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Blaise Metreweli, MI6's first female chief, warns that Britain faces a more dangerous world driven by technological advances and hybrid threats from Russia, China, and Iran. She emphasizes the shift of power from states to corporations and individuals, urging adaptation in intelligence strategies.
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British military leaders warn of increasing Russian threats, emphasizing the need for societal and military preparedness. UK plans include new arms factories, enhanced intelligence, and a national resilience strategy amid rising tensions and NATO concerns.
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Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy activist and founder of Apple Daily, was convicted in Hong Kong on charges linked to national security laws. The case has drawn criticism from Western governments and the UK, with calls for his release amid concerns over health and political repression. Lai faces potential life imprisonment.
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Paul Doyle, 54, drove into crowds celebrating Liverpool's title win on May 26, injuring 134 people. He pleaded guilty to 31 charges, including causing grievous bodily harm. A hero intervened to stop his rampage, and Doyle has a criminal past including a 1994 ear-biting assault. Sentencing is pending.
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Heavy rains and Storm Byron have worsened Gaza's humanitarian crisis, flooding tents and damaging shelters. Israeli restrictions hinder aid delivery, leaving thousands vulnerable to disease and exposure. Authorities warn of a potential disaster as infrastructure continues to collapse and more homes are at risk.
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer are discussing closer ties with the EU amid economic pressures. Sunak emphasizes maintaining red lines, while Starmer signals openness to rejoining the customs union, reflecting ongoing debates over Brexit's economic impact and future relationship with Europe.
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UK food prices for Christmas are up 5% overall, with some items rising sharply. Supermarkets are countering inflation with increased promotions, especially Aldi and Lidl, offering a full festive meal for less than £12 for eight people. Despite inflation, some prices, like potatoes and Yorkshire puddings, have fallen.
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Nigel Farage's Reform UK considers a merger or deal with the Conservatives before the 2026 elections, despite denials from both sides. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch emphasizes fighting for every vote amid declining poll support, as Labour faces internal challenges ahead of local elections.
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Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is under police investigation over alleged misreporting of campaign expenses in Clacton. A former campaign aide claims the party exceeded legal spending limits, prompting calls for inquiry. Farage denies any wrongdoing amid ongoing political controversy.
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Five Below's stock has surged 85% this year after CEO Winnie Park refocused the retailer on core teen and tween customers, improving merchandise and store operations amid industry challenges. The company aims to recover from recent underperformance and inflation pressures.
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Gerry McCann has urged the UK government to restart the Leveson inquiry into media practices, citing ongoing media pressure and misleading headlines affecting his family. He also discussed the 18-year search for Madeleine and recent media exploitation of a woman claiming to be her.
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The UK and South Korea have finalized a new trade agreement to replace their expiring post-Brexit deal. The pact boosts services, digital trade, and tariff-free access on 98% of goods, safeguarding £2 billion in exports and expanding market opportunities for UK businesses.
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UK unemployment rose to 5.1% in the three months to October, the highest since early 2016 outside the pandemic era. Wage growth slowed slightly, and job losses increased, especially among young workers. Experts link these trends to economic uncertainty ahead of the upcoming budget and potential interest rate cuts.
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Hinba, a Scottish hospitality group founded in 2019, has doubled in size over 18 months, now operating seven venues across Glasgow and the west coast. Despite industry pressures, it focuses on expansion and resilience, including acquiring restaurants and a bakery, with a 150% turnover growth last year.
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Recent data shows UK government borrowing costs are decreasing relative to the US and eurozone, driven by market confidence in Labour's fiscal plans. The fall follows the Chancellor's budget announcements and signals a potential end to the UK's historically high bond yields, which have been influenced by market doubts over fiscal credibility. Today's date is Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:35:05 +0000.
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Major sports clubs and leagues are attracting significant private investment. CVC Capital Partners plans further funding for its global sports portfolio, including stakes in rugby and football. Meanwhile, Wrexham and Eupen secure new backing, highlighting private capital's growing role in sports development.
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During a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, Ahmed al-Ahmed disarmed one attacker, saving multiple lives. He was shot in the process and remains hospitalized. The attack, carried out by a father and son, resulted in 15 deaths. Authorities are investigating and considering stricter gun laws.
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On the first day of Hanukkah, a father and son targeted a Jewish gathering at Bondi Beach, killing 16 people including a child, a rabbi, and a Holocaust survivor. The attack, considered antisemitic terrorism, has prompted Australia to strengthen gun laws amid rising antisemitic incidents and concerns over security.
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On December 15, 2025, Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was found guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious materials under the national security law. Lai, a British citizen and founder of the pro-democracy Apple Daily, has spent five years in custody, with his health reportedly deteriorating. The verdict marks a significant moment in Beijing's crackdown on dissent.
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Jimmy Lai, founder of Apple Daily, was found guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces under Hong Kong's national security law. The 78-year-old faces life imprisonment amid international criticism and concerns over press freedom and judicial independence. Lai's health has deteriorated in detention, prompting calls for his release.
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A terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney has killed 15 people, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger, and injured dozens. The attack targeted families during the first night of Hanukkah, with one gunman killed and another in critical condition. Authorities are investigating as a hate crime.
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iRobot, known for its robotic vacuums, has filed for bankruptcy and is being acquired by its main manufacturer, Picea. The move follows failed acquisition attempts by Amazon and ongoing financial struggles, including declining sales and a significant stock drop. The company aims to continue operations during the bankruptcy process.
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Western leaders, including the UK, France, and Germany, reaffirm support for Ukraine amid ongoing peace negotiations. They emphasize security guarantees, military aid, and economic reconstruction, while discussions continue on using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's recovery. US and European efforts aim to bolster Ukraine's defenses and seek a just peace.
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Two men linked to the Bondi Beach attack that killed 15 people traveled from Sydney to Davao, Philippines, on Nov 1 and returned on Nov 28. Australian authorities are investigating possible links to ISIS and regional militant activity, with the suspects having traveled through Mindanao, a region with a history of Islamic insurgency.
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In late November 2025, a Soyuz rocket launch from Baikonur Cosmodrome successfully delivered three astronauts to the ISS but caused significant damage to the launchpad's service cabin. Roscosmos has begun repairs, aiming to restore the pad by February 2026. The incident has prompted NASA to advance Dragon supply missions to mitigate potential supply gaps. Meanwhile, SpaceX's Starship V3 booster suffered a critical failure during ground testing, delaying its development.
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On December 7, 2025, Lando Norris clinched his first Formula 1 World Championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, narrowly beating Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri by two points. Verstappen won the race, but Norris’s third-place finish secured the title after a season-long three-way battle. The 2026 season will bring major technical changes, including the removal of DRS.
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Narges Mohammadi, a Nobel laureate and human rights activist, was re-arrested in Iran after denouncing the suspicious death of lawyer Khosrow Alikordi. She was previously released on medical furlough but was detained following her speech at a memorial ceremony. Her physical condition appears critical, prompting calls for her immediate release.
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A gunman opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, Sydney, killing at least 15 people, including a child and a Holocaust survivor. The attack, deemed antisemitic terrorism, lasted over seven minutes and prompted a swift police response. Several bystanders intervened, and the shooter was shot by a civilian.
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As of December 15, 2025, Israel's Supreme Court upheld the ICC's jurisdiction to investigate alleged war crimes linked to the 2023 Gaza conflict, maintaining arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Concurrently, Netanyahu has formally requested a presidential pardon amid ongoing corruption trials, denying wrongdoing and refusing to resign. The pardon request follows U.S. pressure and has sparked political controversy within Israel.
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In December 2025, former US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Europe as "decaying" and its leaders as "weak," blaming migration policies and political correctness for the continent's decline. He questioned Ukraine's democracy amid the ongoing war with Russia, urged elections despite martial law, and endorsed far-right European politicians, deepening transatlantic tensions.
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For the third consecutive year, Sudan leads the IRC's list of the 20 countries most at risk of worsening humanitarian emergencies, driven by ongoing conflict since April 2023 that has displaced over 12 million people amid resource shortages and violence.
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On December 13, 2025, a drone attack on a UN peacekeeping base in Kadugli, South Kordofan, Sudan, killed six Bangladeshi troops and injured eight. The Sudanese military blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which denied involvement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack, calling it a potential war crime amid Sudan's ongoing civil war.
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Lithuania has declared a nationwide emergency over a surge in Belarusian balloons used for cigarette smuggling. The balloons disrupt flights and border security, with authorities suspecting Belarusian involvement in a hybrid attack aimed at destabilizing Lithuania amid tense regional relations.
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As of December 15, 2025, Ukrainian President Zelensky met with European leaders in London and Brussels amid stalled peace talks driven by a US-backed plan requiring Ukraine to cede parts of the Donbas region to Russia. The US, led by President Trump, pushes for a deal, while Ukraine and Europe resist territorial concessions. Russia continues attacks, and funding Ukraine's defense remains uncertain.
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Heavy rains caused flash floods in Safi, Morocco, killing at least 37 people, injuring 32, and flooding dozens of homes and businesses. Authorities warn of more rain, amid ongoing drought and climate change impacts that increase flood risks.
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Ukraine has agreed to seek legally binding security guarantees from the US, Europe, and other allies instead of NATO membership, marking a major diplomatic shift amid ongoing peace negotiations and Russian aggression. The move aims to prevent further conflict but departs from Kyiv’s long-standing NATO aspirations.
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On December 15, 2025, Ford announced it will cease production of the fully electric F-150 Lightning and cancel several EV models, including the next-gen T3 truck and electric vans. Instead, Ford will focus on extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), hybrids, and gas-powered models, expecting 50% of its global sales to be electrified by 2030, up from 17% today. The company will take a $19.5 billion writedown primarily in Q4 2025 due to these changes.
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As of December 16, 2025, the EU remains deadlocked over a €90 billion 'reparations loan' to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using frozen Russian assets, mostly held in Belgium's Euroclear. Belgium opposes the plan, fearing legal and financial risks, demanding guarantees from other EU states. The European Commission insists the plan is vital for Ukraine's defense and peace leverage, while Russia condemns it as theft and threatens retaliation.
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Japan will return its remaining pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, to China by late January, ending a half-century tradition of panda diplomacy. The move reflects worsening Japan-China relations amid geopolitical tensions, with no immediate plans for new pandas to replace them. Public sentiment remains strong, with visitors expressing disappointment.
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Chile's presidential runoff resulted in a victory for Jose Antonio Kast, a far-right candidate promising tough-on-crime policies and immigration controls. Kast secured over 58% of the vote against leftist Jeannette Jara, amid concerns over rising crime, migration, and economic stability. The result signals a major political shift in the country.
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The US military launched lethal strikes on three vessels in international waters, killing at least 95 people since September. The attacks target alleged drug traffickers along narco-trafficking routes, amid regional tensions and legal controversy over the legality of the strikes.
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Israeli forces continue raids and airstrikes across Gaza and the West Bank, violating the ceasefire. Heavy rainfall worsens humanitarian conditions in Gaza, with casualties and destruction rising. Israel's court rulings support ongoing investigations into war crimes, while border crossings and remains exchanges are slowly resuming.
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European leaders are debating ratification of a 25-year-negotiated trade agreement with Mercosur, involving Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The deal aims to reduce tariffs and expand markets but faces strong opposition from farmers and some EU nations over concerns about environmental standards and market flooding. A vote is scheduled soon, with key countries pushing for delays.
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NASA is preparing for upcoming Artemis lunar missions, including deploying robotic rover MAPP to study lunar dust and plasma environments. Meanwhile, a new report emphasizes prioritizing Mars life detection and resource utilization, amid strategic competition with China. NASA's plans involve international collaboration and private sector engagement.
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Gaza is enduring severe winter storms, with at least 12 deaths, including children, due to exposure, flooding, and building collapses. Displaced families face worsening conditions with limited aid, damaged shelters, and ongoing Israeli restrictions, deepening the humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict.
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Brigitte Macron apologized after a video surfaced showing her using a sexist slur about activists protesting her husband's ally, Ary Abittan. She said her comments were private and intended to criticize protest methods, not the cause. The incident sparked widespread criticism from politicians and feminists.
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Ukrainian forces have conducted multiple sea drone strikes on vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet in the Black Sea, damaging tankers used for oil exports. The attacks aim to disrupt Russia’s economic activities amid ongoing conflict, with recent strikes marking the third in two weeks. No casualties reported.
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A magnitude 7.5 earthquake off Aomori on December 8 prompted tsunami warnings and a special quake advisory for northern Japan. The advisory has now been lifted, but authorities warn of ongoing aftershocks and urge continued vigilance and preparedness among residents in the affected regions.
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A gas explosion in a four-storey building in Trévoux, France, injured at least 13 people and killed two children. The incident occurred on Monday evening, with authorities suspecting a gas leak as the cause. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and investigations continue to determine the exact circumstances.
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EU leaders are considering a plan to use €210 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's military and economy. The move involves complex legal and diplomatic challenges, including Russia's opposition and lawsuits against Euroclear, which holds most of the assets. The decision will be made at the upcoming EU summit.
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Recent meetings between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders show renewed efforts to restart peace negotiations. Discussions focused on confidence-building measures, trade, and water supply projects, with leaders emphasizing the importance of trust and preparing for potential UN-led talks amid ongoing tensions.
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Serbian prosecutors have charged four senior officials, including Culture Minister Nikola Selaković, with abuse of power linked to a controversial redevelopment project in Belgrade. The project involves a Kushner-linked firm and has sparked widespread opposition amid allegations of forgery and illegal lifting of heritage protections. The case highlights ongoing tensions over foreign investment and national sovereignty.
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ECOWAS leaders have declared a state of emergency amid recent military coups in West Africa, including Guinea-Bissau and Benin. The bloc is moving from reactive sanctions to proactive military and diplomatic actions, with Nigeria supporting Benin's government and deploying forces to restore order. The situation underscores regional instability.
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U.S. and European leaders, including Zelensky, met in Berlin to advance peace talks amid ongoing conflict. Trump claimed progress toward ending Russia's war in Ukraine, with discussions focusing on security guarantees and territorial issues. Russia remains opposed to key concessions, complicating negotiations.
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EU leaders are set to approve a plan to leverage frozen Russian assets in Europe to fund a large loan for Ukraine's military and civilian needs, amid ongoing tensions and legal disputes. The move aims to bypass opposition from Hungary and Slovakia and will be discussed at the upcoming EU summit.
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French museum workers at the Louvre are planning a strike on December 15, citing security failures, resource shortages, and deteriorating working conditions following a high-profile jewelry theft and ongoing operational issues. The strike could lead to temporary closures during the busy holiday season.
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The ELN rebel group in Colombia has launched an armed strike until Wednesday, affecting rural communities and involving attacks on military and police targets. The strike is justified by the group as a response to regional tensions and U.S. actions, with Colombia's government condemning the move and ordering security measures.
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An attack in Bajaur, Pakistan, targeted polio workers during a nationwide vaccination drive, with no injuries reported. Suspicion falls on militant groups, amid ongoing efforts to eradicate polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the last two countries where the virus persists.
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Filipino fishermen were injured and vessels damaged in a confrontation with Chinese coast guard ships near Sabina Shoal. China claims sovereignty over the area, despite an international tribunal ruling against its expansive claims. The Philippines has issued diplomatic protests, and the US has expressed support for Manila.
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Ukrainian drones have targeted Russian oil platforms in the Caspian Sea, damaging key infrastructure and halting production at major oil fields. This marks Kyiv's intensified effort to disrupt Moscow's energy revenue amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic talks.
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Lindsey Vonn, at age 41, won her 83rd World Cup race in St. Moritz, becoming the oldest winner in circuit history. Her performance signals a potential extended season and Olympic success, challenging perceptions of age in elite sports.
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A Congolese national, Lumbala, was convicted in France for atrocities committed during the Second Congo War, marking the first time a Congolese leader has been tried domestically for mass crimes under universal jurisdiction. The trial highlights ongoing issues of impunity and conflict in eastern Congo.
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Tia Billinger, known as Bonnie Blue, was detained in Bali for allegedly creating pornographic content. She was deported after police found equipment and violations of visa laws. She publicly supported Nigel Farage amid her legal issues, drawing international attention.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed readiness for dialogue with Western and European leaders amid ongoing Russian attacks. Talks in Berlin focus on a ceasefire and peace negotiations, with Kyiv seeking support from the US and allies. Recent Russian strikes have caused casualties and damage in Ukraine.
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The EU has imposed new sanctions on individuals and companies supporting Russia's shadow fleet, which continues to export Russian oil to countries like India and China at discounted prices. Despite 19 rounds of sanctions, Russia adapts through illicit shipping networks, funding its Ukraine war effort.
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A mass shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island has resulted in two deaths and nine injuries, echoing past trauma for students who have survived previous school shootings. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in the US and its impact on educational communities, occurring during a period of heightened political debate.
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President Trump pardoned turkeys Waddle and Gobble during a Thanksgiving event, but the ceremony was marked by political insults, jokes about crime, and attacks on Illinois Governor Pritzker. Trump claimed Biden's pardons were invalid and criticized Chicago's crime, continuing his combative tone. The story highlights his inflammatory rhetoric and ongoing political feud.
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Tony Geary, renowned for his role as Luke Spencer on 'General Hospital,' died in Amsterdam of complications from surgery. He was 78. Geary's career spanned over 40 years, earning eight Daytime Emmy awards. His death prompts tributes from colleagues and fans worldwide.
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Jeff Simmons of the Tennessee Titans returned home after a game against the 49ers to find his house burglarized by at least six suspects. The suspects gained entry by smashing a window, and several items were stolen. Simmons expressed relief his family was not present and praised police response. The incident follows a pattern of athlete burglaries linked to organized crime groups targeting homes while players are away.
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Iain Douglas-Hamilton, a renowned zoologist and elephant conservationist, died at age 83 in Kenya. He dedicated decades to protecting elephants, exposing poaching crises, and advocating for wildlife. His death marks a significant loss for conservation efforts worldwide.
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Multiple sources reveal China's extensive use of surveillance technology, much of it originating from U.S. companies, to track officials, dissidents, and their families worldwide. High-profile cases include Chinese ex-officials fleeing abroad and being targeted through advanced monitoring tools, raising concerns over human rights and sovereignty.
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Iran has introduced a third gasoline price tier as the rial hits record lows, worsening inflation and economic hardship. Despite the increase, fuel remains among the cheapest globally. The move follows recent sanctions and ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program and regional conflicts.
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Regional powers including China, Pakistan, Russia, and Central Asian states gathered in Iran to discuss Afghanistan's future, but the Taliban-led government declined to attend, citing ongoing engagement with regional organizations. The talks focused on security, economic ties, and reducing tensions with Pakistan amid ongoing border clashes.
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Ukraine's SBU announced it used underwater drones to damage a Russian Kilo-class submarine at Novorossiysk, marking a historic first. The attack damages Russia's Black Sea fleet amid ongoing tensions and Ukraine's efforts to weaken Russian naval capabilities.
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China will impose a 13% VAT on contraceptive products starting January 2026, reversing a long-standing exemption. The move aims to encourage higher fertility amid population decline but raises concerns about increased unplanned pregnancies and health risks. Experts believe the impact on birth rates will be limited.
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Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on December 14 killed at least three people, despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Israel claims to target Hezbollah members rearming, while Lebanon reports civilian casualties. The strikes follow ongoing tensions and delayed disarmament efforts, with diplomatic talks scheduled for December 19.
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On December 12, 2025, US authorities arrested four members of the Turtle Island Liberation Front in the Mojave Desert, disrupting a planned series of bombings targeting multiple locations in Southern California on New Year's Eve. The plot included attacks on logistics centers and ICE agents, with suspects charged for conspiracy and possession of destructive devices.
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Donald Trump Jr. announced his engagement to Palm Beach socialite Bettina Anderson at a White House event. The couple has been dating for over a year, and this is his second marriage. The engagement follows previous relationships, including Kimberly Guilfoyle and Vanessa Trump.
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Tesla is testing driverless robotaxis in Austin without safety monitors, signaling progress in its autonomous vehicle plans. The company has increased its fleet and aims to deploy fully autonomous taxis soon, amid regulatory and technical challenges. Tesla's efforts are closely watched as competitors like Waymo expand their services.
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A winter storm caused heavy snowfall and icy conditions in New York City, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports. Ground stops and snow removal efforts significantly slowed air traffic, with delays exceeding five hours in some cases. The storm is expected to clear by Sunday afternoon.
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The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a case challenging the removal of books on race, gender, and sexuality from a rural Texas library. The lower court's decision, which sided with the county, allows the ban to stand, raising concerns about free speech and First Amendment rights amid ongoing book bans nationwide.
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The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival revealed its 2026 lineup, featuring over 120 artists including Eagles, Stevie Nicks, Rod Stewart, and Jamaican acts. The event will highlight Jamaican culture following Hurricane Melissa, with a focus on community and musical diversity across two weekends in April.