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Health experts warn this winter could see the worst flu outbreak in decades, driven by the H3N2 strain, which is evolving and causing rising hospital admissions in the UK. Vaccination efforts are underway amid concerns that vulnerable groups remain unprotected. Global TB cases decline slightly but face funding threats.
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On November 7, 2025, North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast, following new U.S. sanctions targeting North Korean cybercrime-linked entities. The missile launch coincided with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's visit to South Korea and joint military drills. Pyongyang warned of more offensive actions against perceived threats, while Washington assessed no immediate danger to U.S. or allied territories.
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On November 3, 2025, the US imposed sanctions on Russia’s largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, freezing their US assets and barring US business with them to pressure Moscow to end its war in Ukraine. The EU also adopted new sanctions, including a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports. India and China, major buyers of Russian oil, are reconsidering their purchases amid these measures. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue with US President Trump seeking China's cooperation to pressure Russia, while Russia showcases new nuclear weapons amid ongoing conflict.
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A global semiconductor shortage, worsened by geopolitical tensions and export bans, threatens vehicle production across Europe and Japan. Major automakers warn of imminent factory shutdowns as supply chains are disrupted, with key chips from China and the Netherlands affected.
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A newly constructed section of Hongqi Bridge in Sichuan, China, partially collapsed following heavy rainfall and landslides. No injuries were reported, but the incident raises concerns about infrastructure safety in seismic zones. The bridge was completed earlier this year and was part of a highway connecting Sichuan and Tibet.
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As of November 14, 2025, China's Shenzhou-20 astronauts remain in orbit after their return capsule suffered 'tiny cracks' from suspected space debris, delaying their return from the Tiangong space station. The crew is now scheduled to return aboard Shenzhou-21. Meanwhile, Blue Origin prepares for the New Glenn rocket launch carrying NASA's ESCAPADE Mars mission, competing with SpaceX in the commercial space race.
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The US, China, and Southeast Asian nations are intensifying efforts to control critical mineral supplies amid China's export restrictions and regional competition. The US seeks to diversify supply chains and reduce reliance on China, with new agreements and legislative efforts targeting rare earths, vital for technology and defense sectors.
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Multiple lawsuits allege Tesla's vehicle design flaws contributed to occupant deaths in crashes, citing fire risks and door lock failures. The cases focus on Model S and Cybertruck incidents in Wisconsin and California, raising safety concerns and prompting investigations into Tesla's safety practices.
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The US will not send high-level officials to the upcoming UN climate talks in Belém, Brazil, reflecting ongoing opposition to multilateral climate efforts under President Trump. Other world leaders, including China, are also skipping the event. Despite this, US subnational actors continue climate actions independently, highlighting a divided global approach to climate policy.
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On November 6, 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney privately apologized to U.S. President Donald Trump for an Ontario-produced political ad criticizing Trump's tariffs, which Trump deemed false. The ad, featuring Ronald Reagan's 1987 speech warning against tariffs, led Trump to suspend trade talks and increase tariffs on Canadian goods. Carney opposed the ad and urged Ontario Premier Doug Ford not to air it. Despite tensions, Carney and Trump maintained a cordial relationship during a recent Asia-Pacific summit.
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As of November 2025, China has suspended key export restrictions on rare earth metals and critical minerals for one year following a trade truce with the US. The move includes suspending controls on gallium, germanium, and antimony exports to North America and issuing general licenses for approved US civilian firms. This aims to stabilize global supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi revealed she sleeps only two to four hours nightly, sparking domestic concern amid Japan's long work-hour culture. Her late-night 3 a.m. staff meeting drew criticism. Meanwhile, her meetings with Taiwan's adviser have provoked strong protests from China, complicating regional diplomacy following her recent summit talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
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As of November 2025, China has agreed to resume exports of automotive chips from Nexperia to Europe for one year, following a diplomatic deal involving the US, China, and the Netherlands. The dispute began when the Dutch government seized control of Nexperia over security concerns, prompting China to halt exports and threaten European car production. The resolution provides temporary relief but highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply chain vulnerabilities.
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Estonia's foreign minister visited Beijing, emphasizing China's leverage over Russia and urging Beijing to pressure Moscow to end the Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, China and Russia reaffirmed their strategic partnership, with China pledging increased investment and economic cooperation despite Western sanctions and declining bilateral trade.
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Kim Yong Nam, North Korea's former ceremonial head of state and longtime diplomat, died Monday at 97 from multiple organ failure related to cancer. He served under three leaders and was known for his loyalty to the Kim family. Kim Jong Un visited his bier Tuesday to express condolences. Kim retired in 2019 after leading the Supreme People's Assembly for over two decades.
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The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, convened amid record global heat and geopolitical tensions, with nearly 50 heads of state attending but major polluters like the US, China, India, and Russia largely absent or sending deputies. The summit focuses on implementing existing climate pledges, addressing deforestation, methane emissions, and urban heat, while business and local leaders push for stronger climate action despite US federal withdrawal.
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On November 18, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit the White House to meet President Donald Trump. The visit aims to advance a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, discuss arms sales including F-35 jets, and explore civilian nuclear cooperation. Normalization of ties with Israel remains contingent on progress toward Palestinian statehood, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing a credible roadmap before formalizing relations.
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A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, killing at least 27 and injuring nearly 1,000. It damaged homes, infrastructure, and the historic Blue Mosque. Aid efforts are ongoing, with Saudi Arabia providing relief. The disaster follows recent quakes and ongoing crises in the country.
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As of November 2025, the UN's Emissions Gap Report reveals that current national climate pledges will lead to a 2.3-2.5°C global temperature rise by 2100, surpassing Paris Agreement targets. Despite some progress, global emissions rose 2.3% in 2024. China's new 2035 goals mark its first specific emissions reduction target but fall short of what's needed. The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement threatens to negate recent gains ahead of COP30 in Brazil.
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Stock markets declined on Tuesday amid fears of overvaluation, especially in AI stocks like Palantir, which fell despite strong earnings. Major banks forecast a possible 10-20% correction within the next year, but some investors see recent dips as healthy pullbacks in a long-term bull trend.
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China announced it will resume issuing streamlined permits for rare earth exports, easing restrictions that have impacted global supply chains. The move follows a suspension of controls in October and recent diplomatic talks involving the EU, US, and China, amid ongoing trade tensions and efforts to diversify supply sources.
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The US is increasing investments in rare earth mineral companies amid ongoing tensions with China over export restrictions. Central Asian nations are key to diversifying supply chains, with recent diplomatic efforts highlighting US interest in regional cooperation and resource development. President Trump’s administration emphasizes strengthening critical mineral and military capabilities.
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Brazil's President Lula announced a new initiative, the Tropical Forests Forever Facility, at COP30 in Belém. The fund aims to pay 74 countries to preserve forests, with initial pledges totaling $5.5 billion, including Norway’s $3 billion. The fund emphasizes Indigenous participation and aims to transform climate finance.
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President Trump has reversed his decision to withdraw Jared Isaacman's nomination as NASA administrator, citing new support and reassessment of his credentials. The move follows political debates over Isaacman's past donations and industry ties, with the Senate approval process still pending as of November 12, 2025.
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Tesla has introduced a new rental service in California, allowing customers to rent vehicles for 3-7 days with free supercharging and FSD. The move aims to boost sales as US EV demand declines following the expiration of federal tax credits. The program is expected to expand nationwide.
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As of November 2025, over 1,400 Africans from 36 countries, including Kenya and South Africa, have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine under false pretenses. Many are deceived with promises of jobs, coerced into signing military contracts, and sent to deadly frontline assaults. South Africa is investigating 17 citizens trapped in Ukraine, while Ukraine urges recruits to desert and seek prisoner-of-war status.
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China has commissioned its third aircraft carrier, Fujian, marking its first domestically designed vessel with advanced electromagnetic catapult systems. The carrier aims to enhance China's naval power projection, especially in disputed regional waters, as part of Xi Jinping's military modernization plan. Sea trials are ongoing, with capabilities still being tested.
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President Trump hosted leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan at the White House, aiming to strengthen ties and secure critical minerals. The region remains under pressure from Russia and China, with the US seeking strategic footholds amid regional competition.
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Japan shipped about 6 tons of scallops from Hokkaido to China on Wednesday, marking the first export since Beijing lifted its seafood ban in August 2023. The move follows negotiations over safety standards related to Fukushima wastewater discharges, which Japan asserts are safe and supported by the IAEA. China maintains restrictions on seafood from Fukushima and nearby prefectures.
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The FBI director, Christopher Patel, visited Beijing to negotiate China's commitment to control fentanyl precursor chemicals, marking the first such visit in over a decade. The trip coincides with ongoing US-China talks on tariffs, trade, and drug enforcement, amid scrutiny over his frequent use of government jets.
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In November 2025, US President Trump designated Nigeria a 'country of particular concern' over alleged Christian persecution, threatening military action. Nigeria's government denies the claims, emphasizing that violence affects all citizens. The debate highlights Nigeria's complex security issues and international tensions.
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European tensions over Chinese-owned Nexperia's control have escalated, disrupting auto supply chains and exposing Europe's dependency on Chinese technology amid US-China trade conflicts. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis, but risks of ongoing instability remain.
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Global climate negotiations in Brazil highlight accelerating warming, worsening extreme weather, and insufficient efforts to meet Paris targets. Scientists warn that current progress is too slow to prevent severe impacts, with rising sea levels, wildfires, and droughts affecting vulnerable regions worldwide.
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Beijing has introduced the K-visa, aimed at skilled science and tech workers, as part of its strategy to compete with the US for global talent amid tightening US immigration policies. The visa offers more flexible requirements and does not require a job offer upfront, encouraging professionals like Indian IT expert Vaishnavi Srinivasagopalan to consider relocating to China.
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Chinese AI firms, including DeepSeek, are gaining ground amid US-China tensions. Experts warn AI could eliminate many jobs in the next 10-20 years, urging tech companies to act as guardians. China's government supports local AI development, narrowing the US lead. The US faces strategic challenges in maintaining AI dominance.
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As of November 17, 2025, diplomatic tensions between Japan and China have sharply escalated following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival and justify military response. China responded with diplomatic protests, social media threats, travel advisories against Japan, and military patrols near disputed islands, prompting Japan to dispatch a senior diplomat to Beijing to ease tensions.
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A Thai appeals court has approved the extradition of She Zhijiang, a Chinese-Cambodian national, to China. He faces charges related to illegal online gambling, scam networks, and money laundering. She was arrested in Bangkok in 2022 and has been detained since. The extradition will proceed within 90 days.
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The U.S. Army has selected Neros, a new drone manufacturer, to supply low-cost drones as part of a plan to acquire up to one million units in the next two to three years. This move aims to enhance military capabilities amid global competition and lessons from recent conflicts.
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Fung-wong, which caused severe flooding and injuries in the Philippines, has weakened to a tropical storm as it nears Taiwan. Authorities evacuated thousands, and heavy rain continues in northeastern Taiwan, with warnings of flooding and landslides. The storm is expected to exit into the Pacific today.
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Zhimin Qian, a Chinese fugitive, was sentenced in London for laundering billions in Bitcoin linked to a massive Chinese investment scam. She evaded Chinese authorities for years, living lavishly in Europe, before her arrest in 2024. The seizure of 61,000 Bitcoin is the largest in UK history.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom criticizes Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, emphasizing California’s green credentials and advocating for US leadership in climate action. He highlights California’s renewable energy progress and warns against the US falling behind China and Europe in green tech. Newsom’s international trip underscores his potential 2028 presidential bid.
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Two popular Chinese gay dating apps, Blued and Finka, have been removed from app stores in China following orders from authorities. The move raises concerns about increased restrictions on LGBT online spaces, despite homosexuality being legal in China. The apps remain accessible via their websites, but the removal signals a tightening of social controls.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom, attending COP30 in Brazil, criticizes US federal climate policies, highlights California's renewable energy progress, and warns against ceding economic and green tech dominance to China. He signals a potential 2028 presidential run amid US-China energy competition and US political division.
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Australian security officials warn that Chinese hacking groups Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon pose a significant threat to critical infrastructure, with potential disruptions to water, power, banking, and telecommunications. The threat has led to concerns over national security and economic stability.
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A new report shows that worldwide CO2 emissions from fossil fuels increased by 1.1% in 2025, reaching a record 38.1 billion tons. Despite renewable growth, emissions from oil, gas, and coal continue to rise, threatening climate goals. The COP30 talks are overshadowed by these setbacks.
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The International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion on October 22, 2025, affirming Israel's legal obligations under international law to facilitate humanitarian aid in occupied Palestinian territories. The ruling condemns obstruction of UN agencies and highlights the responsibilities of third states, with political implications for ongoing conflicts.
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Thailand's King Vajiralongkorn visits China for his first official trip abroad since 2016, marking a significant shift in regional alliances. The visit emphasizes strengthening strategic cooperation, economic ties, and regional influence, amid ongoing border tensions and shifting US-China dynamics. The trip underscores China's growing regional influence and Thailand's balancing act.
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President Trump announced plans to sell up to 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, citing strong alliance and regional security. The deal follows discussions during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's upcoming visit to Washington, amid concerns over technology security, regional balance, and Israel's military edge.
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The UK government has abandoned plans to raise income tax in the upcoming budget, citing improved economic forecasts. The move triggered a sell-off in gilts and a drop in the pound, reflecting investor concerns over fiscal credibility and political stability amid internal Labour party tensions.
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Anthropic reports it stopped a Chinese-backed cyber operation using AI to automate hacking, targeting 30 entities globally. The attack involved AI systems, notably Claude Code, executing most tasks autonomously, marking a significant escalation in AI-enabled cyber threats. The operation was limited but highlights growing risks.