discuss the sensitive negotiations, said even with a ceasefire and DMZ, the security needs of Ukraine and Europe wouldnt let up. Russia will keep probing.

The only reason this is still called hybrid war is because we have decided to call it hybrid, he said.

The pattern is already clear: Drones have already breached NATO airspace. Sabotage plots and cyberattacks have been uncovered across the continent and the U.S. Russian probes stop just short of triggering Article 5.

When does it cross the line? he added. When do we have a Sarajevo moment?

The security guarantees are supposed to close these resource and security gaps while preventing a return to war  but they dont, the diplomat said. And everyone at the negotiating table knows it.

Does anybody seriously believe that this administration would respond to a Russian drone attack on Ukraine as if it was a Russian drone attack on New York or Washington? Hodges asked, referring to the platinum guarantees U.S. officials floated earlier this month.

Of course not.

Who pays to hold the line

Even if the guarantees hold, the math doesnt add up: Russia can afford to drag out its invasion  Ukraine cant.

World Bank figures put Russias 2024 GDP at $2.17 trillion; Ukraines at $190.7 billion  an 11-to-1 ratio.

Newly recruited Ukrainian soldiers practice in a trench during military training on March 13, 2025, in Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine. (Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)

Ukraine carries the highest military burden in the world, over a third of its GDP annually, according to a SIPRI analysis. But Russia can budget to keep its war machine running long-term: Moscow used about 7.2% of its GDP on defense spending in 2025  or 15.5 trillion rubles, roughly Ukraines entire annual economic output.

That imbalance shapes everything that follows, including how long Russia can sustain the war, and how much outside money Ukraine needs just to stay in the fight.

If sanctions ease under any deal, Russias defense industrial base recovers on a timeline Ukraine cant match. The money is already a fight  the EU has spent months trying to unlock frozen Russian assets, with Belgium demanding extra safeguards that have stalled the process, complicating EU efforts to turn wealth into Ukraine support at scale, according to Politico.

The only thing that changes Putins math is making the war too expensive to continue.

Thats how this war ends, when Russia cannot pay for what theyre doing, Hodges said. And we wont get there by killing another half a million Russians. Putin doesnt care about that.

In his view, that means doing what European leaders have spent three years postponing: unfreezing the money in Belgium and getting it to Kyiv, putting real sanctions on Lukoil and Rosneft, going after the secondary buyers  Turkey, India and China  who keep Russias oil revenue flowing.

Kelly explained that the only consistent message from Washington has been that there is no more free lunch, no more big multi-billion dollar packages.

That leaves European allies holding both the deterrence mission and the sustainment bill without the experienced partner they built their latest defense posture around.

The Europeans have failed, Hodges said, which is why Putin refers to the European leaders as piglets  because he is pretty sure that Europeans are not going to do whats necessary.

If the West wants a peace plan that holds, he added, it has to do what the current frameworks dont: enforce violations in real time, keep Ukraine armed and funded and make the war financially unbearable for Moscow.

What weve done so far hasnt delivered, the diplomat admitted. So, how do we step up our support in a way that might impact the calculus in Moscow?

No one has answered that question yet. What they have is a framework that caps Ukraines army, leaves enforcement undefined and asks allies to carry a burden it hasnt built the capacity to hold. Its less a peace plan than a stress test, officials say, and from where Europe sits, its failing.

We all see where this is heading, the diplomat said. And it scares the bejesus out of us.
WASHINGTON  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seeking security guarantees from the United States that could span up to 50 years as part of a potential peace settlement with Russia that the Trump administration put forward.

Zelenskyy told reporters a day after he met with President Donald Trump in Florida that the United States offered 15 years of security guarantees, but he said that he told Trump the war has been going on for nearly 15 years already and asked the administration to consider a longer commitment.

I told him that we really wanted to consider the possibility of 30, 40, 50 years, and this would then be a historic decision by President Trump. The president said that he would think about it," Zelenskyy said, according to Al Jazeera.

Staff and security agents wait for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's arrival to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. A machine-gun mounted U.S. Coast Guard boat turns away recreational boaters in the water near U.S. President Donald TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky checks his cell phone as he arrives to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump invited Zelensky to his private club to work on a U.S.-proposed peace plan to end the war in Ukraine as the conflict approaches four years since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022. President Donald Trump greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy upon his arrival for meetings at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 28: U.S. Donald Trump greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec. 28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump invited Zelensky to his private club to work on the U.S.-proposed peace plan to end the war in Ukraine, as the conflict approaches four years since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy take questions from the media upon Zelenskiy's arrival for meetings at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. President Donald Trump welcomes Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. News reporters work near U.S. President Donald TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. President Donald Trump, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine and White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, meets with a Ukrainian delegation led by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. President Donald Trump speaks during the meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago club on Dec.28, 2025 in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump invited Zelensky to his private club to work on the U.S.-proposed peace plan to end the war in Ukraine as the conflict approaches four years since the sudden full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022. Turkey vultures gather on the sand across the water from U.S. President Donald TrumpOs Mar-a-Lago club ahead of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the club in Palm Beach Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025. Trump and Zelenskyy work on Ukraine peace plan at Mar-a-Lago 1 of 11 Staff and security agents wait for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's arrival to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla. on Dec. 28, 2025.

The comments came after Zelenskyy presented his version of the plan to Trump and top U.S. officials on Dec. 28 at the president's private resort in Palm Beach. The leaders said afterward that they'd made substantial progress on a security framework but had not come to an agreement on the fate of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, where Russia has seized most but not all of the land.

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia is pushing Kyiv to retreat from areas of the region that are still under Ukraine's control and concede the territory in any peace deal. Ukraine has indicated a willingness to turn the disputed land into a demilitarized economic zone.

The issue of who will manage the Zaporizhzhya power plant, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, also remains unsettled. Russia controls the power plant, which provided more than 20% of Ukraine's energy before the war began.

A firefighter walks at the site where a Russian drone struck a residential building during a night of Russian drone and missile attacks, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Dec. 27, 2025.

Russia annexed the Ukrainian territory of Crimea more than a decade ago, in 2014, and launched a full-scale invasion of the country in 2022, seizing the nuclear plant and much of eastern Ukraine.

Trump has pushed Zelenskyy to make a deal to quickly end the fighting, although he said ahead of their meeting that he has no firm timeline.

President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hold a press conference after their lunch meeting at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club, in Palm Beach, Florida, Dec. 28, 2025.

At a news conference with Zelenskyy after the talks, Trump said "thorny issues" remained and it was "possible" that the conflict would not abate. The leaders spoke to the heads of several major European governments by phone for an hour after their private discussion, with another round of in-person talks potentially taking place in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump said he talked to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone for more than two hours earlier in the day and could speak to the leader again soon. He said he was on the side of "peace" and declined to chastise Putin for bombarding Ukraine with missiles and drones before his summit with Zelenskyy.

The Kremlin said on Dec. 29 that another call was in the works and renewed its push for Kyiv to withdraw troops from the Donbas.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US offered Ukraine security guarantee, Zelenskyy says after Trump talk
By Olivia Le Poidevin and Daphne Psaledakis

GENEVA/WASHINGTON, Dec 29 (Reuters) - The United States on Monday pledged $2 billion in assistance to tens of millions of people facing hunger and disease in more than a dozen countries next year, part of what it said was a new mechanism for the delivery of life-saving assistance following major foreign aid cuts by the Trump administration.

The U.S. slashed its aid spending this year, and leading Western donors such as Germany also pared back assistance as they pivoted to increased defense spending, triggering a severe funding crunch for the United Nations.

Advertisement Advertisement

The billions of dollars in assistance pledged by Washington on Monday will be overseen by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the State Department said, under what it described as new model of assistance agreed with the U.N. that aims to make aid funding and delivery more efficient and increase accountability for the spending of funds.

U.N. data shows total U.S. humanitarian contributions to the U.N. fell to about $3.38 billion in 2025, equating to about 14.8% of the global sum. This was down sharply from $14.1 billion the prior year, and a peak of $17.2 billion in 2022.

The U.S. and United Nations will sign 17 memorandums of understanding with individual countries identified by the U.S. as priority countries, officials from the State Department and UN said in Geneva.

But some areas that are priorities for the UN, including Yemen, Afghanistan and Gaza, will not be receiving U.S. funding under the new mechanism, UN aid chief Tom Fletcher said, adding that the UN will seek support from other donors to find funding for those.

Advertisement Advertisement

Jeremy Lewin, State Department Under Secretary of State for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs and Religious Freedom, said further countries would be added as more money is contributed to the mechanism.

"These are some countries where I think our interests overlap ... But over time, we will thoughtfully add additional countries," Lewin said.

GAZA TO BE HANDLED ON SEPARATE TRACK

A UN spokesperson said Ukraine, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria and Sudan were among the countries covered in Monday's package.

But Gaza - where aid agencies have repeatedly said far more aid needs to get into the small, crowded enclave - is not covered in Monday's announcement and will instead be handled on a separate track, Lewin said.

Advertisement Advertisement

He said that the U.S. had approved over $300 million after President Donald Trump's administration helped broker a Gaza ceasefire "to give pipeline to the UN agencies", adding that the U.S. will be working to get additional donors for a pooled mechanism under a separate track for Gaza under phase two of the deal.

Fletcher said that donors would have "specific requirements" around which countries and what type of work should be funded.

"But the humanitarian action at the other end of that must always be neutral and impartial and independent, and nothing in the work that we're doing together here in this partnership undermines those principles," he said.

Lewin said the focus of the funding was on life-saving assistance, while funding for climate-related and other projects that were not a priority for the administration would be cut out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier in December, the United Nations launched a 2026 aid appeal for $23 billion to reach 87 million people at risk - half the $47 billion sought for 2025, reflecting plunging donor support despite record global needs.

Fletcher acknowledged it had been a tough year for the UN, following a slew of cuts while humanitarian crises in war-torn countries such as Sudan surged, but said he was optimistic following the U.S. pledge.

"Millions of lives will be saved across 17 countries," said Fletcher.

(Reporting by Olivia Le Poidevin in Geneva and Daphne Psaledakis in WashingtonEditing by Dave Graham and Nick Zieminski)
By Andrea Shalal, Idrees Ali and Erin Banco

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida, Dec 29 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Monday that the U.S. had "hit" an area in Venezuela where boats are loaded with drugs, marking the first known time Washington has carried out land operations in Venezuela since a pressure campaign began against President Nicolas Maduro's government.

"There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs," Trump said.

Advertisement Advertisement

"We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area ... it's the implementation area. That's where they implement, and that is no longer around."

It was not immediately clear what target was hit nor which part of the U.S. government acted.

Asked if the CIA had carried out the attack, Trump said: "I don't want to say that. I know exactly who it was but I don't want to say who it was."

CNN, citing sources, reported on Monday that the CIA had carried out a drone strike earlier this month on a port facility on the coast of Venezuela.

The strike targeted a remote dock that the U.S. believed was being used by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua to store drugs and move them onto boats for onward shipping, according to CNN.

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has previously said that he has authorized the CIA to carry out covert operations in Venezuela.

On a radio show last week, Trump made vague comments about an apparent U.S. operation against a "big facility" in Venezuela.

The Central Intelligence Agency, the White House and the Pentagon have not publicly elaborated on those comments and declined to comment on questions posed by Reuters. The Venezuelan government has not commented on the incident Trump described and there have been no independent reports from Venezuela of it.

Primazol, a chemical plant in Zulia state which suffered a fire on Christmas Eve, has denied online rumors that the blaze was what Trump alluded to in his comments. The company also said the fire was quickly extinguished and was under investigation. Nearby residents told Reuters they heard an explosion, saw the fire and smelled chlorine.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Venezuelan communications ministry, which handles all press requests for the government, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday.

Trump's administration has previously touted its success in taking out suspected drug trafficking vessels, and the Pentagon has posted footage of several of its strikes on social media.

The lack of response by U.S. national security agencies had raised questions about whether the incident Trump mentioned was carried out covertly. Such an operation would likely limit the ability of U.S. officials to speak on the matter.

PRESSURE ON MADURO

Advertisement Advertisement

Last month, Reuters reported that the U.S. was poised to launch a new phase of Venezuela-related operations, as the Trump administration escalates pressure on Maduro's government.

At the time, two U.S. officials said covert operations would likely be the first part of the new action against Maduro.

The U.S. mission has primarily focused on military strikes against suspected drug trafficking vessels and has prompted intense oversight from Congress. At least 100 people have been killed in more than 20 strikes in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

Earlier this month, U.S. military leaders briefed lawmakers on an incident in September in which an American strike killed 11 people but left several survivors who were killed in a second strike ordered by Admiral Frank Bradley.

Advertisement Advertisement

Congressional Democrats have questioned whether the second strike was conducted in accordance with international law.

Trump's administration has overseen a massive U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, including more than 15,000 troops.

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal, Erin Banco and Idrees Ali; Editing by Humeyra Pamuk, David Gregorio, Rosalba O'Brien and Lincoln Feast.)
Third District Judge Dianna Gibson listens during a hearing in Utahs court-ordered redistricting process, in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025. (Pool photo by Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune)

Despite calling out the Utah Legislatures attorneys for failing to appeal her previous redistricting rulings at more appropriate junctures, 3rd District Judge Dianna Gibson has issued a ruling allowing lawmakers to appeal one of her decisions throwing out the states 2021 congressional map.

Gibson, in a decision issued late Friday, denied the Legislatures attorneys request that she issue a final judgement on the entire lawsuit challenging redistricting in Utah  which would have finalized the whole case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead, she decided to allow a narrower appeal specifically for her Aug. 25 ruling, which preliminarily voided Utahs 2021 congressional map as the result of an unconstitutional process and blocked a law that lawmakers approved that year, SB200.

That law repealed and replaced a 2018 voter-approved ballot initiative known as Proposition 4 that enacted an independent redistricting process  a move that Gibson decided violated Utahns constitutional right to alter and reform their government.

Plaintiffs in the redistricting lawsuit challenging Utahs 2021 congressional district map has proposed two maps, including pictured Map 1 to the court for consideration. (Courtesy of Campaign Legal Center)

Depending on the outcome of the 2026 midterm-elections, Utahs redistricting lawsuit could potentially tip the scales on which party controls the U.S. House. But that also depends on whether Utahs current court-ordered map with one Democratic-leaning district and three Republican districts stands  or if the Legislature successfully appeals Gibsons order tossing out the voided 2021 congressional map, which included four Republican districts.

A request for comment to House and Senate Republican legislative leaders wasnt immediately returned Monday.

This was not an easy call

In her ruling issued Friday, Gibson said shes leaving it up to the Utah Supreme Court to decide whether the Legislatures appeal is proper.

Advertisement Advertisement

This was not an easy call, the judge wrote.

The Legislatures attorneys had a direct, non-discretionary right to immediately and directly appeal to the Utah Supreme Court both Gibsons Aug. 25 order, as well as another order she issued Nov. 10 that blocked the Legislatures preferred remedial map, known as map C, and instead picked a map drawn by the plaintiffs to be used in the 2026 elections.

That ruling was celebrated by the lawsuits plaintiffs  including voting rights groups the League of Women Voters of Utah and Mormon Women for Ethical Government  and the anti-gerrymanding group Better Boundaries, which successfully pursued Proposition 4.

The resulting new, court-ordered congressional map was also celebrated by Democrats because it created one compact district around northern Salt Lake County that leans Democratic. Previously, all four of Utahs congressional districts leaned Republican.

Advertisement Advertisement

The ruling angered Republicans, with some GOP lawmakers accusing Gibson of violating the Utah Constitution by picking a map that wasnt drawn or approved by lawmakers. Last month, top Republican legislative leaders vowed to appeal the case to the Utah Supreme Court.

However, lawmakers attorneys havent yet appealed any of Gibsons rulings  even though the judge said they could have for both the Aug. 25 ruling and the Nov. 10 ruling.

While it was the Legislative Defendants duty to seek appellate review of these decisions as soon as possible (if in fact that is what they wanted), they have offered no legitimate explanation for failing to do so when they had the chance, either by interlocutory appeal or by exercising their statutory right to immediately appeal an injunction of a state law, Gibson wrote. Nonetheless, this Court still believes that there is no reason to delay appellate review.

So Gibson decided to grant the Legislatures attorneys motion for a Rule 54(b) certification on her Aug. 25 order. A Rule 54(b) certification allows some of her rulings to be certified as final for immediate appeal if the court has decided that there is no reason for delay.

Advertisement Advertisement

This case is unique, she wrote. Most cases before district courts involve private parties and private transactions. Redistricting cases are the exact opposite. They are very public and have a state wide impact. Every Utah voter, every Utah congressional candidate and arguably every Utah citizen is impacted by this case.

Issuing a final ruling on even just a portion of the case, she wrote, ultimately serves the publics interest and will lead to a faster resolution of the entire case.

Gibson acknowledged that if she doesnt certify her Aug. 25 ruling as final now, any appellate review will have to wait until the end of the case, which could be months to years away.

So, Gibson said shes leaving the question to the Utah Supreme Court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Until there is a final decision on these legal issues from our Supreme Court, there will be a cloud (over) Utahs congressional elections and an open question regarding the power of the Legislature and the power of the people, she wrote.

The Utah Supreme Court, she added can decide now if the Legislature is the sole and exclusive authority over redistricting in Utah or if it shares that responsibility with the people.

It can decide if the people of Utah, through the exercise of their right to alter or reform government through a citizen initiative, can also pass binding laws regarding how the Legislature performs its redistricting duty, Gibson wrote. And the Utah Supreme Court should decide now if the order granting the permanent injunction of S.B. 200 and the 2021 Congressional Map should stand or if it should be vacated.

Gibson added that there is no just reason to delay the Utah Supreme Courts review of those legal rulings in the Aug. 25 order.

Advertisement Advertisement

There is no reason to delay bringing some finality on these important issues to the people of Utah, she wrote.

Why hasnt the Legislature appealed yet?

Thats a question Gibsons Friday ruling raises, pointing out the Legislatures attorneys had multiple opportunities to do so.

A clarification hearing held on Dec. 22, confirmed what the court suspected, Gibson wrote.

With election deadlines imminent, the Legislative Defendants repeatedly stated they intended to appeal but then intentionally elected not to utilize the more appropriate appellate tools available to them, Gibson wrote, adding that they could have petitioned to appeal any one of her interlocutory orders within 21 days of any of her previous three orders.

Advertisement Advertisement

She also wrote they could have filed a direct appeal to the Utah Supreme Court within 30 days of each other and obtained an expedited appellate ruling based on her Aug. 25 ruling that blocked the 2021 congressional map and her Nov. 10 order that blocked the Legislatures remedial map submission, known as map C.

Instead, the Legislative Defendants attempt to argue to this Court that this entire case and Plaintiffs Count V are essentially final, she wrote. That is, they contend all of the relief that can be given in this case has been, and we are close enough to call this case done.

In her ruling, Gibson expressed frustration with the position shes been put in.

Quite literally  this Court is between the proverbial rock and a hard spot, she wrote. This entire case is not final.  But the Court agrees that the important legal issues decided by this Court and reflected in each of its rulings  should be reviewed by the Utah Supreme Court as quickly as possible. But this Court and the Utah Supreme Court are bound by the law and by procedure on how we proceed.

Advertisement Advertisement

She wrote that the proposed final judgement submitted by the Legislatures attorneys does not actually reflect the legal status of this case or the status of the various claims in the case.

This case is far from over and is not yet final, Gibson said.

She added that there are several unadjudicated claims in the case, and it continues to be actively litigated.

Utah law does not authorize this Court to just deem that issues are effectively resolved or enter a proposed final judgment because some relief has been granted, she wrote.

While the Legislature would like this case to be over, there is no legal basis supporting entry of a final judgement, she wrote, denying the motion to issue a summary judgement on Utahs ongoing redistricting lawsuit.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Over a year after its deployment across the city, Utica Police Chief Mark Williams reflected on the departments use of the ShotSpotter detection system.

The gunshot detection system uses acoustic sensor microphones placed in designated areas to identify and locate gunfire and notify police within 60 seconds. And while some cities are canceling or not renewing its service plan with SoundThinking, the California-based company behind ShotSpotter, Williams praised the new technology and the help it has given the department.

A view of the Mohawk Valley Crime Analysis Center in Utica, NY on Thursday, May 22, 2025.

I had always felt for a long while, and I think the stats prove it, that there are shots fired incidents in the city of Utica that are not being called in by the community, Williams said. Whether because they dont want to get involved or they live in those high gun-prone areas and they dont bother to call the police."

Advertisement Advertisement

"We were missing those types of calls. And if we dont know, we cant respond.

New York: Prison reform legislation following Brooks, Nantwi deaths

What are the ShotSpotter statistics?

Over the course of 2025, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 16, ShotSpotter sent out 88 alerts, with 23 of those alerts being reclassified as not gunfire  leaving 65 confirmed alerts.

We are now getting notified and we arent relying entirely on the public to call it in, Williams said. And weve made several arrests as a result of our officers getting an instant notification in less than a minute and responding immediately.

Investigation: Utica Police investigating fatal shooting, seeking public assistance

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked about the 23 alerts that were not gunfire, Williams said the majority of these 23 false alarms were either cars backfiring or fireworks.

Over the course of 2025, the Utica Police Department has made 13 arrests stemming from ShotSpotter alerts.

This technology is helping us make arrests and helping us locate shell casings, Williams said.

Williams said shortly after the installation of ShotSpotter in Utica, a notification went out, which led to an officer responding to the scene shortly after it happened.

As a result of his investigation, we made an arrest on a shots fired incident that was never called in by the public. We located the gun and the shell casings, he said [ShotSpotter] is just one of many strategies the Utica Police Department uses to drive down our gun violence stats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Williams said that since the COVID-19 pandemic, gun violence in the city of Utica has gone down ...and continues to go down.

In 2024, Utica had six gun homicides. As of 2025, Utica had three gun homicides.

Court Proceedings: Trial of last Marcy CO in death of Robert Brooks set for January

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Utica police chief talks benefits of ShotSpotter technology
Vice President JD Vance was doggedly working the phones, trying to quell a rebellion in his midst. Elon Musk had just declared his intention to form a third party this spring, turning a simmering feud into an all-out war against the MAGA movement.

Backlash to Musks radical government cost-cutting campaign, the U.S. DOGE Service, along with his public swipes at President Donald Trump on social media, had damaged the relationship between the president and his billionaire backer. Now, Vance and those around him feared that a new party could hurt the GOP in the 2026 midterms and beyond, according to two people familiar with his thinking, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private conversations.

Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance already had appealed to Musk directly. This time, he urged Musk allies to push him to back off his third-party plans. And Vance would later personally lobby lawmakers to support restoring the nomination of Musk ally Jared Isaacman to head NASA, the agency that funds Musks space exploration business, SpaceX, said the two people.

The months-long offensive by Vance and other White House officials, the details of which have not been previously reported, has worked. Having scrapped his third party project, Musk appeared at the White House in November, attending a dinner for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. The killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk spurred Musk to put support behind GOP campaigns in the midterms, said a person directly familiar with his political operation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss its inner workings. Privately, Musk is considering reworking his donations by seeding existing groups with cash rather than wielding his own super PAC, the person added.

But though Trump and Musk are once again on good terms, their truce is fragile, allies of both men say.

This article is based on interviews with more than a dozen people familiar with the relationship between Musk and the White House and with DOGEs ongoing influence, most of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private deliberations.

Advertisement Advertisement

The reconciliation offers a glimpse into the next phase of the singular political partnership - one that carries both risk and reward for all involved. Musk and Trump forged their relationship around a set of shared aims: winning an election and trimming back what they saw as government largesse. But there were deep gaps in their mutual understanding, six of the people said. Trumps camp was surprised at the speed and brazenness with which Musk inserted himself into government, commandeering computer systems and email servers to briskly uproot federal agencies; his moves to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development; and his willingness to take shots at anyone - including Cabinet members.

Though Musk is unpredictable, he is also a formidable ally. With his nearly unlimited resources and unmatched digital megaphone, he could prove a powerful asset to the MAGA movement once Trump leaves the stage.

Vance in particular stands to benefit. Though the falling-out between Trump and Musk dominated the headlines, Vances role in the reunion highlights his own relationship with the billionaire. He talks regularly with Musk, who sees Vance as a viable 2028 candidate, according to one of the people. Musk and Vance, a former Silicon Valley investor, share not just a tech-infused worldview but a fondness for online performance - especially on Musks social media platform, X, where Vance has embraced a sharp, own-the-libs style that can mirror Musks taste for provocation. Their alliance could further entrench the influence of tech titans in the White House, extending the authority of private entrepreneurs.

But Vance, who has been dogged by criticism dating back to his 2021 Senate campaign that his close ties to billionaires undermine his populist bona fides, may have to tread carefully. Ties to a tech billionaire of Musks stature carry political risk at a moment when skepticism of Silicon Valley runs deep among many Americans - and even within the MAGA movement.

Advertisement Advertisement

And advisers to Trump and Vance understand that Musks support comes with baggage beyond the usual demands of deep-pocketed donors, with Musk eager at times to command the spotlight - and drive policy toward his own worldview. Republican officials eager for Musks financial help are aware of that reality.

Obviously, we would love to see [Musk] contribute generously, said Oscar Brock, a member of the Republican National Committee from Tennessee. But he brings with him a lot of media attention, and so we want to be careful that hes spreading the right word  we dont want him taking sides on issues that arent aligned with the party right now.

But if a year ago the culture clash between a billionaire used to controlling his corporate fiefdom and a new administration attuned to public opinion came as a shock, now everyone involved understands the stakes.

He enjoys kind of that kingmaker role, said the person familiar with Musks political operation. Part of being a kingmaker is making sure everybody in the world knows youre the king.

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance and White House AI czar David Sacks, who is close to Vance and Musk, declined to comment. Musk did not respond to requests for comment.

President Trump pledged to cut the waste, fraud, and abuse in our bloated government, and the Administration is committed to delivering on this pledge for the American people, said White House spokesman Davis Ingle.

Trump officials, including Vance, Sacks, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Taylor Budowich, a former White House deputy chief of staff, sought a reconciliation on the grounds that it would be better for the country if the rights two most prominent figures got along, the people interviewed for this report said.

Musk, for his part, has emerged having learned some lessons, including understanding that the government doesnt run like his businesses. Best to avoid politics where possible, he told podcaster Nikhil Kamath recently, describing it as a blood sport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Musk has said he is unlikely to take on another project like the U.S. DOGE Service, his signature cost-cutting venture, which fell far short of its promise to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget. The program continues in decentralized form, Trump administration officials and Musk allies have said, with a small number of people in the White House working on streamlining the design of government services, and former DOGE members embedded as full-time workers within an array of federal agencies.

To some veterans of government reform, Musks DOGE is not a failed experiment but a lasting wound. The entire development world: crushed, said Max Stier, the chief executive of the Partnership for Public Service, who described the effort as Godzilla rampaging through the city.

Focusing on the gap between promised savings and actual results, he argued, misses the deeper damage. Its the wrong idea to say he promised $2 trillion and didnt make it, Stier said. He promised $2 trillion and blew up the place.  He slammed our whole government into reverse.

Yet Musk is buoyed by a chorus in Silicon Valley and among remaining government allies, who argue that his effort achieved a higher goal: fundamentally reforming the workings of government, according to five of the people.

Advertisement Advertisement

The effort, they argue, helped eradicate taboos in Washington, normalizing aggressive hiring and firing, expanding the use of untested technologies, and lowering resistance to boundary-pushing start-ups seeking federal contracts. In short, Musk made it possible for the government to run more like a company.

Thats the cultural shift, the shift in the Overton window, said Isaiah Taylor, CEO of the nuclear company Valar Atomics, referring to a political theory that describes how a radical idea can become acceptable.

The result, said Taylor, who was close to aspects of DOGE, is a new urgency injected into government agencies.  We can actually allow American builders to move.

- - -

Advertisement Advertisement

From first buddy to a falling-out

Soon after Trumps victory, Musk, who put more than $288 million toward electing GOP candidates during the 2024 cycle, began spending his days in Palm Beach, Florida. The billionaire traipsed around Mar-a-Lago, referring to himself as the first buddy while plotting the future Department of Government Efficiency, an effort Trump hailed as a potential Manhattan Project of our time.

The outside group would be run by Musk and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and report to budget office director Russell Vought, a White House official who had long advocated for radical government cuts. DOGE was the culmination of an ethos Musk had brought to his companies, where hed cut large numbers of employees briskly - sometimes achieving wildly ambitious goals as he drew lawsuits and skirted regulatory guardrails.

Despite that track record, seasoned operators in Washington were skeptical that DOGE could have the same slash-and-burn effect, assuming that Musk would be bogged down by bureaucratic processes and red tape.

Advertisement Advertisement

They were wrong. Swiftly after the inauguration, DOGE began an unprecedented sweep through federal agencies, culling the workforce, hoovering up data and dismantling entire organizations, including the U.S. Agency for International Development. It turned to creative methods: To end some federal grants, it stopped payments from going out. In February, Musk brandished a chainsaw at the Conservative Political Action Conference to brag about his cost-cutting strategy.

But the Tesla CEOs work proved deeply unpopular, and the companys stock price plunged amid protests in front of its car showrooms. Musks hard-charging style alienated those around him, including some of his DOGE recruits, who thought he had gone too far, particularly in breaking policies around extracting and manipulating government information, according to two of the people familiar with the workings of DOGE. His efforts to persuade Congress to issue legislation to support his changes were largely rebuffed.

Hes used to being the emperor, said another Musk associate, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe the billionaires thinking. But he wasnt treated with much respect in Congress. And he doesnt do politicking.

He clashed repeatedly with administration officials, some of whom resented Musks taking command of personnel and other decisions within their agencies. By the time he left the White House at the end of May, Musks private spats with administration officials had leached into the public, with a roster of adversaries including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, Trade Adviser Peter Navarro and White House aide Sergio Gor.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Gor dynamic would prove the most troublesome. On Musks final day as a special government employee, Gor, who was involved in personnel matters, provided Trump with printouts showing that Jared Isaacman, a billionaire with ties to SpaceX whom Musk had pushed to lead NASA, had donated to Democrats, said a person familiar with Musk and Trumps falling-out. Gor was aware that Trump was sensitive to hires who did not share his political ideology, the person said.

Trump pulled Isaacmans nomination, announcing the decision in a Saturday night post on Truth Social. Three days later, Musk railed on X against the presidents signature tax and immigration legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill.

Privately, both Wiles and Vance began to back channel to Musk to de-escalate the situation, said two people with knowledge of the conversations. Vance and Musk were friends before the election, but the men had become closer since the billionaire came to Washington for DOGE, three people said. In February, days into the new administration, Vance invited Musk over for dinner with his family at the Naval Observatory, and the two talked multiple times a week in the months that followed. They had mutual friends in Silicon Valley, including Sacks, who introduced the men years earlier. Musk had also lobbied Trump to pick Vance as his running mate, three people said.

But Musk was undeterred. In June, he accused Trump on X of being in files related to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In July, when Trumps bill appeared headed for passage, Musk said he would start a new political party to give you back your freedom. He dubbed his new venture the America Party.

The third-party declaration sent shock waves through MAGA world. Musks funding of a party to rival the GOP could splinter the base, White House officials worried, delivering wins to Democrats.

Vance began making calls to people in Musks circle in an effort to get him to back off of the plans, said three people familiar with the calls. Sacks stepped in, too, sharing with Musk his view that a splintering between the rights two most prominent figures was bad for the country, one of the people said.

But Musks associates say he doesnt make empty threats. Whenever Elon talks, there are only two possibilities, said a longtime associate. Hes either telling you what he wants you to do - or what he is going to do - or he is trying to be funny.

I didnt interpret [the third-party announcement] as funny, the person added.

But a few factors altered Musks plans. The political operatives in his orbit were reluctant to start working on a third party - an effort that they saw as unlikely to be successful and one that could sabotage their careers, which, unlike Musks, were rooted in the GOP, according to the person directly familiar with his operation.

Then in early September, Charlie Kirk was killed during an appearance on a Utah college campus. Musk felt compelled to act, the person familiar with his operation said. He has increasingly engaged with Republican operatives in recent months, even expressing a desire to return to politics for the 2026 midterm elections.

Meanwhile, the White House began discussing ways to bring Musk back into the fold. Vance and others knew that a top priority for Musk was the confirmation of his friend Isaacman as NASA administrator. Vance pushed for Isaacman to have the position again, speaking with relevant members on the Senate Commerce Committee to make sure he had the support he needed and would receive a quick confirmation. Wiles also worked behind the scenes to get Isaacmans nomination restored, despite objections from acting NASA administrator Duffy, the people said.

Then the White House reassigned Gor, the official who had intervened against Isaacman, to a foreign posting.

Gors ouster made it easier for everyone to go back to liking each other, said one of the people familiar with the dynamic.

Before long, Musk was back.

- - -

The bloodstream of the government

In late November, Musk gathered former DOGE operatives for a reunion of sorts in Bastrop, Texas, home of the Boring Company and other Musk ventures. Beaming in from a videoconferencing screen - Musk said he couldnt be there in person because he feared an assassination attempt - he predicted the start of a great 12-year span of Trumps second term followed by eight years of a Vance presidency, according to Politico.

In Washington, people debated what had become of DOGE. DOGE doesnt exist anymore, Scott Kupor, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist serving as director of the White Houses Office of Personnel Management, told Reuters in November.

But as the headline zinged across the capital, Kupor clarified. Though it no longer had centralized leadership, the principles of DOGE remain alive and well, Kupor wrote on X. He named deregulation; eliminating fraud, waste and abuse; reshaping the federal workforce; making efficiency a first-class citizen as the principles that were carried forward.

DOGE catalyzed these changes, he added. His team and the agencies would now institutionalize them.

He listed other shifts, such as changes to the federal hiring process and a new Merit Hiring Plan, being carried out by his team. Kupor did not reply to a request for comment.

Many of Musks DOGE hires have burrowed throughout government, where they occupy key positions within federal agencies. And while DOGE must be evaluated based on its financial aims, focusing only on dollars saved misses a broader point, said several Silicon Valley executives with close ties to Vance, Musk and DOGE.

To Musk and his deputy, Steve Davis, DOGE was primarily about changing the government, not about curtailing costs, said one person. Another said administration officials deeply misunderstood the lengths to which Musk would go when he sought to destroy the deep state.

We would never have gotten reusable rockets if Elon hadnt set a goal to occupy Mars. You have to set an audacious goal to make any incremental steps at all, and Elon is a master of that strategy, the person said. If you go in with a soft approach, you will be defeated by a bureaucratic leviathan.

Musk set the stage for his proteges as he stepped back from his government work last spring.

Is Buddha needed for Buddhism? he asked then. Was it not stronger after he passed away?

- - -

Cat Zakrzewski contributed to this report.

Related Content

Portraits of a Palestinian diaspora

For young transgender runner, racing wasnt the hardest thing

New science points to 4 distinct types of autism
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow attend the China-Cambodia-Thailand foreign ministers' meeting in Yuxi, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 29, 2025. The China-Cambodia-Thailand foreign ministers' meeting was successfully held in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Monday. The meeting was also attended by the military authorities of the three countries. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

KUNMING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The China-Cambodia-Thailand foreign ministers' meeting was successfully held in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Monday.

Following the signing of a joint statement agreeing to a ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are leading delegations to meet in Yunnan from Dec. 28 to 29 at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Since the outbreak of conflict on the Cambodia-Thailand border, China has been engaging in mediation and providing good offices, Wang said. China has on four occasions dispatched its special envoy for Asian affairs to conduct shuttle diplomacy, accommodating the legitimate concerns of both sides to resolve differences through dialogue and negotiation.

Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China is glad to see the recent ceasefire agreement reached between Cambodia and Thailand.

Wang said the foreign affairs and military authorities of Cambodia and Thailand have held in-depth exchanges on this matter, and both sides are committed to de-escalating the situation and are willing to improve bilateral relations on the basis of the ceasefire.

Wang added that the discussions among the three parties have been constructive and productive, leading to important consensuses as following:

First, all parties should look ahead and move forward together. The ceasefire agreement has not been easily achieved; it must not be abandoned halfway, let alone lead to the resumption of hostilities.

Second, progress should be steady and incremental, avoiding stagnation. Implementing the ceasefire arrangements requires sustained communication and consultation, and the restoration of bilateral relations must also be gradually advanced.

Third, rebuilding mutual trust is paramount. The conflict has caused a loss of trust, but Cambodia and Thailand are eternal neighbors. It is hoped that this meeting in Yunnan will help overcome the estrangement between the two sides, and this serves the interests of the Cambodian and Thai people and reflects the shared aspirations of all relevant parties.

Wang said that China will facilitate the development of Cambodia-Thailand relations, and stands ready to provide all necessary assistance and support, including ceasefire monitoring, humanitarian aid and mine-clearance cooperation.

China looks forward to and firmly believes that Cambodia-Thailand relations will return to the right track at an early date, he added.

The Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers expressed their gratitude to China for providing this platform for dialogue, and spoke highly of China's constructive role in de-escalating the conflict, in easing tensions, and in promoting dialogue.

Both sides emphasized the value of peace, and expressed readiness to implement the ceasefire agreement, make good use of dialogue mechanisms at all levels to manage and address disputes, and work together to maintain peace and tranquility along the border between the two countries.

After the trilateral meeting, the three sides issued a press release, which made it clear from five aspects that Cambodia and Thailand will further enhance communication, deepen understanding, and gradually consolidate the ceasefire situation, restore mutual exchanges, rebuild political mutual trust, achieve a turnaround in relations, and maintain regional peace. 

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow attend the China-Cambodia-Thailand foreign ministers' meeting in Yuxi, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 29, 2025. The China-Cambodia-Thailand foreign ministers' meeting was successfully held in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Monday. The meeting was also attended by the military authorities of the three countries. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)
EL ESPINAL, Mexico (AP)  Survivors and families of the victims of a deadly train crash in southern Mexico demanded answers on Monday as the government vowed to investigate what caused a train to derail the day before on a rail line connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Gulf of Mexico.

Thirteen people, including a teenager, died when the Interoceanic Train linking the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz  with 250 people on board  went off the rails on Sunday as it passed by a curve in near a town in Oaxaca. Nearly 110 people were injured.

Videos from the scene show train cars that had fallen off the side of a steep hill into dense jungle below as other cars lay toppled on their side.

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2023, Mexico's then-President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador inaugurated the train line as part of a government push to expand the railway and connectivity in rural swaths of Mexico. Hic critics noted that many of the president's infrastructure projects were quickly constructed, often dodging regulatory bureaucracy and environmental impact studies.

Lopez Obrador's ally and successor, President Claudia Sheinbaum, told reporters on Monday she was heading to the region and that the train and the infrastructure had been working correctly.

Our first priority is taking care of the victims," she said. The second is rigorously investigate what caused this accident.

A family's despair

Advertisement Advertisement

Hector Serrano Garcia, whose 15-year-old daughter Luisa was killed in the crash, was overcome with grief as he gathered with family members in a small funeral home in Oaxaca.

Carmen Garcia, Luisa's grandmother who was also on the train, begged on Sunday night on social media for help in finding her granddaughter.

We haven't been able to find her anywhere, the grandmother said late Sunday night. Please, everyone, touch your hearts, it's my granddaughter.

Serrano Garcia said the family received the tragic news that Luisa was killed on Monday.

Weve had very little information," he said. It's been incredibly hard for all the families.

Advertisement Advertisement

It was going very fast

Baldo Enriquez Antonio said his wife, Ana Guadalupe Fabre, and their 16-year-old son were both on the train, returning home to Veracruz after spending Christmas with relatives in Oaxaca.

They told him the train was going very fast on the curves, he said over the phone from a hospital in southern Oaxaca.

Fabre broke several ribs in the crash and their son hurt his leg and had a gash on his forehead where he suffered a bad cut, Enriquez Antonio told The Associated Press.

Despite his own injuries, their son pulled his mother out of their toppled train car.

When asked about the speed of the train, Sheinbaum said she had seen videos of survivors talking about the speed but warned that we shouldnt speculate but let the "prosecutors do their job.

___

Clemente reported from Tapachula, Mexico. Associated Press writer Megan Janetsky in Mexico City contributed to this report.
Virginias minimum wage is increasing in 2026.

The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry announced the minimum wage would be set at $12.77 effective Jan. 1.

The state minimum wage is established annually by adding the current minimum wage to the product of the current minimum wage and the percentage increase of the United States Average Consumer Price Index, a figure published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Advertisement Advertisement

The 2025 minimum wage is $12.41. The 2024 percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index is 2.9%.

Virginias Minimum Wage Act allows for gradual adjustment of the minimum wage rate in response to economic conditions. said DOLI Commissioner Gary G. Pan. The new minimum wage will ensure the Commonwealth remains the leading destination for businesses and job seekers alike.

The wage would be increasing to $13.50 per hour on Jan. 1, but Gov. Glenn Youngkin vetoed H.B. 1928. The bill was approved in both the House and the Senate and would have increased the minimum wage first to $13.50 on Jan. 1, then $15 per hour by the beginning of 2027.

Implementing an arbitrary $15-per-hour wage mandate may not impact Northern Virginia, where economic conditions lead to historically higher wages, but this approach is detrimental for small businesses across the rest of Virginia, especially in Southwest and Southside, Youngkin said in his veto. A one-size-fits-all mandate ignores the vast economic and geographic differences and undermines the ability to adapt to regional cost-of-living differences and market dynamics.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Virginia House Democratic Caucus was critical of the veto.

These vetoes are an insult to working people throughout Virginia who are feeling immense economic stress, said Democratic Caucus Chair Kathy Tran. Virginians deserve leaders who will stand up for them by uplifting working families, investing in our public education system, and building strong and safe communities.

More: New Augusta County supervisors Kincheloe, Grepps sworn in

More: Augusta County Sheriff's Office plays Santa for 10th year in a row

Lyra Bordelon (she/her) is the public transparency and justice reporter at The News Leader. Do you have a story tip or feedback? Its welcome through email to lbordelon@gannett.com. Subscribe to us at newsleader.com.

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Virginia minimum wage increasing Jan. 1. Here's the formula
Virginia state Sen. Bryce Reeves has dropped his bid for the U.S. Senate.

The Spotsylvania County Republican announced his withdrawal Sunday on social media, saying because of family concerns, he would end his campaign to unseat Democrat Mark Warner. Warner is seeking a fourth Senate term.

Today, after prayerful reflection and conversations with my family, I am withdrawing from the U.S. Senate race, Reeves wrote on the social media site X. A serious family health matter and the realities of timing require my full attention at home. My faith and my family come first.

Advertisement Advertisement

Reeves, 59, launched his bid in late September, and was considered the GOP frontrunner in a primary field that included two others: Fairfax Countys Kim Farington and Restons David Williams, a Marine veteran. Reeves, a former Army ranger and narcotics detective, said he instead will seek to retain his state Senate seat.

I remain fully committed to serving the citizens of Virginias 28th Senatorial District and look forward to seeking reelection to my Senate seat in 2027, his post read. My work continues in the General Assembly to  strengthen our economy, and ensure Virginia remains the best place in America for our military and veterans.

Reeves noted that Democrats swept statewide elections in November, winning the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general races, in addition to making significant gains in the Virginia House of Delegates.

We must stop the infighting, regroup, and unite behind principled leadership worthy of our cause, he wrote about his party. I am grateful to every supporter and volunteer who stood with us.

Warner, 71, announced his reelection bid earlier this month.
The Minuteman Disaster Response team from Texas has arrived in Western Washington to assist with recovery efforts following historic flooding that ravaged communities before the holidays.

After driving more than 2,000 miles to reach Whatcom and Skagit counties, the team aims to help local Washington residents rebuild their lives.

The unprecedented flooding in Washington state has left substantial damage in its wake, with comparisons being drawn to other devastating floods, such as those seen in Texas last July.

Advertisement Advertisement

Washington residents are facing continued challenges as they begin the recovery process, and help from organizations like Minuteman Disaster Response is crucial in cleanup efforts.

Pete Thiel, the Director of Operations for Minuteman Disaster Response, described the situation in Concrete.

I was in Concrete, and it looks like a hurricane blew through down there. I have not seen damage like this since the central Texas floods, Thiel said.

Tony Brown, a team member from Pe Ell, added, Its always a personal thing when your home state is getting flooded.

The Minuteman team is comprised of volunteers willing to sacrifice their time for others in need. The teams efforts not only serve to assist homeowners but also aid local emergency management by enabling the county to potentially access federal funds.

Advertisement Advertisement

We are all people. We can help each other. Like, I may agree or disagree with you politically... but if you need help, it doesnt matter. Like, we are just here to help, said Thiel. So, we can donate our time. It doesnt matter to us, but we can give it to Skagit County, and then they will be able to get money from FEMA for our hours.

Brown emphasized the sense of community that arises in times of disaster, stating, Thats the kind of unity a disaster brings together. Its kind of a sense that we are all in this together.

The Minuteman Disaster Response team plans to continue their work in the affected areas after the New Year, with ongoing support and commitment to the long-term recovery process.
As Congress debates federal spending, one area that should be top of their mind is election security.

Investing in our elections is one of the smartest decisions we can make. Clerks across Wisconsin do a great job running elections. However, the environment around them is rapidly changing. An increase in physical and cyber threats in recent years has made running elections more challenging. These threats are regularly evolving, which makes it difficult for officials to react and prepare for the next election.

One way to fortify our elections would be for Congress to prioritize continual, consistent funding for election infrastructure. A long-term plan for these federal resources would give local and county governments the opportunity to plan and think proactively about the investments that are needed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Congress made a substantial investment during the first Trump administration, with hundreds of millions of dollars going to election security in 2018 and 2020. Investments like that, especially when they are done consistently, strengthen our election systems and voter confidence.

Elections are the backbone of every decision the government makes. I hope that leaders in Washington will focus on funding our elections  voters across the country deserve elections that are secure and trustworthy.

Susan Jacobson, Janesville

Opinion: I know what we need to do to fix Wisconsin's government

Opinion: Don't allow election deniers to sow doubt. The fix is easy.

Tips for getting your letter to the editor published

Here are some tips to get your views shared with your friends, family, neighbors and across our state:

Advertisement Advertisement

Please include your name, street address and daytime phone.

Generally, we limit letters to 200 words.

Cite sources of where you found information or the article that prompted your letter.

Be civil and constructive, especially when criticizing.

Avoid ad hominem attacks, take issue with a position, not a person.

We cannot acknowledge receipt of submissions.

We don't publish poetry, anonymous or open letters.

Each writer is limited to one published letter every two months.

All letters are subject to editing.

Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: jsedit@jrn.com or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Consistent funding for election infrastructure is needed | Letters
The Rev. Andrew Teal was traveling on vacation in northern England on Saturday when he learned of the death of his dear friend, President Jeffrey R. Holland.

The Anglican priest was shocked and selfishly sad, he said, over the loss of a leader he previously had called a pastoral genius for his service as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The two men spent the past seven years working together to build better interfaith relationships.

Advertisement Advertisement

The Rev. Teal honored President Holland in an email to the Deseret News written from a service station in North Yorkshire, where he was vacationing with his wife Rachel at Fountains Abbey, which has no phone coverage or Wi-Fi.

Im weeping into my drink here at the service station, but they are tears of gratitude as well as sorrow, the Rev. Teal wrote.

Yesterday we learned of President Hollands passing whilst we were in Pateley Bridge, he added. Both Rachel and I were shocked and, perhaps selfishly, sad.

Then we thought of the relief from pain and loneliness that is the Lords gift to him; and of the glory of the Lords promises to our dear friend who proclaimed him in work and deed and was indeed faithful to the Covenant of the Lord.

Advertisement Advertisement

He also said their thoughts immediately turned to a reunion of President Holland with his wife, Sister Patricia Holland, who died in 2023.

The Rev. Dr. Andrew Teal, a chaplain, fellow and lecturer in theology at Pembroke College, Oxford University, and Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, talk during the BYU International Center for Law and Religion Studies 2021 International Advisory Council reception and dinner at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Most specifically we thought of the unspeakable joy that he and Sister Pat now know, and we rejoice in that  aware that the loss of his beloved Pat was a profound wound during his mortal life over the last two years.

But he continued to serve here where he was needed, until the Good Shepherd scooped him to his heart to be reunited with Sister Pat.

The Rev. Teal became friends with President Hollands son, Elder Matthew S. Holland during the younger Hollands sabbatical at Oxford in 2017.

Advertisement Advertisement

President Holland traveled to Oxfords Pembroke College for an interfaith conversation with the Rev. Teal in 2018.

At that time, the Rev. Teal said this of President Holland:

I find him a wholesome, faithful and inspiring man, indeed great but lacking all pomposity of grandeur  I love his humor and really respond to the gift of tears which he so often receives and unashamedly shares. I  hope that this is the start of a fruitful friendship.

It became more than that.

The Rev. Teal spent a semester as a visiting scholar at Brigham Young Universitys Maxwell Institute in 2021 and the two men spoke frequently as their relationship deepened. The Rev. Teal delivered a BYU forum assembly address that fall.

Advertisement Advertisement

My closest friends, he said, have seen that my love for the Lord Jesus has grown exponentially because of my friendship with you, and I want to bring that to the beautifully diverse families of Christians and peoples of other faiths, so that we may travel together, even across steep mountains, which will lead to our being blessed together.

2110-94 105 2110-04 Rev. Andrew Teal Forum and Q and A Rev. Dr. Andrew Teal - Chaplain, Fellow, & Lecturer in Theology, Pembroke College at Oxford October 26, 2021 Photo by Jaren Wilkey/BYU  BYU PHOTO 2021 All Rights Reserved photo@byu.edu (801)422-7322 | Jaren Wilkey, BYU

The Rev. Teal said in his email after President Hollands death that his tears at the news were tears of both gratitude and sorrow.

He said he and his wife recalled the 2018 night President Holland delivered a Christmas message at the Pembroke College Chapel about being summoned on Christmas Eve 1976 to a hospital where his father, Frank Holland, was dying. He spoke about how his grief turned in a juxtaposition with the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

In his sorrow he heard the cry of a new-born, the Rev. Teal wrote in his email remembrance of President Holland. That new-born wept for us just as now he weeps with joy as Jeff and Pat are reunited. The veil between us and celestial life is very thin, and their radiance enlightens us still.

SIMON D.JONES

We will for ever be grateful for all they brought to us, not least the promise of a dawning glory so wonderful that eye has not seen  nor mind imagined  its glory."

Advertisement Advertisement

The Rev. Teal and President Holland were faithful intellectuals interested in real dialogue about their faith. The Rev. Teal had said their goal was to show that it is possible for people of different faiths to become friends who listen carefully, attentively and respectfully, to ask questions with integrity and intellectual honesty of one another, without defensiveness or tribalism.

The Rev. Teal closed his email about learning of President Hollands death with a direct message for his friend.

Thank you my tender friend, he wrote. We will always love you. Until we meet again, pray for us still as we will remember and love you.
A Wendell woman, detained by Border Patrol for more than a month, is sharing her experience at an immigration detention center after being released earlier this week.

Fatima Velazquez-Antonio was detained by Border Patrol agents on Nov. 18 while at an HVAC job site in Raleigh. For the last month, she stayed at a detention center in Georgia.

After having bond denied, she was finally released on Monday, and returned home to North Carolina on Tuesday. Her attorney had to file a habeas corpus petition, asking a judge to determine whether her detainment was legal.

Advertisement Advertisement

"I'm so happy to be back home with my family," said Velazquez.

It felt like an eternity.

Her boyfriend, Bryan Sanchez, said her return home was the greatest Christmas gift they could have asked for.

"I mean, it's amazing that we got her back home," he said.

Fatima Velazquez-Antonio came to the U.S. from Honduras as an unaccompanied minor at 14.

Velazquez came to the U.S. from Honduras as an unaccompanied minor at 14.

According to federal documents, Velazquez has no aggravated felony convictions, and the government identified her detainment as involving a non-criminal individual.

As previously reported, Velazquez's attorney said Velazquez has no criminal record, and said she was allowed to stay in the country as her asylum case processed.

Advertisement Advertisement

ABC11 asked Velazquez whether she received any explanation as to why she was detained.

"No, no one gave me any explanation," she said.

For the last month, Velazquez said she spent 24 hours a day in a room with 60 other women.

"When you go to the bathroom, you have no privacy. It's the same thing when you have to bathe. Everyone can see you," she said. "It's hard."

Velazquez said her faith kept her strong.

"I prayed to God every day. Every day after I woke up and before I went to bed," she said. "I asked him to help me, give me patience, and give me the strength to get through my ordeal. But it felt like an eternity."

Advertisement Advertisement

She said seeing the support from people in Wake County also helped her get through her time at the detention center, including a rally held by neighbors and elected leaders calling for her release.

"All the community and the governor, the congresswoman. I mean, all of that support helped a lot," said Sanchez. "We appreciate that a lot, with all my heart."

Velazquez said she hopes that one day she can personally thank everyone who has shared her story and called for her release.

"I know many of them didn't know me, but I have to thank them from the bottom of my heart for their support," she said. "Just, thank you so much. One day, I'd like to see them and thank them in person."

Advertisement Advertisement

Velazquez and her family are raising money to cover her legal expenses.

Sanchez is saving up money again to eventually buy her an engagement ring. The money he was saving for the ring had to be spent to retain an attorney for her.

Velazquez has a hearing next week for her case.

Stay on top of breaking news stories with the ABC11 News App
As Minnesota's Medicaid program broils in the hot seat over a recent round of federal fraud indictments, Indiana's Medicaid program is gaining national attention as a counter-example for its efforts to crack down on program eligibility and waste.

Indiana's Medicaid policies certainly have their critics, though, as some Medicaid recipients linger on waitlists for care and the state has made it more challenging for Hoosiers to stay on Medicaid.

The Wall Street Journal's editorial board named the comparison a "tale of two Medicaid states," and Gov. Mike Braun, whose administration ushered in a number of changes this year to try to reduce enrollment, appeared on Fox News on Dec. 27 to talk about it.

Advertisement Advertisement

"We're just picking that low hanging fruit," he said, "and that's why we're going to lead the country."

Gov. Mike Braun answers questions Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, during an interview at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis.

Federal prosecutors recently accused six more people of defrauding Minnesota's Medicaid programs, capping a growing list of indictments costing the state hundreds of millions of dollars. The various alleged schemes, beginning with a child nutrition program in charges filed three years ago, roughly involve nonprofit or business owners filing inflated or fraudulent claims to state Medicaid in order to allegedly turn a profit.

Democratic Gov. Tim Walz has taken flak from national Republicans for these indictments. The House Oversight Committee this month launched an investigation into suspected fraud in a number of Minnesota programs. Walz has applauded the federal charges and launched a new fraud detection program in his state.

But the Wall Street Journal lifted Indiana's program as an antidote, citing a recent Medicaid forecast that shows the state is expected to spend about half a billion dollars less than it previously anticipated over the next two years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Indiana's new lower projection is chiefly due to a decrease in Medicaid enrollment by about 10% from January when Braun took office to October of this year.

Through a combination of executive orders and a new state law passed in April, the Family and Social Services Administration has ramped up the frequency of eligibility checks by cross referencing databases from both state and federal agencies, from income and employment records to the death registry. State agencies are also no longer allowed to advertise Medicaid programs or benefits.

More: Thousands of Hoosiers could be kicked off Medicaid in bill heading to Gov. Mike Braun

In his Fox interview, Braun mentioned a few examples of "low-hanging fruit" the state found, including people who should have been on Medicare instead of Medicaid, and people who were "double-dipping."

Advertisement Advertisement

In sharing the new Medicaid forecast earlier in December, FSSA Secretary Mitch Roob attributed the enrollment drop chiefly to the halting of advertising, as well as a policy change that requires enrollees to respond to a mailer as part of the Medicaid redetermination process, or else be dropped. Previously, it was optional to respond.

He said he is uncertain about how long the enrollment drops will last, and cautioned that Indiana is not in the clear in terms of managing Medicaid growth.

"We have not made Medicaid boring yet," Roob said. "This is not the beginning of the end, its the end of the beginning for rebalancing the Medicaid program."

State spending on Medicaid is projected to grow by 3.2% in 2026, compared to a previously estimated 9.5%. The growth is expected to continue into 2029, when state spending could top $5.3 billion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Indiana found itself in a similar situation to many states, including Minnesota, whose spending surged after the pandemic. In 2019, Indiana spent $2.2 billion on Medicaid, compared to $4.4 billion in 2025.

A huge and unexpected jump occurred between 2023 and 2024, when budget writers discovered a $1 billion budget shortfall due in part to explosive growth in certain programs. FSSA responded in part by implementing waitlists for waiver programs, like assisted living facilities, and Roob said he sees no end in sight for those.

The picture is further complicated by the fact that the rates providers charge are anticipated to rise significantly in 2026. Roob said he believes that's because more often than not, healthier people have left the Medicaid rolls, and sicker patients have remained, making the risk pool higher.

The Wall Street Journal also noted the further reforms Indiana is considering, including a series of oversight measures suggested for the state's autism behavioral therapy program in light of unsustainable growth and a federal audit finding tens of millions in "improper" payments.

Advertisement Advertisement

If Republicans in Congress "want to show voters that its worth re-electing a Republican majority next year, they could follow the Hoosier reform example," the editorial board wrote.

Contact IndyStar Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @kayla_dwyer17.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Why Indiana is getting national attention for its Medicaid crackdown
One of the early signs of trouble came in late September, when Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, touting gross domestic product data that had just been released, declared via social media that Joe Bidens economy could never reach 3% growth.

That didnt make any sense. On a quarterly basis, the economy under Biden topped 3% several times. (It also topped 4%, 5% and, in early 2021, 6% growth.) On an annual basis, Lutnick was also completely wrong: GDP growth for all of 2021 was 6.2%  the strongest in nearly four decades.

Given that the Department of Commerce, which Lutnick ostensibly leads, is responsible for compiling and releasing GDP data, the secretarys apparent confusion was difficult to defend.

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, he made matters considerably worse.

After preliminary data showed the economy grew at a 4.3% annual rate in the third quarter (July through September), Lutnick appeared on Fox News and boasted: What that means is that Americans overall  all of us  are going to earn 4.3% more money. Were making a raise.

But that wasnt even close to being true. Indeed, the secretarys on-air comments reflected ignorance about what the numbers themselves mean: Wages and economic growth are both important metrics, but they routinely rise and fall separately and independently. This isnt complicated: 4.3% GDP growth does not mean a 4.3% raise for American workers.

The broader question is whether the head of the Commerce Department is genuinely confused about this, or whether hes pretending to be genuinely confused about this.

Advertisement Advertisement

If its the former, how did Lutnick manage to get this job? (For that matter, how did he run an investment bank?) If its the latter, why would he deliberately choose to appear ignorant about basic information his own department released to the public?

This is, incidentally, the same commerce secretary who recently struggled to understand how percentages work while trying to defend Donald Trumps absurd claims about 700% price drops, which followed an infamous exchange in which Lutnick said food companies can avoid tariffs on bananas by producing bananas in the United States  seemingly unaware of the fact that this isnt possible.

And did I mention the time when Lutnick suggested that only criminals would complain about missing a Social Security check? Because he did that, too.

Back in April, The Wall Street Journal reported that Lutnicks rhetorical record was proving to be so challenging to the White House that officials asked him to start saying less. He might need a reminder.

The post Why it matters that Howard Lutnick is flunking the basics on economic growth appeared first on MS NOW.

This article was originally published on ms.now
VIENTIANE, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The opening of the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge has sparked optimism among people in Laos, who hope it will improve livelihoods and regional connectivity, boost trade, tourism and transportation, and further strengthen the long-standing friendship between Laos and Thailand.

The bridge, linking Bolikhamxay province in Laos to Thailand's northeastern province of Bueng Kan, was officially inaugurated on Dec. 25, marking a major milestone in infrastructure development and bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone said the project reflects the shared aspirations of the governments and peoples of both countries. He noted that the bridge serves as a crucial link in the Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor, improving transportation and logistics efficiency while facilitating trade and tourism between Laos and Thailand, and beyond.

The improved connectivity is expected to support economic growth, attract investment and encourage closer people-to-people exchanges on both sides of the border. Beyond its economic and logistical significance, the bridge also stands as a symbol of the long-standing friendship, close neighborly relations and strategic partnership for sustainable development between the two nations.

For many residents, the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge is expected to strengthen cross-border ties and improve livelihoods. Koung, a 30-year-old resident of Bolikhamxay, said the bridge has brought new hope for local producers and traders.

"With the bridge, I believe trade between the two provinces will become much easier and increase significantly. If trade grows, money will circulate more in our communities, leading to better living conditions and more opportunities for young people to stay and work here," Koung told Xinhua on Monday.

Bolikhamxay province, some 200 km southeast of the Lao capital Vientiane, is home to tourism attractions such as waterfalls, temples and festivals.

Many believe the bridge will boost transportation and tourism in the provinces, as improved access could attract more visitors. Sisouk, a 34-year-old local resident, said the bridge could bring more international tourists to Laos, particularly to Bolikhamxay.

"With direct road access, more Thai and international visitors may come to explore our province, its natural sites and activities. That would bring real income to residents," he said.

He added that tourism growth could also help preserve local traditions, allowing communities to share their culture, food and way of life with visitors.

Beyond economic benefits, many residents see the bridge as a symbol of closer connections, hoping it will strengthen people-to-people ties between the two provinces.

Local resident Souvanh said that Laos and Thailand share a long history and cultural bonds. This bridge makes it easier to visit each other and understand one another better.

When people meet more often, cooperation becomes natural. This could lead to joint activities in key areas such as education, healthcare and cultural exchange, she said.

The fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge has also attracted widespread attention online, as many Lao people see it as a project expected to bring significant socio-economic benefits in transportation, trade, and tourism.

Spans 1,350 meters across the Mekong River with 17.4 meters wide, the bridge features two traffic lanes, a central median, and pedestrian walkways on both sides. The overland sections are built with pre-stressed concrete beams, while the central span uses a cable-stayed design. 
It seemed, at least superficially, to have been one of the better face-to-face meetings between Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, their sixth in a year that has seen this relationship fray to breaking point and require regular and painstaking repairs.

The mood, as they emerged from the dining room at Mar-a-Lago was conciliatory. Zelensky wore a suit  the same austere black compromise statement he had worn at the White House in October. Trump called the meeting terrific and asked if Zelensky and his general who looks like central casting had enjoyed the food. Awkward, yes, but a far cry from the open humiliation of the Ukrainian leader that played out in the Oval Office in February.

And yet, beneath the veil of politeness, there was rhetoric from the US president that suggests his default position in negotiations is still to pressure Kyiv, while appeasing Moscow.

Advertisement Advertisement

On the toughest question of all  territory  Trump at one point suggested it might anyway be taken in the coming months, asking, are you better off making a deal now? It was a line eerily similar to that of Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, summarizing a call between President Vladimir Putin and Trump earlier on Sunday: Given the situation on the front lines, it would make sense for the Ukrainian regime to adopt this decision regarding Donbas without delay.

That echo wasnt lost on the Kremlin. Putins spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted on a call with journalists that Trump apparently reminded them (the Ukrainian side) that Ukraine is losing land and will continue to lose it. While Russian forces continue to inch forward in the eastern Donbas region, Putin has demanded that Ukraine cede land that Russia has yet to seize.

The Kremlin would already have been confident in its power to sway the US president. In the lead-up to the Alaska summit between Trump and Putin in August, European leaders worked hard to bring Trump round to the idea that a ceasefire was needed before peace negotiations, something Moscow has always dismissed. In the end, it was Putin who won that argument, and, more than four months later, Trump still appears to support his view.

President Donald Trump greets Russia's President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, on August 15. - Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

He (Putin) feels that, look, you know, theyre fighting to stop and then if they have to start again, which is a possibility, he doesnt want to be in that position. I understand that position, Trump said Sunday.

Advertisement Advertisement

The apparent removal of a ceasefire from the table has now created a new impasse. While Ukraine is sounding increasingly open to discussion of territorial concessions, Zelensky has made it clear that giving up, or changing the status of, Ukrainian land would likely require a referendum, something he says cannot happen without a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days.

No ceasefire then means no referendum, and no referendum could mean no territorial concessions from Ukraine, and ultimately no deal. So, were back on the diplomatic merry-go-round, buying more and more time for Russia to attack.

Russia wants to continue to put pressure on us. And what does this continuation look like? War, missiles, artillery, Zelensky said in comments to journalists Monday morning. As he spoke, most Ukrainian regions started a new week with regular blackouts, and more than 9,000 households in the Kyiv region woke up with no power at all.

Hardly surprising then, that the Ukrainian president shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other as he listened to Trump describe Putin as very good on the issue of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which Russia seized by force in March 2022 and has occupied ever since.

Advertisement Advertisement

President Putin is actually working with Ukraine on getting it open. Thats a big step when hes not bombing that plant, said the US president.

The Zaporizhzhia plant is currently undergoing repairs to nearby power lines to prevent a nuclear accident, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. The facility has been cut off from its external power supply 12 times since Russias occupation, and earlier this month the UNs nuclear watchdog warned that Moscows constant attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure are also a threat to its security. Persistent instability in Ukraines electrical grid continues to undermine nuclear safety, said Director General Rafael Grossi.

On one critical issue for Ukraine there has been a small step forward: security guarantees. Up until now, Kyiv only had verbal assurances the US would participate in post-war security guarantees, after Trump shifted his position in August. Now these assurances are in writing, albeit with a 15-year expiry date  which Zelensky wants extended  and still in need of congressional approval. The guarantees would not mean US troops on the ground, but at least there would be support for Europe if they decided to send theirs. Were going to help Europe 100%, like theyd help us, said Trump.

Firefighters work at the site of an apartment building hit during Russian missile and drone strikes in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Saturday. - Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters

And yet until Russia and Ukraine can come together for direct talks, which Zelensky hopes could happen in January after another circuit of discussions with allies, all of this is hypothetical. That prospect seemed even more remote Monday after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Kyiv of attacking one of Putins residences, promising Moscow would review its negotiating position as a result. Zelensky rejected the claim as another lie from Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, reiterated Monday that Russia wants the withdrawal of the regimes armed forces from Donbas beyond its administrative borders. That, of course, includes territory Russia hasnt been able to occupy in nearly four years of war. And in return Moscow continues to receive praise and diplomatic overtures from the White House, with Trump speaking to Putin both before and after his meeting with Zelensky.

The diplomatic merry-go-round revs up again now going into 2026, with adviser-level meetings followed by a gathering of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris in early January, and then a potential Washington summit with Trump, Zelensky said Monday. Meanwhile the Trump administration has proposed that discussions continue in several working groups, an idea endorsed by Moscow.

And yet in this now largely predictable cycle, you cant rule out a sudden shift. In October, a frustrated Trump slapped sanctions on Russias oil giants, a move that has caused Russian oil prices to plummet to their lowest level since the February 2022 invasion.

Maybe the tug of war for Trump is not lost for Ukraine yet. The leaders are meeting, conversations ongoing, wrote Orysia Lutsevych, head of the Ukraine Forum at London-based think tank Chatham House in a post on X. Former Russian diplomat Boris Bondarev struck a less optimistic tone. If you want to delay anything for (an) indefinitely long time  create a few working groups, he wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

CNNs Kevin Liptak, Victoria Butenko, Darya Tarasova, Issy Ronald, Svitlana Vlasova, Mitchell McCluskey and Aditi Sangal contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A woman is facing charges after police say she zipped a puppy up inside a suitcase in Pittsburgh.

Online court records show Jayme White, 56, is charged with cruelty to animals, disorderly conduct and related offenses.

According to the criminal complaint, police were called to the 400 block of Avery Street around 11:51 p.m. on Friday.

A man told officers that White had been yelling at her dog and then zipped it up inside the suitcase she was walking with.

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers asked White if there was a dog inside her suitcase, and she said there was, records say.

Police claim the suitcase was totally closed, with no way for the puppy to breathe.

Officers reportedly told White she couldnt do that, and she let the puppy out.

Officers went to speak with another person, who claimed White had gotten mad at the dog and hit it multiple times.

When officers returned, White had sealed the puppy inside the suitcase again, records say.

Police claim the puppy was affectionate with officers, but tried to avoid White when it was let out the second time.

White appeared heavily intoxicated and yelled at officers throughout the whole incident, records say. Officers took White into custody on charges of repeated disorderly conduct and animal cruelty.

Advertisement Advertisement

A search revealed White had suspected suboxone in her possession, which she claimed was prescribed but couldnt provide proof, as well as an open container of alcohol, records say.

White was taken to the Allegheny County Jail, where she remains. Bail has been set at $1,000.

The puppy was taken to the Zone 1 police station, where officers found a small open sore on its paw, records say. The puppy was also said to be possibly dehydrated. It was then taken by animal control.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
TAMBACOUNDA, Senegal (AP)  On a blazing afternoon in Senegal, 33-year-old farmer Filly Mangassa heaved peanut plants onto a horse-drawn cart, sending clouds of dust swirling.

Ten years ago, he left his village for the capital, Dakar, dreaming of becoming a professor. But the high cost of living and lack of jobs put that dream out of reach.

Particularly after COVID, companies weren't hiring and prices were rising, said Mangassa, who has a masters degree in criminology. I thought: My father and my grandfather were farmers, so why not use that experience and go back to my hometown and try to make a living in agriculture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Across much of Africa, farming has long been seen as low-status work, pushing young people to cities in search of office jobs.

For my father and some people in my family, they sort of saw me returning to the countryside as a step back, Mangassa said.

But that perception is changing. Rising food prices, investments in irrigation and access to new technologies are making agriculture more profitable. Governments and nonprofits now fund programs that teach advanced farming skills and support farmers with equipment, fertilizers, pesticides and seeds.

When my father saw that I had a clear, thorough business plan, he encouraged me and helped me with the administrative process to acquire land, Mangassa said.

Advertisement Advertisement

He is part of a trend of young Africans leaving cities to try their luck at farming. Mangassa says he makes a profit of around 2 million CFA ($3,500 a year), far above Senegal's average yearly income of about $2,500.

Africa is the worlds fastest-urbanizing region, with cities growing at an average rate of 3.5% per year. As city populations increase, so does the cost of living.

Median rents and grocery prices in places like Dakar or Kenyas capital of Nairobi are approaching those of major European cities, despite median salaries being significantly lower, according to the World Bank.

Meanwhile, between 10 and 12 million young Africans enter the job market each year while only about 3 million formal jobs are created, according to the African Development Bank.

Advertisement Advertisement

A lot of my friends who graduated at the same time as me now work as motorcycle taxi drivers and barely make a living, Mangassa said.

Helping young farmers acquire land

Mangassa now owns a 32-acre farm where he grows peanuts, corn, vegetables and fruit. He received some funding to buy land from a World Food Program initiative helping young Africans start careers in agriculture.

Launched in 2023 and set to run through early 2027, it has supported around 380,000 people in launching agricultural businesses.

It works with local governments to allow young farmers to acquire land  often a challenge because of complex ownership systems and young people's difficulty in obtaining loans because they are seen as high risk.

Advertisement Advertisement

In Senegal, the program has supported over 61,000 people, with more than 80% launching farms, according to WFP. It also operates in Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.

Our surveys show three main barriers for young people entering agriculture: limited access to land, financing and inputs; a lack of practical skills; and tough market conditions  knowing when to sell, how to add value and how to market their products, said WFPs country director for Senegal, Pierre Lucas.

Senegal, like many African countries, is plagued by food insecurity that has been exacerbated by donors' funding cuts and worsening climate conditions.

The region also is recovering from the colonial era, said Ibrahima Hathie, an agricultural economist at the Senegal-based Prospective Agricultural and Rural Initiative think tank.

Advertisement Advertisement

In Senegal for example, farmers were pressured to grow groundnuts to be sold in France instead of food crops," Hathie said.

Scarce arable land and soil degradation further constrain food production.

But now, many young farmers are shifting to high-value crops and have better technology, so production is increasing, Hathie said, predicting that as more locally produced food enters markets, staple prices could fall.

Farming becomes an alternative to migration

Senegal is a main departure point for migrants attempting to reach Europe via the deadly Atlantic route. Authorities see agriculture as one way to create jobs to keep young people at home, launching campaigns in rural areas most affected by migration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Im convinced that the only sector that can create the hundreds of thousands of jobs young people in Africa need is agriculture and livestock, Senegals agriculture minister, Mabouba Diagne, told reporters in October.

Adama Sane, 24, once dreamed of reaching Europe but didn't have money to pay smugglers. He had moved to Dakar in 2020 but struggled to make ends meet as a construction worker. Then he heard about the WFP initiative.

In a sense, discovering agriculture saved my life, Sane said. If I had stayed in my construction job, I would have tried crossing the ocean sooner or later.

He now raises poultry and cultivates peppers on his five-acre farm in his village.

Advertisement Advertisement

I am still far from where I want to be with my business, but at least I am saving a lot of money compared to the city, and life is less stressful, Sane said. A lot of young people think that being a farmer is a small job, but there is starting to be a public awakening that agriculture can be the key to development in Senegal."

Three other potential migrants are now working for Mangassa.

Mamadou Camara, 22, Issa Traore, 22, and Madassa Kebe, 23, had been living in Mali's capital, Bamako, struggling to find work. Their families had helped them raise money for the Atlantic journey to Europe via Guinea-Bissau, but they said a smuggler there disappeared with it.

They decided to return home through Senegal, where they met Mangassa.

Advertisement Advertisement

I empathized with them because I know what its like to work hard and still not make ends meet while your family depends on you, Mangassa said. I wanted to show them that there are opportunities for young people here.

___

For more on Africa and development: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-pulse

The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Given the capricious nature of Donald Trump, a security guarantee for Ukraine envisioned as lasting 15 years is about as reliable as one lasting 150 years  or, for that matter, 15 minutes.

It is, in other words, entirely notional, if not theoretical. This is an America first administration, and that extends to everything  defence, trade, climate change, and even public health.

As Americas former friends and partners across the world have discovered during both Mr Trumps terms of office, any security guarantee, any treaty commitment, and any solemn promise made by this administration, or even by its predecessors, can be rescinded with the stroke of a Sharpie.

Advertisement Advertisement

It is, for example, what President Trump himself did when he signed a flimsy peace treaty with the Taliban and left Afghanistan to their mercies in 2020. Indeed, to be fair to the current president, this would not be the first time the United States abandoned a supposedly invaluable ally to its fate  South Vietnam and Iraq found out the hard way about American resolve. In due course, so might Taiwan.

Volodymyr Zelensky, therefore, would have been wiser to accept than to quibble with Mr Trumps offer of some sort of security guarantee at their meeting at Mar-a-Lago, with some theatrical gratitude thrown in. As it is, he did manage to persuade the US president to think about a longer timescale, which was an achievement. Far more important, though, is the nature of the guarantee. Does it replicate the gold standard of Natos Article 5 principle of one for all and all for one (itself devalued by Mr Trumps equivocations)?

President Trump, though always upbeat about his own supposed unique diplomatic gifts, no longer even pretends that a truce, let alone a lasting peace settlement, is in sight (AP)

For a variety of reasons, it seems improbable that the Trump administration would station American troops and missiles anywhere on Ukrainian soil, and anything less than a physical presence would probably not deter Vladimir Putin if the Russian leader saw an opportunity for a quick victory over a semi-demilitarised Ukraine. Everyone knows President Trump wouldnt go to war with Russia over Estonia (a vulnerable Nato member), and the idea that he would do so for Ukraine is ludicrous. Hed find a loophole.

Given all of that, President Zelensky would gain more in diplomatic goodwill from the White House by signing a deal  any deal  than he would lose in Ukrainian security, and he should, as soon as he can, accept the US guarantee  and press his more loyal allies in Europe to take on the role of the real guarantors of Ukraines borders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Some, such as Germanys chancellor Friedrich Merz, have been clear-sighted about this ever since members of the Trump administration went to the Munich Security Conference in February and announced that America was to disengage from Europe. Others in Europe have not been so ready to join the coalition of the willing being assembled by France and Britain. Maybe 15 years will be long enough for Europe to get its act together.

So the war goes on, and President Trump, though always upbeat about his own supposed unique diplomatic gifts, no longer even pretends that a truce, let alone a lasting peace settlement, is in sight. Before he was elected, Mr Trump promised that he would end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours, and he has consistently appeared optimistic about peace, even after the inconclusive Alaska summit with President Putin in August.

He seems still to be optimistic, but he is not making any predictions about when the killing will cease, and hes no longer pushing his self-nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. Even after his fairly harmonious (as far as can be glimpsed) talks with President Zelensky, Mr Trump can only speculate that itll either end or go on for a long time.

Mr Zelenskys tactic must be to treat Mr Trump with the extravagant respect he expects, agree to painful sacrifices, and sincerely engage in the process in a way that the Kremlin never will. That is essential, both to end the war soon and to marginalise President Putin  to show him as the obdurate imperialist he is. On occasion, this has worked, and Mr Trump has declared himself tired of the Russian leaders foot-dragging and attempts to play him along. Yet it seems to take only a phone call from Putin, whom Mr Trump so admires  and envies  as an absolutist strongman, for the US president to be mesmerised once again. It was graceful of Mr Zelensky to smile indulgently when Mr Trump said that Putin had assured him he wanted Ukraine to be successful.

Advertisement Advertisement

Never straying far from the hotline to Moscow, President Trump knows full well  or should  that the war will only come to an end when President Putin judges that it is in his own interest that this should happen, with a deal so advantageous that there would be no point in trying to push further on the battlefield. The noises emanating from the Kremlin suggest that the Russians still prefer war-war to jaw-jaw, and wont be offering useful concessions of their own, or taking part in any peace conference. They treat President Trump with the kind of contempt that would usually invite a bombing raid  yet they get away with it.

The war remains all about territory, and, in the longer run, the very existence of Ukraine as an independent sovereign state. The chances are that such matters will be resolved by military and economic means, and not by aimless, naive Trumpian diplomacy  and that is why Europe must ensure that Ukraine doesnt lose.
New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani isn't letting Elon Musk slander his nominee for commissioner of the Fire Department of New York as she makes history.

Mamdani announced Tuesday at a press conference that he has appointed Lillian Bonsignore, a 56-year-old out lesbian and decorated first responder, to lead the FDNY once he is inaugurated on January 1. In response to the news, the billionaire and Tesla CEO took to social media over the weekend to attack Bonsignore, fallaciously claiming that "people will die because of this."

Proven experience matters when lives are at stake, Musk wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter, which he owns.

Related: Who is Lillian Bonsignore  set to be first out gay Fire Department of New York commissioner?

Musk's implication that Bonsignore is inexperienced is completely false, as Mamdani was quick to point out. He wrote in a post directly replying to Musk, Experience does matter, which is why I appointed the person who spent more than 30 years at EMS. You know, the workforce that addresses at least 70% of all calls coming into FDNY?

Advertisement Advertisement

Bonsignore joined the FDNY in 1991 as an emergency medical technician, serving 31 years before her retirement in 2022. She was named chief of the FDNYs Emergency Medical Services division in 2019, becoming the first woman to head the division and first uniformed woman to be a four-star chief in the department. Her tenure included working as a first responder in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and leading the EMS division during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bonsignore's appointment makes her the second woman and first out gay person to serve as FDNY commissioner. It also marks the first time women have led both the city's fire and police departments, as Jessica Tisch is expected to stay in her post as police commissioner when Mamdani takes office.

Related: DOGE is gone, leaving behind 300,000 fired federal workers, 600,000 USAID deaths, and more

Bonsignores calm, decisive leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic  when EMS professionals were more vital than ever  is exactly the kind of leadership our city needs in moments of uncertainty, Mamdani said in a statement to City & State New York before the announcement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, Musk's experience includes heading the failed Department of Government Efficiency, which shut down within just ten months after failing to meet its goals. The department was responsible for firing about 300,000 federal workers, including 2,000 staff members of the U.S. Agency for International Development in the dissolution of the U.S. humanitarian department. Data models by Boston University epidemiologist Brooke Nichols estimate that as of June, over 640,000 people globally have died due to losing USAID support, at least two-thirds of them children.

This article originally appeared on Advocate: Zohran Mamdani claps back after Elon Musk attacks out lesbian FDNY commissioner appointee

RELATED
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani will arrive at Old City Hall Station on New Year's Eve to be sworn in as New York City's next leader during a traditional private midnight ceremony.

The MTA subway site was chosen to reflect Mamdani's commitment to working New Yorkers.

"When Old City Hall Station first opened in 1904 -- one of New York's 28 original subway stations -- it was a physical monument to a city that dared to be both beautiful and build great things that would transform working peoples' lives. That ambition need not be a memory confined only to our past, nor must it be isolated only to the tunnels beneath City Hall: it will be the purpose of the administration fortunate enough to serve New Yorkers from the building above," said Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.

Advertisement Advertisement

"When I take my oath from the station at the dawn of the New Year, I will do so humbled by the opportunity to lead millions of New Yorkers into a new era of opportunity, and honored to carry forward our city's legacy of greatness," Mamdani added.

Attorney General Letitia James will deliver the Oath of Office at midnight and will be joined by the Mayor-elect's family.

After the first ceremony, Mayor Zohran Mamdani will host the "Inauguration of a New Era," a swearing-in ceremony open to all New Yorkers.

Traditionally, the ceremony has been held for 4,000 ticketed guests in the City Hall Plaza. Mamdani hopes to enable more New Yorkers to participate in festivities with a public block party along the historic Canyon of Heroes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Senator Bernie Sanders will give the Oath of Office at the public ceremony on January 1st.

----------

* Get Eyewitness News Delivered

* More Manhattan news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

* Follow us on YouTube



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.
The body of Camila Mendoza Olmos, the 19-year-old from Bexar County, Texas, who disappeared on Christmas Eve, has been found, local authorities said on Wednesday. The medical examiner said she died by suicide.

Mendoza Olmoss body was found in a field on Tuesday, KSAT reported, at the Burnin Bush landscaping company, which is a few hundred yards from the teens home.

In a statement to the San Antonio-Express News, Mendoza Olmoss family thanked the community for its support. We want to give a humble and heartfelt thank you to all the news reporters, churches, friends, families, and communities for your support and prayers, the family said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Our beloved Camila Mendoza Olmos is now with the Good Lord, the statement continued. We kindly ask that you please respect our pain and, most importantly, keep my cousin Rosario  Camilas mom  and my nephew Carlos  Camilas brother  in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you, and God bless you all.

Mendoza Olmoss mother, Rosario Olmos, reported that her daughter was missing on Dec. 24, after the teen left their house that morning. She was seen on a neighbors security camera shortly before 7 a.m., CBS affiliate KENS5 reported.

Olmos told the Bexar County Sheriffs Office that her daughter regularly takes morning walks, and that she became concerned when Camila did not return within a reasonable period of time, according to ABC News. Mendoza Olmos did not take her phone with her.

I called her cell phone, but the cell phone was there on the bed and it was turned off, Olmos told KENS5. I put it to charge and went out to look for her. I thought I would find her like other times, walking, and we would come home together.

Advertisement Advertisement

The video footage from that morning shows an individual believed to be Mendoza Olmos searching inside her vehicle for an unidentified item before the footage ends, according to the Bexar County Sheriffs Office. Investigators believe she left the area on foot, as her car was still at her home.

Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar previously told ABC News that deputies and volunteers were searching around the clock as they believed that Mendoza Olmos was in imminent danger. Multiple agencies assisted with the investigation, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security.

Mendoza Olmos recently went through a breakup; however, Salazar said that the split was mutual and that authorities found no indication of foul play. Those close to Mendoza Olmos cooperated with the investigation.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call 911, or call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
A sprawling winter storm stretching across much of the northern United States is reaching peak intensity as it moves from the Upper Midwest toward the Great Lakes and Northeast, bringing blizzard conditions, heavy snow, freezing rain and strong winds to multiple regions.

More than 30 million people are under winter weather alerts as the system advances east, according to forecasters. And at least 2 million people are facing blizzard warnings in the Midwest. Power outages were mounting as the storm moved east, with more than 300,000 customers nationwide without electricity by Monday morning, according to PowerOutage.com.

Hazardous conditions could persist into Wednesday, particularly around the Great Lakes and interior New England, as lake-effect snow and gusty winds continue behind the main system, according to the National Weather Services Weather Prediction Center. Some meteorologists are also watching whether the system rapidly intensifies as it tracks across the Great Lakes, a process sometimes referred to as bombogenesis.

Heavy snow falls along Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis on Dec. 28. (Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via AP) (AP)

Midwest and Great Lakes: Blizzard conditions and widespread disruptions

The storm is delivering some of its most dangerous impacts across the Upper Midwest and the Great Lakes, with heavy snow, powerful winds and near-whiteout conditions reported in several areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Forecasters say snowfall could exceed a foot in portions of the upper Great Lakes, with up to 2 feet possible across the south shore of Lake Superior. Wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph could further reduce visibility and create dangerous whiteout conditions in parts of the Upper Midwest, particularly in areas experiencing heavy or blowing snow, including portions of Iowa, Wisconsin and Michigans Upper Peninsula.

The powerful system is also expected to generate near-record swells on Lake Superior, with waves potentially reaching as high as 34 feet.

Some areas of Michigan have already reported a foot of snow, with Minneapolis seeing between 5 and 7 inches as the storm continues to intensify.

Stay safe on the roads, Minnesota.



Slow down, give @MnDOT snowplows room to work, and check https://t.co/hBN241ZjcH for the latest road conditions.  Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) December 28, 2025

Northeast and mid-Atlantic: Ice, freezing rain and travel risks

As the storm pushes east, forecasters warn that ice and freezing rain could pose the greatest danger across interior New England and parts of the Northeast, where a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain is expected before warmer air changes precipitation to rain. Even modest ice accumulation could make roads treacherous and increase the risk of downed trees and power outages.

Advertisement Advertisement

The National Weather Service said ice accumulations could reach up to seven-tenths of an inch in parts of northern New York and Vermont by Monday evening. Already, in Connecticut, more than 1,600 power outages were reported Monday as freezing rain and fog coated roads and downed equipment.

In New York, officials reported widespread outages upstate, with tens of thousands of customers without power Monday morning. Gov. Kathy Hochuls office warned that strong winds combined with snowfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour could lead to potential whiteout conditions in some areas.

Travel in the Buffalo area could become dangerous starting at 11am due to potential whiteout conditions. It is critical everyone stay off the roads and stay safe. https://t.co/uTIGcGt1Pl  Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) December 29, 2025

Forecasters said the most dangerous icing conditions are expected through Monday evening before temperatures gradually rise and precipitation turns to rain in many areas.

Flights: Cancellations and delays mount nationwide

The storm is also snarling air travel. As of mid-Monday morning, FlightAware reported at least 945 flight cancellations nationwide and more than 16,500 delays, including over 550 cancellations and at least 2,430 delays within, into or out of the United States.

Delta Air Lines accounted for the largest share of disruptions, with roughly 3% of its scheduled flights canceled by midmorning. Most of those cancellations were tied to weather impacts in the Midwest and the Great Lakes, where snow, high winds and reduced visibility forced airlines to cut service. Major hubs including Chicago's OHare, MinneapolisSt. Paul and Detroit each reported dozens of cancellations as conditions worsened.
MANILA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- A 19-year-old male was killed and 45 others injured after a tourist bus overshot a highway and tilted on its side in Quezon province on Luzon island in the Philippines, police said on Monday.

The bus, which was carrying passengers from Metro Manila, was traveling to a youth camp when the accident occurred on Monday morning in the town of Infanta, police said.

Several of the injured passengers were in serious condition.

The bus driver was taken into police custody as authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. 
COLOMBO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka Customs has generated 2.497 trillion rupees (8.06 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue so far in 2025, marking the highest collection recorded by the department and placing it well above its revised annual target.

Chandana Punchihewa, director of Customs and Media Spokesperson, said the original revenue target set by the Ministry of Finance for 2025 was 2.115 trillion rupees. Collections reached that level ahead of schedule, prompting authorities to revise the target upward to 2.231 trillion rupees. Current revenue has now exceeded that revised benchmark as well.

Addressing the media, Punchihewa said the strong performance was supported by a combination of operational measures introduced by Sri Lanka Customs and the reopening of vehicle imports, which had a notable impact on collections.

He noted that the revenue target for the previous year stood at 1.531 trillion rupees, while the significantly higher target for 2025 was set following policy decisions related to import controls, particularly the resumption of vehicle imports. (1 Sri Lankan rupee equals 0.0032 U.S. dollars) 
CCVlogTaking off! How the GBA is Shaping the Sky! 

From agricultural drones and delivery drones to air taxis, a wide range of drone applications are already taking shape in the GuangdongHong KongMacao Greater Bay Area.

Step into Chinas low-altitude economy pioneer  GreaterBayArea  and see how its leading the next frontier of the skies.



  




Helicopter Collision: Two helicopters collided midair in southern New Jersey on Sunday, killing one person and injuring another. Information on the cause of the accident is awaited.
This photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows a damaged house in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)

This photo taken on Dec. 29, 2025 shows a damaged house in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)

This photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows a damaged house in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)

This photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows a bunker made of sand bags and cement in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)

This photo taken on Dec. 28, 2025 shows a damaged house in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)

This photo taken on Dec. 29, 2025 shows a damaged motorcycle in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)

This photo taken on Dec. 29, 2025 shows a crater in Sa Kaew province near the Thailand-Cambodia border in Thailand. Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint statement on Saturday to agree on a ceasefire from 12:00 p.m. local time.

The statement was inked by Thai Defense Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Seiha during the third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which was held on the Thai side of the border in Chanthaburi province. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong)
Flash: Special counsel files charges against 76 people on cases regarding ex-1st lady in S. Korea, including ex-president Yoon
VLADIVOSTOK, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Russia's space agency Roscosmos announced on Monday that it has successfully launched 52 satellites on a Soyuz-2.1b rocket into their planned orbits in space.

The Soyuz rocket launch was conducted on Sunday afternoon at the Vostochny Cosmodrome facility in Russia's far eastern Amur Oblast, Roscosmos said on its Telegram channel. The rocket delivered into orbit two Aist-2T and 50 other satellites, a process lasting about 5 hours.

The spacecrafts are designed to operate actively in orbit for a minimum of five years. Their uses range from remote sensing of the Earth, electromagnetic radiation research, monitoring global shipping, to receiving signals from Internet of Things transmitters.

Roscosmos noted that the Aist-2T satellites are expected to take 3D images of the Earth, which will enable scientists to create accurate digital 3D models of landscapes and more effectively monitor fires, floods, and other emergencies on the planet. 
ISTANBUL, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Seven Turkish policemen were injured after coming under gunfire during a counterterrorism operation targeting suspected Islamic State (IS) members in the northwestern province of Yalova, the public broadcaster TRT reported on Monday.

Provincial police units raided a residence in Elmalik village, where a clash erupted during the operation, said the report. Following the exchanges of fire, special operations police from the neighboring province of Bursa were deployed to support the raid, which "is continuing under heightened security measures in the surrounding area."

The injured were taken to hospital, and their conditions were reportedly stable.

Turkiye has stepped up operations against the IS in recent weeks, as intelligence assessments have warned of heightened security threats during the New Year holiday period.

Turkiye officially designated the IS group as a terrorist organization in 2013. 
MOSCOW, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Russian military has taken control of the village of Dibrova in the Donetsk region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday.

Russian troops have "completed the liberation" of Dibrova, following active combat operations and overnight strikes, the ministry said in a statement.

"Operational-tactical aviation, strike unmanned aerial vehicles, missile troops and artillery of the Russian Armed Forces launched strikes against temporary deployment points of Ukrainian military formations and foreign mercenaries in 153 locations," it said.

The Ukrainian side has not commented on Russia's claim. 
BAKU, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and his Georgian counterpart Maka Botchorishvili on Monday welcomed a recently reached agreement on tariffs for the transit of Azerbaijani oil products to Armenia via Georgia, Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry said in a press release.

During a telephone conversation, Bayramov expressed his gratitude to the Georgian leadership for their prompt resolution of the tariff issue, which facilitates the export of oil products through Georgian territory to Armenia. Both ministers emphasized the importance of continuing coordinated efforts in this direction to ensure smooth operations.

Beyond the oil agreement, they also discussed the current state and prospects of friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries.

During the talks, the two foreign ministers hailed the current trajectory of bilateral relations, noting that high-level political dialogue and intensive mutual visits have provided significant impetus to the strengthening of ties. Both sides underscored the importance of maintaining this momentum and expanding political contacts in 2026.

The first shipment of Azerbaijani petroleum products via Georgia was dispatched to Armenia on Dec. 18. 
WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump said that the two sides are "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to a peace deal to end the Ukraine crisis.

However, there is little sign that any major breakthrough is emerging, though Trump described the talks as "excellent" with "a lot of progresses" made.

WHAT PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE?

"This is not a one-day process deal. This is very complicated stuff," Trump said at a joint press conference with Zelensky after the meeting.

"In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump said. "It's been a very difficult negotiation."

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework," Zelensky said of his meeting with Trump at the press conference, noting that the 20-point peace plan now was "90 percent" complete -- the same figure he mentioned earlier this month.

Regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, Zelensky said the United States, Ukraine and Europe are close to 100 percent agreement on the terms.

Trump said that he does not like to say percentages, but "thinks it could be close to 95 percent" on the security issue.

"We could be very close. There are one or two very thorny issues, very tough issues, but I think we're doing very well," Trump said. Neither Trump nor Zelensky specified the issues.

Although Trump and Zelensky praised each other at the press conference, they provided few details on the progress made.

WHAT DID RELEVANT PARTIES SAY?

During the meeting, the two leaders also had a joint phone call with key European leaders, including the chiefs of NATO and the European Union.

Zelensky said Trump may meet him and European leaders in Washington in January as he and Trump "agreed that our teams will meet in upcoming weeks to finalize all discussed matters."

Just ahead of his meeting with Zelensky, Trump said he "had a good and very productive telephone call" with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Sunday morning.

Yuri Ushakov, Putin's top foreign policy aide, said in Moscow that during the lengthy phone call, Putin and Trump agreed that a long-term peace settlement was better than the temporary ceasefire proposed by the Ukrainians and the Europeans.

Putin has agreed to a U.S. offer to create two working groups for the peace deal: one focused on security issues and the other on economic issues, Ushakov was quoted as saying in a New York Times report.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that she "welcomed" the "good progress" achieved in the talks.

"Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our U.S. partners to consolidate this progress," She said, adding that "paramount to this effort is to have ironclad security guarantees from day one."

French President Emmanuel Macron declared that allies supporting Kiev would convene in Paris next month to deliberate on security assurances, which form a component of a prospective peace deal between Ukraine and Russia.

"We will bring together the countries of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris in early January to finalize each one's concrete contributions," Macron said on X after speaking with Zelensky and Trump.

WHAT STALEMATES STILL NEED TO BE RESOLVED?

When welcoming Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago, Trump refused to say whether he expects a peace deal will be reached by the end of this year to end the Ukraine crisis.

The most contentious issues are widely seen to include a potential timetable for a ceasefire, the establishment of a proposed demilitarized zone, the management of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and control of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

Trump specifically cited disagreements over "land," alluding to the deep schism between Moscow and Kiev over possible territorial concessions, reported the Financial Times.

He said that the issue of a possible "demilitarized zone" -- or "economic zone" in the Donbas region as Zelensky has referred to it in recent weeks -- remains "unresolved."

Ukrainian forces would withdraw to establish an economic zone, provided Russian troops reciprocated, said Zelensky, noting that any such zone would have to remain officially Ukrainian territory under the oversight of an international peace force.

Acknowledging the sensitivity of the matter, he emphasized that any territorial concessions would necessitate approval through a national referendum.

Zelensky said Friday he was willing to put a peace plan to end the Ukraine crisis to a referendum if Russia agrees to a ceasefire of at least 60 days, according to U.S. media outlet Axios.

Putin was open to collaborating with Kiev on the contentious issue of who should control the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant -- the biggest in Europe -- as part of a peace deal, Trump was quoted by the Financial Times as saying. Russian forces currently control the plant in south-eastern Ukraine.

Russia has already made it clear that it will reject any amendments proposed by Ukraine to the 28-point plan drafted by Trump in the autumn, said the report.

The meeting came a day after a major missile and drone attack by Russia on Kiev, which killed two people, wounded dozens and cut power and heating to more than a million of the region's residents during freezing temperatures, said Ukraine authorities.

Zelensky said some 500 drones and 40 missiles had pounded the Ukrainian capital and its surrounding region.

The same day, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin wrote on Telegram that 21 drones flying toward Moscow were destroyed. 
A screen shot taken from a video released by the White House shows U.S. President Donald Trump meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, the United States, Dec. 29, 2025. (Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday threatened to attack Iran again if Tehran attempts to rearm.

"Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we're going to have to knock them down," Trump told reporters while welcoming Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida.

"We'll knock them down. We'll knock the hell out of them," adding that making a "deal" is "much smarter" for Iran.

Earlier this month, NBC News reported that during their Monday talks, Netanyahu would seek to convince Trump that "Iran's expansion of its ballistic missile program poses a threat that could necessitate swift action."

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said last week that Iran's missile program has been developed to defend the country's sovereignty and is "non-negotiable."

On June 13, Israel launched surprise airstrikes on several areas in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing senior commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. On June 22, U.S. forces bombed the three Iranian nuclear facilities of Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan. 
The mountain overlooking Are, the town where the Kurdish New Year celebration occurs. (Jack Rogers)



An armed escort was waiting the bottom of the steps. They werent there for me. I wasnt in the military anymore, so I joined the line of people making their way from the plane to passport control. The colonels and non-commissioned officers that shared my flight sped to the coalition airbase on the opposite side of the runway. They had a war to fight behind concrete walls and concertina wire. I had a country to explore. Talk about two different experiences.

I had been to Iraq before. Not of my own volition, but on a nine-month tour to Baghdad. That was when Islamic State controlled large swaths of territory in Iraq and Syria. Those days were long and stressful as defeating the terrorists, countering Iran, and stabilising Iraq after years of yet another war took its toll on my mind and body. During those nine months, my body became accustomed to the constant flow of cortisol, the sound of generators and helicopters overhead, and the mental exhaustion of being on 24/7 alert.

Returning home and leaving the Army was a strain. I didnt realise it, but I developed PTSD after two deployments in as many years. I had nightmares, struggled with depression and became an adrenaline seeker as I craved those chemicals normal life couldnt provide. I expected every aspect of life to carry some sort of threat, from terrorism, a shooting, or even some random person paying too much attention to me and my activities. I took a different route to work every day, just as I had done on deployments, and I was tight-lipped about different compartments of my life. I may have come home physically, but my mind stayed in deployment mode.

No amount of therapy helped. At best, it was a pressure-release valve, but one day, I would blow.   Jack Rogers

That was how I landed in Iraqi Kurdistan as a tourist. It was a direct flight from mainland Europe. I told everyone my visit was for the adventure of visiting a warzone, but really, I needed to know what I had fought for was worth it, and that even in warzones, life was okay. I wasnt sure what that meant, exactly, but I knew it started by heading outside of the Coalition bubble I lived under years before.

I was wholly unprepared for what I found. Everything was normal. Clearing immigration was no different than in Europe, the taxi service was the same, getting local currency out of cash machines was just as it was in every country I had ever been.

There were tall apartment buildings, fast-food restaurants and even malls with luxury brands. There were no signs of war, save for the concrete T-walls surrounding the Iranian and American embassies.

Shar Park in Erbil decorated in Kurdish colors for Christmas (Jack Rogers)



I wasnt ready for this normalcy. Part of me wanted the war to come back to me so I could feel as I did before. I struggled with walking through public parks and eating at local restaurants. But this was all in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistans capital, so I figured it was different outside this heavily-protected city.

It wasnt.

Driving the highways between towns and villages was as normal as driving Interstate 25 in Colorado. Better, even, as the intercity roads in Iraqi Kurdistan were far better maintained. The rest stops, historic sites, millennia-old monasteries, hotels and ski resorts... everything was just normal. The war had come and gone; and now, everyone went about life as though it had never happened.

Not just the war against Islamic State, either. Iraq had seen five wars in thirty years, all dragging its Kurdish region into the fray. Somehow, that was all gone. Local guides led trips into the Zagros Mountains, to Mosul, Baghdad and Babylon; Americans could receive e-visas and visas on arrival for tourism. The war was no more.

Kurdish guide and writer overlooking Rawanduz (Jack Rogers)



Just one week in Iraq did for me what years of therapy couldnt: reassured me that everything had been worth it; life was okay. For the first time in decades, Iraq had a positive outlook. For me, tourism was returning, terrorism was an afterthought and the Coalition presence more a policy instrument than a security necessity. It seemed to me that we had won, and as misguided as our original intentions in 2003 may have been, Saddam was deposed, Islamic State was eradicated, the Iraqi government was functional, and no one worried about car bombs; for once, nation building seemed to have worked.

Boarding my flight out of Erbil, I felt a heavy burden lifted from my shoulders. Seeing the normalcy that had come to Iraq provided me closure I never thought I would have. What I and the other soldiers fought to achieve for 20 years had finally come, and it was there to stay. I no longer had to wonder if it was all worth it. I had seen with my eyes that it was.

View of the Cheeka Dar mountain, the border between Iraqi Kurdistan and Iran (Jack Rogers)



Editors Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
Weve also seen smaller, new startups get a hypey boost from froth-mouthed investors.

Then theres Elon Musks xAI, which raised at least $10 billion this year after acquiring X .

OpenAI rival Anthropic also closed $16.5 billion this year across two rounds; its most recent raise pushed its valuation to $183 billion with heavy hitters like Iconiq Capital, Fidelity, and the Qatar Investment Authority participating. (CEO Dario Amodei confessed to staff in a leaked memo that he was not thrilled about taking money from dictatorial Gulf states.)

In 2025 alone, OpenAI raised a SoftBank-led $40 billion round at a $300 billion post-money valuation. The company also reportedly has investors like Amazon orbiting with compute-tied circular deals and is in talks to raise $100 billion at an $830 billion valuation . That would bring OpenAI close to the $1 trillion valuation it is reportedly seeking in an IPO next year.

Weve been there for every step. And our most popular stories of 2025 tell the real story: an industry hitting a reality check even as it promises to reshape reality itself.

The era of unabashed acceptance and celebration of AI is fading just a skosh at the edges. And with it, more scrutiny and questions. Can AI companies sustain their own velocity? Does scaling in the post-DeepSeek era require billions? Is there a business model that returns a sliver of the multi-billions of investment?

The first half of 2025 matched the fervor, and investor interest, of the prior year. That mood has shifted in recent months to deliver a vibe check of sorts. Extreme optimism for AI, and the accompanying wild valuations, is still intact. But that rosy view is now being tempered with concerns over an AI bubble bursting, user safety, and the sustainability of technological progress at its current pace.

Such astronomical investments were followed by equally incredible spends. Meta shelled out nearly $15 billion to lock up Scale AI CEO Alexandr Wang and spent countless more millions to poach talent from other AI labs. Meanwhile, AIs biggest players promised close to $1.3 trillion in future infrastructure spending.

OpenAI raised $40 billion at a $300 billion valuation. Safe Superintelligence and Thinking Machine Labs raised individual $2 billion seed rounds before shipping a single product. Even first-time founders were raising at a scale that once belonged only to Big Tech.

Money was no object for the AI industry in early 2025. A vibe check crept in the second half of the year.

Story Continues

Former OpenAI chief technologist Mira Muratis startup Thinking Machine Labs secured a $2 billion seed round at a $12 billion valuation despite sharing almost no information about its product offering. Vibe-coding startup Lovables $200 million Series A earned it a unicorn horn just eight months after launching; this month, Lovable raised another $330 million at a nearly $7 billion post-money valuation. And we cant leave out AI recruiting startup Mercor, which raised $450 million this year across two rounds, the latest bringing its valuation up to $10 billion.

These absurdly large valuations are still happening even against the backdrop of still-modest enterprise adoption figures and serious infrastructure constraints, heightening fears of an AI bubble.

Build, baby, build

Image Credits:Ulysse BELLIER / AFP / Getty Images

For the larger firms, those numbers arent coming from nowhere. Justifying those valuations requires building vast amounts of infrastructure.

The result has created a vicious cycle. Capital raised to fund compute is increasingly tied to deals where the same money flows back into chips, cloud contracts, and energy, as seen in OpenAIs infrastructure-linked funding with Nvidia. In practice, its blurring the line between investment and customer demand, stoking fears that the AI boom is being propped up by circular economics rather than sustainable usage.

Some of the biggest deals this year powering the infrastructure boom were:

But cracks are beginning to show. A private financing partner, Blue Owl Capital, recently pulled out of a planned $10 billion Oracle data-center deal tied to OpenAI capacity, underscoring how fragile some of these capital stacks can be.

Whether all that spending ultimately materializes is another question. Grid constraints, soaring construction and power costs, and growing pushback from residents and policymakers  including calls from figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders to rein in data center expansion  are already slowing projects in some regions.

Even as AI investment remains enormous, the infrastructure reality is beginning to temper the hype.

The expectation reset

Image Credits:Anthony Kwan / Getty Images

In 2023 and 2024, each major model release felt like a revelation, with new capabilities and fresh reasons to fall for the hype. This year, the magic faded, and nothing captured that shift better than OpenAIs GPT-5 rollout.

While it was meaningful on paper, it didnt land with the same punch as earlier releases like GPT-4 and 4o. Similar patterns emerged across the industry as improvements from LLM providers were less transformative and more incremental or domain-specific.

Even Gemini 3, which is topping several benchmarks, was only a breakthrough insofar as it brought Google back up to equal footing with OpenAI  which sparked Sam Altmans infamous code red memo and OpenAIs fight to maintain dominance.

There was also a reset this year in terms of where we expect frontier models to come from. DeepSeeks launch of R1, its reasoning model that competed with OpenAIs o1 on key benchmarks, proved that new labs can ship credible models fast and at a fraction of the cost.

From model breakthroughs to business models

Demis Hassabis, chief executive officer of DeepMind Technologies. Image Credits:Jose Sarmento Matos/Bloomberg / Getty Images

As the size of each leap between new models shrinks, investors are focused less on raw model capacity and more on whats wrapped around it. The question is: Who can turn AI into a product that people rely on, pay for, and integrate into their daily workflows?

That shift is manifesting in several ways as companies see what works, and what customers will let fly. AI search startup Perplexity, for example, briefly floated the idea of tracking users online movements to sell them hyper-personalized ads. Meanwhile, OpenAI was reportedly considering charging up to $20,000 per month for specialized AI, a sign of how aggressively companies tested the waters of what customers might be willing to pay.

More than anything, though, the fight has moved to distribution. Perplexity is trying to stay relevant by launching its own Comet browser with agentic capabilities and paying Snap $400 million to power search inside Snapchat, effectively buying its way into existing user funnels.

OpenAI is pursuing a parallel strategy, expanding ChatGPT beyond a chatbot and into a platform. OpenAI has launched its own Atlas browser and other consumer-facing features like Pulse, while also courting enterprises and developers by launching apps inside ChatGPT itself.

Google, for its part, is leaning on incumbency. On the consumer side, Gemini is being integrated directly into products like Google Calendar, while on the enterprise side, the company is hosting MCP connectors to make its ecosystem harder to dislodge.

In a market where its getting tougher to differentiate by dropping a new model, owning the customer and the business model is the real moat.

The trust and safety vibe check

After multiple teens died by suicide after prolonged conversations with chatbots, Character AI removed the chatbot experience for under 18s in November 2025. Image Credits:Character.AI

AI companies received unprecedented scrutiny in 2025. More than 50 copyright lawsuits wound through the courts, while reports of AI psychosis  the result of chatbots reinforcing delusions and allegedly contributing to multiple suicides and other life-threatening episodes  sparked calls for trust and safety reforms.

While some copyright battles met their end  like Anthropics $1.5 billion settlement to authors  most are still unresolved. Though, the conversation appears to be shifting from resistance against using copyrighted content for training to demands for compensation. (See: New York Times is suing Perplexity for copyright infringement.)

Meanwhile, mental health concerns around AI chatbot interactions  and their sycophantic responses  emerged as a serious public health issue following multiple deaths by suicide and life-threatening delusions in teens and adults after prolonged chatbot usage. The result has been lawsuits, widespread concern among mental health professionals, and swift policy responses like Californias SB 243 regulating AI girlfriend bots.

Perhaps most telling: The calls for restraints are not coming from the usual anti-tech suspects.

Industry leaders have warned against chatbots juicing engagement, and even Sam Altman has cautioned against emotional overreliance on ChatGPT.

Even the labs themselves started sounding alarms. Anthropics May safety report documented Claude Opus 4 attempting to blackmail engineers to prevent its own shutdown. The subtext? Scaling without understanding what youve built is no longer a viable strategy.

Looking ahead

If 2025 was the year AI started to grow up and face hard questions, 2026 will be the year it has to answer them. The hype cycle is starting to fizzle out, and now AI companies will be forced to prove their business models and demonstrate real economic value.

The era of trust us, the returns will come is nearing its end. What comes next will either be a vindication or a reckoning that makes the dot-com bust look like a bad day of trading for Nvidia. Time to place your bets.
Key Points

Make sure you're not saying no to free money.

Don't overpay to invest your money.

Recognize the value of saving in a Roth 401(k) if that option is available to you.

The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook 

One of the best things you can do to set yourself up for a secure retirement is save consistently during your working years. And you have different options in that regard.

Many companies offer a 401(k) plan. If yours doesn't, you can always look to an IRA to house your retirement savings.

Image source: Getty Images.

But 401(k)s make saving for retirement exceptionally easy. That's because your contributions are taken as automatic payroll deductions.

In other words, you don't have to remember to send money into your retirement account month after month. Your employer will do that for you, allowing you to stay on track.

But if you're going to save for retirement in a 401(k), it's important to make smart decisions with your money. If you've fallen victim to these mistakes in the past, you may want to aim to correct them in 2026.

1. Not getting your full workplace match

Many companies that offer 401(k) plans also match worker contributions to some degree. If you've missed out on your complete match in the past, aim to make 2026 the year you snag it in full.

When you give up a 401(k) match -- either partially or in full -- you're not just giving up whatever amount you don't snag for the current year. You're also giving up growth on that money.

Say you left $1,000 in matching dollars on the table in 2025. If you're 25 and are retiring at 65, it means your money has another 40 years to grow.

If we apply a yearly 8% growth rate to that $1,000, which is a bit below the stock market's average, we get to almost $22,000. So in that context, missing out on $1,000 is a much bigger deal than you might think -- big enough that you should pledge not to do it again in 2026.

To ensure that you can claim your workplace match in full, figure out what it entails and calculate how much money you have to add to your current savings rate each month. You may be able to find an expense you can cut back on that allows you to make up that difference.

2. Paying too much for your investments

One drawback of saving for retirement in a 401(k) is that you're generally not able to hold stocks individually. Making matters worse is that a number of the funds you're offered in your 401(k) might come with hefty fees that eat away at your returns.

If you've been paying high fees for your investments, you may be losing money for no good reason. And you may want to switch to index funds in the new year.
As the pan-European STOXX Europe 600 Index edges higher, nearing record levels amid optimism about future earnings and economic prospects, investors are keenly eyeing opportunities in the market. In this environment, identifying stocks that may be undervalued relative to their intrinsic value can offer potential benefits, as these investments could provide a buffer against market fluctuations while potentially offering long-term growth.

Top 10 Undervalued Stocks Based On Cash Flows In Europe

Name Current Price Fair Value (Est) Discount (Est) Streamwide (ENXTPA:ALSTW) 72.60 142.33 49% Sanoma Oyj (HLSE:SANOMA) 9.21 18.39 49.9% Redelfi (BIT:RDF) 11.70 23.29 49.8% Outokumpu Oyj (HLSE:OUT1V) 4.278 8.48 49.6% LINK Mobility Group Holding (OB:LINK) NOK32.95 NOK65.86 50% Hemnet Group (OM:HEM) SEK170.90 SEK337.28 49.3% cyan (XTRA:CYR) 2.26 4.51 49.8% Artifex Mundi (WSE:ART) PLN12.20 PLN24.33 49.9% Allegro.eu (WSE:ALE) PLN30.625 PLN60.14 49.1% Allcore (BIT:CORE) 1.345 2.66 49.4%

Click here to see the full list of 191 stocks from our Undervalued European Stocks Based On Cash Flows screener.

Let's uncover some gems from our specialized screener.

Overview: A.L.A. societa per azioni is a supply chain solutions provider serving the aerospace and defense, rail, and high-tech sectors with a market cap of 325.08 million.

Operations: The company's revenue is primarily derived from its Distribution segment at 141.74 million, followed by Service Providers at 144.00 million, Production at 28.40 million, and On Site Assembly at 3.14 million.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 31.9%

A.L.A. societa per azioni is trading at 36, significantly below its estimated fair value of 52.83, suggesting it may be undervalued based on cash flows. The company's earnings grew 95.4% last year and are forecast to grow 18.37% annually, outpacing the Italian market's growth rate of 9.9%. However, its debt coverage by operating cash flow is weak and dividends are not well covered by free cash flows. Recent M&A activity includes H.I.G Capital's acquisition of a significant stake in A.L.A., potentially leading to delisting plans.

BIT:ALA Discounted Cash Flow as at Dec 2025

Overview: Dustin Group AB (publ) operates an online information technology business across Sweden, Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium with a market cap of approximately SEK2.37 billion.

Operations: The company's revenue is derived from two main segments: Large Corporate and Public Sector (LCP), which contributes SEK14.74 billion, and Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMB), accounting for SEK5.67 billion.
Meme stocks are quite speculative and generate a lot of social media buzz. GameStop started the trend after it went parabolic for a brief period in 2021. The poster child of meme stocks is now down by more than 30% this year, but it has had some sharp price spikes and drops along the way.

Fortunes can change quickly with meme stocks, as we saw with GameStop in 2021 and Beyond Meat stock earlier this year. A massive short squeeze sent BYND stock from $0.50 per share to above $7 per share within a week, but its stock price has since dropped to around $1 per share.

Even though some meme stocks crash after their brief but dramatic spikes, other meme stocks have some fundamentals to them. Analysts have periodically pointed to meme stocks for investors who are looking to outperform the stock market. These are three of the meme stocks the experts have been bullish about that can rally in 2026.

Rivian Automotive (RIVN)

Rivian Automotive has been a volatile electric vehicle (EV) stock for most of the year, but it is up by more than 10% this year. Ivan Feinseth, senior partner and chief investment officer at Tigress Financial Partners, is bullish about the companys long-term prospects. He believes Rivians AI investments will unlock new revenue growth and result in a higher valuation.

Rivians investments in software, AI and driver-assist features could improve safety and open the door to future upgrade revenue, he told investors when raising his price target to $25 per share.

Autonomous vehicles represent a significant long-term opportunity that is still in its early stages. Alphabets Waymo has the lead right now, with Waymo vehicles successfully driving on active highways. Rivian has features that enable hands-off driving on some highways and is in the process of improving its self-driving capabilities in future upgrades.

Learn More: Self-Made Millionaires Suggest 5 Stocks You Should Never Sell

Find Out: 6 Safe Accounts Proven To Grow Your Money Up To 13x Faster

Krispy Kreme (DNUT)

Krispy Kreme stock has endured brutal losses this year, down by more than 50% from its 2025 high. Sara Senatore, senior research analyst at Bank of America, recently reiterated a Buy rating for DNUT stock.

Given the robust double-digit growth profile of its top line and earnings, we believe Krispy Kreme should trade at a premium consistent with its faster growth and higher returns, she said in a note to investors.

Senatore also cited Krispy Kremes product offering and ability to expand from 3,750 access points to 8,000 within a few years in the U.S. and Canada. Krispy Kremes Q3 earnings results show some promise of a turnaround.
Arrow Exploration Corp. has shown significant earnings growth, with a very large increase of 1048.2% over the past year, outpacing the broader oil and gas industry. The company is debt-free and maintains stable short-term financial health, as its short-term assets exceed liabilities. However, it faces challenges with long-term liabilities not fully covered by current assets. Recent operational updates highlight successful drilling activities in Colombia's Mateguafa Attic field, contributing to steady production levels around 4,510 boe/d despite some temporary setbacks like the Mateguafa Oeste-1 well abandonment due to non-economic discoveries.

Operations: The company generates revenue of $76.79 million from its oil and gas exploration and production activities.

Overview: Arrow Exploration Corp. is a junior oil and gas company focused on acquiring, exploring, developing, and producing oil and gas properties in Colombia and Western Canada, with a market cap of CA$74.32 million.

Underneath we present a selection of stocks filtered out by our screen.

The Canadian market has been marked by a focus on diversification, with investors encouraged to overweight sectors like energy and materials while being cautious about overconcentration in single themes such as AI. Penny stocks, though an older term, continue to represent an intriguing investment area for those looking at smaller or newer companies with potential for growth. By identifying penny stocks that demonstrate strong financial health and a clear growth trajectory, investors can uncover valuable opportunities within this niche segment of the market.

Story Continues

TSXV:AXL Financial Position Analysis as at Dec 2025

Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: 

Overview: NexgenRx Inc. operates in Canada, providing administration, adjudication, and payment services for drug, dental, and other extended health-care claims for beneficiaries of health benefit plans with a market cap of CA$28.45 million.

Operations: The company's revenue is derived from CA$17.71 million in benefits administration services.

Market Cap: CA$28.45M

NexgenRx Inc. has shown progress by achieving profitability, supported by a revenue increase to CA$4.62 million in the latest quarter compared to CA$4.07 million the previous year. The company benefits from an experienced board and management team, with no debt burden enhancing its financial stability. Short-term assets of CA$33.8 million comfortably cover both short-term and long-term liabilities, reflecting solid liquidity management. Despite a low return on equity at 17.4%, NexgenRx's dividend announcements suggest a focus on shareholder returns, although its dividend track record remains unstable due to recent affirmations of a semi-annual payout of CAD 0.005 per share.

TSXV:NXG Financial Position Analysis as at Dec 2025

Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: 

Overview: Omni-Lite Industries Canada Inc. is a company that manufactures and sells metal alloys, composite components, and fastener systems in the United States and Canada, with a market cap of CA$26.78 million.

Operations: The company's revenue is primarily generated from the United States at $10.20 million and Canada at $4.10 million.

Market Cap: CA$26.78M

Omni-Lite Industries Canada Inc. navigates the penny stock landscape with a market cap of CA$26.78 million, focusing on metal alloys and fastener systems. Despite being unprofitable, the company has reduced its losses by 37.8% annually over five years and maintains a healthy cash runway exceeding three years due to positive free cash flow growth of 43.6% annually. Recent earnings show sales of US$4.04 million for Q3 2025, up from US$3.78 million year-over-year, though net losses persist at US$0.002659 million compared to larger previous losses, indicating gradual financial improvement amidst volatility stability.

TSXV:OML Financial Position Analysis as at Dec 2025

Key Takeaways

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 TSXV:AXL TSXV:NXG and TSXV:OML.

This article was originally published by Simply Wall St.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Recent trade data from China has led to a downturn in the UK's FTSE 100 index, highlighting the interconnectedness of global markets and their impact on domestic indices. Despite such challenges, investors often seek opportunities in smaller or newer companies that may offer promising potential for growth. Penny stocks, though an outdated term, remain a relevant investment area as they can provide substantial value when backed by solid financials.

Top 10 Penny Stocks In The United Kingdom

Name Share Price Market Cap Financial Health Rating DSW Capital (AIM:DSW) 0.625 15.71M  Foresight Group Holdings (LSE:FSG) 4.255 488.65M  Warpaint London (AIM:W7L) 1.975 159.55M  Quartix Technologies (AIM:QTX) 2.75 133.18M  Ingenta (AIM:ING) 0.86 12.98M  System1 Group (AIM:SYS1) 2.40 30.45M  Integrated Diagnostics Holdings (LSE:IDHC) $0.70 $406.93M  Impax Asset Management Group (AIM:IPX) 1.504 182.15M  M.T.I Wireless Edge (AIM:MWE) 0.47 40.51M  Begbies Traynor Group (AIM:BEG) 1.145 184.26M 

Click here to see the full list of 304 stocks from our UK Penny Stocks screener.

Let's explore several standout options from the results in the screener.

Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: 

Overview: FRP Advisory Group plc, with a market cap of 322.53 million, offers business advisory services to companies, lenders, investors, individuals, and other stakeholders in the United Kingdom.

Operations: FRP Advisory Group does not report specific revenue segments, focusing instead on providing business advisory services primarily in the United Kingdom.

Market Cap: 322.53M

FRP Advisory Group plc, with a market cap of 322.53 million, has demonstrated strong financial health, evident from its well-covered debt by operating cash flow and high interest coverage ratio. Despite a decline in net profit margins to 14.2% from 17.9%, the company maintains high-quality earnings and robust short-term asset coverage over liabilities. Recent earnings reported sales of 87.1 million for H1 2026, reflecting growth compared to the prior year, alongside an interim dividend declaration of 1 pence per share for Q2 2026. Analysts anticipate significant stock price appreciation potential at current levels below fair value estimates.

AIM:FRP Financial Position Analysis as at Dec 2025

Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: 
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is among the most undervalued tech giants to buy according to hedge funds. As of December 26, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) has a rating of Buy or equivalent from slightly more than half of the analysts covering the stock. While the target price ranges from $205 to $330, the median target of $300 implies an upside potential of 11.12%. On December 19, Surinder Thind, an analyst at Jefferies, reaffirmed a Hold rating on the stock, with a price target of $270.

Kevin McVeigh from UBS, among the analysts recommending the stock, lifted the price target on ACN to $320 from $315 and maintained a Buy rating on December 19, according to TheFly. The analyst highlighted the companys solid position in artificial intelligence and a steady demand environment.

RBC Lifts Accenture (ACN) Target on Strong Bookings and AI Demand

Pixabay/Public Domain

UBS noted that the companys Advanced AI achieved $1.1 billion in revenue in the first quarter, marking a 120% YoY surge. Similarly, Advanced AI bookings reached $2.2 billion, 76% higher than last year. Accenture is poised to scale generative AI efforts for clients, the analyst added.

Whats even more interesting is Accentures expansion into data center professional services, a market that is anticipated to double in size by 2030. UBS emphasized the companys top 10 alliance partnerships, which it believes will enhance Accenture plcs (NYSE:ACN) overall performance.

On the same day, RBC Capital raised the price target on Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) to $295 from $285 and reaffirmed an Outperform rating, following its first-quarter results, as reported by The Fly. The firm is optimistic about Accentures increasingly evolving AI partnership ecosystem, which will likely be a growth catalyst for the company.

Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is an Ireland-based provider of strategy, consulting, technology, and operations services. Incorporated in 1951, the company offers security, an intelligent platform, software engineering, and automation and global delivery services, among others.

While we acknowledge the potential of ACN 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: The Best and Worst Dow Stocks for the Next 12 Months and 10 Unstoppable Stocks That Could Double Your Money.

Disclosure: None.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Alphabet (GOOGL, Financials) spin off SandboxAQ has landed a major government contract in Bahrain to strengthen the country's digital defenses against future cyber threats. The deal will roll out SandboxAQ's AQtive Guard platform to secure sensitive data across more than 60 government ministries.

Bahraini officials said the initiative targets long-term risks posed by quantum computing, which could one day render current encryption systems obsolete. The project reflects growing global concern over harvest now, decrypt later attacks, in which hackers store encrypted data for future exploitation once quantum capabilities mature.

The deployment of SandboxAQ's AI driven system is one of the first national scale efforts to address quantum-era cybersecurity risks. Experts say the program demonstrates a proactive shift in government cybersecurity strategy prioritizing early defense and resilience rather than reacting to breaches.

The transaction with Bahrain shows that there is growing worldwide demand for sophisticated, AI based encryption and post quantum protection capabilities, according to SandboxAQ. Analysts think this step shows that governments are getting ready for the next wave of digital danger, even if quantum computing won't be widely used for a few more years.
Ambev (NYSE:ABEV) is one of the cheap penny stocks to invest in. Earlier in December, Barclays analyst Benjamin Theurer kept his Hold rating on the stock along with a $2.5 price target.

Previously, on November 26, Bernstein downgraded Ambev to Market Perform from Outperform with a $2.88 price target. The firm downgraded the stock due to valuation concerns following a 16% year-to-date gain. While the firm remains positive on Ambevs long-term outlook, it warns that current market expectations are unrealistic.

Is Ambev (ABEV) One of the Cheap Penny Stocks to Invest In?

In Q3 2025, Ambevs performance was driven by the continued success of the companys premiumization strategy. Volumes for premium and super-premium brands increased by more than 9%, allowing the premium segment to capture nearly 50% of the market share in Brazil. Beyond traditional beverage sales, Ambevs digital ecosystem demonstrated explosive growth; the marketplace initiative saw its GMV soar 100% to an annualized BRL 8 billion, while the DTC platform, Ze Delivery, saw a 7% increase in GMV.

Despite these gains, the company navigated several negative headwinds. Beer industry volumes in Brazil were softer than anticipated, primarily due to unseasonably cold weather in the South and Southeast regions and constrained consumer purchasing power in the North and Northeast. In Argentina, beer volumes saw a mid-single-digit decline, underperforming the broader industry due to unfavorable pricing dynamics. Financially, Ambev reported a normalized net income of BRL 3.8 billion (up 7%) and a stated net income of BRL 4.9 billion, representing a 36% surge over the previous year.

Ambev (NYSE:ABEV), through its subsidiaries, produces, distributes, and sells beer, draft beer, carbonated soft drinks, malt & food, other alcoholic beverages, and non-alcoholic & non-carbonated products in Brazil, Central America and Caribbean, Latin America South, and Canada.

While we acknowledge the potential of ABEV 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.
Oil is closing 2025 as one of the negative-performing assets. Despite starting the year with a rally, oil's movement soon became typical bear-market dynamics. Consistent price decline interrupted by volatile, sharp double-digit rallies.

Still, even in that environment, oil majors saw significant performance discrepancies. ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) lost 8.3% year-to-date, while Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM) squeezed a double-digit gain of over 11%.

Going into 2026, oil has become one of the most consensus-bearish assets across global institutions. Forecasts from major banks cluster tightly around the view that prices will remain subdued. The reasons include persistent oversupply, slowing demand growth, and the long shadow of the energy transition.

Don't Miss:

If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it ?

Have $100k+ to invest? Charlie Munger says that's the toughest milestone  don't stall now. Get matched with a fiduciary advisor and keep building

J.P. Morgan expects crude to average close to $53 per barrel in 2026, while Goldman Sachs sees prices near $52 as global surpluses widen. Morgan Stanley, Citi, and the US Energy Information Administration broadly reinforce that outlook, projecting a market weighed down by non-OPEC+ supply growth and weaker macro momentum. Meanwhile, Bank of America sees it at $57 per barrel, quoting three key downside risks as peace in Ukraine, a pro-market government in Venezuela, and a worsening economic outlook.

Unanimous alignments are rare in commodity markets. An old Wall Street guideline is that when everyone agrees on something, expect the opposite.

The Contrarian Opportunity

The pessimism is precisely what makes oil a spotlight contrarian opportunity for the following year. While bearish forecasts dominate the headlines, structural constraints are quietly tightening. Years of underinvestment followed the 2020 price collapse, and ESG pressures have just helped thin the global project pipeline.

Trending: Americans With a Financial Plan Can 4X Their Wealth  Get Your Personalized Plan from a CFP Pro

Per the IEA, discovery rates remain weak, long-cycle developments were deferred, and natural decline rates of existing fields continue to erode supply.

OPEC+ policy adds another layer of asymmetry. According to Reuters, the group has repeatedly shown its willingness to delay output increases to defend price floors, limiting downside risk while leaving the market exposed to upside shocks.

Meanwhile, demand destruction has proven slower than expected. Consumption linked to aviation, petrochemicals and emerging markets remains resilient, and China continues to play an opaque but supportive role through strategic stockpiling and industrial demand.
Key Points

Pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk just earned approval for an oral version of Wegovy.

This could help improve its position in the increasingly competitive weight loss market.

Despite some headwinds, there are several reasons to consider Novo Nordisk's stock.

10 stocks we like better than Novo Nordisk 

The past 18 months have been challenging for Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO). Clinical setbacks, worse-than-expected financial results, and a loss of market share in its most important therapeutic area have all contributed to a significant stock price decline over this period. Is the bleeding over?

Recent regulatory developments in the U.S. jolted Novo Nordisk's share price by as much as 8% in one day. Let's find out what happened and whether Novo Nordisk is worth investing in.

The first approval of its kind

Novo Nordisk generates the majority of its revenue from its GLP-1 products, which are approved for the treatment of diabetes, weight management, and several other conditions, including reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events. One of the company's most famous brands is Wegovy, an anti-obesity medicine. Wegovy is administered subcutaneously once a week.

Image source: Getty Images.

However, since many patients don't like needles, pharmaceutical leaders have been looking to develop weight loss therapies that can be taken orally. Novo Nordisk already had an oral GLP-1 on the market: Rybelsus. But it isn't indicated for obesity.

The good news is that the Denmark-based healthcare giant has just earned approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for an oral version of Wegovy. It is now the first oral GLP-1 approved for weight management.

Why Novo Nordisk's shares jumped

Oral pills for weight loss could attract a meaningful number of patients. Besides overcoming the psychological barrier of subcutaneous injections, oral pills are easier and cheaper to manufacture at scale for pharmaceutical companies. That means they will have the ability to reach more patients, perhaps at a lower cost, which may also translate to more third-party coverage. These dynamics could significantly expand the entire weight management market.

Novo Nordisk now has a first-mover advantage here, leveraging a well-known brand name that patients will recognize. With the company losing ground in this market to its biggest competitor, Eli Lilly, oral Wegovy will be a welcome addition to its portfolio that could help it recapture some lost ground, boost top-line growth, and bounce back.

Some factors to consider

Even though this is a win for Novo Nordisk, it's worth pointing out that Eli Lilly isn't too far behind. The company recently announced that it had submitted an application to the FDA for orforglipron, which is a weight loss pill that performed well in clinical trials. One notable result is that orforglipron helped patients keep losing weight after they switched from injectable anti-obesity therapies.
Key Points

BigBear.ai is focused on government business.

BigBear.ai's growth has been lackluster.

The stock is expensive for its gross margin profile.

10 stocks we like better than BigBear.ai 

BigBear.ai (NYSE: BBAI) is a popular artificial intelligence (AI) stock despite its small size. BigBear.ai has a market cap of less than $3 billion, which is why investors are so excited about it. The number of opportunities to invest in small-cap artificial intelligence stocks is fairly limited, boosting the popularity of the few that are available.

BigBear.ai is no exception, and many investors are wondering if the stock could double in 2026. I think that's wishful thinking, and investors must have a solid case for it to double, because hoping it will double isn't an investment strategy. So, does BigBear.ai have the potential to double? Let's find out.

Image source: Getty Images.

BigBear.ai recently closed on a smart acquisition

BigBear.ai is focused on providing government and government-adjacent clients with custom AI solutions. Its biggest contract is with the U.S. Army, and it's providing them with its Global Force Information Management-Objective Environment (GFIM-OE) system. This software will harness AI capabilities to ensure that the military is "properly manned, equipped, trained, and resourced" for whatever mission is at hand. That's a very specific contract, and there aren't many other repeat customers that can use this software.

Another area where it has made a name for itself is airport security. Its facial recognition software can speed up international traveler processing, but once again, it's limited in other uses.

This makes BigBear.ai more of a consulting software company rather than a platform software company, as it's making custom software for each of its clients rather than offering a wide-use platform clients can build upon. This shows up in BigBear.ai's gross margin, as it's far lower than most of its software peers.

Most platform software companies have about an 80% gross margin, which gives them a far greater potential to produce strong profit margins later on. This is one ding on BigBear.ai's potential, but it recently made a smart move that could redeem itself.

In Q3, it announced the acquisitions of Ask Sage, a generative AI platform that's tailored toward national security or other high-security areas. This is a smart move by BigBear.ai, as it gives it a platform to offer clients rather than just building one solution. It has an annual recurring revenue of about $25 million, making it a decent chunk of BigBear.ai's business moving forward, as it generated just shy of $145 million over the past 12 months.
Key Takeaways

Crypto investment products continue to see outflows towards the end of the year.

Bitcoin led the outflows in the past week, while Solana and XRP continue to see inflows for another week.

The weekly flows indicate a cautious approach by investors.

Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have continued to experience massive outflows towards the end of the year.

At a time when BTC and ETH investment products continue to see outflows, Solana and XRP ETFs have maintained their market-defying momentum, recording their most significant weekly inflows since inception.

Bitcoin and Ethereum Products Still Negative, Altcoins See Optimism

Crypto investment products saw outflows of $446 million last week, bringing total outflows since the October 10th shock price decline to $3.2 billion.

Despite the recent drawdown, year-to-date inflows remain robust at $46.3 billion, slightly below 2024s $48.7 billion, while total assets under management (AUM) are still up 10% YTD.

Bitcoin investment products accounted for the bulk of last weeks outflows, shedding $443 million, while Ethereum products followed with $59.5 million in outflows.

In contrast, newer products continued to attract capital. Solana and XRP ETFs both posted their strongest weekly inflows since launch, defying the broader trend.

XRP ETFs recorded $79 million in net inflows, while Solana ETFs added more than $7.5 million.

The divergence suggests investor confidence is becoming increasingly selective, with capital rotating toward XRP and Solana exposure even as funds continue to exit Bitcoin and Ethereum products.

Investors Cautious

Examining the weekly flow of crypto investment products, investors remain cautious about the value of BTC and ETH heading into the end of the year.

BTCs price reclaimed $90,000, while the ETH price climbed above $ 3,000.

However, like several past instances since October, both tokens failed to sustain the bullish momentum and lost all of their gains within hours of breaking past key resistance.

On the other hand, altcoin spot prices remain in the bearish zone; however, due to the recent launch of these products, investors are more open to taking risks with them, as evident from XRPs zero outflow days, while Solana has seen key inflows from time to time.

The United States remains the hub of most flows, owing to the launch of some of the largest ETF products in the country.

Germanys inflows suggest opportunistic buying during market dips, while the US dominated the negative flows.

The post Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs Continues Outflows While Solana and XRP Record Largest Inflow appeared first on ccn.com.
Investing.com -- BP said last week it has agreed to sell a 65% stake in its Castrol lubricants business to infrastructure investor Stonepeak at an enterprise value of $10 billion, as the energy major steps up asset sales to reduce debt.

The transaction will generate around $6 billion in net proceeds for BP, including roughly $0.8 billion from the prepayment of future dividend income tied to the remaining stake, with the company saying all of the cash will be used to pay down net debt.

Bank of America analyst Christopher Kuplent warned that despite the headline cash inflow, the disposal leaves BP facing more than 10% downside to the companys share price.

BPs agreement to sell 65% of Castrol leaves >10% downside to our unchanged PO of 375p (ADR $30)  with Castrols implied $10bn enterprise value close to our net present value (NPV). However, we see the sale as dilutive to BPs underlying cash flow quantity and quality, he wrote.

The bank cut its 2027 and onward earnings per share estimates by about 5% and sees BPs breakeven oil price up by roughly $3/bbl.

Kuplent said that a year into BPs $20 billion disposal program, more than $4 billion of proceeds should be received by the end of 2025, with a further roughly $6 billion expected by end-2026, yet adjusted gearing is still seen near 40%.

The analyst warned that selling assets at around 10% free cash flow yields could lift BPs breakeven oil price by about $10 per barrel, diluting free cash flow by more than 5% and reducing the quality of remaining cash flows as long-life assets are sold.

Separately, RBC Capital Markets analyst Biraj Borkhataria struck a more balanced tone but also questioned the longer-term implications of the deal.

While noting that investors had been looking for a Castrol sale as a catalyst to accelerate deleveraging, the analyst said he continues to question the rationale of selling this highly cash generative, low volatility and low capital intensity asset.

Ultimately this is detrimental to the long term dividend sustainability and earnings quality of the business, Borkhataria continued. Accelerated dividends now will help reduce debt, but clearly at the expense of medium term cash flows.

We think the better long term option would have been to cut the buyback as it has been funded by the balance sheet, Borkhataria added.

Following completion, which BP expects by the end of 2026 subject to regulatory approvals, Castrol will operate as a new joint venture between BP and Stonepeak.

BP will retain a 35% interest but said it does not expect to recognise earnings or receive dividends in the short to medium term, as the deal structure gives Stonepeak preference on distributions.
Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of CTOS Digital Berhad ( KLSE:CTOS ) as an investment opportunity by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!

The RM0.95 analyst price target for CTOS is 9.8% more than our estimate of fair value

Story Continues

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 3.7%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.9%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2035  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM148m (1 + 3.7%)  (8.9% 3.7%) = RM2.9b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM2.9b ( 1 + 8.9%)10= RM1.2b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is RM2.0b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM0.8, the company appears about fair value at a 8.9% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

KLSE:CTOS Discounted Cash Flow December 29th 2025

The Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at CTOS Digital Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.9%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.875. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

View our latest analysis for CTOS Digital Berhad

SWOT Analysis for CTOS Digital Berhad

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Professional Services market.

Opportunity

Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Malaysian market.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. For CTOS Digital Berhad, we've put together three fundamental items you should further research:

Risks: For instance, we've identified 1 warning sign for CTOS Digital Berhad that you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does CTOS's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the KLSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



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.
Cairn Oil & Gas Division, a privately owned Indian oil and gas company under the Vedanta Group, has obtained a conditional no objection certificate (NOC) from the Andhra Pradesh government in India to drill 20 onshore oil and gas wells in Krishna district.

The clearance has been granted under the Discovered Small Field (DSF) Policy, 2018 and marks a significant step forward in the companys exploration plans aligned with the energy development initiatives of the government.

As per a recent government order, Cairn Oil & Gas informed the state that it had sought an NOC to drill at 35 sites within the block.

The proposed locations fall within the limits of multiple villages, and the block is traversed by the Bandar Canal.

The order directs the engineer-in-chief (Irrigation), Water Resources Department, Vijayawada; the chief engineer, Krishna Delta System, Vijayawada; and the Collector of Krishna District to take the required steps.

It also specifies that the NOC is issued only from the irrigation departments standpoint and is of a temporary nature.

Vedanta must still obtain all other statutory approvals from the concerned departments before beginning work, as per applicable rules and procedures.

The no-objection certificate is subject to strict conditions. The state has clarified that Vedanta will not be permitted to draw water from canals, reservoirs, ponds, or any other surface water sources connected to the irrigation network.

The approval is also narrowly defined and does not substitute for other legal permissions the company must secure before beginning drilling.

Environmental, pollution-control, and land-use clearances will still be required, and adherence to these terms will be monitored closely.

In February 2025, Cairn Oil & Gas announced an investment of Rs500bn ($5.7bn) in the oil and gas exploration and production sector of Assam, a state in north-eastern India.

"Cairn Oil & Gas secures conditional NOC to drill 20 wells" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Most readers would already be aware that Champion Iron's (ASX:CIA) stock increased significantly by 32% over the past three months. However, we decided to pay attention to the company's fundamentals which don't appear to give a clear sign about the company's financial health. In this article, we decided to focus on Champion Iron's ROE.

Return on Equity or ROE is a test of how effectively a company is growing its value and managing investors money. In short, ROE shows the profit each dollar generates with respect to its shareholder investments.

We've found 21 US stocks that are forecast to pay a dividend yield of over 6% next year. See the full list for free.

How To Calculate Return On Equity?

The formula for ROE is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Champion Iron is:

8.1% = CA$121m  CA$1.5b (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2025).

The 'return' is the yearly profit. So, this means that for every A$1 of its shareholder's investments, the company generates a profit of A$0.08.

See our latest analysis for Champion Iron

What Has ROE Got To Do With Earnings Growth?

So far, we've learned that ROE is a measure of a company's profitability. We now need to evaluate how much profit the company reinvests or "retains" for future growth which then gives us an idea about the growth potential of the company. Assuming all else is equal, companies that have both a higher return on equity and higher profit retention are usually the ones that have a higher growth rate when compared to companies that don't have the same features.

Champion Iron's Earnings Growth And 8.1% ROE

At first glance, Champion Iron's ROE doesn't look very promising. However, its ROE is similar to the industry average of 9.2%, so we won't completely dismiss the company. But then again, Champion Iron's five year net income shrunk at a rate of 25%. Remember, the company's ROE is a bit low to begin with. Hence, this goes some way in explaining the shrinking earnings.

That being said, we compared Champion Iron's performance with the industry and were concerned when we found that while the company has shrunk its earnings, the industry has grown its earnings at a rate of 12% in the same 5-year period.

ASX:CIA Past Earnings Growth December 29th 2025

Earnings growth is an important metric to consider when valuing a stock. What investors need to determine next is if the expected earnings growth, or the lack of it, is already built into the share price. Doing so will help them establish if the stock's future looks promising or ominous. Is Champion Iron fairly valued compared to other companies? These 3 valuation measures might help you decide.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

China's electric car makers had a massive overseas month in November, and the numbers make it hard to ignore. Exports jumped 87% from a year earlier to just under 200,000 vehicles, showing how fast Chinese brands are pushing beyond their home market.

Mexico was the real shocker. Shipments there exploded more than 2,300% year over year, hitting about 19,300 vehicles as Chinese automakers quietly ramped up deliveries. Asia stayed the biggest destination overall, taking in more than 110,000 EVs, while Europe absorbed nearly 43,000 units despite louder political pushback and trade scrutiny. Exports to the EU alone rose 39%.

Latin America is also coming into focus, with shipments to the region up 283%. For companies like BYD (BYDDY), Nio, and XPeng (NYSE:XPEV), exports are quickly becoming essential as competition inside China heats up and price wars squeeze margins. China's EV boom isn't slowing down it's spreading worldwide, faster than most expected.
Stellantis-backed Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology has become the first Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer to receive investment from a state-owned enterprise amid the strong popularity of its affordable intelligent cars.

FAW Group, mainland China's oldest carmaker, has agreed to acquire a 5 per cent stake in the Hong Kong-listed EV assembler for 3.74 billion yuan (US$534 million) by buying an additional 74.8 million shares at HK$55.29 apiece, according to a stock exchange filing by Leapmotor.

The landmark equity outlay by FAW underscores growing investor confidence in Leapmotor, in which Stellantis owns a 19 per cent stake, despite analysts' bearish sales forecast for mainland China's car market, the world's largest.

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.

"Leapmotor aims to achieve annual deliveries of 4 million units a year in 10 years' time," founder and CEO Zhu Jiangming said at a media briefing on Monday in its headquarters in Hangzhou. "Leapmotor will strengthen our value through the fine-tuning of our production, while offering customers best [driving] experiences."

Reaching that annual delivery volume would enable Leapmotor to slip into the ranks of the world's top 10 car vendors.

Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology CEO Zhu Jiangming attends the opening of a company showroom in Hong Kong on June 11, 2025. Photo: Reuters alt=Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology CEO Zhu Jiangming attends the opening of a company showroom in Hong Kong on June 11, 2025. Photo: Reuters>

The latest investment would also pave the way for FAW to jointly develop new EV models with Leapmotor, vice-president Li Tengfei said in the press briefing. That would enhance management efficiency at Leapmotor and help raise brand awareness, Li added.

Leapmotor was expected to deliver 1 million vehicles in 2026, which would translate into a more than 60 per cent year-on-year sales increase, according to Zhu.

Achieving sales of 1 million units next year would likely vault Leapmotor into the No 3 spot among mainland's largest EV makers, behind BYD and Geely, according to analysts.

Founded in 2015, Leapmotor has become well known for its smart EVs with similar features to Tesla's Shanghai-made Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, but at less than half the price.

This year, Leapmotor has been one of the top vendors on the mainland's cutthroat EV market, as full-year sales are expected to exceed the 600,000-unit mark.
HUZHOU, Dec 29 (Reuters) - China's rocket startup LandSpace has made no secret about drawing inspiration from Elon Musk's SpaceX.

Earlier this month, the Beijing-based firm became the first Chinese entity to conduct a reusable rocket test. That put SpaceX on alert and LandSpace is now preparing to go public to fund its future projects, just as its bigger and far more successful U.S. rival considers an initial public offering of its own.

Even though LandSpace's Zhuque-3 rocket test ended in failure, its aspiration to become second only to SpaceX in reusable rockets is providing a fresh impetus to China's space industry, which has long been dominated by risk-averse, state-owned entities.

"(SpaceX) can push products to the edge and even into failure, quickly identifying limits and iterating," Zhuque-3 chief designer Dai Zheng told state broadcaster CCTV after the rocket's inaugural flight.

Dai said his decision in 2016 to join LandSpace and leave the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, the country's main state-owned rocket developer, was partly motivated by SpaceX's focus on reusability and his desire to create a Chinese equivalent.

LandSpace's focus on giving China its own low-cost launch option similar to SpaceX's flight-proven reusable rocket Falcon 9 will play a key role in Beijing's plans to build up 10,000 satellite constellations in the coming decades.

"Falcon 9 is a successful configuration that has been tested by engineering," Zhuque-3's deputy chief designer Dong Kai said in a podcast interview last week. "After studying it, we recognize its rationality; this is learning, not imitation."

"Calling (Zhuque-3) a 'Chinese Falcon 9,' I think, is a very high compliment."

Its startup culture and mimicking of SpaceX has already initiated a paradigm shift in China's space industry.

China's state-led space programme has historically been allergic to failed launches, in contrast to SpaceX and other Western firms that regularly broadcast their mishaps.

But earlier this month, state media covered China's first two failed attempts at recovering a reusable rocket, with the second launch coming from a state-owned firm, just three weeks after Zhuque-3's maiden flight.

LandSpace also opened its engine factory floor to Reuters this month, allowing foreign media to take a peek at one of its core assets for the first time.

After opening up the space sector to private money in 2014, which spawned several startups including LandSpace, Beijing is now looking to help leading domestic players tap into capital markets by making it easier for them to pursue IPOs.
There's no doubt that money can be made by owning shares of unprofitable businesses. For example, biotech and mining exploration companies often lose money for years before finding success with a new treatment or mineral discovery. Nonetheless, only a fool would ignore the risk that a loss making company burns through its cash too quickly.

So should Pointerra (ASX:3DP) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? For the purpose of this article, we'll define cash burn as the amount of cash the company is spending each year to fund its growth (also called its negative free cash flow). Let's start with an examination of the business' cash, relative to its cash burn.

Trump has pledged to "unleash" American oil and gas and these 15 US stocks have developments that are poised to benefit.

When Might Pointerra Run Out Of Money?

A cash runway is defined as the length of time it would take a company to run out of money if it kept spending at its current rate of cash burn. In June 2025, Pointerra had AU$1.9m in cash, and was debt-free. Looking at the last year, the company burnt through AU$871k. Therefore, from June 2025 it had 2.1 years of cash runway. Importantly, though, the one analyst we see covering the stock thinks that Pointerra will reach cashflow breakeven before then. In that case, it may never reach the end of its cash runway. Depicted below, you can see how its cash holdings have changed over time.

ASX:3DP Debt to Equity History December 29th 2025

See our latest analysis for Pointerra

How Well Is Pointerra Growing?

Happily, Pointerra is travelling in the right direction when it comes to its cash burn, which is down 77% over the last year. And there's no doubt that the inspiriting revenue growth of 53% assisted in that improvement. Considering these factors, we're fairly impressed by its growth trajectory. Clearly, however, the crucial factor is whether the company will grow its business going forward. So you might want to take a peek at how much the company is expected to grow in the next few years.

Can Pointerra Raise More Cash Easily?

While Pointerra seems to be in a decent position, we reckon it is still worth thinking about how easily it could raise more cash, if that proved desirable. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. By comparing a company's annual cash burn to its total market capitalisation, we can estimate roughly how many shares it would have to issue in order to run the company for another year (at the same burn rate).
Costco, like Walt Disney World, never offers broad discounts on its membership price (or in Disney's case, theme park ticket prices). You might see discounts for select groups such as Disney World's military passes or its deal with the National Educators Association, but those deals are very limited.

For both companies, the core cost to get inside the door, so to speak, is the same for everyone.

Costco's former CFO Richard Galanti made it clear that the warehouse club will never discount its membership prices.

Well, for us, theres really no change. I mean, we do a few promotional things each year. But the biggest thing that we dont do is, in any big way, discount our membership. Some of the brochure things that you may sign up for a membership and you get a certain number of coupons related to stuff, he said during the chain's third-quarter 2023 earnings call.

Costco currently charges $65 for a one-year Gold Star membership and $130 for an Executive membership. The pricier membership comes with increased shopping hours and 2% cash back on most purchases up to $1,250 annually.

Costco does offer membership deals

While Costco won't sell memberships at a discounted price, it does very rarely offer added perks to get people to join. The chain currently has a promotion with Groupon where new members can get a gift card along with 12 months of membership.

"Become a new Costco member, unlock exclusive savings on groceries, electronics, gas, and more  and get rewarded with a $40 or $60 Digital Costco Shop Card to spend online or in-store," Groupon shared on its website.

Eligible people get a $40 gift card with a Gold Star membership and a $60 Digital Costco Shop Card when they pay for an Executive membership.

There are some caveats to the offer.

"Valid only for new members and those whose previous memberships (Primary and Affiliate) have been expired for at least 18 months or more. Not valid for renewal or upgrade of an existing membership," Groupon shared.

In addition, if you want to take advantage, you only have until the end of 2025 to do so. The offer expires at midnight on Dec. 31.

Costco's membership keeps growing

Current Costco CFO Gary Millerchip talked about the chain's membership during its first-quarter 2026 earnings call.

"We reported membership fee income of $1.329 billion, an increase of $163 million or 14% year over year. Adjusting for FX, the increase was also 14%. Last September's U.S. and Canada membership fee increase accounted for a little less than half of membership income growth," he said.

Costco raised its Gold Star membership from $60 to $65 and its Executive membership from $120 to $160 on Sept. 1.

"Excluding the membership fee increase and FX, membership income grew 7.3% year over year. This was driven by continued growth in our membership base and increased upgrades from Gold Star to Executive membership," he said.

Millerchip shared some more numbers on the chain's membership and renewal rates.

At Q1 end, we had 39.7 million paid executive memberships, up 9.1% versus last year.

We ended the quarter with 81.4 million total paid members, up 5.2% versus last year and 105.9 million cardholders, up 5.1% year over year.

In terms of renewal rates, at Q1 end, our U.S. and Canada renewal rate was 92.2%. And the worldwide rate came in at 89.7%, both down 10 basis points from last quarter.

"This slight decline was due to the factors we discussed last quarter and reflects new online members growing as a percentage of our total base, renewing at a slightly lower rate than warehouse sign-ups. The decline was less than anticipated due to some early success with targeted communications to expiring members," Millerchip said.

Costco keeps growing its membership base.Shutterstock  Shutterstock

Costco's members drive its profit

Joining Costco means paying for entry to its warehouse clubs, which offer merchandise at lower markups than other retailers do.

"In 2024, Costco earned $4.8 billion from membership fees alone, representing just 2% of total revenue. Yet those fees contributed 65% of the companys net operating income," wrote Arthnova's Aditya Badola. "This paradox reveals a truth most businesses miss: sustainable profits come not from selling products but from building relationships valuable enough that customers pay for the privilege of buying from you."

Costco CEO Ron Vachris acknowledges the importance of selling memberships.

More Retail:

The most important item we sell is the membership card, Ron Vachris told Fortune.

Having been a Costco member and a retail reporter for most of the past 30 years, it's clear that the retailer does not need incentives to get people to join. If you live near a Costco, or at least close enough to visit semi-regularly, the values pile up quickly enough to make joining an easy decision.

As a new member on a tight budget, I bought a few household staples in bulk. The savings and peace of mind, knowing I would not need to restock for months, made joining an obvious choice.

Related: US' second-oldest department store chain considers Chapter 11

Can you shop at Costco without a membership?

In a broad sense, only members can shop at Costco, but the chain does offer a selection of items for delivery through Instacart and Uber Eats. That's a controversial choice, even though the warehouse club may charge higher prices for non-members.

GlobalData Managing Director Neil Saunders supports that strategy.

"With volumes in grocery under pressure, Costco wants to ensure that it is widening its audience and capturing as much share as it can. The partnerships with Instacart and Uber allow it to do that. They also make up for Costcos weak online presence, which is somewhat deficient," he wrote on RetailWire.

He noted that customers are not getting the full Costco experience.

"The rub is that shopping via third-party apps does not give consumers access to the sharp Costco prices found in stores. Ranges can also be more limited, and you dont get the full in-store experience with tasting and bargain hunting. For these reasons, these partnerships are incremental to, rather than a threat to, traditional memberships," he added.

Not everyone agrees.

"Heres the thing: I pay for my Costco membership. Why should I continue to do that if non-members can get (albeit lesser) similar benefits without joining?" his fellow Brain Trust member Georganne Bender posted.

Related: Beloved food and recipe website faces surprise bankruptcy

This story was originally published by TheStreet on Dec 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Retail section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Coupang (NYSE:CPNG) is trying to move past a massive data breach by offering what amounts to a rare and costly apology. The company said it will provide more than $1 billion in compensation after the largest personal data leak ever reported in South Korea.

Coupang plans to issue vouchers worth up to ?50,000, or about $35, to each of the 33.7 million customers affected. The credits will roll out in phases starting January 15, 2026, and can be used across the company's services, from everyday shopping and food delivery to travel and luxury beauty.

The fallout has already reached the top. CEO Park Dae-jun stepped down, taking responsibility for the breach. Interim CEO Harold Rogers called the incident a turning point and said Coupang is shifting its focus back to customers as it works to rebuild trust. compensating users is one thing, but regaining confidence after a breach this large may take much longer.
Digital asset investment products recorded $446 million in outflows last week, pushing total withdrawals since mid-October to $3.2 billion.

According to the latest report from CoinShares, the persistent selling pressure came even as XRP and Solana exchange-traded funds continued attracting institutional capital, while Bitcoin and Ethereum faced sustained redemptions that contrast sharply with patterns seen in 2024.

Year-to-date inflows stand at $46.3 billion, roughly matching 2024s $48.7 billion total, yet assets under management have risen just 10% since January.

Investor sentiment remains fragile despite strong year-to-date flows.

The disconnect suggests average investors have seen limited gains once net flows are factored in, dampening enthusiasm despite Bitcoins October peak near $125,100.

Source: CoinShares

Regional Flows Show Diverging Investment Patterns

Outflows were concentrated in the United States, where $460 million was withdrawn last week, accounting for the bulk of global withdrawals.

Switzerland posted minor redemptions of $14.2 million, continuing a pattern of measured selling across European markets.

Germany emerged as the notable exception, drawing $35.7 million in fresh capital and recording $248 million in December inflows overall.

Source: CoinShares

The sustained buying suggests German investors have used recent price weakness strategically, accumulating positions while valuations remain below recent highs.

Bitwise chief investment officer Matt Hougan described the current Bitcoin outlook as a prolonged upward trend marked by lower volatility.

I think were in a 10-year grind upward of strong returns, he told CNBC on Friday, adding that institutional buying has cushioned downside risk compared to previous cycles that saw drawdowns exceeding 60%.

XRP and Solana Buck Broader Market Weakness

XRP and Solana recorded the largest inflows last week at $70.2 million and $7.5 million, respectively, extending a streak that began with their mid-October ETF launches in the United States.

Since those debuts, XRP products have attracted $1.07 billion while Solana has drawn $1.34 billion, defying bearish sentiment gripping other assets.

Bitcoin and Ethereum told a different story, posting outflows of $443 million and $59.5 million last week.

Source: CoinShares

Since the launches of the XRP and Solana ETFs, Bitcoin products have shed $2.8 billion, while Ethereum vehicles have lost $1.6 billion, highlighting a stark rotation toward alternative assets.

BlackRocks iShares Bitcoin Trust attracted $25 billion in net inflows this year despite Bitcoin declining roughly 30% from October peaks, ranking sixth among all ETFs by inflows while posting negative returns.
National Grid plc (NYSE:NGG) is included among the 15 Global Dividend Stocks to Diversify Your Portfolio.

Dual Overweight Calls Put National Grid (NGG) Back in Focus

Pixabay/Public Domain

On December 12, Morgan Stanley initiated coverage of National Grid plc (NYSE:NGG) with an Overweight rating and an $85.50 price target.

That call followed an earlier move on December 6, when JPMorgan raised its price target on National Grid to 1,250 GBp from 1,225 GBp and kept an Overweight rating on the shares.

The companys recent results help explain the confidence. On November 6, National Grid plc (NYSE:NGG) reported first-half adjusted profit that came in slightly ahead of market expectations. Higher UK electricity transmission revenue played a role, along with increased investment across its regulated businesses.

Management has been reshaping the portfolio for some time. Under the then Chief Executive John Pettigrew, the focus has narrowed toward regulated electricity and gas networks. That strategy included selling the US onshore renewables arm and agreeing to divest the Grain LNG terminal.

National Grid plc (NYSE:NGG) also reaffirmed its medium-term outlook. Underlying earnings per share are expected to track its targeted 6% to 8% compounded annual growth rate from the 202425 baseline. For the six months ended September 30, the company posted underlying operating profit of 2.29 billion ($3.07 billion). The market had been looking for 2.24 billion.

National Grid plc (NYSE:NGG) runs Britains energy systems and also operates electricity and gas businesses in New York and Massachusetts.

While we acknowledge the potential of NGG 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 Highest Paying Monthly Dividend Stocks to Buy and 15 Dividend Stocks With Low Payout Ratios and Strong Upside

Disclosure: None.
Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) is one of the 13 Best Gold Mining Companies to Invest In Now. On December 14, Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) announced that it has entered into an agreement to divest its 100% interest in the Aurizona Mine, RDM Mine, and the Bahia Complex in Brazil for $1.015 billion to a subsidiary of the CMOC Group. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.

According to the report, Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) sees this sale as an important move towards becoming a gold producer focused in North America, supported by strong cash flow and a tier-one growth profile. The company plans to use the proceeds to significantly improve its balance sheet and strengthen its financial position. The deal will also allow Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) to focus on longer-life, lower-cost assets in tier-one jurisdictions.

Equinox Gold (EQX) to Sell Brazil Assets, Stifel Keeps Buy Rating

On December 15, Stifel reaffirmed its Buy rating on Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) with a C$24 price target. The firm noted that the deal values the Brazil assets at about 0.6 times risk-adjusted net asset value based on its estimates. Stifel also believes that the sale effectively locks in about 3 to 3.5 years of future net cash flow from what the firm sees as the companys lowest margin operating region.

According to Stifel, the deal offers two main advantages. It helps Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) accelerate balance sheet deleveraging that could support future shareholder returns and an improved asset portfolio by removing the highest cost region while increasing exposure to Tier 1 jurisdictions.

Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:EQX) is a Canadian mining company that operates gold mines in the Americas.

While we acknowledge the potential of EQX 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: 14 Best Large Cap Stocks to Invest In Now and 14 Most Promising Fintech Stocks to Invest In.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
By Hyunjoo Jin, Heejin Kim and Gleb Stolyarov

SEOUL/MOSCOW, Dec 29 (Reuters) - South Korean automaker Hyundai is not in a position to repurchase its former manufacturing plant in Russia due to the continuing war in Ukraine, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, as a buyback option appears set to expire next month.

Along with its affiliate Kia, Hyundai was once the biggest foreign carmaker in Russia. But it sold its plant in St. Petersburg in 2024. Operations at the facility had been suspended since March 2022, a month after Moscow's invasion of its smaller neighbour, which provoked a backlash of Western sanctions that disrupted supply chains and payments.

The deal, which saw Hyundai sell 100% of the facility to Russia's AGR Automotive Group for a symbolic 140,000 won ($97), included a two-year buyback option. That clause expires in January.

"It is not a situation where we can buy back the shares," said the source, who is familiar with Hyundai's internal deliberations but asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Hyundai told Reuters in a statement that a final decision has not yet been made on the buyback option. AGR Automotive Group did not respond to a request for comment.

CLOCK IS TICKING ON FOREIGN CARMAKERS' BUYBACK OPTIONS

Though the person did not elaborate on the specific reasons the company could not act on the buyback option, he pointed to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

While U.S. President Donald Trump has made ending the war a top priority of his administration and is pressing Kyiv and Moscow to agree to a peace deal, the fighting continues and U.S. and EU sanctions against Russia remain in place.

"The war should be over," the person said.

It was not clear if missing the January deadline would lead to Hyundai definitively renouncing its right to a buyback, or if the company could potentially negotiate an extension of the option.

With their reputations at stake and Western sanctions making it impossible for foreign carmakers to keep factories operating, most pulled out of the Russian market.

When it sold its Russian assets in 2024, Hyundai said it would take a 287-billion-won hit from the deal.

Some, like Hyundai, sold their plants to Russian players for symbolic amounts and agreed options to repurchase them within fixed timeframes in the hope of one day returning.

Most of those plants are now assembling Chinese cars under Russian brands, though Hyundai's factory is producing vehicles under the Solaris brand, which was previously the name of a popular model produced by the Korean automaker for the Russian market.
By Ana Mano and Manuela Andreoni

SAO PAULO, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Some of the world's largest soybean traders are preparing to break their agreement to curb deforestation of the Amazon rainforest to preserve tax benefits in Brazil's top farm state, two people with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

More from Yahoo Scout Why are major soybean traders abandoning Amazon moratorium? What legal challenges threaten the Amazon Soy Moratorium? How much tax incentives did companies receive from Brazil? What impact could ending the moratorium have on deforestation?

The firms exiting the so-called Amazon Soy Moratorium, which has saved millions of acres of tropical forest over nearly two decades, are looking to shield themselves from a new state law in Mato Grosso, the sources said on condition of anonymity.

Starting in January, the state will strip tax incentives from companies taking part in the conservation program. Mato Grosso grew some 51 million metric tons of soybeans in 2025, more than Argentina.

A preliminary report from state auditors in April found that grains traders had benefited from tax incentives worth about 4.7 billion reais ($840 million) between 2019 and 2024.

ADM and Bunge were the top beneficiaries of tax incentives, receiving about 1.5 billion reais ($269 million) each, said Sergio Ricardo, head of the Mato Grosso state audit court.

U.S.-based ADM, Bunge and Cargill, as well as China's Cofco and Brazil's Amaggi, are signatories of the pact with facilities in Mato Grosso that have benefited from state tax incentives. It was not clear which of the firms would break immediately from the moratorium.

Cargill referred questions to industry group Abiove, which did not respond to requests for comment. ADM, Bunge, Cofco, Amaggi and grain exporter group Anec did not respond to questions.

"Most companies will choose not to lose the tax incentives and will withdraw from the agreement," said one of the sources, adding that the departures would effectively end a pact signed in 2006 with the federal government and conservation groups.

The moratorium is considered one of the most important forces slowing deforestation rates in the Brazilian Amazon over the past two decades as it bars signatories from buying soybeans from farmers who plant on land deforested after July 2008.

Researchers estimate that an area of the rainforest the size of Ireland would have been lost to soy farms in Brazil without the moratorium and related conservation efforts, compared to the pace of expansion in neighboring countries such as Bolivia.

An aerial view shows deforestation near a forest on the border between Amazonia and Cerrado in Nova Xavantina, Mato Grosso state, Brazil. REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli/File Photo

The Mato Grosso law, which lawmakers passed in 2023, is the latest example of a global retreat from pacts and policies to curb climate change, even as temperatures break records, driven by rising fossil fuel use and deforestation.
Under President Isaias Medina Angarita, Venezuela reformed its oil sector without rupturing relations with the United States, raising taxes on foreign companies through negotiated changes that preserved production and investment. A pro-western moderniser who aligned Venezuela with the Allied war effort and cut ties with the Axis powers during the Second World War, Medina was nonetheless overthrown in 1945  a move Washington did not actively oppose or intervene to prevent.

By the interwar years, global oil majors  including predecessors of Chevron, Shell and Exxon  dominated Venezuelas oil sector. The Venezuelan state, weak and authoritarian under military strongmen such as Juan Vicente Gomez, offered generous concessions in exchange for royalties and taxes. Oil revenues quickly eclipsed agriculture, transforming Venezuela into one of the worlds leading exporters by the 1940s.

At the start of the 20th century, Venezuela was a poor, agrarian country on the margins of the global economy. That changed abruptly in the 1910s and 1920s, when vast oil reserves were discovered beneath Lake Maracaibo and the eastern plains, triggering a rush of foreign investment led by US and European companies.

Venezuelas rise to prominence began with early 20th-century oil discoveries that made it a global exporter by the 1940s, with successive governments negotiating terms with foreign firms until PDVSAs creation in 1976 formalised state control.

The apparent contradiction has fueled accusations of hypocrisy and confusion over how US sanctions are applied. In reality, Chevrons presence in Venezuela highlights the underlying causes of Washingtons fraught relationship with the country and helps illuminate the background to the latest escalation.

Yet amid this near-total blockade, one American oil major continues to operate inside the country: Chevron.

Officials say the vessel is part of a so-called shadow or ghost fleet used to bypass sanctions, and if captured the US intends to retain the ship and its cargo.

Washington has since seized a second oil tanker east of Barbados. US authorities are also actively pursuing a third tanker linked to Venezuela that attempted to evade boarding and is under a judicial seizure order.

The vessel involved, widely reported as the Skipper, added a geopolitical risk premium to oil markets and drew sharp condemnation from Caracas as theft.

In early December, the US seized a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, the first such seizure tied to Venezuelan oil under the current pressure campaign.

Washington has imposed sweeping restrictions on Venezuelas state oil industry, threatened to seize or block tankers carrying the South American country's distinctive heavy crude and warned companies around the world against doing business with Caracas.

The United States has spent years tightening sanctions on Venezuela, attempting to choke off the oil revenues that sustain President Nicolas Maduros government.

Story Continues

FILE - President Isaias Medina Angarita shares a laugh with President Franklin D. Roosevelt and first lady Eleanor Roosevelt, 20 Jan, 1944, during a visit to Washington. - George R. Skadding/AP

First wave of Western-led nationalisation

Venezuelas repeated military coups in the first half of the 20th century entrenched dependence on foreign oil companies, who relied on oil for revenue and stability, while the end of military rule after 1958 created the political stability that ultimately made nationalisation possible.

During the presidency of Carlos Andres Perez, whose economic plan, "La Gran Venezuela", called for the nationalization of the oil industry, Venezuela officially nationalized its oil industry on 1 January 1976 at the site of Zumaque oilwell 1. This was the birth of Petroleos de Venezuela S.A. or PDVSA.

Unlike some nationalisations elsewhere, this was initially seen as a technocratic success, since PDVSA was run by Western-trained managers, reinvested profits and maintained close ties with international markets.

FILE - President Carlos Andres Perez is surrounded by well-wishers following New Year's Day ceremonies in which the state took possession of Venezuela's national oil industry. - Anonymous/AP1976

For two decades, PDVSA became one of the most respected national oil companies globally. It expanded refining capacity abroad, including in the United States, and kept production high. Venezuela remained a reliable supplier, and foreign firms continued to operate through partnerships and service contracts.

Related

Mismanagement and decline in oil prices

By the 1980s and 1990s, however, the cracks widened. Oil prices fell, debt rose, and economic mismanagement eroded living standards. The political system  dominated by two centrist parties  lost legitimacy, accused of corruption and elite capture of oil wealth.

It was in this context that Hugo Chavez, a former army officer who had led a failed coup attempt, emerged as a national figure. He channelled widespread anger at inequality, foreign influence and the perceived betrayal of Venezuelas oil riches.

FILE - Chavez, left with Under-Secretary of the Organization of American States Christopher Thomas in the presidential house La Casona in Caracas, Monday, July 26, 1999. - Anonymous/AP1999

Chavez and the US

For much of Chavezs presidency, US oil companies including Chevron and ExxonMobil operated openly in Venezuela, supplying US refineries with heavy crude even as political relations deteriorated.

In the 2006-07 period, Chavez ordered all foreign oil companies operating in the Orinoco Belt to convert their projects into majority state-owned joint ventures with PDVSA holding at least 60%.

Companies that accepted stayed on under worse terms, and companies that refused were effectively pushed out. ExxonMobil refused the new terms, its assets were nationalised and Exxon exited Venezuela and later won arbitration cases against the Venezuelan state.

ConocoPhillips also refused the new terms, its assets were seized and the company exited, and it also filed major international arbitration and largely won.

Chevron accepted renegotiation, stayed in Venezuela throughout Chavezs presidency and beyond, operating minority stakes under PDVSA control.

US sanctions during the Chavez years were limited and targeted, focusing mainly on arms restrictions and a small number of individuals accused of illicit activity, rather than the economy as a whole.

FILE - In this Aug. 19, 2008 file photo, National Guard soldiers patrol outside the CEMEX plant in Pertigalete, Venezuela. - Anonymous/AP2008

US tensions escalate under Maduro

It was only after Chavezs death, and amid the deepening political and economic crisis under Nicolas Maduro, that Washington shifted strategy  first imposing financial sanctions in 2017 and later, in 2019, targeting Venezuelas oil sector directly, marking a decisive break in the more transactional relationship that had existed before.

Since 2019, US sanctions have targeted PDVSA and the broader oil trade, blocking financial access and outlawing most exports. The measures were designed to deny Maduro access to hard currency, while pressuring his government into negotiations with the opposition.

Enforcement has included aggressive action against shipping. Tankers suspected of carrying Venezuelan crude have been threatened with seizure, denied insurance or barred from ports. The US has also sanctioned intermediaries accused of disguising the origin of Venezuelan oil and routing it through third countries.

The result has been a shadow oil trade, with Venezuelan crude sold at steep discounts, often to buyers in Asia, through opaque networks of traders and ship-to-ship transfers.

FILE - Venezuela's President Maduro and Vice President Tareck El Aissami, tour the construction of La Rinconada baseball stadium, on the outskirts of Caracas. April 9, 2024 - Ricardo Mazalan/Copyright 2018 The AP. All rights reserved.

Chevrons exception

Chevron is the sole major US oil company still operating in Venezuela because it has been granted a specific licence by the US Treasury. Issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the licence allows Chevron to produce and export Venezuelan oil under strict conditions.

Chevron is allowed to operate in Venezuela only in oil projects it already shared with PDVSA. It cannot start new projects or significantly increase production.

Chevrons operations are structured so that cash flows and profits do not directly benefit PDVSA or the Venezuelan state under current sanctions licences.

The funds are instead used to cover basic operating costs such as staff, maintenance and transport for between a third and a fourth of Venezuela's oil production.

FILE -Venezuelan Petroleum Minister Tareck El Aissami shakes hands with Chevron President in Venezuela, Javier La Rosa, during an agreement signing ceremony in Caracas. - Matias Delacroix/Copyright 2022 The AP. All rights reserved

Chevron is paid in... oil?

PDVSA failed for years to pay its share of operating costs and bills in their joint ventures. In effect, Chevron is being repaid in oil, rather than paying Venezuela in cash. The Venezuelan government does not receive fresh revenue from these operations  no dividends, no budget income, no direct cash transfers.

The licence is temporary and must be renewed periodically, giving Washington the ability to revoke it if political conditions deteriorate.

Why Washington allows it

US officials argue that Chevrons continued presence actually strengthens sanctions enforcement rather than undermining it.

First, Chevron provides transparency. Oil produced under its licence is traceable, insured, and sold through formal channels, reducing Venezuelas reliance on illicit traders and hard-to-monitor shipments.

From Washingtons perspective, allowing limited, supervised exports is preferable to driving all Venezuelan oil sales underground.

Second, Chevrons operations are tied to debt repayment. PDVSA owes Chevron hundreds of millions of dollars after failing for years to cover its share of joint-venture costs. Allowing Chevron to recover those losses through oil shipments settles existing obligations without injecting fresh cash into the Venezuelan state.

Third, the arrangement offers leverage. The licence can be tightened, expanded, or revoked depending on Caracass behaviour, particularly around elections and negotiations with the opposition. In this sense, Chevron functions as a pressure valve rather than a reward.

Critics, including Venezuelan opposition figures and human rights groups, argue that any oil production ultimately benefits the Maduro government and weakens the moral force of sanctions.

If US President Donald Trump, who has deployed warships to Venezuelas coast, were to attack and overthrow the government, no company would be better placed than Chevron to help rebuild the countrys battered oil industry.

If, instead, Trump were to strike a deal with Maduro, Caracas would need to maximise oil exports to generate cash  again playing to Chevrons advantage.
Presight AI Holding has demonstrated robust financial performance with a 22.3% annual revenue growth and a notable 16.6% increase in earnings per year, outpacing the AE market average significantly. The company's strategic alliances, such as the recent MoU with HSBC UAE during Abu Dhabi Finance Week, underscore its commitment to integrating AI into financial services to boost risk intelligence and operational efficiency. This focus on enhancing core business areas through advanced AI solutions not only aligns with industry trends towards digital transformation but also positions Presight to capitalize on new growth opportunities within the tech-driven financial ecosystem.

Operations: Presight AI Holding PLC generates revenue primarily from its artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and hosting services, amounting to AED2.78 billion. The company leverages generative AI to provide advanced data solutions across various markets.

Overview: Presight AI Holding PLC is a big data analytics company utilizing generative artificial intelligence to serve markets in the United Arab Emirates and internationally, with a market cap of AED18.85 billion.

Here we highlight a subset of our preferred stocks from the screener.

As the global markets wrap up a holiday-shortened week, U.S. stocks have surged to record highs, buoyed by robust economic growth and optimism surrounding artificial intelligence, despite mixed signals from consumer confidence and durable goods orders. In this environment of fluctuating indices and economic indicators, identifying high-growth tech stocks requires a focus on companies with strong innovation potential and resilience in adapting to evolving market dynamics.

Story Continues

Overview: Beijing Zhidemai Technology Co., Ltd. operates in the Internet marketing and data service sectors both within China and internationally, with a market capitalization of CN7.84 billion.

Operations: Zhidemai Technology focuses on Internet marketing and data services across domestic and international markets. The company leverages its expertise in these areas to generate revenue, contributing to its market capitalization of CN7.84 billion.

Beijing Zhidemai Technology has shown a remarkable ability to outpace its sector, with earnings growth of 31.6% over the past year, significantly higher than the Interactive Media and Services industry's 6.7%. This performance is underscored by an aggressive R&D strategy, evidenced by their recent earnings report showing substantial investment in innovation. The company's focus on refining its governance structures through upcoming shareholder meetings suggests a strategic pivot aimed at sustaining this growth trajectory and enhancing operational efficiency. With revenue also expected to surge by 24.3% annually, Beijing Zhidemai is positioning itself as a formidable contender in Chinas tech landscape, navigating through market volatilities with robust financial health and strategic foresight.

SZSE:300785 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Dec 2025

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Macnica Holdings, Inc. is engaged in the import, sale, and export of electronic components in Japan with a market capitalization of 431.23 billion.

Operations: Macnica Holdings focuses on importing, selling, and exporting electronic components within Japan.

Despite a challenging year with earnings contraction by 43.8%, Macnica Holdings demonstrates resilience with projected earnings growth at an impressive 28.9% annually, outpacing the broader Japanese market's 8.6%. This rebound is supported by a robust R&D commitment, integral to its strategic emphasis on innovation and market adaptation. The company also maintains a positive free cash flow and anticipates revenue growth of 7.7% per year, which exceeds the national average of 4.6%, signaling potential for sustained improvement in its financial health and competitive positioning in the electronics sector.

TSE:3132 Revenue and Expenses Breakdown as at Dec 2025

Summing It All Up

Access the full spectrum of 241 Global High Growth Tech and AI Stocks by clicking on this link.

Have you diversified into these companies? Leverage the power of Simply Wall St's portfolio to keep a close eye on market movements affecting your investments.

Unlock the power of informed investing with Simply Wall St, your free guide to navigating stock markets worldwide.

Contemplating Other Strategies?

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 ADX:PRESIGHT SZSE:300785 and TSE:3132.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Former Russian banking tycoon Oleg Tinkov says a single Instagram post condemning the war in Ukraine cost him nearly $9 billion, after he was forced to sell his stake in his bank for a fraction of its real value. He described the episode as a hostage situation that shows how dissenting billionaires are brought to heel in Vladimir Putins Russia.

More from Yahoo Scout How does Putin control dissenting Russian oligarchs? How did Tinkov's Instagram post cost him billions? What happened to Tinkov after leaving Russia? What was the Kremlin's ultimatum to Tinkoff Bank?

Tinkov, the founder of Tinkoff Bank, was once celebrated as one of Russias wealthiest bankers. That status changed dramatically in April 2022, when he used Instagram to denounce the war as insane and to criticize Russias military as poorly prepared and riddled with corruption. As CNBC reported at the time, Tinkov claimed 90% of Russians opposed the war, and the remaining 10% were morons. He urged an immediate and face-saving end to the war.

Tinkov told the BBC recently that within a day of that post, senior executives at his bank received a call from officials linked to the Kremlin, delivering a stark ultimatum. Either Tinkovs stake would be sold and his name scrubbed from the brand, or the bankthen one of Russias largest lenderswould be nationalized.

A forced fire sale

Tinkov said that what followed was not a negotiation but coercion under threat. He claimed he was told to accept whatever price was offered for his roughly 35% stake in TCS Group, the owner of Tinkoff Bank, or risk losing everything. I couldnt negotiate the price. I was like a hostage, he told The New York Times. He ultimately sold the stake in April 2022, shortly after his Instagram post.

Within a week of this conversation, Tinkov said, a firm linked to metals magnate Vladimir Potanin, one of Russias richest men and a key supplier of nickel used in military hardware, stepped in to buy the stake. Tinkov told the BBC that the deal valued his holding at just about 3% of its true market worth, wiping out almost $9 billion of the wealth he had built over decades in business.

Exile and erasure

After the sale, Tinkov left Russia, eventually renouncing his Russian citizenship and becoming one of the few high-profile businessmen to publicly break with the Kremlin over the war. He alleged that the campaign against him extended beyond the balance sheet, including pressure to remove his name from the bank brand and efforts to erase his role in building the institution that once carried it.

In his telling, the episode shows how quickly loyalty is enforced when oligarchs step out of line. Public criticism of the invasion, even from a figure whose bank helped power Russias consumer boom, was treated as a direct challenge to the state in wartime. There are numerous examples from the recent past, including the erstwhile oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky, formerly Russias richest man, who spent 10 years in jail after launching a pro-democracy organization in 2001. Like Tinkov, he has since become an exile, residing in London.
Gold (GC=F) and silver (SI=F) tumbled after touching record highs, bringing a parabolic move in the precious metals space to a screeching halt.

Gold futures fell 4.5% to just above $4,340 per troy ounce. Silver futures dropped 8.7%, posting their worst day since 2021 after briefly touching $80 per ounce.

More from Yahoo Scout What are experts saying about precious metals price outlook? How does silver's industrial demand affect price volatility? Why did China's export restrictions impact silver markets? What caused gold and silver prices to tumble today?

Traders were on edge going into Monday's session after the Chicago Mercantile Exchange raised margin requirements on silver futures, forcing highly leveraged traders to either add cash or sell their positions.

Meanwhile, China, the world's third-largest silver mining country, is expected to restrict exports starting in January, heightening concerns amid a race to supply the booming AI industry.

Over the weekend, Elon Musk weighed in on silver's exploding prices, writing on X, "This is not good. Silver is needed in many industrial processes."

Read more about today's market action

Nearly 60% of all silver is used in industrial applications, according to the Silver Institute, a nonprofit trade organization.

Silver is the top conductor of electricity among all metals and an essential component of solar panels, data center server boards, and electric vehicles.

"It's vital for electronics and computing," Silver Institute president and CEO Michael DiRienzo told Yahoo Finance "It's used in almost everything that has an on and off switch."

DiRienzo points out that silver is in the fifth year of a global structural market deficit. In October, the metal was placed on the US critical minerals list, prompting fears that it could face tariffs and trade restrictions.

An employee of Pro Aurum gold house lifts 1 Kg silver bars of 999.9 purity beside 1 Kg gold bars in the safe deposit boxes room in Munich, Germany, on April 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, File)  ASSOCIATED PRESS

Read more: How to invest in gold in 4 steps

Precious metals have had a standout year, with gold surging 67% year to date amid strong central bank purchases and an easing dollar.

Silver, which boasts a far smaller market, has been the star performer this year, rallying nearly 150% as the metal's industrial use has put a focus on supply deficits. Even copper (HG=F) and platinum (PL=F) soared to records this year.

But one precious metals bull has been warning about a reversal in gold and silver's rise, noting the last time they rose this quickly was in 1979, with prices peaking in 1980 and subsequently crashing.

"When it gets this stretched, be careful," Mike McGlone, senior commodity strategist at Bloomberg Intelligence, told Yahoo Finance earlier this month.

"The most important thing for people like me who have been bullish on gold forever is two words: Take profits."

Ines Ferre is a senior business reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on X at @ines_ferre.
A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of APAC Realty Limited ( SGX:CLN ) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

Story continues

We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.5%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 7.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2035  (1 + g)  (r  g) = S$21m (1 + 2.5%)  (7.8% 2.5%) = S$407m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= S$407m ( 1 + 7.8%)10= S$192m

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is S$354m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of S$0.6, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 29% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

SGX:CLN Discounted Cash Flow December 29th 2025

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at APAC Realty as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.264. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

See our latest analysis for APAC Realty

SWOT Analysis for APAC Realty

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Real Estate market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Singaporean market.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Looking Ahead:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For APAC Realty, we've compiled three important elements you should further research:

Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for APAC Realty you should know about. Future Earnings: How does CLN's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Singaporean stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



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.
Staff at multinational tech firms in Israel are increasingly seeking to relocate abroad, a new report says.

The report found 53% of firms had reported increases in relocation requests over the last year.

The report warned that this trend could threaten Israel's "innovation engine."

Increasing numbers of employees at multinational tech firms in Israel have requested to be relocated abroad over the last year, as security concerns amid the Israel-Hamas war heightened, a new report says.

The Israel Advanced Technology Industries Association (IATI) said in a report published last week that 53% of multinational companies had reported increases in relocation requests, as "security and geopolitical concerns" became "increasingly influential."

The report did not identify specific companies. Some of the world's largest tech companies have a presence in Israel, including Apple, Meta, Nvidia, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, and Google.

"The relocation risk poses a direct threat to Israel's innovation engines," the NGO said, adding: "A significant wave of employee departures could undermine local innovation capabilities and weaken Israel's technological leadership."

The report found recruitment increases among multinationals in Israel had nevertheless exceeded decreases during the war, which it said highlighted the "organizational resilience and continued investment in talent" from these companies.

The data came from a mix of industry reports and public sources, as well as surveys and interviews with tech executives in multinational entities, the IATI said.

Israel's tech sector is a key driver of its economy. The Israel Innovation Authority, a government body, said the tech industry contributed one-fifth of the country's GDP in 2023. It labeled the high-tech sector "the shock absorber of the Israeli economy."

The IATI report said that there are around 430 multinational companies in Israel, with around 90,000 high-tech employees working for them.

It added that while multinationals had shown resilience over the course of the war  which broke out following the October 7 attacks on Israel  many had also faced business headwinds.

Around 22% of companies recorded reduced business activity during the conflict, it said, with 8% reporting a significant decline. However, 57% reported no change in business activity over the period and 21% expanded operations, per the report, which the IATI said showed "continued confidence in and robustness of local MNC activity."
Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will increase its support for semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI) sector to approximately Y1.23tn ($7.9bn) for the fiscal year beginning in April.

This figure represents nearly four times last years allocation for these sectors and constitutes the primary reason for an overall 50% rise in the ministrys annual budget to Y3.07tn.

The initial budget proposal, approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis Cabinet on 26 December, awaits debate in Parliament early next year.

The significant increase in funding comes as Japan seeks to enhance its capabilities in advanced technologies amid ongoing competition between the US and China and efforts to secure stable supply chains for essential technologies.

From the new fiscal year, most of the additional chips and AI funding will be incorporated into regular budgets rather than being reliant on supplementary allocations later in the year, providing more predictable financial resources to these industries.

The ministry has allocated Y150bn specifically for Rapidus, a government-backed semiconductor venture, raising total state investment in Rapidus to Y250bn.

In the area of AI, Y387.3bn will go towards developing domestic foundational models, improving data infrastructure and supporting projects where AI operates robotics and machinery.

In addition to technology spending, Y5bn has been earmarked for securing key minerals such as rare earths, while Y122bn are designated for initiatives including next-generation nuclear power plant development.

Furthermore, the finance plan includes issuing Y1.78tn in special bonds to support Nippon Export and Investment Insurance backing Japanese investments in the US under a bilateral trade agreement.

"Japan allocates $7.9bn for advanced chips and AI" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand.




HSBC Holdings plc (NYSE:HSBC) is included among the 15 Global Dividend Stocks to Diversify Your Portfolio.

Keefe Bruyette Turns More Positive on HSBC, Citing Hong Kong Strength

Northfoto/Shutterstock.com

On December 17, Keefe Bruyette upgraded HSBC Holdings plc (NYSE:HSBC) to Outperform from Market Perform and lifted its price target to 1,240 GBp from 990 GBp. The firm points to HSBCs continued strength in Hong Kong. Its forecasts now sit ahead of broader market expectations.

That view lines up with recent developments in the region. On December 15, Hong Kongs Hang Seng Bank said an independent board committee found HSBC Holdings plc (NYSE:HSBC)s $13.6 billion take-private offer to be fair and reasonable, as reported by Reuters. The committee recommended that minority investors vote in favor of the proposal.

Under the terms, HSBC Holdings plc (NYSE:HSBC) plans to buy the 36.5% stake in Hang Seng that it does not already own. When the deal was announced, chief executive Georges Elhedery told Reuters the move fits HSBCs broader strategy of selective acquisitions alongside ongoing divestments.

Hang Seng has faced pressure in recent years. Its exposure to Hong Kong and mainland Chinas property markets has weighed on performance. That strain may not ease soon. Debt-heavy developers and their lenders are bracing for tougher conditions, with bond maturities expected to rise by nearly 70% next year.

Founded in 1933, Hang Seng remains one of Hong Kongs largest banks and a core part of the HSBC group. It serves roughly 4 million customers through digital channels and more than 250 branches across the city.

HSBC Holdings plc (NYSE:HSBC), meanwhile, operates on a far broader scale. The group serves over 40 million customers worldwide, ranging from individual savers to multinational companies and governments.

While we acknowledge the potential of HSBC 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 Highest Paying Monthly Dividend Stocks to Buy and 15 Dividend Stocks With Low Payout Ratios and Strong Upside

Disclosure: None.
Shark Tank' investor Kevin O'Leary isn't blaming the economy for your empty bank account. He's blaming you. And he's not shy about it.

"Listen, I'm going to tell you something most people don't want to hear," O'Leary said in a December YouTube video titled "If You Want To Get Rich, Stop Buying These 5 Things." "You're broke. Not because you don't make enough money, not because the economy is rigged against you, not because you didn't get lucky. You're broke because you keep buying stupid things that are keeping you poor."

From the first line, O'Leary makes it clearbuilding wealth doesn't start with more income. It starts with cutting the nonsense.

Don't Miss:

Americans With a Financial Plan Can 4X Their Wealth  Get Your Personalized Plan from a CFP Pro

Have $100k+ to invest? Charlie Munger says that's the toughest milestone  don't stall now. Get matched with a fiduciary advisor and keep building

His first target? That shiny new car in your driveway.

"Buying a new car is one of the dumbest financial decisions you can make," O'Leary said. A car drops 20% to 30% in value the second you drive it off the lot, he explained, turning thousands of dollars into dustfor nothing but "that new car smell." And leasing? "Leasing is the absolute worst," he said. "You're renting a depreciating asset You gave the dealership thousands of dollars for the privilege of borrowing their car."

His advice is brutal but simple: "Buy a three-year-old certified pre-owned car. Let somebody else take the depreciation hit. That's what rich people do."

O'Leary isn't just coming for your car. He's coming for your kitchenor more accurately, the one you refuse to use. "People tell me they don't have money to invest. And then I watch them spend $15 on a salad for lunch," he said. That's not a splurge. It's financial self-sabotage.

The average American spends nearly $4,000 a year eating out, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. O'Leary runs the math: investing that same $3,500 annually for 30 years at 10% could become more than $600,000. "You're trading half a million dollars in retirement wealth for convenience and fancy meals you'll forget about in 24 hours," he said.

Trending: An EA Co-Founder Shapes This VC Backed MarketplaceNow You Can Invest in Gaming's Next Big Platform

Pack your lunch. Make your coffee at home. "These aren't sacrifices," O'Leary said. "These are smart financial decisions." But when you do eat out, he says, at least make it count. "Don't waste money on mediocre chain restaurants because you're too lazy to cook. That's not living well. That's being financially irresponsible."
Today, just 14% of private-sector US workers have access to a defined-benefit pension plan, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , compared with roughly 40% in 1979. On the upside, 70% have access to a defined-contribution plan, typically a 401(k) or its equivalent.

Employers, always looking to cut costs, were eager to pivot from the then-predominant defined-benefit pension plans and offer 401(k) programs instead. Workers, meanwhile, saw a worthy tradeoff: Pension plans made it difficult to job-hop and could crumble in a corporate bankruptcy, while 401(k)s provided a chance to ride the market to higher heights while maintaining control of their money.

The roots of the MTV Generations situation date to the era before MTV, when President Jimmy Carter signed into law a bill from the 95th US Congress that added section 401(k) to the Internal Revenue Code. The measure, in brief, granted employees a tax-free avenue for deferring compensation from stock options or bonuses. But soon after its implementation in 1980, it became apparent that employers could leverage the law to create tax-advantaged savings accounts for their workers. In 1981, the IRS established further rules that allowed workers to deduct a chunk of their paycheck and put it toward the saving plans.

The group born from roughly 1965 to 1980, Gen Xers are the first test subjects in Americas experiment of replacing pensions, in which their employers guaranteed a certain retirement income, with 401(k) plans, in which employers guarantee only a contribution to retirement income. Now that the oldest of them are nearing the age when people typically leave full-time work, data is starting to pour in on the experiments results: According to the Schroders 2025 US Retirement Survey published earlier this month , about 8 out of 10 members of Gen X worry they do not have enough saved for a comfortable retirement. In raw numbers, the average member of Gen X reported feeling about $400,000 short of what they think they need.

Like Bueller himself said, life moves pretty fast, and about 40 years after the 1986 movie, theyre growing concerned about how to pay for a do-over during their rapidly approaching 401(k)-funded retirement years.

Its a good thing that Ferris Bueller and his Gen X friends really lived it up on their day off.

Story Continues

Youth of Yesterday

The problem (or one of them, at least) for Gen X? The bull market of the 1980s and 1990s gave way to the dotcom crash and the Great Financial Crisis. The result? A feeling Gen X is notorious for embracing: cynicism. They dont feel like they can have faith, if you will, in the fact that the markets grow over time, because they had this decade when youre in their formidable [years] that was so difficult in terms of earning money in the markets, Stephanie Nanney, partner and Certified Financial Planner at financial advisor group Private Vista, told The Daily Upside.

As a result, many Gen Xers embraced other financial goals, such as paying off debt, rather than retirement savings, leading them into a collective scramble as retirement age nears. While they were grappling with market downturns, policymakers were taking years to identify and make crucial tweaks to improve 401(k) sytems, compounding the effects of the gap.

Gen X has had the unfortunate timing of working during a time that [defined-benefit plans] benefits were curtailed but 401(k) benefits were only nascent, Nate Miles, head of global client strategy at Allspring Global Investments, told The Daily Upside. It wasnt until 2006, he added, that the Pension Protection Act kicked off broad adoption of automatic features such as auto-enrollment, auto-contributions, and auto-escalation of contributions as well as the adoption of target date funds that automatically diversify and derisk based on participants age.

Shortfall From Grace: Now? The pitfall of the early years of 401(k) ascendancy, when young Gen Xers could boost their weekend spending power by opting out of contributions without much pushback, is all too apparent. According to a study published earlier this month by the Nationwide Retirement Institute and The Harris Poll, 60% of Gen X investors didnt see retirement saving as a priority until the age of 50. About 40% say they are now cutting discretionary spending, and another 34% say they are increasing contributions to their retirement accounts.

Only 38% say they are on track to retire at the age they had originally planned, while 43% believe they will continue to work in some capacity to supplement their retirement income.

Fortunately, many Gen X homeowners have benefited from a massive increase in housing equity in the past five years.

Office Space: We know what youre thinking, Millennial readers. But breathe easy: a retirement-delayed Gen X workforce doesnt necessarily mean your career path will be as clogged up as the housing market.

Thats just not the case in the US, Anqi Chen, associate director of savings and household finance at the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, told The Daily Upside. What we do see in the US is if theres more workers, then we get more productive, and so we could hire more managers, or more directors, or whatever it may be. The pie grows.

In the meantime, younger generations can learn a thing or two from their older peers.

Ideally, the challenges faced and knowledge gained by Gen X friends and family will help younger generations embrace the importance of starting to plan and save early so they can take full advantage of their biggest asset: the power of time and compounding growth, Suzanne Ricklin, vice president of retention and sales at Nationwide, told The Daily Upside.

401, A-OK

According to Allspring research, based on a reasonable set of assumptions for starting salary and growth, contributions, company match and retirement age (65), only 12% of direct-contribution plan participants are at risk of not reaching their income-replacement target.

If people are saving for their entire career, employ reasonable asset allocation and enjoy average returns, they have a great chance at a successful retirement, Miles said. The caveat? We know that is not always realistic, he said, and being forced to retire at 62 rather than 65, for instance, can increase that risk rate from 12% to 34%.

In fact, if theres a flaw in the 401(k) experiment, its not one of efficacy but one of access.

Coverage is really important. People generally dont save for retirement unless they have a retirement plan at work, and thats about half of workers at any given time, Chen said.

Thats a figure that hasnt changed in decades: In the boomer generation, its about the same share that had access to a pension.

To put it in words that Gen X may be a little more familiar with: Same as it ever was.

This post first appeared on The Daily Upside. To receive delivering razor sharp analysis and perspective on all things finance, economics, and markets, subscribe to our free The Daily Upside newsletter.
Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) is included among the 15 Global Dividend Stocks to Diversify Your Portfolio.

Morgan Stanley Cuts Target on Diageo (DEO) as Growth Pressures Persist

On December 18, Morgan Stanley lowered its price target on Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) to 1,530 GBp from 1,595 GBp and kept an Underweight rating on the shares.

A day earlier, Diageo announced a major asset sale as it works to bring down its debt. The company agreed to sell its stake in its Kenyan business to Asahi in a deal valued at $2.3 billion. Management has been clear this year that divestments would play a role in repairing the balance sheet, and this transaction fits that plan.

Under the agreement, Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) will sell its 65% stake in East African Breweries Limited, or East African Breweries Limited, to Asahi. Diageo will still maintain a presence in the market through a licensing arrangement with EABL, allowing it to keep some commercial ties to the region. The deal values EABL at $4.8bn and is expected to reduce Diageos net debt-to-earnings ratio by about 0.25 times. That matters because the companys leverage is currently above its target range of 2.5 to 3 times.

Asahi will pay close to $3 billion for the transaction. This includes $2.35 billion for Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO)s full stake in Diageo Kenya and $646 million for a 53.8% stake in UDVK, the groups local distilling unit. Together, those holdings represent Diageos 65% interest in EABL. After taxes and deal-related costs, Diageo expects to receive $2.3 billion in cash.

Earlier this year, interim chief executive Nik Jhangiani said the company was planning significant divestments to ease pressure on the balance sheet. Diageo has been dealing with weaker alcohol demand and the impact of US President Donald Trumps trade tariffs, both of which have weighed on performance.

Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) produces and distributes a wide range of alcoholic beverages, with brands that include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanans, and Windsor.

While we acknowledge the potential of DEO 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 Highest Paying Monthly Dividend Stocks to Buy and 15 Dividend Stocks With Low Payout Ratios and Strong Upside

Disclosure: None.
Nvidia stock (NVDA) is up 41.88% year-to-date and is the second-best performing constituent of the Magnificent 7 stocks, trailing only Alphabet (GOOG) (GOOGL), whose 2025 price action surprised even some of the bulls. While Nvidias 2025 returns  which are well above twice the average S&P 500 Index ($SPX) constituent  would look stellar, they pale in front of the triple-digit returns that it delivered in the previous two years.

Nvidia stock was quite volatile this year and plunged to $86.62 on April 7 amid U.S. President Donald Trumps tariffs. The rebound was also quick, though, and the stock has more than doubled from its 2025 lows even as it is down 11.37% from the record high of $212.19 in late October.

More News from Barchart

www.barchart.com

Nvidia Announced Multiple Deals in 2025

Nvidia went on a deal-making spree in 2025, announcing a flurry of investments. Among others, it reported an investment of up to $100 billion in OpenAI, $5 billion in Intel (INTC), $10 billion in Anthropic, $1 billion in Nokia (NOK), $2 billion in Synopsis (SNPS), and also participated in funding rounds of several other companies this year. In addition, it committed to invest two billion British pounds in AI startups in the U.K. as well as reportedly investing $2 billion in Elon Musks xAI.

More recently, Nvidia struck a non-exclusive licensing agreement with Groq in a deal that is said to be valued at $20 billion, making it the biggest ever deal for the Jensen Huang-led company. Meanwhile, in an apparent bid to evade regulatory scrutiny, the deal has been structured as an inference technology licensing agreement, which would see the Groq founder, president, and other employees join Nvidia.

Uncertainty Over Nvidias China Business

Another defining feature for Nvidia this year was the continued uncertainty over its China business. The Trump administration barred the company from exporting H20 chips to the Communist country. While later it approved their exports in exchange for a 15% cut in revenues, Nvidias China sales all but evaporated after the country cautioned domestic companies against using these chips over potential backdoors.

Now, the U.S. government has allowed exports of the more powerful H200 chips, albeit with an even fatter revenue cut of 25%, and reports suggest that this time around, the demand for these chips is quite strong. However, Democratic lawmakers have called upon the administration to disclose the license applications of Chinese companies looking to buy these chips. The H200 is more powerful than the H20, whose exports were ostensibly blocked over national security concerns. So we can be sure of a political slugfest over its exports, given the civil-military fusion in the worlds second biggest economy.
A. O. Smith's resilience rests on a combination of pricing discipline, portfolio balance, and a cost structure that can adjust without disrupting long-term priorities. Even as volumes have softened, the company has continued to protect margins by taking selective price increases across residential and commercial product lines. These actions offset lower throughput and demonstrate the strength of the company's distribution relationships and product relevance in a replacement-driven category.

What ultimately makes A. O. Smith compelling through my own analytical lens is not growth ambition, but alignment. This is a business shaped by ownership thinking: reinvesting selectively, protecting returns on capital, and prioritizing durability over expansion for its own sake. The company's steady margins, conservative balance sheet, and consistent cash generation reflect a culture that treats capital as scarce and long-lived, qualities that tend to matter more over full cycles than near-term momentum.

Taken together, these developments point to a business that is less dependent on volume swings than it once was. A. O. Smith is navigating a soft cycle by reshaping its portfolio and strengthening its long-term economics. The result is an operating profile defined by resilience: stable margins, consistent cash generation, and a growing position in the broader water technology market.

At the same time, A. O. Smith has continued to invest in water treatment and filtration. Recent capacity additions, expanded product lines under both the A. O. Smith and Aquasana brands, and rising demand for whole-home systems have increased the share of revenue coming from this segment. These products typically carry higher margins and steadier replacement-driven demand, giving the company a more balanced earnings base than in past cycles.

The past two years have brought meaningful changes. North American volumes eased from elevated levels as distributors worked through inventory and consumer purchases normalized. In response, A. O. Smith relied on targeted pricing actions, which helped maintain margins even as shipments softened. Internationally, the company's position in China, once a source of volatility, has begun to stabilize. A renewed focus on premium filtration products and channel simplification has allowed revenue declines to moderate and profitability to improve from prior troughs.

A. O. Smith enters 2025 as a business adjusting to softer demand across several of its end markets, yet holding its earnings profile together through pricing discipline and careful cost control. Water heaters remain the core of the company, but the operating story today is shaped by two forces: the normalization of pandemic-era replacement cycles in North America and the company's deliberate expansion into higher-value water treatment technologies.

Story continues

A second source of stability is the growing contribution from water treatment. Over the past year, the company expanded capacity for premium filtration systems, strengthened retail and e-commerce placement, and broadened its whole-home offering. This segment behaves differently from traditional water heaters: demand is more tied to quality-of-life upgrades, regulatory standards, and filter replacement cycles. As its share of the business increases, A. O. Smith's earnings base becomes less sensitive to the timing of large replacement waves in North America.

Operational discipline adds another layer. The company has kept manufacturing utilization aligned with demand, avoided excess inventory buildup, and maintained working-capital efficiency even as channel partners reduced orders. A. O. Smith's ability to balance production with real-time demand, while still protecting profitability, has reduced volatility in a period when many industrial peers have struggled with mismatched cost structures.

China, long a variable contributor, has begun to normalize as well. The company simplified product assortments, refreshed higher-end filtration models, and adjusted its go-to-market approach. These changes have not produced rapid growth, but they have reduced earnings swings and supported steadier contribution compared to the prior downturn. That stabilization matters because it provides a clearer baseline for international operations going forward.

All of these elements shape a business that can move through uneven demand without sacrificing its financial footing. A. O. Smith is still a cyclical manufacturer, but it has made structural choices, portfolio improvement, pricing control, and disciplined operations, that allow it to behave more like a steady cash generator than a volume-driven producer.

Numbers That Matter

A. O. Smith's financial profile is shaped by a handful of metrics that show how the company maintains stability despite shifting demand. Three indicators, margin performance, return on invested capital, and free cash flow, capture the underlying economics of the business.

First, margins have held remarkably steady. In a year when North American volumes softened and global demand remained uneven, A. O. Smith sustained operating profitability through selective pricing, cost control, and disciplined manufacturing output. This margin stability is central to understanding the company's resilience. It reflects a product set where replacement needs continue even when discretionary purchases slow, and where the company has enough brand and channel strength to pass through price increases without meaningful volume loss.

Second, returns on invested capital remain consistently strong. A. O. Smith has historically earned mid-teens ROIC, driven by a relatively asset-light model in water treatment, efficient use of manufacturing infrastructure, and a disciplined approach to capital spending. Stable ROIC over time indicates that earnings power has not eroded even as the company diversifies into new technologies and manages through periods of softer demand.

Third, free cash flow has stayed reliable. Working-capital discipline, normalized inventories, and modest capital-expenditure needs allowed A. O. Smith to convert a high portion of earnings into cash, supporting both reinvestment and shareholder returns. Even with volume pressure, the company maintained strong cash generation, an important signal for a manufacturer navigating a slow cycle.

These metrics tell a simple story: A. O. Smith behaves like a company that prioritizes earnings quality over short-term growth. It focuses on stable returns, steady cash generation, and operational consistency rather than chasing volume.

A. O. Smith: Margin Stability and Water Technology Expansion in a Soft Demand Cycle

A. O. Smith: Margin Stability and Water Technology Expansion in a Soft Demand Cycle

Capital in Motion

A. O. Smith's capital allocation reflects a company that prioritizes durability over scale. Even in a softer demand environment, the business continues to generate ample free cash flow, and management has used that stability to reinforce the balance sheet, return capital to shareholders, and fund targeted growth in water treatment.

Across the past year, the company maintained disciplined capital spending focused on productivity enhancements, automation, and additional water treatment capacity. These investments are modest relative to cash generation, which helps keep returns strong and avoids the kind of heavy, fixed-cost expansions that can strain a manufacturer when volumes weaken. The company's 2024 results show this clearly: free cash flow rose despite lower unit shipments, and capital spending remained within a range that supports long-term competitiveness without compromising financial flexibility.

Share repurchases continued as well. Management reduced the share count meaningfully over the last several years, using buybacks as a way to keep excess cash working while maintaining a conservative leverage profile. Combined with a growing dividend, the company returns a substantial portion of cash to shareholders without limiting its ability to invest in new product platforms, international restructuring, or water treatment expansion.

This balance, reinvesting in areas that strengthen the portfolio while returning excess cash, is one of the reasons the company has held a strong credit profile and maintained flexibility through multiple cycles. A. O. Smith rarely pursues large, speculative acquisitions; instead, it deploys capital gradually, with clear financial thresholds, and only into segments that reinforce its long-term economics.

A. O. Smith: Margin Stability and Water Technology Expansion in a Soft Demand Cycle

Ownership Logic

A. O. Smith's shareholder base reflects the kind of investors who value operational consistency, cash discipline, and long-term durability over flashy growth. The presence of several well-regarded, fundamentally oriented firms signals confidence in the company's steady economics rather than in any single-cycle upswing.

Heartland Advisors has maintained a position because A. O. Smith fits its long-standing preference for companies with stable margins, strong balance sheets, and predictable cash generation. Gotham Asset Management, led by Joel Greenblatt (Trades, Portfolio), typically allocates capital to businesses where returns on invested capital are structurally strong, an attribute A. O. Smith has demonstrated across many years. Mario Gabelli (Trades, Portfolio)'s firm has also held the stock, consistent with its focus on companies with tangible reinvestment runways and defensible market positions in essential goods.

Quantitative and multi-strategy investors such as Renaissance Technologies (Trades, Portfolio) and Millennium maintain measurable positions as well. While their approaches differ from traditional fundamental managers, their continued presence often reflects underlying statistical strength: stable return patterns, low earnings volatility, and a capital structure that avoids surprises. These attributes matter in a company like A. O. Smith, where the slow-moving nature of its end markets can reward patient capital.

The recent activity in the shareholder list also reveals how investors react to the current phase of the cycle. Some funds added materially during the past quarter, suggesting they view recent volume softness as temporary, while others reduced exposure after a strong share-price move. This kind of turnover is typical for a business whose intrinsic value doesn't fluctuate much, but whose sentiment often follows housing indicators even when the earnings engine remains steady.

A. O. Smith's ownership profile therefore aligns with the broader thesis: serious long-term investors remain drawn to the company's predictable economics and disciplined capital use, treating cyclical fluctuations as opportunities rather than threats.

Margin of Reality

At today's share price, A. O. Smith trades on terms that reflect steadiness rather than acceleration. With an enterprise value of roughly $9.3 billion against $473.8 million in free cash flow last year, the market is valuing the business at about 20 FCF, an implied 5% unlevered cash-flow yield. Because the company holds more cash than debt, the effective yield to equity holders is closer to 67%, suggesting that investors are applying a conservative lens to a business whose earnings base has historically been stable.

Metric A. O. Smith Interpretation Enterprise Value (EV) ~$9.3 billion Market valuing the business modestly relative to cash flow. Free Cash Flow (2024) $473.8 million Strong conversion despite soft demand conditions. EV / FCF ~20 Implies ~5% unlevered cash-flow yield; higher when accounting for net cash. FCF Yield (equity basis) ~67% Attractive for a business with stable replacement demand. EV / EBIT ~13 Reflects steady margins; not priced like a high-volatility industrial. EV / EBITDA ~11.7 Consistent with companies generating stable mid-teens returns. EV / Revenue ~2.4 Suggests no major growth premium despite mix shift toward water treatment. Net Cash Position Net cash positive Low balance-sheet risk, supports buybacks and dividends.

Compared with nearby water and building-systems peers, A. O. Smith stands out for the simplicity of its financial structure. Pentair and Resideo rely more heavily on acquisition-driven growth and carry higher balance-sheet leverage, while Mueller Water remains more exposed to municipal spending cycles. A. O. Smith's net-cash position, steadier margins, and consistently high ROIC reflect a business that compounds through discipline rather than expansion.

What emerges from these figures is a gap between how the business performs and how it is priced. The company consistently earns mid-20% returns on invested capital, converts a high share of earnings into free cash, and operates with minimal leverage. Yet its valuation multiples resemble those of more cyclical manufacturers whose profitability depends heavily on new-construction cycles.

In practice, A. O. Smith's earnings engine is steadier. Most profit comes from ongoing replacement demand and recurring water-treatment activity, not from discretionary first-install purchases. Its capital requirements are modest, and recent investments in filtration and automation strengthen rather than dilute returns. The current valuation does not penalize the stock, but it also does not fully reflect the underlying durability of its economics.

The result is a business whose financial reality is more stable than the market's implied expectations. When sentiment weakens around housing or short-term volume patterns, the company's valuation often moves more than its fundamentals justify. For long-term investors, the question becomes whether today's multiples represent a fair view of a slow cycle or an understated assessment of a durable cash-flow profile.

Final Thought

A. O. Smith is not a business built on dramatic shifts but on steady, repeatable economics. Its replacement-driven model, disciplined reinvestment, and net-cash balance sheet give it a degree of resilience that often goes unnoticed when the market focuses on short-term housing indicators. The company's valuation reflects caution, yet the underlying returns and cash generation suggest something more durable. For long-term investors who appreciate clear economics and consistent execution, A. O. Smith offers a profile shaped less by cycles and more by stewardship.
Norwitz plans to expand the centers reach with new educational tracks, more global partnerships, and hands-on training that prepares health workers to navigate regulatory systems, payer markets, and healthcare delivery challenges. He wants to bring young people into healthcare early, introduce them to the business side of the industry, and give them tools to solve problems before they become crises.

Babsons Healey Center, founded in 2019, emphasizes entrepreneurship as a tool for redesigning how care is delivered, financed, and scaled. It sits within Babsons Arthur M. Blank School for Entrepreneurial Leadership and trains innovators across global surgery, digital health, medical devices, and drug development. Its programs range from the Global Surgery Slingshot for low- and middle-income countries to NIH-funded training for startups tackling substance use disorders.

The problems, he argues, are system wide, built into the very structure that binds the individual pieces together. Misaligned incentives cause hospitals to compete for low-risk patients who could be treated more safely and affordably in community clinics. Insurers benefit when some problems go untreated. Drug pricing and delivery systems shift costs without improving outcomes.

Norwitz comes to Babson at a moment when the U.S. healthcare system is straining under its own weight. While America spends more than $4.9 trillion per year on healthcare  17.6% of U.S. GDP and about $14,500 per citizen  the country still reports some of the worst health outcomes of all 38 OECD nations.

Ive been a clinician, a scientist, an educator, an administrator, and now an entrepreneur. And what Ive realized is that academicians fall in love with the problem. Entrepreneurs fall in love with the solution.

Then he had a realization that changed the way he thought about medicine: Not a single patient has benefited. I wasnt thinking about impact; I was trying to solve the problem, says Norwitz, the first executive director of Babson Colleges Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

For nearly three decades, Dr. Errol Norwitz ran a molecular biology and genetics lab studying the mechanisms that regulate labor in term and preterm pregnancies. He earned major grants, published widely, gave talks around the world, and built a reputation as a leading physician-scientist in maternalfetal medicine.

Guests gather in Winn Auditorium for the Kerry Murphy Healey Centers Breakthrough Breakfast, part of Babsons Back to Babson weekend. The 2025 event explored the future of health investing, AI, and womens health. Courtesy photo

Story Continues

Entrepreneurs are all about impact. Theyll try things, and if something doesnt work, theyll let it fail and move on, Norwitz says. Its a different approach, and its exactly where we need to go in healthcare. We need to try things, iterate, acknowledge the complexity of these systems, figure out what works, and not be afraid to fail.

Q&A WITH DR. ERROL NORWITZ

Norwitz grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, and entered medical school at 16 according to the British system where med students enter right after high school. He later earned a PhD from Oxford University and an MBA from Boston Universitys Questrom School of Business.

He spent 25 years as a physician-scientist in high-risk obstetrics, holding major leadership roles at Yale and Tufts medical schools. He served as Tufts Medical Centers Chief Scientific Officer and CEO of Newton-Wellesley Hospital, where he led the community institution through the turmoil of COVID-19. He also built an academic career as a full professor, NIH-funded researcher, and member of the NICHD board.

Eight years ago, he co-founded CognitiveCare, an AI startup that uses predictive models to identify risk early in pregnancy and other diseases. It aims to help clinicians match patients with the right level of care. He believes AI will reshape diagnosis, drug discovery, hospital operations, and risk stratification, and he argues that this next wave requires leaders who understand ethics, incentives, policy, and systems thinking.

We recently sat down with Norwitz to talk about his plans for the Healey Center, the opportunities he sees for entrepreneurial leaders, and the urgent problems he believes healthcare must solve. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

After decades in academic medicine, research, and bedside care, why did Babson feel like the right next step for you professionally?

The wonderful thing about Babson is that its an academic playground where you can bring the academic mindset and the entrepreneurial mindset together. That partnership is what creates social impact and economic impact.

Thats what I hope to build at Babson: bringing these two groups together to solve problems. I know where the problems are because Ive been in the space for a long time, and we want to develop real solutions that will change how healthcare is delivered and consumed. Its a big vision  maybe Im being too ambitious  but I love Babson. I love the culture and the mindset. Let me give you an example.

For 25 or 30 years, I ran a basic science, molecular biology, and genetics lab studying the mechanisms that regulate parturition in term and preterm pregnancies. You get a lot of funding, write great papers, get promoted, travel the world giving talks, and not a single patient benefits. I wasnt thinking about impact; I was trying to solve the problem.

Entrepreneurs are all about impact. Theyll try things, and if something doesnt work, theyll let it fail and move on. Its a different approach, and its exactly where we need to go in healthcare. We need to try things, iterate, acknowledge the complexity of these systems, figure out what works, and not be afraid to fail.

In medicine, theres a deep conservatism. Doctors are scared to fail, and healthcare systems are scared to fail because if you fail, patients may die and you get sued. Theres this idea of primum non nocere  first, do no harm  and while thats important, it can also be a major barrier to innovation.

Healey Center

Students in the lab classroom in Kriebel Hall at Babson College. Photo by Nic Czarnecki/Babson College

Can you start by giving a little context for Babsons Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship? What does it do?

The Healey Center is one of six centers within the Arthur Blank School of Entrepreneurship. My boss is the dean, so our core mission is education. We teach Entrepreneurial Thought and Action at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and thats what well be doing in our center. Were not going to stand up companies or co-develop IP. Were going to teach.

Two weeks ago, for example, I met with a group from Denmark, entrepreneurs coming to us with ideas. I work with Enterprise Ireland as well. These are innovators from companies already started in Ireland who are now trying to enter the U.S. market and scale. Theyre supported by the Irish government. Tomorrow Im meeting with a group from Japan; in two weeks, one from the Middle East. Weve got a global reach.

People come to us with ideas. Some have prototypes. Theyve de-risked their concepts a bit and moved them further down the pipeline. What they want to understand is how to establish their business model in the U.S., how to navigate regulatory requirements, how to scale, and how to have impact. And thats what were going to teach.

We have a couple of programs already running. One is the Global Surgical Slingshot, where we teach people in low- and middle-income countries how to stand up surgical services and improve access to high-quality surgery in rural areas. Honestly, we should be doing that in the U.S. as well. I tell all my trainees: you dont have to go to Africa to do global health  you can do global health right here in the U.S.

We also have a major initiative through NIDA, the National Institute on Drug Abuse, to address substance use disorder and addiction in this country. Were standing up novel training programs to support early-stage companies working in that space and teach them how to enter the market and actually have an impact.

As the first executive director, what is your long-term vision for the center?

This is exactly what Im putting together now. Ive only been at Babson for two months. The center has existed for five years, but Im the first executive director. Now we need a vision.

I want to get young people interested in healthcare. If you dont mind me getting on my soapbox for two minutes  I love getting in front of undergrads, and I have a couple of points I always make. First, I ask them if they want a job after college. For all the hands that go up, I tell them that healthcare is the single biggest employer in almost every state in the U.S., and its one of only two industries that have grown jobs year over year for the past decade. (The other is tech.)

Second, I tell them that they dont have to go to medical school or nursing school to impact healthcare. There are so many things you can do outside of being a provider, and honestly, I think you can have a bigger impact. I want to reach students early, get them excited about healthcare as a space, and help them find their direction.

Another of my goals is to stand up a healthcare concentration. For undergrads, the first two years are a standard curriculum  no flexibility, no electives. But I want to create modules in healthcare training: understanding tech transfer, understanding the VC environment, understanding the payer environment. Ultimately, Id like students to graduate with a concentration in healthcare. Thats one of my longer-term goals, and Im excited about it.

Beyond that, there are other things I want to do  things Im passionate about.

Like what?

I dont have to tell you how dysfunctional healthcare is. We spend $4.9 trillion  about $14,500 per person per year or 17.6% of GDP. And what do we get for that investment? Not just poor outcomes, but the worst healthcare outcomes among all 38 OECD nations. What were doing isnt working. We need to think differently.

One of the problems  and Ive written about this  is that theres no health in healthcare in the U.S. Youve probably heard this before: its all disease care. I want to flip that paradigm and focus on what I call metabolic health and wellness.

Find people early, before theyre 60 years old, overweight, hypertensive, and heading toward cardiac disease or a stent. Find people when theyre 20. Teach them to eat well, sleep well, manage stress, and exercise, which has benefits far beyond weight loss. Teach them how to take back control of their health and prevent these diseases instead of waiting until they have them. Other countries do this much better than we do. We need to reframe the whole model.

Longer term, I want the center to have a global reach. Ive worked in a lot of different healthcare systems and have a huge global network, mainly in maternalchild health. Its not only about what we can export to other countries, but also what we can import. And theres a lot we can learn.

Ultimately, though, if we want to hardwire some of these changes, it has to come from public policy and public health. Right now, public health sits underneath medicine. In reality, public health should be elevated above medical care. We should be looking at everything through a public health lens.

And all the research we do should inform public policy, not the other way around.

Healey Center

From left: Elizabeth Bailey of Foreground Capital, Christina Isacson of LightStone Ventures, and keynote speaker Nina Kandilian of Silicon Valley Bank speak on emerging trends in health investing, AI, and womens health during the Kerry Murphy Healey Centers 2025 Breakthrough Breakfast at Babson College.

What are some of the big, critical problems in healthcare that you think really need a business or entrepreneurial approach? What are the opportunities?

Right now, the biggest issue is that our healthcare system is not a system. It was never designed to be a system. People point at payers and blame them for making a fortune, or they blame drug companies, doctors, or hospitals. The truth is, the entire system is broken. Its a systems problem, and we need to restructure the whole thing. We cant keep putting Band-Aids on individual pieces. That wont work.

Especially when every state tries to solve problems differently, payers and drug companies just move around and work around the solution.

Let me give you an example: I analyzed patient flow when I was working in a community hospital and asked how many patients going to academic medical centers actually need high-end tertiary or quaternary care. The answer is 15%. Eighty-five percent dont need to be there.

They go because of branding. They think theyll get better care, but theyll get the same care theyd get anywhere else, just at higher cost and with more inconvenience. And it drives up TME (total medical expenses) enormously.

If hospital systems saw the right patients  the ones they can bill at higher rates  theyd actually make money. I spent much of my life trying to change healthcare systems from the inside. I realized it doesnt work. Theyre far too entrenched. You have to change healthcare from the outside, and thats what Im trying to do now.

But is that something the Healey Center will be able to work on? How would it engage with a problem that complex?

The next couple of years are going to be quite disruptive. Some things will improve, some wont. Some things will recover, and some will be destroyed forever. Its going to be a disruptive period. But afterward, there will be an opportunity to rethink how we deliver healthcare. And we need people who are prepared for it.

People need to understand that this is a systems issue. When the moment comes to redesign the system, we need to have proposals and solutions ready to go. Thats where the center comes in.

Obviously, AI will likely be one of the big disruptions. How do you see AI affecting healthcare and the business of healthcare?

AI is going to be massively disruptive. Its not just a tool that brings the AI clinician and the human clinician closer together. Its going to fundamentally change the way healthcare is consumed and provided. I think the disruption will happen in four major areas.

The first area is diagnosis and clinical decision-making. We already know that AI can read chest X-rays more consistently and faster than doctors. It can diagnose a skin lesion more quickly and more accurately than the most experienced dermatologist. This will be incredibly disruptive.

The second area is drug discovery, development, and distribution. AI is going to completely reshape how we identify new medications, validate them, test them, and bring them to market. I dont personally work in this domain, but I support a couple of companies working on preeclampsia, which is extremely dangerous. The potential disruption here is enormous.

The third area is hospital operations and efficiency. Operational AI bypasses a lot of that regulatory complexity because its not diagnosing or treating, its improving efficiency. It doesnt need FDA approval.

The last area , and the one Im most excited about, is predictive modeling and risk stratification. My company, CognitiveCare, Inc., puts people into the correct swim lanes. We use predictive modeling  multimodal data, clinical information, demographics, ultrasounds, metabolomics, genomics, structured and unstructured notes  and run them through 48 AI algorithms to generate a risk score. I tell people its like a FICO score for pregnancy. Then we align the care plan with the risk profile.

About 80% of pregnant women are low-risk. They dont need 13 prenatal visits and five ultrasounds. They dont need to deliver at an academic medical center. The other 20% are high-risk, and those are the ones we need to identify early and invest in heavily. Thats exactly how healthcare should be run.

But people get anxious when we talk about resource allocation because they think something is being taken away from them. Thats the challenge. Doctors dont want it. Patients dont want it. Hospitals wont buy it. A shift like this will require state and federal governments. Thats the only way it will scale.

Anything else youd like to add?

What Id love to add is that this model needs to be tested, and Babson is the right place to test it. Im still getting to know the culture, the organization, what they do, and what they dont do. But, the wonderful thing about Babson is that they really do live the entrepreneurial mindset every day.

Their philosophy is: if you can pay for it, you can build it. There arent a lot of barriers. Whatever I can fund, I can create. And if it doesnt work, they dont mind if it fails. And thats what entrepreneurship is.

DONT MISS: POETS&QUANTS MBA PROGRAM OF THE YEAR: COLUMBIA BUSINESS SCHOOL AND INSEAD HOLDS TOP SPOT IN FINANCIAL TIMES EUROPEAN BUSINESS SCHOOL RANKING

The post The P&Q Interview: Babsons Errol Norwitz On Why Healthcare Needs Entrepreneurs To Fix A Broken System appeared first on Poets&Quants.
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) is one of the 13 Best Gold Mining Companies to Invest In Now. On December 10, TipRanks reported that RBC Capital raised its price target from $185 to $205 on Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) but downgraded its rating from Outperform to Sector Perform.

Earlier, on December 1, UBS analyst Daniel Major also increased the price target on Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) from $180 to $190 but kept a Neutral rating. The analyst told investors in a research note that gold started 2025 as a popular bullish bet and it still has support heading into 2026. This is supported by demand from official and private sectors instead of signs of extreme speculative crowding. The analyst also noted that even with a brief period of too much enthusiasm in early autumn, the macro outlook for the next 6 to 12 months favors continued buying from investors and central banks rather than a bear market setup for 2026.

RBC and UBS Lift Price Targets on Agnico Eagle (AEM) Despite Neutral Ratings

Image by Csaba Nagy from Pixabay

In other news, on December 16, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) announced that it has acquired 26 million common shares of Osisko Metals Incorporated (TSE:OM) through a private placement for a total consideration of C$12.48 million.

The company said that this move is part of its plan to acquire strategic positions in potential opportunities with strong geological potential. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) is also focused on its own high-quality growth projects. It expects to complement its pipeline of projects with strategic equity investments.

Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) is a Canadian gold mining company. With operations in Canada, Finland, Australia, and Mexico, the company is one of the worlds largest producers of gold.

While we acknowledge the potential of AEM 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: 14 Best Large Cap Stocks to Invest In Now and 14 Most Promising Fintech Stocks to Invest In.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Attorney Alex Spiro wrote a letter to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, urging him to stop a proposed billionaire tax.

Spiro said his clients would "permanently relocate" if the measure were to become law.

While Spiro did not say which clients he was referencing, he has previously represented well known billionaires and celebrities.

A proposed billionaire tax in California has the wealthy threatening to flee, according to a letter written by power lawyer Alex Spiro to Gov. Gavin Newsom.

In a December 11 letter that was obtained by Business Insider, Spiro lays out his opposition to the proposed tax on behalf of his clients, whom he calls "California residents who would be subject to the proposed Billionaire Tax Act."

"It will trigger an exodus of capital and innovation from California," Spiro wrote. "Our clients have made clear they will permanently relocate if subjected to this tax."

The measure proposes that California residents with assets exceeding $1 billion be subject to a one-time 5% tax on the value of their assets. If the proposal receives enough signatures, it will appear on the state ballot in November 2026. If passed, it would apply retroactively to all California residents as of January 1, 2026.

While Newsom has said he is against the tax and would "fight" it, he would not have the ability to veto it if it were to pass as a ballot measure.

Several wealthy Californians, including venture capitalist Peter Thiel and Google cofounder Larry Page, have considered shrinking their presence in California, according to a New York Times report. Representatives for Page and Thiel did not respond to Business Insider when asked if they were represented by Spiro.

Over the weekend, billionaire Palmer Luckey took to X to voice his opposition to the measure.

"I made my money from my first company, paid hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes on it," the Anduril cofounder wrote. "Now me and my cofounders have to somehow come up with billions of dollars in cash."

While it's not clear which clients the lawyer was referencing in his letter to Newsom, Spiro's client roster in the past has included billionaires and A-listers. He has previously represented Kim Kardashian, Jay-Z, and Elon Musk.

Read the full letter below:

Re: Constitutional Concerns Regarding Proposed Billionaire Tax Act

Read the original article on Business Insider
Straddled Between Two Cultures

(AINA) -- Dr. Sophia Isaac is a scholar, educator, and cultural advocate whose own life reflects the very journey she studies. Born in Urmia, Iran, and brought to the United States as a child before the 1979 Iranian Revolution, she grew up navigating the space between two identities--Assyrian heritage and American life.

As a Christian Assyrian who speaks the Eastern dialect of modern Assyrian, she carries a deep personal connection to the history of displacement, resilience, and cultural preservation that has shaped her people for generations.

Her academic and professional path mirrors this commitment to understanding identity in motion. After building her life across Philadelphia, California, and later Arizona, Sophia pursued a Bachelor's in International Business, an MBA, and ultimately an Ed.D. in Organizational Development in Higher Education. Her doctoral research examines acculturation, focusing on the psychological challenges faced by immigrants and refugees - those who flee trauma, endure cultural marginalization, or struggle to rebuild a sense of belonging in new lands. Today, as a Career Advisor at Bryan University, she continues to advocate for cultural understanding and community empowerment.

It is from this lived experience and scholarly lens that Dr. Isaac brings us her book, Straddled Between Two Cultures, a work that redefines the conversation around immigration. At a time when immigration is often portrayed through a lens of crisis and controversy, her book turns toward a different narrative - one grounded in legal, purposeful migration and the extraordinary strength required to rebuild a life "the right way."

Rather than politics, Dr. Isaac tells stories that center on people: individuals and families who arrived in the United States with hope, determination, and a commitment to contribute. They honor their roots while embracing the responsibilities and opportunities of their new home. Through their voices, the book highlights what immigration can look like when it is anchored in courage, accountability, and the pursuit of a better future.

Dr. Sophia Isaac. The backstory of Straddled Between Two Cultures reveals the emotional terrain of these journeys. It captures the daily balancing act of living between traditions and American expectations, of switching languages, carrying dual identities, and planting new roots while the memory of one's homeland never fully loosens its hold. These narratives showcase not crisis, but resilience; not division, but the enduring human desire for belonging and dignity.

Dr. Isaac invites readers to step into this in-between space - where sacrifice and strength coexist, where hope outlasts hardship, and where the immigrant experience becomes not just a political topic, but a deeply human one. Her book encourages compassion, understanding, and a renewed appreciation for the quiet triumphs of those who journey legally, responsibly, and bravely toward a new beginning.

The following interview was conducted with the author over the Christmas holidays.

Abdulmesih BarAbraham (AB): In your book, you deliberately position Straddled Between Two Cultures as a counter-narrative to the dominant "immigration as crisis" framing. Why was it important for you to tell this story now?

Dr. Sophia Isaac (SI): It was important for me to tell this story now because the dominant narrative around immigration has become increasingly narrow and crisis-driven, often reducing human lives to statistics, headlines, or political talking points. In that framing, immigrants are frequently portrayed as problems to be managed rather than people shaped by loss, resilience, faith, and contribution.

Straddled Between Two Cultures offers a counter-narrative rooted in lived experience and research. Many immigrants, particularly those fleeing persecution, war, or genocide, did not come to the United States by choice alone, but by necessity. Their stories are not defined by crisis; they are defined by courage, adaptation, and hope. By sharing my family's journey from Iran before the revolution, alongside the voices of others from Iraq, India, and beyond, I wanted to humanize immigration and restore dignity to those often spoken about but rarely listened to.

This moment also demands greater understanding. Immigration is being discussed with increasing fear and polarization, yet very little attention is given to the long-term psychological and cultural work of integration. Using frameworks such as John Berry's Acculturation Theory, the book reframes immigration as a process of belonging, identity negotiation, and resilience over time, not a single event or emergency.

Telling this story now is about shifting the conversation from fear to understanding, from crisis to context. It is an invitation to see immigrants not as outsiders, but as contributors whose layered identities enrich the social, cultural, and moral fabric of this country.

AB: You also emphasize that resettlement is not a single event but an ongoing psychological process. What kinds of trauma tend to surface during this transition, and why are they so often misunderstood?

SI: Yes, Resettlement is not a single event but an ongoing psychological process. The trauma that often emerges manifests as acculturative stress, the strain of adapting to a new culture while striving to preserve one's identity and roots. These struggles are frequently misunderstood, as legal status is often assumed to eliminate hardship. In reality, the emotional toll of integration persists long after arrival.

Within the Assyrian community, adults, especially those raising children, carry deep emotional ties to the homeland they left behind, including family bonds, cultural traditions, and deeply rooted memories. While younger generations may find it easier to adapt to a new environment, family remains central to Assyrian identity as an Indigenous people of the Middle East. Consequently, navigating and conforming to the customs of a new country can be especially challenging. Yet, despite these difficulties, our community demonstrates remarkable resilience and an enduring capacity to adjust.

As I discuss in my book, factors such as age, socioeconomic background, and gender significantly influence the process of adaptation. My research further reveals that certain traumas often resurface later in life. Many immigrants are initially consumed with survival -integrating into society, establishing stability, and raising families, leaving little time or space to process the emotional weight of resettlement.

During interviews with women who have lived in the United States for 30 to 50 years, several questions about their migration journey prompted tears as they reflected on their experiences with acculturation. For many, these emotions had remained unexamined for decades, not because they were absent, but because the demands of building a life in a new country left no room to fully process the trauma until much later.

The process also unfolds differently across age groups: children may wrestle with identity confusion, adolescents with peer acceptance, and older adults with loss of status or isolation. Gender adds another layer; men and women often acculturate differently, with men facing pressures around work and providing, while women may carry the dual burden of caregiving and navigating cultural expectations. Recognizing these nuances is essential because resettlement is not just about logistics but about the lifelong reconciliation of past and present identities.

AB: Interestingly, rather than portraying language as a barrier, you highlight its advantages. How can bilingualism or multilingualism become a source of resilience and identity for immigrants?

SI: Bilingualism and multilingualism build resilience because language is more than words; it carries culture, identity, and ways of being. Immigrants often communicate through a blend of speech, gestures, facial expressions, and body language, reflecting the cultures they come from. A study by an anthropologist showed that much of human communication is nonverbal, and these cues carry emotional and cultural meaning.

For immigrants, navigating multiple languages and communication styles strengthens adaptability, empathy, and cultural awareness. What may seem like a "language barrier" is actually a deeper communicative skill set, an ability to read people, contexts, and unspoken signals across cultures. This multilingual and multicultural fluency becomes a source of pride, identity, and resilience, allowing immigrants not only to survive in new environments but to connect, bridge differences, and enrich the societies they join. Just think about when we entered a new culture in America, we experienced culture shock until we learned to adjust to the nuances of the language and communication styles, providing us with a buffer during resettlement.

AB: As a Christian Assyrian originating from an Islamic country, how did your religious and cultural identity shape your integration into American society? In what ways, if any, did it ease your transition or create unique points of connection in the United States?

SI: After navigating the early stages of integration, it became easier to understand what freedom truly meant: freedom to practice Christianity without fear. For me, as a child immigrant, the adjustment was different. But for my parents, who were in their early forties, I can only imagine the weight of the challenges they faced.

I remember seeing how happy they were. They loved working, building a life, and simply knowing they were safe. Yet while you can take people out of a country, you cannot take the country, or its heritage, out of the people. Despite living in a Christian country where they felt protected, adjusting still took time.

All their lives, they had known what it meant to be a minority. In America, they were still a minority, but in a different way, one marked by acceptance and belonging among a majority that shared their faith. Even so, a quiet sense of distrust lingered. This, too, is human nature: we carry caution with us until we learn how a new environment works and understand where we truly fit.

AB: You devote attention to celebrations and cultural traditions. Why are these rituals so essential in preserving identity and fostering belonging across generations?

SI: Cultural celebrations and traditions serve as anchors of identity, especially for communities navigating life between cultures. For immigrants and their children, these rituals preserve memory, meaning, and continuity in the midst of transition. They are not merely nostalgic practices; they are living expressions of history, faith, values, and belonging.

Across generations, rituals create a shared language between elders and youth. They allow children born or raised in a new country to connect with their heritage in tangible ways, through food, music, storytelling, and faith practices, while still forming an identity rooted in their present context. Without these traditions, cultural identity risks becoming abstract or lost altogether.

These practices also foster resilience. In the face of displacement, discrimination, or cultural erasure, celebrations affirm worth and dignity. They remind individuals that their story did not begin at migration and does not end with assimilation. Instead, identity is carried forward, adapted, and strengthened.

Ultimately, rituals cultivate belonging by offering a space where individuals do not have to choose between cultures. They affirm that one can integrate into a new society while honoring the past, creating continuity, pride, and a sense of home across generations.

AB: In addressing the immigrant woman's struggle, what unique pressures emerge at the intersection of gender, culture, and migration?

SI: By highlighting these dynamics, my book seeks to shed light on the invisible labor and strength of immigrant women, affirming their critical role in family and community adaptation while advocating for greater understanding and support.

AB: You reflect deeply on parental obligations and role reversals within immigrant families. How does this dynamic shape both parents' sacrifices and children's identities?

SI: These dynamics underscore a central theme of Straddled Between Two Cultures: integration is a family process, not just an individual one. Often, children become interpreters for their parents, helping navigate doctors' appointments, government systems, or other critical services. At the same time, parents, while seeking respect and maintaining cultural values, may unintentionally place heavy expectations on their children, requiring them to meet family needs and uphold the family's reputation. This can create tension and even rebellion as children try to find their own path in a new society. I recall a story a professor shared about an immigrant family whose adult daughter was in college: her parents' advice to her was simply not to bring shame on the family name. That weight stayed with her, shaping her sense of responsibility and identity in profound ways.

AB: Your Iceberg Theory suggests that much of the immigrant experience remains invisible. What do educators, service providers, and policymakers most often fail to see beneath the surface?

SI: What is most often overlooked beneath the surface is the depth of invisible labor immigrants carry as they integrate into a new society. While institutions tend to focus on what can be easily measured - language proficiency, employment status, or academic performance - they frequently miss the psychological, cultural, and emotional dimensions of adaptation.

Beneath the surface are experiences of trauma from war, persecution, or displacement; grief over family members left behind; and the pressure to succeed not only for oneself, but for an entire family or community. Many immigrants are simultaneously navigating cultural role shifts, intergenerational tension, and identity fragmentation, all while learning to function within unfamiliar systems.

Educators may not see the cognitive load placed on children who translate for parents or balance two cultural value systems. Service providers may miss the impact of cultural shame, faith, or fear of authority that prevents individuals from seeking help. Policymakers often underestimate how long integration actually takes, assuming legal status or economic participation equates to belonging.

The Iceberg Theory calls institutions to slow down and look deeper, to move beyond surface-level compliance toward relational understanding. When educators, service providers, and policymakers recognize the unseen resilience, skills, and contributions immigrants bring, they can design systems that support not just access, but dignity, belonging, and long-term success.

AB: What do you hope readers, especially those outside the immigrant experience - gain from these stories about legal, purposeful migration and responsibility?

SI: I hope readers, especially those who have not lived the immigrant experience, come away with a deeper sense of understanding, responsibility, and curiosity. These stories humanize legal, purposeful migration by revealing the discipline, sacrifice, and intentionality required to rebuild a life in a new country. Immigration is not simply about arrival; it is about commitment, learning the language, respecting the laws, contributing to communities, and investing in future generations.

To further humanize this group, I intentionally incorporate the Iceberg Theory as a visual and conceptual framework. What is visible on the surface, accents, customs, or differences, is only a small portion of who immigrants are. Beneath that surface lie stories of persecution, resilience, faith, loss, education, work ethic, and deep loyalty to the country that offered refuge. The Iceberg Theory invites readers to look beyond assumptions and take an active role in learning who these individuals truly are.

Ultimately, my hope is that readers recognize immigrants not as abstract figures in a debate, but as contributors whose values and labor help sustain the nation. America was built by those willing to sacrifice, adapt, and contribute, and these stories affirm that legacy. When readers look beyond the surface and seek understanding, empathy can replace fear, and appreciation can replace misunderstanding.

AB: For individuals who feel perpetually "straddled" between cultures, what message of affirmation or hope would you want them to take from your book?

SI: Living between cultures requires resilience, adaptability, and deep emotional intelligence, even when it feels isolating or misunderstood. The tension you carry is not a sign that you failed to belong; it is evidence that you learned to navigate multiple worlds.

This book affirms that integration does not require erasing who you are or where you come from. Through both personal narrative and research, I emphasize that honoring your heritage while engaging fully in a new society is not only possible, but healthy. The struggle many immigrants and children of immigrants feel is a natural part of the acculturation process, not a personal flaw.

My hope is that readers come away with a sense of validation and healing, understanding that their identity is layered, meaningful, and worthy of respect. You do not have to choose one culture over another to be whole. You are allowed to belong to both, and in that space, you can build a future rooted in dignity, purpose, and hope.
Americans, meanwhile, reportedly consider $1.26 million to be the right amount to retire comfortably.

The rising cost of living and insufficient savings make retiring at 60 difficult for many people. A general rule of thumb is to save 10 to 12 times your annual income by the time you reach your full retirement age (FRA), which is either 66 or 67, depending on the year you were born. (3) (4)

In 2024, ResumeBuilder.com surveyed 750 people ages 65 to 85. Just over a fifth of respondents (22%) said they are currently working, four in 10 of them claimed to have previously retired, and, of those who had retired, 13% said theyre likely to start working again. The top reason for contemplating going back to work was increases in the cost of living (69%), followed by boredom (42%), rising housing costs (39%) and paying off non-medical debt (34%). (2)

Unretiring is becoming more commonplace  whether out of necessity or to find a sense of purpose or structure in retirement.

Not all retirees are content to spend their days playing pickleball or going on cruises.

Im almost 50 years old and have nothing saved for retirement. What do I do? Dont panic. Here are 6 easy ways to catch up (and fast)

Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake  heres what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP

Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100  and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how

If youre thinking of joining Bryce in postponing your retirement, here are a few considerations.

Bryce, who expects to keep teaching until age 70, provided he stays in good health, didnt mention how much his new gig pays, but its likely that hes taken a substantial pay cut. However, for this phase of his life, its a more fulfilling way to ensure his nest egg is secure.

When he considered what he wanted to do during the next chapter of his life, he remembered how much he enjoyed being a guest lecturer at law schools and colleges. So, in September 2023, he retired from practicing law and, the same month, started a new job teaching at West Catholic Preparatory High School in Philadelphia.

Bryce told The Wall Street Journal that at his previous job he often felt he was wasting his time with clients who were only focused on money. (1)

Marty Bryce, 60, is a retired litigator who used to spend his days representing financial institutions  a career he found unfulfilling. But he didnt stay retired for long. He now has a second career as a high school teacher.

Story Continues

Many fall short of these targets. According to Empower, the median retirement balance for Americans in their 50s is $441,611, while those in their 60s have a median balance of $539,068.

Meanwhile, a study by Northwestern Mutual revealed that just 44% of baby boomers believe theyll be financially prepared for retirement, and 40% of them are worried they may outlive their savings. (5)

Its not surprising, then, that many retirees are unretiring. But there are other benefits of returning to the workforce.

While you can start claiming your Social Security retirement benefit at age 62, your benefit will be reduced by a small percentage each month until you reach your FRA. If you delay taking benefits, your check will increase each month after your FRA until age 70. (6)

So, the longer you work, the longer you can delay taking your benefit, resulting in a larger check when you eventually retire.

If youre already receiving your benefit but choose to go back to work, there is no limit on how much you can earn while receiving benefits if youre at FRA.

However, if you begin receiving benefits before FRA, then theres a limit on earned income, which is $24,480 for 2026. For every $2 you earn above that limit, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will withhold $1 from your benefits. (7)

In the year you reach FRA, a higher limit applies ($65,160 in 2026), and benefits are reduced by $1 for every $3 earned above that limit, but only for earnings before the month you actually reach FRA. After that month, theres no earnings test.

Note that income only refers to earned income, such as wages or self-employment, not investment income, pensions, or retirement account withdrawals. Moreover, the withheld benefits are not lost forever; once you reach FRA, the SSA recalculates to give you credit for withheld months. (8) (9)

You also have the option of withdrawing your application for Social Security, so long as its within 12 months of applying. However, if youve received any benefits in the meantime, youll have to pay them back. (10)

Health care costs are another consideration. Since Medicare doesnt kick in until age 65, youll need private insurance to fill in the gap. Thats where a second career could help.

Read More: This is the quiet portfolio shift many wealthy investors are making in 2026. Should you consider it too?

How to find work when unretiring

While retirees may face barriers to re-entering the workforce, they could also choose to look for jobs in fields where there are shortages  like Bryce did.

I knew there was a national shortage and demand for teachers, he told The Wall Street Journal. Luckily for Bryce, who added that he didnt want to teach at a law school and felt he could have a greater impact at the high school level rather than teaching at college, it was also a job he wanted to do.

Retirees looking for meaningful work have several options, such as teaching, substitute teaching or tutoring. Guideposts.com lists teaching as one of the best jobs retirees can do, noting that experience is a valuable asset and retirees have loads of it. (11)

If you previously worked in a specialist field, you could consider teaching it. Alternatively, your experience may come in handy in other professions. For example, if youre a retired biologist, maybe youd find it fulfilling to work in the garden department at Home Depot.

If youre a history buff, maybe youd enjoy working at the local museum. And if you love being around kids, then maybe a school bus driver would be fulfilling.

Empower claims men tend to return to technical, managerial or consulting roles, while some women seek jobs that align with their passions, and lists health care, education and retail as popular sectors for older workers because they offer part-time roles and opportunities to connect with others.

While unretiring can bring in some extra cash, it could also have health benefits. An analysis of various studies revealed that older adults who return to work can often, depending on the type of job, experience an improvement in physical and mental health, as well as a greater sense of purpose. While Bryce has most certainly taken a pay cut, hes getting something else out of his new role teaching teenagers.

While I havent discovered the fountain of youth, being around them makes me feel years younger, he told The Wall Street Journal. I get a great deal of satisfaction from seeing them grow intellectually.

You May Also Like

Article sources

We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines.

The Wall Street Journal (1); ResumeBuilder.com (2); Fidelity (3); Empower (4); Northwestern Mutual (5); Social Security Association (SSA) (6); (7; (8); Guideposts (9); Empower (10); Springer Nature (11).

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Sberbank, Russias largest bank, has issued the countrys first-ever crypto-backed loan.

The bank says it issued the loan to Intelion Data, one of Russias biggest Bitcoin miners. It did not disclose the size of the loan, nor the amount of crypto used to secure it.

The loan was secured by digital currency mined by [Intelion Data], Sberbank wrote in an official release. We believe this product will be relevant not only for cryptocurrency miners, but also for companies that own cryptocurrencies.

As Bitcoin mining continues to grow apace in Russia, banks appear keener than ever to back the industry with financing and a wider range of options for investors.

Russias mining progress

Sberbank was careful to call the loan a pilot. It did not reveal the type of cryptocurrency used as collateral, nor the length of the loan period.

However, Sberbank hinted that it will look to issue similar loans in the future. The bank said it used its own cryptocurrency custody solution, named Rutoken, as part of the loan process. This guarantees the assets safety during the loan period, Sberbank wrote.

The regulation of the digital currency market is still in its infancy in Russia, said Anatoly Popov, Sberbanks deputy chair. We are ready to work with the Central Bank to develop relevant regulatory solutions and create the infrastructure for launching similar services.

This pilot deal allows us to test mechanisms for working with digital security, which could form the basis for future regulation, Popov added.

The Russian media outlet RBC quoted the Intelion Data CEO Timofey Semenov as calling the loan deal an important practical example for the industry.

The Intelion Data chief said it was an indicator that the market is reaching a new level.

If proven effective, this [kind of financing] could be scaled up and used [widely] in the Russian mining industry, Semenov said.

Gradual crypto legalisation

Earlier this month, Sberbank said it was testing a range of decentralised finance, or DeFi, tools.

It also said that it supports the gradual legalisation of cryptocurrencies in the Russian legal framework.

Sberbank rivals like VTB, meanwhile, have gone a step further, suggesting they want to accommodate their customers desire to buy and sell real crypto.

In May, RBC revealed that Intelion Data made $79 million in revenue in 2024, with its data centres using almost 300 MW of power.

The firm is building a mining centre near the Kalinin Nuclear Power Plant in the Tver Oblast. It is also developing its own gas power station, as well as turnkey mining data centre construction projects for industrial enterprises with idle power capacity.
Sanofi has agreed to acquire hepatitis B vaccine manufacturer Dynavax for an equity value of around $2.2bn, bolstering the former's pipeline amid significant vaccine policy changes in the US.

The transaction, for a price of $15.50 per share in cash, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.

Through the deal, Sanofi will acquire Dynavax's hepatitis B vaccine HEPLISAV-B. The product won approval in the US and Europe in 2017 and 2021, respectively. Sanofi does not currently have a hepatitis B vaccine in its portfolio. The French drugmaker previously won approval for a hepatitis B vaccine in a joint venture with MSD, though the latter company now commercialises the jab, which is known under the HBVaxPro and Recombivax HB brand names in Europe and the US, respectively.

Heplisav-B is administered via a two-dose regimen delivered within one month, unlike GSK's Engerix-B and MSD's Recombivax HB. These rival products are given in three doses over six months.

With the Dynavax acquisition, Sanofi is adding a strong revenue avenue for the virus that causes serious liver infection. HEPLISAV-B generated sales of $268.4m in 2024, with Dynavax forecasting net product revenue of between $305m and $325m for 2025. GlobalData forecasts HEPLISAV-B will reach $677m in annual sales in 2031.

GlobalData is the parent company of Pharmaceutical Technology.

William Blair analyst Matt Phipps said: While the deal value does come slightly below our net present value for Heplisav of $2.6bn, we believe the acquisition makes sense given growing regulatory concerns around vaccines and investor questions on managements strategy for value creation.

Earlier in December, the US Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) changed its guidance to no longer recommend that all US newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccine. The significant policy changes have created volatility in the infectious disease vaccine sector, along with catalysing backlash from several medical bodies.

The jewel in Dynavaxs pipeline is its shingles vaccine candidate, currently in a Phase I/II trial. In results announced in August 2025, the jab, dubbed Z-1018, demonstrated comparable efficacy to GSKs blockbuster Shingrix  a product that dominates the shingles market. However, Z-1018 had fewer local and systemic post-injection reactions, which might give it a market advantage on tolerability.

About one in three people in the US develop shingles at least once in their lives, according to the CDC. Shingrix generated 3.4bn globally for GSK in 2024, representing the size of the shingles market.
SentinelOne (NYSE:S) is one of the best beaten-down technology stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On December 15, Citizens reiterated its Market Outperform rating on SentinelOne Inc. (NYSE:S) with a $23 price target. The firm acknowledged challenges such as limited scale versus peers and slower top-line growth, but highlighted that SentinelOne trades at a CY26E EV/revenue multiple of 3.7x compared to the peer median of 11.1x. Citizens see the valuation discount as justified yet still offering meaningful room for appreciation, reinforcing confidence in the companys long-term potential despite competitive pressures in the cybersecurity space.

SentinelOne (S) Gains Analyst Support Amid Cybersecurity Milestones

On December 11, Citron Research touted SentinelOne (NYSE:S) cybersecurity capabilities as it uncovered a primary Chinese hacking operation. The companys researchers successfully traced two Chinese state attackers behind the Salt Typhoon hack. It was the largest telecom breach that the researchers were able to bring to light. The milestone underscored the companys transformation from an endpoint vendor to a full, native artificial intelligence security platform.

The companys third-quarter bookings, which accounted for over 50% of total bookings and came from Cloud Data and artificial intelligence offerings, were clear evidence of its evolution. Amid the milestones, the stock continues to trade at approximately 5 times revenue, which is considered quite low. Citron Research expects the stock to rerate higher, as it appears to be trading at a discount given its expanded capabilities and strategic market position.

SentinelOnes competitive edge has received a significant boost, bolstered by its Purple AI technology, which offers capabilities such as natural language queries, automated alert triage, and integration with third-party security products.

SentinelOne, Inc. (NYSE:S) is an AI-powered cybersecurity company that provides autonomous protection for endpoints, cloud workloads, containers, and identities using its Singularity Platform, stopping threats like ransomware in real-time with machine speed through behavioral analysis.

While we acknowledge the potential of S 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: 13 Best Beaten Down Stocks to Invest in According to Analysts and 14 Best Forever Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Along with a string of other small and mid-size airlines, Nigeria's Air Peace has had a tough 2025.

In November 2025, the Lagos-based carrier had to temporarily stop running flights after four of its Airbus A320 planes were seized by wet-lease lessor SmartLynx. Both sides accused the other of unpaid debts and failing to provide the subsequent service as the future of the airline that flies both domestically in Nigeria and to international destinations like London, Johannesburg and Mumbai appeared increasingly uncertain.

While Air Peace eventually resumed many of its routes by December, the airline is now announcing that it will cut all its regional flights departing at night in exchange for daytime departures in what representatives claimed is a way to "enhance passenger comfort and travel experience [and] improve schedule reliability and on-time performance."

Air Peace announces "transition to daytime regional operations"

"The transition to daytime regional operations will enhance passenger comfort and travel experience, improve schedule reliability and on-time performance, provide stronger connectivity to night-time long-haul departures, support business, government, and leisure travel across West and Central Africa," Air Peace spokesperson Efe Osifo-Whiskey said in a statement to local press. "This optimized schedule gives Air Peace a strong competitive advantage over both regional and international carriers operating from Lagos, reinforcing its role as a key enabler of intra-African trade, tourism, and mobility."

Related: Airline cancels flights after planes seized, passengers left stranded

The decision affects above all the Air Peace route going from the capital of Lagos to Dakar in Senegal with fifth-freedom stops in Abidjan in Ivory Coast and Banjul in Gambia. This flight will leave at 7:00 a.m. to return to Lagos at 9:40 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, while the flight from Lagos to Accra in Ghana and Monrovia in Liberia will leave Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LLA) in Lagos at 8 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

A daily flight between Lagos and Accra will also be shifted from evening to morning with a 7 a.m. departure four times a week. Flights from Lagos to London Gatwick will continue to depart at 12:15 a.m. Flights the airline runs from the capital of Abuja and to the London Heathrow Airport will also continue to depart in the evening and early morning hours.

After the shutdown of Nigeria Air, Air Peace became the country's flagship airline.Shutterstock  Shutterstock

A short history of Air Peace: An unofficial national airline

Air Peace has unofficially become the national airline for Africa's most populous country after the federal government abandoned the plan to revive Nigeria Air from a 2023 shutdown and bankruptcy.
Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) is included among the 15 Global Dividend Stocks to Diversify Your Portfolio.

TD Securities Raises Cenovus Energy (CVE) Price Target After Review

On December 3, TD Securities analyst Menno Hulshof raised the firms price target on Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) to C$29 from C$28 and kept a Buy rating on the shares.

On December 11, the company laid out its 2026 capital budget and updated corporate guidance. Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) said it expects capital investment to land between $5.0 billion and $5.3 billion in 2026. That figure includes about $350 million tied to turnaround costs, which will be capitalized during the year. Excluding those turnaround items, capital spending is projected at $4.7 billion to $5.0 billion.

Roughly $850 million of that total relates to the recently acquired Christina Lake North asset, formerly MEGs Christina Lake.

Most of the budget is geared toward maintaining the existing business. Sustaining capital, excluding turnarounds, is expected to range from $3.5 billion to $3.6 billion. Management said this level of spending is designed to support safe and reliable operations while holding base production steady. Beyond that, Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) plans to direct $1.2 billion to $1.4 billion toward growth projects, including an expansion at Christina Lake North.

The company also outlined plans for its conventional portfolio, expecting to invest between $450 million and $500 million in those assets during 2026, with most of the spending aimed at sustaining production. Total conventional output is forecast at 120,000 to 125,000 BOE per day, with operating costs estimated between $11.00 per BOE and $12.00 per BOE.

Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) operates as an integrated energy company, with oil and natural gas production in Canada and the Asia Pacific region, alongside upgrading, refining, and marketing operations across Canada and the United States.

While we acknowledge the potential of CVE 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 Highest Paying Monthly Dividend Stocks to Buy and 15 Dividend Stocks With Low Payout Ratios and Strong Upside

Disclosure: None.
Similarweb Ltd (NYSE:SMWB) is one of the best beaten-down technology stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On December 15, analysts at Citizens reiterated a Market Outperform rating on Similarweb Ltd (NYSE:SMWB) and maintained a $17 price target.

Wall Street Firms Bullish on Similarweb Ltd (SMWB) on Improving Industry Trends

Copyright: fotomaximum / 123RF Stock Photo

The research firm remains optimistic about the companys outlook, impressed by its leading digital intelligence product suite, complemented by GenAI Intelligence and data-selling capabilities for large language models. Likewise, it has touted the companys long-term prospects while targeting a large total addressable market of $55 billion.

Nevertheless, Citizens analysts have also raised concerns over longer sales cycles as the industry transitions from search engine optimization to generative engine optimization. The company could also come under pressure owing to possible spending adjustments by enterprise accounts following Adobes pending acquisition of Semrush.

On the other hand, analysts at Oppenheimer reiterated an Outperform rating on the stock but cut the price target to $10 from $12 on December 17. The price target adjustment is in response to demand volatility, artificial intelligence tailwinds, leadership changes, competitive dynamics, and margin trajectory. Amid the challenges, management projects 200-300 basis points of EBIT margin expansion in fiscal 2026 on internal sales improvements, boosting execution and retention. Research and development and G&A expenses are also expected to stabilize.

Similarweb Ltd (NYSE:SMWB) provides a digital intelligence platform that offers data and analytics to help businesses understand online behavior, benchmark against competitors, and optimize digital strategies for growth in marketing, sales, and market research. Its tools analyze website traffic, app usage, consumer behavior, and marketing performance, providing insights into market trends and competitor strategies to support better decision-making.

While we acknowledge the potential of SMWB 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: 13 Best Beaten Down Stocks to Invest in According to Analysts and 14 Best Forever Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Warren Buffett believes the U.S. market-based economic system has consistently generated wealth for centuries and will continue to create opportunities for future generations despite occasional setbacks.

In his 2016 letter to Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK, BRK.B)) shareholders, Buffett said that the country's economic achievements have far exceeded the expectations of its forefathers, thanks to human talent, ambitious immigrants, and the rule of law. He called early Americans "venturesome pioneers" for creating a system that unleashed human potential and is expected to continue delivering because of innovation and "abundance of capital."

Don't Miss:

Americans With a Financial Plan Can 4X Their Wealth  Get Your Personalized Plan from a CFP Pro

Have $100k+ to invest? Charlie Munger says that's the toughest milestone  don't stall now. Get matched with a fiduciary advisor and keep building

"This economic creation will deliver increasing wealth to our progeny far into the future," Buffett wrote. "I'll repeat what I've both said in the past and expect to say in future years: Babies born in America today are the luckiest crop in history."

Our Nation's Wealth Remains Intact'

Buffett acknowledged that Americans often rely on debt to buy homes, cars, and other assets, and some may lose if they cannot repay their loans. However, he believes the nation's overall wealth continues to grow.

"Ownership customarily passes to an American lending institution that then disposes of it to an American buyer," Buffett said. "Our nation's wealth remains intact. As Gertrude Stein put it, Money is always there, but the pockets change.'"

Trending: An EA Co-Founder Shapes This VC Backed MarketplaceNow You Can Invest in Gaming's Next Big Platform

Buffett said that since its founding, the U.S. has developed top universities, world-class medical centers, hyperproductive factories, millions of homes, and vast farmland. These achievements show the country's economic system has worked.

"They all represent a net gain for Americans from the barren lands, primitive structures and meager output of 1776," Buffett wrote.

America's Abundance'

Buffett said that the country's market system is the main driver of the country's abundance because it efficiently directs capital and human resources to their most productive uses. He thinks that public support in the U.S. is often seen as benefiting only the elderly, but reminded that millions of babies born each year are entitled to a free public education, largely funded by local taxes.
Key Points

Warren Buffett is handing over the job of Berkshire Hathaway CEO to Greg Abel on Jan. 1.

Buffett, through his moves over the past several quarters, has offered investors clues about his views on the market situation.

10 stocks we like better than S&P 500 Index 

Warren Buffett is heading into his final days as chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway, but his last message isn't completely cheerful. In fact, expressed not by words but through Buffett's recent moves, this message could be seen as a $381 billion warning to Wall Street.

It's important to note that Buffett isn't completely leaving the investing scene, as he'll continue on as Berkshire Hathaway's chairman, but, as of Jan. 1, he is handing over the investment decision reins to Greg Abel, who currently serves as the holding company's vice-chairman of non-insurance operations. This means that investors may be paying particularly close attention to Buffett's last moves as CEO.

In recent quarters through this very moment, Buffett's warning has been ringing out loud and clear. And history offers a strikingly precise picture of what may happen in 2026.

Image source: The Motley Fool.

Why investors care about Buffett's investing moves

First, though, a quick note about why investors care so much about Buffett's every investing move. This is because Buffett has been so successful over time that he's won the nickname the "Oracle of Omaha," a reference to his skill and his hometown. Buffett over nearly 60 years at the helm of Berkshire Hathaway has led market-beating returns, with Berkshire Hathaway delivering a compounded annual gain of almost 20% compared to the S&P 500's 10%.

This investing giant puts an emphasis on value investing -- the idea of buying a stock for less than what it's truly worth -- and holding on to stocks for the long term. He's joked around in the past, saying his ideal holding period is "forever."

These principles have worked well for Buffett, and throughout the years, other investors have looked to him for guidance on what to do in certain market environments or which stocks to buy. And this brings me to Buffett's big warning to Wall Street.

The billionaire has been a net seller of stocks for the past 12 quarters, and as he's sold stocks and limited his purchases, he's built up a record level of cash. In the latest quarter, it reached $381 billion.

The element that may be guiding Buffett

This suggests that Buffett hasn't seen many opportunities in the stock market over that time period. Though the investing giant hasn't explained the reasoning for his moves, it's very likely that one element in particular may be guiding him. And that's valuation. Stocks have reached record levels in recent times, as we can see through the S&P 500 Shiller CAPE ratio. This is a measure of earnings per share and stock price over a 10-year period. Since we know Buffett refuses to buy stocks that are too expensive, this trend most certainly has put the brakes on his buying activity.
From Los Angeles to Austin to Atlanta, Waymo robotaxis are everywhere. And 2026 could be the year Waymo expands its lead in the space.

Waymo, part of Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL), began in 2009 as an in-house startup within Google's X initiative and officially became Waymo in 2016. In 2018, Waymo and Jaguar paired up, using the British automaker's I-Pace EV for its testing. This is the vehicle most users are accustomed to seeing.

Since 2020, anyone in its service area can download the Waymo app and hail a fully autonomous car. Waymo says it has the most robotaxi miles driven and that it performs around 250,000 trips a week and has performed 20 million trips since the service began.

But those numbers are likely to jump, perhaps big-time. The company is targeting around 1 million rides a week by the end of 2026  four times its current volume.

Alphabet stock climbed higher in early trading on Friday.

Why 2026 could be a big year for Waymo

Dan Rowan exits a Waymo vehicle after arriving at San Jose Mineta International Airport on Nov. 12, 2025, in San Jose, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vasquez)  ASSOCIATED PRESS

In 2026, Waymo will enter its most aggressive expansion phase yet, moving beyond its current territories to tackle more US cities and international markets.

Currently, Waymo has robotaxi fleets in San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Austin, and Atlanta, where users can summon vehicles using Waymo's app or from partners like Uber (UBER) in Austin and Atlanta.

The plan for 2026 moves beyond those areas, eventually adding 20 new markets. Waymo says it is progressing in test areas in the South, including Miami, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, with full service expected to begin in early 2026.

In the West, the company plans to add Las Vegas and San Diego, with targeted service start dates in 2026.

In the Northeast, Waymo is testing in Detroit and Washington, D.C., also for 2026 launches, and added Baltimore, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis to the list earlier this month. The difficulties with northern cities, which are prone to inclement weather and conditions like snow that could block the cars' sensors, are of particular importance. Each of these cities will begin Waymo service with human operators before scaling up to driverless. The human operator sits in the driver's seat and takes over if needed.

The company is also testing in highly populous areas like New York City, which requires special permitting and will likely take a much longer time to ramp up to official service. The company did not give a targeted start date for its New York City service. Waymo is also scheduled to add service in London, its first international market, starting sometime in 2026, and has been testing in Tokyo since April.
Woodside Energy has finalized a long-term liquefied natural gas supply agreement with Turkey's state-owned pipeline operator BOTAS, converting a previously announced non-binding Heads of Agreement into a binding contract. Under the deal, Woodside will supply approximately 0.5 million tonnes per annum of LNG, equivalent to about 5.8 billion cubic meters of natural gas, over a period of up to nine years starting in 2030.

The LNG volumes will be sourced primarily from Woodsides under-construction Louisiana LNG project in the United States, supplemented by supply from its broader global portfolio. The agreement represents Woodsides first long-term LNG supply arrangement with the Turkish market.

Woodside said the deal highlights the flexibility of its LNG portfolio and aligns with its strategy to expand long-term contracted volumes tied to new US export capacity. Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Mark Abbotsford described the agreement as a strategic milestone, emphasizing Woodsides ambition to deepen its presence across key LNG markets.

The agreement strengthens Turkey's efforts to diversify gas supply sources amid ongoing volatility in global gas markets and Europes broader push to secure long-term LNG contracts following reduced Russian pipeline flows. Turkey has increasingly positioned itself as both a major LNG importer and a regional gas hub, supported by expanding regasification capacity and flexible import contracts.

For Woodside, the deal underpins the commercial case for Louisiana LNG, a cornerstone of its growth strategy in the US Gulf Coast. Securing long-term offtake agreements has been a key priority for developers seeking to advance large-scale LNG projects in a tightening global LNG market expected in the early 2030s.

The contract also carries geopolitical significance, reflecting closer energy cooperation between Turkey and the United States. Woodside noted support from both governments following the initial HOA announcement earlier this year, signaling broader political backing for transatlantic LNG trade.

As global LNG demand continues to rise, particularly from Europe and emerging markets, long-term contracts such as this one are increasingly viewed as critical to balancing energy security, price stability, and investment certainty.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Fact checked by Suzanne Kvilhaug

Willie B. Thomas / Getty Images If you're constantly worried about retirement, you're not alone.

Key Takeaways

For many Americans, peak earning years are between the ages of 45 and 54, and many of them worry about saving enough for retirement.

The earlier you start saving for retirement, the more you can benefit from compound interest.

Taking advantage of retirement accounts, such as 401(k) plans, and individual retirement accounts is a way to build savings and ease retirement concerns.

For many Americans, retirement is a constant worry. According to BlackRock, 47% of Americans between the ages of 45 to 54 worry about their retirement savings at least once a day. These financial moves will help to assuage some of those worries.

"Its common for Gen Xers to feel squeezed between saving for retirement and living a meaningful life now. The good news is that they are achieving peak incomes," said Preston Cherry, CFP and founder of Concurrent Wealth.

Here's how Gen Xers can move into greater retirement savings and less worry.

Start Saving Early

When it comes to retirement savings, young investors have an advantage because the money they invest has the advantage of growing with compound interest over several decades. Assuming average stock market returns of 6% to 7%, every dollar you invest now can triple or quadruple by the time you retire.

People in their 40s and 50s have shorter time horizons, but investing 10 to 20 years out from retirement can still make a difference in their retirement savings.

Save Regularly

If you aren't already doing so, automate your retirement savings strategy. Put aside money with each paycheck or each month, even if it's only a small amount. These steady payments can help your retirement savings grow, and they can also help to calm some of the panic you may be feeling about retirement.

You should also establish an emergency fund. Put three to six months of living expenses in a high-yield savings account, and only reach for it in times of an emergency. This will reduce the temptation to tap your retirement funds for surprise expenses, which can potentially incur hefty penalties.

Take Advantage of Retirement Accounts

A 401(k) or similar tax-advantaged plan is a great way to build up your retirement savings, especially if it comes with a matching contribution from your employer. As a rule of thumb, investing 10% to 15% of each paycheck is a good goal.

In 2025, you can contribute as much as $23,500 in a 401(k). This amount goes up to $70,000 when your contributions are combined with your employer's contributions. If you are in your 50s, you may invest in a catch-up contribution of $7,500 into your 401(k).
SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here.

If its oral argument is any indication, the US Supreme Court is likely to strike down another piece of federal campaign finance law. But ignore the scary headlines. Despite all the talk of gutting and eviscerating, a ruling for the petitioners in Republican National Senatorial Committee v. Federal Election Commission won't bring down any more of the sky than has tumbled already.

And if it doesn't make things brighter, at least it will make them a bit simpler.

The issue before the court is narrow and technical: say the hypothetical Bibliophile Party nominates S. Carter for federal office. Can Congress limit how much of the party's spending can be done in coordination with Carter's campaign? In other words, should Carter and the Bibliophiles be able to discuss in detail who's going to spend what money where?

That's it. Nothing else. And whatever one's views on the reach of the First Amendment into campaign finance regulation, it's important to see how simple and straightforward the question is.

The US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, in ruling against the petitioners (who include then-Senator JD Vance), conceded that the Supreme Court's recent precedents on the topic would seem to make the restriction on cooperation unconstitutional, were it not for the continued existence of a quarter-century-old decision that upheld the limits. Since that case (known as Colorado II) was handed down, the Supreme Court has held that campaign finance regulation will survive First Amendment scrutiny only when it has a tangible effect on corruption.

So, where's the corruption here? The major worry is that if a party and candidate can coordinate their expenditures, the limits on contributions to those seeking federal office will become meaningless. As the law exists, the party can raise money for "independent" expenditures, but only a tiny fraction of that cash can be spent in coordination with the candidate. Justice Elena Kagan captured this concern during the oral argument, when she remarked that with "coordinated contributions, you might as well just be giving money to the candidate."

Put that way, what's known as the "party expenditure provision" of the Federal Election Campaign Act plays to a sensible fear. Let's go back to the decision by the hypothetical Bibliophile Party to nominate Carter for federal office. Maybe Carter has an old friend - call her Billionaire Buddy. Buddy contributes the maximum allowable individual amount to Carter's campaign, then assures him that she's given a lot more to the Bibliophile Party itself, wink-wink.

It's easy to see why people worry about such corruption, which the Supreme Court in recent years has said is the only permissible ground for regulating how money is spent on campaigns. But, in the first place, Carter's old friend can do that in any case; the party expenditure provision limits only how Carter and the Bibliophiles work together, not what Buddy can tell her old friend.(1) Besides, the risk of corruption might not be as great as it seems - at least if it's true, as has been widely asserted, that in the roughly 17 states that allow coordination not a single documented instance of a quid pro quo between a donor and candidate has turned up.

I'm not denying that such corruption exists, or that there aren't well-heeled individuals or groups that have wink-wink arrangements with candidates in exchange for big party contributions. But restrictions on coordination between candidate and party seem a poor vehicle for stopping them.

Still, there are other rationales for keeping candidate and party the length of an arm apart. Consider the case put forth by the Republican National Committee, who together with Democratic campaign committees argued as intervenors. In their brief, they argued that Colorado II should be preserved, largely on the ground that the party expenditure provision prevents both actual corruption and the appearance thereof. Alas, they cited no examples, and offered no way to distinguish the current system, under which large donors to parties or to PACs are likely in any case to gain special access.

But perhaps their real concern was something else, spotted at the oral argument by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson:

So what I think you're saying is that if these limits are eliminated that it will somehow make the party or the parties on both sides into kind of glorified fundraisers for the candidate as opposed to putting their money and efforts into the kinds of party-building activities that you would prefer to do.

That's a nice point, and a fair argument. Why on earth should parties be at the service of candidates, rather than the other way around? But the problem has nothing whatsoever to do with corruption; it has to do with how much power parties want to cede to those they nominate. A party that wishes to organize in a way that keeps control out of the candidate's hands is free to do so. The party can build in whatever safeguards it wants. If it doesn't, the reason will be that the donors themselves prefer that the walls between party and candidate be broken down. If that's the case, it's hardly the federal government's job to take sides in a party's internal power struggle.

Don't get me wrong. I'd be a lot happier if we spent less on campaigns than we do. I'd also prefer much stronger political parties, just as I'd prefer stronger democratic institutions generally. But the collapse isn't going to gather any more speed just because candidate and party are allowed to talk to each other about who's going to spend money where and on what.

---

(1) In my earlier take on the case, I endorsed the idea that the campaign and the party should be forbidden from confirming to the candidate how much Buddy has contributed.

Stephen Lisle Carter is an American legal scholar who serves as the William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Law at Yale Law School. He writes on legal and social issues.
 Jesse Johnson, 28, was arrested in Gilbert, Arizona, after three instances in which he allegedly spied on women's feet as they vacuumed their cars, AZFamily reports.

Police said Johnson's M.O. at the Super Star Car Wash in Gilbert was to park next to a woman's car at the vacuum station, then slide underneath her car for a few minutes before climbing back out.

One victim said she felt "very violated and I've been having nightmares."

It's not the first time Johnson has been caught lusting after feet: Court documents revealed that he had been cited at least four times in Nebraska, and that he had touched a woman's ankle in a grocery store.

He admitted to authorities there that he "is sexually attracted to women's feet" and "at times, can't control his sexual desires."

Johnson was charged with three counts of voyeurism and three counts of disorderly conduct and held on $10,000 bond. [AZFamily, 9/26/2024]
But this doesn't mean college isn't worth the expense for many people; it's just that the decision has stopped being a no-brainer. Think of higher education like you would a risky asset in that the odds are it will pay off but there are no guarantees. That may sound trite but the financial stakes have never been higher, with the average cost to attend college topping $38,000 per student per year and student debt hovering around $1.7 trillion.

A study published this year by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland confirms what many recent graduates are discovering, which is that it's hard to find a job. Based on their research, economists at the regional Fed bank found that the gap in the rate at which high school and college grads exit unemployment began to narrow around 2000 and by 2019 high school graduates left unemployment sooner than college grads. Here's how they summed up their findings:

"Our analysis suggests that technical change in the 21st century may no longer favor college graduates, in which case further growth in the employment share of college-educated workers would likely lower the premium that college-educated workers receive compared with non-college-educated workers."

Historically, college grads had much lower rates of unemployment and if they lost their job, they were not unemployed for long. Now unemployment rates and the job-finding rate are converging between college grads and everyone else. Even more worrying, some are leaving the labor force entirely, perhaps because they are discouraged.

This could be a clear sign of a weak labor market, or at least further evidence that employers over-hired at the end of the pandemic and are still rightsizing their workforce. Worse, this could be a longer-term structural issue that won't improve even when the economy strengthens, perhaps related to the artificial intelligence revolution. The Cleveland Fed study suggests the current state of the economy isn't to blame (though it may be exacerbating the situation). Labor market prospects for new grads have been deteriorating for decades. The percent of the newly unemployed who find a job has been converging between the cohorts since 2000 and recently flipped. It averaged 41% for high school grads and 47% for college grads between 1976 and 2000, but in 2024 to 2025 the rate was 41.5% for high school grads and 37.1% for college grads.

The reasons why are many. A big one relates to the laws of supply and demand in that that there are simply many more college graduates than in the 1990s. If you increase the supply of something its price and scarcity decrease. The links between a college degree, increased earnings and a comfortable lifestyle were powerful incentives, which is helps explain why the share of the college educated population among people 25 years and older increased from 21% in 1991 to 38% in 2024.

Then there's the possibility that the higher education system is producing lower quality graduates. Employers used to hire college grads in part because a degree was a valuable signal that the employee would have certain intellectual skills, as well as being hard working and conscientious. But such signals weaken at a time when many institutions of higher learning are suffering financial difficulties and pushing too many unqualified students through the system in exchange for much needed tuition funds. Not even Harvard is immune, with about 60% of the grades handed out in classes for the college's undergraduate program being A's, up from 40% a decade ago and less than 25% two decades ago, according to a report from its Office of Undergraduate Education.

Let's also consider that there may just be less demand for the sorts of jobs college grads are doing. The college premium used to be large because technology made thinking skills more valuable. Now that may be changing because today's emerging technology centered around AI makes college skills less necessary or valuable, which can be seen in the trend of big companies are hiring fewer managers.

Does this mean college is a waste of time and money? It is important to remember the average college graduate can still expect to earn $1 million more over their lifetime, even if the premium has stagnated. We tend to judge the success of a degree based on what happens to a graduate in the first few years after entering the labor market. But a degree is a lifetime asset.

Which is why high school graduates should approach the decision to attend college like an investor would evaluate any financial asset: What's the risk? What's the reward? What's a fair price to pay? Education isn't a waste of time and money, but doing your research is key when picking an institution that offers good value for the money in today's rapidly evolving economy.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Allison Schrager, a Bloomberg columnist, is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute and a contributing editor of City Journal.
In his preface to A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens expresses the hope that his little book would not put my readers out of humor with themselves. But he obviously wanted to induce soul-searching in some readers: the wealthy businessmen indifferent to the plight of the poor. And in some ways, he succeededthe book was an instant best-seller and helped popularize philanthropy during the Christmas season. But the basic problem hasnt gone away.

We still have Scrooges this holiday season, and the wealthiest of themGeorge Soros, Michael Bloomberg, Bill Gates, and Tom Steyerhave inflicted far more suffering on the poor than Scrooge ever did to Bob Cratchit and the working class of his day. These billionaires may not seem like Scrooges, given their extensive philanthropy, but thats only because most readers today dont understand exactly where the original Scrooge went wrong.

We think him of a greedy misera clutching, covetous, old sinner, in Dickenss wordswhose wealth came at the expense of the adults and children forced to live in squalid flats and toil at grueling jobs for meager pay. Dickens was inspired to write the story by a government report on child labor in mines and factories, and by the living conditions he had witnessed among workers at textile mills in Manchester and in Lowell, Massachusetts. Like the poet William Blake, who famously lamented the dark Satanic mills of the Industrial Revolution, Dickens clearly saw the downside of nineteenth-century capitalism.

But there was an upside, too, which was why workers kept leaving their farms and other jobs to work in those mills. In the centuries before the Industrial Revolution, illiteracy was widespread in England (especially among women), life expectancy, was less than 40, and per-capita income remained stagnant. But during the nineteenth century, literacy rates, life expectancy, and incomes rose at unprecedented rates.

English workers incomes more than doubled, and it wasnt just factory workers who benefitted. As domestic servants quit their round-the-clock jobs to work shorter hours in factories, their employers had to offer new perks. It was now necessary, one Victorian mistress complained in 1872, to allow the help to go to bed at ten oclock every night, and to give them an afternoon out every other Sunday, or no servant would stay.

She seems as hard-hearted as Scrooge, who complains about giving Bob Cratchit a day off on Christmas and forces him to work in a frigid office. Scrooge is such a miser that he barely heats his own dilapidated home, where he dines on gruel beside a tiny fire. His wealth is of no use to him! his nephew sadly observes. He dont do any good with it.

But this tightwads wealth was actually doing plenty of good. The savings from misers like Scrooge and his partner, Marley, financed the Industrial Revolution, as economists Phil Gramm, Robert Ecklund, and John Early have pointed out. Since Scrooge and Marley never consumed the wealth they created, its use was, in reality, a gift to humanity, they write in The Myth of American Inequality . Even as Dickenss Ghost of Christmas Present pulled back his robe to reveal the children who embodied Ignorance and Want, the wealth accumulated by British investors like Scrooge was already beginning the long drive that would do more to end ignorance and want than all the governments and all the charities that ever existed.

Scrooges great moral failing is not his miserliness but his indifference to the woes of the working class and the poor. When asked to contribute to a charity for those lacking food, he suggests they go to a workhouse. Told that some of them would rather die first, he replies, If they would rather die, they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.

Hes justifying his callousness by invoking the Malthusian theory, long popular among intellectuals, that population growth would inevitably outstrip food supply, producing a surplus of people. Malthus was utterly wrongfood supply has grown much faster than populationbut his theory provided a convenient rationale for those arguing against aid to poor people who were supposedly doomed to starve eventually anyway.

The Scrooges of 2025 sound nothing like the original Scrooge: they acknowledge a responsibility to help the downtrodden and are famed for their philanthropic efforts. Yet they, too, have callously ignored the travails of the less fortunate, and they, too, have rationalized their indifference by seizing on dubious theories. And whereas Scrooge didnt actively promote Malthusianismhe didnt fund authoritarian population-control measures, as twentieth-century Malthusians didtodays Scrooges have spent billions promoting their theories while ignoring the disastrous impacts on the poor and the working classes.

George Soros has wreaked havoc in low-income neighborhoods across America by bankrolling the campaigns of district attorneys who refuse to prosecute minor crimes or lock up violent criminals. His philanthropic network, the Open Society Foundations, and the organizations it funds have campaigned for policies to reduce penalties for shoplifting and other crimes, eliminate cash bail, and force judges to release repeat offenders, who often proceed to commit more crimes. These policies are justified as remedies for the supposed racial bias in the criminal justice system that Soros seems to blame for disproportionate rates of incarcerationa theory just as discredited as Malthusianism.

The consequences have hit hardest in the poorest neighborhoods: shoplifting epidemics, stores forced to lock up their wares or shut down, sidewalks commandeered by drug dealers and prostitutes, violent attacks and murders by repeat offenders released without bail. The crime and disorder have caused residents and businesses to flee, leaving empty storefronts and buildings, yet Soros keeps promoting these policies, ignoring the consequences as well as the backlash from minorities in those neighborhoods who have felt the impact and voted Soros-backed prosecutors out of office.

As mayor of New York City, Michael Bloomberg had the good sense to resist Soros-backed efforts to weaken law enforcement, but he has hurt the poor in other ways.

Bloomberg Philanthropies has been the leading supporter of the unethical campaign against one of the most promising public-health advances of this century. Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death globally, and those deaths occur disproportionately among low-income smokers in America and other countries. The best tool for weaning them off cigarettes is an electronic cigarette, which was been shown to be much more effective than other smoking-cessation tools (like nicotine gum or patches). Smoking rates dropped sharply after nicotine vaping became popular 15 years ago, a development welcomed by health authorities in Britain, who estimated that it eliminated 95 percent of the harm of cigarettes. The Royal College of Physicians has noted that nicotine itself is not especially hazardous and declared it unjust, irrational and immoral to deny safer nicotine alternatives to smokers.

But thanks significantly to Bloomberg, surveys show more than two-thirds of smokers in America and two dozen other countries believe that vaping is as dangerous as or more dangerous than smoking. Bloomberg Philanthropies has lavishly funded the long-running campaign to terrify the public with false alarms about vaping. In 2021, nearly two dozen academics and other experts on tobacco control wrote to Bloomberg urging him to change course and offered to show him evidence of vapings benefits, but they could not persuade him to meet.

Some of the fearmongers supported by Bloomberg, notably the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, are activists looking for a new cause now that smoking rates have been declining among youths and adults. Others are prohibitionists opposed to any use of nicotinethe quit or die approach. Their scare tactics have led to needless restrictions on vaping devices in the United States and around the world, including outright bans on nicotine vaping in Mexico, Brazil, Vietnam, and India. As a result of whats been called philanthro-colonialism, most of the more than 1 billion smokers in the world have been either forbidden or discouraged from using a tool that could save their lives.

Bloomberg also provided support for public-health officials who promoted lockdowns and other Covid restrictions that disproportionately hurt the poor, though he was relatively restrained by comparison with Bill Gates. Through his public statements and philanthropy, Gates backed the lockdowns and other pandemic policies that proved singularly cruel to American children. Tiny Tim wouldnt have had to wear a Covid mask in London (children under 11 were exempted), but Gates would have forced him to wear one in America. The European Unions public-health agency recommended against masking children under 12, and the World Health Organization advised against it for children under six, but the U.S. recommended masking everyone starting at age 2with the enthusiastic support of Gates, who called masks pretty magical.

The Microsoft cofounder advocated universal masking in schools and funded projects to promote mask-wearing, insisting that masks were not that bothersome. He ignored evidence that they interfered with social development and learning, especially for young children and those with disabilities, and he remained indifferent to the evidence from around the world that mask mandates and lockdowns had done little or no good while imposing enormous social and economic costs. In 2022, Gates published "How to Prevent the Next Pandemic", an more power to the public-health establishmentincluding a new international force of 3,000 pandemic firefightersto repeat these failed strategies in the future.

But like Scrooge, Gates has repented in time for Christmas for at least some of his sins. After spending billions on his environmental agenda, including policies to reduce carbon emissionsa cause also funded by Bloomberg and Soroshe enraged his beneficiaries a few weeks ago by publishing an essay rejecting the favorite doomsday theory of modern intellectuals: that the climate emergency is an existential threat. Climate change will not lead to humanitys demise, Gates wrote, finally recognizing that its not the biggest threat to the lives and welfare of poor people.

He noted that campaigns to halt the use of fossil fuels had caused food shortages in poor countries (by depriving farmers of synthetic fertilizers) and prevented the construction of power plants for people whose homes still lack electricity (over 700 million, mainly in Africa). Addressing climate change is important, Gates wrote, but it shouldnt divert limited resources from the more pressing problems of poverty and disease.

Theres been no such contrition from Tom Steyer, the most shameless Scrooge of them all. After becoming a billionaire from a hedge fund that invested heavily in coal projects, he began spending his money to stop others from using fossil fuels. He and his advocacy group, NextGen America, fought oil pipelines and supported referenda and other measures restricting fossil fuels, especially in his home state of California. The states policies have caused oil refineries to flee the state and forced utilities to buy expensive green energy, saddling Californians with the second-highest gasoline prices in America and electricity rates nearly double the national average and higher than every state except Hawaii. Steyer is as responsible as anyone for those high pricesyet he now has the gall to run for governor on a populist platform denouncing the states high living costs. In one particularly oblivious campaign ad, he holds up a sign proclaiming, Utility rates are too high.

It should be acknowledged that todays Scrooges no doubt mean wellunlike the original Scrooge, they want to help the poor. But like him, theyve done far more good for humanity through their capitalist investments than their philanthropy. Before they impose any more pet schemes on the world, they might consider Scrooges initial explanation for refusing to donate to a charitable cause. Its not my business, he said. Its enough for a man to understand his own business, and not to interfere with other peoples.

John Tierney is a contributing editor of City Journal, where this first appeaed. He is a coauthor of Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Strength, and a contributing science columnist for the New York Times, where he previously wrote "The Big City" column.
I recently returned from a truly magical trip to Iceland. While there, my husband and I hiked, ate wonderful food, and soaked in a different culture.

On day five of six, we ventured out to find what was described as a hot springs river, a body of water fed equally by glacier melt and geothermal hot springs. As a floating enthusiast, this was a must-see for me.

We hiked for an hour, mostly up, then stripped down to our bathing suits and, with an international cadre, lay ourselves down in 85-degree, crystal-clear water. It was soothing, restful, and worth every step up that mountain.

Now, upon returning home, the experience has me thinking about rewards. This excursion held a precious prize for me: I was giddy with the idea of indulging my favorite hobby in a mountain pass on a day when the temperature reached a high of 52 degrees.

But what if there is no reward at the end? What if the hard work, sacrifice, and suffering dont lead to a payoff at the end? What then?

The challenge Im being drawn to these days is learning to celebrate, revel in, and enjoy the middle, whether or not the reward shows up later. That means appreciating that my legs can carry me up, up, up. It means pausing to notice the change in flora as we ascend. It means standing in awe of a perfect rainbow, arcing over a series of waterfalls.

This is mindfulness. Being in the present. Letting the moment sink in, rather than flash by.

What rewards might be in the middle for you today or this week?

Will you notice them? Will you let them sink in? If you do, Id love to hear what you find.

Diane W. Shannon is an internal medicine physician and physician coach.
Three weeks after giving birth, you are hit with a blinding headache and fading vision. The next available appointment with your doctor is two weeks away. You finally go to your doctor, and your blood pressure has already reached a dangerous level without you even realizing.

The solution is straightforward. A home blood pressure monitor costs between $69 and $169. Yet most insurers will not cover it because many states do not require them to. The result is predictable: People continue to face life-threatening complications even though they are very much preventable.

Problem magnitude

Hypertension affects roughly one in three American adults and costs the nation $131 billion each year in health care services, medications, and lost productivity. The risk of hypertension becomes even greater during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Up to 10 percent of pregnant individuals experience high blood pressure, representing the highest rate in the past 25 years. If it goes uncontrolled, hypertension can develop into preeclampsia or eclampsia and may lead to strokes, heart attacks, or death. Most importantly, 97 percent of these deaths are preventable. Research demonstrates that home blood pressure monitoring is highly effective.

Boston Medical Center implemented a remote monitoring program for postpartum patients. Before this program began, only 13 percent of high-risk patients had their blood pressure checked within a week after delivery. After distributing the monitors, that figure increased to 79 percent. Even more significantly, the rate of severe hypertension fell from 18.4 percent to 5.9 percent. This represents a real difference between patients returning home with confidence and patients leaving with risk and uncertainty.

The financial case is equally compelling. An economic analysis showed that remote monitoring saves money in 99.28 percent of cases, and avoiding a single hospital readmission costs only $145. In comparison, one hospitalization for preeclampsia can cost between $15,000 and $50,000.

The equity issue requires particular attention. Black women experience maternal mortality at rates three to four times higher than white women and receive less blood pressure monitoring during routine clinic visits. When Boston Medical Center provided home monitors, this gap was filled. Black patients went from being monitored 41 percent of the time to 93 percent, reaching the same level of care as white patients. Home monitoring removes barriers such as transportation, childcare responsibilities, work schedules, and biases present in clinical settings.

National momentum and remaining gaps

Forty-two states currently provide Medicaid coverage for home blood pressure monitors, and 25 of those states also include clinical support services such as provider training, data interpretation, and patient education. States such as Michigan, Maryland, New Jersey, and Georgia have already recognized these devices as an essential part of health care infrastructure. Despite this progress, significant gaps remain. Most importantly, not all states have this health policy. Some states restrict coverage to one monitor every five years. Others require prior authorization, which slows access to care. The wide variation in state policies shows that evidence-based best practices have not yet been adopted nationwide; however, the first priority is to have some extent of the policy in each state.

Addressing reasonable concerns

Some people question whether home monitors are accurate enough. The solution is simple: Coverage should be limited to clinically validated devices. Monitors that are not validated can fail to detect high blood pressure in 48 to 80 percent of cases, making validation essential. Professional organizations already maintain lists of approved devices specifically intended for use during pregnancy.

Another concern is that patients may not use the monitors consistently. Research shows the opposite: 93 percent of patients with home monitors submit readings, compared with only 33 percent who attend in-person visits. Patients are more likely to follow monitoring schedules at home rather than navigating clinic appointments, childcare responsibilities, and work obligations.

A third counterargument points to free blood pressure checks at pharmacies. However, only a single reading at a pharmacy will provide limited clinical value. Effective monitoring is multiple readings over time, professional interpretation, and follow-up care. This level of comprehensive management cannot be achieved through occasional pharmacy visits.

ADVERTISEMENT

The path forward

States should require comprehensive coverage that includes clinically validated devices at no cost to patients. Forty-two states have already adopted this approach. The evidence for effectiveness and cost-efficiency is clear, and the steps for implementation are well established. What remains is a question of political commitment.

The central question for policymakers is whether we can afford to leave this need unaddressed. The case is clear and compelling: The science, the economics, and the equity considerations all support action. Every state legislature should recognize universal coverage for home blood pressure monitoring as a critical investment in saving lives, advancing health equity, and improving the efficiency of the health care system.

Soneesh Kothagundla is a health policy advocate.
> <

23:58 Kannada TV actress dies by suicide in Bengaluru A 26-year-old Kannada television actress allegedly died by suicide at her paying guest accommodation in Bengaluru on Monday, the police said.The deceased was identified as Nandini C M. The incident occurred in the Kengeri area, they said.Citing a death note recovered from the spot, a senior... Read more >

23:45 IIT Kanpur student found hanging in hostel A 26-year-old final-year B Tech student of IIT Kanpur was found dead in his hostel room on Monday, the police said.A note with the words Sorry Everyone was recovered from the room, said assistant commissioner of police (Kalyanpur) Ashutosh Kumar.The student, Jai Singh Meena, a native of Ajmer in... Read more >

23:39 Woman, lover held for killing friend in Odisha hotel The police on Monday arrested a woman and her lover on the charge of killing his friend in a hotel room in Balasore town of Odisha four days ago. In a statement, the police said that the woman and her lover strangled the 30-year-old to death following a fight with the other two after a... Read more >

23:11 Ukraine targeted Putin home with drone attack: Lavrov Russian President Vladimir Putin Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday said Ukraine had attempted to attack President Vladimir Putin's residence in northern Russia using long-range drones, according to ANI quoting a Reuters report. According to Russian authorities, 91 drones were launched overnight towards the... Read more >

23:09 DRDO conducts maiden flight test of 120 km strike range Pinaka rockets Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket/ANI Photo The maiden flight test of Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) was conducted successfully at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha's Chandipur on Monday.Interestingly, the maiden trial of the 120 km-range rockets was conducted on the same day the project was cleared for the Indian Army by the... Read more >

22:41 BJP releases first list of 70 candidates for Mumbai civic polls The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday released its first list of 70 candidates for the upcoming elections to the Mumbai civic body, a day before the deadline to file nominations ends.While the list includes some corporators who won the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation polls in 2017, prominent... Read more >

22:17 Hours after partying with friends, air hostess dies in Gurugram An air hostess, who was visiting a friend in DLF Phase 1, died after experiencing difficulty in breathing, police said on Monday. According to the police, the deceased, identified as Simran Dadwal, 25, is a native of Punjab's Mohali and worked for Air India. She had come to her friend... Read more >

21:59 ISI ex-chief Hameed challenges military court conviction: Report Pakistan's former spy chief Faiz Hameed Pakistan's former spy chief Faiz Hameed challenged his conviction by a military court which had sentenced him to 14 years in jail, media reports said on Monday.Hameed, the former chief of the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence, was convicted on December 11 by a Field General Court Martial... Read more >

21:35 Delhi airport sees 128 flight cancellations due to fog At least 128 flights were cancelled, eight diverted, and nearly 470 services delayed at the Delhi airport due to dense fog on Monday. An official said 64 departures and 64 arrivals were cancelled, while 8 flights were diverted due to dense fog and low visibility conditions at the Delhi... Read more >

21:18 4 juveniles held for assaulting migrant, posting video on social media in TN Four teenagers have been apprehended in Tiruvallur district for allegedly attacking a man with a sickle and uploading reels of the assault on social media while under the influence of alcohol, the police said on Monday.The incident took place on the evening of December 26 near the railway... Read more >

21:05 MEA trashes Pakistan's comments on condition of minorities in India File image India on Monday said Pakistan's horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well established fact and no amount of finger pointing will obfuscate it. New Delhi said this while strongly trashing Pakistan's comments on the condition of minorities in India. We... Read more >

21:00 Unidentified gunmen kill 2 policemen in Pakistan File image Unidentified gunmen killed two policemen in different incidents in northwest Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Monday, officials said.The incidents occurred in the Tank district bordering South Waziristan.In the first incident, motorcycle-borne unidentified gunmen opened fire on... Read more >

20:32 There should be protection for people of Northeast: Rijiju Union Minister Kiren Rijiju/File image Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday stressed the urgent need to ensure the safety and protection of people from India's Northeast region following the death of Angel Chakma, a student from Tripura, who was brutally stabbed in Dehradun after allegedly facing racial abuse.There should be... Read more >

20:28 BSE Sensex top losers today Benchmark Sensex declined by nearly 346 points while Nifty closed below 26,000 on Monday due to selling in utilities, IT and blue-chip oil & gas shares, foreign fund outflows and thin year-end trading. Extending the downtrend to the fourth day running, the 30-share BSE Sensex declined... Read more >

20:16 TDB ex-member Vijayakumar arrested in Sabarimala gold theft case Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple/File image Former TDB member N Vijayakumar was arrested on Monday in connection with the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple gold loss case, police said.Police sources said Vijayakumar was a member of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) during the tenure of former president A Padmakumar, who has already been... Read more >

20:12 VPN services suspended in J-K's Shopian File image Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district on Monday suspended the use of Virtual Private Network (VPN) services until further orders, over security considerations. According to a police spokesperson, the deputy commissioner directed the suspension of VPN services with immediate... Read more >

20:09 Mumbai's Metro Line 3 to be operational overnight on New Year's eve The Metro Line-3, which runs from Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR stations in Mumbai, will operate through the night on New Year's Eve to facilitate safe and convenient travel for commuters. The special extended service on the corridor, popularly known as Aqua Line, will commence after 10:30 pm... Read more >

19:56 Police quiz 15 migrant workers in Indore on suspicion of being Bangladeshis The police on Monday questioned around 15 migrant workers in Indore on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals and began verifying their documents to establish their real identity, an official said. Local residents had complained to the police that some Bangladeshi nationals were living... Read more >

19:52 ATM numbers dip in FY25 as digital payments rise: RBI The number of automated teller machines (ATMs) declined moderately in FY25, with the increase in digitisation, a RBI report said on Monday. The number of bank branches increased by over 2 percent on the back of network expansion by the public sector banks, the report on Trend and Progress of... Read more >

19:15 Rupee falls 8 paise to close at 89.98 against US dollar The rupee depreciated eight paise to close at 89.98 (provisional) against the US dollar on Monday, weighed down by foreign fund outflows and a negative trend in domestic equities. Forex traders said persistent capital withdrawals from foreign investors, alongside heightened dollar demand... Read more >

18:54 Abandoned drone recovered in J-K's Poonch The police on Monday seized an unidentified drone found abandoned in a field in a forward village in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, officials said.Special Operations Group (SOG) of J&K Police received an input about a drone abandoned in a field at village Gohled in Mendhar sector this... Read more >

18:31 Muslim panchayat in UP bans DJs, fireworks at weddings File image A Muslim community panchayat in Mathura district has taken a unique decision to curb extravagance and unnecessary rituals during weddings, imposing a fine of Rs 11,000 and social boycott on families found violating the norms, community leaders said on Monday. The decision was taken... Read more >

18:24 Two held in digital arrest fraud case involving Rs 1.95 cr Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com The police on Monday arrested two persons from Gujarat in connection with a digital arrest' cyber fraud case in which a woman here was duped of Rs 1.95 crore.The cybercrime police apprehended the accused, who allegedly played a crucial role in the fraud by using multiple mule bank accounts to... Read more >

17:55 IIT Kanpur 2000 batch alumni pledge record Rs 100 cr donation to alma mater Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur/ANI Photo In a landmark moment for alumni philanthropy, the Class of 2000 of the Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur (IIT-K) has pledged Rs 100 crore to its alma mater during its silver jubilee reunion held on campus in Kanpur.According to an official press communique issued by the IIT-K on Monday, this... Read more >

17:41 Jharkhand: Police attacked while stopping illegal liquor sale, four held Two policemen, including a station house officer, were injured after miscreants pelted stones at them in Jharkhand's Bokaro district, officials said on Monday. The incident occurred near Pupunki Ashram within the jurisdiction of Muffasil police station on Sunday night when police attempted... Read more >

17:21 Sandeep Dikshit appointed as chairperson of Rachnatmak Congress The Congress on Monday appointed Sandeep Dikshit as the chairperson of its platform dedicated to engagement with civil society groups, experts and academicians, called 'Rachnatmak Congress'.The appointment was made by the party's president, Mallikarjun Kharge, and will be implemented with... Read more >

17:20 India's wholesale inflation stays negative for 2nd month India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation remained in the negative zone for the second consecutive month in November 2025, according to the latest government data.The annual inflation rate was recorded at -0.32%, a slight recovery from the -1.21% seen in October.The continued deflationary... Read more >

16:55 What the Indian govt is buying with Rs 79,000 crore The defence ministry on Monday approved procurement of long range rockets, missiles, radar systems and military platforms worth Rs 79,000 crore to bolster the military's combat prowess.The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, green-lighted the... Read more >

16:48 Zelenskyy seeks 50-year security guarantees from Trump Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday stated that US President Donald Trump had informed him about a 20-point peace proposal for Ukraine that Trump had discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin.Zelenskyy made the remarks after meeting Trump at the US President's Mar-a-Lago Club... Read more >

15:31 SIR hearings halted in Hooghly as TMC MLA protests SIR hearings at Chinsurah-Mogra block office in West Bengal's Hooghly district were halted for some time on Monday after TMC MLA Asit Mazumdar objected to the exclusion of booth-level agents (BLAs) during the process, officials said.The hearings, which are being conducted at the block office for... Read more >

15:28 Govt welcomes Aravalli order, ban on mining stays Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to stay its order accepting a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges, and said the government stands committed to its protection and restoration.The apex court kept in abeyance the directions... Read more >

14:48 PVR INOX to rerelease Satyajit Ray's Aranyer Din Ratri in 4K restored print A 4K restored version of filmmaker Satyajit Ray's 1970 classic Aranyer Din Ratri is set to rerelease in PVR INOX theatres on January 9.The theatrical chain will release the movie with English subtitles in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune.Starring Sharmila Tagore, Simi Garewal,... Read more >

14:22 SC left serious concerns unaddressed: Unnao victim's lawyer The Supreme Court stayed the Delhi high court's order suspending the life sentence of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case of a minor, on Monday.Reacting to the apex court's decision, Mehmood Pracha, advocate for the Unnao rape survivor,... Read more >

13:53 Horrific hate crime: Rahul Gandhi on killing of Tripura student in Dehradun Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Monday called the killing of a Tripura student in Uttarakhand's Dehradun a 'horrific hate crime', as he accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of 'normalising' hate.Twenty-four-year-old Angel Chakma from Nandannagar in the West Tripura district... Read more >

13:22 SC keeps Aravalli order in abeyance The Supreme Court on Monday put in abeyance its November 20 order that had accepted the Union Environment Ministry's definition of the Aravalli Hills and the Aravalli Range, a move that had raised concerns over the possibility of regulated mining activities across large parts of the ecologically... Read more >

13:11 Mcap of 7 of top-10 most valued firms declines by Rs 35,439 cr The combined market valuation of seven of the top-10 most valued firms declined by Rs 35,439.36 crore in a holiday-shortened last week, with State Bank of India taking the biggest hit, in line with a muted trend in equities. Last week, the BSE benchmark climbed 112.09 points or 0.13 per... Read more >

12:37 SC stays HC order suspending Sengar's sentence The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Delhi high court's order suspending the life sentence of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case involving a minor girl. Advocate Hemant Kumar Maurya, appearing for the victim, welcomed the apex court's... Read more >

11:49 Delhi airport sees 128 flight cancellations At least 128 flights were cancelled, eight got diverted, and nearly 200 services were delayed at the Delhi airport due to dense fog on Monday.An official said 64 departures and 64 arrivals were cancelled, while eight flights got diverted due to dense fog and low visibility conditions at the Delhi... Read more >

11:44 Chinese military starts new drills in Taiwan Strait The Chinese military on Monday started new major drills in the 'middle areas' of the Taiwan Strait amid rising diplomatic tensions with Japan over Taiwan that Beijing claims as its territory.The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theatre Command is employing fighters, bombers and... Read more >

11:37 Panel to oversee FDI commitment under NZ FTA India will set up an oversight committee to assess whether New Zealand should be granted a 'grace period'or additional time if the country fails to fulfil its foreign direct investment (FDI) commitment over a 15-year period.The two countries announced the conclusion of the free trade agreement... Read more >

11:05 Mexico: 13 killed, 98 injured as interoceanic passenger train derails At least 13 people were killed and 98 others injured after a passenger train on the interoceanic corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway met with an accident on the Salina Cruz-Coatzacoalcos route in Mexico on Sunday, the Mexican Navy Secretariat said.According to the statement issued by... Read more >

10:37 Flight ops hit at Delhi airport, flyers cautioned Dense fog in Delhi has caused significant disruptions at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, with visibility dropping to just 50 meters.This has led to flight delays and cancellations, with airlines such as IndiGo and Air India issuing advisories warning passengers of potential... Read more >

09:51 Delhi: Teen dies after falling from plastic shed of restaurant A 16-year-old boy died after falling from a plastic shed of a restaurant in northwest Delhi's Gujranwala area, police said on Monday.Police received a PCR call on Saturday, and upon reaching the spot, they found that the injured boy, Kabin, a Class 11 student and resident of the area, had already... Read more >

09:50 Express train catches fire in Andhra, 1 killed Image only for representation One person was killed after two compartments of the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express caught fire at Yalamanchili, about 66 km from Visakhapatnam, police said on Monday.The police received information about the fire at 12.45 am.A police official told reporters that there were 82 passengers in one of... Read more >

09:03 Rs 85,801 cr spent on Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train The government has so far spent Rs 85,801 crore on the 508 kilometre Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed railway project, which is under execution with technical and financial cooperation from the Japanese government,, the rail ministry said on Sunday.'Overall physical progress of 55.63 per cent has been... Read more >

08:54 TVK chief Vijay trips, falls down at airport Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay tripped and fell down on Sunday at the airport in Chennai while attempting to get inside his car.On his return here from Malaysia, Vijay, who was surrounded by a huge crowd, walked towards the exit area and moments before getting into the car tripped and fell... Read more >

08:53 Cow vigilantes halt Vasundhra Raje's convoy in Rajasthan Protesting against improper disposal of carcasses of cows and progeny by municipal authorities, members of Bajranj Dal blocked a convoy of former Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhra Raje's on the Kota-Udaipur highway here on Sunday noon, an official said.The vigilantes stopped Raje's convoy, which... Read more >
Beijing imposed sanctions on Friday against 20 U.S. defense-related companies and 10 executives, a week after Washington annoucned large-scale arms sales to Taiwan.

The sanctions entail freezing the companies assets in China and banning individuals and organizations from dealing with them, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.

The companies include Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, L3Harris Maritime Services and Boeing in St. Louis, while defense firm Anduril Industries founder Palmer Luckey is one of the executives sanctioned, who can no longer do business in China and are barred from entering the country. Their assets in the East Asian country have also been frozen.

The announcement of the U.S. arms-sale package, valued at more than $10 billion, has drawn an angry response from China, which claims Taiwan as its own and says it must come under its control.

If approved by the American Congress, it would be the largest-ever U.S. weapons package to the self-ruled territory.

We stress once again that the Taiwan question is at the very core of Chinas core interests and the first red line that must not be crossed in China-U.S. relations, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday. Any company or individual who engages in arms sales to Taiwan will pay the price for the wrongdoing.

The ministry also urged the U.S. to stop what it called the dangerous moves of arming Taiwan.

Taiwan is a major flashpoint in U.S.-China relations that analysts worry could explode into military conflict between the two powers. China says that the U.S. arms sales to Taiwan would violate diplomatic agreements between China and the U.S.

Chinas military has increased its presence in Taiwans skies and waters in the past few years, holding joint drills with its warships and fighter jets on a near-daily basis near the island.

Under the American federal law, the U.S. is obligated to assist Taiwan with its self-defense, a point that has become increasingly contentious with China. Beijing already has strained ties with Washington over trade and technology issues. MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
The week between the Macau Special Administrative Regions establishment day and the Christmas holidays attracted more than 1 million visitors to Macau.

According to provisional data released by the Public Security Police Force (PSP) for the eight days from Dec. 20 to Dec. 27, a total of 1,006,921 visitors arrived in Macau, averaging 125,865 per day.

Given that official statistics show that, at the end of November this year, visitor arrivals totaled 36,489,230, and the daily average in December has been around 100,000, Macau should already have surpassed the 2019 record of 39,406,000 visitors.

According to PSP, the record was expected to be broken around 11 a.m. on Dec. 27 (Saturday).

With the current average and the expected continuation of the influx of visitors in the last days of this year, Macau is projected to close the year at around 40 million visitors, as anticipated by local tourism authorities at the start of the year.

Concurrently, a large number of locals and non-resident workers crossed the border into and out of Macau during this period, totaling 5,535,069 border crossings.

Over the eight days, Saturday (Dec. 27) recorded the highest number of arrivals at 156,918, followed by the previous Saturday (Dec. 20) at 149,484.

In addition to the two highest counts, Dec. 25 (Christmas Day) was above average, with 129,974 visitor arrivals.

As usual, the vast majority of arrivals were mainland residents, who continue to arrive mostly (around 50%) via the Border Gate.

The Macau Port Area at Hengqin Port also recorded a substantial number of visitors, approaching the second-largest entry port, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

Hengqin Port surpasses 30 million passengers

The PSP also announced that, as of 1 p.m. yesterday, annual passenger flow through Hengqin Port exceeded 30 million for the first time, averaging 83,000 passengers per day, a year-on-year increase of 32%.

According to PSPs analysis, tourists accounted for approximately 38% of border crossings, while local residents accounted for nearly 27%. Non-local university students accounted for almost 18%, while non-resident workers made up 15%.

Statistical data show that since the beginning of this year, approximately 20 million mainland tourists have entered and exited via Hengqin Port, representing a year-on-year increase of 25%.

Almost 9 million travelers through this port were Macau and Hong Kong residents, with local residents increasing by 50%, outpacing those from Hong Kong, which grew by 43%.

The port was also used by approximately 450,000 international tourists from various countries, representing the most significant year-on-year increase of 84%.

Like this: Like Loading...
Hundreds of mourners gathered Saturday in the rain and cold outside of a mosque in the Syrian city of Homs for the funeral of eight people killed in a bombing, as an imam warned that the attack could spark more sectarian violence.

The crowd assembled next to the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque, the target of Fridays attack that also wounded 18 others. The population of the Wadi al-Dhahab neighborhood, where the mosque is located, is predominantly from the Alawite minority. They later drove in convoys to bury the victims.

Officials have said the preliminary investigations indicate explosive devices were planted inside the mosque but have not yet publicly identified a suspect.

A little-known group calling itself Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement posted on its Telegram channel, in which it indicated that the attack intended to target members of the Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shiite Islam whom hard-line Islamists consider to be apostates.

The same group had previously claimed a suicide attack in June in which a gunman opened fire and then detonated an explosive vest inside a Greek Orthodox church in Dweila, on the outskirts of Damascus, killing 25 people as worshippers prayed on a Sunday.

A neighbor of the mosque, who asked to be identified only by the honorific Abu Ahmad (father of Ahmad) out of security concerns, said he was at home when he heard the sound of a very very strong explosion.

He and other neighbors went to the mosque and saw terrified people running out, he said. They entered and began trying to help the wounded.

Sheikh Mohieddin Salloum, the imam of the mosque, who was lightly injured in the explosion, said the mosque was Alawite but was open to Muslims of other sects to come and pray, and they often did so.

This is Gods house  our Sunni neighbors come and pray here with us, but in small numbers. They might be five or 10 out of 300 attendees during Friday prayer, he said.

Salloum said he believes the attack was intended to set off a new round of sectarian strife as the country struggles to heal after a nearly 14-year civil war that ended with the ouster of former President Bashar Assad in December 2024.

Anger was palpable among Alawite residents who gathered for the funeral, but the imam called for calm.

They set an explosion in an Alawite mosque to create emotions of hate and anger among the Alawites, and maybe a few days later someone will set off an explosion in a Sunni mosque and say that the Alawites took revenge, Salloum said. Then the idiots from both sides will come and start fighting, and well all be dragged behind them if we dont keep level heads.

The country has experienced several waves of sectarian clashes since Assads fall. Assad, an Alawite, fled the country to Russia.

In March, an ambush carried out by Assads supporters against security forces triggered days of violence that left hundreds of people dead, most of them Alawites. Since then, although the situation has calmed, Alawites have been targeted sporadically in sectarian attacks. OMAR SANADIKI, HOMS, MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
Japans Cabinet on Friday approved a record defense budget plan exceeding 9 trillion yen ($58 billion) for the coming year, aiming to fortify its strike-back capability and coastal defense with cruise missiles and unmanned arsenals as tensions rise in the region.

The draft budget for fiscal 2026, beginning April, is up 9.4% from 2025 and marks the fourth year of Japans ongoing five-year program to double annual arms spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

It is the minimum needed as Japan faces the severest and most complex security environment in the postwar era, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said, stressing his countrys determination to pursue military buildup and protect its people.

It does not change our path as a peace-loving nation, he said.

The increase comes as Japan faces elevated tension from China. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said in November that her countrys military could get involved if China were to take action against Taiwan, the self-governing island that Beijing says must come under its rule.

Takaichis government, under U.S. pressure for a military increase, pledged to achieve the 2% target by March, two years earlier than planned. Japan also plans to revise its ongoing security and defense policy by December 2026 to further strengthen its military.

Missiles and drones will add to southwestern island defense

Japan has been bolstering its offensive capability with long-range missiles to attack enemy targets from a distance, a major break from its post-World War II principle limiting the use of force to its own self-defense.

The current security strategy, adopted in 2022, names China as the countrys biggest strategic challenge and calls for a more offensive role for Japans Self-Defense Force under its security alliance with the U.S.

The new budget plan allocates more than 970 billion yen ($6.2 billion) to bolster Japans standoff missile capability. It includes a 177 billion-yen ($1.13 billion) purchase of domestically developed and upgraded Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles with a range of about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles).

The first batch of the Type-12 missiles will be deployed in Japans southwestern Kumamoto prefecture by March, a year earlier than planned, as Japan accelerates its missile buildup in the region.

In part due to Japans aging and declining population and its struggles with an understaffed military, the government believes unmanned weapons are essential.

To defend the coasts, Japan will spend 100 billion yen ($640 million) to deploy massive unmanned air, sea-surface and underwater drones for surveillance and defense under a system called SHIELD planned for March 2028, defense ministry officials said.

For speedier deployment, Japan initially plans to rely mainly on imports, possibly from Turkey or Israel.

Tension with China grows

The budget announcement comes as Japans row with China escalates following Takaichis remark in November about Taiwan.

The disagreement escalated this month when Chinese aircraft carrier drills near southwestern Japan prompted Tokyo to protest when Chinese aircraft locked their radar on Japanese aircraft, which is considered possible preparation for firing missiles.

The Defense Ministry, already alarmed by Chinas rapid expansion of operations in the Pacific, will open a new office dedicated to studying operations, equipment and other necessities for Japan to deal with Chinas Pacific activity.

Two Chinese aircraft carriers were spotted in June almost simultaneously operating near the southern Japanese island of Iwo Jima for the first time, fueling Tokyos concern about Beijings rapidly expanding military activity far beyond its borders and areas around the disputed East China Sea islands.

In Beijing, Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the Takaichi government has noticeably accelerated its pace of military buildup and expansion since taking office.

Japan is deviating from the path of peaceful development it has long claimed to uphold and is moving further and further in a dangerous direction, Lin said. MARI YAMAGUCHI, TOKYO, MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
Thailand and Cambodia signed a ceasefire agreement on Saturday to end weeks of fighting along their border over competing territorial claims.

The agreement took effect at noon and calls for a halt in military movements and airspace violation for military purposes.

Only Thailand has carried out airstrikes, hitting sites in Cambodia as recently as Saturday morning, according to the Cambodian Defense Ministry.

The deal also calls for Thailand, after the ceasefire has held for 72 hours, to repatriate 18 Cambodian soldiers it has held as prisoners since earlier fighting in July. Their release has been a major demand of the Cambodian side.

Within hours of the signing, Thailands Foreign Ministry protested to Cambodia that a Thai soldier sustained a permanent disability when he stepped on an anti-personnel land mine it charged had been laid by Cambodian forces.

Defense ministers met at the border to sign the agreement

The agreement was signed by the countries defense ministers, Cambodias Tea Seiha and Thailands Nattaphon Narkphanit, at a border checkpoint. It followed three-day lower-level talks by military officials.

It declares that the sides are committed to an earlier ceasefire that ended five days of fighting in July and follow-up agreements.

The original July ceasefire was brokered by Malaysia and pushed through by pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to withhold trade privileges unless Thailand and Cambodia agreed. It was formalized in more detail in October at a regional meeting in Malaysia that Trump attended.

Despite those deals, the countries carried on a bitter propaganda war and minor cross-border violence continued, escalating in early December to widespread heavy fighting.

On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the ceasefire announcement and urged Cambodia and Thailand to fully honor it and the terms of the peace accord reached earlier in Malaysia.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the ceasefire a positive step towards alleviating the suffering of civilians, ending current hostilities, and creating an environment conducive to achieving lasting peace, his spokesman said..

The U.N. chief expressed appreciation to Malaysia, China and the United States for their efforts to peacefully resolve the conflict, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. The United Nations stands ready to support efforts aimed at sustaining peace and stability in the region.

Chinas Foreign Ministry also hailed the agreement in a statement late Saturday.

Beijing is set to host trilateral talks on Sunday and Monday with the Thai and Cambodian foreign ministers in the southwestern province of Yunnan.

China will play a constructive role in its own way for Cambodia and Thailand to consolidate the ceasefire, resume exchanges, rebuild political trust, achieve turnaround in bilateral relations and uphold regional peace, the Foreign Ministry statement read.

Civilians bore the brunt of the fighting

Thailand has lost 26 soldiers and one civilian as a direct result of the combat since Dec. 7, according to officials. Thailand has also reported 44 civilian deaths.

Cambodia hasnt issued an official figure on military casualties, but says that 30 civilians have been killed and 90 injured. Hundreds of thousands of people have been evacuated on both sides of the border.

Todays ceasefire also paves the way for the displaced people who are living in the border areas to be able to return to their homes, work in the fields, and even allow their children to be able to return to schools and resume their studies, Cambodias Defense Minister Tea Seiha told reporters after the signing.

Each side blamed the other for initiating the fighting and claimed to be acting in self-defense.

The agreement also calls on both sides to adhere to international agreements against deploying land mines, a major concern of Thailand.

Thai soldiers along the border have been wounded in at least 10 incidents this year by what Thailand says were newly planted Cambodian mines. Cambodia says the mines were left over from decades of civil war that ended in the late 1990s.

Following the latest injury on Saturday, Thailands Foreign Ministry noted that the new agreement includes key provisions on joint humanitarian demining operations to ensure the safety of military personnel and civilians in the border areas as soon as possible.

Another clause says the two sides agree to refrain from disseminating false information or fake news.

The agreement calls for a resumption of previous measures to demarcate the border. The sides also agreed to cooperate in suppressing transnational crimes. Thats primarily a reference to online scams perpetrated by organized crime that have bilked victims around the world of billions of dollars each year. Cambodia is a center for such criminal enterprises.

Malaysias leader hails the agreement

Malaysias Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who was instrumental in putting together the original ceasefire, said the new agreement reflects a shared recognition that restraint is required, above all in the interest of civilians.

Many clauses similar to those in Saturdays agreement were included in Octobers ceasefire document, and were open to various interpretations and generally honored only in part. These included provisions concerning land mines and the Cambodian prisoners.

The fragility of the new agreement was underlined by Thailands Defense Ministry spokesperson Surasant Kongsiri in a news briefing after Saturdays signing. He said that the safe return of civilians to their homes would indicate the situation had stabilized enough to allow the repatriation of the captured Cambodian soldiers.

However if the ceasefire does not materialize, this would indicate a lack of sincerity on the Cambodian side to create sure peace, he said. Therefore, the 72- hour ceasefire beginning today is not an act of trust nor unconditional acceptance but a time frame to tangibly prove whether Cambodia can truly cease the use of weapons, provocations and threats in the area. WASAMON AUDJARINT & SOPHENG CHEANG, BANGKOK, MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
Changes in visitor spending habits are putting pressure on the local community economy, despite record-high tourist arrivals this year, according to a local business group, which is urging targeted measures to draw visitors into neighborhood districts.

Chairman of the Industry and Commerce Federation of Macau Central and Southern District, Lei Cheok Kuan, said he welcomed the continued growth in inbound visitor numbers but noted that many tourists are spending differently than in the past.

While streets in community areas remain busy, consumption has not kept pace, creating a busy but not profitable situation for small and medium-sized businesses.

To address the issue, Lei suggested the government introduce consumption incentives specifically designed for visitors and limited to use in community districts.

Drawing on earlier consumption reward schemes, he proposed offering enhanced incentives  such as three- or fourfold spending bonuses  with a minimum qualifying amount of MOP50, as cited in a Macao Daily News report.

The incentives would exclude large integrated resorts, with the aim of channeling tourist spending directly into local neighborhoods.

He also said longer-term support is needed to strengthen the competitiveness of community businesses.

Meanwhile, Lei called on the government to allocate more resources to industry associations and facilitate exchanges involving experts and academics to help businesses improve product quality, diversify offerings, and adapt to changing consumer preferences.

The chairman said the goal should be to achieve not only strong visitor numbers but also stronger spending power.

He further suggested refining promotional strategies by shifting from broad-based visitor attraction to more targeted outreach.

In particular, he proposed encouraging domestic and international companies to hold corporate events in Macau, such as annual meetings, conferences, product launches, or seminars.

Such activities, he said, could bring in higher-spending visitors and generate wider spillover benefits for community businesses, supporting local economic vitality on multiple fronts.

Like this: Like Loading...
With Donald Trump expanding the travel ban inspired by his first term in the White House to 20 more countries, as well as the Palestinian Authority, on Dec. 16, a total of 39 countries from different corners of the world now face either a total ban or restrictions on entering the United States.

Mali, South Sudan, Niger, Burkina Faso, Syria, and the Palestinian Authority have been added to the list of nations whose citizens cannot enter the U.S. at all, first introduced in June.

Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe were meanwhile added to a list of countries facing a block on student and business visas; the list that Trump put in place in June 2025 previously included Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

"Completely and permanently prohibiting the issuance of visas to all U.S. citizens"

Immediately after their nations were added to the ban, multiple diplomats and heads of state responded with condemnation. Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne issued a statement saying that the Caribbean country's government was "deeply disappointed" given that the justification accusing it of loose rules for granting citizenship by investment "does not reflect the present reality of our laws."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two weeks after the expansion of the ban, the West African nation of Niger has taken the most drastic step of permanently banning any granting of new visas to U.S. visas in a reciprocal measure until the situation changes.

Related: Trump now wants to ban travel from 25% of the world

"Niger is completely and permanently prohibiting the issuance of visas to all U.S. citizens and indefinitely banning entry to its territory for nationals of the United States," a governmental representative said to the Associated Press.

A landlocked country bordered by Algeria, Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger is a Muslim-majority nation with a population of just over 25 million people. In the document announcing the travel ban, the White House said the country has a visa overstay rate of 13.41% for business visas and 16.46% for student ones as well as "terrorists and their supporters [that] are active in planning kidnappings."

Niger is a landlocked country bordered by seven nations.Shutterstock (Shutterstock)

Another African country pulled all visas for Americans earlier this year

While a history of war and political instability and coups d'etats means that travel into Niger from Western countries remains very low (the State Department has kept it at the "do not travel" advisory level for years), the latest move from its government is a major escalation in relations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A similar move was made by the government of Chad when the first version of the travel ban was introduced. In response to being included, the central African nation reciprocated by saying it will ban all new visas for U.S. citizens while also stop any still being processed.

More Travel News:

"I have instructed the government to act in accordance with the principles of reciprocity and to suspend the granting of visas to citizens of the United States of America," Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Deby wrote in a Facebook post announcing the decision on June 5.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: Unexpected country is most luxurious travel destination for 2026

This story was originally published by TheStreet on Dec 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
President Bola Tinubu left Lagos on Sunday, December 28, for Europe as part of his year-end break and in preparation for an official visit to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The trip, confirmed by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, will see Tinubu participate in the 2026 edition of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) Summit.

Scheduled for early January, the summit serves as a global platform bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development. This years theme, The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go, emphasises linking ambition with action across innovation, finance, and human capital. President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria following the conclusion of the summit.
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:

Single-cell multiomics reveals that RUNX2 drives the progression of CD8 T cells toward terminal exhaustion and immunotherapy resistance, while pharmacological RUNX2 inhibition restores cytotoxicity and suppresses tumor growth. Credit: National Taiwan University

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy by harnessing the body's immune system to target tumors. Despite their initial clinical success, many patients eventually experience diminished therapeutic responses as tumors acquire resistance. A new study from Taiwan now elucidates the underlying mechanisms of this resistance and proposes a promising strategy to counteract it.

An interdisciplinary research team from National Taiwan University and National Taiwan University Hospital, led by Prof. Hsueh-Fen Juan, has identified RUNX2, a gene regulator not previously recognized for its role in immune regulation, as a key driver of immune cell exhaustion in liver cancer.

The study demonstrates that inhibiting RUNX2 can restore immune cell function and suppress tumor growth, even after resistance to immunotherapy has developed. The findings were published in Molecular Cancer.

ICIs exert their therapeutic effects by lifting molecular "brakes" on CD8 T cells, the immune system's principal antitumor effectors. Although this immune reactivation can initially induce tumor regression, sustained immune stimulation may drive T cells into a dysfunctional state known as T-cell exhaustion, characterized by a progressive loss of their cancer-killing capacity.

Using advanced single-cell multiomics technologies, the researchers tracked the progression of T-cell exhaustion with unprecedented resolution.

By simultaneously profiling gene expression and chromatin accessibility in individual T cells, they delineated the gradual transition from active immune responders to terminally exhausted states during prolonged anti-PD1 treatment.

Analyses of human liver tumor samples further revealed that patients who failed to respond to immunotherapy harbored a significantly higher proportion of RUNX2-positive exhausted CD8 T cells.

To determine whether RUNX2 actively drives immunotherapy resistance rather than merely serving as a marker of T-cell exhaustion, the team evaluated a small-molecule RUNX2 inhibitor in both cultured cells and mouse models of liver cancer that had developed resistance to immune checkpoint blockade.

RUNX2 inhibition restored the cytotoxic function of exhausted T cells and significantly suppressed tumor growth, indicating that targeting this pathway may reinvigorate antitumor immunity even after immunotherapy failure.

Beyond identifying a novel therapeutic target, the study provides a broader conceptual framework for understanding immunotherapy resistance, not solely as a consequence of tumor escape mechanisms, but as a progressive reprogramming of immune cells themselves.

"Our findings identify RUNX2 as a promising target for next-generation immunotherapy," said the study's co-corresponding author, Hsueh-Fen Juan, Ph.D., a distinguished professor of life science at National Taiwan University.

"They suggest new opportunities for combination treatment strategies aimed at preventing or reversing immune exhaustion, as well as for developing biomarkers to identify patients at risk of immunotherapy resistance."

As immunotherapy assumes an increasingly central role in cancer treatment, strategies that preserve immune cell function, such as targeting RUNX2, may enhance the durability and efficacy of these therapies in liver cancer and potentially across a broader spectrum of tumor types.

Publication details Tzu-Yang Tseng et al, Transcriptional dynamics of CD8+ T-cell exhaustion in immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance at single-cell resolution, Molecular Cancer (2025). DOI: 10.1186/s12943-025-02468-7 Journal information: Molecular Cancer
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

When it comes to our most important long-term goals in life, it is not uncommon to face obstacles that may lead us to doubt whether we can achieve our ambitions.

But when life hands you doubts, the answer may be to question your doubts, a new study suggests.

A psychology professor has found that when people who were worried about achieving an identity goal were induced to experience what is called meta-cognitive doubt, they actually became more committed to achieving their goal.

"What this study found is that inducing doubts in one's doubts can provide a formula for confidence," said Patrick Carroll, author of the study and professor of psychology at The Ohio State University at Lima.

The work appears in the journal Self and Identity.

Carroll was interested in what happens when people have what is called an "action crisis" while pursuing an identity goala long-term objective centered on who you want to become in life. Wanting to become a doctor, for instance, is an identity goal.

An action crisis is a decision conflict in which you are not sure if you want to continue pursuing the goal.

"When you're pursuing identity goals, bumps in the roads inevitably arise. There may come a point where the obstacle is big enough to evoke doubts about whether to continue," Carroll said.

Most research on the topic has focused specifically on these doubts and how they can impact whether people go forward with their goals.

But based on previous work done by other Ohio State researchers, Carroll decided to examine meta-cognitive doubt, which is the sense of certainty a person has in the validity of one's thoughts.

In the case of this research, a person can have doubts about whether they can achieve their goal. But what happens if you make the person wonder if their doubts are valid?

Carroll conducted two studies. One involved 267 people who participated online. First, they completed an action crisis scale about their most important personal goal. The scale included items such as "I doubt whether I should continue striving for my goal or disengage from it," and participants responded on a scale from "strongly disagree" to strongly agree."

Participants were then told they would take part in a second, unrelated study on the effect of memory writing exercises. Half of the participants were asked to write about a time that they felt confident in their thinking. The other half were asked to write about a time when they had experienced doubt in their thinking.

After completing the writing exercise, all participants were asked to rate how committed they were to achieving their most important personal goal, on a scale from "not at all committed" to "very committed."

Findings showed that the writing exercise succeeded in making people feel more confident or more doubtful in their own thoughts about their identity goaleven though the writing exercise was not directly connected to their goals.

Here's how it worked: Those participants who felt doubtful about their identity goaland then wrote about an experience feeling confidentwere less committed to achieving their goal. In other words, the writing exercise made them more confident in their doubts about achieving their goal.

On the other hand, those who felt doubtful about their goal and then wrote about an experience of feeling doubtful in their own thoughts actually had higher levels of commitment to their goals. For them, writing about doubt made them question their own doubts about achieving their goal.

"On some level, it may seem that doubt would be additive. Doubt plus doubt would equal more doubt," Carroll said. "But this study found the opposite: Doubt plus doubt equaled less doubt."

Carroll replicated the findings in another study, involving 130 college students, that used a different way of inducing doubt. In this study, Carroll used a technique developed by Ohio State researchers that had the participants complete the action crisis scale with their non-dominant hand.

"Previous research showed that using the non-dominant hand leads participants to have doubts in their own thoughts because they use their shaky handwriting as a cue that their thoughts must be invalid," Carroll said. "And that is exactly what I found in this study. So in two different studies, we found that inducing meta-cognitive doubt can lead to people doubting their own doubts."

On a practical level, it may be difficult for individuals to induce doubts about their doubts on their own, Carroll said. One reason it worked in this study is that participants were not aware that the doubt induction was related to their goal doubts.

This could be more effective if someone elsea therapist, a teacher, a friend or a parentcan help a person question their own thoughts and doubts.

"You don't want the person to be aware that you're getting them to question their doubts about their goals," he said.

Carroll also noted that this technique should be used carefully, because it could potentially undermine wise judgment if overused or misapplied.

"You don't want to undermine humility and replace it with overconfidence or premature certainty," he said. "This needs to be used wisely."

More information Patrick Carroll, Increasing identity goal commitment by inducing doubt in goal doubts, Self and Identity (2025). DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2025.2597804
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

Children with peanut allergies may not need large doses of peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) to build protection against peanuts, finds a new study led by The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and Montreal Children's Hospital.

Researchers have found that a small dose can help children with their peanut allergy and reduce the risk of severe reactions from accidental exposures, with fewer side effects than the current standard treatment. The research is published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.

In Canada, peanut allergies affect almost 2% of children and adults and increasingly contribute to hospital admissions. Peanut OIT is a method to increase the amount of peanut that a child can eat before experiencing a reaction, helping to protect children against accidental contamination. Children receiving peanut OIT eat a gradually increasing amount of peanut over time until they reach a "maintenance" dose that is eaten regularly, even after the treatment, to help keep up the benefits.

While peanut OIT can help children with peanut allergies to build protection, current approaches use large doses that require lengthy treatment, close medical supervision and often can result in discontinuation due to dislike of the taste and side effects of allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.

The study is the first of its kind to compare a commonly used peanut OIT treatment to reduced doses in children, and provides evidence to support a significantly lower dose that could increase treatment accessibility and help protect more children with peanut allergy.

A very little goes a long way

To investigate the safety and effectiveness of a very low maintenance dose of peanut OIT, the study randomly assigned 51 children with peanut allergy to three groups: low-dose treatment (30 mg maintenance), standard-dose treatment (300 mg maintenance) or avoidance (no peanut OIT).

Both peanut OIT treatment groups experienced significant and similar increases in their allergic reaction threshold to peanuts, showing that eating even small amounts is better than avoidance when it comes to training the immune system to manage more peanut.

"We were excited to find that peanut OIT maintenance doses can be much lower than previously thought and still contribute to positive outcomes," says Dr. Julia Upton, Head of the Division of Immunology & Allergy, Project Investigator at the SickKids Research Institute, Co-Director of the SickKids Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Program and co-first author. "The more options we have, the more we can support patients' experience and provide meaningful, tailored care."

Children who were in the 30 mg maintenance group had fewer adverse reactions than the 300 mg maintenance group, and none withdrew from treatment.

"This is a small enough dose that even children who do not like the taste can continue treatment," says co-senior study author Dr. Thomas Eiwegger, Adjunct Scientist in the Translational Medicine program. "This is the first time we've compared standard doses to such a low dose, but the minimum maintenance dose to provide benefit may be even lower than 30 mg."

The research team notes that some children and families may choose to remain on very low doses, while others may prefer to increase over time depending on their goals. This study marks an important step to further the development of safe and effective protocols for peanut OIT. Ultimately, the goal is to make peanut OIT accessible to more peanut-allergic children.

"The study found that very small amounts of peanuts, that are associated with fewer reactions, could be used as effectively as large amounts for oral immunotherapy, making it safer and accessible to more Canadians, even those who are very sensitive to the allergen," says Dr. Moshe Ben-Shoshan, co-senior author of the study, a pediatric allergy and immunology specialist at the Montreal Children's Hospital and Scientist in the Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre.

More information Julia E.M. Upton et al, Peanut Oral Immunotherapy Using 30 and 300 mg Maintenance Doses, The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2025.10.007

Key medical concepts Peanut HypersensitivityAnaphylaxis
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

Routine mammograms are best known as a front-line tool for detecting breast cancer. But new research suggests the same X-ray images may also offer an early warning sign for cardiovascular diseasethe leading cause of death among women.

A study presented at a Radiological Society of North America meeting found that calcium deposits visible in the arteries of the breast can help predict a woman's future risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke and death. The findings add to growing evidence that mammograms may hold untapped value beyond cancer screening.

The condition that mammograms can detectand act as an early warning of heart problems down the roadis called breast arterial calcification, said Matthew Nudy, an assistant professor of medicine and public health sciences at Penn State College of Medicine who presented the findings.

Breast arterial calcification, or BAC, is relatively common, appearing in an estimated 15% to 25% of screening mammograms. Yet it is not routinely reported.

Despite often being discernible on routine mammograms, radiologists do not typically report the presence of these calcifications "because there's no known association between this breast arterial calcification and breast cancer," Nudy said.

That omission may represent a missed opportunityparticularly for women, who often face delays in cardiovascular diagnosis.

More than 60 million U.S. womenabout 44%have some form of heart disease, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Heart disease can affect any age and is the leading cause of death for women across the country. In 2023, it was responsible for about one in five deaths, nearly 305,000 women, per the CDC.

In the new Penn State study, researchers analyzed data from 10,348 women who had undergone at least two mammograms at a U.S. academic medical center, with an average of 4.1 years between scans. Using an artificial intelligence tool, the team measured the severity and progression of calcification in breast arteries over time.

They found that nearly one in five women had detectable vascular calcification at baseline. More importantly, the severity and progression of that calcification mattered. Women with worsening calcium buildup faced significantly higher risks of major cardiovascular eventsup to double the risk for those with the most severe scores, Nudy explained.

One of the most striking findings was how quickly changes could occur.

"We saw progression of this BAC, or breast arterial calcification, in as little as one year," Nudy said. "So I think it just goes to show that cardiovascular risk is something that changes all the time."

Women who initially showed no calcification but developed it later had a 41% higher risk of cardiovascular events and death over an average 5.6 years of follow-up. Risk climbed even higher for women whose calcification advanced from mild to moderate or severe levels.

Unlike coronary artery calcium scoringa CT scan is sometimes ordered to assess heart disease riskidentifying BAC does not require additional testing, radiation or cost, Nudy pointed out.

Instead, the data already exist on routine mammograms performed for breast cancer screening.

If breast arterial calcification were routinely reported, Nudy said, the next step would not be panicbut evaluation.

"At the very least, these patients should have a cardiovascular disease risk assessment," he said, noting that this typically includes blood pressure and cholesterol checks, use of risk calculators and, when appropriate, preventive therapies such as statins, blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes.

The research may be especially relevant given long-standing disparities in women's heart health.

"We know that women face a lot of disparities when it comes to cardiovascular care, compared to men," Nudy said. "They're more likely to be diagnosed at later stages of cardiovascular disease ... and we also know that women are less likely to get" treatment for the condition.

Breast arterial calcification, he said, "could be something that we use to improve that."

One major hurdle remains: inconsistent reporting.

Currently, there is no standardized system for documenting BAC in radiology reports, although Canada has proposed a grading framework.

In this study, researchers used AI to quantify calcification efficiently across thousands of images.

"If we were to run a research study where we had to have multiple radiologists analyze multiple mammogram images from over 10,000 participants, that would take a lot of time and a lot of money," Nudy said. AI, he added, made the process scalable and standardized.

Still, important questions remain unansweredincluding whether identifying BAC leads to meaningful changes in patient care and outcomes.

Further answers may be on the horizon. Nudy is leading additional research using mammograms from the federally funded Women's Health Initiative, one of the largest and longest-running studies of chronic disease in menopausal women.

For now, the findings highlight a new way clinicians may one day use an already familiar testnot just to detect cancer, but to help prevent heart disease before symptoms ever appear.

2025 the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. 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

An out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in the region earlier in December has been diagnosed with measles, according to health officials who are warning the public of possible exposures in multiple locations.

The visitor arrived at Boston Logan airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m., according to the Department of Public Health.

The person stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough and left the state on Dec. 12 via Logan airport at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.

DPH said it's working with the CDC and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.

"Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease," said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein. "This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities.

"While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decadenearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths," Goldstein added.

"Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions everthey are safe, effective, and lifesaving."

People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk of developing measles.



Logan Airport Terminal B, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., on Dec. 11

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough, between 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 11 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 12

Logan Airport Terminal C, from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., on Dec. 12

Those who could have been exposed and begin to develop symptoms of measles should call their health care provider before visiting an office, clinic, or emergency department.

Visiting a health care facility may put others at risk and should be avoided if possible.

Anyone who has had measles in the past or has received two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is unlikely to develop measles even if exposed.

Early symptoms of measles occur seven to 21 days after exposure and may resemble a cold (with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes). A rash occurs on the skin two to four days after the initial symptoms develop. The rash usually appears first on the head and then moves downward. The rash typically lasts a few days and then disappears in the same order.

People with measles may be contagious up to four days before the rash appears and for four days after the rash appears.

"This case is a reminder that everyone should be vaccinated against measles to protect themselves and others from this highly infectious disease," said Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. "With multiple measles outbreaks across the country and increased travel around the holidays, now is an important time to ensure that you and your family are protected.

"Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles and provide protection against mumps and rubella infection," the commissioner added. "Children should receive the vaccine at 1215 months of age and again before kindergarten to ensure strong immunity. Children who are at least 6 months old who are traveling internationally or to areas of the US with active outbreaks should receive an early dose of vaccine before traveling. It is never too late for children or adults to get the measles vaccine, even if they are past the recommended age."

According to the CDC, a total of 1,988 measles cases have been reported in 44 jurisdictions across the country this year.

The majority were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status (93%), 3% had one dose of the MMR vaccine, and 4% had two doses. There have been three confirmed deaths in the U.S. from measles this year.

Due to the increase in measles cases nationally, DPH urges anyone who has not been vaccinated or does not know their measles immunization status to contact their health care provider to get vaccinated with at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Measles vaccine given within 72 hours of exposure may prevent measles disease. Vaccination beyond this window will provide protection from subsequent exposures.

2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. 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

In the more than four years since the state of Texas significantly restricted access to abortion, medical researchers have been studying the health effects of that policy change.

A growing body of research indicates that the state's abortion banswhich are among the country's most restrictive, with no exceptions for rape, incest or fetal anomalieshave negatively impacted the health and lives of Texas women and babies in multiple ways.

Here's what they have found

Outcomes worsened for women who experienced pregnancy loss and other serious complications in their pregnancies.

In October, a team of researchers published a study of more than 320,000 pregnancy losses in Texas health care facilities from January 2017 through September 2023. After Texas' near-total abortion ban went into effect in 2022, blood transfusions for women who lost their pregnancies were 15% higher than expected, based on historical trends.

In January 2025, researchers with UTHealth Houston presented research on previable premature rupture of membranes, when a woman's water breaks far too early in pregnancy. In such cases, the fetus rarely survives, while the mother is at risk of infection, bleeding and other serious complications.

The researchers studied outcomes in these patients before and after implementation of the Texas Heartbeat Act, which in September 2021 banned abortion in all but the earliest stages of pregnancy.

Under national standards of care, treatment options for previable rupture of membranes include abortion or expectant management, where the mother is monitored without intervention. After the law went into effect, termination was only an option in Texas if the mother's life was endangered. Risk of serious adverse outcomes overall increased from 24% to 38.5%, while rates of sepsis jumped from 9.4% to 29.2%.

Similarly, women whose babies were diagnosed with severe birth defects also experienced higher rates of adverse outcomes in their pregnancies. Like with previable rupture of membranes, national standards of care include pregnancy termination as an option in cases where serious fetal anomalies are identified.

When abortion was no longer an option for these patients, rates of serious complications increased significantly, researchers found in a study published in July 2025.

Researchers with UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health studied outcomes in dozens of pregnancies in which the fetuses were diagnosed with genetic conditions such as Trisomy 18 or structural abnormalities such as anencephaly, where the skull and brain fail to fully form.

Rates of preeclampsia, which can cause dangerously high blood pressure in pregnancy, increased. Delivery via cesarean section doubled for those who did not travel out of the state to terminate. None of the babies survived.

More babies are being born with congenital defects, and neonatal and infant mortality rates have increased.

Researchers with Johns Hopkins University and Michigan State University studied nearly 95,000 infant deaths in Texas and 28 other states for comparison.

After Texas banned abortion in cases where embryonic cardiac activity could be detected, Texas saw a 12.9% increase in infant deaths, compared with 1.8% for the rest of the country. Further analysis found that infant deaths attributed to congenital anomalies in 2022 jumped by almost 23% in Texas, suggesting that more pregnancies that previously would have ended in termination were being carried to term.

In a follow-up study, the same lead author conducted a national examination of infant mortality rates in states with complete or six-week abortion bans, using vital statistics data from 2012 through 2023. That analysis also found higher-than-expected rates of infant mortality, including hundreds of excess deaths, in 14 states with abortion bans.

Texas, which was analyzed separately due to the fact that it banned abortion earlier than most states, had a greater increase in infant mortality than those other states. Deaths were higher among babies born with congenital anomalies or in southern states, as well as Black infants.

Other researchers who studied national data from 2018 to 2023 identified a 7% increase in overall infant mortality and a 10% increase in infant mortality attributed to birth defects in the months after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to abortion in its Dobbs vs. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision.

In some cases, medical providers have delayed or denied care to patients in an effort to comply with the laws.

A Texas-based research team interviewed 50 health care professionalsincluding specialists in OB-GYN, maternal-fetal medicine, genetic counseling and abortion carebefore and after enactment of the Texas Heartbeat Act. One specialist disclosed that the chief medical officer of their hospital denied an abortion to a patient with severe heart disease after operating room staff expressed discomfort with the procedure.

Others described having to obtain additional permissions, sometimes through "cumbersome approval processes" that delayed patient care. Multiple clinicians shared accounts of watching patients develop sepsis before being able to offer an induction of labor when they developed complications.

In a case study published in the New England Journal of Medicine Evidence, doctors at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston described a 43-year-old patient who began leaking amniotic fluid 15 weeks into her pregnancyabout two months before the fetus would be considered viable.

When she went to the hospital, an evaluation found that her membranes had ruptured and that her white blood cell count was elevated, raising concerns that she was developing an infection. She was admitted to the hospital for three days but was discharged home with instructions to monitor her temperature and other symptoms.

It wasn't until she came back to the hospital two more times and developed a fever that hospital staff performed a dilation and evacuation, a procedure used for second-trimester abortions.

In September 2025, a report published by Physicians for Human Rights found that abortion laws have impacted medical care across different specialties, not just those focused on maternal care.

Based on interviews with 33 physicians across 20 states, including several from Texas, the research team identified delays in care for patients with acute or chronic medical conditions such as kidney disease, cancer or pulmonary hypertension. Some clinicians reported changes in how they prescribed teratogenic medications, which pose a risk to a developing embryo or fetus.

Abortions dropped drastically in Texas as residents began ordering abortion pills by mail and traveling to other states to terminate their pregnancies. Live births also rose.

After Texas instituted its six-week abortion ban, the number of monthly abortions fell precipitously, according to a 2022 study in JAMA. In the year before the ban, there were more than 4,000 abortions each month, on average.

In the six months after the ban, that monthly average fell to about 2,300. Later, under Texas' near-total abortion ban, the state averaged about five abortions a month, an analysis of state data by the Texas Tribune found.

Instead, many Texans continued their pregnancies. Those who still sought to terminate them either traveled across state lines or self-managed their abortions.

In interviews with Texas researchers, 65 Texans who left the state for their abortions described how they weighed numerous factors as they planned their trips: appointment availability, distance, cost and state-level restrictions. They often had to account for time off work and care for their existing children, and the fact that most insurance providers would not cover the cost of their abortions.

Texans described the burden of traveling for their abortions as not only frustrating and stressful, but as "an ordeal" and "a nightmare."

In a different study focused on pregnancies with fatal and other serious fetal diagnoses, researchers interviewed 16 women who traveled to Colorado, New Mexico and Washington to obtain abortions. They described fear, confusion and inability to rely on their medical providers for assistance in navigating their options, as well as steep out-of-pocket costs that could range from $10,000 to $20,000.

Increasingly, Texans and other residents of states where abortion was banned began to rely on medications to end their pregnancies themselves, at home. In the six months after the Dobbs decision, a national survey of telemedicine providers, community networks and online retailers identified about 28,000 excess instances where abortion medications were dispensed.

At the same time, researchers estimated there were almost 10,000 more live births in Texas than expected from April to December 2022, according to an article published in JAMAsuggesting that reduced abortion access contributed to more pregnancies being carried to term.

More Texans have undergone tubal ligation and salpingectomy, or surgical sterilization. The mental health of younger residents has also suffered.

After the Dobbs decision, tubal sterilizations rose in states across the country, with greater increases in states where abortion was banned or limited. In Texas and 14 other states where abortion was almost or completely banned, sterilizations increased by 3% each month from July to December 2022.

A study using information from a population-based behavioral health survey that included more than 30,000 Texans found that symptoms of poor mental healthincluding depression, stress and difficulty regulating emotionsincreased among younger residents after implementation of the six-week abortion ban, particularly among women of childbearing age.

2025 The Dallas Morning News. 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:

Immune cells: Red cells are CD8 lymphocytes "killer" T cells and blue cells are CD4 lymphocytes, "helper" T cells. The melanoma releases vesicles (small green dots) that stick to CD8 cells, blocking their ability to attack the cancer. Credit: Tel Aviv University

A new international study led by Prof. Carmit Levy of the Department of Human Genetics and Biochemistry at the Gray Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences at Tel Aviv University finds that melanoma cancer cells paralyze immune cells by secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are tiny, bubble-shaped containers secreted from a given cell. The research team believes that this discovery has far-reaching implications for possible treatments for the deadliest form of skin cancer.

The work is published in the journal Cell.

Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin tumor. In the first stage of the disease, melanocytic cells divide uncontrollably in the skin's outer layer, the epidermis. In the second stage, the cancer cells invade the inner dermis layer and metastasize through the lymphatic and blood systems.

In previous studies, Prof. Levy discovered that as they grow in the epidermis, melanoma cells secrete large extracellular vesicles (EVs) called melanosomes, which penetrate blood vessels and dermal cells, forming a favorable niche for the cancer cells to spread. The new study found that these vesicles also enable cancer cells to paralyze the immune cells that attack them.

Credit: Tel-Aviv University

"We began studying these vesicles," says Prof. Levy, "and I noticed that on the vesicle membrane there was a liganda molecule that is supposed to bind to a receptor found only on immune cells called lymphocytes, specifically on lymphocytes that can kill cancer cells when coming into direct contact with them. I then hypothesized that this ligand latches onto lymphocytes that come to kill the melanoma.

"This was an innovative and odd idea, and we started investigating it in the lab. When we got more and more evidence that this idea was correct, I spoke with colleagues around the world, and invited them to join and contribute their expertise. From Harvard, from Sheba and from Ichilov's pathology department, from the Weizmann Institute, from Zurich, Belgium and from Parisall came together in a joint effort to decipher the cancer's behavior. And the achievement is enormous: We discovered that the cancer essentially fires these vesicles at the immune cells that attack it, disrupting their activity and even killing them."

Prof. Levy emphasizes that the discovery is promising. However, more work is required in order to translate it into a new therapy.

"We still have a great deal of work ahead of us, but it is already clear that this discovery can have far-reaching therapeutic implications," says Prof. Levy. "It will enable us to strengthen immune cells so they can withstand the melanoma's counterattack. In parallel, we can block the molecules that enable vesicles to cling to immune cells, thereby exposing the cancer cells and making them more vulnerable. Either way, this study opens a new door to effective immunotherapeutic intervention."

Collaborators included research teams from Sheba Medical Center, the Weizmann Institute of Science, the University of Liege, the Technion, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Wolfson Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Hadassah Medical Center, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rabin Medical Center, Paris-Saclay University, and the University of Zurich.

Publication details Yoav Chemla et al, HLA export by melanoma cells decoys cytotoxic T cells to promote immune evasion, Cell (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2025.11.020 Journal information: Cell
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:

Oysters are rich in copper. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A Maryland resident is among at least 64 people in 22 states who have fallen ill after being infected with the same strain of salmonella linked to raw oysters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of those sickened nationwide, 20 people were hospitalized as of Dec. 23. No deaths have been reported. Federal officials did not say whether the Maryland case resulted in hospitalization or identify where the contaminated oysters were harvested or sold.

The CDC did not provide requested updated figures on Dec. 26.

"People in this outbreak are being hospitalized at a higher rate than expected when compared to other Salmonella outbreaks linked to oysters," the CDC wrote in a news release. "State and local public health officials are interviewing people about the different foods they ate in the week before they got sick."

The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration are continuing to trace the oysters to determine whether they came from a shared harvesting area or distributor.

No recall has been announced, and officials said the investigation remains ongoing. In nearby states, Virginia saw six cases, Pennsylvania 10 and Delaware two.

Salmonella is a common cause of foodborne illness in the United States, but raw oysters pose a particular risk because they are often eaten uncooked and can harbor bacteria year-round, according to the CDC. Unlike some foods, oysters can look, smell and taste normal even when contaminated.

Federal health officials are urging consumers to cook oysters thoroughly before eating them to reduce the risk of infection. Condiments such as hot sauce and lemon juice do not kill harmful bacteria, officials warned.

Most people infected with salmonella develop symptoms including diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps within six hours to six days after exposure. Illness typically lasts four to seven days, and many people recover without medical treatment. However, some infections can become severe, requiring hospitalization.

Young children, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious illness, health officials said. In those cases, salmonella can spread beyond the intestines and cause life-threatening complications.

Health officials recommend contacting a health care provider immediately if symptoms include a fever higher than 102 degrees, diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement, bloody diarrhea, repeated vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down, or signs of dehydration such as little urination, dry mouth or dizziness when standing.

To reduce the risk of food poisoning, officials advise keeping raw seafood separate from other foods and preventing juices or drippings from contaminating surfaces. Consumers are also reminded that there is no way to tell by sight whether an oyster contains harmful germs.

For those who choose to eat oysters, the CDC recommends cooking them thoroughly. Oysters in the shell should be boiled until the shells open or steamed for four to nine minutes. Only shellfish that open during cooking should be eaten.

Shucked oysters should be boiled for at least three minutes, fried at 375 degrees for at least three minutes, broiled 3 inches from the heat for three minutes, or baked at 450 degrees for 10 minutes, according to the CDC. Seafood should reach an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees for 15 seconds to ensure safety, according to the CDC.

Health officials said people with questions about salmonella cases in their state should contact their local health department. They also emphasized that investigations like this can take time, and additional cases could be identified as reporting continues.

For now, the CDC is urging caution, particularly for people at higher risk of severe illness, as officials work to determine whether contaminated oysters from a single source are responsible for the multistate outbreak.

2025 The Baltimore Sun. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Groveland, CA  District Four Tuolumne County Supervisor Steve Griefer has authored a new myMotherLode.com blog in which he recaps a busy 2025 and looks ahead.

Some of the topics include the Grand Jury Report, law enforcement and fire funding, and setting goals and objectives.

Griefers District Four includes the South County region (Groveland and Don Pedro), and also covers parts of East Sonora and Standard.

The members of the Board of Supervisors are invited to author myMotherLode.com blogs as a way to communicate directly with constituents about issues facing the county.

Click here to find the full blog.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  A Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk must be shackled during court proceedings.

State District Judge Tony Graf said public transparency was foundational to the judicial system before ordering the release of details from the Oct. 24 closed hearing. Attorneys for media outlets including The Associated Press had argued for access because they said it was also the first time defense attorneys suggested a ban on cameras in the courtroom.

Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of the conservative activist on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem. They plan to seek the death penalty. Robinson has not yet entered a plea.

In a 97-page transcript released later Monday, attorneys for Robinson argued that widespread videos and photos of him shackled and in jail clothing could create bias against him among potential jurors. Defense attorney Richard Novak said prohibiting cameras would be very easy for the court to enforce and could help curb visual prejudice.

Were not litigating this case in the press, Novak said during the Oct. 24 hearing.

The transcript contained limited redactions to remove discussions of security protocols in the closely watched case. Graf also ordered the release of an audio recording of the hearing, again with redactions.

Robinson was not present in court Monday and appeared via audio feed from the Utah County Jail.

Graf has not ruled on the defenses suggestion to ban cameras, but he has implemented other limitations.

Days after the closed-door hearing, Graf ruled that Robinson could wear civilian clothes in pretrial hearings but must also wear restraints to ensure the safety of court staff and Robinson himself. Utah court rules require defendants who are in custody to be restrained or supervised at all times unless otherwise ordered.

Graf also prohibited media outlets from publishing photos, videos and live broadcasts that show Robinsons restraints to help protect his presumption of innocence before a trial.

The judge briefly stopped a media livestream of a hearing earlier this month and ordered the camera be moved after Robinsons attorneys said the stream showed the defendants shackles. Graf said he would terminate future broadcasts if there were further violations.

Lawyers for the media wrote in recent filings that an open court safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which the attorneys argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters.

In a separate ruling Monday, Graf denied a request from attorneys for the media who sought to intervene in the case. The judge said members of the press do not need to be formal parties in the proceedings to access court records.

Still, Graf said the involved publications must be notified of future requests to close hearings or restrict access to court filings.

Prosecutors are expected to lay out their case against Robinson at a preliminary hearing scheduled to begin May 18. ___

Brown reported from Billings, Montana.

By MATTHEW BROWN and HANNAH SCHOENBAUM

Associated Press
If you are a landowner in Nairobi and youve been sitting on your unpaid land rates, consider this your final Red Alert.

The Nairobi City County government has officially slammed the door on any hopes for an extension of the current 100 percent interest and penalties waiver. With the clock ticking toward the December 31 deadline, Governor Sakajas administration has made it clear: the grace period is over, and the consequences for defaulters will be swift and severe.

For the past few weeks, City Hall has been running a Lipa Karibu campaign, offering a olive branch to perennial defaulters by waiving all accumulated interest and penalties for those who settle their principal land rates. It was a move designed to cushion residents against the tough economic times while refilling the countys dwindling coffers.

However, many residentsperhaps accustomed to the culture of last-minute extensions  have been slow to take up the offer. On Monday, December 29, County Executive Committee Member for Finance and Economic Planning, Charles Kerich, issued a stern warning to those banking on more time.

There will be no further extension after December 31. We have provided ample time for property owners to regularize their accounts, Kerich stated. From January 1, 2026, the system will automatically revert to the full billing of interest and penalties.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

City Hall isnt just threatening to bring back the interest; they are preparing a full-scale enforcement blitz. For landowners who fail to take advantage of the remaining 48 hours, the county has outlined a menu of pain that includes:

Property Seizure: The county has the legal mandate to take over the management of properties with chronic arrears. This means the county could start collecting rent directly from your tenants until the debt is cleared. Auctioneer Action: Sakajas team has already prepared a list of properties slated for the hammer. Defaulters risk losing their multi-million shilling investments over debts that could have been settled during the waiver period. Clamping and Denied Services: Beyond physical property, the county plans to deny development approvals and business permits to any entity or individual with outstanding land rate balances.

How to Pay

In a bid to minimize the last-day rush drama at City Hall Annex, the county has digitized the entire payment process. Residents are encouraged to use the NairobiPay portal or the USSD code *647#.

Dont wait until the system is overwhelmed on the 31st. We have made it easy to pay from your phone or office, the Finance department added.

Why City Hall is Desperate for the Cash

The hardline stance comes at a time when Nairobi is grappling with a massive budget deficit.

Land rates remain the single largest source of Own-Source Revenue (OSR) for the capital. With ambitious projects like the Dishi na County school feeding program and the ongoing transformation of city roads requiring billions in funding, Sakaja is under pressure to collect every cent owed to the taxpayer.
The festive season has taken a somber turn for former Gender, Culture, and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa following the passing of her mother.

Mama Fatuma Khadija Baitani passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025, leaving a cloud of grief over the Jumwa family and the larger Kilifi community. The news was confirmed by the former CS through her social media platforms, where she shared a moving tribute to the woman she described as her pillar of strength.

A Void That Can Never Be Filled

In a heartfelt post, Jumwa  the firebrand politician expressed the deep personal loss her family is experiencing.

It is with heavy hearts and humble acceptance of Gods will that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Mama Fatuma Khadija Baitani. She was not just a mother to me but a guiding light to our entire family, Jumwa stated.

The former CS credited her mother for shaping the resilient character she is known for in the Kenyan political arena. Despite the high-octane nature of her career, Jumwa often retreated to her rural roots in Malindi, where she shared a close and visible bond with her matriarch.

As news of the demise spread, leaders from across the political spectrum set aside their differences to send messages of comfort to the Jumwa family. From her colleagues in the Kenya Kwanza administration to her former rivals in the Coast region, the consensus was clear: Mama Fatuma was a woman of substance who raised a formidable leader.

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mungaro was among the first to send his sympathies, noting that the community had lost a respected elder. Members of the National Assembly and the Senate have also been sending their tributes, highlighting the impact of the loss during a time when families typically gather for end-of-year celebrations.
Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Babu Owino, has come out to reassure his supporters and the general public following a stint in the hospital that had sparked concerns across social media platforms.

The vocal and often controversial legislator, known for his fiery brand of politics, confirmed on Monday that he is on the path to recovery after undergoing a successful medical procedure. While the MP did not delve into the specific details of the ailment that landed him on a hospital bed, his tone was one of gratitude and resilience.

I am Getting Stronger

Taking to his official social media channels, the lawmaker posted an update that served to quell the growing anxiety among his constituents.

I want to thank the Almighty God for a successful procedure. I am recovering well and getting stronger by the day, the MP stated.

The news of his hospitalization began circulating over the weekend, with many Kenyans taking to X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to wish him a quick recovery, while others speculated on the nature of his sudden absence from the public eye.

Babu, a key figure in the opposition circles and a self-proclaimed defender of the common man, has been a ubiquitous presence in the local political scene, making his brief silence particularly noticeable.

For a man who is usually seen leading protests or engaging in heated parliamentary debates, the image of Babu Owino in a hospital setting offered a rare glimpse of vulnerability. However, true to his character, the MP was quick to pivot back to his mission, thanking the medical team that attended to him and promising his supporters that he would be back on his feet soon.

To my people of Embakasi East and Kenyans at large, thank you for your prayers and well wishes. Your love has been a great source of strength during this time, he added.

Babus health update comes at a time of heightened political activity in the country. As a prominent member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), his presence is often a catalyst for mobilization within the partys rank and file.

The news also came at a time when the legislator was ranked as the most popular to take over Railas kingship in a weekend opinion poll.
In a move that has sent shockwaves from the Gulf of Aden to the shores of Lake Victoria, Israel has officially become the first UN member state to recognize Somaliland as an independent sovereign state.

The diplomatic bombshell, dropped on Friday, December 26, 2025, has not only redrawn the geopolitical map of the Horn of Africa but also triggered an immediate and firm defensive from the East African Community (EAC).

For over 34 years, Somaliland has operated as a ghost state, a functioning democracy with its own currency, army, and passport, yet legally shackled to a Somalia that it broke away from in 1991.

That ceiling shattered when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar signed a mutual declaration of recognition with Somalilands President, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.

The response from the region was swift. The EAC, which Somalia officially joined just over a year ago, has thrown its full weight behind Mogadishu. In a strongly worded statement, the regional bloc reaffirmed its commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The EACs stance is clear: recognizing breakaway regions sets a dangerous precedent that could destabilize an already volatile region.

For Nairobi and its neighbors, the principle of respecting borders inherited at independence is the bedrock of continental stability. By backing Somalia, the EAC is sending a message that it will not tolerate external players, however powerful, tinkering with the sovereignty of its member states.

The Abraham Accords of the Horn?

In Hargeisa, the atmosphere is electric. Thousands of Somalilanders took to the streets, hoisting the Blue and White of Israel alongside their own flag. President Abdullahi hailed the move as a historic milestone, signaling his countrys intent to join the Abraham Accords.

From Israels perspective, the move is deeply strategic. Beyond the diplomatic first, Somalilands location is a goldmine. Situated along the Red Sea and within spitting distance of Yemen, a friendly Somaliland offers Israel a crucial vantage point to monitor Houthi rebel activity and secure vital shipping lanes.

We intend to work together on economic fields, agriculture, and social development, Netanyahu reportedly told President Abdullahi in a phone call that has since gone viral in diplomatic circles.

However, there is growing speculation that Somaliland may provide other important strategic benefits to Israel, like the resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza, whether voluntary or involuntary.

In Mogadishu, the mood is one of betrayal and fury. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed an emergency parliamentary session, labeling Israels decision a blunt aggression. The Somali government argues that Israel is exploiting regional fractures for its own expansionist agenda, even suggesting the move might be linked to controversial plans regarding Gaza.

The African Union (AU) and the Arab League have echoed this sentiment, with AU Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf warning that the recognition could have far-reaching implications for peace across the continent.

What Happens Next?

While Hargeisa celebrates its exit from the cold, the path ahead is fraught with tension. The Houthis in Yemen have already declared any Israeli presence in Somaliland a military target.

Meanwhile, all eyes are on Washington. While some U.S. politicians have toyed with the idea of following Israels lead, President Donald Trump has so far played his cards close to his chest, stating that while the matter is under study, he is not prepared to grant recognition at this time.

For Kenya and the rest of the EAC, the challenge will be maintaining regional cohesion while navigating the new reality. As Somaliland prepares to open an embassy in Jerusalem, the Horn of Africa remains a tinderbox, and the world is watching to see if this diplomatic spark will lead to a new era of prosperity or a fresh cycle of conflict.
President William Ruto has for the first time dropped a heavy hint that his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) could formalize a pre-election pact with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The Presidents remarks, made during a strategic tour that has been closely watched by pundits, signal a potential death blow to the traditional government versus opposition divide by suggesting a long-term partnership with the party founded by his erstwhile rival, Raila Odinga.

Since the formation of the Broad-Based Government earlier this year, which saw several top ODM luminaries join the Cabinet  the question on everyones lips has been whether this was a temporary marriage of convenience or a permanent union. Rutos latest sentiments suggest the latter.

Addressing a gathering on Sunday, the President emphasized the need for national unity and a cohesive political front to drive the countrys development agenda.

We have seen the fruits of working together. If we can work together to stabilize the country now, what stops us from planning the future of this nation together? Ruto posed, a statement widely interpreted as an open invitation for a formal 2027 coalition.

ODMs Price Tag: The 10-Point Deal

The hint from State House comes at a time when the ODM leadership has been increasingly vocal about their terms for engagement.

Just days ago, top party officials, including National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Suna East MP Junet Mohammed, signaled that the current arrangement needs a refresh to reflect ODMs true weight.

Key to any future pact is the full implementation of the 10-point agenda signed between Ruto and Raila Odinga. This deal, which includes constitutional tweaks and governance reforms, is seen by the ODM rank and file as the mandatory dowry before any 2027 wedding can take place.

While some ODM hardliners, like Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, have remained skeptical of the UDA embrace, the momentum within the partys top brass seems to be shifting toward a structured partnership that could see the two political titans run on a joint ticket  or at least a non-compete agreement  in the next polls.

Rutos pivot toward ODM is an act of political survival. With cracks appearing in his traditional Mt. Kenya backyard, the President is clearly looking to secure his basket of hope in Nyanza, Western, and the Coast  regions traditionally loyal to Raila Odinga.

However, this potential pact is a double-edged sword. It threatens to alienate his original allies in the Kenya Kwanza coalition who feel squeezed out by the newcomers. On the other side, it leaves the remaining opposition figures, like Kalonzo Musyoka, facing a uphill task of building a viable third force against a Ruto-ODM behemoth.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has thrown a massive spanner into the works of Kenyas First Oil ambitions, labeling the recently tabled Turkana Field Development Plan (FDP) a high-level heist designed to benefit dealers, not leaders.

In a scathing critique that has rattled the Ministry of Energy, Sifuna  who also serves as the ODM Secretary General  warned that the 25-year contract with Gulf Energy is a ticking time bomb that will leave Kenyans with dry pockets while billions in oil revenue are siphoned off.

The Masked Ownership Allegation

At the heart of Sifunas alarm is the rapid-fire change of hands at Gulf Energy, the company that took over from Tullow Oil in July 2025. According to the Senator, the firms ownership structure shifted multiple times in a matter of weeks  and in some instances, days  right before the government approved the development plan.

The ownership of the company changed hands like a hot potato, Sifuna claimed. Any lawyer will tell you that this is symptomatic of attempts to mask the real faces behind the deal. It is telling that the government approved this FDP just days after the final ownership reshuffle.

The 85% Recoverable Cost Trap

Perhaps the most shocking revelation in Sifunas dossier is a silent amendment made to the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) on November 25, 2025.

The Senator alleges that the maximum recoverable cost  the percentage of oil revenue the company takes back to cover its expenses before the government gets a cent  was quietly hiked from 55% to a staggering 85%.

They have redefined capital expenditure to include everything from labor and fuel to hauling and decommissioning, Sifuna explained. By the time they are done recovering these inflated costs, there will be nothing left for the people of Turkana or the rest of Kenya. We are being served a shell of a deal.

Exempt from Local Content?

Sifuna further accused the government of cleverly exempting Gulf Energy from the Local Content Bill, which was recently passed by the Senate to ensure Kenyan firms and workers get a slice of the pie in major projects.

By bypassing these regulations, the Senator argues that the project will rely on foreign supplies and labor, further disenfranchising the local community in South Lokichar who have waited over a decade for the black gold to change their lives.

Public Participation: The Final Battleground

The Senate Standing Committee on Energy has officially invited the public to submit memoranda on the FDP and the associated contracts for Blocks T6 and T7. The deadline for feedback is set for Friday, January 16, 2026.

Sifuna has urged Kenyans not to be silent spectators in what he calls Rutos biggest scandal yet.

Parliament is being used to rubber-stamp a deal that effectively auctions our natural resources to mysterious entities. If we dont stop this now, the oil in Turkana will be a curse, not a blessing, he warned.

The timing of this alarm is critical. With Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi pushing for First Oil by late 2026, the government is in a race against time. However, if Sifunas allegations of dealers in government gain traction, the project could face the same legal and political headwinds that stalled Tullow Oil for 14 years.
People named Awnan typically exhibit a blend of traditional values and adaptive intelligence that makes them particularly effective in roles requiring cultural sensitivity and historical awareness. They often demonstrate a natural authority that stems from deep knowledge rather than mere position, making them respected leaders in community and professional settings. Awnans tend to be excellent listeners with a gift for understanding multiple perspectives, which serves them well in mediation and teaching roles. Their connection to the name's meaning of 'Little Adam' often manifests as a humble approach to leadership and a focus on foundational principles rather than superficial achievements. Many Awnans show particular talent for preserving and transmitting cultural knowledge, whether through storytelling, teaching, or artistic expression. They typically value family and community relationships highly, seeing themselves as links in a chain of tradition rather than isolated individuals. This generational perspective often gives Awnans remarkable patience and long-term thinking in their personal and professional lives. At the same time, they're generally pragmatic and adaptable, understanding that traditions must evolve to remain relevanta quality that makes them effective bridge-builders between different generations and cultural contexts.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Carroll holds significant cultural importance as an Anglicized version of the ancient Irish name Cearbhall, which dates back to early medieval Ireland. The name was borne by several prominent figures in Irish history, including Cearbhall mac Dunlainge, the 9th-century King of Osraige who successfully defended his kingdom against Viking incursions. This historical connection established Carroll as a name associated with leadership, bravery, and Irish sovereignty. During the Gaelic Revival of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, names like Carroll gained renewed popularity as symbols of Irish cultural identity and resistance to English domination.



The name's cultural significance extends beyond Ireland through the Irish diaspora, particularly in the United States where it became a common surname and eventually a given name. The literary association with Lewis Carroll (though he was English and used it as a pseudonym) added another layer of cultural relevance, connecting the name to creativity and imagination. In modern Irish culture, Carroll represents a bridge between ancient Gaelic traditions and contemporary global Irish identity, maintaining its masculine, warrior-like connotations while adapting to modern naming conventions.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Dhruv holds profound significance in Hindu mythology and astronomy. The name originates from the legendary Prince Dhruv, a devotee of Lord Vishnu who performed intense penance and was blessed to become the Pole Star (Dhruv Nakshatra). This celestial body remains fixed in the northern sky while other stars revolve around it, symbolizing eternal stability and constancy. In Hindu scriptures, particularly the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, Dhruv's story exemplifies unwavering devotion, determination, and the ultimate reward of spiritual attainment. The Pole Star's position has guided navigators for centuries, making Dhruv not just a mythological figure but also a practical celestial guide. This dual significance - both spiritual and astronomical - makes the name deeply embedded in Indian cultural consciousness.



The mythological narrative of Prince Dhruv serves as a moral compass in Hindu tradition, teaching lessons about perseverance, devotion, and the rewards of righteous living. His transformation from a rejected prince to an eternal celestial being represents the ultimate spiritual achievement. This story is commonly told to children as an inspirational tale about the power of determination and faith. The cultural impact extends beyond religion into everyday language, where 'Dhruv' is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is reliable and unchanging in their commitments and character.
Women named Dior are typically associated with a distinctive blend of elegance, creativity, and strength. The name suggests someone with an innate sense of style and aesthetic appreciation, often expressed through personal presentation, creative pursuits, or professional choices. They tend to possess a natural confidence that draws others to them, combined with the refinement and grace associated with their French namesake. This combination often results in individuals who are both socially adept and personally compelling.



Beyond surface elegance, the golden connotation of 'd'or' suggests inner qualities of warmth, value, and resilience. Dior-named individuals are often perceived as having strong principles and high standards, with the ability to transform challenges into opportunities - much like the alchemical process of turning base metals into gold. They typically demonstrate leadership potential, innovative thinking, and the capacity to inspire others while maintaining an air of sophistication that commands respect. Their personality often balances creative vision with practical execution, making them effective in bringing beautiful ideas to life.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Kerwyn has deep roots in Celtic culture, particularly in Welsh and Cornish traditions where it emerged as a given name during the early medieval period. The name gained prominence through Saint Kerwyn, a 6th-century Welsh missionary who traveled to Cornwall and Brittany, establishing several churches and becoming a revered figure in Celtic Christianity. His legacy helped cement the name's association with spiritual devotion and cultural preservation during a time when Celtic traditions were facing pressure from Anglo-Saxon and Norman influences.



Throughout the Celtic diaspora, Kerwyn maintained its cultural resonance as a marker of Celtic identity, particularly in regions like Cornwall where Celtic languages and customs persisted despite external pressures. The name embodies the Celtic values of community loyalty, spiritual connection to nature, and cultural resilience. In modern times, it has experienced a revival as part of the broader Celtic cultural renaissance, serving as a link to ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary naming practices.
Individuals bearing the name Mahuizoh are typically characterized by their strong leadership qualities, innate dignity, and drive for excellence. They possess a natural authority that commands respect without being authoritarian, often demonstrating wisdom beyond their years and the ability to navigate complex social situations with grace. These individuals are achievement-oriented but understand that true glory comes from serving others and upholding moral principles. They tend to be strategic thinkers who plan carefully before acting, combining traditional wisdom with innovative approaches to problem-solving. Their sense of personal honor makes them reliable and trustworthy, often becoming the pillars of their communities or organizations.



In interpersonal relationships, Mahuizoh bearers are known for their loyalty and protective nature toward those they care about. They have a strong sense of responsibility and often take on leadership roles within their families and social circles. While they can be ambitious, their ambition is typically tempered by a deep sense of ethics and concern for the collective good. They excel in positions where they can mentor others and create lasting positive change. Their combination of vision, integrity, and practical competence makes them natural leaders who inspire others through example rather than coercion, truly embodying the 'glorious' qualities their name represents.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Margawse occupies a crucial position in Arthurian mythology as both a royal matriarch and a figure of considerable complexity. As the half-sister of King Arthur and mother of Sir Gawainone of the most celebrated knights of the Round Tableshe represents the intricate familial networks that underpin the Arthurian political structure. Her character serves as a bridge between the magical and political realms, often embodying the tension between older Celtic traditions and the emerging Christian order of Camelot. Throughout various medieval texts, she appears as Queen of Orkney, wife to King Lot, and mother to several prominent knights, making her one of the most connected figures in the Arthurian genealogical web.



Her portrayal evolves significantly across different Arthurian traditions, reflecting changing medieval attitudes toward female power and sexuality. In earlier Welsh texts, she appears as a more straightforward royal figure, but in later French and English romances, she becomes increasingly complexsometimes depicted as engaging in an incestuous relationship with Arthur that produces Mordred, thus contributing directly to Camelot's downfall. This transformation makes her a fascinating case study in how female characters were adapted to serve different narrative and moral purposes throughout the development of Arthurian literature. Her story illustrates the limited but significant ways in which women could exercise power in medieval courtly society.
Women named Myra are typically perceived as possessing a rare combination of creative sensitivity and practical intelligence. They often demonstrate strong intuitive abilities and emotional depth, making them excellent judges of character and situations. Myras tend to be observant and thoughtful, preferring to process information internally before expressing opinions. Their creative nature often manifests in artistic pursuits, writing, or other forms of self-expression, while their practical side ensures they remain grounded and effective in daily life.



In relationships, Myras are known for their loyalty and depth of feeling. They form strong, meaningful connections and value authenticity in their interactions. While they can appear reserved initially, those who earn their trust discover warm, compassionate individuals with sharp wit and insight. Myras typically possess quiet confidence rather than overt assertiveness, influencing others through persuasion and example rather than force. Their combination of emotional intelligence and resilience makes them particularly effective in caring professions, creative fields, or leadership roles requiring both sensitivity and strength.
Thai army accuses Cambodia of violating truce

Under the truce pact signed on Saturday, the two countries agreed to cease fire, freeze troop movements and cooperate on de-mining efforts. File photo: Reuters

Thailand's army accused Cambodia on Monday of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement, reached after weeks of deadly border clashes, by flying more than 250 drones over its territory.



The Southeast Asian neighbours agreed to the "immediate" ceasefire on Saturday, pledging to end renewed border clashes that killed dozens of people and displaced more than a million this month.



But the fresh allegation from Bangkok and its threat to reconsider releasing Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand left a sustained truce in doubt, even as their foreign ministers wrapped up two days of talks hosted by China.



The Thai army said on Monday "more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying from the Cambodian side, intruding into Thailand's sovereign territory" on Sunday night, according to a statement.



"Such actions constitute provocation and a violation of measures aimed at reducing tensions, which are inconsistent with the Joint Statement agreed" during a bilateral border committee meeting on Saturday, it said.



The reignited fighting this month spread to nearly every border province on both sides, shattering an earlier truce for which US President Donald Trump took credit.



Under the truce pact signed on Saturday, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to cease fire, freeze troop movements and cooperate on de-mining efforts and combating cybercrime.



They also agreed to allow civilians living in border areas to return home as soon as possible, while Thailand was to return 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July within 72 hours, if the ceasefire held.



Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn described the drone incident as "a small issue related to flying drones seen by both sides along the border line."



He said on Cambodian state television on Monday that the two sides had discussed the issue and agreed to investigate and "resolve it immediately."



Phnom Penh's defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata later denied any drones had been flown by the Cambodian side because the ministry and provincial authorities on the border had banned such flights.



"We confirm that no such drone launches have occurred," she said in a statement.



Thai army spokesman Winthai Suvaree said in a statement the drone activity reflected "provocative actions" and a "hostile stance toward Thailand," which could affect the security of military personnel and civilians in border areas.



Thailand's army "may need to reconsider its decision regarding the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers, depending on the situation and the behaviour observed," it said.



Five days of border clashes in July killed dozens of people before a truce was brokered by the United States, China and Malaysia, the chair of the Asean regional bloc.



Trump witnessed the signing of a follow-on declaration between Thailand and Cambodia in October but it was broken within weeks, with each side blaming the other for instigating the fresh fighting.



The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of the 800-kilometre Thai-Cambodian border, where both sides claim centuries-old temple ruins.



While the two nations agreed on Saturday to stop fighting, they still need to resolve the demarcation of their border. (AFP)
VMPL Gurugram (Haryana) [India], December 29: JSW MG Motor India today announces the launch of an industry-first initiative aimed at making EV ownership easier and seamless for its customers. JSW MG Motor has become the country's first car-brand to offer an Assured Buy Back for EVs from the existing 3 years, to up to 5 years now. The program bolsters the confidence of EV users by guaranteeing a fixed resale value at the end of specified periods*. With this new, unique program, MG EV owners can receive a guaranteed resale value after 3, 4, or 5 years, depending on the plan they select.* The program builds on MG Motor's existing offering, which guarantees 60% buy-back value after 3 years of ownership. It operates independently of any loan or finance scheme. First Time in country Commercial MG ZS EV owners are also eligible for resale value benefits for vehicles up to 3 years old or with a mileage of up to INR 60,000 per annum. Speaking about this innovative buyback program, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, "As a customer-centric brand, MG has always introduced initiatives like B-a-a-S (Battery-as-a-service), lifetime warranty on EV batteries that make EV ownership a delightful mobility experience. Resale value has been a key consideration for many customers who are considering buying an EV. With our industry-first MG Value Promise Program (Assured Buyback), facilitated by Lockton India Insurance Broking and Advisory Ltd in partnership with Zuno General Insurance, we want to give MG EV owners complete peace of mind as we now offer a Assured resale value where a customer has option to choose the tenure from 3 to 5 years. We believe this initiative will play a key role in expanding India's EV market by eliminating a major concern for buyers and building stronger trust in electric mobility." The program brings several key advantages for customers. It is India's first-of-its-kind program in the mass EV segment and is not tied to any finance or loan program. The program helps reduce depreciation risk and makes upgrading to a newer MG model much easier, allowing them to decide whether they choose to retain, return, or upgrade to a new MG vehicle. Customers will have the option to retain, surrender, or exchange their vehicle at the end of the selected tenure. By reducing depreciation concerns, the program is designed to boost buyer trust and accelerate EV adoption across India. It also offers greater financial predictability, convenience, and long-term peace of mind. Shanai Ghosh, MD & CEO, Zuno General Insurance, said, "As a digital insurer, this partnership strengthens our vision of building a strong, future-ready EV insurance portfolio. Electric mobility is reshaping how India moves, and we're excited to support that shift with solutions that stay true to Zuno's promise of easy, friendly, and transparent. Our collaboration with JSW MG Motor India reinforces our commitment to making EV ownership simpler and more secure for customers." Zuno General Insurance, the program's insurance partner, is a new age insurer committed to creating digital-first protection that simplifies long-term EV ownership. Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Sandeep Dadia, CEO & Country Head, Lockton India, said, "As EV adoption accelerates, customers increasingly seek clarity and confidence around long-term ownership. MG EVs are known for its true-to-range offerings with highest resale value and through our participation in MG's extended Assured Buy Back Program, we've focused on shaping a solution that provides predictable value in a simple and transparent way. Initiatives like this empower customers to plan their EV journey with greater certainty and strengthen overall trust in India's rapidly evolving electric mobility ecosystem. With India's EV landscape set for steady expansion supported by evolving infrastructure, ongoing technological improvements, and increasing consumer awareness, programs like this mark an important step forward. Offering greater assurance and flexibility, such buy-back solutions can play a meaningful role in strengthening trust, reducing adoption barriers, and supporting the broader transition toward a more sustainable and future-ready mobility ecosystem." The Assured Buy Back Program has been accelerated and facilitated exclusively by Lockton India Insurance Broking and Advisory Ltd. Leveraging its deep expertise in the mobility sector and strong understanding of today's evolving customer expectations, Lockton India has played a pivotal role in shaping a transparent and predictable model that builds trust and clarity around long-term EV ownership. T&C Apply* (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.)
VMPL Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 29: IDFC FIRST Bank announces the debut of Gaj: (pronounced Gajah in Sanskrit) Credit Card a premium, invitation-only metal credit card engineered for the Bank's discerning high-net-worth individuals (HNI). Gaj: Credit Card represents the pinnacle of Ashva- Mayura- Gaj: trilogy, the Bank's curated series of premium metal credit cards. Our Philosophy: In Sanskrit, Gaj: the Elephant signifies majesty, wisdom, stability, and sovereign power. In ancient Indian thought, the Gaj was the bearer of majesty of the land, the protector of empires, and the symbol of measured strength; never impulsive, never excessive. A majesty's greatness was often judged not by the crown they wore, but by the Gaj they rode. Our Design: The Gaj: Credit Card transcends generic global aesthetics. The "crafted on metal", signature twin-elephant motif is an artisanal masterpiece designed to be a silent ambassador of Indian excellence on the global stage. Availability: Gaj: Credit Card is an invitation-only offering for select IDFC FIRST Bank Private Banking customers with established relationship depth. The card carries a joining and annual fee of 12,500 + GST. The card comes with 12,500 invitation Rewards Points of 1RP=Rs.1 redeemable on travel bookings via the IDFC FIRST Bank app effectively offsetting the joining fee. The annual fee is also waived on 10 lakh of annual spends. Beyond this, GAJ offers an inspirational metal card design, zero foreign exchange mark-up, a simple 1:1 rewards structure, and a set of premium travel and lifestyle privileges designed to complement an already strong proposition. The Gaj: Benchmark: - The 1:1 Reward Standard: 1 Reward Point = 1 for flights and hotels, eliminates complex math by offering the most direct value-back in the super-premium category. - The Global Traveler's Core: 0% Forex Markup and Interest-Free Global ATM cash access, there is no longer a need to carry foreign currency notes and travel cards. - Full Travel Protection: A dedicated 50,000 Trip Cancellation Cover, the card is built for the "Global Indian" who demands a zero-compromise travel experience. - Hyper-Accelerated Rewards: Exclusive access to 50X rewards on hotels and 25X on flights via the IDFC FIRST ecosystem, delivering a value-back of up to 33.33%. - Seamless transit: with complimentary international and domestic lounges including one for the Guest. - For more features, refer to Annexed Table of Benefits Shirish Bhandari, Head - Credit Cards, FASTag & Loyalty, IDFC FIRST Bank, said: "Gaj: Credit Card reflects our deep respect for Indian heritage and its achievers. We designed this card to be complete in every respect- combining feature depth with an inspirational Indian design. As the pinnacle of our Ashva- Mayura- Gaj: trilogy, it honours the wisdom and strength of the modern Indian achiever." Details of the product are as below: Table of Benefits Gaj: Credit Card, Experience Greatness About the Bank 1. Vision: To build a world-class Bank in India, founded with principles of Ethical, Digital, and Social Good Banking. 2. Scale: IDFC FIRST Bank is one of India's fast-growing private banks, building its UI, UX, and tech stack like a fintech. As of September 30, 2025, the Bank serves 35 million customers, with a customer business of Rs. 5,35,673 crore ($60.4b) comprising customer deposits of 2,69,094 crores ($30.3b) and loans & advances of 2,66,579 crores ($30.0b). Customer deposits grew 23.4% YoY and loans 19.7% YoY. We reach over 60,000 cities, towns, and villages, operate through 1,041 branches. 3. Scope: We are a universal Bank offering complete range of services, including Retail, MSME, Rural, Startups, Corporate Banking, Cash Management, Credit Cards, Wealth Management, Deposits, Government Banking, Working Capital, Trade Finance, and Treasury solutions. 4. Ethical Banking: We are committed to doing right even when customers are not watching. We have simplified descriptions, calculations, and legal jargon to avoid confusing customers. 5. Digital Banking: The Bank's modern technology stack delivers high-quality services across all channels like mobile, branch, internet banking, call centers and relationship managers. Built on cloud-native, API led, microservices architecture, supported with data, analytics, AI, and fine aesthetics, we strive to deliver fintech-grade experiences on banking platform. 6. Social Good: We work for society. We have impacted over 40 million lives including 3.6 million women entrepreneurs. We have financed over 7.5 million lifestyle improvement loans (for laptops, washing machines, refrigerators etc. that enhance the quality of life of middle class), 2.5 lakh electric 2W and 3W vehicles, 2.7 lakh water, sanitation, and hygiene loans, 2 million livelihood (cattle) loans, and 300,000+ SMEs. On deposits, we provide access of premium investment research, which is usually reserved for the wealthy, even to those holding balances as low as 5,000. Our ESG scores are high and improving. 7. Customer Friendly Banking: We make banking easy by having a customer first approach. We have waived fees on 36 essential savings account services which are commonly charged in the market, the first and only bank in India to do so. We create "pull" products that customers actively seek out. 8. Governance: We adhere to regulatory guidelines in letter and spirit and actively work with regulators to make things better. We take pride in maintaining highest levels of corporate governance. 9. Shareholders: We are building a well-diversified universal banking portfolio designed to deliver consistent ROE of 16%+. 10. Employees: IDFC FIRST Bank is designed to be a happy place to work, with cutting-edge roles, meaningful growth opportunities, and a culture of meritocracy. Compensation is healthy, efforts are recognized, and employees experience the pride and excitement of creating a world-class Bank in India. (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.)
VMPL New Delhi [India], December 29: Modern law enforcement operates in an environment of unprecedented data volume and complexity. Emergency calls, case records, forensic inputs, surveillance feeds, and open-source information continue to grow exponentially, often across disconnected systems and jurisdictions. While data availability has increased, the ability to transform this information into timely, actionable intelligence remains a persistent challenge. Traditional policing systems are largely reactive since investigations often rely on manual correlation of fragmented records, making it difficult to identify hidden patterns, anticipate emerging risks, or optimise force deployment proactively. As cities expand and incidents becomes more mobile and networked, the need for intelligence-led, predictive policing has never been more critical. The Shift Toward Predictive and Intelligence-led Policing Law enforcement agencies today require platforms that go beyond record-keeping or alert generation. What is needed is a unified intelligence layer, one that can fuse multi-source data, reveal patterns invisible to manual analysis, and support faster, more informed decision-making. Recognising this shift, Innefu Labs developed Prophecy Alethia, AI-powered predictive policing platform designed to strengthen operational efficiency, situational awareness, and proactive misdeed prevention for police and law enforcement agencies. Prophecy Alethia enables police forces to move from reactive response to predictive, intelligence-led operations by correlating data across multiple sources, jurisdictions, and formats. How Prophecy Alethia Works Prophecy Alethia is built as a comprehensive intelligence fusion and analytics platform for law enforcement. It integrates seamlessly with existing policing ecosystems, including case management systems, emergency response data, forensic records, and open-source intelligence. At its core, Alethia focuses on data fusion, pattern recognition, and predictive analytics, helping officers and analysts identify emerging risks and hidden connections without relying on manual cross-referencing. Key Capabilities of Prophecy Alethia 1. Intelligent Data Fusion: Correlates structured and unstructured data from multiple law enforcement sources to create unified intelligence views.2. Predictive Analytics Engine: Identifies emerging patterns, high-risk zones, and temporal trends to support proactive policing and resource planning.3. Network Link Analysis & Entity Profiling: Reveals hidden relationships between individuals, events, and activities across cases and datasets.4. Geospatial Intelligence: Visualises incident data, complaint density, and location-based trends through dynamic heatmaps and geo-fenced analysis.5. Timeline Analysis: Maps events chronologically to identify repeat behaviours, escalation patterns, and critical time windows.6. Digital Forensics & Communication Analysis Integration: Supports analysis of telecom records, device forensics, and financial data for comprehensive investigative insights.7. AI-Powered Data Insights: Enables natural language interaction with case data, allowing faster intelligence summarisation and insight generation. Together, these capabilities provide law enforcement agencies with a single, coherent intelligence picture, supporting smarter decision-making at both operational and strategic levels. Success Case Snapshot: Predictive Policing in Action In a recent real-world deployment, Prophecy Alethia enabled law enforcement to uncover a previously unseen pattern by correlating emergency call data, complaint records, and location intelligence across multiple jurisdictions. What initially appeared as routine, disconnected incidents began to form a clear pattern once analysed through Alethia's predictive and geospatial analytics. The platform surfaced high-risk zones and time windows that were not evident through manual review. Based on these insights, police were able to plan focused, intelligence-led interventions and optimise patrol deployment in vulnerable areas. The outcome was a measurable reduction in repeat incidents and significantly improved situational awareness, demonstrating how predictive intelligence can directly support public safety outcomes. From Reaction to Readiness Beyond individual cases, Prophecy Alethia helps law enforcement agencies institutionalise predictive policing. By continuously learning from incoming data, the platform supports:* Smarter monitoring of high-risk zones* Optimised force deployment based on predicted demand* Faster investigations through automated correlation* Improved coordination across districts and units This shift from reaction to readiness allows police forces to stay ahead of evolving threats while making better use of limited resources. Defining the Future of Smart Policing Innefu Labs' vision with Prophecy Alethia is clear: empower law enforcement agencies with technology that enhances judgment, accelerates insight, and strengthens public trust. As urban security challenges grow more complex, predictive policing and intelligence fusion are no longer optional, they are foundational to modern law enforcement. Platforms like Prophecy Alethia ensure that critical patterns do not remain hidden in data silos, but are surfaced in time to enable informed, proactive action. About Innefu Labs Founded in 2010, Innefu is an AI-driven company providing cutting edge Data Analytics and Information Security solutions to National Security agencies. The company was started with a clear focus to carry out Deep Tech innovation and develop products which can capture the global market and be the cornerstone of the economy of the country. With more than 100+ installations across Indian Subcontinent, Middle East and South East Asia, the company is today a de-facto leader in developing and deploying AI for National and Cyber Security. The company with its own range of products serves a diverse client base including Defence and Intelligence organizations, Law Enforcement Agencies, Financial Intelligence Units, BFSI as well as top Fortune 500 companies. Media Contact:Manish Guptadigital@innefu.com www.innefu.com (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.)
Crude oil markets are likely to remain under sustained pressure in 2026 as chronic oversupply, swelling inventories and modest demand growth outweigh geopolitical risks, giving prices range bound to bearish tone despite efforts by OPEC+ to defend price floors, analysts said. "The 2026 outlook for crude oil is defined by a transition into a period of chronic oversupply," said Vandana Bharti, AVP, Commodities Research at SMC Global Securities. "Global production growth will continue to outpace modest demand gains, potentially leading to a surplus of 2 to 4 million barrels per day." Bharti said relentless output growth from non-OPEC+ producers, particularly the U.S., Brazil and Guyana, is driving the imbalance, while global demand remains subdued due to transportation electrification, shifting trade policies and a cooling manufacturing sector. Rising inventories are expected to intensify price pressure as Bharti said, "Global stockpiles reached four-year highs in late 2025 and are forecast to build by another 2.2 million bpd through 2026. This inventory overhang will continue to weigh on prices." Although OPEC+ has paused further output hikes to defend price floors, she said that the group's influence is diminishing. "The geopolitical premium has eroded, and the risk of a market share battle cannot be ruled out," Bharti said. Benchmark Brent crude and U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) have already weakened sharply in 2025, with Brent briefly trading near the low $60s per barrel, reflecting a structural imbalance that analysts expect to persist into next year. Supply-side pressures intensified in 2025 as production from the U.S., Canada, Brazil and OPEC+ exceeded expectations. Prathamesh Mallya, Deputy Vice President, Research Commodities and Currencies at Angel One said, "Brent and WTI have experienced significant declines compared with prior years. OPEC+ decisions to reverse voluntary production cuts early in the year added further to the surplus." On the demand side, Mallya pointed to structural headwinds and said, "Accelerating electric vehicle adoption is eating into fuel demand, especially in key markets like China. While Asia and parts of the developing world continue to provide some demand support, it is not enough to absorb the supply surge." Forecasts from major agencies underscore the bearish outlook, he said. "The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects global liquid fuel production to rise by about 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2026, outpacing demand growth of around 1.1 million bpd. Non-OPEC producers are expected to account for nearly two-thirds of new supply, while OPEC+ output is projected to remain broadly steady at 37-38 million bpd," he highlighted. Ravinder Kumar, Senior Research Analyst at SMC Global Securities said, "The global crude oil market is clearly shifting toward oversupply," said Ravinder Kumar, Senior Research Analyst at SMC Global Securities. "The International Energy Agency sees supply potentially exceeding demand by nearly 4 million bpd, marking the biggest surplus since the early 2010s." Kaynat Chainwala, Research Analyst at Kotak Securities mentioned that the geopolitical risks may still trigger short-lived rallies. "Tensions around Russia and Venezuela could lead to episodic price spikes," she said. U.S. President Donald Trump's enforcement of a "total and complete" blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers and the possibility of fresh U.S. sanctions on Russia's energy sector as upside risks, she added. "However, any meaningful progress towards a Russia-Ukraine peace agreement would likely intensify selling pressure," Chainwala added, noting that prices are increasingly driven by structural imbalances rather than geopolitical headlines. Analysts broadly expect Brent crude to average in the mid-USD 50s to low-USD 60s per barrel in 2026, with several financial institutions, including JPMorgan, forecasting prices below 2025 levels. WTI is expected to trade in the USD 50-65 per barrel range. Amit Gupta, Senior Research Analyst at Kedia Advisory has advised to sell the crude oil futures at Rs 4750 per barrel as he expected a negative tone for the fossil fuel in the coming year following excess global supply and also because of inadequate demand which may fail to absorb huge inventories. Vandana Bharti of SMC Global Securities highlighted that in India's domestic market, crude oil futures on the MCX are projected to remain volatile within a Rs 3,500-Rs 6,500 per barrel band in the coming year. "Short-term rallies driven by Middle East tensions or Chinese stimulus are likely to be met with aggressive selling," Bharti said. Further, Ravinder Kumar said currently, crude oil prices are hovering around Rs 5216 per barrel on MCX and on WTI, the fossil fuel is trading at around USD 57.50 per barrel. According to government data, during 2024-25 (April-March) India imported around 300 million metric tonnes of crude and petroleum products, meeting about 88% of the requirements through imports. (ANI)
Reliance Industries Limited on Monday strongly refuted reports that claimed that the Indian government has raised a USD 30 billion claim against the company for underproduction from a gas field, calling the reports "factually incorrect." The statement was issued in response to a report titled "India claims $30 billion from Reliance Industries, BP for underproduction from gas field, sources say." In an official statement, the company criticised the publication of such reports based on unnamed sources, calling them inappropriate and irresponsible. "The contents of the report titled "India claims $30 billion from Reliance Industries, BP for underproduction from gas field, sources say" are factually incorrect. The publication of a report such as this based on unnamed and unidentified sources is inappropriate and irresponsible," the official press release said. RIL clarified that there is no USD 30 billion claim against either Reliance or its partner BP. It stated that the only claim made by the Government of India in relation to the KG-D6 block amounts to approximately USD 247 million, which has been consistently and transparently disclosed in the company's audited annual financial statements in line with regulatory requirements. "There is no claim of $ 30 Billion against Reliance and BP. The claim made by Government of India in relation to KG D6 Block is of the order of $ 247 Million which has been appropriately and consistently disclosed in the Company's annual audited financial statements, in accordance with its disclosure requirements," said the statement. Reliance further noted that the matter referred to in the report is sub judice and will be decided by the courts in accordance with Indian law, which the company has full faith in. It added that Reliance Industries and BP have always complied with their contractual and legal obligations and strongly objected to what it described as a misrepresentation of facts in the report. "The matters referred to in the report are entirely sub judice and would be determined in accordance with the laws of the country by its judicial system, in which Reliance has full faith. Reliance Industries Limited, together with its partner BP has at all times complied with its contractual and legal obligations and take strong exception to mischaracterization of facts in the report," the statement added. (ANI)
Hollywood icon Sigourney Weaver revealed that her own child encouraged her to take on the role of the villainous Warden in the 2003 film 'Holes,' according to People. The 76-year-old actress recalled that her child, Shar Simpson, who was around eight years old at the time, first suggested the role after reading the novel at school. "One day, she came up to me and said, 'Mom, there's this really awful woman in my book, and you should play her,'" Weaver said. Reflecting on the moment, Weaver said she felt proud that her child could separate fiction from reality. "I remember being very proud of her that she was able to say, 'There's a really awful person, and you should play her, Mom,' because I think she knew I would enjoy it," she added. Weaver shares her now 35-year-old child with her husband, theatre director Jim Simpson, whom she married in 1984, according to People. Weaver went on to portray the Warden, the ruthless overseer of Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention centre where boys are forced to dig holes in search of buried treasure. The film, directed by Andy Davis and written by Louis Sachar, was based on Sachar's 1998 bestselling novel of the same name. "It was incredible to me to actually end up in the movie, you know, directed and I think, produced by Andy Davis, with Louis Sachar writing the script, and such an amazing young cast," the Alien actress added, as quoted by People. 'Holes' was inspired by the 1998 novel by the same name, both written by Sachar. In addition to Weaver, the film featured Shia LaBeouf, Jon Voight, Patricia Arquette, Tim Blake Nelson, Khleo Thomas, Dule Hill, Eartha Kitt, and more. Reflecting on her character, Weaver described the Warden as "nightmare-ish," especially from a child's perspective, but added that she viewed the character as deeply damaged. "But what I found so unexpectedly touching about The Warden was that she had spent her childhood looking for that treasure, doing what she had the boys doing nonstop. The idea that she was so damaged, probably had some PTSD that was still active in her, so she was driven to continue to look," she said. "In the last scene, I think before she's taken away, I said to Andy [Davis], 'You have to let her see what they found, and then she can rest,' and so I did get to see it in the back of the car," she added, as reported by People. 'Holes' is available to stream on Disney+. (ANI)
Bollywood star Sunny Deol on Monday attended the special screening of his late father and legendary actor Dharmendra's film 'Ikkis'. Sunny arrived at the venue looking emotional, yet he cheerfully posed for the cameras. All eyes, however, were drawn to him as he stood beside the poster bearing his father's photograph. Bobby Deol, too, graced his presence at the screening with wife Tanya, son Aryaman, and cousin Abhay Deol. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, 'Ikkis' marks the last onscreen presence of Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. Speaking to ANI, Sriram Raghavan opened up about Dharmendra's association with the upcoming war biopic, which features Agastya Nanda in the lead as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Recalling that Dharmendra was already unwell during the final dubbing sessions in October, Raghavan shared, "I met him in October. That time he was okay, but he was not too well. He did watch the first half and waited for the second half. I wanted him to see the film in its entirety. Somehow, that couldn't happen. He is not here to enjoy the work he had done, and people appreciate that. That is a regret we have." In a few recollections, the 'Badlapur' director revealed how Dharmendra used to write dialogues in Urdu before the shoot. "He's old school. He would write his dialogues in Urdu. And he would also write the core actor's dialogues. He was extremely well-prepared," he added. (ANI)
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan's 60th birthday bash was no less than any festival as members of Bollywood gathered together in huge numbers at his Panvel farmhouse. Loaded with music, dance, drinks, and food, his birthday celebration will always remain special for all the guests. What made it more memorable was Salman's down-to-earth nature, which consistently wins people's hearts. On Monday, Genelia, who was a part of Salman's birthday, posted a cute video of the 'Dabangg' star preparing special bhel for her and Riteish. Check out the video here. https://www.instagram.com/p/DS2FkLYDEzc/?hl=en "There is no one like @beingsalmankhan, he absolutely goes out of his way to make you feel at home, to make you feel special. This time he serves the absolutely delicious 'bhaauuNcii bhel'. We love you !!!!," she captioned the post. Earlier in the day, Salman took to social media to thank everyone who wished him on his special day. Taking to his X account on Monday, Salman shared a picture and posted a short message for his fans. Along with the picture, the actor wrote, "Thank u for all your love n good wishes means a lot god bless u all vit health n happiness." Adding more to the celebrations, the teaser for the actor's upcoming film 'Battle of Galwan' was also released on his birthday. The film is based on the Galwan Valley clash between India and China in 2020, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives. Following the clashes, tensions between India and China rose, with the army deploying formations near the Galwan Valley, along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, and undertaking activities such as surveying border areas to prevent "possible" Chinese aggression. Actor Chitrangda Singh has been paired opposite Salman in the film. It is set to hit theatres on April 17, 2026. (ANI)
BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday reacted to the arrest of Golam Nabi Azad, son of Janata Unnayan Party (JUP) Chairman Humayun Kabir, saying the police acted illegally. Adhikari said, "Police had acted illegally. Officials across the state are being misused in the name of the Chief Minister's 'aunt-nephew' duo." West Bengal Police on Sunday morning detained Golam Nabi Azad, son of Janata Unnayan Party (JUP) Chairman Humayun Kabir, for allegedly assaulting Humayun Kabir's Personal Security Officer (PSO), Jumma Khan. SP Murshidabad said, "Today morning, JUP party chairman Humayun Kabir's PSO Jumma Khan came to Saktipur PS and submitted a complaint that Golam Nabi Azad @ Robin, son of Jan Unnayan Party Chief Humayun Kabir, has allegedly beaten him when he asked for leave to go home. The incident has happened in front of the general public at the ground-floor office of Humayun Kabir (Saktipur PS). On getting this complaint, police have gone to his house to enquire about the matter. After a preliminary enquiry, Golam Nabi Azad, son of JUP party chairman Humayun Kabir, was the principal accused in the case. Golam Nabi Azad has been detained by Saktipur PS. Further investigation is underway." Humayun Kabir said, "Without any notice or permission, the police came to my house, specifically to the office located there, and tried to arrest me. At that moment, my son pushed them out of the house. On Thursday at 12:00 PM, I will gherao the Murshidabad police station and demand an explanation as to why the police came to my house. Everything is recorded on CCTV; I will provide the evidence."(ANI)
China will continue to make efforts to rebuild peace between Thailand and Cambodia: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 08:10, December 29, 2025

KUNMING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- China will continue to make efforts to rebuild peace between Thailand and Cambodia and is willing to offer humanitarian assistance to people in need in both countries, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on Sunday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow.

Following the signing of a joint statement agreeing to a ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are leading delegations to meet in Yunnan from Dec. 28 to 29 at the invitation of Wang.

Wang said as a friendly neighbor of both countries, China wants least to see Thailand and Cambodia come to war and hopes most to see the two countries restore their friendship. It is believed that as long as Thailand and Cambodia communicate on an equal footing and move forward together, there will be no insurmountable obstacles.

China will continue to support ASEAN in playing its due role, is willing to provide assistance to the ASEAN observation mission in monitoring the ceasefire.

Sihasak spoke highly of China's active efforts in mediating the Thailand-Cambodia conflict in an Asian way, noting that the ceasefire agreement newly signed by Thailand and Cambodia marks a fresh start.

Resorting to force is never Thailand's choice when it comes to disputes with neighboring countries, Sihasak said, adding that Thailand is committed to achieving a sustainable ceasefire and pursuing genuine peace.

"We are willing to look forward and move ahead, strengthen communication with Cambodia through bilateral channels, and in a sincere manner, gradually resume exchanges, rebuild mutual trust, repair bilateral relations, and safeguard the peace and tranquility of the borders between the two countries and the region," the foreign minister said.

With regards to bilateral relations, Wang requested Sihasak to convey Chinese President Xi Jinping's sincere greetings and New Year's wishes to Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, stating that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand. The Thai king successfully paid his first historic state visit to China. Xi and the Thai king reached important consensus on promoting the building of a China-Thailand community with a shared future, which has drawn a blueprint for the development of bilateral relations.

Thailand has recently reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China principle and its opposition to "Taiwan independence," demonstrating strong support for China's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Wang, adding that China appreciates this stance.

China is willing to work with Thailand to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, jointly open up a new golden 50 years of China-Thailand friendship, Wang added.

Sihasak requested Wang to convey Thai king's sincere greetings to President Xi. He said that Thailand and China have shared a time-honored history of exchanges. In recent years, the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries has grown increasingly close, with mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation deepening across various fields, making significant contributions to safeguarding regional peace and stability.

Sihasak said Thailand will, as always, firmly adhere to the one-China policy.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan will be on a two-day visit to Puducherry, Kerala and Tamil Nadu on December 29 and 30. On December 29, the Vice-President will attend a civic reception, unveil the statue of Mahakavi Bharathiar, and launch a housing project under the Smart City Mission in Puducherry, according to the Vice President's Secretariat. He will also participate as the Chief Guest at the 30th Convocation of Pondicherry University, Puducherry. Later on the same day, the Vice-President will travel to Kerala and attend the Trivandrum Fest 2025. On December 30, the Vice-President will participate in the 93rd Sivagiri Pilgrimage at Varkala, Kerala. He will also inaugurate the public meeting of the conclusion of the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of Mar Ivanios College, Thiruvananthapuram. Later the same day, the Vice-President will participate as the Chief Guest at the valedictory ceremony of Kashi-Tamil Sangamam 4.0 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Earlier, Radhakrishnan participated in the birth centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The event was organised by the Atal Foundation, the vice president's secretariat said in a press release. Recalling a couplet from the Tamil classic Thirukkural, the Vice-President said that while all human beings are equal by birth, greatness is achieved through one's actions. The Vice-President said that Atal Bihari Vajpayee was no ordinary individual but a mission in himself, who always remained "Atal" in his commitment to principles and values. He observed that Atal Bihari Vajpayee is remembered and honoured for his exemplary actions as a statesman, administrator, parliamentarian, poet, and above all, as a great human being. (ANI)
Congress MP Manickam Tagore's comparison of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) with Al-Qaeda has triggered sharp reactions, with RSS leader Indresh Kumar saying that it reflects the intellectual and mental bankruptcy of the Congress leadership. Referring to Manickam Tagore's reported comparison of the RSS with extremist organisations, Indresh Kumar said such comments reflect "intellectual and mental bankruptcy". "In this context, a prominent MP has revealed his mindset by comparing the RSS to Al-Qaeda... It reflects the intellectual and mental bankruptcy of the Congress leadership and its members," he said. He further said that several political leaders had at times praised the RSS for its discipline, patriotism, and contributions to nation-building. "When individuals, institutions, and their leaders face continuous defeats, their frustration becomes evident. Therefore, some leaders praised the RSS for its discipline, patriotism, and work in nation-building. This has caused turmoil within the Congress party, and it appears divided," he stated. The RSS leader said that the organisation is marking its centenary year by undertaking initiatives aimed at social harmony and nation-building, while alleging that repeated political setbacks have led to "frustration" within the Congress. "The RSS is celebrating its centenary year; through various programs, they are working towards a great India. Along with this, they are striving for a society free from untouchability, pollution, religious fanaticism, and forced conversions. They want people to abide by the law and follow the rules," Indresh Kumar said. Congress MP Manickam Tagore earlier on Sunday criticised Digvijaya Singh's praise for the RSS's organisational strength, calling it a "famous self-goal". Tagore equated the RSS with Al-Qaeda, stating that both spread hatred. He said, "The RSS is an organisation built on hatred, and it spreads hatred. There is nothing to learn from hatred. Can you learn anything from Al-Qaeda? Al-Qaeda is an organisation of hatred. It hates others. What is there to learn from that organisation?"This comes after Digvijaya Singh shared a black-and-white photograph from the 1990s, found on social question-and-answer website Quora, showing a young Narendra Modi seated on the floor near senior BJP leader LK Advani at an event in Gujarat. In a post shared on X, Singh noted that individuals who once worked at the grassroots level could rise through the organisational hierarchy to become Chief Minister and eventually Prime Minister. He described this as the "power of organisation", while tagging senior Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, MPs Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Jairam Ramesh, PM Modi, and the official handles of the Congress. "I found this picture on the Quora site. It is very impressive. In what way did the grassroots swayamsevak of RSS and the worker of Jan Sangh @BJP4India sit on the floor at the feet of leaders and become the Chief Minister of the state and the Prime Minister of the country? This is the power of the organisation. Jai Siya Ram. @INCIndia @INCMP@kharge @RahulGandhi @priyankagandhi @Jairam_Ramesh @narendramodi," Singh's X post read. (ANI)
Regional PF Commissioner, Rizwan Uddin and Chief Learning Officer (CLO), PDUNASS, addressed PG students of NID and Enforcement Officers/Accounts Officers of EPFO in GNLU, Gandhinagar. According to a release, NID, Gandhinagar, organised a special session titled "Motivation Through Goal Setting" for PG students. This was a highly interactive and engaging session, during which the speaker acknowledged students for their active participation. Relevant questions on success, failures, challenging goals, and the roadmap to achieve them were among the interesting aspects of the talk. The roles of discipline, willpower, attitude, belief, coordination, and consistency were emphasised. Bhavin Kothari, a key authority at NID, facilitated the talk. At the same time, Rizwan Uddin, RPFC-I and CLO, PDUNASS, expressed his pleasure at the way scholars from prestigious NID took the talk and showed interest in furthering the session's objective by pursuing their own goals. Earlier, Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar in association with Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya National Academy of Social Security (PDUNASS), the National Academy of EPFO, organized four week "Induction Training Programme" for the sixth batch of Enforcement Officers/Account Officers of Employees' Provident Fund Organization, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. The valedictory session for the Induction training programme was scheduled for 26th December 2025, at which Rizwan Uddin, Registrar, GNLU, was present, the release said. The induction training programme started on 1st December 2025, with 62 Enforcement/Account officers in attendance. The training programme comprised 81 sessions on key legal topics, with 121.5 hours of training delivered to officers. A total of twenty-six resource persons (including experienced EPFO officers) conducted the sessions during the Induction Training Programme. Various important topics were covered, including criminal law, civil law, Evidence Act, constitutional provisions, principles of natural justice, significance of quasi-judicial authorities and relevant provisions, POSH Act, cyber laws, procurement management, Rajbhasha, contract law, interpretation rules, labour laws, new labour codes and professional etiquette and personal grooming. On the final day of the training, Rizwan Uddin addressed the trainees in two sessions, where roles and responsibilities of the Principal Employers toward "contractual Employees" were explained in detail through two landmark Judgements- "HSWCL Vs RPFC" (Calcutt High Court) and "FCI vs RPFC" (Delhi High Court). Nitin Malik acknowledged the efforts of Hardik Parikh, the Course Coordinator, and appreciated the trainees' discipline. Trainee officers shared their feedback in an open and informal setting. Hardik Parikh submitted a detailed report of a long training. During the valedictory sessions, the officers were encouraged to serve the national interest by applying the knowledge imparted to them effectively. Rizwan Uddin stressed the need for customer-centric service delivery and deep learning. Trainees were sensitised to be decisive, service-oriented, responsive and collaborative in their roles while functioning in EPFO. They were further sensitised to the significance of law in government services and encouraged to work towards securing optimal benefits for stakeholders in the interest of justice. (ANI)
According to the police, the boy, a class 11 student, came to the restaurant with his three friends.

He and his friends reached the top of the restaurant through the stairs, where the 16-year-old climbed to the top of the plastic shed meant for the gallery between the shops. The Plastic shed collapsed, causing the fall, police said.

He was rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Further investigation is underway (ANI)
The incident occurred in the heart of the city, under the Kotwali police station area in Korba district.

Twelve fire tenders immediately reached the spot to douse the fire.

Efforts are still underway as locals gathered to provide assistance and bring the fire under control.

Further details awaited. (ANI)
Meghalaya Border Security Force (BSF) chief Inspector General OP Upadhyay on Monday rejected Bangladesh's media reports claiming two accused in student leader Sharif Osman Hadi's murder had entered India. The Meghalaya BSF chief told ANI that there has been no such cross-border movement from the Meghalaya sector. He added that individuals entering India from a location nearly 300 km from Dhaka, despite extensive CCTV surveillance and checkpoints, is "highly implausible." The BSF official termed Bangladeshi media reports "false and fabricated." Inspector General OP Upadhyay said, "The claims are completely false, fabricated, and misleading, and there is no evidence to support them. Just three days ago, Bangladeshi media quoted an IG-rank officer stating that no such evidence existed. Now, a DIG-level officer has made contradictory remarks. It was alleged that Meghalaya Police apprehended the individuals, but upon verification, the police denied the claims. All reports in the Bangladeshi media are incorrect." "There has been no such cross-border movement from the Meghalaya sector, and even the Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) has not reported any such incident. The BGB is a highly professional force. The claim that the individuals entered India from a location nearly 300 km from Dhaka, despite extensive CCTV surveillance and checkpoints in Bangladesh, is highly implausible. Therefore, the allegations are highly unlikely, totally false and fabricated," the Inspector General added. Bangladesh has been under political turmoil, also witnessing protests and violence, after Inqilab Moncho leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who led the uprising against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was killed. The protests also led to violence against minorities in Bangladesh, leading to the killing of Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal. New Delhi has expressed concern over the recent killings of Hindus in the neighbouring country, while calling for a free and fair election next year. India also witnessed widespread protests over the murders, with Hindutva organisations strongly condemning Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal's deaths. Meanwhile, protests continue in Bangladesh as Inqilab Moncho leaders and supporters on Sunday staged a blockade at Dhaka's Shahbagh intersection as part of a wider shutdown across divisional cities, pressing for justice in the killing of their leader Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, The Daily Star reported. (ANI)
Odisha Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena on Monday defended the state government's decision to deny petrol and diesel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate, saying the move is not new and is necessary in view of worsening air quality. "This is not a new rule. We wrote a letter to get this implemented so that people without a pollution certificate would not be able to buy petrol or diesel," Jena told ANI. Questioning the public backlash, he added, "I don't understand why people are agitated by this. The AQI in Odisha is poor." The minister acknowledged concerns over penalties and enforcement, noting that the issue would be reviewed. "People are complaining that a hefty fine is being imposed. I will deliberate on this matter," he said, while confirming that the rule will come into effect from February 1. The Odisha government's move comes against the backdrop of intensified anti-pollution measures in the national capital, where authorities have begun strictly enforcing similar norms. In Delhi, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) are being denied fuel at petrol pumps as part of emergency measures to curb rising pollution levels. Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa recently inspected several fuel stations to ensure compliance with the directive. The Delhi government, through the Department of Environment and Forests, has issued directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, mandating that fuel be dispensed only to vehicles with a valid PUC certificate. Additionally, the Delhi notification restricts the entry of vehicles registered outside the capital and operating below BS-VI emission standards, and bans trucks carrying construction materials during GRAP Stage IV (Severe+) pollution conditions. These steps follow the Supreme Court's granting permission to take action against vehicles operating below BS-IV norms in the NCR. Transport enforcement teams in Delhi-NCR have stepped up checks as part of coordinated efforts to improve air quality. (ANI)
The protesters blocked railway tracks and pelted stones at officials and police, prompting heavy security deployment.

Despite repeated persuasion by the police and the Forest Department, the protesters did not clear the highway or the railway track.

Given the sensitivity of the matter, the Senior Superintendent of Police visited the site late at night, reviewed the situation, and gathered information from the on-duty officers.

Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh intervened, and traffic was restored after protesters were removed.

Late last night, Senior Superintendent of Police Dehradun, Ajay Singh, took stock of the situation on the spot and held discussions with officials of the Forest Department and the police.

A flag march was conducted in the Rishikesh-Shyampur area with police forces mobilised from Dehradun district and neighbouring districts to maintain law and order.

This comes after the Supreme Court of India took suo motu cognisance of the alleged illegal grabbing of approximately 2,866 acres of forest land in Uttarakhand, criticising state authorities for being "silent spectators".

The land, initially leased to private entities such as the Pashu Lok Seva Samiti near Rishikesh, has been systematically encroached upon, raising concerns about environmental degradation and irregularities.

The Supreme Court has ordered an immediate inquiry, a freeze on land transactions, and the Forest Department to take possession of vacant land.

Key directives include the formation of a committee by top state officials to investigate the matter; a prohibition on selling, encumbering, or creating third-party rights on the disputed land; a ban on construction on the disputed land; and the Forest Department taking possession of all vacant disputed land.

A compliance report is due by January 5, 2026. (ANI)
According to Kolkata Police, the incident occurred on Sunday, when the accused, hailing from Tamil Nadu's Chennai, assaulted his partner, leading to profuse bleeding from her shoulder.

The victim is undergoing medical treatment at NRS Hospital.

Kolkata Police said, "On December 28, 2025, at about 16:15 hours, information was received regarding an assault at a Guest House, located at 159, BB Ganguly Street, Kolkata-12 under Muchipara PS."

"It was reported that a boarder staying in Room No. 412 had assaulted his girlfriend with a knife, causing profuse bleeding from her shoulder. The victim, a woman (38) of North 24 Parganas, was immediately shifted to NRS Hospital."

"The accused boarder, Pradeep Kumar Selvaraj (40) of JV Nagar, Chennai, has been arrested. The victim is still under treatment in the hospital," police added.

Further details in the case are awaited. (ANI)
Congress MP Manickam Tagore on Monday said that the racial killing of Tripura youth in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, is a result of "normalised hate" against the minorities and people from the Northeast. MBA student Anjel Chakma was attacked by a group of miscreants with knives and other blunt objects in Dehradun on December 9 and later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital. In a post on X, Manickam Tagore bashed Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, blaming the organisation for "spreading daily hate" against other communities, resulting in incidents like the killing of Anjel Chakma. "Anjel Chakma, a 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura, was racially abused as "Chinese" and "momo", stabbed in Dehradun, and died after days on a ventilator. This is not an isolated crime. It is the outcome of normalised hate. When RSS and its 2,000+ affiliate outfits spread daily hate against minorities and people from the Northeast, it creates street-level violence. Such hate finds oxygen when the BJP governs a state," Manickam Tagore said in a post on X. https://x.com/manickamtagore/status/2005471226383487139 Further slamming the Uttarakhand government over the incident, he said, "Uttarakhand is a tragic example. Racial slurs -assault -delayed action =death. The FIR itself records racist abuse before the attack. Yet accountability moves at a snail's pace." He emphasised the repeated incidents of racial abuse against the people of the Northeast. He objected to the government's "silence", which he believed sends a clear message that "hate is tolerated." "People from the Northeast are Indian citizens, not targets for slurs and stereotypes. Silence from those in power sends a clear message: hate is tolerated, sometimes even rewarded." "This is not 'law and order failure' alone. It is a political failure where divisive ideology emboldens violence and strips victims of dignity and justice," He added. Manickam Tagore demanded justice for the Anjel Chakma. "Justice for Anjel Chakma is non-negotiable. But unless the hate ecosystem is challenged, Anjel will not be the last. Hate politics kills," he said. Five people have already been arrested in connection with the incident. Among them, two accused are minors and have been sent to a juvenile reform home. Police are continuously conducting raids to arrest an absconding accused, on whom a reward of 25,000 has been announced. A police team has also been sent to Nepal in search of the absconding accused, according to the Uttarakhand CMO. Earlier, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said that his Uttarakhand counterpart, Pushkar Singh Dhami, has assured him that justice will be delivered in the case of a Tripura student Chief Minister Saha said that Chief Minister Dhami has shared details of the case with him and has also spoken to him personally. Speaking to ANI, CM Saha said, "I spoke with Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami regarding this matter. He has assured me that he will ensure that justice is served. Five people have been arrested, and one or two more are probably still at large, and they will be apprehended soon. I said that there shouldn't be any gaps in the investigation. He assured me that they will deliver justice, and they have already arrested five people." Superintendent of Police (City) Pramod Kumar provided details of the incident, saying it occurred on the evening of December 9 in the Premnagar police station area of Dehradun. "Two students from Tripura, Anjel Chakma and his brother, Michael Chakma, lived near Nanda Chowki in the Premnagar police station area. This incident happened on the evening of the 9th, when they had gone to Selaqui for some work," Kumar said. He said the two got into an argument with some local youths and another youth from the Northeast. "A fight broke out between them, during which it is reported that they were attacked with knives and other blunt objects. As a result, they were seriously injured. Their brother took them to the hospital, and subsequently, an FIR was registered," he added. The official confirmed that Anjel Chakma died while undergoing treatment. "Two days ago, Anjel Chakma died while undergoing treatment at the hospital. A murder charge has been added to the case," he said. (ANI)
Haryana Police recorded an overall decline in registered crime in 2025 while intensifying action against organised gangs, cybercriminals and habitual violent offenders, and will enter 2026 with a sharper focus on technology, forensic science and last-mile delivery of justice. According to official data (as of December 28), the total number of cognisable crimes under the BNS and special and local laws fell from 1,35,574 in 2024 to 1,27,850 in 2025, a reduction of 7,724 cases, or about 5.7 per cent. Crime under BNS alone declined from 1,10,738 to 1,07,242 cases, a fall of around 3.16 per cent, while cases under special and local laws dropped by more than 17 per cent. Crimes against persons, property and women showed a clear downward trend during the year. Murder cases reduced from 958 to 904, down about 5.6 per cent, while cases of grievous hurt declined by nearly 9.5 per cent. Police said swift response, proactive patrolling and intelligence-led operations helped foil over 100 planned murders across the state, particularly in the last quarter of the year. Property crimes also registered significant improvements, with robbery cases down by about 24 per cent, snatchings by over 12 per cent, and burglaries by more than 13 per cent. Officials attributed the decline to improved preventive policing, hotspot-based deployment, and tighter local-level surveillance. Crimes against women showed notable improvement, with rape cases dropping sharply from 1,373 in 2024 to 1,025 in 2025, a reduction of over 25 per cent. Cases of molestation, sexual harassment and dowry deaths also registered declines. Kidnapping and abduction cases, along with offences under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, showed a downward trend, reflecting better community outreach and faster investigation workflows. Haryana Police said it consolidated "last-mile domination" by identifying and incarcerating more than 4,000 violent and repeat offenders through intensive drives such as Operation Trackdown and Operation Hotspot Domination, thereby substantially weakening organised crime networks and extortion rackets across districts. Through sustained surveillance, human intelligence and technical monitoring, more than 100 planned murders and targeted attacks were detected and neutralised between October and December, preventing loss of life and reinforcing public confidence. Dedicated operations against inter-state and overseas-based gangsters led to the extradition and deportation of key gang leaders and associates operating from foreign soil, disrupting command-and-control structures that earlier functioned from outside India. Focused drives in identified hotspots also led to the sanitisation of crime-prone zones with enhanced police presence and coordination with local communities and district administrations. The state continued to maintain a leading position in fighting cybercrime by scaling up state-level cybercrime police stations and specialised verticals for financial fraud, social media crime and online child safety. Faster reporting, integration with national cybercrime portals, and real-time coordination with banks and intermediaries led to improved detection and recovery of cyber financial fraud cases. Haryana also made major investments in forensic science, significantly upgrading laboratory infrastructure and scientific capabilities in DNA profiling, cyber and mobile forensics, ballistics and narcotics analysis. These improvements strengthened charge sheets, contributed to higher conviction rates in serious offences and reduced pendency of forensic examination requests from field units. During the year, Haryana Police successfully implemented the new national criminal law framework, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and allied codes, by overhauling registration, investigation and documentation processes. Extensive training programmes for investigating officers, prosecutors, and support staff, along with updated SOPs and digital templates, ensured a smooth transition at the police station level without disrupting citizen services. In 2026, the force plans to deepen technology-driven policing through expansion of CCTV grids, AI-assisted analytics for crime mapping, predictive policing tools and integrated command-and-control platforms. Strengthening district-level cyber units, creating specialised verticals for dark-web and crypto-related offences, expanding forensic capacity and emphasising victim-centric, community-oriented policing will remain key priorities as Haryana Police aims to build on the momentum of 2025 and make the state safer and more secure. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is committed to removing infiltrators from across the country, using the redevelopment of the historic Batadrava Than in Assam as a key example of the government's resolve against illegal encroachment. Speaking after inaugurating the Batadrava Cultural Project in Nagaon district, Shah questioned the presence of alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators at the birthplace of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, a revered Vaishnav saint and social reformer. "The BJP resolves to remove all infiltrators from the entire country. Was it right that Bangladeshi infiltrators were there at this place of Sankardeva?" he said, congratulating Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for clearing encroachments and re-establishing the sacred Namghar at the site. "Congress treated infiltrators - who threatened the people, culture and identity of Assam, as its vote bank," the Home Minister added. Shah said that more than one lakh bighas of land had been freed from encroachers, alleging that previous Congress governments failed to act despite sacrifices made during the Assam Movement. "Congress ruled for so many years, but it did not do anything for those who gave their lives for the Assam movement," he said. The Home Minister also invoked the legacy of Bharat Ratna Gopinath Bordoloi, crediting Assam's first Chief Minister with ensuring that Assam and the Northeast remained part of India. "If Gopinath ji had not been there, Assam and the entire Northeast would not have been a part of India. It was he who forced Jawaharlal Nehru to keep Assam in India," Shah said. Describing Batadrava Than as a symbol of Assamese unity and harmony, Shah said it represented the inclusive 'nav-vaishnav dharma' propagated by Srimanta Sankardeva, where people from all communities come together. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that in the last decade, the state government had freed around 1.45 lakh bighas of land from illegal encroachers and would continue the drive. He appealed to encroachers to voluntarily vacate Satra and government land. Developed over 162 bighas of encroachment-free land at a cost of around Rs 217 crore, the Batadrava Cultural Project aims to emerge as a world-class spiritual and cultural tourism hub, showcasing Assam's heritage while promoting Sankardeva's ideals of devotion, equality and social harmony. (ANI)
Aishwarya Senger, daughter of expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar, on Monday expressed anguish after the Supreme Court of India stayed the operation of the Delhi High Court order that had suspended her father's life sentence in the 2017 Unnao rape case. In a statement issued shortly after the Supreme Court's order, Aishwarya Senger said the defence was not even allowed to advance arguments on the merits. "We couldn't even start arguing on the merits of the case today, because she has changed her statement several times, changed the timing thrice, starting from 2 pm, 6 pm and then finally 8 pm. "The AIIMS medical board found that she was over 18. The CDR records show that I was not at the location of the alleged incident. It has also come on record that she herself was on a call at the alleged time of the incident," she said. She added that her family has been battling the case for years. "I've been fighting for justice for the past eight years, but maybe the sorrows of me and my family mean nothing. We have been stripped of our dignity, our peace, and even our basic right to be heard. Still, I hope for justice. I request members of the media not to spread any misinformation," she said. Earlier in the day, a three-judge vacation bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih, stayed the Delhi High Court's December 23 order, which had suspended Sengar's life sentence. The stay was granted while the Central Bureau of Investigation appealed the High Court's decision. While issuing a notice to Sengar, the Supreme Court made it clear that the High Court order would remain in force and that Sengar would not be released from prison. The bench noted that although such suspension orders are not ordinarily stayed without hearing the convict, the present case involved "peculiar facts", including the fact that Sengar remains incarcerated in another case. "We are conscious of the fact that when a convict or undertrial has been released, such orders are not ordinarily stayed by this Court without hearing such persons. But in view of the peculiar facts, where the convict is convicted for a separate offence, we stay the operation of the Delhi High Court order dated December 23. Thus, the respondent shall not be released pursuant to the said order," the bench observed. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the CBI, argued that for the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, a "public servant" includes a person occupying a dominant position over a child. He submitted that Sengar, being a powerful MLA at the relevant time, clearly exercised such dominance, attracting the aggravated offence provisions. Senior advocates Siddharth Dave and N. Hariharan, appearing for Sengar, opposed the CBI's plea and contended that an MLA could not be treated as a "public servant" for aggravated offences under the POCSO Act. The bench, however, expressed concern over the High Court's interpretation of the term "public servant" under Section 5 of the POCSO Act, observing that such a view could lead to an anomalous situation where elected lawmakers are excluded while lower-level officials are covered. The Delhi High Court had suspended Sengar's sentence on the prima facie view that the offence of aggravated penetrative sexual assault under the POCSO Act was not made out against him. Despite that order, Sengar continued to remain in custody as he had not been granted bail in the separate case relating to the custodial death of the victim's father. Sengar was convicted in 2019 by a Delhi trial court under the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Act and sentenced to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life. The trial court had held that he fell within the definition of a "public servant" under the POCSO Act. (ANI)
After the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the Armed Forces, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that the Ministry is working tirelessly to strengthen India's defence preparedness and decisions taken will help in enhancing operational capabilities of the Armed Forces. This comes after the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the three Services amounting to a total of about Rs 79,000 crore. In a post on X, Rajnath Singh wrote, "The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting held today accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various proposals of the three Services amounting to a total of about Rs 79,000 crore." "The MoD under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi is working tirelessly to strengthen India's defence preparedness. The decisions taken today will help in enhancing operational capabilities of the Armed Forces," the post added. https://x.com/rajnathsingh/status/2005592398282535051 According to the Ministry of Defence, during the meeting held on December 29, 2025, AoN was approved for the procurement of Loiter Munition System for Artillery Regiments, Low Level Light Weight Radars, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MRLS), and Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II for the Indian Army. Loiter Munition will be used for precision strike of tactical targets, whereas Low Level Light Weight Radars will detect and track small-sized, low-flying Unmanned Aerial Systems. Long Range Guided Rockets will enhance the range and accuracy of Pinaka MRLS for effective engagement of high-value targets. Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II with enhanced range will protect the vital assets of the Indian Army in Tactical Battle Area and Hinterland, the Ministry stated. For the Indian Navy, AoN was accorded for procurement of Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) Manpack and for leasing High Altitude Long Range (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS). Induction of BP Tugs will assist Naval ships and submarines in berthing, unberthing, and manoeuvring in confined waters/harbor. The HF SDR will enhance long range secured communication during boarding and landing operations, whereas HALE RPAS will ensure continuous Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance and credible Maritime Domain Awareness over the Indian Ocean Region, the Ministry highlighted. For the Indian Air Force, AoN was approved for procurement of Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System, Astra Mk-II Missiles, Full Mission Simulator and SPICE-1000 Long Range Guidance Kits, etc. Induction of the Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System will fill the gaps in the aerospace safety environment by providing high-definition, all-weather automatic recording of landing and take-off. Astra Mk-II Missiles with enhanced range will increase the capability of the fighter aircraft to neutralise adversary aircraft from large standoff range. Full Mission Simulator for Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will augment pilots' training in a cost effective and safe manner, while SPICE-1000 will enhance long range precision strike capability of the Indian Air Force, the Ministry of Defence said. (ANI)
Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia, on Monday expressed deep anguish over the brutal attack on Angel Chakma and Michael, students from Tripura, in Dehradun, calling the incident a "profound blow to humanity and sensitivity". In a post shared on X, Scindia said, "The inhuman incident involving Angel Chakma and Michael from Tripura in Dehradun has deeply distressed and shocked me. This is not merely a criminal incident, but a profound blow to humanity and sensitivity. I understand the unbearable grief of the victims' family and stand with them in this difficult time." https://x.com/JM_Scindia/status/2005606137157345507 The Union Minister said he had spoken in detail with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and urged him to ensure a fair, swift and strict investigation into the matter. He stressed that those responsible must be brought to justice and punished with the harshest penalties to send a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated. "Regarding this serious case, I have spoken in detail with the Honorable Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri @pushkardhami ji, and firmly urged that a fair, swift, and most stringent investigation of this matter be ensured, and that the culprits be brought within the ambit of the law and awarded the harshest possible punishment, so that the victims receive justice and a clear message goes out to society that there is no place for such crimes," Scindia asserted. The Union Minister also said he had discussed the matter with Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, assuring him that the Central Government stands firmly with the state during this difficult period. He added that crimes targeting human dignity are unacceptable under any circumstances. "At the same time, while discussing this matter with the Honorable Chief Minister of Tripura @DrManikSaha2 ji, I have made it clear that in this difficult time, the Central Government stands firmly with the state. Such crimes against human dignity are a direct assault on the values of both our society and our Constitution, which cannot be accepted under any circumstances," Scindia added. Earlier, MBA student Anjel Chakma was attacked by a group of miscreants with knives and other blunt objects in Dehradun on December 9 and later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital. Five people have already been arrested in connection with the incident. Among them, two accused are minors and have been sent to a juvenile reform home. Police are continuously conducting raids to arrest an absconding accused, on whom a reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced. A police team has also been sent to Nepal in search of the absconding accused, according to the Uttarakhand CMO. (ANI)
The Cyber Crime Police, Hyderabad City, successfully apprehended two individuals involved in a major "Digital Arrest" cyber fraud amounting to Rs. 1,95,76,000, according to an official release. The accused have been identified as Saiyad Soyab Jahid Bhai and Belim Anas Rahim Bhai, both residents of Bhavnagar, Gujarat On December 13, the Cyber Crime Police, Hyderabad City, received a complaint from the victim stating that she was trapped under the pretext of a "Digital Arrest." The victim received multiple phone calls from unknown persons impersonating officials of the government and telecom departments. By falsely alleging that her husband was involved in serious offences and threatening immediate arrest, the fraudsters instilled fear and panic. Through the staged calls using different identities, the fraudsters gained her trust and instructed her to transfer money under the guise of verification of currency serial numbers, case enquiry and clearance process Believing their claims and acting under coercion, the victim transferred a total amount of Rs. 1,95,76,000/- through RTGS from her bank accounts to accounts provided by the fraudsters. The accused persons played a crucial role in the Commission of the cyber fraud by using multiple mule bank accounts to receive and withdraw cheated money, which was subsequently transferred to Dubai-based cyber fraudsters through Hawala networks, the release stated. The accused persons are habitual cyber offenders, and the accounts used by them are involved in 22 cases, mostly linked to the State Bank of India, spread across the country. Based on the complaint, the Cyber Crime Police registered a case in Cr. No. 2257/2025 and initiated a detailed investigation The accused, Saiyad Soyab Jahid Bhai, assisted in opening the mule bank accounts for fraudulent purposes and facilitated withdrawals of the fraudulent proceeds. And received 15% commission on deposits routed through mule accounts under his control. The second accused, Belim Anas Rahim Bhai, acted as per the instructions of higher-level operatives and managed mule accounts and ensured smooth transfer of funds to overseas fraudsters through Hawala channels. The Cyber Crime Police have confiscated two mobile phones used in the commission of the offence Transactions totalling approximately Rs. 3.5 crores were carried out through the accounts supplied by the fraudsters." The successful detection and arrest were carried out under the supervision of ACPs R. G. Siva Maruthi and Sri Jaipal Reddy. The operation was led by Inspector N. Ramu, Inspector of Police, with the assistance of SI PVS Abhishek and supporting police staff, whose coordinated efforts led to dismantling a sophisticated cyber fraud network and ensuring justice to the victim. Their commendable work is worthy of appreciation and reward. The Cyber Crime Police has advised the general public to be vigilant and not to trust unknown persons calling them through Telecom, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, or phone calls offering stock market investments with assured or high returns, task-based investment schemes, or Digital Arrest threats or verification demands. No government or law enforcement agency conducts digital arrests or demands money for verification or case enquiry, the release said. Citizens are urged not to invest in unauthorised websites or schemes promising high returns with minimal effort. (ANI)
A state-level Farmers' Day dedicated to farmers' welfare and economic upliftment was organised in Gauchar (Chamoli). On this occasion, Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami transferred an insurance amount of Rs 65.12 crore to 88,000 farmers through DBT under the Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme, the release said. During the event, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the establishment of a 'Clean Plant Centre' in Uttarakhand at a cost of Rs 100 crore and the allocation of an additional Rs 90 crore for the Gherbaad (crop protection fencing) scheme. The Union Minister also handed over a letter to the Chief Minister approving Rs 1,706.94 crore for the construction of 1,228.2 km of roads to connect 309 habitations in the state under the PMGSY 4 scheme. According to the Uttarakhand CMO, the state-level Farmers' Day showcased the remarkable transformation underway in agriculture, horticulture, and allied sectors in Uttarakhand, along with historic efforts to advance farmers' welfare and economic empowerment. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who visited Gauchar to participate in the event, witnessed these changes firsthand and commended the state government's initiatives. On the occasion, the Union Agriculture Minister and Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, interacted with farmers from various regions of the state and visited stalls set up by multiple departments and women's self-help groups. Farmers who made outstanding contributions in agriculture and allied sectors were honoured with the 'Kisan Bhushan Award' under the ATMA scheme, while farmers and groups contributing significantly through reverse migration were also felicitated. Addressing the gathering, the Union Agriculture Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both the central and state governments are continuously serving the people of Uttarakhand. He praised Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for his commitment to development, women empowerment, and farmers' welfare. Appreciating Uttarakhand's Malta (orange), he said the central government would leave no stone unturned to promote it in domestic and international markets. He added that despite a decline in cultivable land, agricultural production in Uttarakhand is increasing. The Union Minister stated that to ensure farmers do not suffer losses due to poor-quality saplings, the central government will establish a Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Centre in Mukteshwar, providing high-quality saplings of kiwi, apple, malta, and citrus fruits. He said the central and state governments are working together to make Uttarakhand a global hub for fruit and vegetable production. A five-year agricultural roadmap for the state will be prepared through a team of agricultural officers and scientists. To mitigate crop damage caused by wild animals, the central government will provide an additional Rs 90 crore under the Gherbaad scheme during the current financial year. He emphasised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's focus on integrated farming to enhance productivity on small landholdings and stressed the need to promote fruits, vegetables, animal husbandry, fisheries, and medicinal plant cultivation. He also announced that the central government, in collaboration with New Zealand, will establish a Centre of Excellence for Kiwis in Uttarakhand. Praising the Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Yojana is a strong initiative to make women financially self-reliant, and that the central government will support it. He also highlighted initiatives such as the Uniform Civil Code, 30% reservation for women in government jobs, and the organisation of Farmers' Day at the block level, calling them examples of good governance. He added that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, the Viksit Bharat-Gram Yojana has given new momentum to rural development. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the Union Agriculture Minister, paid tribute to former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Chaudhary Charan Singh, described farmers as symbols of self-respect and hard work, and said that national prosperity is possible only through farmers' prosperity. The Chief Minister said historic reforms have taken place in India's agriculture sector under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Schemes such as PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, Crop Insurance Scheme, Soil Health Card, Natural Farming, and Digital Agriculture have empowered farmers, benefiting nearly nine lakh farmers in Uttarakhand. He said the state government is continuously working to uplift farmers. Farmers are being provided interest-free loans up to Rs 3 lakh, up to 80% subsidy on farm machinery under the Farm Machinery Bank Scheme, and free irrigation through canals. The Chief Minister said Rs 200 crore has been allocated for polyhouse construction in the state. A bonus of Rs 20 per quintal on wheat and an increase of Rs 30 per quintal on sugarcane have been announced. Additionally, the Rs 1,000 crore 'Uttarakhand Climate Responsive Rain-Fed Farming Project' has been approved. New policies have been introduced to promote crops such as mandua, kiwi, and dragon fruit, involving an investment of Rs 1,200 crore. He added that to boost horticulture development, the Japan-assisted Rs 526 crore Uttarakhand Integrated Horticulture Development Project is being implemented. The state has achieved significant growth in the production of horticulture crops, mushrooms, honey, tea, and aromatic plants. He urged farmers to adopt modern agricultural techniques and make maximum use of government schemes to actively contribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp 2047'. On the occasion, Agriculture Minister Ganesh Joshi said the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, is working with full commitment to ensure the success of schemes aimed at farmers' welfare and economic upliftment. He announced that Farmers' Day will be observed on the second Thursday of every month to address farmers' issues, spread awareness, and provide quick solutions to agriculture-related concerns. Agriculture Secretary S.N. Pandey also shared details of departmental schemes and programs during the event. (ANI)
Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated on Monday that more than Rs 65 crore were deposited into the accounts of those farmers whose crops were damaged due to adverse weather conditions in Uttarakhand and this year alone, more than Rs 500 crore have already been deposited. Addressing the gathering, Chouhan stressed that the Malta orange, popularly grown in Uttarakhand, will reach every corner of India, and the Government will make every effort to export it worldwide. "There are such wide varieties of fruits here. Malta orange here is so big it's like a melon. This Malta orange will go to every corner of India, and we will make every effort to send and deliver this Malta orange to the entire world. Today, on this occasion, I want to say to the farmer brothers and sisters of Uttarakhand: The Chief Minister is making every possible effort," he said. "Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the central government will also leave no stone unturned. Today, we have deposited more than Rs 65 crore into the accounts of those farmers whose crops were damaged due to adverse weather conditions, and this year alone, more than Rs 500 crore have already been deposited," Shivraj Chouhan said. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan upon his arrival at Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Reacting to the row over the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) being replaced as Viksit Bharat- G RAM G Act, 2025, he said that all the schemes of Congress fell prey to corruption. Shivraj Singh Chouhan further said, "Today, the Congress party is protesting and saying that the name has been changed. They themselves did nothing; all their schemes fell prey to corruption. When Prime Minister Modi has done good work, they are protesting against it today... For agriculture and farming, for the development of villages, and for the upliftment of the poor, I will always stand with you all." "Under the 'Viksit Bharat - Jee Ram Jee' scheme, a budget of 1,51,282 crore has been proposed this year. The villagers will decide which development works will be carried out in their village. Farmers have also been taken into consideration in this. Additionally, administrative expenditure has been increased from 6% to 9%," he shared on X. He met with farmers along with CM Dhami in Gauchar, Chamoli. "Today, I am among the farmers of Uttarakhand and am discussing agriculture with them. In the same sequence, in Gauchar of Chamoli district, I met with the farmers along with Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Dhami ji. I listened to their experiences with farming, understood new things, and closely observed the hard work of the farmers. Our effort is that farmers move forward, agriculture becomes strong, and the farmers get the full benefit of their hard work," he shared in a post on X. He said the Centre would develop a model of integrated farming in Uttarakhand to enable farmers to increase production on small plots. "A Clean Plant Center will be established on the soil of Uttarakhand at a cost of 100 crore rupees. Along with this, we will make Uttarakhand the capital of the country in the field of horticulture, fruits, and vegetables," he shared in a post on X. He said that, in collaboration with New Zealand on the kiwi fruit action plan for Uttarakhand, the Central government will establish a Centre of Excellence here. "Today, under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Uttarakhand has received the gift of roads worth 1700 crore. A network of roads has been laid connecting village after village in the hills of Uttarakhand. I congratulate the Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami, and for the few remaining villages, we will work to connect them as well under the leadership of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he said. (ANI)
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Monday condemned the brutal killing of Angel Chakma, a student from Tripura, in Dehradun, highlighting the discrimination faced by people from India's Northeast region. Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, Gogoi recounted the circumstances leading to Angel's death and criticised the delayed response by authorities. "Angel Chakma could have endured the abusive words and walked away, and perhaps he would still be alive. But that day, his patience ran out, and he confronted those taunting him. Instead of apologising, five people attacked him from behind. He fought for 14 days but ultimately succumbed to his injuries," Gogoi said. Gogoi added that Angel's family members said the police did not act promptly, and only after students protested was action taken, by which time the main accused had already escaped. "His family members said that the police did not show the promptness they should have, but when the students protested, action was finally taken, but by then the main accused had already escaped," he said. Gogoi further raised concerns about whether similar incidents are happening elsewhere, asking, "Now the question arises: is this happening in other places as well, where people from the Northeast are being treated this way?" "People from the Northeast are Indians, not Chinese. It is unfortunate that a young man from Tripura had to say these words in Dehradun on December 9 while he was returning from the market," he added. Later, speaking to reporters, Gogoi shared his own experiences of discrimination. "This happened with me as well. When I went to Agra once, a guard asked me, 'Where do you hail from? Show me your passport.' We, the people from the Northeast, are asked for passports in our own country, by our own people. It takes a lot of courage to proudly carry your country's flag, only to hear such remarks from a fellow citizen. This is symbolic of both our tolerance and patriotism," he said. MBA student Anjel Chakma was attacked by a group of miscreants with knives and other blunt objects in Dehradun on December 9 and later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital. Five people have already been arrested in connection with the incident. Among them, two accused are minors and have been sent to a juvenile reform home. Police are continuously conducting raids to arrest an absconding accused, on whom a reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced. A police team has also been sent to Nepal in search of the absconding accused, according to the Uttarakhand CMO. (ANI)
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Monday welcomed the Supreme Court's stay order concerning the Aravalli Range, calling it a "huge but temporary relief" and emphasising the need for permanent protection. He also expressed hope that efforts to safeguard the Aravalli Range would extend nationwide, strengthening protections for nature across India. In a post on X, the Sena UBT leader wrote, "The stay order from the Hon'ble Supreme Court for the Aravalli Range is a huge but temporary relief. It's important to seal this permanently. This wasn't possible without the mass movement of citizens in Rajasthan, who showed that what matters is our planet, not the dirty intentions of those wanting to exploit the planet." "I hope that we are able to bring the strongest protection to the Aravalli Range and to nature across the country. It is also important that we don't fall prey to the misinformation campaign being run to say that Aravalli Range is safe- it is NOT with the government's intent to redefine it and sell it off," the post added. https://x.com/AUThackeray/status/2005571347808960879 The Supreme Court has "put in abeyance" its earlier decision (issued on November 20) to accept the Central Environment Ministry's definition of the Aravalli Hills and the Aravalli Range. Acceptance of the said definition by the top court in November had exposed most of the Aravalli region to the possibility of being used for regulated mining activities. A vacation bench of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justices JK Maheshwari and AG Masih has also ordered the formation of a new expert committee to examine issues that need to be examined in terms of the definition of Aravallis. The Court has also issued notice to the Centre and the four Aravalli States - Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi and Haryana, seeking their response to its suo motu case on the issue. Earlier today, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday welcomed the Supreme Court's decision and reaffirmed his commitment to the protection and restoration of the mountain range. In a post on X, Bhupender Yadav said, "I welcome the Supreme Court directions introducing a stay on its order concerning the Aravalli range, and the formation of a new committee to study issues. We stand committed to extending all assistance sought from MOEFCC in the protection and restoration of the Aravalli range," he said. "As things stand, a complete ban on mining stays with regard to new mining leases or renewal of old mining leases," he added. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has immediately approved the financial assistance for Tarun Prasad Chakma, the father of Tripura student Angel Chakma, who was brutally stabbed in Dehradun after allegedly facing racial abuse. According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the first instalment of Rs 4,12,500 has been released. This assistance has been sanctioned under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955. As per the Chief Minister's instructions, the case for immediate financial assistance to the victim's family was forwarded to the District Social Welfare Officer, Dehradun, through the Senior Superintendent of Police, Dehradun. Following the receipt of a joint inquiry report submitted by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Vikasnagar, and the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Vikasnagar, Dehradun, the district-level committee promptly completed the approval process. Thereafter, the financial assistance was sanctioned under the relevant Acts, and the cheque for the first instalment was sent to Angel Chakma's father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, as per the CMO. Earlier today, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed condolences and assured justice for Tripura student Anjel Chakma's family. Dhami spoke with Anjel's father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, and promised strict action against the perpetrators. "This was a regrettable incident. We will ensure the culprits receive the harshest punishment," he said. Dhami assured support, stating, "We are with you in this hour of need. We'll provide whatever help we can." Meanwhile, MBA student Anjel Chakma was attacked by a group of miscreants with knives and other blunt objects in Dehradun on December 9 and later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital. Five people have already been arrested in connection with the incident. Among them, two accused are minors and have been sent to a juvenile reform home. Police are continuously conducting raids to arrest an absconding accused, on whom a reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced. A police team has also been sent to Nepal in search of the absconding accused, according to the Uttarakhand CMO. (ANI)
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday criticised Indigo Airlines over the recent flight disruptions, stating that the airline must be held accountable for its failure to meet operational responsibilities. "I have been a bit disappointed by this entire situation... It is rather striking that Air India, which has about 30% of the market, and two other smaller airlines were able to fulfil their obligations and recruit enough pilots. It is somehow only IndiGo which failed in this duty. For that, there has to be serious analysis and some accountability, which is the desire of everybody in the travelling public," the Congress MP told ANI. Earlier on December 18, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) decided to launch an inquiry into the issue of flight disruptions at IndiGo, taking cognisance of Information filed against the airline. The flight disruptions earlier this month due to IndiGo's operational crisis caused huge inconvenience to people. "The Competition Commission of India has taken cognizance of Information filed against IndiGo in the context of the recent flight disruptions witnessed in the aviation sector, across various routes," a CCI press release said. "Based on the initial assessment, the Commission has decided to proceed further in the matter in accordance with the provisions of the Competition Act, 2002," it added. Earlier, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers had told employees that the airline has emerged stronger after a challenging period, saying "the worst is behind us as operations stabilised and the carrier restored its network to 2,200 flights". In an internal message, Elbers praised employees across functions for standing united during recent disruptions. "Dear IndiGo colleagues, through the storm, we are finding our wings again. The worst is behind us. These last two weeks have been very challenging for all of us," he said, thanking pilots, cabin crew, airport staff, operations control and customer service teams for their support. (ANI)
The maiden flight test of Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) was conducted successfully at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha's Chandipur on Monday. Interestingly, the maiden trial of the 120 km-range rockets was conducted on the same day the project was cleared for the Indian Army by the Defence Acquisition Council meeting held in the afternoon today. The rocket was tested for its maximum range of 120 kms, demonstrating all in-flight manoeuvres as planned. The LRGR impacted the target with textbook precision. All the deployed range instruments tracked the flight throughout its trajectory. This rocket is designed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment in association with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, with support from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory and the Research Centre Imarat. The flight trial was coordinated by ITR and Proof & Experimental Establishment. The LRGR was launched from the in-service Pinaka launcher, demonstrating its versatility and providing launch capability of Pinaka variants of different ranges from the same launcher. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO on the achievement. He stated that the successful design and development of long-range guided rockets will boost the capabilities of the Armed Forces, terming it a game-changer. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, Dr Samir V Kamat, witnessed the trial and congratulated all the teams for accomplishing the mission objectives. The Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System (MLRS) is a long-range artillery weapon developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Known for its rapid response and precision, the Pinaka system enhances the Indian Army's capability in modern warfare. One of the biggest success stories among Indigenous weapon systems, the Army is fully backing the missiles, as Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi has already made clear that, as soon as longer-range versions of the Pinaka are ready, the force might drop plans for other alternate weapons. The Pinaka has been a major success story in the export sector as it has been bought by Armenia, while many European countries, including France, are showing interest in it. (ANI)
The Supreme Court of India on Monday stayed the Delhi High Court's order suspending the life sentence of Kuldeep Singh Sengar, the accused in the Unnao rape case. The decision triggered varied reactions. While the victim expressed gratitude to the apex court, her counsel accused the Central Bureau of Investigation of failing to cooperate in the case. The victim termed the apex court's decision as a "big relief" to her, adding that her husband's video is being shared publicly from his social media account so that he can be identified and killed. She mentioned that her husband is scared following the development, noting that no action has been taken on the matter. "I thank the Supreme Court for providing relief to me. My video is being taken from my husband's social media account and being shared publicly so that he can be identified and killed... My husband is scared... No action is being taken against that," she told ANI. Meanwhile, Sengar's daughter criticised the Supreme Court's move, claiming that her family has a long-standing enmity with the victim's family. Aishwarya Sengar, daughter of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar, on Monday, while speaking to ANI, claimed that her family had an "age-old enmity" with the Unnao rape victim's family and that the "enmity" actually predated the case. She also urged the media to question the rape victim for even "one piece of evidence" against her father, claiming that her father is innocent. She claimed that the victim's family deliberately included her father's name alongwith other people. "The rape victim had previously filed cases against other people, and two and a half months later, she deliberately included my father's name," she said. Victim's counsel, Mehmood Pracha, alleged on Monday that the Central Bureau of Investigation is not cooperating with them in the matter. He mentioned that by such behaviour, CBI have stood upto their expectations, adding that the investigation agency in the Hathras rape case used the same strategy. "They withheld the copy till about last night. This has been a strategy not only in this case but also in the Hathras case," he told ANI. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor opined that the Supreme Court, in its decision, pointed out that a matter which involves serious questions of fact and law in a highly grave offence has indirectly raised questions about how the High Court could have granted bail at all in such circumstances. "The matter is sub-judice. Still, it seems that when the Supreme Court says that in this kind of case, there are matters of fact and matters of law involving an extremely grave offence, it is a bit of a rebuke to the High Court as to how it could grant bail in these circumstances," Shashi Tharoor told ANI. Congress leader TS Singh Deo on Monday said he was astonished by the judiciary's weakness. Deo added he would have been disappointed if the Supreme Court hadn't stayed Delhi HC's decision on the matter. "I am astonished to see the judiciary so weak in a country where the Goddesses are worshipped as much as the Gods. It would have been disappointing if the Supreme Court hadn't been able to stay the order," TS Singh Deo told ANI. Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh on Monday questioned the functioning of the Central Bureau of Investigation, stating that if they had presented their facts in the Unnao rape case strongly, then the Delhi High Court wouldn't have given bail to the accused Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Singh's reply comes in the backdrop of the Supreme Court's stay order on the Delhi HC's suspension of Kuldeep Singh Sengar's life sentence. He queried why the CBI was not able to present all the facts related to the matter earlier, adding that the victim was attacked, and one person was murdered. The AAP MP stressed that the apex court's verdict has once again restored people's faith in judiciary. The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Delhi High Court's order suspending the life sentence of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case of a minor. The Supreme Court's three-judge vacation bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and A.G. Masih, was hearing the CBI's plea challenging the Delhi High Court's December 23 order, which had suspended Sengar's life sentence pending appeal and granted him bail. Staying the High Court's order, the apex court noted that Sengar remains in custody in another case. "We are informed that the convict is also convicted and sentenced under Section 304 (murder) of the IPC and that he is still in custody in that case. Considering such peculiar circumstances, we stay the operation of the impugned order. The respondent shall not be released," the bench observed. The Supreme Court also issued notice to Sengar, seeking his response to the CBI's plea within two weeks. Sengar, a former Uttar Pradesh MLA, was convicted in December 2019 in the Unnao rape case and sentenced to life imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 25 lakh. (ANI)
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday accused Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan of indulging in politics over Kogilu encroachment evictions, fearing defeat in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. Speaking to reporters after inspecting the government land at Kogilu, which was cleared of encroachment, he said, "The state government had given the quarry land for solid waste management nine years ago. Some people have come and erected sheds in that land recently. Voters' ID cards had not been issued to people here as they were residing on government land." "The officials had given notice to the illegal occupants before clearing the encroachments. The local MLA has had discussions too. Some people had appealed to allow them to stay in the same place. As it is a solid waste dump yard, it is not healthy to stay, and hence the government has taken action to evict them," he said. "Some are doing politics over this. Communist parties are fearing defeat in the Kerala elections and hence are trying to gain the sympathy of minorities. This is an internal matter of Karnataka; the CM of Kerala must get complete information on this before commenting. This is a solid waste-filling land, and it is not suitable for living. The minorities welcomed me when I visited the place," he said. Speaking on the relocation of the evictees of Kogilu village near Yelahanka in Bengaluru, he said that the genuine people who have lost their homes in the demolition drive will be provided accommodation through a government scheme. "We will be looking at the eligibility of the poor who have lost their homes. Someone has taken Rs 1.5 lakh to allow them to build a shed on government land. We will not allow such slums to raise their ugly heads in Bengaluru," he said. "Such evictions are a regular activity in Bengaluru. It is natural for the government to reclaim its land from encroachments. The work of putting up a compound wall around this property has been going on for the last two years. In case someone has been subject to injustice, we will give them a house in a government scheme. I had directly come from the airport to get a first-hand understanding of the situation before attending the meeting with CM. This issue will be resolved," he added. Upon being asked if action would be initiated against those who collected money, he said, "Of course. We have the proof of agreement signed to allow sheds to be built on this land. A woman who lost her place has said that the culprits collected Rs 1-2 lakhs to allow them to build their homes in government lands. We will not allow land sharks to misuse government land like this. We will certainly help the affected poor people." (ANI)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over the deadly bus accident near Bhandup West railway station in Mumbai that claimed four lives and left nine injured. He announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased in the accident. "The tragic incident in which 4 people lost their lives in a fatal accident near Bhandup railway station in Mumbai is extremely unfortunate. I pay my heartfelt tribute to them. In this incident, 9 people were injured, and I pray at the feet of God for their speedy recovery. The state government will provide financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased," CM Fadnavis said in a post on X. The accident occurred late Monday, when a Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST) bus rammed into pedestrians in Bhandup West. Emergency response teams were rushed to the spot soon after the crash, and the injured were shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. According to Mumbai Police, the BEST bus driver has been taken into custody for questioning, and a probe is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the accident. Speaking to reporters, Mumbai DCP Hemraj Singh Rajput said, "The injured were rushed to the hospital for treatment. However, four succumbed to their injuries. Three of the four deceased victims are women, and one a man, while of the nine injured, eight of them are men and one woman." "The BEST bus involved in the crash will be inspected to check for any mechanical and technical faults, and the actual reason for the crash will be determined after a thorough investigation," DCP Hemraj Singh Rajput added. (ANI)
At least 13 people were killed and 98 others injured after a passenger train on the interoceanic corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway met with an accident on the Salina Cruz-Coatzacoalcos route in Mexico on Sunday, the Mexican Navy Secretariat said. According to the statement issued by the Mexican Navy, which oversees the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, the train on Line Z was carrying around 250 passengers at the time of the accident. Of the 98 injured, 36 are currently receiving hospital treatment, while the remaining passengers sustained non-serious injuries. A total of 139 passengers were reported to be out of danger. "As a result of this accident, 139 people are out of danger, 98 were injured, of whom 36 are receiving hospital medical attention and the rest have no serious injuries, and unfortunately, 13 people lost their lives," the statement read. In its statement, the Navy expressed its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in what it described as a tragic incident. It also reaffirmed its commitment to acting responsibly, transparently, and in full compliance with the law, while providing immediate assistance to those affected. "The Secretariat of the Navy expresses its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident, and also reaffirms its commitment to acting with the utmost responsibility, transparency, and adherence to the law, providing immediate support to those affected," the statement added. The Navy said that extensive search-and-rescue operations were launched following the accident, deploying 360 naval personnel, 20 vehicles, four ground ambulances, three air ambulances, and a tactical drone to support emergency response. Authorities added that they will continue to work in coordination with relevant agencies to determine the cause of the accident and ensure support for victims and their families. Following the accident, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo directed the Secretary of the Navy and the Deputy Secretary of Human Rights of the Secretariat of the Interior to travel to the accident site and personally attend to the affected families. She also stated that the injured passengers are receiving treatment at IMSS hospitals in Matias Romero and Salina Cruz, as well as IMSS-Wellbeing hospitals in Juchitan and Ixtepec and instructed delegates there to assist in relief and medical efforts. "The Secretariat of the Navy has informed me that in the Interoceanic Train accident, unfortunately 13 people died; 98 are injured, five of them seriously. The injured are in IMSS hospitals in Matias Romero and Salina Cruz, as well as in IMSS-Wellbeing hospitals in Juchitan and Ixtepec. I have given instructions for the Secretary of the Navy and the Deputy Secretary of Human Rights of the Secretariat of the Interior to travel to the site and personally attend to the families; also, the delegates of IMSS and IMSS-Wellbeing. The Secretary of the Interior will coordinate the efforts. I appreciate the support of the Governor of Oaxaca and his team. We will continue to provide updates," the President said in a post on X. (ANI)
Indian-origin US Congressman Shri Thanedar described the current India-US relationship as "a little bit strained" due to hefty tariffs imposed by Washington on New Delhi, most of which is due to India's purchase of Russian oil, claiming that it fuels Moscow's war purpose in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters during his personal visit to Karnataka on Sunday, where he was attending the centenary celebrations of the school from which he graduated, the Congressman from Michigan's 13th District emphasised the need for greater friendship and trust between the two nations, noting that trade was not proving beneficial to the relationship between the two nations. "The relations between India and the US right now are a little bit strained because of the tariff, but those tariffs aren't helping. But India needs to have more friendship with America, and America needs to have more friendship and trust with India and that will help a great deal," Thanedar said. Earlier in August, 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, taking the total to 50 per cent, claiming that it fuels Moscow's war purpose in Ukraine. Meanwhile, earlier this month, a delegation of US trade officials from the office of the US Trade Representative, led by Deputy US Trade Representative Rick Switzer, visited India, during which both sides had productive exchanges on a wide gamut of items, including the ongoing negotiations for a mutually beneficial India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement, as per sources from the Commerce Ministry. The sources said that both sides agreed to continue the current purposeful and positive engagements. The delegation led by Rick Switzer visited India from December 9 to December 11. This was Ambassador Switzer's first trip to India after assuming his current office. During the visit, Switzer met with Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, and other senior Indian officials. Rajesh Agrawal and Rick Switzer, during their meeting, discussed the trade and economic ties. The Congressman, who graduated from Chintaman Rao Government Primary and High School in Belagavi in 1969, expressed pride in the school's progress over the years and described the centenary celebrations as a "very proud moment". "I am here in Belagavi because I graduated from this Chintaman Rao Government Primary and High School in 1969 and I am just proud of the school, the progress the school has made and I am here to celebrate the 100th anniversary of this school and it's a very proud moment," he added. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump has floated the possibility of a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to continue peace talks amid the war in Europe, which is now in its fourth year. Speaking to reporters following his bilateral meeting with Zelenskyy on Sunday (local time) at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump said the trilateral meeting could take place "at the right time" in order to broker peace in the war. "I see that happening, sure, at the right time. I saw a very interesting President Putin today. He wants to see it happen. He wants to see it. He told me very strongly. I believe him... I was on the phone with him for almost 2.5 hours... We discussed a lot of things," the US President said when asked about the prospect of such a three-way summit. Trump's remarks come during his joint press conference following his scheduled meeting with Zelenskyy in Florida, where the two leaders discussed the proposed 20-point peace framework, security guarantees, and potential territorial compromises to end the conflict. Prior to meeting with the Ukrainian President, Trump also had a long telephonic conversation with his Russian counterpart, noting that it was "good and very productive". "I just had a good and very productive telephone call with President Putin of Russia prior to my meeting, at 1:00 P.M. today, with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. The Kremlin also described the call positively. Meanwhile, during his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump, known for setting deadlines on most issues, said he has no deadline for a Russia-Ukraine peace deal this time as he welcomed the Ukrainian President. Speaking to reporters outside the resort, when asked whether he had set any deadline for ending the Russia-Ukraine war, Trump made it clear that he has no deadline for a peace deal this time. "I don't have deadlines. You know what my deadline is: getting the war ended," Trump said. He also stated that a peace agreement to end the Russia-Ukraine war is also getting "very close", noting that significant progress had been made as discussions continue. "We had a terrific meeting. We discussed a lot of things. As you know, I had an excellent phone call with President Putin. It lasted for over two hours. We discussed a lot of points. I do think we're getting a lot closer, maybe very close. The President and I just spoke to the European leaders... We have made a lot of progress on ending that war, which is probably the deadliest war since World War II..." Trump said. (ANI)
Argentina has reiterated its long-standing claim over the Malvinas and praised India's historic role in supporting decolonisation, while also expressing understanding for India's aspiration to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council (UNSC). Speaking on the Malvinas sovereignty dispute, Argentina's Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, on Monday, said that the islands were inherited by Argentina from Spain after its independence in 1816, but were "illegally occupied" by the United Kingdom in 1833. He noted that Argentina has consistently raised the issue at international forums and highlighted India's early support at the United Nations. "This year marks the 60th anniversary of the first time the UN General Assembly addressed this problem and called on the parties to find a diplomatic solution," Caucino said. He added that India's support in the 1950s and 1960s was crucial, as New Delhi emerged as a leading voice of decolonisation across Asia, Africa and parts of South America. The dispute over the Malvinas (Falkland Islands) is a long-standing sovereignty conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom. Argentina asserts historical rights to the islands, which it views as illegally occupied since 1833. The UK bases its claim on effective occupation since 1833. Argentina considers the islands an integral part of its territory (the Malvinas) and advocates negotiations with the UK to resolve the dispute peacefully. On India's bid for a permanent seat on the UNSC, the Argentine envoy said the Security Council's current structure no longer reflects present-day global realities. "When the UN was created in 1945, the Security Council reflected the world order after the Second World War. Eight decades later, that order has evolved," he said. Caucino acknowledged that large countries with significant populations remain unrepresented and described India's aspiration as "understandable and reasonable", even as he admitted that achieving reform would be difficult due to the lack of global consensus. The ambassador also highlighted the growing strength of India-Argentina bilateral relations, calling the past year "very positive". He described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Argentina--after a gap of nearly six decades--as a major milestone. India has emerged as Argentina's sixth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching around USD 5 billion. Caucino said the relationship is expected to grow further as India becomes increasingly important in the global economy, having already emerged as the world's fourth-largest economy and projected to become the third-largest by the end of the decade. He said both countries are expanding cooperation beyond food security into energy security, mining and critical minerals, particularly lithium. Argentina holds some of the world's largest lithium reserves, and Indian companies are already investing in northern Argentine provinces as India ramps up electric vehicle and clean energy programmes. Defence cooperation has also gained momentum, with increased military exchanges and joint mountaineering expeditions. Caucino said the appointment of a defence attache at the Indian Embassy in Buenos Aires marks another step forward in strengthening strategic ties. Argentina and India marked 75 years of diplomatic relations, with the partnership elevated to a strategic level in recent years. "The goals we set have largely been met," the ambassador said, expressing optimism that cooperation will continue to deepen across sectors. On the ongoing wars, Argentina has reiterated its commitment to peace while strongly condemning terrorism and expressing support for international efforts aimed at de-escalation and dialogue. Speaking on the situation in West Asia, Argentina's Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, said Argentina has long been a strong supporter of Israel and was among the first countries to condemn the October 7 terror attack. "Argentina supports the Jewish people's right to exist and believes that terrorism, which has affected the region for decades, is completely unacceptable," the ambassador said. He noted that Argentina has close ties with Israel, having a large Argentine-origin community living there, and recalled his own tenure as ambassador to Israel. Caucino highlighted that a significant number of Argentine citizens were affected during the October 7 attack. Of the more than 200 people taken hostage, around 10 per cent were Argentine-Israeli citizens, reflecting the deep people-to-people links between the two countries. He welcomed recent developments that led to the release of some hostages while expressing sorrow over the loss of lives. Drawing a parallel with India, the ambassador said Argentina had also stood firmly with New Delhi following a recent terror attack in April, stressing that both countries share firsthand experience in dealing with terrorism. On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Caucino described it as a prolonged and complex crisis. He said Argentina views positively the peace initiatives led by the United States and other nations and acknowledged India's role in supporting dialogue and diplomatic efforts. "We hope these initiatives will eventually lead to a peaceful settlement, even if it may not happen immediately," he said, adding that Argentina continues to support all sincere efforts aimed at ending the conflict through peaceful means. (ANI)
Explaining Russia's stance in more detail, Lavrov said in an interview with TASS published on Sunday that Moscow considers "the Taiwan problem is an internal affair" of China and stressed that "Beijing has every right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity."

He said debates around Taiwan are often conducted "in isolation from reality and by manipulating facts," adding that the wider context is frequently overlooked in international discussions.

Lavrov further said that several countries, despite publicly committing to the One-China policy, in practice support maintaining the status quo.

He described such an approach as "their disagreement with the principle of China's national reunification."

In this backdrop, Lavrov said Taiwan is increasingly being used as an instrument of "military-strategic deterrence" against Beijing.

He alleged that some Western nations seek to benefit from Taiwan's financial resources and technological capabilities, including through the sale of costly US weapons to Taipei.

Reiterating Moscow's long-standing position, Lavrov recalled that Russia's support for China on the Taiwan issue is enshrined in the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation signed between Moscow and Beijing in July 2001.

He noted that one of the treaty's core principles is "mutual support in defending national unity and territorial integrity."

Providing historical context to the issue, Lavrov said Taiwan has remained self-governed since 1949, following the Chinese Civil War.

At that time, Nationalist forces retreated to the island after losing control of mainland China to Communist forces. (ANI)
Inqilab Moncho continued its blockade at Dhaka's Shahbagh intersection for the fourth consecutive day on Monday, pressing for the trial of those accused in the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, The Daily Star reported. The protest began on Friday, with demonstrators occupying the busy intersection overnight despite a cold wave. Since then, the blockade has been enforced daily from 2 pm, drawing participants from diverse professional groups and political backgrounds. Throughout the demonstrations, protesters chanted slogans demanding justice for Hadi, while songs and poetry recitations were also performed as part of the protest. Women and children joined the sit-in, carrying placards, festoons and posters. Organisers arranged a separate space adjacent to the main stage to enable their participation. On Sunday, Inqilab Moncho member secretary Abdullah Al Jaber announced a four-point demand, including a 24-day ultimatum for the government to complete trial proceedings against those responsible for Hadi's killing. The platform also indulged in Anti-India rhetoric and demanded the suspension of work permits of Indian nationals in Bangladesh, according to The Daily Star. As part of a broader shutdown programme, Inqilab Moncho leaders and supporters staged similar blockades in several divisional cities on Sunday. Demonstrators returned to Shahbagh ahead of the scheduled time to intensify pressure on the authorities. During Saturday night's protest, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali visited the site and briefed demonstrators on the status of the investigation. The adviser assured protesters that the interim government was working to identify both the perpetrators and those involved behind the scenes, and to ensure swift justice. Protesters, however, said they would continue their movement until justice is delivered. "Statements from the administration are nothing but eyewash. They are trying to buy time. The day the shooting took place, the perpetrators could have been arrested," said Naim Islam, a central member of Inqilab Moncho. Briefing demonstrators later, the police commissioner said law enforcement agencies, including police, Border Guard Bangladesh, Rapid Action Battalion and intelligence units, were jointly working on the case. He said 10 people had been arrested so far, two pistols and a motorcycle used in the murder had been recovered, and signed cheques worth Tk 218 crore had been seized. "There has been substantial progress. The charge sheet will be submitted within the next 10 days, by January 7," he said. Hadi was shot a day after the Election Commission announced on December 12 that the next national election would be held on February 12. He was later airlifted to Singapore for advanced treatment, where he died on December 18. Protests were also reported outside the capital, with Inqilab Moncho activists blocking the Chowhatta intersection in Sylhet city on Sunday afternoon as part of the programme. (ANI)
PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi on Monday filed separate appeals before the Islamabad High Court (IHC), challenging their conviction in the Toshakhana 2 case, Dawn reported. The appeals follow a December 20 verdict by a special court that sentenced both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to 17 years' imprisonment in connection with the alleged purchase of a Bulgari jewellery set. The jewellery was gifted to Imran Khan by the Saudi crown prince during an official visit in May 2021 and was allegedly acquired at a substantially reduced price. During the proceedings, the prosecution maintained that the PTI founder retained the jewellery set, valued at around PKR 80 million, after paying only PKR 2.9 million. In their petitions, the defence challenged the basis of the conviction. According to copies of the appeals available with Dawn, the couple's lawyers argued that the sentencing was politically motivated, stating, "The overarching objective of the present prosecution appears to be the continued incarceration of the appellant, thereby preventing his participation in national politics and curtailing his political role and influence." The appeals also raised procedural concerns, noting that the National Accountability Bureau initially initiated the case before being transferred to the Federal Investigation Agency. Questioning the manner in which the investigation was conducted, the appeals stated, "The learned trial court overlooked the methodology adopted by the Federal Investigation Agency in conducting the investigation. In the absence of settled law, precedent, or clear guidance on the subject, heightened care and caution were required in interpreting and applying the governing legal framework." "Instead, both the investigating agency and the Trial Court proceeded in a cursory manner. This is evident from the absence of any FIR (first information report) on the record." Expanding on these concerns, the defence highlighted that the FIA submitted a challan "within two days of the initiation of the investigation", arguing that such a limited timeframe did not allow for a fair and transparent probe, Dawn reported. The appeals further contended that the Toshakhana 2 conviction amounted to the fourth prosecution linked to Toshakhana-related matters and therefore constituted double jeopardy. This was described as "reflecting a repetitive and overlapping invocation of criminal process in respect of the same subject matter". "NAB deliberately chose to bifurcate the prosecution by selectively proceeding in respect of one set of gifts while deferring or abandoning prosecution in respect of the others. Such a course of action is impermissible in law," the appeals stated. The petitions added that Toshakhana 1 and Toshakhana 2 concerned different gifts. "The bifurcation of what ought to have been a single, composite trial into multiple proceedings was undertaken with the ulterior motive of ensuring the continued incarceration of the present appellant," the appeals argued. In addition to procedural objections, the defence also submitted that the conviction failed to take into account the 2018 Toshakhana policy. Clause I mandates that all gifts received must be reported and deposited with the Toshakhana. Clause VI "provides that gifts valued above PKR 30,000 may be retained by the recipient upon payment of 50 per cent of the value exceeding the basic exemption of PKR 30,000". The appeals maintained that there was no violation of the policy, as the gifts were deposited and the prescribed amount to retain them was paid. They further argued that the Toshakhana policy does not envisage criminal charges relating to criminal breach of trust or misconduct, rendering the sentencing unlawful, Dawn reported. "The learned trial judge misread and misapplied the relevant Toshakhana Policy/Rules governing retention of gifts," the appeals stated. "The prosecution wholly failed to establish the guilt of the appellant and his wife beyond a reasonable doubt; however, this fundamental deficiency was entirely overlooked by the learned Special Judge, Central, while recording the conviction." The defence also challenged the application of criminal breach of trust provisions. They argued that such offences require proof of entrustment and dishonest misappropriation, and that cases under Section 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code apply only to a "public servant". The appeals asserted that neither Imran Khan nor Bushra Bibi fulfilled these requirements. "In the present case, the prosecution has failed to establish any of these foundational elements. There was no dishonest misappropriation or conversion, as the gifts were duly retained strictly in accordance with the Toshakhana Policy and Rules after payment of the requisite assessed amount," the appeals stated. The petitions added that Imran Khan did not fall within the definition of a public servant under Section 21 of the PPC. "The learned trial court, in paragraph 15 of the impugned judgment, has manifestly faltered in bringing the appellant within the ambit of the definition of a 'public servant' by relying upon the ninth description of Section 21 PPC, coupled with vague precedents from 1957 and 1961. This reflects a flawed, incorrect, and legally unsustainable approach," Imran Khan's appeal stated. Bushra Bibi's appeal separately noted that she was "a housewife who has never held, occupied, or performed the functions of any public office". It argued that the judgment was "coram non judice, without lawful authority, and liable to be set aside in its entirety". On these grounds, the appeals sought to have the December 20 verdict overturned and requested that both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi be acquitted of all charges in the Toshakhana 2 case. Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were indicted in the case in December last year. In October this year, both denied the allegations, describing the case as fabricated and politically motivated, Dawn reported. Imran Khan has been in custody since August 2023 and is currently serving a 14-year sentence at Adiala jail in a 190 million British pounds corruption case. He also faces pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act related to the protests of May 9, 2023. Bushra Bibi is serving a seven-year sentence in the same corruption case. (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday held talks with President of Finland Alexander Stubb and President of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics on his meeting with US President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy further said that the Russians are spreading fakes to justify their strikes on Ukraine. "I spoke with President of Finland Alexander Stubb. As always with Alex, we discussed the diplomatic situation, our opportunities and prospects, and the outcomes of the meetings with President Trump and his team," he said in a post on X. "Although the Russians are spreading fakes to justify their strikes on Ukraine and the further prolongation of this war, the world's key intelligence services must have the real information," he added. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2005686393322745871?s=20 "I spoke with President of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics... I informed him about my meeting with President Trump and our work with the American negotiating team. We worked very well, and the fact that the Russians are now trying to derail progress with yet another round of fakes only confirms the quality of our meetings and communication with the American side," he said in a post on X. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2005682918912401423?s=20 Zelenskyy said that the alleged strike by Ukraine on Russian President Vladimir Putin's residence is a "fabrication" and that Ukraine will not take steps to undermine diplomacy. Zelenskyy's response came after Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow's negotiating position would change after alleged strikes on Putin's Novgorod region residence overnight on Monday. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2005667779894993080?s=20 In a post on X, Zelenskyy said, "Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump's team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged "residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia's own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies. Furthermore, the Russians have already targeted Kyiv in the past, including the Cabinet of Ministers building." (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday held talks with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz and briefed him on the outcomes of the meeting with US President Donald Trump and his team in Florida. Zelenskyy also told him that the news of Ukraine attacking Russian President Vladimir Putin's residence was fake. In a post on X, he said, "I have just spoken with Merz. First and foremost, we discussed the outcomes of the meeting with President Trump and his team in Florida. I informed him about the main emphases and key issues raised. Thank you, Friedrich, for your advice and for the constant coordination. Of course, we also discussed today's Russian fake, which Moscow is using to try to undermine diplomacy and justify dragging out the war." https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2005673610787070395?s=20 He further said that Ukraine was doing everything possible to achieve peace. "Putin needs to come to terms with the fact that he must end the war, the strikes, and the bloodshed. Ukraine is doing everything to achieve peace. Russia must stop inventing ways to wage war and start thinking about how to restore security. Ukraine has put forward all the proposals. Thank you to Germany, to everyone in Europe, and to the United States for their support on the path to peace," he said. Zelenskyy on Monday said that the alleged strike by Ukraine on Russian President Vladimir Putin's residence is a "fabrication" and that Ukraine will not take steps to undermine diplomacy. Zelenskyy's response came after Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow's negotiating position would change after alleged strikes on Putin's Novgorod region residence overnight on Monday. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2005667779894993080?s=20 In a post on X, Zelenskyy said, "Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump's team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged "residence strike" story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia's own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies. Furthermore, the Russians have already targeted Kyiv in the past, including the Cabinet of Ministers building." (ANI)
TOKYO, Dec 30 (News On Japan) - Prime Minister Takaichi moved into the official residence next to the Prime Ministers Office on Monday, relocating from the lawmakers housing complex in Akasaka, Tokyo, as the year-end and New Year holiday period begins.

The move was made to ensure swift and effective crisis management in the event of disasters or other emergencies during the holiday period, when government operations are typically scaled back. Officials said the decision reflects an effort to maintain constant readiness while many people are away from work.

According to government sources, the residence was renovated to improve accessibility ahead of the move, including barrier-free modifications, as Takaichis husband uses a wheelchair.

Takaichi wrote on social media that vigilance cannot be relaxed even during the year-end holidays, stressing that crisis management is a fundamental responsibility of national leadership.

Source: TBS
TOKYO, Dec 30 (News On Japan) - Japans first sunrise of the year is expected to be difficult to see along the Sea of Japan coast, while areas facing the Pacific Ocean are more likely to catch a glimpse, according to weather agencies. Even in regions with generally favorable conditions, cloud cover drifting in from offshore may block views depending on location and timing.

With many people heading out early on January 1 to watch the years first sunrise or visit shrines for hatsumode, forecasters say conditions will vary widely across the country. Snow clouds are expected to dominate much of the Sea of Japan side, making viewing difficult. In contrast, parts of eastern Hokkaido, coastal Shizuoka, and sections of Mie Prefecture are expected to offer the best chances for clear skies.

Meteorologists note that even in areas where skies appear mostly clear overhead, low-lying clouds near the horizon could still obscure the sun as it rises. As a result, some locations may only see the sun after a delay, once it climbs higher above the cloud layer.

Atmospheric pressure patterns on the morning of January 1 indicate a slightly unusual winter setup, with a shear line stretching across parts of the country. Forecast models from Japan, the United States, and Europe all suggest lingering cloud cover, particularly over the Sea of Japan side, while Pacific-facing regions show somewhat better conditions.

Humidity levels in the lower and middle atmosphere also point to widespread cloud formation. Data shows high moisture concentrations between roughly 1,000 and 3,000 meters above ground, making it more likely for clouds to form even in areas that might otherwise appear favorable. While some thinning of clouds is expected at higher altitudes, low clouds near the horizon could still interfere with sunrise viewing.

Among several forecast scenarios, the most likely pattern suggests partial clearing over parts of eastern Hokkaido and the Pacific coast from Shizuoka eastward, while many other regions will see variable cloud cover. A more optimistic scenario shows wider clearing, but current conditions indicate this is less likely.

Overall, the best chances to see the first sunrise of the year are expected in eastern Hokkaido, parts of Shizuoka Prefecture, and limited areas of Mie. Elsewhere, visibility may depend on timing and local cloud movement.

Temperatures on New Years morning are expected to be low nationwide, with particularly cold conditions in northern Japan. In Hokkaido and parts of Tohoku, temperatures are forecast to fall to around seasonal lows, making it feel especially cold before sunrise.

Source: Weather News
Waking to hear that President Trump had dispatched the USAF across the Atlantic to take out the compounds of "scum", I naturally assumed he was referring to 10 Downing Street:

A teacher in an English school was accused of posing a risk to children and referred to the Government's counter-terrorism programme after showing Donald Trump videos to his US politics class... Henley College, a sixth-form in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, with more than 2,000 students, reported the politics lecturer to the local child safeguarding authority, which concluded a referral to Prevent, the Government's counter-terrorism programme, was a "priority". The teacher was accused of causing his A-level students, aged 17 and 18, "emotional harm". In one document, seen by the Telegraph, local officials in charge of child protection suggested the showing of the videos could amount to a "hate crime".

England cannot be saved short of violent revolution. Fortunately for Sir Keir and any Slav twinks on the premises, the Trump bombers were diverted south to Nigeria to hit Isis camps that have been targeting Christians.

It is somewhat dispiriting to me that the crisis of Nigerian Christians still comes as breaking news to the west when some of us were talking about it (all together now) twenty sodding years ago. Me in America Alone with a round-up of that year's news from the Anglican Communion:

In 2005, the big story in America was the Episcopal Church's first openly gay bishop; in Britain, the nomination of a celibate gay bishop; in Canada, New Westminster's decision to become the first diocese in the Anglican communion to perform same-sex ceremonies. In Nigeria, where on any Sunday the Anglicans in the pews outnumber those in America, Britain and Canada combined, the Archbishop is understandably miffed that the only news he gets from head office revolves around various permutations of gayness. Getting a reputation as a cult for upscale western sodomites and a few attendant fetishists doesn't help when half your country's in the grip of sharia and the local Islamoheavies are just itching to torch your churches.

In October the King and his UK prime minister decided to appoint as Archbishop of Canterbury a woman. The English yawned; the Nigerians did not take it half so blithely:

BREAKING NEWS: The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has declared spiritual independence from the Church of England, rejecting the appointment of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the new Archbishop of Canterbury.

Stating her support for same-sex marriage and her elevation as the... pic.twitter.com/7jHRisHdzC  Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) October 6, 2025

It takes courage to be a Christian in Nigeria, and that courage deserves better than the modish twerpery of Canterbury (and increasingly Rome). Why it should be Trump's job - rather than the Archbishop's or the Pope's - to speak up for Nigerian Christians is a mystery, but no doubt it would harsh their respective gay and climate mellows. Still, a random sampling just from this year's Advent:

On and on and on. Me again twenty sod-bollocking years ago:

In the Sixties, Nigeria lived under English Common Law; now, half of it's in the grip of sharia, and the other half's feeling the squeeze.

In the Fifties, Islam was the lead religion in Nigeria, ahead not only of Christianity but also of various indigenous faiths. But it was colonial Islam: the Mohammedans are only ever moderated by a dominating culture, be that British imperialism, Soviet Communism, the Indonesian dictatorship, and more idiosyncratic variants of cultural confidence, such as Saparmurat Niyazov in his one-man stan:

His legacy is the 'Ruhnama', the alleged spiritual tract he published in 2001. Its prose was barely workmanlike and barely Turkmenlike: it's what the Little Red Book would have been had Mao spent too much time with Deepak Chopra and Dr Phil. But it was raised immediately to equal status with the Bible and the Koran. It was hailed as 'The Answer To All Questions', including those for the driver's test. Ninety per cent of the population is Muslim, yet Turkmenbashi promoted himself to Prophet, and demanded the Ruhnama be displayed in every house of worship and kissed by all who enter therein. When the chief imam, Nasurallah Ibadullah, objected to what he regarded reasonably enough as an act of idolatry, he was arrested (along with other dissenting imams) and sentenced to twenty-three years in gaol.

One appreciates that none of the above moderating influences are terribly congenial to Americans, but, even so, the general wussified approach to cultural confidence taken by Bush-era Washington after 9/11 was remarkable.

So, after independence, northern Nigeria Islamised, while Christianity held its own and then, thanks to a high calibre of local vicars (ie, not like the Church of England's and the Episcopal Church's), accelerated in the Nineties until circa 2010 or so its numbers (approx three-quarters Anglican, one-quarter Catholic) more or less caught up with Islam.

And thus all the burning and shooting and kidnapping. "Diversity is our strength"? Not to the Mohammedans.

As you'll know if you heard our Christmas Eve Lessons and Carols, I am broadly Anglican by disposition. But, if that church has any kind of future, it does not lie with the dame in Canterbury and her all-gay-all-the-time clergy: already Africa accounts for some seventy per cent of the Anglican Communion.

As to Trump's bombing raids, an attack in defence of Nigerian Christians could hardly work out worse than the "Democracy-Whisky-Sexy" strategy of liberating all those Muslims panting for "our freedoms". It is these days a cliche that, if Trump were to hail a cure for cancer, Democrats would announce their support for massively expanding cancer. But initial press reports of the Christmas air raids played that gag for real. The BBC's early bulletins insisted that Trump had provided no "proof" that Nigerian Christians were under attack - although their own news coverage makes nonsense of that claim, and one notes that the Corporation does not impose a similar burden of proof when Starmer and Albanese start nancying on about "Islamophobia". Yet The Guardian managed to go the Beeb one better:

Parts of the US right have for years been amplifying claims that Christians face violence in Nigeria, a notion the US president has helped to encourage.

So now, like gun rights and more recently free speech, kidnapped black schoolgirls and dead black women is just some weird far-right fetish? Black Lives Matter? Yeah, maybe if you're "part of the US right"...

If you listen carefully to the tenor of leftie press coverage, you might also discern the next evolution of "diversity": Jews were long ago read out of progressive identity-group victimology; they only rate a mention when they're gunned down in Manchester or Bondi - and even then concerns about anti-Semitism have to be carefully balanced by concerns for "Islamophobia". But the Guardian/BBC types are moving on: it turns out there is a hierarchy within black people too, and in the conflicts to come black Muslims will have a surer purchase on their sympathies than black Christians.

Kemi Badenoch, a very lapsed Nigerian Anglican, might want to ponder that one.

Mark's international bestseller America Alone: The End of the World as We Know It. If you haven't read the book during its first seventeen years, well, you're missing a treat. It's still in print in hardback and paperback. (Buy it at a 77% discount by clicking here or order in KINDLE edition at a 47% discount by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR)

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Mark Steyn is an international bestselling author, a Top 41 recording artist, and a leading Canadian human rights activist. Among his books is "The Undocumented Mark Steyn: Don't Say You Weren't Warned". (Buy it at a 49% discount by clicking here or order in KINDLE edition at a 67% discount by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR)
More than 10,000 people have been displaced from North Darfur and South Kordofan within three days following a renewed surge in violence, according to the UN migration agency. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Sunday, December 28, that over 7,000 residents fled the towns of Kernoi and Oum Barou in North Darfur between Thursday and Friday, as fighting intensified near the Chadian border.

In South Kordofan, around 3,100 people escaped the besieged state capital, Kadugli, between Wednesday and Friday. The city has been encircled by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitaries for more than 18 months and was declared famine-hit in November, prompting humanitarian agencies to evacuate staff after the withdrawal of a UN logistics base.

The IOM noted that the RSFs capture of El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, at the end of October had already triggered the displacement of more than 107,000 civilians. In recent days, the paramilitary group has pushed westwards into Zaghawa-populated areas previously held by army-aligned militias. Analysts say the RSF, which controls about a third of Sudans territory, is now focusing its offensive on the resource-rich Kordofan region in a bid to reclaim the strategic central corridor linking Darfur to Khartoum.
Moroccos regional information caravan promoting the new very small and medium enterprise support framework completed its eighth and final stop in Ouezzane on Friday, December 26, capping a comprehensive tour presenting investment incentives to entrepreneurs across the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region.

Delegate Minister for Investment, Karim Zidane, affirmed the support system launch represents a strategic step in structural reforms transforming Moroccos investment policy, conforming to Royal Instructions positioning private investment as essential engine for economic revival and integration into key sectors.

System activation permits subsidies reaching up to 30% of eligible investment amounts, strengthening investment dynamics across the kingdoms provinces and prefectures including Ouezzane, Zidane stated. He highlighted Ouezzane provinces economic and natural assets, particularly in agriculture, crafts, rural tourism, and ecotourism sectors, contributing to sustainable territorial development and youth employment opportunities.

Regional Investment Center Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Director General Yassine Tazi presented the support program details, providing access to three investment project aids: employment creation premiums, territorial premiums favoring provincial attractiveness with Ouezzane benefiting from 10%, and premiums granted to priority activities according to national strategic orientations. Tazi reaffirmed the centers commitment to continuing entrepreneurship encouragement and supporting project promoters and investors throughout project realization stages.

Initiated by the regional investment center with official launch on November 19 in Larache, the caravan fulfilled its promises across visited territories, presenting northern region entrepreneurs and project promoters detailed incentives introduced by the new framework, exposing eligibility criteria, and highlighting simplified, entirely digitalized access procedures. The comprehensive regional tour demonstrates governmental commitment to decentralizing investment information and ensuring entrepreneurs across Moroccos diverse provinces access mechanisms facilitating business creation within national economic development priorities.
2025 was the year artificial intelligence (AI) took the drivers seat, literally.

Not just in boardrooms or on trading floors, but increasingly on the tarmac, in showrooms, and behind the wheel itself.

From record-breaking EV sales in the UK and Europe to autonomous taxis navigating San Francisco streets and preparing to arrive in London next year, the automotive world shifted into a new era.

The technology set the pace, but human decisions in policy, investment, and adoption alike determined whether the ride would be smooth or bumpy.

Britain holds its ground

The British car industry defied sceptics by meeting the governments Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate for this year.

Analysis by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit shows that by November, electric vehicles accounted for 22.7 per cent of new car registrations, comfortably above the 20.4 per cent effective requirement.

And while headline targets allow for flexibilities, counting some lower-emission petrol and diesel hybrids, its safe to say that British drivers are switching to electric.

Colin Walker, head of transport at ECIU, said: British drivers are increasingly choosing to switch to electric, so much so that, of the worlds largest car markets, the UK is now second only to China in the proportion of drivers buying new EVs.

But the transition is far from frictionless. Affordability remains the biggest sticking point, with the governments 3,750 EV grant only applying to cars priced under 37,000, leaving many popular models out of reach for private buyers.

At the same time, global competition is only intensifying. Chinese EV brands like BYD are aggressively undercutting prices and expanding into Europe, while Tesla, once the uncontested leader, is losing ground on the continent.

Autonomy arrives, tentatively

Driverless cars remain a novelty for most, but 2025 saw tangible steps toward a world of autonomous drivers.

Waymo, the US robotaxi pioneer, announced plans to launch fully autonomous taxis in London in 2026.

Meanwhile, British AI start-up Wayve, backed by Uber and SoftBank, is expanding testing operations across Germany and the US, refining its camera-based systems for complex urban environments.

But London is no San Francisco.

The citys congestion, erratic pedestrian behaviour, and labyrinthine streets are set to present challenges that even the most advanced AI will struggle to navigate.

Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association, remains unconvinced: London is like nowhere else. I want someone to explain to me how this driverless car is going to go somewhere like Charing Cross Road at 11pmt, where everybodys just walking across the road.

Public scepticism mirrors McNamaras warning, even as government plans promise tens of thousands of new jobs in autonomous transport, alongside the displacement of traditional cabbies.

The new co-pilot

Beyond the visible shift on roads, AI reshaped the ecosystem in 2025.

Multi-agent systems now work behind the scenes in manufacturing, retail, and logistics.

Vibe coding, the AI-driven generation of software, is refactoring legacy systems and enabling developers to focus on higher-order tasks.

Yet, with these advances comes a new imperative for ethical oversight, and security.

Steven Webb, UK CTO at Capgemini, warns that without traceability and oversight, AI-driven systems risk instability, despite driving efficiency.

With AI writing more of the codebase, trust again becomes a major concern, he said. Organisations will need strong traceability, provenance controls, and automated assurance mechanisms to ensure safety, security, and long-term maintainability.

The picture emerging from 2025 is not yet of a driverless utopia, but of a pivotal moment for the sector.

EV adoption is climbing, autonomous mobility is edging toward reality, and AI is reshaping the cars themselves, as well as the businesses that make and support them.

The wheel may still sit in human hands, but the direction is increasingly influenced by algorithms.

This shift is already influencing how vehicles are designed, priced, insured or operated, with huge implications set for productivity, safety and cost.

For 2026, the question shifts to how effectively the UK will position itself within that transition.

Because those who treat AI as a co-pilot rather than a replacement, who invest in infrastructure, regulation, and skills, will reep the economic benefits.

Those that do not may find themselves in the backseat, as the industry continues to evolve.

By Saskia Koopman via CityAM

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Turkiyes state-run energy champion Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) is on track to dramatically scale up production, with daily oil and gas output expected to reach around 500,000 barrels by 2028, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said this week.

Speaking to local media, Bayraktar said the projection is based on current reserves and ongoing developments, but stressed that Ankaras longer-term ambition is even larger. The government ultimately wants TPAO to become a one-million-barrel-per-day producer, combining organic growth with mergers, acquisitions, and an aggressive international exploration strategy.

Putting the production goal in context, Turkiye consumed roughly 1.15 million bpd in 2025, and imports most of its crude oil from Russia, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia.

Our goal is for TPAO to write a new growth story through mergers and acquisitions, Bayraktar said, describing 2026 as a pivotal year when multiple flagship projects begin to deliver tangible results.

Domestically, Turkiyes production push is anchored by the Sakarya gas field in the Black Sea, where output is set to rise from roughly 9.5 million cubic meters per day to 20 million cubic meters per day by 2026. Once achieved, domestic gas production will be sufficient to supply 8 million households annually, up from about 4 million today. The expansion is being supported by TPAOs growing offshore drilling fleet, which now includes four active drillships and two newly acquired seventh-generation vessels scheduled to enter service in early 2026. Turkiye's total drilling fleet is set to become the fourth-largest deep-sea energy fleet on a global scale.

Turkiye is also preparing to break new ground onshore. Bayraktar confirmed that the countrys first horizontal shale oil drilling campaign will begin in Diyarbakir in 2026, with 24 wells planned. A similar shale gas initiative is being developed in the Thrace region as Ankara looks to diversify its domestic hydrocarbon base.

Internationally, TPAO is accelerating its footprint across several frontier and semi-frontier basins. Drilling operations are set to begin in Pakistan next year following recently signed offshore and onshore agreements with local partners. In Somalia, extensive seismic surveys have already been completed across three offshore blocks, and deep-water drillingat depths of up to 3,000 metersis planned for 2026 under naval protection, reflecting both the technical complexity and security risks involved.

The company is also evaluating opportunities in Iraq, Syria, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, with Turkish gas imports from Turkmenistan potentially rising to 3 billion cubic meters annually as negotiations progress.

Beyond oil and gas, Energy Minister Bayraktar highlighted Turkiyes broader resource ambitions. TPAO-linked projects are advancing gold production in Niger, where seven fields are under development, and Ankara is moving to secure a foothold in rare earth elements, viewed as critical for electric vehicles, wind turbines, and advanced electronics. The construction of a major rare-earth processing facility in Eskisehirs Beylikova district is scheduled to begin in 2026.

Taken together, Turkey's strategic plan is to is no longer to position itself as a purely domestic producer, but as a regional and global upstream player, using state backing, an expanding fleet, and geopolitical reach to build scale in a tightening global energy landscape.

By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
With a two-month "quarantine" placed on Venezuelan oil by the Trump administration in a foreign policy move called "gunboat diplomacy," new data estimate that roughly $900 million worth of crude is currently loaded on tankers, unable to depart Venezuela due to the U.S. blockade.

"Based on our visual analysis from both shore and space, we estimate that there are around 17.5 million barrels of crude oil floating onboard tankers in Venezuela which are unable to depart due to the ongoing US blockade," independent research Tanker Trackers wrote on X. "That's around $900M of oil."

Based on our visual analysis from both shore and space, we estimate that there are around 17.5 million barrels of crude oil floating onboard tankers in Venezuela which are unable to depart due to the ongoing US blockade.

That's around $900M of oil.#OOTT #Tankers #Venezuela pic.twitter.com/MpTYsU3xKi  TankerTrackers.com, Inc. (@TankerTrackers) December 27, 2025

Tanker Trackers responded to a question on X about how long it would take for land-based oil and gas operations in Venezuela to become "clogged" due to the blockade. The research firm noted, "Chevron is still importing from Venezuela, and it doesn't appear that will stop anytime soon, given they are granted a waiver."

Here's the conversation:

Current tankers sailing in the Caribbean with destinations to the U.S. and/or China.

Last week, the Trump administration directed U.S. military forces to enforce a two-month "quarantine" on Venezuelan oil exports, signaling ramped-up sanctions enforcement.

According to a U.S. military official cited by Reuters, while military options remain available, the near-term strategy prioritizes economic pressure through strict enforcement of sanctions to pressure Venezuela.

Operationally, the U.S. Coast Guard has intercepted two Venezuelan dark fleet tankers and forced a third to retreat into the Atlantic Basin.

Our assessment: The gunboat diplomacy posture is designed to disrupt Venezuela-Cuba-China oil flows, tighten financial pressure, and accelerate regime instability in both Caracas and Havana.

China is furious and has wargamed a potential conflict with the U.S. in the Caribbean. Okay Beijing ...

By Zerohedge

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
New Zealands gas market has been moving from self-sufficient to structurally tight. Domestic output has almost halved in the last 7 years, falling from an average 415 million m/month in 2017 to 215 million m/month in 2025, stripping out the buffer that once covered seasonal swings and dry-year hydro shortfalls. The drought-driven winters of 20242025 exposed a new reality: as hydro weakened, the countrys power system leaned harder on thermal generation just as gas supply was tightening, triggering sharp spikes in electricity and gas prices and forcing repeated curtailments at large industrial users. The government has moved to revive upstream investment, but new supply will not arrive fast enough to prevent a tighter balance from 2027 onward  making LNG imports a plausible backstop for winter security.

New Zealand is an isolated gas system so far supplied entirely by domestic production, with infrastructure centred on the North Island. Supply is overwhelmingly concentrated in the Taranaki Basin on- and offshore the North Islands west coast in the Tasman Sea. OMV (Austria), operator of the Maui and Pohokura offshore fields, has been the largest producer, alongside Todd Energy (New Zealand) and Beach Energy (Australia), with a few smaller domestic players. In such a system, a slowdown in exploration does not merely reduce longer-term optionality; it directly translates into declining deliverability as mature fields deplete.

Related:

Policy was a key driver of the slowdown. The 2018 Crown Minerals (Petroleum) Amendment Act halted new offshore exploration permits beyond a limited Taranaki area, and the 2021 introduction of perpetual decommissioning liability further chilled investment by leaving permit holders responsible indefinitely for future well failures. Exploration then stalledonly five wells have been drilled since 2019allowing depletion to dominate and production to slide sharply by 2025.

The structural supply squeeze became a market shock in 2024, when weather pushed the power system into stress. A very dry autumn preceded a very dry winter, reducing hydro generation (typically 6070% of New Zealands power mix) to around 40%. The system had to replace the missing hydro with more thermal generation, including gas and coal, even as gas availability tightened. Between July and August 2024, wholesale electricity prices almost tripled from NZ$300 (US$175)/MWh to NZ$800 (US$467)/MWh. Gas prices followed scarcity signals: residential prices increased from NZ$42 (US$24.5)/GJ to NZ$50 (US$29)/GJ, while industrial prices climbed from NZ$23 (US$13.5)/GJ to NZ$30 (US$17.5)/GJ.

The power sectors gas demand is about to shift in 2026 with the retirement of the Taranaki Combined Cycle (TCC) gas-fired power plant in late 2025. TCCs capacity is 385 MW, around 5% of national peak demand, and it has historically been one of the countrys major gas-fired generators. Its closure is expected to reduce national gas generation capacity from 1,385 MW to 1,000 MW. No new fossil-fuel plant substitution is planned. While the retirement removes a steady baseload gas customer, it does not eliminate the systems dependence on dispatchable capacity during dry periods. It instead increases the sensitivity of the market to hydro outcomes and the availability of the remaining fossil fuel power stations.

However, in New Zealand gas is not just a power-sector fuel: its strategic importance is driven by industry, with the chemical sector accounting for more than 40% of countrys total gas demand (in contrast with its 30% in the energy mix). Within that segment, consumption is highly concentrated. About 90% of the chemical sectors gas demand is attributed to Methanexs two methanol facilities in Taranaki, making the Canadian company the single largest component of New Zealands national gas demand. Nearly all methanol production is exported, mainly to Asia-Pacific markets including China, Australia, and South Korea. As supply tightened, methanol exports fell from 1.7 million tonnes in 2019 to 0.5 million tonnes in 2025. Methanex even fully shut its plants twice to redirect gas toward power generation needs  from mid-August to October 2024 and from mid-May to July 2025.

The current government shows signs of understanding of the situation and has moved to restart gas upstream investment. New Zealands Parliament repealed the 2018 offshore exploration ban in July 2025, reopening permitting beyond Taranaki from around September and introducing both tendered and open-market processes. Two applications have been notified since 25 September 2025 (offshore Taranaki and Waikato) with decisions due in January and March 2026, while Todd Energys Karewa discovery secured a mining permit in June 2025 and EnZed Energy has applied for offshore acreage in Taranaki. The budget also committed up to NZ$200 million (US$116.5 million) over four years, aiming for 1015% government stakes in new projects.

However, two constraints limit the ability of this policy pivot to stabilise the market in the near term. The first is reserve confidence. Recent reclassifications have shifted multiple reserves from commercially recoverable (2P) to potentially recoverable (2C), raising uncertainty over their deliverability and economics. The second concern is timing. Offshore discoveries typically require long lead times  optimistically 45 years and (in more technically complicated cases) 810 years  before first production. As experts predict that the expected tightening point between gas demand and supply in the country will be in 2027, the first incremental supply from new discoveries is about to come too late to save the situation. Political risk also remains a factor with the 2026 election capable of reopening the policy debate around fossil fuels sector.

That gap makes LNG imports a credible optionbut not a quick one. Coal power stations were the only remedy New Zealand could use immediately during the 2024 shortage: coal imports surged to 900 kt in 2024 from 260 kt in 2023, according to Kpler. This trend became even more notable in 2025, with total coal imports reaching around 1.36 million tonnes, a further 50% increase year-on-year. Gas is different. LNG would require dedicated import infrastructure, most plausibly a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), yet global availability is tight, and many units have been locked into Europe since the 2022 energy crisis. That could push New Zealands LNG import timeline into 20282029. Distance adds another penalty: as a remote and relatively small market, New Zealand would likely face higher shipping and logistics costs, translating into a premium on delivered LNG. Until import capacity exists, shortfalls will continue to be managed through price spikes, rationing, and industrial demand curtailment.

If imported LNG becomes the marginal supply source, the implications for the industrial sector in the country are clear. Methanex is likely to face the earliest pressure: producing export methanol is economically coherent when the production is based on competitively priced domestic gas, but the advantage weakens if domestic gas is substituted by imported LNG carrying a large premium. Residential and commercial demand  around 10% of current gas consumption  should be more resilient. By contrast, the largest industrial users and the chemical sector will face stronger incentives to optimize consumption or leave the country altogether. Meanwhile, New Zealands gas market will remain highly sensitive to weather: until new domestic supply arrives or import capacity is built, dry winters will continue to translate quickly into higher prices and industrial curtailment.

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here.

With the sunrises starting to get earlier and the sunsets later in the Northern Hemisphere, there are still two months of scarce daylight and lowering skies ahead. Here's a suggestion for how to fill the gloomy hours with uplift: read.

Read some great books, returning perhaps to those you ploughed through on school assignments so many years ago. Discover one of the pleasures of aging  how serious books turn out to be more interesting and enriching than what you remember from dutifully ploughing through them years ago.

Sit in a comfortable chair, turn off the television, remove distracting earbuds, leave your smartphones and tablets charging quietly on a desk, and resist the temptation to check your messages one more time. Open up a book and give yourself uninterrupted hours to become immersed in a world created by a great writer many years ago.

I've been following this advice the last couple of winters, after I started reflecting on how, despite being in two serious book groups, I was spending too much time reading ephemeral stuff and wasn't reading anything serious beyond some excellent book group selections. I decided to concentrate my reading on weekends, spending long hours interrupted by little but leg-stretching and avoiding the difficulty of recalling the plot when reading just a chapter or two in the evenings just before bed.

"All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way," Leo Tolstoy wrote in the opening words of "Anna Karenina." So I began with two books about families: Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" and Thomas Mann's "Buddenbrooks."

"Karamazov," I had read as a teenager, around the time the Hollywood movie version was released. "Buddenbrooks," I went through two decades ago. Reading them as an adult was a far richer experience, both emotionally and as a contrast in national character. The two books are set at opposite ends of the Baltic Sea: the German book in the orderly commercial Hanseatic port of Lubeck, the Russian in a town resembling Dostoevsky's ramshackle provincial hometown of Staraya Russa.

For last winter, I recalled Ernest Hemingway's comment that "All American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called 'Huckleberry Finn.'" I remembered it as the sequel to "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and the story of a pleasant picaresque journey, and, of course, I had often heard how it was banned from school reading lists because of its frequent use of the N-word.

What I wasn't prepared for was, first, the book's scathing denunciation, veiled as humor or just everyday observation, of slavery. It was published in 1884, less than a decade after the nation basically abandoned Reconstruction and its noble goal of achieving equal rights for Black people. Reading it first as a teenager, I also didn't remember the story of a boy becoming a man, mentored by Jim, the slave to whom he initially condescends and once nearly betrays.

I paired it with two other books of adolescent boys on picturesque but perilous journeys: Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island," written as a boys' book that I read as a seventh grader in a boys' school, and Rudyard Kipling's "Kim," set in British India. Both are stirring narratives, set in exotic locations which are easier to envision if you've done some tourism in the Caribbean and the subcontinent.

Were they both influenced by "Huckleberry Finn"? Maybe. Stevenson and Kipling, 15 and 30 years younger, respectively, than Twain, each dropped in on him on cross-country American trips and were received warmly, and each of them and Twain became mutual admirers. There was more contact between American and British writers in the late 19th century than I would have guessed  and a readiness by at least some Brits in admiring Twain as a model.

This year, with fellow members of a book group, I have spent dark afternoons and long evenings on the 767 pages of Anthony Trollope's "The Way We Live Now." It was written in five months in 1873 and centered on a fabulously wealthy but crooked financier, and it features the author's characteristically vivid female characters contemplating bad choices in marriage.

I plan on soon rereading, after three or four decades, Honore de Balzac's "Lost Illusions," also with a dubious financier in the background. Both books also have delicious descriptions of businesses the authors knew firsthand, publishing and journalism.

Trollope shows an untalented female author trying to arrange, with editors of major publications, favorable reviews of her dreadful books. One ends up proposing marriage and advising her not to write a second novel. Balzac shows the young protagonist's sudden success as a scandal-mongering journalist in Paris, and then being disgraced when it's discovered that his sources are fictitious.

Unhappy families in provincial, perilous journeys in picturesque territory, financial and literary scandals in booming capitals: Great writers of the past take us to places and introduce us to people who, despite having been imagined years ago, turn out to be vaguely familiar to what we see around us now. And they're readily available: Just sit down with a volume in hand in a comfortable chair. In the meantime, happy New Year.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded his talks with US President Donald Trump without a peace deal, but he said US and Ukrainian teams will meet again soon and that a gathering of leaders -- including those from Europe -- will be held in Washington next month.

Zelenskyy, on December 28, posted on social media that "we had a substantive discussion on all issues," including matters concerning all-important security guarantees, at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.

"We discussed all the aspects of the peace framework and achieved significant results," Zelenskyy wrote.

"We also discussed the sequence of further actions. We agreed that security guarantees are key on the path to achieving a lasting peace."

"We agreed that our teams would meet as early as next week to finalize all discussed matters. We also agreed with President Trump that he will host Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington, DC, in January," Zelenskyy added.

Trump's meeting with Zelenskyy was the culmination of weeks of phone and shuttle diplomacy in efforts to end Russia's full-scale war on Ukraine -- which has killed or wounded more than 1.5 million soldiers on both sides in nearly four years.

The meeting also marked the latest instance in which participants touted "progress" and "results" but did not provide details and vowed additional talks.

'The Right Direction'

Following two hours of talks, Trump asserted that peace discussions were "moving in the right direction." He did not mention the possibility of hosting leaders in Washington in January.

"We're getting a lot closer, maybe very close...[talks are] "moving in the right direction."

"Russia wants [the war] ended. Everyone wants it ended," he told reporters without giving details.

Trump and Zelenskyy also conducted a call with European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and NATO chief Mark Rutte.

"Along with several other European leaders, I took part this evening in an exchange with Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump," Macron wrote on social media. "Then I spoke [separately] with President Zelenskyy."

"We are making progress on the security guarantees that will be central to building a just and lasting peace."

"We will bring together the countries of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris in early January to finalize each countrys concrete contributions," he added, referring to a group of Ukrainian allies who have indicated they might participate in a peacekeeping mission in the event of a cease-fire.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote on social media that "Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our US partners...Paramount to this effort is to have ironclad security guarantees [for Ukraine] from day one."

Kyiv has been adamant in receiving security guarantees -- particularly from the United States but also from Europe -- and has resisted the Kremlin's hard-line demands that include ceding Ukrainian territory to Russia.

During the joint news conference, Trump said that territorial issues -- including the future of Ukraine's Donbas region -- had not been settled.

"It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer. That's a very tough issue," Trump said.

Trump Frustration

Trump, who said during his election campaign he could settle the war in one day, has been frustrated by his inability to use what he sees as his businessmans acumen to end Europes bloodiest conflict since World War II.

He has dispatched his chief envoy, Steve Witkoff, to Moscow six times to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump himself met with the Russian leader in Alaska in August.

Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner, and defense chief Pete Hegseth joined the Trump meeting with Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian's third with the US president since January.

'The Whole World'

Russia did not immediately offer substantive comment following the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting and news conference.

Putin's special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, wrote on social media that "the whole world appreciates President Trump and his teams peace efforts.

Shortly before the talks began, Trump and Putin spoke by phone, a surprise call that the Kremlin said lasted more than an hour and was done at Trump's request. In a post to social media, Trump described it as "good and very productive."

Putin's chief foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, said Putin and Trump agreed to not support a push for a temporary cease-fire ahead of a settlement-- something Zelenskyy has called for.

Last month, the White House released a 28-point plan that was seen as heavily favorable to Russia. Zelenskyy and his negotiators  along with Kyivs European allies -- have sought to draft counterproposals.

Zelenskyys 20-point plan, released last week, paved the way for the Ukrainian leader to fly to the United States and meet with Trump.

Little Sign Of Compromise

Amid the diplomacy and negotiations, Russia has shown little inclination for compromise, even refusing to consider a Christmas truce proposed by Zelenskyy.

A day before the talks, Russia pounded the Ukrainian capital and surrounding districts, leaving nearly 1 million homes without electricity amid temperatures hovering around freezing.

In another clear signal, Putin met with top military commanders, lauding battlefield successes, asserting Ukraine was to blame for the war, and showing no intention of compromise.

If Kyiv does not wish to settle the matter peacefully," Russia will achieve its objectives by force, Putin said, reiterating comments he has made several times in recent weeks.

By RFE/RL

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Chevron has unloaded Venezuelan crude oil at U.S. ports under its existing Treasury licence, according to a Bloomberg report on Monday, even as U.S. enforcement actions disrupt other Venezuelan export routes and tighten pressure on unauthorised shipments.

Bloomberg did not disclose the number of cargoes involved or the timing of the deliveries.

The arrivals come as Washington steps up interdictions targeting Venezuelan oil flows outside approved channels, drawing a clear distinction between Chevrons licensed operations and exports handled by traders and intermediaries without U.S. authorisation. Chevron remains the only U.S. oil company permitted to produce and export crude from Venezuela, operating through joint ventures with state oil company PDVSA under terms that limit proceeds to debt repayment rather than direct revenue for Caracas.

Bloomberg reported that Chevron-linked cargoes were able to discharge at U.S. ports while other Venezuelan shipments have faced mounting legal and logistical obstacles. Traders have scaled back dealings in Venezuelan crude amid stricter enforcement, leaving some barrels unable to complete deliveries or secure buyers.

Chevrons Venezuelan output is typically shipped to U.S. Gulf Coast refineries configured to process heavy sour crude, a segment of the market with limited replacement options. Access to those grades remains important for complex refiners, particularly as sanctions constrain supplies from other producers with similar crude qualities.

The Trump administration has prioritised enforcement and interdictions rather than announcing new sanctions, preserving Chevrons licence while narrowing pathways for unauthorised exports. Any change to the licence terms could quickly affect Venezuelan production levels and refinery sourcing along the U.S. Gulf Coast.

The situation has created a split oil trade, with Chevrons licensed barrels moving while unauthorised Venezuelan shipments face mounting obstacles. Estimates cited by Oilprice indicate roughly $900 million worth of Venezuelan crude remains stranded at sea as tankers struggle to secure ports, buyers, financing, or insurance as the U.S. steps up enforcement. Several cargoes have reportedly been delayed for weeks or left idling offshore as traders reconsider their legal exposure and counterparties pull up stakes.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Chinas imports of liquefied natural gas are on course to end the year with a jump, Kpler has reported, reaching 7.17 million tons after another strong month in November.

Citing the Kpler data, Bloomberg reported today that the December total will be modestly higher than the December 2024 total, but it would be the second month of LNG import increases in a row, following a long stretch of declines.

Indeed, in late November, forecasters were expecting another LNG import decline for the month but factual figures surprised, booking an annual jump of 13.6% to 6.94 million tons, customs data showed earlier this month. The increase followed 12 consecutive months of import declines. LNG imports from Russia alone surged to an all-time high of 1.6 million tons, up twofold on October, despite predictions of a decline in these imports as well.

Last year, China saw a surge in LNG and pipeline gas imports as it sought to fill its storage caverns. Over just the first half of the year, total natural gas imports saw an annual increase of 14.3%, reaching 64.65 million tons. After the rush to fill storage, imports of natural gas weakened as facilities were full at capacity.

This year, LNG demand has softened considerably as Chinese natural gas production continued to expand in line with plans to boost reliance on domestic energy commodity supply. Earlier in the year, domestic gas production hit an all-time high, bringing LNG imports to the lowest in six years, down by 19% on the year over the first seven months of 2025. Since then, the decline has continued, prompting forecasters to predict weaker imports throughout the year.

Despite the end-of-year jump in imports of liquefied gas, however, the annual total for 2025 is seen lower than the total for 2024, Bloomberg noted in its report. The decline is seen at 12%, with a further drop in imports predicted for 2026, at 9%.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The Indian government is demanding over $30 billion in compensation from Reliance Industries and BP for their failure to produce contracted gas volumes from two offshore fields, Reuters reported today, citing unnamed sources familiar with the situation.

The case has been running since 2016 at an arbitration tribunal, with the final ruling expected in mid-2026, the Reuters sources said. The dispute concerns gas production from the D1 and D3 deepwater gas fields in the D6 block in the Krishna Godavari basin, Indias first major offshore gas projects.

Development of the gas reserves at the D1 and D3 fields had proven to be challenging both in technical terms and in financial termsReliance and BP had a production cost recovery dispute with the government and reported water ingress and reservoir pressure problems. In addition to all that, production failed to live up to expectations.

According to Reliance Industries, gas production from the D6 block contributes as much as 30% of Indias total natural gas output, or 30 million cu m of gas. The company also said on its website that, together with BP, it will be starting production from three more deepwater fields in the same basin.

The Krishna Godavari basin is Indias largest offshore oil and gas region. It has also become the focus of more than one dispute between operators and the government. A recent report in Fortune India said that Reliance and its partners had invested some $10 billion in exploration and production in the basin since its discovery in the early 2000s. Since then, gas production has quickly moved to a peak, and the pricing mechanism agreed with the government in New Delhi has led to slower than desired cost recovery, the report said.

The International Energy Agency forecast earlier this year that India could see a 60% surge in natural gas demand by 2030, not least in response to the expected growth in supply of liquefied natural gas.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Following the Ukrainian drone attack that damaged a key export terminal on Russias Black Sea at end-November, Kazakhstans crude and condensate production has fallen by 6% so far in December compared to the average output in November, an anonymous industry source told Reuters on Monday.

A Ukrainian attack damaged infrastructure through which the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) exports most of Kazakhstans oil near the Russian port of Novorossiysk on the Black Sea.

Oil has continued to flow, but at lower rates, while Kazakhstan sought to re-route some exports away from the Black Sea to keep supply relatively steady.

CPC operates the pipeline from the Caspian coast in northwest Kazakhstan to the Novorossiysk port, which handles 80% of Kazakhstans crude exports from giant oilfields operated by international oil firms.

Affiliates of Chevron and ExxonMobil are also minority shareholders in CPC, with the Russian Federation as its largest shareholder with a 24% stake.

As a result of the damaged infrastructure at the CPC export terminal, crude and gas condensate output from Kazakhstan dropped by 6% between December 1 and 28, down compared to an average of 1.93 million barrels per day (bpd) in November, according to Reuters source.

Production at the giant Tengiz oilfield on the Caspian Sea, operated by a consortium led by Chevron, has also fallen this month. Output dipped by 10% to 719,800 bpd in the period December 1 through December 28, the source told the publication.

Earlier this month, Kazakhstan said it would reroute some of the oil from at its giant Kashagan oilfield toward China.

In view of urgent repairs at one of three single-point moorings and deferred loadings, Kazakhstan works on rerouting part of its crude exports, Kazakhstans Energy Ministry told Reuters nearly three weeks ago.

Kazakhstan is also diverting more of its westbound exports to the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline to the Turkish Mediterranean coast after the attack, multiple industry sources told Reuters in early December.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Nigerias state oil and gas company is planning to jumpstart an industrial boom in the north of the country thanks to a much-delayed gas pipeline, Reuters has reported, citing the chief executive of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company.

This is not just about energy, Bashir Ojulari said. Its about industrialisation - fertiliser plants, power generation, and gas-based industries in Kaduna, Kano, Abuja, and Ajaokuta. We expect to see industrial parks spring up.

The Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano pipeline has a price tag of $2.8 billion and has been in the works for years, since its inception back in 2008. Yet the NNPC has now managed to complete a critical section of the infrastructure, the River Niger crossing, moving the project closer to finalization.

Nigeria produces more gas than oil by reserves, yet still burns off a significant share of that gas because gathering and transport systems are missing or unreliable. In October, Nigeria produced about 221 billion standard cubic feet of gas. Roughly 7.6% of that was flared, according to regulator data.

The NNPC is taking steps to curb the flaring, so it can utilize more of the gas it produces. Earlier this month, the company issued gas purchase permits to 28 companies as part of these efforts. The companies will be capturing gas that would otherwise be flared. According to the NNPC, between 250 million and 300 million standard cubic feet of gas could be captured and sold if the projects move forward. Officials say the gas could be used for power generation and industrial demand and could attract up to $2 billion in investment.

In a related update, the NNPCs Ojulari said that oil production plans for next year involve boosting output to 1.8 million barrels daily from 1.7 million barrels daily this year, expanding further to 2 million barrels daily in 2027.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com




By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

WORST OREGON POLITICAL FIGURE IN 2025 NOMINEES

 Oregon Governor Tina Kotek: Her $4.3 billion gas tax (hikes gas taxes 15%, ups DMV fee 300%, hikes transit wage tax 100%) soared through the Legislature with as little public notice and involvement as possible. That gas tax is currently suspended because a referendum petition drive was launched by Senator Bruce Starr, Representative Ed Diehl, and Jason Williams of the Taxpayers Association of Oregon, which freezes the tax until a public vote is held if the petition secures the required number of valid signatures. Kotek threw a $9,330 taco party for government employees. Kotek authored a bill that raises the threat level requirements for registering as a sex offender, meaning that many of the 18,000 unregistered violent sex offendersrapists and sexual predatorsno longer qualify as dangerous under the new classification. Another Kotek bill delays (possibly by years) the time required to process sex offenders. Both bills died. (KATU 1/31/25, SB 820, SB 821)

 Kris Strickler, Head of the Oregon Dept. of Transportation (resigned): The projected costs of the Rose Quarter road expansion increased from $450 million to $1.9 billion (they wanted to cap Interstate 5 and build a park and houses on top of it), stalling the project and prompting the project manager to resign after only eight months. The I-5 bridge between Oregon and Washington saw its projected costs balloon from $4.8 billion to $10 billion, which has stalled the project and resulted in the project managers resignation. Under Stricklers administration, ODOT made a disastrous $1 billion accounting error. (OPB 11/13/25, OPB 12/11/25, Clark County Today 9/5/25, KGW 3/5/25)

 Congresswoman Val Hoyle: She violated the STOCK ACT when she failed to report her stock trades, which turned out to be extremely profitable. In fact, in three years, her investments grew from $439,000 to $1.7 million! A 2025 audit revealed gross mismanagement during her tenure as head of Oregons Labor Department, with civil rights and labor-violation cases ignored, dropped, and backlogged. Hoyle voted for the government shutdown (as a protest to spend more money despite the Federal $38 trillion debt) and voted against the Laken Riley Act, which mandated detention for illegal migrants who commit crimes like burglary, assaulting law enforcement, and violence that leads to death. (OPB 9/17/25, State Audit 11/25, DHS PR 1/29/25)

 Leslee Barnes, Multnomah County Preschool Director (resigned): As director, she diverted $833,494 of county tax dollars to her own family-owned child care business, which is a blatant conflict of interest. Even worse, it served only nine children at the time  $92,000 per child! Barness county government salary was $151,000. (Willamette Week 7/29/25)

 Six Oregon government officials publicly celebrate the murder of Charlie Kirk: A Cornelius school board member, a Springfield school employee, a Lincoln City teacher, a Pleasant Hill School official, a McMinnville City Councilor, and a Wilsonville Dev. Review Board member all made positive online comments on Charlie Kirks murder. Liberal activists cheer Kirks murder while being angry over the death of foreign drug-boat narco-terrorists. (Oregonian 9/11/25, Lincoln Chronicle 9/19/25, KVAL 9/12/25, KEZI 9/17/25, KOIN 9/18/25)

WORST EXAMPLE OF OREGON GOVERNMENT WASTE NOMINEES

 $200,000 for Kotek and staff to travel to Asia to promote Oregon. We could not find a single news article or public relations activity to complement their core mission during their long 14-day trip. (OPB 9/25/25)

 $46,100 European trip for politicians to study car-free cities. Three Portland City Councilors, along with staff, flew to Vienna to study government-controlled housing programs and car-free cities. (Oregonian 9/18/25)

 $91,000 Hawaii travel for sewer agency meetings. Various public sewer officials in Washington County helped to create a separate Oregon-based sewer organization and then directed it to host their information meetings in Hawaii (2,600 miles away from where both organizations were located). Some staff stayed at $1,000/night beachfront luxury hotels. (Oregonian 11/21/25)

 Taxpayers subsidized a $700 million Ritz-Carlton hotel that went bankrupt. The most expensive hotel in Oregon received tax breaks and went bankrupt within the first year of opening. The newly built food court next to the hotel also received tax breaks. (Oregonian 4/9/25)

 Koteks $9,330 taco-tostada party for government employees. Koteks government employee appreciation event went against ethics guidelines. (Oregon Capitol Chronicle 1/8/25)

 $900,000 fence to block the homeless. ODOT has spent $900,000 on a single fence to keep the homeless away from the I-405 freeway. Homeless people have just moved around it. (Oregonian 6/11/25)

 $2,900 in adult-intimacy toys for the state psychiatric hospital. More than 60 items at taxpayer expense were provided to patients to help them express themselves. (KGW-TV 6/26/25)

 $1.2 billion for non-citizen health-care benefits. 105,000 non-citizens are enrolled in Healthier Oregon program. (KATU 10/20/25)

 $10 million in tax dollars to build a Portland mega-restaurant. Lawmakers approved the construction of a celebrity-branded James Beard food court. Why are national celebrities getting tax bailouts from Oregonians? Another Portland food court, the newly built Flock Food Court, next to the Ritz-Calrton Hotel, also received tax benefits. Make no mistake, taxpayer-funded restaurants steal customers and destroy other restaurants that are not government-funded and that play by the rules like everyone else. Over 100 Portland restaurants have closed due to the 20 new/increased taxes enacted since 2019. This is a doom loop where the government over-taxes restaurants into extinction while using the tax money to pay private people to build new ones. (OPB 6/28/25, KOIN-TV 1/19/25)

 Affordable housing director paid $240,000 to leave. Portland paid its Housing Department head to leave after serving only one year. The director discovered $20 million in unspent renter-relief funds and was told not to make the discovery public. (OPB 11/20/25)

 Benefits for those who quit work. Newly enacted SB 916 gives 10 weeks of unemployment benefits to workers who leave jobs to strike against their employers. Oregon joins three other states in this self-defeating policy. Coincidentally, all three pay-to-strike states lead the nation in unemployment. (SB 916 in 2025)

GOLDEN SCHNOZ NOMINEES: (government sticks its nose where it doesnt belong)

 Bill limits elected lawmakers to only 25 bills. The Oregon Senate President authored a bill limiting the number of bills. This handicaps minority party and independent lawmakers, who already feel like their legislation is blocked by the same Senate President. (HB 2006)

 Cities block Federal ICE employees from renting hotel rooms. Newports mayor and the city of Waldport have opposed Federal immigration enforcement agents to find a hotel for a major operation. At the same time, the State of Oregon spent $29 million of tax dollars for the Ramada Inn airport hotel, which exclusively housed non-citizen migrants entering Oregon. (OPB 11/25/25, Oregonian 2/5/25)

 SB 426 punishes property owners if they are victims (yes, victims) of theft. Oregon became the first state in the nation to hold homeowners financially liable if they are cheated by a contractor who fails to properly pay his workers. That means when you pay a contractor $200,000 to build a house, if the contractor doesnt pay his workers and leaves town, you are responsible for paying the $200,000 again.

WORST BUREAUCRATIC BUNGLER OF 2025 NOMINEES

 20 prisoners accidentally released. Oregon Corrections accidentally gave early release to 20 prisoners based on confusing Judicial orders. Police re-arrested 17 of them, while three others are still missing. (Oregonian 11/26/25)

 Oregon has the nations 8th highest food-stamp error rate at a whopping 14%. Nearly 1 in 7 food stamp dollars were incorrectly calculated in the recent audit. (Oregonian 8/14/25)

 ODOT makes $1 billion accounting error. The Transportation Dept. failed to perform a basic accounting function, causing a $1.1 billion forecasting error. The error misrepresented nearly 20% of their entire budget, forcing a massive delay in projects to avoid plunging into debt. This comes as ODOTs mismanagement of costs for the I-5 bridge replacement, Rose Quarter project, and Abernathy Bridge have all exploded 200% to 300% above projections. (KOIN-6 2/7/25)

You can vote:

Download list of nominees here.

Download ballot here.


By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

One of the most influential leaders in Portland on his retirement from office just said the biggest problem Portland has is the limits on higher taxes that citizens put into the Constitution. Michael Jordan has served in both Portland and Metro governments and just said this in a front-page story about Portlands problems:

Local government funding is broken in Oregon and has been for a long time. But as they say, the chickens are now coming home. This started really in 1990 with the passage of Measure 5. It has got nothing but more challenging, more convoluted, as we have piled more limitations into the Constitution without taking any of them away.

This is like a child in massive debt blaming the bank for enacting credit limits.

Ballot Measure 5 in 1990 was put in the Constitution by co-founder of the Taxpayers Association, Don McIntire, and approved by voters. Measure 5 put maximum limits on property taxes. If it were not for Measure 5, your property taxes would be nearly 50% higher than they are today  based upon pre-1990 standards.

Michael Jordan blames Measure 5 because Portland has maxed out all other forms of taxes.

Portland is one of the highest taxed places in North America!

Portland, the county and METRO have passed 

 income tax increases

 business license fee increases

 business tax increases

 gas tax increases

 CEO tax increases

 parking fee increases

 created Uber taxes

 Housing fee increases

Local politicians have taxed businesses so much that it has become a national scandal with all the businesses leaving. Even Governor Kotek has pleaded for Portland to stop taxing businesses as it has become so obviously painful.

Portland has only one other target to loot, and that is property owners, but the state constitution blocks them.

If only Portland would balance their budget like other cities.

Contribute online at OregonWatchdog.com (learn about a Charitable Tax Deduction or Political Tax Credit options to promote liberty).
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:

Woodeltia sorapuchiensis gen. et sp. nov. A newly described species from early-Miocene Japan that later adapted to cold Pliocene environments in Hokkaido, providing insights into the genus's cold-climate adaptation and migration to the North American coast. Credit: Journal of Paleontology (2025). DOI: 10.1017/jpa.2025.10178

A research team led by scientists at Kumamoto University has discovered a new genus of microscopic crustaceans from northern Japan, offering rare insights into how ocean currents in the North Pacific shifted during a key period of Earth's climate history.

The study focuses on fossil ostracodsminute, shrimp-like crustaceans enclosed in hard shellsfound in Early Pliocene sediments (about 34 million years old) of the Takikawa Formation in Hokkaido. By carefully examining their shapes and distribution, the researchers identified a previously unknown genus, which they named Woodeltia.

The findings are published in the Journal of Paleontology.

Although only a few millimeters in size, ostracods are powerful indicators of past marine environments. Because different species prefer specific water temperatures and depths, their fossils can act as biological "recorders" of ancient ocean conditions.

The newly identified genus Woodeltia is particularly significant because of its close relationship to species previously known only from distant regions of the North Pacific. This unexpected connection suggests that marine organisms were able to migrate across vast ocean areas during the Early Pliocenea time when global temperatures were warmer than today.

"Our findings indicate that ocean circulation patterns in the North Pacific were more dynamic than previously thought," said Associate Professor Gengo Tanaka from Center for Water Cycle, Marine Environmental and Disaster Management (CWMD), Kumamoto University. "These tiny fossils provide direct biological evidence that marine pathways linking the northern Pacific regions were already active several million years ago."

The Early Pliocene is often studied as a natural analog for future climate scenarios, as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels were similar to those projected for coming decades. Understanding how oceans behaved during this warm period can help scientists better predict how modern marine ecosystems may respond to ongoing climate change.

This discovery also highlights the scientific value of Japan's fossil-rich sedimentary formations. The Takikawa Formation, long known for its abundant marine fossils, continues to yield new species that deepen our understanding of Earth's environmental past.

The research demonstrates how detailed paleontological studiesdown to microscopic organismscan illuminate large-scale processes such as ocean circulation and climate evolution. Through this work, Kumamoto University continues to contribute to international efforts to reconstruct Earth's history and better understand the future of our planet's oceans.

Publication details Kazumasa Mukai et al, Early Pliocene ostracodes from the Takikawa Formation in Hokkaido, northern Japan, and the new genus Woodeltia moving in the North Pacific Ocean, Journal of Paleontology (2025). DOI: 10.1017/jpa.2025.10178 Journal information: Journal of Paleontology
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: Texas Tech University

An archaeology team from Texas Tech University in collaboration with Texas Historical Commission archaeologists Kay Hindes, Jim Bruseth, Tiffany Osburn and Brad Jones found the lost site of Mission Nuestra Senora del Espiritu Santo in early December. The site is located in Jackson County, Texas, on a private ranch near the Presidio la Bahia and Fort St. Louis.

The team was led by Tamra Walter, assistant professor of archaeology in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work.

The site was initially established in the 1680s by the French explorer Rene-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, as part of France's efforts to colonize the New World. He left the colony to try to find the mouth of the Mississippi before being killed by his own men. The remaining colonists were eventually killed or captured by the native Karankawa tribe.

Spain eventually settled on the site as part of its missionary efforts. However, their habitation was short-lived and became lost when the Spanish left in the mid-1720s. Archaeologists had been looking for the mission site for decades.

Walter credits the support of the Summerlee Foundation, the Texas Historical Commission and the private landowners for making this discovery possible.

"There was a lot of help, and people had been trying to find the site for so long," Walter said. "We couldn't have done this without the collaboration from so many people."

Much of the excitement of this find revolves around the site not only completing the story of La Salle but also providing a snapshot into missionary life in the 1700s.

"There are missions that are about the same age, but the problem is they had been occupied for almost 100 years," Walter said. "Earlier occupations are obscured by the later ones. At this mission, activity dates from about 1721 or 1722 to 1725 or 1726. We have a snapshot of what it was like to live on the Spanish frontier of Texas at that very moment."

Accompanying Walter on this discovery were a Texas Tech undergraduate student and two graduate students. It is an experience Walter knows they will value throughout their careers.

"I was so thrilled my students were with me," Walter said. "How many students can say they found a lost mission? Not many."

Tosha Dupras, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, echoed the value of these types of hands-on experiences for archaeology students. "These kinds of projects are experiences that students can't get any other way," Dupras said. "They can't get it from textbooks. This is a great discovery for our department, college and university. Students will want to come here specifically to work with Dr. Walter and on this mission."

Walter is busy planning the next steps for this site, which include a magnetic survey to better understand the site's exact boundaries and excavation of artifacts, which she plans to bring a team of Texas Tech students to complete.

She sees this discovery as an example of the impact Texas Tech can have in understanding Texas history and culture.

"I can't think of a better example of embodying "From Here, It's Possible' because from Texas Tech, we made the impossible possible," said Walter. "I think it just goes to show that you don't have to leave Texas to do world-class archaeology at a world-class site."
The News in Brief Monday, December 29, 2025

Georgian Dream officials have marked the completion of a 14-year railway modernization project, describing it as one of the largest investments in the country's transport sector and a major boost to Georgia's transit potential.The project modernized the railway line from Tbilisi to Makhinjauri in Adjara, with its most complex section running through the mountainous pass that connects eastern and western Georgia. Officials say the upgrade will increase cargo capacity, improve safety, and shorten travel times, including a reduction of about 30 minutes on the Tbilisi-Batumi route by 2026.A completion ceremony was held on December 24 in Kvishkheti, Shida Kartli, near the entrance to an 8,300-meter dual-tube railway tunnel that authorities described as the largest of its kind in the region. The event was attended by senior government officials and representatives of Georgian Railways."This is one of the largest investments ever made in Georgia's transport sector," Irakli Kobakhidze said at the ceremony. "With the completion of this project, railway capacity has increased significantly, operating costs have been reduced, safety has been improved, and passenger comfort has been enhanced."The modernization project was launched by Georgian Railways in September 2011 and was originally scheduled to be completed by the end of 2019. It was financed through a World Bank loan and implemented by Georgian Railways and the China Railway 23rd Bureau Group, under the supervision of European engineering firms.According to official data, the mountainous section alone cost around GEL 1 billion and included the construction of 40 kilometers of new railway infrastructure, 10 bridges, six tunnels, and dozens of engineering structures. Authorities say the upgrades increased annual railway capacity from 27 million tons to 48 million tons and cut freight transit time through the mountain pass by several hours.Despite these claims, the project has drawn criticism in recent years. Residents of several villages along the Zestaponi-Kharagauli-Khashuri section have blamed the construction works for landslides and soil erosion, alleging that tunnel blasting and slope cutting damaged the surrounding environment. A complaint filed with the Asian Development Bank in 2025 was dismissed on procedural grounds.The completion of the railway upgrade comes as Georgia seeks to strengthen its role in the Middle Corridor, a Europe-Asia transit route that bypasses Russia and has gained prominence since the war in Ukraine."This is not just infrastructure, it is a strategic choice," Kobakhidze said. "Georgia's future lies in its role as a transit hub integrating all modes of transport."A de facto court in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Donetsk has sentenced 28-year-old Georgian citizen Nino Kakhniashvili to 15 years in a penal colony in absentia, accusing her of participating in the war in Ukraine as a mercenary.According to a statement from the Donetsk de facto prosecutor's office, Kakhniashvili arrived in Ukraine in April 2022 and voluntarily joined the Georgian National Legion. Prosecutors claim she underwent military training and took part in combat operations against Russian forces until September 2022.The statement further alleges that Kakhniashvili later returned to the conflict zone in 2023 and remained there until June 2025, during which time she allegedly received the equivalent of more than two million rubles for what authorities described as mercenary activity.Kakhniashvili was convicted under Part 3 of Article 359 of the Russian Criminal Code, which criminalizes participation in an armed conflict as a mercenary. The sentence provides for serving time in a general-regime correctional colony.Russian authorities placed Kakhniashvili on an international wanted list on December 15.Kakhniashvili has rejected the accusations, saying she did not take part in combat. Responding publicly, she said her role in Ukraine was strictly humanitarian."I confirm that I was present in so-called hot spots, however, my activities were entirely limited to performing medical duties," Kakhniashvili wrote on Facebook on December 18. She added that she provided medical assistance to soldiers of various nationalities as well as civilians.Calling the charges baseless, Kakhniashvili said her actions "never went beyond the scope of a doctor's professional duties, ethical standards, and international medical protocols."
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:

Representative false-color SEM images of treated P. aeruginosa and S. aureus monomicrobial and co-biofilms. Credit: npj Biofilms and Microbiomes (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41522-024-00637-y

University of Otago scientists are harnessing the power of peptidesthe body's own tiny protein moleculesfor a spray to help the red meat industry solve headaches around bacterial contamination and spoilage.

It's a telltale sign of meat past its use-by date: a sticky, slimy coating that comes with a similarly unpleasant pong. More than just an obvious cue to throw those smelly sausages in the bin, it represents an elaborate bacterial defense systemand one that a team of University of Otago scientists are busy trying to crack.

"Biofilms" are a dense matrix of microbial cells that bacterial communities create to seal themselves off from anythingbe it heat, cold or waterthat might hurt them.

Once they've securely encased themselves in a piece of unwrapped steak in the refrigerator, for instance, they're free to begin breaking it down and harvesting its nutrients, leading to those classic signs of spoilage.

But Microbiologist Associate Professor Daniel Pletzer says biofilms aren't always such a nuisancethey happen to shelter the beneficial bacteria that live in our gut and help us to function. "They're simply a natural way that bacteria protect themselves, and they just become a problem when we're dealing with those pathogens that we need to treat," he says.

Because biofilms are stubbornly effective at blocking traditional cleaners and antibiotics, scientists have engineered solutions like anti-biofilm coatings for surfaces. Pletzer and his colleagues at Otago's Faculty of Biomedical Sciences are pursuing an entirely different approach, using peptidestiny molecules that serve as the building blocks of life.

We can think of them as short, powerful chains of amino acids. While proteins are long, complex structures that do most of the heavy lifting in our cells, peptides are like their smaller, more agile cousins. They act as messengers, telling cells and systems what to dowhether that's beating back an infection, healing a wound, or sending a signal to a specific part of the body.

"As soon as we encounter a virus, parasite or bacteria, the first thing our bodies do is produce functional peptides to fight them off," Pletzer says.

A 'smart spray' for red meat?

After discovering a wealth of insights about certain peptides, Pletzer and fellow microbiologist Dr. Sam Wardell pondered how they might translate their science into a practical new tool. "It started with Sam and me having a chat about what kind of research we could do, what's important for New Zealand, and how we could contribute to solving a problem," Pletzer says.

Wardell, who has connections with major red meat co-operative Alliance Group NZ, says the country's primary sector stood out as an obvious area that could benefit. "So, we asked our collaborators at Alliance, what are the kinds of issues that you see day to day? And as soon as we mentioned bacteria, they pointed out problems with contamination and spoilage."

Red meat products account for around 15% of Aotearoa's total export earnings. While less than 1% of this is rejected annually due to spoilage or contamination, that still represents tens of millions of dollars in lost profits.

Wardell notes the high stakes involved with food biosecurity: Even a weakly positive test result for shiga toxin-producing E.scherichia coli (STEC) can be enough to lose access to entire markets. "So, if we suddenly can't export to a whole country, that's a massive problem for a primarily exporting nation like New Zealand."

Current industry treatment measures include washing carcasses with hot watera typically energy-intensive practiceor using weak chemical solutions that some overseas markets don't accept. Pletzer and Wardell's proposed solution is a spray, specially designed to attack biofilm-building bacteria, that can be applied to meat within processing plants. But first, they need to find the right peptides for the job.

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 a three-year program, recently awarded a $1m grant, their team is exploring "host defense"' peptides, or HDPs. A key part of animals' immune systems, HDPs have recently been shown to kill bacteria, including those within biofilms.

Using artificial intelligence and computational algorithms, the team has already mined the genetic data of cattle and sheep to find the most promising ones. So far, they've been able to narrow their search from thousands of possibilities to about 400 candidates, which are now being synthesized for testing in the lab.

"Ten years ago, it would have taken weeks to months to get that list of peptide structuresbut it can now be done overnight," Pletzer says.

The team is screening the candidates against common spoilage-causing bacteria like E. coli and Listeria, as well as "good" bacteria like Lactobacillus, which helps maintain the balance of our microbiome. Their hope is to find a peptide, or perhaps a combination of them, that can target biofilm-forming bacteria without harming the beneficial bugs.

The researchers are also working closely with Alliance Group collaborators, who are providing guidance and will be involved with implementing the technology in plants. Pletzer says that, if the project is successful, it could also have applications that reach beyond meat production. These might include treating farm equipment to prevent diseases like mastitis, or medical devices to reduce contamination.

And more broadly, it might aid the growing global movement to cut back on the use of chemical cleaners and broad-spectrum antibiotics, which have contributed to the rise of antibiotic-resistant "superbugs" like MRSA.

The power of peptides

In a study recently published in npj Biofilms and Microbiomes, the team demonstrated how, when combined with a specific peptide, a powerful antibiotic called colistin could tackle bacteria it normally couldn't treat. That raised the exciting possibility of peptides being a key to target more hard-to-kill bacteria, while helping to reduce the amount of antibiotics needed.

They're also eager to find peptides with "immunomodulatory activity"or those that can boost the body's own immune system to fight off infections, rather than killing the bacteria directly.

Pletzer says that one of the most promising aspects of peptides is that bacteria don't appear to develop resistance to them as quickly as they do to traditional antibiotics. He explains that their unique power lies within their mechanism of action.

Many antimicrobial peptides work by being positively charged, which causes them to be drawn to the negatively charged cell membrane of bacteria. The peptide molecules then cluster around the bacterial cell, causing it to effectively burst. Other peptides penetrate the cell wall and disrupt internal functions like DNA replication.

Because they have multiple targets and don't rely on the bacteria's active metabolism, resistance is much harder to develop, Pletzer says. "Antibiotics traditionally have one target in bacteria, whereas peptides don't care whether the bacteria are active or notthey just need to be present."

Pletzer and Wardell, however, stress they're not claiming to have the antidote for the mounting global health crisis of antibiotic resistance. "It's more about learning how these peptides can be used to augment current anti-bacterials and anti-microbials."

Ultimately, Pletzer says, a core mission of his lab is to find a way to win the long game against troublesome bugs. "We're not promising a new drug to kill all those multi-drug-resistant pathogens that are out therebut we are really just trying to find a way to delay them."

Publication details Samuel J. T. Wardell et al, DJK-5, an anti-biofilm peptide, increases Staphylococcus aureus sensitivity to colistin killing in co-biofilms with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, npj Biofilms and Microbiomes (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41522-024-00637-y Journal information: npj Biofilms and Microbiomes

Key concepts Antibiosis
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:

The Adoration of the Magi, painted by Giotto di Bondonne, featuring a bright comet as the Christmas star. Credit: Giotto di Bondonne

In the run up to Christmas, carols fill the air. Many have an astronomical twist, singing of the "Christmas Star" from the story of the nativity. Described in the Gospel of Matthew, the star guided the three wise men to the cradle of the young baby Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem.

Most Biblical scholars agree Jesus was born between 6 and 4 BCE. It's not known what time of year he was born, but those scholars suggest it was most likely in April or May.

The choice of December 25 to celebrate Jesus' birth came centuries later, and is tied to the date of the winter solstice in the Roman calendar, when the northern hemisphere experiences its shortest day.

Many Biblical scholars also view the Christmas Star, which is also known as the Star of Bethlehem, as pious fictiona symbolic story meant to establish the messianic status of Jesus, rather than a real event. But what if it was some sort of astronomical phenomenon?

Astronomers have long pondered this question and proffered some potential explanations. Perhaps historical records from across the globe might reveal what the Magi saw, and help to work out exactly when the events in the story happened.

If so, what could the Christmas Star have been?

A bright comet?

The idea that the Christmas Star might have been a bright comet has a long history. The Adoration of the Magi, painted in 1305 by Giotto di Bondonne, featured a comet in pride of place as the Christmas Star.

Giotto's cometary Christmas Star was inspired by the bright apparition of comet 1P/Halley, which the artist observed in 1301. So could 1P/Halley, or another bright comet, have been the Star of Bethlehem?

Comet Halley orbits the sun every 74 to 79 years, so it has made regular spectacular appearances throughout human history. It was widely observed across the planet in the year 12 BCEtoo early to be the star of the Christmas Story.

What about other comets? Well, astronomers and historians have dug through the records of comets seen by cultures across the globe, and only one comet stands out as a potential candidate for the story.

A comet is recorded in ancient Chinese records, seen in 5 BCE. That comet was flagged as a potential Star of Bethlehem in the late 1990s, with the Chinese observations noting the comet was visible for more than 70 days.

Recently, the idea that the comet of 5 BCE could have been the Christmas Star has leapt back into focus, thanks to research that suggests the comet of 5 BCE followed an unusual path through the inner solar system, and made a remarkably close approach to Earth. In that scenario, the comet would have appeared almost stationary in the sky for a lengthy period of timeall the hallmarks of the star from the Nativity.

A supernova?

Some astronomers have argued a supernova would be an ideal candidate for the Christmas Star. Supernovae are immense explosions caused either by massive stars reaching the end of their lives, or white dwarfs (the remains of a star like the sun) suffering a terminal case of stellar indigestion as they devour a companion.

Both types of supernova are a spectacular sightoutshining the combined light of all other stars in their host galaxies for a period of several weeks. As a result, supernovae that explode within our own galaxy, the Milky Way, can become highly prominentsometimes even becoming bright enough to be visible in daylight.

Once again, astronomers pored over ancient records, looking to find potential observations of a bright supernova that would fit with the nativity story.

Reports from Korea to Palestine described a new star in the night skyan object that was most likely a supernova. It is estimated to have peaked in brightness around February 23 in 4 BCE, in the constellation of Aquila, the Eagle.

This could be a good fit. In February, Aquila rises in the east in the early morning, a few hours before sunrise. As such, a bright supernova in that part of the sky would be a spectacular morning star high in the eastern skyremaining bright for several weeks before fading away, never to be seen again.

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.

A planetary conjunction?

In recent years, the most common claim for the Christmas Star is that it was actually a planetary conjunction. This is when planets get very close to one another in the sky, as happened back in December 2020 with the "Great Conjunction" of Jupiter and Saturn.

This idea has been raised, on and off, for more than four centuries, since the great scientist Johannes Kepler suggested in 1614 that the triple conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in 7 BCE could have triggered a nova that became the star in question.

The 7 BCE conjunction was far from spectacular, with Jupiter and Saturn separated by more than a degree. But just a few years later, in 2 BCE, there were a striking series of conjunctions between the brightest planets in the sky: Jupiter and Venus.

Could one of those conjunctions have been the Christmas Star? It seems unlikely. The VenusJupiter conjunctions would have been seen in the evening sky, low in the westmaking them a poor fit to the nativity story.

Or perhaps, there was no star?

None of the explanations put forward to date seem to perfectly match the story passed down through the centuries.

So it might just be the case that there simply was no Christmas Starthat the story truly is a pious fiction.

But it is still worth considering what it might have been; at the very least, it can teach us about some of the many wonders of the universe. And who knows what more we will discover in the years to comewe certainly haven't heard the last speculation about the true nature of the "Star of Wonder."

Key concepts Stars

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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

A bald eagle is recovering after being rescued in Mansfield after striking power lines, officials said.

In a Facebook post by Connecticut State Police, early Monday morning a bald eagle was seen in the area of Ravine Road and Route 32 in Mansfield, when witnesses say that it flew into power lines and fell straight to the ground.

State police said several vehicles stopped and confirmed the bird of prey was still alive. According to state police, one person immediately stopped and stayed to help protect the bald eagle from traffic until officers arrived, likely saving it from getting hit by a car.

A Mansfield resident trooper with Troop C in Tolland, along with a Connecticut-licensed falconer, stopped to assist.

"Together, the eagle was safely contained and kept calm until transport arrangements were made. The bald eagle was then transported by Horizon Wings to Tufts Wildlife Clinic for evaluation and care," state police said.

The bald eagle, once considered an endangered species rarely seen in Connecticut, is now widely spotted across the state, according to the Connecticut Audubon Society.

The bald eagle was first declared an endangered species with the passage of the federal Endangered Species Act in 1973, according to the state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Populations eventually began to recover over the years due to the ban on DDT use, successful reintroduction programs of fostered chicks and fledglings, and habitat and nest protection measures.

In 2007, the bald eagle was taken off the federal Endangered Species List, showcasing its comeback.

DEEP estimates there are now around 185 bald eagles in the state with around 72 active eagle territories.

"In 1999, only two nesting territories were active in the state. That season, neither pair was successful, and no chicks were produced. A decade later, the eagle population was climbing," according to DEEP.

"In 2009, Connecticut saw 19 nests produce 31 chicks. By this point, the Wildlife Division requested the assistance of volunteers to help collect the data necessary to monitor the state's population. Fast forward to 2025, and this season is off to a great start, as many eagle pairs are now incubating eggs."

2025 Hartford Courant. 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:

The extinct desert rat kangaroo. Credit: John Gould, Mammals of Australia (1845)

The millions of species humans share the world with are valuable in their own right. When one species is lost, it has a ripple effect throughout the ecosystems it existed within.

But there's a hidden toll. Each loss takes something from humanity too. Extinction silences scientific insights, ends cultural traditions and snuffs out spiritual connections enriching human life.

For instance, when China's baiji river dolphin vanished, local memory of it faded within a single generation. When New Zealand's giant flightless moa were hunted to extinction, the words and body of knowledge associated with them began to fade.

In these ways, conservation is as much about safeguarding knowledge as it is about saving nature, as I suggest in my research.

We're currently living through what scientists call the planet's sixth mass extinction. Unlike earlier events triggered by natural catastrophes, today's accelerating losses are overwhelmingly driven by human activities, from habitat destruction to introduced species to climate change. Current extinction rates are tens to hundreds of times higher than natural levels. The United Nations warns up to 1 million species may disappear this century, many within decades.

This extinction crisis isn't just a loss to broader natureit's a loss for humans.

Lost to science

Extinction extinguishes the light of knowledge nowhere more clearly than in science.

Every species has a unique genetic code and ecological role. When it vanishes, the world loses an untapped reservoir of scientific knowledgegenetic blueprints, biochemical pathways, ecological relationships and even potential medical treatments.

The two species of gastric-brooding frog once lived in small patches of rainforest in Queensland. These extraordinary frogs could turn their stomachs into wombs, shutting down gastric acid production to safely brood their young tadpoles internally. Both went extinct in the 1980s under pressure from human development and the introduced chytrid fungus. Their unique reproductive biology is gone forever. No other frog is known to do this.

Studying these biological marvels could have yielded insights into human conditions such as acid reflux and certain cancers. Ecologists Gerardo Ceballos and Paul Ehrlich called their extinctions a tragic loss for science, lamenting: "Now they are lost to us as experimental models." Efforts at de-extinction have so far not succeeded.

Biodiversity holds immense potential for breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, materials and even climate change. As species vanish, the library of life shrinks, and with it, the vault of future human discoveries.

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.

Lost to culture

Nature is deeply woven through many human cultures. First Nations people living on traditional lands hold detailed knowledge of local species in language, story and ceremony. Many urban residents orient their lives around local birds, trees, rivers and parks.

When species decline or vanish, the songs, stories, experiences and everyday practices built around them can thin out or disappear.

Extinction erodes our sense of companionship with the natural world and diminishes the countless small interactions with other species which help root our lives in joy, wonder and reverence.

The bioacoustics researcher Christopher Clark has likened extinction to an orchestra gradually falling silent: "Everywhere there is life, there is song. The planet is singingeverywhere. But what's happening is we're killing the voices [] It's like [plucking] the instruments out of the orchestra  and then it's gone."

One haunting example of a vanished voice comes from Hawaii. In 2023, a small black-and-yellow songbird, the Kauai oo, was declared extinct. All that's left is a last recording, where the last male sings for a female who will never come.

Disturbingly, birdsong is declining worldwide, diminishing the richness of our shared sensory world.

From an ecocentric perspective, each loss leaves the whole community of companion species poorerhumans included. Scientists call this the "extinction of experience." As biologist David George Haskell writes, extinction is leaving the future: "An impoverished sensory world [] less vital, blander."

The loss of species is not only an ecological crisis but also a rupture in the communion of lifea deep injury to the bonds uniting beings.

Loss of spiritual knowledge

For many communities, nature is imbued with sacred meaning. Often, particular species or ecosystems hold deep spiritual significance.

Australia's Great Barrier Reef is venerated by Indigenous custodians, whose traditions describe it as part of a sacred, living seascape. As the reef's biodiversity declines under climate stress, these spiritual connections are eroding, diminishing the sources of wonder, reverence and existential orientation which help define human belonging in the worldacross and beyond faith traditions.

Some ecotheological traditions regard nature as a booka way to reveal divine truth alongside scripture. Nature holds deep significance for the varied communities and traditions viewing the land and its creatures as sentient, interconnected and sacred.

Extinction weakens nature's capacity to embody transcendent meaning. The natural world dims and dulls, leaving us with fewer opportunities to experience awe, beauty and a sense of the sacred. In this sense, extinction is more than biological loss. It severs spiritual ties between humans and other beings in ways transcending worldviews.

How do we grieve extinction?

Extinctions often evoke grief, which is a way of knowing through feeling. Grieving a lost species points to the scale of the loss across scientific, cultural and spiritual dimensions.

For Indigenous communities, this grief can be profound, born of deep environmental attachment. Scientists and conservationists witness cascading losses and bear the burden of foresight. Their grief may trigger anxiety, burnout and sorrow. But mourning the lost also makes the crisis tangible.

Grieving for extinct life isn't pointless. It can compel us to look closely at what remains, to recognize the intrinsic value of a species and to resist reducing biodiversity to its instrumental uses. This kind of mourning carries the seeds of ecological responsibility, inviting us to protect life not just for our purposes but because of its irreplaceable role in the communion of life.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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:

Image of IKAROSthe first ever successfully deployed solar sail. Credit: JAXA

Solar sails have some major advantages over traditional propulsion methodsmost notably, they don't use any propellant. But, how exactly do they turn? In traditional sailing, a ship's captain can simply adjust the angle of the sail itself to catch the wind at a different angle. But they also have the added advantage of a rudder, which doesn't work when sailing on light. This has been a long-standing challenge, but a new paper available on the arXiv preprint server by Gulzhan Aldan and Igor Bargatin at the University of Pennsylvania describes a new technique to turn solar sailskirigami.

Kirigami is an ancient Japanese form of paper cutting similar to origami but intended to cut away the paper rather than fold it. In this particular case, it is intended to mechanically buckle the sail in a way that changes the angle the light reflects off it.

Traditionally this has been done one of three ways. Reaction wheels, which are also common on stationary satellites, are the most common way to "turn" a solar sail, but they require propellant and are extremely heavy, both of which limit the functionality of the sail itself. More recent advances include tip vanes, which are small, rotatable mirrors at the tips of the sail. Operating these is mechanically complex, and they can easily break down, leaving the sail stranded in the direction it's going.

Fraser discusses the benefits of solar sails.

Perhaps the most advanced idea are Reflectivity Control Devices (RCDs). Similar to what is seen on a Kindle reading display, these are liquid crystal panels that can switch between being reflective and absorptive to change the amount of energy the sail is using for momentum. While these are effective, they require power to maintain a constant state, draining a battery over time even when they are not operational.

The kirigami sail, in contrast, uses intentional "cuts" in the solar sail material. Each "unit cell" of a grid of solar sail panels is designed to contain some of these cuts running in axial and diagonal directions to the surface of the aluminized polyimide film, which is a standard material used in solar sails. When the film is pulled, the cuts allow the material to "buckle"i.e., pop out of the plane that it's being pulled in. This transforms the sail into a 3D surface where individual segments are tilted relative to the source of light.

These buckled sections act like thousands of tiny mirrors, bouncing light at a different angle of incidence depending on how steep their slope is. Due to conservation of momentum, the sail will be pushed in a direction opposite to where the light bounces towards, so each buckling segment can be tailored to pushing the overall sail in a particular direction.

While creating the buckling still requires some electrical power, it's only in the form of servo motors. These common components are designed to be power-efficient, but perhaps more importantly, they only use power when they are operating, unlike the RCDs used on the IKAROS mission in 2010.

Fraser explains what a solar sail actually does.

To prove the system works as intended, the authors ran both a simulation and a physical experiment. The simulation used COMSOL, a standard physics simulation package, where they ran a series of ray tracing experiments and measured the forces on the sail with different buckling and solar angles. While the force on the system was measured to be small1 nN per Watt of sunlightover time, that is more than enough to turn a small solar sail and its attendant payload.

To test the system in practice, the authors cut some film and put it in a test chamber with a laser. They then shined a laser on the film and then stretched it. Watching as the laser moved across the wall of the chamber under different strains, they found that the results matched the predicted angle of incidence for each strain level very well.

Ultimately, this technology could have an impact on the future of solar sailing by lowering the energy and propellant cost of its turning capabilities. But there are plenty of other competing technologies that are designed to provide the same thing, and unfortunately not a whole lot of experimental missions to test them. In other words, it might be a while before we see this technology in action in space. But when we do, the resulting sail will be sure to look astounding.

Publication details Gulzhan Aldan et al, Low-Power Solar Sail Control using In-Plane Forces from Tunable Buckling of Kirigami Films, arXiv (2025). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2512.13596 Journal information: arXiv

Key concepts 2-dimensional systems
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:

Ecotypes of killer whales around Hokkaido. The red regions in the top left map show the sea areas where we can frequently see killer whales. Credit: Momoka Suzuki

The species Orcinus orca, generally known as orcas or killer whales, is made up of many genetically distinct populations called ecotypes. Each ecotype indicates an ecological specialization with its own ecological and phylogenetic characteristics.

The North Pacific is home to three known ecotypes of killer whales, called the transient, resident, and offshore ecotypes. While transient ecotype killer whales are mammal-eating, the resident and offshore orcas are fish-eating.

Though killer whale populations in the eastern North Pacific near Vancouver Island and Alaska have been studied extensively, populations in the western North Pacific have been less studied, especially around Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. One of these sea areas, Shiretoko, is the best in Japan to spot killer whales and is even home to a UNESCO natural World Heritage site, yet information on its killer whale population has remained limited.

Researchers from Kyoto University and collaborating institutions have worked together with a shared determination to change that. Their paper is published in the journal Marine Mammal Science.

"Clarifying the ecological characteristics of killer whales is crucial for achieving coexistence with them, as they are deeply entwined with human activities such as tourism and fisheries in Hokkaido," says first and corresponding author Momoka Suzuki.

One previous study of this population suggested that orca around Hokkaido belong to both fish-eating and mammal-eating groups. However, the analysis was supported by haplotypes based on only partial regions of mitochondrial genomes, and was therefore not sufficient to differentiate between the resident and offshore ecotypes. This time, the team analyzed the whole mitochondrial genomes of killer whales sampled around Hokkaido.

The researchers obtained skin samples of 25 killer whales that had been biopsy-sampled and stranded around the island, then compared the whole mitochondrial genome sequences of their samples with the known whole sequences of killer whales from around the North Pacific. The team's phylogenetic analysis revealed that the killer whales living around Hokkaido belong to the resident and transient ecotypes.

This study also helped to further establish the division between these two ecotypes of killer whales. In the eastern North Pacific, the genetic and behavioral differences of the resident and transient ecotypes have raised the possibility that they may be separate species, but currently they are still considered subspecies.

How we categorize animals into ecotypes, subspecies, and even species is constantly changing, but the data that prompts these decisions is crucial both for our coexistence with animals and the protection of vulnerable populations. In countries with advanced research on killer whales, conservation management strategies are often developed for each group based on genetic differences.

"Information on the ecological differences and conservation status of killer whales around Hokkaido remains insufficient," says Suzuki. "We will continue to collect ecological data using a wide range of methods, including behavioral observation and genetic analysis."

Publication details Momoka Suzuki et al, Whole Mitochondrial Genome Analysis of Killer Whales Reveals the Presence of Resident and Transient Ecotypes Around Hokkaido, Marine Mammal Science (2025). DOI: 10.1111/mms.70107 Journal information: Marine Mammal Science

Key concepts Genetic Speciation
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 scientists can be easy to dismiss.

Greek philosopher Thales of Miletus, often described as the West's first scientist, believed the whole Earth was suspended on water. Roman encyclopedist Pliny the Elder recommended entrails, chicken brains, and mice cut in two as topical remedies for snakebite.

The lone ancient Greek thinker who believed Earth orbits the sunAristarchus of Samoswas universally dismissed by his contemporaries.

Because these scientific beliefs are so different from our own, it may seem we have nothing to learn from long-dead scientists. However, thinkers 2,500 years ago already faced many problems that are today amplified by social media and artificial intelligence (AI), such as how to tell truth from fiction.

Here are five lessons from ancient Greek and Roman science that ring surprisingly true in the face of misinformation in the modern world.

1. Start with observations

Almost every ancient scientific text offers advice about observing or collecting data before making a decision. For example, in a 1st century CE text about astronomy, author Marcus Manilius explains that his scientific predecessors learned via detailed, long-term observations. He says, "They observed the appearance of the whole night sky and watched every star return to its original place [] by doing this repeatedly, they built up their knowledge."

Ancient astronomers, Manilius says, would look around and gather evidence before drawing any conclusions. Greek and Roman scientists wanted their readers to do the same, and to be suspicious of any claims that are not backed up by data.

2. Think critically

Ancient scientists insisted their readers think critically, encouraging us to analyze the claims made by other people.

The Aetna is an anonymous text that explains how volcanoes work. Its unknown author warns readers about two potential sources of misinformation: other authors and other people.

Whether these groups intend to mislead their audiences or are simply misinformed, the book urges us to scrutinize their claims carefully and think about whether they are consistent with the evidence of our own senses and ratio (the Latin term for the powers of reasoning).

Ancient scientists encourage us to think critically about information we read or hear, because even well-meaning sources are not always accurate. Writers like the Aetna author want us to think before accepting other people's claims.

3. Acknowledge what you don't know

Another skill ancient scientists encourage is acknowledging our limits. Even Greek and Roman scientists who claimed to be experts in their field frequently admitted they didn't have all the answers.

In "On the Nature of Things," Roman philosopher Lucretius proposed three different explanations for solar eclipses:

The moon passing in front of the sun Some other opaque body passing in front of the sun, or The sun's light temporarily growing dim for some reason.

Lucretius says he cannot determine which is more likely without additional evidence. In fact, he says it would be "unscientific" to eliminate any of these theories just for the sake of appearing more certain.

Multiple explanations seem unsatisfactory to us because they make ancient scientists' theories seem less precise. Yet writers like Lucretius should be praised for their honesty in admitting they simply don't have all the answers.

Greek and Roman scientists knew that people who claim they have no doubts can be very persuasive. However, as Lucretius demonstrates, a source that acknowledges its limits may actually be more trustworthy.

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.

4. Science is part of culture

An ancient medical text from the school of Hippocrates called "On the Sacred Disease" sought to explain the causes of epilepsy. Contrary to what the title might lead us to expect, the author argues vehemently that there is nothing "sacred" about epilepsy or any other illness, and is determined to discover its physical causes.

Ancient Greek doctors were divided on the causes of disease, and on whether they were supernatural or not. A patient might be given very different answers and advice depending on the perspective of the person they consulted.

Ancient thinkers understood that science was part of culture rather than separate from it, and that an individual's beliefs and values will have a significant impact on the information they promote as "factual" or "truthful." Greek and Roman scientists remind us about this because they want readers to think about where information is coming from.

5. Science is for everyone

Our Roman astronomer Manilius says the only essential for students of science is "a teachable mind." In other words, the ability to acquire new knowledge is all about interest and willingness to learn, rather than possessing any innate skill.

The anonymous Aetna author says something similar: "Science is no place for genius."

Ancient scientists understood the importance of deferring to specialists and listening to expert advice. However, they were also keen for their readers to understand where scientists acquire knowledge and how scientific facts can be verified.

These hard-won lessons about how to figure what's true and what's not helped build the foundations of modern scientific knowledgeand they can still help us navigate a world where truth is just as slippery as it was for ancient Greeks and Romans.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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

The Mississippi River snakes below the bluffs at Spring Lake Park Reserve near Hastings, where people stroll or ski along the trails to take in the view of the majestic river.

But some local officials and river lovers are raising alarms about the prospect of that scenic vista changing. A proposal for a new phase of gravel mining at Grey Cloud Island could come with mining equipmentsome of it 65 feet tallwithin the river itself.

Dakota County Planning Manager Kurt Chatfield said visitors would see and hear Amrize Midwest Inc."s Nelson Mine all the time.

The mining company says it would comply with any reviews and regulations, but others worry the operation would mar the natural area and its recreational uses for decades.

"The mine will impact literally millions of future park visitors," Chatfield said. "It will impact a whole generation."

The Dakota County Board and the Metropolitan Council are asking the company and the city of Cottage Grove, where the mine is located, for more information about the environmental impact of the changes to the mine, particularly on local parks.

The mine has operated on Grey Cloud Island since the 1950s, and the current quarries are expected to be depleted in five years. The new project would move the mine into the Mississippi River riverbed to extend its ability to harvest sand and gravel for the next two decades.

The county and Met Council recently asked the Minnesota Court of Appeals to review the final environmental report before the project can proceed. In legal documents, they argue that the current review lacks additional analysis to ensure regional parks and trails are protected.

Cottage Grove approved the company's environmental report on Nov. 5.

A Met Council spokesperson declined to comment about the appeal. The council plans to have a regional park on Grey Cloud Island by 2050.

Environmental concerns

Before Cottage Grove approved Amrize Midwest's environmental report, multiple groups, including the Prairie Island Tribal Council, and residents voiced concerns about the mine and how the Nelson Mine Backwaters Project could affect the Mississippi River and the surrounding area's future.

Colleen O'Connor Toberman, land use and planning program director for the nonprofit Friends of the Mississippi River, said the city was not "providing adequate oversight" to the decision.

"Minnesotans are at risk of losing a part of the river that they love so that a private company can extract more profits from its site," she said.

Rodrigo Gallardo, a senior vice president at Amrize Midwest, said in an email that the company respects the appeal process and will continue to follow all federal, state and local regulatory requirements. (Amrize Midwest was previously known as Aggregate Industries and Holcim-MWR Inc.)

"Amrize has been working collaboratively with the community for more than five decades and we will continue to do so," he said.

When Cottage Grove approved the final environmental impact statement, Mayor Myron Bailey said the city took its role in the process "very seriously."

"The city's narrow role here is to gather the potential impacts of this proposed project to inform permitting decisions made by other agencies," he said at the meeting.

The city did not respond to requests for updated comments on the appeal.

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.

Permitting hurdles ahead

If the project moves forward, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said in a comment letter that it will need more information before approving permits for the mine.

Randall Doneen, a DNR conservation assistance manager, said in an email to the Minnesota Star Tribune that it is common to get more environmental information before approving a permit. He said the scale of the project and its impact are not yet fully understood.

"This area of the river is popular for boating and fishing recreation," Doneen said. "During project operations, the public will not have this same level of access to the area."

No permit applications for the Nelson Mine have been submitted to the DNR. Gallardo said Amrize welcomes the department's thorough review as it is an "important part of responsible mining operations."

Endangered species are another concern. A spokesperson for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services said in an email that the Higgin's eye mussel lives in the area where the mine is proposed.

"Sand and gravel mining would impact the population," the spokesperson said.

O'Connor Toberman of the Friends of the Mississippi River said there could be more hiccups after the courts review. She said she's never seen a project quite like this one.

"The entire premise is also unusual," she said. "There's nowhere else in the state that anyone is aware of where we're mining for aggregate in a public river."

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:

This photo provided by NASA shows the Moon's shadow covering portions of Canada and the U.S. during a total solar eclipse as seen from the International Space Station, on Monday, April 8, 2024. Credit: NASA via AP, File

The moon and sun share top billing in 2026.

Kicking off the year's cosmic wonders is the moon, drawing the first astronauts to visit in more than 50 years as well as a caravan of robotic lunar landers including Jeff Bezos' new supersized Blue Moon. A supermoon looms on Jan. 3 and an astronomical blue moon is on the books for May.

The sun will also generate buzz with a ring-of-fire eclipse at the bottom of the world in February and a total solar eclipse at the top of the world in August. Expect more auroras in unexpected places, though perhaps not as frequently as the past couple years.

And that comet that strayed into our turf from another star? While still visible with powerful backyard telescopes, the recently discovered comet known as 3I/Atlas is fading by the day after swinging past Earth in December. Jupiter is next on its dance card in March. Once the icy outsider departs our solar system a decade from now, it will be back where it belongs in interstellar space.

The moon moves across the sun during a "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse seen from Tahai, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile, on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Esteban Felix, File

It's our third known interstellar visitor. Scientists anticipate more.

"I can't believe it's taken this long to find three," said NASA's Paul Chodas, who's been on the lookout since the 1980s. And with ever better technology, "the chance of catching another interstellar visitor will increase."

Here's a rundown on what the universe has in store for us in 2026:

Next stop, moon

NASA's upcoming moonshot commander Reid Wiseman said there's a good chance he and his crew will be the first to lay eyeballs on large swaths of the lunar far side that were missed by the Apollo astronauts a half-century ago. Their observations could be a boon for geologists, he noted, and other experts picking future landing sites.

Launching early in the year, the three Americans and one Canadian will zip past the moon, do a U-turn behind it, then hustle straight back to Earth to close out their 10-day mission. No stopping for a moonwalkthe boot prints will be left by the next crew in NASA's Artemis lunar exploration program.

In this photo provided by NASA, Artemis II crew members, from left, Jeremy Hansen, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman and Christina Koch, stand together at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, in front of an Orion crew module on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. Credit: Kim Shiflett/NASA via AP, File

More robotic moon landings are on the books by China as well as U.S. companies. Early in the year, Amazon founder Bezos is looking for his Blue Origin rocket company to launch a prototype of the lunar lander it's designing for NASA's astronauts. This Blue Moon demo will stand 26 feet (8 meters), taller than what delivered Apollo's 12 moonwalkers to the lunar surface. The Blue Moon version for crew will be almost double that height.

Back for another stab at the moon, Astrobotic Technology and Intuitive Machines are also targeting 2026 landings with scientific gear. The only private entity to nail a lunar landing, Firefly Aerospace, will aim for the moon's far side in 2026.

China is targeting the south polar region in the new year, sending a rover as well as a so-called hopper to jump into permanently shadowed craters in search of ice.

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.

Eclipses

The cosmos pulls out all the stops with a total solar eclipse on Aug. 12 that will begin in the Arctic and cross over Greenland, Iceland and Spain. Totality will last two minutes and 18 seconds as the moon moves directly between Earth and the sun to blot out the latter. By contrast, the total solar eclipse in 2027 will offer a whopping 6 1/2 minutes of totality and pass over more countries.

For 2026, the warm-up act will be a ring-of-fire eclipse in the Antarctic on Feb. 17, with only a few research stations in prime viewing position. South Africa and southernmost Chile and Argentina will have partial viewing. A total lunar eclipse will follow two weeks after February's ring of fire, with a partial lunar eclipse closing out the action at the end of August.

This photo provided by Gianluca Masi shows the interstellar comet 3I/Atlas as it streaks through space, 190 million miles from Earth, on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, seen from Manciano, Italy. Credit: Gianluca Masi via AP, File

Parading planets

Six of the solar system's eight planets will prance across the sky in a must-see lineup around Feb. 28. A nearly full moon is even getting into the act, appearing alongside Jupiter. Uranus and Neptune will require binoculars or telescopes. But Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and Saturn should be visible with the naked eye shortly after sunset, weather permitting, though Mercury and Venus will be low on the horizon.

Mars will be the lone no-show. The good news is that the red planet will join a six-planet parade in August, with Venus the holdout.

Supermoons

Three supermoons will lighten up the night skies in 2026, the stunning result when a full moon inches closer to Earth than usual as it orbits in a not-quite-perfect circle. Appearing bigger and brighter, supermoons are a perennial crowd pleaser requiring no equipment, only your eyes.

The year's first supermoon in January coincides with a meteor shower, but the moonlight likely will obscure the dimmer fireballs. The second supermoon of 2026 won't occur until Nov. 24, with the thirdthe year's final and closest supermoonoccurring the night of Dec. 23 into Dec. 24. This Christmas Eve supermoon will pass within 221,668 miles (356,740 kilometers) of Earth.

This illustration provided by Blue Origin depicts the company's Blue Moon MK1 spacecraft on the surface of the moon. Credit: Blue Origin via AP

Northern and southern lights

The sun is expected to churn out more eruptions in 2026 that could lead to geomagnetic storms here on Earth, giving rise to stunning aurora. Solar action should start to ease, however, with the 11-year solar cycle finally on the downslide.

Space weather forecasters like Rob Steenburgh at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration can't wait to tap into all the solar wind measurements coming soon from an observatory launched in the fall.

"2026 will be an exciting year for space weather enthusiasts," he said in an email, with this new spacecraft and others helping scientists "better understand our nearest star and forecast its impacts."

 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:

Global impact of multicore black carbon (BC) particles on black carbon absorption aerosol optical depth (BC AAOD). a A conceptual scheme of wildfire smoke in transport. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-65079-2

Researchers at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) have contributed to a study revealing that conventional theories on the structure of black carbon particlessuch as those emitted by wildfiresmay have significantly underestimated their impact on global climate systems.

The study is published in the journal Nature Communications.

Traditionally, black carbon (BC) particles were represented as a simple "core-shell" structure in global climate simulations, with a single carbon core located at the particle center surrounded by outer layers. However, an international inter-disciplinary research team, including scholars from the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, Japan, and South Korea, has found that in long-range transported wildfire smoke, about one-fifth (21%) of black carbon particlesespecially those larger than 400 nm in diameter, contain two or more cores.

These "multi-core" aerosols, previously unaccounted for in global climate models, may hold the answer to the persistent underestimation of BC's light absorption by approximately 50% compared to real-world measurements.

Dr. Joseph Ching, assistant professor in the Department of Science and Environmental Studies at EdUHK, is part of that international research team led by Professor Weijun Li from the School of Earth Sciences at Zhejiang University. The collaboration also includes experts in atmospheric science, global climate modeling, electron microscopy, atmospheric environment, air pollution, and Earth system science.

Global impact of multicore black carbon (BC) particles on black carbon absorption aerosol optical depth (BC AAOD). b Global distribution of annually average differences in BC AAOD using CoreShell (CS) model and dynamic effective medium approximation (DEMA) with Mie theory (DEMAMie) respectively. Blue lines mark the area where the number concentration reaches 1010 m-2 for BC-containing particles with the diameter (D p ) larger than 400 nm and the diameter of BC cores (D c ) larger than 200 nm (i.e., M 1 M 2 = 1) in the atmospheric column. Green point is the sample station. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-65079-2

Wildfires are becoming deadlier and more costly. According to data by global re-insurer Munich Re quoted by the media, of the 200 most damaging fires since 1980, half of those costing US $1 billion or more occurred in the last decade. Understanding the true impact of the BC particles produced by wildfires is therefore crucial for assessing their effects on the climate system and developing effective solutions.

Previous theories suggested that BC "ages" primarily by accumulating additional layers. Hence, its climate impact has often been calculated under the assumption of a single core per particle emitted to the atmosphere. However, based on fieldwork conducted during Yunnan's wildfire season combined with advanced electron microscopy, the international team found that particles can collide and coalesce, forming clusters with multiple cores within a single particle which often exceed 200 nm in core diameter.

Dr. Chen Xiyao, lead author of the study, stated, "The mixing state of BC is fundamental to understanding its climate effects. Ignoring coagulation and multi-core structures impedes accurate assessment and policy development regarding BC's role in climate change."

Using AI to quantify the impact of multi-core particles

To quantify the impact of multi-core particles, the team developed a machine learning emulator for absorption enhancements and incorporated it into a global atmospheric model. Their simulations revealed that multi-core BC particles contribute to a 19% increase in global average BC absorption, particularly in wildfire-affected regions including Southeast Asia, southwestern China, the Tibetan Plateau, Southern Africa, and North America.

Professor Li Weijun, corresponding author, explained, "Our nanoscale observations have identified abundant multi-core black carbon particles in both wildfire and urban environmentsstructures previously unrepresented in climate models. By refining our algorithms, we have simulated their enhanced optical absorption and quantified their contribution to global warming, enabling more precise evaluation of black carbon's climate impact. This study provides a more solid foundation in atmospheric science for climate governance and global cooperation."

Dr. Joseph Ching, who played a pivotal role in the atmospheric modeling component, added that the integrated approach of combining particle-level measurements, optical simulations, global climate modeling and machine learning, advances our understanding of black carbon's warming effects and brings us closer to accurately assessing its radiative forcing, and supports the development of more effective climate policies.

The authors recommend that future climate models explicitly incorporate the multi-core mixing state of black carbon to improve the accuracy of global radiative forcing assessments and guide more informed emission reduction strategies.

Co-author Professor Mark Jacobson of Stanford University highlighted that this research reinforces black carbon's role as the second-leading contributor to global warming, emphasizing the urgency of mitigation efforts.

Given the projected increase in wildfire activity and anthropogenic emissions under ongoing global warming, integrating these insights is essential for effective climate governance and international collaboration. The study also contributes to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action).

Publication details Xiyao Chen et al, Locating the missing absorption enhancement due to multicore black carbon aerosols, Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-65079-2 Journal information: Nature Communications

Key concepts particulategreenhouse effect

Provided by Education University of Hong Kong
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:

Exotic reflections of anisotropic polaritons at the nanoscale. Credit: Nature Nanotechnology (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41565-025-02039-3

Controlling light at dimensions thousands of times smaller than the thickness of a human hair is one of the pillars of modern nanotechnology.

An international team led by the Quantum Nano-Optics Group of the University of Oviedo and the Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN/Principalty of Asturias-CSIC) has published a review article in Nature Nanotechnology detailing how to manipulate fundamental optical phenomena when light couples to matter in atomically thin materials.

The study focuses on polaritons, hybrid quasiparticles that emerge when light and matter interact intensely. By using low-symmetry materials, known as van der Waals materials, light ceases to propagate in a conventional way and instead travels along specific directions, a characteristic that gives rise to phenomena that challenge conventional optics.

Among the findings reviewed are behaviors such as negative refraction, where light bends in the opposite direction to the usual one when crossing a boundary between materials, or canalized propagation, which makes it possible to guide energy without it dispersing.

"These properties offer unprecedented control over lightmatter interaction in regions of the spectrum ranging from the visible to the terahertz," the team describes in the article.

This research is part of the TWISTOPTICS project, led by University of Oviedo professor Pablo Alonso Gonzalez. This project is dedicated to the study of how twisting or stacking nanometric layersa technique reminiscent of atomic-scale "Lego" piecesmakes it possible to design physical properties a la carte.

The publication is the result of an international collaboration in whichalongside the University of Oviedoleading centers such as the Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT), the Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), and the Max Planck Institute have participated.

The theoretical and experimental framework presented in this work lays the foundations for future practical implementations in various technological sectors, including integrated optical circuits, high-sensitivity biosensors, thermal management, and super-resolution imaging.

Publication details Yixi Zhou et al, Fundamental optical phenomena of strongly anisotropic polaritons at the nanoscale, Nature Nanotechnology (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41565-025-02039-3 Journal information: Nature Nanotechnology
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

It's peak bulking-up season for white sharks in Monterey Bay, and over the past week, two animals previously tagged by scientists passed through the waters near Lovers Pointthe same area where swimmer Erica Fox vanished after witnesses reported seeing a shark nearby, experts said.

Fox, the 55-year-old co-founder of recreational swim group Kelp Krawlers, was far ahead of more than a dozen swimmers returning to Lovers Point beach in Pacific Grove early Sunday afternoon, but never came ashore.

Marine biologist Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach, said the rocky coastline near Lovers Point attracts sea lions, and seals also frequent the waters offshore. Both are primary prey for white sharks.

Large white sharks migrate from offshore in the Pacific to the coast in October to bulk up on seals and sea lions, typically remaining through January.

"They will hunt and they will patrol off these areas where these animals congregate," Lowe said.

At around 12:15 p.m. Sunday, a driver at a stop sign on his way to work called 911 to report seeing a shark burst out of the water about 100 yards off Lovers Point with what he believed to be a human protruding from its mouth, U.S. Coast Guard petty officer Charlie Valor said.

The man said the shark re-entered the water and did not resurface, Valor added. Pacific Grove police Commander Brian Anderson said a second witness also reported seeing a shark breach the water in that area.

No remains have been recovered, nor has anyone reported finding any of the gear Fox was wearing while swimming, Anderson said.

A buoy operated offshore by Stanford University's Hopkins Marine Station collects pings from tagged white sharks moving through the area. It recorded five sharks swimming within about 500 yards of Lovers Point this month, including two in the past week. But marine biologist Barbara Block, whose lab oversees the tracking project, said the tagged sharks represent only a fraction of the animals in the region, making it impossible to link a specific shark to Fox's disappearance.

If Fox was taken by a white shark without leaving a trace, "that would need to be a big shark," Lowe said.

Since 1950, sharks have killed 16 people in California, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. All were determined to be white sharks except in one case, in Point Reyes National Seashore in October 2023, where the species was not confirmed.

In the Monterey area, 13 people have been bitten by white sharks since 1950, resulting in two deaths, nine major injuries and two minor injuries. Most victims were divers or surfers; only two swimmers have been attacked.

Sunday's disappearance marks the third shark-related incident at Lovers Point since June 2022, when another Kelp Krawler, Steve Bruemmer, was bitten and seriously injured while swimming. Two months later, a paddleboarder and his dog were thrown from their board but unhurt when a shark bit it from below.

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.

Shark attacks generally fall into three categoriespredatory, accidental and defensivethough the reason behind any specific incident is often unclear, Lowe said. The rarity of attacks suggests white sharks do not view humans as prey.

"We're clearly not on the menu," Lowe said. "Otherwise, people would be bitten and eaten all the time."

Some incidents may occur when sharks mistake humans for prey, Lowe said.

Experts cautioned that the ocean remains a wilderness, with both risks and rewards.

"You can get hurt," Lowe said, but "the more you know, the safer you can be."

Lovers Point, a rocky promontory along scenic Ocean View Boulevard with two small crescents of beach beside it, was featured as one of the state's top swimming spots in the 2024 book Places We Swim California. The book described Lovers Point as especially popular among swimmers in winter.

"Cheerful regulars, dressed in neoprene caps and gloves, brave the icy water for their daily dopamine release," the book by Australians Caroline Clements and Dillon Seitchik-Reardon said.

Clement in an email noted that she and Seitchik-Reardon live in Sydney.

"Like in California, we understand swimming comes with risks and sharks are out there in the water," Clements said. "It's so rare that someone gets bitten but it is a reality. Lovers Point is a beautiful spot loved by many, which is why we included it, and I hope this doesn't deter people from swimming there."

People entering near-shore waters should be mindful of the times of year and locations where white sharks are more common, and should pay attention to the presence of prey animals such as elephant seals, harbor seals and sea lions, Lowe said.

Swimming close to others can reduce risk, he said. "Your probability of being bitten is lower if you're in a group."

Remaining in shallower water may also lower the chance of an encounter, as white sharks typically attack from below. Deep water "gives the animal the ability to investigate something from below," Lowe said.

Authorities on Monday afternoon suspended the search for Fox after about 15 hours of air and water operations involving the U.S. Coast Guard, Pacific Grove police, Monterey County Sheriff's Office divers and Monterey firefighters.

2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. 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:

Image generated by the editorial team using DALLE for illustrative purposes.

Many researchers have spent decades attempting to decode biblical descriptions and link them to verifiable historical events. One such description is that of the Star of Bethlehema bright astronomical body that was said to lead the Magi to Jesus shortly after his birth.

Although many attempts have been made to link the Star of Bethlehem to astronomical bodies, the unique motion of the "star" did not quite fit any known object. However, a new research study, published in Journal of the British Astronomical Association, describes a likely candidate for the bright object seen above Bethlehem over 2000 years agoa comet described in an ancient Chinese text.

Nonsensical motion

The biblical text in question occurs in the book of Matthew and describes a "star," which the authors of the study suggest may be any celestial object. The text says that the star "went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was." The star is described as being in the eastern sky. The study authors meticulously analyzed the context and potential meaning of the story.

They write, "The passage indicates that after the Star appeared to precede the Magi on their short journey to Bethlehem, it reached a position over the town, perhaps overhead near the zenith, where its motion came to a noticeable stop for a period coincident with their arrival."

This is a simplified diagram of a hypothetical interplanetary object ("C") traveling near Earth. The subscripts refer to its position at time steps t 1 to t 7 . For a fixed position ("P") on the rotating Earth, the object would appear to remain stationary directly overhead as a "temporary geosynchronous object" for several hours (t 3 to t 5 ). Credit: Journal of the British Astronomical Association (2025). DOI: 10.64150/193njt

Of course, this motion is not typical of most astronomical objects, like stars and planets. Instead, most astronomical objects simply appear to rise in the east and set in the west, due to the rotation of Earth. This led to three interpretations: the story is simply a myth used to make a point and no such object existed, it was an actual miracle or there is a natural (although, rare) astronomical event that explains the motion.

Some researchers held onto the idea that there is a physical explanation. After all, there are some situations where an object might appear to stop temporarily in the sky. In particular, an object that is in geosynchronous motion with Earth will appear to be motionless in the sky. This can theoretically occur with a comet if it is in the right place and moving at the right velocity.

A few different comets have been suggested, such as Halley's Comet, but these did not fit the timing or placement needed for the Star of Bethlehem. And so, the authors of the new study conducted a search of many historical documents to find mention of any other observed astronomical events during the time period.

A potential match

A passage in a Chinese document known as the Han Shu (History of the Former Han Dynasty), caught the attention of the study authors with the mention of a "broom star"known to be a term for a cometin the "second month" of the "second year."

"The 'second month' of the 'second year' corresponds to the Chinese lunar month spanning 5 BCE [from] March 9 to April 6, which falls neatly within the estimated window for Jesus's birth. Being visible 'for over 70 days' suggests that the object was likely bright," the study authors explain.

The researchers also say that period fits with the life of King Herod, who ordered a massacre of male children under two years old in an attempt to kill Jesus. Herod ruled Judea as a Roman client king from 37 BCE to 4 BCE.

Simulations were conducted to generate possible comet orbits fitting the observations. The numerical modeling showed that this comet could have passed close enough to Earth in June of 5 BCE, to exhibit the "temporary geosynchronous" motion needed to make it appear to pause overhead for several hours. The best-fit orbit showed the comet would have appeared nearly stationary over Bethlehem for about two hours.

Positive omens and Magi motivations

The team also asked the question: "How could a comet appearing in Capricornus in March/April of 5 BCE have convinced the Magi that a king had been born in Judea, prompting them to undertake a long journey?"

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.

To attempt to better understand their motivations, the researchers examined ancient astrological and cultural beliefs that the Magi may have been exposed to in order to explain why they would interpret the comet as a sign indicating the birth of Jesus. They found mentions of comets signifying both good and bad omens in both Greco-Roman and Mesopotamian texts.

"A major criticism of the comet hypothesis is that ancient astrologers interpreted the omens associated with their appearance as harbingers of evil, rather than as signs of good tidings such as a new king. However, closer examination of comet omens will show that interpretations of comet appearances were not always negative," the study authors explain.

They found that some omens in Mesopotamian texts could even have been interpreted to link a comet's appearance with events in the royal families of client kingdoms and that it is possible that this influenced the Magi's belief that the birth of a new Judean king had occurred.

Whether or not the comet mentioned in the Han Shu was the same celestial body witnessed over Bethlehem, the study authors say that this study has proven that such an object could exist that would explain the event.

They conclude by saying, "This study shows that it is no longer justifiable to claim that 'no astronomical event' could possibly have behaved in the manner described by Matthew."

Written for you by our author Krystal Kasal, edited by Stephanie Baum, and fact-checked and reviewed by Andrew Zininthis 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 Mark Matney, The star that stopped: The Star of Bethlehem & the comet of 5 BCE, Journal of the British Astronomical Association (2025). DOI: 10.64150/193njt

Key concepts StarsArchaeoastronomyComets

 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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

With January sales around the corner, another flood of unwanted clothes risks drowning our wardrobes and the planet.

The average person now discards around 16kg of textile waste annually and a mountain of fabric equivalent to thousands of landfills accumulates each year.

But the EU is bringing in new laws surrounding fast fashion. More responsibility is being put on manufacturers to reduce material waste and it's becoming more important to invest in clothes we'll cherish.

That's why the emotional value of fashion plays a crucial role in creating a more sustainable wardrobe.

By understanding why we keep certain garments, we can extend their lifespans and rethink sustainability. Designing fashion to be emotionally durable and less likely to be dumped will not just benefit personal connections to cherished items but also the brand's bottom line because companies will be fined for non-compliance with regulations (for example, for the destruction of unsold textiles).

Emotional attachments could be as influential as sustainability regulations if they help us make more informed choices about what's in our wardrobes.

After years of working in fashion, experiencing sample sales and loving the buzz of the Christmas bargain, I had my own mountain of clothes to confront during an unexpected house move last Christmas. Overwhelmed by clutter and a house full of garments that didn't "feel" good anymore, I began Welcome to Our Wardrobe, a project exploring the reasons why people keep some items for longer than others.

Fashion professionals, designers, psychotherapists and everyday wearers contributed to my studies and reflected on the garments they kept the longest and shared personal stories and revelations through social media.

Each garment became a portal to an often candid story and an opportunity for self-rediscovery through these hanged and folded moments. Very few items survived my own wardrobe study as most were redirected to charity shops after realizing they were impulse buys or mostly ill-considered purchases that didn't meet my needs. Most garments held strong family connections or were linked to a personal memory.

My own worn-out but emotionally durable t-shirt held memories of a friendship that felt like a hug on those relentless days, reminding me my friend is always there at the end of the phone. Reflecting on these attachments shifted my own shopping habits. By focusing on meaningful purchases and connections rather than just this year's must-have color or trouser style, I felt better too.

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.

Fast fashion, slow attachments

It's not just about making clothes that last but about making clothes that matter. Jonathan Chapman, a leading professor of sustainable design, puts it simply: "We are consumers of meaning, not matter." His theory of emotionally durable design suggests waste is not merely material problem but a symptom of a missing personal connection.

When our clothes have a deep emotional resonance they often endure. One participant reflected on a handmade gifted jumper that initially made her feel "too fat" and "too old"she discovered she still loved it because it symbolized trust and important connections to a meaningful past relationship. Once she acknowledged her attachment to this jumper, she decided to wear it more often. That extended the garment's life.

Otto von Busch, a Swedish professor of integrated design, argues in his book The Psychopolitics of Fashion that clothing functions as a psychological tool through which people express identity, negotiate belonging and make sense of who they are.

Fashion designer and author Orsola de Castro co-founded Fashion Revolution, a fashion activism movement, in the wake of the 2013 Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh which killed more than 1,100 garment workers.

Fashion Revolution not only advocates for greater transparency in the fashion system but also endorses "radical mending"the treasuring, reuse, rewearing and repairing of favorite itemsto promote slow fashion. According to De Castro's philosophy, the more we wear a garment, the more it becomes part of our lives.

Her call to mend and care for clothes while resisting fast fashion trends and production cycles echoes the findings of Welcome to Our Wardrobe. My research shows that inherited, classic or custom-handcrafted clothes were the most enduring pieces, not swayed by fast fashion or new sustainability strategies. Emotional attachment relies on items being present for a reason and not just a season. That can transform clothes into treasures that can be passed down through the generations.

To reduce consumption and encourage emotionally durable design, it's important to consider how attachment between customers and clothing can increase a garment's lifespan. Emotional durability may even underpin future legislation if adopted as a design principle rather than a post-purchase phenomenon.

Perhaps you own a top you just can't throw away or a dress worn to a milestone moment that represents a happy memory. These garments often survive not just because they were well crafted but because they hold some emotional resonance relating to love, connection, comfort and friendship.

Reflecting on the clothes that we already treasure is the first step towards slowing down fashion. By understanding why certain pieces endure, the wardrobe begins to hold more meaning than just an unsustainable dumping ground for passing trends.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Approaching Arctic air mass will leave Cancun, Riviera Maya windy and chilly for New Years

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  A majority of the Yucatan Peninsula will likely feel the chill from the approaching cold air before it arrives. A north event of strong winds will push that cold air into the region ahead of its official arrival Thursday.

Cancun and Riviera Maya weather will be affected by the mass of approaching Arctic air for New Years Eve.

According to Mexicos National Meteorological Service (SMN), strong winds of between 60 km/h and 80 km/h will be felt around the entire Yucatan Peninsula due to cold front 25.

The new cold front (number 25), driven by an Arctic air mass, will approach and enter the northern and northeastern border regions of Mexico, the SMN (Servicio Meteorologico Nacional) reported Monday.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, cold front number 25 will move across southeastern Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall to these regions.

Intense to torrential downpours are forecast for Puebla, Veracruz, Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Tabasco on Tuesday. The Arctic air mass associated with the front will maintain lower temperatures in northern, northeastern, eastern, central and southeastern Mexico, as well as strong northerly winds along the coasts of Tamaulipas and Veracruz, the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec, and very strong winds in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Additionally, the possibility of snow/sleet will continue on Tuesday on the peaks of Pico de Orizaba and Cofre de Perote, the SMN reported.

For Cancun and Riviera Maya, as much as 25mm of rainfall is expected as the cold Arctic air reaches the coast. Very strong winds are also expected that will likely affect local ferry services.

The cold mass of Arctic air is forecast to leave the region January 1, 2026. In the meantime, night and daytime temperatures remain pleasant around the entire state, averaging 31C (88F) for daytime highs.

Riviera Maya News serving Quintana Roo Mexico since 2014

Your online newspaper
Authorities confirm 13 dead 98 injured in Interoceanic Train derailment

Nizanda, Oaxaca  Authorities have confirmed 13 dead and 98 injured in a Oaxaca train derailment Saturday. Police are still investigating the cause of the deadly accident.

According to President Claudia Sheinbaum, 13 people have been confirmed dead in the Interoceanic Train accident. Another 98 were injured, five, seriously. The accident happened Saturday morning as the train passed through the town of Nixanda in the state of Oaxaca.

Several of the cars left the tracks sending at least one rolling down a steep embankment where it was found twisted. Two other passenger cars were also located down the embankment, but without rolling.

The Mexican Navy informs me that, tragically, 13 people died in the Interoceanic Train accident; 98 are injured, five of them seriously. The injured are in IMSS hospitals in Matias Romero and Salina Cruz, as well as IMSS-Bienestar hospitals in Juchitan and Ixtepec.

I have instructed the Secretary of the Navy, the Undersecretary of Human Rights of the Ministry of the Interior, and the Director General of the Mexican Social Security Institute to travel to the site and personally attend to the families; the delegates from IMSS and IMSS-Bienestar will also be present.

A total of 13 people were killed when the train left the tracks Saturday. December 28, 2025.

The Secretary of the Interior will coordinate the efforts. I appreciate the support of the Governor of Oaxaca and his team. We will continue to provide updates, President Sheinbaum said.

In a separate statement, the Marina said the Mexican Navy expresses its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident. It also reaffirms its commitment to providing immediate support to those affected, with the utmost responsibility, transparency and adherence to the law.

The Mexican Navy reported that it deployed hundreds of emergency teams after the derailment of the Interoceanic Train.

During the search and location operations, the Institution deployed a total of 360 naval personnel, 20 vehicles, four land ambulances, three air ambulances and a tactical drone, the Marina detailed.

According to Salomon Jara, the Governor of Oaxaca, the Interoceanic Train accident occurred in the community of Nizanda. Authorities clarified that the derailment occurred on Line Z, which connects the ports of Coatzacoalcos and Salina Cruz.

The passenger train derailed Saturday morning, landing in thick trees. December 28, 2025.

The train was transporting 241 passengers and nine crew at the time of the derailment. An official cause for the accident remains under investigation.

Riviera Maya News serving Quintana Roo Mexico since 2014

Your online newspaper
Authorities confirm identity of missing person found in Cancun green area

Cancun, Q.R.  Speculation as to the identity of a body found in Cancun Saturday has officially been confirmed. The State Attorney General (FGE) has confirmed the discovery of the body of 30 year old Nataly Montserrat Gonzalez Barro.

The young veterinarian was last seen December 25 in Cancun and reported as officially missing December 27. She was found deceased on December 28 in a green area across from a residential complex. Search efforts were concentrated in this area after the Alba Protocol (missing person) report was activated.

The Prosecutors Office stated that investigations are ongoing to clarify the circumstances of the case. Details surrounding her disappearance and subsequent discovery have not been made public.

In a statement, authorities said the Quintana Roo State Attorney Generals Office (FGE) reports the tragic discovery of the body of Nataly Montserrat N, for whom this Public Prosecutors Office had issued a missing person alert under the Alba Protocol.

The body was found in a green area across from the Jardines del Sur 6 housing development, in the municipality of Benito Juarez, with no visible signs of violence.

The lines of investigation are being carried out in accordance with the established protocol with a gender perspective. Furthermore, this institution reports that it is providing support and comprehensive care to the family during this process.

The State Attorney Generals Office reiterates its commitment to investigating all evidence gathered to clarify the case.

Riviera Maya News serving Quintana Roo Mexico since 2014

Your online newspaper
Four National Guard members in custody after residential reports of gunfire

Cancun, Q.R.  Four members of the National Guard were arrested early Monday in Cancun after a residential report of gunfire. At least one resident reported hearing shots near the Cielo Nuevo neighborhood of Cancun in the middle of the night.

Following the report, security personnel deployed an operation in the area and located a white Toyota pickup truck traveling northbound. According to preliminary information, upon noticing police, the driver of the vehicle attempted to flee toward the facilities of the Tenth Brigade battalion located on the same road.

Police units initiated a pursuit that ended a short distance later where the pickup truck was intercepted. Four people were arrested at the scene. They are reported to be three men and one woman.

Military personnel are investigating the report of gunfire. December 28, 2025.

wo firearms were seized during a search of the vehicle. Preliminary reports indicate that one of the detainees holds the rank of captain and the others are officers belonging to the National Guard.

Authorities have not officially confirmed the ranks or affiliations of those involved. Approximately ten units from the State and Municipal Police, as well as personnel from the Mexican Navy, provided support during the arrests.

Initial reports indicated that personnel from the Mexican Army later took charge of the arrests. It has not been specified whether the detainees were placed in civilian or military custody.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Riviera Maya News serving Quintana Roo Mexico since 2014

Your online newspaper
Tulum taxi corruption: Driver reported for demanding 1,200 pesos for 3 kilometer ride

Tulum, Q.R.  A woman who was forced from a ride share car into to Tulum taxi then overcharged reported the driver. On Sunday, 26 year old Alejandra N called police after a Tulum taxi driver wanted 1,200 pesos for a cab ride from the Tulum Hotel Zone to Aldea Zama, a ride of less than three kilometers.

According to her police report, she was in the process of getting into a ride share car in the Tulum Hotel Zone when she was intercepted by several Tulum taxi drivers who told her only they were operating in that area.

She was then directed by those same taxi drivers to a cab for her ride home. Once she arrived at residential Aldea Zama, approximately 1.5 miles later, the driver asked for 1,200 pesos. She refused to pay the amount at which the driver became aggressive. She called police.

Once the Tulum cab driver realized police had been called, he settled on a 400.00 peso payment and left before authorities arrived.

The Tulum taxi driver wanted 1,200 pesos for a 3 kilometer ride. December 28, 2025.

In an official statement, the SSC of Tulum said following a report received through the Linea Contigo emergency number, officers from this agency responded to a call in the Aldea Zama area of Tulum.

At the scene, they interviewed Alejandra N, a 26-year-old Colombian national, who stated the following: While in the hotel zone, she attempted to board a ride-hailing vehicle, however, a group of taxi drivers prevented her from using the service, arguing that they were the only ones operating in the area.

The same taxi drivers then directed her to a vehicle that would take her home.

Upon arrival, the driver demanded payment of 1,200.00 Mexican pesos, an amount the victim refused to pay. The taxi driver then became violent towards her, prompting her to request assistance from law enforcement.

Finally, the operator accepted the payment of $400.00 pesos and left the scene before the police arrived. Citizens and visitors are urged to report any abuse or violent behavior to the emergency number, the Secretaria de Seguridad Publica y Proteccion Ciudadana de Tulum said.

The states Instituto de Movilidad del Estado de Quintana Roo (Imoveqroo) who oversees public transportation services, has not commented on the Sunday Tulum taxi driver incident. Tulum police did not say if they are following up or searching for the overcharging driver.

Riviera Maya News serving Quintana Roo Mexico since 2014

Your online newspaper
Laman Ismayilova



An event dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the prominent scholar, Honored Scientist, Honored Teacher, Doctor of Medical Sciences, and Professor Ibadulla Aghayev has been held at the Rashid Behbudov Azerbaijan State Song Theatre, Azernews reports.

Organized by the "D?d? ?l?sg?r Oca??" Public Association, the event began with a one-minute silence in memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland. This was followed by the screening of a video presentation highlighting Professor Ibadulla Aghayev's rich life journey and scientific achievements.

Delivering the opening speech, Chairman of the "D?d? ?l?sg?r Oca??" Public Association, Khatayi Alasgarli, emphasized Professor Aghayev's significant contributions not only to medical science but also to the preservation and promotion of national and spiritual values.

Professor Ibadulla Aghayev then addressed the audience, expressing his gratitude to the organizers and participants of the event. He noted that the main purpose of his many years of scientific and pedagogical activity has been to serve and contribute to the development of Azerbaijans healthcare system.

The event featured speeches by Hasan Hasanov, First Deputy Head of the Sabirabad District Executive Authority; Professor of Azerbaijan Medical University (AMU) and poet Pasha Galbinur; Associate Professor of the AMU Oncology Department Nasimi Gasimov; Associate Professor of the Department of Internal Medicine, PhD in Medical and Philological Sciences Naghdali Zamanov; Chairman of the Council of Elders of the Organization of Turkic States, Doctor of Medical Sciences and Professor Sudeyf Imamverdiyev; Doctor of Medical Sciences and Professor Fatma Hajiyeva; Professor Haji Khalid Bashar; poet Yusif Aghbulaghi; and poet-publicist Melahat Ismayilgizi. They spoke about Professor Aghayev's scientific, pedagogical, and public activities, highly appreciating his nearly half-century-long career and highlighting his fundamental contributions to the development of epidemiology, as well as his research in the study and prevention of infectious diseases.

Over more than five decades of scientific and pedagogical activity, Professor Ibadulla Aghayev has made significant contributions to the advancement of epidemiological science, supervised 40 PhD and 5 doctoral dissertations, and authored hundreds of scientific works. In addition, in recognition of his services in promoting Azerbaijani ashug poetry, particularly the legacy of Dede Alasgar, he was awarded the "Ashug Alasgar  200" jubilee medal in 2024.

The event concluded with a vibrant artistic program.
Two youths involved in a Cancun kidnapping arrested during rescue

Cancun, Q.R.  As part of Operation Blindaje Cancun, two men allegedly involved in kidnapping and drug-related offenses were arrested. The arrests were made by the Municipal Secretariat of Citizen Security and Transit (SMSCyT) officers in coordination with National Guard and the State Attorney Generals Office (FGE).

Responding to a report, security personnel were dispatched to the Valle Verde neighborhood where they observed two individuals matching the provided descriptions.

Both men reportadly attempted to flee on a motorcycle upon noticing police. At the address, cries for help were heard coming from inside the property, police said.

Officers rescued a man who was found with his hands bound and lying face down. The victim was assessed at the scene by paramedics who determined he did not require transport to a hospital.

During a security inspection of the alleged perpetrators, authorities seized bags of varoious narcotics as well as a yellow rope, a semi-automatic pistol and a white and black Italika Cross motorcycle without license plates.

From the scene of the alleged kidnapping, officers arrested 22 year old Antonio Isai N, 22 years old and 18 year old Jesus Enrique N.

Riviera Maya News serving Quintana Roo Mexico since 2014

Your online newspaper
CCTV: Starting from this morning, the PLA Eastern Theater Command is conducting military drills in areas near the Taiwan Island. Some said the drills are carried out in response to the US$11.1 billion arms sales to Taiwan announced by the U.S. this month. Whats your comment?

Lin Jian: The spokesperson of the PLA Eastern Theater Command has made an announcement of the military drills. The drills are a punitive and deterrent action against separatist forces who seek Taiwan independence through military buildup, and a necessary move to safeguard Chinas national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Let me stress that to advance their separatist agenda, the DPP authorities are turning Taiwan into a powder keg. Their massive and desperate arms purchase further reveal their true nature as provocateurs, saboteurs of peace and war-mongers. Anyone who tries to arm Taiwan to contain China will only embolden the separatists and push the Taiwan Strait closer to the peril of armed conflict.

The Taiwan question is at the very core of Chinas core interests. Nothing will deter China from defending national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. Anyone who crosses the line or makes provocations on the question will be met with Chinas firm response. All attempts to hold back Chinas reunification will invariably fail.

China News Service: On December 26, Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that Israel and Somaliland signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition and establishment of full diplomatic relations. Whats Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: China expresses grave concern over Israels recognition of Somaliland and is firmly against it. China notes the statement issued immediately by the government of the Federal Republic of Somalia firmly rejecting the move. Regional organizations and countries, including the African Union, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and Intergovernmental Authority on Development, have also deplored and strongly condemned the move.

According to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, Somaliland is an inalienable part of Somalias territory. China firmly supports Somalias sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and opposes any move to split its territory. The issue of Somaliland is entirely Somalias internal affair. It should be resolved by the Somali people in a way suited to their national conditions and in line with the constitution. Countries outside the region should stop unwarranted interference. No country should seek selfish interests by aiding and abetting separatism in other countries. We urge the Somaliland authorities to get a clear sense of where things are headed, and stop at once their separatist activities and collusion with external forces.

TASS: Could you please share Chinas key priorities and vision for its upcoming APEC chairmanship?

Lin Jian: Thank you for your interest in this. As 2026 APEC host, China will hold the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Shenzhen next November. At the recently concluded APEC Economic Leaders meeting in Gyeongju, the ROK, President Xi Jinping noted that China stands ready to take the opportunity of hosting the 2026 APEC to bring all parties together to build an Asia-Pacific community, with a focus on advancing practical cooperation in such areas as the development of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), interconnectivity, digital economy and AI, so as to inject greater vitality and impetus into the development in the Asia-Pacific and better benefit the people in the region. President Xi Jinpings important remarks charted the course and provided fundamental guidance for China to host APEC meetings and spearhead APEC cooperation in 2026.

As agreed by all APEC members, the theme of APEC in 2026 is Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together. Building an Asia-Pacific community is not only a goal but also means concrete actions. To realize this vision, the APEC China Year identified openness, innovation and cooperation as the three priorities for next years APEC cooperation. Openness is the lifeline of Asia-Pacific prosperity. We should work together to safeguard the multilateral trading system, build an open economic environment in the region, jointly enhance interconnectivity in the Asia-Pacific, and work for new progress and results in building an FTAAP. Innovation is the driver of Asia-Pacific prosperity. We should seize the opportunities offered by innovation-driven development, pool more consensus on AI and digital economy, harness new technologies to empower, and bridge the digital and AI divide in the Asia-Pacific region. Cooperation is the underpinning of Asia-Pacific prosperity. The Asia-Pacific has the greatest complementarity in terms of resource endowment and development stage. APEC has a variety of well-established, multi-tiered mechanisms for practical cooperation, which is a unique strength of APEC. We should make full use of these mechanisms, turn the complementarity between member economies into opportunities to expand cooperation. To meet the development needs of different economies, we should further step up cooperation in such areas as the fiscal and financial sector, food security, energy, small and medium-sized enterprises, transportation, tourism, human resources and healthcare. We look forward to working with APEC members to make the APEC China Year a full success and energizing economic growth in Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Global Times: Today, Global Times released 2025 Global Survey on Impression and Understanding of China, which covered 46 countries with a focus on how foreign public perceives, understands and evaluates China. According to the results, Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era is highly recognized. Global public opinion holds favorable view of China and looks forward to a bigger role of China. Whats your comment?

Lin Jian: Chinas development is now increasingly interconnected with the world. Chinas image in the world receives great attention. We noted that according to the survey, Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era is highly recognized. Important visions and philosophies, such as building a community with a shared future for humanity, lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, putting people first, further deepening reform comprehensively, and advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance, have been well-received. Visions and experience on governance, such as the in-depth implementation of the spirit of central Party leaderships eight-point decision on improving work conduct and formulation and implementation of five-year plans for economic and social development, receive international acclaim. In the international community, there has been a positive outlook on Chinas economic growth, great interest in Chinas culture and technologies, expectation of Chinas involvement in international affairs and reform and improvement of global governance, and hope that their country will have friendlier relations with China.

We also noted that this year, surveys of several international polling organizations show that an increasing number of people around the world have greater interest, better impression and more approval towards China. These survey results reflect the worlds full recognition of Chinas development achievements, governance capability, open spirit and cooperation vision. They also reflect countries hope for China to deeply participate in international affairs and lead global governance.

Amid the complex and evolving international situation, it is all the more valuable that China and the world engage in sound interactions and that the Chinese people and people of other countries have closer understanding of each other. We will continue to provide more stability and certainty to the world with greater confidence in opening to the world, sincere readiness to share development opportunities, and a sense of responsibility for leading global governance. Together China and countries in the world will write a new chapter of mutual success.

Reuters: I just want to follow up on whats been said today about the war games around Taiwan. Could you tell us if the trigger of these games was due to the US$11.1 billion arms sales to Taiwan? Is the United States the so-called external interference forces that the Eastern Command is referring to? (Similar question from NHK)

Lin Jian: Let me stress once again that nothing will deter China from defending national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. Anyone who crosses the line or makes provocations on the question will be met with Chinas firm response.

Ukrinform News Agency: The Presidents of Ukraine and the United States, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump, held a constructive meeting in the U.S. on a plan to stop the Russian-Ukrainian war. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comments on the results of the meeting? And in this context, President Zelenskyy, before his visit to the United States, said that unfortunately, he currently does not see Chinas readiness to join the peace process, instead China has increased the volume of imports of Russian energy resources, but money from energy exports is spent by Russia on the war. Would the Ministry like to respond on this statement?

Lin Jian: On your first question, we noted the report. China supports all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the Ukraine crisis and hopes parties will reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement through dialogue and negotiation at an early date.

On your second question, since the crisis broke out, China has maintained close communication with relevant parties, including Russia and Ukraine. We have been working for a ceasefire and promoting peace talks and our effort speaks for itself. China supports all efforts that are conducive to peace and will continue to play a constructive role to this end.

RIA Novosti: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said earlier that Russia stands against Taiwan independence in any form and will support China in defending national unity and territorial integrity in case of the possible escalation in the Taiwan Strait. I wonder whats Chinas comment on this?

Lin Jian: China commends Russias long-standing support for China on the Taiwan question. The Taiwan question is Chinas internal affair. The one-China principle is a prevailing international consensus and a basic norm in international relations. Nothing will ever deter China from defending its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

RIA Novosti: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said yesterday that China is willing to provide assistance to the ASEAN observation mission in monitoring the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. Could you please clarify whether this assistance includes sending Chinese peacekeepers to the border area of the two countries?

Lin Jian: China is heartened by the ceasefire reached between Cambodian and Thai militaries under the joint efforts of various parties. Since the border conflict began, China has, guided by the Global Security Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping, worked actively to facilitate talks for peace.

Foreign ministers of China, Cambodia and Thailand met in Yunnan today. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the discussions were helpful and constructive, and important consensus was reached: It is important to look ahead and move forward. The ceasefire agreement is a hard-won result, its implementation should not stall and must not be derailed halfway, and still less should the fighting resume, which is the last thing that people want and certainly not what China would hope to see. It is important to implement the agreement at the right pace without lapse. Implementation of the ceasefire requires continued communication and consultation. Restoring bilateral relations can be done step by step. As long as there is faith and equal dialogue, Cambodia and Thailand can achieve it together. It is of utmost importance to rebuild trust. There has been a loss of trust due to the conflict, but Cambodia and Thailand have and will always be each others neighbors, with a long history of living side by side as friendly nations.

The three sides issued the press release of China-Cambodia-Thailand Fuxian Meeting, which identifies five aspects where Cambodia and Thailand need to step up communication and enhance mutual understanding, namely consolidating ceasefire step by step, resuming normal exchanges, rebuilding political mutual trust, improving Cambodia-Thailand bilateral relations and safeguarding regional peace. China will always work to promote Cambodia-Thailand relations, and stand ready to offer all necessary facilitation and support, including ceasefire monitoring, humanitarian assistance and de-mining cooperation. We hope and believe that the Cambodia-Thailand relations will soon return to the right track.

CGTN: It was reported that voting on the first day of Myanmars general election concluded on December 28. What is Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: The government of Myanmar held the first phase of the general election on December 28. Chinese observer mission and representatives from relevant countries and international organizations observed the voting on site. The voting process was generally stable and orderly, giving the election a smooth start. China hopes that the upcoming second and third phases of voting will also be smooth and enable the situation in Myanmar to stabilize and deescalate, help restore political normalcy, bring about more broad-based and stable peaceful reconciliation, and bring back stability and development at an early date.

Reuters: I just want to follow up on what you said about the Thailand and Cambodia ceasefire. Is it accurate and fair to say that China brokered that ceasefire deal? Were Chinas mediation efforts this time after the latest fighting different from previous efforts?

Lin Jian: Since the border conflict began, China has worked actively to facilitate talks for peace. China will always work to promote Cambodia-Thailand relations, and stand ready to offer all necessary facilitation and support. We hope and believe that the Cambodia-Thailand relations will soon return to the right track.

AFP: A monument to Chinas contributions to the Panama Canal was torn down over the weekend by order of local authorities who said it had a structural damage that posed a risk. The decision has been criticized by other leaders in Panama as well as Chinas ambassador to the country. Im just wondering if the Foreign Ministry has additional comments on the situation?

Lin Jian: China deplores the forced demolition by relevant local authorities in Panama, and has protested to Panama. The friendly exchanges between the people of China and Panama are time-honored. The monument stood as a witness and memorial to the time-honored friendship between China and Panama, and to the tremendous contribution of Chinese workers who traveled across the oceans to Panama in the 19th century to help build the Twin Ocean Railway and the Panama Canal, some even paying the ultimate price during the construction. The monument is also a recognition of the integration of the Chinese into local communities. The forced demolition is a seriously egregious move in nature. It gravely hurts the feelings of the extensive Chinese community in Panama, and goes against the overall momentum of China-Panama friendship. China noted that the forced demolition has triggered indignation in Panama. President Mulino publicly condemned the move. The presidential office has ordered the immediate reconstruction of the monument on the original site. China has asked Panama to get to the bottom of this matter, rectify the local governments wrongdoing and undo the negative impact as quickly as possible.
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

This year, Slate approached the news in many ways: head-on, confronting the realities of a second Trump administration, and from unique, at times playful, angles.

Many of our top articles covered the tumult of this first year of the Trump presidencyfrom the Department of Government Efficiencys purge to the renewed interest in the presidents connection to Jeffrey Epstein. However, readers were also hungry for other stories, and we delivered with ambitious features and unique arguments alike. Some of our best stories of the year explored cultural phenomena, including the dearth of office happy hours, the mansions popping up everywhere, and the notorious scam texts that plague us all. We appreciated your readership in this tumultuous year and look forward to bringing you more fun larks and bold work in 2026. Here are Slates top 2025 stories.

1. How Giant White Houses Took Over America

Theyre huge. Theyre unsightly. Theyre everywhere. When one went up next door, Slate writer Dan Kois went on a quest to understand the 5,600-square-foot architectural curiosity.

By Dan Kois, March 6

2. The Happiest Place on Earth

According to the World Happiness Reportthe annual, much-covered studyFinland reigns supreme, and has for the past eight years. Slate contributor Imogen West-Knights spent a beautiful, partly nude week there to understand its secret.

By Imogen West-Knights, Aug. 27

3. Unhappy Hour

No one goes to happy hour after work anymore. And the reason why is grim.

By Luke Winkie, May 29

4. How Katy Perry Came Undone

How did Katy Perry lose the plot? Slates Scaachi Koul bravely took on the task of attending a stop on Perrys Lifetimes tour, where it became obvious why America turned on her.

By Scaachi Koul, June 4

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

5. Theres Something Very Dark Happening to Millennials and Gen Z Adults

Millennials are dying at an alarming rate. Mortality experts have a few ideas as to whyand why the trend may get worse under Trump.

By Elizabeth Wrigley-Field, Andrew Stokes, and Jacob Bor, Aug. 20

6. Those Dire Wolves Arent an Amazing Scientific Breakthrough. Theyre a Disturbing Symbol of Where Were Heading.

In April, the biotechnology company Colossal Biosciences revealed, with much fanfare, that they had created a trio of white wolf hybrids. Riley Black argues we shouldnt be celebrating de-extinction, but rather focusing on the species that are currently in danger.

By Riley Black, April 10

7. I Work in the Office Carrying Out the Government Purge. Heres What I Want You to Know.

Earlier this year, when DOGE started gutting government offices, it enlisted the help of the Office of Personnel Management. A pseudonymous OPM employee wrote about how Elon Musk and DOGEs Fork resignation offers were destroying them, too.

By Annie Porter, Feb. 7

Advertisement

8. Bad Brains

The worlds deadliest addiction is popping up on brain scans, and its not even a drug. As part of Slates Revenge Week, a Yale psychiatrist explained the brain on revenge.

By James Kimmel Jr., July 14

Advertisement

9. I Responded to One of the Spam Texts From a RecruiterThen Took the Job. It Got Weirder Than I Could Have Imagined.

Anyone with a cellphone has been propositioned at least once by a recruiter with a great offer to earn extra money, and with very little required of you. But what do these people wantand can you actually get paid? Slate writer Alexander Sammon decided to find out for himself.

By Alexander Sammon, Aug. 4

10. I Was Kamala Harris Videographer. I Wish I Could Show You What Ive Seen.

Over the past few years, as the official videographer and director of video to Vice President Kamala Harris, Azza Cohen traveled the world with her, watching her navigate the White House and the world stage. Along the way, she witnessed Harris impact, and it began to change her.

By Azza Cohen, Jan. 20

Advertisement

Advertisement

Honorable Mentions

Lost Vegas

Las Vegas is in trouble: Tourism has tanked, workers are scrambling for shifts, and casinosfinanced by new, more ravenous entitieshave made some dark adjustments to keep up with the times. Slates Luke Winkie, long a devotee of the destination city many love to hate, traveled to the town recently and left with his own theory for whats happening.

By Luke Winkie, Nov. 18

Advertisement

Advertisement

I Thought ChatGPT Was Killing My Students Skills. Its Killing Something More Important Than That.

All of us insist on the life-and-death importance of a thing called education. But theres no agreement on what that thing is.

By Phil Christman, May 14

The Car That Explains America

Alexander Sammon drove an electric Hummer on some of the nations most dangerous roads in Florida. Along the way, he explained how the very good intentions behind these massive zero-emissions trucks explain our national dysfunction better than anything else on wheels.

By Alexander Sammon, June 22

Advertisement

How America Got Its Baby Back, Baby Back, Baby Back

Despite other casual restaurants failing, Chilis is bigger than ever. Slates Dan Kois traveled to the companys test kitchen in Dallas and to Chilis locations around the country to find out how the chain pulled off the impossible in 2025.

By Dan Kois, Aug. 11

The Curious Case of the Pygmy Nuthatch

Rarely has a movie gotten so many things wrong and in such quick succession as in one climactic scene in Charlies Angels (2000), in a sequence that has haunted birders for decades. Slates Forrest Wickman explains in detail what went wrong.

By Forrest Wickman, May 11

Fake Oxford

Three kids thought they got the college acceptance of their dreams. When they got to school, they found something far different.

By Josh Levin, Sept. 23

Advertisement

One of the Most Absurd Changes to Air Travel Has Become So Common You Barely Even Notice It. You Should.

It used to be that the class delineator in airplane cabins was first class vs. everyone else. Thats changed, and now where you end up stuck on the plane is the most conspicuous sign of what weve all lost.

By Alex Kirshner, Oct. 9

Advertisement

The Menagerie Lurking in Rural America

Writer Sam Myers grew up in Ohio, and lived near the 2011 Zanesville massacre, in which tigers, lions, and bears escaped from a mans private collection and were shot by the police. He traveled to an animal auction in Nelson, Nebraska, to report on how things have changed in the exotic animal trade since.

By Sam Myers, July 8

Ive Told the Story About Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein for Years

Early one Sunday, when Jack ODonnell was the president of the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, Donald Trump and his friend Jeffrey Epstein arrived at the casino unannounced, bringing guests too young to be there. ODonnell recounts his experience and how the interest in the story has been renewed given recent events.

By Jack ODonnell, July 29

The 25 Greatest Picture Books of the Past 25 Years

Childrens literature is not the same as when we were little. In many ways, its better.

By Dan Kois and Rebecca Onion, Sept. 22
This piece was originally published in the Behind the Bench newsletter on state constitutional law. Behind the Bench is published by the State Law Research Initiative.

It can be astonishing, and more than a little depressing, to see the lengths some courts go to avoid upholding basic constitutional rights. In June, I wrote about how the North Carolina Supreme Courts Republican majority dilutes civil rights by requiring claimants to prove that challenged state actions, including discriminatory laws, are unconstitutional beyond a reasonable doubt. The problem, as liberal Justice Anita Earls pointed out, is that either the statute is consistent with the constitution or not, and the notion that you have to somehow establish that beyond a reasonable doubt makes no senseexcept, of course, as an excuse to erode civil rights.

Today, I bring your attention to the Colorado Supreme Court, which this month reaffirmed an inexplicable quirk of its excessive sentencing jurisprudence that preemptively extinguishes constitutional rights for entire categories of people. The court declares certain crimes to be per se grave or serious, which in practice means that no one convicted of such crimes can ever challenge their sentence, no matter its severity. The long-standing rule is both wholly illogical and blatantly unconstitutional (in the sense that it erases constitutional rights), but there is some good news: It appears that two justices are finally ready to, in their words, deep six this concept.

Colorados state constitution prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, including excessive or disproportionate prison terms. To assess excessive punishment claims, Colorado courts begin by comparing the gravity or seriousness of the offense to the harshness of the penalty. Normally, Colorado case law takes a relatively capacious view of how a crimes gravity should be measured. It accounts not just for the offense and its elements but also for potentially mitigating factors such as whether the person was an accessory, complicitor, or principal, along with the persons culpability and motive. In theory, this definition captures how personal characteristics (such as youth, disability, or addiction) and other circumstances (such as the role of group dynamics, poverty, or coercive relationships) might reduce someones culpability and factor into the constitutional analysis.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

But for some offenses, the Colorado Supreme Courtand only the Colorado Supreme Courthas devised what it calls the per se shortcut. Under this rule, the court designate[s] certain crimes per se grave or serious,  which, the court says, renders a sentence all but impervious to attack on proportionality grounds. In other words, the courts justices have decided they will not do their jobs for people who have certain convictions. Rather than actually assess excessive punishment claims in light of all the factors the law requires, they will just assume that these claims fail, giving prosecutors and legislators free rein to pursue the sort of punitive excess that has fueled mass incarceration for decades.

Advertisement

Related From Slate The North Carolina Supreme Courts One Neat Trick to Decimate Civil Rights Read More

And its not like this rule has been reserved for what might intuitively be the most violent, high-culpability crimes. Robbery, for example, remains per se grave or dangerous even though the circumstances under which robberies take place vary wildly, as do the characteristics of the people who commit them (more on that below). Even worse, for nearly 30 years Colorado courts put all drug offenses, including mere possession, on this list until a clarify[ing] decision in 2019 finally changed that. (It took decades for the Colorado Supreme Court to realize that it makes little sense to automatically treat the sale of a large quantity of cocaine by the leader of a drug cartel as equally grave or serious as the mere possession of a very small quantity of cocaine by a drug addict who is not involved in sale or distribution.)

Advertisement

The court concedes that this shortcut is unique to Colorado law and that it eliminates a longstanding layer of due process for criminal defendants. Nonetheless, it remains on the books because it supposedly saves time and promotes consistency. I would submit that saving time is never a good reason to dispense with constitutional rights, but the courts claims to efficiency are dubious in any case. Now, instead of properly analyzing its cruel and unusual clause, the court spends its time hopelessly trying to figure out what on earth per se grave or serious actually means and what offenses it applies to. With this rule in place, and with prosecutors thirsty to invoke it, the first part of every excessive punishment analysis turns into Tom Cruise cross-examining Jack Nicholson in A Few Good Men: Q: Grave Danger? A: [Raises eyebrow] Is there another kind?

Advertisement

Advertisement

But there is a glimmer of hope. In People v. Kennedy, decided earlier this month, Justices Carlos Samour and Richard Gabriel specially concurred to advocate nixing the per se grave or serious shortcut.

In Kennedy, the court stood by its shortcut and upheld the 24-year prison term at issue. But it also held that vehicular homicideDUI is not per se grave or serious because it is a strict liability crime with no specific intent element. When a crime requires no proof of mens rea, the court said, it is impossible to evaluate the culpability of defendants convicted of the offense under every factual scenario.

Advertisement

Advertisement

It is good that the court declined to expand the shortcut to cover a new offense, but the analytical problem here is that the same reasoning applies to crimes that do require proof of intent. To use an example mentioned above, the court thinks that people who commit robbery have sufficiently high culpability under every factual scenarioa conclusion that can only be understood as the willful ignorance of reality. Just a few other facts one might want to know: How old is the person? Are they a youth or emerging adult under age 25, and therefore more susceptible to peer pressure and impulsive decisionmaking? Was the person coerced by an abusive partner or authority figure? Did the person use a weapon and if so what kind? Was it a gun that turned out to be fake? Did the person act out of desperation? Was anyone physically harmed? The list goes on. To say that virtually no punishment could be unconstitutionally severe for all robbery convictions across all factual scenarios is absurd.

Advertisement

Justices Samour and Gabriel, at least, have started to push back. They argued that easier and faster isnt always better, and that such superficial proportionality review is inappropriate when constitutional rights are at stake. Ultimately, they found the drawbacks of per se designations far outweigh any purported benefits.

Advertisement

Of course, Samour and Gabriel are right, but Id add another critique: This constitutional shortcut makes absolutely no sense. Recall what it is ostensibly a shortcut to: comparing the gravity and/or seriousness of a criminal offense (including, per Colorado case law, characteristics of the offender) with the severity of the punishment imposed for it. In this context, neither grave nor serious is a bright-line, binary category. They exist along a spectrum. There is no being not serious up to a point before falling over a line into seriousness. This isnt bankruptcy. This is a test about whether certain prison terms are too severe; one would think or at least hope that the Colorado Supreme Court is not perfectly fine with incarceration for wholly unserious crimes. To say that an offense is automatically serious or grave, therefore, means absolutely nothing, and it certainly doesnt help understand if the resulting criminal punishment is fair.

Advertisement

What the court must mean, then, is that some crimes are sufficiently serious, but that only makes sense relative to the punishment imposeda fact irrelevant to the courts per se designation.

Perhaps I am thinking too hard about this. Such an arbitrary, court-created ruleborn out of some combination of cowardly deference to extreme punishments and sheer laziness, and that even prosecutors agree is a weird concept anywaydoesnt deserve that much credit. The point is: The Colorado Supreme Courts rule, it turns out, is less a shortcut and more a barrier to protecting fundamental constitutional rights that should be torn down.
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

Only days remain until Zohran Mamdani ascends the throne of New York City, and nearly all his great opponents have given up. Andrew Cuomo, vanquished. Financier Bill Ackman, reduced to congratulations for the mayor-elect and even offers of support. Donald Trump, singing his praises after inviting him over to hang. Maybe the great socialist boogeyman isnt so scary after all.

But not everyone is in the mood for total defeat. In a recent interview with Fox News, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in Long Island announced a novel approach to combat the threat of socialism bearing down from Americas largest city: He is building a wall.

Mamdani, he said, talks like hes pro-criminal, not pro-victim. And as such, in a last-ditch effort, Blakeman is going up with a wall on the border of Queens and Nassau counties, where New York City ends and what most think of as Long Island begins.

This makes plenty of sense. All truly great civilizations have a signature wall. China, for example. Also Donald Trumps America. So why not Long Island? And this is not some archaic cinderblock and mortar contraption: Its a top-of-the-line, high-tech fabrication.

We are installing technology along the border of New York City that will read license plates, that will have facial recognition, that will have video cameras, Blakeman said in late November. Nassau Exec Bruce Blakeman plans a wall of surveillance at NYC border after Mamdani win, boasted the New York Post. So maybe not a Great Wall of China exactly, but certainly a wall with Chinese characteristics, given that an estimated 90 percent of surveillance cameras are made in China.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

I appreciate the great works. But my request for a tour of the construction site was shot down; the county execs office gave me the elliptical redirect to watch Fox News. No one could tell me whether the wall was up or not. And the clock was ticking. So I headed for the borderlands, to watch the county batten down the hatches for the impending arrival of pro-criminal socialism, or else to delight in the last few days of open borders, Long Islandstyle.

I spoke with numerous sources in Long Island politics to pin down just where this wall might begin. The QueensNassau border is no small tract. To make matters worse, the border is effectively a stretch of highway, the Cross Island Parkway.

I began my tour at Bellerose Terrace, which I was told might be singled out as high priority. I got off at Jericho Turnpike. No surveillance wall in sight.

Advertisement

I stopped by the Bellerose Village Hall and asked for directions to the wall. A very kind woman working behind the desk straightened me out: I was being too literal.

I think theyre talking about cameras, she told me. But even so, she couldnt point me to any new ones. We havent seen any of that yet. They didnt tell the village anything.

Advertisement

The wall would be a crowning achievement of Blakemans tenure as county executive in Nassau. He has, in some sense, made Long Island into one of the worlds policing laboratories. In August, the county unveiled a $70 million police training village, replete with New York Citystyle homes, a church, a courtroom, a bar, and even a Long Island Rail Roadstyle station, where police run around doing what look a lot like combat exercises. Blakeman has also chartered a militia, hiring and deputized armed citizens for mobilization during emergency declarations. And now the wall.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Some would say that astronomical financial commitments to policing have gotten results. A 2024 U.S. News and World Report study found that Nassau County was one of the safest counties in America. Others would say that that same survey also found that the rest of the New York metropolitan areaaka crime-infested hellscape teeming with socialist policieswas similarly safe. Ten of the top 25 safest counties in the country were in New York metro, including Queens County and Brooklyn. The next year Blakeman announced even more police hires, and no more tax hikes to pay for them.

I got back on the Cross Island Parkway and headed for Elmont. This was another town, I was told, that had been identified for wall construction.

Again, I saw nothing.

I saw a Nassau County Police Department squad car and talked to the officer inside. That is coming from way more higher up than me, he told me, of the wall implementation. He, too, was at a loss as to where I could identify some of these new cameras. I mean, they could be up in any of the towers, he said. Street lights and telephone poles and electrical wires were all fair game.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

This abstracted wall, hung high in civilian infrastructure and currently invisible, couldnt come at a more important time. With Elise Stefanik summarily bounced from the New York gubernatorial race after a swift falling out with Republican national political leadership, Blakeman is now likely to be the Republican standard bearer, in a race Republicans continue to tell themselves they can actually win because of the unpopularity of Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul, the fantastic ineptitude of the New York Democratic Party, and some anti-socialist backlash to the Mamdani ascendance. Republicans love to point out Blakeman won his most recent race by close to 12 percentage points in a county with over 100,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans. Trump has already endorsed him.

Advertisement

The result of Blakemans police push is that, obviously, the police budget is gargantuan. The 2025 budget of $4.2 billion doesnt raise property taxes for the fourth year in a row, even though it adds over 50 new cops; over $1 billion of that is going to the police. He has boasted that he has hired 600 law enforcement officers and vetoed over $150 million in tax hikes, which would seem to spell financial trouble in the long run.

Advertisement

Related From Slate The Very First Things the Next Democratic President Needs to Do After Taking Office Read More

When asked how he would foot the bill for it all, Blakeman told Fox News it would come from civil asset forfeitures, an extremely controversial practice that allows law enforcement to seize propertyincluding cash, cars, and assets like homesfrom people merely suspected of being linked to crime, even without being charged or convicted. Some might say that they were going to pay for the wall by stealing from people in New York City.

I drove down to Valley Stream. Same story, no construction cones, no earth-moving, no camera crews. I stopped by another Nassau County Police Department office, where they instructed me to call the public affairs contact, who told me not only that he didnt think theyd even started yet, but that he wasnt even sure theyre even gonna be allowed to do that.

So maybe it was open borders after all. What else was there to do? I got back on the Cross Island Parkway, drove it north and south, crossed freely into Nassau and back into Queens. I counted preexisting security cameras as I went: three on a large gray tower on the west side of the parkway. One on decommissioned road work sign. One on a streetlight near the off-ramp. One more on another gray tower. Did I commit crimes all the way? Wouldnt you like to know.
This weeks Slate Plus bonus episode of Amicus is another entry in our occasional Dear (Juris)Prudence series, in which we invite listeners to ask their burning questions about the law and answer them as best we can. Write to amicus@slate.com to pose a question to Dahlia and Mark. This transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Dear (Juris)Prudence,

What do we do about the Supreme Court? Several Supreme Court decisions over the past decade under John ball-and-strikes Roberts have not just reinterpreted laws but have effectively rewritten the Constitution such that many Democratic priorities are now effectively unconstitutional (gun control, campaign finance regulations, civil rights). Even a trifecta with a filibuster-proof majority cannot pass laws to address these issues. If you were put in charge of writing the Democrats Project 2029 Supreme Court chapter, what recommendations would you give to undo the damage this court has done that goes beyond waiting for the Grim Reaper?

Phil Schumacher

Mark Joseph Stern: Ive already laid out the blitz of executive actions that the next Democratic president needs to undertake immediately to undo the damage of Trumpism. But this question points toward an uncomfortable reality: To survive and endure, the next administrations agenda must be accompanied by a suite of structural reforms that will, over time, make the Supreme Court more reflective of popular will. Congress absolutely needs to add states to the union, starting with the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. That will ensure that rural red states like Wyoming and South Dakota are not so egregiously overrepresented. Remember, the senators who voted to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court represented fewer people than the senators who voted to oppose him. That is a huge structural problem that Congress can fix.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Now, any structural reforms that Congress enactsincluding statehood for D.C.need to include a provision stating that the Supreme Court cannot strike it down with a supermajority vote of 72. I am borrowing that idea from law professors Ryan D. Doerfler and Samuel Moyn. North Dakota and Nebraska actually have a version of this in their constitutions: Their state Supreme Courts can only strike down laws when a supermajority of justices finds them unconstitutional. I dont think thats such a bad idea. A supermajority requirement to invalidate legislation should be stuffed into everything Democrats do from here on out. Not just D.C. statehood, but campaign finance reform, gun safety laws, environmental regulations, civil rights. Put it in there that the law cannot be struck down unless seven justices agree that its unconstitutional.

Advertisement

I would also add a timing element, because this is one of the most insidious ways that the Supreme Court manipulates its docket. Think back to the Affordable Care Act: By the time SCOTUS weighed in, Democrats had lost their majority in the House of Representatives, so they would not have been able to repair whatever damage the court inflicted. There needs to be a time limit for judicial review built into all of these bills, combined with stringent limitations on forum shopping so that Matthew Kacsmaryk cannot immediately block them indefinitely. All legislation should require that any challenge must be commenced within, say, 30 days of the laws enactment. And that challenge must be heard by a three-judge district court randomly drawn from around the country. Every bill should create an expedited appeals process and say that the Supreme Court must decide on the laws constitutionality within one calendar year of passageat which point Congress composition would presumably be the same.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Related From Slate The Very First Things the Next Democratic President Needs to Do After Taking Office Read More

What happens if the Supreme Court refuses to comply with all of this? The logical next step is to expand the court. Of course, Democrats could always choose to start with that, but I dont think the political will is there quite yet. It seems to me that the first step needs to be a good-faith effort by Democrats to recalibrate the balance of power by reestablishing Congress primacy and diminishing the Supreme Courts untouchable supremacy. If SCOTUS wont allow that, then its time to add four seats.

Thats when the liberal justices need to aggressively restore constitutional democracy by ruthlessly overturning all of the worst decisions of the Roberts court. You know what Im talking about: Dobbs, Shelby County v. Holder, Rucho v. Common Cause, all the bad voting-rights rulings, the affirmative action decision. The current Republican justices have already shredded adherence to precedent. A future liberal majority should say no to unilateral disarmament and apply the same rules. That is how Democrats put the court back in its place: by undoing its attacks on democracy and restoring the constitutional settlement the Roberts court has spent years dismantling. I think its something Democrats should be talking about right now.
At a meeting with Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, Nikol Pashinyan told the Russian leader about the negotiations with the United States on TRIPP. Pashinyan said that "bilateral negotiations with the United States are currently underway in a very constructive way regarding the start of the implementation and construction of the TRIPP road, and these are really very big and meaningful changes in our region." At the same time, the Armenian Prime minister added that "there are many nuances" concerning the bilateral relations between Armenia and Russia, and it would be necessary to discuss all this.

What nuances did Nikol Pashinyan talk about? Probably about those that the Russian side recently reminded Yerevan about.

Mikhail Kalugin, Director of the 4th CIS Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, recently expressed the view that if the subsidiary of Russian Railways, the Southern Railway, has the concession right to manage the railways of Armenia, then the future "Trump Route" should also be considered in this logic. In addition, Kalugin recalled, TRIPP will pass most of the software through the area of responsibility of the Russian border guards. H2, and we should not forget that Armenia is a member of the EAEU, and it is obvious that the parties to this project cannot do without Russia.

If you do not take into account one really significant nuance, which we will discuss below, then the words of the Russian official contain logic. Indeed, the railways of Armenia are managed by the Southern Railway, and only this company has had the right to manage the railway network of this country since 2008. This right is given to the "daughter" of Russian Railways for thirty years with the possibility of extension. When signing the concession agreement, Yerevan did not think that the day would come when everything would change so much that Armenia would try to get rid of the status of an outpost. This status provided the Armenian side with certain preferences, including guaranteeing the preservation of the status quo in the Karabakh conflict. However, despite all the changes, the agreement exists, and if it is not terminated, the parties must follow it.

After coming to power, Nikol Pashinyan made an attempt to put an end to the Russian monopoly. At the end of 2018, an investigation into the activities of SSR was launched, searches were conducted at the company's offices, and documents were seized. It was stated that the company is suspected of embezzling $ 60 million. Four criminal cases were initiated against the SSR - two by the State Revenue Committee, one each by the Investigative Committee and the National Security Service. In addition, the government was dissatisfied with the level of modernization that the SSR undertook under the agreement. In turn, the Russian side countered with the fact that the existing railway network in the country does not require expansion, as it is not in demand by the population. The country is small, the population is insignificant, and the terrain is unsuitable for railway construction. In the end, the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation started talking about the possibility of Russian Railways leaving Armenia. However, after all the twists and turns, the situation has calmed down, and the SSR continues to retain the concession right to the Armenian railway.

Theoretically, Armenia can terminate the agreement with Russian Railways, but this is a complex legal process that entails possible financial and legal consequences. For example, Armenia may be obliged to pay compensation to Russian Railways, cover losses or the purchase price of assets. Etc.

Given all this, Yerevan cannot simply ignore the Russian presence on the railway and on the border. In order to start work on the Meghri section of the Zangezur corridor, Russia must transfer the concession right to it to Armenia. Pashinyan understands this himself. He was just talking about this to journalists the other day, however, regarding other roads. These are roads that Armenia needs, but Azerbaijan does not need. And since Azerbaijan does not need them, their restoration, in principle, makes no sense, as they will run into a dead end. We are talking about the Hrazdan-Dilijan-Ijevan-Gazakh road and the road to the border with Turkiye. Pashinyan appealed to the concessionaire to restore them as quickly as possible. Since the SCR did not show much enthusiasm, the Armenian Prime Minister announced that Armenia was ready to withdraw these sections from Russian concession management and restore them at its own expense. In other words, Yerevan understands the concession right of the Russian Railways subsidiary.

But there is one more nuance, which is very important. The fact is that the Meghri Railway connecting mainland Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan has never been operated by Armenian Railways. It was and is the property not of Armenia or Russia, but of the Azerbaijani Railways. The Meghri railway station is still listed as belonging to AZHD.

A few days ago, Armenian users shared a video from the destroyed Meghri station on social networks. The video proudly stated that the Armenians did not allow the Azerbaijanis to erect a monument to Azizbekov in front of the station, overnight dragging a bust of Shahumyan from a nearby mine and placing it on a pedestal. Hatred of Azerbaijanis has always lived in the Armenian society. In the 70s, at the height of the peoples' friendship, nationalists also very carefully ensured that no monuments to Azerbaijanis appeared on the territory of the Armenian SSR.





The notorious provocateur Lapshin, visiting the Megri station in 2019, took these photos, not suspecting what kind of service he would do us. No one could have imagined then that the issue of the road through Meghri would return to the agenda.

The video caused outrage among nationalists, who did not like the fact that the Azerbaijanis were going to erect their monument on the territory of Armenia. By what right? - they were indignant. But it turns out that there is a right. The fact is that the Meghri station was the property of Azerbaijan. The station was opened on a railway owned by AZD, with Azerbaijani money, and the government of the republic, as the owner, planned to erect a monument to Meshadi Azizbekov there. Western Zangezur, even after several deportations and purges, was still an Azerbaijani-populated region, which served as a source of constant concern and fury for nationalists concerned about perceived threats to their "identity." Therefore, upon learning about Baku's plans, the Armenians immediately welded Shahumyan's head and placed it on a pedestal under cover of night. Of course, no one had to answer for arbitrariness. Styopa's head was smashed in 1993, and the debris lying on the ground was so unrecognizable that Russian bloggers who visited this "epic corner" of Armenia before the war kept getting confused between Shahumyan and Kamo. It is impossible to blame the Azerbaijanis for this, since they were expelled from Zangezur even before the Meghri road ceased to function.

The railway through Meghri did not belong to Armenia because there was no such thing as Armenian Railways before 1991. All roads in Irevan and other provinces were built before the toponym Armenia appeared on the map of the region, and in Soviet times the railway network of the Armenian SSR, with the exception of the Meghri road, was operated by the Transcaucasian Railway. So, by and large, nothing new happened in 2008. During the years of self-government - from 1991 to 2008 - the railway network of the newly independent country fell into complete disrepair, and the concession management of Russian Railways returned everything to its usual places.

Meanwhile, the Azerbaijan Railway gained independence during the ADR. And then in 1955, the AJD received the status of an independent railway within the USSR Ministry of Highways. And it remained so until the collapse of the Soviet Union, preserving its rights.

It can be learned from open sources that the line through Meghri, "served by the Azerbaijani Railway, did not transfer to the Armenian Railway, as it was closed and liquidated in November 1989 in connection with the Karabakh conflict." But this is the traditional lie of Wikipedia. The road through Meghri was closed not in 1989, but after the collapse of the USSR and the outbreak of the First Karabakh War. The last train passed through Meghri in April 1992.

Until 2008, Armenia's railways remained virtually unattended. However, as well as all the infrastructure inherited from the past. The republic itself, accustomed to living at the expense of others and unable to do on its own, was engaged in destroying what was built during the Soviet era. Armenian media indicate that by 2003, the railway section from Kapan to Meghri had been dismantled, and about 70 wagons and dismantled tracks were handed over, or rather, sold for scrap to Iran. Nikol Pashinyan's government has initiated an investigation into these facts. It turned out that the vandalism was carried out with the permission and with the participation of the Ministry of Defense. The road was dismantled not by some random vandals, but by the authorities on the direct instructions of Robert Kocharyan. The targeted dismantling and sale of 40 kilometers of tracks to Iran took only a year. To break is not to build. The sale was handled by the National Security Service.

As a result, property belonging to Azerbaijan was destroyed and sold.

In short, the Zangezur corridor, TRIPP, or whatever you want to call it, is a project that cannot fail to take into account the interests of Azerbaijan as the legal successor of this line. It continues to be a part of the Azerbaijani Railways, even if someone does not like it. There were no documents on the transfer of control to the Armenian side, and no negotiations were conducted. These facts should be taken into account not only by the neighbors, but also by the concession campaign that manages the Armenian railways today.

If Yerevan is talking about long-term peace now, it should not forget about it. The Armenian side destroyed this road itself, and it must rebuild it itself, taking into account, among other things, Azerbaijani interests. Armenia owes Azerbaijan more than the value of its entire economy during the thirty years of occupation. This does not mean that Baku claims the internationally recognized territory of its neighbor or wants more than it can give. It's just that Yerevan, its American partners, and its Russian concessionaires should not forget that Azerbaijan is not just one of the countries that will use communications through Meghri, strictly following Armenian laws. This is a country that has much more rights in this project than anyone else.
Here in North America, major power tool brand Metabo Tools is now going by the name Metabo HPT, HPT referring to Hitachi Power Tools, which acquired the brand in 2016. Later, in 2017, a global investment firm called KKR partnered with Hitachi Koki Co. Ltd. to acquire Hitachi's power tool division. That move allowed the power tool business to exist separately from the rest of the parent company's business.

In 2018, Metabo introduced the Metabo HPT line. While Metabo and Metabo HPT were both owned by the same parent organization, they were positioned as separate brands. Metabo continued to focus on grinding, drilling, and specialty metalworking tools, while Metabo HPT was more about things like pneumatic nailers, woodworking tools, and other tools for DIY projects or professional job sites using the MultiVolt platform. Now, though, the two have officially become one (at least in North America): Metabo tools will now start taking on the Metabo HPT name.

Read more: Here's Who Really Owns All Of The Major Tool Brands

What changed (and what didn't)

Metabo HPT and Metabo tools side by side - Tool Deals/YouTube

Right off the bat, the first thing Metabo users will notice about the Metabo HPT rebrand is the color scheme. Metabo tools always have pops of red or orange among the green, while the Metabo HPT tools are way more green with only the occasional use of red or orange. Beyond these minor differences in color, very little is actually changing. The tools themselves are staying the same, and that goes for everything from performance and durability to internal components and build quality. Even model numbers are mostly staying intact, with only some small adjustments to distributor systems to help with new labeling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

In reality, that means a framing nailer or impact driver ordered under the Metabo HPT name is effectively the same tool professionals have relied on for years under the Hitachi banner. If it sounds more confusing, it's actually the opposite. In North America, the shift toward the Metabo HPT name across the board means no more overlapping product lines, no more incompatible products, and a more unified family of cordless tools built around the brand's MultiVolt platform.

Want the latest in tech and auto trends? Subscribe to our free newsletter for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on SlashGear.
NECs 5G difficulties expose deeper problems in Japans telecom sector

Global Times) 08:56, December 29, 2025

Japanese telecom equipment maker NEC decided to halt development of wireless base stations for smartphones and other devices compatible with the 4G and 5G communications standards, representing "a retreat from a market dominated by Chinese and European players," the Nikkei Asia reported on Sunday.

The decision by NEC, a key player in Japan's telecom equipment sector, is widely considered a natural outcome shaped by market forces against business models that lack economies of scale and sustainable market competitiveness. NEC's predicament is essentially a microcosm of the deep-seated development difficulties currently facing Japan's telecommunications equipment industry.

Modern telecom gear industry is marked by high globalization and intensive in capital expenditure, where economies of scale serve as the cornerstone of survival and development. Enormous sales volume is required to amortize costs and support technological iteration across a broad spectrum of research and development, wireless network manufacturing, and market promotion.

Currently, China's Huawei Technologies, Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia control nearly 80 percent of the global market for 4G and 5G base stations, while Japanese NEC and Fujitsu holding less than 2 percent of the global market share, the Nikkei Asia reported, citing data from research firm Omdia. The inability to gain sufficient market share has trapped NEC's related businesses in a quagmire of losses, ultimately forcing it to scale back production.

But Japan is unlikely to completely retreat from telecom gear market. Although NEC decided to call an end to 4G and 5G base station development, the company briefed media that it will continue development for the next-generation 6G wireless network standards. The move appears to epitomize Japan's efforts in recent years to promote 6G research and development, in order to walk out of the passive position it has been trapped in sluggish 4G and 5G development.

In 2020, Japan launched the Beyond 5G Promotion Strategy, a roadmap toward 6G that proposed the sequential establishment of key technologies starting from 2025 and the adoption of Beyond 5G communication services by 2030. However, the feasibility of such a strategy remains uncertain.

As reported by the Xinhua News Agency in April 2024, industry experts believe that Japan's insufficient development of 5G may affect its progress in 6G development. The ultra-high-frequency spectrums allocated to 6G can only travel in straight lines and over very short distances, necessitating a much denser deployment of base stations. And, compounding this challenge is Japan's inadequate 5G infrastructure.

More critically, there are significant shortcomings in Japan's technology reserves. Japan's 6G patent applications accounted for merely 9.9 percent of the global total, according to a survey conducted by Japanese media company Nikkei and Tokyo-based research company Cyber Creative Institute.

What is more noteworthy is that earlier this month, Japan, Australia, Canada, the UK and the US held a closed-door meeting of the international partnership known as the Global Coalition on Telecommunications (GCOT) in Tokyo. While the GCOT ostensibly focuses on cooperation in artificial intelligence and next-generation 6G standards, it is interpreted by media outlets like Nikkei Asia and Australia's Channel News as efforts to counter "China's grip on global telecoms."

Any attempt to shape a new high-speed telecom system based on geopolitical considerations is bound to face formidable challenges due to its dividing the global market, increasing technology development costs, and reducing network interoperability.

The past development experiences of 4G and 5G clearly demonstrate that truly viable and competitive technologies originate from widespread market demand, open cooperation, and sufficient market testing, rather than being arbitrarily shaped by geopolitical intentions. Japan's telecom gear industry faces constraints at the industrial level: it does not have a sufficiently large and unified internal market to incubate technologies and form economies of scale. Political alliances cannot compensate for its industrial shortcomings.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Wu Chaolan)
Akbar Novruz



Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held a telephone conversation with his Georgian counterpart Maka Botchorishvili, during which the sides discussed the export of Azerbaijani oil products to Armenia through Georgian territory, Azernews reports.

According to a statement released by Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry, the ministers reviewed the current state and future prospects of the friendly and strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Georgia. They emphasized that sustained political dialogue at the highest levels, along with frequent mutual visits, has played a key role in further strengthening bilateral relations. The importance of expanding high-level political contacts in the coming year was also underlined.

The conversation focused on regional trade and communication issues, with both sides welcoming ongoing efforts in this direction. The ministers expressed satisfaction with the agreement reached on the tariff issue related to the export of Azerbaijani oil products to Armenia via Georgia, stressing the need to continue coordinated work. Bayramov conveyed his gratitude to the Georgian leadership for the prompt resolution of the matter.

The sides also exchanged views on other bilateral and regional issues. Concluding the call, the ministers extended their congratulations on the upcoming New Year and voiced confidence that Azerbaijan-Georgia relations will further deepen in the year ahead.
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

This artists rendering shows the ESCAPADE probes near Mars. | Credit: NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center

This article was originally published at The Conversation. The publication contributed the article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights .

After a yearslong series of setbacks, NASA's Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers, or ESCAPADE , mission has finally begun its roundabout journey to Mars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Launched on Nov. 13, 2025, aboard Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, ESCAPADE's twin probes will map the planet's magnetic field and study how the solar wind  the stream of charged particles released from the Sun  has stripped away the Martian atmosphere over billions of years.

When I was a doctoral student , I helped develop the VISIONS camera systems onboard each of ESCAPADEs spacecraft, so I was especially excited to see the successful launch.

But this low-cost mission is still only getting started, and it's taking bigger risks than typical big-ticket NASA missions.

ESCAPADE is part of NASA's Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration, or SIMPLEx, program that funds lowcost, higherrisk projects. Of the five SIMPLEx missions selected so far, three have failed after launch due to equipment problems that might have been caught in more traditional, tightly managed programs. A fourth sits in indefinite storage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

ESCAPADE will not begin returning science data for about 30 months, and the program's history suggests the odds are not entirely in its favor. Nonetheless, the calculus goes that if enough of these missions are successful, NASA can achieve valuable science at a reduced cost  even with some losses along the way.

Lower cost, higher risk

NASA classifies payloads on a fourtier risk scale, from A to D .

Class A missions are the most expensive and highest priority, like the James Webb Space Telescope , Europa Clipper and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope . They use thoroughly proven hardware and undergo exhaustive testing.

ESCAPADE is at the other end. It's a class D mission, defined as having "high risk tolerance" and "medium to low complexity."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Of the 21 class D missions that have launched since the designation was first applied in 2009, NASA has not had a single class D mission launch on schedule. Only four remained under budget. Four were canceled outright prior to launch.

ESCAPADE, which will have cost an estimated US$94.2 million by the end of its science operations in 2029, has stayed under the $100 million mark through a series of costsaving choices. It has a small set of key instruments , a low spacecraft mass to reduce launch costs, and extensively uses generic commercial components instead of custom hardware.

NASA also outsourced to private companies: Much of the spacecraft development went to Rocket Lab and the trajectory design to Advanced Space LLC , with tight contract limits to make sure the contractors didn't go over budget.

Additional savings came from creative arrangements, including the universityfunded VISIONS camera package and a discounted ride on New Glenn , which Blue Origin wanted to fly anyway for its own testing objectives.

An illustration from Rocket Lab of the Escapade mission with Rocket Lab's key designs. | Credit: Rocket Lab

Commercial space

ESCAPADE launched at a moment of transition in space science.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

NASA and other science agencies are facing the steepest budget pressures in more than 60 years , with political winds shifting funding toward human spaceflight . At the same time, the commercial space sector is booming , with long-imagined technologies that enable cheap space travel finally entering service.

That boom has, in part, led to a resurgence in NASA's " faster, better, cheaper " push that originated in the 1980s and '90s  and which largely faded after the 2003 Columbia disaster .

In theory, leaner NASA oversight, greater use of offtheshelf hardware and narrower science goals can cut costs while launching more missions and increasing the total science return. If ESCAPADE succeeds in delivering important science, it will be held up as evidence that this more commercial, risk-tolerant template can deliver.

The trade-offs

A concept put forward by Jared Isaacman , the Trump administration's nominee to lead NASA, is that 10 $100 million missions would be better than one $1 billion flagship  or top-tier  mission. This approach could encourage faster mission development and would diversify the types of missions heading out into the solar system.

Advertisement Advertisement

But that reorganization comes with trade-offs. For example, lowcost missions rarely match flagship missions in scope, and they typically do less to advance the technology necessary for doing innovative science.

With a narrow scope, missions like ESCAPADE are unlikely to produce the most transformative discoveries about, for instance, the origins of life or the nature of dark matter , or the first chemical analyses of oceans on a new world . Instead, they focus on more specific questions.

Early in ESCAPADE's development, my role was to help create a planning document for the VISIONS cameras called the Science Traceability Matrix, which defines an instruments scientific goals and translates them into concrete measurement requirements.

My colleagues and I systematically asked: What do we want to learn? What observations prove it? And, critically, how precisely does the instrument need to work to be "good enough," given the budget? Loftier goals usually demand more complex instruments and operations, which drive up costs.

Advertisement Advertisement

ESCAPADE's broader goals are to create a clearer picture of Mars' magnetic field, how the solar wind interacts with it, and figure out what that process does to Mars' atmosphere. That is valuable science. But it is more modest than the $583 million predecessor mission MAVEN's more extensive scope and richer suite of instruments . It was MAVEN that determined how and when Mars lost its once-dense atmosphere in the first place.

Both ESCAPADE and MAVEN are dwarfed again by the openended potential of an operation like the James Webb Space Telescope , which observes a limitless slate of astronomical objects in the infrared light spectrum with a higher resolution than any combination of prior smaller telescopes.

Flagship missions like the James Webb Space Telescope push the state of the art in new technologies and materials. These innovations then filter into both future missions and everyday life . For example, the Webb telescope advanced the medical tools used in eye exams . Smaller missions rely more heavily on existing, mature technologies.

And when systems are built by private companies rather than NASA, those companies keep tight control over the patents rather than openly spreading the technology across the scientific community.

An image from Blue Origin's New Glenn ESCAPADE launch. | Credit: Blue Origin

A tense road to launch

ESCAPADE's principal investigator, Rob Lillis , has joked that it is the mission with 11 lives, having survived 11 nearcancellations. Problems ranged from being late in reaching the technology readiness levels that helped ensure the probes wouldn't malfunction after launch, to the loss of its original free ride, with NASA's Psyche mission .

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2024, ESCAPADE received support from NASA to ride on New Glenn's maiden flight, only to face delays as Blue Origin worked through technical hurdles . At last, in October 2025, ESCAPADE reached the launchpad.

I traveled to Cape Canaveral for the launch and felt the tension firsthand. The first window was scrubbed by bad weather and issues with ground equipment . Then a strong solar storm  ironically, a key driver of the very processes ESCAPADE will study  shut down the second window.

Concurrently, the Federal Aviation Administration imposed new launch restrictions due to the government shutdown that would have postponed the launch further if not for a last-minute exemption.

Finally, on Nov. 13, after repeated setbacks, New Glenn lifted off to cheers around the country. ESCAPADE reached orbit, and after a nervous few hours of receiver misalignment, mission controllers established communication with the spacecraft.

What's next

While in Florida, I also watched another milestone in commercial spaceflight: the record-breaking 94th launch from Cape Canaveral in 2025, marking the most launches from Florida in a single year. It was a SpaceX Falcon 9 carrying Starlink satellites.

Advertisement Advertisement

Like New Glenn, SpaceX's Falcon 9 saves money by landing and reusing rockets . If multiple providers like SpaceX and Blue Origin compete to keep launch prices low, the economics of small science missions will only improve.

If ESCAPADE's twin spacecraft reach Mars and deliver new insights as planned, they will demonstrate how minimalist, commercial-forward approaches can expand the planetary knowledge base.

But even then, a string of future SIMPLEx successes would likely not be a substitute for the uniquely capable, technologyadvancing flagship missions that answer the most farreaching questions. ESCAPADE can instead help test whether a broader mix of small missions  leaning on commercial partners and a few big, ambitious flagships  can together sustain planetary science in an era of tight budgets.

For now, that balance remains an open experiment, and only time will tell whether ESCAPADE is a lone bright spot or the start of a real shift.
Russia has designed a spinning space station with gravity  as seen in 2001: A Space Odyssey - MGM

Russia has patented a space station that spins to create gravity to allow astronauts to live and work without floating.

The Russian state rocket company Energia has submitted plans for a space base that would rotate five times a minute, creating a centrifugal force mimicking 50 per cent of Earths gravity.

Currently, astronauts on orbiting space stations such as the International Space Station (ISS) experience microgravity, and float because the spacecraft is in constant free-fall around Earth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

But living without gravity is hugely detrimental to human health, causing bone and muscle loss, heart deconditioning, immune system changes, and vision and cognition problems.

Space agencies have toyed with the idea of creating gravity for decades to get round the health issues, but until now it has remained in the realm of science fiction. A similar spinning space station appears in the film 2001: A Space Odyssey.

b'

'

The space station design, which was published on the Russian Federation Federal Service of Intellectual Property website, states that the objective of the proposed invention is to improve the design of a space system with artificial gravity in order to increase the safety of use by the crew.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The structure, which resembles an electric fan, comprises a central spinning module attached to habitation arms that rotate, creating an outward force that would pin those on board to the floor. Living quarter arms  which extend out like spokes on a wheel  would need to be around 40m long to create the sufficient rotation radius for the necessary force to be created.

The patent says: The space system with artificial gravity includes an axial module with static and rotating parts, connected with the help of a hermetically sealed flexible junction, as well as habitable modules, rotation equipment and power sources.

The surface of the Moon has around one sixth of Earths gravity, so the effect would be significantly stronger, meaning astronauts would be able to walk and work without floating, although it would still feel lighter than at home.

Illustrations accompanying the Energia patent

Assembling the station would require multiple launches and assembly in orbit, and the station has been designed to be built from the inside out, with more habitation modules added to the arms as required. However, the patent notes that attaching parts to a spinning station is likely to be tricky.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The plans have emerged as the ISS approaches the end of its life, with decommissioning expected in 2030, and multiple countries and commercial space groups already planning alternatives.

Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, is working on the Russian Orbital Space Station (ROSS) and there are reports that it is planning to detach and repurpose its ISS segments. The rest of the ISS will be deorbited and likely burn up in the Earths atmosphere.

Nasa and the European Space Agency will soon start building the Lunar Gateway, which will orbit the Moon and act as a stepping stone to the surface.

The concept of a ring-shaped rotating space station was first proposed by the Russian rocket scientist Konstantin Tsiolkovsky. It was later championed by German-American space pioneer Wernher von Braun.

An artists impression of what a space station with artificial gravity could look like - Science Photo Library

Nasa and Stanford University came up with the idea of a rotating space station in 1975, and called it the Stanford Torus. The ring-shaped station was designed to be more than a mile in diameter and house 10,000 permanent residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

In 2011, Nasa also began development of the Nautilus-X rotating wheel space station but the project was cancelled because of budget constraints.

The Russian design is similar to that of US start-up Vast, which is also planning a wheel and spoke system spinning station, known as Haven.

The company launched a small spacecraft in November packed with test electronics and machinery and hopes to begin launching modules in 2026, although it is unclear if the concept will work.

Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays.
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: CC0 Public Domain

A research team led by Professor Kanghyun Nam from the Department of Robotics and Mechanical Engineering at DGIST has developed a physical AI-based vehicle state estimation technology that accurately estimates the driving state of electric vehicles in real time.

This technology is viewed as a key advancement that can improve the core control performance of electric vehicles and greatly enhance the safety of autonomous vehicles. The work was conducted through international joint research with Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China and the University of Tokyo in Japan.

The work is published in the journal IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics.

The sideslip angle, which shows how much an electric vehicle slides sideways during sharp turns or on slippery surfaces, is crucial information for safe driving. Since this value is difficult to measure directly with in-vehicle sensors, automakers depend on complex physical models or indirect estimates. These methods face issues due to low accuracy and limitations across different driving conditions.

To address these issues, Professor Nam's team created a new physical AI-based estimation technology combining AI and physical models. The main idea is that it significantly enhances accuracy by merging a physical model describing vehicle motion with data from sensors measuring lateral tire force and an AI-based regression model (GPR).

To address nonlinear tire behavior and environmental changes that are difficult for physical models to explain, the research team developed a hybrid estimation framework that combines a physical tire model with an AI-based learning model. Specifically, by using an unscented Kalman filter (UKF) observer integrated with Gaussian process regression (GPR), the team secured both the flexibility of data-driven learning and the reliability of the physical model. This combination enables more accurate and faster estimation of the vehicle's slip angle compared to traditional methods.

During actual electric vehicle platform testing, this technology exhibited high accuracy and strong estimation performance across different road surfaces, speeds, and cornering conditions. Accurate vehicle state estimation is essential for driving stability control, autonomous driving safety, and energy efficiency in electric vehicles. This achievement is seen as a major technological breakthrough for future mobility, as it opens new possibilities for AI-based physical vehicle control.

Professor Nam stated, "Through a new approach that combines physical models and AI, we can estimate the driving conditions of electric vehicles with greater precision and reliability. This research will serve as a core foundation for next-generation autonomous driving and electric vehicle technology. We will further develop this technology through joint research with global automakers and expand it into a technology applicable to actual industrial settings."

More information: Kanghyun Nam et al, Physically Informed Sideslip Angle Estimation for Electric Vehicles Using Lateral Tire Force Sensors and a GPR-UKF Observer, IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics (2025). DOI: 10.1109/tie.2025.3626629
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

One of the first modern coworking spaces, C-Base in Berlin, was launched 30 years ago by a group of computer engineers as a "hacker space" in which to share their tech and techniques. Similarly, many of the people we first encountered in our anthropological research into the emerging world of digital nomadism in the mid-2010s were hackers and computer coders.

Nearly a decade later, we returned to Chiang Mai to see what had happened to these pioneers of the borderless, desk-free life. We wondered if they had been put off by the throngs of travelers who have followed in their sandal-clad footsteps, attracted by glamorousif often inaccurateimages of the digital nomad lifestyle.

One of the city's nomad hotspots is Yellow Coworking, which launched in 2020 as a blockchain-oriented, collaborative escape zone from the COVID pandemic. The later stages of the pandemic were an interesting time to be in Chiang Mai: Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 was followed by mass layoffs in Silicon Valley when Twitter, Meta, Coinbase and Microsoft all made significant cuts.

Yellow Coworking saw an influx of former Silicon Valley workers, Russian and Ukrainian coders, and crypto enthusiasts. "Some ex-Silicon Valley employees are here playing around with startups," one Yellow staff member explained. "It makes sense for them to come here if they are trying to create an MVP" (that's "minimum viable product"startup jargon for a basic prototype that, with luck, will become the next technological success story).

"With its lower costs," the staff member added, "Chiang Mai gives them a longer runway" (the amount of time the startup can remain solvent without raising additional funds).

People walking into Yellow Coworking's modernist, European-style building simply raise their hands to sign themselves in via biometric fingerprint scanners. Many are computer coders or IT specialists in their 20s, taking advantage of fast broadband and (mostly western) passports to disconnect their lives from any particular location. They view technology and code as a global language, with no need to stay rooted to a single country or location.

Vitalik Buterin, creator of ethereumthe decentralized blockchain behind the world's second biggest cryptocurrency, Etherwas often a focus of discussion at Yellow's regular meet-ups. Buterin has identified as a digital nomad for most of the past decade, claiming to live out of a 40-liter backpack. Like many crypto folk, he views this borderless lifestyle as making perfect ideological sense.

The borderless revolution

In Chiang Mai, cryptocurrency usage has spread to the local population. During one meet-up held in a local bar, the owner took payment for shots of Thai rum in bitcoin. She too talked about the borderless revolution that was coming, and crypto being part of her financial future.

One of the western "crypto nomads" present was trying to launch his own cryptocoin (built on Buterin's ethereum ecosystem) and get others to invest in it. A few tables away, another who had investedand losta fortune in cryptocurrency explained he was now living in Chiang Mai because of the city's relatively low cost of living.

For every success story, there were tales of loss and potential scams. Some told outlandish stories of crypto startups and other projects that were hard to validate. One person who wrote eBooks on how to invest successfully in crypto was selling courses on how to get involved. Another was writing code to improve the security of the ethereum blockchain system, to ensure it would be safe from hackers.

A valuable asset for states

Digital nomad hotspots, which also include European cities such as Lisbon in Portugal, show how the worlds of cryptocurrency, blockchain and digital nomadism are collidingand evolving beyond mere workspace provision.

A collaborative, incubator-like atmosphere is at the core of The Block Lisboa, where you can pay in cryptocurrency and which hosts weekly Crypto Fridays for networking, collaboration and ideas sharing. In 2023, it held the first Ethereum Block Summit, which promised to "delve into the future of finance" by exploring "groundbreaking advancements in the ethereum ecosystem."

Meanwhile, CV Labs is building a blockchain ecosystem of its own, comprising coworking spaces, events and summits in Lisbon and four other cities including Vaduz in Liechtenstein and Zugpart of Switzerland's "Crypto Valley." These spaces are open to cryptocurrency professionals and enthusiasts with professional exchange in mind.

Digital nomads are becoming a valuable asset for states to compete foras Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners predicted they would in their 1997 book, Digital Nomad. "Just as we are already seeing governments competing with each other to attract industrial investment," they wrote, "we may see governments competing with each other for citizens."

Malaysia's digital nomad visa initially targeted only nomads from IT and digital professions such as cybersecurity and software development. Estonia launched a digital nomad visa along with its e-residency program to target high-skilled digital workers. While these visas typically restrict local employment, many allow nomads to bring family members and offer a path to residency, such as in Spain and Portugal.

Coworking spaces started off as techno-utopian, hacker spaces. Thirty years later, they are an increasingly important aspect of some cities' tourism calculationshaving been given further allure by the rise of the niche group of crypto nomads.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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 Stanford software engineering degree used to be a golden ticket. Artificial intelligence has devalued it to bronze, recent graduates say.

The elite students are shocked by the lack of job offers as they finish studies at what is often ranked as the top university in America.

When they were freshmen, ChatGPT hadn't yet been released upon the world. Today, AI can code better than most humans.

Top tech companies just don't need as many fresh graduates.

"Stanford computer science graduates are struggling to find entry-level jobs" with the most prominent tech brands, said Jan Liphardt, associate professor of bioengineering at Stanford University. "I think that's crazy."

While the rapidly advancing coding capabilities of generative AI have made experienced engineers more productive, they have also hobbled the job prospects of early-career software engineers.

Stanford students describe a suddenly skewed job market, where just a small slice of graduatesthose considered "cracked engineers" who already have thick resumes building products and doing researchare getting the few good jobs, leaving everyone else to fight for scraps.

"There's definitely a very dreary mood on campus," said a recent computer science graduate who asked not to be named so they could speak freely. "People (who are) job hunting are very stressed out, and it's very hard for them to actually secure jobs."

The shake-up is being felt across California colleges, including UC Berkeley, USC and others. The job search has been even tougher for those with less prestigious degrees.

Eylul Akgul graduated last year with a degree in computer science from Loyola Marymount University. She wasn't getting offers, so she went home to Turkey and got some experience at a startup. In May, she returned to the U.S., and still, she was "ghosted" by hundreds of employers.

"The industry for programmers is getting very oversaturated," Akgul said.

The engineers' most significant competitor is getting stronger by the day. When ChatGPT launched in 2022, it could only code for 30 seconds at a time. Today's AI agents can code for hours, and do basic programming faster with fewer mistakes.

Data suggests that even though AI startups like OpenAI and Anthropic are hiring many people, it is not offsetting the decline in hiring elsewhere. Employment for specific groups, such as early-career software developers between the ages of 22 and 25, has declined by nearly 20% from its peak in late 2022, according to a Stanford study.

It wasn't just software engineers, but also customer service and accounting jobs that were highly exposed to competition from AI. The Stanford study estimated that entry-level hiring for AI-exposed jobs declined 13% relative to less-exposed jobs such as nursing.

In the Los Angeles region, another study estimated that close to 200,000 jobs are exposed. Around 40% of tasks done by call center workers, editors and personal finance experts could be automated and done by AI, according to an AI Exposure Index curated by resume builder MyPerfectResume.

Many tech startups and titans have not been shy about broadcasting that they are cutting back on hiring plans as AI allows them to do more programming with fewer people.

Anthropic Chief Executive Dario Amodei said that 70% to 90% of the code for some products at his company is written by his company's AI, called Claude. In May, he predicted that AI's capabilities will increase until close to 50% of all entry-level white-collar jobs might be wiped out in five years.

A common sentiment from hiring managers is that where they previously needed ten engineers, they now only need "two skilled engineers and one of these LLM-based agents," which can be just as productive, said Nenad Medvidovic, a computer science professor at the University of Southern California.

"We don't need the junior developers anymore," said Amr Awadallah, CEO of Vectara, a Palo Alto-based AI startup. "The AI now can code better than the average junior developer that comes out of the best schools out there."

To be sure, AI is still a long way from causing the extinction of software engineers. As AI handles structured, repetitive tasks, human engineers' jobs are shifting toward oversight.

Today's AIs are powerful but "jagged," meaning they can excel at certain math problems yet still fail basic logic tests and aren't consistent. One study found that AI tools made experienced developers 19% slower at work, as they spent more time reviewing code and fixing errors.

Students should focus on learning how to manage and check the work of AI as well as getting experience working with it, said John David N. Dionisio, a computer science professor at LMU.

Stanford students say they are arriving on the job market and finding a split in the road; capable AI engineers can find jobs, but basic, old-school computer science jobs are disappearing.

As they hit this surprise speed bump, some students are lowering their standards and joining companies they wouldn't have considered before. Some are creating their own startups. A large group of frustrated grads are deciding to continue their studies to beef up their resumes and add more skills needed to compete with AI.

"If you look at the enrollment numbers in the past two years, they've skyrocketed for people wanting to do a fifth-year master's," the Stanford graduate said. "It's a whole other year, a whole other cycle to do recruiting. I would say, half of my friends are still on campus doing their fifth-year master's."

After four months of searching, LMU graduate Akgul finally landed a technical lead job at a software consultancy in Los Angeles. At her new job, she uses AI coding tools, but she feels like she has to do the work of three developers.

Universities and students will have to rethink their curricula and majors to ensure that their four years of study prepare them for a world with AI.

"That's been a dramatic reversal from three years ago, when all of my undergraduate mentees found great jobs at the companies around us," Stanford's Liphardt said. "That has changed."

2025 Los Angeles Times. 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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Stuffed animals that talk back. Chessboards with pieces that move on their own. And a chatty holographic fairy in a crystal ball.

Your next toy purchase might be powered by artificial intelligence and able to converse with your kids.

Chatbots and AI-powered assistants that can quickly answer questions and generate texts have become more common after the rise of OpenAI's ChatGPT. As AI becomes more intertwined in our work and personal lives, it's also shaking up playtime.

Startups have already unleashed AI toys in time for the holidays. More are set to hit the shelves for both kids and adults in the new year.

Some parents are excited to test the toys, hoping that the chatty bot interactions will educate and entertain their children. Others don't want the seemingly sentient tech near their loved ones until it has more guardrails and undergoes further testing.

Researchers at the U.S. PIRG Education Fund say they have already found problems with some of the toys they tested. Among the issues: an AI teddy bear that could be prompted into discussing sexual fetishes and kink, according to the group.

Toy makers say AI can make play more interactive, and they take safety and privacy seriously. Some have placed more limits around how chatty some of these products can be. They say they are taking their time figuring out how to use AI safely with children.

El Segundo-based Mattel, the maker of Barbie and Hot Wheels, announced earlier this year that it had teamed up with OpenAI to create more AI-powered toys. The initial plan was to unveil their first joint product this year, but that announcement has been pushed into 2026.

Here's what you need to know about AI toys:

What's an AI toy?

Toys have featured the latest technology for decades.

Introduced in the 1980s, Teddy Ruxpin told stories aloud when a tape cassette was inserted into the animatronic bear's back. Furbysfuzzy creatures that blinked their large eyes and talkedcame along in the '90s, when digital pets, Tamagotchi, also were all the rage.

Mattel released a Barbie in 2015 that could talk and tell jokes. The toy maker also marketed a dream house in 2016 that responded to voice commands.

As technology has advanced, toys have also gotten smarter. Now, toy makers are using large language models trained to understand and generate language that powers products such as OpenAI's ChatGPT. Mattel sells a game called Pictionary vs. AI, in which players draw pictures and AI guesses what they are.

Equipped with microphones and connected to WiFi, AI toys are pricier than traditional ones, are marketed as companions or educational products and can cost $100 or even double that.

Why are people worried about them?

From inappropriate content to privacy concerns, worries about AI toys grew this holiday season.

U.S. PIRG Education Fund researchers tested several toys. One that failed was Kumma, an AI-powered talking teddy bear that told researchers where to find dangerous objects such as knives and pills and conversed about sexually explicit content. The bear was running on OpenAI's software.

Some toys also use tactics to keep kids engaged, which makes parents concerned that the interactions could become addictive. There are also privacy concerns about data collected from children. Some worry about how these toys will impact kids' developing brains.

"What does it mean for young kids to have AI companions? We just really don't know how that will impact their development," said Rory Erlich, one of the toy testers and authors of PIRG's AI toys report.

Child advocacy group Fairplay has warned parents not to buy AI toys for children, calling them "unsafe."

The group outlined several reasons, including that AI toys are powered by the same technology that's already harmed children. Parents who have lost their children to suicide have sued companies such as OpenAI and Character.AI, alleging they didn't put in enough guardrails to protect the mental health of young people.

Rachel Franz, director of Fairplay's Young Children Thrive Offline program, said these toys are marketed as a way to educate and entertain kids online to millions of people.

"Young children don't actually have the brain or social-emotional capacity to ward against the potential harms of these AI toys," she said. "But the marketing is really powerful."

How have toy makers and AI companies responded to these concerns?

Larry Wang, founder and chief executive of FoloToy, the Singapore startup behind Kumma, said in an email the company is aware of the issues researchers found with the toy.

"The behaviors referenced were identified and addressed through updates to our model selection and child-safety systems, along with additional testing and monitoring," he said. "From the outset, our approach has been guided by the principle that AI systems should be designed with age-appropriate protections by default."

The company welcomes scrutiny and ongoing dialogue about safety, transparency and appropriate design, he said, noting it's "an opportunity for the entire industry to mature."

OpenAI said it suspended FoloToy for violating its policies.

"Minors deserve strong protections and we have strict policies that developers are required to uphold. We take enforcement action against developers when we determine that they have violated our policies, which prohibit any use of our services to exploit, endanger, or sexualize anyone under 18 years old," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

What AI toys have California startups created?

Curio, a Redwood City startup, sells stuffed animals, including a talking rocket plushie called Grok that's voiced by artist Grimes, who has children with billionaire Elon Musk. Bondu, a San Francisco AI toy maker, made a talking stuffed dinosaur that can converse with kids, answering questions and role-playing.

Skyrocket, a Los Angeles-based toy maker, sells Poe, the AI story bear. The bear, powered by OpenAI's LLM, comes with an app where users pick characters like a princess or a robot for a story. The bright-eyed bear, named after writer Edgar Allan Poe, generates stories based on that selection and recites them aloud.

But kids can't have a back-and-forth conversation with the teddy bear like with other AI toys.

"It just comes with a lot of responsibility, because it greatly increases the sophistication and level of safeguards you have to have and how you have to control the content because the possibilities are so much greater," said Nelo Lucich, co-founder and chief executive of Skyrocket.

Some companies, such as Olli in Huntington Beach, have created a platform used by AI toy makers, including the creators of the Imagix Crystal Ball. The toy projects an AI hologram companion that resembles a dragon or fairy.

Hai Ta, the founder and chief executive of Olli, said he views AI toys as different from screen time and talking to virtual assistants because the product is structured around a certain focus such as storytelling.

"There's an element of gameplay there," he said. "It's not just infinite, open-ended chatting."

What is Mattel developing with OpenAI?

Mattel hasn't revealed what products it is releasing with OpenAI, but a company spokesperson said that they will be focused on families and older customers, not children.

The company also said it views AI as a way to complement rather than replace traditional play and is emphasizing safety, privacy, creativity and responsible innovation when building new products.

2025 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Create Capital Vietnam, Haimaker.ai plan $1 bln AI data center network

By Hai Yen Mon, December 29, 2025 | 7:37 pm GMT+7

Create Capital Vietnam (HoSE: CRC) and Haimaker.ai have unveiled plans to develop a nationwide network of AI-focused data centers in Vietnam, with a total designed capacity of 100 megawatts and investment of about $1 billion.

The two companies said they will establish a joint venture, Vietnam Data Gen (VDG), to implement the project, with participation from several global strategic investors.

The network will be developed in phases aligned with market demand, rather than through a large upfront capital commitment, the partners said.

VNPT-owned data center in Hoa Lac High-tech Park, Hanoi. Photo courtesy of Vietnam News Agency.

The first phase will be built at Da Nang Hi-Tech Park in the central city of Danang, with capacity of 10-20 MW and investment of $100-200 million. A second phase would expand capacity to 40-60 MW with funding of $400-600 million, while the final phase would lift total capacity to 100 MW, enabling nationwide and regional-scale operations.

The phased rollout is intended to provide flexibility as demand for AI computing evolves, the companies said. Locations will be selected to ensure reliable power supply, strong international internet connectivity, and proximity to major enterprise clusters.

Each facility will be designed with high-density rack configurations suitable for GPU-intensive workloads. Target customers include government agencies, banks, telecom operators, cloud service providers, and technology firms developing AI applications.

Su Le, founder of Haimaker, said the project aims to build domestic infrastructure that allows data to be stored and processed within Vietnam, supporting large-scale computing needs while safeguarding data sovereignty.

Nguyen Huy Dung, a standing member of the Central Steering Committee for Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation, said a 100-MW AI data center network would strengthen Vietnams domestic computing capacity and support its ambition to become what he described as an AI-sovereign nation.

According to Vietnams AI Economy report by the National Innovation Center, the Japan International Cooperation Agency and Boston Consulting Group, AI could contribute $120-130 billion to Vietnams economic growth by 2040. Of that, $45-55 billion would come from consumer demand for AI-enabled products and services, while $60-75 billion would stem from productivity-driven cost savings.

Vietnam currently has 41 commercial data centers with a combined designed capacity of 221 MW, and several large-scale projects have been announced over the past year.

In August, state-owned telecoms group Viettel broke ground on the An Khanh Data Center, a 60-MW facility with investment capital of VND17.5 trillion ($665.75 million), expected to be the largest in northern Vietnam.

In the same month, the Ministry of Public Security inaugurated National Data Center No.1, with an investment of VND16.8 trillion ($639.12 million), one of the largest and most advanced facilities in Southeast Asia.

In October, Ho Chi Minh Citys Department of Science and Technology said Abu Dhabi-based G42 plans to invest about $2 billion to build a hyperscale AI data center in the city.
The presentation ceremony of the Azerbaijani Language platform was held on December 28 at Azerbaijan University of Languages. The author and head of the project is Alena Aliyeva.

Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of IDEA Public Union Leyla Aliyeva, Head of Baku Media Center Arzu Aliyeva, and the projects author and head Alena Aliyeva attended the event.

First, Rector of Azerbaijan University of Languages Kamal Abdulla briefed the guests on the universitys activities. The guests then visited the university museum, familiarized themselves with its work, and were informed about the exhibits on display.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Kamal Abdulla emphasized the importance of the platform in preserving, developing, and promoting the Azerbaijani language in the modern digital environment.

Referring to President Ilham Aliyevs remarks on the preservation and development of the Azerbaijani language during the meeting dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, the rector noted that there was a strong need for such a platform. He said that the universitys scientists and young specialists had honorably fulfilled this task.

As Azerbaijan University of Languages, we establish centers for the Azerbaijani language, culture, and the multiculturalism model at foreign universities and teach our language to the youth of those countries. The creation of such platforms and projects is directly related to the work carried out by President Ilham Aliyev in this direction. It is important for these platforms to be interconnected. Certain work is being done by various universities, institutions, and ministries in line with the instructions and recommendations of the head of state, but unfortunately, these platforms and projects are often implemented without coordination. I hope they will support and complement one another and demonstrate continuity. In this regard, the establishment of a Coordination Council would be desirable, enabling more targeted implementation of the Presidents instructions, Kamal Abdulla stressed.

In her speech, the author and head of the project, Alena Aliyeva, highlighted the important role of education in society and congratulated the participants on the presentation of the platform. She expressed gratitude to the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan University of Languages, and all project participants for their support in implementing the initiative.

Subsequently, Vice-Rector of Azerbaijan University of Languages Jala Garibova and project coordinator Sabina Aliyeva presented the Azerbaijani Language platform. Detailed information was provided on the goals behind its creation, its functional capabilities, and content designed for different age groups and users.

Minister of Science and Education Emin Amrullayev, who delivered a congratulatory address, stated that the Azerbaijani Language platform would make an important contribution to improving the quality of teaching and learning the state language and expanding digital educational resources. He emphasized that such initiatives play a special role in developing the Azerbaijani language in line with modern challenges.

Speaking about efforts undertaken in accordance with President Ilham Aliyevs instructions to preserve the purity of the Azerbaijani language, the minister said: The essence of the platform is to teach our language to people whose native language is not Azerbaijani. The Azerbaijani language has a wide reach, with more than 50 million speakers worldwide. Mastering this language is important from several perspectives. The platform will be especially useful for foreign students studying in Azerbaijan, foreigners wishing to work in our country, and those who want to learn Azerbaijani as a foreign language. The platform is built on English, but it can also be translated into other languages. Artificial intelligence solutions are actively used. I am confident that the platform will be successful.

A video dedicated to the Azerbaijani Language platform was then screened.

Next, Pakistani student Mahmud Athar, a doctoral student at the Pakistan Centre operating at Azerbaijan University of Languages, noted that his studies at the university had enabled him to learn and actively use the Azerbaijani language in daily life.

Emphasizing that language is the soul of a nation, its culture, and its way of thinking, he said: The Azerbaijani language is very rich, as it is the language of Nizami and Fuzuli. Through our center, we strive to promote the Azerbaijani language and culture abroad. Together with the Azerbaijan Centre in Islamabad, we organize cultural events and promote the language. We have published a book for Pakistani students to learn Azerbaijani, contributing to its broader international recognition. People often ask me how I learned Azerbaijani. Our rector always recommends listening carefully to all speeches of President Ilham Aliyevthis is the main method. Azerbaijani has a strong unifying power; it brings together people of different countries and nations. It is not merely a means of communication, but a strong bridge connecting people, cultures, and countries. I am proud to learn this language.

Well-known journalist and Honored Journalist of the Russian Federation Mikhail Gusman, a graduate of Azerbaijan University of Languages, also spoke at the event. He noted the growing global interest in the Azerbaijani language, citing research conducted annually by Stanford University. According to him, despite Azerbaijan being a relatively small country, interest in the Azerbaijani language has increased significantly in recent years.

This fully corresponds to the effective policy pursued by President Ilham Aliyev and the global interest in Azerbaijan. The growing demand for the melodic, rich, and noble Azerbaijani language is the result of the path our country is following under the Presidents leadership. I thank you for creating this remarkable platform at exactly the right time, he said, adding that he graduated from Azerbaijan University of Languages with honors 55 years ago.

An artistic program was also presented as part of the ceremony.

The event concluded with commemorative photos.

The platform has been developed to support the teaching and learning of the Azerbaijani language and to reach a wide audience through digital resources. Holding the presentation ceremony on the eve of December 31 - World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day - once again underscored that the Azerbaijani language is one of the key values uniting Azerbaijanis worldwide.
For our extended family holiday gatherings, weve dispensed with the big meal and go all in on appetizers.

Weve found that not only does it take the pressure off the host  everyone brings an appetizer or two  but it gives the day a more laid-back feel for guests, too. No need to rush over for a predetermined mealtime; just come when schedules allow and appetites are healthy.

While we do have vegetables and more substantial offerings on hand (pulled pork sliders are a favorite) for those making a day of it, we love to go all in on dips. Hot dips, cold dips, dessert dips  we have them all. Which is why Dip In by Sonali Shah had my full attention when it crossed my desk.

This year, Im spicing up of-the-moment cottage cheese, turning a classic salad into a dip and reinventing an Italian sauce into an appetizer, all thanks to Shahs snacking sensibilities.

But whats a party without a wildcard?

Thats where Fried Pickle Dip from The Ultimate Pickle Lovers Book comes into play. While its short-changing the book (and pickle lovers) to only highlight the recipe that mimics one of our favorite State Fair foods, it has the buzz factor that hosts and guests love.

No worries if its too late to invite these recipes to your holiday party, just remember the Super Bowl is only six weeks away.

Crunchy Chicken Caesar Dip

Serves 4 to 6.

Tailor this dip to suit your tastes. Dont like anchovies? Leave them out. Fancy extra bacon? Go for it. From Dip In: 80 Delicious Dip Recipes for Entertaining, Snacking and Beyond, by Sonali Shah (Hamlyn, 2025).

For the croutons:

1 slice of sourdough bread, torn into small bite-size chunks

2 tbsp. olive oil

For the dip:

8 tbsp. mayonnaise

4 anchovies, chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed or finely chopped

2 tbsp. lemon juice, divided

1 c. shredded cooked chicken

2 celery sticks, finely chopped

2 tbsp. capers, roughly chopped

4 tbsp. prepared crispy fried onions

2 strips cooked crispy bacon, roughly chopped (about 2 tbsp.)

Handful of chives, chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Lettuce cups, for serving

Directions

To make the croutons: Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment. Add the torn bread and drizzle over the olive oil, tossing to coat. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until crispy, stirring the croutons halfway through. Set aside to cool.

To make the dip: Combine the mayonnaise, anchovies and garlic in a bowl, then stir in half the lemon juice. Once combined, add the chicken, celery and capers. Stir and taste for seasoning, adding a good grind of black pepper and more lemon juice if needed.

Just before serving, stir through the croutons and top the dip with the crispy fried onions, crispy bacon and chives. Serve with lettuce cups, like Little Gem.

Cottage Cheese and Salsa Macha

Serves 4.

Salsa macha originates in Veracruz, Mexico. While its technically a salsa, its a bit different as its oil based. You can enjoy it on its own, but its particularly delicious drizzled over something creamy like cottage cheese. Note: Use 2 dried chipotle chiles if guajillo chiles arent available. Store leftovers in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. From Dip In: 80 Delicious Dip Recipes for Entertaining, Snacking and Beyond, by Sonali Shah (Hamlyn, 2025).

7 oz. sunflower or vegetable oil

4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

2 tbsp. sesame seeds

2 tbsp. pumpkin seeds

2 tbsp. sunflower seeds

 c. peanuts

2 ancho chiles, seeded and finely chopped

4 guajillo chiles, seeded and finely chopped (see Note)

1 tbsp. cider vinegar

1 tsp. salt

1  c. cottage cheese

Crispbreads or crunchy crackers, for serving

Fresh vegetables, for serving

Directions

Pour oil into a medium-sized saucepan. Add the garlic and place over a medium-low heat. Just before it starts to pop, reduce the heat to a simmer, then cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until fragrant.

Stir in the sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, peanuts and chopped chiles, and continue to simmer for a further 5 minutes or until the seeds and nuts start to brown. Remove from heat, stir in the cider vinegar and salt, then leave to cool.

Once cool, scoop out the solids using a slotted spoon and add them to the bowl of a food processor. Blend until you have a chunky paste, then return mixture to the oil and stir to combine. Taste for seasoning.

When youre ready to serve, add the cottage cheese to your serving dish, then drizzle with 3 to 4 tablespoons of the salsa macha, or to taste. Serve with crispbreads and/or fresh vegetables.

Preserved Lemon Tonnato

Serves 4.

Tonnato is a classic Italian sauce typically served with veal in vitello tonnato, but its really delicious as a standalone dip. Note: The addition of preserved lemon is a little twist that provides depth, but you can use 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice instead if you prefer. From Dip In: 80 Delicious Dip Recipes for Entertaining, Snacking and Beyond, by Sonali Shah (Hamlyn, 2025).

2 (4-oz.) cans tuna in oil

2 preserved lemons, finely chopped and seeds discarded, plus 1 tsp. of their brine (see Note)

2 cloves garlic, peeled

2 tsp. capers

2 small shallots, peeled and roughly chopped

4 tbsp. mayonnaise

2 tbsp. olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Crostini, for serving

Fresh vegetables, for serving

Directions

Empty the tuna and its oil into a food processor. Add the preserved lemons (or lemon juice), garlic, capers, shallots, mayonnaise and olive oil and blend until smooth. Taste and add salt if needed. Season with black pepper and serve with crostini and fresh vegetables.

Fried Pickle Dip

Serves 8.

This recipe takes all the best flavors and textures of fried pickles  the toasty coating, the creamy ranch dip and the tangy pickles and transforms them into an irresistible dip. It pairs well with your favorite chips and crackers. Dont skip the chilling time, which allows the flavors to develop. From The Ultimate Pickle Lovers Book, by Princess Gabbara and Kelly Jaggers (Simon & Schuster, 2025).

2 c. sour cream

4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature

1 (0.4-oz.) packet powdered ranch mix, such as Hidden Valley Ranch Restaurant-Style Dressing & Recipe Mix

2 tbsp. dill pickle brine

1 tbsp. chopped fresh dill

1 tbsp. chopped fresh chives

 tsp. onion powder

 tsp. garlic powder

1  c. finely chopped dill pickles

1 c. panko

5 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

Directions

To a large bowl, add sour cream and cream cheese. With a hand mixer, beat on low speed until mixture is just combined, about 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat until mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes.

Add ranch powder, pickle brine, dill, chives, onion powder and garlic powder, and beat on low speed for 30 seconds, or until all spices are well blended. Add pickles and fold to mix. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Just before serving, prepare topping. In a medium bowl, combine panko and butter, and mix until evenly combined. Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add panko mixture and cook, stirring often, until mixture is golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Transfer dip to a serving dish and top with toasted panko. Serve immediately.

Apricot, prosciutto and Parmesan bites

These three-ingredient apricot, Parmesan and prosciutto bites are as easy to make as they look, and they taste even better. Simply layer each ingredient on top of the other and secure with a toothpick for an easy bite-size appetizer.

Yield: 20 bites; serves 10

Active time: 10 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

10 slices prosciutto, cut in half lengthwise

1 (8-ounce) wedge Parmesan cheese, cut into 1-inch slices

1 (6-ounce) package dried apricots

Directions

Roll up 1 piece of prosciutto and place 1 slice of Parmesan and 1 apricot on top. Secure with a toothpick. Repeat with the remaining prosciutto, Parmesan and apricots.

Nutrition per serving: 148 calories, 7 g total fat, 4 g saturated fat, 22 mg cholesterol, 11 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 9 g total sugars, 11 g protein, 562 mg sodium, 790 IU vitamin A.

 Melissa Gray, EatingWell

3-ingredient cranberry-Brie crostini

With just three ingredients, you can pull together an impressive appetizer perfect for holidays or dinner parties. The tangy cranberries cut through the richness of the cheese to create a balanced bite. This quick appetizer can be easily doubled to feed a larger crowd.

Servings: 12

Active time: 10 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

12 -inch-thick slices whole-grain baguette, lightly toasted

1/3 cup canned whole-berry cranberry sauce

2 ounces Brie cheese, cut into 12 pieces

Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Directions

Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat broiler to high.

Place baguette slices on a baking sheet. Dollop each with a generous 1 teaspoon cranberry sauce. Top each with one piece Brie. Broil until the cheese has melted, 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle with chives, if desired.

Nutrition per serving: 140 calories, 3 g total fat, 1 g saturated fat, 5 mg cholesterol, 23 g carbohydrates, 4 g fiber, 5 g total sugars, 1 g protein, 140 mg sodium, 7 mg potassium, 9 mg phosphorus, 1 mg iron, 3 mcg folate, 49 mg calcium, 71 IU vitamin A, 1 IU vitamin D.

 Carolyn Casner, EatingWell
Nazrin Abdul



A Cybersecurity Supervision and Monitoring Center has begun operations under the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, citing the ministry.

According to the statement, the establishment of the center marks a strategic step in ensuring the security of the healthcare sectors digital transformation and in implementing state policy aimed at protecting critical information infrastructure.

Operating as a 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC), the facility will play a leading role in safeguarding medical information systems, patient data, and digital healthcare services. Its core functions include proactive monitoring, early detection of cyberattacks and information security incidents, and their rapid response and mitigation.

The centers key objectives also include protecting the confidentiality and integrity of medical data, preventing cyberattacks that could disrupt the operations of healthcare institutions, implementing centralized monitoring of information systems under the ministrys authority, and ensuring swift incident response mechanisms.

Ensuring information security in the healthcare sector is a critical component of public trust and national security. As part of the SOCs operations, the implementation of advanced security solutions such as Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and Identity and Access Management (IAM) is nearing completion, placing the data of millions of patients under strict protection.

The ministry noted that digital transformation requires robust protective measures, and the newly established SOC represents a key solution for enhancing the cyber resilience of Azerbaijans healthcare system.

The Ministry of Health of Azerbaijan is the executive authority responsible for shaping and regulating state policy in the healthcare sector, including digitalization and the protection of information resources.
New Years Eve: TV guide

Get harbourside or couchside for music and fireworks as we ring in 2026.

On Wednesday night ABC is again host broadcaster for the New Years Eve fireworks from Sydney, while Nine screens City of Melbourne fireworks to Victorians.

Ring in the new year with music, celebs and Dinner for One.

ABC

7:30pm The Yearly with Charlie Pickering rpt

8:35pm Bluey rpt

8:42pm New Years Eve 2025: Welcome to NYE

Ring in 2026 with the ABCs annual New Years Eve concert and fireworks celebration. NYE25 hosts Charlie Pickering and Zan Rowe are live from the Sydney Opera Houses Northern Broardwalk, overlooking Sydney Harbou

8:55pm New Years Eve 2025: Calling Country Fireworks

9:08pm Live Concert from the Sydney Opera House

ABCs NYE25 Concert, led by global pop powerhouse Melanie C, Matt Corby, The Cat Empire, Peach PRC, Marcia Hines, Casey Donovan, plus Don West, Jem Cassar-Daley and Ayesha Madon.

And to celebrate turning the big 6-0 in 2026, expect a special tribute to Play School, featuring some classic songs, iconic hosts and special guests, that have graced Australian screens across the past six decades.

City of Sydney:

Sydney will pause for one minute to reflect on the tragic Bondi attack. At 11pm, the Sydney Harbour Bridge will glow white as a symbol of peace and unity. We encourage you to join us by switching on your phone torch and shining a light across the harbour, as a symbol of solidarity with the Jewish community and everyone affected.

11:45pm New Years Eve 2025: Countdown to Midnight

12am New Years Eve 2025: Midnight Fireworks *

At midnight, the City of Sydneys world-famous fireworks display will light up Sydneys Harbour Bridge, Opera House and surrounds, signalling the end of 2025, and a new beginning for 2026. The NYE25 concert will broadcast across the entire ABC network including ABC TV, streamed live on ABC iview and across ABC socials on YouTube, Facebook and TikTok. And ABC Australia for international audiences. The fireworks will also be broadcast on ABC Local Radio at midnight, with the firework displays audio described for the vision impaired on the ABC listen app; and ABC Radio Australia for international audiences.

12:12am New Years Eve 2025: Auld Lang Syne

12:16am Rage NYE Special

* simulcast on ABC News AEDT

Seven

7pm Big Bash League

11pm Chicago Fire

12am 136th Rose Parade

Nine

7:30pm RBT

8:35pm Movie New Years Eve rpt

11:02pm Movie: Cant Stop the Music rpt

Melbourne

11:05pm 2025: Year In Review

9News Melbourne anchors Alicia Loxley and Tom Steinfort will look back at twelve monumental months. From the hallowed turf of the MCG to the corridors of power in Washington, we revisit the headlines that mattered most to Victorians.

11:59pm Melbourne New Years Eve 2025 Fireworks

City of Melbournes magnificent fireworks and laser display.

12:10am Movie: Cant Stop the Music rpt

10

7:30pm Have You Been Paying Attention? rpt

8:30pm The Graham Norton Show

Get ready for a wickedly cheeky New Years Eve episode of The Graham Norton Show with guests Robbie Williams, Rami Malek, Motsi Mabuse and John Bishop.

9:45pm MTV New Years Hits

SBS

6:10pm Dinner for One rpt

6:30pm SBS World News

7:30pm ABBA: 50 Years of Pop rpt

8:50pm An Evening With Elton John & Brandi Carlile

An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile is a primetime television special that sees the two iconic musicians unite at the world renowned London Palladium to perform tracks from their brand new, Number One album, Who Believes in Angels?

9:55pm Notre Dame: The Renaissance Concert rpt

12am Billy Joel: Live At Yankee Stadium rpt
Ministers are expected to resist calls for a major overhaul of driving qualifications when they unveil their latest plans to improve road safety.

Campaigners have argued that replacing Britain's current driving test regime could prevent thousands of injuries and deaths on the nations roads every year.

The existing one-and-done system means newly qualified drivers face the same rules of the road as other more experienced motorists as soon as they pass their test.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, a growing number of experts are calling on Britain to introduce a so-called "progressive" or "graduated" system, similar to those used in countries such as Australia and the Republic of Ireland, which enforce tighter restrictions on new drivers.

The AA has estimated such a chance could slash the annual number of people hurt or killed in incidents by as much as two-fifths.

Earlier this month, Simon Foster, police and crime commissioner (PCC) for the West Midlands, became the latest figure to demand the government make changes, calling progressive driving licences proven, proportionate and urgently needed.

However, transport chiefs are expected to prioritise other measures when the government publishes its upcoming Road Safety Strategy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Department for Transport spokesperson told Yahoo News in response to Foster's comments: Whilst we are not considering graduated driving licences, we absolutely recognise that young people are disproportionately victims of tragic incidents on our roads and continue to tackle this through our THINK! Campaign.

We are considering other measures to address this problem and protect young drivers, as part of our upcoming strategy for road safety  the first in over a decade.

Until 2018, drivers were not allowed on British motorways until after they passed their tests. (Getty Images) (Anna Barclay via Getty Images)

What is a 'graduated driving licence'?

Currently, all drivers in England, Wales or Scotland are subject to the same rules whether it has been days or decades since they passed their practical driving test.

Newly qualified motorists can choose to display a green P plate if they wish, to indicate their lack of experience to other road users.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Northern Ireland, an amber R plate must be shown for the first 12 months after qualifying and speed restrictions are enforced.

While a graduated or progressive driving licence could take several forms, it would likely see restrictions such as a top speed, number of passengers and the types of roads they can drive on.

These would be gradually lifted based on factors such as age, competence behind the wheel and driving experience.

This has been backed by the AA, which believes it could cut the number of serious accidents involving young drivers.

Last year, the organisations president, Edmund King, said: "The AA believes we need a system of graduated learning with a logbook whereby all learners need to demonstrate their skills on all types of roads and crucially on rural roads where 71% of new driver fatal crashes occur, and in different weather conditions and different times of day or night.

Drivers in the Republic of Ireland, one of several countries to have introduced progressive driving licences already, must display 'N plates' for two years after passing their tests. (Getty) (Kinga Krzeminska via Getty Images)

Which countries already use graduated driving licences?

The Republic of Ireland requires drivers to complete a two-year probation period, during which they must display N plates and comply with lower drink-drive limits than more experienced road users.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Australia, new drivers are banned from driving between certain hours at night and have limitations on the number of passengers they can carry.

Motorists in New Zealand go through a three-step process, offering learner, restricted and full licences.

What happens next?

The government has seemingly ruled out any immediate prospect of overhauling driving licence rules in its upcoming Road Safety Strategy, saying instead it would focus on other measures to improve highway safety.

This could include tougher penalties for driving without insurance or failing to wear a seatbelt.

New research has also suggested a softening in attitudes towards drink-driving among the young.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The policy is expected to run until 2030, suggesting graduated or progressive licences are unlikely to be considered before then.

The strategy was expected to be published in the autumn, but it is still not known when the policy is likely to be released.

It has been suggested progressive driving licences could lead to lower insurance premiums, as well as improve road safety. (PA) (Grace Cary via Getty Images)

Who is supporting it?

The approach has widespread backing.

In summer 2025, campaign group Protect Young Drivers was launched, a coalition of MPs, emergency services, insurers, academics, charities, campaigners and bereaved families.

Organisations signed up to the politically neutral, evidence-based approach include the National Police Chiefs' Council, the National Fire Chiefs' Council, the RAC, the AA, Brake, RoadPeace and IAM RoadSmart.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Motoring organisation the AA has previously backed graduated driving licences, with its president, Edmund King, saying: "We owe it to the next generation to introduce positive measures that will help give them healthy and prosperous lives.

The RAC has also said it believes this could help save lives on the countrys roads.

It has also been supported by victims charities, such as Brake, which has argued such a scheme could save 4,471 casualties and 224m every year, just based on the impact it could have on drivers aged 17-19.

In November 2025, the family of Josh Atkins, who died in a car crash when he was 17, spoke about the need for a new system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Corey Owen Cooper was jailed for five years for causing the death of Atkins by dangerous driving after causing the crash the day after he passed his driving test.

Gabe Wiggett, Josh Atkins's aunt, Claire Chapman and South Yorkshire Police Inspector Kieran Frain outside Sheffield Crown Court, where Corey Owen Cooper was sentenced earlier this year. (PA) (Dave Higgens, PA Images)

His family have called for Britain to adopt a graduated driving licence system. Young and inexperienced drivers need more support, more education, and more accountability before they are given full driving licence privileges," they said in a statement after Cooper's conviction.

This is not about punishment, it is about prevention. If such a system was in place, Josh would still be with us today, still living his life.

The policy also appears to have clear public support, with a survey of more than 7,000 people by pollster YouGov showing a clear majority in favour.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, the government has so far refused to consider such a scheme, with Lilian Greenwood, the minister for local transport, telling a House of Commons debate early this year she hoped to improve safety without unfairly penalising young drivers.

How could graduated driving licences affect car insurance?

In its Roadmap to Tackle Insurance Costs document, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) said the adoption of graduated driving licences has the potential to lower premiums.

The RAC has also suggested it believes a licensing overhaul could see young drivers in particular pay less for their car insurance.

However, it also noted this is not certain and that other products  such as black box insurance which tracks driving and qualifications such as the Pass Plus scheme  can already help reduce costs.
Russian President Vladimir Putin inspects Kyrgyzstan honour guard officers during the welcoming ceremony at the Yntymak Ordo Presidential Palace, on November 26, 2025 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Contributor via Getty Images

Russian military veterans are carrying out violent crimes against Russian civilians, according to the UK.

The British Ministry of Defence (MoD) has warned that approximately 550 civilians have been killed by returning veterans, with a further 465 injured.

According to independent Russian media outlet Vertska, more than half of the deaths were reportedly caused by some of the 180,000 convicts recruited to join in the Ukraine war by the Kremlin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The challenge presented to Russian society by tens of thousands of violent offenders with recent and often traumatic combat experience returning to civilian life, particularly having been subject to the brutality of Russias armed forces, is significant, and will likely increase in scale in the medium term, according to the MoD.

The Russian senior leadership highly likely considers the issue to be a matter of growing concern.

Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a law in October 2024 allowing defendants in criminal cases to avoid trial and even sentencing if they were to sign up.

The MoD also pointed out that the Wagner paramilitary group  used by Russia in the war effort  started using convicts for the conflict in 2022 and has recruited around 50,000 prisoners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Inmates were offered commutation of their sentences after six months of service.

Putins invasion of Ukraine has become a brutal war of attrition, meaning the president has been forced to resort to new means to bolster his depleted army.

The Russian armed forces were estimated to have endured more than a million casualties  those killed or injured  between February 2022 and June this year.

Ukraines army estimates Russia has lost a further 205,690 soldiers since then.

However, the Russian president has stopped short of introducing conscription, after his attempt at partial mobilisation of reservists in September 2022 triggered protests across the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The MoD previously claimed Putin is relying on ethnic minorities from poor regions to bolster Russias war effort.

The UK intelligence officials said: By focusing recruitment efforts disproportionately on impoverished regions, often predominantly populated by ethnic minorities, Russias state apparatus better leverages financial inducements, whilst also limiting the impact on those urban-dwelling parts of the Russian population that have greater political agency.

The update comes just after Donald Trump hosted Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida for further peace talks.

While the US president insisted Russia wants Ukraine to succeed, his Ukrainian counterpart made it clear he does not think Putins words align with his actions when it comes to ending the conflict.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Almost four years after invading, Russia holds around a fifth of Ukraines sovereign territory  and is refusing to compromise in peace discussions.

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 29 December 2025.



Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/hv1PcOzts2#StandWithUkrainepic.twitter.com/zebScKZUVI  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) December 29, 2025

Related...
Somaliland Recognition by Israel

Israels recognition does not automatically secure Somaliland broader international acceptance, but it changes the conversation

On Friday last (26 December) Israel became the first country to recognise Somaliland as a sovereign state, a breakthrough in its quest for international recognition since it declared independence from Somalia 34 years ago. However, the move has prompted a critical international and regional response.

The Guardian has reported that the Israeli Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, announced on Friday that Israel and Somaliland have signed an agreement establishing full diplomatic relations, which would include the opening of embassies and the appointment of ambassadors.

The recognition is a historic moment for Somaliland, which declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 but until now had failed to be recognised by any UN member states. Somaliland controls the north-west tip of Somalia, where it operates a de facto state, and is bordered by Djibouti to the north-west and Ethiopia to the west and south, and sitting close to key maritime chokepoints linking Africa, the Middle East and global trade routes.

For more than three decades, Somaliland has functioned like a country in all but name. That changed when Israel announced it was formally recognising Somaliland as a sovereign state  the first UN member to do so. The move has elevated Somalilands diplomatic profile but also triggered sharp regional pushback, underlining how geopolitics in the Horn of Africa are becoming increasingly entangled with West Asian rivalries.

Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told an emergency parliamentary session on Sunday (December 28) that Israel's recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland "is (a) threat to the security and stability of the world and the region."

What is Somaliland?

Somaliland emerged on the global map in 1991 after the collapse of Somalias central government and years of civil war. It declared independence from Somalia, reclaiming the borders of the former British Somaliland protectorate.

Since then, it has operated as a de facto state. It has held elections, maintained relative internal stability, issued its own currency, and built local security institutions  in sharp contrast to the prolonged instability in much of southern Somalia. Despite this, no country had formally recognised it as sovereign until Israels announcement.

Most countries have avoided recognising Somaliland out of concern that it would encourage separatist movements elsewhere in Africa and undermine the principle of inherited colonial borders. The African Union has consistently backed Somalias territorial integrity, even while acknowledging Somalilands relative success in governance.

For Somaliland, this lack of recognition has meant limited access to international finance, constrained trade links, and exclusion from global institutions  despite functioning independently for over 30 years.

Israels Geopolitically Significant Decision

For Somaliland, recognition by a UN member state strengthens its claim to sovereignty and could open the door for further diplomatic engagement, investment, and security cooperation.

For Israel, the move expands its strategic footprint in Africa, especially near the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden  one of the worlds busiest maritime corridors. Somalilands proximity to Yemen adds further strategic value, given Israels security concerns in the region.

The Bab al-Mandab Strait separates these two bodies of water. This is an economic choke point for shipping heading from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean. As such, this is globally considered to be a vitally important trade zone.

The Iranian-backed Houthis have terrorised shipping for the last several years in this area. They claimed to do so due to the war in Gaza. Decades ago, moreover, Somali pirates routinely attacked ships off East Africas coast.

This area is now in the spotlight amid Israels recognition of Somaliland. Some may see the move as marking the beginning of a new era of international competition in this part of Africa.

The territory already hosts a military facility run by the United Arab Emirates at the port of Berbera, a base analysts say plays a key role in regional maritime and security operations.

Many commentators see Israels move as strategic. It ostensibly puts Israel and the UAE on one side, sharing interests in this region. Meanwhile, states such as Turkey are situated on the other side.

According to Jerusalem Post, nothing is that simplistic. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have agreed on Yemen. Egypt is unlikely to favour changes in the Horn of Africa and already has deep concerns about the Rapid Support Forces increased presence in Sudan and about a new dam in Egypt. Qatar and many countries oppose Israels move.

The issues in the Horn of Africa appear to revolve mostly around strategic questions. While it is true that having naval forces in this area or military assets seems important, the Houthis attacks on ships have shown that with relatively simple and cheap drones and missiles, shipping can be terrorised.

The Horn of Africa is resource-poor, and there is a good reason many of its countries are weak states. As such, from a grand-strategic perspective, Israeli recognition may be less than the sum of its parts in this region.

It is true that many countries have interests in this area, including France and the US, Turkey and Iran, and the UAE and Saudi Arabia. However, these interests have so far translated into only limited engagement. There are bigger fish to fry, as most countries already know.

Recognition and Abraham Accords

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu framed the recognition as being in the spirit of the Abraham Accords . He has promised rapid cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology, and economic development, and invited Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to visit Israel.

For Israel, this signals an effort to extend the logic of the Abraham Accords beyond the Middle East, linking diplomatic normalisation with strategic geography.

International Backlash

Even the US President Donald Trump, has said that he opposed US recognition of Somaliland in an interview with the New York Post published Friday "No," the president told the Post when asked about US recognition of Somaliland, adding:

"Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?"

The announcement prompted swift opposition from countries wary of destabilising precedents. Egypt, along with Turkey and others, reaffirmed support for Somalias unity and warned that recognising breakaway regions threatens regional stability.

These concerns are not just legal but strategic. Somaliland sits at the intersection of rivalries involving Somalia, Ethiopia, and Egypt, particularly over Red Sea access and influence in the Horn of Africa. Israels entry into this sensitive equation heightens anxieties about militarisation and external power competition.

Going Forward

Israels recognition does not automatically secure Somaliland broader international acceptance, but it changes the conversation. Other states may now reassess their long-held reluctance, especially if strategic or economic incentives align.

At the same time, Somalia is likely to intensify diplomatic efforts to block further recognition, while regional powers weigh how this development affects their own interests in one of the worlds most geopolitically volatile corridors.

For Somaliland, the moment marks a long-sought breakthrough  but one that comes with heightened scrutiny and new geopolitical risks.

Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates.

Select Language to Translate in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic
Hanoi (VNA)  The Vietnam Electricity (EVN) Group has announced that it signed a credit agreement with the French Development Agency (AFD) for a loan worth 76 million EUR (89.47 million USD) to implement the Bac Ai pumped-storage hydropower plant (Bac Ai project) in Khanh Hoa province.



This is the first of six loans, totaling nearly 480 million EUR, provided by a consortium of six lenders for the project.



The Bac Ai hydropower project has a designed capacity of 1,200 MW, comprising four turbines of 300 MW each, with a total investment of 21.1 trillion VND (802.5 million USD). It is included in the list of power projects approved in principle for investment by the Prime Minister. EVN has assigned the Power Project Management Board No. 3 (EVNPMB3), as the investors representative.



The project holds significant importance for the national power system, especially as many renewable energy plants, including solar and wind, are being integrated. Its main task is to provide peak-load electricity, helping to smooth load fluctuations by pumping during off-peak hours and generating power during peak hours.



According to Julien Seillan, AFD Country Director in Vietnam, the project is one of the key energy projects that play a central role in Vietnams energy transition. He praised Vietnams achievements in implementing renewable energy projects, despite the intermittency of these sources, and highlighted the need for a stable and storable energy reserve.



He stated that the Bac Ai project offers the solution, with its 1,200 MW capacity ensuring that every kilowatt of green electricity is available exactly when demand is at its highest.



The project is symbolic of international support for Vietnam, involving the European Union (EU), AFD, Germanys KfW Development Bank, the European Investment Bank (EIB), Japans International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Italys Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), and Proparco - a French development finance institution. It highlights the effectiveness of close cooperation, providing a strong foundation for implementing a large-scale and critical project.



EVN Deputy General Director Nguyen Xuan Nam emphasised that the goup, as a key player in modernising the power system and promoting clean technology, sees the 76 million USD loan from AFD and EU support through the Energy Transition Programme between European donors and EVN (ETEF) as a clear reflection of Vietnams Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with the international community.



Nam highly valued AFDs support in technical, safety, environmental, social, and legal aspects during the deployment of the project, and expressed his confidence that the signing marks a new phase of deeper cooperation between EVN and AFD amid Vietnams growing climate commitments and electricity infrastructure demand.



The Bac Ai project is Vietnams first pumped-storage plant and plays a key role in ensuring electricity security, enhancing system flexibility, and facilitating the integration of increasing renewable energy sources under the revised Power Development Plan VIII. Once completed, it will serve as a strategic facility for energy storage, grid balancing, and national power system management.



It not only delivers technical value but also directly contributes to emission reduction in the power sector, aligning with the Vietnamese Governments commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050./.

VNA
The recognition not only highlights the companys steadfast commitment to embedding ESG principles into its operational strategy, but also reflects its long-term vision for building a comprehensive, secure, and responsible digital infrastructure ecosystem for Vietnam.

Governance for the environment: Developing digital infrastructure with green responsibility

In its data center development strategy, CMC Telecom pursues growth with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Its data centers are designed and operated with a focus on energy efficiency, resource optimization, and minimizing environmental impact across their entire lifecycle.

CMC Data Center is certified under the ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System, enabling precise monitoring, measurement, and optimization of power consumption. In addition, the company voluntarily conducts greenhouse gas emissions verification reports in accordance with ISO 14064-1:2018, underscoring its transparent and responsible approach to carbon management.

CMC Telecom is also the first company in Vietnam to obtain the complete set of Uptime Tier III certifications for Design, Construction, and Sustainable Operations. This achievement not only reaffirms its technical excellence but also reflects its philosophy of developing green, clean, and stable digital infrastructure.

This foundation enables CMC Telecom to accompany customers on their digital transformation journeys while indirectly contributing to reduced carbon emissions across the broader ecosystem

Governance for customers: Protecting data as a core responsibility

In the digital age, safeguarding customers data has become the highest form of corporate responsibility. Guided by the philosophy Your Data  We Care, CMC Telecom places data security and information protection at the heart of its governance model.

The company has built a comprehensive cybersecurity ecosystem compliant with leading international standards, including ISO/IEC 27001 for information security management, ISO/IEC 27017, and ISO/IEC 27018 for cloud environments-ensuring the highest levels of protection for both customer and personal data.

Recently, CMC Telecom achieved ISO/IEC 22301:2019 certification for business continuity management, further enhancing its ability to ensure service availability, operational resilience, and stability even amid disruption risks.

Governance for society and the community: Narrowing the digital divide

From a societal perspective, the Make in Vietnam CMC Cloud platform plays a pivotal role in democratizing access to advanced technology for enterprises, organizations, and the public sector.

By developing domestic cloud infrastructure aligned with Vietnams data sovereignty requirements, CMC Telecom enables organizations to undertake digital transformation securely, flexibly, and in compliance with national regulations.

By bringing technology closer to the local business community and public institutions, the company helps narrow the digital divide and foster an inclusive digital society-where technology not only drives economic growth but also promotes equitable and sustainable development.

Governance for people: Building a sustainable digital workforce

Beyond infrastructure and technology, people are the cornerstone of CMC Telecoms sustainable governance vision. The company makes long-term investments in nurturing a high-quality digital workforce trained to international standards and equipped with the latest knowledge in technology, cybersecurity, infrastructure operations, and risk management.

CMC Telecom fosters a corporate culture where employees are encouraged to innovate, take on challenges, and grow in a professional, ethical environment. Talent is recognized, responsibility is valued, and governance principles are deeply ingrained in daily operations.

Through this approach, CMC Telecom continues to cultivate a team that is not only technically competent but also rich in governance mindset and professional integrity.

Sustainable governance - A long-term path for digital infrastructure enterprises

In its journey to develop comprehensive digital infrastructure, CMC Telecom has made sustainable governance the guiding principle of its growth.

From environmental stewardship and social inclusion to customer protection and employee development, every decision is made within a framework of long-term sustainable values.

This philosophy not only enhances the companys competitiveness but also helps define the evolving role of digital infrastructure enterprises within Vietnams sustainable development ecosystem-where technology progresses hand in hand with good governance and social responsibility.

Thuy Nga
Akbar Novruz



The recognition of the Somaliland region of Somalia runs counter to international law, Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry said in a statement addressing recent developments in Somalia, Azernews reports.

According to the ministry, Azerbaijan once again reaffirmed its full support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Somalia within its internationally recognized borders.

The recognition of the Somaliland region of Somalia is contrary to the norms and principles of international law and the UN Charter. Azerbaijan has experienced painful experience of foreign military occupation and separatism on its territory, contrary to international law. Guided by these principles and its own experience, Azerbaijan remains firmly committed to preserving the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states and calls on the international community to act responsibly and in full accordance with the norms of international law, the statement said.

The ministry emphasized that respect for international law and established borders remains a fundamental principle of Azerbaijans foreign policy.
The rituals are held daily at 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM in the temples sanctum. Many arrive early to pray and share in the cultural and spiritual life of the Indian community living in the city.

When the temple bells ring, the fire offering ceremony officially begins. Each bell chime signals worshippers to return to the main hall for sacred chanting and prayer in the warm, incense-filled space.

The sacred fire: a bridge between the divine and the earthly

The temple priest leads the ritual, offering a holy flame to the goddess. In Hindu belief, Agni - the god of fire - serves as a divine messenger, connecting humans to the gods. Fire symbolizes purification, vitality, wisdom, and the radiant light of faith.

The priest holds a small tray of glowing charcoal, waves it gently before the deities, and recites sacred mantras. Devotees then take turns hovering their hands over the flame and gently touching their faces, invoking clarity and insight.

Fragrance, focus, and reverence

The temple uses incense made from sandalwood and agarwood, producing a warm, calming aroma. To maintain solemnity and prevent fire hazards, worshippers are encouraged to light only one stick of incense each.

At the end of the ceremony, each person receives a red dot pressed onto their forehead - a sign of divine blessing. This mark, called a Tilaka, holds deep significance in Hindu culture. It is traditionally placed between the eyebrows, known as the third eye, representing intuition and inner wisdom.

Inclusive, open to all faiths

Foreign visitors are welcome to observe or participate in the rituals in a way that aligns with their own spiritual traditions. Some choose to clasp their hands in silent prayer, light incense, bow before the altar, or lie prostrate with open palms gently raised - a gesture of heartfelt devotion.

After praying in the sanctum, many devotees walk around to the back of the temple. There, they place their faces against a large stone wall, pressing their hands to its surface and quietly whispering wishes to the goddess.

Each silent movement carries a personal wish or concern. Tran Thi Thuy Trang, 29, shares: Ive been coming here for a long time. It feels familiar. Whenever I can, I stop by to pray for peace, success at work, and prosperity.

Offerings of gratitude and hope

Nguyen Dang Khoa, head of the temple management board, says the daily offerings include fruits, flowers, sweet rice, and ceremonial treats.

Every Friday, temple volunteers prepare special portions of sweet rice and distribute blessings to attendees. Children receive candies and biscuits, while adults are given small bags containing flowers, grains, and salt - symbols of nourishment and harmony. These tokens are called loc, meaning spiritual gifts for health and abundance.

A sacred space with Indian roots

At the highest point of the main altar stands a statue of the goddess Mariamman. She is depicted with multiple arms, symbolizing divine power. One hand holds a trident, another a bowl of rice - signifying the bestowal of abundance and well-being.

Other Hindu deities are positioned throughout the temple grounds. Many of the statues, ornaments, and architectural elements were imported directly from India.

The Mariamman Temple, located in Ben Thanh Ward, was built in the late 19th century by Tamil immigrants from southern India who had settled in Saigon for business. The temple is dedicated to Mariamman, a revered goddess in Hinduism.

In October 2025, the temple was officially recognized as a municipal-level heritage site for its architectural and cultural value.

Dien Anh
Vietnams domestic tourism market is recording encouraging signs ahead of the 2026 New Year holiday, following the announcement that the public break will last four consecutive days from January 1 to 4.

In Ho Chi Minh City, travel agencies report a bustling tour market as year-end demand remains strong, particularly for domestic travel, which continues to appeal to both local residents and overseas Vietnamese.

My Trang, an office worker in Sai Gon ward, said her family initially had no travel plans as the New Year holiday falls midweek. However, once the four-day break was confirmed, they opted for a short domestic tour to relax and motivate their children during the exam period.

Similarly, Anh Duc, a resident of Thu Duc ward, said the relatively late announcement of the holiday schedule prompted his family to prioritise domestic destinations over overseas travel. He noted that the New Year period is also when workers receive year-end bonuses, creating favourable conditions for family bonding through travel, shopping and leisure activities.

Beyond the New Year holiday, the market for the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday in early 2026 is also showing strong momentum. According to Agoda, based on search data from October to November 2025 for stays between February 14 and 22, 2026, interest in Tet travel among Vietnamese tourists has increased in both domestic and international markets.

Thao Cam Vien Zoo in Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: VNA)

Domestic travel is driving this growth, with search demand rising by nearly 22%, while interest in overseas travel has seen a modest increase of around 7%.

Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director of Agoda Vietnam, said extended Tet holidays provide ideal conditions for Vietnamese families to reconnect, unwind and explore destinations nationwide without the added complexity of international travel procedures. He added that Vung Tau has ranked among the top five most searched domestic destinations for Tet 2026 and remains a convenient short-break option for residents of Ho Chi Minh City.

Travel companies in the city also reported rising demand in the lead-up to the New Year holiday. Vietravel Joint Stock Company said tour bookings have surged since mid-December, with the firm expecting to serve around 130,000 travellers during the 2026 New Year period.

Other tour operators reported New Year tour sales up 1520% year-on-year. Tourists are increasingly willing to pay for higher-quality services, such as four- and five-star hotels and favourable flight schedules. Demand for combo packages combining air tickets and accommodation, as well as tailor-made tours for families and overseas Vietnamese returning home, has also risen markedly, reflecting a growing preference for personalised travel experiences over mass-market tours./.
Tran Thi Lan Anh, PhD, vice head of the Faculty of English Language and Culture at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University Hanoi, said the biggest challenge today is the change in learners behavior and motivation.

Learners can now access foreign languages through many channels, from online learning platforms to lessons provided by AI. This expands learning opportunities but also brings risks of distraction, reduced deep learning, and declining intrinsic motivation.

In this context, according to Anh, teachers have to adjust their approaches, methods, and teaching techniques to suit new learners.

The role of teachers is no longer simply to transmit knowledge, but to become supporters, guides, and companions in learners foreign language learning journeys, Anh emphasized.

Nguyen Thi Thu Hang, PhD, a lecturer at the Faculty of English Language and Culture, said foreign language teachers today are expected to meet multiple requirements at once, such as high language proficiency, mastery of modern teaching methods, technology application, outcome-based assessment design, and even integrated content teaching.

However, not every educational environment has sufficient conditions for teachers to realize these expectations.

Many teachers want to reform the teaching method in the new era, but they have to spend time to prepare students for exams with heavy grammar knowledge.

Experts generally agree that in recent years, both language proficiency and pedagogical competence of Vietnamese teachers have made clear progress.

Language proficiency has improved thanks to standardized tests and long-term professional development programs. Teachers have also shifted from knowledge transmission to competency-based approaches, increased learning activities, and applied technology, and have conducted more frequent assessment.

However, amid a context where foreign language education is changing rapidly with requirements for integrated teaching, personalization, AI application, and linking language to real-life communication, the bigger bottleneck lies in pedagogical adaptation.

Teachers understand that innovation is necessary, but how to innovate, to what extent, and how to apply it effectively in conditions of large classes, mixed students with different proficiency levels, and heavy exam pressure is not something everyone can answer immediately, Thu Hang said.

Teachers also need to be taught

To address these difficulties, according to Thu Hang, training and professional development based on a competency framework designed for Vietnamese foreign language teachers is needed.

This framework would not only help guide the design of professional development programs and avoid general training, but also allow the creation of clear professional development pathways at different levels.

More importantly, it would serve as a reference standard to evaluate the effectiveness of training, rather than merely recording the number of training hours teachers have attended.

Duong Thu Mai, PhD, from the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University Hanoi, said that among the competencies of foreign language teachers, assessment competence has not received sufficient attention, even though in practice, teachers spend most of their time on this work, from formative and summative assessment to test design and feedback.

Foreign language assessment in Vietnam is developing rapidly with many new trends and requirements, leaving many teachers confused.

Many do not know where to start, so they use a test found on the Internet without carefully considering its suitability. In addition, they face difficulties due to the dual goal of assessing taught content while preparing students for important graduation exams, Mai said.

Assessing students foreign language communicative competence needs to be conducted professionally and systematically.

For example, when conducting periodic assessment for grade 9 students, teachers need to base their work on output standards under the general education curriculum, textbooks, and class characteristics to clearly identify specific listening, speaking, reading, and writing objectives for each stage.

This allows them to design questions aligned with objectives, gradually collect evidence, and draw conclusions about students foreign language communicative competence.

Anh said one of the key competencies for foreign language teachers is flexible formative assessment. In reality, with large classes, teachers find it difficult to closely monitor every student. Therefore, teachers need to know how to conduct flexible assessment to quickly identify students levels of understanding.

This includes specific competencies such as observation, asking direct questions, designing quick quizzes to group students and adjust pacing, creating simple rubrics, and keeping records to closely track student progress.

Thanh Hung
On December 29, during his visit to National Data Center No. 1 at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park in Hanoi, General Secretary To Lam stressed the importance of turning data into a core resource for Vietnams development.

Joining the delegation were Central Committee members including Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung, Chief of the Party Central Office Pham Gia Tuc, Head of the Central Committee for Policy and Strategy Nguyen Thanh Nghi, and Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang. Senior officials from the Ministry of Public Security, including Minister Luong Tam Quang, also attended.

157 million data points integrated from 16 national databases

General Secretary To Lam visits National Data Center No. 1. Photo: Thong Nhat/TTXVN

The National Data Center was officially launched on February 25 and represents a significant breakthrough - it is Vietnams first dedicated unit under the Ministry of Public Security tasked with state management and coordination of data.

Positioned as the brain and heart of Vietnams digital transformation, the center has been built with remarkable urgency and commitment. Construction of its infrastructure was completed ahead of schedule, with the official opening taking place on August 18 - three months earlier than planned - following an intense around-the-clock effort.

The center has already aggregated and synchronized 157 million data records from 16 national and specialized databases, creating a valuable resource for public administration and socio-economic development.

In partnership with the Government Office, the center has helped restructure 82 administrative procedures. The National Public Service Portal is now being migrated and centrally operated from the center, serving as a single-window gateway, streamlining bureaucracy through integrated data for the benefit of citizens and businesses.

Recognized as a vital national security facility, the center employs a state-of-the-art 10-layer physical security system and a 24/7 cybersecurity operations center (SOC/SIEM) to ensure digital sovereignty.

As part of its innovation push, the center is also laying the groundwork to launch strategic platforms in 2026, including a national data exchange, blockchain technologies, and a virtual assistant for government use.

We are just at the beginning, says Vietnams top leader

Representing the Party, State, and Central Steering Committee for Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation, General Secretary To Lam praised the Ministry of Public Security, related ministries, and the staff at the center for their vision, resilience, and commitment.

He emphasized that what began as a challenging and unprecedented initiative was executed with remarkable determination and creativity - overcoming institutional, technical, and human resource barriers.

The completion of the first national data center marks a foundational step in building the countrys digital infrastructure, with significant implications for accelerating Vietnams digital transformation in the years ahead.

To Lam affirmed that in order to realize the countrys long-term development goals, Vietnam must shift into high gear, focusing on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

In this new development model, data has become a strategic resource, a new form of wealth that is crucial for national governance, economic competitiveness, and peoples well-being, he said.

The center is not only a repository but also a tool for analysis, transformation, and service delivery. Building it means laying the foundation for a trustworthy national data infrastructure - one that fuels policymaking, governance, economic development, defense, and improved public services.

However, he cautioned that Vietnam is still in the early stages. We have essentially built the shell of the station, he said. The core - data and its practical applications - remains underdeveloped.

To collect and store data is only the first step. The real value lies in analyzing it, creating knowledge, informing decisions, and generating tangible products and services for the people, To Lam emphasized.

Urgent need to overcome three critical bottlenecks

He identified three major obstacles that must be addressed: poor data quality, fragmentation across ministries, and lack of innovation ecosystems based on data.

Many government data sets are not yet integrated or standardized under the principles of accuracy, completeness, cleanliness, and real-time availability. Vietnams ecosystem for innovation through data remains underdeveloped, and the country still lacks autonomy in core technologies and high-quality talent.

To transition from construction to value creation, To Lam proposed major strategic directions:

The National Data Center must truly become the heart of Vietnams data-driven society and economy, and the brain powering leadership, management, and public service.

Following the completion of this first center, the network must be expanded, forming a reliable national data infrastructure. This is a national mission, he stressed - not the task of any single agency. The Ministry of Public Security is responsible for overseeing data governance and managing the centers operations.

To that end, the creation, connection, standardization, cleaning, and governance of data must be accelerated. By Q1 2026, Vietnam should have an integrated national database that connects all key data repositories and adheres to the principles of accuracy, completeness, consistency, interoperability, and shared use.

Equally important, the country must move quickly from data collection to value creation. Data should be deployed immediately in the operation of the National Public Service Portal, transforming it into a single, streamlined digital access point for all eligible public services - maximizing convenience for citizens and businesses.

He also called for the national data exchange to be launched in Q2 2026, alongside efforts to foster an innovation ecosystem tied to the center - supporting scientific research, startups, investment, and development of the digital economy.

Mr. To Lam urged investment in core technologies such as cloud computing, AI, and blockchain, and the development of common data platforms. He emphasized the importance of gradually achieving technological autonomy and reducing reliance on foreign providers.

Security is non-negotiable

The General Secretary was unequivocal in stressing the need for maximum security: National data is a strategic asset. It is linked to our sovereignty, security, and the interests of the people.

Cybersecurity, information security, and data protection must be enforced with absolute rigor, as a matter of steel discipline, especially for the armed forces. There can be no complacency, no shortcuts. We cannot trade security for convenience or speed.

He also highlighted the crucial role of human capital. The data center must be staffed with professionals who are not only technically skilled but also politically grounded, ethically sound, and dedicated to public service.

He called for special policies to attract and retain high-level experts - particularly for key roles such as chief architects and system designers - and encouraged partnerships with global tech giants to transfer core technologies and train the next generation of leaders.

TTXVN
Hanoi is home to the largest number of craft villages nationwide, with about 1,350 villages and craft-based communities, accounting for roughly 56% of rural villages in the capital. Of these, 318 are officially recognised as traditional craft villages.

They not only enrich the market with a wide range of products but also provide stable jobs and incomes for tens of thousands of suburban workers, contributing significantly to sustainable rural economic development.

Iconic villages such as Bat Trang ceramics village, Van Phuc silk village, Quat Dong and Van Tao ornamental kumquat and peach blossoms villages, Son Dong wood carving village, Quang Phu Cau incense-making village, and Tranh Khuc chung cake-making village are especially vibrant in the run-up to Tet.

At this time of year, ceramics establishments in Bat Trang commune are stockpiling raw materials, mobilising labour and running extended shifts to meet Lunar New Year demand. Popular products include prosperity jars, feng shui tableware, worship items and zodiac-themed ceramics for the new year, produced in large quantities for domestic consumers and distributors.

Nguyen Van Ky, a ceramics producer in Bat Trang, said his family workshop remains as busy as ever this Tet season.

Despite market fluctuations, orders are still coming in steadily. By the end of the Lunar New Year, our output is usually two to three times higher than normal, he noted.

Similarly, Van Tao peach village in Hong Van commune is a hive of activity. Known as one of northern Vietnams traditional Tet flowers, Van Tao peaches are cultivated across dozens of hectares. These days, growers are busy pruning, shaping and caring for trees, while also selling directly to customers.

According to Chairman of the Hong Van communal Peoples Committee Le Tuan Dung, the commune has more than 1,200 households cultivating peach blossoms on 82.5 hectares in villages such as Noi Thon and Dong Thai, generating an average income of around 1.5 billion VND (56,967 USD) per hectare per year. Many families also rent an additional 30 hectares of farmland elsewhere in the commune to expand production. From late December, care for ornamental kumquat trees also enters its peak phase.

Meanwhile, in Tranh Khuc village, famed for traditional chung cakes, households are busy preparing ingredients ahead of the peak production period. Weeks before Tet, about 70% of local households - around 300 families -take part in production, making 300500 cakes per household per day. As Tet draws nearer, output can surge to 1,0003,000 cakes per household daily.

According to the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Environment, during Tet, production capacity at craft villages typically doubles or even triples compared to normal months. Many agro-processing villages producing items such as glass noodles, rice noodles, pho and spring rolls see a constant flow of trucks transporting goods nationwide. These villages make substantial contributions to the capitals socio-economic output.

Many craft villages record annual revenues of 1020 billion VND, around 70 villages earn 2050 billion VND, and about 20 villages post revenues exceeding 50 billion VND each year.

Deputy Director of the department Ta Van Tuong said that while traditional craft villages offer significant opportunities, they also face challenges, including outdated machinery, limited investment and low mechanisation levels. To remain competitive, artisans need to adopt new techniques and diversify products, while authorities should strengthen support policies, promote OCOP (One Commune, One Product) items, and enhance trade promotion and market connectivity.

As 2025 draws to a close, the bustling rhythm in Hanois craft villages reflects readiness, confidence and optimism for the Tet season ahead. Beyond being goods for sale, each product embodies generations of craftsmanship, tradition and cultural heritage, enriching the spirit of the Lunar New Year./.VNA
Hanois tourism sector recorded a strong recovery in 2025 as it has welcomed more than 33.7 million visitors, up 20.87% compared to the previous year, according to the municipal Department of Tourism.

Of the total, international tourist arrivals reached over 7.82 million, a year-on-year increase of 22.76%, while domestic visitors numbered more than 25.88 million, up 20.32%.

Total revenue from tourism is estimated at over 134.46 trillion VND (over 5.11 billion USD), representing a year-on-year rise of 21.5%.

The impressive growth reflects the sectors effective rebound after a challenging period, driven by the capital citys diversified tourism products. Cultural and heritage tours, culinary experiences, night-time tourism products and a series of large-scale events have continued to attract both domestic and international travellers, contributing significantly to visitor numbers and spending.

Beyond strong growth in arrivals and revenue, Hanoi has further consolidated its position on the global tourism map through a series of prestigious international accolades. At the World Travel Awards 2025, the capital was honoured as Asias Leading City Destination and Asias Leading City Break Destination. On TripAdvisor, Hanoi ranked second among the worlds top 25 cultural destinations, 7th among the top 25 destinations globally, and 14th among the top 25 most loved destinations of all time.

The Hanoi Department of Tourism said these achievements provide a solid foundation for the sector to continue accelerating in the coming years. In 2026, the capital aims to welcome more than 35.8 million visitors, an increase of 6.2%. Of the total, international arrivals are expected to exceed 8.6 million, while domestic visitors are projected at around 27.2 million./.VNA
Singapore-based website businesstimes.com.sg on December 26 published an article stating that five major trends will shape Southeast Asia in 2026, bringing with them significant opportunities for Vietnam.



The article wrote: Front-loaded shipments, electronics exports and foreign direct investment (FDI) turned out to be the engines behind the regions resilience this year. With uncertainty remaining ever-present in Southeast Asia, five engines could power the region in the new year, namely trade resilience amid tariff troubles, domestic growth, FDI, sovereign wealth, and private capital.



According to the author, Southeast Asian states have been relatively less successful in their negotiations with the US compared to most of Asia.



Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam should experience positive spillovers, albeit to a lesser extent, as they maintain meaningful exposure to food and agricultural exports, noted Deepali Bhargava, chief economist for the Asia-Pacific at ING, as quoted by the article.



Besides external trade, many of the regions growth drivers in the new year will come from its domestic economies.



Meanwhile, most of the regions economies put up a strong showing in attracting FDI in 2025. Maybank noted that FDI metrics continued to improve in Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand in 2025, but slowed in Indonesia and the Philippines. The bank projected that these investments will continue their trajectory in 2026, with Indonesia set to experience a turnaround in its FDI woes.



Further, state investment vehicles are stepping up and playing a more active role in driving domestic growth through their sovereign wealth funds, said the article.



It added that with the regions private capital space representing just 0.5% of the regions gross domestic product  far below the global average of 1.5%  a rebound could be on the cards for 2026. Industry players are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.



Many regional (private market) players headquartered in Singapore and Indonesia are showing renewed activity, while Vietnams ambitious growth targets continue to create compelling opportunities, Thom Abbott, head of South-east Asia, primary markets, at the London Stock Exchange, said as quoted by the author. From a sector perspective, fintech, healthcare and energy remain areas of strong interest./. VNA
A shipment of humanitarian aid from the Polish Government was handed over to the Vietnam Disaster and Dyke Management Authority under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment at Noi Bai International Airport on December 28 to support disaster recovery efforts in Dak Lak province.

The handover ceremony was attended by Nguyen Truong Son, deputy director of the department; Adamczyk Mirosaw, Minister Plenipotentiary at the Polish Embassy; and Rafael Jose De Bustamante Tello, Minister Counsellor of the EU Delegation to Vietnam.

The seven-tonne aid consignment includes blankets, tents, buckets, basins, tubular elastic bandages and other essential items, helping meet basic daily needs of people affected by natural disasters in Dak Lak.

According to the ministrys statistics, as of December 24, 2025, natural disasters this year left more than 400 people dead or missing and over 700 injured, with total economic losses estimated at over 98.67 trillion VND (3.75 billion USD).

In response to particularly severe disasters, ministries, agencies and international partners have acted with urgency and determination to mitigate and overcome the consequences. The Government has issued resolutions outlining key tasks and solutions to swiftly address post-disaster impacts, stabilise peoples livelihoods, restore production and support recovery efforts in affected localities, including those in the central region./. VNA
According to the university, several fanpages and websites - most notably a page titled Tuyen dung VNU-HCM and a site named VNU - Cung cac em en truong - have been falsely using the universitys name, logo, and imagery to create a false sense of credibility.

Vietnam National University HCMC issues a fraud warning.

These pages mislead the public by advertising job opportunities for public employees and soliciting charitable donations, none of which are part of the universitys official operations.

Worryingly, the scammers require candidates or site visitors to pay fees, participate in surveys, or complete procedures that are completely unrelated to VNU-HCMs legitimate hiring process. Some also ask for donations under false pretenses.

These actions, the university stresses, damage its reputation and violate Vietnamese law.

The university reminds the public that all official announcements are published only on its verified website and fanpages. It urges students, parents, and the broader community not to provide personal information, send money, or engage with any activity promoted by unofficial or suspicious channels.

Students impersonated in scam targeting parents

On the same day, Bui Thi Xuan High School in Ho Chi Minh Citys Ben Thanh Ward issued an emergency warning about a new and sophisticated scam involving impersonation of students.

After receiving reports from parents and students, the school outlined a deceptive tactic where scammers pretend to be students contacting the parents of classmates.

They claim to have lost their phones and contact lists and ask for the phone number of the parents child - under the pretense of needing help with final exam study materials.

Once the scammers obtain a student's number, they then pose as police officers or government officials, using fear tactics to carry out further fraud.

In response, Principal Huynh Thanh Phu of Bui Thi Xuan High School has issued a Three No rule to safeguard families:

Do not share your childs or friends contact details with anyone over the phone, even if they claim to be classmates, without direct verification.

Do not trust phone calls from people claiming to be law enforcement or government officials, as real investigations are always conducted in person with official summons or invitations.

Do not transfer money or provide OTP codes under any circumstance.

Phu advised parents and students to immediately contact the homeroom teacher or the school administration if they encounter any suspicious requests. He also recommended reporting such cases to local authorities without delay.

For the safety of students and their families, the school leadership urges everyone to remain vigilant against identity-based scams, Phu emphasized.

Le Huyen
Le Duc Nghia, Chair of the Board of Directors of An Cuong Wood JSC, said at the 5th Term Congress (20252030) of the Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association (Vifores) held on December 11 in HCMC that direct meetings help businesses gain a clearer perspective on the industry and find suitable solutions for their development process.

Nghia noted that the strength of domestic wood enterprises lies in the teams of highly skilled workers and the ability to create products that are competitive with foreign goods. However, management capacity remains a major challenge.

The representative of An Cuong Wood Company said that 10 years ago, when the company reached a revenue of about VND1,000 billion, he was confused because of a lack of management experience. This prompted him to restructure the business and invest $1 million in digital transformation.

"Digital transformation has helped An Cuong operate leanly and control the entire process over the past 5 years," Nghia said.

Vu Quang Huy, General Director of Tekcom JSC, said the company currently has revenue of about $100 million per year, equivalent to VND2,500 billion, with two main product lines: plywood and kitchen cabinets. However, the wood and plywood industry is changing rapidly, facing pressure from tariffs, and requirements on origin of goods and transparency.

According to Huy, wood enterprises are facing major challenges, including increasing input costs while selling prices decrease, legal risks related to the origin of raw materials, and the risk of supply chain disruption when many enterprises have to import raw materials themselves.

To overcome these difficulties, Huy proposed strengthening the transparency of origin; promoting cooperation and specialization; and transforming the supply chain and value chain.

"If linkage is strengthened, the Vietnamese business supply chain can compete with the supply chains of Thailand or China," Huy emphasized.

With many concerns about the development of the carpentry profession, Nguyen Thi En, Standing Vice Chairwoman of the Van Diem Craft Village Association, said that traditional carpentry villages are facing many difficulties.

Regarding the preservation of traditional carpentry value, handicraft products, which bear strong cultural imprints, are under great pressure from industrially manufactured goods and changing consumer tastes.

In addition, many traditional designs are not suitable for modern customer needs, making it difficult for products to access the market, especially for youth and high-end markets. Although handicrafts are highly valued in Europe, the ability of craft villages to meet international market standards is still limited.

In addition, digital transformation and e-commerce pose challenges for craft villages. According to En, most producing households still operate under the family model, lacking linkages and a systematic promotional strategy, while the current market is changing very quickly and demands a higher degree of digitization.

For sustainable development, En believes that craft villages need to be reorganized into a larger scale model linking production households to enhance competitiveness.

"Management agencies as well as Vifores need to provide stronger support in trade promotion, product advertising, design improvement, and digital transformation training for production households. Only by maintaining traditional values and adapting to new market demands can carpentry villages develop in long-term," En said.

Nguyen Quoc Tri, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), praised Vifores contributions to the wood processing and export industry.

To enable businesses to meet new standards, especially requirements for legal wood and technical barriers related to origin and emissions, he said that the association needs to innovate its mindset, operating methods, and accelerate the implementation of plans.

For the 20252030 term, the Deputy Minister proposed that Vifores focus on several key tasks, including: continuing to support businesses in the industry to overcome difficulties; participating more deeply in policy formulation; promoting market expansion; and encouraging businesses to develop high-value products.

Along with the goal of shaping a transparent, environmentally friendly wood production and processing industry that meets the increasingly high demands of the international market, an MAE representative proposed that Vifores enhance its role in building the legal wood supply chain.

Viforest Congress elected the Executive Committee for the 5th Term (20252030) consisting of 31 members. Nguyen Quoc Khanh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AA Architecture Construction Joint Stock Company, was elected to the position of Association Chairman.

Anh Phuong
According to one broker, the house covers an area of 90 sqm with nine stories and a lift. The land plot was previously vacant, has been built by the new owner, and can be put into immediate use. This is a rare case in the Ha Trung street real estate market.

Unlike many other central streets where frontage houses are commonly listed for sale, properties on Ha Trung Street appear only sporadically on transaction channels.

A review of data from real estate platforms shows that the number of listings for frontage houses on Ha Trung Street is currently very limited. Prices typically range from VND3060 billion for properties with areas of 4070 sqm, while larger properties are usually offered at higher prices. Notably, there are almost no houses displaying for rent signs on this street.

According to real estate brokers, most property owners on Ha Trung Street are individuals or businesses directly engaged in gold trading and foreign currency exchange, with a tendency to hold properties long term.

In addition, Ha Trung is a short street with a limited number of houses, making an already small supply even scarcer and sustaining high price levels over a long period.

Gold and foreign currency

Tran Nhan Tong is an area where hundreds of stores trading gold, silver, gemstones, and high-end jewelry are concentrated.

According to the 2025 land price list, land prices on the street front of Tran Nhan Tong are regulated at VND352 million/sqm, wide alleys over 5m are VND170 million/sqm, and narrow alleys under 3m are VND111 million/sqm. However, the actual price ranges from VND700 million to VND850 million/sqm.

While Tran Nhan Tong Street is positioned as Hanois official center for gold and gemstone trading, Ha Trung Street is densely concentrated with private gold trading and foreign currency exchange businesses, featuring their own distinctive transaction characteristics.

This specialization makes the street unsuitable for many other types of businesses, while creating a unique customer ecosystem.

Ha Trung Street is about 206 meters long and is one of Hanois long-standing Old Quarter streets. Historically, it was a hub for the leather trade, with activities ranging from trading and manufacturing to repairing shoes, suitcases and leather bags.

In the late 1990s, business activities on Ha Trung Street began to shift markedly as gold shops and foreign currency exchange services appeared in increasing numbers, gradually forming the reputation of a gold street and foreign currency street.

Today, most premises on Ha Trung Street are used for trading gold bars, jewelry, and major foreign currencies. Due to the specialized nature of these businesses, the main customers and investors here are enterprises and major players in the jewelry and monetary sectors, which has helped maintain high real estate prices over a long period.

According to Hoang Kim (Vua Mat Pho real estate information channel), land prices on Ha Trung Street are currently recorded at an average of about VND800 million per sqm, excluding the value of buildings.

This is among the streets with the highest price levels compared to surrounding areas, explained by the specialized business nature and the concentration of large-scale gold and foreign currency trading hubs.

Ha Trung is a short street with a narrow cross-section, limited traffic capacity, and frequent congestion. Historically, it functioned as a craft street associated with leather trading, production, and repair, later expanding into small manual services such as clothing alterations and motorcycle seat covering. Over time, however, these traditional trades gradually declined as their business efficiency diminished.

To date, the business structure on Ha Trung Street has clearly shifted, becoming primarily suited to gold trading and foreign currency exchange.

Although many properties are being offered for sale, high prices make the market relatively selective. Buyers are mainly individuals and enterprises directly operating in the foreign currency sector, with some major owners holding as many as 45 properties on the same street.

The core value of Ha Trung Street lies in its well-established industry ecosystem, with a distinctive customer base and cash flow that are less dependent on general consumer fluctuations.

This is why, despite unremarkable infrastructure and limited business diversity, real estate prices on Ha Trung Street have remained high for a long time, forming a specialized and rare real estate segment in Hanois Old Quarter.

Duy Anh
In your recent analyses, you argue that the missing link in Vietnams green construction transition is real estate developers. Why do you think they are the overlooked players?

Jerry Nguyen, a board member and deputy general-director of Investment and International Market Development at Hoa Binh Construction Group

That is correct. When people talk about greening Vietnams construction supply chain, the focus is usually on technical and operational actors. We discuss material producers obtaining environmental product declarations (EPD) and life-cycle assessments, controlling emissions from quarry to factory to project site.

We also discuss contractors building environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and measurement, reporting, and verification systems at both enterprise and project levels, or deploying the Internet of Things and AI to track cost, schedule, and carbon in real time.

What is often missing from this conversation is the role of the ultimate decision-makers: the real estate developers, particularly large domestic groups. Developers determine the project vision, the design brief, the tender requirements and the contractual obligations imposed on contractors and suppliers.

If a developer does not require EPDs in bidding documents, does not integrate emission-reduction targets into design terms of reference, or does not attach ESG commitments to engineering, procurement, and construction contracts, then even the most progressive contractors and material suppliers are limited in what they can deliver.

Could you outline the scale of green capital available for real estate from now to 2050?

At a high level, there are three layers of data that real estate leaders need to focus on. First is Vietnams overall green finance requirement. To achieve net-zero by 2050, Vietnam will need as much as $700 billion in green capital.

The second layer relates directly to cities and buildings, which are the primary domain of real estate developers. Globally, construction accounts for around 40 per cent of carbon dioxide emissions, with approximately 28 per cent coming from materials alone. Net-zero pathways typically allocate 30-40 per cent of all climate investment to urban areas and buildings.

The third layer focuses specifically on Vietnams real estate and construction outlook between now and 2050. Vietnams housing market is projected to grow from $33 billion in 2025 to $57 billion by 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing markets in the region. Urbanisation is expected to exceed 50 per cent by 2030 and reach around 70 per cent by 2050, with around 1,100 urban centres nationwide.

In parallel, the governments programme to develop one million social housing units between 2025 and 2030 will generate substantial demand for green design and low-emission construction methods.

Given this massive green capital opportunity, how do you see the allocation between foreign investors, the Vietnamese government, and domestic private sector players?

Although there is no single report that isolates this breakdown for real estate alone, combining Vietnams climate finance structure, infrastructure investment patterns and global capital flows allows us to outline a realistic scenario.

Foreign investment and international capital are likely to account for 35-40 per cent of total green capital, equivalent to $80-100 billion. This will include equity and mergers and acquisitions in large-scale townships, industrial parks and green logistics assets, as well as green and sustainability bonds issued domestically or overseas.

The Vietnamese public sector is expected to contribute around 25-30 per cent, or approximately $60-70 billion. These funds will primarily support core infrastructure such as metro lines, bus rapid transit systems, ring roads, water and waste infrastructure and flood-control projects, as well as social housing and climate-resilient urban redevelopment. The remaining 30-40 per cent, equivalent to $70-90 billion, will come from domestic private sector sources.

Given these trends, what is your core message to the leadership of major real estate groups?

There are three points I would emphasise. Firstly, the capital structure has already shifted towards green priority. Without credible green compliance, access to affordable and long-term capital will become increasingly difficult.

Secondly, the market itself is sending a strong signal. International tenants, global supply chains and younger buyers consistently show a preference for green, energy-efficient and climate-resilient assets.

Thirdly, Vietnams planning framework has already committed the country to a pathway of green, smart, and climate-resilient urban development. Developers that can optimise lifecycle costs while meeting ESG standards will emerge as preferred partners for domestic and international capital. For major developers, the reality is straightforward: either evolve into a green urban producer capable of leading a $230-250 billion green wave, or risk being pushed to the margins.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha. Photo:VGP

On December 24, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha chaired a meeting to review plans for approving total greenhouse gas (GHG) emission quotas for 2026, with 110 firms set to be reported to the prime minister for consideration under a pilot allocation scheme. The list includes 34 thermal power plants, 25 iron and steel producers, and 51 cement manufacturers that meet eligibility criteria based on national GHG inventory requirements.

Quota allocation will push businesses to cut emissions, invest in cleaner technologies, and improve production efficiency, Ha said. The framework must allow firms that reduce emissions beyond their targets to trade surplus quotas, turning mitigation into a market-based resource. As this is Vietnams first time assigning emission quotas, implementation must be backed by clear and detailed legal regulations.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan said, It is necessary to review and evaluate the method of determining and allocating emission quotas, which are based on actual production, differences in technology, equipment, and raw materials between facilities, and the extent of these differences.

At the same time, it needs to have an independent measurement and verification policy to ensure the accuracy of emission data, as state management agencies can only assess the process and cannot accurately confirm the figures reported by businesses themselves, Tan added.

At the meeting, representatives from the energy, coal, minerals, cement, and construction materials sectors urged that emission quota allocation strike a balance between emissions reduction and maintaining growth momentum.

Businesses proposed shifting from absolute quotas to per-unit emission standards to avoid constraining production expansion and to encourage investment in cleaner technologies. They also called for a flexible internal quota allocation mechanism and the early establishment of a transparent carbon credit market.

Dinh Quoc Thai, general secretary of the Vietnam Steel Association, said, The most important priority is to complete a transparent measurement and verification system in line with international standards before rolling out the scheme more widely.

Vietnam to impose emission quotas on 150 largest enterprises The government is preparing to allocate greenhouse gas (GHG) emission quotas to 150 facilities across the thermal power, steel, and cement sectors, which together account for 40 per cent of Vietnam's total emissions.

Developing a green, circular, and low-emission IP model in Haiphong Sao Do Group has pioneered the development of an eco-industrial park strategic framework for Nam Dinh Vu Industrial Park (IP) to implement environmental protection activities and promote resource sharing and sustainable development among businesses in the park.

Carlsberg Vietnam accelerates drive towards net-zero emissions As Vietnam advances towards its 2050 net-zero vision, businesses are expected to play a decision role in enabling the country's green transition. At the Green Economy Forum 2025, Carlsberg Vietnam shared how a long-standing foreign-invested enterprise is reshaping its operations and energy strategy to align with Vietnam's sustainability goals.

Roadmap unveiled to tighten vehicle emission standards Local authorities have outlined a roadmap to tighten vehicle emission standards, targeting older and high-polluting automobiles to improve air quality and environmental safety.
Phan Anh Vu, partner, and Ho Nguyen Anh Thu, junior associate, Indochine Counsel Law Firm

Central to this effort was the issuance of Resolution No.57-NQ/TW, designed to usher in a new era of talent openness and a more enabling legal framework for science, technology, and innovation. Vietnam has since introduced a range of policies targeting experts, scientists, and technology investors, creating a more open and dynamic regulatory environment for science and technology development.

Decree No.219/2025/ND-CP, effective from August, expands work permit exemptions for eligible foreigners certified by the provincial peoples committee, ministry or ministerial agency to work in certain priority sectors such as finance, science, technology, innovation, national digital transformation, and the priority sectors for socioeconomic development.

The decree also refines the definition of expert, allowing individuals with a university degree and at least one year of relevant experience to qualify in priority fields, significantly broadening Vietnams ability to attract global specialists. Together, these changes significantly enhance Vietnams ability to attract global specialists and create broader employment opportunities in strategic industries.

In line with Resolution 57, Vietnam has adopted a more integrated approach to talent policy, introducing a comprehensive incentive framework that combines welfare support, tax benefits, retaining top-tier talent mechanisms, and long-term investment in training.

In particular, the newly enacted Law on Digital Technology Industry (DTI) aims to establish a unified policy ecosystem to enhance Vietnams competitiveness in the global high-tech talent market for eligible professionals.

Under this framework, foreign high-tech professionals may be granted a five-year temporary residence card. Their spouses and children under 18 are granted residence for a corresponding duration, together with facilitation and support from local authorities in matters such as school enrolment and employment-related procedures.

A draft decree guiding the DTI law, currently open for public consultation, introduces an integrated welfare package for high-quality tech personnel. This includes training and upskilling support, priority in recruitment and promotion, preferential tax treatment, housing assistance, streamlined immigration procedures, and dedicated incentives for top-tier scientists and foreign experts. Special incentives may also be approved by the prime minister.

Under the new framework, experts working in semiconductors, AI, digital research and development (R&D), and technology workforce training can enjoy personal income tax exemptions for their first five years in Vietnam, covering all income from salaries, wages, and related professional payments.

For enterprises, expenses for digital technology R&D may qualify for increased additional deductions when calculating corporate taxable income. This creates a strong incentive for companies to expand R&D activities, establish design centres or laboratories, and accelerate innovation.

Vietnam is cultivating a high-tech workforce ecosystem built on empowering individuals to realise their full potential. Key talent groups, including chief engineers, outstanding young scientists, and elite engineers benefit from flexible evaluation mechanisms, priority recruitment, and access to strategic technology initiatives.

Importantly, these policies extend beyond the private sector. Individuals meeting the criteria for high-quality digital technology talent may be recruited into the civil service or public employee system without competitive examinations and may be considered for leadership or managerial appointments without standard seniority or planning requirements, subject to institutional needs. Preferential attraction, remuneration, and recognition policies for high-quality human resources also apply.

In parallel, qualified civil servants and public employees with digital technology expertise may be seconded, rotated, or assigned across agencies and organisations in accordance with regulations, reflecting a deliberate effort to optimise the deployment of high-tech personnel.

Alongside attracting global talent, Vietnam is investing heavily in developing its domestic high-tech workforce. Key priorities include digital education platforms, digital university models, advanced research institutes, specialised training centres, and strategic technology laboratories.

Collaborative training programmes between universities, research institutes, and enterprises are encouraged to ensure that skill development aligns with market demand. These initiatives include the development of online training platforms and digital universities, upgrading research and innovation centres, and joint training initiatives for digital technology personnel with domestic and international partners. This multi-layered approach aims to strengthen Vietnams long-term talent pipeline.

Vietnams coordinated reforms on residency, welfare, taxation, and recruitment have created one of the most favourable environments in the region for investors and enterprises seeking to expand R&D centres, chip design operations, AI laboratories, and high-tech manufacturing in Vietnam. Enhanced access to global specialists, combined with a rapidly growing pool of young domestic engineers, enables companies to accelerate team building, shorten development cycles, and strengthen technology localisation.

As competition for high-tech talent intensifies worldwide and investment flows continue shifting towards Southeast Asia, early movers in Vietnam are well positioned to capture strategic advantages across the emerging technology value chain.

Beyond admin reform, Vietnams recent policy shift reflects a clear ambition to move up the global technology value chain. With additional guiding regulations under the DTI law currently under consultation, the policy framework for high-tech development continues to take shape.

By opening its doors wider than ever to global high-tech talent, Vietnam is sending a clear message: it is ready to compete and to lead in the next era of regional innovation and technological transformation.
Changes to Senedd election laws ahead of 2026 vote

Voters, candidates and campaigners heading into the 2026 Senedd election will do so under a reworked set of rules aimed at improving transparency, fairness and safety.

The updated framework follows the Elections and Elected Bodies (Wales) Act 2024 and a new Conduct Order introduced in 2025, which modernises and simplifies the legislation governing how elections are run in Wales.

A fully bilingual Conduct Order

For the first time, all election rules, forms and guidance have been published in both English and Welsh, with gender-neutral language throughout. The 2025 Conduct Order replaces the previous 2007 version and aligns with recent electoral reforms passed by the Senedd.

Stronger offences against undue influence

The long-standing offence of undue influence, attempting to pressure someone into voting a certain way, has been rewritten to make it clearer and easier to enforce. The new version covers threats to a persons reputation as well as physical harm and clarifies that intent alone can be enough to constitute an offence, even if the attempt fails.

Those found guilty face up to a year in prison or a fine, and can be disqualified from voting or standing for election for five years.

Tackling intimidation of candidates

A new disqualification order can now be issued by the courts for crimes involving intimidation or hostility towards candidates, campaigners or elected representatives. Anyone given such an order will be banned from standing for or holding elected office for five years.

Digital campaigning rules

All digital election materials, including social media posts, videos and online adverts, must now include a digital imprint, identifying the promoter and the person or organisation on whose behalf the material is published.

This requirement, mirroring the rules for printed campaign leaflets, applies to all elections in the UK, including the Senedd. The Electoral Commission issued statutory guidance on digital imprints in November 2023.

Party membership declarations

Candidates must now declare if they have been a member of any political party in the 12 months before the election notice is issued.

For party list candidates, the declaration only applies if they were a member of a different party.

Failing to make a correct declaration is classed as a corrupt practice.

New campaign spending limits

The 2026 election will introduce a new electoral system, meaning campaign spending limits and reporting rules have been adjusted.

The regulated period  when expenses must be reported  will now be the same for political parties and independent candidates, beginning four months before polling day (7 January 2026).

Spending limits for political parties depend on how many constituencies they contest:

52,500 for one candidate

Rising to 70,000 for six or more candidates

Independent candidates will have a limit of 52,500.

Costs related to safety and security are excluded from the limit, following recommendations from the Jo Cox Civility Commission.

Election

The next Senedd election is scheduled for Thursday 7 May 2026. Voters across Wales will elect 96 Members of the Senedd, an increase from the current 60.

It will be the first election to use Wales new voting system, which replaces individual constituencies with sixteen larger regions, each electing multiple members through a party list system.

The 2026 vote will also mark the start of a four-year electoral cycle, reducing the term length from five years.

More information

The Electoral Commission has published detailed guidance for:

Candidates and agents at Senedd elections

Political parties on campaign spending

Non-party campaigners

Electoral administrators

Full details can be found at http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk
Wales at risk of decades-long delay in completing active travel network

Wales could face decades of delay in completing its active travel network unless local authorities are supported to work together regionally.

That is the warning in a new report from the Senedds Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee, which described progress across Wales as painfully slow.

The Welsh Governments target is for 45% of journeys to be by sustainable modes by 2040, but the Committee argues this will not be achieved without a coordinated regional approach.

It has now called on the Welsh Government to commit to long-term funding, stronger leadership, and a renewed focus on behaviour change and inclusivity.

Planning across regions

The report highlights that many local authorities lack the capacity and expertise to deliver active travel effectively.

It recommends a regional approach, shifting from individual local authorities to coordinated planning across regions, led by the Corporate Joint Committees, the Regional Transport Plans and Transport for Wales.

Transport for Wales (TfW) will have a central role in making a regional approach work, according to the Committee. Not only can TfW provide technical expertise, it can also ensure consistent design and integrate active travel with wider transport plans.

Behaviour change and inclusivity

The committee has also argued that building routes alone will not lead to a change in peoples habits.

Instead it suggests that an effective and meaningful national behaviour change programme will be needed to convince people to leave the car at home for everyday trips. This, the committee says, should be led by the Welsh Government, designed in partnership with stakeholders and delivery partners, particularly local communities, to maximise its impact.

The report found that there is also a need for inclusivity to ensure that active travel routes are successful.

Many existing routes remain inaccessible for disabled and older people, and the report calls for robust design standards and early, meaningful engagement with communities to ensure active travel works for everyone.

Chair of the Senedds Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee, Mark Isherwood MS said: Active travel is essential for a healthier, more energy efficient Wales, but progress has been painfully slow.

The Welsh Government must lead from the front and support local authorities by introducing a regional delivery model, with Transport for Wales playing a central role in providing expertise and coordination.

This approach will improve efficiency and ensure consistent standards across Wales.

We also need an impactful national behaviour change programme to encourage people to leave the car at home, and we must involve local voices at every stage of planning. Active travel must work for everyone, improving health, cutting emissions and making our communities better places to live.

We note this years Annual Report by the Active Travel Board, published earlier this week, which set out a range of modest gains in active travel in Wales.

We welcome these gains but as both our report found and as reflected in the Active Travel Boards report, the challenges ahead are significant, and we have both made recommendations on how these challenges can be met.

The report will be sent to the Welsh Government for its response before a Senedd debate.
A Sun Valley man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after stealing more than $700,000 from multiple casinos.

According to the Washoe County District Attorney's Office, 61-year-old Thomas Tonar was sentenced to a total of 30 years in prison: six to 20 years concurrently for four counts of embezzlement valued at $100,000 or more, and two to 10 years consecutively for two counts of embezzlement valued under $100,000. He will be eligible for parole after serving at least eight years.

Tonar worked at Dottys Casino in 2025, and Sparks police were called to one of the locations in June after reports of missing money.

Surveillance footage showed Tonar taking cash from the office and other Dottys locations. Detectives from Sparks and Reno police found Tonar had embezzled from six casinos, totaling $714,713.59.

Tonar left Nevada and traveled to California, where he was arrested at a Sacramento motel a few days later in a joint law enforcement operation. Officers recovered $677,069 of the stolen funds along with three guns.

At sentencing, Chief Deputy District Attorney Amos Stege noted the significance of gaming in Nevada and cited greed as the motive. Victims spoke about the impact on employees who rely on tips. The Honorable Barry Breslow presided over the case and imposed the sentence.
Storey County made some improvements for its local community in 2025.

City officials, in an online post, highlight some of their projects. Their projects include the Lockwood Senior and Community Center, the Virginia City Road Rehab, and the purchase of the Mobile Emergency Operations Center and vehicle barriers.

The new community center was made possible through the support of construction crews, Senator Jacky Rosen, Senator Cortez Masto, and a $2.5 million grant in federal funding, according to their city website.

City officials say the Virginia City Road Rehab Project improved safety and accessibility for B Street.

The city also purchased a Mobile Emergency Operations Center and vehicle barriers to improve special event safety, according to their website.

A new swing set was added in the neighborhood of the Virginia City Highlands, providing a new play space.

City officials also say improvements have been made towards their Fire Protection District. The city purchased a four-acre Tri-Center parcel for Fire Station 75, which will house both fire and EMS personnel. Station 71 went under a remodel through the Buy American Act funding. The city also replaced the 1982 Virginia City Ladder Truck with a 2011 model, expected to come in mid-February.

For more information visit the Storey County website.
When Democracy Is Auctioned: A Question the Election Commission Cannot Dodge 2

What unfolded during the Pune Mahanagar Palika election process is not a logistical footnoteit is a loud moral indictment. Thousands of nomination forms sold in a flash, queues that looked less like civic enthusiasm and more like a cattle market, and whispersno, allegationsthat tickets are effectively priced rather than earned. Call it what you want: procedure, enthusiasm, or coincidence. To the ordinary citizen, it smells like a democracy on discount.

Lets stop pretending. When nomination forms are sold in bulk with such frenzy, the obvious question is why. Civic service does not suddenly become a mass obsession overnight. What has exploded is not public spirit, but political profiteering. Tickets have become commodities, wards have price tags, and ideology has been replaced by investment-return calculations. If governance were a stock market, Pune just witnessed an IPO frenzy.

And where, exactly, is the referee in this spectacle?

The credibility of the Election Commission of India stands squarely in the dock. Not accused of biasbut of blindness. When the system allows money power to bulldoze entry into the electoral arena, neutrality becomes negligence. A watchdog that merely watches while the house is looted cannot later claim it barked enough.

This is not about one party or another; that excuse is old, lazy, and dishonest. This is about structural rot. When ticket distribution becomes opaque, when the cost of entry silently eliminates the capable but poor, democracy mutates into an exclusive club for the wealthy, the connected, and the cynical. Elections then stop being a voice of the people and become background music for deal-making.

The tragedy is deeper. Pune is not some political backwater. It is an intellectual, cultural, and economic nerve centre. If this is the standard here, one shudders to imagine the silent compromises happening elsewhere. The middle class shrugs, the poor despair, and the political class laughs its way to the counting room.

The Pune Municipal Corporation elections should have been about urban planning, water, transport, housing, and collapsing infrastructure. Instead, they have turned into a masterclass on how to launder ambition through procedural loopholes. Democracy isnt dying in loud coups; it is being suffocated in orderly queues with printed forms and unasked questions.

The Election Commission must answernot with press notes, but with reform. Transparent caps, strict audits of party nominations, public disclosure of candidate selection criteria, and real-time financial scrutiny are not nice ideas; they are democratic CPR. If the Commission cannot enforce this, it must at least admit the system it oversees is compromised.

Because when citizens begin to believe that elections are for sale, they dont just lose faith in politiciansthey lose faith in the ballot itself. And once that faith is gone, no amount of ink on fingers can bring it back.

Democracy was never meant to be perfect. But it was never meant to be purchasable either.
Who shall be considered natural-born citizens? The term natural born citizen first appears in Article II, Section 1, and Amendment XII of the Constitution. For the Framers to have used such a term without explanation means there must have been a commonly understood, contemporary definitionand, in fact, there was. This definition can be found in Book 1, Sections 212-217, of Law of Nations, by the Franco-Swiss political philosopher, Emerich de Vattel, and first published in 1758.

Advertisement

212. Citizens and natives. The citizens are the members of the civil society: bound to this society by certain duties, and subject to its authority, they equally participate in its advantages. The natives, or natural-born citizens, are those born in the country, of parents who are citizens. As the society cannot exist and perpetuate itself otherwise than by the children of the citizens, those children naturally follow the condition of their fathers, and succeed to all their rights ... I say, that, in order to be of the country, it is necessary that a person be born of a father who is a citizen; for if he is born there of a foreigner, it will be only the place of his birth, and not his country. 213. Inhabitants. The inhabitants, as distinguished from citizens, are foreigners, who are permitted to settle and stay in the country. Advertisement

There is no doubt that the Framers were aware of this work, cited it, and relied on many of its concepts and terms. How do we know all this? Because the Framers told us so in their writings. Benjamin Franklin wrote this to Charles Dumas on December 9, 1775.

I am much obliged by the kind present you have made us of your edition of Vattel. It came to us in good season, when the circumstances of a rising state make it necessary frequently to consult the law of nations. Accordingly, that copy which I kept, (after depositing one in our own public library here, and sending the other to the college of Massachusetts Bay, as you directed) has been continually in the hands of the members of our congress, now sitting, who are much pleased with your notes and preface, and have entertained a high and just esteem for their author. Advertisement

This means that the Framers were well aware of de Vattels work fully 12 years before the Constitutional Convention. Franklin himself was a member of both Continental Congresses and the Constitutional Convention.

When George Washington died, his list of overdue library books included a copy of The Law of Nations.

Advertisement

If you want more evidence that the Framers were aware of de Vattels definition of natural born citizenship, look at the stated reason for imposing this qualification on the office of President, taken from a letter John Jay wrote to George Washington on July 25, 1787:

Permit me to hint, whether it would not be wise & seasonable to provide a strong check to the admission of Foreigners into the administration of our national Government, and to declare expressly that the Command in chief of the American army shall not be given to, nor devolved on, any but a natural born Citizen. Advertisement

Clearly, the object of the natural born citizen qualification was to exclude from the Presidency, as much as possible, foreigners, dual citizens, and those with strong foreign sympathies. de Vattels definition exactly satisfies this goal, and it is logical to infer that the Framers used the term because it best expressed their intentions.

Anyone who tells you the Framers were ignorant of de Vattels work or his definition of natural born citizenship is simply mistaken or worse.

Advertisement

In the years since the Framers time, and particularly since the ill-conceived 1898 decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark (another misstep of the same Court that decided the Plessy v. Ferguson segregation case in 1896), the waters surrounding natural-born citizenship have muddled. What really muddied the waters was the 14th Amendments citizenship clause.

The authors of that text never mentioned natural-born citizenship or the qualifications for the presidency during its ratification debates, making it clear that the amendment was not intended to change any of that. The intent and debate surrounding birthright citizenship are topics worthy of their own discussion and will not be addressed here.

By 1875, the 14th Amendment had already influenced perceptions of who was a natural-born citizen. This can be seen in 1875s Minor v. Happersett, in which Chief Justice Morrison Waite wrote,

The Constitution does not, in words, say who shall be natural-born citizens. Resort must be had elsewhere to ascertain that. At common-law, with the nomenclature of which the framers of the Constitution were familiar, it was never doubted that all children born in a country of parents who were its citizens became themselves, upon their birth, citizens also. These were natives, or natural-born citizens, as distinguished from aliens or foreigners. Some authorities go further and include as citizens children born within the jurisdiction without reference to the citizenship of their parents. As to this class there have been doubts, but never as to the first. (Emphasis mine.)

Notice that Waite all but literally quoted de Vattel, but added the portion in bold, which neither appeared in de Vattel nor does it agree with the Framers goal to exclude foreign influence from the Presidency.

Wong Kim Ark, as noted, confused things. In it, SCOTUS found that Wong Kim Ark, by virtue of birth to immigrant parents on U.S. soil, was by birthright a U.S. citizen despite neither of his parents possessing such citizenship; in essence, the now-controversial jus soli birthright citizenship.

Today, a great many, if not most Americans, have come to believe that birth on U.S. soil, regardless of parentage, is natural born citizenship. Clearly, persons of this description are not isolated from foreign influence as the Framers had clearly desired. Therefore, they cannot be the natural-born citizens the Framers envisioned.

It is worth noting that if we apply the tests of Wong Kim Ark to Kamala Harris, she does not even qualify as a U.S. citizen, much less a natural-born citizen. Note what the case requires:

The Supreme Court held that citizenship as prescribed in the Fourteenth Amendment extends to U.S.-born children of foreign subjects or citizens who, at the time of the childs birth, are permanent residents and are carrying on business in the United States. (Emphasis mine.)

Kamala Harriss parents were not lawful permanent residents at the time of her birth, but were present on academic visitor visas.

It should be clear from these facts that, owing to their foreign parentage and upbringing, neither Barack Obama nor Kamala Harris was, or is, qualified for the offices of President and Vice President, since neither is a natural-born citizen of the United States as the Framers understood that term. Since a significant part of our judiciary, Congress, and Executive Branch have been unable to discern this truth, we require a Constitutional Amendment to clarify the meaning of the term, natural born citizen.

Proposed Amendment XXIX

No person but born of two citizen parents permanently residing in the United States is a natural born citizen of the United States.

Image created using AI.

Button Gwinnett is a pseudonym.
There was a time when Tucker Carlson occupied a defensible place in polite society. He was combative, sometimes reckless, often theatrical, but still tethered to a recognizable, traditional American moral framework.

Advertisement

That framework is gone. What has replaced it is something far darker, far smaller, and far more corrosive to any legitimate non-lefty coalition.

Advertisement

Image created using AI.

Carlsons recent record shows not principled dissent but ideological decay. It reveals a man increasingly animated not by American national interest or cultural preservation, but by grievance, resentment, and a perverse attraction to defending forces that have historically and openly opposed Western civilization.

Advertisement

The result is a public figure who no longer belongs anywhere near respectable institutions.

The rupture became impossible to ignore in June, when Carlson aggressively confronted Senator Ted Cruz over U.S. policy toward Iran and Israel, framing American support for Israel as a betrayal of America First priorities. This was not a measured debate over foreign entanglements. It was an attempt to recast one of Americas most consistent alliances as morally suspect, while treating a theocratic adversary as a misunderstood victim.

Advertisement

The left applauded this spectacle, characterizing Carlsons position as part of an emerging isolationist woke right critique of Israel. That praise alone should have raised alarms. Carlson was no longer challenging excess. He was laundering hostility toward Israel through populist rhetoric.

Anyone with an ounce of intellectual honesty should know full well where such narratives historically lead.

Advertisement

That trajectory hardened throughout 2025. In November, Carlson appeared with Piers Morgan and dismissed public concern over Islams growing influence in Britain as exaggerated, arguing that fears about Muslim population growth were overblown. The point was not prudence but was, instead, deflection. Legitimate civilizational questions were waved away in favor of moral scolding aimed almost exclusively at the right.

One month later, speaking at Turning Point USAs AmericaFest in Phoenix, Carlson went further, rebuking conservatives for criticizing American Muslims as a group and declaring such criticism disgusting, a remark that stunned the audience into silence.

Advertisement

The problem was not the defense of individual civil rights. It was the refusal to acknowledge ideological realities that shape law, culture, and power wherever Islamism gains influence.

That refusal reached its most dishonest form days later. Dismissing concerns raised by a poll at AmericaFest ranking radical Islam as a top threat, Carlson claimed that he did not know anyone in the United States killed by radical Islam in the last 24 years.

Pay close attention to his words. Twenty-five years would have encompassed September 11, 2001, the deadliest Islamist attack in American history. Shrinking the timeline allowed Carlson to erase an event that reshaped American life to its core. This says nothing of the numerous Islamist terror attacks that have followed 9/11. Particularly those on American soil.

What Carlson spews is not analysis. It is a grotesque rhetorical manipulation.

The broader pattern reveals motive. After his 2023 departure from Fox News, Carlson abandoned a mass audience for a subscriber-based platform, the Tucker Carlson Network, increasingly tailored to fringe and extremist sensibilities. The break freed him from institutional restraint and rewarded provocation over persuasion.

The descent accelerated in September 2024, when Carlson hosted Darryl Cooper and praised him as the best and most honest popular historian, despite Coopers record of Holocaust denial. By mid-September, Republican officials and conservative outlets were openly condemning Carlson for amplifying venomous historical revisionism.

Even Donald Trumps 2024 victory did not halt the spiral. In June 2025, Carlson accused Trump of enabling war with Iran over Israeli strikes and publicly berated Senator Cruz immediately thereafter. Trump dismissed Carlson as kooky, a rare but telling rebuke.

By September, Carlsons eulogy at a memorial service for Charlie Kirk drew credible accusations of antisemitism. The climax arrived on October 28, when Carlson interviewed anti-Trump, and fringe-right, cult leader Nick Fuentes. Carlson derided Christian Zionists as victims of a brain virus. Representative Randy Fine responded by calling Carlson the most dangerous antisemite in America.

None of this is random. As I have argued, Carlsons behavior is driven less by ideology than by civilizational grievance. Raised in elite WASP circles as the son of a diplomat and an heiress, Carlson grew up inside a ruling class that collapsed within two generations. His career now functions as a prolonged act of revenge against a world that moved on without him.

That rage has metastasized into open contempt for the GOP itself.

In October, Carlson told a Turning Point audience that he kind of hate[s] the Republican Party. Months earlier, he questioned whether he could support a party that included Rep. Fine. During November, he declared there would be no reason for the GOP to exist if Lindsey Graham, whom Trump endorsed, won his midterm primary. Weeks later, Carlson said he might have to oppose the party outright because he hated its leadership class for purported betrayals.

This is not reform. It is nihilism.

Carlsons pro-Islamic advocacy, his fixation on Israel as a uniquely illegitimate ally, and his indulgence of extremists all serve the same end. They allow him to burn institutions that failed to preserve his inherited status. That is a degenerate motivation, and it produces degenerate outcomes.

There is no moral, political, or strategic justification for allowing Carlson anywhere near even vaguely respectable non-lefty organizations. He should be excluded without apology from campaigns, donor networks, think tanks, youth organizations, media enterprises, and Republican infrastructure. Not because dissent is forbidden, but because this dissent is not productive.

Carlson did not merely lose his way. He chose it.

Any lingering affection for him rests on memory, not reality. It is nostalgia for a Fox News version of Carlson that no longer exists. The figure operating today is not the sharp critic of elite excess many once admired, but a reckless accelerant of American self-destruction. Clinging to old impressions only delays an unavoidable reckoning.

Carlsons current project is not American renewal, despite his patriotic rhetoric. It is demolition without any aim for creative destruction. He tears at alliances, institutions, and moral boundaries not to strengthen the American right but to gratify grievance and command attention. That is why his rhetoric grows more extreme as his audience narrows. Provocation has replaced persuasion. Contempt has replaced responsibility.

This matters because influence carries consequence.

Carlson is not an obscure crank shouting into the void. He retains name recognition, pop-cultural reach, and credibility borrowed from his storied past. When he trivializes Islamist violence, softens the ideological realities of political Islam, or treats Americas enemies as misunderstood, he launders dangerous ideas through a familiar voice.

That is how movements lose their compass without noticing they have slipped.

For Republicans, this path is radioactive. It fractures coalitions, alienates allies, and hands rhetorical weapons to the left. For America, it corrodes moral clarity at a moment when clarity is a strategic necessity. For the West, it weakens civilizational confidence in the face of adversaries who do not share its freedoms and never will.

The hardest truth is also the simplest. Tucker Carlson is no longer a flawed ally of American greatness. He is an active opponent, masquerading as a truth-teller. Remembering who he was cannot excuse who he has chosen to become.

Tune this menace out once and for all.

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 California fleein on such a winters day I wrote about the mass out migration of Californians, and particularly individuals and businesses that pay substantial taxes, like Valero, which took a $1 billion dollar write off rather than continue to do business in California. When the Valero refinery closes, California will have lost 20% of its refining capacity, which will make gas prices skyrocket.

Advertisement

And the hits just keep on comin in the wasteland Gavin Newsom has created and promises to recreate nationwide if elected president.

Among the long-established businesses also fleeing the state are Leprino Foods, which has operated in California since 1910, Blue Diamond Growers, which has been there for 110 years and Anheuser-Busch.

Advertisement

..Blue Diamond Growers, which is closing its Sacramento manufacturing plant, resulting in approximately 600 job losses, is moving up its 2026 departure. The company will transfer manufacturing operations from the 53-acre Sacramento site to facilities in Turlock and Salida, California. Leprino Foods, the worlds largest mozzarella cheese maker, is closing its Central Valley dairy processing plant in Lemoore, and moving to Lubbock, Texas. The company supplies cheese to Dominos, Pizza Hut and Papa Johns. The closure will result in the loss of more than 300 jobs. Advertisement Anheuser-Busch is closing its Budweiser brewery in Fairfield, California.

Leprino has already built a huge and shining new factory in Lubbock, TX. The article doesnt explain where, if anywhere, Blue Diamond or Anheuser-Busch are going, but the primary reason for their flight is obvious: its too difficult and expensive to do business in California. And if that wasnt bad enough:

Advertisement

Graphic: X Post

Advertisement

For a peek into how California Governor Gavin Newsom would rule the country if elected President, look no further than his California Agricultural Land Equity Task Force. This ambiguous agency was buried within the state budget in 2022 during Newsoms statewide Covid lockdown, when media was not allowed near the governor or Legislature. Established in the California Budget Act of 2022 (AB 179, Ting), the California Agricultural Land Equity Task Force is an independent 13-member body directed to submit a report (by Jan. 1, 2026) to the Legislature and Governorthat includes a set of policy recommendations on how to address the agricultural land equity crisis. Advertisement

Crisis?! Its not what sane people would think. California is upset about individual farmers owning their own land and hiring people to help work it. Agricultural land equity in California means seizing privately owned land to redistribute to the people who work on that land. Sound communist?

Agricultural land equity is when all people have secure and affordable access to viable land for the care, relationship with, and cultivation of food, fiber, medicine, and cultural resources without systemic barriers, disparities, or exploitation.

Uh-huh. Systemic barriers, disparities, or exploitation like private land ownership by families that have owned and worked the land for generations while providing good jobs for others. Just how crazy is California? Here are a few of the recommendations:

The proposal recommends several actions that would apply exclusively to certain minorities through the support and incentivization of: *The development of local ordinances that would restrict the purchase of land unless you are a certain minority. *The purchase of private land by the state and other non-profits under the guise of agricultural land preservation and only offer leases to certain minority farmers after the purchase. *Transferring public land exclusively to tribes. *Transferring private land specifically to tribes, specifically to African Americans living in California, and exclusively to certain other minorities. *Debt forgiveness for only certain minorities.

For a state facing an $18 billion dollar budget deficit, debt forgiveness seemsstupid. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has whacked California upside the head with a common sense and constitutional 2 X 4:

...The right to own private property and our nation's agricultural heritage are an inseparable cornerstone of the American dream and ingrained in the very fabric of our nation. The pursuit of a noble lifestyle in agriculture should transcend the pernicious identity-based politics that only serves to drive division. President Donald J. Trump has made it clear that the United States will not tolerate illegal and unfair discrimination. All people should be treated equally and what California has proposed directly targets those who work from sunrise to well past sunset, faithfully tending our nation's land and livestock. Hardworking farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers all deserve a shot at the American dream and they should not be stigmatized, demeaned, or shut out of opportunities because of their race, sex, ethnicity, or national origin.

A state with virtually every advantage is being driven into the ground by Marxists like Gavin Newsom. Californias only hope appears to be a Newsom presidency where California would bankrupt America to keep its socialist nightmare afloat.

Become a subscriber and get our weekly, Friday newsletter with unique content from our editors. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription.

Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor.
California has a problem with productive citizens leaving the state, which explains its affection for illegal aliens to replace them. But the Trump administration is cutting off their capacity to pay for their 'free' health care through federal dollars, which is they've cooked up a new scheme to get the illegals the freebies they require -- another one-time 'billionaire's tax' now collecting signature at the proposition level.

Advertisement

According to Forbes, the eat-the-rich cure-all intends the following:

The 2026 Billionaire Tax Act would tax California residents whose net worth exceeds $1 billion up to 5% of their assets, and those with at least $20 billion in assets as of Jan. 1, 2026, would face a one-time tax of $1 billion. If the proposal was approved, Page would face a tax of roughly $12.8 billion in addition to the $1 billion one-time tax, while Thiel and Palihapitiya would pay about $2.35 billion and $60 million, respectively. The bill was proposed by the healthcare union Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West, which said the bill could generate up to $100 billion from 200 billionaires in the state. About 90% of these tax revenues would be used for health care, while 10% would fund food assistance and education-related programs. This tax revenue would offset the loss of billions in federal and state funding for Californias healthcare system, the group said. Advertisement

'Net worth' of course, is unrealized income. Own a company assessed at a billion dollars and even though your salary may only be $150,000, you pay the full tax bite on $1 billion as if you had that much in your checking account.

See how bad it would be here, from one of the actual billionaires thinking about fleeing:

Advertisement

Its not 1% a year for 5 years.



Its a one time 5% tax on all assets and it will kill entrepreneurship in California.



Here is an example:



John Doe starts a company. He takes a nominal salary - say $150k for this example - and the rest in equity in the company. Lets say he https://t.co/zdq1bqovXX  Chamath Palihapitiya (@chamath) December 28, 2025

Even the New York Times sounds a little alarmed:

The spiral accelerates



California is now proposing an unrealized wealth tax. Anyone with a net worth of $1B+ will have to give 5% of their assets to the state.



Soon there will be no one left to fund their broken programs. Just corrupt politicians and illegal immigrants. pic.twitter.com/TDtsdqcTtE  Geiger Capital (@Geiger_Capital) December 27, 2025

According to the Times, billionaires are not even waiting around to see if the measure gets enough signatures to make it onto the ballot.

Advertisement

The Times writes:

Billionaires including Peter Thiel, the tech venture capitalist, and Larry Page, a co-founder of Google, are considering cutting or reducing their ties to California by the end of the year because of a proposed ballot measure that could tax the states wealthiest residents, according to five people familiar with their thinking. Advertisement Mr. Thiel, 58, who owns a home in the Hollywood Hills and operates a personal investment firm from Los Angeles, has explored opening an office for that firm, Thiel Capital, in another state and spending more time outside California, three of the people said. Other billionaires who appear to be making moves to decrease their presence in California include Mr. Page, 52, a longtime resident of Palo Alto. He has discussed leaving the state by the end of the year, according to two people briefed on the talks. In mid-December, three limited liability companies associated with Mr. Page filed documents to incorporate in Florida, according to state records. Advertisement The moves are being driven by a potential California ballot measure from the health care union, Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West, the people said. The proposal calls for California residents worth more than $1 billion to be taxed the equivalent of 5 percent of their assets.

As Elon Musk once put it, 'message received.'

That's a lot of flight, and a lot of taxes that won't be collected. States such as Texas and Florida will get the taxes from them, at fairer rates, with no singling out success. And time is running out, because the tax is retroactive for anyone with high net worth living in California up until Jan. 1, 2026, meaning, there's about three days left.

But Silicon Valley's Rep. Ro Khanna, who's supposed to be one of the smarter and more reasonable Democrats out there, is all in for the Big Labor-led steal-a-thon:

Peter Thiel is leaving California if we pass a 1% tax on billionaires for 5 years to pay for healthcare for the working class facing steep Medicaid cuts.



I echo what FDR said with sarcasm of economic royalists when they threatened to leave, "I will miss them very much." https://t.co/5N8FxBqJww  Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) December 27, 2025

Thanks for engaging. Show me the economic literature which says that a modest wealth tax on billionaires of 1-2 percent disincentivizes founders or VC investment? I know plenty of economists who argue the opposite. Id be happy to read papers that make your point. https://t.co/UM68ReL9Mx  Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) December 28, 2025

Maybe they can ask Norway what happened when they instituted an itty bitty 'wealth tax':

Norway lost a lot of tax revenue after introducing a wealth tax. Even worse, entrepreneurs leaving the country took countless jobs with them.



Yet left-wing amateurs in the UK, France and Germany still demand a wealth tax. Why do they always make the same mistakes? pic.twitter.com/Rj07IvANE7  Michael A. Arouet (@MichaelAArouet) December 28, 2025

Norway implemented a wealth tax thinking it would raise more money for the govt.



The reality is that wealthy Norwegians just moved away to cheaper tax jurisdictions and the govt collected net less revenue. pic.twitter.com/pNKmB2HHMn  Wall Street Mav (@WallStreetMav) February 1, 2025

Norway passed a 1% wealth tax in 2022, and every successful tech entrepreneur bailed to Switzerland (and net tax revenue actually went down).



Nobody tries to drown the golden goose of California tech more than its politicians. https://t.co/98bt2cbDql  Antonio Garcia Martinez (agm.eth) (@antoniogm) December 28, 2025 California, of course, would like 5%, not 1%. They like bigger bites on their plate. If Norway's too far off, they might ask Seattle: Jeff Bezos left and took his billions leaving a hole so massive in the budget Washington Democrats has to tax everything they could to make up for it



The Seattle Times is garbage https://t.co/kFMcxoFzPY  Ari Hoffman  (@thehoffather) December 28, 2025 Yes, the state of Washington lost its biggest taxpayer  Jeff Bezos  to Florida.



Thats not just talk. That relocation alone has had a major impact on the WA state budget. https://t.co/7CpTrsrBLZ  Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) December 28, 2025  David Sacks on Californias Billionaire Tax Act



A wealth tax has been tried in many places at many times. It always backfires because whatever the tax benefit is that you get for the state, it's greatly outweighed by the economic depression that you get by the wealthy pic.twitter.com/Upnfia9Fg1  Chief Nerd (@TheChiefNerd) December 28, 2025

It's the biggest foolishness they can come up with and there are a lot of stupidities going on in the one-party blue state -- reparations, restrictions on land sales in the name of 'helping' minorities, mandatory folic acid in all tortillas without exception, despite the fact that it will sicken many, local new taxes on parking and garbage collection up the wazoo in many cities.

It's all a great money rush, a pinata, as they call it in Nicaragua, in a state that already has a $70 billion record of fraud that tops Minnesota's, meaning, whatever they get will go to fancy cars, jewelry, expensive trips in a sea of fraud instead of illegal alien health care. They also have a massive budget hole, of $60 billlion, which is about to get bigger as billionaires flee the state. And if anyone thinks this tax is a one-time thing, given the spending habits in Sacramento, they are doubly foolish. Triply so if they think the cash will go to where they say it will go.

The stealing and thuggery associated with this expropriation of wealth will happen. Watch the state go the way of Venezuela.

Image: CalTrans, via Wikipedia (modifications added) // public domain
Video camera systems have long been in use by cities across America for very good reasons, like deterring and catching criminals. Properly placed and managed, video systems are a cost-effective way to improve public safety. Improperly placed and managed, theyre an expensive waste of money, as appears to be the case at Brown University, where credible reporting suggests the Brown Administration shut down cameras on campus for fear the imagery could be used to deport illegal aliens.

Advertisement

Thats a credible assertion because Browns cameras were unable to identify the mass shooting suspect. It was only the efforts of a homeless man living in a Brown building that led to his identification and discovery after the killer committed suicide. At a press conference, Providence officials abruptly shut down the event when a reporter pressed them on the issue:

Advertisement

Graphic: Social Media Post

Now Charlottesville, VA is apparently following Browns lead. After a year-long pilot program with license plate reading cameras, Charlottesville is shutting down the cameras for fear federal agents might be able to use the cameras to track and deport illegal aliens:

Advertisement

The City of Charlottesville will not move forward with the Flock Safety license plate reader system following the conclusion of a yearlong pilot program, despite reported success in helping police solve crimes. City Council decided during its meeting on Monday, citing concerns largely outside the citys control. Advertisement I just think that the concerns are much bigger than us, Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis said. Over the 12-month pilot period, the Charlottesville Police Department gathered feedback from community members on the use of the Flock camera system. Advertisement

Graphic: Social Media Post

Advertisement

Most of the feedback we got was very positive from folks in the community. That being said, there were some concerns, Kochis said. Among the primary concerns were how data collected by Flock could potentially be accessed or used beyond the citys control, including fears it could be obtained by federal agencies for unintended purposes, such as tracking undocumented immigrants. The big concerns continue to come up from mostly policymakers that, you know, are they the federal government or the administration in D.C. could get access to it, Kochis said.

Chief Kochis admitted the system has helped solve at least one murder, has helped the police quickly recover stolen cars and has found at least one missing child and other missing people. But wait. This isnt the only camera system the city is using.

The city has contracted with another company for an AI-driven camera system in its two parking garages. The system reportedly recognizes the vehicles of citizens who have paid for parking in those garages and automatically admits them and allows them to exit.

So, Charlottesville, which is coincidentally a university town, isnt entirely against cameras. Theyre just against laws they dont like, such as federal immigration laws. Losing the ability to find missing people, including children, and the ability to quickly catch car thieves and solve murders is a small price for Charlottesvilles politicians to pay if it keeps illegal aliens, some of whom are presumably committing those car thefts and even murders, in Charlottesville.

Given the choice between proven public safety for American citizens and the remote possibility the federal government might be able to use license plate reading cameras to catch people violating federal law, Charlottesvilles politicians made the only rightleftchoice.

But what about the parking lot cameras? Couldnt they catch illegals too? Perhaps, but one suspects a cost/benefit analysis was done and the City concluded the money those garages generated was of more value to the city than the very slight possibility an illegal might be caught.

Charlottesvilles sacred principles are apparently for sale.

So is the rule of law.

Become a subscriber and get our weekly, Friday newsletter with unique content from our editors. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription.

Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor.
The Trump White House is defending its religious-focused Christmas greetings following criticism from The Washington Post, which took the administration to task for not sticking with secular themes.

Advertisement

While the Washington Post would prefer we stick to Happy Holidays, were saying Merry Christmas again, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson told Fox News. And Christmas is a Christian holiday for millions of Christians celebrating the birth of their Savior, whether the Washington Post likes it or not.

In a Friday article, the Post noted:

Advertisement

Top officials in President Donald Trumps administration posted messages from their government accounts hailing Christmas in explicitly sectarian terms, such as a day to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. The Department of Homeland Security posted three messages on social media Thursday and Friday, twice declaring, Christ is Born! and once stating, We are blessed to share a nation and a Savior. One DHS video posted on X displayed religious images, including Jesus, a manger and crosses. Advertisement The messages sharply diverged from the more secular, Santa Claus-and-reindeer style of Christmas messages that have been the norm for government agencies for years. The posts provided the latest example of the administrations efforts to promote the cultural views and language of Trumps evangelical Christian base.

The Post shared examples of Christmas messages focusing on the holiday as a celebration of the birth of Jesus from the Department of Homeland Security, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Justice Department Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. The State Department was a notable exception with its secular message to all Americans, the Post noted.

Advertisement

The religious messages are one more example of the Christian Nationalist rhetoric the Trump administration has disseminated since Day One in office, the Post quoted Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State. Our Constitutions promise of church-state separation has allowed religious diversity  including different denominations of Christianity  to flourish in America.

People of all religions and none should not have to sift through proselytizing messages to access government information, Laser continued. Its divisive and un-American.

Advertisement

Trump campaigned for his first term on a return to saying Merry Christmas. It was part of an outreach to evangelical voters, who were vital to his 2016 victory.

The Post's story drew heavy response online, perhaps best summed up by Texas state Rep. Daniel Alders, who posted:

Advertisement
The cost of the industrial level fraud in Minnesota, reportedly perpetrated mostly by Somali immigrants, has now grown to $9 billion, according to federal prosecutors. But you would never know this  or anything else about the growing scandal  if you rely on CNN or MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) for your news.

Advertisement

Mediaite, a left-of-center news site focusing on politics and the media, reported on this blackout in an insightful opinion piece by Sean James published yesterday afternoon (Dec. 28).

A review of MS NOW and CNNs broadcasts since December 18  when prosecutors claimed the fraud operation was much larger than previously reported  shows it has not been mentioned a single time by either outlet [CNN and MS NOW]. Both outlets do not have stories on the fraud scheme on their respective websites, either. . . This is the biggest domestic story of the past month  and MS NOW and CNN have failed their viewers by ignoring it. Advertisement

Conservatives who eschew FOX News do so at their own peril. As the Mediaite article continues: For comparison, Fox News has covered the topic dozens of times since then.

As a frequent watcher of the countrys number one cable news channel, I can attest to the fact that in recent weeks FOX News has covered the story frequently without fear or favor. In addition, numerous FOX News programs have welcomed many guests, including Republican members of Congress, who are talking about the fraud and proposing investigations into Minnesota Democrats for their possible complicity and looking the other way in the scandal.

Advertisement

According to the New York Post, the fraud scheme in Minnesota was the work of dozens of people  the vast majority from Minnesotas Somali community.

A staggering $9 billion may have been stolen in Minnesotas sprawling social-services scam orchestrated mainly by members of its Somali community  a figure nearly equivalent to the entire economy of Somalia. Advertisement The enormous new estimate is a nearly nine-fold increase from the swiped $1 billion previously suspected, according to federal prosecutors. It also accounts for roughly half of the $18 billion in total federal funds provided to the Minnesota-run services since 2018, the feds said  as Democratic Gov. Tim Walz continues to take heat for his handling of the debacle. Advertisement

Predictably, Democrats, including Minnesota member of Congress Ilhan Omar, have accused reporters and critics of the fraud at the hands of Somalis as racists.

Even the reliably left of center New York Times has reported on the fraud, for example in a lengthy and detailed 2,500 word front page article on November 29 How Fraud Swamped Minnesotas Social Services System on Tim Walzs Watch, subtitled Prosecutors say members of the Somali diaspora, a group with growing political power, were largely responsible.

Advertisement

According to Sean James analysis in Mediaite, not only has MS NOW avoided coverage of the substance of the fraud story, it has  without providing any context  suggested that President Trumps comments criticizing the Somali immigrant community are borderline racist.

In early December, Trump said he did not want more Somalis like Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) coming to the U.S. and ripping off taxpayers. More recently, CNN and MS NOW commentators have simply ignored the fraud claims when discussing Trumps comments on Somalis. Rachel Maddow noted Trump had called Somalis garbage while talking to fellow MS NOW personality Nicolle Wallace, without mentioning the fraud claims. MS NOW anchor Richard Lui on Tuesday said Minnesotas Somali community was feeling [Trumps] wrath, without mentioning fraud. MS NOW political analyst Cornell Velcher on December 22 said the president was attacking Somalian immigrants and calling them the most horrific and racist things, without mentioning the fraud claims. [emphasis original]

CNN, according to James analysis, has adopted a similar tactic:

And on CNN, MeidasTouch commentator Adam Mockler on December 23 said Republicans were targeting Somalis, as well as Haitans, LGTBQ people, and women. Again, the fraud claims were not mentioned.

American Thinker, of course, has been following this story since it first broke nationally this past fall, with yesterdays blog by Andrea Widburg, Third World cultures have a corruption problem, and Democrats capitalize on it, being of particular note.

Peter Barry Chowka has been a frequent contributor to American Thinker since 2007. His Web page is https://peter.media and his Twitter/X is @Pchowka.

Image: Screen shot from MS NOW video, via YouTube
A few days ago, U.K., Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer triumphantly announced that he had 'rescued' an Islamist 'democracy activist' and 'political prisoner' with a gargantuan hatred for Jews and the West from an Egyptian prison where he was serving time for inciting violence on social media.

Advertisement

Im delighted that Alaa Abd El-Fattah is back in the UK and has been reunited with his loved ones, who must be feeling profound relief.



I want to pay tribute to Alaas family, and to all those that have worked and campaigned for this moment.



Alaa's case has been a top priority  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 26, 2025

When news of just what was in Alaa Abd El-Fattah's social media posts got out -- about killing Jews, raping white women, calling for more terror attacks on the West, calling for burning down No. 10 Downing Street, declaring white people 'not human,' and other horrible stuff, Starmer claimed he had no idea about the posts and primly called them 'abhorrent.'

Now Egypt says he was lying:

Advertisement

Important update: Cairo has outright rejected Starmers reported assertion that he was unaware of Alaas record of incitement to violence, maintaining that British officials were explicitly briefed on the matter.



Late tonight, I received a message from a well-connected https://t.co/KP7L4NEhPF  Khaled Hassan (@Khaledhzakariah) December 29, 2025

It seems credible that Egypt would have told them all about it as the Brits made their pleas to let this extremist out. They did, after all, put him in jail for a reason. And they undoubtedly resented the backstory here, that Britain would be holding up Egypt as a bad guy on the human rights front over this innocent guy who only wanted to rape white women and kill every Jew.

This tweet, done by an Egyptian Muslim convert to Judaism whose bio says he's a 'researcher,' tells us a lot about the thinking in Egypt:

Advertisement

Important update: Cairo has outright rejected Starmers reported assertion that he was unaware of Alaas record of incitement to violence, maintaining that British officials were explicitly briefed on the matter.



Late tonight, I received a message from a well-connected https://t.co/KP7L4NEhPF  Khaled Hassan (@Khaledhzakariah) December 29, 2025

Not only would the Egyptians be appalled at Starmer's lies after they know they told him about them, they are now considering yanking Abd El-Fattah's Egyptian citizenship, leaving Britain stuck with him as U.K. law prohibits the deportation of stateless persons, even if they are stateless for a good reason. That sounds like an appropriate response for a regime that doesn't take terrorism as seriously as Egypt does.

They knew that after the outcry about Abd El-Fattah's tweets, Starmer emphasized that Abd El-Fattah was a British citizen, even though he's never lived in Britain, nor sworn allegiance to the crown, (which is a requirement), nor even asked for it -- the citizenship was handed to him in 2021 by parliament based on his mother's British citizenship in a bid to get him out of the Egyptian jail.

Advertisement

I have had enough of the despicable, sickening lies.



Sky News is suggesting Starmer was celebrating Alaa Abd El Fattah's "return" from Egypt. What return, for the love of Gd?????!!!!!!!!



The terrorism-loving extremist never called Britain home. He never lived here. He was https://t.co/XIpdmDG6AY  Khaled Hassan (@Khaledhzakariah) December 28, 2025

It doesn't look like Starmer can talk this away, and Abd El-Fattah's wan, half-hearted apologies are solely because he got caught. The calls for Starmer to resign have now gotten louder from his Tory opponents, who knew he was already in political trouble even before this fiasco.

One can only hope that it's enough to finish Starmer off politically. Britain deserves better.

Advertisement

Image: Lilian Wagdy, via Wikipedia // CC BY-SA 2.0 Deed
No one can honestly say 2025 was boring. Nor unimportant. However, it was not filled with sanity.

Advertisement

For example, Zohran Mamdani, a Marxist Muslim, was elected Mayor of New York City. You know, the financial capital of the world, whose tallest buildings were brought down by Muslim terrorists just a few short years ago. Never forget, right?

Predictably, we are already seeing the inherent hypocrisy in Marxist leaders and policies, and he hasnt even taken office yet.

Advertisement

Mamdani recently appointed someone who has no firefighting experience as the head of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). The FDNYs new commissioner is, however, a lesbian, and that appears to be all the qualification one needs to become Chief of Police, Fire Department Commissioner, or Mayor of a major city these days.

Meanwhile, in Minnesota, Somali-gate just keeps getting worse, though the mainstream media outlets, local and national, seem oddly uninterested in the burgeoning scandals.

Advertisement

Fortunately, independent videographer Nick Shirley recently shined the light on one. Shirley recorded footage of the Quality Learing [sic] Center, licensed to care for up to 99 children, but suspiciously completely devoid of kids at the time of his visit.

When Shirley and an assistant approached the buildings entrance, a white woman yelled to others inside, "Don't open up. It's ICE!

Advertisement

Probably not what one would scream if there was nothing to hide.

Even more pathetically, a large sign adorning the facade of the daycare center read: Quality Learing Center. The center has allegedly received $4 million in state funds, yet cannot even correctly spell learning on its own sign. This place is obviously not just any old learing center. This place provides quality edumacation!

Advertisement

Speaking of education, per a recent online video, two female Somali school board members in Portland, Maine, recently declined to recite the Pledge of Allegiance -- after which another (white) woman can be heard acknowledging that the school sits on land stolen from members of the Wabanaki Confederacy. As if that wasnt enough wokeness for one meeting, she then proceeds, incredibly, to state: Equity is achieved in the Portland Public Schools when there are no identifiable differences in outcomes and experiences for any population, at which point the video ends.

The shunning of the Pledge and recitation of the Land Acknowledgement were bad enough, but the assertion that the school districts goal is to see that there are no identifiable differences in outcomes and experiences for any population, is mind-boggling and terrifying.

Advertisement

Everyone has different talents, IQs, and interests. Some kids are willing to work harder than others. Thinking that no identifiable differences in outcomes is a good thing  or even achievable  is far beyond preposterous. Believing that the district could somehow mandate no identifiable differences in experiences is worse. Every individual perceives things differently. Only a society of cookie-cutter robots subjected to exactly the same controlled environment could even approach such an outcome. Perhaps that is what too many in our public education system are striving for.

If folks like those in charge of the Portland Public Schools have their way, Somalis and tribal confederations will soon be all thats left of what was once America.

All that could be said at that point is, Good luck.

Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License
In 1980, John Barron published MiG Pilot: The Final Escape of Lieutenant Belenko. Its the story of Victor Belenko, a Soviet fighter pilot who on September 6, 1976, defected to Japan, and then to the United States, with his MiG-25, then the hottest Soviet aircraft.

Advertisement

Graphic: Book Cover Scan. Author.

Advertisement

In many respects, the plane was crude. Designed to dash to high altitude at high speed to fire missiles at high-flying American bombers, it could attain incredible speeds for its day, but at the cost of wrecked engines.

While American experts examined every inch of the MiG, which was eventually crated and returned to the Soviets, Belenko was granted asylum in America and debriefed by his CIA handlers. The book tells of several of his handlers driving Belenko past a common strip mall. Belenko demanded to stop and see for himself what capitalism provided.

Advertisement

He rushed, breathless and in shock, from unremarkable store to store. There were racks of suits in all sizes and colors, TVs, electric appliances of every kind, all the goods at affordable prices we take for granted. He was particularly stunned by a common, small grocery store. Hed never seen anything like it: unimaginable choices of everything, and fresh produce, cheeses and meats of all kinds.

Belenko accused his handlers of constructing a Potemkin Village just for him to make him think ordinary Americans had the kinds of choices available only to Russias rulers. He was quickly assured stores like that were everywhere. Belenkos disbelief was understandable, even though as a MiG-25 pilot, he enjoyed a far higher standard of living than most Russians. Belenko died in America in 2023, a converted Capitalist.

Advertisement

Circa 2025, Sarah Anderson at PJ Media tells the story of another former Communist, Anita, who has some Tik Tok following:

Advertisement

Graphic: Tik Tok Scan. Author.

Anita and her family were able to fly out of Cuba and make their way to Costa Rica, which is welcoming to Cuban refugees.

Advertisement

But what really stood out about her journey  that even made the newspaper in Costa Rica  was her reaction to the first farmers market that she saw. She called it a hard "shock to reality" and said she was so excited, like a child, because she'd never seen much food in one place in her lifetime. Let that sink in. I can't explain to you what it feels like to come to a market and see such a variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, everything... Here you can buy whatever you need. People come here and buy what they'll need for the whole week. The truth is, I don't understand why my country, Cuba, goes through so much, when everywhere else in the world people have the right and can buy the basic necessities they need to live. The mere sight of strawberries made her "go crazy" she said, as they're one of her favorite foods, but you can't get them in Cuba. She was also amazed that she could buy plants for her home. She filmed a video, but I can't seem to embed it, so you can watch it here. Anita follows up that video with more videos of her cooking her first Christmas meal in Costa Rica, saying that it was more than she could ever imagine. "Right now in Cuba, I would have been worried about what I was going to eat, what I could buy, how my money wouldn't stretch far enough," she said. "And yet here I had the opportunity to be in a free country where I can go out and buy as much meat as I want, buy a cake."

Everything is different in a free country:

I don't know if you know this, but Christmas isn't celebrated in Cuba. Most people don't even have enough money to buy a piece of meat or decorate their homes with lights. Things are so incredibly different here that I invite you to appreciate it; you can't imagine how happy people are in this country, and they haven't even realized it. Today, I'm only thinking about my family, about how many people didn't even have a plate of food to eat, how they spent Christmas without electricity, without water, without motivation, and without hope.

Anitas story, like Victor Belenkos provides perspective for those who have always enjoyed the benefits of freedom, but who esteem it too lightly. Even today, useful idiots have elected an Islamist Communist Mayor of New York City, and others extol the virtues of Socialism without Anitas understanding of reality.

Im glad Anita and her family have found what they sought. Shes the kind of immigrant we ought to welcome. Perhaps someday we will.

Become a subscriber and get our weekly, Friday newsletter with unique content from our editors. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription.

Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor.
Minnesota fraud is a seemingly never-ending and endlessly entertaining story. The alternate media reports on the skyrocketing dollar total, now up to $9 billion, while the legacy media tries to explain why the fraud isnt anywhere near $9 billion as if fraud totaling a mere few billion isnt really a big deal.

Advertisement

Graphic: Social Media Post

Advertisement

Simultaneously, Minnesotas Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, who is running for the Senate, appears in a Hijab while claiming Somali fraudsters are responsible for everything good about Minnesota. And if that wasnt bad enough, a downtown McDonalds in Minneapolis has locked its doors during business hours and will only admit people who dont look as likely as usual to defecate or urinate on the floor, attack decent customers, or do their own little Jihad beneath the golden arches.

Until recently, the Feeding our Future fraud was taking top honors. In that scam, Somali restaurants submitted invoices for hundreds of thousands of meals supposedly delivered to children out of hole in the wall restaurants or other shacks, and Tim Walzs government gladly paid. It appears some state employees did due diligence and noticed no food was being delivered to those places, nor were any children showing up to eat all that nonexistent food and tried to complain but were harassed or ignored. Under Walz, no prosecutions have occurred; every prosecution to date has been the Feds.

Advertisement

Now, an ironically comic new fraud amountingfor the momentto around $4 million dollars, has been discovered: fake daycare centers, like the Quality Learing Center. We dont know if that particular center is focused on Shakespearean classics like King Lear, or whether they just cant spell leer, or learning, which seems the mostly likely probability.

And who discovered this particular fraud? A YouTuber:

Advertisement

Graphic: Social Media Post

Advertisement

This week, YouTuber Nick Shirley and another man approached a building labeled the Quality Learing Center (sic) on Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis, with Shirley noting that "Learning" was spelled incorrectly on the daycares sign outside. Almost immediately, a woman appears and repeatedly yells  ostensibly to anyone inside the building  "Dont open up. Its ICE." Advertisement

Hmmm. That sounds kind of suspicious, almost like the people at the Learing Center arent native born Minnesotans of Scandinavian extraction.

Shirley asked the woman whether she thought he or the other man were immigration agents and identified himself as an online commentator. The man held up a paper that appeared to show $1.9 million had been disbursed to the center in fiscal year 2025, adding that the total disbursement to the center that he had recorded was $4 million. "Go away. Youre not welcome here. Shame on you," the woman told Shirley. It remained unclear whether the woman had any association with the center. "Are you in favor of $1.9 million going illegally/fraudulently to this business that [is called] Quality Learning Center but can't spell learning right on the door?"

There were apparently no children present at this particular Learing Center, which has a long and disturbing history with the state:

The Quality Learning Center also recently made news for collecting 95 violations from the state human services agency between 2019 and 2023, according to St. Pauls ABC affiliate.

Such violations range from failure to keep hazardous items away from kids to the daycare not having any records for more than a dozen listed children, according to the outlet. Documentation reviewed by Fox News Digital showed the sites current license does not expire until the end of 2026.

So, a Learing Center for children has years of citations for dangerous violations and still has a license through 2026? Its that kind of rigorous attention to fiscal responsibility and public safety that has made Minnesota what it is under Tampon Tim Walz. Fox News Digital asked Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison for comment and shockingly got none.

Perhaps its time to change Minnesotas motto from Minnesota Nice to Minnesota Vice?

Become a subscriber and get our weekly, Friday newsletter with unique content from our editors. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription.

Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor.
Some things I can't understand.

Advertisement

Such as U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, a purported U.S. ally, expending a boatload of diplomatic muscle to get a white-people-hating and Jew-hating Jihadist out of jail in Egypt, and safely into Britain.

Im delighted that Alaa Abd El-Fattah is back in the UK and has been reunited with his loved ones, who must be feeling profound relief.



I want to pay tribute to Alaas family, and to all those that have worked and campaigned for this moment.



Alaa's case has been a top priority  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 26, 2025

According to the Jerusalem Post:

Advertisement

Controversy arose after the British government announced on Friday that a long-imprisoned Egyptian political activist was being brought to the United Kingdom, as his social media history revealed statements supporting the killing of Zionists and whites, as well as denigrating the British people. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other cabinet ministers announced on social media that they were delighted that Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah had been brought to the UK and reunited with his family after having been imprisoned for almost all of the last 12 years. Starmer paid tribute to El-Fattahs family for the extended campaign for his release since 2013 and thanked Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for pardoning the activist. Advertisement

He really had a problem with Americans, too:

OK with this, Prime Minister? Alaa Abd El Fattah I rejoice when US soldiers are killed and support killing Zionists even civilians. pic.twitter.com/FH5ZdtQrFs Advertisement December 28, 2025

So releasing a guy who hates White people, who wanted White men shot, who advocated rape for Western women and who hates Jews was one of your top priorities? These are from his X posts. You wanted him back from Egypt that bad? Explain why Keir. Is he your pet or something?  Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) December 27, 2025

Why is Keir Starmer celebrating Alaa Abd El-Fattah, whose violent hatred is all over the internet?



And why is the BBC whitewashing his record with a puff piece that omits every one of his extremist posts? pic.twitter.com/kbBE0tts8F  Avi Yemini (@OzraeliAvi) December 27, 2025

Some of his other greatest hits are here:

Advertisement

Do you still have those laws to put people in jail for mean tweets? pic.twitter.com/FCrryf0ZkK  Michael Lucci (@Michael7ucci) December 27, 2025

But here he was, a top priority for Britain, to bring back to Britain, as if this guy could be anything but trouble for the U.K. and its people?

Advertisement

Of all the things to be concerned about, bringing a Islamist hater of Western values to Britain was more important than anything to him? The guy tweeted about wanting to burn down No. 10 Downing, the residence of the British prime minister.

Who the heck put Starmer up to this? What kind of money?

The backstory, according to The Independent, is here:

Alaa Abd El-Fattah, a British-Egyptian dual national, was detained in Egypt in September 2019. In December 2021, he was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of spreading false news. His imprisonment was branded a breach of international law by UN investigators, and Mr Abd El-Fattah was released after being pardoned by Egyptian president Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi.

Now Starmer says he didn't know.

The Islamist toad was hastily given British citizenship when he ran into trouble with the law in Egypt where they don't put up with Jihad, and now even Labour MPs are calling for that citizenship to be stripped, given his hateful proclivities.

According to The Times of London:

Sir Keir Starmer is facing calls from senior Labour MPs to strip Alaa Abd el-Fattah of his British citizenship, as No 10 said the prime minister was unaware of past comments made by the Egyptian dissident. Ministers were among those who criticised an apparent failure to conduct background checks on the British-Egyptian man who was freed from jail and welcomed back to the UK this week by Starmer. They privately called the prime ministers intervention ridiculous and shocking, and said Fattah should lose the British citizenship he gained in December 2021.

The Independent also reported that the U.K. Jewish Leadership Council pointed out that in light of Bondi Beach and other Jew-hating attacks by Islamofascists, the gushing from Starmer amounted to a dog whistle to Jihadis to launch another attack on Jews:

The Prime Minister recently reiterated his determination to root out antisemitism from our country but has now shared his delight that someone who has advocated for killing Zionists has arrived in the UK. We know from Heaton Park, Manchester, and Bondi Beach that there are those who hear such words as a call to action. The Government has celebrated Mr Abd El-Fattahs arrival as a victory, British Jews will see it as yet another reminder of the danger we face.

It's not surprising that he's facing down calls to resign for introducing one more viper into the British nest from the Tories and other opponents of Jihad. This, by the way, on top of already existing calls for him to resign by his own Labour Party members who can't stand him for other reasons.

They are feeling some heat from an angry U.K. public.

The government, and even El-Fattah himself, are now trying to do damage control.

The Foreign Office put out this anodyne statement:

The Government condemns Mr El-Fattah's historic tweets and considers them to be abhorrent.

El-Fatteh claims his calls for murder were taken out of context, the Independent reports:

I am shaken that, just as I am being reunited with my family for the first time in 12 years, several historic tweets of mine have been republished and used to question and attack my integrity and values, escalating to calls for the revocation of my citizenship, he said in a statement issued on Monday. Looking at the tweets now  the ones that were not completely twisted out of their meaning  I do understand how shocking and hurtful they are, and for that I unequivocally apologise. They were mostly expressions of a young mans anger and frustrations in a time of regional crises (the wars on Iraq, on Lebanon and Gaza), and the rise of police brutality against Egyptian youth. I particularly regret some that were written as part of online insult battles with the total disregard for how they read to other people. I should have known better.

Hearing this guy talk about his 'integrity' and his 'values' is like hearing the word 'love' from the mouth of a whore, as I think it was G.K. Chesterton or C.S. Lewis once put it. We know what his values are.

And this guy doesn't belong in Britain, or anywhere in the West. Obviously, he's an opportunist of some kind, trying to morph from fashionable Jihadi out to destroy the West into an NGO leftist who now brands himself a 'democracy' activist.

Let's see him match what a real democracy activist, such as Maria Corina Machado, winner of this year's Nobel Peace Prize has done. It won't happen.

It's such a putrid travesty that Britain could be importing this lowlife into its green and pleasant land that one hopes it may just force Starmer, who's already unpopular, to resign. But leftists these days no longer have much honor, so more likely, he will cling to power even as his credibility hits rock bottom with the importation of this hater.

Image: X screen shot
One of the things that leftists in Western academia have been very successful in doing is erasing peoples knowledge of the Western canon that created our extraordinary modern world, a world in which more people live more comfortable, safer, healthier, and wealthier lives than ever before in human history. Victor Davis Hanson discussed this lost wisdom in his latest podcast, and it reminded me of an extraordinary 1994 Chinese movie that ought to give all of us pause and force us to push back against the rape and slaughter of Western wisdom.

Advertisement

YouTube screen grab (cropped).

Advertisement

If youre looking for wisdom in our insane world, you can do a lot worse than to check out Victor Davis Hanson: In His Own Words, a show that sees the great Hanson discussing todays politics with either Jack Fowler or Sami Winc. I love the show because Hanson is so informed and so wise. Given those things, its no surprise to me that he staunchly supports Israel and Jews, but thats a digression...

What I wanted to talk about is Hansons comments from his most recent show, in which he discusses how the West has jettisoned the wisdom of its past. The entire Western canon has been thrown overboard as too white, too Christian, too Eurocentric, too patriarchal, too Biblical, and too anything else that doesnt align with Marxism, and all its foul subsets: tribalism, racism, antisemitism, overarching statism, anti-Christianity, pro-paganism, unfettered abortion, sexual deviation, etc.

Advertisement

Hansons comments arose after he and Jack Fowler discussed the rising tide of truly insane, fact-free, conspiracy-based antisemitism thats arisen on the right, with people such as Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Candace Owens leading the way.

From there, Hanson and Fowler began reminiscing about the marvels of the old National Review cruises, in the days before NeverTrumpism wreaked havoc at the publication. Ive set the video to begin with the discussion from that point forward, but you can also get there by going to the 53:13 mark in the video:

Advertisement

Its a wide-ranging discussion, so Ive copied below only the most pertinent parts, highlighting the important conclusion:

HANSON: So, something has happened. Advertisement FOWLER: Victor, we mentioned humorously the National Review cruises, but when I look back on them and, as you know, I ran them, and the people that participated, the speakers were of the...yourself, Milton Friedman, Bob Bork, Michael Novak, Bernard Lewis, Paul Johnson... I mean, just great thinkers and scholars... [B]ut that to me was conservatism, and everyone had a role. Everyone. You know, there are people who are polemicists, and there's obviously scholars, but the decline of the admiration of the thought leaders as opposed to the polemicists is a troubling thing for me, for modern conservatism. HANSON: Yeah, I won't mention anybody, but I was in the company of someone about four years ago that was of the type that you're talking about, an influencer with a bunch of people. And this person was saying things like the West is this and the West is that and the West is this and everything that he said was wrong. Advertisement [snip] There are people in the conservative movement that are very, very astute historians, and they've written... They have a whole life that has nothing to do with conservative politics, and yet you could draw on these people. But to go out there and then just to start screaming and yelling that there was no Moon landing or that the French president's married to a man or all of this stuff, and that becomes the veneer of the conservative movement when you have all of these other people who could give, you know, background. I'll give you one example. [snip Michael Doran... The guy is absolutely brilliant and he gave a very sophisticated scholarly analysis [heres the link] on why everything that Tucker said about Israel was wrong. And it just came out and you need people like that to do that to give historical background in the conservative movement and try to tell people that conservatism is a preservation of tradition and values inherited across generations. It's not a blanket, automatic Western civilization is wonderful, no fault. No, it's a very carefully studied appreciation for what people do. They're not gods. They're just people. But they created a unique tradition. You can read it in Homer. You can read it in Virgil, Thucydides, Tacitus, in the medieval period, Dante, Petrarch. There's nothing like it. And it just seems to me that we are the inheritors and the guardians of free speech, open markets, rationalism, the equality of the sexes, all of these things that were unique to the West. And the reason that we're not defending those...we don't have people that have that knowledge. We dont. I don't see people who are spouting this and that. They're getting clicks. I'm not going to name names, but they don't give an in-depth analysis of what's going on.

Summed up: Our Western education has been so dreadful that even conservatives have no idea what theyre defending, and too many make it up as they go along. And because most of these conservative influencers did go to college and sat in classes with those leftist professors, they still absorbed the worst leftist ideas, including antisemitism, which becomes the pole on which they hang their hats.

In other words, the left has done over 60 years what the communists in Cambodia under Pol Pot or in China under Mao did in a few years with the gun and sword: Theyve killed the true intellectuals (not the faux leftist intellectuals) who were the repositories of their nations collective wisdom and values.

This brings me to a 1994 movie made in China that was later banned there. The movie, To Live (which can be seen, for now, on YouTube), begins on the eve of the Communist Revolution and follows the lives of Fugui and his wife, Jiazhen. Fugui is a rich merchant with a drinking and gambling problem. Fortuitously, as it turns out, just as the Revolution begins, he loses all his money, leaving him and his wife impoverished.

The movie shows the two of them living through all of the major moments that followed the Revolution: Fugui is conscripted into the Nationalist army and finds himself fighting the communists, only to be captured and conscripted into the eventually victorious communist army. Hes then reunited with Jiazhen, and they struggle to survive in the wake of the revolution, including the destruction of all societal markers and, eventually, the Great Leap Forward in 1958 and the ensuing famine.

Eventually, they have a beloved daughter, who marries and gets pregnant. Her pregnancy coincides with the Cultural Revolution, and this is the part of the movie thats never left me.

When Fugui and Jiazhen take their daughter to the hospital because the delivery is going badly, they learn that all the professors had been removed for being reactionaries. Only the medical students are left, and they proudly boast that they have abandoned all reactionary, Western knowledge. They need only to know Mao. The daughter, quite unnecessarily, hemorrhages to death.

This is what happens when you kill the repositories of real, not Marxist, knowledge...and this is what Victor Davis Hanson says has happened, or, at least, is happening in America. Its why the rot of the left is seeping into the right. We must fight this with everything weve got, lest America bleed out, hemorrhaging everything great about it and becoming just another communist wasteland.
Boxing star Anthony Joshua was taken to hospital on Monday after being rescued from the wreckage of a car crash in Nigeria in which two men travelling with him were killed.

The former British two-time world heavyweight champion, 36, was seen being pulled from a mangled SUV on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway but sustained only minor injuries.

Nigeria is the homeland of Joshuas parents, and where he briefly went to boarding school at the age of 11. He was in the country on holiday while recovering from his recent fight against Jake Paul.

Ogun state government officials said the two victims were foreign nationals and had died at the scene.

Nigerias Federal Road Safety Corps said the crash involved a Lexus SUV in which Joshua was a passenger, and a stationary, red commercial Sinotruck.

A total of five adult males were involved in the crash, it said. Two persons sadly lost their lives, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Anthony Joshua was rescued alive and sustained minor injuries.

The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu.

Speeding was initially blamed for the crash, but Ogun state police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo later told ESPN the boxers SUV had suffered a burst tyre that caused the driver to lose control and swerve into the stationary truck parked along the road.

Anthony Joshua in footage of the aftermath of the incident (Adeniyi Orojo)

Video footage of the aftermath of the incident showed Joshua sitting in his car, which appeared to have sustained heavy damage, appearing dazed and in pain. Further footage showed Joshua outside of the vehicle and still wincing.

Joshuas security team, travelling directly behind him in a Mitsubishi Pajero, reportedly avoided the crash.

A representative for Joshua told The Independent that the former world champions UK-based team was investigating.

The crash comes just 10 days after Joshua knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a fight in Miami.

The Briton beat Paul in six rounds in his first fight since a knockout defeat by Daniel Dubois in September 2024. It was his 29th win from 33 professional fights.

A photograph of what is believed to be the vehicle in which Joshua was a passenger (X/@FRSCNigeria)

Joshua used his post-fight interview in the ring to call out Tyson Fury, with reports suggesting the two are close to agreeing a long-awaited fight in Saudi Arabia in 2026. However, Joshua is being lined up to fight beforehand, with a February return to the ring mooted  but now complicated by the crash.

After the fight with Paul, Joshua told streaming platform Netflix: It wasnt the best performance. We have to give Jake his respect for trying and trying and trying, but he came up against a real fighter tonight thats had a 15-month layoff, who shook off the cobwebs.

Joshua knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on 19 December (Getty Images for Netflix)

I cant wait to roll into 2026. If Tyson Fury is as serious as he thinks he is, and he wants to put down his Twitter fingers and put on some gloves and come and fight one of the realest fighters out there, that will take on any challenge, step in the ring with me next if youre a real bad boy. Dont do all that talking, AJ this, AJ that. lets see you in the ring and talk with your fists.

Paul reacted to the news of Joshuas car crash by tweeting: Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by todays unfortunate accident.
Scientist Amanda Nguyen has opened up about the toll taken on her mental health in the months since she embarked on the controversial Blue Origin mission.

The historic all-female spaceflight, which included Nguyen alongside celebrities like Katy Perry, Lauren Sanchez Bezos, and Gayle King, sparked global backlash over the Jeff Bezos-funded endeavors cost and publicity. For Nguyen, a 34-year-old civil rights activist, the criticism led to an emotional crisis.

When Gayle called to check in on my in the aftermath of the spaceflight, I told her my depression might last for years, Nguyen wrote in a statement shared Sunday to Instagram. Another dream turned into a nightmare.

Everything I had worked for - as a scientist, my women's health research, the years I had trained for this moment, the experiments I operated in space, the history that was being made as the first Vietnamese woman astronaut, on the 50th anniversary of the US-Vietnam war, as the child of boat refugees, the promise I kept to my survivor self - that dreams are worth fighting for, especially when we've deferred them to fight for rights - were buried under an avalanche of misogyny, she continued.

Nguyen said the negative reactions and media coverage were an onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure.

Scientist Amanda Nguyen has opened up about her mental health struggles since the Blue Origin spaceflight in April (Getty Images for TIME)

I felt like collateral damage, my moment of justice mutilated, she wrote. I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed. A month later, when a senior staff at Blue Origin called me, I had to hang up on him because I could not speak through my tears.

Nguyen said despite the backlash, the six-woman mission had some positive consequences, including raising awareness for her breast cancer research and becoming the first Vietnamese woman and first Southeast Asian woman in space.

My goal of science as a tool for diplomacy was achieved. There has been overwhelming good that has come out of this, she said.

The 2019 Nobel Peace Prize Nominee said that in the eight months since the 11-minute trip to space, she has climbed her way out of the depression that the spaceflight brought on.

I'm glad that the fog of grief has started to lift, Nguyen said. When the days have been bad, I have held on to every kind of interaction youve shown me.

Nguyen, who has openly spoken about her experience as a survivor of sexual assault, said that she relied on her strength to persevere and recognize the support alongside the hate.

Even through the tsunami of harassment, I was able to tell my survivor self I kept my promise. I was able to tell her that millions of strangers have kindness and discernment. Thank you for protecting her. It has been the biggest grace to feel that support.

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.
Maria Cecilia De Jesus-Garcia was served alcoholic beverages on August 4, 2024, while working as a hostess at Adelitas Mexican Cocina & Tequila in Victor, a suburb in Western New York, New York State Police said (Google )

A New York bartender is facing charges over the death of an 18-year-old hostess who died after drinking at the restaurant where they both worked.

Maria Cecilia De Jesus-Garcia was served alcoholic beverages on August 4, 2024, while working as a hostess at Adelitas Mexican Cocina & Tequila in Victor, a suburb in Western New York, New York State Police said.

After taking an Uber home, De Jesus-Garcia was found unresponsive the next morning and later pronounced dead, according to 13 WHAM. Authorities determined her cause of death to be complications from acute ethanol intoxication.

A police investigation revealed that alcoholic beverages were served to De Jesus-Garcia at the restaurant while she was under the legal drinking age.

Following their investigation, which included reviewing surveillance footage from the restaurant, police arrested the establishments bartender, Ariel Ceja, 32, on December 18.

A Western New York bartender has been accused of giving an underage hostess at the restaurant alcohol, after the teen died from alcohol consumption, police said (Google)

Ceja is accused of serving De Jesus-Garcia alcohol after closing. He was charged with criminally negligent homicide, a felony, and unlawful dealing with a child, which is a misdemeanor.

He was taken into custody without incident.

The District Attorneys Office is currently reviewing a significant number of pending cases as part of an ongoing transition. This matter is among those under review. At this time, it would be inappropriate to comment further. We are committed to carefully evaluating every case and proceeding in a manner consistent with the law and the interests of justice, Acting District Attorney Jason MacBride said in a statement.

Ceja is currently being held at the Ontario County Jail. He is set to be arraigned next month.
Britain should join forces with Europe in a new defence pact because it can no longer trust Donald Trumps America to defend it in the event of a military attack by Russia, voters believe.

That is the stark outcome of a survey by The Independent to gauge the publics reaction to dramatic changes in US foreign policy under Mr Trump and increasing hostility to Europe  including Britain  from Russias Vladimir Putin.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, Keir Starmer, Finlands Alexander Stubb, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, Italys Giorgia Meloni, Germanys Friedrich Merz and Nato secretary general Mark Rutte in the White House in August (AP)

A total of 55 per cent of British voters want a new UK/Europe defence alliance  without America  to guard against the threat from Putin, according to the JL Partners poll, while only 11 per cent oppose this plan.

Such a move would mark a historic shift in defence policy with major diplomatic implications.

Currently, the defence of Britain and Europe against the threat of attack depends on Nato, which was set up by European nations and the US in 1949 in the aftermath of the Second World War.

Still a special relationship? Donald Trump and Keir Starmer reportedly get along well, but voters are unsure about whether the US can be trusted to come to Britains aid (PA)

Under Natos cornerstone Article 5, an attack on any member is treated as an attack on all. In practice, that pledge is underpinned by the huge military firepower of its biggest member, the US.

However, Americas own commitment to Nato has come under question since the re-election of President Trump last year and his stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Mr Trump has called European countries weak, repeatedly criticised them for not spending enough money on defence, and even threatened to ignore his Nato vow to defend them for not doing so if they are attacked.

In addition, Mr Trump has been accused by some of siding with Russia  not Europe  in its war with Ukraine.

He has promised to offer Ukraine Nato-style Article 5-like protection from further Russian attacks in the event of a ceasefire, but his refusal to go further has led some to question its value.

In fact, the only time Natos Article 5 has been triggered was in defence of the US after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

The prime minister has strengthened Britains ties with Europe since becoming prime minister (PA)

In recent weeks a series of major European figures have raised the alarm on this issue.

Nato secretary general Mark Rutte warned its members to start ramping up preparations for the scale of war our grandparents or great-grandparents endured.

His comments were echoed by the new head of MI6, Blaise Metreweli, who highlighted the growing menace from Russia, which she said was testing us in the grey zone with tactics that are just below the threshold of war, while defence minister Al Carns said the shadow of war is knocking on Europes door.

Their comments reflect fears that Putin could follow his invasion of Ukraine with a new attack on Europe, such as the Baltic states.

Russia has violated European airspace with fighter jets and drones, as well as carrying out cyber attacks and acts of sabotage.

European countries already collaborate on defence issues via a number of organisations, such as the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, to guard against the threat from Russia in Norway and northern Europe.

Furthermore, European nations are currently increasing their defence spending.

But it will be many years before they are capable of defending themselves without relying on the US.

James Johnson, of JL Partners, said: The radical change in views on foreign policy from Donald Trumps White House appears to have taken its toll on British voters.

Judging from our survey, voters have lost faith in the belief that if Britain or any of its European neighbours faces a real military threat, America will automatically come to its rescue.

They think Europe should take control of its own military protection to guarantee its safety.

JL Partners questioned 1,562 adults online on 13 and 14 December.
In this photo provided by the office of city council member Curren Price, Carlitos Ricardo Parias receives a certificate of recognition from Jose Ugarte, Prices chief of staff, in August. Photograph: AP (Photograph: AP)

A federal judge has dismissed an indictment against a Los Angeles TikTok streamer who was shot by an officer during an immigration enforcement operation and accused of assault against a federal agent, citing constitutional violations.

Carlitos Ricardo Parias, a TikTok creator who streams local breaking news, was accused in October of ramming his car into immigration agents vehicles after they surrounded him during an operation. Body-worn camera footage obtained by the Los Angeles Times shows that an agent fired his gun during the incident, shooting Parias in the elbow. A ricochet bullet also hit a deputy US marshal in the hand.

Parias was indicted by a grand jury and was scheduled to go on trial on Tuesday.

But on Saturday, US district judge Fernando Olguin ordered the indictment dismissed, saying that the government deprived Parias of his rights when it decided to detain him at the Adelanto ICE processing center  an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center about 90 miles (145km) east of Los Angeles  immediately after he was ordered released from jail on bond. Olguin also said that once at Adelanto, Pariass defense team was unable to schedule any legal visits.

Related: LA TikTok creator streaming ICE raids charged with assault after being shot

The obstacles and roadblocks that ICE has put in place at Adelanto make it difficult, if not impossible, for defendant to meet with his attorneys, and have caused defendant to suffer demonstrable prejudice or a substantial threat thereof, the judge said.

He also cited in his order the governments failure to comply with various deadlines in the discovery process, including its failure to release body-worn camera footage that captured the shooting by deadline.

The government had charged Parias with assault, saying that he used his car as a weapon to ram two law enforcement vehicles. But in video footage leading up to Pariass shooting, reviewed by the LA Times, Pariass car did not appear to be moving. The footage shows him asking officers why he is being detained, and an officer threatening to shoot Parias if he doesnt get out.

We strongly disagree with the courts version of the facts as well as its legal conclusions. We are reviewing the courts decision and we will determine our options for an appeal, the US attorneys office in LA said.

The indictment was dismissed with prejudice, which means prosecutors cannot refile the same charges of assault against Parias.

While we remain quite confident that a jury would readily acquit Mr Parias, the government prejudiced his right to a fair and speedy trial by denying him meaningful access to his defense team and failing to timely disclose the evidence they claimed supported the charges, said federal public defender Cuauhtemoc Ortega and deputy federal public defender Gabriela Rivera, who litigated the case for Parias. We are grateful that Mr Pariass constitutional rights were vindicated.

Though his indictment has been dismissed, Parias, who the government says is a Mexican national living in the US without legal status, could remain in ICE detention while his immigration case proceeds.

After the justice department charged dozens of people with assaulting and impeding federal officers and other crimes during the protests in Los Angeles over immigration raids, a Guardian investigation found that prosecutors were forced to dismiss several of those cases. Many of them relied on officers inaccurate reports, the Guardian found.
Chinas highest-altitude arch dam hydropower station begins operating first generating units

Global Times) 09:09, December 29, 2025

The first generating units of the China Huadian Corp's Yebatan Hydropower Station - China's highest-altitude arch dam power project currently under construction and the largest hydropower project on the Sichuan-Xizang section of the upper Jinsha River - officially began generating electricity on Saturday. As a key project under the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), its launch marks another significant breakthrough for China in building ultra-high arch dams and developing clean energy in high-altitude, frigid regions.

Located on the Sichuan-Xizang section of the upper Jinsha River, Yebatan Hydropower Station is the seventh of 13 planned hydropower stations along this river section. It is funded and developed by China Huadian Corp's Jinsha River Upstream Hydropower Development Co, with the PowerChina Chengdu Engineering Co responsible for planning, feasibility studies, and full-stage survey and design. The station has a total installed capacity of 2.24 million kilowatts, a reservoir capacity of 1.08 billion cubic meters, and a designed annual power output of 10.2 billion kilowatt-hours. Once fully operational, it will save more than 3 million tons of standard coal annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 7 million tons.

Construction of the station has spanned more than 20 years. Planning began in 2004, official approval for construction was granted in 2016, and the river was successfully dammed in 2019. The project has demanded immense dedication and effort across generations of builders. Major challenges included complex geological conditions at the dam base, well-developed deep unloading zones, and high in-situ stress conditions (up to 37.6 MPa). The construction also overcame two natural disasters involving the Baige landslide-dammed lakes. Through continuous technological innovation, the project team overcame key technical hurdles such as dam construction on a deeply unloaded bedrock foundation in tectonically active zones, safe construction of large-scale underground caverns in fractured rock under high stress, thermal cracking prevention and temperature control in high-altitude arch dams, and uninterrupted winter concrete pouring.

According to project director Li Jingbo, the Chengdu institute has previously undertaken major arch dam projects such as Ertan, Xiluodu and Dagangshan. At Yebatan, the team achieved multiple new industry milestones: With a maximum dam height of 217 meters, it is the highest-altitude double-curvature arch dam under construction in China. It is also the first arch dam in frigid regions to achieve uninterrupted winter concrete pouring. Among ultra-high arch dams with a discharge capacity exceeding 10,000 cubic meters per second, Yebatan is the first to adopt a full-body spillway design. It is also home to China's first rockfill concrete overflow secondary dam, addressing a prior technical gap.

Its underground powerhouse features a vertical depth of 480 meters and a tailrace tunnel stretching 3,172 meters - both the longest among similar domestic projects. The station includes Asia's tallest single-section vertical shaft (311 meters) and the most 500kV power transmission circuits among all hydropower stations in the country. The 510,000-kilowatt single turbine is the first in Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region to use pumped storage regulation and can operate stably under 0 to 100 percent full load.

The project also incorporates strong ecological protection measures, including the Yangtze River's first fish proliferation and release station and China's first fish passage system for ultra-high arch dams.

The Yebatan project promotes smart construction through an innovative digital platform known as "Yedian Cloud," enabling full digital management based on 3D design outputs and technologies such as IoT, BIM, and AI. This includes intelligent temperature control for the dam, grouting, and digitalized process management, establishing a new model for managing major projects under complex high-altitude conditions.

Electricity generated at Yebatan will be transmitted to Central China through the Jinshang-Hubei 800kV ultra-high-voltage direct current project, significantly enhancing regional power supply and injecting strong green momentum into high-quality socio-economic development.

As a vital part of the upper Jinsha River clean energy base, the Yebatan Hydropower Station not only showcases China's leading hydropower engineering capabilities but also plays a key role in advancing the green energy transition and realizing the nation's dual carbon goals. It contributes substantially to building a new energy system and ensuring national energy security.

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Wu Chaolan)
A Chinese ship in waters near Pingtan Island, the closest point to Taiwan, on Monday. Photograph: Adek Berry/AFP/Getty Images (Photograph: Adek Berry/AFP/Getty Images)

China has launched live-fire military drills around Taiwan, simulating a blockade of major ports, attacking maritime targets, and fending off international interference, in what it calls a warning to separatist forces in Taiwan.

The Peoples Liberation Army (PLA)  the military wing of the ruling Communist party in China  sent its navy, air force, rocket force and coastguard to surround Taiwan on Monday morning for a surprise exercise called Justice Mission 2025, which began less than an hour after it was announced.

The PLAs eastern theatre command said it had deployed destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers, drones and long-range missiles in close proximity to Taiwan, to test sea-air coordination and precise target hunting and neutralisation, including attacks on submarines and other maritime targets.

By Monday afternoon, Taiwans defence ministry said it had detected 28 navy and coastguard ships, including two that entered Taiwans contiguous zone. At least 89 warplanes  the largest daily tally for more than a year  were counted, and a formation of four amphibious assault ships, which can carry dozens of rotary aircraft, was spotted 160 nautical miles west of Taiwans southern tip.

Col Shi Yi, the spokesperson for the PLAs eastern theatre command, said the drills were a stern warning against Taiwan independence separatist forces and external interference forces. A foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, said unnamed external parties were pushing the region closer to war.

Any sinister schemes to obstruct Chinas reunification are doomed to fail, Lin said.

Chinas defence ministry said on Monday that relevant countries, a coded reference to the US, should abandon illusions of using Taiwan to contain China.

While large military drills take extensive planning and are usually part of general training, the PLA often links them to perceived acts of provocation, and some propaganda on Monday specifically cited a recent approval by the US government for a record $11bn weapons sales to Taiwan.

Analysts also noted Beijings recent anger at speeches by Taiwans president, Lai Ching-te, vowing to boost Taiwans defences and achieve a high level of combat preparedness by 2027, and the ongoing dispute with Japan after its prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, said her country would most likely become militarily involved if China attacked Taiwan.

Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the PLAs Academy of Military Science, was quoted by Chinese media as saying that the drills were justified by the recent US weapons sales and the fact that the goods bought included offensive as well as defensive equipment. Despite repeated warnings from China, the US and Taiwan engaged in serious collusion and provocation. The PLAs decisive action was a reasonable, legal and forced response, Fu said.

Articles published in Chinese state media on Monday attacked US support for the first island chain, a string of islands in the western pacific that includes territories from Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines. The US has highlighted defence of the first island chain as a key security strategy.

A propaganda poster depicted flaming arrows shot from China to Taiwans main island, piercing green bugs representing what Beijing terms separatist forces, while a foreign warship flee[s] upon witnessing this scene, the state media tabloid, the Global Times said.

Related: Ferryman of the souls: the man who helps Taiwans dead return home to China

In response to the drills, Taiwan accused Beijing of escalating tensions and undermining regional peace. It condemned the activity, saying it dispatched appropriate forces to respond and conduct counter-combat-readiness exercises of its own.

Defending democracy and freedom is no provocation, and the existence of the Republic of China [Taiwans formal name] is not an excuse for aggressors to disrupt the status quo, the ministry said.

Beijing claims Taiwan is a Chinese province and is preparing to militarily annex it, with the aim of being capable of invasion by 2027, according to US intelligence from several years ago.

The Chinese Communist party (CCP) and its leader, Xi Jinping, have urged Taiwan to accept peaceful reunification to avoid deadly force. However, the vast majority of Taiwans parliament and people reject the prospect of CCP rule, and Taiwan is boosting its own military defences in resistance.

The live-fire exercises covered a larger area than previous drills, according to published maps of air and maritime warning areas, some of which overlap with Taiwans territorial border 12 nautical miles off its coast. Taiwan aviation authorities said more than 100,000 passengers on more than 850 scheduled international and domestic flights would be affected on Tuesday.

Justice Mission 2025 is the sixth major PLA military exercise targeting Taiwan since 2022, when it launched days of live-fire drills in retaliation for the then US speaker, Nancy Pelosi, visiting the island. In April, it held a two-day operation labelled Strait Thunder-2025A, prompting expectations for a B before years end.

Analysts said it was the first time the PLA had explicitly said it was practising deterring international involvement. Also unusually, a number of PLA aircraft remained visible on radar platforms.

That is a signal that the PLA is building up their anti-access/area denial capabilities, and publicly declaring it, said William Yang, a senior north-east Asia analyst for the the non-profit International Crisis Group.

Yang also noted it was the second major exercise during the second term of the US president, Donald Trump, who met Xi in October but did not discuss Taiwan.

Yang said: Beijing will likely take into account the response from the US [to these drills] and carefully determine how it should formulate and plan the PLAs military operation.

Additional research by Jason Tzu Kuan Lu and Lillian Yang
Credit: PLA Eastern Theater Command/Reuters

China launched live-fire military drills on Monday to simulate a blockade of Taiwan, days after the US announced its largest-ever arms sale to the island nation.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as its own, deployed troops, warships, fighter jets and artillery for its Justice Mission 2025 drills.

It also issued a stern warning against separatist and external interference forces.

Taipei condemned the drills and responded by deploying soldiers and US-made hardware to rehearse repelling an attack.

China has long called for a peaceful reunification with the island, but has refused to rule out using military action to seize it.

The Chinese military said it would test its readiness for both sea and air combat in the drills - Eastern Theatre Command/Reuters

The drills were carried out after the Trump administration approved an 8bn weapons package and weeks after Japan said that it might intervene in the event of a Chinese attack on Taiwan.

Lin Jian, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, said any attempts to stop Beijings unification with Taipei would fail.

Taiwan said it had detected four Chinese coastguard ships sailing off its northern and eastern coasts early on Monday, and had deployed vessels and forces in response.

It later said it had identified 89 Chinese military aircraft as well as 28 warships and coastguard vessels.

Beijings Eastern Theatre Command said it concentrated forces to the north and south-west of the Taiwan Strait, carrying out live firing and simulating strikes on land and maritime targets.

Authorities added that further live-fire drills would be conducted from 8am to 6pm local time on Tuesday in five zones.

Senior Col Shi Yi of the Peoples Liberation Armys Eastern Theatre Command said the drills would focus on sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain.

He described the strikes as a stern warning against Taiwan Independence separatist forces and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard Chinas sovereignty and national unity.

Beijings military released a poster of the drills showing arrows of justice raining down on what appeared to be green worms on a geographical outline of Taiwan, with one engulfed in flames.

A Chinese poster showing arrows of justice raining down on green worms on the outline of Taiwan

Taipeis defence ministry responded by saying the drills further confirmed the Chinese Communist Partys nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace.

Karen Kuo, a spokesman for Taiwans presidential office, also condemned Chinas disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries.

Analysts have said the drills increasingly blur the line between routine military training and potential stage-setting for an attack, a strategy intended to give the US and its allies minimal warning of an assault.

A Taiwanese Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jet preparing to take off - Ritchie B/Shutterstock

The Chinese military last held large-scale drills involving live firing around Taiwan, which has been governed separately since 1949, in April.

In December, China promised to take resolute and forceful measures to safeguard its territory after Taiwan said the US had approved the $11bn (8.2bn) arms sale. Beijing issued fresh sanctions on 20 American defence companies.

Sanae Takaichi, Japans prime minister, also triggered a backlash from Beijing last month when she said the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo.

China demanded that she retract her statement, summoned Tokyos ambassador and warned its citizens against travelling to Japan.
China began fresh military drills using the army, air force and navy around Taiwan on Monday after the US cleared the largest arms sale ever to Taipei.

The Justice Mission 2025 drills would place five zones around Taiwan under sea and air space restrictions for 10 hours from 8 am local time, the Chinese militarys Eastern Theatre Command announced.

Taipei accused China of military intimidation" after Beijing said the exercises were a stern warning against separatist and "external interference" forces.

The war games follow a rise in Chinese rhetoric over Beijings territorial claims after Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi suggested a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could draw a military response from Tokyo.

They also come less than two weeks after the US announced $11.1bn in arms sales to Taiwan, the largest-ever weapons package for the island. Beijing last week sanctioned 20 American companies and 10 executives in retaliation for the sale.

The latest drills are Chinas sixth since 2022, when the then US House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island and triggered a furious response from Beijing.

File. Taiwans flag at the Liaoluo port in Kinmen (AFP via Getty)

China claims Taiwan as its territory and does not rule out the use of force to reunify it with the mainland. Analysts say Beijing's exercises increasingly blur the line between routine military training and stage-setting for an attack, a strategy intended to allow the US and its allies minimal warning of an assault.

China's military said it had deployed fighter jets, bombers, unmanned aerial vehicles, and long-range rockets, and would practice striking mobile land-based targets while simulating a coordinated attack on the island from multiple directions.

Senior Col Shi Yi, spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command, said the drills would be conducted in the Taiwan Straits and areas to the north, southwest, southeast and east of the island.

Col Shi explained the activities would focus on sea-air combat readiness patrol, "joint seizure of comprehensive superiority", blockades of ports, and deterrence of external intervention.

Its a stern warning against 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, he said, and its a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity.

Taiwans presidential office said the latest exercises blatantly undermine the security and stability status quo of the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region while openly challenging international laws and order".

We strongly condemn the Chinese authorities disregard for international norms and their use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries, it added.

Taiwan's defence ministry said two Chinese military aircraft and 11 ships had been operating around the island over the last 24 hours and that its military was on high alert and poised to carry out "rapid response exercises.

A Taiwanese fighter jet takes off at the Hsinchu air base on 29 December 2025 (AFP via Getty)

Following the drill announcement, the Chinese military released two posters titled "Shields of Justice: Smashing Illusions" and "Arrows of Justice: Control and Denial", along with a third graphic depicting four locations across the island with targets locking on.

China's state broadcaster said the drills would focus on sealing off Taiwan's deep-water port of Keelung in the north and the largest port city of Kaohsiung to the south.

Scores of Chinese military boats and planes were operating near Taiwan on Monday and some were "deliberately closing in" on the islands contiguous zone, defined as being 24 nautical miles from its coast, a senior Taiwan security official told Reuters.

The Taiwanese coast guard said it had dispatched large ships in response to Chinese coast guard activity and was working with the military to minimise the impact of the drills on maritime routes and fishing areas.
Trans guidance for civil servants defies the Supreme Court ruling and must be withdrawn immediately, Sir Keir Starmer has been told.

The Cabinet Offices guidelines for transgender Civil Service staff, which is mirrored broadly across government, were drawn up in 2019.

The guidance remains unchanged despite the Supreme Court judgment in April, which ruled that sex under the Equality Act means biological sex.

It is understood that internal Civil Service policy is being reviewed with a view to it being updated in light of the judgment.

Sex Matters has warned that the existing guidance falls foul of the judgment and makes it impossible to enforce sex-based rules without being accused of bullying.

Maya Forstater, the head of the charity, wrote to Sir Keir demanding he take action and retract the guidance.

The Civil Service model policy is unlawful and should be withdrawn immediately, she told the Prime Minister.

The Supreme Court ruled in April that transgender women are not legally women - Maja Smiejkowska

The Cabinet Offices Civil Service gender identity and intersex model policy says that an individual should be able to choose the appropriate single-sex toilets for their gender.

It also says that repeatedly misgendering someone, in other words referring to them as a gender other than the one they identify with, can constitute bullying.

Deliberate, continued and/or repeated incidents are unacceptable and should be dealt with using the bullying, harassment and discrimination policy, it adds.

Ms Forstater said: These edicts, issued under the previous government, conflict with the Equality Act. They make it impossible to understand, communicate or enforce clear sex-based rules without being accused of bullying.

Indeed, the policy explicitly says people should be allowed to choose which facilities to use.

Some Government departments have separate trans policies to the Cabinet Office guidelines.

Maya Forstater has written to Sir Keir Starmer demanding he take action and retract the guidance - Belinda Jiao

A Government spokesman said: We review and update guidance wherever necessary to ensure it complies with the law, including the Supreme Court judgment.

The EHRC [Equality and Human Rights Commission] has submitted a draft code of practice to ministers. This is a 300 page-long, legally complex document and we are working at pace to review it with the care it deserves.

The Supreme Court judgment was welcomed by the Prime Minister, who said a woman is an adult human female and it had provided clarity on the subject.

But earlier this month, it emerged that Bridget Phillipson is blocking the publication of trans guidance for businesses and public bodies that would protect women-only spaces.

The Women and Equalities Secretary has given a statement to the High Court describing the proposed rules as trans-exclusive.

She has failed to sign off the new EHRC guidance more than three months after receiving it, amid a backlash from Labour backbenchers.

The Public and Commercial Services union, which represents civil servants, issued a statement of defiance against the draft guidance shortly after it was released.

Fran Heathcote, general secretary of the union, called it damaging and impossible to implement.
A person walks their dog along the Basingstoke Canal near to Dogmersfield in Hampshire on Tuesday 6 January. (PA) (Andrew Matthews, PA Images)

Fresh cold weather warnings have been issued covering almost the entirety of the UK as forecasters named the first storm of the year, with snow set to hit much of the country throughout the week.

The Met Office announced new snow and ice yellow weather warnings for Wednesday after temperatures plunged to -12.5C overnight into Tuesday at Marham, Norfolk.

A yellow warning for ice, meaning there will be some injuries from slips and falls, has been issued for the bottom half of Scotland, much of Wales and almost all of England, and lasts from midnight until 10am on Wednesday.

A warning for snow and ice in the north of Scotland will last the whole 24 hours of Wednesday, while Northern Ireland has its own ice warning, from 6pm on Tuesday until 11am on Wednesday.

The vast majority of the UK will be covered by snow and ice warnings on Wednesday. (Met Office) (Met Office)

Further yellow warnings for snow and wind are in place in England and Wales on Thursday into Friday with the arrival of Storm Goretti, named by the French meteorological service Meteo-France.

These are all on top of previous warnings, with two amber alerts for snow in Scotland that cover Central, Tayside and Fife, Grampian and the Highlands, in place from 11am until 7pm on Tuesday.

Further warnings have been issued for Thursday and into Friday as Storm Goretti sweeps the UK. (Met Office)

More than 300 schools in Wales, more than 300 in Scotland, more than 200 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in England were closed on Tuesday.

Aberdeen City Council said all schools in its area will also be closed on Wednesday, while Aberdeenshire Council declared a major incident ahead of a "prolonged period of significant impacts".

Where has it snowed?

All four nations have seen prolonged periods of snow this week.

A total of 52cm of snow was recorded at Tomintoul in Banffshire in Scotland, with 35cm at Durris in Kincardineshire and 34cm at Loch Glascarnoch in Ross & Cromarty, the Met Office said on Monday.

In Wales, Sennybridge in Powys had 19cm, Castlederg in Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, saw 9cm, and Bridlington in East Yorkshire recorded 6cm.

In its outlook for Thursday to Saturday, the Met Office says it will stay cold and "a mixture of rain, sleet and snow will move across the country at times with a risk of strong winds".

In its long range forecast for Saturday 10 to Monday 19 January, it said more snow is likely in northern and eastern parts of the UK.

There are two amber weather warnings for Scotland on Tuesday. (Met Office) (Met Office)

It said: "Some significant snowfall is possible in places, particularly on northern hills. After a cold start, temperatures will tend to trend closer to average, especially in the south, such that the frequency of wintry hazards may reduce slightly.

"However, there is a hint late in this period that it may briefly turn more widely drier and colder again."

Where are the cold weather alerts?

Amber cold health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for every region in England.

The agency had previously issued amber cold health alerts in the North East and North West of England, with yellow alerts elsewhere, but the latter were upgraded to amber across the East Midlands, West Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London.

The cold health amber alerts are all in place until Sunday 11 January and mean that the weather is likely to cause significant impacts in health and social services, including a rise in deaths, particularly among the over 65s and those with health conditions.

Amber cold weather health alerts have been issued for every region in England and remain in place until Friday 9 January. (UKHSA)

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, urged people to check in on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours.

The forecast temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions, he said.

The UKHSA only covers England, and equivalent organisations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have not issued similar warnings.

Last night was the coldest night of the winter so far, making it a very cold and frosty start for most of us this morning 



Here are the latest overnight lows  pic.twitter.com/8ABA4JR5xv  Met Office (@metoffice) January 6, 2026

Yahoo breaks down what the weather will be like for each region of the UK, according to the Met Office.

London and the South East

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Cloudy with organised bands of rain and sleet through Tuesday evening and overnight, with minimum overnight temperatures of -1C.

Dry, windy but bright with sunny spells and patchy cloud on Wednesday. Increasingly cloudy with outbreaks of rain or sleet overnight. Rather cold. Maximum temperature 5C.

Thursday to Saturday

Early rain, sleet and snow clearing east Thursday. Becoming very windy with locally heavy rain and snow later Thursday into Friday. Sunny and mostly dry, with lighter winds probable Saturday.

A man walks his dog across a snow-covered field in the town of Glossop, Derbyshire. (AFP via Getty Images) (OLI SCARFF via Getty Images)

South West

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

A band of rain moving eastwards on Tuesday evening, perhaps falling as sleet or snow briefly over the Moors. This clearing during the early hours as icy stretches develop. Less cold than recent nights. Minimum overnight temperature 0C.

Another cold day for many on Wednesday with some glimmers of sunshine. Rain then returning across Cornwall and west Devon by late afternoon. Gusty winds. Maximum temperature 9C.

Thursday to Saturday

Most likely a dry start on Thursday. Then an increasing risk of heavy rain, along with strong winds, which may linger into Friday. Cold with sunny spells retuning on Saturday.

West Midlands

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

A band of rain, sleet and hill snow moving eastwards across the region through the evening, clearing during the early hours, making way for icy stretches later. Minimum temperature -1C.

Another cold day is expected on Wednesday, with some glimmers of sunshine. A scattering of sleet and snow showers, these tending to ease later in the day. Gusty winds. Maximum temperature 5C.

Thursday to Saturday

Cloudy start on Thursday, then an increasing risk of heavy rain, sleet and snow, along with strong winds, which may linger into Friday. Cold with sunshine returning by Saturday.

East Midlands

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Bands of rain and sleet, with snow over high ground through Tuesday evening, gradually clearing with a few wintry showers following overnight. Strong winds and cold, with a minimum temperature of -1C.

Dry, windy but bright with sunny spells and patchy cloud on Wednesday. Increasingly cloudy with outbreaks of rain and sleet overnight. Rather cold. Maximum temperature 4C.

Thursday to Saturday

Early rain, sleet and snow clearing east Thursday. Becoming windy with a chance of rain and snow, perhaps heavy, overnight into Friday. Sunny, with light winds probable Saturday.

Snow on the rooftops in the Edgbaston area of Birmingham on Monday 5 January. (Alamy) (British News and Media)

North East

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Organised bands of rain and sleet on Tuesday evening, with further snow over high ground, gradually clearing overnight, though further light snow showers are possible. Strong winds and cold, with frosty with icy stretches. Minimum temperature -4C.

Mostly dry, windy but bright with long sunny spells and patchy cloud on Wednesday. Chance of showers later in the day. Increasingly cloudy overnight but staying bitterly cold. Maximum temperature 2C.

Thursday to Saturday

Early rain, sleet and snow clearing east Thursday to brighter conditions. Becoming windy with a chance of heavy snow overnight into Friday, low confidence. Dry, with light winds probable Saturday.

North West

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Rain, sleet and snow moving eastwards through the evening, clearing to sleet and snow showers overnight. Clearer breaks will allow temperatures to fall and icy stretches to develop. Minimum temperature -2C.

Another cold day is expected on Wednesday, with rather cloudy skies to start. Turning brighter through the afternoon. Gusty winds. Maximum temperature 6C.

Thursday to Saturday

Most likely dry for much of Thursday. An increasing risk of heavy rain, sleet and snow later, along with strong winds. Perhaps lingering into Friday. Sunshine and wintry showers Saturday.

Scotland

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Cloudy with outbreaks of rain  more persistent around the Highlands  with a mix of sleet and hill snow overnight. A few coastal showers possible, with strong winds further north. Minimum overnight temperatures of -2C, north and south.

Persistent rain and hill snow on Wednesday in the Highlands, clearing Caithness and Sutherland, and the east through the morning. Mostly dry and cold with the chance of bright spells on both ends of the country. Maximum temperatures of 3C in the Highlands and 2C in the south.

Thursday to Saturday

Outbreaks of rain, sleet or hill snow on Thursday. Mainly dry and cold with a few coastal showers in the Highlands on Friday and Saturday  wintry at times.

Showery outbreaks of rain, sleet or hill snow on Thursday further south. Friday and Saturday mainly dry, cold. Low risk of rain, snow in south late Thursday into early Friday.

People walking in the snow at Dogfalls just outside Contin in Scotland. (PA) (Paul Campbell, PA Images)

Northern Ireland

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Cloud and rain soon clearing southeast to allow clearer spells for a time on Tuesday evening. Some showers then spread in for mainly northern and eastern areas. Strong northwest winds. Minimum temperature -1C.

Dry with bright spells through the morning and much of the afternoon, then cloudy with some light rain in the evening. Strong northwest winds at first, becoming light. Maximum temperature 4C.

Thursday to Saturday

Staying cold with some bright spells and a few showers from Thursday through to Saturday, showers perhaps more persistent and wintry for a time late Thursday into early Friday.

Wales

Tuesday evening and Wednesday

Rain, sleet and hill snow moving eastwards through the evening, clearing to sleet and snow showers overnight. Clearer breaks will allow temperatures to fall and icy stretches to develop. Less cold than recent nights. Breezy. Minimum temperature -2C.

Another cold day for many, with rather cloudy skies. A scattering of wintry showers still possible. Rain then returning across Pembrokeshire by the evening. Gusty winds. Maximum temperature 6C.

Thursday to Saturday

Most likely a dry start Thursday. Then an increasing risk of heavy rain, sleet and some snow, along with strong winds, which may linger into Friday. Sunshine and showers Saturday.
A 27-year-old man was found critically injured from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in Midtown Manhattan, police said.

The man was found with a gunshot wound to his chest shortly after 10 p.m. Sunday at the intersection of West 57th Street and Avenue of the Americas, also known as 6th Avenue, the New York Police Department said in a statement to The Independent.

Officers transported the 27-year-old, who has not been identified, in an NYPD vehicle to Mount Sinai West in critical but stable condition. He is expected to live, according to NBC New York.

Police have recovered the firearm, and the investigation is ongoing.

The man was found at the intersection of West 57th Street and 6th Avenue, home to a number of luxury properties in the city (Google Maps)

The intersection is in a neighborhood nicknamed Billionaires Row, which is home to a collection of luxury skyscrapers. Central Park is two blocks away, while Carnegie Hall and the Museum of Modern Art are also nearby.

The intersection is also just blocks away from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Radio City Music Hall, where crowds of tourists have been gathering to celebrate the holiday season and catch a glimpse at the famous Christmas tree.

A law enforcement source with direct knowledge of the investigation told NBC New York the man may have fired the shot in transit before walking up to the street, where he was found.

The NYPD said the man initially described a suspect wearing all black clothing, but investigators later determined it was a self-inflicted wound, ABC 7 reports. Officials said he could be charged with criminal possession of a weapon and falsely reporting an incident, according to the outlet.

No one else was injured, and nearby residents said they were shocked to hear about the shooting, NBC New York reports.

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 based in the UK and 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 in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
Britain is missing out on up to 100m for every week that a landmark deal with the European Union is not in place, according to new research that has prompted calls for Sir Keir Starmer to urgently break the Brexit economic doom loop.

Months after the prime minister hailed his great reset with the EU, announced with huge fanfare alongside European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, a key strand on food and drink exports has yet to be finalised.

The sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement would align Britains standards with those of the EU, removing the need for most certificates and checks on animals and plants being transported between the UK and the bloc.

The deal, predicted to slash hugely expensive red tape and vastly increase the volume of imports and exports to and from the EU, is worth up to 14m a day to the UK economy, according to new research carried out by the House of Commons Library. This has led to calls for ministers to speed up the process.

But the government has hit back at opposition politicians, denouncing it as a shame that they are not supporting Labours progress in securing closer ties with the bloc.

Ursula von der Leyen confirmed in May that the UK and EU had agreed to work towards a common SPS arrangement (PA)

The new analysis looked at the planned UK-EU food and drink deal and concluded that it could be worth up to 14m per day once the British economy has fully adjusted to the new system.

That figure may vary, and go up or down across the year, with variations depending on things like whether it is a weekend, a bank holiday, a busier time of year and so on, it said.

Al Pinkerton, the Liberal Democrats Europe spokesperson, who commissioned the analysis, said: The government went to great lengths to show off their shiny new plans to agree an SPS deal with the EU in May. Six months later, theres nothing to show for it, and the British public are millions of pounds worse off a day because of their inaction.

He added: Ministers must stop dithering, grip this economic crisis and deliver the SPS deal theyve promised  finally cutting the reams of red tape holding British business back.

But a government spokesperson hit back, saying: We secured a landmark deal with the EU in May, resetting our relationship to deliver for the public. They added: Its a shame the Lib Dems arent backing this progress or supporting the government as negotiations continue.

Government insiders said talks on the deal started once the EU had agreed a negotiating mandate between its 27 member states. The agreement would support British jobs and businesses and bring down prices, they said.

Brexit cost UK business 37bn in the 12 months to last September, it emerged earlier this year. This led ministers to pledge to tear down the trade barriers between Britain and the EU. The figures also showed that total trade with the EU was 5 per cent lower than before Britain left the bloc.

An estimated 16,400 businesses  some 14 per cent of UK exporters  stopped exporting to the EU as a result of Brexit trade rules, according to one study by the Centre for Economic Performance at the LSE, while others have never started.

This is likely to be in part because of the increased complexity of new export regulations. The supermarket giant Marks & Spencer has said that it has had to rent a warehouse just to store the paperwork.

Keir Starmer has been urged to break the Brexit economic doom loop (AFP/Getty)

Negotiations between the UK and the EU on the SPS deal began in late November. Ministers believe the agreement with the UKs largest agri-food trading partner could increase the volume of UK exports of major agricultural commodities to the EU by 16 per cent, and increase imports from the EU by 8 per cent.

Overall, cuts to red tape and other costs could deliver savings to business worth up to 1m a month, the government estimates. At the moment, businesses are required to obtain expensive certificates and checks, including export health certificates to bring food across the border  which costs up to 200 for every consignment.

Naomi Smith, the chief executive of pro-EU campaign group Best for Britain, which has been calling for an SPS deal since May 2023, said the economic impact of Brexit is affecting people every single day.

The cost of living, sluggish economic growth and poor productivity in the UK are all compounded by our feeble trading relationship with the EU, and its high time negotiators on both sides work faster to break this doom loop, she added.
A canine crime-buster has been drafted to sniff out traders flogging illegal cigarettes, outlawed vapes and dangerous foodstuffs in the American-style candy stores blighting central London.

On her latest mission in bustling Edgware Road, Doris the dog unearthed a haul of illicit goods worth thousands of pounds.

In a series of surprise raids carried out with police and Westminster Council officers in November and December, the sharp-snouted three-year-old Labrador led the charge straight to two shops suspected of dealing in black-market goods.

At one store, Doris zeroed in on a stash of 500 packets of illegal cigarettes hidden from public view and uncovered a haul with a street value of 8,250.

(Westminster Council)

Many packets bore familiar names like Winston and Marlboro but were missing the legal health warnings and proper labelling required in the UK.

Alongside the fake cigarettes were 150 single use vapes, now banned under UK law, ready to be sold to unsuspecting customers.

She also found more than 250 food products across two shops that are suspected of being illegal for sale in Britain.

Doris uncovered illegal cigarettes worth more than 8,000 (Westminster Council)

Among the eye-raising finds were bottles of Shani, a berry-flavoured drink imported from the Middle East containing Calcium EDTA, a chemical not permitted in flavoured beverages in the UK.

Bags of Cheetos displayed for sale in the American-style shop were also sniffed out.

They had been made with Yellow 6, a colouring banned from cereal-based products in Britain.

(Westminster Council)

Council teams say the combination of illegal vapes, counterfeit cigarettes and rogue snacks is becoming an increasing headache for local authorities, which is why they have employed Doris to sniff out dodgy goods.

Aicha Less, Westminster Councils cabinet member for public protection, said: "Doris the dog detective certainly proved her worth in rooting out suspect cigarettes. The reality is there is no way of knowing what is in these kinds of products - while they will no doubt be sold at a cheap price, it is a pricey gamble on your health.

"With the support of police, our trading standards and environmental health food officers have been able to take hundreds of suspect products off the streets. Our job is to ensure shoppers in Westminster get what they pay for, and with Doris - the long arm of the paw - we will keep doing that."
Eric Dane now receives around-the-clock care to help with his life-altering diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, his estranged wife has revealed.

The Greys Anatomy star, 53, who in April announced he was living with ALS, an incurable neurodegenerative disorder, has been legally married to Rebecca Gayheart since 2004. She filed for divorce in 2018; however, she later dismissed the petition in March to keep their family together amid Danes health challenges. They share two daughters.

In a new first-person essay penned for The Cut, Gayheart candidly shared that Eric has 24/7 nurses now.

Opening up about her hard-fought battle with the insurance company to get approval for full-time care, she recalled: With the nurses, the woman from his insurance said to me, You can keep applying, and Ill keep denying, I was like, Oh? F that.

I made it my mission. I was locked in, as the kids would say. I crashed out, and then I locked it in. And we got it approved after two appeals.

Rebecca Gayheart and Eric Dane have been separated since 2018 (Getty)

Dane recently appeared on Brilliant Minds as a character with ALS (NBC)

She explained that the week is divided into 21 shifts, and during the times when the shifts arent covered, she fills in.

Reflecting on the time theyve spent together since his diagnosis, Gayheart said: Its all been really positive, and I think its nice for the kids to see maybe a softer side of us. Its not that they have the hopes of us being together  kids always dream of their parents getting back together, and I think now ours dont because they understand the reality of the situation. And hopefully, what they see instead are two adults who are trying to be mature and focus on whats important.

While theyve been separated for eight years, the Jawbreaker actor looks back fondly on their marriage.

We had a really lovely marriage for a long time  we were married for 15 years  we created two beautiful girls, she said. But also, lots of s*** went crazy in our relationship, and it wasnt good.

Addressing the intricacies of their very complicated relationship, Gayheart explained: We separated, but we never got a divorce; we were about to and then we didnt. We havent lived in the same home for eight years; hes dated other people, Ive dated someone. Its a very complicated relationship, one thats confusing for people. Our love may not be romantic, but its a familial love.

Dane and Gayheart with their two daughters in 2017 (Getty Images)

Dane, who shot to fame as Dr. Mark Sloan on Greys Anatomy, has been vocal about his hopes to continue working despite his dwindling mobility.

Im fairly limited in what I can do physically as an actor, but I still have my brain, and I still have my speech, so Im willing to just do about anything. Ill take on any role, he said earlier this month during a virtual panel with the I AM ALS organization.

From here on out, its going to have to be ALS-centric. Its going to be very difficult for me to play any other role. Im fine with that. Im grateful that I can still work in any capacity.

Last month, Dane appeared on Brilliant Minds as a firefighter with ALS, his first on-screen role since he publicly shared his diagnosis.
The grand lodge in Covent Garden, London was first established in 1775. Photograph: Graeme Robertson/The Guardian (Photograph: Graeme Robertson/The Guardian)

Freemasons have demanded an emergency injunction from the high court to halt the Metropolitan polices new policy that orders officers to tell their bosses if they are members of the organisation.

The Freemasons filed papers in London on Christmas Eve and claim the Mets policy amounts to religious discrimination against Freemasons who are also police officers.

They say the Met commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, is making up the law on the hoof and accused his force of whipping up conspiracy theories about the influence of Freemasons.

The Met has vowed to fight back as it sees the policy as part of its fight to restore trust and credibility, and a case currently under investigation involves claims of masonic influence and alleged wrongdoing.

In December, the Met said anyone who was part or had been a member of a hierarchical organisation that requires members to support and protect each other, must declare it.

The force says a survey of its officers and staff shows that two-thirds backed the restriction because it affects public perception of police impartiality. There have also been past claims that masonic membership could be linked to corruption.

Adrian Marsh, the chief executive of the grand lodge, said he expects the hearing about the injunction will be heard by next month if not sooner. An order, if granted by a senior judge, would halt the new policy pending a full hearing of a judicial review, where the Freemasons will seek its scrapping.

The Freemasons allege the policy introduced in December amounts to religious discrimination as its members are required to have religious faith. They also say the Met has effectively admitted there is a need for fuller consultation.

Marsh said: They did not have an effective consultation before they announced the policy, which came into immediate effect. The policy is illegal, unfair and discriminatory. It breaches the human rights of our members.

He added: To date, the consultation process has been wholly inadequate, prejudicial and unjust and this injunction is the first step we must resort to, to protect our members whose integrity is impugned by the Met decision.

Actions under human rights law stand a better chance of success if they claim unfairness against someone because of a protected characteristic, such as race, religious beliefs or sexual orientation. The Freemasons say this applies to them.

Marsh said: The fact you have to have faith to be a Freemason does make it a protected characteristic under human rights law.

The Freemasons say legal correspondence from the Mets lawyers shows the force agreeing to a fuller consultation about the new policy.

Marsh said he did not know if Met officers who were also Masons were declaring memberships to their managers: Our advice to them is to discuss any concerns with the Police Federation who are also strongly against this policy.

A Metropolitan police spokesperson said: We are aware of the judicial review launched, challenging our change to the declarable association policy. We will be defending this.

The changes to our declarable associations policy were made following feedback that involvement in these types of organisations could call impartiality into question or give rise to conflict of loyalties. We wont be commenting further while proceedings are ongoing.

The issue of Freemasons in the Met has been long-running, but previous commissioners have either thought tougher rules were not justified or not worth the pain.

The Guardian also understands that a recent case of alleged wrongdoing in the force contains allegations that acts under investigation may be linked to Freemasonry.

The Met has held intelligence for years of potential corruption linked to personal relationships formed through membership of the Freemasons, but nothing has been proven to a criminal standard.

Related: Police spied on group set up to expose wrongdoing in Met, inquiry hears

The issue has dogged policing, with numerous allegations that Freemasonry membership has led to people covering up for wrongdoing in keeping the organisations credo that members stand by one another.

The official inquiry into the 1987 murder of the private investigator Daniel Morgan and police corruption that hampered the hunt to find his killers recommended tighter rules on Freemasons in policing.

It noted that one detective involved was a Freemason who later went to work with a prime suspect, and that 10 police officers who were prominent in the Daniel Morgan murder investigations were Freemasons.

But it also stated: The panel has not seen evidence that masonic channels were corruptly used in connection with either the commission of the murder or to subvert the police investigations.

Police lodges have been set up, such as the Manor of St Jamess for Met officers, and Sine Favore, which was set up in 2010 by Police Federation members.

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.
Donald Trump has warned that Hamas will have hell to pay if it fails to disarm while offering full-throated support to Benjamin Netanyahu during a meeting with the Israeli prime minister in Florida.

In a bravura display of mutual admiration, Netanyahu announced that the US president would be awarded the Israel prize, the countrys highest civilian honour, which since its inception in the 1950s has never before been given to a non-Israeli person.

The trip by Netanyahu to Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence came amid a new push by officials in Washington to force concessions from Israel to allow progress towards the second phase of a Gaza peace plan, which in October halted the devastating two-year-long war.

Asked if he and Netanyahu had discussed Israel pulling back troops before Hamas fully disarmed, Trump told reporters: If they dont disarm as they agreed to do  they agreed to it  then therell be hell to pay for them and we dont want that, were not looking for that. But they have to disarm within a fairly short period of time.

He described the question of Israel withdrawing its forces as a separate subject, adding only: Well talk about that.

Related: Into the void: how Trump killed international law

Last week the US news outlet Axios reported that the Trump administration wanted to announce a Palestinian technocratic government for Gaza and an international stabilisation force as soon as possible, and that senior Trump officials were growing exasperated as Netanyahu has taken steps to undermine the fragile ceasefire and stall the peace process.

But Trump himself appeared to show no such qualms after Mondays meeting. He said he was not concerned about anything that Israel is doing and Israel has lived up to the plan, 100%.

He repeatedly pointed the finger at Hamas, saying itll be horrible for them if they failed to disarm. Its going to be really, really bad for them, and I dont want that to happen. But they made an agreement that they were going to disarm. And you couldnt blame Israel, he said.

Hamas retains large quantities of small arms but only a fraction of the heavy weapons that enabled its surprise attack into southern Israel in 2023, during which 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed and 250 abducted.

More than 70,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the ensuing Israeli offensive and vast swathes of Gaza reduced to ruins. About 400 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the October ceasefire.

In recent weeks, Hamas has successfully established its authority over the parts of Gaza it controls with a series of executions, raids and beatings targeting rival power brokers, collaborators with Israel and criminal gangs. Most of Gazas 2.3 million population is said to now live in the Hamas-controlled zone.

The Islamist militant organisation has proposed some solutions to allow some of its weapons to be put into storage but has refused to accept full disarmament.

Hamass armed wing reiterated on Monday that it would not surrender its weapons.

Our people are defending themselves and will not give up their weapons as long as the occupation remains, the new spokesperson for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, who has adopted the name of his late predecessor Abu Obeida, said in a video statement.

Trump claimed that other countries that supported the peace deal would go in and wipe out Hamas if it fails to hold up its end of the bargain.

Trump and Netanyahu earlier held a lunch meeting inside Mar-a-Lago along with their delegations. Netanyahu was expected to tell Trump that Hamas must return the remains of the last Israeli hostage left in Gaza before the next stages of the stalled ceasefire can be implemented, Israeli officials and analysts said.

Speaking to reporters before the meeting, Trump falsely said just about every hostage was released because of him and his team, whereas none were released during the Joe Biden administration. In fact, Hamas released a total of 138 hostages as a result of deals that the Biden administration helped broker, according to the Snopes factchecking site.

The family of the last person whose remains have not been returned, Ran Gvili, has joined the Israeli prime ministers visiting entourage and will meet officials in Washington later this week.

Related: Peace, power and profit  the logic behind Donald Trumps dealmaking diplomacy

An Israeli official in Netanyahus circle told Reuters that the prime minister would demand that Hamas return the remains of all hostages in Gaza, as required under the ceasefire deal, before moving to the next stages of Trumps plan.

A second phase of the peace plan calls for an interim authority made up of non-aligned Palestinian technocrats to govern the Palestinian territory, and an international stabilisation force of thousands of troops to be deployed. Israel has significant concerns about both.

Gvili, a 24-year-old police officer, was badly wounded and then abducted during the October 2023 Hamas raid into Israel that triggered the conflict. It is unclear if he died of his wounds during the raid or in Gaza. Hundreds gathered on Saturday night in Tel Aviv to demand that Israel make no concession to advance the ceasefire deal until his remains are returned.

Lianne Pollak-David, a former Israeli military intelligence officer and peace negotiator in the prime ministers office, said the failure to return the remains of Gvili was a serious issue. Netanyahu and the Israelis as a people are simply not going to accept this, she said.

Hamas has freed 20 living hostages and returned the bodies of 27 dead hostages since October and some observers see the insistence on Gvilis remains being returned as a delaying tactic to allow Israels military forces to remain in the 53% of Gaza they currently control.

Daniel Levy, a UK-based analyst and former Israeli peace negotiator, said Netanyahu had no intention of withdrawing further from Gaza or allowing any international force that would deter Israeli military action.

He feels he has a number of cards to play yet and the remains of Gvili is the easiest one to play now but there are others, Levy said.

For Netanyahu, who faces an election within 10 months, the prospect of Iran repairing the damage inflicted on its nuclear programme in its short war with Israel and the US this summer and building up its ballistic missile capabilities is another priority.

Trump had previously insisted that Irans nuclear capabilities were completely and fully obliterated. But on Monday he said: I hope theyre not trying to build up again because, if they are, were going to have no choice but very quickly to eradicate that buildup.

The president added: Iran may be behaving badly. It hasnt been confirmed. But if its confirmed, look, they know the consequences will be very powerful, maybe more powerful than the last time. Pressed for evidence, he said: This is just what we hear, but usually where theres smoke, theres fire.

Related: Yellow line that divides Gaza under Trump plan is new border for Israel, says military chief

The Israeli prime minister may be hoping for a political boost from his latest meeting with Trump, whom he again praised as Israels greatest friend. Netanyahu said: We decided to break a convention  or create a new one  and that is to award the Israel prize, which in almost our 80 years weve never awarded it to a non-Israeli, and were going to award it this year to President Trump  for his tremendous contributions to Israel and the Jewish people.

It was a second consolation prize for Trump, who missed out on this years Nobel peace prize but received a Fifa peace prize  dismissed by critics as a cynical ploy by world footballs governing body to curry favour.

As if returning the compliment, Trump claimed he had spoken to the Israeli president, Isaac Herzog, who told him that a pardon for Netanyahu in his long-running corruption trial was on its way. Trump said: Hes a wartime prime minister whos a hero. How do you not give a pardon?

Asked about Trumps remarks, Herzogs office said the Israeli president had not had any conversations with Trump since a pardon request was submitted several weeks ago, Reuters reported.
Alaa Abdel Fattah and his mother Laila Soueif, who apparently survived a hunger strike months longer than anyone in history - MOHAMED EL-RAAI/AFP

Just three days have passed since the Prime Minister told us he was delighted by the arrival in Britain of Egyptian dissident, and alleged Islamist extremist, Alaa Abd el-Fattah.

Since then countless abhorrent posts from his social media have emerged. In those posts he expresses hate for Jews, says he rejoices when US soldiers are killed, repeatedly states that he hates white people, that humanity will no b redeemed until we commit genocide against all white people and that white people are a blight on the earthgood thing they stopped breeding.

He also expresses a particular loathing for England, describing us as the nation responsible for the greatest number of massacres in human history. As a result the Prime Minister is now facing demands from Reform, the Tories and even Labour MPs to strip el-Fattah of his citizenship.

We are now being told that the Prime Minister was not aware of these social media posts before they became public. This is an astonishing admission of incompetence. But much as its tempting to lay all the blame on Keir Starmer, the truth is that this disaster has been years in the making, is the fault of hundreds of people, and has revealed quite how stupid and incurious much of our political and media class are.

Starmer made freeing el-Fattah from an Egyptian jail and bringing him to Britain a top priority. This is unusual. The British state does not generally intervene when dual nationals are imprisoned in a country they are a citizen of. But el-Fattah had an organised campaign behind him. Dozens of celebrities, including Bill Nighy, Dame Judi Dench, Emma Thompson, Naomi Klein, Stephen Fry and Riz Ahmed joined the Free Alaa campaign, as did Philippe Sands KC, and Paul Mason.

Presumably all of them either didnt bother to conduct the most cursory due diligence on el-Fattah, or thought that his anti-Semitic, anti-white and anti-English views were perfectly fine. I suspect its the former. Our silly, Left-wing celebrities love the idea of supporting a brave prisoner of conscience, especially if hes foreign.

The campaign has also featured an utterly implausible story. El-Fattahs mother, Laila Soueif, has claimed that she has been on a hunger strike for eleven months, consuming only herbal tea, black coffee and rehydration salts. Soueif said that she would continue this hunger strike until her son was released. Campaign groups like English PEN, Amnesty and Families for Freedom all shared this nonsense without a hint of scepticism.

This lack of curiosity is apparent amongst our political class too. On December 15 last year 107 parliamentarians wrote a letter to David Lammy, then the foreign secretary. In that letter they pleaded with Lammy to do everything he could to secure el-Fattahs release. They also claimed Laila Soueif had been on hunger strike since September 30, meaning she would have been without food for 76 days. For context, the longest verified hunger strikes in history took place in Cork County Gaol in 1920, lasting 94 days.

Even more laughably, on 26th February 2025 Radio 4s Today programme conducted an interview with el-Fattahs sister, Saana.

At that point we are asked to believe that Laila Soueif had been on hunger strike for 149 days. In the interview Saana told us that I dont want to lose my mother to unquestioning empathy from presenter Emma Barnett. Apparently no one in the production team at Radio 4 stopped to ask whether it was in any way plausible that an old woman would survive a hunger strike for months longer than anyone else in history.

Even politicians with supposed expertise have embarrassed themselves. In September Alicia Kearns, the Tory shadow national security minister, tweeted a celebration of el-Fattahs release from prison. She has subsequently posted an evasive explanation, in which she insists that she was not aware of his grotesque tweets, that she trusted the process to give Alaa citizenship, complains that at no point had anyone raised them with me and apparently tries to frame herself as the victim, telling readers that she feels deeply let down.

Kearns goes on to insist that she will continue to work for British citizens arbitrarily detained abroad, seemingly having learned nothing from the el-Fattah affair.

She isnt unusual. Remember that 107 other parliamentarians signed that letter pleading with David Lammy. Presumably they all trusted the process too. That none of these people bothered to conduct the most cursory due diligence on an Egyptian prisoner they knew nothing about is a damning indictment of our political class.

These people are not serious. In no other walk of life would this blithe incompetence and lack of personal responsibility be acceptable. We are fools to tolerate it in those who govern us. Its time for them to go.
Gus Atkinson has been ruled out of the final Ashes Test, leaving England three bowlers down as they close the series in Sydney.

Atkinson pulled up while bowling in his sides two-day win at Melbourne and played no further part in the match. Scans have shown a left hamstring injury that will not allow him to feature in the New Year Test and the exact severity may not be known until further assessment when he returns home.

The 27-year-old bows out of his first Ashes series with six wickets at 47.33, having shown glimpses of his ability without ever asserting himself on the occasion.

Gus Atkinson has taken six wickets in three Tests in Australia (Robbie Stephenson/PA) (Robbie Stephenson)

Atkinsons early exit follows the withdrawals of Mark Wood, whose knee problems flared up after the first Test, and Jofra Archer, who sustained a side strain after turning out in each of the first three matches.

All three were in the tourists first-choice XI when they hit Australia with a barrage of pace on day one in Perth, but a much changed attack will now finish the series.

No replacements have been called up as England look to reduce the margin of defeat by making it 3-2, with Durhams Matthew Potts next in line and Surreys Matthew Fisher also on hand having previously joined the main squad from the Lions party.

Matthew Potts is next in line for a Test recall in Sydney (Robbie Stephenson/PA) (Robbie Stephenson)

Brydon Carse is set to complete five Tests in a row, though could cede new ball duties, with Josh Tongue continuing after two impressive performances in Adelaide and Melbourne.

Potts has 36 wickets in 10 Tests appearances, averaging 29.44, while Fisher won his only cap against the West Indies in 2022, taking one one wicket for 71 in Barbados.
Heavy snow is set to hit the UK as the Met Office has issued a New Years Day weather warning.

A yellow alert for snow and ice will be in place for parts of Scotland from 6am on 1 January until midnight on 2 January, with up to 30cm of snow expected in some places, causing potential travel chaos.

The warning comes as an amber cold health alert has been issued for the northeast and northwest of England, which is due to remain in place until noon on 5 January, with temperatures expected to plummet to as low as -2C, bringing a possible surge in deaths among the vulnerable.

The Met Office warned that the yellow warning for snow and ice means frequent and heavy snow showers may lead to some travel disruption.

By Friday morning, the weather service is predicting there will be 2-5cm of snow, with 10cm in certain local areas and 10-20cm in some areas above 200m. On the highest routes and hills, 30cm or more may build through the period.

Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued the amber alert, and said it means the weather is likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services, including a rise in deaths among those with health conditions or aged 65 or over.

Temperatures elsewhere are expected to be 4-6C from New Years Day and there is a yellow health alert in place.

In the last few days of this year and the first few of the next, temperatures are set to drop to as low as -2C in some places overnight, and to only reach as high as 8C during the day.

A yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued for parts of Scotland from 6am on New Years Day until midnight on 2 January (PA Wire)

The Met Office said the final days of 2025 will not be particularly fantastic, but the weather will take a turn as 2026 arrives.

Northern parts of the country are expected to bear the brunt of the chillier conditions from 1 January onwards, with brisk winds bringing increasingly wintry showers to the north as the week progresses.

Forecaster Dan Stroud said: Were losing this sort of settled but chilly conditions, and bringing in something a little bit more showery with more wintry hazards in the forecast, particularly for the north of the country.

The UKHSA warned there will likely be an increase in demand for health services across the regions. With even younger people potentially impacted by the weather, it said that a drop in temperature leads to more risks for vulnerable people, while a fall in places like hospitals and care homes could bring it below the levels recommended for assessing health risks.

It also warned of staffing issues due to external factors such as travel delays, and said other sectors, such as transport and energy, could start to be affected by the weather.

Temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as -2C in some parts of the country (PA Wire)

The agency has issued a yellow cold health alert for the East Midlands, West Midlands, southeast, southwest, east of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London. A yellow alert means there is the potential for significant impacts.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: As the colder weather sets in, it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable. The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.

The Alzheimers Society said colder temperatures can be difficult for people with dementia to adjust to and they may not recognise they are cold or be able to communicate it.

The charity has urged people to check in on loved ones, friends and neighbours living with dementia to ensure they are dressed appropriately, in a warm room and eating, drinking and moving regularly. It added that making the most of natural daylight, sticking to a routine and encouraging smaller, slower steps in slippery conditions can also help to keep them safe.
A raft of major UK retail and hospitality brands shut down stores across the UK this year, with other high street mainstays closing their doors for good.

It came amid a backdrop of pressure on consumer finances, rising inflation for most of the year and increased costs for businesses.

As a result, numerous businesses launched restructuring efforts or entered administration.

Here are some of the major brands with closed sites across this year:

 Poundland

Poundland is among chains to have suffered over the year from pressure on shoppers despite its value proposition.

The group was sold for 1 as a result and launched a major restructuring plan.

This involved the initial closure of 57 stores in a move which put more than 1,000 jobs at risk.

The company, which was bought by investment firm Gordon Brothers, has since announced further tranches of closures and is set to have shut more than 100 sites by the start of 2026, as part of efforts to trim its estate from around 800 sites to between 650 and 700 shops.

WH Smith disappeared from the high street this year after the group shifted focus to its travel sites (Chris Radburn/PA) (Chris Radburn)

 WH Smith

WH Smith had been a stalwart of UK high streets since its first store opened in 1792, selling everything from crime fiction to confectionery.

However, the brand disappeared from the high street after the group sold off all its UK high street retail shops to private equity company Modella Capital to focus on its travel locations, where it will still operate under the brand.

As a result, Modella revealed plans to rebrand the chain as TGJones.

As it pushed forward with efforts to sell off the high street arm, the group pushed forward with the closure of 20 stores.

 Claires

The UK arm of fashion accessories business Claires tumbled into administration this year after its US owner entered bankruptcy.

Modella Capital once again appeared in the picture, striking a deal to save 156 stores.

However, 145 shops  employing around 1,000 workers  were not part of the deal and closed as a result.

Claires shut 145 stores after hiring administrators (Mike Egerton/PA) (Mike Egerton)

 Pizza Hut

In October, Pizza Hut confirmed that 68 of the brands UK restaurants would shut after the business running its franchise in the country entered administration.

It also shut 11 delivery sites as part of a restructuring which put 1,210 workers at risk of redundancy.

DC London Pie, the firm running Pizza Huts UK dine-in restaurants, appointed administrators after being impacted by a slowdown in the sector.

American hospitality giant Yum! Brands, which owns the global Pizza Hut business, bought the remaining UK restaurant operation in a rescue deal, saving 64 sites.

Some 68 Pizza Huts closed over the past year (Danny Lawson/PA) (Danny Lawson)

 Bodycare

Bodycare was among the brands to disappear from UK high streets for good after it shut all its roughly 150 stores.

The retailer was founded in 1970 in Lancashire and sold beauty products, fragrances and other bathroom items.

It employed as many as 1,000 people early this year but came under pressure from rising costs and a shortfall in funding, which also affected supplier relationships and led to stock shortages.

 Quiz Clothing

Fashion chain Quiz shut 23 of its stores after entering administration in February, in a move which hit around 200 workers.

It closed the shops despite being bought in a pre-pack administration deal by a subsidiary of the founding Ramzan family.

Quiz had started the year searching for emergency funding but fell into insolvency after failing to secure a deal.

 Leon

Leon is closing around 20 of its restaurants after launching a major restructuring in December.

Leon said it would close sites after being bought back by a co-founder (Leon/PA) (Leon)

The company said it will shut the doors of the worst-performing of its 71 stores.

It came after the group was bought back by co-founder John Vincent from supermarket group Asda.

 Select Fashion

Select Fashion was another chain to cease trading in 2025, after the womenswear business came under pressure from growing losses.

The business closed all its roughly 80 stores earlier this year and entered liquidation after failing to find a buyer.

Select Fashion collapsed into administration (Alamy/PA)

 Homebase

Home improvement firm Homebase shut 65 shops between January and March after falling into administration late in 2024.

Retail group CDS, run by The Range owner Chris Dawson, snapped up the brand but was unable to save all its stores.

Bosses at Homebase have said recent years were incredibly challenging for DIY stores, blaming a decline in consumer confidence and spending after the pandemic.

 New Look

Elsewhere in retail, high street fashion chain New Look shut 15 of its stores in the UK over the year.

The group also revealed that it would exit the Republic of Ireland, shutting all its 26 shops in the country, hitting 347 workers, in the face of squeezed consumer spending.

New Look was among fashion brands to have come under pressure from weak consumer spending (Yui Mok/PA) (Yui Mok)

 Starbucks

In September, Starbucks launched an overhaul which resulted in the closure of some of its UK coffee shops.

The group did not disclose exactly how many sites would shut but closed 10 locations in October as part of the process.

 Fired Earth

Upmarket tile retailer Fired Earth slid into administration in October, resulting in the closure of its 20 UK showrooms, and 133 job cuts.

Rival Topps Tiles bought the Fired Earth brand, IP, website and around 2.5 million worth of stock but could not save any of the chains stores.

Brewdog shut a number of its bars following a restructuring (James Manning/PA) (James Manning)

 Brewdog bars

Scottish craft brewery and bar business Brewdog shut 10 of its sites in July, including its first-ever venue in Aberdeen.

The closure plan, which was part of a shake-up of Brewdogs hospitality arm, put almost 100 jobs at risk.

 Monki

At the start of the year, European fashion giant H&M announced plans to close its seven stores under its Monki brand.

It said a limited number of these would be transformed into its sister brand Weekday but still closed a number of shops permanently.

River Island closed 33 stores to shore up its finances (Mike Egerton/PA) (Mike Egerton)

 River Island

Retail chain River Island shut 33 shops as part of a restructuring to help support its future.

The fashion group pushed through a formal restructuring plan amid fears that the company could collapse into administration without action.

It also secured rent reductions on 71 other stores as part of the plan.

 Hobbycraft

In April, the arts and craft retailer revealed plans to shut nine of its stores, in a move it said would hit up to 126 workers.

It comes after Modella Capital bought the retail business last year.
Dave Benetts shots offer a different side to celebrity life (ES Composite)

Londons glittering showbiz calendar has once again been captured through the lens of one of the capitals most recognisable photographers, with Dave Benetts pictures of the year offering a front-row seat to celebrity life in the city.

From red carpets and after-parties to fashion launches and private celebrations, Benetts images chronicle a year in which London remained firmly at the centre of global fame. His photographs are less about posed perfection and more about fleeting moments  a glance, a laugh, a carefully timed entrance  that define celebrity culture.

One standout image shows Kylie Minogue, glowing as she greets guests at a London event, the shot reflecting both her warmth and enduring star power.

(Dave Benett)

Another captures Timothee Chalamet arriving for a high-profile screening with a lime bike, his understated confidence and sharp tailoring reinforcing his status as one of Hollywoods most in-demand actors and a regular presence on the London circuit.

Timothee Chalamet captured riding a Lime bike (Dave Benett)

In one of the images in the collection, Chalamet and girlfriend Kylie Jenner are captured together in a rare, low-key moment away from the usual red-carpet theatrics.

The photograph shows the pair arriving discreetly, their body language relaxed but guarded, reflecting the intense interest surrounding their relationship. Jenners sleek, pared-back look contrasts with Chalamets characteristically effortless style, creating a visual balance that draws the eye without feeling staged.

Its a shot that feels intimate yet newsworthy  a perfect example of Benetts ability to capture celebrity couples at the exact point where public fascination meets private restraint.

Kylie and Timothee at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party (Dave Benett)

The collection also features a polished yet relaxed photograph of the Beckham family, stepping out together at a fashion event. The image balances glamour with familiarity, underlining their long-standing role as Britains ultimate celebrity couple.

The Beckham family at a London launch (Dave Benett)

The picture also includes the Beckham children - Romeo, Cruz and Harper representing the next generation of Londons famous faces.

Pop royalty is well represented too. Katy Perry appears in a bold, theatrical look at a London launch, with Benetts lens freezing a moment of colour and confidence that feels unmistakably her own.

Katy Perry and Rita Ora captured sharing a hug and a laugh (Dave Benett)

We also see Rita Ora photographed mid-laugh at a music industry party, the candid shot capturing the energy she brings to the capitals nightlife.

Film and television stars also feature heavily. Florence Pugh is pictured in a dramatic gown, her expression poised yet playful, while Idris Elba is captured in a quieter moment along with wife Sabrina at a launch party, offering a contrast to his on-screen intensity.

Florence Pugh at Harris Reed (Dave Benett)

Idris Elba and Sabrina Elba attend the EE72 London launch party hosted by Edward (Dave Benett)

Naomi Campbells appearance in the collection is pure fashion authority. The image shows the supermodel commanding the scene with an effortless confidence that few can match. Her posture is assured, her expression cool and controlled, embodying decades of experience on red carpets around the world.

There is no sense of performance here  instead, the photograph reads as a masterclass in presence, with Campbell appearing entirely at ease as cameras turn towards her. It is a reminder that, even amid a year crowded with rising stars and viral moments, Campbell remains in a category of her own.

Naomi Campbell pictured attending the British Museum Ball (Dave Benett)

Taken together, the images underline Benetts unique access to Londons celebrity scene. His pictures are not simply records of attendance, but visual stories of how fame looks and feels in the capital  glamorous, fleeting and constantly evolving.

As the year draws to a close, the collection serves as both a celebration of star power and a reminder of Londons enduring pull for the worlds biggest names.
Consumer loans company International Personal Finance has agreed to a 543 million takeover by US finance firm BasePoint Capital in a move ending nearly two decades as a London-listed firm.

The deal comes after months of talks between the pair, with IPF first revealing discussions with BasePoint at the end of July.

New York-headquartered BasePoint will pay 235p a share in cash for FTSE 250-listed IPF, marking a 31% premium on the value of shares on July 29, before talks were announced.

It marks another blow to the London market, adding to a list of firms to have either defected to overseas markets or been bought out over the past year.

IPF  based in Leeds  offers small consumer loans in nine countries across Europe and Mexico, with around 1.7 million customers, many of whom are often unable to access credit from mainstream banks.

Despite being listed and headquartered in the UK, IPF has no customers in the country.

It was set up as a division of Provident Financial in 1997, before being demerged and listed separately in 2007.

Eric Schneider, chief executive of BasePoint, said: IPF is a business weve followed for some time and have been consistently impressed by its positioning across nine different geographies as a leading provider of credit to underbanked and underserved individuals.

With our deep experience in consumer specialty finance in the US, we believe BasePoint is well placed to help IPF build on its strengths and continue evolving its business model as a differentiated provider of consumer credit.

Stuart Sinclair, chairman of IPF, said: The IPF board has been considering its options to ensure that the market value better reflects the businesss opportunities and prospects, having consistently traded at a substantial discount to comparable international businesses over the past 10 years.

Whilst the board continues to believe in the strategy and long-term prospects of IPF on a standalone basis, we recognise that the acquisition allows IPF shareholders to monetise their entire investment for cash at a fair price.

We believe that the business will benefit from BasePoints ownership and its commitment to fulfil IPFs purpose of building a better world through financial inclusion.
Dame Jenni Murray has said BBC Radio 4s Womans Hour, which she hosted for 33 years, has become a rather dull programme and has lost its way.

The 75-year-old broadcaster became the longest-serving host in the BBC Radio 4 programmes history before her exit in 2020, having first appeared on the show in 1987.

Dame Jenni is the longest-serving host in the history of the Radio 4 programme (Saga Experience Is Everything/PA)

Speaking to Saga Magazine, Dame Jenni who hosts the Experience Is Everything podcast, was asked for an honest assessment of Womans Hour, and said: Well, I could tell you, if I was a listener. I dont make an effort to actually be a listener.

I dont think its sharp enough. It doesnt have the intellect. It doesnt have the fun. I think its a rather dull programme these days. It has lost its way.

Womans Hour is currently presented by Nuala McGovern and Anita Rani.

Dame Jenni left the show in October 2020, and said at the time that bosses had said she was not allowed to chair any discussion on transgender rights due to her opinions.

She told Saga: Id been a completely trustworthy, impartial presenter for decades.

I dont think Ive ever been so angry about anything.

Dame Jenni with the Queen (Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA) (Arthur Edwards/The Sun)

In 2020, Dame Jenni wrote in the Daily Mail that she had stepped down because she wanted to be free of the leash that had caused her to be cancelled, and added that BBC bosses also barred her from covering the 2019 election due to her opinions on Brexit.

She said younger, less experienced presenters were earning twice or even three times as much as her during her time at the broadcaster, hitting out against the corporations pay structure.

A BBC spokeswoman said at the time: We wish Jenni well in her new career as a columnist but the public will understand the importance of impartiality whilst working at the BBC.

Asked about regrets, Dame Jenni added: Funnily enough, I havent regretted it at all. I thought, Ill find somewhere I can go and openly express my views.

During her tenure at the BBC, Dame Jenni interviewed high-profile figures such as Bette Davis, Margaret Thatcher, Monica Lewinsky, Hillary Clinton, Kate McCann, Dame Judi Dench, Saoirse Ronan and Joan Baez, who sang Diamonds And Rust in the studio for her.

Jenni Murray was made a dame in 2011 (John Stillwell/PA) (John Stillwell)

Dame Jenni said it is time for a woman to take the top job at the BBC, after the announcement last month that director-general Tim Davie will be leaving.

She said: One hundred years and it has never been a woman. Of course it needs to be now.

In fact, Ive had quite a few emails from people who read my columns suggesting I apply for it myself, to which I say no way would I take on that job. Its huge. Youre responsible for so many people.

Dame Jenni joined BBC Newsnight in 1983, before moving to Radio 4 as a presenter on the Today programme.

She became the regular presenter of Womans Hour in 1987 and was made a dame in 2011 in recognition of her contribution to broadcasting.

The BBC has been contacted for comment.

The full interview is available in Saga Magazines January issue.
The ongoing case against Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old man suspected of killing Charlie Kirk, has brought conspiracists and crazies out of the woodwork with theories about what really happened, according to a newly released transcript from the Utah case over the September shooting.

I've received some wacky phone calls and e-mails, people telling me what they think happened here, Richard Novak, one of Robinsons attorneys, said during an October hearing, in which his team was pushing to allow Robinson to appear in civilian clothes and without shackles at his eventual trial.

It's noise, Novak added. We're not litigating this case in the press. We're not talking to crazies. But that's all on the outside.

(The court later ruled that Kirks alleged assassin can wear what he likes but will be shackled.)

Elsewhere in the October 24 hearing, another of the defendants lawyers, Kathryn Nester, spoke about her desire to shield uninvolved family members tied to the case from the intense and sometimes alarming public attention into the shooting.

A Utah judge ordered the release of the transcript and audio of an earlier hearing for suspected Charlie Kirk shooter Tyler Robinson. (Getty Images)

I don't want the family member getting the e-mails that I'm getting right now, so we're going to try to protect that innocent family member from experiencing that, she said.

Throughout the hearing, the lawyers showed concern about how public perception might impact the fairness of Robinsons trial, given that the entire world has already seen him in a booking photo released by law enforcement.

Judge Tony Graf could also opined on the unique interest in the case, which comes in the wake of nationwide shock at the prominent conservative activists death.

Whether we like it or not, this case is unique, he said. He added that no one knows how long the trial will last, but that it could continue for a year or more.

Judge Tony Graf has spoken about intense public interest in the Robinson case, where every member of the public could be a blogger (Getty Images)

Graf also pondered how much courtroom restrictions for the media would matter, given that every member of the public could be a blogger in this high-profile case.

The heated atmosphere around the Robinson case could also pose a security risk, an attorney for the Utah County Sheriffs Office warned.

Benjamin Van Noy warned that allowing Robinson to remain in his civilian clothes could mean the defendant might be able to elude capture or disguise himself, given that he allegedly changed clothes after the shooting.

That is a real concern to the sheriff's office, that the clothing could be changed if there was commotion, Van Noy said.

(Novak, for his part, dismissed the idea that this allegation was relevant and said Robinson wouldnt somehow turn into Superman, you know, by spinning around in a circle.)

Kirk was fatally shot while giving a talk at Utah Valley University. (Getty Images)

While much of the transcript was public, 246 words, or about one page, of the 83-page transcript were redacted, largely during portions of the hearing pertaining to security measures.

The court recognizes the substantial public interest in these proceedings and has approached its review with that interest firmly in mind, Graf said during a Monday hearing.

During the Monday hearing, Graf also said he denied a request to classify members of the media as a limited party in the case and inform news organizations of upcoming closed-door hearings. He added that there is already a process in place for the press to receive this information and to object to closures.

Robinsons legal team has argued that, by allowing cameras in the courtroom, the judge could jeopardize the defendants right to a fair trial. In contrast, media outlets, as well as Kirks widow, have called for the trial to be televised.

Mondays hearing, which lasted about 20 minutes, was attended by both legal teams, reporters and Robinson, who only spoke three words. When the judge asked Robinson if he was present, he could be heard saying, Yes, your honor.

Lawyers for Robinson lamented in October that because the entire world has already seen his mugshot, it could impact his right to a fair trial (Utah Governor's Office)

Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder in the killing of Kirk, an influential conservative activist, on the campus of Utah Valley University on September 10. Kirk, who was speaking to a large crowd from underneath a tent, was shot in the neck.

Robinson, who is from the southwestern part of the state, turned himself in to authorities on September 12. Officials said that DNA found on a towel wrapped around a rifle discovered near the scene matches that of Robinson.

The state has argued that he targeted Kirk for his political views.

Robinsons family claimed that, in the past year, he became more political and started to lean more to the left  becoming more pro-gay and trans-rights oriented, according to an indictment filed in September. His father also said that he believed the rifle found at the scene was the same weapon he had given Robinson as a gift.

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against Robinson, who hasnt entered a plea yet.

His next court appearance is scheduled for January 16 with a tentative preliminary hearing scheduled for May.
HIV medication in Harare, Zimbabwe (AP)

Protecting whats left of the UKs funding for the global HIV response in order to end the deadly decades-long pandemic would cost less than 1.30 a year per UK adult, new analysis by The Independent shows.

The figure is based on the government honouring existing commitments to three crucial funds: the UN Aids agency (UNAIDS), medicines access agency Unitaid and the Robert Carr Fund, which makes sure that the voices of marginalised populations most affected by HIV are included.

To maintain current funding levels, the government would need to commit around 200m over three years, or 67m a year. Shared between the 55 million adults in the UK, this could help end new HIV transmissions globally, something the prime minister has already pledged to do in England by 2030.

The government is set to confirm funding decisions for these three bodies by the end of January.

It has already announced a 150m cut to its biggest contribution to the global HIV response.

Conservative MP David Mundell, a co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on HIV/Aids said: It's a modest sum, but every pound to people who are struggling is still significant. But I think the key is, what is the alternative cost?

The alternative cost of not being able to achieve the zero transmissions is new strains of HIV emerging, its of those strains coming to the UK and putting additional pressures onto our NHS.

Aid cuts coupled with hostile laws in a number of African countries keep people from accessing HIV treatment (AP)

He added that the UK and other like-minded countries needed to step up and target their funding at the gaps left by US cuts to global HIV programmes, including services for LGBT+ and other marginalised communities the US doesnt want to fund.

Labour MP and public health doctor, Beccy Cooper, who chairs the all-party parliamentary group on global health and security, added: This analysis is a clear reminder that some of the highest value public spending we can make is in global health. Honouring these HIV commitments would deliver impact far beyond their modest cost and would help sustain the momentum toward ending Aids by 2030.

As a public health professional I also see the wider benefit. Targeted HIV investment strengthens the health systems that allow us to respond to other health issues such as infectious disease outbreaks, support resilient communities and ultimately keep people in the UK safer too, Dr Cooper said.

In an open letter published earlier this month, The Independent, along with more than 25 leading charities, advocates and MPs, urged the prime minister to protect the remainder of the UKs funding for the global HIV response.

In 2024, it looked like a global goal to end the Aids pandemic by 2030 was in sight, but deep cuts to development aid spending from a number of rich countries, including the UK this year, have put this progress at risk.

If previous levels of funding for HIV prevention around the world are not protected, there will be more than four million additional deaths and infections by 2030, according to the latest UN estimates.

The UK is to cut its total foreign aid spending by 40 per cent by 2029 in a move to shift more funds to defence. Along with devastating cuts from the US, among others, it has left health systems around the world scrambling and HIV prevention services collapsing. Roughly 2.5 million people who used pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in 2024 lost access to the medicine this year because of donor cuts.

Protecting these three key funds represents an incredible opportunity for the UK government to commit to and invest in hope and the very real possibility of ending Aids in five years, said Mike Podmore, chief executive of Stopaids, the network of UK agencies working on the global response to HIV/Aids.

If the UK and other governments around the world choose to make the political and financial commitment needed, its a small cost to pay to keep the world and the UK safe by preventing a resurgence of the Aids pandemic and keep us on track to ending it once and for all.

This article has been produced as part of The Independents Rethinking Global Aid project
Knighthood and damehood a perfect end to skating career for Torvill and Dean

Ice skating champions Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean said the news of a damehood and knighthood was the perfect way to end their careers, as they prepared to hand the mantle on to the next Olympic hopefuls.

The pair, who claimed gold with their Bolero performance at the 1984 Winter Olympics, described the New Year Honours as wonderful and humbling at the same time.

But Dame Jayne almost thought it would be an achievement she celebrated without her skating partner, after his letter took a little bit longer to arrive.

The 68-year-old said she couldnt believe it when she opened a confidential letter containing the news on a Saturday morning.

Torvill and Dean during their Bolero routine (PA)

After telling her husband, she rang her fellow Dancing On Ice head judge to share the celebration.

Sir Christopher, 67, said: I was just getting up, still in the PJs. Jayne said go to the letterbox!, so I went to the letterbox, opened it up and had a look and the letterbox was bare, nothing there.

Dame Jayne added: I was so elated, but then I was thinking theres something wrong here. Everything weve achieved, weve achieved together.

Dame Jayne Torvill said the timing of the honours was perfect (James Speakman/PA)

After a nervous three-day wait the news reached Sir Christopher of his honour and the pair were able to celebrate together.

He said: Its such an amazing award to receive this and were really humbled by it.

Weve been together 50 years and I think in that time weve created this body of work and skated and performed and entertained. Weve worked with a lot of charities as well, with our skating.

Just to receive this honour is wonderful and humbling at the same time.

The pair won gold with their Bolero performance at the 1984 Winter Olympics (PA)

The duo were made OBEs in 2000 and in the 25 years since there have been calls from fans to see them recognised further.

Sir Christopher said: Its been mentioned by fans and supporters, but its something that we never realised might happen.

If it did, that would be wonderful, but if it didnt, theres so many other people in the country that are deserving as well.

This year they performed their final tour and danced on the ice for the last time.

Sir Christopher Dean has been made a Knight Bachelor in the New Year Honours list (James Speakman/PA)

Dame Jayne said the timing of the honours seemed perfect.

She said: We did our final tour this year, and that was a big thing for us.

We had such a great time, we were so happy with the tour and the fact that we got through it.

It was a big thing for us to mark our career before retirement, and then receiving this award at the end of the year, its just finished everything. Its perfect.

Sir Christopher added: Happy now. Retired.

Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean recreated their Bolero performance earlier this year (Ben Birchall/PA) (Ben Birchall)

Next year Lewis Gibson, who was inspired to start skating after watching Dancing On Ice, and his partner Lilah Fear will be competing at the Winter Olympics with the hope of winning Great Britains first medal for figure skating since Dame Jayne and Sir Christopher claimed bronze in Lillehammer in 1994.

They could be in line for a medal, we dont know what colour, we hope for the best, Sir Christopher said.

To think that theyve come from watching Dancing On Ice, it is a sort of a legacy thats passed down.

The mantle, the flame, is handed over to them now.

Were ready to pass the mantle on. Its their turn.
Priceless view: Bryce Canyon in Utah (Simon Calder)

Foreign tourists keen to see some of the most outstanding natural wonders in the US face having to pay hundreds of dollars as a result of President Donald J Trumps commitment to making national parks more accessible, more affordable and more efficient for the American people.

From 1 January 2026 UK visitors aged 16 and over visiting the top tier US National Parks must pay a surcharge of $100 (74) per person on top of the existing charges.

The option to visit on one of the fee-free days also disappears for non-Americans.

For British travellers visiting multiple parks, an annual pass offers a saving compared with paying individually. But the price of the America the Beautiful pass is about to more than treble, rising to $250 (185).

Happily, prospective visitors who act before 1 January 2026  corresponding to 5am on New Years Day GMT  can secure an annual pass at the lower price of $80 (59).

These are the key questions and answers.

Whats changing?

The US Department of the Interior has announced More Affordable National Park Access  at least according to the headline of a media release from Washington DC. It revealed far less affordable national park access for many international visitors.

Starting on 1 January, non-residents age 16 and older must pay a $100 non-resident fee in addition to the regular entrance fee for 11 of the top national parks in the US.

These include Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon  as well as my favourites, Bryce Canyon and Zion in Utah. US interior secretary Doug Burgum says the move is to ensure international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations.

The surcharge is on top of the usual per car fee of around $35 (26). A British couple visiting one of the most popular parks will face an almost seven-fold rise to $235 (174).

Whats the work around?

Buy an $80 (57) America the Beautiful annual pass that will get you and travel companions sharing the same car into those 11 parks without the surcharge  and indeed without any further fees at national parks across America.

A spokesperson for the National Park Service confirmed to The Independent: We honour those passes under the terms at the time of purchase. Accordingly, I have bought one  and it is valid through to the end of 2026.

Sound investment: America the Beautiful pass for 2026 (US Department of the Interior)

What if I miss the deadline?

The way that the pricing structure works means that for any more than a single visit the newly inflated $250 non-resident America the Beautiful pass is the appropriate option. It allows even foreigners into all parks all year for all occupants in one passenger vehicle. This works out cheaper than President Trumps punitive per-person pricing for overseas visitors.

But costs are being cut for Americans?

The only change that reduces fees for some US citizens is allowing an annual pass to cover two motorcycles, rather than one.

What about free-fee days?

For many years the US government has nominated eight significant days a year on which admission is free to national parks as well as sites run by the Bureau of Land Management and the Fish and Wildlife Service.

In 2026 these become resident-only patriotic fee-free days. Two dates important to Black Americans have been dropped from the usual list: Martin Luther King Jr Day, on the third Monday of January; and Juneteenth on 19 June, commemorating the end of slavery in the US.

Replacements include one that partly commemorates President Trumps birthday. The full list of resident-only patriotic fee-free days for 2026 is:

16 February: Presidents Day

25 May: Memorial Day

14 June: Flag Day/President Trumps birthday

3-5 July: Independence Day weekend

25 August: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service

17 September: Constitution Day

27 October: Theodore Roosevelts birthday

11 November: Veterans Day

I have friends/family the US. Can I simply enter with them?

No. I asked: When a car has a mix of Americans and non-US citizens, how will the surcharge be determined and applied? The NPS spokesperson said: Taking Yellowstone as the example, the American resident would pay the $35 resident fee and international visitors would pay $100 per person ages 16 and older. The $80 resident pass cannot transfer to international visitors.

In addition, sitting quietly in the back of the car is not a workable strategy. US residents must present a US government-issued photo ID to avoid the surcharge. So your cunning plan will not work.
At least 13 people have died and dozens more are being treated for their injuries after a train derailed in Mexico, authorities have said.

The accident happened between the towns of Chivela and Nizanda in the southern state of Oaxaca, on a line connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Gulf of Mexico, on Sunday.

Some 250 people, including 241 passengers and nine crew members, were on board, according to details released by the Mexican Navy, which controls the route.

At least 13 people were killed, the navy said, with 98 injured - including 36 who needed hospital medical assistance. President Claudia Sheinbaum said on X that five of the injured are in a critical condition.

During extensive search and rescue operations, the navy said it deployed a total of 360 personnel, 20 vehicles, four ground ambulances, three air ambulances, and one tactical drone.

Footage from the scene shows emergency workers helping passengers disembark, and some of the injured being carried on stretchers.

"We didn't even know what happened," said passenger Rosa Isela Ramirez.

An investigation into the incident has been opened, Attorney General Ernestina Godoy Ramos said in a post on social media.

The interoceanic train launched in 2023 under the country's former president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

It forms part of the broader Interoceanic Corridor project, designed to modernise the rail link across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec - connecting the Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast, covering a distance of approximately 180 miles (290km).

The Mexican government has been working to develop the strip of land into a strategic trade corridor, expanding ports, railways and industrial infrastructure with the goal of creating a route that could compete with the Panama Canal.

Read more from Sky News:

What happened at Ukraine peace deal talks?

Child dies after house fire in Kent

In a statement, the Mexican Navy expressed condolences to the families of those "who lost their lives in this tragic accident".

The governor of Oaxaca, Salomon Jara Cruz, also sent condolences to the families of those killed and said state authorities were coordinating with federal agencies to assist those affected.
The train derailed as it passed a curve near the town of Nizanda - Virgilio Luis/Reuters

A train derailed in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca on Sunday, killing at least 13 people and injuring nearly a hundred others.

The Interoceanic Train, linking the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz, went off the rails as it passed a curve near the town of Nizanda.

The Mexican Navy said the train was carrying 250 people, including nine crew members and 241 passengers.

Of those on board, 193 were reported to be out of danger, while 98 were injured, including 36 who were receiving medical assistance.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene - AFP

President Claudia Sheinbaum said on X that five of the injured were in critical condition, adding that senior officials had been dispatched to the site to assist the families of those killed.

The Mexican Navy has informed me that, tragically, 13 people died in the Interoceanic Train accident, she said.

Pictures at the crash site showed passengers being hauled off the train by emergency crews. The injured were transported off on stretchers.

A woman is rescued from the crash site - AFP

Mexicos Attorney Generals Office has already opened an investigation into the incident, attorney-general Ernestina Godoy Ramos said in a social media post.

The Interoceanic Train, inaugurated in 2023 under former president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, forms part of the broader Interoceanic Corridor project.

The initiative was designed to modernise the rail link across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, connecting Mexicos Pacific port of Salina Cruz with Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf Coast.

Two passengers embrace after being rescued - AFP

The Mexican government has sought to develop the isthmus into a strategic trade corridor, expanding ports, railways and industrial infrastructure with the goal of creating a route that could compete with the Panama Canal.

The train service is also part of a broader push to expand passenger and freight rail in southern Mexico and stimulate economic development in the region.
Nearly two-thirds (62%) of investors with at least 100,000 in assets plan to increase the amounts they put away in 2026 despite market uncertainties, a survey indicates.

More than a fifth (23%) said they will look to bolster their portfolio significantly, according to the research for Scottish Widows.

Despite market challenges, those intending to invest more in the year ahead plan to increase their portfolios by 33,698, on average.

The research also found that just under a quarter (24%) of investors will put away the same amount as in 2025, and 8% will invest less. Around 6% of people were unsure of their plans.

The figures were released ahead of the publication of Scottish Widows investor confidence barometer report in January 2026.

The research found that US tariffs, geopolitical disruption and changes in government have been behind some movements in investors portfolios.

However, nearly half (47%) of investors said they had increased the amount they put away in 2025.

While the majority of those surveyed are looking to invest more in 2026, some are treading cautiously.

Concerns about a potential global slowdown and continued geopolitical disruption were among the concerns highlighted in the survey.

The research also indicated differences between advised and non-advised investors. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of advised investors plan to increase the amount they invest, by an average of 38,983  just over 5,000 more than the survey average of 33,698.

More than half (54%) of advised investors who are planning to put away more in 2026 said this was driven by an expectation of better market returns, compared with just over a third (36%) of non-advised investors.

Jenny Davidson, intermediary wealth director at Scottish Widows, said: Global events have resulted in 2025 being a bumpy ride but despite this the data tells us time and again that investors with a long-term strategy generally reap the rewards of their patience. With all that is going on in the world, that lesson is as timely as ever.

Our findings underline notable differences between investors actively working with a financial adviser and those who arent. With those benefiting from financial advice more confident and committed to investing more in the new year, it demonstrates the critical role advisers play in helping clients build long-term wealth.

Changes in regulation and the new advances in technology mean that financial education and guidance is set to become increasingly accessible in 2026. Looking ahead, the focus will be on making sure that regulated financial advice, guidance and technology can work in harmony to close the growing advice gap.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently said that at least 18 million people could be offered extra help with their investments and pensions over the next decade with the game-changing introduction of targeted support.

It will mean firms can make specific suggestions to consumers to help them make better-informed decisions about what to do with their money.

Firms will need to make sure the recommendations are suitable and should only be offered when they put people in a better position, the regulator said.

It is thought that the changes could help to shrink the advice gap and empower more people to make the right financial decisions for their needs.

The regulator said firms which can show they are ready, willing and organised to undertake targeted support will be authorised swiftly after the provisional go-live date in April 2026.

The value of investments can go down as well as up, although some investments may outperform savings held in cash over the longer term.

According to FCA data, around seven million adults in the UK with 10,000 or more in cash savings could be missing out on the benefits of investing throughout their lives.

Scottish Widows commissioned Censuswide to carry out a survey of more than 1,000 people across the UK with a minimum of 100,000 in investable assets, who have a pension, in July 2025.
Chef Thomas Frake has been crowned MasterChefs Champion of Champions 2025 in its festive special.

Frake, who won MasterChef in 2020, took home the winning title after outcooking three former champions  2013s Natalie Coleman, 2023s Chariya Khattiyot and 2024 winner Brin Pirathapan  on the BBC One cooking competition special, MasterChef Festive Extravaganza: Champion of Champions.

The chef, who runs a village pub called The Silks in Marlborough, Wiltshire, said: This feels amazing. Im grateful more than anything.

Thomas Frake crowned MasterChef Champion of Champions 2025 (Shine TV/BBC)

MasterChef is what got me onto this journey in the first place. To come along five years later and be validated that my food was worthy again of another trophy is incredibly special.

The first trophy will stay at home, this trophy is going straight to my pub.

Taking on two demanding challenges, the returning champions had to first deliver an end of the year showstopper for the judges and critic Tom Parker Bowles.

Next they had to prove just how far they have come since they first appeared on MasterChef as amateur chefs, tasked with creating two of the best courses they have ever cooked.

Frakes final winning menu consisted of a main course inspired by a dish he cooked for Dent in 2020, a roast venison marinated in treacle, served with a venison and pear barley stew, wild garlic puree, charred shallot, bubble and squeak, and a venison and port sauce.

For dessert he made a brioche bread and butter pudding, coated in panko breadcrumbs, topped with butterscotch raisins, in a Pedro Ximenez sherry sauce, served with a brown butter ice cream.

Thomas Frake crowned MasterChef Champion of Champions 2025 (Shine TV/BBC)

During the judges deliberations over all their cooking that day, John Torode, who was a judge on the festive special alongside Grace Dent, said: I need to be truthful, that was probably the best food Ive ever eaten in the history of MasterChef.

That was extraordinary.

He later added: Thomas love of great British food and what he likes to call pub grub is so infectious that its only when you eat his food that you understand what sort of cook hes become since hes left the competition.

Meanwhile, Dent described Frake as a fascinating chef.

She added: He cooks crowd-pleasers absolutely beautifully with loads of finesse and thats why Thomas is our champion of champions.

Torodes appearance, which was filmed earlier this year before he was sacked, marked his final time on MasterChef.

The presenters contract was not renewed following an allegation of using racist language which was upheld as part of a report into claims of misconduct on the show.

The Australian chef will be replaced by Irish chef Anna Haugh from the shows next series, MasterChef: The Professionals.

MasterChef Festive Extravaganza: Champion of Champions is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Some homeowners could cut their bills by up to 90 a month using green energy, it is claimed

Ed Miliband is planning to offer grants for solar panels and heat pumps worth up to 13bn in an attempt to create zero bill homes.

The Energy Secretary hopes to give millions of homeowners financial support to adopt green energy over the next four years.

Mr Miliband will reportedly set out plans next month for his warm homes fund to spend billions on solar energy, battery storage and heat pumps.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is said to believe grants could see the emergence of zero bill homes where householders pay nothing for power.

Its warm homes plan, to be published in January, is likely to also include an end to restrictions on plug-in solar panels which cost between 180 and 300 and can be installed on balconies, patios and flat roofs, according to The Times.

Ed Miliband is expected next month to set out plans for his warm homes fund - Zeynep Demir/Anadolu via Getty

Nigel Banks, technical director at Octopus Energy, told The Times that one million homes with strong insulation could reduce their bills to zero if they installed solar panels, batteries and a heat pump.

With flexible energy tariffs, the opportunity is now there for homeowners to effectively pay no energy bills at all, he said.

The energy supplier estimated that some homeowners could cut their bills by up to 90 a month by switching to green energy.

The Government has previously focused subsidies on improvements to energy efficiency through insulation and double glazing initiatives but ministers are now said to be considering a shift towards solar power.

b'

'

The warm homes plan is designed to lower bills for poorer households by hundreds of pounds per year.

Mr Miliband once pledged that household energy bills would come down by 300 a year by 2030 but later dropped the claim in a flagship policy document.

Figures published in September showed that British industry was paying the highest electricity prices in the developed world. The price paid in the UK for power was 63 per cent higher than in France and 27 per cent higher than in Germany.

Britain was the second-most expensive country in the world for household electricity, after Slovakia, with households paying twice as much as those in the US.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said: We are investing an additional 1.5bn into our warm homes plan, taking it to nearly 15bn  the biggest ever public investment to upgrade homes and tackle fuel poverty ever.

We are doubling down on support for home upgrades and will set out our plans to help households, and support thousands more clean energy jobs soon.
Nancy Pelosi, the former US House speaker, speaks on the third day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on 21 August 2024. Photograph: Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images (Photograph: Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Democrats will retake the US Houses majority in the 2026 midterm elections, the chambers former speaker Nancy Pelosi has confidently predicted  and she hopes her party colleagues then seize back the congressional power that Republicans have all but ceded to Donald Trump.

Asked Sunday on ABC Newss This Week if she had any doubts over whether Democratic New York congressman Hakeem Jeffries would hold the speakers gavel after the elections midway through Trumps second presidency, Pelosi said: None.

Hakeem Jeffries is ready, the 20-term California congresswoman remarked in an interview with This Week co-anchor Jonathan Karl. Hes eloquent, hes respected by the members, he is a unifier.

Related: Nancy Pelosi calls female US president in her lifetime unlikely: Marble ceiling

Furthermore, Pelosi told Karl that when Democrats win the House back, they need to reclaim powers of Congress that she maintained have mostly been handed over to Trump by the Republican-led legislative branch.

Right now, Republicans in the Congress have abolished the Congress, said Pelosi, who was US House speaker from 2007 to 2011 and 2019 to 2023. Generally, Pelosi added: They just do what the president insists that they do. That will be over.

That ends as soon as we have the gavel.

Pelosi is far from alone in her prediction. With Trumps approval rating down to 36% and disapproval rising to 60% in a November Gallup poll, Republicans have been girding themselves for a trouncing in the 2026 midterms, as the Guardian reported Saturday.

Beside the presidents evident unpopularity, theres substantial history showing the party that holds the White House usually endures losses in midterm elections.

Several Republicans senators amid all that have announced they are not running for re-election in the midterms, including Kentuckys Mitch McConnell, North Carolinas Thom Tillis, Iowas Joni Ernst and Alabamas Tommy Tuberville. And more than two dozen House Republicans have indicated that they do not intend to try to retain their seat, causing some to wonder whether all of those officeholders are deserting what they fear to be a sinking ship.

Pelosi herself declared in November that she would retire at the end of her final term in early 2027. The 85-year-old has cited her age as a major factor in her decision, coming at the end of a career that saw her become the first woman to serve as US House speaker after joining Congress in 1988 to represent San Francisco.

Nonetheless, she told ABC that she considered returning the House speakers gavel to a Democrat to be one of her last pieces of unfinished business.

By and large, the American people are good people  and I would like to  take us back to a place where governance and politics understand that, Pelosi told Karl. So whats next for me is  that we try to take the discussion to a place that believes in the goodness of the American people  that gives them hope.
The latest meeting will be the fifth time Benjamin Netanyahu has visited Donald Trump in the US this year. Photograph: Ariel Schalit/AP (Photograph: Ariel Schalit/AP)

Benjamin Netanyahu met Donald Trump at the US presidents Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday amid growing fears Israel could launch new offensives against regional enemies, potentially plunging the Middle East further into instability.

High on the agenda will be the ceasefire in Gaza, which in October halted the devastating two-year-long war. Though the terms agreed for an initial phase have been largely completed, with Israels forces pulling back to new positions and Hamas releasing all living and all but one of the dead hostages, immense challenges face the implementation of the second phase of the presidents 20-point plan.

After warmly greeting Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, Trump told reporters that he hopes to reach phase two of the Gaza plan very quickly but warned there has to be a disarming of Hama. The president also lied by claiming that just about every hostage was released because of him and his team, whereas none was released during the Joe Biden administration.

There are fears Israel will launch new offensives against Hezbollah in Lebanon, breaking a ceasefire established more than a year ago, or against Iran, which it accuses of accelerating the manufacture of ballistic missiles in recent months.

Asked about the prospect of a fresh attack on Iran, Trump said: I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, were going to have to knock them down  well knock them down, well knock the hell out of them. But hopefully thats not happening. I heard Iran wants to make a deal. If they want to make a deal, thats much smarter. You know, they could have made a deal the last time, before we did a big attack on them.

The Israeli prime minister is making his fifth visit to see Trump in the US this year. The leaders lavished praise on each other, signalling a desire to move past recent friction between the two countries. Netanyahu said: Weve never had a friend like President Trump in the White House. Its not even close.

Trump said Netanyahu had done a phenomenal job and Israel wouldnt exist without him. He also claimed he had spoken to the Israeli president, Isaac Herzog, who told him that a pardon for Netanyahu in his long-running corruption trial was on its way. Trump said: Hes a wartime prime minister whos a hero. How do you not give a pardon?

Related: Israel strikes southern Lebanon as deadline to disarm Hezbollah nears

Gershon Baskin, the co-head of the peace-building commission at the Alliance for Two States, who has taken part in back-channel negotiations with Hamas, said the timing of Netanyahus trip was very significant for Gaza.

Phase 1 is basically over, theres one remaining Israeli deceased hostage which [Hamas] are having difficulty finding, he said.

Both sides accuse each other of ceasefire violations. Hamas has failed explicitly to commit to disarmament and has had considerable success in imposing its authority in the parts of Gaza where almost all the population is concentrated. Israel appears reluctant to withdraw from the 53% of Gaza it now controls or to allow free passage of aid into the territory.

Phase 2 has to begin  and I think the Americans realise that its late because Hamas has had too much time to re-establish its presence and this is certainly not a situation that the Americans want to leave in place, Baskin said.

More than 70,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, died in Gaza during the war and almost all the territorys 2.3 million population was displaced. About 400 Palestinians have died in Gaza since the October ceasefire, and huge numbers continue to live in conditions of acute hardship.

In recent weeks, heavy rain and cold temperatures have compounded the suffering in Gaza, where most housing and infrastructure have been badly damaged or razed.

The war was triggered by a surprise attack by Hamas in southern Israel in 2023, in which 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed and 250 others abducted.

Under the next stages of Trumps plan, an interim authority made up of nonaligned Palestinian technocrats is to govern the Palestinian territory instead of Hamas and an international stabilisation force (ISF) of thousands of troops is to be deployed.

Hamass armed wing reiterated on Monday that it would not surrender its weapons.

Our people are defending themselves and will not give up their weapons as long as the occupation remains, the new spokesperson for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, who has adopted the name of his late predecessor Abu Obeida, said in a video statement.

US officials have suggested the composition of the new authority could be announced in January.

On Friday, the US news outlet Axios reported senior Trump officials were growing frustrated as Netanyahu has taken steps to undermine the fragile ceasefire and stall the peace process. Analysts in Israel and overseas agree.

There are more and more signs that the American administration is getting frustrated with Netanyahu, said Yossi Mekelberg, a Middle East expert at the London-based thinktank Chatham House.

The question is what its going to do about it, because phase 2 is right now going nowhere, Mekelberg added.

For Netanyahu, a priority will be convincing Trump to allow Israel to act to prevent Iran from repairing the damage inflicted on its nuclear programme in its short war with Israel and the US this summer, or building its ballistic missile capabilities.

The Iranian president, Masoud Pezeshkian, said on Saturday that his country was in a full-scale war with the US, Israel and Europe. He added that the conflict was more complicated and more difficult than the Iran-Iraq war, which left more than 1 million casualties on both sides.

Related: UK, Canada and Germany condemn Israel for 19 new West Bank settlements

Meanwhile, efforts to secure a security agreement between Israel and Syria have failed to make significant progress and will also be on the agenda at Mar-a-Lago, local media in Israel said. Israeli officials have also called for more effective efforts to disarm Hezbollah in accordance with the 2024 ceasefire in Lebanon.

Standing alongside Netanyahu on Monday, Trump commented: The new president of Syria is working very hard to do a good job, he really is Youre not going to get a choir boy to lead Syria  So, I hope theyre going to get along.

Netanyahu faces an election within 10 months, and the looming polls will influence his agenda, Mekelberg said. Everything is connected to [his] staying in power, he said.

Polls show Netanyahus current coalition would struggle to form a government if elections were held now, with many voters angry over the failures that led to the Hamas raid of 2023, moves to continue the exemption of most ultra-Orthodox Jewish men from compulsory military service in Israel and a series of scandals among other issues.

A close relationship with Trump would reinforce Netanyahus appeal among undecided voters and his base, and this suggests any public disagreement between the two leaders is extremely unlikely, analysts said.

Netanyahu is expected to seek to convince Trump of the need for Israel, which relies on the US for many of its defence needs, to maintain a military technological edge over potential regional enemies. Many Israeli officials were shaken when Trump said this year that he would allow the sale of F-35 fighter planes to Saudi Arabia, which he described as a great ally. The state-of-the-art stealth aircraft was key to Israels successes against Iran in this summers war.
Police officers hold back protesters at a far-right rally in central London in September. Photograph: Tayfun Salc/EPA (Photograph: Tayfun Salc/EPA)

The number of people who believe Britishness is something you are born with has almost doubled in two years, according to research that warns of a rising tide of ethno-nationalism in Britain.

Although a majority of the public still believe being British is rooted in shared values, a growing proportion see it as a product of ethnicity, birthplace and ancestry, according to analysis carried out by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and shared with the Guardian.

About one-third of people (36%) thought a person must be born British to be truly British, up from one in five (19%) in 2023, a YouGov poll carried out this month for the thinktank found.

Supporters of Nigel Farages Reform UK held the most extreme views of any party backers, with 71% saying that having British ancestry was a prerequisite for someone to be truly British, and 59% saying they believed the nation was an ethnic, not a civic, community.

Related: Third of Reform UKs council leaders have expressed vaccine-sceptic views

Strikingly, the findings suggest a significant proportion of Farages supporters believe being white is an important national characteristic, and that Britain has become too ethnically diverse. More than a third (37%) of Reform UK voters said they would be prouder of Britain if there were fewer people from minority ethnic backgrounds in a decades time, and 10% said it was important to have white skin to be a good British citizen.

The results are evidence that hard-right narratives are having some success in remoulding the publics conception of national identity; overall, though, popular opinion still supports a progressive vision of Britishness based on shared values, not ethnicity or ancestry.

Parth Patel, an associate director at IPPR, said: Politicians and activists on the right are trying to change how we think about ourselves and one another. They believe belonging to this nation is defined by ancient rights and historical claims, and want the rest of us to believe that too. Worryingly, they are starting to change the hearts and minds of some people in Britain.

Having become used to opponents who challenge them mainly on grounds of economic equality, progressives now find themselves locked in conflict with those who reject far more basic tenets of human equality. We should be meeting this contest with confidence and conviction.

According to the IPPR analysis, a majority of supporters of all big parties besides Reform, including the Conservatives, thought the nation was a civic community defined by shared values, and not an ethnic community defined by shared ancestry.

When asked what made a good British citizen, the most popular answers were obeying the law, which was chosen by 64% of those polled, raising children to be kind (62%) and working hard (48%). Just 8% said it involved sticking up for British-born people above other groups, and 3% said it involved having white skin.

When asked what would make them proud of the country in a decades time, people prioritised good public services and quality of life: 69% said a well-functioning NHS, 53% cited affordability and 36% housing. Significantly fewer prioritised reductions in immigration (28%) or ethnic diversity (13%).

Related: Who supports Reform and why? The charts that show who favours Farages party

The IPPR called on Keir Starmer to build on the contents of his speech at the Labour party conference, where he countered ethno-nationalist views, and develop a programme of national renewal founded on a clear vision of what kind of country Britain should be and what binds it together.

In his speech, the prime minister said he was engaged in a fight for the soul of our country with the hard right. If you say or imply that people cannot be English or British because of the colour of their skin, that mixed-heritage families owe you an explanation, that people who have lived here for generations  should now be deported, then mark my words, we will fight you with everything we have because you are an enemy of national renewal, he said.

Reform has faced criticism for its threat to deport hundreds of thousands of people who are legally resident in Britain by scrapping the main route to settlement. Katie Lam, a Tory shadow minister, was also criticised for endorsing mass deportations to make Britain culturally coherent, in remarks that were later dismissed by the partys leader, Kemi Badenoch.

In recent months, senior politicians have warned of a surge in ethno-nationalist ideas, many of them propagated online. The Guardian reported recently that in most weeks, far-right political content appeared in the top-five stories circulating on social media, according to weekly summaries commissioned by ministers.

A far-right march organised by Tommy Robinson in Westminster in September attracted between 110,000 and 150,000 people.

The home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, who is a practising Muslim and was born in Britain to Pakistani parents, said this month that she was very proud to be a citizen of a country that is as diverse as we are.

Related: Visas leave migrants anything but settled

Mahmood, responding to the US governments national security strategy, which criticised European countries migration policies and called for the restoration of western identity, said Britain was a multifaith, multi-ethnic country that allows people to have the calling of their own conscience to live their own life free, but also has common rules that we all live by so that we live in peace together.

Badenoch, who was born in Britain to Nigerian parents, said in an interview this summer that she had faced a wave of online ethno-nationalism including lots of stuff about my race and my ethnicity.

They will try and use the tropes about black people  that theyre lazy, theyre corrupt or theyre all DEI [diversity, equity and inclusion] hires  and its something which I find extraordinary because I take everyone at face value, she said.

Nick Garland, an associate fellow at IPPR and a former political speechwriter for the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, stressed that a vast majority of the public still believes in a nation built on shared values and common interests, not birthplace or background.

The urgent task for the government  and for progressives more broadly  is to give voice to this belief by setting out a compelling alternative vision of the nation: a story of who we are that looks forward, not back. The fight over what it means to be British must be met by rejecting division and reclaiming a shared, inclusive national project.

 This article was amended on 30 December 2025. An earlier version, following the terminology of an IPPR press release, said the research found a rise in those who think that to be truly British a person must be born in Britain; in fact the statement with which they agreed was that a person must be born British.
A study will investigate the impact of screen time on babies (Getty/iStock)

A new study has been launched to investigate a significant "blind spot" concerning screen time among babies, experts have revealed.

Academics from the universities of Leeds, Nottingham, Aston, and Leeds Trinity are set to assess the impact of screen usage on the youngest members of society.

The research is being funded by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, a charity established by Dame Andrea Leadsom, a former health minister, which aims to provide babies with the best possible start in life.

Will Quince, a former education and health minister recently appointed as the charity's chief executive, stated: "We know anecdotally that even newborn babies are exposed to screens."

As education minister, I saw first-hand how often babies are overlooked  there is a real, baby blind-spot.

A new study will look at the impact of screens on the smallest members of society (Getty/iStock)

Take screen time, where the debate focuses on young people, social media and banning phones in schools, whilst babies are increasingly being exposed to screens.

Some babies are now spending more than four hours a day in front of screens.

This is an important study  its not about shaming parents  its about having the evidence needed to break the baby blind-spot and give parents and carers the information they need to help give their baby the best start in life.

Experts say that children should learn through interacting with adults and the world around them.

Some have said that use of a screen time when a child is very young can lead to longer-term issues with attention, communication, problem solving and communication difficulties.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that children under one should not use screens.

It says that any time spent sitting  or sedentary  should be spent engaging in reading and story telling.

For under-ones it also recommends they should be physically active several times a day in a variety of ways, and that they should not be restrained in a pushchair, pram, highchair or carrier for more than one hour a time.

For children aged one to two years, they should not have screen time for more than one hour a day and less is better, the organisation said.

Research suggests three in 10 babies in Japan are exposed to four hours or more screen time a day.
James Holt was the executive director of Archewell and moved to California with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex - Bryan Bedder

The Duke and Duchess of Sussexs longest-serving member of staff has become the latest to quit their charity.

James Holt, who worked with the Sussexes in the UK and moved with them to California, has stepped down as executive director of Archewell, the couples charitable foundation.

Mr Holts departure is the latest in a revolving door of advisers to the Sussexes since they stepped back from their roles as working members of the Royal family and relocated to California in 2020.

Charlie Gipson, the Sussexes European communications director, left in July and Kyle Boulia, their US-based press secretary, departed in June. Four other staff departed at the time.

Emily Robinson, who was appointed director of communications and previously worked at Netflix, left in October.

Toya Holness departed as head of communications in May 2022 and Ashley Hansen left after being global press secretary between May 2022 and October 2024.

The couple have been plagued by allegations that they are difficult to work for, with Vanity Fair reporting that several people needed long-term therapy or took extended breaks after working for the Duchess.

The Sussexes have long denied allegations of bullying made against them.

Mr Holt with Prince Harry in the Heart of Invictus Netflix series, which focused on the Invictus Games and its competitors

The charity recently changed its name to Archewell Philanthropies, partly to streamline its administration.

Mr Holt will remain an adviser to the Sussexes and will support their humanitarian trips overseas in 2026, a spokesman said. He will move back to the UK with his family.

He said that working for the Duke and Duchess had been one of the great privileges of my career.

Prince Harry and Meghan called him a stellar support for us for nearly 10 years.

His departure follows the exit last week of Meredith Maines, their chief communications officer, who became the 11th publicist known to have left their employment in the last five years.

Mr Holt has been at the head of Archewell since 2021, and previously worked as the Sussexes PR during their transition from the UK to the US.

He featured in their Netflix documentary and was photographed with them during charity visits on behalf of Archewell.

Kindred spirit

Announcing his departure, Mr Holt said: From my first project with Prince Harry eight years ago to improve mental health support for soldiers in the British military, to our recent work helping injured children in Gaza, he has consistently challenged me to think bigger about how we can make a difference.

From the moment I met Meghan, I recognised a kindred spirit  someone who finds joy even in difficult moments and connects authentically with people regardless of circumstance.

Mr Holt joined the Royal Foundation in 2017, working for the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, before moving with the Sussexes.

He previously worked for the Liberal Democrats and Sir Nick Clegg, and his salary at Archewell was $245,000 (180,000), according to its most recent financial documents.

Mr Holt also appeared in the Sussexes Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan

Above everything else, the work weve done together to support families affected by online harm will remain the most meaningful of my professional life, Mr Holt added. These families are extraordinary, and they inspire me every day.

After five incredible years in Los Angeles, its time for my family to return to London. When I pass the baton to the team leading Archewell Philanthropies in the coming months, Ill do so with immense pride and optimism for what lies ahead.

Ill miss my colleagues deeply, and Im grateful to Harry and Meghan for everything theyve done  for me, and for the countless people weve worked to support.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in a statement: James has been a stellar support for us for nearly 10 years.

His enthusiasm and talent in overseeing our philanthropic endeavours have been extraordinary. As James moves his young family back to the UK, we are proud that he will continue to guide various humanitarian trips for us overseas through Archewell Philanthropies.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have thanked their chief adviser for his stellar support for nearly a decade after he announced he was leaving his role in Los Angeles to return to the UK.

James Holt, who is standing down as executive director of the Archewell Foundation, said: Working with Prince Harry and Meghan has been one of the great privileges of my career.

He will continue to work with Harry and Meghan to support their charity work as the Archewell Foundation becomes Archewell Philanthropies, the foundation said.

The duke and duchess described James Holt as a stellar support (Getty)

Mr Holt first worked with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2018 when he took on a media adviser role at Kensington Palace. He then took on the top PR job at the newly formed charity in 2021, following the couple to live in California.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex said: James has been a stellar support for us for nearly 10 years. His enthusiasm and talent in overseeing our philanthropic endeavours have been extraordinary.

Meghan and Harry founded the Archewell Foundation in 2020 (AP)

As James moves his young family back to the UK, we are proud that he will continue to guide various humanitarian trips for us overseas through Archewell Philanthropies.

In Mr Holts full statement, issued by the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs PR team, he said he was grateful to Harry and Meghan for everything theyve done.

Working with Prince Harry and Meghan has been one of the great privileges of my career, he said.

From my first project with Prince Harry eight years ago to improve mental health support for soldiers in the British military, to our recent work helping injured children in Gaza, he has consistently challenged me to think bigger about how we can make a difference.

From the moment I met Meghan, I recognised a kindred spirit  someone who finds joy even in difficult moments and connects authentically with people regardless of circumstance.

Above everything else, the work weve done together to support families affected by online harm will remain the most meaningful of my professional life. These families are extraordinary and they inspire me every day.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex said Holt will continue to work for them (PA)

After five incredible years in Los Angeles, its time for my family to return to London. When I pass the baton to the team leading Archewell Philanthropies in the coming months, Ill do so with immense pride and optimism for what lies ahead.

Ill miss my colleagues deeply and Im grateful to Harry and Meghan for everything theyve done  for me, and for the countless people weve worked to support.

It comes two days after the chief communications officer to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced she would step down after less than a year in the role.

Meredith Maines said in a statement that she will be pursuing a new opportunity in 2026 after a year of inspiring work with the couple.

Her departure marked the reported 11th publicist to leave the couples employ in five years.
Trainer Karl Burke paid tribute to Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum following the leading owner and breeders death on Monday.

A prominent figure in British racing since the early 1990s, Sheikh Mohammed Obaids yellow silks with black spots were carried to victory in the 1998 Derby by the Luca Cumani-trained High-Rise and have been sported by several other top-class performers since.

His other big-race victors include Postponed, winner of the King George and Juddmonte International, and more recently the likes of Rosallion, Inisherin and Royal Champion.

Burke saddled the latter to win the Bahrain International Trophy just last month and trains a number of exciting horses for the owner including the unbeaten Joel Stakes winner Zeus Olympios, Cambridgeshire hero Boiling Point and Autumn Stakes victor Hankelow.

Its a shock. I was only talking to him earlier today and we discussed all the horses he was looking forward to for next season, the trainer told the Press Association.

I was due to meet him next week and its such sad news because he loved his horses and I know he was really looking forward to next year.

I owe him a lot. He gave me a lot of responsibility to train all those good horses for him and he was a very good man.

Sheikh Mohammed Obaid also owned and bred the 2023 Melbourne Cup winner Without A Fight, while his undefeated Royal Lodge Stakes winner Bow Echo, trained by George Boughey, is one of the leading fancies for next years 2000 Guineas.

A cousin of Sheikh Mohammed and a member of the ruling family of Dubai, Sheikh Obaid will leave in indelible mark on the bloodstock world through his mare Zomaradah, a Classic winner in her own right and the dam of Dubawi, who came from the only crop of Dubai Millennium and he would go on to become the champion sire of Britain and Ireland.
Graham Simpson said Reform are serious about getting the SNP out of government and there could be some arrangement - Jane Barlow/PA

Scotlands only Reform MSP has opened the door to forming an election pact with other parties.

Graham Simpson said there could be some arrangement which would see Reform working with opposition ranks to deprive the SNP of a third decade in power.

Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has repeatedly ruled out the prospect of doing any deals with rival parties.

However, there has been renewed speculation after claims that Mr Farage told donors to expect some sort of deal with the Tories  comments which the Reform leader has since denied.

Recent polls suggest Reform could become the second-largest group at Holyrood after the SNP, winning as many as 20 seats next May.

Nigel Farage has denied claims that he told donors to expect some sort of deal with the Tories - Lesley Martin/AFP

Mr Simpson, who defected from the Scottish Tories in August, described the prospect as feasible and achievable based on current polling.

The MSP said: There is a definite possibility we could get around 20 MSPs, maybe more, maybe slightly under that.

Pressed on the prospect of Reform joining forces with other parties, Mr Simpson said: That is a scenario. Im not saying it would happen; it depends on the numbers.

But if people are going into this election seriously wanting the SNP out of government, then they have to think, how do we do that?

The only way you do it is by working together. And Reform are serious to getting the SNP out of government.

Now, Reform arent going to form a majority, but a majority could be formed with other people, or there could be some arrangement.

The regional MSP for central Scotland added: Its not beyond the realms of possibility that could happen.

But it will all depend on the numbers.

Largely irrelevant

Mr Simpson, a former Scottish Tory shadow cabinet secretary, described his former party as largely irrelevant and said they would be classed as also-rans on polling day.

He said they would likely have sufficient MSPs to be part of any post-election cross-party discussions, but added they would need to be sensible about those discussions and not rule anything out, if they, like we, want to get rid of the SNP.

Speculation of a pact between the two parties received a boost earlier this month after two Reform donors said Mr Farage had made clear to them that he expected to strike some form of deal with his rival party.

Mr Farage later described the report as false and reiterated his pledge that the Tories would cease being a national party in May.

Reforms prospects in Scotland have continued to grow after the party won its first-ever seat in a council by-election earlier this month.

David McLennan was elected as a councillor for the Whitburn and Blackburn ward on West Lothian council  taking the seat from Scottish Labour.

Reform has a number of councillors across Scotland  and an MSP at Holyrood  but these have all come after defections to Mr Farages party and not through elections.

A spokesman for the Scottish Tories said: Every vote for Reform will only help the SNP cling onto power and pursue their independence obsession. Thats why John Swinney is desperate to talk them up.

Reform are likely to stand pro-independence candidates in the 2026 election, and Nigel Farage has even said hes not worried about the SNP getting another five years in power. They dont care about removing the nationalists; they only care about themselves.

The Scottish Conservatives stopped Nicola Sturgeon getting a majority in 2021 and forced out two nationalist first ministers. We are the only party that can be trusted to take the fight to the SNP at the next election.
Giving a child a phone before the age of 13 could be dangerous, leading to worse sleep, obesity and even depression, according to a new study.

The study, published earlier this month in the American Academy of Pediatrics, tested the health implications of such devices on youngsters at the critical juncture between childhood and adolescence.

It comes after rising global concerns about the impact of technology and social media on children. Earlier this month, Australia became the first country to ban social media, including TikTok and Instagram, for children under 16.

The AAP study, led by Ran Barzilay, professor of psychiatry and a child-adolescent psychiatrist at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, analyzed data from more than 10,500 kids across 21 sites in the U.S.

It found that those who received phones at age 12, compared with age 13, had a more than 60 percent higher risk of poor sleep and a more than 40 percent higher risk of obesity.

A new study has found that children who received phones at age 12, compared with age 13, had a more than 60 percent higher risk of poor sleep and a more than 40 percent higher risk of obesity (Getty Images)

At age 13 years, among 3,486 youth who did not own a smartphone at age 12 years, those who had acquired a smartphone in the past year had greater odds of reporting clinical-level psychopathology and insufficient sleep compared with those who had not after controlling for baseline mental health and sleep, the studys authors wrote.

The researchers concluded that owning a smartphone was associated with depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep in early adolescence, and recommended the development of public policy to protect young people.

This is not something you can ignore for sure, Barzilay told The Washington Post.

Australia has led the charge on national limitation of social media, ordering tech giants to block access to social media beginning December 10. Malaysia and other countries are reported to be considering similar moves next year.

It comes after rising global concerns on such technology and social media on children. Earlier this month, Australia became the first country to ban social media, including TikTok and Instagram, for children under 16 (Getty Images)

In the U.S., several states have already passed laws making childrens access to social media more limited, including Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee, which require parental consent for accounts for younger teens.

Former Democratic mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel has referred to social media use among children as a public health crisis and called for lawmakers to follow decisions made in Australia.

However, earlier this month, TikTok signed a deal to sell its U.S. entity in a joint venture majority-controlled by American investors Oracle and Silver Lake, along with Abu Dhabi-based MGX, allowing use of the platform to continue in the United States.

The firms are now set to own 45 percent of the U.S. company, at 15 percent each, while roughly one-third will be held by affiliates of existing ByteDance investors. Nearly 20 percent will be retained by ByteDance.
Ricky Gervais has claimed that working-class people are the only group that comedians can make jokes about without facing backlash.

The star, who created seminal sitcom The Office, also revealed he no longer makes quips at the expense of disadvantaged people  and would do things differently if he could go back in time.

Gervais reflected on the current state of comedy during a forthcoming episode of Radio 4s This Cultural Life, saying: People understand most power struggles. They understand why racism, homophobia and misogyny are wrong, but they are very disparaging about the working classes.

The comedian, who was raised in Reading by working-class parents, said its the one thing that it seems to be fine to take the mickey out of with no blowback at all.

Gervais also said he would avoid making jokes about disadvantaged people as times have changed  but said he doesnt have any regrets.

You are a product of your time and you do make things for people of your time. Id put trigger warnings on things, but I wouldnt go back and change something.

Do I regret anything? No. Would I do things differently now? Probably.

Gervaiss new stand-up show, Mortality, will be released on Netflix on Tuesday (30 December), three years after he faced significant backlash for making jokes about transgender people in the streaming services special titled SuperNature.

Ricky Gervais is returning with new Netflix stand-up (Netflix)

LGBTQ+ advocacy organisation GLAAD called his remarks dangerous, anti-trans rants masquerading as jokes.

The comedian defended his right to joke about taboo subjects following the uproar, arguing that comedy should make viewers uncomfortable.

I want to take the audience to a place it hasnt been before, even for a split second, he said on The One Show.

Most offence comes from when people mistake the subject of a joke with the actual target. So it starts, they go, Whats he gonna say? I tell the joke. Phew. They laugh.

He continued: Its like a parachute jump. Its scary, but then you land and its all OK. And I think thats what comedy is for, getting us over taboo subjects. Theyre not scary anymore. So I deal with everything.

While being honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in May 2025, Gervais claimed a victory over cancel culture.

Weve had a few weird years of cancel culture  people telling you what you can and can't laugh at or talk about  but we pushed back and we won until the next time, he told a crowd gathered on the streets of Los Angeles.
Royal Navy ratings splice the mainbrace  enjoy a special extra ration of rum  to celebrate the birth of HRH Charles, Prince of Wales in 1948 - Don Price/ Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Almost exactly 90 years ago, this newspaper reported on the court-martial at Portsmouth of Lieutenant Commander Colin Douglas Maud, RN, commanding officer of the destroyer HMS Sardonyx. Maud pleaded guilty to two charges of failing to make certain that issues of spirits to the ships company were properly supervised and mixed with water as the regulations demanded.

The Royal Navy had a long tradition of issuing alcoholic beverages to its sailors. Originally, when possible, the daily issue was a gallon (eight pints) of fairly weak beer. This was for health reasons, as drinking water  especially water that had been kept in wooden barrels for long periods  wasnt very safe.

The beer issue established that sailors could expect alcoholic drink as one of their perquisites: but ships on long voyages found it difficult to carry and replace the huge tonnages of beer required. Sometimes, especially in the Mediterranean, wine was issued as a substitute. Spirits, however, took up much less space for a given amount of alcohol and ships which were away from home port for any length of time generally issued them  though as late as 1806 the RN bought twice as much brandy as it did rum.

The old spirits issue was half a pint of rum or brandy a day, an amount calling for strong heads, and in 1740 Admiral Edward Vernon first made it compulsory to dilute the issue with water at a ratio of four to one. This was thought to reduce drunkenness, and it certainly made the water safer. Vernon was known in the Service as old Grog from his habitual grosgrain cloak, and so mixed rum and water became known as grog. A further health benefit from the spirits issue appeared when the RN began issuing lime juice to counteract scurvy. Lime juice that had been kept in barrels for long periods wasnt always very palatable, but it was possible to get the sailors and marines to drink it by adding it to their grog.

By the time of Lt Cdr Mauds court-martial in 1935 the issue was always rum, and the amount had been cut to an eighth of a pint  roughly equivalent to a pub treble. The issue was still made in the middle of the day. Petty officers and above were permitted to take theirs straight, or neaters, but junior rates still had to have mixed grog, now with two parts water to one of rum: though possibly not in the Sardonyx on some occasions. (Mauds court-martial did not prevent him having an illustrious, much decorated career in WWII and rising to high rank.)

The last rum ration in the RN was issued on July 31 1970, Black Tot Day. Junior ratings are nowadays permitted to buy three half-pint cans of beer a day, which they are not supposed to hoard up. Senior rates and officers can drink what they like but they have to buy it themselves. Watch-standing personnel seldom drink at sea at all in the modern era.

The Royal Navy at the time of Lt Cdr Mauds court-martial was probably the best and most powerful in the world. When Black Tot Day came it remained a formidable force. Today it is in a pitiable condition.

Thats clearly just one of those coincidences, of course.

Lewis Page is a former officer of the Royal Navy
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says injured skipper Bruno Fernandes is already pushing to return and joked he might be after his job as his leadership extends to watching team-mates train even after undergoing treatment.

The 31-year-old found himself in the unusual position of viewing the battling 1-0 Boxing Day win against Newcastle from the Old Trafford stands after picking up a soft tissue injury.

Fernandes initially played on after sustaining the issue at Aston Villa eight days ago but would be withdrawn at half-time with an injury he is already champing at the bit to return from.

Bruno was already saying that he needs to train, but we dont know, Amorim said with a laugh ahead of Tuesdays Old Trafford encounter against embattled Wolves.

No chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that.

But while Fernandes is unable to feature in Uniteds final fixture of a tumultuous 2025, the captains leadership qualities are still coming to the fore.

Back  on Tuesday  pic.twitter.com/KC1SjPR5iY  Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 28, 2025

He cannot be that guy that (when he) is not playing, hes not talking and speaking, boss Amorim said. Hes always speaking. Thats why hes the captain.

He has bad things sometimes, the way moves his arms, but he has a lot of good things.

Every time he makes recovery from the (previous) game, he is the guy that is going to watch the other guys training in that day, so there is a lot of things that you guys dont see that he does. Hes a great leader.

Fernandes will have another watching brief against Wolves (Martin Rickett/PA) (Martin Rickett)

Asked if that continued while he has been injured, the United boss said: Yeah, all the time. Hes the guy that is watching the training. Even after treatment, hes going there.

I dont know if he wants my job or not, but hes a leader. The guy is a leader.

The Portugal internationals injury could be compounded against Wolves by the absence Mason Mount, who was being assessed after coming off at half-time against Newcastle.

Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt are also sidelined, while Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui are at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Such absentees saw Amorim switch to a back four against Newcastle from his preferred five  an approach he suggested in September that not even the Pope could not make him change.

The 40-year-old explained he was reluctant to move from his favoured set-up after taking charge last November as he was trying to build an identity, but stressed that today is a different moment.

We dont have a lot of players, we need to adapt, but they already know and understand why we are changing, Amorim said.

It is not because of the pressure of you guys (in the media), or of the fans. Its because now we understand the way we want to play and the principles are the same.

Manchester United played with a back four in the 1-0 win against Newcastle (Martin Rickett/PA) (Martin Rickett)

We can change the system and I think we are going to become a better team because when the all the players return, we are not going to play all the time with three defenders. We are going to improve. But that was something that I was talking about.

But when you talk about changing the system all the time, I cannot change because the players will understand that Im changing because of you and I think that is the end for the manager.

So, when we are playing well in our system, I think that is the moment to change if its the better thing to win the next game and thats what we did.
The boss of Sainsburys is among business leaders to have been recognised in the Kings New Year Honours list.

Simon Roberts, chief executive of the UKs second largest supermarket chain, has been made a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services to the retail industry.

Mr Roberts has led the grocer since 2020, after taking over the reins from Mike Coupe, who had spearheaded the firms failed mega-merger with rival Asda.

As a result, Mr Roberts steered the business through disruption linked to the Covid pandemic, soaring food inflation and rising business costs.

Sir Keir Starmer with Sainsburys chief executive Simon Roberts (Dominic Lipinski/PA) (Dominic Lipinski)

In 2023, the boss reported to the Government as part of its Business Council.

He also took over as president of IGD (the Institute of Grocery Distribution) in 2024, supporting the wider grocery sector.

Elsewhere in the business sector, former National Grid chief executive John Pettigrew has been made a CBE for services to energy.

Mr Pettigrew headed up National Grid, which runs much of Britains electricity grid, for almost 10 years until he retired from the role in November 2025.

Mr Pettigrew joined National Grid as a graduate in 1991 and held a variety of roles during his 34-year career at the group before taking on the top job in 2016.

On announcing his departure, the firms chairwoman Paula Reynolds praised his exemplary leadership.

John Pettigrew headed up National Grid, which runs much of Britains electricity grid, for almost 10 years (Alamy/PA)

In the defence industry, BAE Systems former boss Ian King also becomes a CBE for services to the transport and defence sectors.

He led the FTSE 100 firm and Europes biggest defence contractor for nearly a decade until his retirement in 2017 after a career spanning more than 40 years in the defence sector.

Meanwhile, Monzo chairman and Northern Rock boss Gary Hoffman had also been made a CBE.

Mr Hoffman  who was parachuted into Northern Rock in 2008 after it almost collapsed a year earlier after the credit crunch  has been recognised for services to the economy and sport.

He was also chairman of the Premier League from 2020 to 2022 but faced criticism over his handling of Newcastle Uniteds takeover by a group led by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.

Mr Hoffman is currently chairman of digital bank Monzo, although the Financial Times reported earlier this month that a number of investors called for him to be ousted from the role.

Elsewhere, Pamela Maynard, Microsofts chief AI transformation officer, has been made an OBE.

Unilever R&D head Jonathan Hague and Peter Higgins, the co-founder of menswear business Charles Tyrwhitt, have also been made OBEs.
Adorned in traditional Andean ponchos and elaborate headdresses, a group of shamans convened on Monday atop a sacred hill overlooking Perus capital city.

The annual ritual saw them perform a ceremony on the treeless San Cristobal hill, where they offered their predictions for the upcoming year, encompassing international relations, ongoing global conflicts and the fates of prominent world leaders.

This years prophecies included a significant forecast regarding Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, with the shamans asserting he would be removed from office. They also indicated that global conflicts, such as the protracted war in Ukraine, are set to continue.

Shaman Ana Maria Simeon elaborated on one key prediction, stating: "We have asked for Maduro to leave, to retire, for President Donald Trump of the United States to be able to remove him, and we have visualized that next year this will happen."

The group has a mixed record with its annual predictions. (AP Photo/Guadalupe Pardo)

The group has a mixed record with its annual predictions.

Last year, they warned a nuclear war would break out between Israel and Gaza, where a ceasefire is currently in place.

But in December 2023, the group correctly predicted that former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who had been imprisoned for human rights abuses, would perish within twelve months.

Fujimori died from cancer in September 2024 at the age of 86.

Before Mondays ceremony, the shamans met to drink hallucinogenic concoctions derived from native plants  including Ayahuasca and the San Pedro cactus  which are believed to give them the power to predict the future.

During the ceremony, they placed blankets with yellow flowers, coca leaves, swords and other objects on San Cristobal hill, asking for positive energy for the new year.

After dancing in circles and playing ancestral instruments, the shamans asked for peace in the Middle East, an end to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia and the fall of President Maduro.

The prayers to the gods, performed amid flowers and incense, as well as dances, are intended to encourage leaders to make good decisions.

The shamans also predicted natural disasters, such as earthquakes and climatic phenomena.
Alaa Abd el-Fattah labelled British people dogs and monkeys and called for Zionists to be killed in social media posts

Sir Keir Starmer is under mounting pressure to revoke the British citizenship of an alleged Islamist extremist.

Alaa Abd el-Fattah, who has called for Zionists to be killed, was welcomed to the UK by the Prime Minister over the weekend.

Mr Fattah, an Egyptian activist jailed by Cairo from 2019 until September, was granted British citizenship in 2021 through his mother, who was born in Britain.

However, abhorrent posts from his social media account calling for the killing of Zionists and describing British people as dogs and monkeys have since emerged, raising questions over successive governments failure to vet him.

Social media posts allegedly written by Alaa Abd el-Fattah between 2010 and 2012 circulated online after his arrival in the UK

In a statement on Monday, Mr Fattah apologised unequivocally for the historical tweets, but claimed that some of the posts have been completely twisted out of their meaning.

On Sunday, Labour and the Conservatives insisted that they had not previously been aware of Mr Fattahs social media rants, despite his nomination for an EU diplomacy prize being withdrawn in 2014 over tweets calling for the deaths of Israelis.

The Telegraph can reveal that Mr Fattah obtained citizenship without going through good character checks because of a loophole created by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

In a letter to Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, led demands for the Government to cancel Mr Fattahs citizenship and deport him.

Mr Farage said the Prime Ministers decision to welcome the Egyptian activist to the UK represented an extraordinary error of judgment, writing: It should go without saying that anyone who possesses racist and anti-British views such as those of Mr Fattah should not be allowed into the UK.

As Home Secretary, it is within your power to revoke his citizenship and order his deportation. I strongly urge you to do so.

Alaa Abd el-Fattah with his mother, Laila Soueif, and sister, Sanaa, at their home in Giza, Egypt, following his release from prison - Reuters

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, also demanded Mr Fattahs deportation, saying: I do not want people who hate Britain coming to our country.

Mr Fattahs apology continued: I am shaken that, just as I am being reunited with my family for the first time in 12 years, several historic tweets of mine have been republished and used to question and attack my integrity and values, escalating to calls for the revocation of my citizenship.

Looking at the tweets now  the ones that were not completely twisted out of their meaning  I do understand how shocking and hurtful they are, and for that I unequivocally apologise.

They were mostly expressions of a young mans anger and frustrations in a time of regional crises (the wars on Iraq, on Lebanon and Gaza), and the rise of police brutality against Egyptian youth.

I particularly regret some that were written as part of online insult battles with the total disregard for how they read to other people. I should have known better.

I have reported Alaa Abd el-Fattah to counter-terrorism police.  Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) December 28, 2025

Mr Fattah said he took allegations of anti-Semitism very seriously and that some of the tweets had been misunderstood, seemingly in bad faith.

For example, a tweet being shared to allege homophobia on my part was actually ridiculing homophobia, he said.

I have paid a steep price for my public support for LGBTQ rights in Egypt and the world.

Another tweet has been wrongly interpreted to suggest Holocaust denial  but in fact the exchange shows that I was clearly mocking Holocaust denial.

On Friday, Sir Keir said he was delighted to welcome Mr Fattah to Britain after Cairo lifted a travel ban.

Screengrab

Shortly afterwards, social media posts made between 2010 and 2012 began to circulate online.

In the messages, published on his X account, Mr Fattah urged Londoners to burn Downing Street, told his supporters to kill police and said that he hated white people.

Mr Fattah was jailed six years ago for what the Egyptian authorities described as spreading fake news in a Facebook post about torture in the country.

The Conservatives and Labour both campaigned for his release, which came in September following a presidential pardon. However, he was blocked from travelling to the UK because Egypt refused to recognise his dual nationality.

Alaa Abd el-Fattah stands in a cage in a Cairo courtroom after a street protest during the 2013 Arab Spring - AP

Mr Fattah was automatically granted British citizenship in 2021 under an immigration law that allows mothers to transmit their UK citizenship to their children, even if they are outside Britain.

His mother was born in London while his grandmother was studying in the UK.

Until 2019, applicants using this route were still subject to a good character test, which critics said Mr Fattah would probably have failed on extremism grounds.

But the law was changed after the Supreme Court ruled that the requirement was incompatible with the ECHR following a legal challenge by a foreign murderer.

The change meant Mr Fattah was not subject to the test, which is usually applied by Home Office officials to applicants for British nationality. Official guidance says they should usually reject applications where the person has expressed vocal or active opposition to British values.

These include democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and the mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

The guidance states: A person who has engaged in unacceptable behaviour will normally be refused British citizenship, unless they have publicly retracted their views and it is clear that they have not re-engaged in such behaviour.

Mr Fattah also did not have to take the Life in the UK Test, an exam about British history and values which most migrants have to take to secure citizenship.

Laila Soueif, Alaa Abd el-Fattahs mother, protesting against his detention in London early this year - Isabel Infantes/Reuters

The row has triggered fresh calls from the Conservatives to leave the ECHR, a move to which Labour is opposed.

Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, said: That membership of the ECHR forced Britain to drop the good character test and contributed to allowing this Britain-hating extremist to get citizenship demonstrates once again why we need to leave this broken organisation and set our own laws.

Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, branded Mr Fattah a despicable scumbag on Monday, adding he was not really interested in the activists apology.

He told ITVs Good Morning Britain: I havent seen the full statement but Ive seen parts of it, and frankly, Im not really interested in his apology.

What he said was absolutely disgusting. In my view, this man is a scumbag.

Mr Philp added: If I was the actual Home Secretary, I would today be signing an order to revoke his citizenship under the 1971 Immigration Act on the grounds hes not conducive to the public good and making sure he gets deported, because people who spew this kind of hatred have no place in this country, and the fact hes issued an apology now that hes been essentially exposed I think makes no difference whatsoever.

Hes clearly making the apology simply because his vile, hateful remarks have been publicly exposed now.

Asked whether he thought people can change their ways, Mr Philp replied that Mr Fattah could have said all this at any point in the last 10 years, but he hasnt.

Jewish groups, including the campaign group Labour Against Anti-Semitism and the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism, have also called for Mr Fattahs citizenship to be revoked.

The Board of Deputies said it had raised the astonishing lack of due diligence with the Government and said it had left them in no doubt as to our concern.

Abhorrent views

On Sunday, No 10 revealed that Sir Keir had been unaware of the abhorrent views expressed by Mr Fattah when he publicly welcomed him to Britain, where he was due to be reunited with his 14-year-old son.

The Prime Minister is understood to have been alerted to the extremist social media posts only after they began widely circulating online.

In one tweet, Mr Fattah said he was far from British

It is understood that other senior Cabinet ministers who lobbied for his release, including Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, and David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister, were unaware of his previously expressed views.

Mr Fattah said he had seen huge empathy and solidarity across Britain and would be forever grateful for the support.

It has been painful to see some people who supported calls for my release now feel regret for doing so, he said.

Whatever they feel now, they did the right thing. Standing up for human rights and a citizen unjustly imprisoned is something honourable, and I will always be grateful for that solidarity.

Jonathan Powell, the national security adviser who provoked controversy over his ties to China and integral role in the Chagos Islands deal, had been involved in talks to release him in recent months.

Senior Tories including Rishi Sunak, Boris Johnson and Liz Truss all previously supported diplomatic efforts to get Mr Fattah released from jail.

Sir James Cleverly, the former foreign secretary who now serves in Ms Badenochs shadow cabinet, led the representations to the Egyptians for the Conservatives.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Tory leader, said on Sunday that he regretted his previous support for Mr Fattah, and called on the police to investigate the comments.

Alicia Kearns, a Conservative MP who had previously campaigned for Mr Fattahs release as a British citizen, echoed his regret, saying on Sunday night that she had trusted the process to give Alaa citizenship, and then supported the campaign for his release.

She added: I feel deeply let down and frankly betrayed, having lent my support to his cause, which I now regret.

However, Mr Fattahs social media remarks have caused controversy before, including in 2014 when his nomination for the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought was withdrawn over a tweet appearing to call for the deaths of a critical number of Israelis.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: Mr Fattah is a British citizen. It has been a long-standing priority under successive governments to work for his release from detention and to see him reunited with his family in the UK.

The Government condemns Mr Fattahs historic tweets and considers them to be abhorrent.

b'

Alaa Abd el-Fattah\'s apology in full

'
The Foreign Office has ordered an urgent review into a democracy activist recently released from years of detention in Egypt after his past extremist social posts sparked a backlash.

Alaa Abd El-Fattah was detained in Egypt in September 2019, and in December 2021 was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of spreading false news.

His imprisonment was branded a breach of international law by UN investigators, and he was pardoned by Egyptian president Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi in September after years of lobbying by Conservative and Labour governments.

He flew to the UK on Boxing Day and was reunited with his son, who lives in Brighton, after a travel ban was lifted.

Since then, posts have emerged dating back to 2010 in which the activist apparently calls for violence towards Zionists and the police.

Alaa Abd El-Fattah (via REUTERS)

Foreign secretary Yvette Cooper announced on Monday that she is investigating the serious information failures in the case.

She said successive prime ministers were not briefed on the tweets dating back as far as 2010 and that civil servants in charge of the case were also "unaware" of them.

In one tweet he wrote: I consider killing any colonialists and specially Zionists heroic, we need to kill more of them.

He also described British people as dogs and monkeys.

He is also reported to have urged Londoners to burn Downing Street, told his supporters to kill police and said that he hated white people.

The British-Egyptian activist and blogger Alaa Abd El-Fattah celebrates his release (Getty Images)

In a letter to Emily Thornberry, chairwoman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Ms Cooper said: In the context of rising antisemitism, and recent horrific attacks against Jewish people in this country and around the world, I am deeply concerned that the unexpected emergence of these historical tweets - coming alongside the social media posts that I and other senior politicians sent on Boxing Day welcoming the conclusion of this long-running case and Mr El Fattah's reunion with his family - have added to the distress felt by Jewish communities in the UK, and I very much regret that.

I have asked the permanent under secretary as a matter of urgency to review the serious information failures in this case and more broadly the systems that are in place within the department for conducting due diligence on the individual high-profile consular and human-rights cases for which the FCDO is responsible, to ensure that those systems are functioning properly for the future, and that all necessary lessons are learned.

The activist has since apologised "unequivocally" for the Tweets but said some of the posts have been "completely twisted out of their meaning".

He said: I am shaken that, just as I am being reunited with my family for the first time in 12 years, several historic tweets of mine have been republished and used to question and attack my integrity and values, escalating to calls for the revocation of my citizenship.

Looking at the tweets now  the ones that were not completely twisted out of their meaning  I do understand how shocking and hurtful they are, and for that I unequivocally apologise.

They were mostly expressions of a young mans anger and frustrations in a time of regional crises (the wars on Iraq, on Lebanon and Gaza), and the rise of police brutality against Egyptian youth.

I particularly regret some that were written as part of online insult battles with the total disregard for how they read to other people. I should have known better.

The emergence of the social media posts have raised questions over successive governments failure to vet him.

It has also piled pressure on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer whose Boxing Day tweet saying he was delighted Mr Abd El-Fattah was back in the UK has been seized on by critics, and have been viewed more than 14 million times.

Sir Keir was not aware of the social media posts at the time he made the post, Downing Street said.

Im delighted that Alaa Abd El-Fattah is back in the UK and has been reunited with his loved ones, who must be feeling profound relief.



I want to pay tribute to Alaas family, and to all those that have worked and campaigned for this moment.



Alaa's case has been a top priority  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 26, 2025

Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage have called for the Home Secretary to look into whether the Egyptian dissident can be stripped of his UK citizenship and deported.

Senior Labour MPs have also said the Prime Minister should strip him of his British citizenship, according to the Times.

But Downing Street on Monday defended Mr Abd El-Fattah's entry into the UK, saying the Government would welcome the return of any citizen "unfairly detained abroad".

Tory leader Mrs Badenoch said it was inconceivable that no one saw Mr Abd El-Fattahs published statements over the years and suggested those who did deemed them offensive but unserious, or merely loose talk.

Writing in the Daily Mail, she said: I do not want people who hate Britain coming to our country.

And where such views are part of an individuals public record, they must be considered when decisions are taken about citizenship. We have been too complacent for too long.

Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick had earlier called the activists links to the UK tenuous at best and said he was granted citizenship because of a loophole, in comments to Sky News.

Nigel Farage (Jane Barlow/PA)

While senior Conservative MP Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said he was not really interested in the apology issued by the activist.

'I haven't seen the full statement but I've seen parts of it, and frankly, I'm not really interested in his apology,' Mr Philp told ITV's Good Morning Britain on Monday.

What he said was absolutely disgusting. In my view, this man is a scumbag.

If I was the actual Home Secretary, I would today be signing an order to revoke his citizenship under the 1971 Immigration Act, Mr Philp added.

On the grounds he's not conducive to the public good and making sure he gets deported, because people who spew this kind of hatred have no place in this country.

The fact he's issued an apology now that he's been essentially exposed I think makes no difference whatsoever.

He's clearly making the apology simply because his vile, hateful remarks have been publicly exposed now.

Mr Abd El-Fattah was granted UK citizenship in December 2021 under Boris Johnson, reportedly through his UK-born mother.

Reform UK leader Mr Farage has written to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood urging her to revoke Mr Abd El-Fattahs citizenship.

Mr Farage notes that MPs and peers from parties including Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats have championed his case.

Indeed, it was the Conservatives who granted citizenship to Mr el-Fattah in 2021 while he was still imprisoned.

That none of those parties carried out basic due diligence on this unpleasant individual is, frankly, astonishing.

It should go without saying that anyone who possesses racist and anti-British views such as those of Mr el-Fattah should not be allowed into the UK, he said.

Senior Labour figures said Mr Starmer had lost the trust of British Jews, according to The Times.

One minister told the newspaper: Its truly shocking that weve welcomed a racist antisemite into our country with open arms. Serious questions need to be asked about the lack of judgment here and the Home Office should seriously be contemplating stripping him of his British citizenship.

Another senior Labour MP said: Letting in a thug with a history of rampant antisemitism and anti-Zionism crossing the line into terror supporting and calling for the death of all Zionists is ridiculous and bad enough. But after Bondi Beach and the Manchester synagogue attack when the PM said hed do everything to make the Jewish community feel safe, this looks and sounds like a kick in the face. Fattah should undoubtedly lose his British citizenship.

In a statement on Sunday, the Foreign Office said: Mr El-Fattah is a British citizen.

It has been a long-standing priority under successive governments to work for his release from detention, and to see him reunited with his family in the UK.

The Government condemns Mr El-Fattahs historic tweets and considers them to be abhorrent.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews said they had raised concerns with the Government and that there was an urgent need to find out whether Mr Abd El-Fattah still held the views expressed online.

His previous extremist and violent rhetoric aimed at Zionists and white people in general is threatening to British Jews and the wider public, the board said.

Meanwhile, the Jewish Leadership Council voiced concerns about the safety of Jewish communities in the wake of recent antisemitic attacks in Manchester and at Australias Bondi Beach.

Laila Soueif (centre right), the mother of Alaa Abd el-Fattah, takes part in a vigil for the formerly jailed pro-democracy activist (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

The council said: We are appalled by the effusive welcome Alaa Abd El-Fattah has received from the UK Government.

The Prime Minister recently reiterated his determination to root out antisemitism from our country but has now shared his delight that someone who has advocated for killing Zionists has arrived in the UK.

Iain Duncan Smith was among those who expressed regret at having lobbied for Mr Abd El-Fattahs release.

The former Conservative Party leader urged the police to investigate the comments.

Tory MP Alicia Kearns, a former chair of the foreign affairs select committee, said she felt deeply let down, and frankly betrayed after learning of Mr Abd El-Fattahs grotesque tweets after supporting his cause.

She had called for him to unequivocally apologise and make clear he now wholly rejects the hatred and antisemitism he expressed which is so wholly incompatible with British values.

Celebrities such as actors Judi Dench and Olivia Colman had also backed the campaign for Mr Abd El-Fattah's release.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman defended the Government's approach in the case, telling reporters: "We welcome the return of a British citizen unfairly detained abroad, as we would in all cases and as we have done in the past."

He continued: "That is central to Britain's commitment to religious and political freedom.

"That said, it doesn't change the fact that we have condemned the nature of these historic tweets, and we consider them to be abhorrent, and we've been very clear about that."

Mr Abd El-Fattah was a leading voice in Egypts 2011 Arab Spring uprising and went on hunger strikes behind bars.

In 2014, the bloggers posts on Twitter cost him a nomination for the European Parliaments Sakharov Prize.

The group backing him withdrew the nomination for the human rights award, saying they had discovered a tweet from 2012 in which he called for the murder of Israelis.
Camila Mendoza Olmos was last seen just before 7 a.m. Wednesday outside her home, according to the Bexar County Sheriffs Office. Authorities say she may be in imminent danger (Bexar County Sheriff's Office)

A Texas teenager who vanished from her home on Christmas Eve and has been missing ever since could be in imminent danger, authorities have warned, following fears she may have been trafficked abroad.

Camila Mendoza Olmos was last seen just before 7 a.m. Wednesday outside her home, according to the Bexar County Sheriffs Office. Authorities say she appeared to be heading out for what her family believed was just a routine walk.

"Camilas mother stated that Camila normally goes for a morning walk; however, she became concerned when Camila did not return within a reasonable period of time," the sheriff's office said.

Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said detectives have not ruled out any scenario in the teens sudden disappearance, including kidnapping or human trafficking.

"We definitely don't want to miss anything," Salazar told ABC News. "The ground search is somewhat limited to a couple of square miles. We're also not ruling out that this case may take us outside the borders of the continental United States."

Camila Mendoza Olmos was last seen just before 7 a.m. Wednesday outside her home, according to the Bexar County Sheriffs Office. Authorities say she appeared to be heading out for what her family believed was just a routine walk (Bexar County Sheriff's Office)

He also confirmed that Mendoza Olmos was not arrested by ICE agents, stating that she is a U.S. citizen, and that the Department of Homeland Security was monitoring border crossings for signs of her.

The Independent has contacted the Bexar County Sheriff for further information.

While the teenager had reportedly gone through a recent break up, authorities said it was mutual and they do not believe any nefarious circumstances were involved, adding that those close to the teenager were cooperating.

Surveillance video showed Mendoza Olmos wearing baby blue pajama shorts, a black hoodie and white shoes as she rummaged through her car before the footage cut off, officials said.

Her vehicle was left at the home, and investigators believe she walked away carrying only her car keys and possibly her drivers license.

Salazar said that the fact Mendoza Olmos had left her belongings at home before disappearing was highly unusual, adding that she left an active lifestyle. "That's why we're working basically around the clock on this case," he said.

Surveillance video showed Mendoza Olmos wearing baby blue pajama shorts, a black hoodie and white shoes as she rummaged through her car before the footage cut off, officials said. Authorties believe she could be in imminent danger (Bexar County Sheriff's Office)

The morning she disappeared, the teenager had been sleeping in the same bed as her mother, Rosario Olmos. She told KENS5 that she felt her daughter get up but stayed in bed for about 90 minutes before checking on her.

Her mother later searched the neighborhood, believing she would spot her daughter on her usual route, but she was nowhere to be found. After contacting the teenagers current boyfriend and father, both of whom said they had not seen or heard from her, she filed a missing persons report.

Family and friends spent Christmas Day searching areas near the home but found no sign of her. I only ask God to please bring her back home, her mother told KENS5. Bring her back to me.

Anyone who may have seen or heard from Camila Mendoza Olmos is asked to contact the Bexar County Sheriffs Office at 210-335-6000.

In 2025 there have been more than 170 cases in which U.S. citizens have been detained by federal agents at raids and protests, according to ProPublica. The Independent has contacted ICE for comment.

Since returning to office in January, Donald Trump and his administration have pushed aggressive anti-immigration policies. The presidents immigration czar Stephen Miller has previously been reported to have pushed ICE agents to make up to 3,000 arrests per day. As a result, the number of people without a criminal record being arrested by federal agents and held in detention has jumped 800 percent since January.

According to both public and internal ICE data and data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency, as of September 2025 there were 59,207 immigrants in ICE custody. June marked the first time that U.S. detention centers held over 50,000 immigrants at once.
Thousands of pounds of ground beef recalled in six states due to potential E. Coli contamination

Thousands of pounds of ground beef have been recalled due to a dangerous health risk.

Mountain West Food Group, LLC, is recalling approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products, according to Saturdays announcement from the Department of Agricultures Food Safety and Inspection Service.

The product was recalled because it may be contaminated with E. coli O26, a variation of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli that can cause severe illness, according to the agencys report. The problem was discovered during routine tests and the sampling results showed the presence of E. coli O26, the report says.

The recalled raw ground beef is in 16-ounce, vacuum-sealed packages containing the label FORWARD FARMS GRASS-FED GROUND BEEF. It also has USE OR FREEZE BY 01/13/26 EST 2083 on the side of the packaging.

The beef was sent to distributors who sold to six states: California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

Mountain West Food Group, LLC recalls ground beef to E. coli contamination risk (Getty Images)

There have not been any illnesses reported to date, but USDA is recommending that the product be thrown away immediately or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.

People can become sick from E. coli O26 around 28 days after exposure, according to the USDA. People infected by the bacteria usually experience symptoms like diarrhea, which can be bloody, or vomiting.

Some illnesses last longer and can be more severe. Infection is usually diagnosed by testing of a stool sample, according to the report. Vigorous rehydration and other supportive care is the usual treatment; antibiotic treatment is generally not recommended.

Many different foods have been recalled in 2025 due to concerns about food-borne illness. In September, Nate's Fine Foods of Roseville, California, recalled nearly 245,000 pounds of various pasta products after they were linked to a listeria outbreak, which began in August 2024.

The listeria outbreak resulted in six deaths and 27 illnesses across 18 states, as of November 2025.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, listeria is a bacteria that can contaminate many foods, with infections caused by eating food with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. Although symptoms can vary, a listeria infection can cause invasive illness and intestinal illness.

Short-term symptoms among healthy individuals with a listeria infection can include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, and abdominal pain. Listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from food-borne illness in the United States, killing roughly 260 people per year.

Food-borne illness is a serious health problem across the United States. Roughly 48 million people get sick and roughly 128,000 people are hospitalized from food-borne illness each year, and as many as 3,000 people die, according to the CDC.
Oscar de Iscar, whose family has been making wine for at least four generations, is part of Spains sought-after cohort of younger winemakers. Photograph: Denis Doyle/The Guardian (Photograph: Denis Doyle/The Guardian)

The huge concrete vats that have held countless litres of verdejo white wine in the 90 years since the Cuatro Rayas cooperative winery was founded are dwarfed by the stainless steels tanks that sit opposite and serve as reminders that, even in an enterprise as ancient as winemaking, times change.

Outside, a chilly but welcome rain falls on the surrounding vines, autumn-brown after another furnace-hot summer in the northern Spanish province of Valladolid. But changing technologies and the vagaries of the climate emergency are not the only challenges facing Spains 22.4bn (20bn) wine industry.

According to a recent report, the sector is in dire need of an infusion of new blood and must recruit 22,600 younger workers over the coming years as the current generations of growers reach  and exceed  retirement age. The report, commissioned by the Spanish Wine Interprofessional Organisation (OIVE), found that 38.9% of wine-growers are aged 51-65 and 35% are over 65. Those aged 41-50 make up 16.9% of the sector, while the under-40s comprise only 9.3%.

The organisations president, Fernando Ezquerro, is blunt in his assessment of the situation. If we dont get that generational replacement, then the sector will obviously wilt, he says. If you dont have grapes, you dont have wine.

Winemakers over the border in France have also sounded the alarm for different reasons, warning that an unpalatable blend of Donald Trumps tariffs, falling sales and some of the worst harvests in 70 years are pushing producers to breaking point.

Much of the problem in Spain lies in the continuing phenomenon of la Espana vaciada  the hollowing-out of rural areas as young people leave the countryside and head to cities to study, work and live. The figures speak for themselves: although rural areas make up 84% of Spains territory, they are home to just 15.9% of the countrys population. Whats more, the number of young people in rural municipalities is a third lower than in urban ones.

Theres a problem of generational replacement across the primary sector and thats down to the fact that people want to live in cities and the rural world is less attractive for a thousand reasons, says Ezquerro.

We all need to work together to make this sector more attractive so that young people make a decision thats often difficult.

Ezquerro and his colleagues believe the keys to safeguarding the future of the sector  which accounts for 2% of jobs in Spain and 1.6% of its GDP  lies in attracting young people to the industry, but also in modernising vineyards and ensuring that those who run them are well-versed in sustainability and the digital world.

Oscar de Iscar, a partner in the Cuatro Rayas co-operative who is also a member of its board, is part of the sought-after cohort of younger winemakers. Aged 36 and with a degree in chemical engineering  plus a masters in winery management  he is not your typical grower. But his family has been making wine for at least four generations and he never doubted that he and his brother would take over its 60 hectares when his father retired. As he puts it: To be honest, theres as much wine in me as there is blood.

Although De Iscar describes wine as his passion, he also acknowledges that he is fortunate enough to be able to make enough from it for it to be a job, rather than a hobby. Part of the problem with recruiting new generations, he says, is that many do not see its entrepreneurial potential. De Iscar, who also serves as the head of the youth working group in Spains association of Agro-Alimentary Co-operatives, recalls coming across a newspaper article that said four in 10 young people aged between 18 and 25 wanted to be civil servants.

So were starting from a place where maybe there isnt a strong culture of being a business owner, he says. But at the end of the day, winemakers are business people and the profession needs to be seen and valued for what it is.

While he doesnt deny that the wine business, like any business, has its challenges  not least the weather  De Iscar adds: Right now, were the best-prepared generation in history and we have the best technical resources in history. Thats where we should be starting when we set out this entrepreneurial vision and try to get people to carry on the sector.

A quick look around the Cuatro Rayas bodega is sufficient to prove that the days of dusty cellar-door sales and barrels filled by the sons and daughters of toil are long gone. The shelves of its sleek shop are stacked with panettoni as well as wine and it, like many wineries, has a PR team and is an established destination for tourists on the wine trail.

All that, however, may merely be the latest iteration of a centuries-old tradition.

My father always says, When you go to a town with a winemaking tradition, look at the houses and the churches, says De Iscar. The wine sector has probably been one of the economic engines of many regions.

Ezquerro agrees. There are so many small towns and villages that live from wine that would disappear, along with a lot of countryside, he says.

He also points out that vineyards and wineries help to store carbon and retain local populations. This is too important not to fight for, he says. One of the challenges we have as a sector is explaining the whole story thats behind each bottle, each vineyard and each winery. We need to get better at telling that story because I think society  and young people  would understand it.
Erica Fox previously said she felt more vulnerable riding [her] bike than being in the water

A triathlete is believed to have been killed in a shark attack while swimming off the coast of California.

The body of Erica Fox, 55, was found on Saturday, around 25 miles from where she had been swimming at Lovers Point, Pacific Grove, her father told ABC News.

Her husband, Jean-Francis Vanreusel, was swimming just 100 yards behind Fox when he saw her being dragged further into the water by a shark, he told Mercury News.

She was still wearing a shark band, an electromagnetic device that is supposed to deter sharks, when she was found, Mr Vanreusel said.

Foxs husband (pictured) said he saw his wife being dragged away by the shark - Facebook

A witness said that they had seen a shark breaching the water with what appeared to be a body in its jaws around the time of the incident, Christopher Sappey, a Coast Guard spokesperson said.

The triathlete was reported missing on Dec 21.

A 15-hour search of the area was carried out by Coast Guard, Pacific Grove police, the city of Monterey Fire Department, the Monterey County Sheriffs Office, and Cal Fire, the following day.

A 15-hour search was carried out to find the missing swimmer - Monterey County Sheriff's Office

Her body was found a week after she went missing - Monterey County Sheriff's Office

Fox, who founded the swimming group Kelp Crawlers, said she felt more vulnerable riding [her] bike than being in the water after a shark attack in the area in 2022.

As soon as you dive in the water, youre immediately in a foreign land. We are the ocean ecologys humbled guests, she told The Independent.

Fox founded Kelp Crawlers, a swimming group, in 2005 - Facebook

Sharen Carey, a member of Kelp Crawlers, said she is unsure if anyone from the group will be able to get back into the water again.

I dont think anyone knows at the moment, because I think were all just still in shock, disbelief and grief, not knowing what we need to do next, except to love and support each other, she said.

There have been 28 shark attacks in the US across 2025, according to Tracking Sharks, four of which were in California.

Foxs death is thought to be the first fatal attack by a shark this year.
You told us how much letters had meant to you over the years and who you would like to reach out to using pen, paper and a postage stamp. Photograph: Matt Crossick/Alamy (Photograph: Matt Crossick/Alamy)

At the end of December, the Danish postal service will deliver its last letter, focusing on packages, citing the increasing digitalisation of society.

While the public will still be able to send letters through the distributor DAO, it made us think about how we would use that last chance to send a letter.

Many people responded to our callout asking what they would write in their last letter and why. Here is a selection.

I would write to my grandson to tell him how much he is loved

My wife, Penny, and I moved to Reigate, Surrey, nearly two years ago to be nearer our grandson, Remy, now aged two-and-a-half, after living in Bristol for about 45 years. We look after him one day a week at his home in south-east London.

I would send my last postal letter to him and include a poem that Ive already written for him, to try to express how much he means to me and to remind him, should he ever need reminding, that he is loved. Its a cliche to say that children are the hope for the future, but the world seems a very dark place just now, and I realise its difficult to put into words what love means.

Im a poet whos written a number of more lighthearted poems about my grandson/for my grandson as he has learned first to walk and now talk, giving us so much joy in the process, but the one I would send in the letter is an attempt to pass on what small amount of wisdom I have managed to acquire in a lifetime of struggle and doubt.

I wanted it to be a message to him if I wasnt around any more. In essence, it boils down to the need for kindness and a faith that gentleness is a form of strength. The poem harks back to a time before he had words, and includes the lines:

And if you miss me when Im gone/Imagine Im a robin in a tree,/Just like the one you pointed at today

Now hes got lots of words and is a real chatterbox. Philip, 66, retired, Reigate

My last letter would close the loop of our archive of letters to each other

I would address my last postal letter to my wife, Tryn. Tryn passed away on 1 May 2022, four months after our 55th wedding anniversary. Our four-year courtship during the 1960s took place primarily through hundreds of postal letters while I was at sea in the US Navy. My final postal letter will attempt to close the loop of our archive of handwritten love and gratitude.

It would begin by quoting our declarations of mutual love extracted from our saved archive of courting letters, reminding us what young love looked like, written on flimsy blue airmail stationery. We met at Villanova University, Pennsylvania, at a lunch place on campus. Tryn was studying nursing and I was a social studies student. She was very outgoing and smart, smarter than anybody in the room. We struck up a conversation and that was the start of a lovely relationship.

My final letter would remind us of our travels together, the births, trials and adventures of our five children, mature love, and our graduation to blessed grandparenthood. My letter would close with a selection from the last words of our earliest love letters, closing the circle of our life on earth together, thanking Tryn profusely, and quoting my song, Till We Meet Again, which I wrote after her passing. Chris Clark, 83, retired professor, Arizona, USA

I would thank mum for her letters, which filled me with happiness and love

I moved to London in 1975 from rural Ireland when the only mode of communication was via letter, and it was all we could afford at the time.

I would send my last postal letter to my mother, Mary, who lives in Ireland. Born in 1933 and married at 17 to a farm labourer. They had eight children. My father left for London to earn money for the family. On Saturdays, the postman would deliver a letter to Mam with 5 a week to feed their growing family. We all waited eagerly for this letter. My mother wrote weekly letters to her sisters, her husband and all her children when we left home. It was a lifeline for us all. Then one day, the letters from my father stopped, and so did the money. She coped, but I dont know how she did it.

Times changed, and people stopped writing letters, and I noticed how my mother would still walk to the front door on her Zimmer frame only to find a clutch of junk mail and bills. I would hear her let out a long sigh before she said tsk tsk in disappointment as she flicked through the rubbish. She is now in a care home and I write to her regularly. She doesnt know who is writing to her most of the time, but she gets a buzz from receiving letters and cards. Annie, 68, retired, London

Dearest Mum,

This will be the last letter I can write as the Post Office will not be delivering any letters any more. As I wrote these words, I became overwhelmed with sadness, as I know how much you like to receive a letter or a card. In any case, I want you to know that all the letters and cards and money you posted to me over the years were well received. It was such a joy to see your little blue envelope arrive each week full of news from home, your beautiful small writing, and the birthday letter, always with cash.

When I left home at 18, your weekly letters helped me to get to know the sweet, loving side of your nature, which you could not express face-to-face. You hated being hugged, you could never write love or finish a letter with kisses, as your upbringing made it seem wrong. I remember once kissing you awkwardly on the top of your head  you recoiled like you had been stung by a bee.

We laughed about it, and I stopped hugging and kissing as you hated it. But your letters filled me with happiness and love as you found the time and the money to pay for postage to show how much you loved me by sharing your life week by week. So, goodbye for now, but know this  I feel that I am the luckiest person in the world to have a mother like you, who sacrificed everything so that we would all thrive.

Mother, you gave me life and kept me safe  I owe you a debt of gratitude and give thanks every single day for your unforgettable kindness.

Your loving daughter, Annie

Letter writing is so underrated

Im 66, so I am in the last quarter of my life. I have never had health issues and just recently have been in the hospital and began thinking about my life. It was helpful to write it all down in a letter.

I then wondered who I should send it to, and thought, well, it doesnt need to be to anyone. I grew up writing letters, but it is so expensive to send them now, and people tend to respond by text, WhatsApp or a phone call. I say to them: I dont want to chat, cant you write me a letter? Letter writing is so underrated. Dipak, 66, civil servant, London

A Letter to no one in particular

I fell in love more times than I can count  with people, with places, with moments that didnt make sense until they were gone. I got things wrong. I took things too seriously, then not seriously enough. I laughed far too loudly in quiet rooms, and cried on the tube. I lived. Which is harder than it sounds. And now, in the spirit of Rabindranath Tagore, who once wrote to the people of the future while shackled by empire: I write not from oppression, but from observation.

From the quiet knowing that life is brief and beautifully absurd. If this somehow finds you long after Im gone, I hope your world is softer. And I hope you, too, are choosing your life over the one prescribed to you. So here it is: I was here. I tried. I felt everything. And I left behind a whisper, just in case someone was listening. Thank God I read Trumps obituary before I perished.

P.S. If youre reading this in 2125, I am certain the District Line still has signal failures, and leaves on the track damage steel wheels

Id write to my teacher to thank him

I would send my last letter to the teacher who gave me, when I was 18, the joys of intellectual inquiry, the one who showed me how to read deeply  not just to glean the surface meaning or intent. Dan OConnell taught literature at Hobart College in New York state. When he spoke, an electric current ran through him; he was so charged with passion for ideas. That enthusiasm came across to me.

We kept in touch over the years and I saw him months before he died in 2023. He is always with me when I read great literature. Peter Pullman, 71, author, Pennsylvania, USA

Dear Dan: When I read, at some moment I put my finger in the book, turn around, and see you behind  encouraging me to go deeper. Thanks for staying over my shoulder.

I would reflect on all the letters weve shared and how much they meant to me

I would write to my pen pal, Lucy, who lives in the States. We started writing to each other after meeting as kids in Southampton. I was about 12 and Lucy was probably 11, and we have kept in touch ever since. We met up a few times over the years when we were both living in the UK. Then Lucy moved to the US and I moved to Canada.

I recently moved back to the UK and Id want my last letter to be to Lucy as a way to say goodbye to that way of communicating with them.

I would reflect on all the letters and postcards weve shared over the years and how much they meant to me. I would tell them how much Ill miss reading their words in their own handwriting. Id also include all the usual stuff  what Id been up to, books I think theyd like, opinions on Doctor Who, maybe a few poems or drawings. I have a letter lying around that I wrote to them well over a decade ago and forgot to send, so Id include that as well! Francis OSullivan, 30, musician, Bolton

Id write to my girlfriend to tell her how special she is

Dania, my girlfriend, lives in Mexico, and Im in Texas. We met online, chatted for a year, met in person in July, and started dating in October. We visit each other once a month, and weve talked about writing letters to pass the time while apart and as a cute way to communicate in vintage. The postal system is a bit unreliable, but we are going to start writing letters after the holiday. They will be old-fashioned letters with vivid stories about how our lives are going, or even about a particular memory from a specific day. Taylor, 35, IT auditor, Texas

Dear Dania,

As Im writing this letter, Id usually talk about how Im recalling a day in the life together or reflecting on how amazing life is together in general. However, Id like to take a moment to acknowledge and share with you how truly special you are. From the first moment we began talking, to our first day holding hands, countless late nights, endless weekend and holiday trips, and so much more; youre absolutely special in every way. Of all the things weve shared and experienced together, it is the quality time that has become most valuable. As I write this letter, Im reflecting on all the memories and the future too.

Heres to a special letter (for the most special person), ironically written via text, though written nevertheless. I sincerely hope the digital version of this letter reaches you with its everlasting warmth. Te amo, Taylor

Thank you for delivering my letters over the years

Beth Wood was clear on who should receive her last letter: all the people who, over the years, had helped her send and receive hers. Beth Wood, 64, tutor, Bucks, UK

Dear posties,

Thank you for everything you have done for me during my lifetime. You have brought me so much joy and happiness. Delivering birthday cards, postcards and love letters from around the country and the world. You delivered my dole cheques, my job applications and my job offers.

All of you have been beloved members of the community, risking dog bites and grumpiness in the name of your service. Whatever the weather, you have beaten the trail. Thank you  we will miss you!
President Donald Trump attends makes an announcement about the US Navys forthcoming Golden Fleet - Jessica Koscielniak/Reuters

Lets be honest. Trump is Marmite. His style, personality, and grand plans for America were always going to divide opinion. Yet just one year into office, this single individual has altered the direction of the world more profoundly than any other. Even some die-hard supporters, who argued for fresh, robust leadership in response to a deteriorating global order, are now beginning to ask questions.

Through the fog of global turmoil, Trumpism is increasingly clear. It is a style of power, transactional, theatrical, and profoundly impatient with complexity, shaped by the instincts of the President but larger than the man himself. At its core lies the belief that strength comes from dominance rather than cooperation. Relationships, whether with allies, institutions, or democratic norms, matter only so long as they deliver immediate personal or political gain.

Under Trumpism, the world is no longer something to shape; it is something to monetise, even at the expense of global security. We see this in tariffs fired at allies with abandon, disengagement from Europe, and the courting of its clearest adversary, Putin. It is through this ideological prism that Trumps baffling proposal to build new battleships comes into focus.

You do not need to be an armchair admiral to understand how vulnerable large surface ships are today. Russias withdrawal from the Black Sea demonstrates this. Our own aircraft carriers dare not venture out without a ring of steel in the form of destroyers, frigates and submarines around them. Alone, thanks to swarm drones, hypersonic missiles and precision strike systems, they are sitting ducks. So, what exactly is a battleship  and why revive it now?

Think Under Siege, the Hollywood blockbuster in which Steven Seagal plays the cook aboard USS Missouri. Forty-five thousand tons of steel, armed with 16-inch guns capable of hurling shells twenty miles inland: the embodiment of brute-force naval supremacy. But Missouri was built in 1944 and finally decommissioned in 1992.

Battleships existed to fight other battleships and dominate the seas. In a world without satellites, long-range aircraft, or precision-guided weapons, the biggest gun often won. That world has gone. By 1945 their fate was sealed. Aircraft carriers, submarines, and missile technology rendered them obsolete.

Modern naval warfare is not about steel on steel. It is about sensors, networks, missiles, and information dominance. Today, a far smaller destroyer can unleash devastating firepower or cue strikes from aircraft, submarines, and space-based systems  all woven into a multi-domain kill web that dominates sea, air, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Against this backdrop, the idea of a new battleship is not bold. It is nostalgic. It mistakes size for strength and theatre for strategy.

Yet Trump proposes building around twenty such ships, each costing roughly $10 billion. In any serious conflict against a capable adversary, these vessels would be tracked from the moment they left port and likely neutralised in the opening hours. Hypersonic missiles do not care how thick your armour is.

So what is Trump really up to? Once again, the answer lies in Trumpism itself. China now fields the worlds largest navy, approaching 400 ships, while the United States struggles to maintain a fleet of under 300. More damning still is industrial capacity. China accounts for over half of global shipbuilding output; the US just one hundredth.

At a time when grey-zone warfare is intensifying, maritime presence matters more than ever. Protecting sea lanes, trade routes, supply chains, and undersea cables requires a large, nimble, and persistent force  increasingly integrating autonomous and unmanned systems  not a handful of gargantuan, costly, obsolete prestige ships.

Unless, of course, you have quietly written off challenging Chinas threat to the rules-based order. In that case, battleships make sense  not for deterrence, but for coercion. For intimidating weaker states where overwhelming force substitutes for diplomacy. This is not deterrence; it is intimidation.

Seen this way, there is method in Trumps battleship madness: it is the equivalent of a loaded gun left on the table  visible, ready, and tempting to use.

An America that withdraws from alliances, hollows out soft power, and chases isolationist symbolism creates dangerous space for others to step in. While Washington indulges in nostalgia, Beijing and Moscow are studying the present. They are playing the long game.

We must learn from 2025. And 2026 must be the year we speak out rather than kowtow to a foreign policy that weakens the very order it once upheld. America remains our closest security ally  but allies must be honest. If we stay silent, Americas isolation will harden, and our adversaries will enjoy the space gifted to them.

Lt Col Tobias Ellwood is a former regular soldier and was Conservative MP for Bournemouth East until 2024. He was chair of the Defence Select Committee from 2020 to 2023
Marjorie Taylor Greene tells all on her MAGA breakaway and says she was naive to believe Trump was man of the people

Marjorie Taylor Greene is using her last few days as a member of Congress to reflect on how she believes she was led astray by President Donald Trump, who she now claims isnt committed to helping his voters.

In a lengthy New York Times profile published Monday, she spoke in detail about the beginnings of her break with Trump and how it came to evolve over the first year of his second term.

The firebrand Georgia representative announced that she would leave Congress on January 5 amid her growing feud with the president and her dissatisfaction with the work of the Republican-held House of Representatives. Her exit will leave Speaker Mike Johnson with an even slimmer majority in the chamber.Greene told the Times that she had believed Trump was a man of the people" - but her views had matured.

I was just so naive and outside of politics that it was easy for me to naively believe [in him]," she said.What changed her mind, according to Greene, was getting an up close look at the darker aspects of the presidents personality. She highlighted his remarks at the funeral of Charlie Kirk, where Trump seemed to mock Kirk for rejecting hatred in politics, telling a crowd: I hate my opponent and I dont want whats best for them." She also referenced the president's apparently cold response to a threat she received against her sons life - that she supposedly had herself to blame for turning on Trump.

That was absolutely the worst statement, Greene said of Trump's remark at the funeral.  It just shows where his heart is. And thats the difference, with her having a sincere Christian faith, and proves that he does not have any faith.

Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene began openly feuding in 2025 (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The remark is one of the congresswomans most personal criticisms of the president to date and comes as she continues to accuse both Trump and Johnson of being out of touch with Americans, particularly on issues surrounding economic hardship and cost-of-living. While Greenes criticisms have largely been focused on policy, she has also pointed out the wave of threats her office received after her dispute with the president began and blamed Trumps own personal bullying for causing it. In recent interviews, Greene has suggested that she recognizes her own role in the acceleration of American politics into a toxic wasteland, and feels regret over MAGAs contributions to that dynamic.

She reiterated that belief to the Times in early December, according to the newspaper: Our side has been trained by Donald Trump to never apologize and to never admit when youre wrong. You just keep pummeling your enemies, no matter what. And as a Christian, I dont believe in doing that. I agree with Erika Kirk, who did the hardest thing possible and said it out loud.

Her hesitance to descend into mudslinging hasnt stopped the departing congresswoman from critiquing Trumps priorities in the final days of her service. Over the past several months, Greenes long history of skepticism towards foreign intervention or assistance of any kind led her to become one of the Republican Partys leading critics of support for Benjamin Netanyahus government in Israel, including Israels brutal siege of Gaza over the past two years. The congresswoman has repeatedly argued that Trump is focused on foreign policy objectives over a domestic agenda aimed at cost-cutting in the federal government and dealing with the economic woes of the voters who elected him over Kamala Harris in 2024.

She also was one of a few Republicans to prominently defy Trump on the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Greene with Representatives Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), center, and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), left, during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol (Getty)

In a pair of tweets Sunday and Monday, Greene once again made those arguments, writing in one: DOGE was one of the most popular plans of the 24 campaign because Americans are beyond furious about the insane amount of waste, fraud, and abuse. Just outright stealing. Which is why I created the DOGE Subcommittee... [p]erhaps now the Speaker and the admin will take DOGE more seriously.

Greene lamented Trumps back-to-back meetings with Netanyahu and, on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago in another tweet, exclaiming: Can we just do America?

Her criticisms of Trumps own social and political circles to the Times revealed a broader disgust with Trumpism and the public face MAGA chooses to present to the world, at Mar-a-Lago and in the media.

President Donald Trump said that the U.S. military took out a big facility in Venezuela, marking a potential escalation in the campaign against President Nicolas Maduro (Getty)

I never liked the MAGA Mar-a-Lago sexualization, she told the Times. I have two daughters, and Ive always been uncomfortable with how those women puff up their lips and enlarge their breasts.

Trump and Greenes dispute seemed by some political observers to be a long time coming, however. The Georgia congresswoman has been a frequent source of embarassing headlines for the Republican Party due to her past espousement of conspiracy theories including one often-mocked example where she suggested that devices in space controlled by the wealthy Rothschild family could be behind wildfires in the U.S., sparking the Jewish Space Lasers meme.

In Georgia, two major political battles are due to be fought in 2026: A race for Jon Ossoffs seat in the U.S. Senate, and a gubernatorial election. Trump, as a kingmaker in Republican primaries, has been known to spurn even loyalists if he views them as weak general election candidates, such as was the case for Winsome Earle-Sears in Virginias elections in 2025.

Greene confirmed earlier this year that Trumps longtime pollster Tony Fabrizio commissioned a survey showing her losing the Senate race by double digits, and seemingly was already working for one of her would-be opponents. While she furiously denied a report that Trump himself had urged her not to run for Senate, Fabrizios loyalties could be taken as a sign of Trumps, too.

Firing back at the congresswoman, Trump has attacked Greene as crazy and claimed that he was considering support for a primary challenger in her congressional district before she chose to resign.
US Special Envoy Pledges Support for Assyrian Villages in Northern Iraq

Mark Savaya, U.S. Special Envoy to Iraq. Chaldean Press met with U.S. Special Envoy Mark Savaya for an exclusive interview to discuss critical issues facing Iraq's minorities, with a particular focus on the Chaldean [Assyrian] Christian community.

The interview was conducted shortly after Special Envoy Savaya was honored by President Donald Trump at the 2025 White House Christmas Party, highlighting increased attention in Washington toward the future of Iraq's indigenous communities.

During the interview, Special Envoy Savaya reaffirmed his commitment to supporting all minorities in Iraq, with a strong emphasis on assisting Chaldean Christians, the native and indigenous people of the country. He spoke about the devastating impact ISIS had on Chaldean towns and villages throughout northern Iraq and stressed that rebuilding efforts and long-term security are now a priority.

"I am going to focus on revitalization and security of the Chaldean villages of northern Iraq," Savaya told Chaldean Press. "Many of these villages were destroyed by ISIS, and I am going to help them."

The U.S. Special Envoy also addressed Article 125 of the Iraqi Constitution, explaining that its full activation could grant greater freedom and enhanced security to Christian villages in northern Iraq. These communities have endured years of depopulation, displacement, and demographic change, leaving many towns struggling to survive.

For many Chaldeans, Savaya's remarks represent a long-awaited sign of hope. After decades of marginalization, violence, and forced migration, Iraq's Christian community sees renewed international engagement as an opportunity for meaningful representation and protection in their ancestral homeland.

In parallel with diplomatic efforts, several Chaldean-owned construction and development companies have already begun private reconstruction initiatives on the ground. Large-scale development projects are anticipated in the near future, signaling a potential turning point not only for rebuilding infrastructure, but also for restoring confidence and long-term permanence for Chaldeans in northern Iraq.

As discussions continue at the highest levels, the Chaldean community watches closely, hopeful that these commitments will translate into lasting security, autonomy, and the revival of villages that have stood for centuries.
US president claims attack was carried out on Christmas Eve but the Venezuelan government has not confirmed it

The CIA was behind the United States first land strike on a port facility in Venezuela, it has been revealed.

The drone strike targeted a remote dock alleged to have been used by Tren de Aragua, the terrorist cartel, to store drugs bound for the United States, CNN reported.

The attack marks the first on Venezuelan land since Washington began its campaign to oust Nicolas Maduro, the countrys president.

Donald Trump was the first to acknowledge the attack in a radio interview on Boxing Day.

They have a big plant, or a big facility where the ships come from. Two nights ago, we knocked that out. So we hit them very hard, Mr Trump told John Catsimatidis, a Republican donor, on Friday.

On Monday, the US president declined to say whether the spy agency was behind the strike, which resulted in zero casualties, but acknowledged that the US had hit the implementation area.

Thats where they implement, and that is no longer around, he told reporters.

Moments after seemingly confirming that the US conducted a land strike on Venezuela, Trump refuses to say if the military or CIA was behind the operation pic.twitter.com/MmiNPpxRxk  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) December 29, 2025

The strike risks escalating tensions between Mr Trump and Mr Maduro, whom the US has been pressing to step down in recent months.

Footage on X that surfaced on Christmas Eve showed an explosion in the Zulia state of Venezuela, near the countrys second-largest city, Maracaibo.

Primazol, a chemical production company in the area, said in a statement Monday that a fire had broken out at one of its warehouses on the morning of Dec 24, and categorically rejected suggestions the blaze was the result of a US strike.

Credit: Jhorman Cruz | Canal de Noticias / Telegram

Since early September, American forces have launched some 29 known strikes on small vessels accused of ferrying illegal drugs to the US, killing 105 people.

Following an attack in November, the remnants of a 30ft boat and two bodies washed up on a beach in Colombia. Days later, dozens of packets also washed up, with traces of what smelled like marijuana, according to the New York Times.

The Trump administration has been under scrutiny over its attacks on the boats, which it says took place in international waters, particularly after it was revealed that a second strike was ordered to kill remaining survivors of the US first attack on Sept 2.

However, the Trump administration maintains that the use of lethal force is justified, arguing that the United States is effectively at war with the cartels.

US navy sailors are stationed in the Caribbean as Donald Trump assembles the largest military force in the region for generations

The US president has invoked sweeping wartime powers to take deadly action against narco boats, declaring that the activities of drug gangs constitute an armed attack against America.

The administration has also seized at least two ghost ships accused of illegally shipping crude oil as part of a full naval blockade designed to sever the Venezuelan presidents economic lifeline.

Mr Trump has made little secret of his intention to force Mr Maduro, who his administration claims is the head of the Cartel de los Soles drug gang, from power. In August, the US raised the bounty on his head to $50m (37.5m).

Mr Trump has assembled the largest military force in the Caribbean in generations: 11 warships, including the worlds largest aircraft carrier, an amphibious assault ship, two amphibious transport dock ships, two cruisers and five destroyers.

Until now, Mr Trump had appeared to stop short of a direct confrontation with Mr Maduro, instead seeking to weaken him by choking off his countrys oil revenues.

Since September, Mr Trumps administration has conducted strikes on alleged narcoboats accused of ferrying drugs from Venezuela to American shores. Mr Trump has also said he intends to conduct strikes on Venezuelan soil against the cartels.

The president had threatened land strikes for months as tensions between the two countries built, following the numerous boat strikes.

In November, top military officials presented the US president with options for military intervention in the region which include land strikes, CBS reported.

Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, and Dan Caine, chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, were among senior personnel who briefed Mr Trump on possible attack plans.

Land strikes are one of a number of military escalations the president had been weighing with his cabinet in recent weeks.

Mr Trump is said to be against ideas that may place American troops at risk or could turn into an embarrassing failure.

Land strikes are largely seen as a favoured tactic by the administration, as the risk posed to American lives is relatively low.

In October, Mr Trump confirmed he had authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela.

Susie Wiles, the White House chief of staff, said in an interview with Vanity Fair in December that the president wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle.

The president warned Mr Maduro on Dec 22 against playing tough.

If he wants to do something, if he plays tough, itll be the last time hell ever be able to play tough, he said.
Trump uses Zelensky peace talks to indulge in conspiracy theories about 2020 election and the Russia hoax

President Donald Trumps obsession with Joe Biden and the results of the 2020 election seeped into his discussions with Ukraines leader over ending the war in Russia and colored his commentary to reporters afterwards.

The Sunday meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ended largely as other conversations between the president and various sides of the Ukraine-Russia conflict had ended before it: With both parties touting how close they are to the finish line.

Once again that finish line simultaneously appears to be close and, still, far off in the distance.

The two leaders met at Trumps Mar-a-Lago compound in Florida for an extended discussion that appeared to last for several hours behind closed doors. Trump, speaking to reporters afterwards with Zelensky, explained that there remain thorny issues that could not be worked out in a single day  appearing to admit that his claim that he could end the war in that exact time period was impossible.

And as the president spoke alongside his Ukrainian counterpart it was clear just how much of a verbal minefield Zelensky was walking into. Trumps thoughts constantly veered back to the long-defunct Robert Mueller investigation into his 2016 campaign as well as his baseless insistence that the 2020 election was stolen from him.

Trump once again claimed that Putin had his enemies best interests in mind during peace talks with Zelensky December 28 (AP)

I've said and nobody's disputed it, that if the election weren't rigged and stolen [in] 2020, you wouldn't have had this war, Trump ranted to reporters as Zelensky stood awkwardly beside him.

And it didnt happen, for four years ... I spoke with president Putin. I got along with him very well, despite the Russia, Russia, Russia hoax, which was a total hoax, he said.

Trumps fixation was also evident as he brushed off concerns about a massive Russian strike on Kyiv a day earlier which killed two people and drew accusations that Vladimir Putin had no interest in ending the war. His remarks to reporters, in turn, elicited the same vibes as that fateful 2018 press conference with Putin where Trump denied the finding of U.S. intelligence agencies regarding Russian political interference in the United States.

I could say that Ukraine has leveled some pretty strong attacks also, Trump countered to a reporter who asked on Sunday about a strike one day earlier that appeared to hit a Kyiv apartment block, engulfing buildings in flames.

Russia wants Ukraine to succeed, Trump claimed, eliciting a surprised jerk of the head from Ukraines president.

He went on to claim that he spoke to Putin about rebuilding Ukraine after the war, adding: President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding, including supplying energy at very low prices.

Trump launched into bogus election conspiracy theories and allegations that Russia boosted his campaign as he answered reporters questions about what issues are left on the table towards a lasting peace (AP)

There was little discussion, again, about the kind of pressure that Trump would level against Russia to press Putin to make a deal if the Russian leader balked at the U.S.-negotiated terms Ukraine would offer.

The focus remained on divisions between the vision outlined by Trump and his negotiating team headed up by Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and Marco Rubio and what Ukraine was willing to accept, which seemed to still indicate daylight between the sides on the issues of Ukraines security guarantee and particularly Ukrainian recognition of the Russian-occupied Donbas.

But actual details about what remains to be ironed out were sparse in the immediate aftermath of the Mar-a-Lago talks.

Trump also spoke Sunday with Putin over the phone, directly, before his conversation with Zelensky. He then told reporters he would be calling Putin against after his meeting with Zelensky.

He repeated his belief that the Russian president was serious in his aims for peace.

But when asked directly what would happen if the two sides couldnt reach an agreement within the coming weeks, Trump could only say that the carnage would continue  and made no promise to take further steps to end the war himself.

Even as he tried to boast once again Sunday about his supposed record of peacemaking, and with 2025 coming to a close, it is becoming increasingly possible that Trumps very public refusal to give up his hurt feelings over the investigation into his 2016 campaigns alleged ties to Russia has tainted his view of a problem he vowed to solve. It could make a solution  or the political will to enact it  all the more difficult.
US president Donald Trump has described his meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida as terrific and said they covered 95 per cent of the peace plan on Sunday, 28 December.

There are one or two very thorny issues, Mr Trump added, but reiterated that good progress had been made.

When pushed by a reporter at the Mar-a-Lago press conference to specify what the thorny issues had been, Trump highlighted that territorial disputes surrounding Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia were proving difficult to resolve.

The president said a peace plan could be agreed on in a few weeks if negotiations go well, but it could drag on for longer if discussions are not productive.
Retrospective: a week of turning points that shaped the world (The Independent)

New year, new beginnings. This week, the millennium arrives without disruption as the dreaded Y2K bug fails to bite. Elsewhere, milestones mark the turning of the year, from a record-breaking mission in space by a Soviet cosmonaut to the arrival of the euro in physical form, giving millions of Europeans a shared currency for the first time since the fall of the Roman Empire. In other corners, the calendar brings little sense of resolution, with continued leadership tensions in post-revolution Romania and renewed climate fears surfacing at the dawn of the 2020s. Dive into a week of New Year promise and uncertainty, as seen on The Independents front pages.

29 December 1986  England seal Ashes win in Melbourne

England secure the Ashes in Melbourne with a dominant innings victory over Australia, taking an unassailable 20 lead in the series. The Independent highlights a commanding performance, with Chris Broads batting proving decisive as captain Mike Gatting celebrates an emphatic Ashes success on Australian soil.

(The Independent)

30 December 1987  Soviet cosmonaut breaks space record

Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Romanenko returns to Earth after spending 326 days aboard the Mir space station, breaking the previous spaceflight endurance record of 237 days. Officials report no serious ill effects beyond slight muscle wastage, with the mission seen as providing vital data on human endurance as part of longer-term ambitions for a future flight to Mars.

(The Independent)

29 December 1989  Romanian leadership split

Divisions emerge within Romanias new leadership as the post-Ceausescu government struggles to present a united front in the aftermath of the revolution. The Independent reports that beyond the immediate practical task of getting the country going again, there is no agreement on anything, with sharp splits over foreign policy, including Romanias future role in the Warsaw Pact.

(The Independent)

31 December 1999  London Eye unsafe

Passengers are barred from boarding the Millennium Wheel, later known as the London Eye, after safety concerns delay its opening on the eve of the year 2000. The failure to open on time proves a conspicuous disappointment as London readies itself to usher in the new millennium.

(the Independent)

2 January 2000  The new millennium

The new millennium dawns amid worldwide celebration as crowds mark the moment time zone to time zone. New Years Eve passes largely without incident. Bomb threats in London prove all to be hoaxes, while the much-feared millennium bug "fails to bite". In a special piece, Sir Ian McKellen also reflects on the symbolism of the night, as Nelson Mandela marks the occasion in South Africa with a candlelit visit to his former prison on Robben Island.

(The Independent)

1 January 2002  Euro is born

The euro enters circulation across 12 European nations, giving around 300 million people a single shared currency for the first time in modern history. More than 14.5 billion banknotes and 56 billion coins are introduced as the launch of the new currency marks a major step in European economic integration.

(The Independent)

1 January 2008  China emerges as superpower

The Independent looks ahead to a year in which China is expected to assert unprecedented economic influence, with forecasts that the worlds most populous nation will invest more than $1.3 trillion on global markets. The paper points to 2008 as a symbolic coming-of-age, a prediction reinforced later in the year as Beijing hosts the Olympic Games and Chinas economic and diplomatic reach continues to expand.

(The Independent)

1 January 2020  New decade renews climate fears

A new decade begins with renewed urgency over the climate crisis, as world leaders face mounting pressure to act after years of extreme weather. With wildfires raging in Australia and temperatures reaching 50C, The Independent warns that the coming years will be critical following a decade marked by a rising number of natural disasters worldwide.
Russia claims it downed 91 drones targeting the Valdai residence, and that Britain was involved in the alleged attack

Donald Trump has criticised Ukraine for allegedly attacking Vladimir Putins official residence in an overnight drone strike.

Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said on Monday that Moscow had downed 91 long-range drones over Putins Valdai residence in Novgorod, without providing any evidence, and said Russias position in peace talks would be revised as a result.

Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the claims as another round of lies intended to derail negotiations, but the US president sided with Russia and said the alleged attack left him very angry.

After a phone call with Putin, Mr Trump told reporters outside Mar-a-Lago: You know who told me about it? President Putin, early in the morning, he said he was attacked. Its no good.

Its a delicate period of time. This is not the right time. Its one thing to be offensive because theyre offensive. Its another thing to attack his house. Its not the right time to do any of that.

Credir: Reuters

Alexander Grushko, Russias deputy minister of foreign affairs, also claimed there was a British influence discernible in the attack. The Russian Federation will respond accordingly to this provocation, he said of the drone strike.

But Mr Zelensky said in a statement on X: This alleged residence strike story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russias own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war.

The claims by Mr Lavrov, who does not typically announce drone strikes, came hours after Mr Trump met Mr Zelensky in Mar-a-Lago for peace talks where he said US security guarantees were 95 per cent decided.

Russias defence ministry earlier on Monday claimed that it had only downed 89 Ukrainian drones across the country overnight, with just 18 over the Novgorod region, appearing to contradict Mr Lavrovs claims.

Mr Zelensky sat opposite Mr Trump as the Ukrainian and US delegations met at Mar-a-Lago - Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Mr Lavrov said the Kremlins position in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine would be revised as a result of what he called a terrorist attack, but claimed that Moscow has no intention of withdrawing from talks.

He told Russian state media: Such reckless actions will not go unanswered, adding that Moscow had already identified targets for a retaliatory strike on Ukraine.

The statement by the foreign minister was unusual because drone strikes by Ukraine are usually announced by Russias regional authorities and defence ministry.

Senior Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said Mr Trump was shocked when he was told about the alleged attack on the phone call with Putin.

Putin is reported to have raised the claimed drone attack on his official residence in a call with Donald Trump - Shutterstock

Mr Ushakov also claimed that Mr Trump had said thank God he did not supply Kyiv with long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles, adding that it would undoubtedly affect Americas approach to negotiations.

Meanwhile, Andrii Sybiha, Ukraines foreign minister, accused Moscow of looking for false justification for further strikes, after Russia launched a huge assault on Kyiv early on Saturday.

It was not clear whether Putin was at the residence at the time of the alleged strike. Reports have stated that the Russian president has increasingly favoured Valdai since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The countryside property is located on a peninsula between two lakes, making it difficult to target with drones and missiles, and is thought to be heavily guarded.

Satellite imagery from 2024 showed 12 heavy-duty Pantsir-S1 air defence systems installed around Lake Valdai as Kyiv stepped up its attacks on Russian soil.

A room claimed to be Putins bedroom at his vast and luxurious official resident at Valdai in north-west Russia

If true, the scale of the attack would be unprecedented. In May 2023, Russia issued a shrill statement accusing Kyiv of targeting the Kremlin with two explosive drones.

Mr Zelensky denied responsibility for the strike at the time, saying: We dont attack Putin or Moscow. Some experts speculated it may have been a false flag operation while others said it was probably attributable to Kyiv or saboteurs.

The accusation has threatened to derail delicate peace negotiations just hours after Donald Trump hosted Mr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence on Sunday. The US president claimed a deal was closer than ever before.

After the talks, Mr Zelensky revealed that he asked Mr Trump to provide Ukraine with security guarantees lasting half a century.

The Ukrainian president said on Monday that a draft peace plan devised by officials from Kyiv and Washington had laid out 15 years of security guarantees, but that he wanted more.

A satellite image shows an air defence system at Putins official residence in Valdai, which was allegedly attacked with Ukrainian drones - Maxar

He said to journalists after his meeting with Mr Trump in Florida: I told [Mr Trump] that the war is still going on, and it has been going on for almost 15 years ... I told him that we would very much like to consider the possibility of 30, 40, 50 years.

He added that Mr Trump had replied that he would think about the request.

Kyiv has been pushing for article 5-style security guarantees from Europe and the US, referring to the mutual defence clause of Natos founding treaty. Ukraine had aspirations to become a member of Nato, but Russian opposition has ruled that out.

However, the nature of the security guarantees in the agreement being considered has not been fully divulged.

Mr Trump said on Sunday that US security guarantees were 95 per cent decided, but added that European countries would take over a big part of the effort to ensure Ukraines security in the event of a peace deal.

A Ukrainian serviceman inspects a church damaged by Russian bombing in Kostiantynivka, Ukraine - Getty

At least 26 members of the so-called coalition of the willing have agreed to deploy troops or equipment to post-war Ukraine as part of a reassurance force.

But Mr Lavrov said on Sunday that Moscow would perceive them as legitimate targets for our armed forces and accused Europe of preparing for war with Russia.

Security guarantees were just one of the thorny issues that Mr Trump faced in telephone talks with Putin and in-person negotiations with Mr Zelensky, in which the US president insisted: Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed.

The largest stumbling block is the fate of Ukraines eastern Donbas region. The Kremlin claimed on Sunday that Mr Trump and Putin had agreed Kyiv needed to make a decision on that matter without delay.

A Ukrainian serviceman at a hair salon damaged by Russian bombing in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk, on Sunday - Getty

Although Mr Zelensky appears to have signalled a slightly softened line on territorial concessions from Ukraine in Donbas  a significant compromise  he has maintained that a ceasefire is needed to stage a referendum on the final deal.

Ukraines constitution requires a nationwide referendum to approve any changes to the countrys 1991 border. Kyiv has said it is ready to hold a vote under martial law, but Mr Zelensky said on Monday that Ukraine would need a ceasefire of at least 60 days to hold the ballot in safe conditions and without interference.

The Kremlin has claimed that both the US and Russia are opposed to a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine to hold a referendum, saying on Sunday that it would only prolong the conflict.

Mr Ushakov claimed on Sunday that during Putins telephone call with the US president both leaders had ruled out a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine to hold a referendum, saying it would only prolong the conflict.

Russian servicemen at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which they have controlled since the early days of the invasion - Yuri Kochetkov/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The Kremlin has long insisted that Ukraine pull out of close to a quarter of its own territory in the eastern Donetsk region to secure a peace deal.

Mr Trump said on Sunday that a proposal to turn the parts of Donbas that Kyiv still controls into a demilitarised free economic zone, which would see Kyiv withdrawing its troops, was still unresolved. The Ukrainian president said last week that he opposed the plan.

The fate of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility, Europes largest power plant, which Russia seized in March 2022, has also proved a major sticking point in the negotiations.
Given the capricious nature of Donald Trump, a security guarantee for Ukraine envisioned as lasting 15 years is about as reliable as one lasting 150 years  or, for that matter, 15 minutes.

It is, in other words, entirely notional, if not theoretical. This is an America first administration, and that extends to everything  defence, trade, climate change, and even public health.

As Americas former friends and partners across the world have discovered during both Mr Trumps terms of office, any security guarantee, any treaty commitment, and any solemn promise made by this administration, or even by its predecessors, can be rescinded with the stroke of a Sharpie.

It is, for example, what President Trump himself did when he signed a flimsy peace treaty with the Taliban and left Afghanistan to their mercies in 2020. Indeed, to be fair to the current president, this would not be the first time the United States abandoned a supposedly invaluable ally to its fate  South Vietnam and Iraq found out the hard way about American resolve. In due course, so might Taiwan.

Volodymyr Zelensky, therefore, would have been wiser to accept than to quibble with Mr Trumps offer of some sort of security guarantee at their meeting at Mar-a-Lago, with some theatrical gratitude thrown in. As it is, he did manage to persuade the US president to think about a longer timescale, which was an achievement. Far more important, though, is the nature of the guarantee. Does it replicate the gold standard of Natos Article 5 principle of one for all and all for one (itself devalued by Mr Trumps equivocations)?

President Trump, though always upbeat about his own supposed unique diplomatic gifts, no longer even pretends that a truce, let alone a lasting peace settlement, is in sight (AP)

For a variety of reasons, it seems improbable that the Trump administration would station American troops and missiles anywhere on Ukrainian soil, and anything less than a physical presence would probably not deter Vladimir Putin if the Russian leader saw an opportunity for a quick victory over a semi-demilitarised Ukraine. Everyone knows President Trump wouldnt go to war with Russia over Estonia (a vulnerable Nato member), and the idea that he would do so for Ukraine is ludicrous. Hed find a loophole.

Given all of that, President Zelensky would gain more in diplomatic goodwill from the White House by signing a deal  any deal  than he would lose in Ukrainian security, and he should, as soon as he can, accept the US guarantee  and press his more loyal allies in Europe to take on the role of the real guarantors of Ukraines borders.

Some, such as Germanys chancellor Friedrich Merz, have been clear-sighted about this ever since members of the Trump administration went to the Munich Security Conference in February and announced that America was to disengage from Europe. Others in Europe have not been so ready to join the coalition of the willing being assembled by France and Britain. Maybe 15 years will be long enough for Europe to get its act together.

So the war goes on, and President Trump, though always upbeat about his own supposed unique diplomatic gifts, no longer even pretends that a truce, let alone a lasting peace settlement, is in sight. Before he was elected, Mr Trump promised that he would end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours, and he has consistently appeared optimistic about peace, even after the inconclusive Alaska summit with President Putin in August.

He seems still to be optimistic, but he is not making any predictions about when the killing will cease, and hes no longer pushing his self-nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. Even after his fairly harmonious (as far as can be glimpsed) talks with President Zelensky, Mr Trump can only speculate that itll either end or go on for a long time.

Mr Zelenskys tactic must be to treat Mr Trump with the extravagant respect he expects, agree to painful sacrifices, and sincerely engage in the process in a way that the Kremlin never will. That is essential, both to end the war soon and to marginalise President Putin  to show him as the obdurate imperialist he is. On occasion, this has worked, and Mr Trump has declared himself tired of the Russian leaders foot-dragging and attempts to play him along. Yet it seems to take only a phone call from Putin, whom Mr Trump so admires  and envies  as an absolutist strongman, for the US president to be mesmerised once again. It was graceful of Mr Zelensky to smile indulgently when Mr Trump said that Putin had assured him he wanted Ukraine to be successful.

Never straying far from the hotline to Moscow, President Trump knows full well  or should  that the war will only come to an end when President Putin judges that it is in his own interest that this should happen, with a deal so advantageous that there would be no point in trying to push further on the battlefield. The noises emanating from the Kremlin suggest that the Russians still prefer war-war to jaw-jaw, and wont be offering useful concessions of their own, or taking part in any peace conference. They treat President Trump with the kind of contempt that would usually invite a bombing raid  yet they get away with it.

The war remains all about territory, and, in the longer run, the very existence of Ukraine as an independent sovereign state. The chances are that such matters will be resolved by military and economic means, and not by aimless, naive Trumpian diplomacy  and that is why Europe must ensure that Ukraine doesnt lose.
The Irish government considered taking legal action against Sellafield in the mid-1990s, according to archive documents.

Then-taoiseach John Bruton raised the issue with British prime minister John Major after several safety incidents over a short period in the 1990s.

Documents published as part of the annual release of National Archives in Dublin showed that possible legal action over Sellafield and other nuclear incidents was explored at the time.

John Bruton (Chris Bacon/PA) (Chris Bacon)

This was then reviewed by Irelands departments of both justice and energy, as well as the offices of the Attorney General and Taoiseach.

The Attorney-General has previously advised that any such legal action would have to be based on scientific evidence as to the injurious effects of operations at Sellafield-Thorp on Ireland, a briefing note dated November 29 1995 said.

The Attorney-General has retained a Senior Counsel who is appearing for the State in the Shortt/BNFL proceedings to review the material and advise him on the matters at issue.

The briefing document also mentioned that the opinion of the attorney general was sought in relation to an incident involving a Magnox reactor in Wylfa, North Wales, on July 31 1993.

Earlier that year, the Irish government had raised with the British government its concerns about the incident in Wylfa as well as another incident at Dungeness A power station in Kent, England.

The British government was told that the incidents were a cause of ongoing deep concern to the Irish government and the Irish public.

Mr Bruton also raised nuclear safety with Mr Major during an informal meeting of EU leaders in Majorca in 1995.

Mr Major wrote to Mr Bruton afterwards to say that he could understand how people in the Irish Republic may have been alarmed due to sensational reports of the incidents.

John Bruton and John Major (Phil Noble/PA) (Phil Noble)

Moving to reassure Mr Bruton, he said that safety was the highest priority for his government  with the word highest underlined.

Mr Major added: Although some isolated safety incidents have occurred, overall the companies in the nuclear industry have an excellent safety record.

He also said that they would not permit any weakening in the current regulatory regime or of the safety standards currently in force.

I must emphasise that the HSE is satisfied that no-one was exposed to actual danger as a result of the Wylfa incident, Mr Major added.

Mr Bruton replied on December 6 to ask that experts from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland attend safety inspections of some of the installations involved.

He said: The precise details of this formal arrangement, if acceptable to you, would perhaps best be left to be agreed between our Department of Transport, Energy and Communication and your Department of Energy.

Mr Bruton added: While the two incidents at the Magnox plants may be of relatively little radiological significance, the number of incidents within a relatively short period in the UK gives rise to continued concerns about the safety of the UKs nuclear industry and the potential for a serious accident with trans-boundary effects for Ireland.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/541 in the National Archives of Ireland.
The launch of a Hugin underwater robot. It can search at depths of 6,000 metres, collecting data with echo sounders, cameras, lasers and sonar to map the seabed. Photograph: Kongsberg (Photograph: Kongsberg)

More than a decade after Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 went missing after veering thousands of miles off course, its location remains unknown.

The Malaysian government has promised to pay a private company, Ocean Infinity, $70m (56m) to search for the plane on a no find, no fee basis.

The company intends to target a 15,000 sq km (5,800 sq mile) area in the Indian Ocean where it is thought there is the highest likelihood of finding the missing aircraft.

What do we know so far?

Flight MH370 was carrying 12 Malaysian crew and 227 passengers when it took off from Kuala Lumpur on a routine flight to Beijing, shortly before 1am on 8 March 2014.

At 2.22am, after turning west, away from its planned route, the Boeing 777 vanished from radar coverage while over the Andaman Sea.

Satellites continued to receive hourly signals from the plane  indicating it was still flying  until just after 8am, when it is believed to have run out of fuel.

These hourly signals have been used to triangulate the distance between a satellite and the plane, but this can only place it within a search zone of 120,000 sq km (46,000 sq miles) of the southern Indian Ocean.

Its a monstrously big circle, says Simon Maskell, professor of autonomous systems at Liverpool University and a former scientific adviser to Ocean Infinity.

Numerous parts and debris have been found around the shores of the Indian Ocean and identified as belonging to MH370, including pieces of the wing, tail, cabin and engine. No human remains have ever been found but everyone onboard is presumed dead.

What is Ocean Infinity?

A marine robotics and seabed survey company, based in the UK and the US, with a track record of finding things that are difficult to find on the ocean floor, says Maskell.

The company is best known for providing the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust with submersible experts and underwater robots that helped to locate Sir Ernest Shackletons lost ship Endurance in 2022.

In 2018, Ocean Infinity unsuccessfully searched more than 80,000 sq km of ocean for MH370. Now, it is determined to try again.

What equipment will Ocean Infinity use?

The company has a fleet of Hugin 6000 autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), which can create a 3D map of the ocean floor at depths of up to 6,000 metres using sonar, laser, optic and echo sound technology, with each machine estimated to be worth at least $8m.

Despite operating in the dark, the fleet can capture sonar images of their surroundings by bouncing acoustic pulses off whatever is nearby and using lasers to scan unidentified objects (known as points of interest) and create detailed 3D images.

Each free-swimming AUV can be operated remotely but is mainly used to carry out assignments independently of an operator, and then return to the surface. It can stay underwater for 100 hours before its battery runs out.

You can say: make me a map of that area and come back when youre done, says Maskell.

What will happen if a piece of the plane is found?

Each AUV is able to send limited samples of the data it collects  such as detecting a point of interest  to a surface ship and receive mission updates from operators who are supervising its progress using an acoustic communications system.

It [the AUV] uses a sub-bottom profiler to see how much sediment there is and how far you have to go down to get to solid rock seabed, says Richard Godfrey, an independent aviation investigator. It also has a magnetometer so it can detect metal, even if its buried under several metres of sediment.

If necessary, the surface ship can also send down remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) to train floodlights on an object so it can be filmed and photographed.

These have robotic arms that can also be operated remotely so the machine can grab, turn and inspect objects. It can also bring smaller objects back to the surface.

How big is the search area?

Ocean Infinity began searching the 15,000 sq km area priority area in February, but called off the expedition in April after 22 days due to poor weather conditions. It will resume on 30 December for 55 days.

Godfrey estimates the company has already searched nearly 10,000 sq km, and is planning to search another 25,000 sq km, after spending tens of millions of dollars on ships and equipment.

I dont think theyre in this for the monetary reward of $70m, because this search is very, very expensive. I think theyre in this for the achievement and their ability to market themselves as the greatest underwater-search firm in the world because they found MH370, he says.

What are the biggest challenges?

The ocean floor is a very complicated environment to navigate around, says Maskell. Its not just flat. Youve got huge mountains, ridges and chasms  and youve got to look everywhere.

In the Indian Ocean, there are canyons more than 300 metres (1,000ft) deep, cliff faces suddenly rising thousands of metres off the sea floor and active volcanoes to watch out for, says Godfrey.

Although the area Ocean Infinity is searching has been surveyed previously, it is thought that the data might be incomplete. This is not a very easy place to conduct a search, he says.

One of the biggest challenges Ocean Infinity faces is the risk of being very close to the MH370 wreckage and missing it because of difficult terrain or gaps in the survey data.

The company is also searching in very inhospitable waters, Maskell says. Its not where you would want to go kayaking. The sea is rough.

Around the clock, the crew will need to analyse data, recharge the AUVs that have returned to the surface, supervise the AUVs and ROVs that are still searching, make sure all their equipment is working  and fix anything that is not  all while trying not to get seasick from the ludicrously large waves they are encountering, says Maskell.

But by far the biggest challenge of this mission is one that Ocean Infinity is betting it has already overcome: deciding where to search.

You can have the greatest technology in the world, but if you look in the wrong place, its not going to help you, says Maskell.
Sen. Bernie Sanders

Sen. Bernie Sanders on Sunday called for a moratorium on data-processing sites used to fuel AI to get a better grasp on regulating the burgeoning technology and how it benefits the 1 Percent.

The 84-year-old lefty from Vermont warned that the country has not had the kind of discussion that we need to reflect on how the ultra-rich are benefiting from artificial intelligence and the technologys other economic ramifications, as well as its effects on children.

I think we need to be thinking seriously about a moratorium on these data centers, Sanders told CNNs State of the Union during an AI special.

Sen. Bernie Sanders is calling for a moratorium on energy facilities powering AIs explosive expansion. CNN

Frankly, I think you gotta slow this process down. Its not good enough for the oligarchs to tell us, Its coming, you adapt. What are they talking about? he said. What are they gonna do when people have no jobs?

Data centers are crucial to the training and development of AI models, and tech giants such as Google, OpenAI and X are racing to build more of them.

Another grievance Sanders has with the AI centers is their impact on the environment and electricity prices, which have begun to rise across the country.

Were seeing data centers sprouting all over the country, raising electric bills for people in the communities, he stressed.

The Vermont senator had endorsed a national AI moratorium earlier this month, similarly arguing that democracy needs to catch up to the novel technology.

In sharp contrast to Sanders grave concerns about AI, the Trump administration has opted to embrace the technology, framing it as an arms race with China and encouraging tech giants to feverishly pursue it.

Tech giants are racing to build more of the data centers and electric power plants to beef up their AI models. Getty Images

Trump, who has made David Sacks his AI and crypto czar, took executive action earlier this month aimed at undercutting states from regulating the nascent technology too aggressively.

The executive order tasked the Justice Department with filing lawsuits against states that crack down on AI. It came after repeated failures to pass a moratorium on state-level AI regulation in Congress.

Noting at one point that hes fearful of a lot when it comes to AI, Sanders accused the Trump administration of being bought off by Big Tech.

The rise in data centers has led to pushback from various communities across the country. ERIK S LESSER/EPA/Shutterstock

Look, Elon Musk himself contributed over $270 million to elect Donald Trump the president, Sanders said. These guys have now come up with their super PACs to try to make sure that there is no regulation.

So, yes, they are a very, very powerful entity. And I think that is one of the reasons why Congress has not been responding effectively.

Some prominent Republicans, such as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) and Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) have pushed for more aggressive regulation of AI, also.

But Sanders call for a moratorium on AI data centers goes further than most other top pols.
FILE PHOTO: Zhuque-3 rocket by Chinas private rocket firm LandSpace, takes off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, China, December 3, 2025, in this screengrab taken from handout drone footage provided by LandSpace. LandSpace/Handout via REUTERS

FILE PHOTO: Zhuque-3 rocket by Chinas private rocket firm LandSpace, takes off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, China, December 3, 2025, in this screengrab taken from handout drone footage provided by LandSpace. LandSpace/Handout via REUTERS

HUZHOU, Dec 29 (Reuters) - China's rocket startup LandSpace has made no secret about drawing inspiration from Elon Musk's SpaceX.

Earlier this month, the Beijing-based firm became the first Chinese entity to conduct a reusable rocket test. That put SpaceX on alert and LandSpace is now preparing to go public to fund its future projects, just as its bigger and far more successful U.S. rival considers an initial public offering of its own.

Even though LandSpace's Zhuque-3 rocket test ended in failure, its aspiration to become second only to SpaceX in reusable rockets is providing a fresh impetus to China's space industry, which has long been dominated by risk-averse, state-owned entities.

"(SpaceX) can push products to the edge and even into failure, quickly identifying limits and iterating," Zhuque-3 chief designer Dai Zheng told state broadcaster CCTV after the rocket's inaugural flight.

Dai said his decision in 2016 to join LandSpace and leave the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, the country's main state-owned rocket developer, was partly motivated by SpaceX's focus on reusability and his desire to create a Chinese equivalent.

LandSpace's focus on giving China its own low-cost launch option similar to SpaceX's flight-proven reusable rocket Falcon 9 will play a key role in Beijing's plans to build up 10,000 satellite constellations in the coming decades.

"Falcon 9 is a successful configuration that has been tested by engineering," Zhuque-3's deputy chief designer Dong Kai said in a podcast interview last week. "After studying it, we recognize its rationality; this is learning, not imitation."

"Calling (Zhuque-3) a 'Chinese Falcon 9,' I think, is a very high compliment."

Its startup culture and mimicking of SpaceX has already initiated a paradigm shift in China's space industry.

China's state-led space programme has historically been allergic to failed launches, in contrast to SpaceX and other Western firms that regularly broadcast their mishaps.

But earlier this month, state media covered China's first two failed attempts at recovering a reusable rocket, with the second launch coming from a state-owned firm, just three weeks after Zhuque-3's maiden flight.

LandSpace also opened its engine factory floor to Reuters this month, allowing foreign media to take a peek at one of its core assets for the first time.

After opening up the space sector to private money in 2014, which spawned several startups including LandSpace, Beijing is now looking to help leading domestic players tap into capital markets by making it easier for them to pursue IPOs.

Dai said SpaceX's generous financial backing was a key factor in allowing the U.S. firm to incur huge losses while testing Starship, its reusable launch vehicle.

"For us, we're not yet able to do that," Dai told CCTV.

"I believe our country has recognized this, allowing capital markets to support companies (in areas) like commercial space flight."

"IN ANOTHER LEAGUE"

A month before LandSpace launched the Zhuque-3, SpaceX founder Musk had already taken note of the vehicle's design.

Commenting on a video on X that showed Zhuque-3's assembly, he said the Chinese-made rocket had adopted aspects of the Starship spacecraft and applied them on a design similar to the Falcon 9.

"They have added aspects of Starship, such as use of stainless steel and methalox, to a Falcon 9 architecture, which would enable it to beat Falcon 9," Musk said in October, in his first public comments about LandSpace.

"But Starship in another league."

Features like stainless steel sheaths and rocket engines powered by methalox, a combination of methane and liquid oxygen, are just some of the ways that companies like SpaceX and LandSpace are looking to reduce the enormous cost of launches.

But by far the most important cost-saver is the ability to launch a rocket, then return, recover and reuse its engine-packed first stage.

As LandSpace prepares another rocket launch after the December failure, when Zhuque-3's booster was not able to activate a landing burn 3 km from the ground as planned, causing it to crash rather than execute a controlled landing, it may take comfort from SpaceX's experience.

SpaceX had its first successful Falcon booster landing in 2015 after two failed attempts.

(Reporting by Eduardo Baptista in Huzhou; Editing by Miyoung Kim and Thomas Derpinghaus)
The Coral Adventurer is currently under investigation following the death of an elderly passenger who was left behind on a remote island. (Bahnfrend/Wikimedia)

An Australian cruise ship has run aground with 120 passengers on board on its first trip since a passenger died after being left behind on a remote island.

The Coral Adventurer hit a reef off the coast of Papua New Guinea early on Saturday morning, according to reports.

The ships operator, Coral Expeditions, said no one was hurt in the incident.

Coral Adventurer had a grounding incident in coastal Papua New Guinea yesterday. All passengers and crew are safe, a spokesperson told The Guardian.

An initial inspection indicates no damage to the vessel. The incident has been reported to authorities and will undergo further official inspections to the hull and marine environment as a standard procedure.

Passengers on board are reportedly staying on Papua New Guinea while a team attempts to re-float the ship and inspect the hull.

The Coral Adventurer is currently under investigation following the death of an elderly passenger who was left behind on a remote island.

Eighty-year-old Suzanne Rees was hiking on Lizard Island with other passengers from the Coral Adventurer when she starting feeling unwell and became separated from the group (AP)

Suzanne Rees, 80, was hiking on Lizard Island with other passengers from the Coral Adventurer when she started feeling unwell and became separated from the group.

Believing she had made her way back to the ship alone, her fellow hikers returned to the vessel and it left the island without her.

The crew realised she was missing and returned to the island to look for her but a day later, on 25 October, Rees was found dead.

Australian authorities have launched an investigation into the womans death.

Under existing regulations by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), captains or masters of commercial passenger vessels are required to maintain systems ensuring every passenger is accounted for at any given time.

The womans daughter, Katherine Rees, said earlier that the family was shocked and saddened that the Coral Adventurer left Lizard Island after an organised excursion without my mum, Suzanne.

From the little we have been told, it seems that there was a failure of care and common sense, she told The Australian.

I hope that the coronial inquiry will find out what the company should have done that might have saved Mums life, the daughter said.

The CEO of Coral Expeditions, Mark Fifield, said that the company offered its full support to the Rees family and cancelled the remainder of the voyage.

The Independent has contacted Coral Expeditions for a comment.
President Donald Trump, joined by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, speaks at a news conference at the White House, Aug. 11, 2025. Photo: Sarah Roderick-Fitch / The Center Square

(The Center Square)  Ten days past the official Congressionally-set deadline to publish all federal files on sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, the U.S. Department of Justice is still releasing the documents piecemeal.

Congress last month overwhelmingly passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandated that the DOJ declassify by Dec. 19 all information pertaining to Epstein, who died in jail in 2019, and his close associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence.

But the DOJ is still in the process of releasing all the documents, many of which contain significant redactions that critics say violates the order for transparency. Others have discovered that the agency redacted some of the documents incorrectly, allowing viewers to simply copy and paste the redactions into another document to read the underlying text.

The content redacted raises further questions on whether the DOJ is fully complying with the requirement for full transparency.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act expressly forbids the DOJ from redacting relevant information unless it could potentially jeopardize victim privacy, national security, or prosecution efforts.

But, as revealed on social media by political commentator Ed Krassenstein, the DOJ apparently violated that edict in at least one of the documents.

One of the uncovered redactions included information on how Epstein attempted to pay off witnesses of his sex trafficking operations and destroy evidence of his crimes.

Defendants also actively obstructed law enforcement by denying investigators access to Little St. James beyond its boat dock. Defendants also attempted to conceal their criminal sex trafficking and abuse conduct by paying large sums of money to participant-witnesses, including by paying for their attorneys fees and case costs in litigation related to this conduct. Epstein also threatened harm to victims and helped release damaging stories about them to damage their credibility when they tried to go public with their stories of being trafficked and sexually abused. Epstein also instructed one or more Epstein Enterprise participant-witnesses to destroy evidence relevant to ongoing court proceedings involving Defendants criminal sex trafficking and abuse conduct, it reads.

So the obvious question is: why was this information being hidden at all? Why redact references to known participant-witnesses and lawyers connected to this scheme? Krassenstein said. There is no legitimate reason for these redactions.

As of Monday, the DOJ has not responded to the redactions discovery. The agency announced on Christmas Eve that the FBI recently "uncovered over a million more documents potentially related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.

Due to the mass volume of material, this process may take a few more weeks, it concluded.
Street artist Jarrod Grech poses for a photo next to his painting of Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Syrian-Australian shopkeeper who disarmed one of the attackers of Sydney's Bondi Beach shooting, in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025. (Rod McGuirk/AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)  Families of victims of the recent Sydney massacre that targeted a Jewish festival released an open letter on Monday calling for more federal action to investigate a rise in antisemitism and the security failures behind Australia's worst mass shooting in three decades.

Two gunmen are accused of shooting 15 people dead and wounding another 40 in an attack on a Hannukah festival on Bondi Beach on Dec. 14.

In an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, 17 families of the dead and wounded called for a federal inquiry known as a royal commission to investigate a rise in antisemitism in Australia since the Israel-Hamas war began in 2023 and consequent security agency failures.

Families call for powerful public investigation

Royal commissions are the most powerful form of public investigation in Australia and witnesses can be jailed for deliberately withholding evidence.

We need to know why clear warning signs were ignored, how antisemitic hatred and Islamic extremism were allowed to dangerously grow unchecked, and what changes must be made to protect all Australians going forward, the letter said.

But Albanese continued to resist calls from the families, Jewish leaders and opposition lawmakers to establish such a royal commission, saying it would take years to provide answers.

Instead, he announced the terms of an inquiry by retired bureaucrat Dennis Richardson that would examine potential failings in procedures and laws that led to the shooting, which was allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group. That inquiry will report in April next year.

My heart breaks for the families of the victims of the Bondi terrorist atrocity, Albanese told reporters. And my heart goes out to them at what is an incredibly traumatic time.

My job, as the Australian prime minister, is to act in the national interests. It is in the national interest for us to do the Richardson review on national security, Albanese added.

Albanese said federal authorities would support a royal commission promised by the New South Wales state government, which is based in Sydney.

The families letter says a state inquiry is not enough.

The rise of antisemitism in Australia goes far beyond one state jurisdiction. It is a national crisis that demands a powerful response, the families said.

New Year's Eve celebrations canceled at Bondi Beach

As the nation reels from its worst mass shooting since a lone gunman killed 35 people in Tasmania state in 1996, the usual New Years Eve celebrations have been canceled at Bondi. Tickets sold to an annual music festival at Bondi will be refunded, organizers said.

Security will be tightened at Sydneys main celebration with heavily armed police expected to be visible. More than 1 million revelers are expected to crowd the waterfront to see a fireworks display centered on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said he was discussing with the federal government getting the army involved in bolstering security in Sydney.

The New South Wales Police Operation Shelter was established within weeks of the Hamas attack on Israel to reduce antisemitic and antisocial behavior and other hate crime activity in Sydney. The operation has been provided with additional resources following the Bondi attack.

This is the worst terrorism event thats affected our state and our country ever, and it requires a comprehensive response, Minns told reporters.

One of the alleged shooters, Sajid Akram, 50, was killed by police at the scene. His 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, was wounded and faces dozens of charges including 15 counts of murder.

Albanese has attempted to turn the public focus from the perpetrators to the heroes of the tragedy. Last week, he announced plans for a national bravery award to recognize civilians and first responders who confronted the worst of evil during the attack.

Bystander wounded after disarming gunman is celebrated

One of the most celebrated was bystander Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Syrian-Australian shopkeeper who tackled and disarmed one of the attackers before being wounded by shotgun pellets.

More than 43,000 people around the world have donated more than 2.5 million Australian dollars ($1.7 million) to a fundraising campaign set up to thank him for his intervention.

Al Ahmed, who was released from a Sydney hospital last week after multiple surgeries, told U.S.-based CBS News his soul had asked him to save lives.

I dont want to see people killed in front of me, I dont want to see blood, I dont want to hear his gun, I dont want to  see people screaming and begging, asking help, help;" and thats my soul (that) asked me to do that," al Ahmed told the network.

I know I saved lots of peoples lives: Innocent kids and women  and men, and I know I saved lots. But I feel sorry still for the lost, he added.

Street artist Jarrod Grech last week created a likeness of al Ahmed in a Melbourne lane that has attracted media attention. Al Ahmed is depicted as a hospital patient over a banner that reads: True Blue.

The Australian colloquialism means very genuine; very loyal; expressing Australian values, according to the Australian National Dictionary Center.

I like to paint significant moments, and that one was about the Australian spirit, so True Blue, Grech told The Associated Press on Sunday.

So its about the act that he did and I thought that was a True Blue thing, Grech added.
A bright light flashed across the night sky in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on Saturday, December 27.

An eagle-eyed photographer captured the moment a shining fireball cut across the sky in southeast New Hampshire early Saturday evening.

Rob Wright, a professional photographer based in New Hampshire, shared dash camera footage of the suspected meteor  which he called a bright green boldie  blazing straight downwards while he was cruising through Portsmouth.

That was one of the best Ive seen and likely the best Ive ever caught on camera, Wright boasted on Facebook.

Dash camera footage captured a fireball beaming in the sky on Saturday. Rob Wright/Storyful

Wright was approaching a traffic circle in the coastal town when a pulsing yellow light appeared in the sky. It tracked downwards in a straight line and released a brighter spurt of light before disappearing entirely, all in the span of eight seconds, according to the video.

Others in Nashua and Londonderry, both located southwest of Portsmouth and closer to the Massachusetts border, told WMUR that they also saw the suspected meteor.

The bright green boldie blazed over multiple towns in New Hampshire. Rob Wright/Storyful

Several other highlighted sightings around the same time in Dover, Bedford, Rindge, Hooksett and Jaffrey, which are all within a 90-mile radius of Portsmouth, according to the American Meteor Society.

Locals who follow Wrights work reported seeing the fireball, too. One woman who also lives in Portsmouth commented that she thought it must have been a firework.

Its unclear what exactly the fireball was.

Its unclear what exactly the supposed fireball was. Rob Wright/Storyful

Meteorites present similarly to a fireball when theyre plummeting from orbit  but leave a more obvious impact.

In August, a 3-foot meteor splintered in the air while it was flying over Georgia and left fragments scattered all over Newton County. The explosion caused a sonic boom equivalent to 20 tons of TNT exploding at once.

Pieces of the meteor were found all over the county, including one that crashed through the roof of a home.

Over the summer in 2024, a meteor disintegrated about 30 miles above Midtown Manhattan. The force shook parts of New York City, rattling midday commuters.
A red Emergency sign hangs above the entrance to a hospital. Photo: Shopify Partners / Burst

(The Center Square)  New Hampshire has won a $204 million grant from the federal government to help overhaul its rural health care system ahead of looming cuts in Medicaid funding.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced on Monday that it is distributing $50 billion to states from its Rural Health Transformation Program as part of broader efforts to "strengthen and modernize health care" in rural communities across the country.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte touted that New Hampshire's grant was the largest among New England states that received funding in the first round of grant distributions.

"We did this the New Hampshire way  with input from our providers, community health and mental health centers, other rural health stakeholders, and feedback from Granite Staters, and the hard work paid off," Ayotte said in a statement. "This is the beginning of a bold effort to expand access to affordable, high-quality care closer to home for Granite Staters in rural communities."

Ayotte said she has created a new Office of New Opportunities & Rural Transformational Health, or GO-NORTH, to oversee implementation of the program. Her administration said New Hampshires Rural Health Transformation Grant application was put together with input from more than 300 stakeholders, including hospitals, rural health care providers, community health centers and feedback from residents.

"It was important that the Department hear from as many stakeholders as possible as we worked to transform rural health care delivery in New Hampshire," Lori Weaver, commissioner of the state Department of Health and Human Services, said in a statement. "I am grateful to all who provided input and look forward to working together to implement our plans and meet our goals."

President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which he signed in July, includes Medicaid funding cuts and policy changes that critics say could force closures and reductions in care at rural hospitals, which were already struggling to stay afloat amid razor-thin operating margins and other financial stress.

Concerns about the impact on rural health prompted lawmakers to create a $50 billion safety-net fund for rural hospitals. Those funds will be distributed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services over five years, with $10 billion available annually.

The Trump administration launched the Rural Health Transformation Program on Sept. 19, calling it an "unprecedented" effort to "transform" rural health care across the country. In the first round of funding, states will receive awards ranging from $147 million to $281 million, according to CMS. New York is getting $212 million, while Massachusetts is getting $162 million, the agency said. Maine will get $190 million and Rhode Island $156 million.

"More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care," Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., said in a statement Monday. "This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities healthcare."
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said 13 people died and another 98 people were injured when a train derailed on a rail line connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Gulf of Mexico.

MEXICO CITY, Mexico  Officials said a train accident in southern Mexico killed at least 13 people and injured dozens, halting traffic along a rail line connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Gulf of Mexico.

The Interoceanic Train linking the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz went off the rails Sunday as it passed a curve near the town of Nizanda.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced 13 dead and 98 injured in train derailment. AFP via Getty Images

Oaxaca state Gov. Salomon Jara previously reported at least 15 injured in the Mexico accident. AFP via Getty Images

The Interoceanic Train derailed Sunday near Nizanda, Mexico, halting traffic on the line. AFP via Getty Images

The Mexican Navy has informed me that, tragically, 13 people died in the Interoceanic Train accident, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum posted on X, adding that 98 people are injured, five of them seriously.

She said she instructed the secretary of the navy and the undersecretary of human rights of the Ministry of the Interior to travel to the site and personally assist the families.

In a message on X Sunday, Oaxaca state Gov. Salomon Jara said several government agencies had reached the site of the accident to assist the injured.

Officials said that 241 passengers and nine crew members were on the train when the accident occurred. AFP via Getty Images

The Interoceanic Train was inaugurated in 2023 by then President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. AFP via Getty Images

Officials said that 241 passengers and nine crew members were on the train when the accident occurred.

The Interoceanic Train was inaugurated in 2023 by then President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. The rail service is part of a broader push to boost train travel in southern Mexico, and develop infrastructure along the isthmus of Tehuantepec, a narrow stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Rachel Murray - Getty Images

Haverhill, Massachusetts residents raised concerns at a December 16 city council meeting about a strong "donut smell" near a Dunkin' supplier.

The Cafua-owned facility is described as Dunkin's largest U.S. bakery and produces about one million donuts per day.

Health inspectors are expected to evaluate the situation, and the city council plans to revisit it in January.

I love a good Dunkin' run as much as the next person whos ever "just stopped in" for a quick coffee and emerged with a box of a dozen donuts the size of a small country. But in Haverhill, Massachusetts, some residents say theyre getting Dunkin' whether they asked for it or notvia the air.

According to a report from CBS Boston, neighbors brought their concerns to a December 16 city council meeting, saying the smell around a manufacturing plant on Creek Brook Drive has been a lot. One resident, Sean Wilson, said people walking in the area can feel "overwhelmed" by the donut smell, adding that his house has smelled like donuts "all the time" for the last two months, which he called "distracting" and "heavy."

The plant in question is owned by Cafua Management Company and is described as the largest bakery for Dunkin' in the U.S. Its a 93,500-square-foot facility that was built this year and supplies more than 200 Dunkin' shops run by Cafua. And yes, it's doing what a giant donut bakery does:

And yes, it's doing what a giant donut bakery does: A company representative told the council, "We make one million donuts a day," while also noting the facility has new equipment, is regularly cleaned, and meets regulatory standards.

JHVEPhoto - Getty Images

For some locals, the whole thing sounds like the least-bad neighborhood problem imaginable (I'd certainly be fine if cruellers and strawberry-frosted were the smells that filled my nostrils). For others, it's the intensity that's wearing them down. CBS Boston reports that a city councilor said another constituent described a "carnival smell" like fried doughagain, yum?and that some residents are concerned about the air quality near the plant as well.

Councilors decided to have health inspectors take a look, and they plan to revisit the issue at a January meeting. Until then, Haverhills basically living inside a donut-scented candlewhether that sounds delightful or deeply cursed depends on how you feel about being blasted with the scent of sweet, sweet sugar before you've even had breakfast.

You Might Also Like
Onlookers gather at the scene of a mass shooting where gunmen killed nine and injured at least 10 in a pub in Bekkersdal, South Africa, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/ Alfonso Nqunjana)

Johannesburg (AP)  Police in South Africa on Wednesday said they had arrested 11 people, including many suspected of being illegal miners, and were seeking a potential connection to Sunday's shooting at a pub that killed 10 people.

In search for illegal miners in the area, police and Sibanye-Stillwater mine security stormed two houses in Westonaria, 46 kilometers (39 miles) outside Johannesburg. Nine citizens of Lesotho and one Mozambican, thought to be living in South Africa illegally, were among those arrested. Police said they were found with unlicensed firearms, including four handguns and an AK-47 rifle.

Maj. Gen. Fred Kekana, acting provincial commissioner of Gauteng, told reporters that police had found cartridges and live ammunition of the "same type of firearms at the shooting scene in Bekkersdal. They were sent for testing to determine if they were used in the shooting.

Authorities also arrested a South African mine employee who faces charges related to harboring tenants living in the country illegally and potentially defeating the ends of justice. On Tuesday, the pub's owner was charged with fraud and operating an illegal liquor outlet.

Surrounded by abandoned mine shafts, townships west of Johannesburg like Bekkersdal are notorious for illicit mining operations, which have led to problems including gang violence and the proliferation of illegal firearms.

Sibanye-Stillwater operates several significant operations in the region.

In areas where the mining industry once thrived, illegal miners known as zama-zamas have continued to operate. The trade is believed to be predominantly controlled by migrants who illegally enter from Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
In this photo released by Agence Kampuchea Press (AKP), Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, left, Thai counterpart Sihasak Phuangketkeow, right, and Chinese counterpart Wang Yi pose for a photograph in Yunnan province, China, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025. (AKP via AP)

HONG KONG (AP)  Foreign ministers from Cambodia and Thailand convened with their Chinese counterpart on Monday as the Beijing government, building on its expanding presence in global diplomacy, sought to play a stronger mediating role in the violent border dispute between the two Southeast Asian countries.

The trilateral meeting, held in a southwestern Chinese province north of the contested border, came two days after Thailand and Cambodia signed a fresh ceasefire agreement to end weeks of fighting that killed more than 100 people and forced the evacuation of hundreds of thousands on both sides of the border.

We havent resolved everything, but I think we are making progress in the right direction and we have to keep up the momentum, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow told reporters after the meeting in Yunnan province. He said chief priorities are to ensure a sustained ceasefire and continue rebuilding trust.

It was noteworthy that the meeting was held in Yunnan, nearer to the dispute and to Southeast Asia, rather than in Beijing, the Chinese capital and seat of government about 2,500 kilometers (1,300 miles) northeast.

The meetings represented Chinas latest efforts to strengthen its role as an international mediator and, in particular, its influence in Asian regional crises. As China grows into an economic and political force globally, Beijing has spent the past decade and more working in various ways to increase its voice as a third party in diplomatic matters.

Hopes for peace expressed

During the meeting Monday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for joint efforts to promote regional peace, stability and development  language typical for China in such situations.

Allowing the flames of war to be reignited is absolutely not what the people of the two countries want and not what China, as your friend, wants to see. Therefore, we should resolutely look ahead and move forward, Wang said.

Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said he believed the latest ceasefire would last and would create an environment for both nations to resume previously agreed-upon ways to settle differences, according to a Chinese interpreter.

We dont want to return to the past, which means that no one wants to see this fighting happening again. Therefore, what is important is that this ceasefire is to be permanent and must be firmly respected and implemented," Prak Sokhornn said after the talks, speaking to Cambodian state media TVK.

Sihasak also expressed hopes for peace with neighboring countries.

After the meeting, Chinese official news agency Xinhua quoted Wang as saying the three nations reached a consensus to move forward with the ceasefire without reversal, maintain dialogue and restore ties between the two Southeast Asian countries step by step.

A statement released by Xinhua, the Cambodian state news agency Agence Kampuchea Presse and the Thai Foreign Ministry said the three sides had in-depth exchanges on maintaining the ceasefire. The next key step was to work toward resuming normal exchanges, it said. China said it was ready to provide immediate humanitarian assistance for displaced residents, the statement said.

The countries also agreed to take more robust measures to combat transnational crimes, including telecom and online scams, the statement said.

Sihasak and Prak Sokhonn had also held separate meetings with Wang on Sunday, the first day of the two-day gathering.

Disputes persist

The two Southeast Asian countries originally reached a ceasefire in July. It was brokered by Malaysia and pushed through under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to withhold trade privileges unless Thailand and Cambodia agreed. The preliminary pact was followed by a more detailed October agreement.

But Thailand and Cambodia carried on a bitter propaganda war, with minor, cross-border violence continuing. The tensions erupted into heavy fighting in early December.

The Saturday agreement calls for Thailand, after the ceasefire has held for 72 hours, to repatriate 18 Cambodian soldiers who have been held prisoner since the earlier fighting in July. Their release has been a major demand of the Cambodian side.

The agreement also calls on both sides to adhere to international agreements against deploying land mines, a major concern of Thailand.

Sihasak said Thailand would start repatriating the 18 Cambodian soldiers if the ceasefire could be maintained for 72 hours with no additional incidents. Thailand would also ask Cambodia to facilitate the return of remaining Thais in the Cambodian border city of Poipet, he said.

Also Monday, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet issued a statement to all Cambodian combatants along the Thai border. Even though we can still fight," he said, as a small country we still have nothing to gain from prolonging the fighting for a long time.

___

Sopheng Cheang in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Wasamon Audjarint in Bangkok and Liu Zheng in Beijing contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, on December 19. - Alex Brandon/AP

President Donald Trump is spending the end of the year trying to cash in huge foreign policy bets on which thousands of lives may depend and that will define his attempt to wield decisive power far beyond American shores.

Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in South Florida has become a center of global diplomacy, with high-stakes talks Sunday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to follow Monday.

The twin meetings mark significant attempts by Trump to cement a legacy as a global peacemaker. In Ukraine, hes seeking to finally end a war he once said he could fix in a day but that is still raging nearly a year into his second term.

Trump also hopes to deliver a jolt to Gaza peace efforts to initiate the second phase of a deal that stopped widespread fighting in October between Israel and Hamas but that could fail without progress.

His intensified focus on Gaza and Ukraine came after Trump put his stamp on the holiday season by ordering US military action in the Middle East, Africa and the Western Hemisphere.

Trump announced on Christmas Day that US forces struck ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, whom he accused of persecuting Christians. A US naval armada is meanwhile prowling through seas off Venezuela in support of Trumps blockade of sanctioned oil tankers, the latest escalation in his apparent bid to overthrow President Nicolas Maduro. US forces are chasing one vessel that fled into international waters.

And days before Christmas, the US struck ISIS targets in Syria following an attack that killed two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter.

The flurry of military and diplomatic activity underscores Trumps wish to shake up the globe  untamed after 11 months of unpredictable leadership  just as comprehensively as hes shattered the status quo at home.

Its also a sign of a presidential legacy hanging in the balance before a critical midterm election year that could define the fate of Trumps major global initiatives. The president is fighting to shore up his political foundation at home amid splits in the MAGA movement and falling confidence in his management of the economy.

Trump hopeful of Ukraine deal but warns it could all fall apart

The president emerged from a meeting with Zelensky in Florida on a revised 20-point peace plan optimistic that we have made a lot of progress on ending that war. He added: I do think were getting a lot closer, maybe very close.

But Trump was also realistic after the meeting, which included a call that patched in European leaders who have worked to reshape a US peace plan that was originally seen as a largely Russian blueprint. We could have something where one item that youre not thinking about is a big item, breaks it up. Look, its been a very difficult negotiation, Trump said.

The leaders are all working to solve the perennial riddle of the conflict: Is there a formula that Ukraine can agree to that Russia will be forced to accept?

In recent weeks, US negotiators have pressed Ukraine to ease its resistance to Russian President Vladimir Putins demands for it to cede strategically vital industrialized areas in the eastern Donbas regions that Russian forces have yet to conquer. Washington has suggested creating a free economic zone in the area. Zelensky has in recent weeks shifted his positions to suggest he may be willing to compromise  but he is demanding rigorous Western security guarantees in return, which Moscow opposes.

The Ukrainian leader said after his summit with Trump that the latest version of the peace plan proposes that the US guarantee his countrys security for 15 years. He said in a series of voice messages sent to journalists that he asked Trump to consider extending this timeframe to 30-40-50 years. He added: President (Trump) said he would think about it.

A key sticking point however is that Russia has refused to consider the presence of foreign troops on Ukrainian soil, which Kyiv and European nations consider imperative to making security guarantees credible.

And for all the talk of progress in the talks, the current scenario is one in which the US, Europe and Ukraine are bringing their positions closer  but there remains no sign of any willingness to compromise by Putin.

Still, the Trump administration appears to be showing more patience and a greater willingness to dive into the details of the process than at any point so far.

Critics argue that Trump is trying to browbeat Ukraine into a peace deal that involves huge concessions even though its the victim of an unprovoked invasion. Trumps pressure is unfolding at the same time as the latest murderous Russian air attacks on major Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Trump on Sunday reinforced a frequent impression that he is leaning toward Putin by saying hed bracket his talks with Zelensky with two phone calls with the Russian leader, who has shown little willingness to ease hardline positions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump hold a press conference after their lunch meeting at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday. - Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

Zelensky, meanwhile, faces his own constraints from a nation that is loath to allow Putin to claim a win after so much death and suffering. Ukrainian law requires any ceding of land to Russia to be put to a referendum.

Zelensky told reporters: You know our position  we have to respect our law and our people. We respect the territory which we control.

Trumps strategy is reinforcing fears in Europe that hes unconcerned about delivering a peace that delivers justice to Ukraine after years of war or that defuses critical security threats posed by Russia to US allies in future.

Yet Trump remains perhaps the only world figure with the capacity to force both Russia and Ukraine to the table.

As with all potential peace deals, the prospects for ending the Ukraine war depend on complex details of sequencing, language, enforcement and security guarantees. US, European and Ukrainian negotiators have been diving deep on these issue for weeks. But the core equation hasnt changed: Will Putin accept any deal at a time when hes showing hes willing to fight perhaps indefinitely?

Experience shows that even when Moscow acquiesces to breakthroughs in principle, it often uses exhaustive diplomatic processes to stall and undermine deals. In this case, Putin may seek to keep diplomacy alive to avoid angering Trump even while pushing for battlefield progress.

Trumps other big bet: Gaza

Trump is expected to turn his attention Monday from a war threatening post-World War II European security in Ukraine to solidifying one of the major foreign policy victories of his first year in office  the ceasefire in Gaza.

Netanyahu headed to the US on Sunday with Washington increasingly impatient to press ahead with the critical second phase of the ceasefire deal that ended large-scale fighting between Hamas and Israel in October.

Next steps include the setting up of the Board of Peace that Trump will head to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza after the devastating war triggered by the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. There is so far little obvious progress on standing up the international peace force needed to facilitate another crucial aspect of the peace deal  the disarming of Hamas.

The situation could not be more urgent, as hundreds of thousands of Palestinian civilians bombed out of their homes are living in terrible conditions amid cold weather and heavy rains, many in tents that keep being washed away in floods.

Displaced Palestinians stand outside a tent shelter following heavy rains in the Nuseirat refugee camp, in central Gaza, on December 13. - Eyad Baba/AFP/Getty Images

Displaced Palestinians gather to receive food portions at a charity kitchen in the Nuseirat refugee camp on December 20. - Eyad Baba/AFP/Getty Images

The ceasefire is holding but looks increasingly fragile amid skirmishes between Hamas and Israeli forces. Without substantial progress, it may collapse under its own contradictions and unmet conditions.

There are multiple reports from the Middle East that Trumps negotiating team  including his son-in-law Jared Kushner  as well as US allies in the Gulf are growing frustrated with Netanyahus delays over implementing the ceasefire, after intense US pressure forced him to sign on in the first place. The Israelis, meanwhile, may raise continued concern over Irans ballistic missile programs following the Trump administrations attacks on Tehrans nuclear facilities this year.

Trump is in a strong negotiating position with Netanyahu, since hes popular in Israel and the prime minister will be seeking his support ahead of an expected election next year. As always, Netanyahu is feeling heat from his hard-right governing coalition, but must walk a tightrope with a US president who is impatient for results as he pursues a Nobel Peace Prize.

A new front for America First foreign policy

Trump told Politico last week that hed ordered deadly strikes against ISIS forces in Nigeria deliberately timed to send a message on Christmas Day. US Africa Command said it conducted the strikes in Sokoto state, which borders Niger to the north, in coordination with Nigerian authorities. It assessed that multiple ISIS terrorists were killed.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on social media that there was more to come. Trump had ordered Hegseth in November to prepare plans to attack, warning hed go in guns-a-blazing to protect Christians.

The situation in Nigeria is complex, and analysts say there is evidence that Christians have come under attacks by Islamist groups. But many Nigerian Muslims have also been targeted in a fractious security situation by groups seeking to impose an extreme interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

An image taken from video released by the US Department of Defense shows the strike on what President Donald Trump called "ISIS Terrorist Scum" on December 25. - Dept. of Defense

Some violence is also being driven by criminal and tribal activity. And the Nigerian government may have its own incentives to welcome US action inside its country against its opponents, whether or not it turns out they are affiliated with ISIS.

This complicated mix threatens to undermine Trumps black-and-white presentation of the situation. The fact that US military action is certain to be popular with the Republican evangelical base as Trumps political coalition frays is causing suspicion among his critics. There is no conclusive evidence that Trump is not acting from purely humanitarian motives, even if local reports in Nigeria, including by CNN, uncovered confusion on the ground about targets and questions over whether US action is merely symbolic.

But as with US actions in Venezuela  and with boat strikes against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean and Pacific  the administration has not offered a clear justification for American actions or detailed public briefings about who exactly is being targeted in Nigeria. This only reinforces an impression of a US president acting on a whim or for overtly political reasons while flouting congressional oversight and failing to build domestic political support.

Trumps continued focus on big gambles overseas might seem to undercut the America First focus of many of his voters. But his motives at home and abroad reflect a common goal  the imposition of unchallenged personal power.

This story has been updated with additional information.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with their delegations, meet at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S., December 29, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Erns

U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with their delegations, meet at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S., December 29, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Erns

By Andrea Shalal, Maayan Lubell and Gram Slattery

PALM BEACH, Florida, Dec 29 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States could support another major strike on Iran were it to resume rebuilding its ballistic missile or nuclear weapons programs and warned Hamas of severe consequences if it does not disarm.

Speaking beside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following a meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump suggested Tehran may be working to restore its weapons programs after a massive U.S. strike in June.

"I've been reading that they're building up weapons and other things, and if they are, they're not using the sites we obliterated, but possibly different sites," Trump told reporters during a press conference.

"We know exactly where they're going, what they're doing, and I hope they're not doing it because we don't want to waste fuel on a B-2, he added, referring to the bomber used in the earlier strike. "It's a 37-hour trip both ways. I don't want to waste a lot of fuel."

Trump, who has broached a potential nuclear deal with Tehran in recent months, said his talks with Netanyahu focused on advancing the fragile Gaza peace deal he brokered and addressing Israeli concerns over Iran and over Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Iran, which fought a 12-day war with Israel in June, said last week that it had conducted missile exercises for the second time this month.

Netanyahu said last week that Israel was not seeking a confrontation with Iran, but was aware of the reports, and said he would raise Tehran's activities with Trump.

A SECOND PHASE IN GAZA?

Trump said he wanted to move to the second phase of the ceasefire deal between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas reached in October after two years of fighting in Gaza, a progression that entails international peacekeeping forces deployed in the Palestinian enclave.

Israel and Hamas accuse each other of major breaches of the deal and look no closer to accepting the much more difficult steps envisaged for the next phase. Hamas, which has refused to disarm, has been reasserting its control as Israeli troops remain entrenched in about half the territory.

Israel has indicated that if Hamas is not disarmed peacefully, it will resume military action to make it do so.

During his Monday comments, Trump heaped the blame on the militant group for not disarming more promptly, arguing that Israel had lived up to its side of the deal and warning that Hamas was inviting grave consequences.

"There will be hell to pay," Trump warned when asked what he will do if Hamas does not lay down its arms. He has made similar statements at previous intervals during the fighting.

Netanyahu said this month that Trump had invited him for the talks, as Washington pushes to establish transitional governance for the Palestinian enclave amid Israeli reluctance to move forward.

The deployment of the international security force was mandated by a November 17 U.N. Security Council resolution.

While Washington has brokered three ceasefires involving its longtime ally - between Israel and Hamas, Israel and Iran, and Israel and Lebanon - Netanyahu is wary of Israel's foes rebuilding their forces after they were considerably weakened in multiple wars.

Overall, Trump's comments suggested he remains firmly in Netanyahu's camp, even as some aides have privately questioned the Israeli leader's commitment to the Gaza ceasefire. His comments also suggested he is willing to risk additional hostilities related to Gaza and Iran, even as Trump has taken credit for resolving Israel's wars in both places.

Trump struck a warm tone as he greeted Netanyahu before their meeting, going so far as to say that Israeli President Isaac Herzog had told him he planned to pardon Netanyahu of corruption-related charges - a conversation Herzog's office immediately denied took place.

Netanyahu reciprocated, telling reporters after the meeting that he was gifting Trump the country's Israel Prize, which he said has historically been reserved for Israelis.

NEXT STEPS IN GAZA CEASEFIRE PLAN

Trump's plan to end the Gaza war ultimately calls for Israel to withdraw from the Palestinian territory and Hamas to give up its weapons and forgo a governing role.

The first phase of the ceasefire included a partial Israeli withdrawal, an increase in aid and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian detainees and prisoners.

An Israeli official in Netanyahu's circle said that the prime minister would demand that the first phase of the ceasefire be completed by Hamas returning the remains of the last Israeli hostage left in Gaza, before moving ahead to the next stages. The family of the deceased hostage, Ran Gvili, joined the prime minister's visiting entourage.

Israel has yet to open the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, also a condition of Trump's plan, saying it will only do so once Gvili's remains are returned.

Trump said that he and Netanyahu did not agree fully on the issue of the Israeli-occupied West Bank but the Republican leader did not lay out what the disagreement was.

TURKEY, SYRIA ALSO DISCUSSED

Before the meeting, Trump told reporters he would talk to Netanyahu about the possibility of stationing Turkish peacekeepers in Gaza. That is a fraught subject - while Trump has frequently praised Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Israel and Turkey have a much more circumspect relationship.

While the fighting in Gaza has abated, it has not stopped entirely. Although the ceasefire officially began in October, Israeli strikes have killed more than 400 Palestinians  most of them civilians, according to Gaza health officials  and Palestinian militants have killed three Israeli soldiers.

Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel was keen to ensure a peaceful border with Syria, and Trump said he was sure Israel would get along with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who took power after longtime strongman Bashar al-Assad was deposed last year.

But Israel has been suspicious of the new leader, who was once a member of al-Qaeda, going so far as to bomb government buildings in Damascus this July.

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal in Palm Beach, Maayan Lubell and Steven Scheer in Jerusalem; Additional reporting by Trevor Hunnicut; Writing by Simon Lewis and Gram Slattery; Editing by Aidan Lewis and Howard Goller)
Taiwan reservists train in unmanned aircraft operation as they participate in reserve military training in Ilan County, Eastern Taiwan, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

BEIJING (AP)  China's decision to bring serious firepower to bear for military drills in the waters off Taiwan this week has deep roots  both in the past several weeks and the past several decades.

The island is the most sensitive political subject for China. It has been ever since Taiwan split from the mainland in 1949 after a civil war. Today, though the island governs itself, China claims it as sovereign territory.

China has often held military drills around Taiwan, both around what it considers specific provocations and in general. Here's a look at the context around the latest drills.

How Taiwan came to be governed separately

China was ruled by the Kuomintang, or Nationalists, from 1927 to 1949. When civil war broke out, and Mao Zedongs communists overthrew the Nationalists, they fled to Taiwan, off the coast of southern China.

There, they set up a government, and it evolved into a multiparty democracy that has ruled the island ever since. But the government in Beijing considers it sovereign territory and says it reserves the right to take over if it wishes. Talk of eventual reunification is frequent and fervent.

In the meantime, Taiwan grows more diplomatically isolated with each passing year. The United States stopped recognizing it when Washington and Beijing established relations in 1979, though the U.S. remains obligated to help Taiwan defend itself.

And other nations, under pressure from the Chinese government, have switched allegiances as well. Today, just 11 of the 193 member states of the United Nations  and the Holy See at the Vatican  have full diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

Why Taiwan is so important to China

It's a matter of pride and a matter of strategy.

First, strategy: China has struggled for centuries to maintain control and sovereignty at its edges; that's why the Great Wall was built in the first place centuries ago  to fortify territory against incursions from nomads. It's no coincidence, then, that the modern government's biggest security concerns are typically Taiwan and Hong Kong off its southeastern edge and Xinjiang and Tibet in its distant west.

In Taiwan's case, China's longtime tension with Japan helps fuel this cautiousness, as does uncertainty about exactly how the United States would respond if the island came under direct threat.

Second, pride: Sovereignty and dignity are fundamental pillars of China's self-built political image. The government brooks no international interference in what it considers internal affairs  and that includes Taiwan.

That means any notion, even in passing, that Taiwan is its own nation is expressly forbidden  even when it comes to maps and graphics (China often bristles when they refer to Taiwan as a country) and Taiwan's Olympic team (which is allowed to compete only using the name Chinese Taipei").

Why China would want to hold drills right now

Two main reasons: Japan and the United States.

Last month, Japan's prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, said she wouldn't rule out military intervention if neighboring Taiwan came under direct threat from China. If it involves the use of warships and military actions, it could by all means become a survival-threatening situation, Takaichi said.

Her comments were stronger than those of her predecessors and drew a sharp rebuke from Beijing.

Such remarks are particularly sensitive in light of China and Japan's history. There remains widespread anger and suspicion in China about Japan and its motives, sown generations ago when imperial Japan  which had already colonized Taiwan in 1895  brutally took over parts of China in the years before World War II. Deep scars of that time remain in the collective Chinese psyche, with outrage often whipped up by state-controlled traditional and social media.

Then, last week, U.S. President Donald Trump's State Department announced it would sell a massive package of arms valued at more than $10 billion to Taiwan  including medium-range missiles, howitzers and drones. If it's approved by Congress, which seems likely, it would be the largest-ever U.S. weapons package to Taiwan, exceeding the $8.4 billion in U.S. arms sales to the island under President Joe Biden.

China said the move would harm its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

This cannot save the doomed fate of Taiwan independence but will only accelerate the push of the Taiwan Strait toward a dangerous situation of military confrontation and war," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. Using Taiwan to contain China will not succeed.

___

Ted Anthony has been writing about China for The Associated Press since 1994 and was AP's China news editor from 2002 to 2004.
Collage of a woman speaking, a man in a suit, and police officers saluting.

A resurfaced tirade from a radical activist on Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdanis transition team shows her blasting fellow Bangladeshis for celebrating relatives who join the NYPD  because they could become killers.

Kazi Fouzia, a self-described revolutionary organizer, made the comments in 2020 during a discussion called Whats App: Our Role in Black Liberation Movements. The comments  aimed at Bangladeshis and other South Asian families  came around the time of the Black Lives Matter protests.

Zohran Mamdani transition team member Kazi Fouzia called NYPD relatives killers. Stephen Yang for NY Post

What are you proud for? That your relative would become a killer one day, or brutally beat our people? Fouzi said in the 2020 footage. YouTube/@nonlinear.southasiaart7227

Mamdani previously called the NYPD racist in 2020 but apologized during his mayoral campaign. Matthew McDermott

What are you proud for? That your relative would become a killer one day, or brutally beat our people? said Fouzia, director of organizing at the South Asian immigrant-rights nonprofit group Desis Rising Up and Moving, or DRUM.

Fouzia, whos on Mamdanis transition team for worker justice, said at the time it was a fascinating moment to see South Asian-Americans swelling with pride on Facebook, boasting that a child or other family member joined the NYPD.

Thats your proud, because your relative will be a killer someday? she said.

A video of the comments was recirculated by Stu Smith, an investigative analyst with the conservative-leaning Manhattan Institute.

She now sits on Zohran Mamdanis transition committee for Worker Justice, which is odd given some of her stated views, Smith said of Fouzia.

New Yorks Bangladeshi community and the NYPD are still reeling from the July murder of one of their own, Officer Didarul Islam. James Keivom

[Fouzia] belittles South Asian families who feel proud when their children become NYPD officers, treating that path as inherently shameful. If this is what Worker Justice sounds like, it is less about helping working people and more about policing what they are allowed to aspire to. That kind of determinism is deeply un-American.

The resurfaced video of the anti-cop rant comes as New Yorks Bangladeshi community and the NYPD are still reeling from the July murder of one of their own, Officer Didarul Islam. The Bangladeshi native was shot and killed by a deranged man who entered a Midtown skyscraper.

Mamdani had visited the slain mans family.

Mamdani had visited the slain mans family. NYPD

A leader in the Bangladeshi-American community in New York declined to specifically comment on Fouzias bashing of the NYPD  but stood behind the police.

We are proud. We always support the police, said Mohammad Ali, general secretary of the Bangladeshi American Society. I love the NYPD.

Ali said there are a few bad apples in New Yorks Finest, but the overwhelming majority of officers just want to protect residents of the Big Apple.

There are 3,000 Bangladeshi-Americans employed in law enforcement, including as officers or traffic agents in the NYPD, the corrections department and other uniformed services, Ali estimated.

The Mamdani transition team and Fouzia had no immediate comment.

Mamdani has done his own fence mending with police officers, after referring to the NYPD on June 28, 2020, as racist, anti-queer and a major threat to public safety.

What we need is to #DefundthePolice, the Queens assemblyman said following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

He publicly apologized during the mayoral campaign.

Fouzia is just the latest in Mamdanis orbit to come under fire for outrageous remarks.

Catherine Almonte Da Costa resigned just hours after being named Mamdanis appointments director when decade-old posts on X resurfaced of her rants about money hungry Jews and defunding NYPD piggies.
Jade Warshaw and George Kamel of The Ramsey Show give advice to a woman who has been locked out of her business during a divorce.

When a married couple builds a thriving company together, it can feel like safe, financial security. But one Nashville woman is now living with the opposite.

Joy once earned around $20,000 a month from a manufacturing business she co-owned with her husband. But now, during a bitter divorce, she says shes been completely locked out, reduced to $2,500 a month in support while awaiting legal resolution.

Must Read

On The Ramsey Show, Joy described how her husband allegedly shut her out of the business after she left following claims of abuse and control. She recounted that He just started taking over everything, then accused her of embezzlement and blocked her access to bank accounts, payroll and building entry (1).

Though the company remains a 50/50 LLC on paper, Joy no longer receives pay and has no operational control; she says she cant even get unemployment.

Situations like Joy's are more common than you might think. Heres what the Ramsey hosts had to Joy, and what others who share a business with their spouse can do to protect themselves.

Ramsey Show hosts say to get a good lawyer

The Ramsey hosts didnt mince words about Joys situation. After hearing she was a 50% owner who had been locked out of the business and left with just $2,500 a month, they told her the immediate problem wasnt only budgeting, it was representation. Your attorney sucks, host Jade Warshaw said. If this is the status quo, you need somebody else.

They urged Joy to push harder for temporary financial protections rather than wait months for mediation. Because her income has disappeared while fixed expenses remain, the hosts said she needs a lawyer who will advocate for interim orders, challenge her exclusion from company operations or pay, and fight delays that leave her financially exposed. As Warshaw put it, Joy should have an attorney that understands that youre the one with the upper hand, not him.

The hosts also stressed short-term survival: covering essentials, generating side income and preventing further financial erosion. But they made clear that no amount of budgeting will resolve the deeper issue. As George Kamel asked, If youre 50/50, you have just as much power as he has. So why is he holding all the cards? Their advice underscores the broader lesson for high earners: when business and marriage mix, securing strong legal guidance early can be as critical as any financial plan.

When marriage and business collides

The hosts warnings point to a larger issue that affects many couples who build companies together: when your income is tied to both your spouse and your business structure, a breakup can quickly turn into a financial crisis.

Experts note the sheer necessity of planning for a worst-case scenario. And as Mills Family Law warns, particularly, "The breakup of a marriage or common-law relationship can have serious implications for a high-net-worth business. (2) Without legal agreements governing what happens in a breakup (such as a prenuptial agreement, buy-sell agreement or operating agreement specifying controls and exit terms), one partner may end up with unilateral control simply by changing the day-to-day dynamics.

The crucial lesson: treat a jointly owned business as a business, not just a marital asset. That means working with a lawyer to put legal safeguards in place from the very start.

Protective strategies often include:

A formal operating agreement or shareholder agreement that defines decision-making authority, ownership rights and what happens in the event of separation or divorce

A buy-sell agreement outlining how ownership is to be handled if a spouse exits or becomes incapacitated

Separate business and personal finances, and documentation of consistent compensation rather than reinvestment of all profits

In some states, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements can further clarify these terms. Such agreements cant guarantee outcomes, especially in contested divorces or abuse settings, but they do provide clear documentation that can help courts preserve fairness.

Read More: This $1B private real estate fund is now accessible to non-millionaires. Heres how you can get started with as little as $10

How does leaving due to abuse factor in?

While leaving because of alleged abuse alone doesn't automatically transfer business ownership or management to the other spouse, the outcome depends heavily on the businesss legal structure (LLC, partnership, corporation), state law and whether courts issue protective or asset-freezing orders.

In many cases, courts treat businesses as marital property until the divorce is resolved and may delay major business decisions until assets are equitably divided.

That said, U.S. family courts can order a one-sided shift of business control (via a court-appointed receiver) when a marital business is at risk, even before final divorce resolution. For example, as Ladd Hirsch of Diamond McCarthy LLP points out, if one spouse Is wrongfully taking assets of the business, e.g., directing the business to pay personal expenses. (3)

Likewise, the Michigan Bar Journal states, "In divorce actions, receivers can be appointed to preserve marital property pending a property division, particularly when a family business is involved and management or control of the business is unclear. (4)

Joys situation shows how vulnerable high earners can become when a shared business and a marriage unravel at the same time. For many, getting guidance from a qualified professional before problems arise is the most reliable way to protect yourself if your personal and business worlds ever collide.

What To Read Next

Join 200,000+ readers and get Moneywises best stories and exclusive interviews first  clear insights curated and delivered weekly. Subscribe now.

Article sources

We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines.

The Ramsey Show Highlights (1); Mills Family Law (2); Diamond McCarthy (3); Michigan Bar Journal (4)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
GoFundMe Elleshia Anne Seymour and Kendall Seymour with their kids

NEED TO KNOW

Elleshia Anne Seymour has been accused of abducting her children, who are between the ages of 3 and 11

She allegedly said she took them due to end times coming

One of their fathers, Kendall Seymour, created a GoFundMe to raise money to pick up the kids wherever they are found and for their therapy because of this traumatic experience

A Utah mother of four has been accused of abducting her children allegedly because she feared that "end times" were coming.

Elleshia Anne Seymour, 35, has been charged with four counts of custodial interference and removing a child from the state after allegedly abducting her four children and fleeing to Europe, according to ABC4 Utah.

GoFundMe Kendall Seymour with his kids

Court documents reviewed by ABC4 revealed that officers with the West Jordan Police Department arrived at a residence belonging to Elleshia for a welfare check on Dec. 2, and found it unlocked and unoccupied.

Officials have been unable to contact the mother, and she also hasn't answered phone calls from a co-worker and a friend since Nov. 29, which is the day the alleged abduction occurred.

An endangered and missing advisory was issued by the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) on Dec. 10 for the children, who are between the ages of 3 and 11.

ABC4 previously identified the children as 11-year-old Landon Seymour, 8-year-old Levi Parker Seymour, 7-year-old Hazel Raye Seymour and 3-year-old Jacob Kurt Brady.

DPS said, per the outlet, that it is unknown what the children were last seen wearing or where they were last seen. The advisory named Elleshia as the alleged abductor, identifying her as a white female who is 5 feet 3 inches and 121 lbs. with hazel eyes and brown hair.

During the investigation, officials found a notebook in the mothers residence with plans to get rid of documents and phones, as well as take passports, according to ABC4. She was said to have left a voicemail for one of the two fathers, in which she claimed to be in France with the kids.

Elleshia, who shares custody with the fathers, allegedly said she was looking for a permanent residence and took the kids because she feared "end times" were coming, according to police.

gofundme Kendall Seymour (left)

Officials determined neither of the fathers were aware of Elleshia's plans. They also determined that she appears to have no intention of returning to the United States and has broken her court-ordered custody agreement.

DPS said Elleshia's vehicle was left in a parking lot at the Salt Lake City International Airport. Airport video footage later reviewed by ABC4 showed the mother boarding an international flight with her four kids on Nov. 29. The one-way flight included a stop in Amsterdam before arriving to Croatia.

Kendall Seymour, the father of three of the kids, created a GoFundMe that has raise more than $12,000 so far. In the description, he alleged that his kids "have been abducted overseas by their mother" and he didn't learn that they were missing until Dec. 2.

Kendall also wrote on GoFundMe that he was advised by someone to pick up the children "wherever they are found" in order to "minimize the trauma."

"If we can be there to get them ASAP after mom is arrested, they will feel safer and will not suffer as much wondering what is going to happen to them, to their mom, and to their future," the father wrote, before expressing optimism in the search efforts.

Kendall said the funds will go toward flights as well as a potential hotel stay. He said they "don't know yet who will pick up the fourth child."

Additional funds, the father wrote, "will go toward therapy needed because of this traumatic experience."

"My genuine hope is that the kids are found quickly, and we can pick them up while they still think they're on a vacation," he concluded.

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.

Kendall told KSLTV that he was previously unaware of his exs beliefs but recently discovered concerning videos on her social media.

"I didnt know about any of these ideas of hers until a couple of weeks ago when someone found her TikTok account  She thinks Salt Lake is going to be destroyed and she is trying to get the kids to safety. My only hope is that she is motivated to protect them," he said. "There were no signs of that when we were married or divorced in the last five years."

ABC4 reported that the West Jordan Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are working on the case.

PEOPLE reached out to the West Jordan Police Department and Utah Department of Public Safety for information on Dec. 28, but did not receive immediate responses.



Read the original article on People
by Sumon Corraya

This is the alarm raised by activists from the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (Bhbcuc). At least 73 incidents triggered by accusations of religious offence. In addition to killings, there have been murders, rapes, arson attacks on places of worship, misappropriation of land and forced displacement. Ahead of the vote, the student party is allying itself with Islamic radicals.

Dhaka (AsiaNews) - Religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh are experiencing a serious crisis amid growing violence and insecurity, with 90 members of the community murdered or killed in mysterious circumstances in the first eleven months of the year.

These alarming figures were presented at a round table entitled Human rights of minorities: current reality and expectations, organised by the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (Bhbcuc) in Dhaka on 27 December.

The meeting, chaired by the president of the interfaith organisation, Catholic Nirmol Rozario, revealed that in the period following the student uprising and the ousting of the government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, there were 2,673 incidents of violence against minorities.

In a trend that analysts and activists describe as deeply worrying, at least 73 incidents of violence in 2025 were triggered by accusations of religious offence.

A brutal case in December highlights the gravity of the situation: Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old Hindu textile worker and father from Mymensingh, was dragged by a crowd of 140-150 people, brutally beaten and killed.

The attack followed a false accusation that he had made derogatory comments during an event organised by the factory on World Arabic Language Day on 18 December.

Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, a prominent economist and civic leader, issued a stern warning during the interfaith meeting, stating that the evident trend towards religious division politics threatens to weaken Bangladesh's sovereignty, social fabric, economy and international standing.

He also highlighted a dangerous ripple effect, noting that atrocities against minorities in India, such as the recent attacks on Christians during Christmas, encourage community groups within Bangladesh.

Manindra Kumar Nath, acting secretary general of the Bhbcuc, presented a harrowing list of crimes suffered by minorities, including murder, rape, arson of places of worship, land grabbing and forced displacement.

The religious leader then blamed the so-called culture of impunity that seems to encourage perpetrators to carry out their criminal actions.

Expressing deep disappointment, Buddhist leader Bhikkhu Sunandapriya said that persecution has increased rather than decreased, even during the term of the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

In this regard, he pointed to the ease with which accusations of religious offence can be used as a tool of persecution. At the end of the dialogue, Catholic Nirmol Rozario called on all political parties to include specific and achievable promises in their election manifestos to guarantee the rights and safety of minority communities. He also urged the government to ensure the protection of minorities during the upcoming national elections in February.

Meanwhile, over the weekend, the pro-student party born out of the protest movement that overthrew Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina formalised an electoral alliance with the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party ahead of the February parliamentary elections.

This decision has already sparked controversy and internal friction, fuelling divisions within the party over a decision that risks distorting its soul. Since last year's uprising that led to the overthrow of the government, the National Citizen Party (NCP) has established itself as a centrist and reformist alternative, opposed to nepotism and bipartisanship. With the election approaching, however, and in order to capitalise on support, it seems inclined to join forces with the extremist and radical fringe.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Japan is looking to the region with projects worth billion over five years. The Land of the Rising Sun's soft power policy in the area is strengthening. For Central Asians, the Japanese are very reliable partners focused on practical results. Key elements include human capital development, training and administrative programmes, technological standards and high-quality projects.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - On 20 December, the first Central Asia-Japan summit concluded in Tokyo, with the participation of the five presidents of the Central Asian region, who approved a joint declaration indicating the three priorities for future collaboration: sustainable ecology, communication and human resource development.

Japan has expressed its intention to implement commercial projects in Central Asia worth 3 trillion yen, approximately 20 billion dollars, over the next five years.

As several experts have commented, Japan has been exercising soft power in Central Asia for over 30 years, since the end of the Soviet Union, through humanitarian, cultural and economic means.

However, the recent high-level meeting marks a turning point, demonstrating how Tokyo is seeking to strengthen its presence in a region that is becoming increasingly important in the global geopolitical balance, offering a more articulated and in-depth model of collaboration.

It remains to be seen how much the Japanese will be able to insert themselves into the power games in Central Asia, considering the fierce competition already underway between Russia and China, and behind them with America and Europe, as a report by Deutsche Welle also points out.

The strategic significance of the latest summit is evident in its institutional nature, according to Professor Timur Dadabaev, chair of international relations at the University of Tsukuba in Japan.

He recalls that Japan was a pioneer in this direction, one of the first countries to use the Silk Road diplomacy formula, and in fact the Central Asia-Japan format was inaugurated in 2004, anticipating the many 5+1 summits that Central Asians have since developed with many other global partners.

Now, from a simple diplomatic mechanism, the meeting has taken on a strategic dimension across the board.

For Central Asia, this means a great expansion of room for manoeuvre and a strengthening of multivectorality, the founding principle of these countries' politics. For Japan, this opens up the possibility of strengthening its long-term presence in the region, focusing on sustainable transport chains, energy transition, critical resources and human capital.

Central Asians have a very positive opinion of the Japanese, whom they consider very reliable and results-oriented partners, as noted by Mark Sariev, an expert on regional security in Kyrgyzstan.

In his opinion, Japanese volunteers working in our countries demonstrate a high level of cultural adaptability, quickly learning the Kyrgyz language and our traditions, and even playing our national instruments.

This evokes deep feelings in Kyrgyz society, and it can be said that there are no anti-Japanese sentiments in our country; on the contrary, public opinion is oriented towards further intensification of cooperation, explains Sariev.

Timur Dadabaev also confirms that Japanese soft power is not based on ideological pressure, but on long-term investments in people, knowledge and institutional practices.

The key elements are human capital development, training and administrative programmes, technological standards and high-quality projects.

Another expert from Tajikistan, Sobir Kurbanov, believes that the Japanese are mainly interested in rare earths, as are the Europeans and Americans, creating significant competition in the region between all the major international players.

According to commentators, however, Japan is trying to act without causing tension and conflict, but in harmony and close relations, particularly with the European Union, in order to implement the most important plans for all partners, such as sustainable transport infrastructure, green energy and other development prospects.
Champion local news.

Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told.
29 December 2025 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Assistive technologies (AT) are increasingly recognized as essential tools for improving quality of life, enhancing workforce participation, and promoting social inclusion. These technologies range from low-tech solutions like communication boards to high-tech devices, such as prosthetics, specialized computers, and adaptive software. They help people overcome challenges related to mobility, communication, vision, hearing, cognition, and daily self-care activities.

In an interview with Azernews, Turana Aliyeva, National Professional Officer for Disability Rehabilitation and the Assistive Technology Program at the World Health Organization, emphasized the central goal of these initiatives: Our main purpose and goal is to make health services accessible for all, not only for people with disabilities, but for everyone who may need assistive technology. Currently, our program is focusing on strengthening access to assistive technology for all categories of people who might need it.

Recent initiatives in Azerbaijan highlight how AT is being integrated into professional health and social care training. On 1516 December, a two-day hybrid workshop was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, and TABIB, with technical support from the WHO Regional Office for Europe Assistive Technology team and AT Scale. This workshop brought together stakeholders from ministries, universities, and educational institutions to discuss strategies for integrating AT into professional curricula.

Aliyeva noted the urgency of these efforts: Why it's important for us? Because the need for assistive technology is growing. The population in need is increasing, and there may be a shortage of health workforce to meet these needs. Our intention is to prepare doctors and social care workers to serve people who need assistive technology. The workshop also addressed available resources, barriers to integration, and potential solutions, resulting in a draft national action plan to implement AT education for healthcare and social care professionals.

The importance of building capacity in assistive technology extends beyond individual health outcomes. As the population ages and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases rises, the demand for assistive products such as glasses, hearing aids, and mobility aids increases. Improving the knowledge and skills of primary healthcare professionals ensures these products are integrated into routine health services, supporting equitable access for all. Aliyeva explained: We conducted trainings on assistive products in Shamakhi and Barda using the Assistive Technology course on WHOs Learning on TAP platform. It aims to strengthen human resource capacity by increasing knowledge and skills of primary healthcare professionals on assistive products, as well as developing skills in assessing the need for assistive products and appropriate referral.

The integration of assistive technology also has significant implications for workforce development and economic participation. By enabling people with disabilities or functional limitations to engage in professional life, AT expands human capital and strengthens inclusive labor markets. This is particularly crucial for countries seeking to address both aging populations and the growing prevalence of health conditions that affect functional ability.

Aliyeva concluded with a message of optimism for future implementation: We are very hopeful that we started talking about this, and Im hopeful that we will start implementing the integration of assistive technology into the professional training of doctors and social care workers.

Through coordinated efforts among governments, educational institutions, and international organizations like WHO, assistive technologies can be effectively mainstreamed into health and social systems. This approach not only improves individual autonomy but also contributes to societal productivity, inclusion, and the development of human capital.
29 December 2025 13:45 (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.

In 2025, Azerbaijans remittance sector is undergoing a noticeable shift. Historically, the bulk of remittances has originated from post-Soviet countries and Turkiye, with Russia maintaining the largest share. According to the Central Bank, Russia contributed $344 million in the first nine months of 2025, followed by Turkiye with $140 million and the United States with around $74 million. These figures illustrate Azerbaijans long-standing reliance on traditional sources.

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!
29 December 2025 14:37 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Uzbekneftegaz JSC and SOCAR have discussed the progress of geological exploration activities being carried out in the investment blocks of the Ustyurt region under a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA).

As reported by Azernews, citing Uzbekneftegaz, the issue was addressed during a business meeting between Akmal Saginov, Chairman of the Management Board of Uzbekneftegaz, and Arzu Javadova, Vice President of SOCAR.

The parties also reviewed the next implementation phase of the hydrocarbon production project.

The management of both companies positively assessed the results achieved so far within the framework of the joint project, noting that key objectives are being fulfilled on schedule.

It was reported that, as part of seismic exploration activities, modern technologies are being applied on a large scale in the region for the first time. Some of the solutions in use are unique to the Ustyurt area. This approach is accelerating geological exploration, improving the quality and accuracy of geophysical data, and contributing to the introduction of advanced technologies and standards in Uzbekistans oil and gas industry.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the sides agreed to coordinate and plan the projects next stages to ensure the effective implementation of upcoming activities.
29 December 2025 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Within "Time of Classical Music" project, a concert-conference titled "Shainsky-100" has taken place in the Small Hall of the Baku Music Academy (BMA), Azernews reports.

The event was timed to the anniversary of the distinguished alumnus of the Azerbaijan State Conservatory, the bright and original composer and songwriter Vladimir Shainsky.

At the opening, Alena Inyakina, PhD in Art History and senior lecturer at the Baku Music Academy and artistic director of the project, noted that Vladimir Shainsky is a composer whose music created a unique world of childhoodcolorful, full of warmth, kindness, and vivid emotions. His songs have been familiar to generations from an early age, and his work is closely connected to Azerbaijan, as he was a student of the class of the outstanding Azerbaijani composer Gara Garayev.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the composer, a vibrant program was prepared, featuring songs, dances, and a theatrical performance. The audience enjoyed beloved childhood songs and musical compositions by Vladimir Shainsky and his teacher Gara Garayev, performed by young artists: Khajar Asadullayeva from the BMA school-studio, Anna and Vera Yurinykh from the Bulbul Specialized Music School, Esma and Khusni Mammadli from the Arts Gymnasium under the National Conservatory, BMA accompanist Arzu Safarova, BMA graduate Aminat Ahmadova, and Ayla and Nuray Aliyev.

A theatrical performance inspired by cartoons set to Shainsky's music was presented by the Gunay Children's Theaterunder the direction of Larisa Tarusova. Colorful dance numbers to Shainsky's music were performed by students of the Beat Street Dance Studio, led by Safiya Bagautdinova.

Students of the History-Theory Faculty, including Pakiza Mustafazade, Aminakhanum Mammadova, Ragima Gamidova, Ayan Imanli, Guljan Ahmadova, Khanum Gojayeva, Valida Hajiyeva, Leyla Salimova, and Sevda Movsumlu shared interesting facts about the life and work of the celebrated composer with the audience.

The event took place in a festive atmosphere, with the audience joining the performers in singing Shainskys familiar childhood songs.

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.
29 December 2025 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

A scientific-practical conference on "The Founder of Azerbaijani Petrochemistry: Yusif Mammadaliyev," dedicated to the 120th anniversary of Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev, has taken place at the Heydar Aliyev Center in Shaki city, Azernews reports.

The conference was organized jointly by the Shaki City Executive Power, the city's Heydar Aliyev Center, and the Shaki Regional Scientific Center. Speaking at the event, Deputy Head of the Shaki City Executive Power  Head of the Department of Public-Political and Humanitarian Affairs, Khayala Tohrabli, provided extensive information about the life and work of the prominent scientist Yusif Mammadaliyev and his rich contributions to world science.

The Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev made outstanding contributions to the development of technological processes of great applied significance for producing valuable industrial products. The establishment of several scientific institutions and organizations in the country is associated with his name.

Pursuing a wide range of fundamental research alongside effective pedagogical work, Yusif Mammadaliyev founded the Azerbaijani school of petrochemistry, which became widely recognized far beyond the country's borders.

In accordance with the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, on celebrating the 120th anniversary of academician Yusif Mammadaliyev, various events dedicated to the prominent scientists jubilee have been held this year in Azerbaijan, including in Shaki.

At the conference, presentations were also delivered by Yusif Shukurlu, Director of the Shaki Regional Scientific Center of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, PhD in Physics and Associate Professor, on "The Azerbaijani Scientist Who Changed the Fate of the Fight Against German Fascism  Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev" and by Vafa Atayeva, Scientific Secretary of the Regional Scientific Center, on "Yusif Mammadaliyev's Role in Oil and Gas Chemistry and Technology."

The conference concluded with the screening of a documentary film about the life and work of Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev.
29 December 2025 11:25 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

For the first time, a holiday concert program was organized exclusively for representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Azernews reports.

On December 28, 2025, the concert titled "Oh, Homeland!" was held at the International Mugham Center in celebration of the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year. The event was organized by the "Culture That Unites Us" Public Association, with the support of the State Agency for Support to NGOs and in partnership with the International Mugham Center. Notably, this marked the first festive concert prepared by an NGO specifically for NGO representatives.

The concert featured performances by Honored Artist Ramil Gasimov, a distinguished vocalist and Chairman of the "Culture That Unites Us" Public Association. He was accompanied on piano by Peoples Artist and Professor Siyavush Karimi, renowned jazz musician and Honored Artist Emil Afrasiyab, and young performers Riyad Guliyev, Soltan Aliyev, and Tofiq Shikhiyev.

The classical music evening showcased works by prominent Azerbaijani composers including Uzeyir Hajibeyli, Jahangir Jahangirov, Ogtay Kazimi, Rauf Hajiyev, and Elza Ibrahimova, as well as songs based on poems by celebrated poets such as Mikayil Mushfig, Suleyman Rustam, Fikrat Goja, Islam Safarli, and Zeynal Jabbarzadeh.

Special musical pieces were dedicated to Imadaddin Nasimi, the world-renowned Azerbaijani philosopher-poet whose works have been declared a national treasure. Widely revered among Iraqi and Syrian Turkmens and known for his "Iraq Divan," Nasimi was executed in Aleppo. Ramil Gasimov, who performs the lead role in the opera "Nasimi" (music by Siyavush Karimi, libretto by Academician Rafael Huseynov), presented an excerpt from the opera. Gasimov also announced that in 2026, the "Culture That Unites Us" Public Association will introduce a new musical work dedicated to Turkmen heritage.

The concert program also paid tribute to the poetic legacy of Mahsati Ganjavi, another eminent figure whose works are recognized as part of Azerbaijans national heritage. An excerpt from the opera "Mahsati" (music by Pika Akhundova, libretto by Leyla Gadirzade) was performed, with the composer Pika Akhundova herself accompanying the performance on piano.

More than 300 NGO representatives attended the concert. Throughout the evening, the performances by Ramil Gasimov and his fellow artists were met with enthusiastic applause. All performances were delivered entirely live and acoustically, without the use of microphones.

The State Agency for Support to NGOs reaffirmed that it will continue to support and partner with significant initiatives such as this exemplary project by the "Culture That Unites Us" Public Association.
29 December 2025 11:47 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Anar Guliyev, held a cordial meeting with UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, Vladanka Andreeva, on the occasion of the conclusion of her diplomatic mission in the country, Azernews reports.

The meeting focused on an exchange of views regarding cooperation between the Government of Azerbaijan and the United Nations within the framework of the 20262030 Cooperation Framework for Sustainable Development.

It was noted that the framework document serves as an important foundation for a forward-looking partnership aligned with Azerbaijans National Priorities, particularly contributing to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goal on "Sustainable Cities and Communities."

Anar Guliyev expressed his appreciation to Vladanka Andreeva for her personal engagement and constructive partnership during her tenure as Resident Coordinator. Special emphasis was placed on the effective and substantive dialogue surrounding the organization of National Urban Forums in Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur, as well as cooperation in preparation for the 13th World Urban Forum.
29 December 2025 15:00 (UTC+04:00)

On December 28, an exhibition titled 10 Years Lived in Colors was held at the Turkic World Painting Gallery, located in the Eco-Park area of the Zir Cultural Center. Organized on the occasion of the centers 10th anniversary, the exhibition showcased handcrafted works created by student-artists aged 630 and the teaching staff, using a variety of colorful artistic techniques.

Azernews reports that Arzu Aliyeva, head of the Baku Media Center, and Alena Aliyeva attended the exhibition.

Arzu Aliyeva and Alena Aliyeva got acquainted with the centers activities, viewed the exhibited works, and took photos with guests and participants of the exhibition.

The works of young artists - covering painting, sculpture, wood burning, quilling art, batik, ebru, alcohol ink, graphics, wood art, mixed media art, and other decorative-applied arts - were met with great interest.

The event was opened by Leman Aliyeva, on behalf of the management of the Zir Cultural Center, who provided detailed information about the centers activities and the exhibition. Afterwards, Mazahir Rustamov, head of the Art Studio, spoke about the studios 10-year development journey, its achievements, and the creative successes of young artists.

The honorary guest of the exhibition, Peoples Artist Omr Eldarov, congratulated the participants, praised their creative work, and wished them success in their future endeavors.

The event continued with a fashion exhibition at the Eco-Parks fashion studio, showcasing traditional Azerbaijani national costumes as well as modern garments featuring paintings and other handcrafted designs.

At the end, the performance of the White Flower dance added special aesthetic beauty and color to the event.

To conclude the celebration, in honor of the Zir Cultural Centers 10th anniversary, the Eco-Park staff and student-artists cut a cake together and commemorated the memorable day with photos.
29 December 2025 15:17 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The recognition of the Somaliland region of Somalia runs counter to international law, Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry said in a statement addressing recent developments in Somalia, Azernews reports.

According to the ministry, Azerbaijan once again reaffirmed its full support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Somalia within its internationally recognized borders.

The recognition of the Somaliland region of Somalia is contrary to the norms and principles of international law and the UN Charter. Azerbaijan has experienced painful experience of foreign military occupation and separatism on its territory, contrary to international law. Guided by these principles and its own experience, Azerbaijan remains firmly committed to preserving the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states and calls on the international community to act responsibly and in full accordance with the norms of international law, the statement said.

The ministry emphasized that respect for international law and established borders remains a fundamental principle of Azerbaijans foreign policy.
29 December 2025 15:57 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held a telephone conversation with his Georgian counterpart Maka Botchorishvili, during which the sides discussed the export of Azerbaijani oil products to Armenia through Georgian territory, Azernews reports.

According to a statement released by Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry, the ministers reviewed the current state and future prospects of the friendly and strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Georgia. They emphasized that sustained political dialogue at the highest levels, along with frequent mutual visits, has played a key role in further strengthening bilateral relations. The importance of expanding high-level political contacts in the coming year was also underlined.

The conversation focused on regional trade and communication issues, with both sides welcoming ongoing efforts in this direction. The ministers expressed satisfaction with the agreement reached on the tariff issue related to the export of Azerbaijani oil products to Armenia via Georgia, stressing the need to continue coordinated work. Bayramov conveyed his gratitude to the Georgian leadership for the prompt resolution of the matter.

The sides also exchanged views on other bilateral and regional issues. Concluding the call, the ministers extended their congratulations on the upcoming New Year and voiced confidence that Azerbaijan-Georgia relations will further deepen in the year ahead.
29 December 2025 16:39 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan has issued a strong warning to citizens regarding participation in armed conflicts abroad, including the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, Azernews reports.

In a statement, the office noted that investigations and media reports have confirmed cases of Azerbaijani citizens engaging in military operations in foreign conflicts:

"We regret to note that as a result of these battles, there are our citizens who have died, been seriously injured, and also taken prisoner. We declare that Azerbaijan, considering the life, security, and ensuring the rights and freedoms of its citizens as the supreme goal and duty of the state, demonstrates a firm and uncompromising position based on the principle of inevitability of legal responsibility in relation to every person who acts contrary to the law and violates the rules of law."

The statement emphasized that participation in armed conflicts abroad is a serious crime under Azerbaijani law and international conventions. Activities such as mercenary work or joining armed formations not recognized by Azerbaijani legislation are punishable by imprisonment from 8 to 20 years, or in particularly severe cases, life imprisonment.

"It is brought to the attention of our citizens that participation in armed formations not provided for by the legislation of Azerbaijan, regardless of any ideological, material, personal or other interest, is considered a crime."

The Prosecutor General's Office confirmed that criminal cases have already been initiated against some citizens, with preliminary investigations completed in certain cases and long-term sentences issued for those proven guilty. Other investigations are ongoing.

The statement concluded with a call for vigilance and compliance with national laws:

"The duty of an Azerbaijani citizen is to obey the laws of your state and defend your homeland. No material interest can be more important than your life, freedom and future. Refraining from illegal activities and upholding national interests is the moral and legal responsibility of each of us. We call on our citizens to be vigilant, not to obey illegal calls and to respect the laws of our state."
29 December 2025 18:43 (UTC+04:00)

President of the State of Palestine, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, Mahmoud Abbas, sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports.

"His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Dear Mr. President.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the occasion of your birthday, and wish Your Excellency long life, happiness, and continued success.

I would also like to congratulate you on New Year 2026. I pray to Almighty Allah that the New Year and the upcoming years will bring happiness, abundance, peace, and success to you, your people, and all nations.

Please accept, Your Excellency, my fraternal greetings.

Sincerely,

Mahmoud Abbas

President of the State of Palestine,

Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization," the letter reads.
29 December 2025 11:04 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Russias Sputnik news agency has released a New Year video portraying President Vladimir Putin as Santa Claus handing out symbolic gifts to world leaders, drawing wide attention for its political messaging, Azernews reports.

The video opens with Putin dressed as Santa Claus, carrying a sack of presents as an instrumental version of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" plays. Among the first scenes, former U.S. President Donald Trump is shown smiling as he unwraps a framed photograph of himself with Putin from their widely criticized summit in Alaska earlier this year.

In the animated clip, Chinese President Xi Jinping receives Christmas ornaments shaped like the ruble and yuan. As the ornaments are hung on a Christmas tree, a dollar-shaped decoration is shown falling and shattering. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is depicted receiving a figurine of a Russian stealth fighter jet, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is shown holding a snow globe featuring the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is presented with a DJ set playing a message calling for peace, while North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is shown receiving a sword accompanied by a note reading "From Russia, with gratitude." Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is depicted holding a gift card for Russias state-owned energy company Gazprom.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is portrayed receiving handcuffs and is later shown behind bars, a scene that has drawn particular criticism.

The release of the video comes amid Russias continued escalation of the war in Ukraine and follows recent statements by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff that Moscow is "fully committed" to achieving peace.
A glimpse of chocolate museum in Tianjin

Xinhua) 09:14, December 29, 2025

Tourists visit a chocolate museum in Tianjin, north China, Dec. 28, 2025. A chocolate museum has officially opened to the public in Tianjin. The museum displays more than 20 sets of handmade chocolate sculptures, with a total chocolate usage of nearly 10 tonnes. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

Tourists visit a chocolate museum in Tianjin, north China, Dec. 28, 2025. A chocolate museum has officially opened to the public in Tianjin. The museum displays more than 20 sets of handmade chocolate sculptures, with a total chocolate usage of nearly 10 tonnes. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

Tourists visit a chocolate museum in Tianjin, north China, Dec. 28, 2025. A chocolate museum has officially opened to the public in Tianjin. The museum displays more than 20 sets of handmade chocolate sculptures, with a total chocolate usage of nearly 10 tonnes. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

This photo shows a chocolate museum in Tianjin, north China, Dec. 28, 2025. A chocolate museum has officially opened to the public in Tianjin. The museum displays more than 20 sets of handmade chocolate sculptures, with a total chocolate usage of nearly 10 tonnes. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

Tourists visit a chocolate museum in Tianjin, north China, Dec. 28, 2025. A chocolate museum has officially opened to the public in Tianjin. The museum displays more than 20 sets of handmade chocolate sculptures, with a total chocolate usage of nearly 10 tonnes. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Frightening CCP infiltration of the U.S. at all-time high By Rachel Alexander

web posted December 28, 2025 Everyone complains about the Communist Party of China (CCP), but we all buy their products with this impression that China has become more of a free market country, resulting in a disconnect from the reality of the horrors of the CCP. The CCP is harvesting tens of thousands of organs from dissidents while they are alive in prison, almost always resulting in their deaths. One dissident who recently escaped China after two years in prison merely for practicing his religion (the CCP is atheist and mostly bans religion), told me every week his blood was taken in order to determine if he would be a suitable organ donor. While China implemented economic reforms beginning in 1978, allowing some private enterprise, the political system retains communist ideology and one-party rule  at best a socialist market economy. Under dictator Xi Jinping, controls have tightened, with increased censorship, surveillance and repression of dissent. But it doesn't just end in China. The CCP is increasingly infiltrating the U.S. with political warfare and influence operations, as exposed in a 2024 report from the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability. Chairman James Comer (R-KY-01) said the CCP identified the U.S. as its main enemy, since the communists view the U.S. as a threat to their "authoritarian grip." The CCP is conducting espionage and intellectual property theft in the U.S, with economic espionage from the CCP  80 percent of economic espionage  costing the U.S. hundreds of billions of dollars annually. The CCP is stealing trade secrets, military technology and research. The CCP uses overseas Chinese associations, sister-city programs and student groups like the Chinese Students and Scholars Associations to monitor dissidents, promote CCP narratives and build influence. They harass and threaten Falun Gong practitioners, including their internationally renowned Shen Yun dance and music troupe. Operatives call in bomb threats to Shen Yun's performances, and threaten national governments and venues, resulting in some of them caving and refusing to host Shen Yun. Shen Yun's breathtaking performances showcase the beauty of Chinese culture and history, but also cover abuses by the CCP. Two agents affiliated with the CCP attempted to bribe IRS agents with $50,000 to investigate Shen Yun, but the plot was foiled and they were prosecuted and sentenced . Lawsuits were filed against Shen Yun, making up stories like utilizing child labor and failing to use doctors, but they were baseless and got nowhere. Over 750 current and former Shen Yun artists and production staff members, including almost all current performers and staff, signed a petition condemning the media attacks. Falun Gong, which supporters believe has almost 100 million participants worldwide, is a spiritual practice that emerged in the 1990s, combining elements of traditional Chinese qigong, meditation and moral teachings drawn from Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian traditions. While it's not much different than the spiritual practices associated with yoga, and its adherents believe in a higher being, the CCP has falsely portrayed it as a cult to hurt its reputation. Falun Gong is actually the opposite of a cult, because it has a decentralized, loose structure with no formal membership, fees, temples, rituals or rigid hierarchy. Practitioners have a positive view of other religions, viewing them as historically valuable but with concern that some have become secularized. CCP agents are purchasing land near military bases and infiltrating port entries. They plant stories in the mainstream media and threaten U.S. reporters. Mike Forsythe of Bloomberg News had his investigation killed , Bloomberg fired him, and his wife Leta Hong Fincher was pressured to stay silent. Reporters in China are sentenced to prison for as long as 10 years. Agents affiliated with the CCP pay protesters to cause division, including disrupting Falun Gong parades, protesting against Israel and creating conflict over illegal immigration policies. Whistleblower notes from a June internal CITIC report revealed that the CCP pushed its agents to "take advantage of the U.S. election and the conflicts between the two parties." Agents pay social media influencers to spread disinformation and create anonymous accounts. The CCP goes after all dissenters and religions. Since Falun Gong practitioners abstain from tobacco and alcohol, they are considered ideal organ harvesting candidates. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ-04), co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), said the average age of those executed and immediately harvested is 28. Christians are only allowed to worship in state-sanctioned churches that promote the CCP, so they meet in illegal underground homes. Smith said that while they represent a "smaller portion" of harvesting victims, due to their healthier lifestyles and fewer Falun Gong left to harvest from, Christians could become increasingly targeted. The Tuidang Center for Quitting the Chinese Communist Party tracks how many Chinese have left the CCP and its affiliated organizations. It states that there are now over 456 million deserters. There is a perception that China is going to surpass the U.S. in influence and power because of its ruthless saturation of the U.S. market with cheap goods. But it's an illusion. China undercuts U.S. market competition by treating its workers like slaves and forcing unpaid labor on prisoners, not through legitimate means. One dissident told me his roommate was shocked to see the exact products he was forced to produce without pay in prison for sale on Amazon. Former FBI Director Christopher Wray described China as the U.S.'s top counterintelligence priority, with new China-related cases opened every 1012 hours. Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe warned Americans in an op-ed that "China Is National Security Threat No. 1." China is no longer a paper tiger, it is a real threat. While the U.S. may have successfully led the fight to eradicate communism in the former U.S.S.R., which had 286 million people (and granted, modern day Russia is only somewhat of an improvement), communism in China with its much greater 1.4 billion population has arisen to replace it. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, Enter Stage Right and other publications. Home

Home





Print this page
US Attorney General Pam Bondi has instructed federal prosecutors to investigate criminal charges against those involved in the Obama / Biden lawfare against Trump and Republicans for criminal conspiracy. FBI Director Kash Patel is also involved in assisting this effort. The shoe is now on the other foot, and it looks like the political abuse of our justice system by Democrats may come back to haunt them. They deserve it.

Bondi referred to the Democrat lawfare as a "ten year stain" on our justice system.

Some are connected the dots to a recently formed federal Grand Jury in Florida.

https://justthenews.com/accountability/political-ethics/monten-year-stain-pam-bondi-has-asked-prosecutors-probe-decade

https://redstate.com/wardclark/2025/12/29/ag-bondi-directs-new-nationwide-probe-into-biden-obama-lawfare-n2197577
Hospitality chief warns Stormont anger is growing over rates hike plans: It will be ruination of our economy as a whole
Hotel known as Belfasts best-kept secret aiming to go from legacy to luxury in multi-million-pound investment
A paraglider has been rescued after crashing onto the second floor roof of a luxury hotel in Co Fermanagh.

Emergency services were called to reports of the incident at the five-star Lough Erne Resort shortly before 1pm on Sunday.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and the NI Ambulance Service remained at the scene for hours, an eyewitness said.

Four fire appliances, including the Specialist Rescue Team, were in attendance.

On arrival, firefighters discovered a paraglider trapped on the roof of the building, where they deployed several ladders to reach the patient.

NIFRS said they received a Special Service Call at 12.51pm.

Three appliances, two from Enniskillen and one from Lisnaskea, the Specialist Rescue Team and a Turntable Ladder are in attendance, NIFRS said.

"NIFRS crews have rescued a male from the second floor roof of the hotel, and he is now in the care of NIAS.

NIAS confirmed that it received a 999 call at 12.49pm on Sunday 28 December following reports of an incident in the area of Lough Shore Road.

paraglider incident

NIAS despatched a Rapid Response Paramedic, one Hazardous Area Response Team Crew and one Emergency Crew to the incident.

Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, one patient was taken to South West Acute Hospital, an NIAS statement concluded.

Lough Erne Resort also released a statement about the incident and sought to reassure guests.

It said: We can confirm the earlier incident involving a paraglider which had been in collision with part of our main hotel complex has now been closed with the individual being taken to hospital.

Everyone at the resort wishes them well. The resort has now been reopened to the general public.

Stock image - the incident happened on Sunday

Earlier, the resort had posted: We can confirm that Emergency Services are in attendance as a result of an incident in which a person believed to be flying a paraglider was in collision with the hotel property.

Apart from the immediate vicinity of the incident, the resort is operating normally and bookings are not affected.

"Until the emergency services have completed their work, access to the resort will be restricted to resort guests and patrons of our restaurants.

People commented underneath the post to say they hoped the man was going to be okay.

Lough Erne Resort is nestled in 600 acres of untouched Enniskillen countryside, and has a helipad, which the paraglider may have been aiming for.

The resort website states: Drawing inspiration from our tranquil loughside location, it's a place to reconnect with nature, yourself, and the people who matter most.

Paraglider incident

News Catch Up - Monday 29 December
The full story behind how Josh Daniels and Fuad Sule sealed their Irish League returns on drama-filled Deadline Day
Burglars who vandalised Catholic and Presbyterian churches in Newtownhamilton as they carried out two Christmas Day raids have been condemned by politicians for desecrating places of worship at a time of religious importance.

Police received reports that sometime between 3pm on December 25 and 9am the next morning, entry was gained to churches on Dundalk Street and Castleblayney Street, less than half a mile from each other in the Co Armagh town.

It is understood that the churches were St Michaels Catholic Church on Dundalk Street and the Second Presbyterian Church on Castleblayney Street.

Police have said that damage was caused to both churches and a number of items were taken, including electronic speakers and a wall clock.

Canon Toner, parish priest of St Michaels church, said that the sacristy was ransacked during the raid.

New DUP MLA for Newry and Armagh Gareth Wilson

Incoming DUP MLA for Newry and Armagh Gareth Wilson  who was recently co-opted into the Assembly after William Irwin stood down at the beginning of the Christmas recess  condemned the attack.

This is very unwelcome behaviour and especially so at this time of year when Christmas Day is a time of religious reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ, said Mr Wilson.

The local community in the area will share my concerns over these incidents and I would urge those behind this criminality to stop immediately.

I would encourage anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious to contact the PSNI and assist with their inquiries."

Sinn Fein MLA Aoife Finnegan condemned the burglaries.

Targeting places of worship at any time shows a complete disregard for the community," said the Newry and Armagh MLA.

"But during the Christmas period, it is reprehensible.

"Those responsible must be held to account. Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the Dundalk Street or Castleblayney Street areas of Newtownhamilton or has CCTV, dashcam or other information, should contact the police."

UUP councillor David Taylor also expressed his disgust at the attack.

I am deeply disgusted that anyone would seek to desecrate a place of worship, he said.

There is understandable anger within the local community that such incidents have occurred, particularly at a time of year that should be marked by peace and goodwill.

I wish to extend my sincere support and best wishes to the congregations of Second Newtownhamilton Presbyterian Church and St Michaels Catholic Church during this difficult time.

I sincerely hope that those responsible are brought to justice for carrying out these despicable acts. I would urge anyone who has information or who noticed any suspicious activity in the vicinity of either church to report it to the police immediately.

This isnt the first time St Michaels Church has come under attack in recent years.

In April 2019, it was reported that a stained glass window was smashed during a break-in and several vacuum cleaners were stolen.

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph at the time, Fr Gerry Tremer, former parish priest for Lower Creggan, said: Its very disappointing and the community is sad that such a thing could happen, particularly at a place of worship.

"It's very upsetting and annoying, but we will carry on. The bottom half of the stained glass window has been destroyed, but we're hopeful it will not all have to be replaced. We'll be aiming to have things back in order in time to celebrate Easter."

Police have urged anyone with information to come forward.

PSNI Sergeant Nelson said: We are appealing to anyone who may have noted suspicious activity in the area of these places of worship in particularly around Dundalk Road, Newtownhamilton and Castleblayney Street, Newtownhamilton, during this time frame.

Slieve Gullion Neighbourhood Policing Team are also aware of these incidents and have increased patrols in these areas.
Documents published as part of the annual release of National Archives in Dublin showed that possible legal action over Sellafield and other nuclear incidents were explored (PA)

The Irish government considered taking legal action against Sellafield in the mid-1990s, according to archive documents.

Then-taoiseach John Bruton raised the issue with British prime minister John Major after several safety incidents over a short period in the 1990s.

Documents published as part of the annual release of National Archives in Dublin showed that possible legal action over Sellafield and other nuclear incidents was explored at the time.

John Bruton (Chris Bacon/PA)

This was then reviewed by Irelands departments of both justice and energy, as well as the offices of the Attorney General and Taoiseach.

The Attorney-General has previously advised that any such legal action would have to be based on scientific evidence as to the injurious effects of operations at Sellafield-Thorp on Ireland, a briefing note dated November 29 1995 said.

The Attorney-General has retained a Senior Counsel who is appearing for the State in the Shortt/BNFL proceedings to review the material and advise him on the matters at issue.

The briefing document also mentioned that the opinion of the attorney general was sought in relation to an incident involving a Magnox reactor in Wylfa, North Wales, on July 31 1993.

Earlier that year, the Irish government had raised with the British government its concerns about the incident in Wylfa as well as another incident at Dungeness A power station in Kent, England.

The British government was told that the incidents were a cause of ongoing deep concern to the Irish government and the Irish public.

Mr Bruton also raised nuclear safety with Mr Major during an informal meeting of EU leaders in Majorca in 1995.

Mr Major wrote to Mr Bruton afterwards to say that he could understand how people in the Irish Republic may have been alarmed due to sensational reports of the incidents.

John Bruton and John Major (Phil Noble/PA)

Moving to reassure Mr Bruton, he said that safety was the highest priority for his government  with the word highest underlined.

Mr Major added: Although some isolated safety incidents have occurred, overall the companies in the nuclear industry have an excellent safety record.

He also said that they would not permit any weakening in the current regulatory regime or of the safety standards currently in force.

I must emphasise that the HSE is satisfied that no-one was exposed to actual danger as a result of the Wylfa incident, Mr Major added.

Mr Bruton replied on December 6 to ask that experts from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland attend safety inspections of some of the installations involved.

He said: The precise details of this formal arrangement, if acceptable to you, would perhaps best be left to be agreed between our Department of Transport, Energy and Communication and your Department of Energy.

Mr Bruton added: While the two incidents at the Magnox plants may be of relatively little radiological significance, the number of incidents within a relatively short period in the UK gives rise to continued concerns about the safety of the UKs nuclear industry and the potential for a serious accident with trans-boundary effects for Ireland.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/541 in the National Archives of Ireland.
Amanda Seyfried sees strong similarities between herself and Sydney Sweeney.

Sydney Sweeney stars in the new thriller

The 40-year-old actress stars alongside Sydney in The Housemaid, their new mystery-thriller film, and Amanda admits that she actually has a lot in common with her co-star.

Speaking to the BBC, Amanda explained: "There's a similarity between us that is uncanny, and it's really fun to work with people [who] are doing life in a similar way, have similar ideals about the job and life."

Amanda plays a housewife who struggles with mental health issues in the movie, and she admits that it was a challenging role to take on.

Discussing her approach to the role, Amanda shared: "You have to play it as realistic as possible because it needs to reflect real life."

Earlier this month, Amanda heaped praise on Sydney, describing her co-star as a "sweetheart".

Amanda praised Sydney for how she's coped with the pressures of fame and success.

The Hollywood star told Vanity Fair: "I dont envy anything shes going through.

"Ive spent a lot of time with her; we just hit it off immediately. Shes a sweetheart. Shes a very generous, kind person at her core. I have to be honest: I did not have a moment like shes having ever.

"[My Mean Girls costar] Lindsay Lohan, were buddies, and its really, really, really harmful to people to have that kind of overnight spotlight. Because any press, good or bad, is still a blinding spotlight, and you have to maneuver and negotiate your way around it and outside of it. Its acrobatics that I dont think most people are capable of figuring it out at that age."

Amanda thinks a sudden rise to stardom can actually be "dangerous". However, the actress praised Sydney for how she's coped with the extra attention.

She said: "Its just dangerous, because when you have people s******* on youor idolising you and following you aroundit cant be good for your psyche. It cant make you feel safe in the world.

"But I actually admire the way Syd shows up for work. She always has a smile on her face, even if shes miserable. I hope it doesnt change. I hope she doesnt harden. I just want to keep watching her work. I have really great women in my life, great actors that Ive gotten to work with and who have championed me."
There were several instances where leisure boats on the disputed territory of Carlingford Lough had been approached by British patrols in the 1990s (PA)

Taoiseach Charlie Haughey was unhappy after a British marine allegedly put a gun to the neck of a Dubliner while he was sailing on Carlingford Lough in 1991.

There were several instances where leisure boats on the disputed territory of Carlingford Lough had been approached by British patrols in the 1990s.

This included two British naval officers with submachine guns boarding the yacht of Mr Haughey in July 1990, who was not on board at the time.

The incidents on the inlet, located between Co Louth and Co Down, prompted Irish officials to seek the British Government policy underpinning the boardings.

One particular incident, where a marine allegedly put a gun to a Dublin sailors neck and took the safety off, saw Mr Haughey write to the sailor to say the Irish government would be making representations on his behalf.

I was very disturbed to learn of the incident involving your boat in Carlingford Lough and I immediately conveyed my concern to the British authorities through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat who based their approach on your detailed report of the incident, Mr Haughey wrote on June 17.

As part of the annual release of National Archive files in Dublin, several pieces of correspondence detail the incident with the sailor, Sir Henry Barnwell from Glenageary, and his yacht the Lady Jane on Saturday 1 June 1991.

This includes a Garda file on the incident in which it recounts the statement from Sir Henry, his wife Joy, who it said were visibly shaken, and a Swiss friend who was on board the yacht with them.

The Garda file stated that as Mr Barnwell was passing by the Greenore side of the shore, he was approached by two dinghies and two soldiers requested permission to board.

He refused and demanded identification from them, which was refused and they boarded the yacht.

He continued to refuse them permission and one of them said they were arresting him and taking him to Northern Ireland, the statement said.

In attempting to turn Mr Barnwells yacht around, one of the soldiers put a gun to Barnwells neck and grabbed the tiller and strained the tiller socket.

The statement said Mr Barnwell heard someone say over the soldiers radios they have you in the Republic, after which they left the Lady Jane.

The statement noted that two senior gardai inspected the damage done to the yacht and said the tiller socket was definitely strained, the plug for the automatic pilot was ripped from its socket and boot marks were visible on deck.

Mr Barnwell later said that when he resisted the soldiers attempting to wrestle the tiller from him, one of them put a gun to his neck and clocked off the safety catch, according to an official from the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The official urged that the issue be raised in strong terms with British authorities and requested a full report on the incident, particularly as the yacht was so close to the Greenore side of the shore and was proceeding to an Irish port.

The aggressive manner in which the boarding was carried out also gives rise to serious concern, a civil servant said.

The holding of a gun to Mr Barnwells neck was a reckless action that could have had the most serious consequences.

Irish civil servants also noted similarities to an incident the previous month, where the Lady Irene yacht was boarded by British marines and in which a woman was struck on the forehead by the boom as they tried to steer it towards Warrenpoint.

They said they wanted assurances that such incidents would not become the norm.

Civil servants also said it was entirely unsatisfactory that Mr Barnwells wife Joy was being investigated by the Northern Ireland Coast Guard for improper use of the mayday frequency  an investigation which was later dropped.

A note to the Taoiseachs department remarked that the British marines had claimed the Lady Jane incident took place to the north of the lough and there was no forcible boarding.

They also said that British authorities responses on the issue were far from reassuring and said the initial response had attempted to characterise Mr Barnwells reluctance to be boarded by armed marines as suspicious behaviour which justified the actions of the soldiers.

But, in a note sent to the Taoiseachs department on September 27, it was noted that an investigation into the incident by British authorities was problematic as Mr Barnwell would not make a formal statement to the RUC about the incident as he does not recognise their jurisdiction in the matter.

There the matter rests, the note said.

Mr Barnwell had written to Mr Haughey on June 5 about the incident, stating that he, his wife and friend continued to shake with fear and trepidation for the remainder of the day.

During the rest of the weekend, we were regaled with stories of persistent harassment of Carlingford yachts by these men, he said.

I have had several conversations with the British, whom I fear will concoct some denial to pervert the course of justice, which seems to have become as much a tradition of British culture as their reputation for piracy.

He added: the vibes I have picked up indicate that they are claiming the right to patrol the entire lough and I fear there will be a fatality.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/523 in the National Archives of Ireland.
People are also warned not to try to attend the Mayor of Londons fireworks without a ticket (PA)

People have been warned not to go to a central London viewpoint where thousands usually flock to see New Years Eve fireworks because it will be closed after dedicated parks police were scrapped as part of a cost-cutting measure.

Primrose Hill in Camden has panoramic views of the capital and in 2024 an estimated 30,000 revellers marked the beginning of year at the park  but this year it will be shut, with the gates locked from 8pm on Tuesday until 6am on New Years Day.

The Metropolitan Police announced earlier this year that it would disband the Royal Parks police, which helped respond to serious crime in greenspaces including Hyde Park, in November as it tried to plug a 260 million funding gap.

There had been concerns about the safety of celebrations at the park after a 16-year-old schoolboy was fatally stabbed during New Years Eve celebrations in 2023 (PA)

As officers prepare for one of the busiest nights of the year for emergency services, the force reminded Londoners and visitors not to try and gather in Primrose Hill as they have been able to in previous years.

There had been concerns about the safety of celebrations at the park after a 16-year-old boy was fatally stabbed in the neck on Primrose Hill at the New Years Eve fireworks viewing in 2023.

Areece Lloyd-Hall, 18, was jailed for a minimum of 16 years in November for murdering schoolboy Harry Pitman.

The Royal Parks charity, which manages Primrose Hill, previously said that the capacity to manage crowds of the size usually watching the fireworks event would be severely diminished in part due to the closure of The Metropolitan Polices Royal Parks Operational Command Unit.

A Royal Parks spokesperson said: The decision to close Primrose Hill on New Years Eve was not taken lightly.

Last year an estimated 30,000 people visited Primrose Hill to view the Mayor of Londons New Years Eve firework display. This was not an organised event with an event organiser but a gathering in open parkland and we have limited controls that we can deploy to ensure public safety.

Therefore, we have decided that Primrose Hill will be closed and locked from 8pm on December 30 until January 1.

The Metropolitan Police said it is not accurate to suggest the decision to shut Primrose Hill was necessary because the Royal Parks policing team was disbanded.

A spokesperson for the force added: The decision to close Primrose Hill on New Years Eve is one taken by the Royal Parks, not the police.

Officers from that team made up just 15 of the more than 145 officers who were deployed to Primrose Hill on New Years Eve last year. This is similar to the makeup of deployments in previous years.

Commander Nick John, who is charge of the Mets New Years Eve policing, said: The Royal Parks are urging people not to try to gather at Primrose Hill this year and we would echo those calls.

Please make alternative plans. Anyone trying to access the park will find that it is not possible.

Primrose Hill has been a popular viewpoint to watch the Mayor of Londons fireworks (PA)

Elsewhere, Scotland Yard urged people to plan their travel into and out of London and head to organised events where possible.

People are warned not to try to come to the Mayor of Londons fireworks event, centred around the London Eye and Big Ben, as tickets are sold out on what is forecast to be a cool and clear evening.

After widespread frosts on Tuesday night, the Met Office predicts a chilly night on Wednesday as people celebrate the New Year.

Met Office deputy chief forecaster Mark Sidaway said: It certainly looks like we are in for a taste of winter as we welcome in the New Year, initially in the north, but more widely across the UK for the first week of 2026.

Commander John said: This is always one of the busiest nights of the year for us and working alongside our partners we start the planning many months ahead of time.

We will be working closely with our emergency services colleagues to make sure Londoners and the huge number of people visiting the capital can welcome in 2026 in safety and security.

The most visible part of our policing plan will be the officers in central London, but it extends right across the city. Were there to provide a reassuring presence, to deter those who might want to take advantage of the crowds to commit crime and to respond decisively to any incidents.

Please help us by being responsible and only calling 999 in a genuine emergency. Every unnecessary call  whether to the police, the ambulance service or the fire brigade  risks delaying us getting urgent help to those who need it most.
Wind and rain has destroyed flimsy tents which had provided shelter for many Palestinian in Gaza (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Winter rain lashed the Gaza Strip over the weekend, flooding camps with ankle-deep puddles as Palestinians displaced by two years of war attempted to stay dry in tents frayed by months of use.

In the southern city of Khan Younis, blankets were soaked and clay ovens meant for cooking were swamped. Children wearing flip-flops waded through puddles. Some people used shovels or tin cans to remove water from tents, while others clawed at the ground to pry collapsed shelters from the mud.

Puddles formed, and there was a bad smell, said Majdoleen Tarabein, displaced from Rafah in southern Gaza. The tent flew away. We dont know what to do or where to go.

She and family members tried to wring muddy blankets dry by hand.

Many Palestinians are spending winter in makeshift camps (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

When we woke up in the morning, we found that the water had entered the tent, said Eman Abu Riziq, also displaced in Khan Younis. These are the mattresses. They are all completely soaked.

She said her family are still reeling from her husbands death less than two weeks ago.

Where are the mediators? We dont want food. We dont want anything. We are exhausted. We just want mattresses and covers, said Fatima Abu Omar as she tried to prop up a collapsing shelter.

At least 12 people, including a two-week-old infant, have died since December 13 from hypothermia or weather-related collapses of war-damaged homes, according to Gazas Health Ministry, part of the Hamas-run government.

Emergency workers have warned people not to stay in damaged buildings because they could collapse. But with much of the territory in rubble, there are few places to escape the rain.

In July, the United Nations estimated almost 80% of buildings in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged.

Palestinian children carry sacks filled with firewood as they walk through a displacement camp in Gaza City (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, has travelled for an expected meeting on Monday with US President Donald Trump in Florida about the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire.

The first phase that took effect on October 10 was meant to bring a surge in humanitarian aid for Gaza, including shelter.

Mr Netanyahu made no public statement as he departed on Sunday for the US.

Since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began, 414 people have been killed and 1,142 wounded in Gaza, according to the Health Ministry.

The overall Palestinian death toll from the war is at least 71,266.

Humanitarian deliveries into Gaza are falling far short of the amount called for under the US-brokered ceasefire, according to aid organisations and an Associated Press analysis of the Israeli militarys figures.

The Israeli military body in charge of humanitarian aid said in the past week that 4,200 trucks with aid entered Gaza, plus eight rubbish trucks to assist with sanitation, as well as tents and winter clothing. It refused to elaborate on the number of tents. Aid groups have said the need far outstrips the number that have entered.

People in Gaza are surviving in flimsy, waterlogged tents and among ruins, Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the top UN group overseeing aid in Gaza, wrote on social media.

There is nothing inevitable about this. Aid supplies are not being allowed in at the scale required.
Volodymyr Zelensky said the war will not realistically end without security guarantees (Alex Brandon/AP)

The US is offering Ukraine security guarantees for 15 years as part of a proposed peace plan, Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

The Ukrainian president said he would prefer a commitment of up to 50 years to deter Russia from further attempts to seize its neighbours land by force.

US President Donald Trump hosted Mr Zelensky at his Florida resort on Sunday and claimed Ukraine and Russia were closer than ever before to a peace settlement.

Negotiators are still searching for a breakthrough on key issues, including whose forces withdraw from where and the fate of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, one of the 10 biggest in the world.

Mr Trump noted that the months-long US-led negotiations could still collapse.

Without security guarantees, realistically, this war will not end, Mr Zelensky told reporters.

Ukraine has been fighting Russia since 2014 when Moscow illegally annexed Crimea and Kremlin-backed separatists took up arms in the Donbas, a vital industrial region in eastern Ukraine.

Details of the security guarantees have not been made public but Mr Zelensky said on Monday that they include how a peace deal would be monitored as well as the presence of partners.

Donald Trump shakes hands with Volodymyr Zelensky (Alex Brandon/AP)

He did not elaborate, but Russia has said it will not accept the deployment in Ukraine of troops from Nato countries.

Mr Trump on Monday had a positive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the war, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X.

The two leaders had also spoken ahead of Mr Trumps talks with Mr Zelensky on Sunday as the American president tries to steer the countries towards a settlement.

Mr Putins foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said that Mr Trump is pushing Ukraine to seek a comprehensive peace agreement and not demand a temporary respite for its military through a ceasefire.

Mr Putin has also insisted on a full settlement before any truce.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content

In Mondays call, Mr Putin told Mr Trump that Ukraine attempted to attack the Russian leaders residence in north-western Russia with long-range drones almost immediately after Mr Trumps Sunday talks with Mr Zelensky.

The attack certainly will not be left without a serious response, Mr Ushakov said, adding that Moscow will now review its negotiating position.

Mr Zelensky denied the Russian claim of an attack, describing it as an attempt to manipulate the peace process.

He said it was another lie and came about because Moscow is unnerved by progress in peace efforts.

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said Ukraine launched an attack on Mr Putins residence in the northwestern Novgorod region overnight from Sunday to Monday using 91 long-range drones.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with senior military officers at the Kremlin in Moscow (Mikhail Metzel/Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

As indications suggest negotiations could come to a head in January, before the fourth anniversary of Russias full-blown invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022, Mr Putin on Monday claimed that Russian troops are advancing in the eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine and are also pressing their offensive in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.

Mr Putin has sought to portray himself as negotiating from a position of strength as Ukrainian forces strain to keep back the bigger Russian army.

He also emphasised at a meeting with senior military officers the need to create military buffer zones along the Russian border.

This is a very important task as it ensures the security of Russias border regions, the Russian president said.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that Mr Putin and Mr Trump were expected to speak in the near future but there was no indication the Russian leader would speak to Mr Zelensky.

Dmitry Peskov said Mr Putin and Mr Trump are expected to speak in the future (Pavel Bednyakov/AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron said Kyivs allies will meet in Paris in early January to finalise each countrys concrete contributions to the security guarantees.

Mr Trump said he would consider extending US security guarantees for Ukraine beyond 15 years, according to Mr Zelensky. The guarantees would be approved by the US Congress as well as by parliaments in other countries involved in overseeing any settlement, he added.

Mr Zelensky said he wants the 20-point peace plan under discussion to be approved by Ukrainians in a national referendum.

However, holding a ballot requires a ceasefire of at least 60 days, and Moscow has shown no willingness for a truce without a full settlement.

On the snowy streets of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, people were sceptical about the chances of peace.

One military veteran who uses the call sign Sensei, in keeping with the rules of the Ukrainian military, said Mr Putins record in power shows he cannot be trusted.

Sensei joined the military in 2022 and was wounded that year during the battle for the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

President Donald Trump meets Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida (Alex Brandon/AP)

Now, he said, almost nobody from his company is still alive.

But all these sacrifices, they are not in vain, because we need to prove that we exist, that we are, that we have the right to our existence, to our territory, to our culture, to our language, the 65-year-old told The Associated Press.

Denys Shpylovyi, a 20-year-old student who was home for the holidays, said Mr Trumps willingness to accept Mr Putins arguments has put Mr Zelensky in a difficult situation.

But Im thankful for some progress. They are speaking, and maybe someday there will be hope, he said.

Oleh Saakian, a Ukrainian political scientist, said it was a good sign that Mr Zelensky is managing to build a relationship with Mr Trump, although he noted that nothing has been adopted yet, nothing has been signed yet.

I dont see these negotiations bringing us closer to real peace, because they are based on equality between the aggressor and the victim, they are based on complete disregard for international law, and disregard for European security, he said.
Former Workers Party president Sean Garland allegedly laundered millions of fake dollars with the Kim RegimeSome of the Officials began to question their communist beliefs as they struggled with hungerGroup members got the boot after a drunken brawl

The Official IRAs training trip to North Korea

North Korea is one of the worlds most secretive states  known for its dictators who are treated like gods and their iron-clad grip on citizens.

So much so that the population are told former Supreme Leader Kim Il Sung was born under a double rainbow, invented the hamburger, and never needed to use the toilet.

Back in 1988, six members of the Official IRA made their way to North Korea to receive state of the art training.

Dressed in the uniform of the Korean People's Army, they were taught North Korean style fighting and given lectures about the great leader Kim Il Sung and the wonders of one-party rule.

But after a drunken brawl, the trip ended in embarrassment as the group had to leave the country.

Some members began to question their beliefs in communism as they suffered with hunger and watched locals poor living conditions.

The unusual alliance came as secretary general of the Irish Workers Party Sean Garland allegedly laundered millions of fake dollars alongside the Kim regime.

Why did the Stickies make the trip, what did they learn, and what was in it for the North Koreans?

Olivia Peden is joined by journalist John Sweeney, author of North Korea: Inside the worlds most secretive state - he visited the strange nation as part of a BBC panorama documentary.

This episode was originally published in February 2025.
Meet the student midwife blessed with her own Christmas Day baby: All my friends on nightshift were nipping in to see us

Trainee nurse thrilled to be back on maternity ward a year on from welcoming a very special delivery

Katie and Posie, who's celebrating her first birthday

Jade Beecroft Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 20:00

A student midwife is looking forward to more special deliveries after giving her colleagues an extra special gift last Christmas.
Prisoners row over hawkish Christmas speech exposes disunity in New IRA

Inmates claim they werent consulted over sinister pub pledge amid gang split over abandoning violence

Liam 'Leaky' O'Donnell reading a speech at an event in support of New IRA prisoners

Staff reporter Mon 29 Dec 2025 at 14:00

New IRA prisoners had no input into a sinister speech read on their behalf at a hardline republican Christmas party in Derry.
Kim Kardashian has been criticised by PETA for buying her children a puppy each for Christmas.

Kim Kardashian has bought four more puppies

The Kardashians star bought four Pomeranians over the holidays so she could give one to each of her four children North, 12, Saint, 10, Chicago, seven, and Psalm, six, who she shares with ex-husband Kanye West, while her sister Khloe Kardashian also purchased a black Labrador from a breeder as a present for her kids True, seven, and Tatum, three - but it's sparked a backlash from the animal rights charity who insisted the sisters should adopt not shop for animals.

PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk said in a statement: "Puppies are not plushies, and its a damn shame that Kim missed the chance to be a spokesperson for shelter pups and instead is being rightly slammed on social media for that.

"Ignoring the homeless animals crisis is inexcusably callous, and so we ask Kim and Khloe, who did the same thing, to call PETA or a local shelter the next time they want to bring an animal into their home - and try to make some amends now by sending their kids to volunteer at a local shelter or paying for a local shelter adopt-a-thon or at least one spay day to help stop the growing homeless puppy crisis."

Kim shared her Christmas gift with fans by posting a picture of the puppies on Instagram and writing: "Each kid got a puppy."

The puppies join her dogs Sushi and Sake, who were adopted with her sister Kourtney Kardashian in 2017.

Khloe also went public with her puppy news by revealing she was fulfilling her kids' Christmas wish.

Before the holidays, Khloe shared a hand-written note from her children on Instagram in which they asked : "Please can I have a real puppy".

She later returned to the platform to explain she had made their wish come true, revealing she had bought a dog from a breeder based in Indiana and named her Peppermint, saying: "'I am going to cry shes the best in the world."

Khloe previously owned a black Labrador named Gabbana, who died in 2018.

After her death, Khloe shared a tribute to her pet, writing: "Last night my sweet Gabbana passed away. She was more than a pet. She was my first child, my companion and my friend ...

"I never thought I would be this devastated over loosing [sic] a dog but 14 years, is a long time together. She filled a significant role in my life and I'm forever grateful. I love you Goober!! I'll remember you always!"
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.
Im incredibly humbled to receive this award  but this award isnt really mine," Carroll said. "It belongs to Emily, and to every other victim whose voice was taken. They paid the ultimate price. Im just the one still here, making sure their voices are heard and that no other family has to go through what we did.
Isaac Evans-Frantz writes in his capacity as the national director of Action Corps, which campaigns for U.S. policies to save the lives of people most affected by climate disasters and violent conflict. He also serves as clerk of the Brattleboro Select Board. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
Eagle Archives, Jan. 29, 1977: Ida Hall, proprietor of the New England Food Store in East Otis, raised the price of her coffee for the first time in 40 years, from 10 to 15 cents a cup, due to rising costs from international coffee markets.
Luke and Lindsey Marion of Ottos Kitchen & Comfort hosted a pay-what-you-can community dinner in Pittsfield, serving hearty beef stew and mashed potatoes. This is just kind of aligned with our beliefs that everybodys due food, whether they can afford it or not, because nobody should have to afford food."
Residents wrote down ideas and added stars to the concepts on large pieces of paper as a way of contributing to the input that will go into the towns open space plan, which is due in June.
Eagle Reels

Only 11% of Americans say family is their top value. NYU researcher Suzy Welch explains what that really means  and what it doesnt.
Akums signs MoU with Sharda University to strengthen industryacademia collaboration

December 29, 2025 | Monday | News

A key focus of the collaboration will be joint research in trending and next-generation molecules and advanced drug delivery technologies

image credit- freepik

Delhi-based Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sharda University, Agra, to foster long-term collaboration in pharmaceutical research, technology transfer, and skill development.

This strategic partnership aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, while preparing future talent for the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry.

The MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration across research, innovation, training, and industry exposure. By combining Sharda Universitys academic strengths with Akums robust manufacturing capabilities and R&D ecosystem, the partnership seeks to accelerate the development of future-ready pharmaceutical solutions and enhance employability among students.

A key focus of the collaboration will be joint research in trending and next-generation molecules and advanced drug delivery technologies. The partnership will also facilitate technology transfer, enabling promising academic research to be translated into commercially viable pharmaceutical products.

Under the MoU, students from Sharda University will gain access to structured internship programs at Akums manufacturing facilities. These internships will provide hands-on exposure to real-world pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality systems, regulatory practices, and R&D processes. Additionally, industrial visits will be organized to help students understand large-scale pharmaceutical operations and industry best practices.

The collaboration will also include jointly organised seminars, and technical training programmes. These initiatives are designed to enhance students practical knowledge, industry readiness, and technical competencies, thereby improving their employability and career prospects in the pharmaceutical and allied sectors.

Akums and Sharda University will also collaborate on joint project development initiatives, focusing on translating academic innovations into market-ready solutions. These projects will encourage applied research, promote innovation-driven problem-solving, and contribute to addressing unmet needs in healthcare.
Night-vision cameras uncover hidden network of fake number plates

Night vision camera to foil false number plates

Police forces across the UK are deploying night vision technology to crack down on "ghost" number plates.

Two of the countrys largest forces - Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and West Midlands Police - have begun testing the cameras, which are able to identify tampered, obscured or altered number plates designed to evade automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems.

It is estimated that one in 15 drivers is now using some form of ghost plate to avoid detection, according to reports published by The Telegraph.

During a GMP operation, 230 vehicles fitted with fake plates were identified - several of which were linked to armed robberies and burglaries, while others were being used by sex offenders attempting to bypass movement restrictions or drivers involved in hit-and-run collisions.

In a separate pilot scheme run by West Midlands Police, the scale of the problem was even clearer. Over just two weeks, officers detected 4,335 instances of ghost plate use involving 2,961 individual vehicles, many of which would have slipped past traditional ANPR cameras unnoticed.

The new technology, known as NightFox Whisper cameras, allows officers to identify ghost plates even in low-light conditions by picking out enough characters to run partial checks.

According to the College of Policing, every vehicle identified by GMP has now been logged on the Police National Computer, enabling authorities nationwide to stop them.

A spokesperson for the College warned: The use of ghost plates is almost always related to another, more serious offence, whether it be speeding, dodging fines, selling drugs or smuggling goods.
IIT-D creates AI agent to conduct experiments like human scientists

December 29, 2025 | Monday | News

Technologies like AILA could prove transformative for Indias scientific ecosystem

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT-D) have developed AILA (Artificially Intelligent Lab Assistant), an AI agent capable of stepping into real laboratories and carrying out scientific experiments from start to finish, much like a human scientist.

The research focused on the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), a sophisticated instrument that examines materials at incredibly tiny scales. Remarkably, AILA can now control this complex device, make real-time decisions during experiments, and analyse results independently.

The research also uncovered critical safety concerns. AI agents occasionally deviated from instructions, highlighting the need for robust safeguards must be implemented to prevent accidents or equipment damage as laboratories move toward greater automation.

This breakthrough aligns with Indias ambitious AI for Science initiative. The government has recently announced major funding through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to accelerate AI-driven research across the country.


Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute.

Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno.

Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi.
Dame Jenni Murray has said BBC Radio 4s Womans Hour, which she hosted for 33 years, has become a rather dull programme and has lost its way.

The 75-year-old broadcaster became the longest-serving host in the BBC Radio 4 programmes history before her exit in 2020, having first appeared on the show in 1987.

Dame Jenni is the longest-serving host in the history of the Radio 4 programme (Saga Experience Is Everything/PA)

Speaking to Saga Magazine, Dame Jenni who hosts the Experience Is Everything podcast, was asked for an honest assessment of Womans Hour, and said: Well, I could tell you, if I was a listener. I dont make an effort to actually be a listener.

I dont think its sharp enough. It doesnt have the intellect. It doesnt have the fun. I think its a rather dull programme these days. It has lost its way.

Advertisement

Womans Hour is currently presented by Nuala McGovern and Anita Rani.

Dame Jenni left the show in October 2020, and said at the time that bosses had said she was not allowed to chair any discussion on transgender rights due to her opinions.

She told Saga: Id been a completely trustworthy, impartial presenter for decades.

I dont think Ive ever been so angry about anything.

Dame Jenni with the Queen (Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA)

In 2020, Dame Jenni wrote in the Daily Mail that she had stepped down because she wanted to be free of the leash that had caused her to be cancelled, and added that BBC bosses also barred her from covering the 2019 election due to her opinions on Brexit.

She said younger, less experienced presenters were earning twice or even three times as much as her during her time at the broadcaster, hitting out against the corporations pay structure.

A BBC spokeswoman said at the time: We wish Jenni well in her new career as a columnist but the public will understand the importance of impartiality whilst working at the BBC.

Asked about regrets, Dame Jenni added: Funnily enough, I havent regretted it at all. I thought, Ill find somewhere I can go and openly express my views.

During her tenure at the BBC, Dame Jenni interviewed high-profile figures such as Bette Davis, Margaret Thatcher, Monica Lewinsky, Hillary Clinton, Kate McCann, Dame Judi Dench, Saoirse Ronan and Joan Baez, who sang Diamonds And Rust in the studio for her.

Jenni Murray was made a dame in 2011 (John Stillwell/PA)

Dame Jenni said it is time for a woman to take the top job at the BBC, after the announcement last month that director-general Tim Davie will be leaving.

She said: One hundred years and it has never been a woman. Of course it needs to be now.

Advertisement

In fact, Ive had quite a few emails from people who read my columns suggesting I apply for it myself, to which I say no way would I take on that job. Its huge. Youre responsible for so many people.

Dame Jenni joined BBC Newsnight in 1983, before moving to Radio 4 as a presenter on the Today programme.

She became the regular presenter of Womans Hour in 1987 and was made a dame in 2011 in recognition of her contribution to broadcasting.

The BBC has been contacted for comment.

The full interview is available in Saga Magazines January issue.
Netflix has teased a first look at the new and deeply personal Take That docu-series.

The streamer also confirmed that the three-part documentary will be released in January.

Named after the boyband, the series will recount the bands rise to fame from early beginnings through to their dramatic split and subsequent comeback, with rare behind the scenes footage of the group.

Formed in 1989 in Manchester, the original group was made up of Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, Mark Owen, Jason Orange and Robbie Williams, with the series documenting their experiences of being in the boyband through a range of archive, never-before-seen footage, personal material and new interviews with some of the bandmates.

On Monday, the streamer released a first-look trailer for the docu-series, which it said will offer a glimpse into the highs and heartbreaks of Take That.

Advertisement

The trailer opened with Barlow saying: Nothing beats being in a band.

Theres a strength, theres a buzz.

The docu-series was described by Netflix as told in their own words and a deeply personal and definitive story of Take That.

Take That are best known for their chart-topping hits, including Pray, Babe, and Everything Changes.

The band broke up in 1996 following Williams departure.

The remaining four band members reunited in 2005, until Orange left the group in 2014, with Barlow, Owen and Donald continuing to release music, including the albums III and 2017s Wonderland.

Earlier this year, the trio announced a summer 2026 UK and Ireland tour, which will take place ahead of the band releasing its 10th studio album.

Take That will premiere on Netflix on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026.
The Government considered taking legal action against Sellafield in the mid-1990s, according to archive documents.

Then Taoiseach John Bruton raised the issue with British prime minister John Major after several safety incidents over a short period in the 1990s.

Documents published as part of the annual release of the National Archives in Dublin showed that possible legal action over Sellafield and other nuclear incidents was explored at the time.

John Bruton. Photo: Chris Bacon/PA.

This was then reviewed by Irelands departments of both justice and energy, as well as the offices of the Attorney General and Taoiseach.

The Attorney-General has previously advised that any such legal action would have to be based on scientific evidence as to the injurious effects of operations at Sellafield-Thorp on Ireland, a briefing note dated November 29 1995 said.

The Attorney-General has retained a Senior Counsel who is appearing for the State in the Shortt/BNFL proceedings to review the material and advise him on the matters at issue.

Advertisement

The briefing document also mentioned that the opinion of the attorney general was sought in relation to an incident involving a Magnox reactor in Wylfa, North Wales, on July 31st 1993.

Earlier that year, the Government had raised with the British government its concerns about the incident in Wylfa as well as another incident at Dungeness A power station in Kent, England.

The British government was told that the incidents were a cause of ongoing deep concern to the Irish government and the Irish public.

Mr Bruton also raised nuclear safety with Mr Major during an informal meeting of EU leaders in Majorca in 1995.

Mr Major wrote to Mr Bruton afterwards to say that he could understand how people in the Irish Republic may have been alarmed due to sensational reports of the incidents.

John Bruton and John Major. Photo: Phil Noble/PA.

Moving to reassure Mr Bruton, he said that safety was the highest priority for his government  with the word highest underlined.

Mr Major added: Although some isolated safety incidents have occurred, overall the companies in the nuclear industry have an excellent safety record.

He also said that they would not permit any weakening in the current regulatory regime or of the safety standards currently in force.

I must emphasise that the HSE is satisfied that no-one was exposed to actual danger as a result of the Wylfa incident, Mr Major added.

Mr Bruton replied on December 6th to ask that experts from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland attend safety inspections of some of the installations involved.

Advertisement

Ireland Security plans ahead of 1995 Lansdowne Road riot not clearly understood Read more

He said: The precise details of this formal arrangement, if acceptable to you, would perhaps best be left to be agreed between our Department of Transport, Energy and Communication and your Department of Energy.

Mr Bruton added: While the two incidents at the Magnox plants may be of relatively little radiological significance, the number of incidents within a relatively short period in the UK gives rise to continued concerns about the safety of the UKs nuclear industry and the potential for a serious accident with trans-boundary effects for Ireland.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/541 in the National Archives of Ireland.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are reportedly planning to shine a light on the "best of Britain" next year.

William, Prince of Wales, Catherine, Princess of Wales are set to focus on British causes

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales have previously focused their efforts on highlighting good causes including tackling homelessness, protecting the environment and addressing mental health issues but a new report suggests the couple are going to be turning their focus on British businesses, skills and creativity throughout 2026.

A source told the Telegraph newspaper: "Its really important for the Prince and Princess of Wales to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the UK.

"There will be a real emphasis in 2026 on showcasing some of the best of Britain."

The news comes after Catherine, 43, and her 10-year-old daughter debuted a piano duet which aired as part of the screening of the Together At Christmas carol concert on Christmas Eve (24.12.25).

The pair sat side by side at the piano for a performance of Holm Sound and the piece's composer Erland Cooper admitted it was "such a surprise" to be invited to the filming of the duet at Windsor Castle.

Erland told BBC Breakfast: Id had a chat with the princess earlier in the year and I knew she enjoyed playing this piece of music with family.

"It was a big surprise to be invited to Windsor Castle and hear it performed by a pair of princesses. I didnt need to give direction, they were so good. Performing in front of a film crew and the person who wrote the music is a nerve-wracking thing for anybody, Im sure. They played it several times and then they asked me to have a wee go as well, and I gave a few pointers. But I didnt need to. I think I was there as a cheerleader.

"The Scottish musician praised Charlotte as "very confident". He added: She played it so beautifully.

Erland wrote Holm Sound for his mother, who is also called Charlotte, and the "full circle moment" of family ties.

He said: This is the wonderful coincidence, its about how we see our parents in our childrens eyes and but then when you look at your mother and you look at granny, you see your children. Its about that sort of full circle moment, and its about motherhood.

Catherine and her daughter recorded the duet in Windsor Castle's Inner Hall earlier in December, with the older princess playing with her left hand and Charlotte with her right.

As the performance aired, footage was shown of guests arriving at the Westminster Abbey carol service, including Catherine and her husband, Prince William, watching as their three children tied paper chains with their names on to a "connection tree".

The Wales family were joined at the carol service by other members of the royal family including Zara and Mike Tindall, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Prince Michael of Kent, as well as Catherine's parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, and her brother James Middleton, who was accompanied by wife Alizee.
Concern was expressed about the image of superiority that would be conveyed by the royal yacht arriving into Irish harbours as part of a mooted visit in the summer of 1996.

A possible three-day trip to Ireland by the then Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, was discussed by British and Irish officials in March before it was abandoned due to security concerns.

Documents released under the National Archives of Ireland in Dublin show that, before the trip was cancelled, the agenda for the visit had become rather more elaborate than initially thought and prompted concern from the Irish side.

Then Taoiseach John Bruton said Ireland was the last place the prince should bring the royal yacht, the HMY Britannia, and warned it would paint an image of opulence.

British ambassador Veronica Sutherland had said in a letter on March 7 that Charles would like to arrive in the Britannia pulling into Galway Bay on the morning of Friday, June 28 1996.

Advertisement

In the evening, he would like to offer hospitality on board Britannia, which would then sail late in the evening for a private weekend in Kerry and Cork, having disembarked the guests, she said.

In response, also on March 7, Government secretary Frank Murray said the trip was far more extensive than had been suggested initially, which involved a visit to Haulbowline harbour in Co Cork.

He said they appeared to have little option but to proceed with the programme unless there were security or political considerations.

But Mr Bruton conveyed his concerns in a handwritten reply to Mr Murray, where he wondered if the arrival of the royal yacht in Galway would spark debate about the Treaty ports.

I think the symbolism of the royal yacht arriving into Galway Bay is not good, he said, with good replacing the crossed-out word great.

Will it revive arguments about the ports in the 30s?

The yacht suggests opulence and superiority. Its not the image that should be conveyed.

Why cant the prince just fly in by plane to one of the regional airports? That would give them a boost commercially.

The yacht is, I think, controversial in Britain lately because of its cost. Ireland is the last place he should be bringing it.

On March 19, Mr Murray wrote a letter to the taoiseach where he said he had conveyed the concerns from the Irish government about the proposed visit to Ms Sutherland.

He said he also relayed security concerns, which he did not have a considered view of at the last meeting.

Advertisement

A revised scaled-down visit was expected in probably a weeks time, he added.

The trip was later cancelled after the Irish side had had expressed concern about the risks Charles would face if the visit went ahead without an IRA ceasefire.

The document, released from the National Archives at Kew in 2020, also signalled that if Charles used the Britannia during the visit it would be unwelcome to parts of the population.

The risks now seem to outweigh any benefits, it concluded.

In a separate file from 2003, permission was sought for the British Navy vessel the HMS Ark Royal to dock in Dublin.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern turned down the request after a senior civil servant warned that doing so would be perceived as a shift in policy towards the British military displays in our jurisdiction as the vessel was a symbol of British naval prowess.

Visits by British naval vessels have traditionally been low-key affairs but the presence of the Ark Royal in Dublin would, quite literally, be a flagship event which would certainly be attended by widespread publicity, including in regard to its role in the Iraq war, the official noted.

The civil servant said they believed the request should be refused, but said due to its significance it should be raised with the relevant minister.

Ireland Dubious if all-island court would convict more fugitives  Irish AG in 1982 Read more

On the cover page of the three-page document, a hand written note highlights the Taoiseachs comment on page 3.

There is one hand-written line on page three: my view is no.

 This article is based on documents in the files labelled 2023/50/509 and 2025/127/106 at the National Archives of Ireland.
Irish officials were concerned that opening Israels embassy in Ireland would promote a backlash from Arab countries, according to government documents.

The Israeli embassy in Dublin announced last year that it would close, with the countrys foreign minister accusing Ireland of crossing every red line in its relations with Israel.

Documents made public as part of the annual release from the National Archives in Dublin show the preparations that took place before the embassy was opened in 1996.

The Israeli flag was removed from outside the building in December last year. Photo: Cillian Sherlock/PA.

Among the considerations were the possible impact on trade from Arab countries and the cost of security.

One 1990 memo states: Irish trade with Arab countries is at a ratio of approximately 10 to 1 in our favour and is mainly sourced from indigenous industry. It is 20 or more times greater than our trade with Israel and likely to remain so in present circumstances.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, officials also factored in the security implications of expenditure and garda resources as a major consideration in the Governments decision-making process.

It was calculated in 1992 that security for an Israeli embassy in Dublin could amount to 700,000 per year and would also result in an immediate demand that Arab states be allowed to open embassies in Dublin.

Similar concerns were raised around an unrealised proposal for the President of Ireland to undertake a State visit to Israel.

One Government file states: It might be argued that the chances of our incurring the Arab worlds displeasure by having a State Visit to Israel are slimmer than in the past but is it worth taking the risk?

A State Visit is usually seen as a mark of a high degree of friendship between two countries and it would not go unnoticed in the Arab world.

I am however obliged to draw your attention to the territorial limits of your jurisdiction. Letter to Ireland's Honorary Consul in Israel

In 1993, Zvi Levy was told his work as Irelands honorary consul in Israel had been commendable and considerable.

However, after a Department of Foreign Affairs official was told Mr Levy had met with an Irish businessman in Gaza, he was reminded of the territorial limits of your jurisdiction.

The letter states: I understand that in the course of your recent discussions with officials in this Department you had mentioned that you were engaged in promoting Irish business interests in the Gaza Strip.

It adds: Your active involvement, particularly since the time of your appointment as Irelands Honorary Consul in Israel, is encouraging and promoting economic and trade links with Ireland, has been commendable.

Advertisement

The department was concerned that his activities in Gaza may give the impression he had an official role in the region.

The letter said: We are very conscious of the contribution you are making in that regard and are grateful for your considerable efforts. I am, however, obliged to draw your attention to the territorial limits of your jurisdiction as set out in your Letter of Commission.

Mr Levy was told: You will be aware that your area of activity is confined to the territory within Israels internationally recognised frontiers and accordingly does not extend to the territories occupied by Israel since 1967.

The letter added: On that basis, I would hope that any requests you receive for consular, commercial or other assistance that could involve you in the Gaza strip, or any other occupied territories, will be dealt with by directing the enquirer to the Embassy of Ireland in Cairo in the first instance.

 This article is based on documents in the file labelled 2025/124/345 at the National Archives of Ireland.
It was rather dubious whether an all-island court would lead to the conviction of more fugitives, according to Irelands attorney general in 1982.

Patrick Connolly SC, who would resign later that year after prolific murderer Malcolm McArthur was arrested in his apartment, made his assessment shortly after the new Irish government was formed.

The suggestion of a joint British-Irish court was discussed during the 1980s.

A meeting was held in April 1982, a month after Charles Haughey came to power for a second time and before his government collapsed in December of that year.

Charles Haughey with Margaret Thatcher in the early 1980s. Photo: PA.

Mr Haughey, Mr Connolly, the minister for foreign affairs Gerry Collins, minister for justice Sean Doherty, and senior civil servants at several departments met to discuss matters relating to Northern Ireland.

In a document labelled strictly confidential, released this year as part of the National Archives in Dublin, Mr Connolly told the new Irish government that he was against the suggestion of an all-island court.

Advertisement

Mr Connolly, who was thrown into the spotlight in August after Malcolm McArthur was arrested in his Dublin apartment, said he did not believe the court would lead to the conviction of more fugitives.

He recounted a meeting his predecessor had with the British attorney general about extradition, joint interrogation and an all-island court and then gave his view, according to the memo.

The attorney general was of the opinion that the proposal considered in this regard was a cumbersome arrangement, the merits of which in terms of securing more convictions of fugitive offenders were, in his view, rather dubious.

There were particular difficulties as regards the question of whether a right of appeal would lie.

In relation to joint interrogation, he said that gardai feared attacks would be mounted at Garda stations if RUC officers could be present, and Mr Haughey said that extradition was an explosive issue.

In January of that year, before the general election was called, a meeting was held at Iveagh House attended by Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, the ministers for justice and foreign affairs, and then Attorney General Peter Sutherland SC.

The note from that meeting stated that talks had begun between the British and Irish attorneys general, and since then, there was pressure from the British side for us to advance our position on extradition and joint questioning.

Questions arose about such a courts jurisdiction and rules of procedure Note from meeting

It also noted that there was no prospect of the British agreeing to a joint court without movement on joint questioning or extradition.

Questions arose about such a courts jurisdiction and rules of procedure, the note stated.

Advertisement

There seemed to be agreement that the court could sit in the north and the south as necessary.

If a case were initiated in the north, the court would deal with it under UK law and procedures, even if it was necessary to sit in the south.

It was questioned as to whether such a formula could work in practice and further clarification of the position was felt to be necessary.

Ireland John Major reprimanded John Bruton for stormy speech in 1995 Read more

It also noted that while there was uniformity of legislation, rules of evidence differed which was relevant to admissions of guilt and could be an enormous obstacle.

It was agreed that the term all-island court was politically sensitive and that a more appropriate title might be joint court.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/125/294 in the National Archives of Ireland.
Taoiseach Charlie Haughey was unhappy after a British marine allegedly put a gun to the neck of a Dubliner while he was sailing on Carlingford Lough in 1991.

There were several instances where leisure boats on the disputed territory of Carlingford Lough had been approached by British patrols in the 1990s.

This included two British naval officers with submachine guns boarding the yacht of Mr Haughey in July 1990, who was not on board at the time.

The incidents on the inlet, located between Co Louth and Co Down, prompted Irish officials to seek the British Government policy underpinning the boardings.

One particular incident, where a marine allegedly put a gun to a Dublin sailors neck and took the safety off, saw Mr Haughey write to the sailor to say the Irish government would be making representations on his behalf.

Advertisement

I was very disturbed to learn of the incident involving your boat in Carlingford Lough and I immediately conveyed my concern to the British authorities through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat who based their approach on your detailed report of the incident, Mr Haughey wrote on June 17th.

As part of the annual release of National Archive files in Dublin, several pieces of correspondence detail the incident with the sailor, Sir Henry Barnwell from Glenageary, and his yacht the Lady Jane on Saturday June 1st. 1991.

This includes a Garda file on the incident in which it recounts the statement from Sir Henry, his wife Joy, who it said were visibly shaken, and a Swiss friend who was on board the yacht with them.

The Garda file stated that as Mr Barnwell was passing by the Greenore side of the shore, he was approached by two dinghies and two soldiers requested permission to board.

He refused and demanded identification from them, which was refused, and they boarded the yacht.

He continued to refuse them permission, and one of them said they were arresting him and taking him to Northern Ireland, the statement said.

In attempting to turn Mr Barnwells yacht around, one of the soldiers put a gun to Barnwells neck and grabbed the tiller and strained the tiller socket.

The statement said Mr Barnwell heard someone say over the soldiers radios they have you in the Republic, after which they left the Lady Jane.

The statement noted that two senior gardai inspected the damage done to the yacht and said the tiller socket was definitely strained, the plug for the automatic pilot was ripped from its socket and boot marks were visible on deck.

Advertisement

Mr Barnwell later said that when he resisted the soldiers attempting to wrestle the tiller from him, one of them put a gun to his neck and clocked off the safety catch, according to an official from the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The official urged that the issue be raised in strong terms with British authorities and requested a full report on the incident, particularly as the yacht was so close to the Greenore side of the shore and was proceeding to an Irish port.

The aggressive manner in which the boarding was carried out also gives rise to serious concern, a civil servant said.

The holding of a gun to Mr Barnwells neck was a reckless action that could have had the most serious consequences.

Irish civil servants also noted similarities to an incident the previous month, where the Lady Irene yacht was boarded by British marines and in which a woman was struck on the forehead by the boom as they tried to steer it towards Warrenpoint.

They said they wanted assurances that such incidents would not become the norm."

Civil servants also said it was entirely unsatisfactory that Mr Barnwells wife Joy was being investigated by the Northern Ireland Coast Guard for improper use of the mayday frequency  an investigation which was later dropped.

A note to the Taoiseachs department remarked that the British marines had claimed the Lady Jane incident took place to the north of the lough and there was no forcible boarding.

Advertisement

They also said that British authorities responses on the issue were far from reassuring and said the initial response had attempted to characterise Mr Barnwells reluctance to be boarded by armed marines as suspicious behaviour which justified the actions of the soldiers.

But, in a note sent to the Taoiseachs department on September 27, it was noted that an investigation into the incident by British authorities was problematic as Mr Barnwell would not make a formal statement to the RUC about the incident as he does not recognise their jurisdiction in the matter.

There the matter rests, the note said.

Mr Barnwell had written to Mr Haughey on June 5 about the incident, stating that he, his wife and friend continued to shake with fear and trepidation for the remainder of the day.

During the rest of the weekend, we were regaled with stories of persistent harassment of Carlingford yachts by these men, he said.

World Trump says US and Ukraine 'a lot closer' on peace deal but 'thorny issues' remain Read more

I have had several conversations with the British, whom I fear will concoct some denial to pervert the course of justice, which seems to have become as much a tradition of British culture as their reputation for piracy.

He added: the vibes I have picked up indicate that they are claiming the right to patrol the entire lough and I fear there will be a fatality.

 This article is based on documents contained in the file labelled 2025/115/523 in the National Archives of Ireland.
The Government has been urged to act now to plan for a changing population.

A National Economic and Social Council (NESC) report has suggested that the country's population will peak in the next three decades.

It pointed out that 'peak baby' and peak child' milestones were reached in 2010 and 2024, respectively.

Policy Analyst with the NESC, Dr Grainne Collins, told Newstalk that more comprehensive data is needed to plan for the future.

She described "very poor numbers on the movements of people in and out of Ireland," saying that they have to use people's presence in admin data sets, or their lack of presence when they emigrate.

"We dont know, for instance, why women are not having as many babies as they say they want to," Dr Collins added.

Advertisement

The passing of 'peak child' and 'peak baby' has been described as a decisive shift in population from expansion to gradual ageing, and Dr Collins said that this will have an impact on society in the future.

"In time, it will affect the number of children in the workforce, which then in turn will affect how we support our society, because therell be less workers supporting more population, a more older population," Dr Collins said.

The report warned that Ireland risks having insufficient workers and tax revenues to support an ageing population, as fewer children are born in Ireland every year.

"The main issue is that weve passed peak baby; the most children were born in Ireland in 2010, and every year since then the number of children has been falling. Weve now passed peak child, 2024, so that from now on theres going to be 15,000 less children born each year in Ireland," Dr Collins said.

The NESC suggested that with strategic and adaptive approaches, Ireland can get ahead of the demographic changes and better prepare for the transitions that follow.
A man hailed as a hero for tackling a gunman during Australias Bondi terror attack said he acted to stop more people from being killed.

Footage of Sydney shop owner Ahmed al Ahmed disarming gunman Sajid Akram before being wounded himself circulated worldwide.

Fifteen people died and dozens more were injured when gunmen opened fire on a crowd of more than 1,000 celebrating Hanukkah in Bondis Archer Park on December 14th.

One alleged gunman, Naveed Akram, faces 59 charges, while his father, Sajid, was shot dead by police at the scene.

People attend an event to mark Hanukkah and honour victims of a terrorist attack on December 14th, which targeted a Jewish celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney (Yui Mok/PA)

In an interview with CBS due to air on Monday, Mr Ahmed, who was shot four times after intervening, said he just wanted to save more lives.

My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing a human beings life and not killing innocent people, he said.

Advertisement

I know I saved lots, but I feel sorry for the lost.

He described the moment he leapt onto the gunmans back to wrestle the firearm away: I jumped on his back, hit him. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him, drop your gun, stop doing what youre doing, and its come all in fast.

And emotionally, Im doing something, which is I feel something, a power in my body, my brain  I dont want to see people killed in front of me, I dont want to hear his gun, I dont want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help, and thats my soul asking me to do that.

Were responding to the Bondi antisemitic terror attack with unity and urgency, not division and delay. pic.twitter.com/kGGrmuMKqP  Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) December 29, 2025

Mr Ahmeds parents told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation he had been shot four to five times in the shoulder.

A GoFundMe campaign raised 2.5 million Australian dollars (1.2 million), with donations from comedian Amy Schumer and billionaire Bill Ackman.

The cheque was presented at his hospital bed by co-organiser Zachery Dereniowski.

Before Christmas, Australia announced it would establish an award for those like Mr Ahmed who confronted the worst of evil during the attack.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: This Christmas is a different one because of the anti-terror and the terrorist attack motivated by Isis and antisemitism.
US President Donald Trump warned Iran against reconstituting its nuclear programme as he welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his home in Florida for wide-ranging talks.

The warning comes after Mr Trump has insisted that Tehrans nuclear capabilities were completely and fully obliterated by US strikes on key nuclear enrichment sites in June.

But Israeli officials have been quoted in local media expressing concern about Iran rebuilding its supply of long-range missiles capable of striking Israel.



US President Donald Trump and Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are seated before a luncheon at his Mar-a-Lago club (Alex Brandon/AP)

Now I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, Mr Trump told reporters soon after Mr Netanyahu arrived at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

And if they are, were going to have to knock them down.

Advertisement

Well knock them down. Well knock the hell out of them. But hopefully thats not happening.

Iran has insisted that it is no longer enriching uranium at any site in the country, trying to signal to the West that it remains open to potential negotiations over its atomic programme.

But Mr Netanyahu was expected to discuss with Mr Trump the need to potentially take new military action against Tehran just months after launching a 12-day war on Iran.

Mr Trump criticised Iran anew for not making a deal to completely disarm its nuclear programme ahead of the US and Israeli strikes earlier this year.

They wish they made that deal, Mr Trump said.

Mr Netanyahus visit also comes at another critical moment in Gaza as Mr Trump looks to create fresh momentum for the US-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire that is in danger of stalling before reaching the complicated second phase of the agreement.



US President Donald Trump greets Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Alex Brandon/AP)

Mr Trump, with Mr Netanyahu by his side, said he wants to get to the second phase as quickly as we can.

But there has to be a disarming of Hamas, Mr Trump added.

Before his talks with Mr Trump, Mr Netanyahu met separately with US secretary of state Marco Rubio and defence secretary Pete Hegseth.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that Mr Trump championed has mostly held, but progress has slowed recently.

Both sides accuse each other of violations, and divisions have emerged among the US, Israel and Arab countries about the path forward.

Advertisement

The truces first phase began in October, days after the two-year anniversary of the initial Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people.

All but one of the 251 hostages taken then have been released, alive or dead.

The Israeli leader has signalled he is in no rush to move forward with the next phase as long as the remains of Ran Gvili are still in Gaza.



US President Donald Trump speaks before a luncheon with Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Alex Brandon/AP)

Mr Gvilis parents met with Mr Netanyahu as well as Mr Rubio, US envoy Steve Witkoff and the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, in Florida on Monday.

The Gvilis are expected to meet with Mr Trump later in the day, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group that advocates for families of abductees of the October 7 2023 attack.

Theyre waiting for their son to come home, Mr Trump said of the family of the young police officer known affectionately as Rani.

The family, according to the group, is looking to ensure there will be no transition to Phase 2 of the agreement until Hamas fulfils its Phase 1 commitments and returns Ran home.

Trumps 20-point plan  which was approved by the UN Security Council  lays out an ambitious vision for ending Hamas rule of Gaza.
US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy were "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to an agreement to end the war in Ukraine, while acknowledging that the fate of the Donbas region remains a key unresolved issue.

The two leaders spoke at a joint news conference after meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Sunday afternoon.

Both leaders reported progress on two of the most contentious issues in peace talks - security guarantees for Ukraine and the division of eastern Ukraines Donbas region that Russia has sought to capture.

Both Trump and Zelenskiy offered few details and did not provide a deadline for completing a peace deal, although Trump said it will be clear "in a few weeks" whether negotiations to end the war would succeed. He said a few "thorny issues" around territory must be resolved.

Advertisement

Zelenskiy said an agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine has been reached. Trump was slightly more cautious, saying that they were 95 per cent of the way to such an agreement, and that he expected European countries to "take over a big part" of that effort with U.S. backing.

French President Emmanuel Macron, in an X post published after Trump met with Zelenskiy, said progress was made on security guarantees. Macron said countries in the so-called "Coalition of the Willing" would meet in Paris in early January to finalise their "concrete contributions."

Zelenskiy has said previously that he hopes to soften a U.S. proposal for Ukrainian forces to withdraw completely from Donbas, a Russian demand that would mean ceding some territory held by Ukrainian forces. While Moscow insists on getting all of Donbas, Kyiv wants the map frozen at the current battle lines.

Both Trump and Zelenskiy said on Sunday the future of the Donbas had not been settled, though the U.S. president said discussions are "moving in the right direction." The United States, seeking a compromise, has proposed a free economic zone if Ukraine leaves the area, although it remains unclear how that zone would function in practical terms.

"It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer. That's a very tough issue," Trump said.

Nor did the leaders offer much insight into what agreements they had reached on providing security for Ukraine after the war ends, something Zelenskiy described Sunday as "the key milestone in achieving a lasting peace."

Advertisement

Russia has said any foreign troop deployment in Ukraine is unacceptable.

Zelenskiy said any peace agreement would have to be approved by Ukraine's parliament, or by a referendum. Trump said he would be willing to speak to parliament if that would secure the deal.

Shortly before Zelenskiy and his delegation arrived at Trump's Florida residence, Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke in a call described as "productive" by the U.S. president and "friendly" by Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov.

Ushakov, in Moscow, said Putin told Trump a 60-day ceasefire proposed by the European Union and Ukraine would prolong the war. The Kremlin aide also said Ukraine needs to make a decision regarding the Donbas "without further delay."

Trump said he and Putin spoke for more than two hours. He said the Russian president pledged to help rebuild Ukraine, including by supplying cheap energy. "Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed," Trump said. "It sounds a little strange."

As Trump praised Putin, Zelenskiy tilted his head and smiled.

Trump said he would call Putin again following the meeting with Zelenskiy.

The Kremlin expressed support for Trump's negotiations.

"The whole world appreciates President Trump and his teams peace efforts," Kirill Dmitriev, Putin's special envoy, posted on X early on Monday after Trumps talks with Zelenskiy.

US negotiators have also proposed shared control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Power line repairs have begun there after another local ceasefire brokered by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the agency said on Sunday.

Advertisement

Negotiators, Trump said, have made progress on deciding the fate of the plant, which can "start up almost immediately." The US president said "it's a big step" that Russia had not bombed the facility.

Russia controls all of Crimea, which it annexed in 2014, and since its invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago has taken control of about 12% of its territory, including about 90% of the Donbas, 75 per cent of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, and slivers of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, according to Russian estimates.

The day before Zelenskiy arrived in Florida to meet with Trump, Russian forces attacked Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine with hundreds of missiles and drones, knocking out power and heat in parts of the Ukrainian capital. Zelenskiy has described the weekend attacks as Russia's response to the U.S.-brokered peace efforts, but Trump on Sunday said he believes Putin and Zelenskiy are serious about peace.

After Saturday's air attacks, Putin said Moscow would continue waging its war if Kyiv did not seek a quick peace. Russia has steadily advanced on the battlefield in recent months, claiming control over several more settlements on Sunday.

European heads of state joined at least part of Sunday's meeting by phone. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on social media site X that "Europe is ready to keep working with Ukraine and our US partners," and added that having ironclad security guarantees will be of "paramount" importance.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin said, "I welcome the progress in Ukraine peace talks that Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy spoke of this evening in Florida.

"I firmly hope that this will be built on in the time ahead to enable a ceasefire to take place.

"The people of Ukraine, who have endured so much as they bravely defend their country, deserve a just and sustainable peace.

"I pay tribute to all those working in good faith towards that goal and wish them every success.

"Russia must now demonstrate that it is committed to ending its illegal war on Ukraine."
The US is offering Ukraine security guarantees for 15 years as part of a proposed peace plan, Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

The Ukrainian president said he would prefer a commitment of up to 50 years to deter Russia from further attempts to seize its neighbours land by force.

US President Donald Trump hosted Mr Zelensky at his Florida resort on Sunday and claimed Ukraine and Russia were closer than ever before to a peace settlement.





Negotiators are still searching for a breakthrough on key issues, including whose forces withdraw from where and the fate of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, one of the 10 biggest in the world.

Mr Trump noted that the months-long US-led negotiations could still collapse.

Without security guarantees, realistically, this war will not end, Mr Zelensky told reporters.

Advertisement

Ukraine has been fighting Russia since 2014 when Moscow illegally annexed Crimea and Kremlin-backed separatists took up arms in the Donbas, a vital industrial region in eastern Ukraine.

Details of the security guarantees have not been made public but Mr Zelensky said on Monday that they include how a peace deal would be monitored as well as the presence of partners.



Donald Trump shakes hands with Volodymyr Zelensky (Alex Brandon/AP)

He did not elaborate, but Russia has said it will not accept the deployment in Ukraine of troops from Nato countries.

Mr Trump on Monday had a positive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the war, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X.

The two leaders had also spoken ahead of Mr Trumps talks with Mr Zelensky on Sunday as the American president tries to steer the countries towards a settlement.

Mr Putins foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said that Mr Trump is pushing Ukraine to seek a comprehensive peace agreement and not demand a temporary respite for its military through a ceasefire.

Mr Putin has also insisted on a full settlement before any truce.





President Trump has concluded a positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine.  Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) December 29, 2025

In Mondays call, Mr Putin told Mr Trump that Ukraine attempted to attack the Russian leaders residence in north-western Russia with long-range drones almost immediately after Mr Trumps Sunday talks with Mr Zelensky.

The attack certainly will not be left without a serious response, Mr Ushakov said, adding that Moscow will now review its negotiating position.

Advertisement

Mr Zelensky denied the Russian claim of an attack, describing it as an attempt to manipulate the peace process.

He said it was another lie and came about because Moscow is unnerved by progress in peace efforts.

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said Ukraine launched an attack on Mr Putins residence in the northwestern Novgorod region overnight from Sunday to Monday using 91 long-range drones.



Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with senior military officers at the Kremlin in Moscow (Mikhail Metzel/Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

As indications suggest negotiations could come to a head in January, before the fourth anniversary of Russias full-blown invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022, Mr Putin on Monday claimed that Russian troops are advancing in the eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine and are also pressing their offensive in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.

Mr Putin has sought to portray himself as negotiating from a position of strength as Ukrainian forces strain to keep back the bigger Russian army.

He also emphasised at a meeting with senior military officers the need to create military buffer zones along the Russian border.

This is a very important task as it ensures the security of Russias border regions, the Russian president said.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that Mr Putin and Mr Trump were expected to speak in the near future but there was no indication the Russian leader would speak to Mr Zelensky.



Dmitry Peskov said Mr Putin and Mr Trump are expected to speak in the future (Pavel Bednyakov/AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron said Kyivs allies will meet in Paris in early January to finalise each countrys concrete contributions to the security guarantees.

Mr Trump said he would consider extending US security guarantees for Ukraine beyond 15 years, according to Mr Zelensky. The guarantees would be approved by the US Congress as well as by parliaments in other countries involved in overseeing any settlement, he added.

Advertisement

Mr Zelensky said he wants the 20-point peace plan under discussion to be approved by Ukrainians in a national referendum.

However, holding a ballot requires a ceasefire of at least 60 days, and Moscow has shown no willingness for a truce without a full settlement.

On the snowy streets of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, people were sceptical about the chances of peace.

One military veteran who uses the call sign Sensei, in keeping with the rules of the Ukrainian military, said Mr Putins record in power shows he cannot be trusted.

Sensei joined the military in 2022 and was wounded that year during the battle for the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.



President Donald Trump meets Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida (Alex Brandon/AP)

Now, he said, almost nobody from his company is still alive.

But all these sacrifices, they are not in vain, because we need to prove that we exist, that we are, that we have the right to our existence, to our territory, to our culture, to our language, the 65-year-old told The Associated Press.

Advertisement

Denys Shpylovyi, a 20-year-old student who was home for the holidays, said Mr Trumps willingness to accept Mr Putins arguments has put Mr Zelensky in a difficult situation.

But Im thankful for some progress. They are speaking, and maybe someday there will be hope, he said.

Oleh Saakian, a Ukrainian political scientist, said it was a good sign that Mr Zelensky is managing to build a relationship with Mr Trump, although he noted that nothing has been adopted yet, nothing has been signed yet.

I dont see these negotiations bringing us closer to real peace, because they are based on equality between the aggressor and the victim, they are based on complete disregard for international law, and disregard for European security, he said.
Advertisement

Sponsored BusinessCompaniesBulls N' Bears West Wits secures key ground for South African gold mine expansion Brought to you by BULLS N BEARS Michael Busbridge December 29, 2025  4:40pm 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 A A

West Wits Mining has locked in a key new strategic tenement which should lay the groundwork for the long-term expansion of operations at its new Qala Shallows Kimberley Reefs underground gold mine near Johannesburg in South Africas famed Witwatersrand Basin. At Qala Shallows the company has commenced mining the upper reaches of the Kimberley Reefs ore body which hosts a mineral resource estimate (MRE) of 5.025-million-ounces grading a healthy 4.66 grams per tonne gold. West Wits Mining image illustrating underground drilling of the Kimberley Reef ore body, in the Qala Shallows mine. The granted Prospecting Right provides for expanded mining operations along the eastern depth extension to the Qala Shallows ore body at the Witwatersrand Basin Project which is expected to form part of the Stage four Qala deeps project. Future phases, including the companys planned Bird Reef Central expansion and will include other independent reefs within the projects area of tenure, will feed the companys long-term Project 200 ambition of attaining 200,000 ounces of annual gold production through a staged process.

Advertisement

The company has commissioned consultants to review and remodel the existing Kimberley Reefs MRE at a lower cut-off grade. The current 2.0 grams per tonne value was established in 2017 when the gold price was trading back near US$1200 per ounce, compared to the current price environment of around US$4500 per ounce. Key projected metrics for the mine include an initial 17-year mine life, based on steady-state production of 70,000 ounces of gold per year over a 12-year production sweet spot. The mine opened in mid-October after West Wits hauled its first underground ore to surface, kicking off stockpiling ahead of toll treatment at Sibanye-Stillwaters nearby Ezulwini plant. The commencement of mining marks a transformative step taken by West Wits transiting it from developer to producer at the same time laying the foundation for what could be multi-decade growth. Management expects to have 30,000 tonnes ready to roll by the time the processing circuit fires up next March, setting the scene for Qala Shallows to move from a development story into what is shaping to be a cash-flow generating machine. Between 2021 and 2023, West Wits stitched together a hefty 5.025-million-ounce resource across its entire footprint. But it was the Qala Shallows deposit that emerged as the standout starter mine, boasting 10.7 million tonnes at 2.98 grams per tonne for just over a million ounces of gold including 383,000 ounces of bankable reserves.

Advertisement

The company unveiled its money shot with a definitive feasibility study in July this year. It pointed to a net present value of US$500 million (A$755 million) and an internal rate of return of 81 per cent presenting the kind of financials that most junior miners dream of. Adding to its credentials, Qala Shallows already has the bones of a mine in place with an adit, a decline and a shaft ready to be used, giving West Wits a rare jump-start. The operation is forecast to pump out around 70,000 ounces of gold every year for 12 straight years, spinning off an enormous US$983 million (A$1.5 billion) in post-tax free cashflow based on a conservative US$2850-ounce gold price. The Witwatersrand Basin has minted mining legends for more than a century. The gold enriched basin is a world-class gold-mining province holding the worlds largest known gold reserves having produced over 1.5 billion ounces of gold since the early 1900s. West Wits now looks poised to script its own mining legend. If and when this project hits full stride, the forecasts suggest it will be one of the biggest positive stories the region has seen in decades  a genuine reinvigoration of the South African gold-mining story built on modern standards, local benefit and long-term vision. With funding, infrastructure and momentum now all in place, its long-life Witwatersrand dream is rapidly becoming a reality. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au
Advertisement

Eating outBest of The best things we ate in Sydney in 2025 worth splashing out on Its not every day Good Food orders fancy dishes like this, but we happily blew the budget for a buttery pasta, a dry-aged steak, an Opera House-shaped dessert and more. Good Food team December 30, 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 A A A

Finding good food is a full-time job for the Good Food team, one we take seriously. So, when we decided to put a list together of the best things we ate in 2025, we realised we had enough for two lists: one for all the great things under $20 and then this one. Some dishes may require you to take out a line of credit, but we promise, itll be worth it. Enjoy. Ursulas Moreton Bay bug pasta. Nikki To Moreton Bay bug pasta at Ursulas, $40 If your year looked anything like mine, it involved eating a lot of pasta  some of it very, very good, like Humbugs crimped pillows of pumpkin agnolotti, spooned with sweet-savoury miso butter, and Flaminias paccheri allo scoglio, brimming with ripe tomatoes and springy, ocean-bright shellfish. One bowl, in particular, stood out: Phil Woods Moreton Bay bug pasta at Ursulas, in Paddington. Fresh tagliatelle is cloaked in a thick, glossy crustacean butter, built from a vermouth-spiked stock of bug shells, then emulsified with butter and parmesan. Chives are showered over the top, along with a lobe of Moreton Bay bug, charred just enough to deepen its flavour and coax out its sweetness. Simple. Elegant. Delicious. Best paired with one of Ursulas excellent grower champagnes. Erina Starkey

Advertisement

Crispy coconut rice with mango makrut sorbet from Kiln, $26 Steep rice in sweetened and salted coconut cream and let it frizz in a deep-fryer: the result is a crunchy disc that tastes like a tropical hash brown. Its highly snackable and a structural plank in Andy Bowdy Bowdens stunning riff on mango sticky rice. Served with ultra-fresh scoops of mango and makrut lime sorbet, plus pools of pandan oil and coconut, its also presented with ribbon-like swirls of the signature fruit. Although the pastry chef has since departed Kiln, his tribute to neighbouring Thaitown remains. And because its vegan and gluten-free, literally everyone can enjoy this intensely summer-charged dessert. Lee Tran Lam Portenos cold room, which you can see from the main dining room. Dry-aged MB4+ 700-gram bone-in sirloin from Porteno, $195

Advertisement

No, I dont usually order the most expensive steak, but yes, I would do it again from this stylish two-hatter. Porteno dry-ages its meat in-house, and this beauty chills for 28 days in the cold room, which sits behind a curtained window in the main dining room. The kitchen crew are masters at wrangling flames, and its exciting to watch them work the asada from the bar. My steak was expertly seasoned; the fat rendered to perfection. After 15 years, its fantastic to see this 15-year-old restaurant still at the top of its game in Surry Hills. Sarah Norris Roast goose at Golden Sands. Jennifer Soo Whole roast goose from Golden Sands, $93.60 Hurstville may well be the best suburb for poultry in Sydney. Admire the mandolin-like curves of the pei pa ducks at Golden Sun BBQ, savour the depth of the Nanjing salted duck at Mr Chao BBQ, tear into the squab at Hurstville Chinese Restaurant and Sun Ming. But the most memorable bird? It has to be the goose at Golden Sands. Taste of Shunde is renowned for it, but my moneys on this institution upstairs in Hurstville Times Plaza, where the skin is crinkled and burnished, the flesh is supple and rich and theres a lingering sweetness, enhanced by a ramekin of spiced sauce coaxed from the cooking juices. David Matthews Related Article Everyone knows thats where you get your barbecue meats: The Good Food guide to Hurstville

Advertisement

The parts and labour pig plate at Joes. Declan Blackall The pig plate from Joes Tavern, $74 Simon Rogans LEnclume residency at Bathers Pavilion was more than a bit special, and I will remember the precision and harmony of the UK chefs marron with wax flower jelly, pike roe, mussel stock and buttermilk for a very long time. God, it was incredible. But to experience that youll have to head to Cartmel in England, where Rogan does more or less the same dish with langoustine, so I probably shouldnt bang on about it too much here. More readily available is the plate of pig in its many forms at Joes Tavern in Newtown. From the parts and labour section of the menu, you can expect crisp belly, crumbed chop stuffed with its own ham (its own ham!) and provolone, and confit shoulder wrapped in cabbage. There will likely be a Vienna sausage too, and one time the kitchen was out of the shoulder chou farci, so you got a small steak of maple-glazed ham instead. Everything is slicked with dark, delicious jus and then theres a stonking good wedge of cheesecake for dessert. Thats living. Callan Boys Its the Opera House in a bowl. Joking. Its the Opera House pavlova at Bennelong.

Advertisement

Pavlova from Bennelong, available on the $225 three-course menu Could there be a more Sydney dish than the Opera House pavlova at Bennelong? Carefully assembled from crisp, curved meringue to resemble Utzons sails, it became a signature the moment Quay chefs Peter Gilmore and Rob Cockerill opened the restaurants current iteration 10 years ago. The dish has undergone minor renovations over the years but in its present form, the delicate sails are perched on fresh passionfruit and passionfruit curd, cream and vanilla brulee. Yes, its quite sweet. No, its not subtle. Yes, youll need to shell out for the full three-course menu to try it. But the result is unlike any other dessert. As one Good Food article first described it: An unapologetic celebration of Australia, its the Americas Cup win, right there on a plate. Its the bicentenary. Its Ken Done. Its the vibe of the thing. Megan Johnston Confit dodine of pigeon, radicchio and raisin from Porcine, $90 Porcine chef and co-owner Nik Hills ongoing dalliance with pigeon (or squab) continues to make the Paddington bistro stand out in a sea of French restaurants. The small, delicate bird is deboned (leg and wings left intact) and filled with pistachio, trompette mushrooms and duck gizzards in a delightful textural juxtaposition before being gently cooked in duck fat. The bird sits on a nest of wilted, glossy radicchio that soaks up the jus gras, and is finished with the subtle sweetness of a Pineau des Charentes fortified wine. It screams of the classic French technique and boldness that personifies Hills cooking. Its also damn tasty. Kevin Cheng

Advertisement

Osteria Muccas Sicilian cassata cake. Cassata siciliana at Osteria Mucca, $28 Somehow, my most beloved splurge dish of the year features two things I rather dislike: marzipan and candied fruit. Such is the magic of our Chef of the Year, Lauren Eldridge, that she can weave these two culinary enemies of mine into my favourite dessert of the year. Her cassata Siciliana at Australia Streets new Italian joint is a sight to behold. Its verdant pistachio marzipan is topped with intricate-piped fondant icing and crowned with a shiny candied cherry. Beneath lies a sponge soaked with a minty splash of Liquore Strega, and ricotta swimming with chocolate chips. I think its so special, I have ordered it to-go so I can gift it to my friends for their birthdays. Isabel Cant Related Article Chicken gyros to beignets: The best things we ate in NSW this year for $20 or under
Remove items from your saved list to add more.

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

Save this video for later

Add videos to your saved list and come back to them anytime.

Got it
Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime.

A 50-year-old man has been charged after a brazen cash swipe from the charity donation box of a band playing Christmas songs at Town Hall station when the alleged thief grabbed handfuls of cash and made a swift escape.

Video posted online captures a man dancing towards the charity box about 6pm on December 9, before dipping both his hands in the box, decorated in green tinsel, and scrounging for cash while the NSW Railway Band continues with a rendition of Jingle Bell Rock.

Loading

Commuters appear stunned as the man allegedly walks away from the box with banknotes in his fists. He makes a quick escape, jumping over the railway gates and towards the platforms. Those in the station and some band members voice their disapproval as he flees, while one commuter jumps the gates to pursue him.

Dwayne Bintilan Clayton, 50, was charged with larceny at Kings Cross police station on Sunday afternoon, after police opened an investigation into the alleged theft on Saturday.
Christine Lampard has quit Lorraine after eight years amid ITV's imminent brutal budget cuts.

Christine Lampard on the set of Lorraine /  Instagram

The 46-year-old presenter will no longer need to step in for its main host, Lorraine Kelly, 66, because the latter will now host her eponymous morning magazine show for five days a week, as it is being trimmed down to 30 minutes and will only air for 30 weeks a year from January 2026.

Christine - who, with deputy host Ranvir Singh, 48, covered for Lorraine every Friday, as well as during the school holidays - took to Instagram on Sunday (28.12.25) to confirm her departure.

The star - who joined the programme in 2017 - penned: "After many years of being part of the @lorraine family, it is now coming to an end.

"Weve laughed, lunched and learnt so much from one another. Colleagues who have become the best of friends. As many of the team enter a new world in 2026, I want to thank every single person. I love you all! It has been the best of times. (sic)"

Christine's exit announcement was met with heaps of sadness amongst her followers in the post's comments section.

One person wrote: "I am so lucky to have met you and spent some fun times with you.

"It is you who made our mornings so special simply by just being you and we love you for that. Thanks for making my own memories so special, you are truly the best and I will miss you loads. (sic)"

A second supporter typed: "Always love it when your on Lorraine. All the best in your next chapter (sic)."

And a third fan left: "Nooooo, you need to take over that show x. (sic)"

From January, Loose Women, which Christine also fronts, will air for 30 weeks instead of 52, and ITV's breakfast news programme Good Morning Britain, which Ranvir anchors, will take the 9-10am slot for 22 weeks of the year.

But amid the cutbacks causing job losses in excess of 220, a source told the Daily Mail that "Christine and Ranvir remain part of the ITV daytime family".

ITV's flagship daytime show This Morning, whose presenters include Ben Shephard, 51, Cat Deeley, 49, and Alison Hammond, 50, remains untouched.

With Good Morning Britain - which will now be made by ITN, the organisation that creates ITV News, instead of ITV Studios - taking the 9-10am slot for 22 weeks of the year, it means Lorraine will front all five days of the remaining 30 weeks.

And Lorraine - who previously described the cutbacks to her show as "heartbreaking" - hopes the audience will stay with her amid the network's brutal budget cuts.

She recently told The Standard: "My show's been on it half past eight, quarter to nine, and nine o'clock, 10 past nine.

"So hopefully the audience will still stay with us, because that's the most important thing to me, is you know, that the audience are still enjoying what I do and the fact that people are so kind and they still watch after all these years and when I go out and about, people greet me like their friend, which is really, really lovely.

"And I don't think that happens to all that many people. You know that you've got that connection, primarily because I've been doing it for so long, but it's something that I never, ever take for granted, and I never take any of this for granted. I really don't, because it's, it's an honour.

"The show continues. And obviously its only going to be the half hour ... but you know what, were still here. Were still here."
TWENTY-FIVE new car parking spaces have been made available to the public in Bagenalstown, just in time for the Christmas period.

The spaces, available since Friday 19 December, are in St Marys Church of Ireland following discussions between Carlow Co Council and the church committee. The agreement will be trialled for six months and is in response to concerns raised about a lack of car parking spaces in Bagenalstown.

Cllr Daniel Pender, one of the councillors who supported the move for extra parking spaces in Bagenalstown, said: This is being introduced at one of the busiest times of the year for local businesses. Encouraging people to shop local must go hand-in-hand with making it easier for residents to access their local shops.

The parking spaces in St Marys church are free of charge.
Tesla Cybertrucks have become a popular symbol of police, as these vehicles are often used as barricades during protests. They are also used in emergency response scenarios. While Elon Musk claims that it's bulletproof, critics claim that it's not.

Cybertruck Armor: Fact vs. Fiction

Sheriff Kevin McMahill described the Cybertrucks as symbols of "innovation, sustainability, and our commitment to serve the community with the best tools available, safely and efficiently." The announcement emphasized their futuristic appeal and alleged bulletproof features, setting them apart from standard patrol cars.

As Boing Boing reported, the Las Vegas Police Department unveiled 10 customized Tesla Cybertrucks in October. They were donated by venture capitalist Ben Horowitz.

Despite claims of superior protection, the Las Vegas Cybertrucks remain at factory specifications. UP FIT, the company handling modifications, stated in a video that "the vehicle does not need added ballistic doors because the doors already have ballistic protection from the factory."

However, independent tests tell a different story. While Cybertruck panels can resist some small arms fire, rifles like the AR-15 can easily penetrate the doors. "Armor Glass" windows, tougher than typical auto glass, only withstand minor impacts, failing to stop bullets effectively.

Firearms expert Kay Leadfoot explained that AR-15 style rifles punch through the doors, all but the lightest handguns penetrate, and standard rifle ammo easily breaches the glass.

The History of Armored Vehicle Challenges

Creating truly bulletproof everyday vehicles is notoriously difficult. In the 1970s, "Magic" Alex Mardas attempted to bulletproof luxury cars for Middle Eastern royalty, but bullets easily penetrated during tests.

Experts often caution that "bulletproof" is more marketing than a guarantee. Even reinforced vehicles are frequently vulnerable to real-world ballistics, leaving occupants exposed.

Cybertruck Concerns Beyond Bulletproof

The challenges extend beyond armor. Cybertrucks have faced issues such as:

Inconsistent build quality

Panel gaps

Software glitches

High maintenance costs

Reduced electric range

Problems with car washes and electronics

Originally published on Tech Times
Advertisement

The USG Supramax spot freight market started the month on a strong mode with owners being able to maintain robust levels. But by the second half of the month, sentiment softened, with owners asking less for the same trips that had been priced higher a week ago. This downward pressure was mainly caused by a lack of fresh cargoes in the first half of November. The tonnage list in the area was not particularly long, so new cargoes could easily change the balance.

Freight rates for transportation of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from Houston to ARA ports with spot laycans are at US$27/t on average. Deals for delivery of 50,000t of petcoke from Houston to Iskenderun with spot laycans are discussed at around US$33/t on average. Shipping costs for delivery of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from USG to EC India are at US$53/t on average.

Supramax freight rates for petcoke from Houston, USA, March 2019-December 2025

Looking forward, the sentiment is largely positive. The deal agreed between the USA and China pledges to reduce tariffs on imports from China from 30 to 20 per cent, the resumption of Chinese purchases of US soybeans, potential for an increase in US energy flows to China and the suspension of recently implemented US and Chinese port fees. An increase in the volume of US soybeans being sold and shipped to China will have a positive effect on the freight shipping rates, allowing shipowners to command premiums.

By Brannvoll ApS, Denmark
Advertisement

Argentinas cement consumption declined by 4.7 per cent YoY to 829,432t in November 2025 from 870,090t in November 2024, according to the national cement association, AFCP. When compared with October 2025, there was a 14.3 per cent drop.

The market was largely supplied by domestic production as imports stood at a low 16t, down from 5567t in November 2024 and 559t in October 559t.

Total domestic production was down by 4.2 per cent YoY from 876,775t and 13.7 per cent MoM from 973,603t to 840,212t in November 2025.

Of this total, 10,796t was exported, representing a 48.9 per cent YoY increase when compared to the previous year when 7251t was exported. When compared to October 2025, when 5791t was exported, the advance was 86.4 per cent.

January-November 2025

In the first 11 months of 2025, total cement consumption in Argentina reached 9.262Mt, up six per cent YoY from 8.734Mt. Approximately 2822t of cement was imported, down 58.4 per cent YoY from 4471t in November 2024.

Argentinas cement producers manufactured 9.330Mt of cement, an increase of 6.2 per cent when compared with the previous years equivalent period, when 8.783Mt was produced.

Exports improved 32.9 per cent to 70,888t in the 11M25 from 53,358t in the 11M24.
Louis Gerstner, the transformative former CEO and chairman of IBM, passed away on Saturday at the age of 83.

IBM chairman and CEO Arvind Krishna announced the news in an email to employees on Sunday, though he did not reveal the cause of death.

"Lou arrived at IBM at a moment when the company's future was genuinely uncertain. His leadership during that period reshaped the company. Not by looking backward, but by focusing relentlessly on what our clients would need next," Krishna wrote, highlighting Gerstner's pivotal role in revitalizing the tech giant.

Gerstner joined IBM in April 1993 from RJR Nabisco, where he had served as CEO, after earlier stints at American Express and consulting firm McKinsey, CNBC reported.

He became the first outsider to lead the company known as Big Blue, inheriting a business facing serious financial challenges.

During his nine-year tenure, Gerstner is credited with turning IBM around from the brink of bankruptcy.

He shifted the company's focus toward business services, overhauled its corporate culture, and streamlined operations through expense reductions, asset sales, and stock repurchases.

By the time he retired in 2002, IBM's stock had risen roughly 800% under his leadership.

Former IBM CEO Louis Gerstner, who revitalized Big Blue, dead at 83 https://t.co/abgoqqn6V1 pic.twitter.com/tDfunypzhB  New York Post (@nypost) December 28, 2025

Louis Gerstner Retires from Carlyle Group

After stepping down as CEO, Gerstner served as chairman of the Carlyle Group until his retirement in 2008.

According to the NY Post, he also authored the acclaimed book "Who Says Elephants Can't Dance" and co-authored "Reinventing Education: Entrepreneurship in America's Public Schools," sharing insights from his decades in business leadership.

Beyond corporate success, Gerstner was deeply committed to public education.

He launched initiatives at IBM to integrate technology into schools and worked to improve opportunities for students across the United States.

In 1989, he established Gerstner Philanthropies, including the Gerstner Family Foundation, supporting biomedical research, environmental causes, educational programs, and social services in New York City, Boston, and Palm Beach County, Florida.

Gerstner's influence extended through his service on the boards of major organizations, including Bristol-Myers, the New York Times, American Express, AT&T, and Caterpillar.

Originally published on vcpost.com
Here are the new marriage licenses from the County Clerk's office:

HEIDI MARIE ECKLER COLLINS LEE SELF

136 AMHURST AVE 622 BRYMER CREEK RD

CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37411 MC DONALD, Tennessee 37353



KATHLEEN LYN JOURNIETTE WALTER JOSE KIRCHNER

936 MOUNTAIN CREEK RD APT Y262 936 MOUNTAIN CREEK RD APT Y262

CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37405 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37405



CODY DUSTIN GARDINO ASHTON SUZETTE DANIEL

13742 BIRCHWOOD PIKE 13742 BIRCHWOOD PIKE

BIRCHWOOD, Tennessee 37308 BIRCHWOOD, Tennessee 37308



JAMES COLQUIT HARRISON AUBREA ELIZABETH PENA

5027 SHOALS LANE 5027 SHOALS LANE

CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37416 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37416



SARA O.





ABU HAIEH MATTHEW PRESTON TYACK TALFORD8216 PATTERSON RD 939 JULIAN RDCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37421 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37421NATALIE ANNE VINUELA JONATHAN ETHAN GUERRERO145 CANDIE LN 145 CANDIE LNCHICKAMAUGA, Georgia 30707 CHICKAMAUGA, Georgia 30707JOHN WILLIAM SKILES SANDRA ELLEN BROOKS3305 KELLYS FERRY RD 3914 CONNER STCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37419 CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE 374114522PATRICK MERLE CROSSMAN HEATHER NICOLE CROSSMAN5570 ERMAN LN 5570 ERMAN LNHIXSON, Tennessee 37343 HIXSON, Tennessee 37343CHRISTA MICHELLE LEIGH JACOB LEE MARSENGILL811 LUPTON DR 811 LUPTON DRCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37415 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37415MARION WAYNE ROBERTSON ALIX CLAIR PARKS920 GLAMIS CIRCLE 920 GLAMIS CIRCLESIGNAL MOUNTAIN, Tennessee 37377 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN, Tennessee 37377NYKEA JALONIE JOHNSON HUSEN ORLANDO MCKELDIN7710 ASPEN LODGE WAY APT418 7710 ASPEN LODGE WAY APT418CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37421 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37421DENIS SERGE DIDENKO KRISTIE LYNN LIEBEL330 FRAZIER AVE APT 214 330 FRAZIER AVE APT 214CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37405 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37405ANNA MARIE BEHRENDS TUCKER WILLIAM MCGUINNESS3404 HARCOURT DR 3404 HARCOURT DRCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37411 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37411CAMERON RAY FIZIA CALLIE TYLER DOYLE2011 CAMDEN ST 2011 CAMDEN STCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37406 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37406BYRON LOUIS BANKS NICOLE RENEE TORREY2504 MAPLE ST 2504 MAPLE STCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37406 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37406DESHUNA MONIQUE TREMBLE JEREMY KEON KELLY1812 S WILLOW ST 1812 S WILLOW STCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37404 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37404CAITLIN MEGAN SHIRK STEPHEN CARTER VIALL3131 MOUNTAIN CREEK RD APT 14A6 3131 MOUNTAIN CREEK RD APT 14A6CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37415 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37415LARRY LEE ZINK KATHY PAULETTE POTTER32 RADCLIFFE DR 32 RADCLIFFE DRPALM COAST, Florida 32164 PALM COAST, Florida 32164JENNIFER LYNN GOSNELL DANIEL ELLIS PETERS3409 SW 25TH PL 3409 SW 25TH PLCAPE CORAL, Florida 33914 CAPE CORAL, Florida 33914AMBER MARIE MONG ZACHARY BRYAN CHAMBERLAIN163 EASTVIEW LN SE 107 CIRCLE DRCLEVELAND, Tennessee 37323 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN, Tennessee 37377JONAH ANDREW KENNEDY ANNA ELIZABETH MCDONALD4685 ARDMORE DR APT 409 4685 ARDMORE DR APT 409OOLTEWAH, Tennessee 37363 OOLTEWAH, Tennessee 37363CHRISTOPHER GILBERT ROBINSON CHRISTOPHER BRANHAM WARE198 GNOME TRL 198 GNOME TRLLOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, Georgia 30750 LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, Georgia 30750JASON EDWIN MORROW BECKY SUE ESLINGER1928 FIRELIGHT WAY 1928 FIRELIGHT WAYOOLTEWAH, Tennessee 37363 OOLTEWAH, Tennessee 37363FAITH ELIZABETH WHITFIELD WILLIAM HARRISON HAUPT1032 E 4TH ST 4023 DEQUATTRO DRIVE APT 4304CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37403 ROCKLEDGE, Florida 32955JAMIE DANIELLE QUESENBERRY JAMIE JO ENGELHARDT1514 RYAN ST 1514 RYAN STCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37404 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37404JUAN ROSALIO PINEDA YAJAIRA YANISE VEGA RIVERA5706 MOODY SAWYER RD APT A 5706 MOODY SAWYER RD APT AHIXSON, Tennessee 37343 HIXSON, Tennessee 37343ROBERT MILTON FISH CRYSTAL LAROSE LEE7009 BARLEYFIELD DR 7009 BARLEYFIELD DRHARRISON, Tennessee 37341 HARRISON, Tennessee 37341WILEY CULLEN CAWOOD RUTH MARIE SAAKE7078 SKI CLUB RD 1831 TIMBER TRAIL NWHARRISON, Tennessee 37341 CLEVELAND, Tennessee 37312JEFFERY PAUL CRIM DANIELLE ERIN KING CRIM2713 RIO GRANDE RD 8228 NEW ENGLAND DRCHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37421 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37421MARK DONALD SMITH LEE RUNNION KNAPP4913 MCDONALD RD 4913 MCDONALD RDMC DONALD, Tennessee 37353 MC DONALD, Tennessee 37353MAMADOU NOUMOU DIALLO DENISHA NICOLE COLLINS562 W SHADOWLAWN DR APT 4 562 W SHADOWLAWN DR APT 4CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37404 CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 37404
2/2/2026

Card-Monroe Corp. on Monday announced the launch of Card-Monroe Services, a new division that extends the company's reliability and customer-first approach beyond the tufting machine to encompass ... more
Emerging South Korean star Choo Young-Woo has given a candid insight into his personal experiences, sharing his first love in a recent promotional interview for his new movie, "Even If This Love Disappears from the World Tonight."

The teenage romance revolves around Seo Yoon, played by actress Shin Sia, a young woman living with anterograde amnesia, a condition where memories are deleted each day after every sleep, and Jae Won, played by Choo, a man consumed wholeheartedly by the process of filling these memories every day. The moviedetails the theme of transitory moments, love, and the passion for the first experience of love, something which highly appealed to the actor.

Choo commented on this in an interview with Koreaboo: "The story reminds me of when I was a teenager." He continued, "There is someone who immediately comes to mind when I think of first love"

Before relating his personal experience, Choo painted a vivid background picture of his adolescence. He talked about his school, which was quite competitive, with an entrance exam, then another test for class ranking, which determined the academic position of the students.

It was in the school auditorium that he vividly remembers the most outstanding student being invited to the front row, an incident that has remained in his memory ever since then.

As quoted by Choo, he was immediately struck by the confidence and presence of the girl and was to find out later that they had been allocated to the same class. As quoted by Naver, he revealed that she was intelligent and this encouraged him to work hard to catch up to her grades despite the fact that their classes would ultimately be divided according to levels of performance.

Choo further clarified that his feelings were two-way in that they eventually dated, which made it his first real relationship. Nevertheless, he realized that the relationship could not handle the transitions that came along with adulthood.

Adding context to what happened at the end of the relationship, Choo continued to describe how he ended up moving to Seoul to seek a career in acting. After gaining some perspective and distance, the two simply drifted apart.

The only information he was able to gather about what happened to her later on was when she got admitted to a prestigious university at age 20.
Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced on Monday that his office has successfully halted the operation of multiple illegal online sweepstakes casinos in Tennessee. This action is part of the attorney generals ongoing effort to protect Tennessee consumers from predatory and unregulated gambling operations.Online sweepstakes casinos typically allow participants to play traditional casino-style games like slot machines, table games, or bingo with two types of virtual currencies, one of which can be redeemed for cash or other real-world prizes.This dual-currency system serves as a facade to hide the fact that participants may engage in real-money gambling on these platforms. The promotional sweepstakes model used by these casinos constitutes an illegal lottery prohibited by the Tennessee Constitution and violates Tennessee gambling and consumer-protection laws.The attorney general sent formal cease-and-desist letters to almost 40 online sweepstakes casinos operating illegally. All platforms that received a letter have already disabled the unlawful components of their platforms or have agreed on a date in the coming weeks for winding down their illegal services, effectively shutting down their illegal sweepstakes casinos.The only thing you can be sure about with an online sweepstakes casino is that it's going to take your money, said Attorney General Skrmetti. They work hard to make these sweepstakes casinos look legitimate, but at the end of the day they are not. They avoid any oversight that could ensure honesty or fairness. Our office was glad to chase these shady operations out of Tennessee and will keep working to protect Tennesseans from illegal gambling.This action mirrors enforcement activity in other states. The Attorney General says the growing national crackdown reflects widespread concern over platforms using sweepstakes language as a loophole to run unregulated gambling operations. Other sweepstakes casinos currently operating in Tennessee or contemplating entering the Tennessee marketplace should consider themselves on notice that illegal gambling will not be tolerated.Below is a list of the casinos that received cease-and-desist letters from the Tennessee Attorney General and have indicated their intent to comply with the order:American LuckCazinoChancedChumbaCrown Coins CasinoFortune CoinsFortune WheelzFunrizeFunzCityGlobal PokerGolden Hearts GamesHello MillionsHigh 5 CasinoiCasinoJackpotaLegendzLoneStarLuckylandMcLuckMega BonanzaMegaFrenzyModoMoonspinNoLimitCoinsPlayFamePuntRealPrizeRollaSpinBlitzSportzinoSpree Social CasinoStakeStormRushTao FortuneThe Money FactoryWOW VegasYay CasinoZula CasinoIndividuals seeking help with problem gambling may call or text the Tennessee REDLINE at 1-800-889-9789. The REDLINE is a free, confidential referral service that is available 24/7/365. Other resources and support for problem gambling are available through the Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services.
Previous Next

Morning Pointe Senior Living announced a new partnership with the Chattanooga College Nursing Program that will welcome Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) students into its Chattanooga-area communities for required clinical rotations.

Through the collaboration, practical nursing students will complete hands-on clinical experiences at six Morning Pointe Senior Living communities across the Chattanooga market. Students will gain exposure to assisted living and memory care while working directly alongside experienced nursing teams in real-world care settings.

As part of the partnership, Kristi Thomasson, director of nursing for the Chattanooga College Nursing Program, and Ashley Yarbrough, clinical coordinator, toured all six Chattanooga-area Morning Pointe Senior Living communities with Ghena Wilson, regional director of Nursing for the Lookout Region. The visits offered faculty leaders a close look at resident care environments, clinical operations, and the collaborative approach used within assisted living and memory care. Wilson was later invited to visit the Chattanooga College campus, where she toured the nursing classrooms and clinical lab and met with faculty and students enrolled in the program.

Assisted living nursing offers practical nursing students a unique and meaningful perspective on patient care that extends far beyond task-based nursing, said Ms. Thomasson. In this setting, students have the opportunity to build genuine relationships with residents, develop strong assessment and clinical judgment skills, and recognize subtle changes in condition that support early intervention and improved outcomes. Assisted living also fosters confidence, leadership, and autonomy, as nurses play a vital role in coordinating care, educating residents and families, and advocating for quality of life and dignity. For practical nursing students, this experience provides a strong foundation for any nursing career while offering the professional fulfillment that comes from seeing residents thrive, maintain independence, and live their best lives. We look forward to this partnership with Morning Pointe, and we are grateful for this opportunity.

For Morning Pointe Senior Living, the partnership reflects a continued commitment to education, mentorship, and strengthening the future healthcare workforce.

Opening our communities to nursing students is about more than clinical hours, said Bebe Kennedy, Senior VP of Operations at Morning Pointe Senior Living. Its about helping students understand critical thinking and compassion that define quality senior care. Were proud to support their education while also investing in the next generation of nurses who will care for older adults with skill and heart.

Clinical rotations with Chattanooga College Nursing Program students are expected to begin in the upcoming academic term.
Tailoring inbound travel to Xizang

09:49, December 29, 2025 By Yang Feiyue ( China Daily

The Potala Palace in Lhasa reflected in a tranquil lake is a hot spot for international travelers to Xizang autonomous region. China Daily

Over the past few months, the tires of Ulianova Vlada's vehicle have tracked more than 35,000 kilometers across the roof of the world.

The Russian founder of AvanLu travel agency has called China home for over 11 years. To see more of the country, she decided to embark on an expedition deep into the heart of the Xizang autonomous region in southwestern China.

This was not just a journey but a mission of discovery.

"I chose this path because I needed to go and 'deconstruct' the routes from a foreigner's perspective," Vlada explains.

"Only then could I truly understand which places are suitable for international visitors."

The drive took her through much of the Tibetan cultural region, from the plateau's rugged eastern escarpment to its remote, high-altitude interior. She even undertook the challenging pilgrimage circuit around the sacred Mount Gang Rinpoche.

"I completed the circumambulation last year, and returned this November to walk the route again, filming and preparing to introduce it to my clients," she says.

Vlada believes the autonomous region holds great appeal for her fellow Russians.

International travel agents gather during a recent familiarization tour in Xizang. CHINA DAILY

"It is a place of profound depth, both culturally and spiritually," she observes.

"Many Russians are drawn to paths of practice  they enjoy meditation and love pristine nature. Xizang is perfectly suited for this."

Kelsang Phuntsok, director of the exchange and cooperation division with the Xizang culture and tourism department, felt a growing international interest in the autonomous region at the China International Travel Mart, which concluded in Haikou, Hainan province, in late December.

"We have tangibly sensed the interest of overseas partners in what Xizang has to offer," he notes.

This surge in global curiosity was vividly displayed at the travel mart, where Xizang showcased its living cultural heritage.

"We brought various intangible cultural heritage items from Xizang for on-site production and display," Kelsang Phuntsok says, noting that many inbound tour operators actively engaged in the cultural activities.

"During negotiation sessions, many of our travel agencies reached cooperation agreements with overseas counterparts," he adds.

Kelsang Phuntsok believes the foundation of this growing appeal lies in Xizang's unique, blended offerings.

"Xizang's core strength is not merely its singular natural landscape or Tibetan culture, but the deeply integrated experience formed by a fusion of extraordinary natural scenery and unique cultural heritage," he says.

In recent years, local authorities have organized tours for international travel agents to experience the unique cultural depth and rich tourism products, which have yielded positive feedback and led to numerous collaborations, Kelsang Phuntsok explains.

International tour operators check crafted leather products from Xizang during the China International Travel Mart in Haikou, Hainan province. CHINA DAILY

Additionally, the autonomous region has consistently participated in numerous large-scale cultural exchange activities and international tourism exhibitions to exhibit its rich tourism offerings.

To better accommodate international travelers, Xizang has continuously strengthened the training of multilingual tour guides, improved hotel and service facilities' international standards, and perfected multilingual signage systems across the region.

International travelers' growing interest in Xizang is particularly evident in specific destinations like Shigatse.

Nestled in the heart of the Himalaya Mountains, the city in the southwest of Xizang has been experiencing a remarkable surge in international visitors.

"The number of inbound tourists to Shigatse has shown a clear upward trend," says Shen Ke, deputy director of the Shigatse culture and tourism bureau.

From January to November, Shigatse welcomed over 125,000 international visitors, a staggering 193 percent year-on-year increase, the bureau reports.

Inbound travelers are mostly from Europe and America, and neighboring South Asian countries like Nepal.

For most, Qomolangma (Mount Everest) remains the ultimate attraction, but Shen adds that many also explore the allure of Shigatse's city itself, especially the historic Tashi Lhunpo Monastery for its sacred halls and natural getaways, and Dochen Tso lake and hot springs.

"This blend of culture and landscapes has been increasingly appealing to international audiences," Shen says.

To harness this momentum, local authorities have introduced innovative incentives, including the Qomolangma tourism ambassador award, which rewards visitors for exploring multiple scenic spots.

An international visitor tries his hand at Gongbo archery in Nyingchi, Xizang. CHINA DAILY

Shigatse is also enhancing the visitor experience to meet global standards.

"We are working to improve support services," Shen explains, citing regular guide training, upgraded hotels, and oxygen supplies at key sites.

Travel products are also evolving from sightseeing to immersion, with tours that include visits to local homes for butter tea and traditional dancing, he emphasizes.

"It enhances the visitor experience and fosters cultural exchange," he adds.

Tibetan guide Li Damchue Tsering, who has led international tours across Xizang for decades, sees his international clients seeking a far deeper, more experiential journey than before.

"Many foreign tourists now spend one to two years researching before coming to Xizang," he observes, adding that their itineraries are no longer a simple checklist of major sites but are purposefully crafted around specific cultural interests.

For instance, he arranged for groups of German and other European guests to visit off-the-beaten-path cultural gems, such as an ancient monastery dating back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279) in Chamdo, eastern Xizang.

"They were fascinated by the revered Tibetan calligraphy and precious artifacts from the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties," Li says.

The mode of engagement is also evolving from passive observation to active participation.

"Foreign visitors are eager for hands-on cultural immersion, and they often try their hand at crafting Tibetan incense or painting a thangka," he observes.

At the Min Zhu Lin Tibetan incense workshop in Lhokha, inheritor Damchoe Tenzin has witnessed a steady stream of international visitors seeking an authentic taste of ancient crafting since 2015.

"Most visitors come from Australia, the United States, and Europe," says Damchoe Tenzin, in his 50s.

They arrive at his workshop for a 30-minute immersion into the world of traditional Tibetan incense.

"They look at the raw materials and watch the process," he explains, adding that he guides them through ingredients like premium saffron, eaglewood and white sandalwood.

Visitors are particularly fascinated by the blending stage, often requesting to make themselves a milder-scented variant, he says.

The rising tourism business has also brought positive financial impacts, with the facility's annual income reaching more than 7 million yuan ($996,587) annually, Damchoe Tenzin states, which benefits him and his fellow practitioners.

While group travel remains the primary mode for foreign visitors, Li affirms the process is more streamlined. Working with licensed travel agencies that handle travel permits allows for better-tailored itineraries and guaranteed services, including translation, he points out.

Armed with her on-the-ground insights, Vlada is now crafting tailored Xizang-focused itineraries for her guests.

At the top of the list is the Gang Rinpoche pilgrimage tour, which she believes will be a major draw for the Russian market.

"Many Russians know of the mountain, and wish to do the circumambulation," she says.

Beyond that, she is designing comprehensive routes spanning Lhasa, Nyingchi, and Lhokha, and is planning an expedition along the remote northern Ngari route, which she believes holds exceptional beauty.

Trip durations will range from a 7-day cultural introduction to extended journeys incorporating the pilgrimage.

A significant tailwind for her venture is China's visa-free policy for Russian citizens, which was implemented in September 2025.

"This is very important. Now, they can easily come to us and enter Xizang after we handle the permit," Vlada says.

"We're already receiving many inquiries about how to travel to Xizang."

Her extensive survey has left her deeply impressed with the region's tourism infrastructure, which she sees as a key advantage.

"The roads are good, and there are cafes and restaurants around each site; everything you need," she shares.

"Plus, the driving was comfortable and convenient, and the people were friendly. It is positive proof of well-developed tourism areas."

(Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Zhong Wenxing)
Benghazi, Libya (PANA)- The president of the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Committee of the eastern-based Libyan House of Representatives, Youssef Ibrahim Al-Agouri, on Sunday spoke with representatives of several schools of the foreign community located in Benghazi
(Left) Isabel Vaughn-Spruce, a Catholic charity volunteer charged for silently praying outside an abortion clinic in the U.K. | Photo credit: Facebook/ Isabel Vaughn-Spruce

A British Catholic volunteer has become the first person criminally charged under a newly enacted U.K. public order law after authorities accused her of silently praying near an abortion facility.

The case has drawn sharp criticism from U.S. officials and religious freedom advocates.

The woman, Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, 48, was charged under Section 9 of the U.K.s Public Order Act 2023, legislation that establishes nationwide buffer zones around abortion clinics and criminalizes conduct deemed to influence decisions related to abortion services. British media outlet The Telegraph reported that this marks the first prosecution under the provision.

According to the international legal advocacy group ADF International, Vaughan-Spruce was notified by West Midlands Police in March that she would face charges following an investigation that began in January. Authorities allege she stood near a Birmingham clinic on several occasions while praying silently.

Although the law, which came into force in October 2024, does not explicitly mention prayer, it bans any act within 150 meters of abortion facilities that could be interpreted as influencing a persons decision to access or provide abortion services. Violations can result in unlimited fines.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department told The Telegraph that the prosecution is not only concerning in terms of its impact on respect for the fundamental freedoms of expression and religion or belief, but is also an unwelcome departure from the shared values that ought to underpin U.S.-U.K. relations.

Court documents allege that between June and November 2024, Vaughan-Spruce stood within the buffer zone on four occasions with the intent to influence. She is scheduled to appear before Birmingham Magistrates Court on Jan. 29, 2026.

In December 2022, Vaughan-Spruce was arrested under a local Public Spaces Protection Order, though the charges were later dropped. After a second arrest in March 2023, police formally apologized and paid her 13,000 (about $17,500) in damages.

ADF International, which is representing Vaughan-Spruce, argues that authorities are applying the law in a way that criminalizes thought and belief. Jeremiah Igunnubole, legal counsel for the group, said buffer zones are being enforced to target innocent people who happen to stand in a certain place and believe a certain thing.

Vaughan-Spruce expressed disbelief at facing prosecution again after previous cases were dismissed, maintaining that silent prayer  or holding pro-life beliefs  cannot possibly be a crime.

Her situation gained international attention after U.S. Vice President JD Vance referenced the case at the Munich Security Conference, describing it as emblematic of Europes retreat from fundamental freedoms and warning of shrinking conscience rights.

The U.S. Office of the Under Secretary for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs and Religious Freedom also weighed in on X, stating, Make no mistake  this undermines free speech and religious liberty.

Commenting separately on Fox News, Lara Trump labeled the prosecution egregious, arguing it reflects a broader pattern of censorship in the United Kingdom.

In November, U.S. officials indicated they were considering asylum options for individuals prosecuted under speech-related laws in the U.K., citing concerns that restrictions on expression in parts of Europe could contribute to what they described as civilizational erasure.
(Center) Pastor James Jim Bzoskie at the Dakota County Sheriff's Office. | Photo credit: The Christian Post (originally posted on Facebook)

A Minnesota pastor and longtime law enforcement chaplain died suddenly after assisting a stranded motorist near his church.

James Jim Bzoskie, 76, collapsed and died on Dec. 19 after helping a driver whose vehicle was stuck in the snow outside Cornerstone Bible Church, where he served as pastor. After assisting the motorist, Bzoskie returned inside the church, collapsed, and was later pronounced dead, according to WCCO.

Bzoskie, a Hastings resident, had spent earlier that morning preparing Christmas gift bags for inmates at the Dakota County Jail. His daughter, Sarah Lindner, said the family believes he suffered a heart attack shortly after helping the driver.

Dakota County Sheriff Joe Leko said Bzoskie had served as a vital presence in the sheriffs office for nearly 50 years, regularly visiting the jail to lead Bible studies, counsel inmates, and support deputies and staff during times of crisis.

Leko recalled that Bzoskie often ministered to first responders after traumatic events, including suicides and the deaths of three Burnsville first responders, adding that his compassion made a lasting impact. He did it because he had a big heart.

Jacob Schak, a jail program sergeant, said Bzoskie faithfully led Bible study for inmates every Tuesday, becoming a consistent and trusted figure within the correctional facility.

In a Facebook tribute, the Dakota County Sheriffs Office described Bzoskie as a constant and trusted presence since 1979, noting his decades of commitment to both inmates and law enforcement personnel.

Beyond his work with the sheriffs office, Bzoskie also served as chaplain for the Hastings Police and Fire Departments, extending his pastoral care across multiple branches of local public service.

Renee Harwood-Souza, who organized a fundraiser to assist the family with funeral expenses, wrote that Bzoskie had ministered to inmates, jail staff, and first responders for nearly five decades, according to AOL.

Kent Begnaud, a fellow pastor and longtime friend, said Bzoskie lived with a deep sense of calling and served others wholeheartedly until the end.

According to the Starkson Family obituary, a visitation will be held on Jan. 9, 2026, at the Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel in Hastings. A second visitation is scheduled for Jan. 10 at Hastings Middle School, followed by a funeral service officiated by Pastors Kent Begnaud and Paris Pasch.
Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from a U.S. Navy vessel in the Gulf of Guinea target ISIS-linked militants in northwestern Nigeria on Dec. 25, 2025. | Screenshot: YouTube/ BBC News

U.S. military forces carried out coordinated airstrikes against ISIS-linked militants in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas Day, an operation President Donald Trump said delivered a decisive blow to the terror group.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the action as a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum, accusing the militants of targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!

According to reporting by The New York Times, the operation involved Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from a U.S. Navy vessel in the Gulf of Guinea. The strikes hit two ISIS camps in Nigerias Sokoto State and were conducted in coordination with Nigerian military forces.

U.S. Africa Command, or AFRICOM, confirmed that the mission was jointly executed with Nigerian authorities, adding that preliminary assessments indicated multiple ISIS terrorists were killed in the strikes.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth reinforced the administrations message in a post on X, writing that ISIS found out tonight  on Christmas, while suggesting additional actions could follow and thanking Nigeria for its cooperation. He also reshared Department of War footage showing a missile launch from the U.S. Navy ship involved in the operation.

The Christmas Day strike followed months of escalating warnings from the Trump administration about the security situation in Nigeria, which officials have increasingly framed as a matter of protecting Christians from extremist violence.

In November, the U.S. State Department updated Nigerias status to a Country of Particular Concern, a move that came shortly after Trump publicly warned of possible military action and a suspension of U.S. aid over what he described as the persecution of Christians in the country.

U.S. surveillance flights have reportedly operated over Nigeria since late November, and earlier this month the State Department announced new visa restrictions targeting Nigerians accused of participating in or supporting violations of religious freedom, measures that could also affect immediate family members.

Nigerian officials, however, emphasized a counterterrorism rationale rather than a religious one. Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar characterized the strikes as a long-planned joint operation based on Nigerian intelligence and insisted the action has nothing to do with a particular religion. Information Minister Mohammed Idris similarly described the targets as ISIS strongholds used to plan large-scale attacks.

Open Doors has reported that more Christians are killed for their faith in Nigeria each year than in any other country, noting that 3,100 of the 4,476 Christians killed worldwide last year were in Nigeria alone.

The country also leads globally in abductions of Christians for religious reasons, with 2,830 of the 3,775 such kidnappings recorded worldwide, according to Open Doors annual World Watch List research.
Home News Churches should pay for weddings to promote marriage, think tank says

Amid declining marriage rates, the Centre for Social Justice, a London-based conservative think tank, has urged the Church of England to remove wedding fees for low-income couples to help make the United Kingdom a pro-family, pro-marriage nation.

The CSJs proposal, as part of a December 59-page report, includes covering administrative, legal and booking costs of nearly $900 (650) for parishioners marrying in their local church. The report, titled Lost Boys: Boyhood, says such a step would especially benefit families in disadvantaged communities, where marriage rates are significantly lower.

The report cites historical data showing that church weddings in 2023 "were at their lowest since records began in 1837, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic years." The think tank contends that wedding costs should not be a barrier for families that could most benefit from the protection and stability that marriage provides. It asserts that current policies favor the middle class, making marriage appear inaccessible to poorer communities.

"We are not suggesting simply taking benefits from older citizens and giving them to younger citizens. The problems we see in childhood are only partially about money," researchers wrote in the report. "The far greater change of recent years is in family stability. Money can and does support that, but it is only a part of the puzzle. Far bigger is the collapse of marriage rates. Family-structure evidence consistently shows that marriage is much more stable than cohabitation."

The researchers lament that half of children are now born to unmarried parents, a problem that is more "acute for poorer families," in which nearly half of children in lower-income households don't live with both parents by age 5  three times that of children in middle-to-high-income households.

The group estimates the initiative would cost the Treasury no more than $43 million (32 million), noting that the actual expenditure would likely be lower since low-income couples currently marry at lower rates. It also said removing financial barriers could help restore marriage as a stabilizing force for children and families.

The current statutory wedding fee in the Church of England is set nationally at around $765 (567) if the couple marry in their home parish, the churchs website states. This includes the vicar's cost, use of the church, lighting, banns, a banns certificate and administrative charges.

Researchers say marriage is a public and private good, urging the church to lead efforts to reverse family instability in lower-income communities.

CSJ researcher Luke Taylor told Church Times that churches should go further and faster to support marriages and help reduce inequality in family outcomes.

As of January 2025, couples must pay $734 (544) to marry in a parish church, with $400 (297) going to the parochial church council and $333 (247) to the diocesan board of finance. Optional extras such as a verger, heating, music, flowers and bells can raise the total cost. While the local church can waive some of these fees, most are charged at the discretion of the parish.

The Church of England website advises couples to speak with their vicar early to understand costs and explore possible financial help. It also encourages the use of local credit unions if loans are needed. Donations to the church after weddings are common but not mandatory.

The CSJs report draws on findings from Dr. Kathleen Kiernans Families and Inequalities and Harry Bensons We Need to Talk about Marriage. In 1958, fewer than 10% of children did not live with both biological parents by the time they took their General Certificates of Secondary Education. That figure rose to 21% by 1970 and reached 45% by the early 2000s, reports Church Times.

The think tank wants policies that incentivise stronger family unions through marriage because two parents are better equipped to support a child. It also links family breakdown with poor outcomes for boys, citing higher rates of school underperformance, unemployment and suicide.

The CSJ includes the marriage proposal as part of a larger set of recommendations. Other suggestions include limiting screen time, expanding family hubs and adapting education to meet boys developmental needs better.

The report argues that marriage helps keep fathers involved in their childrens lives and should be supported through both public and religious institutions.
Home News Evangelist's murder sparks widespread grief in Uganda Man hailed for knowledge of Quran and Bible, participating in Muslim-Christian dialogue

NAIROBI, Kenya  Muslim extremists in Uganda killed an evangelist after a public Christian-Muslim dialogue event earlier this month.

Konkona Kasimu, a convert from Islam, was known for his deep understanding of both the Bible and the Quran and had participated in Christian-Muslim dialogues across several districts, including Iganga, Mayuge, Jinja and Kampala before he was killed on Dec. 12. He was 42.

His church, New Eden Church, organized an open-air dialogue in eastern Ugandas Busia town on Dec. 8-12, deploying a team of four evangelists, three men and one woman, with Kasimu as the lead speaker while the others assisted in counseling and discipling new Christians, church leaders said.

Tensions rose on the final day of the event after several Muslims publicly converted to Christianity, the leaders said. Fearing for Kasimus safety, local Christians sheltered him briefly before the team departed for Iganga, 108 kilometers (67 miles southwest of Mbale), later that evening on Dec. 12.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., the team headed to Iganga on two motorcycles. Kasimu rode with team member Recheal Kyakuwa, while the other two members used a separate motorcycle. While passing through the Nakalama swamp area, four men dressed in Islamic attire stopped them, Kyakuwa said.

Kyakuwa, who survived the attack with injuries requiring hospitalization, said the Christians initially believed the men needed assistance. One of the men suddenly identified Kasimu as an evangelist who participated in the Busia dialogue, and he was struck on the head, Kyakuwa told Morning Star News from her hospital bed in Iganga.

Kyakuwa said the attackers then assaulted her, after which she lost consciousness. The other motorcycle carrying two team members fled the scene during the attack.

Kasimu later succumbed to his injuries. His death sparked widespread grief among Christian communities in eastern Uganda, with church leaders describing the assault as a targeted attack due to his evangelistic work.

Kasimu was killed because of advancing the Kingdom of God, said Pastor Jeremiah Kasowe of New Eden Church, Iganga. We have lost a great man who was well-versed in both the Quran and the Bible and used that knowledge to witness Christ to many people.

Police were investigating but had not yet issued an official statement at this writing.

The attack was the latest of many instances of persecution of Christians in Uganda that Morning Star News has documented.

Ugandas constitution and other laws provide for religious freedom, including the right to propagate ones faith and convert from one faith to another. Muslims make up no more than 12% of Ugandas population, with high concentrations in eastern areas of the country.

This article was originally published at Morning Star News
Home News Okla. pastor recovering from stab wounds after woman wielding dagger attacks church service

An Oklahoma pastor is recovering from stab wounds after an altercation at his church last week.

In a statement last Monday, Police Chief Jeremy Cantrell of the Pryor Creek Police Department announced that law enforcement responded to a reported disturbance" at the Church of Christ in Pryor earlier that day.

Upon arrival, officers located an active physical altercation inside the church, Cantrell said.

An adult staff member sustained injuries, including lacerations, and was provided immediate medical care before being transported to a Tulsa-area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, he added. An adult female was taken into custody following officer intervention and was transported to the Mayes County Jail on a federal hold after medical evaluation. The scene was quickly secured, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Due to the suspects tribal status, the suspect has been referred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Cantrell provided additional details about the incident in a subsequent Facebook post last Tuesday. It is clear the attack was unprovoked, deliberate, and intentional, he wrote. The suspect attacked the pastor with a dagger.

He added that two senior parishioners immediately came to the aid of the pastor, placing themselves directly in harms way without hesitation.

Their actions very likely prevented more serious injury, he said. The pastor sustained stab wounds to his hand and received stitches to his chin. He is expected to undergo surgery on his hand. Even after being stabbed, the pastor remained calm and composed under circumstances most people would not.

Cantrell expressed gratitude that the pastor is expected to make a full recovery and praised the parishioners who intervened as true examples of bravery, selflessness, and faith and lauded their ability to disarm the suspect.

Although Cantrell did not identify the suspect or the victim in the attack, the website for the Pryor Church of Christ names DJ Castoe as the pastor.

A Facebook post by John Lovitt, a retired minister who served at multiple churches, including Pryor Church of Christ, shared a local news report naming the suspect as Whitney Adney.

This disturbed individual tried to kill DJ Castoe, the preacher at the Pryor church of Christ, where I once preached, and DJ was in our youth group back then, Lovitt said. He has to have surgery Wednesday in the hospital. I pray he has a full recovery and that this woman is kept from being a danger to anyone else.

The local news report shared by Lovitt on Facebook included information from the probable cause affidavit filed in federal court stating that local law enforcement discovered the pastor bleeding and holding down Adney after encountering one of the senior parishioners holding a black dagger and asking for help after disarming the suspect. The social media post also stated that the suspect was yelling something about a cult.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has welcomed efforts to address the human rights of detainees, particularly those related to combating arbitrary detention and ensuring full civilian oversight of all detention centres
Home News Pakistan's state-backed Christmas celebrations offer rare break from history of extremism

Government-sponsored Christmas celebrations in Pakistan this year marked a historic departure from the countrys decades-long struggle with religious extremism  where religious minorities, including Christians, have been targeted in bombings, mob attacks and discriminatory practices.

For the first time since Pakistans independence, the federal government and provincial administrations formally sponsored Christmas events on a large, nationwide scale, projecting an official commitment to religious freedom.

From Islamabad to Lahore and Rawalpindi to Karachi, Christmas was not confined to church compounds. Instead, it was observed with state patronage, official messaging, public visibility and high-level participation, particularly in Punjab province, where government authorities organized major ceremonies, welfare distributions, and interfaith events for Christians.

The gesture drew rare bipartisan praise from the Pakistani Christian community and progressive Muslim voices, many of whom described it as a long-overdue recognition of citizenship rather than charity.

A national moment

Across Pakistan on Thursday, Christians marked Christmas with special prayer services, midnight masses and community gatherings held under heightened security. Churches were decorated with lights and Christmas trees, while Christian neighborhoods displayed banners and festive symbols  a public assertion of identity often muted by fear. In major cities, processions and peace rallies brought unusual visibility to the Christian community.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in an official message on the social media platform X, framed Christmas not as a minority observance but as a national moment.

Christmas is a message for humanity that connects us with feelings of love and goodwill, Sharif wrote, praising Jesus Christ for his message of peace and brotherhood and describing Christians as an active, positive and peaceful segment of society.

Sharif explicitly acknowledged the Christian communitys contributions to education, healthcare, social welfare and the fight against terrorism, urging Pakistanis to renew their commitment to unity and social harmony.

Addressing a Christmas ceremony at the Prime Ministers House, Sharif specifically acknowledged Justice A.R. Cornelius, a former chief justice of Pakistan, for his exemplary role in strengthening the countrys judicial system; Air Commodore Cecil Chaudhry for his valor in the defense of Pakistan; and Dr. Ruth Pfau for her extraordinary humanitarian work in healthcare, especially her lifelong fight against leprosy in the country.

President Asif Ali Zardari, in a separate message, grounded his comments in Pakistans founding ideology. Citing Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnahs Aug. 11, 1947, address to the constituent assembly, Zardari reaffirmed that Pakistan was envisioned as a state where citizens were free to worship without fear.

Christmas brings hope, peace and compassion, reminding us of the bonds that unite all human beings, he said, adding that the constitution guarantees equal rights and religious freedom.

Zardari also paid tribute to prominent Christian figures, acknowledging the communitys long-standing contributions to national defense, politics, and public service.

Militarys symbolic participation

The most striking moment came when the chief of defense forces and army chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, attended Christmas celebrations at the Anglican Church of Pakistans Christ Church in Rawalpindi  a highly symbolic act in a country where the military wields significant political influence.

According to the militarys media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Munir described Christmas as an occasion reflecting shared values of compassion and unity, and reiterated that the Pakistan armed forces were committed to protecting the dignity, security, and equal rights of all citizens.

Invoking Jinnahs vision, the army chief stressed that minority rights were a cornerstone of Pakistans ideology, praised the Christian communitys service within the armed forces, and emphasized that Pakistans strength lies in diversity and constitutional equality, not religious uniformity.

Christian leaders present at the church described the visit as a powerful gesture of solidarity, noting that such visible engagement from the military leadership was without precedent.

Punjab takes the lead

The most expansive government-sponsored celebrations took place in Punjab, home to the largest Christian population in Pakistan.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz personally attended a government-sponsored Christmas ceremony at the Anglican Cathedral Church of the Diocese of Lahore, where she vowed to stand like a wall against injustice faced by minorities.

We are not Muslims, Sikhs, Christians or Hindus first  we are Pakistanis, she declared.

The chief minister announced immediate steps to resolve issues related to minority graveyards, instructed officials to expand budgetary allocations for minority welfare, and revealed plans to increase the Minority Card amount from 75,000 rupees ($268) to 100,000 rupees ($357).

She also highlighted symbolic actions, including government sanitation workers cleaning churches ahead of Christmas, and warned that any government that fails to protect minority rights has no justification to remain in power.

During the ceremony, minority cards and Christmas grant checks were distributed, while diplomats from the United States, Britain and other countries attended alongside leaders of multiple faiths. The event opened with recitations from both the Quran and the Bible, followed by a choir performance  a carefully curated display of interfaith harmony.

Clergy and community leaders thanked federal and provincial authorities, with the former Bishop of Lahore Diocese of the Church of Pakistan, Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Alexander John Malik, conferring on Maryam Nawaz the title Daughter of Punjab.

Others described the 2025 celebrations as a moment when the state appeared to recognize Christians as equal citizens rather than a tolerated minority.

Progressive Muslim commentators echoed the sentiment on social media, arguing that the state-backed celebrations reinforced Pakistans constitutional identity and countered narratives of exclusion promoted by extremist groups.

Prominent journalist and commentator Raza Rumi lauded the Punjab government for installing a large Christmas tree in the heart of Lahore.

A 42-foot-tall Christmas tree has been installed at Liberty Chowk, Lahore, symbolizing love, plurality, and inclusion, Rumi wrote on Facebook. The initiative reflects government of Punjabs attempt to acknowledge the Christian minority. Lets hope further steps are taken beyond such symbolic (but important) gestures.

A leading minority rights activist acknowledged that the scale and coordination of Christmas 2025 represented a meaningful shift in state posture, but cautioned that symbolism must translate into structural protections, legal reform, and accountability for past violence.

We welcome the federal and provincial governments gesture of celebrating Christmas at official levels, but a lot more needs to be done to actually protect the rights of minorities, and to promote religious tolerance in the country, Samson Salamat of the Rwadari Tehreek (Movement for Equality) wrote on Facebook.

In a country where religious minorities have often been forced to mourn quietly, this years Christmas was loud, visible, and officially endorsed. Whether it marks a sustained change or a singular moment remains to be seen, but for Pakistans Christians, it was a rare affirmation that the state was standing beside them, not merely guarding them.

This article was originally published by Christian Daily International.
Home News Who were all the Herods in the New Testament?

When you read the New Testament, you often come across the name Herod. There were different rulers called Herod who formed part of the background history of Jesus and the New Testament. This is the story 

King Herod the Great

The name Herod does not refer to one king but to a family line of rulers installed and sustained by Rome. We first read the name Herod in the New Testament at the start of Matthew and Luke. Luke sets the birth of John the Baptist during the time when Herod was king of Judea (Luke 1:5), and Matthew tells us that Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the time when Herod was king (Matthew 2:1).

This Herod, later known as Herod the Great, meets the visiting wise men, or Magi, hears of a king of the Jews, and fears a potential rival. Disturbed by the prophecy of a Messiah, he orders the slaughter of all the boys under 2 years old in and around Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16).

Herod died in Jericho around 4 BC (some argue for 1 BC) and was buried at Herodium, where a tomb widely identified as his was discovered in 2007. After his death, he became known as Herod I or Herod the Great, to distinguish him from the other Herods who followed, but during his lifetime he was simply King Herod.

Division of the kingdom

After Herods death, Caesar Augustus divided Herods kingdom between three of his sons. Archelaus became ethnarch over Judea, Samaria and Idumea. Herod Antipas became tetrarch of Galilee and Perea in the North. Philip became tetrarch of the territories of Iturea and Trachonitis to the North and East of Galilee. Another son, sometimes called Herod II (or Herod Philip), lived in Rome as a private citizen with his wife, Herodias, who later appears in the Gospel story.

Herod Archelaus

After Herod the Great died, Joseph and Mary would naturally have hoped it was safe to leave Egypt and return home. Joseph, however, seems to have waited for news of the new ruler. Matthew explains that when Joseph heard that Archelaus had succeeded his father Herod as king of Judea, he was afraid to go there (Matthew 2:22).

Herod Archelaus was regarded as cruel, and many thought him even crueler than his father, though his rule was limited to Judea and Samaria. Joseph therefore took Mary and Jesus, and any children born in Egypt, and returned instead to Galilee, back to Nazareth, where they had lived before, under the less harsh rule of Herod Antipas.

Archelaus reigned until AD 6, when he was deposed by Rome. Some scholars think he might be the real-life ruler behind Jesus Parable of the Minas in Luke 19:1127, with its story of a man who goes away to receive a kingdom and is hated by his subjects.

Herod Antipas

Herod Antipas, tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, dominates the Gospel period. Early in his reign, he married the daughter of King Aretas IV of Nabatea, whose territory bordered Perea and had its capital at Petra. But on a visit to Rome, staying with his half-brother Herod Philip, Antipas fell in love with Philips wife, Herodias. Antipas and Herodias agreed to marry once he had divorced his Nabatean wife; Herodias herself divorced Philip, by whom she already had a daughter, in order to marry Antipas. This scandalized Jewish society and caused diplomatic trouble with the Nabateans.

Herodias and John the Baptist

John the Baptist publicly denounced this arrangement, pointing out that it broke the Jewish law that a man must not marry his brothers wife (Leviticus 20:21). Herod Antipas did not appreciate the criticism and had John arrested and chained in prison (Matthew 14:3; Mark 6:1729).

At Antipas birthday banquet, Herodiass daughter danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much that he rashly promised her anything she asked (Matthew 14:67). The girl, who is unnamed in the Gospels but is called Salome by Josephus, asked, at her mothers prompting, for the head of John the Baptist, and John was beheaded in prison (Matthew 14:1011). Luke locates Johns ministry and execution in the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius  when Herod was tetrarch of Galilee (Luke 3:1), which helps to date the events to around AD 29.

Herod Antipas and Jesus

News of Johns execution reached Jesus and His disciples. Among Jesus followers was Joanna, the wife of Chuza, the steward of Herods household (Luke 8:3). She may well have been the source of some of the inside story of Herod Antipas and his court.

A few years later, at the time of the crucifixion, Luke tells us that Pilate, hearing that Jesus was a Galilean, sent him to Herod Antipas, who happened to be in Jerusalem (Luke 23:712). Antipas questioned Jesus, mocked him, and dressed him in an elegant robe, but finding him no real threat, sent him back to Pilate. Luke notes that on that day Herod and Pilate became friends (Luke 23:12).

Herod Antipas is mentioned in Matthew 14:16; Mark 6:1422; 8:15; Luke 3:1, 3:1920; 9:79; 13:32; 23:712, 15; and in Acts 4:27 and 13:1. He died in AD 39 and was succeeded in Judea by his cousins son, Herod Agrippa.

Herod Agrippa I

In Acts, we meet another King Herod during the first wave of persecution against the Church. Luke writes, It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them (Acts 12:1).

This Herod is Herod Agrippa I, a grandson of Herod the Great. He was the son of King Herods son Aristobulus by Princess Mariamne of the Hasmonean royal family, so he combined Herodian and Hasmonean blood and was therefore seen by many Jews as having more legitimacy than his grandfather.

Agrippa I ruled Judea from AD 37 to 44 and sought favor with Jewish leaders by attacking the Church. He had James the apostle, the son of Zebedee, executed (Acts 12:2), and imprisoned Peter, who was dramatically freed from his chains and led out of prison by an angel (Acts 12:611). Agrippas children included a son, also called Herod Agrippa, and daughters Berenice and Drusilla. Luke also mentions Manaen, who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch (almost certainly Herod Antipas), serving among the prophets and teachers in Antioch (Acts 13:1).

Herod Agrippa II and Drusilla

Later, in Acts 2526, we meet King Agrippa, who listens to Pauls defense in Caesarea. This is Herod Agrippa II, son of Herod Agrippa I and brother of Berenice and Drusilla. Agrippa II presides over Pauls hearing before the apostle is sent to Rome and famously responds, In this short time do you think you will make me a Christian? (Acts 26:28). He is the last of the Herodian rulers to appear in the New Testament and the last of the line before Jerusalems destruction in AD 70.

Drusilla, Agrippa IIs sister, also appears in Acts. She had married Antonius Felix, the Roman procurator of Judea, who presided over one of Pauls earlier hearings (Acts 24). Luke notes that Felix and Drusilla sent for Paul and listened to him speak about faith in Christ Jesus (Acts 24:2425); she did not need to attend, but seems to have been intrigued or genuinely interested. They had a son, Marcus Antonius Agrippa, who was later killed in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Summary

All the different Herods in the New Testament can be confusing, but their backstory sheds light on the world in which Jesus lived and from which the early Church emerged.

Four generations of this dynasty appear in the New Testament, from Herod the Great at the birth of Jesus to Herod Agrippa II at the trials of St Paul. Among them are fierce opponents of the Gospel, curious onlookers, and even people on the edge of faith. Fleshing out their backstory, which would have been known to many of the original readers, helps to build the context for many of the events of the New Testament.

This article was originally published at Christian Today
Home Opinion Let's evaluate the 'Charlie Kirk effect'

During the memorial service for Charlie Kirk, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said, Charlie started a political movement but unleashed a spiritual revival. Many people have, in fact, used the word revival to describe what has happened, especially among young people, since the September 10th assassination of the Turning Point USA founder.

According to a FOX News article published a few weeks after his death, pastors and religious leaders across the U.S., including Arizona where Kirk was based, reported a 15% to 30% increase in church attendance, and many of the new attendees referred to Kirks death as a wake-up call about mortality and faith.

JP De Gance, the founder and president of Communio, a ministry that helps churches strengthen marriages, told The Christian Post,

[There has been] a lot of anecdotal feedback from churches in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Douglas County, Colorado, reporting that theyve seen an increase [in attendance] over the last two Sundays. Theres one church in Michigan that said a number of young adults who were raised in the church [but] who hadnt been there, and people hadnt seen them for years, showed back up.

Also, Bible sales in the month of September were 36% higher than last year, according to Nielsen BookScan. Mark Schoenwald, president and chief executive of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, was one of several book publishing experts who attributed the surge of Bible sales to Kirks death. As he told Decision magazine, Kirks shooting awakened a lot of people.

Of course, every aspect of the Turning Point organization has seen an incredible surge of interest in the wake of Kirks death, and that includes TPUSA Faith, a group that helps churches put their faith into action. Its church network has essentially doubled to 8,000 churches, and an additional 200,000 Christians are now involved with the organization.

The most substantial evidence of whether we are in a time of Christian revival remains to be seen. Specifically, it remains to be seen if what many are calling The Kirk Effect will prove to be only short-term, like the wave of patriotism that followed 9/11. Last month, statistician Ryan Burge told the Daily Signal, Theres no evidence of a massive return to religion, though he also stated that it was too early to know all the relevant data.

If there is a significant work of the Lord brewing in our country, there are two surefire ways to miss it. The first way is to presume that God could never work in the way He is working. Many have presumed as much about Christians who are deemed to be too political, especially someone with the public profile that Charlie Kirk had in life and, even more, in death.

Mixing politics and evangelism, as Charlie Kirk did, is risky. He did not always do it well. However, it seems that as he matured and sought out mentors, Charlie became more Christian and more politically measured, even as he remained bold. To those who think Christianity must never be mixed with political activism, there are the words of evangelist D. L. Moody, who once told a critic of how he evangelized, I like my way of doing it better than your way of not doing it!

The second way to miss Gods working in this moment is to spend all of our time and energy saying some version of I told you so, rather than wait on the Lord with thankfulness and praise. Revivals are fed by growing awareness, first of the glory of God and second of the seriousness of sin. Attempts to seize a platform, claim credit, or manufacture internal change will never achieve eternal ends.

We can rejoice that there seems to be a growing awareness of spiritual things, a growing rejection of some of the terrible ideas that have poisoned our culture, and a growing groundswell of courage among Gods people. Our choice is to join this work, faithful to what is true and good.

Originally published at BreakPoint.
Home Opinion Why every Christian (including me) will stay in the faith in 2026

In a recent article entitled Why Do Some Americans Leave Their Religion While Others Stay?, Pew Research found that the vast majority of U.S. adults (86%) were raised in a religion. The Pew data shows that the nature of their religious experiences as children  that is, whether they were mostly positive or negative  plays a significant role in whether they stay in their childhood religion as adults.



Pew found that 84% of Americans who were raised in a religion and had a mostly positive childhood experience with religion still identify with that religion as adults: Just 10% of people who grew up in a religion and had a positive childhood experience with it are nones today, while 6% identify with a different religion than the one they were raised in.

But in sharp contrast, 69% of those who grew up in a religion and had a negative experience with it no longer identify with any religion at all. Far fewer (24%) still identify with their childhood religion, and 7% identify with a different religion.

Such findings play well into the hands of religious skeptics who have long argued that the primary reason most people adhere to a religion is because of their upbringing. They say, for example, that the only cause behind the vast majority of U.S. Christians identifying as such is that America is mostly a Christian nation, spiritually speaking. They say if the same people were raised in Saudi Arabia, theyd likely be Islam devotees, given the fact that the majority of citizens (85-90%) are Sunni Muslims.

The tag-along sting of the skeptics charge is that people dont think rationally where religion is concerned, unlike free-thinking unbelievers who have rejected such flawed teaching. However, Pew pours cold water on that stance, finding only 3% of U.S. adults werent raised with a religion but now identify with one, and about three-quarters (73%) of people who grew up as nones remain religiously unaffiliated as adults.

So, it seems the skeptics are adhering to their childhood faith also.

The Hellenistic and classical Greeks had a word for the kind of faith exhibited by someone only because of their upbringing, custom, and tradition: nomizo. Its worth noting that nomizo is never used once in the Greek manuscripts of the New Testament to identify Christian faith.

Instead, the Greek term found everywhere in the pages of Scripture for faith is pistis, which comes from the verb peitho that means to be persuaded, and denotes trust, confidence, conviction, reliability, and something worthy of belief.

That kind of faith, along with a few other biblical truths, is why anyone who is a Christian now will continue to be one in 2026, along with every other year afterwards until the Lord takes them home.

Kept for Jesus Christ

There are endless testimonies from those who claim to have been Christians but arent any longer. The stories and reasons for the rejection are many, but Pews survey states that the top causes for those in their survey were They stopped believing in the religions teachings (cited by 46% of people), it wasnt important in their life (38%), they just gradually drifted away (38%).

The Bible, though, teaches that will never be true of a born-again believer, leading John MacArthur to assert, Do you know that there's no such thing as an ex-Christian? How can this be true given the countless declarations from those who say they once believed and now do not?

Two reasons.

First, Scripture tells us there is a fake, superficial faith that many possess, which can end in the abandonment of Christianity, just as John writes: They went out from us, but they were not really of us; for if they had been of us, they would have remained with us; but they went out, so that it would be shown that they all are not of us (1 John 2:19).

Next, the Bible tells us many times over that what keeps us in the faith is God Himself. Charles Spurgeon put it this way: It is not your hold of Christ that saves you, but His hold of you.

One simple example of this found in Scripture is the opening line of the book of Jude: Jude, a bond-servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to those who are the called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ (vs. 1).

The Greek word for kept (tereo) means to retain in custody, keep watch over, guard someone; to cause a state, condition, or activity to continue, keep, hold, reserve, preserve. The word is in the present tense, indicating something that occurred in the past but whose effects extend up to the present.

That tells us those in the faith are kept by God, much in the same way He told the prophet Elijah about those in Israel who belonged to Him: I have preserved in Israel seven thousand whose knees have not bent to Baal and whose lips have not kissed him (1 Kings 19:18).

When it comes to us ever being separated from God, the Bible says: For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:3839).

That being said, plenty still maintain that we can still walk away from God if we choose, but as Tim Keller asks in one of his messages, Are you a created thing? If so, then you wont separate yourself from Gods saving grace once its been applied to your life.

This is why no one reading this now who has been born again of God (John 3) will leave the faith in 2026 or any year thereafter. Martin Luther put it this way in his work, Bondage of the Will: Now that God has taken my salvation out of the control of my own will, and put it under the control of His, and promised to save me, not according to my working or running, but according to his own grace and mercy, I have the comfortable certainly that he is faithful and will not lie to me, and that He is also great and powerful, so that no devils or opposition can break Him or pluck me from Him.

Now, thats something to make 2026 a happy year for all of us.
Two Minnesota educators have built a new AI-powered app called "Let's Get Real" that quickly adapts a single lesson plan to fit each student's needs, aiming to save teachers hours of work while better supporting kids who learn differently.

App built in 48 hours

The app was created in just 48 hours during a She Builds competition hosted by Lovable, an AI app builder, where the entire development process was livestreamed and later selected as one of three winning projects from more than 1,700 entries.

Co-creators Shannon Seaver and Jenna Zhang say they were motivated by Minnesota's low ranking in computer science education and a desire to better serve students across learning levels, according to Kare11.

"Let's Get Real" uses artificial intelligence to adjust one lesson plan into multiple versions based on students' reading levels, learning preferences, and required accommodations. Teachers upload their lesson, enter student needs, and the app generates tailored materials in minutes instead of the hours they say it would normally take to manually rewrite plans for different groups.

Focus on students with IEPs

Zhang, who serves as chief data and AI officer at the University of St. Thomas, drew on her experience as a parent of a child with an individualized education program (IEP) to shape the app's design. She says the goal is to make it easier for teachers to honor IEP goals and keep students with different needs on the same page as their classmates.

The app can instantly apply required accommodations to a lesson, such as simplified text, extra supports, or alternative formats, reducing the chance that students with IEPs fall behind because of delayed adjustments, ESchoolNews reported. Seaver, a former computer science and math teacher at Edina High School, notes that this could especially help both gifted students and those who are often left behind when instruction is aimed at "the middle.

Read more: Baltimore Police Handcuff High School Student After AI System Flags Bag of Chips as Firearm

Multilingual tools and next steps

"Let's Get Real" also offers multilingual audio narration and translation features, which can help families who face language barriers support their children's schoolwork at home. The creators say these audio and visual options are designed to bring parents more fully into the learning process.

The team plans to pilot the app in Minnesota schools next year and is inviting interested teachers to sign up for a free trial. Educators can visit the app's website to learn more about how to test the tool in their own classrooms.

The Minnesota Department of Education has listed guiding principles to help schools navigate opportunities brought by AI while addressing challenges like data privacy and equity, as per AI for Education.
Sign up for the daily CJR newsletter.

It has been called the last good day on the internet: on February 26, 2015, Americans flocked online to watch fugitive llamas in Arizona evade their captors on a live broadcast, shortly before an ambiguously colored dressblue and black to some, white and gold to otherswas uploaded online. At BuzzFeed, which sent the dress to unprecedented levels of global virality, Ben Smith watched it all unfold. He realized in that moment just how popular divisive content could be. In hindsight, it was a grim foreshadowing: social media created the perfect conditions for an exceedingly polarizing presidential candidate to thrive.

In this episode of Journalism 2050, Smith, the cofounder and editor in chief of Semafor, joins Emily Bell and Heather Chaplin to reflect on the thrill of being a journalist in the early years of social media, the internets evolution since then, and how AI has become the latest vehicle for techno-evangelism. Even as politics and the tech industry tack right, he insists upon his core conviction that good journalism will always find a way to survive.

Should we mourn journalisms past? How worrying is the future of the news? If Ben Smith was starting out now, would he even be a journalist? Over twenty-five years, as a blogger, editor, and founderfrom Politico and BuzzFeed News to the New York Times and, now, SemaforSmiths career has always been a revealing indicator of the state of the journalism industry, and where its going next.

Further Reading:
Sign up for the daily CJR newsletter.

Last month, Emily Bell and Heather Chaplin launched the Journalism 2050 podcast as part of a CJR special issue on the monumental shifts in journalism that have brought us to this very uncertain moment, and where we might all be headed in the next twenty-five years.

Bell is the founding director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalism, and Chaplin is the director of Journalism + Design at the New School. Together, they talk with the smartest minds in media, including, in episode one, Douglas Rushkoff: an author, media critic, and futurist (though he prefers presentist these days) who has chronicled Silicon Valleys effects on culture and communications since the nineties. Bell and Chaplin ask Rushkoff about what lessons we can draw from the anarchic free-spirited origins of Web publishing that can be applied to our present moment of techno-authoritarianism and Silicon Valley dominance. He foresees the emergence of a stratified media ecosystem, with a number of large global players and a vibrant network of smaller local and niche outlets. (If the media exists at all, that is.)

The Journalism 2050 podcasts second episode was recorded before a live audience in the CJR office. In it, Bell and Chaplin are joined by Azmat Khan, the director of Columbias Simon and June Li Center for Global Journalism, and Anya Schiffrin, a professor at the Columbia School of International and Public Affairs, to discuss the consequences of the war on Gaza for journalism. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, it took only ten weeks at the end of 2022 for Israel to kill more journalists in Gaza than had previously been killed in any one country over an entire year, and the attacks have not relented in the three years since. These attacks, and the limp response from the US and other powerful countries, set a dangerous precedent for the future. Khan and Schiffrin discuss how journalists and media organizations can take the defense of their principles and values into their own hands.

The third episode of the Journalism 2050 podcast features Natalia Antelava, who cofounded Coda Story in early 2016 to cover democratic backsliding around the globe. Antelava talks about the naivete with which news organizations treated the likes of Google and Facebook in the early years of the internet. To secure journalisms future, she warns, there must never be such innocence again: We got into bed with the wrong guys, and we got ourselves in big trouble.

In our fourth episode, Ben Smith, the cofounder and editor in chief of Semafor, relives the early promise of blogging and social media for journalists. He talks about his original discovery, while at BuzzFeed, of the unsettling link between divisiveness and engagement, and what techno-evangelism means for the future of journalism.

The Journalism 2050 podcasts newest episode, out today, features Jay Rosen, the media scholar. Rosen recounts how the internet, once thought to hail a new age of democratization in journalism, became a tool for corporate surveillance and for the centralization of wealth.

The Journalism 2050 podcast will resume later next month. You can watch or listen to the first five episodes wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Sign up for CJRs daily email
Patrick Hotzes three daughters made it home safe from Camp Mystic after Julys catastrophic floods that killed 25 campers and two teenage counselors. He attended some of the funerals and says he understands the outrage over the Texas camps plan to partially reopen next year.

He also intends to send his girls back.

My heart is broken for them, Hotze said of the parents whose girls died, including some he described as close friends. I think its different for each kid and each family.

For the first time since the roaring flood, the 100-year-old all-girls Christian sleepaway retreat plans to sign up campers in January, forging ahead with a reopening that has divided families and stunned some lawmakers. Campers will start arriving in May, bunking on higher ground than the area where fast-rising waters on the Guadalupe River swept away two cabins.

Some families say the decision to let their daughters return is a vital step in their own healing from the disaster that is still under scrutiny. The floodwaters that worsened with terrifying quickness during the July Fourth holiday weekend killed at least 117 people in Kerr County alone. Two victims have still not been found, including an 8-year-old Camp Mystic camper.

Promises of Extra Safety and Preventive Measures

Next year, Texas legislators are set to hold investigative hearings into the tragedy but have shown little appetite to assign blame. Local leaders in Kerr County, including two who were asleep when the waters started rising, remain in their jobs after defending their preparations and evacuation efforts. They are now steering a slow recovery while trying to expedite a new flood warning system before campers return.

We recognize that returning to Camp Mystic carries both hope and heartache, Camp Mystics owners wrote in a letter to families this month. For many of your daughters, this return is not simple, but it is a courageous step in their healing journey.

It is unclear how many girls will return to Camp Mystic when the camp begins enrollment next month, but a spokesperson said there is strong interest. The camps owner, Dick Eastland, died in the flood and his family has vowed to enhance safety measures before reopening, including two-way radios in every cabin and new flood warning river monitors.

The devastating July floods were hardly the first to strike the area known as Flash Flood Alley, where the limestone hills quickly gather water and funnel it into narrow river banks. This year was at least the fifth time in a century that flooding near the Guadalupe River has turned deadly. An attorney for Camp Mystic, Mikal Watts, said he and camp officials have contacted several former campers who witnessed previous floods and who told them they were nowhere near as high or as powerful as the flooding this year.

Outrage and Acceptance

Those assurances have not quieted some parents of the 27 victims, who say the decision to reopen is insensitive and that the Eastland family has refused to take responsibility for its failures.

Lawsuits filed by some of the families allege camp operators failed to protect the children and even ordered girls and counselors in the cabins closest to the river to stay inside as floodwaters overwhelmed the property. Hundreds of 911 calls released by authorities this month included a woman who lived a mile downriver and said two of the campers had swept by.

As parents of children who were killed at Camp Mystic last summer, we are deeply hurt but, sadly, not shocked by yet another insensitive announcement from Camp Mystic focused on enrollment, the parents of six girls who died said in a public statement this month.

Some parents say Camp Mystic has played an instrumental role in their childrens personal and spiritual development, and that eased their decision to allow their girls to return.

Liberty Lindleys 9-year-old daughter, Evie, was among those caught in the flooding. She was trapped with her campmates in a cabin dubbed Wiggle Inn, adjacent to the low-lying cabins that were quickly inundated by the flooded river.

Many of the girls Evie knew were swept to their deaths.

Yet despite the horror Evie endured, floating on mattresses with her friends in the pitch dark before being evacuated by helicopter, Lindley said her daughter didnt hesitate when asked if she wanted to return to Camp Mystic.

I know some people dont understand that or think thats crazy, she said of her decision to allow her daughter to go back.

She recalled talking with Evie  whose twin sister died of leukemia in 2024  while washing her hair in the bathtub, right after her terrifying ordeal.

She thought she was going to be seeing her sister that night in heaven, Lindley recalled. And she still looked at me with a smile and said, Mom, I really hope next year at camp we do Mary Poppins again, because I still really want to be Bert. That is just hours after the fact.

Some Parents Remain Unsure

Still, not all parents are eager to send their daughters back to Camp Mystic.

John Ball, an attorney in McAllen, Texas, whose daughter was at Camp Mystic during the flood, said he has serious reservations, especially after the poor communication from camp officials about his daughters whereabouts.

Ball said he was out of town and didnt learn that his daughter was safe until more than 12 hours after the flooding, when she was able to borrow a cellphone and call him.

That was the hardest part, not knowing, Ball said.

I think were going to take this year off and see how it goes and what these changes look like that theyre implementing, he said, and well go from there.

Photo: A Camp Mystic sign is seen near the entrance to the establishment along the banks of the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas, July 5, 2025, after a flash flood swept through the area. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
A widespread power outage in San Francisco that led to Waymo robotaxis stalling and snarling traffic earlier this month has raised concerns about the readiness of autonomous vehicle operators to tackle major emergencies like earthquakes and floods.

Driverless taxis from Alphabet unit Waymo, a ubiquitous feature on the citys streets, were stuck at intersections with their hazard lights turned on as traffic lights stopped working following a fire at a PG&E substation that knocked out power to roughly one-third of the city on December 20, videos posted on social media showed. Waymo halted operations, resuming a day later.

The incident has renewed calls for stricter regulation of the nascent but fast-growing industry as other companies including Tesla and Amazons Zoox race to expand robotaxi services in several cities.

Related: Waymos Froze, Blocked Traffic During San Francisco Power Outage

If you get a response to a blackout wrong, regulators are derelict if they do not respond to that by requiring some sort of proof that the earthquake scenario will be handled properly, said Philip Koopman, a Carnegie Mellon University computer-engineering professor and autonomous-technology expert.

In a statement on Tuesday, Waymo said that while its robotaxis are designed to handle non-operational traffic signals as four-way stops, they occasionally request a confirmation check. Though the vehicles successfully traversed more than 7,000 darkened signals on Saturday, the outage created a concentrated spike in confirmation requests that led to response delays contributing to congestion on already-overwhelmed streets, Waymo said.

Robotaxi operators around the globe use remote access by humans  known in the industry as teleoperation  in varying degrees to monitor and control vehicles. Waymo, for example, has a team of human fleet response agents who respond to questions from the Waymo Driver, its bot, when it encounters a particular situation.

But such remote assistance has its limitations, and the Waymo outage highlights the need to regulate how robotaxi operators use the technology, said Missy Cummings, director of the George Mason University Autonomy and Robotics Center and former adviser to the U.S. road safety regulator.

The whole point of having remote operations is for humans to be there when the system is not responsive in the way it should be, she said. The federal government needs to regulate remote operations, Cummings said. They need to make sure that theres backup remote operations when theres some kind of catastrophic failure.

Californias Department of Motor Vehicles and the California Public Utilities Commission, which regulate and issue permits for the testing and commercial deployment of robotaxis, have said they are looking into the incident.

The DMV said it was talking to Waymo and other autonomous vehicle makers about actions related to emergency response. It also said it was formulating regulations to ensure remote drivers meet high standards for safety, accountability and responsiveness.

A Shot Across The Bow

Deploying and commercializing fully autonomous vehicles have been harder than expected with high investments to ensure the technology is safe and public outcry after collisions forcing many to shut shop.

Following a high-profile accident in 2023 when a robotaxi from General Motors GM.N Cruise dragged a pedestrian, regulators revoked its permit, eventually leading the company to cease operations.

But robotaxis have returned to the spotlight with Tesla rolling out its service in Austin, Texas earlier this year and CEO Elon Musk promising rapid expansion. Waymo, which has grown slowly and steadily over the years since its launch as Googles self-driving project in 2009, has also accelerated expansion.

With a fleet of more than 2,500 vehicles, Waymo operates in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Metro Phoenix, Austin and Atlanta.

The company said the confirmation processes its vehicles follow were established during early deployment and that it was now refining them to match its current scale. Waymo is implementing fleet-wide updates that provide vehicles with specific power outage context, allowing it to navigate more decisively.

Both Cummings and Koopman said robotaxi operators should face additional permitting requirements once their fleets grow beyond a certain size to ensure that they have adequate capabilities to deal with large-scale failures.

If this had been an earthquake, it would have been a problem, Koopman said. This is just a shot across the bow.

(Reporting by Roy in San Francisco; Editing by Sayantani Ghosh and Alistair Bell)
Tyler Perry was sued for sexual assault by an actor who appeared in Boo! A Madea Halloween, marking the second lawsuit in recent months accusing the filmmaker and studio mogul of leveraging his power in Hollywood to make sexual advances.

Mario Rodriguez filed the lawsuit Thursday in California, alleging Perry subjected him to repeated unwanted sexual advances over several years, including sexual battery and assault at Perrys Los Angeles home. Rodriguez is seeking at least $77 million in damages and also has sued Lionsgate, which distributed the 2016 film, accusing the studio of turning a blind eye to Perrys alleged misconduct.

Lionsgate did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

In a statement, Perrys lawyer denied the allegations.

According to the complaint, Rodriguez was approached in 2014 by a trainer at an Equinox gym in Los Angeles who said Perry wanted his phone number to discuss an acting role. Perry later encouraged Rodriguez to audition for Boo! A Madea Halloween, telling him, Im not a bad person to know and have in your corner, the lawsuit claims.

After Rodriguez was cast, he was invited to Perrys home, where Perry allegedly touched him inappropriately while they watched a movie. The lawsuit describes additional alleged incidents in 2016, 2018 and 2019, including one encounter in which Perry allegedly attempted to unbuckle Rodriguezs pants and another in which Perry placed Rodriguezs hand on his genitals. The complaint says Perry gave Rodriguez $5,000 on multiple occasions following the encounters.

Rodriguez says he resisted the advances and ultimately decided to file suit after learning of similar allegations made by another actor, Derek Dixon.

Dixon sued Perry in June, alleging the filmmaker groped him while Dixon worked on Perrys television series The Oval and Ruthless. That lawsuit, which was originally filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, has reportedly since been moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perrys studio is based.

Rodriguezs lawsuit includes claims of sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
LOS ANGELES, California  Melanie Watson Bernhardt, an actress best known for her role on the iconic 1980s sitcom Diffrent Strokes, has died at 57, People reported.

Watson died Friday in Colorado Springs following a brief hospitalization, according to multiple media reports.

US Weekly reported Watsons brother, Robert Watson, said she had been treated in a hospital earlier in the week for bleeding concerns, but her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to her death Friday.

Born in Dana Point, California, Watson was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a rare genetic disorder known as brittle bone disease that causes fragile bones and other health challenges. She used a wheelchair throughout her life.

Watson became known to audiences for her portrayal of Kathy Gordon on Diffrent Strokes, a friend of main character Arnold Jackson, portrayed by Gary Coleman. She appeared in four episodes of the long-running sitcom between 1981 and 1984.

Watson was also a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. She co-founded Train Rite, a nonprofit that trains shelter dogs to serve as assistance animals for people with physical challenges later in life.
News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism.
From 2nd to 4th February, the much-awaited financial summit in Muscat, Oman, aims to anchor the industry firmly within the future architecture of global finance

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia and MUSCAT, Oman, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Islamic finance gains greater international prominence as an ethical and stability-oriented avenue for financial intermediation, the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) invites financial sector professionals to the 17th IFSB Summit, slated to take place from 2 to 4 February 2026 in Muscat, Oman. Hosted by the Central Bank of Oman, the Summit brings together policymakers, regulators and global thought leaders to examine how the industry can respond to fast-evolving market conditions and rising societal expectations.

Registration for the 17th IFSB Summit is now open

Anchored on the theme 'Islamic Finance for the Future: Breaking New Ground for Global Impact', the Summit highlights how Islamic finance is transitioning from being reactive to proactive amid economic and technological disruptions, while strengthening the non-bank financial sector, deepening market liquidity through sukuk development, and enhancing crisis preparedness and financial safety nets within the industry. It also highlights the role of Islamic finance in promoting financial inclusion, social impact, sustainability and climate resilience, alongside harnessing emerging digital technologies for a more resilient future.

The event will feature high-level speakers, including senior representatives from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI), the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the United Nations. It will also bring together governors and senior leaders from over 30 jurisdictions. Their perspectives will help frame the industry's strategic direction and offer insights into global trends shaping Islamic finance.

Held over three days, the Summit includes a public pre-summit programme featuring broader themes on leadership, business strategies, youth empowerment, NGO engagement, and the role of credit rating agencies. These sessions capture a wider group of stakeholders and reflect the IFSB's commitment to fostering informed, inclusive and progressive discourse.

Registration is free for IFSB member organisations and USD 400 for non-members. With limited seats available, prospective delegates are encouraged to register early at www.ifsb.org/17thsummit. Follow the IFSB's official social media channels for programme and speaker updates.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852279/IFSB_Summit_visual.jpg
Largest single philanthropic gift in Arkansas Children's history

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Arkansas Children's announces a landmark $50 million gift from philanthropist, entrepreneur and child health advocate B. Thomas Golisano. This investment is the largest philanthropic gift in Arkansas Children's history and supports key strategic priorities for the health system, including its $371 million expansion. The 10-year systemwide growth plan includes program development, workforce recruitment and facility upgrades, designed to meet the escalating child health needs of the next generation.

Mr. Golisano's extraordinary generosity elevates Arkansas Children's work as a pediatric health center of excellence. Post this Arkansas Children's Little Rock campus will be named the Arkansas Children's Golisano Campus Arkansas Children's receives $50 million gift from philanthropist, entrepreneur and child health advocate B. Thomas Golisano

Golisano is the founder of Paychex, Inc., the nation's largest human resource company for small to medium-sized businesses. The Golisano Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in the United States devoted to supporting programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, animal welfare and child health. He has contributed more than $1 billion to advance education and health care across the country and was ranked No. 8 on The Chronicle of Philanthropy's 2024 Philanthropy 50  a list of America's 50 biggest donors.

In honor of his investment, the Arkansas Children's Little Rock campus will be named the Arkansas Children's Golisano Campus.

"Children's hospitals are essential to the health and future of our communities, and each one serves families with unique needs and challenges," said Tom Golisano. "Arkansas Children's has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing pediatric care, expanding access and investing in innovation. I'm proud to support their work and to welcome them into the Golisano Children's Alliance as we continue building a collaborative network focused on improving outcomes for children nationwide."

With this investment, Arkansas Children's joins the Golisano Children's Alliance  a growing collaborative of 12 children's hospitals advancing pediatric health care delivery, innovation and access to high-quality care for children and families.

"The need for services continues to change and grow  and we are committed to providing the best care, research and outcomes for the patients we serve," said Marcy Doderer, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Arkansas Children's. "Mr. Golisano's extraordinary generosity is an investment in Arkansas Children's, ensuring access to the best answers medicine can offer. This gift elevates our work as a pediatric health center of excellence, expanding care close to home for the children of America's heartland."

Arkansas Children's is a nationally recognized, independently governed, freestanding pediatric health system, delivering specialized pediatric care to families in Arkansas and the broader region. Making up less than 1% of the hospitals in America, independent pediatric health systems like Arkansas Children's are major community anchors to specialized pediatric care, education and research.

The health system's strategy focuses on defining, discovering and delivering answers to the difficult questions facing child health  answers that families desperately need and ones that few others can provide. While child health needs continue to escalate, advancements in treatment, technology and innovation give us the tools to create new ways of delivering medicine that works for children in Arkansas.

In addition to Golisano's transformative gift, the health system's expansion is powered by organizational investment alongside recent historic contributions from partners across Arkansas.

Recently, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin committed $55 million of opioid and vaping settlement funds to Arkansas Children's to pioneer one of the nation's most ambitious research efforts dedicated to opioids' impact on children by establishing the National Center for Opioid Research & Clinical Effectiveness (NCOR). The center is currently under construction on the Little Rock campus and is scheduled to be completed in early 2027.

In 2023, the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation, Inc., made a $25 million investment to transform child health in northwest Arkansas. In recognition of the Walker Foundation's gift, the Arkansas Children's Northwest (ACNW) Springdale campus is named the Pat Walker Campus.

"These landmark investments reflect an extraordinary belief in what Arkansas Children's is building for families across America's heartland," said Fred Scarborough, executive vice president and chief development officer for Arkansas Children's. "As a health system, we are investing more than $371 million to fuel innovation and expand access. Every gift matters because philanthropy is the margin of excellence  ensuring we can continue to meet the growing needs of children today and well into the future."

Learn more about this historic gift at archildrens.org/Golisano.

ABOUT TOM GOLISANO

Tom Golisano, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and civic leader, is the founder of Paychex, Inc., the nation's largest human resource company for small to medium-sized businesses. Mr. Golisano's vision, perseverance, and action have left an indelible mark on a broad spectrum of issues that touch our lives  in business, healthcare, education, animal welfare, voter policies, politics, and tax reform. His investments are advancing entrepreneurship and driving the success of numerous businesses and start-ups. His philanthropic contributions to education, hospitalsincluding multiple children's hospitals across the country that bear his name and numerous other organizations exceed $1 billion.

A fierce advocate for dignity and inclusion, in 1985 Tom Golisano applied his pioneering spirit to establish the Golisano Foundation to make the world a better place for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With more than $120 million in gross assets, it is one of the largest private foundations in the U.S. devoted to supporting programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities awarding grants to non-profit organizations in Western New York and Southwest Florida.

In 2025, Mr. Golisano launched the Golisano Children's Alliance, a national initiative that provides strategic funding and brings together children's hospitals across the United States to elevate pediatric care by expanding services, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring that children and families have access to the highest quality medical attention close to home. Together, Alliance members are building a nationally recognized network that exemplifies excellence, dignity, and innovation in pediatric health care.

Connect with him at Golisanofoundation.org and

Facebook: @GolisanoFoundation

X: @GolisanoFdn

Instagram: @golisanofdn

YouTube: @GolisanoFoundation

ABOUT THE GOLISANO CHILDREN'S ALLIANCE

The Golisano Children's Alliance includes 12 national children's hospitals: Arkansas Children's Golisano Campus; Golisano Wellstar Children's Hospital of Georgia; Golisano Children's Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center; Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital at SUNY Upstate Medical University; Golisano Children's Hospital of Lee Health; Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo; Golisano Medical Center at Connecticut Children's; Penn State Health Golisano Children's Hospital; Golisano Children's at UK; University of Maryland Golisano Children's Hospital; Golisano Children's Hospital at University of Vermont Health; and WVU Medicine Golisano Children's Hospital.

ABOUT ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S

Arkansas Children's is the only health system in the state solely dedicated to caring for Arkansas' 850,000 children. The private, non-profit organization includes the Arkansas Children's Golisano Campus in Little Rock, home to Arkansas Children's Hospital (ACH), and the Arkansas Children's Pat Walker Campus in Springdale, home to Arkansas Children's Northwest (ACNW). The two pediatric hospitals host 361 licensed beds, supported by a pediatric research institute and USDA nutrition center, a philanthropic foundation, a nursery alliance, statewide clinics and many education and outreach programs  all focused on fulfilling a promise to define, discover and deliver unprecedented child health. ACH is a Magnet-recognized facility operating the state's only Level I pediatric trauma center; the state's only burn center; the state's only Level IV neonatal intensive care unit; the state's only pediatric intensive care unit; the state's only pediatric surgery program with Level 1 verification from the American College of Surgeons (ACS); and the state's only nationally recognized pediatric transport program. Arkansas Children's is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report in seven pediatric subspecialties (2025-2026): Cancer, Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Nephrology, Neurology & Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Pulmonology & Lung Surgery and Urology. ACNW, the first and only pediatric hospital in the northwest Arkansas region, is a Level IV pediatric trauma center. ACNW operates an inpatient unit that will expand in 2026; a surgical unit with five operating rooms; outpatient clinics offering over 20 subspecialties; diagnostic services; imaging capabilities; occupational therapy services; and northwest Arkansas' only pediatric emergency department. Generous philanthropic and volunteer engagement has sustained Arkansas Children's since it began as an orphanage in 1912, and today ensures the system can deliver on its promise of unprecedented child health. To learn more, visit archildrens.org.

Media kit with photos and b-roll available at archildrens.org/golisano.

Press Contact: Hilary DeMillo, Arkansas Children's Media Relations Manager, 501-364-4300, [email protected]

SOURCE Arkansas Childrens
Major payment and tech companies are racing to build the infrastructure for what they see as the next evolution of global commerce: artificial intelligence agents that can perform searches, compare prices, and make purchases on behalf of consumers. The trend is referred to as "agentic commerce," and reflects consumers' growing reliance on chatbots for everyday tasks, including searching for products and deals online. However, until recently, those tools have lacked a critical function. Shoppers could search and compare inside a chatbot, but still had to leave the interface to complete a purchase. Payment giants like Visa and Mastercard say that is changing. Over the past year, both companies have been racing to forge the systems and partnerships needed for this next step in commerce, with early pilots of the technology already underway. Payment executives told CNBC that the technology will become a reality in 2026 and could be more transformative than the rise of e-commerce platforms such as Amazon . "A big shift in commerce happened when payments moved from a mostly brick-and-mortar world to an e-commerce world," said Sandeep Malhotra, Mastercard 's EVP for Core Payments in Asia Pacific. "Now, we are seeing the next shift, which is moving from the e-commerce world to an agentic commerce world," he said. "We have gone from cash to digital, now we're going from digital to intelligent." How it will work While many of the finer details of how and where agentic commerce will function are still being worked out, the term generally refers to AI systems that act on behalf of users to discover products, compare deals and complete payments within the chatbot. This could make shopping more seamless by curating options based on specific requests, instead of navigating multiple websites or apps in traditional e-commerce. When price discovery and shopping ubiquity become the norm rather than the exception, it will be fascinating to see how companies adapt. Visa's APAC Head of Products and Solutions T.R. Ramachandran Payment executives say one of the obvious early use cases could be flight and vacation bookings. For instance, a user might ask an AI commerce agent: "Find me the cheapest red-eye flight from Singapore to Tokyo under $500 with no stops." The agent will then be able to scan, provide options, book tickets and pay using the user's stored payment credentials  all within the chat interface. Mastercard's Malhotra said the technology could also allow shoppers to authorize agents to make purchases even when they are offline, such as automatically buying a product if its price drops below a preset threshold. Early pilots Visa and Mastercard have been rolling out their initial frameworks to secure bot-driven transactions, and have already completed pilot programs with selected users and merchants. T.R. Ramachandran, Visa's APAC Head of Products and Solutions, told CNBC that the commercial use of personalized, secure agent transactions could come as early as the first quarter of 2026. With over half of Visa's overall volume already through e-commerce and data showing demand for AI to assist with shopping, the ground is fertile for agentic commerce, Ramachandran said. In December, a Visa survey found that nearly half of U.S. shoppers are now using AI to enhance their shopping experience, whether to find gifts or compare prices. Meanwhile, a study from Adobe found that AI-driven traffic to retail sites in the U.S. increased by 4,700% in July from a year earlier. Agentic commerce transactions are expected to take place through AI platforms commonly used by consumers, such as ChatGPT and Google's Gemini, as well as through merchant, bank and app-specific agents. Companies like Mastercard and Visa have been working closely with AI giants such as OpenAI to prepare for the shift. OpenAI launched a " Buy it in ChatGPT " feature in September that allowed instant checkouts within its platform. Meanwhile, Perplexity partnered with PayPal and rolled out a free agentic shopping product for U.S. users in November. Worried about potential price pressures and losing direct access to customers, large merchants are also testing agentic commerce tools independently. Amazon began testing its " Buy For Me " earlier this year, while working to block external AI agents from crawling its website. Potential issues Despite early momentum, agentic commerce still raises many potential structural, security and liability concerns. Among the main focuses of payment companies has been the creation of so-called 'agentic tokens,' which use cryptographic authentication to verify authorized AI agents from human users and distinguish them from malicious bots. For example, Visa launched its "Trusted Agent Protocol" in October with Cloudflare , creating cryptographically authenticated records for bot-initiated transactions. Ramachandran said that Visa also plans to add "payment signals" for banks, providing more transaction details and strengthening agent authentication with behavioral intelligence. Another glaring issue is liability for when AI agents make mistakes  for example, purchasing the wrong-colored bike or booking a hotel room for the wrong night. Traditionally, disputes involved four parties: the consumer, the issuing bank, the acquiring bank, and the merchant. "Now there is a fifth player in the value chain  AI platforms who have become inserted into the value chain because the customers want them there," said Ramachandran. "You almost have to assume mistakes will happen and create guardrails and protection around that," he added. These potential issues demand stronger guardrails and permissions, as well as robust dispute systems, with these challenges still being worked out in the trial phase. Major impact Proponents say agentic commerce will save time, reduce search costs and give consumers better access to information and deals. "I can only see benefits with agentic commerce. Consumers will have better access to information, better access to goods, better access to services and better experiences," Malhotra added. Merchants, however, may face pressure to adapt as AI-driven price discovery and shifting consumer behaviors become more common. "When price discovery and shopping ubiquity become the norm rather than the exception, it will be fascinating to see how companies adapt," said Visa's Ramachandran. Payment executives expect merchants to implement agent verification, create their own AI agents to interact with consumer agents, offer loyalty programs and redesign their upsell strategies. Despite the challenges and unknowns, payment companies say that the agentic commerce shift is unavoidable. "As to exactly when it will scale, that's less clear," Ramachandran said. "But based on our experience and overall [large language model] platform adoption, we're likely talking months rather than years."
WEST PHILIPPINE SEA, PHILIPPINE - APRIL 27: A Chinese warship is seen sailing near several Philippine and United States Navy vessels partaking in a multilateral maritime exercise as part of the Balikatan drills, after Washington deployed advanced missile systems to the Philippines, in West Philippine Sea, Philippine, on April 27, 2025. (Photo by Daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty Images) Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images

China launched its most extensive war games around Taiwan on Monday to showcase Beijing's ability to cut off the island from outside support in a conflict, testing Taipei's resolve to defend itself and its arsenal of U.S.-made weapons. The Eastern Theatre Command said it had deployed troops, warships, fighter jets and artillery for its "Justice Mission 2025" exercises to encircle the democratically governed island, conduct live fire and simulated strikes on land and sea targets, and drills to blockade Taiwan's main ports. The live-firing exercises will continue on Tuesday across a record seven zones designated by China's Maritime Safety Administration, making the drills the largest to date by total coverage and in areas closer to Taiwan than previous exercises. The military had initially said artillery firing would be confined to five zones.

Drills force flight cancellations

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said there was also an additional zone for a two-hour drill on Monday morning, which took place without a Chinese announcement in the island's eastern waters. The Transport Ministry said more than 100,000 passengers on scheduled international flights will be affected by Tuesday's drills, while around 80 domestic flights are set to be cancelled. China's sixth major round of war games since 2022, after then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the democratically governed island, follows stronger rhetoric promoting Beijing's territorial claims in response to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggesting a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a military response from Tokyo. Taiwan rejects China's claimed sovereignty, maintaining that only its people can decide the island's future. "Our armed forces operate on the principle of preparing for the worst and must take every possible scenario into account," Hsieh Jih-sheng, deputy chief of the general staff for intelligence at Taiwan's defence ministry, told reporters when asked about Tuesday's drills. "Conducting live-fire exercises around the Taiwan Strait ... would not only constitute military pressure on us, but could also pose more complex challenges and impacts for the international community and neighbouring countries."

'Strong message on external interference'

The exercises began 11 days after the U.S. announced $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, the largest ever weapons package for the island, drawing a protest from China's defence ministry and warnings that the military would "take forceful measures" in response.

Helicopters on an amphibious assault ship take part in military drills in waters southeast of Taiwan, in this screenshot from a video released by the Eastern Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA), Dec. 29, 2025. Eastern Theatre Command | Via Reuters

"They (China) are sending a strong message on external interference," said Chieh Chung, a researcher at Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research, pointing to how China had "completely cut off" air and sea links with Japan for three zones to Taiwan's north. Analysts say Beijing's drills increasingly blur the line between routine military training exercises and what could be a prelude to an attack, a strategy intended to give the U.S. and its allies minimal warning of an assault. The Chinese military also released a video depicting automated humanoid robots, microdrones and weaponized robotic dogs attacking the island, futuristic technology China has never showcased before. Fu Zhengyuan, a researcher at the Chinese military's Academy of Military Science, told state media the exercises were justified by concerns over increasing interoperability between Taiwanese and U.S. combat systems, which he said raises the risk of a direct clash between the two superpowers. Taiwan's government condemned the drills, while its defence ministry posted a video on Facebook showcasing various weapons, including U.S.-made HIMARS rocket systems, a highly mobile artillery system with a range of about 300 km (186 miles) that could hit coastal targets in China's southern province of Fujian, on the other side of the Taiwan Strait, in the event of a conflict. The island's coast guard said it had deployed large ships to face off against Chinese coast guard vessels near its waters and was coordinating with the military to minimise the drills' impact on maritime routes and fishing grounds.

Rapid response

Taiwan's defence ministry said 89 Chinese military aircraft, 14 military vessels and 14 coast guard boats had been operating around the island on Monday, while four additional warships were also spotted in the Western Pacific.

People walk by a giant screen during a broadcast of news on China's military drills around Taiwan, in Beijing, China, Dec. 29, 2025. Maxim Shemetov | Reuters

Authorities said some of the Chinese vessels were engaged in stand-offs with Taiwanese ships near the island's contiguous zone, defined as 24 nautical miles offshore. The ministry said Taiwan's military was on high alert and poised to carry out "rapid-response exercises," designed to move troops swiftly in case the drills turn into an attack. Taiwan stock markets were unaffected by the drills, closing up 0.9%. "I think these drills are just meant to scare us," said Lin Wei-ming, a 31-year-old teacher based in the capital, Taipei. "Similar drills have happened before ... the political side of things can only be handled by Taiwan's current government and how they choose to respond."

Sealing off port cities
Lenovo in partnership with AKT II and Mamou-Mani imagines the data centers of the future: a data center spa James Cheung, partner at Mamou-Mani

Artificial intelligence is advancing at breakneck speed, forcing a rethink of how the power-hungry servers behind the boom can coexist with  and draw less from  the environment. Data centers form the backbone of the internet, underpinnning nearly every digital service. But the facilities require huge amounts of energy and water, and are often considered an eyesore and a burden on the communities that house them. As more AI workloads are scaled into the facilities, the pressure on power supply chains will intensify. There's going to be a "tipping point," where the architecture of data centers will no longer be fit for purpose, Simone Larsson, head of enterprise AI at Lenovo, told CNBC. In the face of a looming digital infrastructure crisis, tech giants and developers of the expensive infrastructure are exploring sustainable and out-of-the-box solutions.

Data spas and villages

Traditional data centers are failing to efficiently power AI workloads and falling short of sustainability targets and compliance demands, according to the "Data Center of the Future" November study carried out by Lenovo in partnership with Opinium. The study found that the majority of IT decision makers prioritize technology partners who reduce energy, but only 46% of those surveyed said their current data center designs supported sustainability goals. In the face of those challenges, Lenovo has worked with architects from Mamou-Mani and engineers from AKT II to design data centers that can integrate better with the environment and address energy limitations. The outcome: designs that see data centers sequestered underground by utilizing disused tunnels or bunkers, or suspended in the air to make use of 24/7 energy from solar power.

Lenovo in partnership with AKT II and Mamou-Mani imagines the data centers of the future: a data center bunker that utilizes disused tunnels or transport systems. James Cheung, Mamou-Mani

In so-called data villages, servers are stacked in a modular format near urban areas, allowing excess heat from the data centers to be transferred to power local amenities like schools or homes. The same goes for data center spas, which would see excess heat from data centers used in a wellbeing setting. The heat generated by the spa could in turn be repurposed to power cooling technology for the data center. But there's a catch: even Lenovo admits its designs will likely not be feasible until 2055 or later. The company said its study was designed to spark discussion and acknowledged that significant regulatory changes would be required before any such designs could be deployed. The cost and engineering complexity of some of the concepts, as well as legal and scalability constraints, also present challenges. Adoption would also vary widely by region. The U.S., for example, is more likely to adopt large-scale, ultra-high-density campuses due to high demand, more available land, and a relatively flexible regulatory environment, said Perkins Liu, senior research analyst at S&P Global's 451 Research. Meanwhile, Europe has a more constrained grid and stricter regulations, he said. That's not to say that novel data center designs are an entirely new concept. In 2018, Microsoft deployed a submarine-like data center 117 feet below sea level to take advantage of the cooling benefits of seawater and tidal power to enable the project to be powered fully by renewable energy. There are also many examples of operators redistributing heat from the facilities to warm nearby residences. Last summer, excess heat from an Equinix data center was used to heat the Olympic swimming pools in Paris.

Lenovo in partnership with AKT II and Mamou-Mani imagines the data centers of the future: a data center spa

Servers in space

From Google's "moonshot" Suncatcher project, Alibaba and Zhejiang Lab's "Three-Body Computing Constellation" initiative, to Nvidia 's Starcloud  the orbital data center race is heating up. Smaller players including Edge Aerospace and Loft Orbital are also exploring the tech. It might seem like the stuff of science fiction  and indeed, Google cites a short story from science fiction writer Isaac Asimov as inspiration for its idea to tap directly into the sun as a source of energy  but these proposals are being explored more concretely by tech giants. The EU-funded ASCEND study, in partnership with Thales Alenia Space, explored the feasibility of launching centers into orbit using robotic technologies. Thales Alenia Space is now developing the technology required for this process with the goal of conducting a first in-orbit demonstration mission in 2028. In November, Starcloud, the startup backed by Nvidia, sent a chip into outer space that's 100 times more powerful than any GPU compute that has been in space before. Around 70 million euros ($82 million) of private capital has been invested in space-based data center projects since 2020, according to a report from the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI).

However, in the near term, orbital data centers remain out of reach as the cost of sending such equipment into space remains a significant barrier. "Radiation-hardened hardware, cooling in the vacuum of space, and the extremely high cost of launching large, power-dense compute systems into orbit are major hurdles," said S&P Global's Liu. Challenges also include reliable high-speed communication, space debris, and the difficulties of maintenance, he said. ESPI's cost model for data centers depends on the success of Starship's launch price being as low as $10 million. "If you asked me now, this is unrealistic in the near-term," said Jermaine Gutierrez, research fellow at ESPI. "In the long run, however, the question is whether terrestrial developments and continued cost savings thereof, outpace the cost savings from deployment in space."

Lenovo's Larsson said that its futuristic data center plans have co-existence and "symbiosis" at their core. This includes leveraging some of the heat from the data centers for use in the community and by other involved stakeholders. James Cheung, partner at Mamou-Mani, told CNBC that another goal was to make the facilities more visually appealing so that they aren't viewed as "faceless mega-juggernauts of boxes."

The Data Village involves a modular, stackable brick or pod system of data centers linked to city needs. Lenovo in partnership with AKT II and Mamou-Mani imagined the data centers of the future. James Cheung, partner at Mamou-Mani

He explained how the architects used techniques like biomimicry to explore how natural algorithms can show the most efficient ways to disperse heat. "We interact with [data centers] every day, with our computers and with our phones. But this gentle giant, in the background, is putting massive pressure on water and our resources," he said.

Future proofing

In order for many of these innovations to take place, experts told CNBC that regulation will need to be amended and new policies implemented to address the growing energy demands of AI and data centers. "Data center operators could adopt green technologies at their wish, but it will have to be justified financially," said S&P Global's Liu. He added that the grid will need to be upgraded and renewable energy needs to be built out quickly for this to happen.

watch now
The LKAB facility in Kiruna, Sweden. The company said on Jan. 12 that it found Europe's biggest known deposit of rare earth elements there. Jonas Ekstromer | Afp | Getty Images

The ripple effects from Europe's growing appetite for raw materials extend all the way to Sweden's far north. Thousands of residents and buildings are being uprooted in Kiruna, a city that lies 145 kilometers (90 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. The relocation project is regarded as one of the world's most radical urban transformations. Kiruna is physically on the move because of ground subsidence from the expansion of a sprawling underground iron ore mine. A new home is being created about 3 kilometers east of the old town as part of a multi-decade process that's expected to be completed by 2035. "It's a place that would seem exotic to so many and, in a way, I guess it is, but also it is a small town like so many others  struggling with what they are struggling with and challenged by being so dependent on one company," Jennie Sjoholm, senior lecturer at Sweden's University of Gothenburg, told CNBC by video call. Established 125 years ago as a city for the iron ore mining operations of state-owned firm LKAB, Kiruna is a small community that serves as both a significant European space hub and home to the world's largest underground iron ore mine.

Every resident in Kiruna knows that we have to move from our homes sooner or later because we are dependent on this mining industry. Mats Taaveniku Chairman of the municipal council in Kiruna

LKAB is small in global terms but a highly significant regional player, accounting for 80% of all iron ore mined in the European Union. Alongside its iron ore operations, which are integral to the steel-making process, LKAB recently identified one of Europe's largest known deposits of rare earths, further strengthening its position in the extraction of essential materials for the green transition.

Moving a city

There are several obstacles to the successful relocation of Kiruna, with players across the spectrum raising political, economic and environmental concerns. Indeed, both the municipality and LKAB have called for greater financial support from the state, as well as the release of more land to accommodate the transformation. Others have also flagged concerns about the relationship between resource extraction and community sustainability, particularly regarding the potential impact on indigenous Sami reindeer herding and culture.

In this aerial view, the Kiruna Kyrka church is transported by road to a new location on August 20, 2025 in Kiruna, Sweden. The church, weighing 672,4 tons, is being transported as a whole to a new location 3 km away to avoid damages caused by LKABs iron ore mine. Bernd Lauter | Getty Images News | Getty Images

The city's relocation, which was first planned in 2004, received international attention in August 2025 during the spectacular move of its iconic Kiruna Church. In a feat of engineering, the 113-year-old timber building was moved in its entirety by specialized trailers over a period of two days. At around the same time, however, LKAB also announced the expansion of its iron ore mine would require the relocation of an additional 6,000 people and 2,700 homes. The mining company, which is responsible for the move, has estimated compensation costs of 22.5 billion SEK ($2.4 billion) over the next 10 years.

Niklas Johansson, senior vice president of public affairs and external relations at LKAB, told CNBC that those being asked to relocate were being offered the market value of their property, plus an additional 25%, or the construction of a new home. Around 90% have elected to take a new house, Johansson said. "The problem at the moment is that the local municipality has very little land that they own [or] that they can make, from an administrative point of view, buildable," Johansson said. "They have had to buy land from the state, who owns most of the land above the Arctic Circle. And here you have conflicts with reindeer herding, conflicts with defense, conflicts with nature, etcetera," he added.

'We live on the minerals'

Mats Taaveniku, chairman of the municipal council in Kiruna, described the city's relocation as a "huge project," that could yield major opportunities for European citizens for decades to come. A successful outcome, he added, hinges in part on greater financial and political support from both the Swedish government and the European Union. "We have what we can call a big fight between the municipality and LKAB, and the municipality and our own government," Taaveniku told CNBC by video call. "The EU has to step up to support us. It's not enough to make a decision that we have critical and strategic minerals. They have to support us with political statements and money, of course," he added. CNBC has contacted spokespeople for the Swedish government and the European Commission, the EU's executive arm.

A foundry worker handles molten metal at the Betsaide plant, which primarily serves the automotive industry, in Elorrio, on May 26, 2025. Ander Gillenea | Afp | Getty Images

The EU, for its part, has recognized LKAB's new rare earths deposit as strategically important under its Critical Raw Materials Act, a policy that aims for domestic production to satisfy 40% of the region's annual demand by 2030. Asked how Kiruna residents have reacted to the relocation effort, Taaveniku said: "Some of the citizens are sad because they will lose a lot of memories. They have grown up in a house for two or maybe three generations, so this is sad." "But on the other hand, everybody knows, we live on the minerals," he said. "Kiruna is built on the minerals, so every resident in Kiruna knows that we have to move from our homes sooner or later because we are dependent on this mining industry."

Out in the cold?

For those on the move, one aspect that has raised concerns is that Kiruna's new city may be up to 10 degrees Celsius colder in the winter. A study by the University of Gothenburg found that Kiruna's new city center is laid out in a grid pattern in an area where cold air collects, with tall buildings and narrow streets, meaning that the low sun will likely have difficulty reaching the ground for many months of the year.

A worker is pictured in the underground tunnels of the LKAB iron ore mine in Kiruna, northern Sweden, on August 21, 2025. Jonathan Nackstrand | Afp | Getty Images
A general view shows the logo of South Korean online delivery service Coupang, at a building housing the company's headquarters in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2025.

South Korean online retail giant Coupang said it will offer 1.69 trillion South Korean won ($1.17 billion) in compensation to 34 million users affected by a massive data breach disclosed last month.

The company said in a statement Monday local time that it planned to provide customers with purchase vouchers totaling 50,000 won for various Coupang services.

Former customers who closed their Coupang accounts following the data breach are also eligible to receive the vouchers.

Coupang said users can check their eligibility for the vouchers starting Jan. 15, according to a Google translation of the statement in Korean.

Harold Rogers, interim CEO for Coupang Corp., described the move as a "responsible measure for our customers," and said the company would "fulfill its responsibilities to the end."

"I once again deeply apologize to our customers," he said in the statement.

Rogers' apology came a day after Coupang founder Kim Bom also apologized, saying that he was "devastated" by the disappointment people have experienced.

The data breach, which was revealed on Nov. 18, led to the resignation of CEO Park Dae-jun earlier this month.

Coupang founder Kim Bom said in a separate statement that the company had failed to communicate clearly from the outset of the incident.

The U.S.-based chairman acknowledged his apology was "overdue," explaining that he initially believed it was best to communicate publicly and apologize only after all the facts were confirmed.

"In retrospect, this was a poor judgment. While Coupang worked tirelessly to resolve the situation, I should have expressed my deepest regrets and sincere apologies from the beginning. My heart has been heavy ever since I first learned of the data breach," Kim said.

Kim added that the company has recovered all the leaked customer information through cooperation with the government, as well as the storage devices belonging to a suspect behind the data breach.

He also said the customer information stored on the suspect's computer was limited to 3,000 records and that it was not distributed or sold externally.
President Donald Trump speaks to the media next to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu upon arrival for meetings at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, Dec. 29, 2025.

President Donald Trump on Monday appeared open to additional military action against Iran if the country attempts to build up its reserves of ballistic weapons and reestablish its nuclear program. However, he urged the country to negotiate.

"Now, I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are we're going to have to knock them down. We'll knock them down. We'll knock the hell out of them. But hopefully that's not happening," Trump said, standing beside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

"I heard Iran wants to make a deal. If they want to make a deal that's much smarter," the president continued.

Trump gaggled with reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida ahead of a meeting there with Netanyahu, which comes at a fraught time for the Middle East and amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran.

NBC News reported earlier this month that Netanyahu and Israeli officials were becoming more concerned that Iran was attempting to ramp up its ballistic missile production  which had been damaged earlier this year by Israeli strikes  and reconstitute the nuclear enrichment sites the U.S. bombed in June.

"If they will continue with the missiles, yes. The nuclear, fast," Trump said when asked if he would support Israeli strikes on Iran. "One will be yes, absolutely, and the other we will do it immediately."
U.S. President Donald Trump (R) welcomes President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (L) at his Mar-a-Lago residence for a meeting and closed-door lunch afterwards in Florida, United States on Dec. 28, 2025. Ukranian Presidency | Anadolu | Getty Images

Ukraine's president, Volodymr Zelenskyy, said Monday that he has asked for up to 50 years' worth of security guarantees for Ukraine during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the weekend. Commenting on the talks with Trump in Florida on Sunday, Zelenskyy told journalists that he said a meeting with Russia would only be possible after the president and European leaders had agreed on a framework peace deal for Ukraine. The comments, reported by Reuters on Monday, included Zelenskyy stating that he had asked for security guarantees for up to 50 years for Ukraine, but that the current 20-point peace plan envisaged guarantees  aimed at deterring future Russian aggression  for 15 years.

Zelenskyy said he plans to meet with European leaders in the coming days to discuss the proposals. Any peace plan should be put to the Ukrainian people in a referendum, he added, noting that any vote to approve or reject the agreement should be held during a 60-day ceasefire. Zelenskyy said "Russia clearly does not want a ceasefire for now" after several days of heavy drone and missile attacks on Ukraine. Ukraine's comments come after talks with Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Sunday. Trump said the discussions had gone well but acknowledged that "one or two very thorny issues" remained. "I do think we're getting a lot closer, maybe very close," Trump told reporters after emerging from the talks. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy described the talks as a "really great discussion" in which security guarantees were "100% agreed" upon, but Trump gave a slightly lower estimate when asked about that part of the proposal.

watch now
BEIJING, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- China and Lao PDR have stepped up their cooperation on agricultural science and technology, with 2025 marking a year of concrete progress from laboratory planning to field-level impact.

At the heart of this collaboration is the China-Lao Joint Laboratory for Plant Biosafety, co-led by the Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IPPCAAS) and the Department of Agriculture (DOA), Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), Lao PDR. Over the past year, the joint lab has refined its governance arrangements, agreed on fixed contact points on both sides and prepared a supplementary agreement on high-resolution insect radar, which is now undergoing the Lao regulatory process. The Lao side has also completed the functional layout of new laboratory facilities, including basic living space for resident scientists, so that technical teams can work and respond on site.

In the field, cooperation has focused on building systems that directly serve farmers. In central and southern Lao PDR, intelligent light-trap stations have been deployed in five core agricultural provincesVientiane, Bolikhamxay, Khammouane, Savannakhet and Champasakto monitor major pests in maize and rice.

Field demonstration links these tools with day-to-day production. Around Vientiane and in nearby districts, ChinaLao teams have set up rice and maize plots that compare biological control, conventional chemical control and integrated pest management (IPM) packages. These side-by-side trials allow local officers and farmers to see how different options affect crop loss, labour and input costs, and safety, and to select combinations that match local conditions and market requirements.

Capacity development and communication have become key features of the partnership. In 2025, Chinese and Lao experts jointly organized four rounds of hands-on training linked to the new monitoring sites, covering light-trap operation and maintenance, sample handling, pest identification and basic data recording, and reaching more than 60 provincial, district and frontline technicians. The joint lab is also working with the National University of Laos to recruit and mentor local interns, giving students practical experience in applied agricultural research and data management. To make the cooperation more visible, bilingual display panels on the joint lab's mandate, monitoring sites and demonstration plots have been produced, and Lao National Television has reported on the work through its news and online channels.

Together, these developments show how China and Lao PDR are turning agricultural science cooperation into practical support for more resilient crops and rural livelihoods, while providing a useful example for wider regional collaboration.

SOURCE CCTV+
Image: Narendra Modi/X

Image: INSV Kaundinya/X

Image: Narendra Modi/X

Image: Narendra Modi/X

INSV Kaundinya, the Indian Navys traditionally built stitched sailing vessel, on Monday set sail on her maiden overseas journey from Porbandar in Gujarat to Muscat in Oman, marking a major step in reviving Indias ancient seafaring legacy.The vessel was flagged off by Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, in the presence of Omans Ambassador to India Issa Saleh Al Shibani, PTI reported.The 65-foot-long ship will cover a distance of nearly 1,400 km over about 15 days with 18 sailors onboard. The voyage follows historic maritime routes that once connected Indias western coast with Oman, enabling trade and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean, according to Navy officials quoted by PTI.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, wished the crew well as the ship began its journey. Calling the voyage special, Modi said the stitched vessel reflects Indias rich maritime traditions and congratulated the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their efforts in building the ship.INSV Kaundinya has been built using the ancient stitched-ship technique, in which wooden planks are stitched together using coconut coir rope and sealed with natural resin. Unlike modern vessels, it does not use metal fasteners or engines, reflecting shipbuilding practices followed centuries ago along Indias coastline.The ship is a recreation of a fifth-century vessel and draws inspiration from a painting found in the Ajanta Caves. Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, believed to have sailed from India to Southeast Asia in ancient times, the vessel highlights Indias long-standing role as a maritime nation.The project was carried out under a tripartite agreement signed in July 2023 between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy and Hodi Innovations, with funding from the Ministry of Culture. Skilled artisans from Kerala, led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, stitched the hull using traditional materials and methods over several months, PTI reported.INSV Kaundinya was launched in February 2025 at the Hodi Shipyard in Goa and formally inducted into the Indian Navy at Karwar naval base in May. The vessel will be based at Karwar in Karnataka.Officials said the voyage is expected to strengthen India-Oman ties by highlighting shared maritime heritage and people-to-people connections. The ships arrival in Muscat will symbolise the historic bonds between the two countries and Indias continued focus on maritime diplomacy and heritage preservation.
Following the US announcement of a significant arms package for the self-governing democracy, China stated that it will conduct military exercises, including live-fire training, around Taiwan.The Chinese military said in a statement that the army, navy, air force, and rocket force would participate in the drills, which would begin on Monday. The "Justice Mission-2025" exercises were designed to "test the actual combat capability of theatre troops in joint operations."It is a stern warning against Taiwan Independence separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard Chinas sovereignty and national unity, Senior Colonel Shi Yi said.In a separate statement, the People's Liberation Army said that "any irrelevant vessel or aircraft is advised not to enter" the five blocks around Taiwan where live-fire drills would begin on Tuesday.China vowed to "take effective and strong measures to safeguard national sovereignty" in response to the US authorising a package of arms sales to Taiwan worth up to $11 billion earlier this month. It announced mostly symbolic sanctions against ten CEOs and twenty US defence companies on Friday.Since April, when it conducted two days of operations to test blockade capabilities, these are the first significant PLA drills off Taiwan. Mock strikes against fictitious targets, including ports and energy infrastructure, were also part of those manoeuvres.Since Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te assumed office in May 2024, Beijing has increased military intimidation of the democracy of 23 million people. Taiwan vehemently opposes China's opinion that Taiwan is a province that broke away and needs to be subjugated, even if it means using force.
Kathmandu Mayor Balendra 'Balen' Shah has spent the past few years as a symbol of Nepals generational impatience. This week, he crossed a more decisive threshold  from voice of dissent to a contender for national power.Balen, a former underground rapper and trained structural engineer who entered politics as an independent disruptor, has aligned with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) ahead of Nepals March 5 parliamentary elections, marking his most explicit move yet into the countrys formal power contest.

Under the agreement announced on Sunday, December 28, Balen, 35, will be projected as prime ministerial candidate if the RSP wins the election, while party founder and former television anchor Rabi Lamichhane will continue as party chief, according to party officials cited by Reuters.

The tie-up brings together two figures who have built their appeal outside Nepals entrenched party machinery  and comes at a moment when public anger against legacy politics remains raw.That anger spilled onto the streets in September, when youth-led protests over corruption, governance failures and economic stress swept the country, eventually forcing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to step down . The unrest, which turned violent and claimed at least 77 lives, marked a political rupture that few in Kathmandus establishment had anticipated.Balen was never formally an organiser of the movement, but he emerged as one of its most visible institutional figures. His interventions  urging restraint after Olis resignation while asserting that Nepals next chapter must be written by a new generation  resonated widely with younger voters searching for leadership beyond slogans.Political analysts see the RSP-Balen alignment as a calculated bet on that sentiment. It is a very smart and strategic move by the RSP to bring in Balen and his young supporters into its fold, political analyst Bipin Adhikari told Reuters. Traditional political parties are in pain for fear of losing their young voters to RSP.The arithmetic underlines the risk. Nepals Election Commission estimates that nearly two-thirds of the population is eligible to vote, with a sizeable cohort of new, mostly young voters added in the aftermath of the protests  a demographic shift that could tilt close contests. Balens rise has been anything but conventional.

Born in Kathmandu in 1990, Balen first gained attention through Nepals underground hip-hop scene, using sharply political tracks such as Balidan, Maobadi Laal Salam and Hami Yuva to take aim at corruption, inequality and state apathy long before he entered public office. The music built a loyal youth following and established him as a blunt, anti-establishment voice outside mainstream politics.

That credibility later translated into electoral success when he won the 2022 Kathmandu mayoral election as an independent, defeating candidates backed by major parties  a result that signalled a growing appetite for alternatives to Nepals revolving political elite and traditional party structures.

As mayor, he cultivated a reputation for directness  often clashing with entrenched interests while projecting himself as an accessible, results-driven administrator. During the post-protest transition, he also played a role in facilitating an interim political arrangement under former Chief Justice Sushila Karki , aimed at stabilising the system ahead of elections.The protest movement itself was decentralised, driven by a network of activists, students and civic groups. Figures such as Sudan Gurung, who mobilised young demonstrators through grassroots platforms, helped channel generational frustration into sustained action. Yet Balen remained a prominent elected official to echo that discontent from within the system.

For nearly three decades after the return of multiparty democracy, Nepals political power has largely rotated between the Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified MarxistLeninist), despite the countrys crowded party landscape. While coalition governments have been common, leadership and decision-making have remained concentrated within the same political class, leaving limited space for genuine alternatives.

That dominance is now being tested. The rise of the RSP is pushing Nepal toward what increasingly resembles a three-way political contest. Founded in 2022 by Lamichhane, the RSP positioned itself as a reformist, anti-corruption force and surprised observers by securing a significant parliamentary presence in its first election outing.

While the RSP had already demonstrated electoral viability, Balen brings mass visibility, youth mobilisation and protest-era credibility that the traditional parties struggle to match. Together, they are attempting to consolidate diffuse anti-incumbency sentiment into an organised national challenge.

Nepal will enter the election season amid economic uncertainty, institutional fatigue and a restless electorate  conditions that have drawn rare public remarks from former king Gyanendra Shah, underscoring the depth of national flux.Whether Balens transition from protest-era symbol to executive authority succeeds will be decided at the ballot box. What is already evident, however, is that his move into party politics has altered the contest  signalling that Nepals generational revolt is no longer content with pressure from the streets, but is now staking its claim inside the corridors of power.
North Korea said Monday it fired long-range strategic cruise missiles into the sea to test the countrys nuclear deterrence, days after it showed apparent progress in the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine.The official Korean Central News Agency reported that the missile launches occurred off the countrys west coast on Sunday in the presence of leader Kim Jong Un.It said Kim expressed great satisfaction over the launches and noted that testing the reliability of North Korea's nuclear deterrence and demonstrating its might are just a responsible exercise of the right to self-defense and war deterrence in the face of external security threats.South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said it was aware of several cruise missile launches made from North Koreas capital region on Sunday morning. It said South Korea maintains a readiness to repel any potential North Korean provocations through its alliance with the United States.UN Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from launching missiles involving its huge stockpile of ballistic missiles. Its cruise missile tests arent banned, but they still pose a threat to the US and South Korea because they are highly manoeuvrable and fly at low altitudes to avoid radar detection. Analysts say North Korea would aim to use cruise missiles to strike U.S. warships and aircraft carriers in the event of conflict.Sunday's launches are the latest weapons display by North Korea. Last week, North Korea test-launched new anti-air missiles off its east coast and displayed photos showing a largely completed hull of a developmental nuclear-powered submarine. North Korea implied it would arm the submarine with nuclear missiles.A nuclear-powered submarine is among a slew of sophisticated weapons systems that Kim has vowed to introduce to cope with what he describes as US-led security threats. Some experts say North Koreas recent alignment with Russia  including sending thousands of troops and military equipment to support President Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine  may have helped it to receive crucial technologies in return.North Korea could further increase its weapons demonstrations ahead of its planned ruling Workers' Party congress early next year, observers say.North Korea has focused on weapons-testing activities to expand its nuclear arsenal since Kim's high-stakes nuclear diplomacy with US President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019.But in an apparent response to Trumps repeated outreach, Kim suggested in September that he could return to talks if the US drops its delusional obsession with denuclearisation of North Korea. Experts say Kim might think his enlarged nuclear arsenal would give him greater leverage to wrest concessions in potential talks with Trump.
STOCKHOLM, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Europi and Incus Capital have joined forces, committing further capital and resources to grow and establish Ecologis, a major Portuguese logistics company, as one of the leading Iberian logistics platforms. The strategic partnership builds on Europi's and Incus Capital's vast experience in the region and sector, combined with a shared vision of creating a modern, high-quality logistics platform of significant scale covering the most attractive metropolitan regions in the Iberian Peninsula.

Ecologis was launched by Europi at the end of 2021 and has grown to become a leading Portuguese logistics platform of 11 big box and last mile assets, primarily located in the Lisbon metropolitan area. The fully let 160k sqm portfolio features excellent connectivity, with all assets strategically located close to major motorways and metropolitan centres. Tenants include significant international and domestic 3PL companies, leading food distributors and e-commerce players. The portfolio holds strong sustainability credentials, including rooftop solar panels, high energy efficiency and its Adarse asset was the first logistics property in Portugal to achieve a BREEAM In Use Excellent certification.

The new joint venture's expansion strategy is focused on acquiring at least 100m of additional best-in-class, Grade A logistics assets across Portugal and Spain, including development and high-quality standing asset opportunities, backed by its conviction in the Iberian logistics market with buoyant underlying fundamentals. Ecologis will continue its high focus on accretive asset management initiatives to create a further improved, modern high-quality logistics platform with excellent sustainability profile.

Europi was advised by Morais Leitao (legal), Ernst & Young (tax) and NewCycle (technical). Incus Capital was advised by PLMJ (legal), Savills (commercial and technical) and Deloitte (tax and financial).

Jonas Fink, Group Investment Director of Europi Property Group, commented:

"We are very excited to partner with Incus Capital for the continued expansion of Ecologis. We're convinced that Incus Capital's strong Iberian presence and track record will enable accelerated growth and help to create one of the leading Iberian logistics platforms. Since Ecologis was launched, the platform has delivered superior performance and grown to become one of the largest of its kind in Portugal. With a clear focus on operational value creation and sustainability as well as its unique financial backing, the platform is well positioned for its continued Iberian expansion."

Alejandro Moya, Partner at Incus Capital, commented:

"We are pleased to partner with Europi Property Group in the next phase of Ecologis' growth. The platform has been built to a very high standard, with a strong portfolio, excellent locations and a clear commitment to sustainability. Europi has created a compelling foundation in Portugal, and we see significant potential to further scale Ecologis across both Portugal and Spain. This joint venture reflects our conviction in the Iberian logistics market and our strategy of partnering with best-in-class operators to create long-term value through high-quality, resilient assets."

For further information please contact:

Jonas Fink, Group Investment Director, Europi Property Group

E-mail: [email protected]

Contact number: +46 (0) 8 411 55 77

Alejandro Moya, Partner, Incus Capital

E-mail: [email protected]

About Europi:

Europi Property Group is a pan-European real estate investment company with offices in London and Stockholm, investing discretionary capital across all segments with a flexible investment strategy. Europi has since inception completed public and private transactions of more than 800m in gross asset value alongside its established network of local operating partners. By combining a truly entrepreneurial, active ownership approach with focus on social and environmental sustainability, Europi generates long term value and positive impact for all stakeholders.

https://europi.se/

About Incus Capital:

Founded in 2012, Incus Capital is a real assets investment firm with offices in Madrid, Lisbon, Milan, Paris, Frankfurt and Luxembourg. Incus provides flexible capital solutions to mid-market companies in Europe with a focus on infrastructure, real estate and alternative assets. The firm's investment strategy includes a strong focus on downside protection with target investment sizes between 25 million to 60 million. Incus Capital acts as the investment advisor to funds with more than 2.5 billion in assets under management.

https://www.incuscapital.com/

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/europi-property-group/r/europi-property-group-and-incus-capital-form-strategic-joint-venture-to-create-a-leading-iberian-log,c4287066

The following files are available for download:
The relationship will advance Foundral's unique platform and its mission to empower commercial HVAC contractors across the Midwest

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ripley PR, a global public relations agency specializing in skilled trades, B2B tech and franchising , has been named the public relations agency of record for Foundral, a newly formed platform dedicated to building and rapidly scaling a family of union-backed mechanical contracting companies in the Midwest.

Foundral brings together high-performing commercial HVAC contractors under a shared vision of operational excellence, workforce empowerment and sustainable growth. The platform acquires contracting companies with strong local and regional legacies and equips them to both preserve their culture and strengthen their market position through robust back-end services like recruitment, employee training, IT and fleet truck management. Foundral selected Ripley PR for its deep industry knowledge and proven ability to elevate brands in the trades and construction sectors.

"We have always had a deep appreciation for the trades and a belief that the work contractors do is incredibly significant," said Heather Ripley, founder and CEO of Ripley PR. "That's a vision that Foundral shares. They're investing in the companies that are building crucial infrastructure and positioning them for success even in a changing industry."

Ripley PR has built a global reputation as a preeminent communications partner for the skilled trades, B2B technology and investor communities. The agency's expertise spans media relations, brand strategy, crisis communications and thought leadership, helping companies scale, attract talent and establish themselves as industry leaders.

"Foundral was developed to provide the top mechanical contractors in the Midwest with a firm foundation for exceptional work and lasting growth," said Jason Richards, CEO of Foundral. "With Ripley PR, we've found a partner who can provide us the support we need to share our message, advocate for contractors and ultimately propel the trades forward."

Founded in 2013, Ripley PR has been honored by Newsweek as one of America's Best PR Agencies and recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as a Top Franchise Supplier. Today, the agency supports leading brands across the home service, franchising and B2B tech industries.

To learn more about Foundral, visit www.foundral.com.

To learn more about Ripley PR, visit https://www.ripleypr.com or call (865) 977-1973.

About Foundral

Foundral is a growing family of leading mechanical contracting companies, uniting trusted teams across HVAC, plumbing and fire protection to build the essential infrastructure of tomorrow. Born from the workers and entrepreneurs who built the Midwest, Foundral honors a rich history of craftsmanship, integrity and grit while delivering modern, high-performance solutions for healthcare, higher education, industrial, government, life sciences and data center environments. For more information, visit www.foundral.com.

About Ripley PR

Ripley PR is an elite, global B2B public relations agency specializing in home service and building trades, manufacturing and franchising. The agency has been recognized by the Corporate Livewire Prestige Awards as PR Agency of the Year (2025-2026) and by the Merit Awards as Best Communications/PR Agency (2025). Offering a full range of strategic communication services, including award recognition, crisis management and media relations, Ripley PR uses a blend of strategic business acumen and creative public relations branding to tell compelling stories and deliver measurable results.

Ripley PR is also a member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, the world's leading partnership of independently owned PR agencies whose members provide clients with on-demand access to in-depth communications experts. For more information, visit www.ripleypr.com or call 865-977-1973.

SOURCE Ripley PR
The ball hasn't dropped on 2025 but there's already buzz in the air over 2028.

The unofficial race for the White House has begun even if the candidates won't admit it and their press secretaries would sooner swallow a microphone than confirm anything.

I am picking up an unmistakable energy among the whispering political class. Fundraisers are filling their calendars, donors are getting restless and eager office-seekers are gaming out where they'll work the rope lines for the 2026 midterms in March.

For Republicans, they're fieldling a small team this year, as President Donald Trump continues to suck up the oxygen in Washington, leaving tiny gulps of air for rumored aspirants like Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and even Texas Senator Ted Cruz.

On the other hand, the Democratic side is generating a whole heap of speculation. And, while most voters are blissfully ignoring it all, I and others have begun handicapping the field.

Though before I reveal my top eight picks for who will win the Democratic nomination for president in 2028, a few necessary caveats

One, it's still early. No one knows what the primary election calendar will look like. The Democratic National Committee hasn't even received applications from the state parties (due in January) as they jockey to maximize their influence on the contest. As former President Joe Biden proved in South Carolina in 2020, a well-positioned primary victory can change everything. Order matters, but so does momentum and timing.

Two, some major figures will most assuredly end up not running. Right now, the party's vigor is on the progressive wing, but the mood of the electorate seems to change hourly.

Meanwhile, the Democratic side is generating a whole heap of speculation. (Pictured: Nancy Pelosi and Gavin Newsom at the 2024 Democratic National Convention)

Now, without further ado, the eight most likely  as of this moment  Democratic nominees for president in 2028, ranked least likely to most likely.

#8: Bronx Brawler

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is currently a New York Congresswoman

Some say New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is the most likely to win the nomination, others wouldn't rank her at all. But if the base of the party decides it wants a torch-wielding outsider, she becomes instantly formidable.

Her strength is the unmatched grassroots energy she generates. Nobody else on this list can summon a movement the way she can.

Her secret strength is that behind the scenes, she's built more bridges within the party than people assume, reaching out to more moderate members of her own party and even to a few Republicans.

Her weaknesses? Skepticism from centrists, limited experience that comes with relatively young age, 36, and concerns over her seriousness. Running for president means sacrificing on nearly everything else. Insiders question if she's ready for that.

#7: Chicago Style

JB Pritzker is currently the governor of Illinois

If Democrats decide they want a billionaire after alland stranger things have happened  Illinois governor JB Pritzker is waiting in the wings.

His greatest strength goes together with his most obvious weakness. With an estimated net worth of $3.7 billion from an inherited Hyatt Hotels fortune, he can self-fund, but many Democrats aren't eager to nominate someone who can buy their own campaign.

His secret strength is that he's deeply connected to Democratic interest groups, especially labor unions  and wears his working-class sympathies on his sleeve, advocating for minimum wage hikes and forgiving medical debt.

#6: Tinseltown's man

Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, was praised by actor George Clooney as being a top contender for the Democratic party's nomination

Wes Moore is the charismatic governor of Maryland. Hollywood loves him  George Clooney is already aboard  and many Democratic donors and strategists do too. He's got that 'It Factor', a seemingly stellar resume and the ability to dazzle donors and voters alike.

Secret advantage: This US Army combat veteran is not just charming on camera; he's personally magnetic in the rooms and salons of the Democratic elite, which is where nomination fights are often meaningfully advanced.

His weakness is that he hasn't been in national politics long  and his accomplishments in public life can be listed on the back of a napkin. If the hype ever races ahead of the record or his glittering bio turns out to be less than all that, the backlash could be intense.

#5: Southern Snoozer

Andy Beshear is the governor of Kentucky

Democrats dream of a candidate who can appeal to red-state voters and mild-mannered Governor of Kentucky Andy Beshear fits the mold. Some insiders nearly demanded that I place him higher. Still, others don't believe he belongs on the list at all.

His strength is that he looks like a president out of central casting and  believe it or not  that matters enormously in identity-oriented Democratic circles right now. His appeal appears to come from a steady calm persona  never rattled, never theatrical, reassuring to jittery party elders who crave stability.

But he's not exactly electric on stage. And, fair or not, Kentucky politics is not the big time. Some wonder whether he has the grits to withstand the brutality of a modern presidential campaign.

#4: She's Baaaack!

Kamala Harris, former vice president, lost the 2024 election against President Donald Trump

I didn't place Kamala Harris in my top eight just a few weeks ago, but she has begun to lean more openly into the notion that she's considering a run, with those close to her making it clear her recent interviews and book tour stop announcements are meant to send the signal that she should not be overlooked by the Great Speculators.

Her known strengths are enormous: a national profile, deep relationships with core Democratic constituencies and the historic weight of being a former vice president. A lesser-known strength: privately, she is far looser, funnier, and more natural than the cautious politician Americans see on television. If she showed that version more often, some of her critics might soften.

Her weaknesses are familiar: inconsistent execution, difficulty making crisp decisions under pressure, and skepticism from donors and strategists who simply don't believe she can win. That's a heavy headwind.

#3: Mr Mayor

Pete Buttigieg is the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and served as the transportation secretary under the Biden Administration

Pete Buttigieg is a prodigy of modern Democratic politics. He came on stronger as the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, who can speak six foreign languages and won a top stop as Biden's Transportation Secretary. But from there, he's seemed to have stalled.

His main strength is verbal: he can talk anyone into anything, or, at least, to anyone about anything. Bill Clinton likes to describe people like Buttigieg as folks who can 'talk the owls down from the trees.'

His secret strength is that he and his team are ruthlessly strategic when they need to be, ready, for instance, to stealthily drop opposition research on a rival when the time is right. But he still has a Black voter problem  a fatal one if he can't fix it. And some say he's too cerebral, too tidy, too much 'PowerPoint as a person.'

Passion counts in politics. So does messiness. Buttigieg sometimes feels laminated.

#2: Pennsylvania Pretzel

Josh Shapiro, governor of Pennsylvania, was passed over by Harris to be her running mate in 2024

Josh Shapiro is the popular governor of Keystone state, who may have already won the political lottery by being passed over by Harris to be her running mate in 2024.

His strength is obvious: he's a strong communicator, pragmatic progressive, pro-Israel and middle-of-the-road enough to win over moderates, maybe even some MAGA types.

Secret advantage: He is favored by many of the party's power players  Pelosi, the Obamas, the Clintons.

Weaknesses? The progressive left doesn't trust him, and some party insiders believe he hasn't shown the necessary steel and determination under pressure. In a nomination fight, you can't let incoming fire merely bounce off  you must send some back. Some members of Team Shapiro on aiming to fix this flaw pronto.

#1: California Dream

Gavin Newsom is the governor of California

Mark Halperin is the editor-in-chief and host of the interactive live video platform 2WAY and the host of the video podcast 'Next Up' on the Megyn Kelly network

It may come as no surprise that Gavin Newsom sits atop the list  not because he's the handsomest governor since the invention of hair gel, though that never hurts  but because he has momentum.

He's commonly treated like a shadow president in some Democratic circles  meaning he is driving conversation on terms that will be favorable to his candidacy.

Not to mention, he has buckets of donor money, an established national profile and he exceeds the aura of a man auditioning for higher office every time he opens his mouth.

Those are his known strengths. His unknown strength is that he has a killer staffprofessional, experienced, and capable of building a national machine at frightening speed.

Weakness? He can come across as a political show pony, all gleam and angles. Quietly, those around him say his ambition sometimes cools at inconvenient moments, often fueled by a family who is not super keen on a race.

That's the early, very early, list. It will shift. Some will swap out and in as the months go forward. And if you disagree  good. It means you're paying attention.
Up to four million people in the UK suffer with ingrown toenails and an estimated 10,000 cases are diagnosed each year.

The condition is one where the nail grows sideways into the nail bed, causing pain and swelling. As tissue becomes inflamed, it increases the chances of bacteria causing an infection that needs antibiotic treatment. And while they may seem trivial, they can leave sufferers in agony.

NHS England figures show casualty departments dealt with 3,800 cases of ingrown toenails between November 2024 and March 2025.

Earlier this month, health officials accused patients with the foot problem of clogging up busy A&Es, and instead urged them to treat their toenails at home.

But how to do this? Here are the expert steps you can take at home to ease the suffering of ingrown toenails  and prevent the issue from occurring.

TRY DIY COTTON WOOL FIX

The pain and inflammation are caused by the nail digging deep into the skin. Separating the nail from skin  by elevating the affected corner slightly  can bring relief.

One DIY solution for this, says Marion Yau from the Harley Medical Foot and Nail Clinic in London, is to pack a tiny piece of cotton wool directly under the affected corner of the nail.

Up to four million people in the UK suffer with ingrown toenails and an estimated 10,000 cases are diagnosed each year

It elevates the nail ever so slightly and eases the pressure on the skin, reducing pain, she says.

Spray antiseptic lotion on the cotton wool first to reduce the chances of infection, and then place a tiny piece between the nail and the skin.

Change the cotton wool every few days.

Over time, it will stop the nail growing further into the skin.

FOOT BATH TO EASE PAIN

Soaking painful toes in a bowl of warm, salty water for 15 to 20 minutes a day could greatly reduce the discomfort they cause. You can just use ordinary table salt, says Kate Waldren, an NHS podiatrist from Middlesbrough.

It cleans the area and helps to kill off any bacteria that might lead to an infection.

The warm water also softens the skin enough that it reduces the pressure from the nail, easing the pain.

DROPS COULD HELP

Drops that soften both the skin and nail can provide relief from the pain and discomfort, says Ms Yau.

The drops contain chemicals that increase elasticity in the ingrown toenail and the hardened skin. The drops are applied to the edge of the nail twice a day with a swab applicator.

One popular brand is Profoot Toenail Softening Drops, which cost 11.99 at Boots.

You can get a build-up of dead skin tissue which is quite hard, and these drops can soften it so that there isnt the same feeling of tightness, adds Ms Yau.

However, Ms Waldren warns: Some people find the drops help but others dont.

If the skin is broken or swollen down the side of the nail, dont apply any chemicals such as drops  instead you want to keep the area clean, dry and covered and see a podiatrist.

Marion Yau from the Harley Medical Foot and Nail Clinic in London, says drops that soften both the skin and nail can provide relief from the pain and discomfort

WEAR A TOE PROTECTOR

If you have a toe that is painful and swollen due to an ingrown toenail, wearing tight shoes can make the inflammation worse.

One simple solution to this is a silicone or gel-filled toe protector, which reduces friction and prevents further trauma to the affected digit.

One example is Superdrugs Toe Gel Protector, at 2.89. It slots over the affected toe like a mini sock.

If you are trying these, toe caps can be breeding grounds for bacteria. Whilst they are great for protection, they can make ingrown toenails worse, says Ms Waldren.

...AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

Ill-fitting shoes are one of the main causes of ingrown toenails. This is because the shoes force the nails to grow into the skin.

For this reason, experts say it is crucial that people ensure their shoes are comfortable and leave space for the toes to move.

Another trigger is poor nail-cutting technique, with many wrongly believing that keeping nails short prevents the problem.

However, cutting them too short can encourage the nail to grow sideways into the skin. Instead, experts say let them grow a couple of millimetres out from the end of the toe  and then regularly clip them to that length.

And, crucially, experts say that it is important to avoid cutting the nails in a circular shape  trim them straight.

This is because, when the nail doesnt have clear corners, the rounded edge protrudes into the skin as the nail grows.
Helping others for just a few hours a week could slow memory loss and help ward off dementia, a major new study suggests.

Carrying out simple acts of kindness  from formal volunteering to helping friends or neighbours  may slow cognitive decline by up to 20 per cent, researchers have found.

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin tracked more than 30,000 Americans aged 51 and over for two decades, testing their memory and thinking skills through regular telephone interviews.

Participants completed three assessments measuring immediate memory, working memory and mental processing speed, with higher combined scores reflecting better brain health.

Researchers then examined two types of helping behaviour: formal volunteering, such as charity or community work, and informal helping, including unpaid support for friends, neighbours or relatives they did not live with.

Those who helped others in either way experienced 15 to 20 per cent slower cognitive decline than those who did not.

The biggest benefit was seen in people who gave just two to four hours a week.

'Everyday acts of support  whether organised or personal  can have lasting impact,' said Dr Sae Hwang Han, Assistant Professor of Human Development and Family Sciences at the university, who led the research.

Helping others can help slow cognitive decline, helping people stave of dementia, study finds

He added: 'What stood out to me was that the cognitive benefits of helping others weren't just shortterm boosts.

'But [rather] cumulative over time with sustained engagement and these benefits were evident for both formal volunteering and informal helping.

'Informal helping is sometimes assumed to offer fewer health benefits due to its lack of social recognition.

'It was a pleasant surprise to find that it provides cognitive benefits comparable to formal volunteering.'

The findings build on earlier research led by Professor Han, which showed volunteering could counteract the harmful effects of chronic stress on inflammation  a biological process linked to cognitive decline and dementia.

In that earlier study, the protective effect of volunteering was strongest in people with higher levels of inflammation, suggesting those in poorer health may benefit the most.

As a result, Professor Han said older adults with suboptimal health 'may be the ones to benefit from being provided with opportunities to help'.

The latest study, published in the journal Social Science & Medicine, defined formal volunteering by asking participants whether they had spent time in the previous 12 months doing unpaid work for religious, educational, healthrelated or charitable organisations.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Informal helping was assessed by asking whether they had spent time helping friends, neighbours or relatives they did not live with  and were not paid to assist.

Participants were also asked how much time they devoted to helping, including whether it amounted to more or less than 100 hours a year.

Researchers acknowledged a limitation of the study was the lack of detail about the specific activities people carried out.

The findings come as dementia cases continue to rise in the UK, with nearly one million Britons currently affected  a figure projected to reach 1.4 million by 2040.

While the condition has no cure, early diagnosis can help slow progression and manage symptoms, which include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood changes and problems following conversations.

Growing evidence suggests changes in vision, hearing, taste, touch and balance can appear years before classic symptoms.

Experts have also warned that problems with spatial awareness, such as standing too close to others, may emerge up to 20 years earlier.

According to the Alzheimer's Society, dementia costs the UK 42 billion a year, with families shouldering much of the burden. That figure is expected to rise to 90 billion within 15 years.

Separate analysis by Alzheimer's Research UK found 74,261 people died from dementia in 2022, up from 69,178 the previous year  making it the country's single biggest killer.
BANGUI, Central African Republic, Dec. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- General elections in the Central African Republic (CAR) concluded yesterday evening in a calm and peaceful atmosphere, according to post-election assessments released this morning by the Reseau Arc-en-Ciel (RAC). The nation's leading domestic observation network reported that the voting process, which closed at 6:00 p.m. local time, was marked by orderly conduct and significant civic participation across the country.

CAR President Faustin-Archange Touader

Approximately 2.4 million eligible voters had the opportunity to cast ballots for the presidency, legislative seats, and local authorities. Voting took place at 6,700 polling stations nationwide, with the RAC confirming that polls were accessible even in remote regions. The National Elections Authority (A.N.E.) is scheduled to announce the preliminary results on January 5, 2026.

The RAC's assessment of a peaceful process aligns with reports from international observers, including missions from the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU). No serious security incidents were recorded during the voting hours. Both domestic and international experts have highlighted the high voter turnout as a key feature of this election cycle.

Seven candidates competed for the head of state. Incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who is seeking a third term, is viewed as the dominant figure in the race, running with the support of the United Hearts Movement (MCU).

Under the current constitution, the presidential term lasts seven years. To secure an outright victory in the first round, a candidate must win an absolute majority (50% plus one vote). Should no candidate meet this requirement, a runoff election is scheduled for February 2026.

President Touadera's main challengers are former Prime Ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuele (Union for Central African Renewal - URCA) and Henri-Marie Dondra (UNIR). The ballot also included independent candidates Serge Djorie, Aristide Briand Reboas, Eddy Symphorien Kparekouti, and Marcellin Yalamende. International media analysis leading up to the vote noted Touadera's strong standing regarding national security and popular support.

Voters also elected members of the National Assembly, the country's unicameral parliament comprising 140 seats. The legislative mandate is also seven years.

The parliamentary race featured 685 candidates, nearly half of whom ran as independents, with the rest representing over 40 political parties. Analysts predict the ruling MCU will likely strengthen its position and retain its majority, aiming to exceed the 61 seats it held in the previous convocation. A potential second round for parliamentary seats is scheduled for April 5, 2026.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2852277/CAR_President_RAC.jpg

SOURCE Reseau Arc-en-Ciel (RAC)
For six months, teenager Ella Cromack was repeatedly told by doctors the constant nagging pain deep in her right shoulder was 'just a pulled muscle'  and that it was nothing to worry about.

Even when the agony started running down into her fingertips, affecting her ability to do everyday tasks such as brushing her teeth and getting dressed, Ella left the GP surgery with nothing more than anti-inflammatory painkillers.

Weeks later, with the pain worsening, her GP again told her it was muscular and sent her for physiotherapy  which, 'if anything, it made it feel worse', university student Ella recalls.

It was as she was showering on New Year's Eve 2020 that, then aged 16, she felt a lump as she ran her hand over her shoulder.

'I looked in the mirror and saw it was clearly visible  and once I'd noticed it, I couldn't unsee it,' Ella says. 'My stomach flipped. I grabbed a towel and ran to show my mum.'

The next day, her dad took her to the nearby Sunderland Royal Hospital, where an X-ray revealed that the ball-and-socket joint in her shoulder  the glenohumeral joint  was lower than it should be and doctors told her with 'scary' urgency that she needed more detailed scans.

Days later Ella was asked to return for a biopsy of the bone in her shoulder and was warned she might have a tumour. Just hearing the word tumour was 'terrifying', she says.

A week later, she returned to the hospital to be told she had osteosarcoma  a rare type of bone cancer that most commonly affects teenagers and young adults.

Ella Cromack felt agonising pain deep in her right shoulder when she was 16, but the GP told her it was merely a strain caused by exercising at the gym

Ella during her chemotherapy treatment - where the mental toll of being in hospital five days at a time without her friends tested her most

'I couldn't believe it,' says Ella. 'I had been told for months it was just a pulled muscle and now I was being told I had cancer. I was only 16.'

While being a teenager isn't normally considered a risk for cancer, it can be for osteosarcoma, which is most often diagnosed among those aged 15 to 19, according to the Bone Cancer Research Trust charity.

Osteosarcoma accounts for about a quarter of the 600 primary bone cancer cases diagnosed each year in the UK (secondary bone cancer is where cancer spreads to the bone from other parts of the body). It forms in the bone-making cells and grows quickly to form a mass or tumour.

People with a family history or having had previous cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are most vulnerable, but age is also a risk factor.

'There are two age peaks in the incidence  late teenage and then in later life, usually in people over 60,' explains Dr Jeff White, a retired oncologist from Glasgow and now an ambassador for the charity Sarcoma UK.

The disease is more common in men than women (though it's not clear why), and in teenagers typically affects the bones in the arms and legs. After the age of 40, however, it becomes more common in the skull, jaw and pelvis.

Delayed diagnosis, as in Ella's case, is worryingly common, says Dr White. 'That's because very often this cancer presents with non-specific symptoms such as vague pain. But pain in a bone at night is a more concerning feature.'

There may also be swelling or a lump, and as the cancer grows it can lead to fractures from minor impact.

Dr White says the condition can get mistaken for 'non-cancer conditions' such as growing pains and that patients may have to visit their GP on 'several occasions' before they get referred for investigations and a diagnosis.

'Sarcoma UK and Bone Cancer Research Trust are now supporting a trial, called the SPEED study, looking into ways to reduce these delays  and funding research into a blood test to detect genetic material from the osteosarcoma which could be used as an early diagnostic blood test,' says Dr White.

The study could make all the difference to those such as Ella who go back and forth to the doctor waiting for a diagnosis.

The first symptom she noticed was 'a sharp twang, as if my shoulder had popped out of place' when she was sitting on a swing, she recalls.

'I don't know how I didn't cry because it was agony. I was sure I'd dislocated my shoulder, but when I moved it gently, it felt like it was still in place.'

Her dad drove her to A&E, where a doctor 'asked if I had been exercising in the gym, which I had', says Ella. 'He suggested it was a pulled muscle and that I should stop going to give my shoulder some rest.'

'I remember feeling confused because I had only done leg exercises.'

Over the next few months Ella revisited her GP, but each time was told it was a muscular problem.

By the time her cancer was diagnosed it was 10cm  the size of an orange.

Processing the news she had cancer was, she says, 'surreal', adding: 'I think it helped being so young  the doctors seemed positive I would be fine, so this reassured me.'

She was grateful that despite the delays in her diagnosis, 'it was caught and hadn't spread'.

Treatment typically involves chemotherapy  usually a combination of the drugs methotrexate, adriamycin and cisplatin  'to minimise the spread of cancer to other parts of the body and make the osteosarcoma smaller and easier to operate on', says Dr White.

Ella began hers in January 2021 and left her feeling 'sick and tired  but not as bad as I'd heard or expected', she recalls.

The mental toll was harder. Having to be in hospital without her friends for five days at a time left her feeling 'lonely and anxious, with too much time to think and worry about my health and future'.

Two weeks after starting treatment, Ella's hair started coming out in clumps.

'As a 16-year-old, that was the worst part for me,' she says. 'I hated looking in the mirror, seeing thinning hair and bald patches, so I asked my dad to shave it all off. I was holding back tears as he ran the clippers over my head.'

After ten weeks and two cycles of chemotherapy, in April 2021, Ella had an eight-hour operation at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. She underwent a full shoulder joint replacement to ensure the tumour and all the cancerous cells were removed.

'Afterwards, I was told the tumour was 10cm, so pretty big,' says Ella. 'They described it like a balloon, that if it had popped, the cancerous cells inside it would have spread, so they also needed to remove all the tissue and bone from around the tumour.

She had 40 staples put into her arm from the surgery and now has a 'massive' scar running across her shoulder

'They also took some of my arm muscle, which meant I couldn't fully lift my right arm. I still can't now, five years later.'

The aim of surgery, says Dr White, is to remove the cancer while 'preserving as much function in the affected bone as possible'.

'In many cases, this involves replacing the bone with a metallic structure,' he adds. 'Once the patient has recovered adequately from their surgery, most patients will undergo further chemotherapy.'

Ella spent two weeks in hospital recovering before having another four cycles of chemotherapy. She spent months adjusting to life without full use of her dominant right arm while it healed.

'Losing movement completely changed my life,' says Ella. 'I'm right-handed and it was my right shoulder that was replaced, so learning to write again took some getting used to. My hand and arm would start aching after a few minutes.

'I had to start eating and brushing my teeth with my left hand,' she adds. 'And now I've got my own way of doing certain tasks I usually do with my right hand, such as picking something up with my left, or leaning on the desk for support.'

In October 2021, Ella had her sixth and final cycle of chemotherapy and now has scans twice a year.

After finishing her treatment, she went back to her health and social care course at college after having a year off. She is now studying journalism at Manchester Metropolitan University.

'I had 40 staples in my arm from the surgery and now have a massive scar running across my shoulder and down my arm,' she says.

'And there is a noticeable difference between the shape of my shoulders, and I don't really like looking in the mirror.

'But I don't see cancer as the worst thing that ever happened to me because it's never stopped me from achieving what I wanted.'

She is speaking out to raise awareness of the disease.

'I kept being told it was a pulled muscle and to take painkillers, yet it turned out to be cancer,' she adds.

'It is so important to get checked when you have unexpected pain that doesn't go away.

'You know your own body and if something does not feel right, you should keep going back. Thankfully, my persistence paid off.'
Coming off antidepressants is notoriously difficult, with many experiencing horrendous side-effects including stomach problems, irritability and insomnia.

And with some seven million Britons estimated to be taking the mood balancing drugs, knowing exactly how to stop this powerful drugs of class is paramountbut has eluded experts for decades.

But new research, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, has suggested the best way to come off the pills is to slowly reduce dosage, with the support of a trained mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist.

This, researchers say, could prevent relapse in 20 per cent of patients, enabling them to live more freely and not be reliant on prescription medication.

'Our findings suggest that while antidepressants are effective in preventing depressive relapses, they do not need to be a long term treatment for everyone,' study co-author, Dr Debora Zaccoletti, said.

Antidepressants are not only used to treat depression, but a number of mood disorders including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), one of the most widely prescribed types of the drug, work by increasing the amount of available serotonindubbed the happiness hormonein the brain.

But, as Christine Villelongue, co-head of the France Depression Association, explained: 'As soon as an antidepressant is changed or reduced, it is a source of anxiety for the person.

The powerful drugs  taken by millions  have long been known to potentially trigger symptoms including dizziness, headaches, insomnia and nausea when coming off them

'However, there are no real guidelines: When medication is stopped, there is no follow up.'

To assess the health impact of overprescribing, experts from the World Health Organisation's (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, cross-examined over 75 studies to work out the best way for a patient to come off the medication.

Analysing medical records from over 17,000 individuals, the researchers found the most effective method is gradually lowering the dosage alongside seeing a therapist.

According to the researchers, this could help prevent relapse in one in five patients, helping dramatically reduce the number of patients unable to get off of antidepressants.

Patients were followed for around a year, with those who abruptly stopped taking their medication found to be at a 40 per cent risk of relapse.

Those who gradually came off antidepressants, whilst seeing a psychiatrist, however reduced their risk of relapse by nearly 50 per cent.

This, the study found, was almost as effective as continued drug usage without psychological support.

The researchers concluded that guidelines on coming off antidepressants should 'promote individualised deprescribing with gradual tapering and structured psychological support.'

Your browser does not support iframes.

Professor Giovanni Ostuzzi, study co-author also from the University of Verona, added: 'Continuing with or without psychological support, slow tapering with the psychological support and continuing at the antidepressant at reduced doses had similar benefits in preventing relapse within the first year after stopping.

'Abrupt stopping or fast tapering carried the highest risk of relapse.'

The researchers hope that their study will pave the way for more personalised prescribing practices and help more patients come off the drugs sooner.

'Our new review clarifies the scientific evidence about the most effective way to come off antidepressants for individuals successfully treated for depression and could change how coming off antidepressants is managed globally,' Prof Oztuzzi added.

'These findings highlight the need for clinical guidelines to be updated to promote regular treatment reviews and individualised deprescribing with gradual tapering and structured psychological support for patients with depression who are feeling better and wish to come off their medication.'

But, experts who were not involved in the current study have expressed concern over patients coming off medication too quickly, without the support of their doctor.

Dr Jonathan Henssler, MD, an expert in evidence-based mental health, stressed: 'The best patient outcomes were achieved with strategies that maintained antidepressant therapy.'

He added that currently both pharmaceutical treatment and psychotherapy are limited in their curative capacity- meaning that for effective usage, both need to be used in adjunct, which is not always feasible.

What are antidepressants? Antidepressants are medicines that treat depression symptoms. There are around 30 different types that can be prescribed. The NHS says that most people who have moderate or severe depression notice improvement when they take antidepressants. But it notes that this isn't the case for everyone. Side effects vary between different people and antidepressants but can include nausea, headaches, a dry mouth and problems having sex. Antidepressants aren't addictive but patients may have withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking them suddenly or miss a dose. These can include an upset stomach, flu-like symptoms, anxiety, dizziness and vivid dreams. Advertisement

Other experts highlighted the the follow-up period of the study was relatively short, meaning it is difficult to make long-term conclusions.

However, Dr Alberto Oritz Lobo, a leading psychiatrist at La Paz University, welcomed the findings.

He said: 'This is a crucial study given the alarming increase in antidepressant prescriptions and the need to consider strategies for reducing their use.

'The usual clinical reality is that, after people improve, antidepressant treatment is often continued for months, years, or indefinitely, leading to chronic adverse effects of the medication, exposure to its risks, and brain neuroadaptation that makes stopping the medication difficult.

He added that gradually reducing the dose helps support changes in the brain.

Continuing, he said: 'Psychological support provides confidence and security in this process, in which the person regains their agency and autonomy, reappropriates their emotions and stops delegating their well-being to a medication.'

Latest NHS data shows a record 8.8million people in England are now on the mood-boosting drugs.

Common SSRIs prescribed in the UK include citalopram, fluoxetine and sertraline, sometimes known by brand names Cipramil, Prozac and Lustral.

But their use has been linked to long-term and even permanent sexual dysfunction by researchers.

The NHS has warned that side effects such as a loss of libido and achieving orgasm, lower sperm count and erectile dysfunction 'can persist' after taking them  and patients have described feeling 'carved out', relationships wrecked, from their use.

Most medics, and the NHS, consider the use of SSRI for depression, particularly persistent or severe cases, as worthwhile given the debilitating nature of the condition.
All eyes were on Holly Ramsay on Saturday as she swept along the honey-coloured Bath stones past a sea of onlookers, security guards and photographers.

The billowing, shiny, white, hooded cloak that swamped her en route to the historic abbey must have felt like a fabulous idea for a winter wedding, yet lamentably it looked more Scottish Widows than luxury cover up.

With so much anticipation around this winter wedding, I'm surely not the only one to have been disappointed not to see the actual dress. And I did wonder if her 'something blue' might be just the mood towards her new (but uninvited) in-laws?

The bride appeared to have taken style notes from former Bath resident Jane Austen and C.S. Lewis, as she tripped into church on the arm of her father. She cut a dash somewhere between everyone's favourite literary heroine Lizzie Bennet and Narnia's sorceress, depending on which side of the aisle your (sense and) sensibilities lie.

After all, this was an event fraught with toxic drama. Triple Olympic champion Adam Peaty, 31, and Holly Ramsay, 25, have been at the centre of a bitter row with his family, who were all uninvited from the nuptials, aside from Adam's sister Bethany, 32, who was a bridesmaid.

The feud kicked off after some Peaty family members were not invited to the engagement party in December 2024. Then, Adam's mother did not make the cut for Holly's hen do, where she was joined by her mum Tana, Bethany and Victoria Beckham at Soho Farmhouse.

In the wake of the snub, stories of strife multiplied. The upshot was that Adam's family - mother, father and brothers - stayed at home 130 miles away in Staffordshire while the wedding took place in front of 200 guests in Somerset.

The day of the wedding, Adam's mother Caroline told the Daily Mail that she felt Adam and Holly had 'cut her heart out'.

Adam Peaty and Holly Ramsay were pictured leaving Bath Abbey after their lavish wedding - which unfolded against a backdrop of simmering family drama

The billowing, shiny, white, hooded cloak that swamped her en route to the historic abbey must have felt like a fabulous idea for a winter wedding, yet lamentably it looked more Scottish Widows than luxury cover up

Adam Peaty arrives to his wedding followed by the Beckhams at Bath Abbey

Then the Mail on Sunday revealed a text from Adam's Aunt Louise. In it, she wrote: 'I hope you never suffer the depth of pain you have put your mother through and despite it all she loves you still. Shame on you both. Shame. Remember on this, your happiest day, and on each anniversary... that you hurt your mum so deeply her soul screams.'

The wedding party were no doubt instructed to amp up the glamour (all the better to distract from family rows), with black tie the order of the day.

The groom and his five-year-old son George (from a previous relationship) were in matching tuxedos. Cute as the pair were, it broke with the tradition that tuxes should only be worn to evening events.

And while Gordon Ramsay's daughters - Holly, Tilly and Megan - had their hair precisely tonged, it's a shame the hairdresser didn't find their way to the chef's mop, which, thanks to the icy wind, stuck up on end like that of a Vegas croupier.

Above all, the day was a poignant reminder of how two high profile families - the Ramsays and the Beckhams - are not all that different from the rest of us when it comes to family fall outs.

Sir David and Lady Beckham's estranged son was absent yesterday too, despite close bonds between him, Holly and her twin Jack when they were growing up.

Perhaps that's why Lady Beckham placed so much focus on her role of fashion fairy godmother.

She dressed the bridesmaids - Megan, Tilly and Bethany - in her signature deep red silk slips. Gracious and festive, they were accessorised with strappy black Christian Louboutin heels and a posy of arum lilies.

The bride appeared to have taken style notes from former Bath resident Jane Austen and C.S. Lewis, as she tripped into church on the arm of her father

Her bridesmaids, including her sisters Tilly and Megan stunned in red dresses in keeping with the Yuletide theme

Mother of the bride Tana, 51, also stunned in a forest green gown by her fashion mogul friend

Victoria wore a dark blue floor-length dress from her own line as she arrived to the wedding

The Beckham men paired their suits with stylish winter coats for the lavish wedding

Mother of the bride Tana followed suit in a forest green (more festive colours!) Beckham creation, bravely baring arms despite the chilly temperatures.

The Beckham men paired their suits with stylish winter coats. (Why must women freeze in frocks while their counterparts cosy up in wool? All the better to promote the dresses, one supposes.)

Lady Beckham was in big shades and a glossy teal gown, complete with a dramatic front slit and plunging neckline, hips cut to add shape and whittle that waist in even further.

It was, as she explained on her Instagram, the maxi version of a dress she'd worn to dinner a few nights previously.

For it is a truth universally acknowledged that a much discussed celebrity wedding is a keen marketing opportunity for its esteemed guests.
Get ready to queue, scream, laugh and cry  2026s biggest films are coming. From beloved sequels and live-action classics to literary adaptations, these are the movies that will have everyone talking.

Hamnet

Adapted from Maggie OFarrells bestselling novel, Hamnet follows Agnes (Jessie Buckley), the fiercely intelligent wife of William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal), as she navigates grief after the death of their young son. The film centres on family, loss and the emotional aftermath that would later inspire Hamlet.

Release date: 9 January

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple

Decades after the original outbreak, a new generation of survivors navigates a Britain still shaped by the rage virus. Cillian Murphy returns alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer, as the franchise explores survival, fear and humanity in a world gone mad.

Release date: 14 January

Wuthering Heights

Emily Brontes gothic romance is reimagined with Jacob Elordi as the brooding Heathcliff and Margot Robbie as the doomed Catherine Earnshaw. Obsessed, passionate and destructive, their love story brings class conflict and emotional extremity to the fore, anchored by strong star power.

Release date: 13 February

How to Make a Killing

Glen Powell stars as a charming, morally flexible entrepreneur whose quest for success spirals into criminal territory. Darkly comic and sharply satirical, the film skewers ambition, greed and self-mythology in modern society.

Release date: 27 February

Scream 7

Neve Campbell returns as Sidney Prescott when a new Ghostface killer terrorises her town and family. Courteney Cox, Matthew Lillard and Scott Foley reprise their roles alongside fresh faces, blending suspense, legacy lore and killer thrills for fans old and new.

Release date: 27 February

The Bride!

Jessie Buckley stars as the Bride in this feminist reworking of The Bride of Frankenstein, with Christian Bale as Frankensteins creator. Reimagined as a fully realised protagonist, the film blends gothic horror with modern sensibilities, style and suspense.

Release date: 6 March

Project Hail Mary

Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace, a middle-school teacher turned unlikely astronaut tasked with saving Earth from extinction after waking alone in space with no memory. Adapted from Andy Weirs bestselling novel, the film mixes hard science, humour and high emotional stakes.

Release date: 20 March

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Chris Pratt returns as Mario, joined by Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach and Jack Black as Bowser, as the Mushroom Kingdom expands into outer space. Inspired by the Super Mario Galaxy games, the sequel delivers cosmic adventure, vibrant worlds and high-stakes spectacle.

Release date: 3 April

The Drama

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson star as a couple whose relationship unravels over one emotionally charged weekend. Intense, dialogue-driven and gripping, the film explores love, power and vulnerability in a modern context.

Release date: 3 April

The Devil Wears Prada 2

Meryl Streep returns as Miranda Priestly, with Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt reprising their roles. Years later, the sequel examines how fashion, media and power have evolved, mixing sharp satire with familiar characters audiences love.

Release date: 1 May

The Sheep Detectives

Based on Leonie Swanns cult novels, this charming mystery follows a flock of sheep investigating their shepherds suspicious death. Olivia Colman voices the sharpest of the flock in a playful blend of cosy crime and absurdist humour.

Release date: 8 May

Disclosure Day

Directed by Steven Spielberg, Disclosure Day stars Emily Blunt as a TV meteorologist whose broadcast exposes undeniable proof of extraterrestrial life. Josh OConnor, Colin Firth and Eve Hewson co-star in this sci-fi thriller packed with suspense, mystery and blockbuster spectacle.

Release date: 12 June

Toy Story 5

Tom Hanks and Tim Allen return as Woody and Buzz Lightyear in Pixars next chapter, exploring purpose, loyalty and growing up after playtime ends. The film continues the franchises emotional, heart-driven storytelling for fans old and new.

Release date: 19 June

Mother Mary

Anne Hathaway stars as pop icon Mother Mary, reconnecting with estranged friend Sam (Michaela Coel) ahead of a major comeback. Directed by David Lowery, the film blends music, drama and long-buried secrets in a story of friendship and reckoning.

Release date: Spring 2026

Moana

Disneys live-action Moana follows the adventurous Moana (Catherine Lagaaia) as she sets out to save her island, with Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui. The film blends music, magic and breathtaking visuals to bring the beloved animated adventure to life.

Release date: 10 July

The Odyssey

Matt Damon stars as Odysseus in this epic retelling of Homers poem, facing gods, monsters and moral trials on a perilous journey home after war. The film combines blockbuster spectacle with classical mythology and high stakes.

Release date: 17 July

Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Tom Holland returns as Peter Parker, navigating life after his identity was erased from the worlds memory. Resetting the characters trajectory, the film balances street-level heroics with new threats in the Spider-Man universe.

Release date: 31 July

Practical Magic 2

Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman reunite as witchy sisters Sally and Gillian Owens decades later. The sequel explores legacy, family and love across generations while blending romance with supernatural charm.

Release date: 18 September

Sense and Sensibility

Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as the emotional Marianne Dashwood and Saoirse Ronan as her restrained sister Elinor in this fresh adaptation of Jane Austens novel. The film revisits love, heartbreak and social expectation with modern emotional clarity.

Release date: 25 September

Verity

Anne Hathaway stars as bestselling author Verity Crawford, with Dakota Johnson as Lowen Ashleigh, whose professional opportunity turns dangerously personal. Adapted from Colleen Hoovers viral thriller, the film explores obsession, manipulation and blurred realities.

Release date: 1 October

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping

This prequel returns to Panem decades before Katniss Everdeen, following a young Haymitch Abernathy (Joseph Zada) as he faces one of the earliest Hunger Games, testing courage, cunning and survival. Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace and Ralph Fiennes co-star in key roles.

Release date: 20 November

Focker In-Law

Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro return for another round of generational chaos, with new in-laws joining the already turbulent family dynamic. Expect familiar awkwardness, escalating misunderstandings and old-school comedy beats.

Release date: 25 November

Dune: Part Three

Timothee Chalamets Paul Atreides faces the consequences of prophecy and power as his transformation reaches its most dangerous stage. Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson and Javier Bardem return as the saga deepens its political and spiritual stakes.

Release date: 18 December

Avengers: Doomsday

Marvels next ensemble epic unites heroes across the multiverse, led by Anthony Mackie, Brie Larson and Benedict Cumberbatch. As realities collide and stakes reach apocalyptic levels, the film sets the stage for the franchises next era.

Release date: 18 December
A bride with alopecia has revealed the heartwarming reason why she chose to ditch her wig when she walked down the aisle - and said it was 'the most beautiful' she has ever felt.

Dani G from Newcastle upon Tyne was just two years old when she was diagnosed with alopecia universalis after her mother Julie, 57, noticed patches of her hair falling out.

By the time she was a teen, she had lost all the hair on her scalp and body, leading her to wear wigs throughout most of her life.

Fast forward to her wedding day in May this year, and Dani, 27, surprised guests when she decided to say 'I do' while embracing her natural look.

Dani, a content creator, met her husband Jack Willis, 32, in 2018 at the gym while she was competing as a swimmer - and wasn't wearing her wig. The pair went on to date for five years before getting engaged in May 2023.

Tying the knot in Crete, Greece, in front of an intimate crowd of 20 of their nearest and dearest in May 2025, Dani surprised guests by walking down the aisle without her wig.

Elsewhere during her special day, she chose to wear two different wigs, a blonde up-do for her dinner and speeches, and a long brunette number for the evening party.

Undecided until the day of the wedding as to whether she would get married without her wig, Dani posted a full wig series on social media to help decide which she would wear for her wedding.

Dani G, 27, from Newcastle upon Tyne, ditched her wig to walk down the aisle - after her husband said he would love to marry her how he 'fell in love' with her

Now six months into married life, Dani said the moment she tied the knot with Jack was 'the most beautiful' she has ever felt.

Dani said: 'We met at the back end of 2018, it was actually because I was a swimmer at the time.

'So I was at the gym for swimming, and he was also at the gym  we probably crossed paths for five years in the gym but never really spoke.

'I suppose it's kind of that invisible string theory. I was at the gym and met him without a wig and without a stitch of makeup on.

'Going wigless down the aisle was something he had mentioned before we'd even gotten engaged.

'Obviously, we got engaged, and I was looking at different wigs and dresses, stuff like that.

'I asked him again at that point and said "What do you think I should do?" I have so many choices?

'He said I'd love to marry you and see how I fell in love with you on that day.

Dani said the moment she walked down the aisle to her husband, Jack Wallis, 32, was 'the most beautiful' she has ever felt

Dani and Jack dated for five years before announcing their engagement to loved ones in May 2023

Jack got down on one knee and proposed to Dani while on holiday in Santa Pola, Spain, after a meal on the beach

'He never pressured me. Obviously, the decision was down to me on the wedding day. I wanted to feel my most confident self and didn't really know before that if I could.

'On the day I felt super confident, it's one of the most beautiful times I've ever felt.'

Dani started sharing content online in 2017, posting makeup looks without her wigs before going full-time as a content creator in 2022.

She said: 'I started posting online just makeup tutorials, it wasn't necessarily to be like about alopecia awareness in the beginning, it was just because I enjoy makeup.

'My parents brought me up to be confident and beautiful, whether I wanted to wear a wig or not.

'I would always go out without my wig or makeup because I was training for swimming two times a day.

'I think people were amazed at how confident I was and how open I was. A lot of women go through hair loss and it's not talked about or shown. That's where it all started.'

Meeting her husband in 2018, the couple were together for five years before Jack proposed on holiday in Santa Pola, Spain, after a meal on the beach.

The content creator (pictured during her childhood) was diagnosed with alopecia at the age of two - after her mother noticed patches of her hair falling out

Dani, seen before walking down the aisle, surprised guests by her decision to say 'I do' without her wig

Jack first saw his wife when she was competing in a swimming race at their local gym back in 2018

Having said he would like to see Dani on their wedding day, 'how he met me', Dani decided to go ahead and walk down the aisle with her father, Lance, 58, without her wig.

'Obviously I had a lot of time to think about it and plan it but I was still trying on wigs before the day came about, but I decided I wanted to do it for Jack but also for myself to prove I can still feel amazing,' she said.

'I'm so happy that I did it on the day and as well it felt like because I didn't have my hair there it allowed for me to show off my face basically, and like Jack said that's the thing he fell in love with me for.'

Dani opted to change into a blonde updo for her wedding and speeches, before changing into her evening gown and a brunette wig for the party.

'The reason for doing that was just because it's kind of like me anyway to change up my look so much.

'I thought it's very fitting if I do multiple looks, and that's why I included the blonde updo, and I actually got a second dress as well.

'I went and got changed into my night time dress and went for a brunette wig that I kept down at that point.'

Sharing her wedding day online, Dani says the 'support and love' she received was overwhelming.

The bride wed her husband in an intimate ceremony with 20 of her closest friends and family members

Dani, who was previously a swimmer, now works as a full-time content creator, sharing snippets of he life online

She said: 'Reading comments from people going through hair loss or have had hair loss, most people were saying it gave them hope or encouragement  the hope that a single video can give to people is the best thing ever.'

Husband Jack added: 'As soon as I saw Danielle from the get-go, I was pretty sure Danielle was my person.

'Obviously I wanted her to go down the aisle without a wig on as it was where we first met.

'I know she's such a confident woman and know she just oozes positivity. I love my wife a lot and she's my best friend really.'


There's a lot to love about the winter - namely Christmas parties, indulgent food and cosy nights in. However, when it comes to skincare, the colder months bring with them a set of challenges and it's important to treat and repair your winter skin with the right moisturising winter products.

To offset the chilly temperatures and constant nose-blowing that comes with seasonal colds, it's important to arm yourself with the right moisturiser and lay in on thick - quite literally, in this case.

I'm the kind of person who reaches for a lotion or potion as soon as I've washed my face because I can't stand that stripped, tight feeling that comes with foregoing skincare.

I'm regularly told that I look 'babyfaced' for 33, but I know that's not just about winning a genetic lottery, but rather taking meticulous care of my face all-year round.

I've tested dozens of moisturisers to save you some guesswork and help you drill down into the pros and cons of a variety of formulas at different price points.

Whether you're dipping your toe into the world of skincare or are a seasoned pro looking to mix things up, you'll find plenty of options here from some of the world's leading cosmetic brands.

Just some of our favourite moisturisers across a range of price points and from some of the world's leading cosmetics brands

Best moisturiser for dry skin: Quick list

How we test

When testing skincare, we try each product out for several consecutive days to account for both first impressions and daily wear.

For moisturisers, this includes keeping all additional skincare steps (cleansers, serums, SPF etc) the same as control variables, so we can credit any changes to the skin specifically with the moisturiser.

We also test how they wear alone vs under makeup and by morning vs at night to give you and idea of how they might best fit into your daily routine.

Of course not everyone has the same skin type so bear in mind these have been put to the test on a moderately dry complexion, rather than an oily or acne-prone one, which may find some of these nourishing formulas cloying.

You can read more about our testing methodologies across all product categories.

Best moisturisers of 2025

1. Best all rounder for dry skin: Sculpted By Aimee CloudCream

Sculpted By Aimee CloudCream      What we love Versatile A day cream, night cream or glow-boosting primer all in one - this product is a true jack of all trades depending on how much you slather on.

Instant softness The ceramides and shea butter in this formula leave you skin feeling silky smooth from the first application with serious lasting power too - all the more impressive given the light, whipped texture.

Surprisingly gentle Sometimes fragranced products cause irritation around my eyelids but that wasn't the case here, so don't be scared off by the scent. Review This whipped, airy cream quenches, soothes and provides all-day moisture, making it an effective all-rounder. The perfect balance of lightweight on the skin yet deeply hydrating, it works equally well as a day or night cream. When I started using this I had a small amount of residual skin peeling from trying out a retinol serum and this proved to be a quick fix. With a triple whammy of hyaluronic acid, ceramides and shea butter, this cream helps your skin hold onto moisture all day long and has a light, refreshing scent. This formula also plays well with other products - I added a few bronzing drops one day for a very sheer wash of colour and the result was a subtle, golden sheen.

2. Best k-beauty moisturiser for dry skin: MOLVANY Artichoke Calming Care Soothing Cream

MOLVANY Artichoke Calming Care Soothing Cream      What we love Refreshing texture The popping moisture beads bring far more than novelty factor and provide an instant hit of hydration without any cloying heaviness

Botanical brilliance For lovers of natural ingredients the skin-loving artichoke leaf extract, bamboo complex, squalane and ectoin will be well received

Soothing supreme This takes the heat and redness out of dry and irritated complexions in a matter of minutes and is great for burns or chapped skin

Top-up friendly Thanks to its fast-absorption the product layers well when reapplied later in the day, never pilling or congealing on the face Review This is like boba for the skin - in the best possible way. Containing popping beads that burst upon application, this moisturiser hits the skin with a splash of moisture and soothing coolness. Containing a powerhouse of natural ingredients, including artichoke leaf extract, squalane, ectoin and a bamoo complex, this botanical blend packs a serious punch when it comes to hydration. I applied this after a day of hiking after suffering some windburn and the relief was immediate, plus it minimised redness in a matter of minutes. I suspect this would double up well as an after-sun balm in the summer months and I also found it worked fantastically as a hand cream in a pinch. I can honestly say I've never tried a formula like it - I think it would work just as well on normal or combination skin types as it doesn't have the cloying, heavy texture that can sometimes come with products aimed at dry skin.

3. Best budget moisturiser for dry skin: e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream      What we love Budget friendly You'll struggle to find another moisturiser that performs this well at such a reasonable price point

Non-greasy The lightweight formula sinks in easily and hydrates without ever feeling feeling cloying or heavy

Holy trinity As ingredients go, tried and tested hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides make a fantastic team What could be better Divisive scent At first whiff this reminded me slightly of a cleaning product - however it quickly dissipates, so don't let that put you off too much Review This budget-friendly pick overachieves for its price point - proving you don't need to bankrupt yourself for hydrated, happy skin. The texture is more lightweight than most of the others on this list, but don't let that put you off. The cocktail of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides feels fresh and bouncy on the skin, rather than cloying or heavy. If you're someone who likes layering products on top of your moisturiser, such as SPF of makeup, the instant absorption of this cream is ideal. However if you're someone who prefers fragrance free products, you may take issue with the fresh, almost citrus-like smell, which reminded me ever so slightly of a cleaning product. Nonetheless, this is a fantastic place to start if you're taking your first steps into skincare and I've already bought a batch for my nieces and nephews, knowing that it'll work just as well for their combination skin.

4. Best premium moisturiser for dry skin: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream

Charlotte's Magic Cream      What we love Unrivalled glow This moisturiser truly brings your skin to life, leaving a luminous, dewy sheen that makes even the driest of complexions glow

Jam-packed with actives The Magic 8 Matrix means this is an overachieving ingredients list that tackles dryness on multiple fronts, giving you serious bang for your buck

Leading with luxury Everything from the glamorous packaging to the stunning scent and buttery texture makes this feel luxurious, like a daily treat rather than a chore What could be better Money talks As the joint most expensive product on the list this product will just be too pricey for many to justify, regardless of results Review Charlotte's Magic Cream is a masterclass in luxury - and I'm not just talking about the undeniably stunning packaging. The brand is famed for gracing the faces of some of the world's most A-list stars and using this cream certainly made me feel VIP. The buttery formula glides over the skin, while the floral scent from frangipani extract and camelia oil made application feel like some kind of spa-like aromatherapy treatment. Meanwhile the ingredients list proves that this cream isn't style over substance. The formula contains the signature Magic 8 Matrix which combats dryness on multiple fronts. The combination of peptides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and vitamin C and E bring immediate glow to the skin. I like a dewy look so very much embraced this, but if you're someone who prefers a matte finish, you're probably not going to click with the product. It's also worth bearing this in mind if you wear makeup - the luminosity will likely shine through your foundation unless you apply A LOT of powder, which kind of defeats the point of this radiance-enhancing product. It takes a while for the cream to sink in, so I would take advantage of the extra slip and enjoy a little facial massage, which helps with lymphatic drainage.

5. Best daytime moisturiser for dry skin: Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Face Cream

Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream      What we love Lasting power One application will take you from first thing in the morning to bedtime with no need to reapply

Instant relief The formula sinks in easily and you can feel your skin barrier being soothed immediately, perfect for any dry or chapped patches

Priming power For those who wear makeup, you can afford to skip skin primer as this moisturiser provides a perfect, quenched base for foundation, concealer or whatever else follows Review This moisturiser is the perfect day cream, providing hydration that lasted me from 7am to 10pm without any topping up required. It's fragrance free and the buttery formula goes a very long way, taking the sting out of the higher price point. Ingredients-wise, the star players here are prebiotic peptides, ceramides, lipids and muti-weight hyaluronic acid, providing intense nourishment. I applied this to cracked skin around my nose towards the last days of a cold and felt immediate relief as it bolstered my skin barrier. This also makes the perfect priming moisturiser if you wear makeup. I noticed that my tinted SPF and concealer went on incredibly smoothly without any settling into pores or fine lines. If wearing alone, it provides a slightly dewy finish, tapping into the 'glass skin' trend that so many are chasing at the moment and providing a healthy glow.

6. Best moisturiser for sensitive skin for dry skin: Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturising Cream

Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturising Cream      What we love Lasting power Just two pumps for my entire face and neck lasted me from morning until bedtime with no need to reapply

Sensitive supreme If your skin is reactive and prone to redness or flare-ups you'll be hard-pushed to find a more soothing formula that gets to work within just minutes of application

Packaging on point The pump design is far more than a gimmick - it ensures no product is wasted with overapplication, as can be the case with squeezable tubes What could be better Splurge or bust At a hefty 72 this is among the priciest of the bunch and will be difficult for many to justify, fantastic results or not Review At at hefty 72 this cream had a lot to prove but it managed to win me over with its soothing, long-wearing formula. Containing a blend of lactose, milk proteins, and aloe, this moisturiser is a creamy cocktail that can calm even the most reactive, sensitive complexions. Meanwhile the vitamin E and grapeseed oil deliver antioxidants which go a long way in a day cream, shielding the skin from environmental stress. As someone who leaves in London where pollution is rife, this is a huge bonus. The packaging means that you never waste any product by overapplying - I used two pumps to cover my face and neck and that felt like plenty. Cosmetically this left me with a subtle sheen that was on the right side of the dewy vs oily border, plus I found it made a great base for both cream and powder makeup products. If you're in the mood to splurge, this is the perfect investment for a happy, healthy skin barrier.

Green People Scent Free 24-Hour Cream      What we love Anti-ageing On top of moisturising, this cream contains ingredients that boost skin firmness and elasticity

Guilt-free Green People's cruelty-free, vegan and organic formulas are all given the ethical consumer guide's stamp or approval, plus are made in the UK

Gently does it This soothing, calming formula is suitable for even the most sensitive of skin types - meaning no stinging or flare-ups

Perfect canvas This moisturiser doesn't leave a shiny or oily cast to the skin, instead drying down to a soft matte finish, which sits well under makeup Review This organic, fragrance-free cream is perfect for anyone with dry and sensitive skin who wants a formula that's as gentle as it is nourishing. It's no surprise that this is one of Green People's best-selling products, with skin barrier-boosting prebiotics and hydrating cacay oil and evening primrose oil instantly soothing upon application. Meanwhile signature ingredient Baicalin stimulates the production of anti-ageing enzymes and the repair of skin cells, promoting firmness and elasticity. I found two pumps to be enough to cover my entire face and neck. Consistency-wise, the cream is middle of the road - easy to absorb but not so light that you don't feel the benefit all day long. I actually found that this dried down to a velvety matte finish rather than a super dewy one, meaning it works fantastically as a primer for makeup. There's also a scented version of this product if you prefer some sensorial stimulation upon application. Side note - for those who like to support British brands, Green People's entire roster of cosmetics are made in the UK, plus they're cruelty free, gluten free and vegan.

8. Best long lasting cream for dry skin: ILLYOON Ceramide Ato Lotion

Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion      What we love Bargain buy At less than a tenner this is impossible to beat on price and is great value for money

Skincare stamina During trials this formula lasted a whopping 100 hours on the skin and I can attest to the results - there's no need to reapply throughout the day

Versatility Suitable for adults and infants, the face and body and being hypoallergenic, this truly is a moisturiser for everyone Review If you're willing to forego glamour for performance, look not further than this bargain buy. Packed full of ceramides, this lotion cocoons your skin barrier from the first application with unrivalled staying power. Trials claimed that the formula lasts for 100 ours, which I was initially cynical about, but having tried it for myself I can see what all the fuss is about. This truly is a wonder cream for everyone, suitable for infants and adults, the face and body. It's hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and free from mineral oil, synthetic colourants and animal products. Sure, it doesn't look glamorous in your bathroom cabinet and has a more simple ingredients list than some of our other picks, but if you want a cheap option that hydrates your skin from morning to midnight, you won't find better than this. You can also purchase this in a larger 350ml size for even better value.

9. Best pharmacy pick for dry skin: E45 Face Night Cream

E45 Face Night Cream      What we love Affordable and accessible This product is difficult to beat on price point - plus it can be picked up from many supermarkets or pharmacies, so is easy to get hold of.

Great for eczema-prone, sensitive skin With no fragrance on potentially irritating essential oils in the mix this product is safe for all skin types, so you don't have to worry about exacerbating a flare up when you slather this on. What could be better Leaves a white cast This formula is difficult to work in and can leave you looking a bit ghostly with its thick white tint, but as long as you stick to using this at night, as intended, this shouldn't be a dealbreaker. Review Okay, so this might not be the most glamorous pick, but if you're in a pinch in a chemists a need something reliable, you can't go wrong here. E45's highly emollient formula will soothe dry, irritated skin and is suitable for eczema-prone, sensitive complexions too. Containing vitamin E and plant oils, the product is non comedogenic, vegan and dermatologically tested - or in layman's terms, doesn't contain any nasties. It's occlusive, immediately bolstering one's skin's barrier with just a pea-sized amount. What's more, at 15, this is an affordable pick that won't break the bank. However, this is not the kind of night cream that can double up as a daytime moisturiser. It can leave a white cast on the skin and is a little difficult to rub in, so save this for just before bedtime, when you skin will have time to soak it up.

Our verdict

If I were to survive with just a couple of the moisturisers above, it would be the Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Face Cream by day and the Sculpted By Aimee CloudCream.

They sit among the middle of the list in terms of price point and performed fantastically when it came to immediately relieving dryness, without needing regular top ups.

They also both sat well under SPF and makeup, without any kind of primer necessary.

For gifting, the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream delivers serious wow factor, while skincare newbies who don't want to break the bank would do well to combine the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! cream in the morning with the E45 Face Night Cream overnight for a great beginner duo.

Special mention must be given to k-beauty's contributions: ILLYOON Ceramide Ato Lotion and MOLVANY Artichoke Calming Care Soothing Cream. These were the first products I tried from the respective brands and both wowed me with their gentle, skin-barrier soothing formulas at great value for money.

If I were to survive with just a couple of the moisturisers above, it would be the Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Face Cream by day and the Sculpted By Aimee CloudCream

If you're new to k-beauty and don't know where to start, I recommend ILLYOON Ceramide Ato Lotion and MOLVANY Artichoke Calming Care Soothing Cream as a great starting point

FAQs

Are fragranced products bad for dry skin?

If you're extremely reactive or sensitive, fragrance-free products are generally a safer choice, but those with moderately dry skin will likely need to try a formula before ascertaining if it triggers an adverse reaction.

Not necessarily. Fragranced skincare CAN be bad for dry skin because fragrances may contain irritants that can disrupt the skin's protective barrier. This in turn can lead to exacerbated dryness, redness, itching and inflammation.

If you're extremely reactive or sensitive, fragrance-free products are generally a safer choice, but those with moderately dry skin will likely need to try a formula before ascertaining if it triggers an adverse reaction.

Should I see a dermatologist for my dry skin?

If your skin is persistently inflamed, painful or cracked, it may be time to see a dermatologist.

Irritated skin can disrupt sleep, or signal an underlying condition like eczema or psoriasis, and these need professional diagnosis and targeted treatments. These may include prescription creams or addressing issues like kidney or thyroid problems.

However, slight tightness, peeling or roughness can be treated with the regular use a suitable moisturiser.

What ingredients are best for dry skin?

For dry skin many of the best ingredients attract and lock in moisture, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which are in the humectant family.

They should also seal this moisture in with emollients and occlusives, like ceramides, squalane and shea butter, which repair the skin barrier and prevent water loss,

Meanwhile nourishing additions like niacinamide and aloe vera help to soothe and protect, leading to softer, healthier skin overall.
Kelsey Grammer's daughter Greer Grammer has revealed she was left 'sobbing' after he said the 'meanest' thing to her following their 12-year estrangement.

The Frasier actress, 33, was largely raised by her makeup artist mother Barrie Buckner and spent most of her childhood without the presence of her television star father.

Years after they reconnected in 2008, Kelsey, 70, told his daughter that he and Barrie had debated whether Greer should bear his surname.

Speaking on the Pretty Basic podcast recently, Greer said: 'He told me this later, but he was like, "I told your mom. I asked her, or I said it might be better for you to not have my last name."'

'I think I was 19 when he told me that, and I just started sobbing, because to me, that was like the meanest thing you could ever say to somebody,' she continued.

'Like, "I knew I wasn't going to be in your life, so I told your mom it would probably be easier for you to not have my last name."'

Kelsey did not play a significant role in Greer's childhood from age four to 16, but they eventually reconnected after the duo crossed paths at a Christmas tree farm.

In the end, Greer maintained her father's surname.

Greer Grammer was left sobbing after her father Kelsey said the 'meanest' thing following their 12-year estrangement

The actor was not present for the majority of Greer's childhood, however they reconnected when she was a teenager. They're seen in 2017

'That was always the last name that I had,' she said.

'And obviously, it was still from the times that I was younger. My birth was in a press announcement.'

Kelsey became a father for the eighth time in October when his fourth wife, Kayte Walsh, welcomed their son, Christopher.

Earlier this month, the actor said that the new arrival has been a 'blessing.'

'It's wonderful, what a blessing it is to have a small child in my life,' he told TMZ.

'I turned tonight to look at my four kids and my beautiful wife and it does not get better than this.'

Kelsey also shares children Faith, 13, Gabriel, 11 and James, eight, with Kayte, 46, whom he met in 2009 on a Los Angeles-bound flight from London when she was working as a flight attendant.

He is also dad to daughter Greer, with makeup artist Buckner; and daughter Mason, 24, and son Jude, 21, with ex-wife Camille Grammer.

Join the debate Should parents ever tell their child they'd be better off without their last name?

Kelsey recently became a father for the eighth time at the age of 70. He's seen this month

He said he feels like he's been given another chance to get fatherhood right.

'I've got older kids and I still reflect on that,' Kelsey told E! News. 'I think, 'Well maybe I could've done that all better.

'I wish I could've done this a little better. I wish we were closer. It's been a great life with me and my families and the chances I've had with the kids.'

Kelsey added that he believes he has improved as a father with time.

'You have a responsibility to have a little design and a little bit of focus and some responsibility,' he said.

'I was probably a little weak on that element in the early days, because I was still sort of fleshing myself out, figuring out where all my demons lived, and where all my anxiety was and all the tragedy I'd had, I was still sort of sorting through some of that when I started having kids.'
A neurologist has sparked widespread fascination online after sharing a simple 30-second test that he says can reveal how your brain is really functioning.

The test is deceptively basic and relies purely on instinct by closing your eyes and opening them when you think 30 seconds have passed.

According to the specialist behind it, how early - or late - you open your eyes can offer clues about alertness, anxiety, fatigue and mental processing speed.

The exercise was shared by Dr Ryan Worley, a Clinical Neuroscience and Brain Rehabilitation Specialist from the US, who posted the test to Instagram so followers could try it themselves, with wildly mixed results.

'How accurate is your brain's internal clock? This is a quick test that can give us insight into how your brain is functioning right now,' Dr Worley said.

'Your perception of time is influenced by things like: stress and anxiety (which can speed up your sense of time), fatigue, brain fog, or poor sleep (which can slow it down) and neurological function in areas like the cerebellum, basal ganglia, and prefrontal cortex.

'This is the kind of thing I use in clinic to get a better read on brain function. How your brain perceives time often reflects how it's processing the world around you.'

In the video, viewed more than eight million times, Dr Worley explains that the goal is to estimate 30 seconds without mentally counting, instead trusting the brain's natural perception of time.

Dr Ryan Worley (pictured), a Clinical Neuroscience and Brain Rehabilitation Specialist from the US has revealed a simple 30-second test can offer clues about alertness, anxiety, fatigue and mental processing speed

After the first attempt, he suggests repeating the test while counting to see whether accuracy improves.

'By doing this with and without counting, you'll notice how much your brain relies on external structure (counting) versus internal regulation,' he said.

He says opening your eyes significantly too early may indicate a heightened state of alertness or anxiety, while opening them well after the 30-second mark could suggest slower processing linked to fatigue or distraction.

To avoid panic for those whose sense of time runs long, he reassures viewers that the timer continues for a full 60 seconds - meaning no one 'fails' the test.

The comment section quickly filled with people stunned by just how unreliable their inner clock turned out to be.

'Forcing myself not to count in my head was harder than any workout I've ever done,' one person admitted.

'Six seconds and I thought I was over the 30,' another confessed.

'I thought so many thoughts and ended up opening my eyes at 13 seconds,' a third wrote.

'32 seconds while not counting has honestly surprised me,' another said.

While the test feels like a clever social media experiment, neuroscientists say our sense of time is deeply complex, and often far from precise.

He explains the goal is to estimate 30 seconds without mentally counting, instead trusting the brain's natural perception of time. Opening them too early may indicate a heightened state of alertness or anxiety, while opening them late could suggest slower processing linked to fatigue or distraction

Research from the University of California has shown that the brain doesn't rely on a single internal stopwatch to measure seconds.

In a study, UCLA scientists trained mice to associate different scents with rewards delivered after either three or six seconds. The mice learned to anticipate the timing accurately, licking earlier when they expected the shorter delay.

By monitoring brain activity, researchers identified two key regions involved in timing - the striatum and the premotor cortex.

While both encoded time, the striatum followed a distinctive pattern likened to a line of falling dominoes, known as a neural sequence.

Rather than counting seconds like a ticking clock, the brain measures time through evolving patterns of cellular activity, with each neuron activating the next.

The passage of time is inferred by which neuron is active at any given moment, which is similar to knowing five seconds have passed when the middle domino falls in a ten-second chain.

Scientists say second-by-second timing is critical for movement, learning and cognition, including our ability to anticipate what happens next.

Unlike the circadian clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles, this short-term timing system is heavily influenced by attention, stress and mental load.

That's why Dr Worley's 30-second test can feel wildly different depending on your mood, energy levels or focus that day.

It's not a diagnostic tool, and it's not meant to replace medical advice, but it does offer a fascinating snapshot of how your brain is operating in that moment.

And if the comments are anything to go by, it also proves that a mere 30 seconds inside your head can feel a lot longer - or much shorter - than you think.
It's the holidays, which means the annual tradition of tipping service workers is back in full swing.

But amid rising costs and an increasing disdain for 'tipping culture' in the US, some people may be less inclined to leave a hefty tip this year.

A recent survey discovered that a staggering 77 percent of participants believe gratuity has 'become ridiculous, while 65 percent claimed they were 'fed up' with paying more for services.

When it comes to tipping service workers in your apartment building, however, real estate experts can all agree on one major etiquette rule.

It is customary for New York City residents to tip their doormen, supers, handymen and porters as a show of appreciation for all the work they do for the tenants in the building.

'Your super and your doorman and your handyman are people who you interact with on a daily basis,' Caroline Bass, a licensed associate real estate broker at Corcoran, exclusively told the Daily Mail.

Indeed, living in an apartment building with doorman service is considered a luxury in NYC real estate.

Not only do they oversee all the comings and goings of the building, but they can sign for packages, handle prescription deliveries and keep the residents safe.

Tipping doormen for the holidays is an annual tradition in New York City (stock image)

While a majority of Americans believe 'tipping culture' has 'become ridiculous,' NYC-based real estate agents told the Daily Mail that tipping doormen is customary (stock image)

'If you live in a building that has a doorman and handyman, which a lot of buildings in the city do, these are people that are almost an extension of your family,' said Bass.

'You see them multiple times a day. They're taking packages for you. They're fixing things in your apartment. It's your team.'

Still, there can be some confusion when deciding exactly how much to tip service workers during the holidays.

According to Bass, there really is 'no specific requirement' in how much money to leave your doorman.

The average tips for doormen during the holidays, she revealed, is 'somewhere between $75 to $250,' while supers or resident managers who are in charge of the building can earn an average of $150 to $300 per tip.

For handymen and maintenance staff, Bass said the broad range tip is anywhere from $25 to $200, though the average amount that tenants are tipping is likely between $50 to $100.

'There is no specific requirement that anybody has to tip a certain amount. It depends how much you interact with your staff, how much they help you. It's just a general guideline,' Bass said.

Perhaps the luckiest service workers this holiday season will be the doormen who supervise the luxury high-rises in the wealthiest areas of Manhattan.

The average tips for doormen during the holiday is 'somewhere between $75 to $250,' according to experts (stock image)

In fact, insiders have revealed to the Daily Mail that within the priciest apartment buildings along 'billionaire's row'  the name for the strip of luxurious skyscrapers stretching from Columbus Circle to Park Avenue  some doormen are expected to rake in thousands of dollars in tips.

'Anything on billionaire's row [will be tipping the most],' Bass shared.

'I'm going to guess that 57th Street will be getting pretty high tips. I think probably Hudson Yards will be getting pretty high tips. And then, of course, Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, Park Avenue, Central Park West.'

Jules Garcia, a real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Warburg, revealed to the Daily Mail that in neighborhoods like Lenox Hill, the West Village and residential luxe buildings along Madison and Park Avenue, some doormen can expect receive as high as $500 per tip  and that's just the minimum.

'During the holidays, tipping your doormen is not the exception; it's the norm for NYC buildings,' he told the Daily Mail.

'There are always those who may prefer not to tip. I personally try not to judge too harshly because I don't know their financial situation or whether they've just not felt the same level of premium doorman service,' Garcia said.

'For those who are financially stable, have experienced great service, and still refuse to spread some holiday cheer with a nice tip, I'm sure karma will give them a lump of coal at some point.'

Garcia also name-dropped two luxury rentals with full-time doorman service as prime examples where holiday tips are expected to be on the high end.

Real estate broker Caroline Bass told the Daily Mail that doormen in luxury apartments along Fifth Avenue (seen) are expected to get 'pretty high tips' this holiday season

Real estate agent Jules Garcia explained to the Daily Mail that some doormen in affluent neighborhoods across NYC may receive a minimum of $500 per tip from tenants (stock image)

Pictured: The 432 Park Avenue residential skyscraper in the Midtown neighborhood of Manhattan

At 211 East 70th Street in Manhattan, the base rent for a 1,680-square-foot two-bedroom apartment is $14,750 a month.

Meanwhile, a three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment at 360 Furman Street in Brooklyn Heights was recently rented for $15,800 a month.

'I've seen plenty of situations where the tip can be more than $500 for some doormen who consistently help with packages, keep an eye out when a resident is away, or even crowdsource information from other residents to help find a good cleaning person,' Garcia said.

It's no secret that some Americans believe tipping culture has gotten out of hand.

But when it comes to thanking your doormen or maintenance workers this holiday season, NYC real estate experts believe that even just a little sign of appreciation can go a long way.
A Melbourne single woman has been left reeling after the man who abruptly ghosted her years ago resurfaced on a dating app only to admit he'd ignored her the first time because she wasn't attractive enough.

Rachel McDonald, 25, shared the jaw-dropping encounter in a video, explaining she matched with the unnamed man on Hinge three years after he vanished without explanation.

Setting the scene, Rachel told followers she had recently undergone a weight loss journey, describing it as a personal 'level up.'

'For a bit of context, I've lost a whole heap of weight, and I'm much more confident in myself now,' she explained as well as detailing she had also changed back to her natural hair colour after previously being bleach blonde.

'So, a couple of years ago, when I first moved to Melbourne, I was seeing this guy, but, you know, my self-confidence was quite low.'

Despite dating casually, she said the man suddenly disappeared: 'Lo and behold, he ghosted me - if you're not interested, you can just say that.'

Fast-forward to earlier this year, when Rachel spotted a familiar face among her Hinge likes, spotting 'Mr Ghosting-Man' immediately.

'The balls on this man, like, is he actually serious?' she said.

Rachel McDonald (pictured), 25, has been left reeling after the man who abruptly ghosted her years ago resurfaced on a dating app only to admit he'd ignored her the first time because she wasn't attractive enough

'So naturally I messaged back saying, "you've got balls, champ. I would love to know, where you get the audacity from".'

The reply she received only escalated the situation after the man acted confused and replied he had never seen her before in his life.

Rachel said she was baffled by the denial, insisting she looked different - but not unrecognisable.

After reminding him they'd dated previously, she finally revealed her Instagram handle, which is when the conversation took a brutal turn.

'He responds, "Oh my god, Rach, you are literally unrecognisable, good on you. You are so hot now",' she recited.

Stunned, Rachel didn't hold back, calling him out and confronting him about ghosting her all those years prior.

'It's not that hard to just tell somebody you're not interested,' she said.

'He then says to me something along the lines of, "If I'd known you were going to get this attractive, I never would have ghosted you in the first place".'

Rachel said the man claimed he was 'confused' and insisted he had 'never seen her before' until she shared her Instagram handle. He then told her she was 'literally unrecognisable' and 'so hot now', later admitting he 'never would have ghosted' her if he'd known she would 'get this attractive' Pictured: Rachel before (left) and a now with her natural hair colour (right)

Despite the awkward exchange, the man attempted to shoot his shot anyway, suggesting they meet up to 'rekindle things,' which Rachel said she shut down immediately

'I just responded, "Are you taking the p*ss?"'

'Like, what response is that? Like in what f***ing world are these men FROM?'

Despite the awkward exchange, the man attempted to shoot his shot anyway, suggesting they meet up to 'rekindle things,' which Rachel said she shut down immediately.

'You must have been dropped on your head as a child, if you think that there is even the most minute chance that I'm going out for drinks with you. Are you that deluded?' she said.

She waited before unmatching him, wanting him to see her final message - but his last attempt to smooth things over only reinforced her decision.

'He responds saying, "Don't be like that. That was so many years ago, we're both grown people now".'

'Mate, I'm seeing no growth here.'

The video has since sparked widespread discussion about ghosting culture, dating apps and the brutal honesty some people reserve for behind a screen.

'God that's so cooked. Glad you gave him a piece of your mind,' one follower commented.

'My jaw dropped then didn't come back up,' another said.

'The audacity is INSANE,' one shared.

Rachel added: 'I do not perpetuate ghosting culture.

'Calling him out is what we have to do because these men just think that they can do anything and they can't.'