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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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Australia commits A$674 million over ten years to domestic violence support and security, including a new 24/7 support line, specialist police, and regional forensic services. The government accepts most recommendations from the Royal Commission, with plans to amend alcohol laws and enhance victim services amid ongoing regional security concerns.
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Countries are making contrasting moves on climate and energy. China advances fusion research, while the UK leads in phasing out fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the US faces opposition to data centers, and Asia's energy security concerns slow renewables. These developments shape the global climate effort today, December 15, 2025.
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Since early September, the US has conducted at least 21 strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, killing over 87 people. Admiral Holsey, who led the Southern Command, retired early amid tensions over the strikes and US plans for possible land operations. The US also designated the Venezuelan 'Cartel de los Soles' as a terrorist organization, though Venezuela denies the allegations.
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On December 4, 2025, the US and Kenya signed a $2.5 billion, five-year health agreement replacing previous USAID programs dismantled earlier this year. Kenya will increase domestic health spending by $850 million. The pact focuses on HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB, and maternal health. Meanwhile, US-South Africa relations remain strained after the US boycotted the recent G20 summit in Johannesburg, citing unsubstantiated claims of white farmer persecution and refusing to recognize South Africa's G20 presidency transfer.
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Israel continues strikes on southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure amid ongoing hostilities. Lebanon's government aims to disarm Hezbollah, but the group resists. Diplomatic talks have resumed, but violence and international criticism persist, with fears of broader conflict escalating.
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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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Post and courier deadlines for Christmas delivery are approaching, with last dates from December 17 to 23. UK consumers are urged to post early to avoid delays, as Royal Mail and other carriers prepare for peak demand. International deadlines vary by country, requiring prompt action.
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President Trump unveiled a new national security strategy endorsing a quick peace in Ukraine, favoring non-intervention in European security, and adopting a conciliatory stance toward Russia. Meanwhile, Congress reaffirmed support for Ukraine and NATO, restricting troop reductions in Europe. The strategy signals a shift in US foreign policy priorities.
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Kevin Smith, 61, sent about 300 texts and three voicemails to Labour MP Alex Sobel, causing fear for his safety. Smith pleaded guilty and received a five-year restraining order. The case highlights rising antisemitic acts in Britain, with increased security concerns following recent attacks on Jewish sites.
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Since July, U.S. corporations have reported significant tax savings due to new Republican laws, reducing federal revenue by about a third. Meanwhile, Texas and Hawaii face budget challenges, with debates over tax cuts for high earners and new initiatives for children. Recent political moves highlight ongoing fiscal and ideological conflicts.
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Five young tennis players, including Canadian Mboko and Indonesian Tjen, have been named the ITF World Tennis Tour's most promising talents of 2025. The selections reflect their recent successes, such as tournament wins and Grand Slam breakthroughs, amid ongoing debates about the sport's scheduling and athlete well-being.
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Recent statements by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan have escalated tensions with China. Beijing has responded with historical references and military warnings, amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan, regional security, and historical grievances related to the 1937 Nanjing massacre. Diplomatic and military incidents have increased in recent days.
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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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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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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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President Trump has suggested imposing additional tariffs on Indian rice, accusing India of dumping shipments into the US market. India denies dumping allegations. The move follows previous tariffs and aims to protect US farmers amid ongoing trade tensions and economic pressures.
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Recent days have seen heightened military activity in East Asia, with Chinese fighter jets locking radar on Japanese aircraft, joint US-Japan military flights, and Russian-Chinese bomber patrols near Japan. These actions increase regional tensions and concern over potential escalation.
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On December 10, 2025, US Customs and Border Protection proposed mandatory collection of five years of social media data, phone numbers, emails, and biometric information from travelers under the Visa Waiver Program. This expands existing social media screening to visa-exempt visitors from 42 countries, including the UK, France, Australia, Japan, and Israel, aiming to enhance national security ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Public comments are open for 60 days.
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Turkey remains in talks with the US over rejoining the F-35 program after being excluded in 2020 over its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. US-Turkey relations have improved under Trump, with discussions focusing on Turkey relinquishing the S-400s to meet US security requirements. Turkish officials remain optimistic about resolving sanctions soon.
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino's recent actions and appearances with Donald Trump highlight a shift towards autocratic alliances. The US World Cup ticket prices are rising sharply, and Infantino's political engagements suggest FIFA is adopting a more authoritarian stance, reflecting broader geopolitical trends.
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Former President Trump announced a new program allowing foreigners and companies to pay large fees for expedited U.S. permanent residency, featuring a 'Trump Gold Card' with a portrait of Trump. The program aims to generate revenue and prioritize immigrants who benefit the U.S.
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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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U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer sentenced Kwon to prison for orchestrating a $40 billion crypto collapse involving TerraUSD and Luna. Kwon, who pleaded guilty, was ordered to forfeit over $19 million. The case highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny of cryptocurrencies following the 2022 market crash.
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Egypt has expressed frustration with Israel over restrictions at the Rafah crossing amid ongoing Gaza conflict. Cairo demands open borders in both directions, citing security concerns and opposition to displacement. Diplomatic relations are strained, with Egypt wary of being used as a political pawn and delaying regional economic deals.
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On December 11, 2025, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ordered the immediate release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man wrongfully deported to El Salvador in March 2025. The judge ruled his detention lacked legal basis, blocking the Trump administration's attempts to deport him to African countries. Abrego Garcia faces ongoing human smuggling charges and is seeking asylum in the U.S.
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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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The US has seized the Venezuelan supertanker Skipper off its coast, marking the first interdiction of Venezuelan oil since sanctions began in 2019. The move targets a shadow fleet transporting sanctioned oil to China and Iran, amid increased US military presence and sanctions efforts against Maduro's regime. Venezuelan officials condemn the action as piracy.
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Multiple sources report that ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico are significantly higher than previous tournaments, with costs reaching up to $16,590 for some fans. Critics call the pricing 'extortionate' and a betrayal of tradition, prompting calls for FIFA to halt sales and review pricing policies.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky rejects US proposals for territorial concessions, emphasizing the need for a referendum. Recent military gains by Russia and ongoing negotiations highlight the complex and uncertain path toward ending the conflict, with Kyiv insisting on maintaining its territorial integrity.
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A 76-year-old man, Ali Muhammad Abd–Al-Rahman, has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of 27 war crimes, including mass executions and brutal killings, committed in 2003-2004. The sentencing followed a hearing where prosecutors emphasized his deliberate and enthusiastic involvement in these crimes.
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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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The US has expanded sanctions on Venezuela, targeting Maduro's family, shipping companies, and oil tankers, amid ongoing efforts to pressure Maduro's regime. The measures follow recent US seizures of oil vessels and threats of land strikes, intensifying economic and diplomatic pressure on Caracas.
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Salih, former Iraqi president, is set to succeed Filippo Grandi as UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The appointment, pending formal approval, comes amid a year of significant funding cuts and rising global displacement. Salih's background and vision aim to reshape the agency's approach to refugee aid.
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The US has announced the lifting of sanctions on Belarusian potash after talks with President Lukashenko, who released 123 prisoners. The move signals a step toward improving relations, though Belarus continues to face criticism over political repression and its alliance with Russia. The story highlights ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
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Jelly Roll, a country and Christian artist, is nominated for three Grammys in 2026, including his first in contemporary Christian and country categories. Meanwhile, AI-generated music like Breaking Rust is challenging traditional rights, sparking legal battles and industry shifts.
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Over 25 countries are preparing to send representatives to a conference on deploying an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, aiming for deployment as early as next month. The force will not fight Hamas and will focus on stabilization, with plans for gradual Israeli troop withdrawal linked to demilitarization standards.
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In late 2024, the US temporarily cut off a live drone feed and restricted intelligence sharing with Israel over Gaza. The move followed concerns about civilian casualties, treatment of prisoners, and adherence to the law of war. Sharing resumed after Israel assured US compliance with rules.
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The US intercepted the Skipper tanker off Venezuela, marking the first seizure of Venezuelan oil cargo since sanctions in 2019. The move comes amid a military buildup in the Caribbean and regional support for Maduro, raising regional tensions and affecting Venezuelan oil exports and Cuba's power supply.
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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 President Zelenskyy is participating in meetings in Berlin with US and European officials to discuss proposals for ending the Ukraine conflict. The talks include US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, ahead of a summit with European leaders on Monday. Details of the negotiations remain undisclosed.
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Raed Saad, a senior Hamas military leader involved in planning the October 2023 attack, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. The strike was a response to ceasefire violations, raising tensions amid ongoing efforts to maintain the fragile truce. Multiple sources confirm his death, which impacts Hamas's military capabilities.
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A suspect was detained after a shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, injuring nine students, two of whom died. The attack occurred during exams on Saturday afternoon. Police continue to investigate the motive while maintaining campus security.
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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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A deadly gun attack at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach, Sydney, has killed at least 11 people and wounded dozens. The incident, linked to rising antisemitism fueled by regional tensions, marks one of Australia's worst mass shootings and prompts international outrage and security concerns.
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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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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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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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The Bank of Japan is expected to raise its interest rate to 0.75% following a positive quarterly survey, signaling confidence in economic recovery. The move impacts markets, including a dip in bitcoin, as Japan shifts toward tighter monetary policy to combat inflation and a weak currency.
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Tariffs on imported artificial Christmas trees have increased prices by 10-15% in the US. Despite higher costs, most companies are not shifting production back to the US due to labor and component costs. Consumers continue to prefer fake trees for convenience and allergy reasons, maintaining high demand.