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Australia's government plans to introduce legislation banning social media access for children under 16, citing mental health concerns. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the proposal, which will be tabled in Parliament on November 18, 2024, and take effect a year later, placing enforcement responsibility on social media platforms.
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As Remembrance Day approaches, the symbolism of the poppy is under scrutiny. Footballer James McClean continues to refuse wearing the poppy, citing disrespect to Irish soldiers. Meanwhile, discussions around alternative poppy colors highlight the politicization of remembrance in the UK and Ireland, reflecting broader cultural tensions.
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On November 19, Ukraine launched ATACMS missiles into Russia's Bryansk region, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. This follows the U.S. decision to allow such strikes, coinciding with Russia's revised nuclear doctrine, which lowers the threshold for nuclear retaliation against conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers.
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As the US prepares for a new administration, tensions in the semiconductor industry rise. China showcases advancements at the China International Semiconductor Expo, while TSMC halts advanced chip supplies to Chinese firms amid compliance concerns. Intel faces challenges in maintaining its competitive edge in the global market.
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Iran has initiated measures to halt the increase of its uranium stockpile enriched to 60%, as reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This development follows discussions between Iranian officials and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, amid ongoing tensions regarding Iran's nuclear program and its lack of cooperation with inspectors.
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The UK government is reviewing its sentencing policies amid a prison crisis, with nearly 3,000 offenders released early. Labour's David Gauke leads the review, focusing on alternatives to incarceration and the use of technology in monitoring offenders. The review aims to reshape the justice system by Spring 2025.
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At the G20 summit in Brazil, leaders criticized the weak communique regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, marking 1,000 days of conflict. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized continued support for Ukraine, while Ukraine launched long-range missile strikes into Russian territory for the first time, following U.S. approval.
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Following Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election, legal proceedings against him are facing significant delays. Prosecutors are considering how to proceed with his conviction for falsifying business records, while Trump's team pushes for dismissal based on presidential immunity. The outcome could reshape the legal landscape for the former president.
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Pony AI, the Chinese autonomous vehicle startup, is now aiming to raise $260 million in its upcoming IPO, a revision from its earlier target of $224 million. This comes after a significant reduction in its valuation and ongoing challenges in the U.S. market. The company operates a fleet of robotrucks and robotaxis in China.
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Ollolai, a small town in Sardinia, is promoting homes for just one euro to attract Americans seeking a lifestyle change post-election. The initiative aims to revitalize the village, which has faced population decline. The town's mayor emphasizes a fast-track process for American applicants, hoping to rejuvenate the community.
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The U.S. is intensifying efforts to bolster AI infrastructure amid rising electricity demands. OpenAI has proposed a North American Compact for AI, while Rolls-Royce develops microreactors for energy solutions. The U.S. government aims to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050 to support AI and data centers.
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Since Donald Trump's re-election, Elon Musk has emerged as a significant figure in his administration, frequently seen at Mar-a-Lago and involved in key discussions. Musk's role includes advising on government efficiency, raising concerns among some Trump insiders about his growing influence and the implications for federal spending.
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Rudy Giuliani faces escalating legal challenges as he struggles to comply with a $148 million defamation judgment owed to Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss. His new attorney's recent public defense has raised questions about his strategy, while missed deadlines for asset turnover could lead to severe penalties, including jail time.
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Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy media mogul, is testifying in his collusion trial in Hong Kong, where he faces life imprisonment under the national security law. His case is emblematic of the crackdown on dissent in the city, following the 2019 protests. Lai's health and treatment in prison have raised international concerns.
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The film 'Emilia Pérez,' directed by Jacques Audiard, has sparked polarized reactions since its Netflix release on November 13, 2024. Starring Karla Sofía Gascón, it tells the story of a Mexican drug cartel leader undergoing gender affirmation surgery. While some praise its unique blend of genres, others criticize its execution and themes.
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The interactive documentary 'Tetris Forever' offers an in-depth look at the game's 40-year history, featuring interviews with creator Alexey Pajitnov and key figures like Henk Rogers. It highlights Tetris's evolution, cultural impact, and the complexities of its commercial journey from the Soviet Union to a global phenomenon.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a $5 million reward for anyone who returns a hostage captured during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. This comes amid rising casualties in Gaza and increasing pressure from families of hostages. Netanyahu insists Hamas will not govern Gaza in the future.
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Japan will establish a Space Force headquarters at Yokota Air Base in December 2024, enhancing military cooperation with the US amid rising tensions with China. This move follows discussions between US and Japanese defense officials and aims to bolster joint capabilities in space.
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In response to escalating security threats, Sweden, Finland, and Norway have updated their crisis preparedness guides. These changes reflect concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions, urging citizens to stockpile supplies and prepare for potential military conflict.
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Lancaster Country Day School is embroiled in controversy after a student created explicit AI-generated images of classmates. The incident has led to resignations of school leaders and sparked outrage among parents and students, highlighting concerns over the use of AI in creating harmful content. Classes were canceled amid ongoing investigations.
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The sale of Infowars to The Onion's parent company is in jeopardy due to objections from a competing bidder affiliated with Alex Jones. The bankruptcy court will review the bidding process amid claims of collusion and transparency issues. This auction is part of efforts to satisfy $1.5 billion in damages owed to Sandy Hook families.
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On November 19, 2024, SpaceX launched its sixth Starship test flight from Boca Chica, Texas, aiming to demonstrate advanced landing techniques. The event coincided with Donald Trump's attendance, highlighting the growing ties between the billionaire and the incoming administration. The launch faced challenges, including an unexpected splashdown of the Super Heavy booster.
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At his final G20 summit in Brazil, President Biden missed the official group photo due to logistical issues, highlighting a shift in focus among world leaders towards President-elect Trump. This incident underscores Biden's waning influence as he prepares to leave office.
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As mail-in ballot counting continues in Pennsylvania and California, legal disputes arise over ballot validity. In Pennsylvania, the state Supreme Court ruled against counting undated ballots, while in California, a tight congressional race sees shifting leads amid ballot curing efforts. Both situations highlight ongoing tensions in election integrity.
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At a Sotheby's auction on November 20, 2024, a banana duct-taped to a wall, titled 'Comedian' by Maurizio Cattelan, sold for $6.2 million. The buyer, crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun, plans to eat the banana as part of the artwork's experience. The sale significantly exceeded its pre-auction estimate of $1 million.
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Edward Kelley, 35, was found guilty in Knoxville of conspiracy to murder federal employees and other charges related to his actions during the Capitol attack. He faces up to life in prison at sentencing in May 2025. Kelley had developed a 'kill list' targeting FBI agents and planned violent attacks against them.
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The U.S. Congress is facing a contentious debate over bathroom access for newly elected transgender Representative Sarah McBride. Speaker Mike Johnson and GOP Rep. Nancy Mace have introduced measures to restrict access to single-sex facilities based on biological sex, igniting discussions on transgender rights and dignity.
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On November 20, 2024, the U.S. Senate voted on resolutions to block arms sales to Israel amid ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza. The measures, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, highlighted divisions within the Democratic Party regarding military support for Israel's actions against Hamas, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties.
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U.S. judges are proceeding with Capitol riot trials despite President-elect Trump's promise to pardon defendants. Recent hearings have seen defendants request delays, citing potential pardons, but judges have largely denied these requests. The legal ramifications of these cases continue to unfold as sentencing progresses for various participants in the January 6 events.