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President Trump and Xi Jinping held multiple calls this week, signaling efforts to stabilize relations. They discussed trade, TikTok, and upcoming in-person meetings at the APEC summit. While progress was reported, key issues like TikTok's ownership and trade tariffs remain unresolved amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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A jury failed to reach a verdict on 14 counts of sexual abuse against Darrell Smith, a former federal correctional officer at Dublin, California. Smith faced similar deadlocks in previous trials. The case highlights ongoing issues of misconduct at FCI Dublin, which was closed last year amid scrutiny.
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On Sunday morning, maintenance workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport discovered the body of a suspected stowaway in the landing gear compartment of an American Airlines plane that had recently arrived from Europe. Authorities are investigating the death, with the identity and cause of death still unknown. Experts note most stowaways in wheel wells do not survive due to extreme conditions.
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A building collapse at the Al Khoziny Islamic school in East Java has resulted in at least 65 deaths and dozens of injuries. The incident occurred during an unauthorized expansion, with rescue efforts ongoing amid aftershocks and difficult conditions. Authorities are investigating the cause.
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On October 10-13, 2025, China imposed broad export controls on rare earth minerals, prompting US President Trump to threaten doubling tariffs on Chinese imports to 100% and impose export controls on critical software. China condemned US measures as hostile and damaging to trade talks. Both sides risk derailing a fragile trade truce ahead of a planned summit between Trump and Xi Jinping.
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Thousands of protesters in Brussels demonstrated against government plans to cut pensions and healthcare, leading to clashes with police and transportation disruptions. The protests reflect widespread opposition to austerity measures amid Belgium's rising budget deficit, with unions mobilizing large-scale strikes and walkouts.
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A recent analysis shows rapid growth in EV charging stations across the US, yet range anxiety persists among consumers. Meanwhile, a new study confirms EVs' environmental benefits over time, despite manufacturing emissions. Public concern about AI's energy use also highlights broader environmental anxieties.
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An investigation reveals that over the past decade, at least 230 school crossing guards across 37 states and Washington, D.C., have been struck by vehicles, with nearly 36 fatalities. Many are older adults, and few drivers face charges, highlighting safety concerns for this vulnerable workforce.
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Multiple states, including West Virginia and Tennessee, are deploying National Guard troops to Washington D.C. and Memphis amid ongoing legal challenges and political tensions. Courts are examining the legality of these deployments, which are linked to efforts to combat crime and unrest, with significant public and political backlash.
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Israel's government is advancing legislation to make temporary emergency powers permanent, allowing broad authority to shut down foreign media and regulate domestic outlets. Critics warn the laws threaten press freedom and judicial independence, especially affecting Palestinian media and voices. The bills are now progressing through the Knesset amid significant controversy.
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Flight cancellations and delays across the US have decreased as lawmakers near a deal to end the government shutdown. Despite improvements, staffing shortages and flight reductions continue, with disruptions expected to persist into the holiday travel period. The situation remains fluid as negotiations unfold.
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As of December 2025, 67 journalists were killed worldwide, with Israeli forces responsible for 43%, primarily in Gaza where over 220 journalists have died since October 2023 amid ongoing conflict. Israel continues to bar international journalists from Gaza, despite calls for access and legal challenges. U.S. lawmakers criticize Israel's lack of transparent investigations into attacks on journalists.
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Hong Kong held legislative elections amid public concern following a deadly apartment fire that killed at least 159 people. The vote, the second since electoral reforms, saw low turnout and heightened police presence, with authorities emphasizing stability and reform efforts despite public anger over the tragedy.
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IndiGo canceled over 3,400 flights amid pilot shortages and regulatory delays, causing widespread travel disruptions across India. The airline struggles to adapt to new safety rules introduced in November, leading to baggage issues and passenger frustration. Operations are expected to normalize by mid-December.